Zoltan Varga, the prominent Hungarian investor and media portfolio owner, has been unanimously selected as the recipient of the esteemed GLOBSEC European Business Award. This distinguished recognition was / will be presented during the Tatra Summit 2024 Gala Dinner on October 4th.

Hungarian investor and media owner Zoltan Varga is given the GLOBSEC European Business Award. The recognition acknowledges significant contributions by European figures in promoting unity and strength across the continent, particularly during challenging times. Mr. Varga joins an illustrious group of past recipients, further cementing the award’s prestige and his own impact on the European business landscape.

In its laudatory announcement Globsec said: “Zoltan Varga’s leadership has been significantly shaping independent media and business innovation across Central and Eastern Europe. The Award is a recognition of his remarkable achievements as an inspirational and visionary entrepreneur and media owner.”

As the CEO and Chairman of Central Media Group, one of Hungary’s largest independent media companies, Mr. Varga is seen to have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to building a regional media holding that champions freedom of speech and democratic values. During the last years he became a shareholder in Polish media house Gremi Media Plc. and outlets in Czechia and Slovakia too.

“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from GLOBSEC,” said Zoltan Varga. “I do believe in the power of independent media to inform, inspire, and hold power accountable. In Central and Eastern Europe, where the media landscape can sometimes be challenging, I remain committed to defending press freedom and promoting innovation, because I believe a strong, free media is essential to thriving democracies” – added Varga, who dedicated his award to his team at Central Médiacsoport and Central Group.

Zoltan Varga acquired Central Media in 2014 becoming the owner of one of Hungary’s largest independent media companies. In 2023 he made a significant move into the Polish media market by acquiring a large stake in Gremi Media, owner of the prominent Polish newspaper Rzeczpospolita and business daily Parkiet. Central Media is also a major investor in gen-Z focused medium Refresher in Hungary, Czechia and Slovakia.