As part of the celebrations marking ACG’s 150-year anniversary in 2025, the ACG Institute for Hellenic Growth and Prosperity (IHGP), in collaboration with Deree Economics Society, organized a series of academic lectures featuring distinguished speakers from various fields. The goal of these lectures was to foster dialogue on the adoption of innovative and best-international-practice solutions to address Greece’s economic challenges.
The lectures covered a wide range of key sectors within Greece’s economy, offering attendees a comprehensive- overview of the past, present, and future of each sector.
At the conclusion of each lecture, a productive discussion took place between the guest lecturer and the attendees, including ACG students, staff and faculty.
The guest lectures were moderated by Professor Michalis Psalidopoulos, ACG IHGP Chief Consultant and Chair of the Advisory Board.
The lecture series will continue during the Fall Semester of 2025.
The role of Greek Shipowners in making global Maritime Business (January 2025)
Professor Gelina Harlaftis, Director of the Institute for Mediterranean Studies of the Foundation of Research and Technology-Hellas (FORTH), discussed the significant contributions of Greek shipowners to the global maritime industry. Her lecture highlighted their impact on international trade, key strategies, innovations, as well as the future of global shipping.
The Greek economy: Issues and Prospects (February 2025)
Professor Michael Arghyrou, Chief Economic Advisor to the Prime Minister of Greece Head, Council of Economic Advisors, Ministry of Finance of the Hellenic Republic; Professor of Economics, Department of Economics, University of Piraeus, analyzed the key issues and prospects of the Greek economy, addressing current economic challenges, opportunities for growth, and Greece’s position within the global market.
Recent Social Security Reforms in Greece: Where do we stand? (March 2025)
Professor Panos Tsakloglou, Former Deputy Minister of Labour in charge of Social Insurance at the Ministry of Labour and Social Security of the Hellenic Republic; Professor at the Athens University of Economics and Business; Research Fellow of the Institute for the Study of Labor (IZA, Bonn); Senior Research Fellow of the Hellenic Observatory (LSE, London), discussed the key aspects and implications of recent social security reforms in Greece. The lecture explored the current state of the social security system, the challenges it faces, and the impact of recent policy changes. Additionally, the lecturer addressed future prospects and potential improvements within the broader economic and social context.
The Greek Real Estate Market: Trends, Investments & Opportunities (April 2025)
Michalis Peglis, Founder & CEO, Athensbnb Properties SA, explored key trends, investment opportunities, and challenges shaping the Greek real estate market. The speaker analyzed the current state of the sector, examined the impact of economic and policy developments, and highlighted emerging opportunities for investors. The speakers also discussed future prospects and potential improvements within the broader financial and social landscape.