GC Summit: Italy 2026

Set against one of Europe’s most inspiring backdrops, the GC Summit Italy 2026 brought together senior in-house counsel and legal leaders for an afternoon defined by thoughtful discussion, strategic insight and meaningful connection. Designed as a space for reflection as much as exchange, the event offered general counsel a valuable opportunity to step away from daily pressures and engage with peers on the challenges and opportunities shaping modern legal functions.

Opening remarks set the tone for a programme centred on collaboration, shared experience and practical insight. The first panel, held in association with Advant Nctm, explored the role of the general counsel in the new era of tax governance. The discussion focused on the Cooperative Compliance regime and its impact on the relationship between taxpayers and authorities, highlighting how increased transparency is driving the need for stronger internal governance structures. Speakers emphasised the growing strategic responsibilities of in-house legal teams, particularly in relation to risk management, internal controls and cross-functional collaboration.

The second session, in association with LCA, examined the intersection of artificial intelligence, antitrust and corporate governance. Against the backdrop of the evolving European regulatory framework, including the AI Act, the Digital Services Act and the Digital Markets Act, panellists discussed the necessity of integrated governance models that bring together legal, compliance, IT and business functions. The conversation also addressed the competitive implications of data and algorithm-driven decision-making, noting the potential for both innovation and regulatory scrutiny.

Following a delicious coffee break, the programme continued with a session hosted in association with Hogan Lovells, focusing on the finance of the future. This discussion explored developments such as dematerialisation, EU green bond standards and hybrid instruments, and their implications for in-house legal teams. Participants reflected on how these changes are reshaping required skill sets and internal processes, as well as the importance of adaptability in responding to a rapidly evolving financial and regulatory environment.

Attention then turned to sustainability in a session in association with Chiomenti, which addressed the implementation of the new EU regulatory framework on green claims. The discussion highlighted increasing compliance obligations and enforcement activity, alongside the growing risk of litigation linked to misleading environmental statements. Panellists explored how recent guidance and emerging case law are shaping expectations around transparency and accountability, underlining the importance of robust verification processes and clear communication strategies.

The final session of the day, held in association with DiliTrust, took the form of a fireside chat on the impact of artificial intelligence and contract lifecycle management on modern legal departments. The discussion explored how AI-powered solutions are transforming contract processes, improving efficiency and enabling more effective risk management. At the same time, it was noted that successful adoption requires organisational alignment and a shift towards more data-driven legal operations.

Once again, the GC Summit Italy 2026 successfully combined substantive legal analysis with practical insight, offering attendees the opportunity to exchange perspectives, deepen their understanding of key developments and build meaningful professional connections in a setting that balanced substance with inspiration.