“Economy & Society: The Next Day”

26.06.2020

The next day for the economy and society was the theme of the 10th Annual Capital Link CSR Forum, which was held digitally on Tuesday, June 23, 2020 with the participation of both speakers and members from the Greek Diaspora as the company is based in New York. The Conference was organized under the auspices of the Attica Region, the City of Athens, the Municipality of Piraeus, the Greek National Tourism Organization – GNTO and with the support of the Consulate General of Greece in New York.

The conference was hosted for 10th consecutive year by Capital Link. The timely theme “Economy and Society: The next day” gave the opportunity to 40 distinguished speakers, representatives of the Greek government, local government, entrepreneurs, investors, bankers and expatriates to express their views on the next day after the Covid-19 pandemic and to suggest measures for restoring the economy and society, the impact on each sector as well as the new market landscape, which has emerged with the implementation of restrictive and precautionary measures. 

SUBJECT OF THE FORUM “ECONOMY & SOCIETY : THE NEXT DAY”

Dealing with the economic consequences from Covid-19, restarting the Economy, is vital in order to secure the transition to a new growth model which will essentially contribute to a more active form of participation by all entities involved and by the society to return Greece back to the recovery path. 

TOPICS:

Local Government Authorities Contribution to Greek Economy Growth • Innovation & Entrepreneurship – GREEK START UP COMPANIES & Small – Medium Size Companies • SMEs – Challenges & Opportunities During & Post Covid-19 Crisis • Banking Sector – A New Role in Economy & Society  • E-Gov: Digital Solutions Benefiting the State & Citizens • The rapid Transition to the new Digital World • Infrastructure and Energy – The Day After • Health & Pharmaceuticals Industry – New Challenges & Opportunities • Investments – Growth – Economy – Society • THE POST –COVID 19 Landscape of core industries : Food Sector – Real Estate – Energy – Investing • Tourism: Bracing for Recovery • The Day After: The New Reality • A cautiously Optimistic Perspective on Greece • The European Union’s Response to the Crisis and the Opportunities for Greece (on the Road to Recovery) 

SPEAKERS: 

GREEK GOVERNMENT OFFICIALS: The Minister of Development & Investments, Mr. Adonis Georgiadis • The Minister of Health, Mr. Vasileios Kikilias • The Minister of Digital Governance, Mr. Kyriakos Pierrakakis • The President of the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO), Mrs. Angela Gerekou • Τhe Deputy Minister of Development & Investments for Research and Technology, Mr. Christos Dimas • Τhe Deputy Minister of Development & Investments for Industry & Commerce, Mr. Nikos Papathanassis • The Governor of Attica Region,  Mr. George Patoulis •  The Mayor of Piraeus, Mr. Yannis Moralis • The Deputy Mayor of Development, Enterprise & Investments Municipality of Athens, Mr. Nicholas A. Macropoulos • H.E. Ioannis Vrailas, Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Greece to the European Union 

GREEK AMERICAN ENTREPRENEURS : 

  • • Mr. John P. Calamos Sr. – Founder, CEO and Global Co-Chief Investment Officer, Calamos Investments
  • • Mr. John Catsimatidis– Chairman & CEO, Red Apple Group
  • • Mr. Dean Metropoulos– Chairman – Metropoulos & Company
  • • Dr. George Kofinas – Founder & Medical Director Kofinas Fertility Group & Manhattan Reproductive Surgery Center 

SENIOR REPRESENTATIVES FROM GREEK, EUROPEAN & INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS & COMPANIES :  

Alpha Bank, European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), Hellenic Development Bank SA (former ETEAN SA), Optima bank, Piraeus Bank, PotamitisVekris, EY, EEDE – Hellenic Management Association, Elikonos Capital Partners, ENVOLVE Entrepreneurship, GEK TERNA Group of Companies, Hellenic Petroleum (HELPE), Lambadarios Law office , LIBRA GROUP, Machas & Partners Law Firm, McKinsey & Company, COSMOTE (Hellenic TELECOMMUNICATIONS), Public Power Corporation SA Hellas (DEH) 

  • Mr. Jimmy Athanasopoulos, Chairman Envolve Entrepreneurship & Greece Representative for Libra Social Responsibility – Libra Group
  • Mrs. Athina Chatzipetrou, President & CEO – Hellenic Development Bank SA (former ETEAN SA)
  • Mr. Constantinos Dorkofikis, Executive General Manager Wholesale Banking – Alpha Bank
  • Mr. Dimitris Dimopoulos, Director Sustainability Unit – Piraeus Bank
  • Mr. Ioannis Konstantinidis, Chief Strategy, Transformation & Wholesale Officer – OΤΕ Group
  • Mr. Yanni Kourniotis, Partner – Lambadarios Law Firm
  • Dr. Sotiris Kapellos, Operation and Development Director, BoD member – ELPE Renewable Energy Sources SA
  • Dr. Dimitris C. Iliopoulos, MD, Associate Professor of Cardiac Surgery
  • Mr. Achilleas Ioakimides, Special Advisor to the CEO Communication – CSV – Public Power Corporation SA
  • Mr. Tasos Iossiphides, EY Partner, Head of Strategy & Transaction Services in Greece, CESA – Ernst & Young BAS S.A.
  • Mr. Dimitris Kyparissis, CEO – Optima bank
  • Mrs. Penelope Lazaridou, General Financial Manager, Executive Board Member, GT – GEK TERNA Group of Companies
  • Mr. Petros Char. Machas, Founder – Chairman of the Advisory Board – Machas and Partners Law Firm
  • Mr. Alexandros Nousias Country Director Greece – Envolve Entrepreneurship
  • Mr. Panos Papazoglou, CESA Accounts Leader and Managing Partner in Greece – EY
  • Mrs. Dimitra Papandreou, Principal Manager Advice for Small Businesses Greece – SME Finance & Development Group – European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
  • Mr. Stathis Potamitis, Managing Partner – PotamitisVekris
  • Mr. George Skrimizeas, Chairman of the BOD – Hellenic Management Association
  • Mr. Takis Solomos, Partner – Elikonos Capital Partners
  • Mr. George Tsopelas, Managing Director – McKinsey & Company
  • Mr. Steve Vranakis, Chief Creative Officer – Government of the Hellenic Republic

H.E. Konstantinos Koutras, Consul General of Greece in New York, honored the Forum with the Consulate’s support and stated:

“We experience an unprecedented situation as we are faced with an invisible enemy. But, in this historic moment we are all fighting on the same side. For some, de-globalization, trade barriers and movement restrictions are the real antidote to the pandemic. However, in the eye of the storm we will do better if we act together.

