Normal view

There are new articles available, click to refresh the page.
Before yesterdayMain stream

Artificial Intelligence: A Rapid Revolution in The Financial Industry

29 May 2025 at 15:12

Eda Meta - MSc. International Finance / Global Banking Industry
 
Financial services represent one of the most traditional industries, strongly preserving their conventional practices, throughout the years. Nonetheless, Artificial Intelligence is being embraced by this sector on a faster rate, than many other industries – rapidly revolutionizing its landscape. The reason for that should not come ...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post Artificial Intelligence: A Rapid Revolution in The Financial Industry appeared first on Revista Monitor.

The judicial system limits the use of the banking sector’s potential

29 May 2025 at 15:09

Interview with Mirsad Haliti, General Director of ProCredit Bank Albania
 
Problems in the functioning of the judicial system limit the full use of the banking sector’s potential, especially in the field of lending. Mirsad Haliti, General Director of ProCredit Bank Albania, tells “Monitor” that a faster and more effective dispute resolution system would contribute to increasing legal certaint...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post The judicial system limits the use of the banking sector’s potential appeared first on Revista Monitor.

Credit growth reflects the dynamism of the economy, but it must be well-managed

29 May 2025 at 15:07

The growth in lending, especially in real estate and large businesses, reflects an expanding economy and a dynamic economic environment. Bozhidar Todorov, CEO of First Investment Bank Albania (Fibank), believes that it is essential, however, that this growth is sustainable and well-managed.
He says that banks are aware that the real estate market can be sensitive to price fluctuations and can pos...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post Credit growth reflects the dynamism of the economy, but it must be well-managed appeared first on Revista Monitor.

Over-reliance on real estate should be avoided

29 May 2025 at 14:53

Interview with Flutura Veipi, CEO of Union Bank
 
The high growth in credit has followed the performance of the most active sectors with a high contribution to economic growth. Flutura Veipi, CEO of Union Bank, tells “Monitor” that, however, the growth in real estate financing poses a risk of concentration and can create an excessive dependence on a single sector. For this reason, according to her...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post Over-reliance on real estate should be avoided appeared first on Revista Monitor.

Corporate bonds are expected to start playing a more significant role during 2025

29 May 2025 at 14:52

Interview with Andi Ballta, CEO of American Investment Bank (ABI Bank)
 
Nëntitull: The reduction in loan interest rates and treasury bond yields, the increasing liquidity in the country, the need for infrastructure works, the healthy growth and strengthening of Albanian companies have created a stimulating environment for the development of the corporate and infrastructure bond market.
&nb...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post Corporate bonds are expected to start playing a more significant role during 2025 appeared first on Revista Monitor.

 2024, a year of great achievements for Tirana Bank

29 May 2025 at 14:50

 2024, a year of great achievements for Tirana Bank
 
Interview with Dritan Mustafa, CEO of Tirana Bank
 
The increase in lending during 2024, especially in the real estate sector and in the corporate segment, is in line with the structural developments that the Albanian economy is experiencing. Dritan Mustafa, CEO of Tirana Bank, tells “Monitor” that for four or five years in a row, the role of t...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post  2024, a year of great achievements for Tirana Bank appeared first on Revista Monitor.

The real estate market still offers potential for credit growth

29 May 2025 at 14:49

 
 
Interview with Bledar Shella, CEO of OTP Albania Bank
 
The real estate market still offers a positive picture. Bledar Shella, CEO of OTP Albania Bank, tells “Monitor” that, seen from the perspective of banks, the real estate market is an underfunded sector in relation to its size. Mr. Shella believes that there is still potential for growth, especially in mortgage loans.
However, he emph...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post The real estate market still offers potential for credit growth appeared first on Revista Monitor.

High demand for property loans requires a cautious approach to risks

29 May 2025 at 14:47

 
Interview with the CEO of Intesa Sanpaolo Bank Albania
 
 
High demand for real estate and corporate lending have been factors with a significant impact on banking activity. Alessandro D’Oria, CEO of Intesa Sanpaolo Bank Albania, says in an interview with “Monitor” that this requires a disciplined approach to risk management and responsible lending.
He believes that the Bank of Albania’s re...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post High demand for property loans requires a cautious approach to risks appeared first on Revista Monitor.

