## BBVA’s Regional Advisory Council Talks AI and Europe
### Why AI Matters for Businesses
During a recent meeting of BBVA’s Regional Advisory Council (CAR), the bank highlighted how artificial intelligence can reshape the way companies work and boost the whole economy. The council brings together top Spanish business leaders to discuss pressing issues like global tensions, trade frictions, and rapid tech change.
### Conversation with Former ECB Vice‑President
BBVA’s chairman, Carlos Torres, sat down with Luis de Guindos, former vice‑president of the European Central Bank. They explored Europe’s growth prospects, the role of monetary policy, and how rising inflation adds uncertainty to the outlook. Torres stressed that, despite a complex geopolitical landscape, AI offers a huge opportunity to transform business activity and drive economic progress.
### Challenges for Spanish Companies
The discussion pointed out that Spanish firms face special hurdles: they need to scale up, adopt new technologies, and compete internationally. To seize AI‑driven opportunities, companies must craft a clear strategy that extracts the maximum value from these tools—benefiting both the organization and society at large.
### BBVA’s Support and Recent Credit Growth
BBVA reaffirmed its commitment to help Spanish businesses through financing and innovation support. Recent data show the bank’s total credit stock rose 7.4 % year‑on‑year, driven by a 7 % increase in new lending in the first half of the year and a 9 % jump compared with the previous quarter.
#### Numbers Behind the Growth
The corporate and business segment was a key driver, with its credit stock climbing 9.2 % year‑on‑year. This expansion reflects stronger demand for loans as firms invest in growth and technology upgrades.
### Conclusion
Artificial intelligence is more than a buzzword—it’s a practical lever that can help Spanish companies become more competitive, innovative, and resilient. By pairing smart AI strategies with solid financial backing from partners like BBVA, businesses can navigate today’s uncertain world and unlock new pathways for growth.
[Source](https://www.diariodeibiza.es/economia/2026/10/19/torres-bbva-destaca-potencial-inteligencia-135517620.html)
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