Erste Group Increases Loan Target Amid Strong Growth

Erste Group Bank AG has announced a significant growth in its customer business, raising its loan target to over €290 billion. In the first nine months of 2026, loan volumes, including Erste Bank Polska, surged 24% to €287 billion. Deposit volumes rose by 28% to €324 billion, driven by increases in regions like Austria and Hungary.

Risk costs remain moderate with a non-performing loan ratio of 2.3%. Return on tangible equity stood at 20.9%, while the CET1 ratio was 15%. Erste Group's operating income increased by 8.6% on a comparable basis, with net profit rising 7.9% excluding Erste Bank Polska.

Continued integration of Erste Bank Polska is on track. A voluntary tender offer to increase Erste Group's stake in the Polish bank is set to start on November 3. Regulatory approval has been granted.