Rapid growth in real estate and large business lending dictates tightening of risk criteria

29 May 2025 at 14:45

Interview with Christian Canacaris, CEO of Raiffeisen Bank Albania
 
The rapid expansion of lending in the real estate sector and in the large business segment, could bring concerns for the banking sector if banks do not strengthen risk criteria. Christian Canacaris, CEO of Raiffeisen Bank Albania, tells “Monitor” that in the corporate segment, the increase in large exposures amplifies concentrati...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post Rapid growth in real estate and large business lending dictates tightening of risk criteria appeared first on Revista Monitor.

Credit growth comes from good economic performance, but requires increased caution

29 May 2025 at 14:44

Interview with Maltin Korkuti, CEO of Credins Bank
 
The increase in lending in the real estate and large business sectors must be accompanied by an in-depth risk analysis and prudent assessment criteria. Maltin Korkuti, CEO of Credins Bank, tells “Monitor” that the increase in lending in the real estate and large business segments reflects a positive dynamic of the economy and an increased d...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post Credit growth comes from good economic performance, but requires increased caution appeared first on Revista Monitor.

Aggressive lending could spark a price war between banks

29 May 2025 at 14:41

Interview with Seyhan Pencabligil, CEO of Banka Kombëtare Tregtare (BKT)
 
In 2025, banks are expected to pursue an aggressive lending strategy, which could spark a price war between them. Seyhan Pencabligil, CEO of Banka Kombëtare Tregtare (BKT), says in an interview with “Monitor” that the expected reduction in interest rates could put pressure on banks’ profit margins. As a result, he believes ...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post Aggressive lending could spark a price war between banks appeared first on Revista Monitor.

The growth of banks with Albanian capital

29 May 2025 at 14:39

Banks with local capital increased their market share again in 2024. The figures show that the banking market is less concentrated and more competitive for key indicators. For the first time in 20 years, a new bank is expected to be licensed.
 
The year 2024 confirmed a further trend of growth of the domestically-owned banks market and a decline of those with foreign capital. Together, domes...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post The growth of banks with Albanian capital appeared first on Revista Monitor.

Banking sector, is there a risk of euphoria?

29 May 2025 at 14:37

The banking sector closed another good year, with high profits and the highest credit growth since 2008. However, the rapid growth of lending, especially in the real estate segment, has worried the Bank of Albania, which applied a countercyclical addition to the capital adequacy ratio for the first time. The Central Bank aims to slow the pace of credit growth, but, for now, the sector does not see...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post Banking sector, is there a risk of euphoria? appeared first on Revista Monitor.

Kosovo Joins as Donor to World Bank’s IDA

26 March 2025 at 14:41

The Republic of Kosovo has become an official donor to the World Bank's International Development Association (IDA) with a paid-in contribution of $1.4 million.

IDA is the World Bank's fund for 78 low-income countries. Projects funded by IDA boost economic growth, build resilience and improve people's lives across the countries it supports. Kosovo's commitment comes as multiple crises take a disproportionate toll on low-income countries. Kosovo is also among the 78 countries that borrow from IDA, but the country has experienced steady economic progress since independence, with a nearly 50% increase in per-capita income and a 35% reduction in the poverty rate. The most recent IDA projects in Kosovo will support investments that facilitate trade and more efficient transport and support financial stability and inclusion.

"Having benefited from IDA's support on our continuing development journey, we understand firsthand the transformative impact these resources can have," said Hekuran Murati, Minister of Finance, Labour and Transfers of Kosovo. "We are proud to contribute to supporting other nations on their path to prosperity."

"Kosovo joins a global community of donors that enables IDA to provide concessional financing for development across 78 low-income and vulnerable countries," said Akihiko Nishio, World Bank Vice President for Development Finance, who oversees IDA. "I commend Kosovo for this decision to stand in solidarity with the countries that IDA serves."

IDA is replenished every three years, and the 21st round of IDA negotiations concluded in December 2024. IDA supports a range of development activities, like water security, digital economy, digital governance, social assistance reform, early childhood education and care, health, fiscal effectiveness, competitiveness, and green growth. These interventions pave the way toward equality, economic growth, job creation, higher incomes, and better living conditions.

The post Kosovo Joins as Donor to World Bank’s IDA appeared first on Gazeta Express.

Kosovo Defeats Iceland 3-1, Advances To League B

26 March 2025 at 14:37

Vedat Muriqi's hat trick seals Kosovo's promotion over Iceland in UEFA Nations League playoffs.