Indeed, the virus has shaken the foundation of our society and its major consequences are yet to be seen. According to Aristotle, human beings are social animals, but how we socialize in the age of social distancing? Unavoidably, our society and economy have to function effectively with safety and adapt to the presence of the virus for the foreseeable future. Indeed, uncertainty has been prevalent, and we all realize that there is a negative association between volatility, investment and production.

I would like to congratulate Capital Link, for its prompt digital transformation and for promoting interaction among specialists and decision makers. The public health crisis has not spurred new, unforeseen developments; it has just accelerated the emergence of the next world political and economic order. We, in Greece, are proud for the successful management of the pandemic, but we have to remain vigilant and work in a concerted manner to reform and restructure our economy to the benefit of all.”

Mr. Nicolas Bornozis, President, Capital Link Inc., welcomed the attendees to the 10th Annual Capital Link CSR Forum on “ECONOMY & SOCIETY: THE NEXT DAY”, and stated:

“The resumption of the Economy and Society is a challenge that all governments around the world have to face, adapting to the new reality created by the pandemic.

The Forum examines how key areas will face the new market landscape given the fact that the economy was shut down for months; the restrictive measures that were taken, and the shift to the adoption of digital solutions. The question is how the country will manage to orchestrate as quickly as possible a dynamic return to growth. The return to normalcy is a matter of time, and the current situation, no matter how painful, allows for a fresh start. There are needed loser and more constructive cooperation between the public and private sectors, targeted government programs to support and develop the economy, and the adoption of new initiatives by the private sector.

As I mentioned, we have a high standard agenda with top interlocutors and presenters from Greece and abroad, from the government, the public and private sectors. We should also note the significant participation of expatriates from America with recognized prestige and scope. And we will cover all key areas and issues.” 

PRESENTATION & PANEL TOPICS

Welcome Opening Remarks: Mr. Nicolas Bornozis, President, Capital Link Inc.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT AUTHORITIES CONTRIBUTION TO GREEK ECONOMY GROWTH 

VIDEO OF THE PANEL : http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/video_webcast.php?i=panel1

Moderator : Mr. George Skrimizeas, Chairman of the BOD – Hellenic Management Association 

Panelists : 

  • Mr. George Patoulis,Governor-Attica Region
  • Mr. Ioannis Moralis, Mayor – Municipality of Piraeus
  • Mr. Nicholas A. Macropoulos, Deputy Mayor of Development, Enterprise & Investments – Municipality of Athens 

Mr. George Skrimizeas, Chairman of the BOD – Hellenic Management Association, stated that it is imperative to create conditions for sustainable development. As he said, Greece must take on the challenge of building a competitive business environment; upgrading infrastructure; attracting investment and promoting entrepreneurship. He proceeded to explain that the functional model of local government is changing. “With better knowledge of local communities and greater flexibility, Municipalities and Regions can effectively manage available resources and contribute substantially to economic recovery with the issue of necessary reforms and changes no longer being the sole goal of the Central Administration. We also see how the new role of local government is shaped by initiatives at European level. The European Commission since 2010 has an indicator to measure the competitiveness of the Regions through the Regional Competitiveness Index,” Mr. Skrimizeas said. In addition, he highlighted that the strategies of Municipalities and Regions are increasingly focusing on entrepreneurship, investment in the environment, and innovation. “I believe that to a large extent the strategy of local government in the future will be based more and more on private economic criteria. Municipalities and Regions should be able to create significant incentives in order to become attractive investment destinations for businesses and organizations, thus creating the conditions for new revenues and greater economic independence,” Mr. Skrimizeas concluded.

Attica Regional Governor Mr. George Patoulis in his speech entitled “The Contribution of Local Government to Development” analyzed how Attica Region can contribute by creating an “Investment Initiative Support” hub. He said that a special working group would be created for providing valid information (Regional Profile) for all parameters for making investment decisions. He also said that there will be support for potential investors and that all the environmental, health, energy, etc. business indicators would be managed by a central observatory.

In the long run, the Attica Region has announced:

  • • The transition to the circular economy through the Reduction of carbon emissions and pollution.
  • • Redesign of roads with priority on non-polluting public transport.
  • • Increasing cooperation with recycling agencies both locally and internationally.
  • • The expanded use of digital technology based on the Covid-19 experience

Development of common strategies for thematic tourism

  • redesign the Religious, Historical, Gastronomic, Medical and Sports Tourism paths
  • Construction of Health Villages (Eco Medical Villages), with research facilities and sports medical centers, hotels, pharmacies and air ambulance services. 

Utilization of the Coastal front from Faliro to Sounio; and

A more qualitative investment in the tourist development of the Saronic Gulf through:

  • Deployment of infrastructure works with Public – Private Sector cooperation, reconstruction and upgrade in accommodation
  • Improved accessibility not only by maritime transport but also road and air

Mr. Ioannis Moralis, Mayor – Municipality of Piraeus, stated: “We need to see the crisis as a challenge; to move up a gear. To overcome the crisis, local authorities should be at the position of the captain.

The city of Piraeus will be once again the winner. Because we have plan, we know the way, we bring results. When growth will turn, we need to be ready; this is our challenge. Even if we have managed to ensure adequate financial resources, we haven’t stopped our efforts. Completely renovated, with modern, safe and fast services, with good jobs especially for our young people, attractive to our visitors and investors. Over all, a human, friendly, open city; empowered by the optimism and the air that our port and our sea fuels our city.”

The Deputy Mayor of Development, Enterprise & Investments, Municipality of Athens, Mr. Nikolaos Makropoulos highlighted the importance of a more active participation by Local Government Authorities in sustainable development actions and procedures and offered an overview of actions that are being carried out by the Municipality of Athens in this respect. 

He also referred to the need for Municipalities to seek alternative ways that would ensure revenue and that there are prospects and applied options available.    

He mentioned that at the moment the Municipality of Athens is working with determination, oriented at raising the standards of the city following a specific plan.

Also, he said that the action plan will boost employment, create jobs and stimulate the interest of investors. 

Finally, he urged the international investor community to assess the true merits of the city of Athens and to see how the city is currently reinventing itself at all levels. 

