GSS Newsletter 2026 Q3

October 2026 – Issue 236

Global Securities Services

Dear Partners and Friends, Having spent more than 30 years in the international financial sector, I recently joined GSS as Global Product Development and Project Coordinator. My professional journey has been shaped by leadership positions at UniCredit Bank Hungary, BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, and ING, where I specialized in securities services, post-trade operations, and custody. I am excited to leverage this experience to help drive strategic development, strengthen client partnerships, and support the organization's long-term ambitions. What makes this opportunity especially compelling is joining a team that has consistently demonstrated excellence and a strong commitment to its clients. Under the group’s leadership, the organization has fostered a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement, creating an environment where talented professionals can thrive and deliver outstanding results. These qualities are reflected in the significant industry recognition UniCredit has once again received.

Client Solutions is a division of UniCredit Group and consists of UniCredit S.p.A., UniCredit Bank GmbH, UniCredit Bank GmbH London Branch, UniCredit Bank GmbH Milan Branch and other members of UniCredit Group. UniCredit Group and its subsidiaries are subject to regulation by the European Central Bank. UniCredit S.p.A. is regulated by Banca d’Italia and supervised by the Commissione Nazionale per le Società e la Borsa (CONSOB). In addition, UniCredit Bank GmbH is regulated by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin), UniCredit Bank GmbH London Branch is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), and UniCredit Bank GmbH Milan Branch is also regulated by Banca d’Italia and supervised by the Commissione Nazionale per le Società e la Borsa (CONSOB). This publication is intended for marketing purpose only and it is published by UniCredit Group. Under no circumstances may the information contained in the published material be construed as an offer, recommendation, invitation to offer or promotional message for the purchase, sale or subscription of financial products. This marketing communication is directed solely at investment professionals and constitutes a “non-retail communication” for the purposes of the relevant rules.

UniCredit

General Company Info

Privacy

Disclaimer

Accessibility

Lakers Take Slovenia Los Angeles Lakers’ August 2026 Visit to Slovenia: Luka Dončić Showcases His Homeland and a New Era for the Franchise In August 2026, Slovenia became the temporary home of one of the world’s most recognizable sports franchises when the Los Angeles Lakers traveled to Ljubljana for a four-day team minicamp hosted by Slovenian superstar Luka Dončić. The visit attracted significant international attention, combining basketball preparation, tourism, community engagement, and team-building activities while putting Slovenia in the global sporting spotlight. A New Lakers Era Begins in Ljubljana The trip represented far more than a preseason getaway. It was widely viewed as a symbolic moment for the Lakers organization as Luka Dončić embraced his role as the team’s leader and centerpiece.

Slovenia

NAVIGATOR ARTICLE

NEWS

Slovenia

Serbia

Bulgaria

Romania

Hungary

Slovakia

Czech Republic

A Platform for Growth Vienna Stock Exchange’s direct market plus gains EU SME Growth Market Status, Strengthening Capital Market Opportunities for Growth Companies

Austria

Croatia

Value over Volume Croatia Adopts a Value-First Tourism Strategy to Support Sustainable, Year-Round Growth

