Eva Sehic, CEO of Lime Trading, won Excellence in Innovation at Markets Media Group’s 2024 Women in Finance Awards.

What’s one lesson you’ve learned about balancing innovation with the complexities of global markets?

One key lesson I’ve learned is the importance of partnership. Continuous product innovation is a crucial part in being successful in creating the balance. However, I’ve found that building a strategic ecosystem of partners —who will allow you scale more quickly and sustainably in increasingly competitive and regulated markets— is even more important in achieving that golden balance. Our global markets are quite complex and regulated. However, when working together, companies can solve much bigger, more complex challenges, allowing us to maximize our competitive advantage and deliver better experiences and results for clients of all shapes and sizes

What qualities or habits have been key to your success as a leader in such a dynamic field?

Adaptability, curiosity, and resilience have been pivotal to my success. The financial industry evolves rapidly, so staying informed and open to new ideas is essential. I’ve also learned that building strong, collaborative teams is key. Surrounding myself with diverse thinkers and empowering them to share their ideas fosters a culture of innovation. Consistently learning, leading by example, and being willing to pivot when needed have allowed me to thrive in this dynamic field.

What excites you about the financial industry?

What excites me most about the financial industry is its potential to shape the future of economies, corporations, and individuals, worldwide. The rapid advancement of technologies like AI, blockchain, and machine learning is transforming the industry, making it more efficient, transparent, and accessible. There is a real opportunity to create innovative solutions that drive positive change, not only for financial institutions but for individuals seeking to empower their financial futures.

I have been part of this industry for decades and have lived through some significant market and historical events but seeing this “brave new world” emerge is quite exciting. We do not only have a front row seat in watching the application of digital technology to financial services, but also an opportunity to aid in reshaping the future of global markets as we know them through digital innovation.

What’s a key takeaway from your experience in the financial industry that you’d like to share?

A key lesson from my experience is the importance of perseverance in the face of resistance. It is human nature to often reject change and embrace safety.  Financial markets can be traditional and slow to accept change, and it can be challenging to introduce new ideas. However, persistence, paired with a clear vision and strategic partnerships, can lead to breakthroughs. It’s essential to stay patient and trust in your innovations, even when it takes time to see results. The key is to keep pushing forward, adapt as necessary, and remain focused on long-term goals.