ESEG Tech Summit 2026 discusses the impact of digital currencies on the global economy with Lourdes Casanova.

The transformation of the global financial system and the advancement of digital currencies were the central themes of Lourdes Casanova's lecture, held on August 14th at the ESEG Faculty – Ana Rosa Campus, as part of the ESEG Tech Summit 2026 program. Internationally recognized for her work in emerging markets, innovation, and the global economy, the expert provided students with insights into the changes brought about by the digitalization of finance and its impacts on countries, companies, and consumers.

Director of the Cañizares Center for Emerging Markets and Associate Teaching Professor at Cornell SC Johnson College of Business. Cornell University, Lourdes Casanova discussed trends related to digital currencies, financial transformation, emerging markets, and international competitiveness.

During the meeting, the expert also highlighted the importance of understanding economic transformations from a global perspective. When addressing the international scenario, Lourdes compared the presence of Brazilian and Chinese companies in different markets and drew attention to the need to expand internationalization and competitiveness.

Digital currencies and the future of the financial system

Among the main topics of the lecture was the advancement of digital currencies and questions about their impact on national economies. Lourdes discussed, for example, whether the adoption of digital currencies could contribute to a greater appreciation of traditional currencies. According to the research presented, however, the trend does not necessarily point in that direction.

In this context, the expert emphasizes the importance of countries strengthening their own currencies to face an international financial scenario still heavily influenced by the dollar.

Another highlight was the Brazilian experience with Pix. The implementation of the instant payment system broadened the population's access to financial services and showed how technology can contribute to financial inclusion. The discussion also involves aspects such as reducing transaction costs, offering more accessible financial services, understanding consumer behavior, and using data to improve products and services.

According to Lourdes, Brazil holds a relevant position in this scenario because it has a solid and technologically advanced Central Bank. The country's experience with Pix also demonstrates how digital solutions were already part of the Brazilian financial routine even before the expansion of many of the currently known digital banks.

International experience broadens students' perspectives.

The participation of an expert with international academic and professional experience was also highlighted by students as one of the distinguishing features of the ESEG Tech Summit.

For Marina Fukumitsu, an 8th semester student of Production Engineering, The lecture week is especially important for those starting their undergraduate studies and beginning to have contact with different perspectives on the job market. "I think these lectures are great, especially for people who are just starting college. It's their first contact with the market itself," said the student. Marina also highlighted the diversity of topics presented during the event and the opportunity for students from different courses to broaden their knowledge. "The professionals address various topics that are super important for any course we have here at the college."“

The proposal aligns with the purpose of the ESEG Tech Summit, which is to bring students closer to contemporary discussions related to technology, business, innovation, and the transformations impacting the market.

Technology, economics and vocational training

According to Professor Romane Fortes Santos Bernardo, Lourdes Casanova's lecture made a particularly relevant contribution by addressing a contemporary topic that sparks interest among students, professionals, and faculty in the business field. "I think Professor Casanova's contribution was extremely relevant. First, because of the contemporary nature of the topic," she assessed.

Romane also emphasized that the debate on digital currencies is only beginning and that there are still important questions related to the stability of monetary policies, especially in emerging countries, and the maintenance of reserves. According to her, the discussion presented during the ESEG Tech Summit opens up space for the institution to continue delving deeper into the topic with students.

Connection with the market and the global landscape

Beyond the content presented, the lecture reinforced the importance of an academic education connected to the transformations happening outside the classroom. By interacting with experts from different fields and with international experience, students can broaden their knowledge and understand how economic, technological, and social issues are related to decisions made by companies and governments.

Lourdes Casanova's lecture was part of the ESEG Tech Summit 2026 program, an initiative of ESEG College which brings together professionals and experts to discuss topics relevant to the academic and professional development of students.

With meetings that connect technology, business, innovation, and the job market, the event reinforces its mission to provide students with experiences that complement their university education and broaden their perspective on the challenges and opportunities of their professional future.