Croatia

During the third quarter of 2026, Bulgaria’s economy remained resilient following its successful adoption of the euro. Recent data from the Bulgarian National Bank show continued growth in lending activity, with credit to the non-government sector increasing by 16.5% year-on-year as of July 2026, while housing loans recorded annual growth of 25.7%, reflecting strong household demand and sustained business activity. At the same time, the latest BNB macroeconomic forecast projects GDP growth of 2.8% in 2026, supported mainly by domestic consumption and investment, despite a more challenging external environment and temporary inflationary pressures. The labour market also remains stable, continuing to support household spending and overall economic growth. On the post-trade infrastructure side, Central Depository AD marked its 30th anniversary in August 2026. Over the past three decades, the institution has played a central role in the development of the Bulgarian capital market and continues to support market modernisation, digitalisation initiatives and the industry’s preparation for the future T+1 settlement cycle. Through its participation in the National T+1 Forum, Central Depository remains actively engaged in the coordination efforts aimed at ensuring operational readiness and alignment with future European market standards. The Bulgarian Stock Exchange (BSE) reported another strong quarter for the local capital market. Trading turnover during the summer months remained significantly above last year’s levels, while the SOFIX index continued its positive performance and gained more than 12% since the beginning of the year. Investor activity was supported by strong interest in both blue-chip companies and growth-oriented issuers. In a further step toward improving access to capital, recent regulatory changes increased the fundraising threshold on the BEAM growth market from EUR 8 million to EUR 12 million. Since its launch, BEAM has established itself as an important financing platform for Bulgarian SMEs, with more than twenty successful offerings and over EUR 50 million raised from investors. In addition, BSE and the Bulgarian SME Promotion Agency launched a new support programme covering up to 90% of eligible listing and advisory costs for companies seeking market financing, aiming to encourage more SMEs to access the capital market. Beyond the financial sector, Bulgaria received another reason for celebration this summer. Following Bulgaria’s victory at Eurovision 2026, Burgas was officially selected as the host city for the Eurovision Song Contest 2027, becoming the first Bulgarian city ever to host the event. The announcement generated significant international attention and is expected to contribute positively to tourism and Bulgaria’s visibility across Europe. Overall, Bulgaria continues to strengthen its position within the European financial ecosystem through active capital markets, modernising financial infrastructure, growing investor participation and steady economic activity.

Momentum Across Markets Bulgaria Continues to Strengthen Its Financial Market Infrastructure

Bulgaria

Tourism is one of Croatia’s key GDP contributors; therefore, strong tourist demand and good tourism industry results are of very high importance for the country’s overall position. Judging by the arrival and overnight stay numbers achieved during the summer season, 2026 is expected to be yet another good year for Croatian tourism. However, in the context of strong competition from Mediterranean peers and the need to achieve more sustainable and balanced development, Croatia is adopting a new strategy, with a focus on quality and value instead of quantity and volume. So far, the country’s strategy has very much been based on maximising revenues built around an ever-increasing number of arrivals and overnight stays. Tourism was very seasonal and concentrated around the coast. In order to remain competitive and to achieve more sustainable and balanced year-round results, Croatia is now making a structural transition from mass tourism towards a "value-first" model, which shifts focus from mass-market volumes to high-quality, sustainable, and year-round destination management. A Value-First Tourism Strategy This new strategy is stipulated in the Croatian Tourism Act and is coordinated via the Ministry of Tourism and Sports. It relies on the following:

The Prague Stock Exchange is set to expand its investment product offering with the long-awaited WOOD PX ETF, providing investors with a simple and efficient way to gain exposure to the leading companies included in the PX Index through a single investment vehicle. The fund will track the performance of the Prague Stock Exchange’s benchmark equity index. The new ETF, managed by WOOD & Company, will enable investors to access the Czech equity market without the need to purchase individual shares separately. The fund will include companies represented in the PX Index, such as ČEZ, Erste Group Bank, Komerční banka, and MONETA Money Bank. This launch marks another important milestone in the development of the Czech capital market and is expected to increase the attractiveness of Czech equities for both domestic and international investors. Trading commencement date: 7 September 2026.

Tracking the Czech Market Prague Stock Exchange to Launch PX ETF, ISIN: CZ1005101004

