Events by University of Essex

The 10th EFiC Conference in Banking and Corporate Finance represents a milestone in the academic calendar of the University of Essex. Hosted by the renowned Essex Finance Centre (EFiC) at the stunning, carbon-neutral Essex Business School, this two-day international conference serves as a premier platform for the dissemination of high-quality research. As we navigate a global economy characterized by rapid digital transformation and increasing environmental scrutiny, this event brings together the brightest minds to dissect the complexities of modern financial systems. The 2026 edition features a highly anticipated special stream on Climate Finance, organized in collaboration with King’s Business School. This segment will delve into how financial institutions are adapting to the green transition, the pricing of climate risk, and the effectiveness of ESG mandates in the corporate world. Additionally, the conference will host a dedicated macro-finance session sponsored by the Rimini Centre for Economic Analysis (RCEA-Europe) and a cooperative banks session in partnership with Federcasse, providing a holistic view of the banking sector from local cooperatives to global giants. Attendees can expect a rigorous academic environment featuring paper presentations, chaired discussions, and keynote addresses from world-leading economists. Beyond the technical sessions, the conference is designed to foster professional relationships. The venue itself, the Essex Business School, offers a unique atmosphere with its indoor winter garden and sustainable architecture, providing the perfect backdrop for networking during coffee breaks and the gala dinner. Whether you are a seasoned professor, a policy maker from a central bank, or a PhD candidate looking for critical feedback on your thesis, the EFiC 2026 conference offers unparalleled insights into the future of money, credit, and corporate responsibility. The program also touches upon the darker side of the industry through its focus on Corporate Misconduct. Researchers will present findings on the effectiveness of regulation, the impact of executive incentives on risk-taking, and the role of internal governance in preventing financial scandals. This blend of theoretical innovation and practical relevance ensures that every participant leaves with a deeper understanding of the forces shaping the 21st-century financial landscape.