Immediate Relief for 35,000 Swiss Franc Loan Borrowers Expected

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The Greek Ministry of Finance is expected to move forward with an immediate solution addressing the challenges faced by approximately 35,000 borrowers who took out loans in Swiss francs. These individuals have been significantly impacted due to the Swiss franc’s appreciation against the euro, leading to increased debt burdens. The government, in collaboration with banks, is currently working on the parameters of this relief plan, which could be announced as early as July.

The proposed solution includes converting outstanding debts into euros and implementing a substantial tiered reduction to ease financial pressure on these borrowers, enabling them to meet their obligations without overwhelming hardship. This measure is part of a broader reform agenda launched by the government, including recent interventions related to accessing nearly €8 billion in new European funding, labor law reforms, and regulatory adjustments for construction in small communities with fewer than 2,000 residents.

Government officials have indicated that additional measures will follow at a similar pace across various sectors, aiming to boost economic growth, resolve citizen concerns, and improve everyday life for Greeks. In the coming weeks, clarity is also expected regarding which non-state, non-profit foreign universities will be allowed to operate branches in Greece starting in September, following evaluations by the National Authority for Higher Education.

Other priorities include accelerating judicial decisions and resolving land registry issues. Further announcements are anticipated during Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis’s speech at the Thessaloniki International Fair in early September. Final decisions on tax cuts for middle-income earners, housing supply incentives, and tenant support measures are expected to be finalized in August.

Tackling the housing crisis remains a top priority, and it will play a central role in the upcoming announcements. Additionally, targeted support for vulnerable groups will be included in the Thessaloniki Expo package. A key factor in finalizing the plan is determining the available fiscal space for 2026, driven by strong economic growth and increased revenue from anti-tax evasion initiatives.

Greece’s positive economic trajectory is underscored by a drop in unemployment to 7.9% in May from 8.3% in April—the lowest level since 2008. Further confidence was shown when Euronext submitted a bid to acquire the Athens Stock Exchange, a move that, if approved, would open new avenues for development in Greece’s capital markets.