INNOVATION & ENTREPRENEURSHIP: GREEK START UP COMPANIES & Small – Medium Size Companies: Their importance, contribution, and future within the Greek Economy and Society 

VIDEO OF THE PANEL : http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/video_webcast.php?i=panel2

Moderator : Mr. Jimmy Athanasopoulos, Chairman Envolve Entrepreneurship & Greece Representative for Libra Social Responsibility – Libra Group 

Panelists : 

  • Mr. Christos Dimas, Deputy Minister for Research and Technology – Ministry of Development & Investments
  • Mr. Steve Vranakis, Chief Creative Officer – Government of the Hellenic Republic
  • Mr. Alexandros Nousias, Country Director Greece – Envolve Entrepreneurship

Mr. Jimmy Athanasopoulos, Chairman Envolve Entrepreneurship & Greece Representative for Libra Social Responsibility – Libra Group, referring to corporate social responsibility, noted that a little help from any entity, whether private or public, can make a big difference and change people’s lives. . At this point, he cited as an example 10 social responsibility programs that the Group has set up in recent years, saying that they have changed the lives of many people. He went on to praise the wide range of initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Development, and spoke highly of the reversal in the communications environment, saying that “Greece has succeeded in only a few months to turn from being “the black sheep” to a pioneer in what it has accomplished.” Finally, he estimated that Greece can excel in the field of research-innovation and in the field of start-up entrepreneurship.

Dr. Christos Dimas, Deputy Minister of Development and Investments, stated:

“Very soon we will be legislating:

  • The National Start-up Registry “Elevate Greece” which will map the Greek ecosystem and act as a policy tool to provide financial and tax incentives to the start-ups.
  • Tax incentives such as the more than tripling of the, super-deduction rates, from 30% to 100%, for companies investing in Research and Development.
  • Tax incentives for angel investors
  • The creation of the first Innovation District in Greece that will host R&D departments of companies, start-ups, spin off, incubators and accelerators.”

Mr. Steve Vranakis, Chief Creative Officer – Government of the Hellenic Republic, in his introductory remarks stated: “A country is only good as its people. And we have the human capital and the leadership”. Clarifying that he is not speaking from a political perspective, Mr. Vranakis said the government had taken tangible steps to turbocharge the startup ecosystem. “What I saw was a moment, just as we were coming out of the 10-year crisis, where the right people came together under the right leadership of our prime minister. And it is so action oriented. I did almost 10 years in Google, where every single thing we did we were accountable for.” As he said, he is pleased to see that many of these methods are being adopted by the Greek government. “And I think that when you have people who have that shared vision of what this great place could be again and people align behind that vision, we can do incredible things.”

Mr. Alexandros Nousias, Country Director Greece – Envolve Entrepreneurship, stated: “The importance of startups for the economy and society could be summed up in the word evolution,” said Alexandros Nousias, stressing that startups help by boosting development and rendering the economy more competitive. “There is an extraordinary human capital in the country. Therefore, if we cannot have a heavy industry like France or Germany, we should definitely put more emphasis on human talent and research”, he said. In addition, he explained that although the Greek market is small, this can prove to be an advantage for startups by offering some room for experimentation.

SMEs – CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES DURING & POST COVID-19 CRISIS – Scope : Areas of Challenges, Which sectors, financing options – WC vs growth support, new business model transformation needs and opportunities, scale up through consolidation, JVs, collaboration, growth via exports etc. 

VIDEO OF THE PANEL : http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/video_webcast.php?i=panel3

Moderator : Mr. Tassos Iossiphides, EY Partner, Head of Strategy & Transaction Services in Greece, CESA – Ernst & Young BAS S.A.

Panelists :

  • Μr. Nikos C. Papathanasis, Deputy Minister for Industry & Commerce – Ministry of Development & Investments
  • Mrs. Athina Chatzipetrou, President & CEO – Hellenic Development Bank SA (former ETEAN SA)
  • Mrs. Dimitra Papandreou, Principal Manager Advice for Small Businesses Greece – SME Finance & Development Group – European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
  • Mr. Takis Solomos, Partner – Elikonos Capital Partners 

Mr. Tassos Iossiphides, Partner and Head of EY’s Transaction Advisory Services in Greece, explained that the Greek economy, due to its structure – as it predominantly & proportionally consists of very small SMEs– along with its dependence on tourism, has been proven to be more vulnerable to the effects of a crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. “Reforming the country’s business model according to the market’s current needs, shifting focus to sectors other than tourism, with an added emphasis on digital technology and exports, will allow Greece to become more resilient in the face of future crises”, concluded Mr. Iossiphides. 

Μr. Nikos C. Papathanasis, Deputy Minister for Industry & Commerce – Ministry of Development & Investments, in his speech he stated: “The Government responded rapidly in the handling of the pandemic and set the protection of  human life as its main priority. The restart of the economy still remains a difficult task. We introduced an economic package that included 14 billion euros in fiscal measures and 10 billion euros in bank guarantees to support businesses. We provided them with financial tools to ensure liquidity and the businesses responded in a positive way. We are presently planning the new industrial strategy and we are offering additional support to the SMEs in order to respond to new challenges that our transition in the new era of Industry 4.0 may bring.” 

Mrs. Athina Chatzipetrou, President & CEO – Hellenic Development Bank SA (former ETEAN SA), focused on the promotion of fair, non-exclusive and sustainable development. As she said, the Hellenic Development Bank will try to fill the structural financial gap that plagues the country’s small and medium-sized enterprises, which has widened due to the crisis caused by the pandemic. Mrs. Chatzipetrou revealed that the Hellenic Development Bank is planning and will soon offer many innovative products to small and medium enterprises and at the same time will focus on project financing in the field of infrastructure, local networks and urban development.

“This vision is in line with the overall development strategy of the country, which seeks to help businesses and to create quickly thousands new jobs.”

Mrs. Dimitra Papandreou, Principal Manager Advice for Small Businesses Greece – SME Finance & Development Group – European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), stated: “The EBRD has invested c. €3.5 billion in 60 projects in Greece since 2015. In addition, our Advice for Small Businesses Programme, with funding from the EU through EIB and the Greek Government, has supported 80 Greek SMEs with tailored advisory services and more than 200 additionally with know-how transfer. The EBRD was the first IFI to announce a COVID response resilience framework. We are continuing our investment activities in Greece, with the first investment in 2020 being direct financing to a Greek SME. We are also stepping up our very successful Trade Facilitation Programme. We continue to provide advisory support to SMEs remotely, providing a 70-88% grant for the advisory costs, we developed an open educational platform for SMEs with covid response related content and we are also continuing our SME Pre-listing support programme for SMEs seeking alternative ways of financing through the local capital market.”

Mr. Takis Solomos, Partner – Elikonos Capital Partners, in his introductory remarks stated: “We saw very important opportunities before thecovid-19”. As he emphasized, the economic crisis, which has plagued Greece for nearly a decade, has instilled a spirit of resilience and adaptability in Greek entrepreneurs.