Czech Republic

The European T+1 settlement initiative has entered a new phase, with the focus increasingly shifting from planning and regulatory interpretation to practical implementation and operational readiness. A key milestone during the quarter was the publication of KELER’s T+1 Implementation Plan, which provides greater clarity on the Hungarian market’s preparation efforts, the proposed operating framework and the areas that still require further industry coordination. The plan confirms that several functionalities recommended at European level are already available within the Hungarian market infrastructure, including Partial Settlement, Hold & Release and Allegement processing. At the same time, KELER has not yet decided on a general extension of its operating hours or system availability and continues to assess the alignment of its settlement deadlines with the operating windows of the VIBER payment system. The implementation plan also identifies a number of areas where the Hungarian market may take a different approach from certain European recommendations. KELER currently does not plan to introduce overnight settlement or a midnight start of settlement processing. The potential introduction of auto-collateralisation remains under review, while further analysis is ongoing regarding corporate action-related developments, including the harmonisation of ex-dates and record dates in a T+1 environment. The plan further outlines KELER’s approach to industry testing. KELER is expected to participate in the European T+1 testing programme scheduled between February and September 2027. While detailed testing scenarios are still being developed, testing preparations have already become an important focus area for both market infrastructures and participants. Industry discussions are increasingly focusing on post-trade communication and operational standards. SSI (Settlement Standing Instructions) management remains a key open topic, with market participants working towards a common data exchange framework. Allocation and confirmation processes are also under active review by investment service providers, particularly regarding MT51x messaging standards, data requirements and communication channels. While no final market standard has yet been agreed, there is broad consensus that future solutions should be standardised, highly automated and support straight-through processing. As the market moves closer to implementation, these topics are expected to remain at the centre of industry discussions in the coming quarters.

Preparing for T+1 T+1 Migration Update: Hungarian Market Readiness

Hungary

Fitch has reaffirmed Serbia’s BB+ credit rating and maintained a positive outlook for a potential upgrade to investment-grade status, marking the fourth consecutive review with a positive outlook. The agency highlighted Serbia’s strong policy framework, including exchange rate stability, prudent fiscal management, high foreign exchange reserves, and improving economic resilience. Positive growth prospects, stable public debt levels, and resilience to external shocks were cited as key supporting factors. Fitch expects Serbia’s economic growth to remain solid, with GDP growth projected to accelerate to 4.0% in 2027, supported by ongoing investment projects and preparations for Expo 2027. Medium-term growth is forecast at around 3.5% annually. The agency also noted improvements in Serbia’s external position, including a lower current account deficit driven by strong automotive exports, services exports, and remittance inflows. Further narrowing of external imbalances is expected in 2027. On the fiscal side, Fitch expects Serbia to maintain responsible fiscal policies, with the budget deficit projected at 3% of GDP in 2026 and declining to 2.5% by 2028. Public debt is expected to remain stable at around 44% of GDP, well below the median for similarly rated countries.

Closer to Investment Grade Fitch Maintains Positive Outlook for Serbia

Serbia

The Bratislava Stock Exchange (BSSE) is celebrating 35 years since its establishment in 1991. Since the first trade was executed in April 1993, the exchange has facilitated transactions with a total value exceeding EUR 312 billion. Over the years, BSSE has introduced key market developments, including the SAX equity index, online trading, and the implementation of European financial market regulations. Today, it continues to strengthen its position within the European financial ecosystem as a member of the Federation of European Securities Exchanges (FESE) and an active participant in international initiatives such as the EBRD-supported cooperation project of eight stock exchanges and the EuroCTP project. Looking ahead, BSSE remains focused on enhancing the competitiveness of the Slovak capital market, fostering cross-border partnerships, and contributing to greater integration and transparency across European capital markets.

35 Years of Progress Bratislava Stock Exchange Marks 35 Years of Serving the Slovak Capital Market

Slovakia

Slovenia

Finance in Focus Slovenia’s 2026 Financial Industry Conference Highlights Key Trends in Treasury, Custody, Investment Banking, and Asset Management

INTRODUCTION

NAVIGATOR ARTICLE

NEWS

The bank has been named Best Sub-Custodian Bank in Central and Eastern Europe in the annual Global Finance awards, while also earning country awards for Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Czech Republic, and Serbia. Particularly noteworthy is the regional award, which has now been achieved for the 17th consecutive year, a remarkable testament to the consistency, dedication, and expertise of our Securities Services professionals across the region. This prestigious recognition highlights UniCredit's enduring strength in delivering high-quality custody and post-trade services, supported by deep local market knowledge, operational excellence, and an unwavering focus on client needs. I am proud to join the team at such an exciting time and look forward to contributing to its continued success.

the continual strengthening of the external position as a result of inflows based on foreign direct investments, as well as the continuation of the downward trajectory of the share of public debt in the gross domestic product, despite higher state capital expenditures

