Q&A with Oesterreichische Nationalbank

Julia Wörz

Head of the Central, Eastern and Southeastern Europe Section

What area of CEE markets will you be watching most closely in 2025?

Given the crucial importance of EU funds for these economies, we will closely watch the start of talks for the next EU multiannual framework (2028-2034). How will sufficient resources be channeled to the 3 major policy areas green and digital transition and defense? Further, we expect new momentum in EU negotiations with the Western Balkans.

What is the best thing to come out of 2024 for CEE markets?

Apart from the disinflation trend observed in 2024, we welcome the signing of a MoU between EBRD and seven stock exchanges in CEE (SK, HU, RO, BG, SI, PL, HR) in mid-November 2024 in Bratislava to enhance joint efforts in developing regional capital markets.

What famous current or historical person would you most like to meet?

Alexandra David-Néel: she was an explorer, Tibetan lama, opera singer, and writer and the first female European to reach Lhasa in 1924 when it was forbidden for foreigners to visit the city.

What is the best advice (professional or otherwise) you've received?

Have courage to leave gaps!

What is your favourite book/film?

Too many to name them, but Stefan Zweig’s “The World of Yesterday” is among them.