EN
The goal of the paper is to assess the impact of the recent EU expansion on the structure of financial system in Poland and on competitive position of our financial institutions. Following the large body of scientific research, the level of financial development is asserted to have a strong influence on the development of the domestic economy and society at large. The methodology used combines elements of functional and competitive analyses. It is concluded that Poland's accession to the EU has played a key role in forming very good prospects for our financial system. This role is manifested in three ways - through the impact on the size of our financial system, its structure and international competitiveness. Over the long term, Poland is expected to develop the most competitive and most market-based system in Central Europe, a system that will be the hub for financial transactions and center of financial competence.