Wolpertinger 2024 Annual Conference

Welcome to the website of the Wolpertinger Annual Conference 2024

The Department of Economics, Business & Statistics at the University of Palermo (Italy) is delighted to host the 2024 edition of the Wolpertinger Annual Conference.

The conference will take place in Palermo, the capital city of Sicily, the largest region in Italy and the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. The conference will start on August 28th and finish on August 31st 2024.

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Wolpertinger 2024 Annual Conference

Welcome to the website of the Wolpertinger Annual Conference 2024

The Department of Economics, Business & Statistics at the University of Palermo (Italy) is delighted to host the 2024 edition of the Wolpertinger Annual Conference.

The conference will take place in Palermo, the capital city of Sicily, the largest region in Italy and the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. The conference will start on August 28th and finish on August 31st 2024.

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THE WOLPERTINGER CONFERENCE

The Wolpertinger conference is organised on an annual basis by the Wolpertinger club (the European Association of University Teachers of Banking and Finance) starting from 1987. The Wolpertinger club is an association of university academics with a common interest in the economics and management of financial institutions and financial system. The club was founded in 1982 in Bavaria and it was named after a mythical Bavarian animal, the Wolpertinger, precisely.

The main objective of the annual conference is to present and discuss theoretical and empirical research, policy issues and contemporary developments in banking, financial intermediation and other related topics in the broad field of finance.

If the topic of your paper falls within one of these areas, do not hesitate to submit your manuscript!

We kindly encourage Ph.D. researchers to submit their papers to join our “Philip Molyneux Ph.D. session”, in memory of Professor Philip Molyneux’s efforts and commitment to fostering countless Ph.D.s throughout their careers.

REGISTRATION FEES

Early bird Late registration
Standard Conference fee € 300,00 € 350,00
Reduced fee for Ph.D. students € 200,00 € 250,00
Accompanying persons
€ 200,00

Standard Conference fee

  • Early bird: € 300,00
  • Late registration: € 350,00


Reduced fee for Ph.D. students

  • Early bird: € 200,00
  • Late registration: € 250,00


Accompanying persons:

  • Fee: € 200,00

Important dates

Days

Paper submission deadline
May 30th 2024

Days

Authors’ notification of paper acceptance
June 15th  2024

Days

Early bird conference fee deadline
July 15th 2024

Days

Submission of the final version of the manuscript
August 15th 2024

Note: At least one of the co-authors must register in the conference online platform and participate to the conference. 

CALL FOR PAPERS

Submission guidelines

Although there is no strict requirement for submissions, the following guidelines should be followed:

  • Submitted papers must be in English by means of the conference platform;
  • Papers should not exceed 60 pages, although high quality papers slightly exceeding this limit may also be considered;
  • We only accept full papers (abstracts and extended abstracts will not be considered);
  • Authors should submit two separate files in PDF format: (i) anonymous version without authors’ names; (ii) full version including authors’ details;

The first page of the full version of the paper must include the following information: (i) title of the paper; (ii) authors’ names, surnames and affiliation; (iii) abstract; (iv) four keywords.

PUBLICATION OPPORTUNITIES

Authors of selected papers presented at the conference will be invited to submit their manuscript to the special issues / special fast tracks of the following journals:

In addition, complete papers selected for the Wolpertinger conference 2024 are eligible for inclusion as chapters in the 2024 Wolpertinger annual conference proceedings book to be published in the Palgrave Macmillan Studies in Banking and Financial Institutions Series.

