CrediaBank reported net profit after tax nearly quadrupled to 23 million euros in the first half of 2026, supported by strong credit growth and record recurring earnings. The bank stated that high organic performance continued across disbursements, liquidity, deposits, and asset quality.
Net credit expansion reached 841 million euros during the six-month period, up 55 percent year on year. New disbursements reached a historic high of 2 billion euros, marking a 26 percent annual increase.
Pre-provision recurring profits hit a record level of 53.6 million euros, up 45 percent from the prior year. Net interest income rose 26 percent to 98.2 million euros, while net fee income grew 34 percent to 22.7 million euros.
Financial ratios and deposit growth
The bank improved its cost-to-income ratio from 66.6 percent in the first half of last year to 58.9 percent in the first half of 2026. The ratio dropped further to 57.3 percent in the second quarter, despite inflation and front-loaded costs for managing the pending acquisition of HSBC Malta.
Group deposits grew 16 percent year on year to nearly 7.6 billion euros, expanding at a rate almost double the 9 percent growth seen across the rest of the banking sector. The non-performing exposure ratio dropped to a historic low of 2.4 percent despite significant loan growth in the first half.
CrediaBank reported a CET1 capital ratio of 15.5 percent, bringing it close to European systemic bank levels. On a pro-forma basis after incorporating Evropi Holdings, the ratio stands at 16.7 percent.
Executive leadership statement
CrediaBank chief executive officer Eleni Vrettou said the financial results confirm the bank's steady growth path and turn strategic choices into measurable value, even during periods of geopolitical instability. She stated that the bank is moving forward with its business plan to expand its Greek market share, improve profitability, prepare for entry into the Maltese market, and invest in technology and infrastructure.
Vrettou added that strategic synergies and acquisitions will complement the bank's product footprint and consolidate overall customer relationships. She said the bank remains dedicated to financing the healthy economy, upgrading services, and creating sustainable long-term value for customers, shareholders, and staff.
Acquisitions and international expansion
Integration of HSBC Malta is currently underway, with regulatory approvals expected in the fourth quarter. CrediaBank expects the completed acquisition to nearly double its balance sheet, raising total assets beyond 17 billion euros and significantly boosting profitability.
A recent share capital increase of 300 million euros was oversubscribed nearly four times, strengthening capital adequacy. Meanwhile, regulatory procedures for CrediaBank to acquire 70 percent of Pantelakis Securities and absorb Evropi Holdings are in full progress, aiming to expand product offerings and boost fee income.
Internationally, CrediaBank established a strategic partnership with BNP Paribas Asset Management to upgrade its wealth management services. The bank also signed an agreement with the European Investment Bank to finance small and medium-sized enterprise investments in security and defence, which is expected to channel up to 200 million euros into the real economy.
Confidence from international institutional investors was further demonstrated during a successful share placement by one of the bank's two core shareholders. The bank stated that the placement expanded its shareholder base in line with European systemic bank standards, boosting stock liquidity and international market presence.
