“Green Finance Puts Vilnius’ Global Fintech Goals in Reach,” says Industry Expert
Vilnius is steadily cementing its reputation as a global fintech hub, and one area poised to drive its future success is green finance. According to Lina Žemaitytė-Kirkman, head of Rockit—a space dedicated to fintech and sustainable innovation—Vilnius’s ability to innovate and adapt is crucial for maintaining its leadership in the European fintech scene.
Lina Žemaitytė-Kirkman, head of Rockit
“Vilnius has a huge focus on AI, AML, and Open Banking, which aligns us with the top global trends,” says Žemaitytė-Kirkman. “But to truly secure our position as a global leader, we need to look ahead and invest in emerging sectors like green finance.”
Vilnius’s fintech ecosystem has grown significantly, supported by institutions like the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Lithuania. The city’s regulatory framework, bolstered by initiatives like the Fintech Guidelines 2023-2028, has fostered a collaborative environment encouraging innovation and compliance. Public-private partnerships, including the Anti-Money Laundering Center of Excellence, highlight the city’s commitment to strengthening its fintech landscape.
One of the most promising areas for future growth is green finance. As the world increasingly turns toward sustainable financial practices, Vilnius has the potential to lead the way. Local fintech companies are already making strides in this area. Heavy Finance, a Vilnius-based fintech, has successfully integrated sustainability into its business model by issuing €1.47 million in agricultural loans. This has yielded returns between 10.94% and 19.37%, showing that green finance can attract investors while driving impactful results.
Žemaitytė-Kirkman points out that companies like Heavy Finance demonstrate how sustainability and fintech can intersect effectively. Additionally, the recent establishment of the Green Finance Institute in Lithuania further solidifies the city’s commitment to this growing sector. “Green finance isn’t just a trend; it’s a viable path forward for fintech innovation,” she adds.
As Vilnius continues to push the boundaries of fintech and sustainability, its position as a global leader seems well within reach. The city’s commitment to collaboration, innovation, and forward-thinking investments in green finance will be vital in shaping its future.
