While the European economy is slowly but steadily working its way out of the crisis, economic growth remains the principal challenge for Europe. Positive trends need to continue for the benefit of all EU citizens.

In the first three quarters of 2016, the seasonally adjusted GDP in the euro area rose by 1.7%, 1.6% and 1.6% respectively, while in the EU-28 it rose by a similar 1.8% in the first three quarters.

At the EBF, we focus on the role of finance in supporting growth. We examine the obstacles which currently prevent the wholesale markets from supporting growth and investment in Europe, and discuss with our members how these may be addressed. Growth and financing of real economy in Europe face structural challenges. Whilst some funding channels are currently working well (for large corporates for example), measures could be put in place to better meet demand through expanded capital markets funding. Other areas, particularly SME, infrastructure, commercial real estate and businesses in crisis-affected countries more broadly have significant funding challenges in many countries.

We aim at evaluating the major changes in market structure, technology and regulation that affect the ability of banks to serve their client companies and investors. We look at identifying proactive solutions that can improve the ability of banks to serve their core client groups.

For all banking business, the focus within the EBF Financing the Economy strategic theme is on the two ultimate ‘stakeholder’ groups of banks: companies and investors.

Find out more about how banks are driving Europe’s economic growth in Facts & Figures.

Our work in this area is divided into three topics: Business Finance, Markets and Infrastructure and Sustainable/Green Finance.