In a thrilling encounter at the Estadio Enrique Roca de Murcia, the Icelandic national football team faced Kosovo in the second leg of the UEFA Nations League, needing a comeback after falling short in the first match. The clash took place on March 23, 2025, at 10:30 PM local time, and the stakes couldn't be higher; with promotion to League B on the line, both sides brought fervent support into the stadium.

Approximately 1,600 fans filled the stands, representing a lively atmosphere. Among them were around 200 dedicated Kosovo supporters, creating a lively ambiance in the expansive stadium that holds approximately 30,000 spectators. Iceland was seeking to overturn a 1-2 deficit established in the previous encounter, aiming to harness the home advantage, albeit in a neutral ground.

The first leg in Pristina was a gripping showdown, highlighting the competitive nature of the playoff. Kosovo emerged victorious from that match thanks to goals from Lumbardh Dellova, who opened the score in the 19th minute, and a second goal from Elvis Rexhbecaj in the 58th minute. Iceland's Orri Óskarsson provided a moment of relief by equaling the score briefly, making it 1-1 before succumbing 2-1.

As the kickoff unfolded in Spain, the tension was palpable, with Iceland hoping for an early breakthrough. They didn't have to wait long. In a stunning twist, Orri Óskarsson scored right after the whistle blew, finding the back of the net just two minutes into the match. This electrifying start sent a wave of enthusiasm through Icelandic supporters. The score momentarily leveled the aggregate result to 2-2, but Kosovo, ever the resilient side, was not about to back down.

Following the early shock, Kosovo responded, and their star striker Vedat Muriqi displayed his prowess. Muriqi, who had already made waves in the first leg, quickly found his rhythm. He struck first in the 35th minute to restore Kosovo's lead in what seemed like an inevitability given his form. Just before halftime, he struck again, completing a brace in the first leg, and with a third goal in the 79th minute, capped off a hat trick and solidified Kosovo’s position.

In between Muriqi's goals, Iceland furiously sought to reclaim the momentum. They dominated possession and created opportunities, but the Kosovo defense held strong, led by Muriqi's efforts. Iceland's Aron Gunnarsson put one on the scoreboard in the 69th minute, but it was a mere consolation in a match that saw Kosovo leave with a convincing 3-1 victory.

The icy grip on the match appeared to tighten for Iceland when captain Andri Guðjohnsen received a red card for a second yellow in the closing moments of the game. As the final whistle blew, Kosovo celebrated a 3-1 victory and a 4-2 aggregate score that secures their progress to League B, while Iceland faced relegation worries.

This match further solidified Kosovo's status as a formidable footballing nation, especially given their recent performances. Kosovo's players, many from Europe's top leagues, demonstrated remarkable cohesion and determination. They completed the match with five yellow cards total; engaging in a fiercely contested battle that showcased their mettle.

Iceland's head coach Arnar Gunnlaugsson expressed disappointment but remained hopeful for the future. "We gave our all and showed our potential, but in these high-stakes matches, it's the little details that can make the biggest change. We must learn and grow from this experience."

Muriqi's hat trick not only highlights his skill but emphasizes his importance to the team's performance. He has captured the attention of scouts and fans alike, showing that Kosovo can compete at higher levels within European football. This assertion resonates deeply as they gain respect on the international stage.

As both teams now look forward, Kosovo will relish their upcoming matches in League B, while Iceland must reassess its strategies to avoid further relegation challenges in the future. The journey through the UEFA Nations League continues, with fans eager to witness where the next chapter leads for these two competing nations.

This encounter reminded fans of the unpredictable nature of football, where passion and determination often clash with skilled performance to create unforgettable moments on the pitch.

The post Kosovo Defeats Iceland 3-1, Advances To League B appeared first on Gazeta Express.

Court leaves Erion Veliaj in prison, Xoxa required to appear

By: admin
12 February 2025 at 22:22

The Criminal Court of Albania (GJKKO) has upheld the security measure “Arrest in prison” against Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj, suspected of corruption and money laundering.

During the hearing, Veliaj’s lawyers requested conditional release in exchange for a financial guarantee. While for his wife, Ajola Xoxa, the measure was reduced to an obligatory appearance.

