News | 30 June 2026
BBVA reinforces its role as a strategic partner to the global public sector
BBVA held the 13th edition of its annual seminar in Lisbon. This event provides a platform for public institutions and institutional investors to exchange perspectives on the evolving global landscape, strengthen strategic relationships and explore solutions to shared economic, financial and sustainability challenges.
BBVA held another edition of its annual seminar for the public sector in Lisbon. This flagship global forum brings together central banks, sovereign wealth funds, multilateral and development banks, government economic departments, sovereign, supranational and agency issuers, and leading institutional investors. The gathering promotes strategic dialogue and collaboration between public institutions and capital markets.
Against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty and macroeconomic transformation, the seminar reinforced BBVA’s role in supporting public institutions navigating an increasingly complex environment. A highlight of the programme was a keynote address and fireside chat with Josep Borrell, former High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, who reflected on today's geopolitical shifts and their implications for Europe, the global economy and international cooperation.
The programme addressed emerging challenges, including the new economics of security and defence, with discussions focusing on managing the fiscal impact of rising security budgets and strengthening cross-border cooperation. Participants also examined strategic reserve management, as central banks increasingly assess diversification into gold and digital assets amid heightened market uncertainty.
Technological innovation was another key theme, with sessions dedicated to the impact of artificial intelligence on public finance. Experts discussed regulatory developments and the use of AI-driven algorithms for predictive allocation and real-time market analysis - tools that are beginning to transform public debt management.
The seminar also highlighted the role of multilateral institutions and public-private partnerships in mobilising capital for the net-zero transition. Discussions underscored the resilience and renewed growth narrative of Southern Europe, with particular attention to Portugal, Spain and Italy.
Iván Poza, Head of Public Institutions & Sovereign Wealth Funds at BBVA, highlighted three key conclusions from the seminar: "Three themes emerged clearly from our discussions: resilience has become a permanent strategic priority for public institutions, cooperation is more valuable than ever in an increasingly fragmented world, and innovation is now a necessity. Institutions that combine innovation with sound governance and a long-term vision will be best positioned to navigate the challenges ahead."
In addition to the plenary sessions, the seminar facilitated exclusive bilateral meetings between SSA issuers and leading global investors, reinforcing BBVA’s role as a trusted intermediary connecting public institutions with international capital markets and supporting their long-term financing strategies.