Ramona Rupeika-Apoga – författare

Including studies on different topical issues in finance by the participants of the 8th international scientific conference “New Challenges of Economic and Business Development – 2016” this new work contains research from various European countries, specifically Germany, Italy, Latvia, Malta, and Poland. Chapters explore the impact of financial literacy on domestic economic activity in the Baltic States, the rapid rise of FinTech, which has changed the banking landscape, requiring more innovative solutions; Crowdfunding in the European Union, specifically examining the performance, development and perspectives; the case of Latvia to highlight the Profiles of SMEs as Borrowers, the factors that interfere with the availability of funding to the small and medium-sized companies, an analysis of Risk Parity Approach for Sovereign Fixed-Income Portfolios in Eurozone countries by looking at studies of preventive arrangements with creditors in Italy; and Mergers and Acquisitions by studying examples of best practices in Cross-Border acquisitions.

Including studies on different topical issues in finance by the participants of the 8th international scientific conference “New Challenges of Economic and Business Development – 2016” this new work contains research from various European countries, specifically Germany, Italy, Latvia, Malta, and Poland. Chapters explore the impact of financial literacy on domestic economic activity in the Baltic States, the rapid rise of FinTech, which has changed the banking landscape, requiring more innovative solutions; Crowdfunding in the European Union, specifically examining the performance, development and perspectives; the case of Latvia to highlight the Profiles of SMEs as Borrowers, the factors that interfere with the availability of funding to the small and medium-sized companies, an analysis of Risk Parity Approach for Sovereign Fixed-Income Portfolios in Eurozone countries by looking at studies of preventive arrangements with creditors in Italy; and Mergers and Acquisitions by studying examples of best practices in Cross-Border acquisitions.

This book explores how financial technology (FinTech) can drive sustainable practices within the blue economy, which revolves around the responsible use of ocean and water-based resources. It highlights how innovations such as blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital finance can promote environmental sustainability, economic growth, and social equity. By integrating these technologies, the book provides insights into building resilient, well-managed ecosystems that contribute to a stable and prosperous world economy.The blue economy includes sectors like fisheries, aquaculture, tourism, shipping, and marine renewable energy, all of which require sustainable resource management to thrive. FinTech offers new ways to align financial flows with sustainability goals, channelling investments into eco-friendly marine projects and creating microfinance opportunities for coastal communities. The book emphasizes how green financing, supported by FinTech platforms, can mobilize capital for sustainable initiatives such as marine conservation and renewable energy production.A significant focus of the book is the role of blockchain and AI in enhancing transparency and efficiency. Blockchain helps trace supply chains, reducing illegal fishing and promoting sustainable sourcing, while AI supports predictive tools for resource management and operational efficiency in industries like aquaculture. These technologies enable stakeholders to make data-driven decisions that foster both environmental preservation and economic profitability.The social dimension is also critical, as the book discusses how FinTech can promote financial inclusion in vulnerable coastal communities. Digital finance tools, such as mobile banking and peer-to-peer lending platforms, empower small businesses and individuals, creating sustainable livelihoods aligned with ocean conservation.Governance and policy frameworks are explored, showing how FinTech can enhance transparency, accountability, and cooperation between public and private sectors. The book examines how governments, financial institutions, and technology providers can design policies that encourage responsible economic practices while protecting marine ecosystems.