“I would like to note that in the midst of the misfortune of having gone through a ten-year crisis, there is also a positive dimension. This is because we noticed that Greek businessmen were relatively ready to respond to the difficulties that they encountered during the pandemic. So, we saw that businesses reacted very quickly to the covid-19 crisis. We are pleased to observe that these people saw the covid-19 as an opportunity to change their business model,” Mr. Solomos explained.

Referring to Greece’s successful management of the covid-19, Mr. Takis Solomos assessed that it will strengthen the reputation of the Greek products and services, giving them an added value, which will be a comparative advantage over their competitors. “Our view is that the ‘made in Greece’ brand is much more valuable after the covid-19 because consumers around the world place great emphasis on the origin of products and services,” he said. 

BANKING SECTOR – A NEW ROLE IN ECONOMY & SOCIETYBanks: Redefinition of their new role in tomorrow’s landscape  

VIDEO OF THE PANEL : http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/video_webcast.php?i=panel4

Moderator : Mr. Stathis Potamitis, Managing Partner – POTAMITISVEKRIS Law Partnership

Panelists : 

  • Mr. Constantinos Dorkofikis, Executive General Manager Wholesale Banking – Alpha Bank
  • Mr. Dimitris Kyparissis, CEO – Optima bank
  • Mr. Dimitris Dimopoulos, Director – Sustainability Unit, Piraeus Bank Group

Mr. Stathis Potamitis, Managing Partner – POTAMITISVEKRIS Law Partnership, stated: “Our part of the demonstration was focused on the new challenges that the banking system faces in light of the pandemic and the financial turmoil it caused. There are the development dimension, the European Institutions interference to the economic deceleration, the accelerating digitalization of the transactions, that is due to the available technologies and the needs for distancing, and the climate change that might contribute in the pandemic’s causes. How do banks react to these challenges and what can their reactions and contributions be? Answers, though, different approaches, as well, were presented to us by three exceptionally experienced bankers.”

Mr. Constantinos Dorkofikis, Executive General Manager Wholesale Banking – Alpha Bank, stated: “The pandemic reminded Europe what Greece already knew well first hand, due to the long economic crisis. Extraordinary conditions warrant extraordinary measures.

Immediate response was initiated by the ECB and the SSM with the aim of facilitating liquidity and capital conditions in the banking sector. State and EU funds were mobilized simultaneously towards the swift and adequate flow of funding to the real economy. These actions permitted the Greek banks to offer borrowers wide reaching capital holidays and to provide almost €10bn of new loans so far in 2020, with more to come in H2 on the back of the state guarantee schemes currently provided in collaboration with the Hellenic Development Bank.

And although the swift policy response on behalf of the European finance institutions was more or less anticipated, the real positive surprise for our country came from the recently announced EU Next Generation program. This is exactly what our country had asked and hoped for – new and sizable entrepreneurial capital – as the 10-year crisis had eaten up local capital reserves, leading to persistent over leverage and under investment. The goal for these funds (nearly €50bn in total, along with commitments from other programs) is to be mobilized quickly and effectively to spur sustainable balanced and inclusive growth, along the targets of EU’s policy

So we have an opportunity in front of us born out of this crisis. Our duty as banks in the short term is to help the economy manage the effect of the pandemic, but on top of that the design development and execution of a longer term plan towards the best possible capitalization of the new EU program for our economy.

We as Alpha Bank are well suited to respond to the challenges ahead, given the progress towards our NPL reduction targets, the gradual adjustment of our operating model to market’s present needs (85% of transactions effected through digital channels) and the close ties that we traditionally maintain with the local business community.” 

Mr. Dimitris Kyparissis, CEO – Optima bank, stated: “At Optima bank we firmly believe in transformation’s key-role for economic growth and social prosperity. In order to succeed, to find solutions, we must take a step back. We shouldn’t only reconsider and re-evaluate everything we do, but also the way we do it. And this is what we did. We reviewed everything from the beginning and designed a bank that offers a different, optimum banking experience alongside with security and optimism. An experience based on the real needs and expectations of individuals’ and businesses.” 

Mr. Dimitris Dimopoulos, Director – Sustainability Unit, Piraeus Bank Group, stressed that “the COVID-19 pandemic has created a global health and economic crisis and has served as a wake-up call for humanity. Scientists point out that environmental deteriorating and climate change will exacerbate the incidence of pandemics and have even more significant long-term negative consequences. Climate change requires even more coordinated and long-term international cooperation. The financial sector will play an important role in raising funds for sustainable development and the low-carbon economy. Piraeus Bank, with specific actions and initiatives, responds responsibly to these challenges, pioneering the financing of sustainable development. It was the only Greek bank to form UNEP FI and then to sign the World Bank Responsibility Principles. These authorities are urging banks to finance sustainable investments and contribute to achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement and the SDGs. As CEO Christos Megalou has repeatedly pointed out, supporting green entrepreneurship and creating a culture of sustainability is a strong competitive advantage for Piraeus Bank, which is ready to play a leading role in the “green” restart of the Greek economy. 

E-GOV: DIGITAL SOLUTIONS BENEFITING THE STATE & CITIZENS 

VIDEO OF THE PANEL :  http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/video_webcast.php?i=panel5

Keynote Speaker : Mr. Kyriakos Pierrakakis, Minister of Digital Governance, Ministry of Digital Governance 

Introduced by: Mr. Panos Papazoglou, EY, CESA Accounts Leader and Managing Partner in Greece

Mr. Kyriakos Pierrakakis, Minister of Digital Governance, Ministry of Digital Governance, explained the seven pillars of the country’s digital transformation strategy. Adopting the view that “the state is one” and aimed at improving the lives of citizens, the Minister made a brief presentation of the pillars, which are: the site gov.gr, where all the digital services of the Greek State have been gathered; the simplification of procedures; citizen identification strategies; telecommunications; digital skills; data and cybersecurity. It is worth noting that on Tuesday morning the Minister presented to the Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis the Digital Citizens’ Academy, a digital platform that has gathered 214 educational programs that provide 1,800 hours of free digital skills training, from 32 providers.

“The crisis of the corona has accelerated the implementation of strategies and procedures that we have already launched, but it has led us to invent new things,” he said. Finally, the Minister described the National Digital Strategy as “a great pending issue of the country that became a necessity,” saying that the country does not have the luxury to lose the IT train.

Mr. Panos Papazoglou, Managing Partner of EY in Greece, focused on e-government and how digital technologies and the internet, can greatly improve quality of life for citizens, by simplifying once complex procedures and transactions with the State. He stressed that, while “quick wins” help people understand the benefits of digitalization, it is the forward-looking vision for materializing strategic digital infrastructure projects, that really makes a difference. “The biggest challenge for the State and businesses alike, will be planning for recovery by means of digital transformation and by making good use of lessons learned during the pandemic”, Mr. Papazoglou concluded.

