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Bank Of Cyprus To Acquire CDB Assets, Adding €500 Million In Deposits

Acquisition Highlights And Strategic Rationale

The Bank of Cyprus (BoC) has announced a significant milestone in its growth strategy. The institution has reached an agreement to acquire performing loans, deposits, and selected assets and liabilities from the Cyprus Development Bank (CDB). This move strengthens BoC’s core operations and reinforces its funding base through an infusion of approximately €500 million in deposits.

Portfolio Details And Financial Impact

As part of the deal, BoC will take on a portfolio of performing loans with a gross book value of approximately €150 million. The transaction is expected to be completed at par, reflecting the quality of the assets, with a limited impact on capital of around 35 basis points. It is also expected to contribute modestly to the bank’s earnings.

Regulatory Approvals And Shareholder Support

Completion of the acquisition remains subject to regulatory approvals, finalisation of documentation, and approval by CDB shareholders. BoC has already secured irrevocable commitments from shareholders representing around 96% of CDB’s share capital, indicating strong backing for the transaction. The deal is expected to close in the second half of 2026, pending these approvals.

Implications For Strategic Growth

The acquisition supports BoC’s approach to targeted growth by expanding both its performing loan portfolio and deposit base. This allows the bank to strengthen its balance sheet while continuing to grow without increasing risk exposure or affecting its dividend policy. The deal also reflects a focus on incremental expansion rather than large-scale acquisitions.

Advisory And Expert Guidance

The transaction is being advised by renowned financial experts, with KPMG Limited serving as the financial advisor and Hadjianastassiou Ioannides LLC acting as legal and competition counsel. This expert guidance further underscores the thorough and measured approach adopted by BoC in executing its strategic initiatives.

S&P Affirms Cyprus At A- With Positive Outlook

S&P Global Ratings confirmed Cyprus’s sovereign rating at A- with a positive outlook on March 20, 2026, according to the Ministry of Finance. This decision reflects stable economic performance despite ongoing external pressures, including geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.

Steady Economic Growth Amid Geopolitical Pressures

S&P expects economic growth to continue at around 3%, slightly lower than in previous years but still above the pace seen in many European economies. Fiscal surpluses are also expected to continue, supporting overall stability.

Robust Debt Management And Fiscal Discipline

Public debt has declined in recent years, supported by strong fiscal performance and higher service exports. Improvements in the banking sector, including lower non-performing loans and stable credit growth, have also contributed to a stronger economic position.

Impact Of The Middle East Conflict

Conflict in the Middle East remains the main external risk. However, the positive outlook indicates that Cyprus is considered capable of managing potential shocks. Future rating changes will depend on public finances, economic performance and foreign investment flows.

Government Policy And Economic Management

According to the Ministry of Finance, the rating reflects continued fiscal discipline and economic management. Recent performance has been supported by the handling of earlier shocks, including the pandemic and the impact of the war in Ukraine.

Industry And Sectoral Insights

S&P noted that key sectors remain stable, despite potential pressure from tourism and energy costs. In particular, the banking sector continues to show strong profitability, capital levels and liquidity.

Energy Security And Future Prospects

Energy remains a key challenge, with costs among the highest in the EU. Plans to develop LNG infrastructure and explore natural gas resources are expected to support supply in the medium term.  Regional energy projects continue to face geopolitical constraints.

Outlook

S&P expects GDP growth to average around 2.8% between 2026 and 2029, while public debt is projected to decline further. Finance Minister Makis Keravnos said the rating confirms the government’s economic policy and supports Cyprus’s position as a stable European economy.

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