CONFERENCE PROGRAMME

ACCOMPANYING PERSON ACTIVITIES

29/08/2024

PALERMO CITY CENTRE WALKING TOUR

Embark on a captivating half-day walking tour through the historical heart of Palermo, starting at the vibrant Piazza Bellini. This immersive journey will guide you through the winding streets of the city center, where the rich tapestry of history unfolds at every corner. You’ll explore iconic landmarks that narrate centuries of culture and power shifts, including majestic churches, ancient buildings, and bustling markets that showcase the city’s vibrant life. As you delve deeper into the city’s enchanting streets, your expert guide will share fascinating stories and secrets of Palermo, bringing to life the architectural wonders and the historical significance of each site. The tour promises not just a visual feast but also a deep cultural understanding of this storied city. The walking tour will conclude at the serene Monastero di Santa Caterina, a hidden gem known for its peaceful ambiance and historical relevance. Here, you will have the exclusive opportunity to indulge in a variety of traditional Sicilian sweets, made from ancient recipes preserved by the nuns. These delectable treats provide a perfect ending to the tour, allowing you to savor the flavors of Palermo as you reflect on the journey through its illustrious past.

30/08/2024

VISIT TO THE DUOMO OF MONREALE

Begin your half-day guided tour to the majestic Duomo di Monreale by boarding a bus at Piazza Indipendenza in Palermo. As you ascend the hill to Monreale, enjoy picturesque views of the Conca d’Oro Valley and the city below. The journey offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and anticipation for the architectural marvel that awaits.

Upon arrival, marvel at the Duomo di Monreale, a stunning example of Norman architecture. A guided tour inside reveals the cathedral’s rich mosaics and detailed artworks, which reflect a mix of Norman, Byzantine, and Arab influences. Your guide will explain the historical significance and artistic details that make this cathedral a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Conclude your visit with a stroll through Monreale’s quaint streets, where local shops offer a variety of unique crafts and souvenirs. This final leg of the tour allows you to soak in the town’s vibrant atmosphere and pick up a piece of Sicilian culture to take home. After exploring, board the bus back to Palermo, enriched with the history and beauty of one of Sicily’s greatest treasures.

THE CITY OF PALERMO

The Wolpertinger annual conference this year is set in the vibrant and historic city of Palermo, the capital of Sicily and a treasure trove of history, culture, and culinary delights. This vibrant city, nestled on the edge of the Mediterranean, offers a unique blend of architectural styles, a testament to the various civilizations that have called it home. From the ancient Phoenicians to the Normans, Arabs, and Spanish, each era has contributed to the rich tapestry that defines Palermo today.

Scheduled from August 28th to 31st, the conference promises a blend of academic excellence, cultural exploration, and networking opportunities in some of Palermo’s most iconic venues. Each chosen location not only serves as a magnificent setting for our gatherings but also embodies the rich tapestry of Sicilian history and culture.

August 28th: Welcome Cocktail at Palazzo Comitini The conference kicks off with a welcome cocktail at the magnificent Palazzo Comitini. As the administrative seat of the Province of Palermo, this baroque masterpiece showcases the opulence and grandeur of Sicilian architecture. Its lavish interiors and exquisite frescoes provide a warm and elegant welcome to our guests, setting the tone for the days to come.

August 29th: First Conference Day & Tour of Palazzo Steri Day one of the conference convenes at Palazzo Steri, a site steeped in history and culture. Originally built in the 14th century for the Chiaramonte family, Palazzo Steri has played various roles throughout history, from a noble residence to the headquarters of the Spanish Inquisition. Now, it stands as a beacon of education and learning, housing the rectorate of the University of Palermo. The afternoon tour of Palazzo Steri will reveal its rich past and architectural beauty.

Following the day’s scholarly activities, a social dinner at Villa Niscemi will offer participants a chance to unwind and network. Villa Niscemi, with its picturesque gardens and views of the Conca d’Oro, epitomizes the elegance of Palermo’s aristocratic past. Here, attendees will also have the opportunity to explore the Palazzina Cinese, a unique example of Orientalist architecture in Sicily, nestled within the verdant Parco della Favorita.

