Romanian banks extend 28% more new loans in January-August
<p>Romanian banks granted loans totaling almost RON 114 billion (EUR 22.8 billion) in the first eight months of the year, marking a 28% increase compared to the same period in 2023, according to data published by the National Bank of Romania (BNR).&nbsp;</p>

<p>More than half of this amount was directed to individuals. However, the figure includes the refinanced loans.</p>

<p>During this period, companies received nearly RON 50 billion (EUR 10 billion) in loans, representing around 44% of the total, with the remainder being loans to the population, <a href="https://economedia.ro/bancile-din-romania-au-acordat-credite-noi-de-114-miliarde-lei-populatiei-si-companiilor-in-primele-opt-luni-din-2024-in-crestere-cu-28.html?mc_cid=7b9c904fa0&amp;mc_eid=cd1f92f96c" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Economedia.ro</a> reported.</p>

<p>A breakdown by currency reveals that around 83% of these loans were issued in local currency, 16% in euros, and a small portion in US dollars, reflecting confidence in the national currency and helping to mitigate currency risk.</p>

<p>As of now, the balance of non-governmental credit, calculated as the difference between new loans and repayments, has reached RON 408 billion (over EUR 80 billion), showing an increase of almost 15% compared to the same period last year.</p>

<p>Experts note Romania's banking system is in a solid financial position, with all key indicators exceeding EU banking sector averages. Romanian banks are well-capitalized, with the solvency ratio reaching over 24% in June, which is three times the required minimum. Additionally, the liquidity coverage ratio was over 286% in March, surpassing the European average of 167%.</p>

<p><em>iulian@romania-insider.com</em></p>

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