Why Regulatory Convergence
Is the Western Balkans’ Biggest Economic Lever
Why Regulatory Convergence
Is the Western Balkans’ Biggest Economic Lever
By Davor Macura
Regulatory convergence is often described as a technical process. In the Western Balkans, it has become a powerful driver of financial-sector growth. As the region adopts standards closer to those of the European Union, banks gain the clarity and stability needed to support long-term investment. Predictability attracts capital, strengthens institutions and accelerates integration.
“Regulation is more than compliance,”
says Davor Macura, Owner of ALTA Group.
“For the Western Balkans, aligning with European standards expresses who we are as a region. It reflects our commitment to transparency, partnership and a financial system worthy of trust. ALTA BANKA’s regulatory strength is already one of our defining advantages, shaping how we grow and how we serve the region.”
These values are becoming visible in how the region’s financial system is modernising.
The Western Balkans’ financial landscape is changing quickly. Banks are upgrading their systems, improving supervision frameworks and integrating more deeply with European partners. What was once considered a fragmented market is evolving into a credible, interconnected financial space.
At ALTA BANKA, we see this transition every day. As the fastest-growing bank in Serbia, and with a clear ambition to become the leading financial institution in the region, we experience firsthand how aligned regulation enables stronger, more efficient financial services. When rules are predictable and oversight is robust, cross-border banking becomes simpler and investment more sustainable.
“The Balkans are not a frontier,” Macura notes. “They are becoming an integral part of Europe’s financial landscape, guided by shared expectations of stability and responsible governance.”
Across the region, banks are adopting higher standards, and ALTA BANKA welcomes this evolution. We undergo regular supervision by the national regulators in the countries in which we operate. Our financial reporting is independently reviewed by an international audit firm, and our risk and compliance framework benefits from external assessments by European specialist bodies, reinforcing alignment with international expectations.
This strong governance foundation enables ALTA BANKA to focus on what matters most: shaping the region’s next phase of financial development. By strengthening risk management, expanding modern digital services and supporting investment across key sectors, the bank contributes to the Western Balkans’ deeper economic integration with Europe.
The results are already visible. Businesses gain access to more reliable financing. Households experience more transparent and modern banking services. Cross-border projects move with greater confidence as institutions across the region improve their regulatory alignment.The results are already visible. Businesses gain access to more reliable financing. Households experience more transparent and modern banking services. Cross-border projects move with greater confidence as institutions across the region improve their regulatory alignment.
“Growth here is tangible and grounded,” Macura says. “And it strengthens Europe as a whole.”
As regional financial institutions converge with European norms, new opportunities emerge for cooperation, investment and shared stability.
“The trajectory is clear,” Macura adds. “The Western Balkans are moving closer to Europe not just economically, but institutionally.”
The region is not waiting for Europe’s future to arrive. It is actively shaping it. ALTA BANKA is committed to supporting that progress with responsibility, credibility and vision
Deep regional expertise.
A European outlook.
Deep regional expertise.
A European outlook.
About this article
This article is part of an ALTA BANKA campaign that also appeared in the Financial Times’ online offering at ft.com. The campaign explores the role of regulatory convergence in shaping the Western Balkans’ financial sector and its integration with European markets. Related content from this campaign has been published on the Financial Timeswebsite at ft.com.
About this article
This article is part of an ALTA BANKA campaign that also appeared in the Financial Times’ online offering at ft.com. The campaign explores the role of regulatory convergence in shaping the Western Balkans’ financial sector and its integration with European markets. Related content from this campaign has been published on the Financial Timeswebsite at ft.com.