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Interest Rate Drops Ignite New Loan Demand in Cyprus

Recent cuts in interest rates by the European Central Bank have spurred interest from borrowers in Cyprus, driving new loan demands to an impressive €1.24 billion in the first quarter of 2025. This surge is reflected in both consumer and business loans, largely orchestrated by the Bank of Cyprus and Hellenic Bank, which dominate 67% of the market.

Despite the dip in interest rates, depositor activity remains robust, indicating a strong trust in the banking sector.

Insights from the Bank of Cyprus

The latest Bank of Cyprus reports show a 16% quarter-on-quarter and 25% year-on-year increase in new loans. This growth is primarily fueled by large corporates, mortgages, and international business loans.

Understanding Hellenic Bank’s Performance

Hellenic Bank reveals a significant uptick in new loans, reaching €404 million in the first quarter of 2025. Notably, 19% of this pertains to green loans, marking a forward-thinking trend.

Liquidity and Deposits: A Growing Trust

Both banks reflect substantial liquidity accumulation, with their market shares at 72.8%. Bank of Cyprus led with €20.70 billion in deposits, showcasing a strategic balance in terms, savings and current accounts. Hellenic Bank captured €15.9 billion in deposits, underscoring a 1% growth.

Outlook for 2025

Bank executives maintain optimism for 2025, buoyed by economic strength and liquidity. Leaders like Panikos Nikolaou and Michalis Louis reiterate their commitment to supporting domestic economic needs while maximizing shareholder returns.

Cypriot Banking Sector’s NPL Ratio Remains Steady Amid Strengthening Coverage

The Cypriot banking sector maintained a non-performing loans (NPL) ratio of 5.9 percent in May, mirroring the level reported in April 2025, according to the Central Bank of Cyprus. This stability underscores a cautious but resilient performance amidst evolving market conditions.

Stable Npl Ratio Highlights Consistency

The persistently steady NPL ratio signals that while banks face ongoing pressures, they are effectively managing risk levels. Maintaining a 5.9 percent ratio suggests that despite potential economic headwinds, the sector’s credit management protocols continue to perform reliably.

Rising Coverage Ratios Point To Strengthened Reserves

Another encouraging sign comes from the increasing coverage ratio of NPLs by impairment provisions, which climbed from 60.7 percent in April to 61.0 percent at the end of May 2025. This increment in coverage ratios fortifies the banks’ balance sheets, ensuring they have a more robust buffer against potential loan defaults.

Restructured Loans And Their Impact

By the end of May, total restructured loans reached €1.3 billion, of which €0.7 billion remain classified as non-performing. This segment of the portfolio remains a focal point for both regulators and bank management, as it continues to pose challenges amidst efforts to recalibrate and stabilize credit extensions.

In summary, the consistent NPL ratio combined with improved impairment provisions reflects an industry that is not only navigating current challenges but also strategically reinforcing its financial safeguards. As the sector adapts to market dynamics, these indicators will remain crucial for gauging overall financial health and guiding future policy adjustments.

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