Payments – The Bloodstream of Modern Business

Speaker: Ognjen Vlačina

Payments are the invisible force that keeps modern business alive. In this engaging and accessible session, Ognjen Vlačina breaks down how payment systems operate behind the scenes, giving students a clear view of the complex ecosystem that enables money to flow seamlessly in today’s digital economy.

Understanding the Payment Ecosystem

Ognjen explains the roles of various actors in the payment world—banks, card networks, processors, and fintech companies—using practical examples that make complex concepts tangible. By demystifying the flow of money, he helps students understand how transactions move from point of sale to final settlement, and how technology supports trust, security, and efficiency.

Real-World Examples and Career Insights

The talk also includes Ognjen’s personal journey into the payments sector, highlighting key milestones and decisions that shaped his career. This perspective provides students with insight into potential career paths and demonstrates how expertise in payments is a foundation for roles in fintech, banking, and digital business.

Payments as the Foundation of Digital Business

By the end of the session, students gain a holistic understanding of why payments are often called the bloodstream of modern business. From enabling daily transactions to supporting complex digital platforms, payments are central to the operation and growth of every organization in the digital age.

This keynote combines theory, practice, and career guidance, making it a valuable experience for anyone curious about finance, technology, and the invisible systems that keep the economy moving.