Banks Aim for €12.5 Billion in New Loans to Boost Real Economy

The four major Greek banks and the fifth banking hub are set to provide nearly €12.5 billion in new loans this year to support the real economy. The leading four banks—Eurobank, National Bank of Greece, Piraeus Bank, and Alpha Bank—are targeting over €10 billion in fresh lending. According to their business plans, Eurobank aims for a credit expansion of €3.5 billion, National Bank of Greece targets €2.4 billion, Piraeus Bank aims for €2.3 billion, and Alpha Bank is planning €2.2 billion. Collectively, these funds will be directed towards businesses and households. Additionally, Attica Bank and Optima Bank aim to contribute with around €2 billion in combined loans. In Q1 2025, Piraeus Bank increased its portfolio of active loans by 3% quarterly and 16% annually, reaching €34.8 billion. The bulk of the loans went to manufacturing and construction/real estate sectors. Meanwhile, Eurobank bolstered its active loans organically by €1.2 billion in Q1 2025, including €0.8 billion in Greece and €0.4 billion abroad. National Bank of Greece expanded its loan servicing portfolio by 12% year-on-year, reaching €33.6 billion, reflecting strong loan disbursements of €1.6 billion in Q1 2025. Alpha Bank issued €2.5 billion in new loans domestically during Q1, primarily targeting commerce, manufacturing, transportation, energy, and tourism sectors. Optima Bank reported continued credit expansion with loan disbursements of €0.8 billion in Q1 2025, up 21% year-on-year. Attica Bank significantly strengthened its loan portfolio with net credit expansion reaching €232 million. Overall, these efforts highlight the banking sector’s commitment to fostering economic recovery and growth.