REVOLUTIONISING THE NEW DIGITAL WORLD

Digital solutions and applications across the entire range of individual and business activities, bring about a fundamental transformation to communications, commerce, and society. 

VIDEO OF THE PANEL : http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/video_webcast.php?i=panel6

Keynote Speaker : Mr. Ioannis Konstantinidis, Chief Strategy, Transformation & Wholesale Officer – OΤΕ Group 

Introduced by: Mr. Panos Papazoglou, EY, CESA Accounts Leader and Managing Partner in Greece

OTE Group’s Chief Strategy, Transformation & Wholesale Officer, Mr. Ioannis Konstantinidis, discussed the characteristics of the digital economy, Greece’s digital transformation in the post-covid era, as well as OTE Group’s role in the transformation process.

He emphasised that “the pandemic crisis worked as a digital transformation accelerator. Within a few months, we witnessed changes that, under other circumstances, would have taken years.” OTE Group’s Strategy chief said that ultra-high speed networks “that support what we all call Gigabit Society,” data, “the ‘fuel’ of the digital era,” and smart algorithms that transform data into “personalized services and experiences” will play a leading role in the new digital economy.

In the context of his speech, Mr. Konstantinidis described OTE Group’s vision for the future: “As a technology operator with a key role in the Greek economy and society, we believe that our mission is to lead the way in our country’s digital transformation. How can we make that happen? By creating the best and largest telecommunications networks in the country, providing high-quality services and digital tools for citizens. By supporting the digital transformation of enterprises and the Greek state through integrated ICT solutions” .Mr. Konstantinidis added: “Sustainable development has been an integral part of our strategy for many years now. The covid-19 pandemic further boosted our sustainability agenda for the society, the economy and the environment. At COSMOTE, we are constantly changing in order to create a better world for all.

In his introductory note, Mr. Panos Papazoglou, Managing Partner of EY in Greece, stated that, “the use of new digital technologies is not just a tool, but a driver for transformation and acceleration”. “The pace at which the technology is changing, brings an added level of difficulty in choosing the right infrastructure to invest in, but also to change management”, he maintained. Mr. Papazoglou underlined that, although Greece is starting with a handicap to its digital readiness, waiting for change to happen is not an option, and that the cost of transitioning to the Digital Era is the lowest that it has ever been.

INFRASTRUCTURE AND ENERGY – THE DAY AFTER 

VIDEO OF THE PANEL : http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/video_webcast.php?i=panel7

Moderator : Mr. Yannis Kourniotis, Partner – Lambadarios Law Firm 

Panelists : 

  • Mrs. Penelope Lazaridou, General Financial Manager, Executive Board Member – GT – GEK TERNA Group of Companies
  • Dr. Sotiris Kapellos, Operation and Development Director, BoD member – ELPE Renewable Energy Sources SA
  • Mr. Achilleas Ioakimides, Special Advisor to the CEO Communication – CSV – Public Power Corporation SA               

Mr. Yannis Kourniotis, Partner at Lambadarios Law Firm, moderator of the panel, stressed the fact that: “In order to repair the economic and social  damage experienced due to the corona virus pandemic, to prepare the European recovery and to create new jobs, the European Commission is proposing a dual reaction plan based on the new €750 billion recovery instrument, namely Next Generation EU, covering the period 2021-2024, as well as  a revamped long-term EU budget, amounting to some €1 100 billion between 2021-2027. All the resources gathered on the basis of the Next Generation EU instrument and the new EU budget shall be deployed for the extensive renovation of existing infrastructure and the creation of 1 million new green jobs. The day after for infrastructure and energy is due to be impressive.” 

Mrs. Penelope Lazaridou, General Financial Manager, Executive Board Member – GT – GEK TERNA Group of Companies, stated: “A strong investment narrative in infrastructure and clean energy will not only restart the Greek economy but it will also act as a growth factor for other sectors, given the extremely high GDP multiplier. At GEK TERNA, we are proud because we are determined to continue to be an integral part of the common national effort to restart our economy. GEK TERNA Group, being strategically positioned in  concessions, energy and infrastructure sectors – which appear to be more defensive during economic downturns – has launched an investment program with participation in projects with a total budget of c. € 3.5 billion in concessions and infrastructure and € 2 billion in clean energy (RES & storage), with further growth prospects., given (i) the State’s goal, under the aid of EU, to accelerate the completion of tender processes of c. € 6 billion concession and infrastructure projects of different maturity status and (ii) the fully licensed RES investments with a total capacity of c. 2400 MW, and another c. 5800 MW RES projects with full environmental license, of an aggregate investment of c. € 8.5-9 billion, which can be implemented within the next 5 years.” 

Dr. Sotiris Kapellos, Operation and Development Director, BoD member – ELPE Renewable Energy Sources SA,  stated: “Renewable Energy Sources (RES) markets have not remained unaffected by the Covid-19 crisis. There has been a temporary 2-3 months disruption in the supply chain (PV panels, inverters etc.), in the construction and licensing of new projects and in the maintenance operations of operational projects.. Gradually, as the restraining measures are withdrawn, the RES market is coming back to normal. The new installed RES capacity for 2020 is a bit lower than the  initially pre Covid-19 expected, at 500-600 MW (PV and Wind), nevertheless the missing capacity is not cancelled but postponed to be installed in 2021.

In this market environment ELPE Group strategic decision to further invest in RES via organic growth and/or targeted acquisitions remains unchanged. The target for 2021 being 300 MW RES and at 600 MW until 2025. The current portfolio of ELPE Group is 1000 MW of RES projects. In line with this strategy is the acquisition of the 204 MW PV project in Kozani, whose construction is expected to begin in the 2nd half of 2020 and to be connected to the Grid in the end of 2021.” 

Mr. Achilleas Ioakimides, Special Advisor to the CEO Communication – CSV – Public Power Corporation SA, stated: “Energy sector developments have been impressive as of late. The pandemic crisis has accelerated changes already initiated in response to the need for economic growth, which is significantly linked to the field of energy.

This new era of energy transformation calls upon institutions, governments, companies and non-governmental organizations to work together to make critical decisions. The way we handle energy is changing, as the combating of climate change and the need for environmental protection are now more important than ever.

This new necessary transition challenges decades-old business models, addresses complex issues, impacts the bigger picture, and, like any major change, causes social, economic and geopolitical concern. At the same time, however, change offers great opportunities and prospects for economic growth and technological innovation, which must be managed with a sustainability plan that will create shared value for all stakeholders (society – consumers – employees – shareholders).

