Governor of National Bank of Moldova says country integral part of financial Europe, example of innovation

Moldova has become an integral part of financial Europe through reforms, digitization and operational integration and the country represents "an example of innovation beyond digital." Governor of the National Bank of Moldova (BNM) Anca Dragu has made statements to this effect, at the most important regional event dedicated to transforming the financial sector - Future Banking Summit 2025, held in Brasov, Romania.

According to the BNM, in her speech, Anca Dragu referred to the progress made by Moldova in aligning with European standards and about the role of the National Bank in supporting a modern and competitive economy. A central point of her speech was the integration of Moldova into the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), achieved on October 6, 2025, which removes administrative barriers, reduces transaction costs and strengthens investors’ confidence.

"Joining SEPA brings Moldova to the same operational level as European partners, facilitating trade, investment and economic integration. This is a strong signal of confidence for investors and confirmation that our financial system is stable and modern," said the BNM governor. She noted that the success had been possible through the cooperation of authorities, commercial banks and European partners.

At the same time, Anca Dragu highlighted the importance of the MIA Instant Payments system, developed by the BNM, which has become an essential pillar of modern financial infrastructure.

"Today, one in three citizens uses instant payments. The expansion of MIA to public services and inter-company payments proves how innovation can bring simplicity and efficiency to everyday life," noted the governor.

In the context of the digital transformation, Anca Dragu spoke about the "beyond digital" vision, based on integrating emerging technologies and AI solutions. She said that an AI-based assistant had been developed at the BNM, "designed as an AI-first and risk-aware tool, that complements human expertise and strengthens financial stability."

The governor also stressed the importance of international cooperation, recalling the recent New Technology for Old Markets conference, organized by the BNM in Chisinau, in partnership with the National Bank of Romania and the Bank of France, attended by governors and experts from 14 countries.

On a European level, the BNM is actively involved in the negotiation process for  Moldova's accession to the European Union, coordinating three major chapters: financial services, capital account liberalization and economic and monetary policies.

"By adopting European norms, the Moldovan banking sector becomes more attractive to investors, more competitive and safer for consumers," emphasized Anca Dragu. She added that the future of the banking system "is being built through collaboration, trust and European integration."

In conclusion, the BNM governor said that "Moldova is already an integral part of financial Europe. Investing in Moldova today means supporting a rapidly transforming economy with remarkable growth potential and deeply connected to European values. Moldova will be the wonder child of Europe."

The Future Banking 2025 Summit, organized in Brasov, brought together hundreds of leaders from the banking, fintech and technology fields. The main subject – The evolution of banks beyond the digital era – focused on integrating AI-based solutions and the concept of embedded finance, through which financial services are directly integrated into the platforms used daily by consumers and companies.