Corporate loans increased by 8% year-on-year, both through the participation in the financing of sustainable projects (renewable energy, energy efficiency) and social projects, thus supporting the development of clients' businesses and the Romanian economy.

Lending to SMEs also showed an upward trend (+7% year-on-year). They are responding to customer needs with tailored lending solutions and the possibility to opt for government programs such as SME Invest.

With the first issuance of eligible Eurobonds in the amount of EUR 300 million, Raiffeisen Bank Romania strengthened its own funds and eligible debt base to approximately 36%, which is above the regulatory requirements applicable as of January 1, 2024 (32.48%).

The strong interest of the international capital markets in Raiffeisen Bank's bonds, (i.e. a total demand of more than EUR 1 billion) confirms once again a responsible banking model, characterized by a sound financial position and a continuous effort to consider the perspective of all relevant stakeholders - customers, employees, investors, authorities and shareholders.

The sustainable format of the issue also underlines Raiffeisen Bank's commitment to contribute to the sustainable development of the Romanian economy.

"Raiffeisen Bank is the first bank in Romania to issue green and sustainable bonds on the local capital market. In the last three years, we have had 7 bond issues, with a cumulative nominal value of almost €1 billion, and the stock of green and social loans amounts to around €700 million, with steady progress year on year, proof of a long-term commitment that strengthens our role as a facilitator in the transition to the green economy", said Zdenek Romanek, President and CEO, Raiffeisen Bank Romania.

Raiffeisen Bank Romania continued its partnership with the European Investment Bank in 2023 by signing 3 new guarantee agreements, which will allow the granting of over € 650 million in loans to SMEs in the coming years.

+75% growth in ESG assets

Raiffeisen Bank Romania's Corporate Division continued to support the real economy by increasing ESG assets by 75% (approx. EUR 320 million), reaching a sustainable portfolio coverage level of around 20%.

In 2023, Raiffeisen Bank Romania maintained its role as a trusted partner in the development of mid-market companies through the Catalyst organizational development programs. At the same time, it financially supported some of the largest economic transactions of 2023, including:

- EUR 200 million syndicated financing to NEPI Rockcastle;

- EUR 550 million syndicated credit facility for Ameropa Group - the largest syndicated transaction in the agribusiness sector in 2023;

- Together with RBI, EUR 40.5 million loans for the construction of a photovoltaic power plant in the North-West of the country, and EUR 60 million for the development of the largest photovoltaic park in Romania and Southeastern Europe.

Raiffeisen Bank Romania's total assets exceeded RON 70 billion at the end of 2023, up 13% year-on-year, and total income in 2023 increased by 16% compared to 2022, reaching RON 3.7 billion. RON. Profits amount to RON 1.7 billion (+39%).