In Episode 83 of the Alumni Connect Podcast, we were joined by Sašo Šmigić, a Member of the Management Board at Generali Investments, one of Slovenia’s leading investment management companies. During the conversation, he reflected on how retail investors view capital markets, how market volatility, uncertainty and current trends influence their behaviour, and why discipline and a healthy relationship with money are crucial for long-term investing.

Cycling was once seen primarily as a form of rehabilitation after injury. Today, for many people, it is a way to relax, explore, socialise and even spark new ideas. After attending the SEB Alumni webinar on preparing for a cycling tour, I came away with a much better understanding of why so many people are drawn to the sport and why an increasing number choose to spend their free time on two wheels.

David Benedek has been building his career in the financial industry for almost three decades, from investment banking in New York to senior leadership positions at NLB, Triglav Insurance and, today, Sava Re. As one of our alumni, he emphasises that it was his studies at the School of Economics and Business that first opened the door to the wider world and provided experiences that significantly shaped his professional path. His studies at Indiana University and exchange experience in Singapore introduced him to an international environment, teamwork and a practical approach to solving business challenges. Today, he places the greatest emphasis on people, company culture and thoughtful decision-making. He believes that, in the long run, values, curiosity and a willingness to learn matter most.

On 12 May 2026, Alumni EF hosted the event *From Saver to Investor: What You Need to Know Before Opening an INR Account*, where Urška Cvelbar, Marja Milič, Gal Jure Perhaj and Prof. Dr. Aljoša Valentinčič, together with moderator Tomaž Okorn, discussed individual investment accounts, their advantages, limitations, and the key questions investors should consider before opening one.

In the 82nd episode of the Alumni Connect podcast, our guest was Senka Umek, entrepreneur and creative director working at the intersection of fashion, marketing, and the music industry. In the conversation, we explored entrepreneurship, creative industries, personal branding, music management, and how studying at the School of Economics and Business can open doors to less traditional career paths as well.

At first glance, it seemed like just another alumni lecture. Another event squeezed in between a long list of commitments, with the expectation that you might leave with a useful insight or two. Yet within the first few minutes, it became clear that this would not be passive listening. It felt more like a mirror. The kind you do not always find easy to look into.