The long-standing partnership between UniCredit Bank and the Sarajevo Film Festival once again went beyond supporting one of the most important cultural events in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The 32nd Sarajevo Film Festival took place from 14 to 21 August 2026, bringing together filmmakers, artists and audiences from across the region and beyond. By bringing together culture, local creativity and social responsibility, this year’s Festival also gained a strong humanitarian dimension. During the Mastercard World Elite Party, creations by Bosnian and Herzegovinian designers that marked some of the Festival’s most memorable fashion moments were showcased. UniCredit Bank purchased the creations and donated them to Think Pink – Together We Are One, which will offer them at a charity auction. In this way, we supported both the local creative scene and Think Pink’s important mission of raising awareness about breast cancer and the importance of preventive screenings. For UniCredit Bank, the Sarajevo Film Festival was more than a cultural partnership. It was an opportunity to bring people, ideas and meaningful initiatives together and create lasting value that extended well beyond the Festival itself.

More Than Film: A Partnership That Made a Difference More than a celebration of film, the 32nd Sarajevo Film Festival brought together culture, creativity and social responsibility, turning a long-standing partnership into meaningful support for an important humanitarian cause.

Bosnia Herzegovina

The Austrian capital market marked an important milestone on 1 July 2026, when the Vienna Stock Exchange’s direct market plus segment was officially registered as an EU SME Growth Market following the implementation of the EU Listing Act into Austrian law. While direct market plus has been available since 2019 as a dedicated segment for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and growth companies, the new status further strengthens its position within the European capital market landscape and highlights ongoing efforts to facilitate market access for growing businesses. From Established Market Segment to EU SME Growth Market Introduced in January 2019 as part of the Vienna MTF, the direct market plus segment was designed to provide SMEs and growth-oriented companies with a simplified and cost-effective route to the capital market while maintaining enhanced transparency and disclosure standards. A distinguishing feature of this segment is the involvement of a Capital Market Coach, supporting companies throughout their capital market journey. The recent registration as an EU SME Growth Market represents a significant regulatory enhancement. The designation became possible following the Austrian implementation of the EU Listing Act and formal approval by the Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA). Supporting Capital Market Access for Growth Companies SME Growth Markets were introduced by the European Union to encourage greater participation of smaller and medium-sized companies in public capital markets. The objective is to make market access more accessible while preserving appropriate levels of transparency and investor protection. For Austrian growth companies seeking access to capital markets, direct market plus offers an alternative to traditional regulated market segments. The framework aims to reduce administrative complexity while enabling companies to gain capital market experience, increase their visibility among investors and establish a foundation for future financing initiatives. In addition, the SME Growth Market designation provides certain regulatory benefits. According to the Vienna Stock Exchange, these include exemptions from prospectus requirements in specific capital increase scenarios and a reduced prospectus scope when companies later transition to the Official Market. What It Means for the Austrian Market The registration of direct market plus as an EU SME Growth Market is a noteworthy development for the Austrian capital market. It demonstrates how broader European capital market initiatives are being implemented at national level and reinforces Austria’s efforts to provide financing alternatives for growing businesses. From a market perspective, the development may increase the visibility of Austrian growth companies and contribute to a broader and more diverse domestic equity market. By creating additional pathways to public capital markets, the initiative supports the long-term development and competitiveness of Austria’s capital market ecosystem. As Austria continues to strengthen its capital market framework, the enhanced role of direct market plus demonstrates how European initiatives can support local growth companies and contribute to the long-term development of the Austrian market.

The Bank Association of Slovenia organized its regular annual conference for the treasury, custody, investment banking, and asset management industries. The conference was held on 9 April at the InterContinental Hotel in Ljubljana. The conference covered various topics related to financial markets, such as the macroeconomic environment and an overview of current developments in global capital markets, treasury activities, regulatory developments, the T+1 settlement cycle, the impact of AI on financial markets, and the challenges of the implementation of Individual Investment Accounts. Key Topics and Discussions 1. Macroeconomic Environment and Interest Rates 2. Liquidity Management and Treasury 3. Back Office and Custody Services 4. Investment Banking 5. Asset Management 6. Technology and Digital Transformation 7. Regulation and Compliance

Bosnia Herzegovina

Zaba remains committed to supporting arts, culture, education, and sports as essential parts of community development. Through partnerships and sponsorships, Zaba ensures broader access to cultural experiences and supports initiatives that foster inclusion, sustainability, and positive social change. Sports and physical activities are also strongly supported as key drivers of physical and mental health, especially among younger generations. In times of crisis, Zaba also uses its infrastructure and expertise to support communities – standing by its promise to be a reliable partner not just in finance, but in life. Well-being Focus Week was more than a series of events – it was a reminder that well-being is a continuous journey. One that begins with self-awareness, grows with shared support, and blossoms when we take care of our body, mind, and each other. Here’s to a healthier, happier, and more balanced Zaba!

The Board of Directors of the National Bank of Romania (NBR), at its meeting on August 10, maintained the monetary policy interest rate at 6.50% per annum. NBR expects inflation to continue declining, although significant uncertainties remain. The central bank decided to keep interest rates unchanged while closely monitoring inflation developments, economic activity, fiscal policy measures, and external risks. The next meeting of the NBR Board of Directors dedicated to monetary policy is scheduled for October 8, 2026. – According to the NBR Press Release on August 10, 2026. On July 1, 2026, the Financial Supervisory Authority (FSA) authorized CCP.RO Bucharest S.A. as a Central Counterparty (CCP), marking a major milestone for the Romanian capital market infrastructure. The authorization is expected to support the launch of the domestic derivatives market, enhance post-trade risk management, increase market liquidity, and align Romania more closely with European capital market standards. The FSA described this development as a strategic step towards strengthening and modernizing the local capital market ecosystem. – According to the FSA Press Release on July 1, 2026.

Stability and Modernisation Romania Maintains Monetary Policy Rate While Advancing Capital Market Infrastructure with CCP Authorization

Romania

Topics were as follows: Self-image and Building Confidence – Understanding how teens perceive themselves and how parents can help them develop a positive and realistic self-image. The Role of Parents in Learning – Exploring how parents can support their children’s education in a constructive way and collaborate effectively with schools. Developing a Healthy Online Presence – Addressing the darker sides of the internet and social media, and how parents can help their children navigate the digital world safely and confidently. Building Psychological Resilience After Failure – Teaching both parents and teens how to recover from setbacks and build inner strength. All three speakers are accomplished psychologists, professors, and authors with decades of experience in education and child development. Community support is a large part of the Well-being Focus period at Zaba, a key aspect of that is multiple volunteer activities the bank has organized which also encourage the development of togetherness and collegiality for Zaba employees. Volunteer activities are also organized often, all year long and all employees can find their niche and area of interest. Finally, Zaba proudly supports UNICEF’s “Supportive Schools” program, which equips teachers and school staff with the tools to promote mental health among students. Through workshops, children and adolescents learn how to manage stress, cope with emotions, and build resilience. As part of this initiative, Zaba will include a UNICEF donation flyer with client statements in May, inviting all clients to support this important cause.

how the modern financial system operates which decisions lead to smart saving and investing how to responsibly build personal financial development the most important lessons from banking practice

Understanding mental health is essential to preserving it. It’s not about perfection, but about maintaining a positive outlook, self-awareness, self-esteem, and the ability to manage challenges with optimism. Good mental health empowers us to adapt, learn, and grow through everyday experiences, relationships, and change. Zaba emphasized this by offering free psychological counselling and by encouraging employees to take part in resilience training and mental health talks – reminding everyone that it’s okay to seek help before small worries become big problems. Furthermore, the activities continued with lectures for women employees to give them support during the period of perimenopause and menopause. The lectures were given by accomplished psychologists who were open to all kind of questions and advice for our women colleagues. Lectures were also organised for parents of teens. Parenting teens can feel like an impossible mission. To help navigate this challenging period, Zaba introduced the TEENspiration lecture series – a set of online talks from February to May focused on strengthening parent-child relationships.

