The Bank of the Lao published a recap of Deputy Governor Vathana Dalaloy’s participation in a panel discussion at the fifth “Promoting New Era Women Leaders” forum, hosted at the Lao National Chamber of Commerce and Industry to share leadership experience and support women entrepreneurs as business models adapt to technology and innovation. The half-day event brought together more than 150 participants, including senior government and business representatives, and covered themes such as the economic environment, access to funding, and digital-era business practices, including the use of artificial intelligence to boost online sales and improve access to finance. In remarks delivered on behalf of the central bank’s leadership, the Deputy Governor highlighted the Bank of the Lao’s role in macroeconomic management and in implementing the central party resolution on building an independent, self-reliant economy, and set out four essential “new era” leadership attributes: understanding global conditions to inform decisions, building capability from both theory and practical experience, relying on timely and accurate information, and prioritising long-term business sustainability over short-term gains.