We must take many small, but also big steps so that this necessary energy transition is fair, because only then will the outcome be positive for business, society and the environment. PPC, the leading electricity generation and supply company in Greece, under its new administration, vision and plan, once again aims to become the accelerator for growth and development in Greece.”

INVESTMENTS – GROWTH – ECONOMY – SOCIETY    

VIDEO OF THE PANEL : http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/video_webcast.php?i=panel8

Keynote Speaker: Mr. Adonis Georgiadis, Minister– Ministry of Development & Investments

Introduced by: Mr. Nicolas Bornozis, President, Capital Link Inc.

Mr. Adonis Georgiadis, Minister – Ministry of Development & Investments, stated: “Mitsotakis administration main priority is to double Foreign Direct Investments in the coming years from 1,8% of GDP today, said Adonis Georgiadis, Minister of Development & Investments, in the 10th DIGITAL Capital Link CSR Forum.

“The big investment projects that have started such as the development of the former Hellenikon airport in Athens, the largest urban regeneration project in Europe, and luxury hotels and residences in Greek islands and Peloponnese, are milestones of the new, improved business environment in Greece”, Mr Georgiadis stressed in his speech.

Furthermore, he reassured that Mitsotakis administration is a pure reform government that “implements a wide range of reforms in Greek economy across the board in order to transform Greece to a more business-friendly and attractive to investors country’, referring especially  to the further simplification of licensing procedures, the improvement of business environment, reforms in justice and tax cuts.” 

HEALTH & PHARMACEUTICALS INDUSTRY – NEW CHALLENGES & OPPORTUNITIES 

VIDEO OF THE PANEL : http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/video_webcast.php?i=panel9

Introductory remarks: Mr. Nicolas Bornozis, President, Capital Link Inc.

Keynote speaker : Mr. Vasileios Kikilias, Minister – Ministry of Health

Panelists : 

  • Dr. Dimitris C. Iliopoulos, MD, Associate Professor of Cardiac Surgery
  • Dr. George Kofinas, Founder & Medical Director – Kofinas Fertility Group & Manhattan Reproductive Surgery Center 

Mr. Vasileios Kikilias, Minister – Ministry of Health, in his speech he stated: 

“On the successful handling of the pandemic in Greece”

The human resources of the National Health System, scientists, technocrats in the health sector, cooperated harmoniously in the face of the danger of pandemic.

Human life is above all, without an asterisk.

In Greece, we proved that.

Not for a moment did we consider the financial cost or consequences in order to protect vulnerable groups, our grandparents, and people with underlying diseases, those who were most at risk.

Prevention comes first, before the handling. Modern health systems must ensure an important, key part of Public Health which precedes healthcare. We saw a potential danger in China and organized the health system, based on the rules suggested by the experts.

Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis made the right decisions in time. They were tough but necessary, such as the lockdown, but the Greeks were disciplined, they were like a huge family that fought together.

Our Hospitals have complied with the rules of protection, we have built a supply air bridge from China to in a “global war” to secure Personal Protective Equipment, and this is how we have protected our health. We did not have any medical deaths in Greece from coronavirus.

We mourn the 190 dead, but we have seen other countries lose tenfold in one day.

We passed the first phase successfully and became an example to follow. It was a national effort, not a political party or other party effort. It is credited not only to the Government of Kyriakos Mitsotakis, but to all Greeks.

And it was an opportunity to rebuild our country’s brand.

“On the pharmaceutical policy and investments”

In the run-up to the election, Kyriakos Mitsotakis had pledged to find a way to create, a development tool, if you will. That is why we have passed legislation on something that some have said it won’t succeed: the ability for national and multinational pharmaceutical companies to submit their plans for investment and research against clawback, and reduce clawback against investments.

So, what we have achieved in the first place is to enable the transformation of a “punitive” measure into a development-investment measure.

Large companies will invest in Greece and this way our country can develop in this field.

Then there’s our pharmaceutical policy. This year, we have submitted a Medicines Price Bulletin, which was approved by the market, the private economy. There was no increase in prices, only a reduction of up to 7% and we aspire to have much better results in our pharmaceutical policy in terms of the burden of EOPYY (National Health Care System), but also of our fellow citizens. For this year alone, we have reduced the burden on citizens in participating in pharmaceutical spending by € 30 million.

We unblocked the Negotiation Committees and Health Technology Assessment (HTA), which we reinforced; we supported the process and several drugs – generics, off patents and originals – that were “stagnant” and unexamined, all these drugs – more than 200 codes – entered the Greek market.

At the same time, we are doing what the powerful countries do: with the competent Commission, we negotiate the insurance pricing of large categories of drugs – which are confidential.”

Dr. Dimitris C. Iliopoulos, MD, Associate Professor of Cardiac Surgery, stated:Greece has managed to timely and properly implement a public health safety plan and contained the burden of the COVID-19 pandemic. On the contrary, COVID-19 has led to a national catastrophe in countries with superior infrastructures, such as Italy, Spain, France, and the United States.

At a time when our nation’s healthcare resources were insufficient to meet this unprecedented demand, it was necessary to prioritize needs in the hopes of maximizing lives saved. Although delaying definitive treatment of disorders presented a risk to specific individuals, countless others afforded life-saving resources necessary to overcome the most threatening manifestation of this illness.

The cataclysm of Covid-19 offers an opportunity to reshape health care in ways that may not have seemed possible just a few months ago. To help scientists & clinicians across disciplines connect their strengths, so that together we can advance the state of the art in medicine and lead the way to a new era of computational medicine. Will we have the collective will to make public health, social justice, equity, workplace safety and the practice of medicine greater priorities than financial success?” 

“We were completely unprepared to deal with a virus we knew almost nothing about,” said Dr. George Kofinas, Founder & Medical Director – Kofinas Fertility Group & Manhattan Reproductive Surgery Center, in New York. According to the Greek American doctor, the health care system could not cope with the pandemic and collapsed under the pressure of the large number of COVID-19 cases. “The entire health system was dedicated to tackling the pandemic, resulting in a complete cessation of health care for all other patients in need of medical care such as cancer patients, heart patients with chronic diseases and patients who needed surgery. This condition can easily be described as a complete collapse of the health care system, resulting in the loss of human lives due to a lack of medical care, which was necessary for their survival,” he said. In addition, Dr. Kofinas emphasized the lack of protection material for the medical and nursing staff and other medical equipment, such as respirators, which he described as a criminal indifference of the government services, which were responsible for providing all the necessary supplies to the hospitals. Regarding the World Health Organization, Dr. George Kofinas said that the pandemic “showed us how incompetent, corrupt, and dangerous the WHO is.”