August 30th: Second Conference Day & Gala Dinner at Villa Igiea The second day of academic sessions will again take place at Palazzo Steri, allowing further exploration of its historic halls. The evening will then transition to a gala dinner at Villa Igiea, a luxurious hotel set against the backdrop of the Tyrrhenian Sea. This stunning example of Belle Époque architecture offers breathtaking views and a sumptuous dining experience, making it a perfect setting for an elegant evening.

August 31st: Social Trip to Erice and Trapani On the final day, attendees will embark on a social excursion to the medieval town of Erice, renowned for its ancient streets, castles, and panoramic vistas of Sicily. Here, participants will savor the town’s famous sweets, indulging in the local culinary tradition. The journey continues to Trapani, where a lunch in this coastal town will provide a delightful conclusion to our conference, against the backdrop of Sicily’s stunning landscapes and seascape.

This year’s conference in Palermo is set to be an enriching experience, combining the pursuit of knowledge with the pleasure of discovering Sicily’s cultural heritage. We look forward to welcoming our participants to what promises to be a memorable event.

HOW TO REACH THE CITY CENTRE

By Bus: The Prestia e Comandè bus service connects the airport with Palermo Centrale and other key stops in the city. The journey takes about 50 minutes to Palermo Centrale, with buses running every half hour from early morning (5:00 am) to late night (00:30 am). Tickets are slightly cheaper if purchased online, costing €6.00 for a single trip and €10.00 for a return ticket. Prices are slightly higher if purchased on the bus​.

By Train: The airport also offers a train service to Palermo Centrale, with a journey time of approximately 50 minutes. The train runs twice an hour from early morning (5:30 am) to late evening (10:10 pm). A single ticket costs about €6-€6.50​

By Taxi: Taxis are available, offering a more convenient but pricier option. The average fare for a taxi ride from the airport to Palermo city centre is around €45.00, as regulated by the government. For a luxury option, Uber Black is available in Palermo, though it is considered a more expensive choice​.

​​Car: If you’re driving, the airport is about 35 kilometers from the city centre. You can use the A29 highway for a trip that takes around 25 minutes, depending on traffic. This option offers flexibility but requires navigating through Sicily’s roadways​.

LIST OF SUGGESTED HOTELS

Click on the name of the hotel to open the corresponding booking page.

