The latest figures from the Central Bank of Cyprus (CBK) reveal a continued decline in the volume of non-performing loans (NPLs) within the country. As of July 2024, NPLs had decreased to €1.652 billion, down slightly from €1.669 billion in June. However, the number of NPL accounts rose by €17 million compared to the previous month.
According to the European Banking Authority, loans considered problematic include restructured loans that remain categorized as non-performing for at least a year. In July, the ratio of NPLs to total loans reduced marginally to 6.8%, from 6.9% in June, while the coverage ratio—indicating the reserves banks hold against such loans—improved to 55.2% from 55%.
Of the total NPLs, households accounted for €916.6 million, and corporate loans stood at €695.7 million. The coverage ratio for household NPLs was recorded at 38%, whereas corporate NPLs saw a higher coverage of 62%.
Overall, restructured loans dropped to €1.33 billion by the end of July, from €1.36 billion in June. Out of these restructured loans, €724 million still qualify as non-performing.
It’s important to remember that NPLs are loans overdue by more than 90 days, classified as unsatisfactory, doubtful, or uncollectible. High levels of NPLs prompt the European Central Bank to mandate higher capital reserves for banks, potentially slowing economic growth by limiting funds available for new loans. Although NPLs remain a persistent challenge, the situation is expected to improve slowly, with NPLs still posing a risk to financial stability in Cyprus and representing a key barrier to strengthening the banking sector.
Source: stockwatch.com.cy,