The Association for Financial Markets in Europe (AFME) has today announced that Juan Blasco, Global Head of Institutional Business at BBVA, has been appointed as Chair of the Board. He assumes the role from Thalia Chryssikou who was previously a member of the AFME Board and served as Chair between June 2021 and July 2024.

Adam Farkas, AFME Chief Executive, said: “We are delighted to welcome Juan as AFME’s new Chair. Since joining the Board in 2020, Juan has brought invaluable insight and perspective to AFME and its members. His wealth of knowledge and experience from his over 20-year career in financial services equips him to lead the AFME Board as we work to ensure Europe’s capital markets can play its role in allowing Europe to regain its competitive edge and secure long-term economic prosperity.”

“I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Thalia for her service and dedication to AFME. Under Thalia’s Chairmanship, AFME continued to advance its reach and reputation as an expert and credible voice for Europe's wholesale financial markets across a broad range of regulatory and capital markets issues. She has been a very energetic and committed Chair; she remains a friend of AFME’s and we wish her well in her future endeavours.”

Juan Blasco, said: "I am deeply honoured to assume the role of Chair at AFME and excited to build on its impactful work. As we navigate an evolving global landscape, Europe’s ability to foster efficient and integrated capital markets is key to enhancing global competitiveness. This requires continued collaboration and coordination between the EU and the UK to ensure that companies and investors are empowered to drive sustainable economic growth. I look forward to working closely with our members to advance capital markets that effectively serve businesses, investors, and communities."

– Ends –