Breaking news

EUIPO Says Only 13% Of Firms Use IP For Financing In EU

Overview Of The Report

The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) published a report on intellectual property-backed financing in Europe. The analysis examines how intellectual property is used as a financial asset by companies. Findings show that intellectual property remains underutilized in securing financing despite its role in innovation.

Challenges In Commercializing Intellectual Assets

Trademarks, patents, and designs form a significant share of company value in innovation-driven sectors. Limited awareness among businesses and a lack of expertise among financial institutions constrain the use of these assets. Fragmented capital markets, regulatory differences, and structural barriers further limit the use of intellectual property as collateral.

Economic And Policy Implications

Intellectual property-intensive sectors account for 48% of EU GDP and 31% of total employment. Despite this, only 13% of companies with intellectual property have used it to access financing. João Negrão, Executive Director of EUIPO, said intellectual property connects innovation to market activity and requires stronger financial frameworks. Nathalie Berger, Director at the European Commission, noted that limited use of intangible assets contributes to a widening financing gap.

Unlocking A Multibillion-Euro Opportunity

EUIPO estimates intellectual property-backed financing could mobilize between €30 billion and €120 billion annually. Over ten years, this could reach up to €580 billion. Such funding could increase EU GDP by up to 4.2%, based on the report’s projections.

Future Steps For A Competitive Financial Ecosystem

The report calls for stronger integration between intellectual property management and financing systems. Policy initiatives, including the competitiveness compass and future EU funding frameworks, are expected to support this process. Improved valuation methods and coordination between stakeholders are identified as key factors for expanding access to financing.

Eurobank Launches First UPI Cross-Border Payment From Greece To India

Eurobank has launched its first cross-border payment from Greece to India through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI), marking a new step in the bank’s international expansion and its strategy to strengthen financial ties between Europe and India.

The transaction, completed in cooperation with NPCI International, follows the launch of Eurobank’s new payment service. The inaugural payment was made in the presence of India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, Eurobank Chief Executive Fokion Karavias and senior executives from NPCI International.

A Strategic Bet On India’s Digital Payments Ecosystem

According to Eleftherios Vlachogiannis, Eurobank’s head of transaction banking, the service currently supports outgoing payments by Indian citizens living in Greece to recipients in India, representing the first phase of a broader collaboration with NPCI International.

UPI is operated by NPCI International. By integrating the system into its e-banking platform and mobile app, Eurobank enables customers to make real-time transfers.

“The most important aspect is the philosophy behind the initiative,” Vlachogiannis said. “Instead of creating another closed payment system, we are integrating mature and internationally recognised payment ecosystems into the bank’s services so customers enjoy a simple, secure and modern transaction experience.”

He added: “Innovation creates value when it delivers a genuine benefit for the customer.”

Building A Financial Bridge Between Europe And India

The UPI launch follows Eurobank’s opening of a representative office in Mumbai, making it the first Greek and Cypriot bank with a physical presence in India. The bank has also expanded its presence through the India-Greece-Cyprus Business and Investment Council, a technology centre in Pune and partnerships with Indian institutions.

Vlachogiannis said India’s economic growth and closer ties with the European Union support the bank’s long-term strategy. He also pointed to progress in negotiations on the EU-India Free Trade Agreement.

Mumbai Office Serves As A Regional Business Hub

Eurobank’s Mumbai office supports businesses seeking to establish operations between India, Greece, Cyprus and the wider European market. It provides access to banking services, business networks and market support.

For Greek companies expanding into India, the bank offers international payments, foreign exchange management, trade finance and supply chain finance. Indian businesses investing in Greece, Cyprus or elsewhere in the European Union can also access financing and corporate banking services through Eurobank.

Aiming To Strengthen The India-Europe Corridor

Looking ahead, Eurobank said it will continue investing in technology, international payments, trade finance and partnerships with Indian organisations.

“Our ambition is to act not only as a banking services provider but also as a strategic partner for businesses and investors seeking to benefit from the opportunities created by this dynamic market,” Vlachogiannis said.

eCredo
Uol
Aretilaw firm
The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter