The outbreak of COVID-19 reminded the world about the fragility of our economies and political systems. An external shock, leading to an economic decline, with interest rates already at an all-time low. The path to a sustainable economic policy was postponed once more. Contrary to the last global recession, banks are not the epicenter. In fact, the financial service industry could become a facilitator for a global economic recovery through its unique position. Consequently, we ask: can financial firms provide innovative services to overcome the growing inequality and give a new impulse to the global economy?
Furthermore, recent months have exposed several acute problems – a sharp divergence between Wall Street and Main Street. Equity markets have quickly recovered from their initial decline; however, especially the low-income sector faces lay-offs and reduced incomes for several months to come.
The US average hourly earnings increased, as job losses occurred mainly in the lower-income sector, illustrating the inequal nature of this recession. Keeping rates at such low levels any longer will further increase inequality in our society. Savings accounts, which are often the only accessible investment opportunity for lower-income households, are unlikely to yield significant returns soon. Moreover, particularly in emerging markets, a substantial part of the population has no access to banking services, rendering them even more vulnerable to this crisis. Providing these services provides a remarkable opportunity to close the wealth gap, but also invites a profound risk of execution failures.
Additionally, this low-interest-rate environment will severely diminish the margins for banks – they will have to reassess their business models. Innovative methods for estimating credit risks will become more significant, as any room for errors vanishes.
A unique conference requires unique participants. Highly regarded sponsors and speakers alike add the exceptional edge that defines Campus for Finance. At this year's WHU Private Equity Conference, we offer a Student Program that is designed to fit to your needs and expectations. Click here to find out more about your participation.
Listen to high profile speakers, both from the corporate and academic spheres. Profit from professional, as well as personal insights through panel discussions, keynote speeches and one-on-one entrepreneurial talks. Leave enriched, wanting more.
Listen to more than 15 speeches and panel discussions held by high-ranking corporate and renowned academic speakers from around the world.
We offer several workshops organized by our partners. These workshops cover a variety of currently debated topics in the financial world. Get to know other participants and impress our sponsors with your knowledge!
Our sponsors want to get to know you during our Career Fair. Bring along your CV and be prepared to discuss internship or full-time opportunities. They are looking for candidates just like you!
Some of our corporate partners will select student participants for interviews, which will be conducted at the conference. This personal environment allows them to get to know you and vice-versa.
You can expect a fantastic Gala Dinner as well as an extensive evening program. We will provide you with all you need to further get to know the other participants in a casual, interpersonal environment.
What better way would there be than to end the conference with a party? Get to know other participants in a personal environment and celebrate a successful conference.
Meet more than 300 selected international students from leading universities from around the world and discuss current financial and economic issues while enlarging your professional and personal network.
Our conference is supported by established corporations that are at the forefront of their respective industries. At the WHU Private Equity Conference you will have the opportunity to interact with our sponsors in a personal environment. Don't miss your chance to get in touch with representatives in order to secure a job offer, internship or merely enjoy an inspiring conversation.
All OuR PartnersThe WHU Private Equity Conference regularly takes place on the campus of the WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management in Vallendar, Germany.
WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management is an internationally-oriented and privately-financed business school. In 2014, the University celebrated its 30th birthday. It is now one of the most renowned German Business Schools with a high international reputation.