Małgorzata Janicka
Integration or Isolation? Foreign Capital in Polish (?) Financial Institutions



The increasing participation of foreign capital in Polish financial institutions, by some perceived as an opportunity to develop the country's financial market quickly, is seen as threat to its independence by others. In spite of the mounting doubts, no long-term strategy of integration with the UE financial markets has been created; a task which, given Poland's accession plans, should be considered priority. Any proposals to date revolve around two extreme solutions: barring further inflow of foreign capital on the other hand or abolishing any remaining barriers on the other. Foreign investors' presence in the banking sector seems to stir the most uproar. However, no less influence is exerted by them upon other financial institutions.

Since the Polish financial market has already been dominated by foreign capital, discussions around methods to reduce its participation seem futile. The only thing to do under the circumstances is to try and discourage investors from further involvement in the Polish market. The question arises, however, if this would be to the best interest of the Polish economy. Foreign capital must not be held responsible for Poles' failure to develop the vision of their financial markets in the future. Especially since, as Poland continues along its upward path, this capital is still much-needed.


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