Completing its acquisition program — with the final step being the acquisition of HSBC Malta, expected to close in the second quarter of 2027 — represents a pivotal milestone for CrediaBank‘s ability to distribute dividends. This was underscored by the bank’s CEO, Eleni Vrettou, during the presentation of first-half financial results to analysts.
When asked about the possibility of further acquisitions, Vrettou made clear that management remains open to such moves, provided they do not divert the bank from its strategic objectives and are fully aligned with its long-term growth strategy.
Specifically regarding acquisitions, the integration of HSBC Malta, a 70% stake in Pantelakis Securities, and the absorption of Evropi Holdings — the latter two expected to be completed by the end of 2026 — are top priorities in order for the anticipated synergies to begin materializing. The completion of the HSBC Malta acquisition will expand the group’s geographic footprint and diversify its business model, creating a strong regional banking institution. CrediaBank’s balance sheet is also expected to nearly double, with total assets surpassing €17 billion and profitability significantly strengthened.
“CrediaBank’s strong first-half results confirm the bank’s growth momentum and its entry into a new phase of expansion and consolidation,” said the CEO, adding that the bank enters the second half of 2026 with optimism and a sense of responsibility, backed by strong fundamentals, diversified revenue streams, and growing confidence from the international investment community.
Eleni Vrettou: “The €300 million placement is a significant step for CrediaBank”
Regarding the €300 million placement, through which Thrivest’s stake was reduced from 24% to 16.7%, making room for the entry of long-term investors, Eleni Vrettou noted that the bank’s free float increased significantly. She also described it as an important step toward the bank’s upgrade to systemic status, given that the European Central Bank considers it desirable for no single shareholder to hold more than 30%.
CrediaBank’s CEO also ruled out the prospect of a follow-on placement.
CrediaBank’s two key priorities: growth in Greece and digital transformation
In any case, the bank’s management remains firmly focused on its other two core priorities: expanding its market share in Greece and driving its digital transformation forward.
“We remain committed to financing the real economy, and we continue to invest in the ongoing upgrade of our services, technology, and infrastructure, with the goal of creating sustainable long-term value for our customers and shareholders, wherever we operate,” said Eleni Vrettou.
In this context, the bank reaffirms its role in financing the real economy and sets a net credit expansion target of €1.3–1.4 billion for the full year. New disbursements in the first half already reached €2 billion, up 26%, while net credit expansion came in at €841 million — 55% higher than the same period last year.
Loan portfolio surges 39% — deposits climb to €7.6 billion
The loan portfolio grew by 39%, nearly four times faster than the broader banking system, while the non-performing exposures (NPE) ratio fell to a record low of 2.4%.
Deposits increased by 16%, approaching €7.6 billion, with growth distributed across corporates, individuals, and public sector entities.
Additionally, the CET1 ratio in the first half of 2026 stood at 15.5%, in line with levels seen at major European systemic banks, while on a pro-forma basis — following the integration of Evropi Holdings — it rises to 16.7%.