Describing how the Covid-19 crisis will affect the future of the health-care industry, Dr. Kofinas estimated that there will be more emphasis on the intensive use of technology and in developing more efficient and economical health care systems. “It will force reduction of the negative impact of bureaucratic government agencies, and regulations that stifle innovation and delay the development of pharmaceuticals and medical equipment with their slow and inefficient approval process,” he said.

THE POST –COVID 19 LANDSCAPE OF CORE INDUSTRIES : FOOD SECTOR – REAL ESTATE – ENERGY – INVESTING    

VIDEO OF THE PANEL : http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/video_webcast.php?i=panel10 

Moderator : Mr. Petros Char. Machas, Chairman – Founding Partner, Machas and Partners Law Firm 

Panelists : 

  • Mr. John P. Calamos Sr., Founder, CEO and Global Co-Chief Investment Officer – Calamos Investments
  • Mr. John Catsimatidis, Chairman & CEO – Red Apple Group
  • Mr. Dean Metropoulos, Founder and CEO – Metropoulos & Co.

Mr. Petros Char. Machas, Chairman – Founding Partner, Machas and Partners Law Firm, reflected on the world that would emerge from the pandemic and assessed how the markets would be affected from the crisis, especially in what has to do with the food sector, the real estate market and energy. 

Mr. John P. Calamos, Sr., Founder, Chairman and Global Chief Investment Officer, Calamos Investments, stated he “Remains very optimistic for global equity markets. While the economic impact of COVID-19 has been significant, the fiscal and monetary response worldwide has been equally significant. When we do have an effective treatment or vaccine, we would expect market breadth to widen and exposure to more cyclical industries to begin to outperform globally. In the interim, the disruption caused by COVID-19 has resulted in a rapid acceleration in the adoption of many of our preferred secular themes.” In addition, he mentioned, “The Real Estate industry is very compelling in this environment with the potential rise in inflation given the substantial increases in government spending both within the U.S. and the Eurozone. The Energy sector is facing supply/demand pressures with the unprecedented worldwide decrease in airline traffic and the resulting increase in supply.” 

Mr. John Catsimatidis, Chairman & CEO – Red Apple Group, stated: “Congratulations to the Greek Government for swift and effective action against the Coronavirus.

Covid-19 has caused fundamental changes in Working, Shopping and Living.

New technology is changing the way of doing business in all sectors.

Food service had big disruptions in Restaurants and related business but

Food Consumption is up with a substantial increase in Supermarket Sales through the internet. Markets are driven by “Fear and Greed”. The virus created panic especially the first few weeks. There were always other “non-specific brands” or other food choices available for substitution.  

Real Estate is affected by the use of new technology to address “work” limitations caused by Covid-19.

Working from home and moving out of the city will affect both office buildings and residential apts. 

In the Oil Industry the world saw Russia and the Saudis bring down prices in order to hurt the US that had become oil-independent. Refinery companies like ours saw an opportunity to purchase crude oil at extremely low prices.

The Oil Sector after Covid-19 remains challenging for Energy companies due to the interruption of travel and the introduction of innovative energy solutions.

John’s response to the recovery of the US Economy:

“The safest place to invest is America.  I am not afraid of huge deficits. Between the choice of investing in the three big economies USA, Europe and China I am trusting the USA and its currency. 

I am optimistic that the country will recover fast but the NYC recovery will be slower”.

Investing in Greece:

Positive things are happening in Greece with the new government.

Mitsotakis is a highly educated, business person, that understands what the market needs to attract investors. 

I love Greece, as I was born there and I will be happy to invest along with Dean Metropoulos and John Calamos as soon as we find a good deal.

When asked, John said he is considering running for Mayor of New York but he hasn’t made a decision yet.”

Mr. Dean Metropoulos, Founder and CEO – Metropoulos & Co., stated: “First, congratulations to Greece for its excellent response to Covid-19.  The world must now be very vigilant as we open up our economies and interactions.

Economic challenges will persist with very high, global unemployment, the financial stress on many businesses, which will persist through 2021, and most importantly and not talked about, the future management of the unprecedented spending/investment by the U.S. Treasury and Federal Reserve, the EU and ECB and other countries around the world, particularly given the unparalleled levels of deficits:  GDP in many countries, like Greece.

On the positive side, the impressive response of pharma and university research, coupled with incredible technology, shows promise for early vaccine and other remedial drug solutions.  These medical moves and the floods of government subsidies in the global economies, give financial markets the optimism that a return to “normal” is on the horizon, and generally markets are right.

Recent reactions around the world against major and growing income inequality, and human prejudices, also require a commitment from all of us to provide leadership and solutions, not just conversations of these painful issues.  I know my family and I are committed.”

TOURISM: BRACING FOR RECOVERY

VIDEO OF THE PANEL : http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/video_webcast.php?i=panel11

One on One discussion :

  • Mrs. Angela Gerekou, President – Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO)
  • Mr. Nicholas A. Macropoulos, Deputy Mayor of Development, Enterprise & Investments – Municipality of Athens

Mrs. Angela Gerekou, President – Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO)

The President of Greek National Tourism Organization mentioned:

“The characteristics of Greek Tourism, can guarantee the attraction of all kind of visitors, focusing not only on the “sea ‘n sun” motive but also promoting the capabilities of special interest tourism forms, with regional specialization.

Our success in all the fields of tourism process in 2020, by giving priority to health safety, together with dynamic promotion to the international news media, and the social media and digital platforms, consists the big opportunity for Greek Tourism.

We promote Greece in a way that in the new global reality, the country will be at the first position of international tourism industry and arrivals, contributing decisively to the Greek economy.”

Mr. Nicholas A. Macropoulos, Deputy Mayor of Development, Enterprise & Investments – Municipality of Athens, estimated that the crisis can be turned into an opportunity, saying that Greece is a model country of how to restart of tourism industry. He believes that the actions of the Greek government will make this project a success. “Sustainable development is now an international issue that needs to be addressed in tourism as well. Entrepreneurship and respect for the environment are the parameters that lead to the future,” he noted in his speech. 

