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Hellenic Bank’s Transformative Year: A Look at 2024 Achievements and Future Plans

In a remarkable financial year, Hellenic Bank (HB) announced a landmark €383 million profit for 2024, highlighting a pivotal transformation in its operations and ownership structure. Michalis Louis, CEO of Hellenic Bank, emphasized the year’s significance, pointing to robust financial performance and strategic growth.

With its integration into the Eurobank Group, HB is on track to become one of Cyprus’s leading financial powerhouses. The merger will strengthen its position, creating a formidable banking entity. Further bolstering its market influence, Hellenic Bank is set to finalize the acquisition of CNP Cyprus Insurance Holdings, solidifying its status as a top insurance provider in the region.

The bank reported a CET1 ratio of 28.7% and a Total Capital ratio of 32.2%, far surpassing the regulatory minimums. Its de-risked balance sheet is noteworthy, with a non-performing exposure ratio of 2.4% and coverage of 63%. These metrics reflect a strategic focus on stability and growth.

Hellenic Bank’s financial achievements are underscored by a 10% year-over-year net profit increase and a 23% return on tangible equity. With €1.1 billion in new lending, the bank remains committed to propelling the domestic economy forward. The liquidity coverage ratio of 519% indicates strong fiscal health and readiness for future expansion.

Looking ahead, Eurobank Group’s anticipated complete acquisition of HB will cement the bank’s influence in the sector. Michalis Louis expressed optimism about the upcoming merger with Eurobank Cyprus, seeing it as a strategic alignment to enhance customer services and product offerings.

As Hellenic Bank grows, it remains dedicated to supporting the Cypriot economy, fostering economic growth, and ensuring a sustainable banking system. This commitment extends to the impending acquisition of CNP Cyprus Insurance, expected to conclude in early 2025.

In other notable figures, the 2024 financials reveal a 12% rise in net interest income to €599 million, alongside a solid cost-to-income ratio of 40%. Additionally, ample liquidity is demonstrated by the maintenance of €5.6 billion in the European Central Bank and a 36.6% net loans to deposits ratio.

Anchored by Eurobank Group’s extensive assets, Hellenic Bank is poised for continued growth, aiming to deliver unparalleled customer experiences in Cyprus.

For more on regional economic improvements, read about the New Tax Era in Cyprus and its implications.

SEC Drops Lawsuit Against Gemini: A Major Turning Point In Crypto Regulation

SEC Dismisses Legal Action Against Gemini

The Securities and Exchange Commission has formally withdrawn its lawsuit against Gemini, the prominent crypto exchange founded by twins Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss. The move follows a joint court filing in which both the regulator and Gemini sought dismissal of the case that centered on the collapse of the Gemini Earn investment product, a debacle that left investors without access to their funds for 18 months.

Settlement And Regulatory Reassessment

In a significant development, a 2024 settlement between New York and Gemini ensured that investors recovered one hundred percent of their crypto assets loaned through the Gemini Earn program. The legal reprieve comes on the heels of actions initiated by New York Attorney General Letitia James, who accused Gemini of defrauding investors.

Political Backdrop And Industry Implications

This dismissal reinforces a broader trend of regulatory leniency toward the crypto sector noted during the Trump administration, which saw the SEC dismiss, pause, or reduce penalties in more than 60 percent of its pending crypto lawsuits. Meanwhile, Gemini’s recent public offering filing underscores its ambitions to solidify its status as a major player in the evolving digital asset market.

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