Next Block Expo 2026 (NBX) recently took place in Warsaw, which, let’s be honest, was the most exciting thing to happen there since… well, ever. This year, a crowd of 2,607 participants from 32 countries gathered, proving that while the rest of the world was busy watching cat memes, these folks were busy discussing the future of Web3 and AI. Who knew nerds could be so social?
Now in its fifth year-so basically the middle child of tech conferences-NBX has evolved faster than my waistline during the holiday season. Previous editions attracted over 10,000 participants and hinted at a metamorphosis from wild-eyed experimentation to a more mature, infrastructure-driven phase. It’s like watching a teenager finally learn how to use a vacuum cleaner.
This year’s lineup was a veritable buffet of intellect with 116 speakers and 51 exhibitors, including executives from global exchanges and policymakers. It was enough to make anyone feel inadequate about their own career choices. I mean, who wouldn’t want to sit next to a senior executive and pretend to understand blockchain technology?
From speculation to infrastructure
The theme of the event was as clear as my thoughts after two glasses of wine: a noticeable shift from hype cycles toward actual infrastructure. “AI is becoming a core layer of Web3, not a separate narrative,” said Tom Kopera, Co-founder of NBX, as if we all hadn’t already figured that out while binge-watching sci-fi documentaries.
Key discussions reflected this evolution, including a panel on digital finance that was so high-profile it practically required a red carpet. Meanwhile, a policy-driven conversation on digital payments in Poland had more governmental officials than a state dinner. Who knew payments could be so riveting?
1,500+ business meetings and real dealflow
Beyond the stage, NBX confirmed its status as a business platform. Over 1,500 meetings occurred during the two-day extravaganza, where founders, investors, and operators engaged in conversations so serious, they probably required a lawyer to mediate. Talk about networking on steroids!
This strong emphasis on networking sets NBX apart from your average snooze-fest conference. Here, it’s an active marketplace for ideas, capital, and perhaps an occasional existential crisis.
Key highlights across sectors
The 2026 edition showcased a myriad of perspectives shaping the digital economy:
- Digital finance: Executives from leading crypto exchanges discussed market structure, liquidity, and regulation like they were solving world hunger.
- Public policy & payments: Policymakers, including several members of the Polish parliament, joined industry leaders to chat about the future of digital payments. Yes, this was happening while you were scrolling through Instagram.
- Gaming & distribution: Olivier Avaro, CEO of Blacknut, shared insights on gaming distribution-because nothing says fun like corporate jargon.
- Infrastructure & hardware: VVDN Technologies highlighted the growing importance of data center infrastructure, probably with a PowerPoint that put everyone to sleep.
- Real-world assets & tokenization: A fireside chat with Dominik Leszczyński explored digital REITs. Because nothing says “let’s have a fireside chat” quite like real estate.
AI becomes a first-class citizen
This year, NBX introduced a dedicated AI Summit, bringing AI infrastructure to the forefront. Gone are the days when AI was treated as that quirky cousin at family gatherings. Now it’s front and center, stealing the spotlight and probably your job.
Looking ahead
As the industry moves into a regulated, infrastructure-centric future, NBX continues to be a hub for those daring enough to build the next iteration of the digital economy. The next edition is expected to take place in 2027, so mark your calendars – or don’t. I’m sure you’ll forget anyway.
For more information and the full agenda, visit: nextblockexpo.com
About NBX:
Next Block Expo is one of Central and Eastern Europe‘s leading events focused on Web3, AI, and digital infrastructure. More than just a conference, NBX serves as a platform for founders, investors, and infrastructure players to exchange insights and shape the future. It’s like speed dating-if speed dating involved digital economies instead of awkward silences.
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2026-03-27 13:52