GREECE
Macro/Political:
- In March 2026, the Industrial Production Index recorded an increase of 8.3% compared to March 2025 (y-o-y). For the period January-March 2026, the index recorded an increase of 3.2% compared to the corresponding period of the previous year.
Source: ELSTAT
- Foreign Direct Investment in Greece reached a record high in 2025, according to data released by the OECD, totalling USD 12.8 bn, by far the highest level in the past 20 years. Foreign direct investment last year was 69% higher than in 2024 and more than 50% higher than in 2022, when the previous was set.
Source: Kathimerini
Markets:
- Credia Bank announced that it has entered into a share sale and purchase agreement with Pantelakis Securities S.A. for the acquisition of a 70% majority stake in the company, including a call and put option for the acquisition of the remaining 30%. The parties aim to complete the transaction within 3Q26, subject to the satisfaction of several conditions. The consideration will amount to EUR 8.75 mn for 70% of the shares, underpinning the bank’s strategy to further strengthen its presence in the capital markets.
Source: Athens Euronext
- Optima Bank’s net profit in 1Q26 stood at EUR 47.5mn, compared to EUR 46.7mn in 4Q25 and EUR 39mn in 1Q25. The Bank’s NPE ratio was 2%. The Total Capital Ratio and CET1 ratio stood at 14.27% and 11.76%, respectively. The Bank’s CEO, Dimitris Kyparissis, stated that management remains confident in the resilience of the Greek economy despite the current geopolitical situation in the Middle East. He added that the Bank remains firmly focused on supporting its clients and selectively growing its loan book.
Source: Athens Euronext
CYPRUS
Macro/Political:
- Provisional data released by CyStat showed that in the period of January – March 2026 the trade balance was in deficit of EUR 2,047.2 mn compared to a deficit of EUR 1,877.3 mn in the corresponding period of 2025. Total imports of goods in March amounted to EUR 1,210.7mn (11.6% y-o-y) while total exports were EUR 506.9mn (+6.7% y-o-y).
Source: CyStat