A CAUTIOUSLY OPTIMISTIC PERSPECTIVE ON GREECE     

Keynote Speaker: Mr. George Tsopelas, Managing Director – McKinsey & Company 

Mr. George Tsopelas, Managing Director – McKinsey & Company, stated: “Despite the severe hit, we could take a cautiously optimistic stance on Greece; assuming no new lockdown, recent analysis suggests that the GDP drop might be less dramatic compared to several other forecasts; that the banking sector will likely remain robust; that the state measures started to have positive impact and that funding of the program is challenging, yet feasible; finally, the crisis seems to have a positive impact on some aspects of Greece’s economic and social life” 

THE EU’S RESPONSE TO THE CRISIS AND THE OPPORTUNITIES FOR GREECE (ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY) 

VIDEO OF THE PANEL : http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/video_webcast.php?i=panel12

One on One discussion 

  • H.E. Ioannis Vrailas, Ambassador – Permanent Representative of Greece to the European Union
  • Mr. Nicolas Bornozis, President, Capital Link Inc.

H.E. Ioannis Vrailas, Ambassador – Permanent Representative of Greece to the European Union, stated: “The EU has tried its best to meet to meet the pandemic and its grave consequences with a coordinated and comprehensive strategy. Unprecedented steps have already been taken, but Leaders are now working to finalize, hopefully in the coming weeks, a deal on the basis of the latest Commission proposals, which amount to 1,85 trillion EUR, of which 500 billion in grants. This offers a real opportunity for Greece to radically reform and improve its economic model. Credible, workable and bankable projects will be needed, and the role of the private sector will be key.”

THE FORUM WAS ORGANISED:

UNDER THE AUSPICES: of the Attica Region, the City of Athens, the Municipality of Piraeus and the Greek National Tourism Organization – GNTO.

WITH THE SUPPORT: of the Consulate General of Greece in New York

GLOBAL GOLD SPONSOR: EY

LEAD SPONSORS: LIBRA GROUP • COSMOTE

GRAND SPONSORS: Alpha Bank • Hellenic Petroleum – ELPE Renewable Energy Sources SA • Hellenic Republic – Region of Attica • Kofinas Fertility Group – Manhattan Reproductive Surgery Center • Red Apple Group

SPONSORS: Public Power Corporation SA • GEK TERNA Group of Companies • Greek National Tourism Organisation (GNTO) • ICAP • Lambadarios Law Firm • Machas & Partners Law Firm • Optima bank • PotamitisVekris

SUPPORTING SPONSORS: Calamos Investments • Elikonos Capital Partners • Envolve Entrepreneurship • European Bank for Reconstruction & Development • Metropoulos & Co. • Piraeus Bank 

SUPPORTING ORGANISATIONS: American Hellenic Institute (AHI) • Association of S.A. & Limited Liability Companies • Athens Chamber of Small & Medium Industries • BCA • British Hellenic Chamber of Commerce • CCI France Grece – CCIFG • Consulate General of Greece New York • Cyprus US Chamber of Commerce • Economic Chamber of Greece • ΕΕDΕ – Hellenic Management Association • EMBCA – The Eastern Mediterranean Business Culture Alliance • Endeavor Greece • GRECA – Greek e-Commerce Association • Greek Energy Forum • Greek American Chamber of Commerce • Hellenic American Bankers Association • Hellenic Bankers Association • Hellenic American Chamber of Commerce • Hellenic Lawyers Association • Hellenic Fund and Asset Management Association • Hellenic Union of Mediators • Hellenic Mediation & Arbitration Center (ΕλλΚΔΔ) • ICC Hellas – International Chamber of Commerce • Institute of International Economic Relations • Leadership 100 • Piraeus Chamber of Commerce & Industry • SAKA – Organisation of Athens College and Psychico College Alumni • SED – Hellenic Investors Association • SEODI – Association of Greek Financial Officers • The Association of Greek Alumni of American Universities • The Hellenic American Women’s Council – HAWK 

MEDIA PARTNERS: ANT1 • Athina 9.84 • AllAboutShipping.co.uk • Αnamniseis Media Group LLC • Banking News • Building Green Magazine • OIkonomiki Epitheorisi – Business File • Efimeris Dimoprasion & Pleistiriasmon • epixeiro.gr • Εθνικός Κήρυξ – The National Herald • Hellenic News of America • Hellas Journal By Mignatiou.com • Kathimerini • NGTV • Peiraias Kanali Ena 90.4 FM • Piraeus 365.gr • World Energy News

MUSIC BY: Menelaos Kanakis 

SUPPORTING THE WORK OF NGOs

Capital Link, true to its appreciation of the work significant NGOs provide, has once more this year offered the opportunity to promote a large number on the Forum’s website. This way, through the Forum’s platform, Capital Link draws the attention to and serves as a link to providing information about the vital work that NGOs offer.

Please see at the following link Forum’s material http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/FINAL.zip

All videos are at : http://csringreece.gr/forum/2020/agenda_en.php?lang=en

 

For more detailed information, please visit:

CAPITAL LINK website: www.capitallink.com

CAPITAL LINK Forums website: www.capitallinkforum.com 

ORGANIZERS

Founded in 1995, Capital Link is a New York based investor relations, financial communications and advisory firm with a strategic focus on the maritime, commodities and energy sectors, MLPs, as well as Closed-End Funds and ETFs.  Based in New York City, Capital Link has presence in London, Athens & Oslo. Capital Link is a member of the Baltic Exchange and works very closely with the New York Stock Exchange, NASDAQ and the London Stock Exchange as well as with major international and supranational organizations and industry associations in the areas of the firm’s strategic concentration.

Our proactive approach, which integrates Investor Relations, Information Technology and Media, enhances awareness and branding for our clients through tailored outreach programs targeting analysts, institutional and individual investors and the financial media complemented by extensive and uniquely powerful marketing platforms. Capital Link offers a full suite of services including strategic and corporate advisory, investor relations, media relations, public and industry relations and the organization of corporate events. Capital Link is also known for the organization of large scale, high quality Investment Forums focusing on maritime transportation and U.S. investment products in key industry centers, such as New York, London, Athens, Limassol, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo and Hong Kong. We organize a series of conferences annually, of which the majority are focused on the maritime sector. The Capital Link Investment Forums feature industry leaders and draw the elite of the global financial and investment communities. The Capital Link brand is widely-recognized and valued worldwide by participants in these communities for combining rich informational and educational content with as well as superior networking opportunities. In addition to conferences, Capital Link organizes Webinars focusing on investment strategies, sectors, critical topics of interest to the investment community and company presentations. Capital Link’s global marketing platform enhances the visibility and reach of these events on a global scale that lasts well beyond the date on which each event is held, becoming a continuous reference point for market participants.

Capital Link’s efforts have been recognized by the 2011 Lloyds’s List Greek Shipping Awards, in 2012 and 2013 by the InterContinental Finance Magazine and in 2016 by the Wealth & Finance Magazine, Also, by the International Propeller Club of the United States and AHI-American Hellenic Institute.

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