Many domestic and international studies show that Slovenia faces significant challenges in the area of financial literacy. In response, the Triglav Group, under its sustainable initiative Let’s Secure the Future, organises A Career After the Career workshops across Slovenia to strengthen financial skills among athletes and sports federations with whom it partners. This week, the Group teamed up with Triglav experts at the Triglav Lab research centre alongside more than 50 athletes, coaches, and representatives from federations and clubs to discuss key financial literacy issues and explore practical solutions.
Why do Slovenians save diligently but invest poorly? How can one select suitable investments and know when to start investing? What does risk diversification entail, and what role does insurance play in building financial security and a stress-free career? These were some of the questions tackled by young athletes at the Triglav financial skills workshop. A solid foundation in finance and personal financial management is essential in today’s world; for elite athletes, however, it is crucial. Due to their youth, relatively high incomes, and limited career spans, they are exposed to unique risks not faced by most individuals.
Get above the risks early enough
“Investing is essential because it helps preserve and grow the value of our money over time. Rather than letting inflation erode our savings, investing creates opportunities for growth and enables us to reach financial goals more quickly – whether buying a home, purchasing a car, or securing a pension. Time is our best ally in investing, so it’s wise to start as soon as possible,” said Vid Pajič, Senior Investment Fund Manager at Triglav Skladi, highlighting the advantages of investing in funds.
Pensions and retirement savings are also key considerations, especially given athletes’ typically shorter career spans. "We advise young athletes who have the financial means to begin saving for retirement as early as possible. Time works in their favour. With the effect of compound interest, they can accumulate a significantly higher amount for their pension over the years,” said Dino Šterpin, Director of Marketing and Sales at Triglav, pokojninska družba, d.d., to the workshop participants.
Athletes face numerous risks in their careers, which appropriate insurance can help manage or mitigate. “I recommend young athletes take out insurance that provides financial protection and security, particularly in cases of accidents or injuries. These include accident insurance policies that cover multi-year disability annuities, fractures, sprains, and burns. Liability insurance is also valuable, especially for team athletes. Supplementary health insurance policies, such as Specialisti+ (Specialists+) and Operacije (Surgeries), is essential to cover specialist examinations and treatments, including physiotherapy and rehabilitation for injuries," advised Tina Stavrev, an insurance agent at Zavarovalnica Triglav.
When your life changes overnight
The focus of the Triglav Group's sponsor partnerships is on promoting healthier, safer and more responsible lifestyles. They place great emphasis on the development of children's and youth sports at local levels, helping to develop the environment in which they operate. They support young talented individuals from the very beginning of their journey through the Young Hopes project, while also backing Slovenia’s top athletes and clubs, contributing to high-level sports development. Since 2022, they’ve actively encouraged the public to adopt sustainable practices through their Let’s Secure the Future initiative, viewing sponsorship as both an investment in success and a commitment to sustainable progress within their communities.
“Workshops like this are invaluable both practically and personally, helping participants better understand their finances and make informed decisions. In general, these sessions are incredibly beneficial for life after a sports career, when everything can change overnight,” noted Matic Lisac of Cedevita Olimpija Basketball Club, reflecting on the workshop experience.
A core aim of the Let’s Secure the Future initiative is to continue delivering financial literacy workshops throughout Slovenia. In doing so, Triglav helps its partners address key financial questions and challenges, which will become even more relevant after their athletic careers conclude.