PicHotel NameStarsDescriptionAddress
Eurostars Centrale Palace Hotel4Set in a noble 18th-century Palazzo, blending historical charm with modern amenities, in the heart of Palermo.Via Vittorio Emanuele, Palermo
Mercure Palermo Centro4Offers stylish, design-forward accommodations close to local attractions and nightlife in Palermo’s center.Via Mariano Stabile, Palermo
NH Palermo4Overlooks the Gulf of Palermo, near the botanic gardens, offering scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere.Foro Italico, Palermo
Hotel Politeama4Located on one of Palermo’s most admired streets, offering regional charm and modern amenities.Piazza Ruggero Settimo, Palermo
Grand Hotel Wagner5Exudes early 20th-century elegance, close to historical and cultural attractions of Palermo.Via Riccardo Wagner, Palermo
Casa Nostra Boutique Hotel & SpaNot specifiedKnown for personalized service and luxurious spa facilities, offering a relaxing experience.Via Vittorio Emanuele, Palermo
Hotel Garibaldi4Known for its vibrant atmosphere and prime location near the Politeama Theatre, ideal for culture enthusiasts.Via Emerico Amari, Palermo
B&B Hotel Palermo Quattro Canti3Perfect blend of modern amenities and historical surroundings, next to the iconic Quattro Canti.Via Vittorio Emanuele, Palermo
Ibis Styles Palermo Cristal4Central location with modern, comfortable rooms, ideal for value-seeking travelers.Via Roma, Palermo
Hotel Posta3A former noble mansion with a mix of traditional elegance and modern comfort, close to major attractions.Via Antonio Gagini, Palermo
Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa4Combines historical elegance with modern luxury, offering a unique and refined experience in Palermo’s heart.Piazza Borsa, Palermo
  • Eurostars Centrale Palace Hotel
    Stars: 4.
    Set in a noble 18th-century Palazzo, blending historical charm with modern amenities, in the heart of Palermo.
    Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele, Palermo.
  • Mercure Palermo Centro
    Stars: 4.
    Offers stylish, design-forward accommodations close to local attractions and nightlife in Palermo’s center.
    Address: Via Mariano Stabile, Palermo.
  • NH Palermo
    Stars: 4.
    Overlooks the Gulf of Palermo, near the botanic gardens, offering scenic views and a tranquil atmosphere.
    Address: Foro Italico, Palermo.
  • Hotel Politeama
    Stars: 4.
    Located on one of Palermo’s most admired streets, offering regional charm and modern amenities.
    Address: Piazza Ruggero Settimo, Palermo.
  • Grand Hotel Wagner
    Stars: 5.
    Exudes early 20th-century elegance, close to historical and cultural attractions of Palermo.
    Address: Via Riccardo Wagner, Palermo.
  • Casa Nostra Boutique Hotel & Spa
    Stars: Not specified.
    Known for personalized service and luxurious spa facilities, offering a relaxing experience.
    Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele, Palermo.
  • Hotel GaribaldiStars: 4. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and prime location near the Politeama Theatre, ideal for culture enthusiasts.
    Address: Via Emerico Amari, Palermo.
  • B&B Hotel Palermo Quattro Canti
    Stars: 3.
    Perfect blend of modern amenities and historical surroundings, next to the iconic Quattro Canti.
    Address: Via Vittorio Emanuele, Palermo.
  • Ibis Styles Palermo Cristal
    Stars: 4.
    Central location with modern, comfortable rooms, ideal for value-seeking travelers.
    Address: Via Roma, Palermo.
  • Hotel Posta
    Stars: 3.
    A former noble mansion with a mix of traditional elegance and modern comfort, close to major attractions.
    Address: Via Antonio Gagini, Palermo.
  • Grand Hotel Piazza Borsa
    Stars: 4.
    Combines historical elegance with modern luxury, offering a unique and refined experience in Palermo’s heart.
    Address: Piazza Borsa, Palermo

REGISTRATION FORM

LOCAL ORGANIZING COMMITTEE

Enzo Scannella

University of Palermo, Italy

Jonathan Williams

University of Surrey, UK

Salvatore Polizzi

University of Palermo, Italy

You can contact the local organizing committee by email at wolpertinger2024palermo@unipa.it or by using the following contact form.

ORGANIZING COMMITTEE CONTACT FORM

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CONFERENCE PARTNERS AND SPONSORS

PARTNERS

SPONSORS

Conference Organizing Secretariat

Eurocongressi

www.eurocongressi.it – segreteria@eurocongressi.it
Via Imperatore Federico, 72 – 90143, Palermo
+39 091 7284027 – +39 335 5491680

August 28, 2024

18:30 – Welcome address & cocktail, registration at Palazzo Comitini.

Also known as Palazzo Gravina di Comitini, is a splendid example of Baroque architecture situated in the heart of Palermo, Sicily. Constructed between 1766 and 1781 by architect Nicolò Palma, it was commissioned by Michele Gravina Cruillas, prince of Comitini. The palace’s design showcases the grandeur and elegance typical of late-Baroque or Neoclassical decoration, making it a remarkable landmark in Palermo’s historic center.

The interior of Palazzo Comitini is adorned with magnificent frescoes and elaborate decorations, notably in the Sala Martorana. This main salon features the “Triumph of True Love” frescoed by Gioacchino Martorana, surrounded by gilded boiseries, mirrors, and painted figures in various frames. The themes of these artworks range from religious to historical, contributing to the rich decorative tapestry that characterizes the palace.

Currently serving as the official seat of the Metropolitan City of Palermo, Palazzo Comitini has played a significant role in the city’s administrative and cultural life. Its luxurious halls and spaces make it an ideal location for special events, including welcome cocktails and gatherings that require a setting of historical significance and beauty.

