Fintech Will Open New Opportunities: Thiago Ruediger Addresses SPIEF Session Organized by National Center “Russia”

Overview of SPIEF 2025 and Its Opening Session

The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), one of the leading global economic events, occurred from June 18 to 21 in St. Petersburg, Russia. The forum’s business program commenced on June 18 with a session titled “Shaping a New Platform for Global Growth,” which presented the final report from the International Open Dialogue organised by the National Centre “Russia.” The discussion centred on contemporary challenges, including economic and political fragmentation, demographic shifts, implementation of breakthrough technologies, and the growing social and technological divide within and between nations.

Thiago Ruediger Highlights Fintech Revolution in the Global South

Thiago Ruediger, Chief Executive Officer of Tanssi Foundation from Brazil, delivered remarks emphasising that the genuine fintech revolution is occurring in Global South countries. During his presentation, Ruediger stated that Wall Street should no longer be considered the epicentre of financial innovation, as the most significant transformations occur in developing nations. He explained that blockchain technology enables money and assets to become programmable, and when combined with artificial intelligence, this creates a powerful catalyst for transforming the entire financial sector. According to Ruediger, fintech is fundamentally changing established rules, impacting traditional banking institutions while simultaneously creating new opportunities for millions of people worldwide.

Brazil–Russia Collaboration in Financial Technology

The Brazilian executive noted that Brazil and Russia are actively sharing their experiences in these technological spheres. He expressed enthusiasm about the potential for these innovations to reduce transaction costs in global financial markets and indicated his readiness to engage in detailed discussions on this topic. Ruediger emphasised his anticipation for these processes in Brazil and the international community.

Opening Remarks by Maxim Oreshkin Amid Global Uncertainty

The session was moderated by Maxim Oreshkin, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Administration of the Russian Federation. Oreshkin highlighted that this year’s St. Petersburg International Economic Forum is taking place against turbulent global events. He referenced the situation in the Middle East and ongoing trade wars as examples of current challenges facing the international community. During the forum, Oreshkin noted that considerable time would be dedicated to addressing these contemporary issues.

Vision for Long-Term Global Development

In his opening remarks, Oreshkin emphasised the importance of not overlooking long-term trends and fundamental global development challenges. He stressed the necessity of maintaining open dialogue about constructing the world of the future and forming a new platform for international growth. Key questions addressed included identifying which countries would drive this global growth, which technologies would serve as its foundation, and what principles and cultural codes would guide its development. Oreshkin articulated that the collective task is to ensure that forward progress benefits people in all countries, like Russia, who are actively working toward the future. He concluded that open dialogue is the mechanism through which shared understanding and vision for the future are constructed.

The Role of the National Centre “Russia” in Shaping the Forum

During the session organised by the National Centre “Russia,” speakers discussed the report compiled following the Open Dialogue, which the Centre prepared for Cross-Industry Expertise “Third Rome.” The session consisted of sequential discussions about economics, technology, and human factors in a rapidly changing world. These deliberations comprehensively analysed how various sectors and stakeholders must adapt to evolving global circumstances.

Foundational Insights for the SPIEF 2025 Business Program

The outcomes of the “Shaping a New Platform for Global Growth” session established the foundation for the subsequent business program of SPIEF-2025. The session’s conclusions and recommendations will inform future discussions and initiatives throughout the forum. The recording of the session broadcast is available on the National Centre “Russia” website, providing access to the complete proceedings for those unable to attend in person.

SPIEF’s Role in Global Economic and Technological Dialogue

The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum is a crucial platform for international dialogue on economic development, technological innovation, and global cooperation. The insights shared during this opening session demonstrate the forum’s commitment to addressing both immediate challenges and long-term strategic considerations in shaping the future of the global economy. The participation of international speakers like Thiago Ruediger underscores the forum’s role in facilitating cross-border exchange of ideas and best practices, particularly in emerging sectors such as fintech and blockchain technology.