Liechtenstein Financial Centre Strengthens Ties in the US
The meetings centered on Liechtenstein’s IMF membership, the country’s overall stability and that of its financial and banking sector, and how small, open economies can remain resilient in an increasingly fragmented global environment.
All interlocutors expressed strong recognition and appreciation for these aspects.
Stability, Openness, and Balance
Particular praise was given to Liechtenstein’s economic and financial stability, its high regulatory and compliance standards, and its open, internationally connected stance as a small EEA state.
At the same time, it became clear that IMF membership strengthens Liechtenstein’s international integration, credibility, and voice – confirming it as a strategically important step.
Global Model
A recurring theme was the balance between regulation and innovation: regulation must set clear boundaries and prevent abuse – but it should enable innovation, not stifle it.
Liechtenstein was repeatedly cited as a positive example, particularly because of its Blockchain Act, widely regarded as a global model for technology-neutral and responsible regulation.
Clear Reminder
On the US side, discussions focused on the Genius Act, the Clarity Act, and the planned implementation of Basel III. The key takeaway from these exchanges: stability requires balance – not overregulation that hampers competitiveness and innovation.
Appropriately, major US banks such as J.P. Morgan and Bank of America reported strong quarterly results at the same time – a clear reminder of the importance of a competitive environment.
Prime Minister's Lunch Panel
A highlight of the visit was the lunch panel with Prime Minister Brigitte Haas, alongside the discussion organized by the Liechtenstein Bankers Association (LBA) titled «Financial Stability and Resilience in a Changing Global Economy».
The panel featured:
- Brigitte Haas, Prime Minister of Liechtenstein
- Jerry Zhang, Global Co-Head of Financial Institutions Coverage, Standard Chartered
- Sebastien de Brouwer, Deputy CEO, European Banking Federation
Moderator: Himamauli Das, Senior Managing Director, K2 Integrity, and former Acting Director of FinCEN (U.S. Treasury).
For the audience of more than 50 guests, the message was clear: resilience is built on trust, international cooperation, and responsible openness – especially in times of geopolitical tension and economic transformation.
Signal of Presence
Another highlight was the reception at Liechtenstein’s Embassy in Washington, which brought together over 100 representatives from politics, business, diplomacy, and academia.
The event provided an ideal setting for in-depth discussions and was considered highly valuable by the delegation. The LBA expressed its gratitude to the embassy and the government for their inclusion and support.
Transatlantic Dialogue
During its stay in Washington, the Liechtenstein Bankers Association also joined other national associations for talks with the European Banking Federation (EBF), the American Bankers Association (ABA), and US policymakers.
Discussions focused on how Europe and the US can navigate an increasingly fragmented financial landscape, how Basel III is being implemented on both sides of the Atlantic, and how regulation can ensure stability without stifling innovation and competitiveness.
Far From a Given
«The many valuable meetings and exchanges were only possible thanks to the excellent cooperation with the Ministry of Finance, the Financial Market Authority, and our Embassy in Washington. We owe them all our sincere thanks,» said Simon Tribelhorn, CEO of the LBA.
For a small financial center, participating in such high-level formats is by no means a given. It was made possible by the Association’s long-standing commitment to maintaining a professional and equal-footed international dialogue.
