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Bank Of Cyprus Achieves €1 Billion In Real Estate Sales Since 2019

Since 2019, the Bank of Cyprus has significantly reduced its non-performing exposures (NPEs) by selling over €1 billion in real estate assets. This aggressive divestment strategy is part of the bank’s broader efforts to improve its balance sheet and financial stability. The sales, which include a mix of residential, commercial, and land assets, have enabled the bank to enhance its capital adequacy ratios and strengthen its position in the Cypriot banking sector.

This strategic move aligns with the bank’s long-term goal of focusing on core banking operations while mitigating risks associated with holding extensive real estate portfolios. By offloading these assets, the Bank of Cyprus has not only reduced its exposure to non-performing loans but also generated substantial liquidity, which can be redirected towards more profitable ventures.

The real estate market in Cyprus has shown resilience, supported by both domestic demand and foreign investment, particularly from European and Middle Eastern buyers. This favourable market environment has allowed the Bank of Cyprus to execute its sales at competitive prices, further bolstering its financial performance.

Looking ahead, the Bank of Cyprus is expected to continue this trajectory, leveraging the proceeds from these sales to strengthen its balance sheet further and explore new growth opportunities within its core banking activities. The success of this real estate disposal strategy underscores the bank’s commitment to maintaining a robust financial position and delivering value to its shareholders.

In conclusion, the €1 billion in real estate sales marks a significant milestone for the Bank of Cyprus, reflecting its strategic focus on financial health and risk management. This move not only enhances the bank’s stability but also positions it for future growth in a competitive and evolving banking landscape.

Meridiam Takes Majority Stake In Great Sea Interconnector

French infrastructure investment group Meridiam has officially become the majority shareholder of the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI), marking a significant step forward for the electricity link between Cyprus and Greece.

The agreement was signed on Wednesday at Greece’s Maximos Mansion in the presence of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who described the project as strategically important for regional energy security and for ending Cyprus’ energy isolation from the European electricity grid.

Mitsotakis also said the deal demonstrates Greece’s ability to attract international investors and pledged continued government support to ensure the project moves forward.

Project Gains New Momentum

Alongside the shareholder agreement, Greece’s Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO), GSI and French cable manufacturer Nexans signed a separate agreement covering seabed survey work, one of the next stages in the project’s development.

Greek officials said Meridiam’s entry strengthens the project’s financial position and credibility, creating better conditions to accelerate construction. IPTO will remain a strategic shareholder, retain technical responsibility for the project and operate the interconnector once it is completed.

The European Investment Bank is also assessing potential financing, while IPTO is preparing to submit a cost-benefit study for the planned Cyprus-Israel electricity interconnection to regulators in Cyprus and Israel.

Long-Term Infrastructure Investor

Founded in 2005 and headquartered in Paris, Meridiam specialises in financing, developing and managing long-term infrastructure projects. Its portfolio includes more than 130 projects across Europe, North America, the Middle East and Africa, spanning sectors such as transport, energy and water infrastructure.

Among its flagship investments are the NeuConnect electricity interconnector between the UK and Germany, Sofia Airport in Bulgaria and the Florence tram network in Italy.

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