Banks expand out – NCB in Uzbekistan, Credins in Kosovo

Local banks are not only becoming increasingly involved into the domestic market, but are also expanding outside Albania. The largest bank in the country, National Commercial Bank (NCB or BKT), after being affirmed in the Kosova market, has already decided to launch a new and far-reaching experience: soon it will open a branch in Uzbekistan.

The decision to try success in the Central Asian country is certainly surprising, though in recent years Uzbekistan is one of the fastest growing economies in the region. The potentials of this market are probably appreciated by NCB shareholders. Another factor may be the interest of the holding group, Çalik Group, which has business activities in the markets and in various sectors.

The other bank with the fastest expansion in recent years, Credins Bank, has also decided to expand in Kosovo’s neighboring market. Currently, Credins is the third largest bank in Albania and owns about 13% of Albanian banking system assets. Credins’ intented to enter the Kosovo market from the time the bank was run by Artan Santo.

However, shareholders of the largest Albanian-dominated bank this year, have finally decided to expand their business in Kosovo. Kosovo’s market in recent years has grown at high rates and it is estimated that potentials are still great. Kosovo’s economy has had the highest growth rates in the region during the crisis years. This has helped to accelerate lending and low levels of problem loans.

SCAN

*Material i përgatitur nga portali SCAN. Ripublikimi mund të bëhet vetëm kundrejt citimit të autorësisë dhe burimit origjinal.