Banking in Albania Overview

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Banking in Albania is a relatively modern industry, with the first commercial bank opening in 1925.

The country's banking system is regulated by the Bank of Albania, which was established in 1993.

Albania has a relatively high banking penetration rate, with around 70% of the population having a bank account.

The country's banking sector is dominated by a few large banks, with the top three banks holding around 70% of the market share.

Banking System

The banking system in Albania is relatively modern and well-developed, with a wide range of services available to customers.

Commercial banks in Albania offer a variety of services, including checking and savings accounts, loans, credit cards, and online banking.

The country's banking system is regulated by the Bank of Albania, which is responsible for ensuring the stability and soundness of the financial system.

Albanian banks are required to hold a minimum amount of capital to ensure their stability and solvency.

Credit: youtube.com, ✅ The 3 Best Banks in Albania (Full Guide) - Open Bank Account

The Bank of Albania also supervises and regulates the activities of credit institutions in the country.

In 2008, the Bank of Albania introduced a new payment system, which allows for faster and more secure transactions.

This has made it easier for people to conduct financial transactions in Albania.

The banking system in Albania is also relatively safe, with low levels of non-performing loans and a stable banking sector.

Banking Institutions

In Albania, there are 11 licensed banks, each with its own unique characteristics and shareholders. The Bank of Albania is the central hub for the banking network, connected to all licensed banks and their branches.

The Bank of Albania has a record low policy rate of 1.75%, which was cut to support the economy. One of the licensed banks, the Bank of Albania, has a CEO, Gent Sejko, who forecasts inflation will not reach the central bank's target until the second quarter of 2024.

Credit: youtube.com, ✅ How To Open A Bank Account in Albania (Full Guide) - New Bank Account

The 11 licensed banks in Albania have a total of 325 nodes in the banking network, with the Bank of Albania being the central hub. This network includes second-level banks, non-banking financial institutions, foreign exchange bureaux, and savings and loan associations.

Here's a list of the 11 licensed banks in Albania:

  1. Banka Kreditorëve (BK) - No and Date of License: nr. 16, datë 31.03.2003
  2. Finca Bank Albania (FIB) - No and Date of License: Nr. 19, date 06.07.2007
  3. Intesa Sanpaolo Albania (ISA) - No and Date of License: nr. 11, datë 10.08.1998
  4. Ottoman Bank Albania (OBA) - No and Date of License: no. 17, dt 16.02.2004
  5. ProCredit Bank Albania (PCA) - No and Date of License: nr. 12, datë 15.03.1999
  6. Raiffeisen Albania (RAI) - No and Date of License: nr. 02/1998, date 11.01.1999
  7. Tirana Bank (TB) - No and Date of License: nr. 07, dt. 12.09.1996
  8. Union Bank Albania (UBA) - No and Date of License: no. 18, dt 09.01.2006
  9. Banka Kombëtare Tregtare (BKT)
  10. Banka për Biznes (BB)
  11. Banka për Shërbime Financiare (BSF)

Each of these banks has its own unique characteristics, shareholders, and branches, but they all contribute to the vibrant banking sector in Albania.

Financial Infrastructure

In Albania, you can easily access your money through an extensive network of ATMs. This convenience is made possible by the presence of an interbank network.

The Central Bank of Albania, also known as the Bank of Albania, plays a crucial role in facilitating transactions among banks. It's great to know that you can withdraw cash or make transactions at ATMs affiliated with different banks.

Albania's banking system is well-connected, with a wide range of banks participating in the interbank network. This means you can use your debit or credit card to make purchases or withdraw cash from any participating bank's ATM.

Here are some of the banks that are part of the interbank network:

  • Central Bank of Albania – Bank of Albania
  • Albania Banking Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account in Albania as a foreigner?

Yes, foreign citizens can open a bank account in Albania, but you'll need to provide a valid Passport.

Which banks are best in Albania?

OTP Bank Albania has been recognized as the "Best Bank in Albania" by Euromoney for four consecutive years, solidifying its position as a leading financial institution in the country.

Is Albania financially stable?

Albania's economy is expected to be one of Europe's fastest-growing in 2024, driven by domestic consumption, tourism, and construction activity. This growth suggests a relatively stable financial situation, but further details are needed to fully assess the country's economic stability.

Matthew McKenzie

Lead Writer

Matthew McKenzie is a seasoned writer with a passion for finance and technology. He has honed his skills in crafting engaging content that educates and informs readers on various topics related to the stock market. Matthew's expertise lies in breaking down complex concepts into easily digestible information, making him a sought-after writer in the finance niche.

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