Breaking news

Interest Rate Drops Ignite New Loan Demand in Cyprus

by News Editor

May 19, 2025

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.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

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.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

€100 Million Approved for 2013 Crisis-Affected Depositors: What’s Next?

by News Editor

June 12, 2025

Recently, the Cyprus cabinet gave the green light to a substantial €100 million allocation aimed at addressing the losses suffered by depositors affected by the 2013 financial crisis. This initiative is part of the 2025 national solidarity fund.

Finance Minister Makis Keravnos announced that the beneficiaries for 2025 include individuals whose deposits and securities experienced an infamous ‘haircut’ due to stabilization measures during the crisis, particularly involving the Bank of Cyprus and Laiki Bank.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Who Benefits?

The reimbursement scheme allows partial compensation for the impacted individuals, with a maximum uninsured amount of €1,000,000 considered per impairment category. Additionally, the total cumulative reimbursement per person caps at €100,000. The initiative is poised to provide relief to approximately 13,000 people.

The net loss replacement will have a 10% rate for deposits lost at Laiki Bank and different rates for the bonds and deposits at the Bank of Cyprus—a 3.61% rate to be precise.

Path to Compensation

Eligible applicants will need to complete an online application process in June to confirm their entitled compensation amounts. The 2013 fiscal turmoil led larger depositors to shoulder the recapitalization of the Bank of Cyprus, with significant portions of uninsured deposits being converted into shares or wiped out entirely.

While the total verified losses for depositors and bondholders stood at €2 billion back then, this new scheme signifies a critical step towards repairing historical financial disruptions in the country.