During the hearing, Veliaj categorically denied the charges, claiming that he was only doing his duty. He also stated that he was not explained why he was arrested, and according to him, “he took revenge on his family who worked even on weekends.”

“It has not been explained to me even today why I am arrested, I, a mayor who was voted in by the people of Tirana, have done my duty. I have taken revenge on my family because I worked on Saturdays and Sundays and even on holidays.

But cursed be the one who works in this country, because he becomes the object of attack and finds himself in this situation that I am in today. The villa in Qerret is not ours, it is natural that my child’s toys will be there and that my wife is an only child and my mother-in-law and I don’t know why it seems so unnatural that the child’s toys are at the grandmother’s house,” Veliaj said in court.

The hearing against Mayor Erion Veliaj began in the early hours of the morning, but even with interruptions it lasted over 7 hours. Also present at the hearing was Veliaj’s wife, Ajola Xoxa, accused of corruption, money laundering and failure to declare income in collaboration with Veliaj.

Also present in the courtroom were the other 4 businessmen involved in the investigation file: Meriman Palushi, Fatmir Bektashi, Sokol Kryeziu and Shkelqim Fusha, for whom the “compulsory appearance” measure remained in force.

Also present was businessman Elman Abule, arrested two days ago as involved in Veliaj’s investigation file, while the “prison arrest” measure against him did not change.

There was also no shortage of debates. It was the mayor who addressed prosecutor Olsi Dado in harsh tones, reminding him that he is in a conflict of interest after having granted him a building permit. Media sources indicate that the mayor of Tirana “burst out” at the Special Prosecutor Olsi Dado, at whose request Veliaj is currently behind bars.

The mayor is said to have mentioned to Dado the “good things” he had done for him by granting him a building permit, although at the time, according to the mayor, the prosecutor did not appreciate them and “was not satisfied”.

Erion Veliaj is accused of committing 4 criminal offenses, active and passive corruption, money laundering and failure to declare assets, while Ajola Xoxa is charged with corruption, money laundering and failure to declare assets. Businessman Abule is charged with money laundering, while the other 4 businessmen are charged with active corruption.

Meanwhile, a large number of citizens have protested demanding Veliaj’s release, outside the premises of the Special Prosecution Office against Corruption and Organized Crime.

The post Court leaves Erion Veliaj in prison, Xoxa required to appear appeared first on Albeu.com.

Optimistic tourism, but with cautious steps

11 February 2025 at 14:45

Tourism is expected to have positive performance this year as well, maintaining the pace of the year we just left behind, where despite the government's objectives for 14 million tourists not materializing, the figure was increasing compared to 2023. Tour operators estimate that this increase for 2025 could reach 25%, taking as a reference the increase in guaranteed contracts, which is a signal fo...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post Optimistic tourism, but with cautious steps appeared first on Revista Monitor.

Builders predict 15% increase in apartment prices

11 February 2025 at 14:44

The main factors that will affect the price increase remain the increase in the cost of workers' salaries, the increase in the cost of construction materials and the cost of the increase in the infrastructure impact tax.
 
Dorina Azo
The increase in apartment prices will not stop during 2025. Builders expect to increase apartment sales prices again. Property prices are expected to increase in area...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post Builders predict 15% increase in apartment prices appeared first on Revista Monitor.

SEPA integration, a major challenge for 2025

11 February 2025 at 14:43

Interview with Spiro Brumbulli, Secretary General of the Albanian Banking Association
 
SEPA integration will be a major challenge for the banking sector during 2025. Spiro Brumbulli, Secretary General of the Albanian Banking Association, says that this integration requires major investments in technology and cybersecurity. According to him, improving customer access and increasing trust in e...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post SEPA integration, a major challenge for 2025 appeared first on Revista Monitor.

Albania must implement the reform agenda within the framework of the growth plan

11 February 2025 at 14:42

Although Albania has growth rates above the European Union average, in the future, improving institutional quality will be essential to address high levels of emigration, skill mismatch and unemployment through tailored public investments in education, health and quality infrastructure.
The Vice-President of the European Investment Bank (EIB), Robert de Groot, says in an interview fot “Monitor”, t...

Access Restricted: Account Required

To read our magazine articles, you must have an account on our website. Please create an account or log in to continue enjoying our content.

The post Albania must implement the reform agenda within the framework of the growth plan appeared first on Revista Monitor.

❌
❌