For the welcome cocktail event, guests will be greeted by the stunning façade of the Palace, leading them into an interior filled with artistic and architectural wonders. The combination of exquisite frescoes, trompe-l’œil effects, and sumptuous furnishings sets the perfect backdrop for an elegant and memorable evening.

August 29, 2024

Time Location Activities Rooms
08:00 – 09:00 Palazzo Chiaramonte Steri Registration
09:00 – 09:30 Palazzo Chiaramonte Steri Welcoming remarks.

Massimo MidiriRector of the University of Palermo
Fabio MazzolaVice-rector for Internationalization, University of Palermo
Angelo MineoDean of the Department of Economics, Business & Statistics, University of Palermo
Emanuele AlagnaDirector of the Palermo branch of the Bank of Italy
Jonathan WilliamsUniversity of Surrey and Chair of the Wolpertinger Club
Enzo ScannellaPresident of the local Organising Committee, University of Palermo
Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
09:30 – 10:00 A tribute to Prof. Philip Molyneux. Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
10:00 – 11:00 Keynote speech by Peter Tufano, Professor of Finance, Harvard Business School, Harvard University, Boston, USA. Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
11:00 – 11:30 Coffee break
11:30 – 13:00 Parallel sessions. Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate | Chiesetta di Sant’Antonio Abate
13:00 – 14:30 Light lunch
14:30 – 16:00 Plenary session. Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
16:00 – 16:30 Coffee break
16:30 – 18:30 Parallel sessions. Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate | Chiesetta di Sant’Antonio Abate
18:30 – 19:00 Guided tour of Palazzo Chiaramonte Steri.
20:30 Villa Niscemi Social dinner
Time: 08:00 – 09:00
Location: Palazzo Chiaramonte Steri.
Activities: Registration.
Time: 09:00 – 09:30
Location: Palazzo Chiaramonte Steri.
Activities: Welcoming remarks.
Massimo Midiri, Rector of the University of Palermo
Fabio Mazzola, Vice-rector for Internationalization, University of Palermo
Angelo Mineo, Dean of the Department of Economics, Business & Statistics, University of Palermo
Emanuele Alagna, Director of the Palermo branch of the Bank of Italy
Jonathan Williams, University of Surrey and Chair of the Wolpertinger Club
Enzo Scannella, President of the local Organising Committee, University of Palermo
Rooms: Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
Time: 09:30 – 10:00
Activities: A tribute to Prof. Philip Molyneux.
Rooms: Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
Time: 10:00 – 11:00
Activities: Keynote speech.
Peter Tufano, Professor of Finance, Harvard Business School, Harvard University, Boston, USA
Rooms: Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
Time: 11:00 – 11:30
Coffee break
Time: 11:30 – 13:00
Activities: Parallel sessions.
Rooms: Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate | Chiesetta di Sant’Antonio Abate
Time: 13:00 – 14:30
Light lunch
Time: 14:30 – 16:00
Activities: Plenary session.
Rooms: Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
Time: 16:00 – 16:30
Coffee break
Time: 16:30 – 18:30
Activities: Parallel sessions.
Rooms: Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate | Chiesetta di Sant’Antonio Abate
Time: 18:30 – 19:00
Activities: Guided tour of Palazzo Chiaramonte Steri.
Time: 20:30
Location: Villa Niscemi.
Social dinner

