As we close out the year, the AFP and EuroFinance conferences brought together treasury and finance leaders to address today’s most pressing industry challenges. From working capital and payments to security and the economy, both events shed light on the priorities that will shape treasury strategies in 2025. Here’s a closer look at key insights and emerging trends treasury professionals should be aware of.
Key Themes and Takeaways
1. Working Capital & Supply Chain Finance (SCF)
In a year marked by economic uncertainty, optimizing working capital has become a critical focus. Treasurers are looking for ways to keep liquidity flowing efficiently, especially with the potential for economic downturns on the horizon.
- U.S. (AFP): Emphasis on recession preparedness and liquidity.
- Europe (EuroFinance): A stronger focus on regulatory compliance and stability.
2. Payments Innovations
Efficiency in payments is transforming treasury processes, with a growing focus on streamlining cross-border transactions to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Treasurers are increasingly looking to payment innovations that can offer greater speed, security, and lower fees.
3. Security in Treasury
As digital transactions increase, so do cybersecurity risks. The focus on fraud prevention and safeguarding treasury operations was high on the agenda. Automation is enhancing processes, but it also brings new vulnerabilities, making cybersecurity a priority in treasury planning.
4. Economic Outlook
Economic forecasts, including inflation and recession concerns, are weighing heavily on treasury strategies. Both conferences provided insights into how treasury can prepare for continued volatility in the economy, ensuring that businesses stay resilient.
Emerging Themes: Beyond the Basics
AI in Treasury
While AI was a major theme, discussions went beyond surface-level benefits. Treasurers are more interested in how AI can practically improve treasury functions.
- Key Uses: AI-driven risk assessments, cash flow forecasting, and enhanced fraud detection.
- Treasurer Concerns: Many are considering the workforce implications of AI, including the need for new skills and the evolving role of treasury professionals.
Regional Differences
Although there was overlap, each region showed distinct priorities.
- U.S. Focus (AFP): Innovation and adapting to rapid technological change.
- European Focus (EuroFinance): Regulatory considerations, ESG, and sustainability in treasury.
- Overlap: Both regions are dealing with the impact of digital transformation on treasury’s risk management and security.
Treasurer-Specific Concerns
With technology accelerating change, treasurers are not only responsible for managing financial risks but also navigating the new landscape of digital tools and compliance.
Event Marketing Insights: What Worked
Both conferences offered valuable lessons in event marketing strategies that were particularly effective for engaging treasury professionals:
Engagement-Driven Experiences
The events were designed to drive attendee engagement, from interactive workshops and panel discussions to networking areas.
- Tactic: Many vendors used tech demos and live showcases to capture interest in the U.S., while in Europe, a focus on deep-dive panel discussions around regulatory topics helped create meaningful connections.
Enhanced Digital Experience
With apps, digital badges, and on-demand content, both AFP and EuroFinance events ensured that attendees stayed engaged beyond the sessions themselves.
- Marketing Impact: This trend toward a hybrid digital-physical experience can be a model for future event strategies, especially as treasurers value both in-person and flexible digital options.
Notable Campaigns
Several fintech and SCF providers stood out with thought leadership-focused campaigns, showing that content and educational insights resonate well in this space.
Implications for Marketing to Treasury Professionals
For companies looking to reach treasury and finance professionals, these insights highlight the importance of aligning with treasurers’ key concerns. Here are a few strategies to consider:
Focus on Real Concerns
Build messaging around the themes treasurers care about, like risk management, working capital efficiency, and payment security.
Adapt Event Strategies for 2024
The best event marketing tactics from AFP and EuroFinance can be applied to future campaigns, including:
- Digital tools for ongoing engagement.
- Interactive sessions and demos tailored to regional interests.
- Content that speaks to treasurers’ need for regulatory insights and future-focused solutions.
Why Partner with Method Q
As treasury professionals navigate a rapidly shifting landscape, our team at Method Q stands ready to support and guide your marketing efforts. With deep expertise and years of experience in the treasury space, we understand the unique challenges and priorities treasurers face. Whether it’s crafting strategies that address working capital, security, or economic preparedness, our team can help you build impactful, meaningful connections with treasury leaders that drive results. Connect with us to explore how our tailored integrated marketing approach can make a difference in reaching and engaging treasury professionals.