Banco Sabadell and the Madrid Chamber of Commerce analyze the challenges facing Spanish companies: financing, competitiveness, and AI

Economic analysis

The Madrid Chamber of Commerce and Banco Sabadell brought together business leaders to discuss the challenges of competitiveness and financing. Marc Armengol, CEO of the financial institution, highlighted economic resilience and the role of artificial intelligence as a catalyst for productivity.

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A strategic dialogue for the future of business

La Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services of Madrid y Banco Sabadell They analyzed the challenges of competitiveness, financing, and innovation for Spanish companies. The meeting, featuring Marc ArmengolCEO of the financial institution, and Ángel AsensioThe president of the chamber institution emphasizes the need to gain business scale and adopt new technologies to compete on the global stage.

At an executive breakfast organized by the Madrid Chamber ClubExecutives and institutional representatives have addressed the future of the productive sector in one of the first public interventions of Marc Armengol since his appointment. During the ceremony, Ángel Asensio He highlighted these forums as key spaces to "strengthen relationships between companies and institutions and promote joint reflection" on the factors that will determine economic growth.

CEO Banco Sabadell He offered an optimistic yet realistic view, highlighting the sector's strength. "Companies and entrepreneurs continue to make investment decisions, reflecting the dynamism and resilience of our economy," he noted. ArmengolFurthermore, he highlighted artificial intelligence as a fundamental tool: "It is consolidating itself as a key tool for increasing productivity and accelerating the transformation of all sectors. In this context, banks find themselves in a moment of economic strength that allows us to continue supporting growth and investment."

Financing and competitiveness: the pillars of growth

One of the central themes of the conversation was the role of banks as strategic partners, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which need solid support in an environment of changing financial conditions. The importance of promoting productive investment as an engine for improving productivity, increasing the size of companies, and strengthening their ability to compete in international markets was discussed.

Participants agreed that public-private collaboration is essential. Cooperation between financial institutions, businesses, and other organizations is emerging as a crucial factor in building sustainable and robust growth for Spain's productive sector.

Challenges and Opportunities for Spanish Companies (2026)

Key Area	Main Analysis	Relevant Actor
Access to Financing	Need for support for productive investment, especially for SMEs.	Banking as a strategic partner.
Global Competitiveness	Increase the size of companies to compete in foreign markets.	Business and Administration.
Technological innovation	Artificial intelligence is a key tool for productivity.	Private and financial sector.
Collaboration	Promoting cooperation between financial entities, companies and institutions.	All economic agents.

Madrid as the engine of the national economy

The conversation also focused on the economic reality of the Region of Madrid. Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the presence of Banco Sabadell In the capital, the region's role as an epicenter of business and entrepreneurial activity was emphasized. España that holds the top spot. "Madrid It is one of the major economic engines of España"There is a strong and resilient fabric, a good financial situation, and no deterioration," he stressed. Armengol.

For its part, the Madrid Chamber of Commerce He reaffirmed his commitment to continue promoting initiatives that foster dialogue and knowledge exchange, with the conviction that cooperation and trust are essential elements for success in today's complex economic landscape.

Key points and frequently asked questions about the challenges facing Spanish companies

What are the main challenges facing Spanish companies according to the analysis?

According to what was presented at the meeting, the main challenges for Spanish companies, especially SMEs, are access to adequate financing for productive investment, the need to improve productivity to compete globally, the challenge of increasing their business size, and adaptation to technological transformation, with special emphasis on the implementation of artificial intelligence.

What role does banking play in this scenario for an export manager?

For an executive focused on internationalization, banks act as a key strategic partner. They not only provide the necessary financing for expansion into new markets, investment in technology, or adaptation of the supply chain, but also offer the knowledge and advice needed to navigate a changing financial environment and strengthen the company's competitiveness abroad.

Why is artificial intelligence highlighted as a key factor?

Artificial intelligence is considered a strategic catalyst because it allows companies to dramatically increase their productivity, optimize processes, and transform their business models. For exporting companies, its adoption is crucial to remain competitive, analyze international markets more efficiently, and offer more innovative products and services on the global stage.