August 30, 2024

Time Location Activities Rooms
09:00 – 11:30 Palazzo Chiaramonte Steri Parallel sessions. Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate | Chiesetta di Sant’Antonio Abate
11:30 – 12:00 Coffee break
12:00 – 13:00 Keynote speech by Emery Trahan, Professor of Finance, D’Amore-McKim School of Business, Northeastern University, Boston, USA. Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
13:00 – 14:30 Light lunch
14:30 – 16:00 Plenary session. Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
16:00 – 16:30 Coffee break
16:30 – 18:30 Parallel sessions. Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate | Chiesetta di Sant’Antonio Abate
18:30 – 19:00 Closing remarks. Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
21:00 Villa Igiea Gala dinner
Time: 09:00 – 11:30
Location: Palazzo Chiaramonte Steri.
Activities: Parallel sessions.
Rooms: Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate | Chiesetta di Sant’Antonio Abate
Time: 11:30 – 12:00
Coffee break
Time: 12:00 – 13:00
Activities: Keynote speech.
Emery Trahan, Professor of Finance, D’Amore-McKim School of Business, Northeastern University, Boston, USA
Rooms: Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
Time: 13:00 – 14:30
Light lunch
Time: 14:30 – 16:00
Activities: Plenary session.
Rooms: Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
Time: 16:00 – 16:30
Coffee break
Time: 16:30 – 18:30
Activities: Parallel sessions.
Rooms: Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate | Chiesetta di Sant’Antonio Abate
Time: 18:30 – 19:00
Activities: Closing remarks.
Rooms: Aula Magna | Sala delle Capriate
Time: 21:00
Location: Villa Igiea.
Gala dinner

August 31, 2024

09:30 – Bus ride starting form the Piazza Marina Pick-Up point, next to the Conference Venue entrance.
16:30 – Return to the same place.

Embark on a captivating journey through Sicily’s mesmerizing landscapes and historical marvels with our exclusive guided tour, meticulously designed to offer an enriching experience that combines natural beauty, history, and culinary delights. Your adventure begins at the heart of Palermo, in Piazza Marina, where our comfortable bus awaits at 09:30 to whisk you away on a day filled with exploration and discovery.

Our first destination is the ancient town of Erice, perched atop the majestic Mount Erice, offering breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the city of Trapani. As we ascend towards this medieval gem, prepare to be transported back in time. Erice’s cobbled streets, ancient walls, and well-preserved castles tell tales of a bygone era, where Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, and Normans left their mark on this enchanting town. Our knowledgeable guide will lead you through the narrow lanes, revealing the history and myths that cloak this mystical town. You’ll marvel at the Venus Castle, remnants of a temple dedicated to the goddess of love, and the Norman Castle, offering panoramic vistas that stretch across the Sicilian countryside to the Egadi Islands.

A highlight of our visit to Erice is the opportunity to indulge in its renowned pastries, a tradition that dates back centuries. The town is famous for its delicate and delicious sweets, such as the “Genovesi” tender pastries filled with sweetened ricotta, and the almond cookies that are a testament to Sicily’s Arabic influences. Our tour includes a tasting session at one of Erice’s famed pastry shops, where these heavenly creations will tantalize your taste buds, offering a delightful insight into Sicily’s rich culinary heritage.

After savoring the flavors of Erice, our journey takes us to the archaeological site of Segesta. Nestled amidst rolling hills, this ancient site is home to a well-preserved Doric temple and a Greek theatre that dates back to the late 5th century BC. The temple, never completed, stands as a poignant reminder of the Greek influence on Sicilian culture and art. Our guide will share insights into the history of Segesta, its significance in ancient times, and the myths surrounding its creation. This visit provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of classical antiquity amidst the natural beauty of Sicily.

Our journey continues towards the coastal city of Trapani, where the Mediterranean Sea meets Sicily’s western shores. Here, you’ll experience the vibrant culture and bustling streets of a city that has been a crossroads of civilizations for centuries. For lunch, we’ve arranged a light meal featuring Trapani’s local specialties, allowing you to savor the fresh flavors of Sicilian cuisine in the city centre.

As the day progresses, we’ll begin our return to Palermo, arriving back at Piazza Marina at approximately 16:30. This tour promises not just a day trip but a journey through time, where the rich tapestry of Sicilian history, culture, and gastronomy unfolds before your eyes. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of Erice and Trapani, and let the beauty of Sicily capture your heart.