Cyprus Banks Tighten Lending Conditions for Businesses

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On September 25, the Central Bank of Cyprus released its latest Bank Lending Survey, detailing trends in loan demand and lending practices for businesses and households.

The report highlights that in the second quarter of 2024, demand for business loans in Cyprus remained steady, while there was a sharp decline in consumer loans and mortgage lending.

For business loans, the report noted that while higher interest rates and reduced need for financing related to mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring weighed on demand, these were offset by increased needs for fixed investments, inventory, and working capital. On the household side, the drop in demand for mortgages, consumer, and other personal loans was attributed to higher interest rates, diminished trust in banks, and lower spending on durable goods. However, the survey also predicts that loan demand from both businesses and households will likely remain stable in the third quarter of 2024.

Stricter Lending Criteria for Businesses
In terms of new business loans, banks in the second quarter of 2024 significantly tightened their criteria compared to the previous quarter. This shift was mainly driven by a reduced tolerance for risk. On the other hand, the criteria for personal loans—whether for housing or consumer purposes—remained the same during this period. Notably, the conditions for loans to small businesses remained stable after seven consecutive quarters of tightening.

Interestingly, there was some easing in mortgage lending terms during the second quarter, marking the first such occurrence since early 2018. This was largely due to competitive pressures, leading to lower interest rates on new mortgage loans and reduced margins on traditional mortgages. Meanwhile, the terms for consumer and personal loans remained unchanged, though a slight decline in interest rates was noted.

Looking ahead, the survey indicated that banks expect lending criteria for both business and personal loans to remain unchanged in the third quarter of 2024.

Source: stockwatch.com.cy, dom.com.cy

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