Feeling at peace when leaving work and returning stress-free. Maintaining balance – feeling physically healthy, emotionally stable, and content in both personal and professional life. A deep sense of inner calm and being satisfied with oneself and one’s surroundings, regardless of external circumstances. Respecting oneself and others, honouring both body and soul, and living in gratitude rather than fear. Achieving harmony in all aspects of life – physical, emotional, mental, social, and professional. Mental health as the foundation of overall well-being.

For Zaba’s team, well-being goes far beyond physical health. It means:

Click on the plus symbol for further details

Click on the arrows for further details

UniCredit has been certified as a Top Employer 2026 for the tenth consecutive year, with UniCredit Bank Austria and UniCredit entities in Bosnia & Herzegovina (Mostar), Germany, Italy, Romania, Serbia, and the Group’s branch in Poland all receiving the recognition. The certification highlights the Group’s strong people strategy, commitment to diversity and inclusion, and focus on building an engaging work environment that supports continuous learning – values that directly benefit collaboration across GSS markets. In Austria, UniCredit Bank Austria was praised for its comprehensive HR initiatives, flexible working models, and dedication to employee development and wellbeing. These strengths reinforce UniCredit’s ability to maintain stable, motivated teams – an essential foundation for delivering reliable, high‑quality support to our GSS partners and clients across the region.

UniCredit Bank Austria Named “Top Employer 2026” Across CEE and Europe

HIGHLIGHTS

Global Product Development and Project Coordinator, Global Securities Services

Author

Gábor Milch

Uncertain macroeconomic conditions (slowing growth, geopolitical risks) Role of central banks in controlling inflation Impact of interest rates on financing Importance of liquidity and interest rate risk management

Following a major roster overhaul and the start of the post-LeBron James era, Dončić invited the entire Lakers roster, including two-way players, to Slovenia to begin building chemistry ahead of the 2026-27 NBA season. The Lakers arrived in Ljubljana on August 20 and were greeted by enthusiastic local fans eager to catch a glimpse of NBA stars such as Austin Reaves, Bronny James, Walker Kessler, Collin Sexton, and several other new additions to the roster. Basketball, Bonding, and Slovenian Hospitality While basketball training remained an important component of the visit, the itinerary was intentionally designed to strengthen relationships away from the court. The program included team workouts, sightseeing, golf, fishing excursions, and cultural experiences that introduced the players to Slovenian traditions and landscapes. Training sessions were held at Ljubljana’s Stožice Arena, where young Slovenian basketball fans gathered in large numbers hoping for autographs and photographs with the NBA players.

Dončić received a particularly enthusiastic welcome, with fans chanting “MVP” as he led teammates through workouts and activities. Beyond the gym, players visited notable Slovenian landmarks, explored central Ljubljana, and enjoyed local cuisine. According to multiple reports, the itinerary featured visits to some of Dončić’s favorite restaurants as well as outdoor activities around the iconic Lake Bled region. Lakers Take Over Ljubljana One of the most memorable public moments of the visit came when Dončić and his teammates cruised along the Ljubljanica River in the heart of Ljubljana. Hundreds of spectators lined the riverbanks despite rainy weather to watch the NBA stars pass through the city center. The boat ride quickly became one of the defining images of the trip. Photographs and videos spread widely across social media, showing Lakers players waving to supporters while taking in views of the Slovenian capital.

Need to optimize liquidity buffers due to higher funding costs Use of advanced analytics and automation New approaches to collateral management

Digitalization as a key priority (automation, STP) Regulatory changes (EMIR, MiFID, ESG reporting) driving transformation Focus on operational risk management and cybersecurity Transition to the T+1 settlement cycle

Lower activity compared to previous record years Increased selectivity in deals Focus on structured products and M&A advisory Growing importance of sustainable finance

Shift toward personalized investment strategies Increasing importance of alternative investments Use of AI and data analytics in portfolio management Strong emphasis on ESG criteria

AI, blockchain, and digital assets as major disruptors Development of central bank digital currencies (CBDCs) Bank–fintech partnerships

