The Alicante College of Economists honors leadership amid regional and global pressures
The president of the Alicante College of Economists, Francisco Menargues, highlighted the vital role played by financial professionals in the United States on Thursday. He stressed that small and medium sized enterprises form the backbone of the local economy, enduring through the 2008 financial crisis and continuing to face the challenges posed by the pandemic and the war in Ukraine. His remarks underscored how these professionals help safeguard business continuity and navigate crisis-era uncertainties.
In his remarks at the Economists Awards premiere, Menargues extended thanks to colleagues and institutions contributing to growth in the province. The event, organized by the Theater Director in conjunction with the College, served to recognize individuals, organizations, or entities that have significantly advanced the province’s economic and social landscape.
Among the recipients were the Central Rural Fund for the Business Orbit Award; Digital Zone for the Innovation Encouragement Award; Riegos de Levante for Sustainable Development Award; the Valencia Region College of Economists for the Knowledge Incentive Award; the Red Cross for the Social Responsibility Award; and the president of Airef, Christina Herrero, who received the Economic and Social Compliance Award. The gala marked the second edition hosted by the Alicante College of Economists to present these honors. The first edition took place in 2019 but was paused due to subsequent pressures, including the pandemic. Menargues recalled that the current reality has been dystopian and menacing at times, with a string of health crises, a protracted conflict, and inflation running at levels not seen in decades.
He noted that the province was already contending with long-standing issues, including underfunding in the Valencian Community, budget transfers, and delays in initiating major projects like the Tagus Mediterranean corridor. He also pointed out the obstacles faced by business owners, freelancers, and professionals in a challenging economic environment.
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According to Menargues, Alicante stands as a model of resilience and a bellwether for the broader Spanish economy due to its robust companies and emerging digital initiatives. He reiterated the central role economists play in steering through repeated crises, particularly those working with SMEs, which he described as the foundation of the regional productive structure. He emphasized that since 2008 these professionals have fought on the front lines to ensure survival, continuity, and growth for countless local businesses.
Education and data for informed policy
Expanding on the theme, Menargues argued for greater economic literacy. He asserted that a notable deficit in economic and financial knowledge within society amplifies the impact of future shocks, making it a priority to improve understanding across communities. The winners’ interventions also drew attention to broader policy issues. Riegos de Levante highlighted the implications of the Tagus River’s ecological changes, noting that shifts in water flows could affect regional contributions and transfer dynamics. This analysis underscored the need for careful planning and transparent discussion of environmental and economic trade-offs.
Christina Herrero, head of the Independent Financial Responsibility Authority (Airef), delivered a keynote on the institution’s mission. Herrero described Airef as a body that presents objective data and rigorous, independent analysis to inform the tax debate and bring it closer to citizens. She acknowledged the current period of significant challenges, such as aging populations, climate transition, and the effective implementation of the Recovery, Transformation and Resilience Plan, all of which require solid data and transparent methodologies to guide policy and public understanding.
Her remarks stressed that progress hinges on putting rigorous data on the table, comparing ideas, and maintaining honest dialogue about potential policy outcomes. The event also drew attendees from the regional government and professional bodies, including Mari Carmen from the Alicante Public Works Council, Josefina Bueno, Minister of Innovation, and Valentín Pich, chairman of the General Council of Economists, among others.
Overall, the gala illustrated a shared commitment to fortifying the province’s economic fabric through collaboration, informed debate, and recognition of those who contribute to sustainable growth and social responsibility. It reinforced the idea that a well-educated public and a transparent, data-driven approach to policy are essential to navigating a landscape marked by uncertainty and rapid change.