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Cyprus Banks Report Solid Q1 2026 Growth Amid Economic Resilience

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

May 19, 2026

Resilient Economy Bolsters Banking Performance

Cyprus continues strengthening its position as an important market for regional banking groups, according to the latest first-quarter results published by Bank of Cyprus and Eurobank. Following Eurobank’s integration of Eurobank Ltd results, Cyprus-specific disclosures have become more limited, although the latest figures continue pointing to solid activity across the local market.

Stable Interest Income And Growing Lending Portfolios

Bank of Cyprus reported post-tax earnings of €121 million during the first quarter of 2026, marking a 3% increase compared with the same period last year. The bank’s Return on Tangible Equity reached 18.0%, while new lending rose to €829 million during the quarter, representing a 9% increase compared with the previous quarter. Its total loan portfolio expanded by 2% to €11.1 billion despite broader geopolitical uncertainty affecting international markets.

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Diversified Revenue Streams Through Non-Interest Income

Non-interest income increased by 8% year-on-year to €65 million, supported largely by insurance operations. Following the acquisition of National Insurance Cyprus in July 2025, insurance activities have become a larger contributor to the bank’s revenue mix. Eurolife reported a 60% annual increase in net insurance results to €11.9 million, while General Insurance recorded a 19% rise in gross written premiums to €22.9 million. Insurance operations now account for 24% of non-interest income and 11% of overall net profits.

Eurobank’s Geographic Diversification And Strategic Restructuring

Eurobank continued focusing on geographic diversification across its regional operations. Adjusted net earnings from activities outside Greece declined by 10.4% year-on-year to €165 million, with Cyprus contributing €103 million and Bulgaria reporting a 2.2% increase to €56 million. The group posted consolidated net earnings of €351 million overall.

Operational Efficiency And New Lending Initiatives

Eurobank Ltd reported a cost-to-income ratio of 36.9%, supported by core revenues of €146 million. The bank also completed a voluntary workforce reduction programme affecting around 200 employees, a move expected to generate annual savings of approximately €14 million from the second quarter of 2026 onward. Across the wider group, total assets reached €108 billion, spanning operations in Greece, Cyprus and Bulgaria. Fee-related revenue, meanwhile increased by 19.9% year-on-year to €203 million.

A Dynamic Outlook Despite Global Uncertainties

Despite continued geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and uncertainty surrounding global trade conditions, both banks continue relying on strong domestic demand and cautious international expansion strategies. Alpha Bank is expected to publish its first-quarter 2026 results on May 28, with investors closely watching for further indications regarding regional banking performance. Recent results from Bank of Cyprus and Eurobank nevertheless point to continued resilience within the Cypriot banking sector and its growing role in supporting diversified revenue growth across the region.

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