Stronger supervision and transparency requirements Integration of ESG disclosures “Compliance by design” in business processes

The event generated extensive international coverage and offered millions of basketball fans a glimpse of Slovenia through the eyes of its most famous athlete. The Lakers also visited Ljubljana Castle and spent time exploring the city’s historic center, helping transform the normally quiet August tourist season into a major sporting spectacle. Community Impact and Mamba Day Celebration The visit was not limited to basketball and tourism. On August 24, the Lakers joined Luka Dončić and UCLA Health representatives in a community outreach event at the University Medical Center Ljubljana to celebrate Mamba Day, which honors the legacy of Lakers legend Kobe Bryant. Players surprised patients and families with care packages and Lakers-themed newborn gifts, bringing the organization’s tradition of community service to Slovenia.

The event demonstrated Dončić’s desire to share his hometown with teammates while also giving back to the local community that played a crucial role in his development as a player and person. The hospital visit was widely praised and became one of the most meaningful aspects of the entire trip, highlighting the social impact a global sports organization can have during an international visit. A Boost for Slovenia’s International Profile The Lakers’ presence in Slovenia provided significant exposure for the country. As one of the NBA’s premier franchises and a globally recognized sports brand, the team’s social media posts, photographs, and videos reached audiences across North America, Europe, and Asia. Media outlets noted that the visit effectively served as a showcase for Slovenia’s natural beauty, sporting culture, and tourism potential. From Ljubljana’s historic riverfront to Lake Bled’s world-famous scenery, the country received unprecedented visibility among NBA fans worldwide.

The visit also reinforced Slovenia’s growing reputation as a basketball powerhouse. Since Dončić’s rise to international superstardom, interest in Slovenian basketball has expanded dramatically, and hosting the Lakers represented another milestone in the country’s sporting story. Lasting Significance Although the Lakers stayed in Slovenia for only a few days, the August 2026 minicamp will likely be remembered as a landmark moment for both the franchise and the country. For the Lakers, it marked the beginning of a new chapter under Luka Dončić’s leadership and provided an opportunity to build chemistry before the season. For Slovenia, it was a rare chance to welcome one of the world’s most famous sports teams and showcase the country on a global stage. More than a preseason training camp, the visit became a celebration of Slovenian culture, basketball excellence, and the unique bond between a hometown hero and the NBA franchise he now leads.

Higher occupancy vs. more units: primary focus is on existing capacities and maximising their utilisation, and not on building new capacities. Quality over quantity: reliance on higher-value hotels and eco-camping sites instead of private apartment growth. Sustainable management: monitoring of carrying capacities and reduction of seasonal pressure on hotspot historic coastal towns. Smart pricing: introduction of incentives such as early booking discounts, longer-stay incentives, and lower prices outside of the peak summer season. Careful watching of everyday costs: careful monitoring of everyday costs, such as restaurants, transportation, and retail, so that their increases do not damage the perception of Croatia’s value among travellers. Geographic rebalancing: promoting continental Croatia and rural inland escapes as attractive destinations for gastronomy, wellness, wine, and active outdoor tourism, in order to achieve country-wide results, expand the tourist season beyond the summer season, and reduce pressure on tourist hotspots such as Dubrovnik, Split, Poreč, or Umag.

What It Means for Croatia’s Tourism Market With the new strategy, Croatia is actively building the ground for its future positioning within the European tourism market, in the context of intensive regional competition for Mediterranean visitors. It is deliberately trading some short-term results for long-term competitiveness and price stability, and is moving from a "more is better" approach towards a strategy that values sustainability, resilience, and diversification. Furthermore, with the new strategy, Croatia is shifting from a volume-driven approach, which puts pressure on margins, infrastructure, and local communities, to value-driven tourism, characterised by higher spending per visitor, better margins, more predictable demand, and preservation of the assets, such as the coastline, old towns, and natural landscape, that attract tourists to Croatia in the first place. Having in mind the share of tourism in Croatia’s GDP, the new strategy is definitely not a side story, but one of the key ingredients of Croatia’s overall future growth and development.