The Romanian subsidiary, one of the top ten players in the system, reduced its loan-deposit ratio to 73 percent in 2008, and the extra liquidity was invested with the National Bank of Romania (BNR) in state bonds and lending.

The share of poor performing loans in the total portfolio is some three percent, while the bank’s exposure on real estate reached 10 percent. “On real estate, the maximum set exposure is 15 percent. So, theoretically, we could grow, but I do not think now is the best time. Loans are the best investment. I am convinced we will be able to grant more lei-denominated loans,” said the bank’s Chief Executive Officer, Steven van Groningen.

“With the exception of dividends that are owed to shareholders, the group has not and will not withdraw any money from Romania. We will ensure sufficient liquidity and capital so that Raiffeisen Bank Romania can meet all its goals,” said the General Manager of Raiffeisen International and Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Raiffeisen Bank Romania, Herbert Stepic.