There’s More Than Just M&A on the Agenda at IMAP Conferences
IMAP bi-annual conferences are crucial events on the IMAP calendar. Hosted by IMAP partners around the globe, they provide the opportunity to meet new colleagues, catch up with old friends and discuss opportunities for dealmaking in the changing economic environment. However, while there are some staple elements such as partner bi-laterals and the story behind the deal on the agenda, each conference is unique and encompasses more than just macroeconomics and M&A. Creating Value takes a closer look at some of the key sessions and events at IMAP’s Fall conference in Bilbao, hosted by IMAP Albia Capital - IMAP Spain.
It goes without saying, that M&A was top of the agenda. Indeed, with what looks to be an impending world-wide recession and in what is said be to the most challenging economic environment for the last 40 years, several of the key sessions were dedicated to discussing how this will impact the M&A markets across the regions and wherein lie the opportunities for dealmaking. However, the program also encompassed art, culture, music, solidarity, and even the importance of happiness.
Uniting People, Culture & Companies
Following a private guided tour at the stunning Guggenheim Museum, the first day of the conference kicked-off with “Albiacoustic”, IMAP Albia Capital – IMAP Spain’s annual meeting point for clients and friends. Merging art, music, and solidarity with finance, guests enjoyed an economic update from guest speaker, Fernández de Mesa, Vice President of the Spanish Confederation of Entrepreneurs, CEOE, a concert by musical group, Smile, art by Gracia Gómez- Cortázar Romero, and the best of local gastronomy, all while promoting and supporting selected social causes and solidarity projects.
What’s Happiness got to do with It?
Focusing on business culture and values, Margarita Alvarez, listed by Forbes as one of the 50 Most Powerful Women in Spain and Director of the Human Age Institute and CEO of Working for Happiness, asked the question, “what does happiness have to do with finance?” Examining the importance of achieving happiness both personally and professionally, she discussed how this is especially relevant in the aftermath of the COVID outbreak, why many people still struggle to understand what happiness really means, as well as why more than ever it’s crucial employers should focus on employee wellbeing.
Social Responsibility & Finance
Bringing solidarity to the forefront, Mikel Rentería, Founder of the Walk On Project (WoP) Foundation shared his families journey and motivation to create a foundation to fight against neurodegenerative diseases following his son Jontxu’s own diagnosis. To date, through its many activities; educational, musical, sports and social events, including the famous “Estropatada”, the foundation has allocated over €700,000 to fund research projects and increase publish and social awareness in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases becoming a reference in social companies.
The Importance of the IMAP Family
Because IMAP conferences are held around the world, often attendees are accompanied by their partners. Therefore, for many years and in parallel to the conference, IMAP organizes an exclusive Spouse Program, with each one unique and tailored to showcase the very best of the host city. Bilbao was no exception, with organized cultural, culinary, and historical activities and even included a visit to the cinematic city of San Sebastian. The program is becoming ever more popular and in fact, Bilbao boasted the highest attendance in many years
Each conference is unique and encompasses more than just macroeconomics and M&A
