The banking sector in Kosovo continues to demonstrate stability, with growing demand for loans and changes in customer banking habits, as clients continuously adapt to digital innovations. As the summer season comes to a close—a period characterized by an increased presence of the diaspora—Erik Roka from Raiffeisen Bank discusses the impacts this has on the market and how the bank is adapting its services and offerings to meet customer needs.

In this interview with KosovaPress, he discusses topics such as deposits, digital development, and the shift toward sustainable financing.

KosovaPress: Mr. Roka, let’s start with an overview of the banking sector in Kosovo. How would you describe the current situation and the main trends you are seeing at this time?

The banking sector in Kosovo continues to appear healthy and stable, with solid indicators of capitalization, liquidity, and portfolio quality. Banks maintain very low levels of non-performing loans, reflecting high discipline in risk management.

At present, we see several key trends: high demand for loans, both from individuals and businesses, which has led to portfolio growth; increased competition in attracting deposits, as savings have grown at a slower pace compared to lending; and changes in the economic environment that have influenced consumer and business behavior, making the market more dynamic.

Nonetheless, as a sector, we remain prepared. Financial stability is ensured, and banks are adapting their policies to maintain a balance between loan growth and deposit retention. Our focus remains on supporting the real economy, financing businesses and families, and safeguarding clients’ deposits.

KosovaPress: In recent years, the banking sector in Kosovo has become increasingly competitive. Yet, your bank continues to hold a leading position in the market. What are some of the features that make Raiffeisen Bank the preferred partner for a growing number of clients?

Raiffeisen Bank has built a long history of trust and stability in Kosovo, becoming the largest bank in the country in terms of assets, deposits, and client numbers. This success is based on customer trust, professionalism, innovation, financial stability, and a sustainable strategy.

Our main advantage is personalized, client-oriented service, offering tailored financial solutions for individuals and businesses. Innovation and technology remain strategic pillars, through investments in products, digital services, and the largest branch network in the country, providing a fast, easy, and secure 24/7 experience.

As part of Raiffeisen Bank International, we bring best international practices and professional standards, supporting the sustainable development of our clients. These elements—trust, innovation, professionalism, and stability—consolidate our leading position and make us the preferred partner for individuals and businesses in Kosovo.

KosovaPress: The return of the diaspora during the summer is always an important period for the economy and an opportunity for banks to strengthen relationships with diaspora clients, for example through deposit offers. What is your bank’s position in this regard?

The return of the diaspora during the summer is a key moment for the economy and an opportunity for banks to strengthen relationships with diaspora clients. Raiffeisen Bank has built a strong position in this regard by offering competitive deposit offers, as well as other financial products—loans, leasing, and everyday banking services—that allow diaspora clients to invest and manage their finances in Kosovo.

Deposits from the diaspora increase significantly during the summer, reflecting trust in our stability and professionalism. With the largest branch network in the country and advanced digital services, we offer security, convenience, and a reliable banking experience. This personalized approach and sustainable strategy position us as the preferred partner for the diaspora and a significant contributor to Kosovo’s economic development.

KosovaPress: What are some of the main benefits for individuals and businesses, including the diaspora, when depositing their money at Raiffeisen Bank?

The diaspora benefits from a range of dedicated services from Raiffeisen Bank. One of the most attractive offers has been the ability to transfer up to €5,000 from abroad to accounts in Kosovo without commission, enabling fast and transparent remittances. The bank also provides saving and investment opportunities through deposits in various currencies with attractive interest rates. Families in Kosovo have immediate access to funds via cards and ATMs, while the diaspora is also supported in investments in their homeland, including financing property purchases through leasing. Additionally, dedicated funds have been created for start-up businesses wishing to begin activities in Kosovo. All of this is facilitated by the bank’s online services, allowing clients to manage savings, make transfers, and pay obligations even without being physically present in the country.

KosovaPress: Your bank operates the widest branch network in the country. At the same time, the bank is heavily investing in digitalization, and a few weeks ago, you received an award as the best digital bank in Kosovo. How important is it for you to maintain a strong physical presence, and how do you balance this with digital development?

The branch network and physical presence remain a key element of our strategy, as it allows us to be close to clients and offer personalized service. We believe human assistance in branches is essential, helping clients access our digital services and products more easily, combining technological flexibility with personal support.

At the same time, our investments in digitalization allow us to provide a fast, easy, and secure experience for clients who prefer online services. The recent award as the Best Digital Bank in Kosovo recognizes our efforts to combine advanced technology with client experience. The combination of a strong physical presence, personal assistance, and digital services creates an optimal hybrid model: clients can choose the method that suits them best, while we maintain closeness, trust, and flexibility that make Raiffeisen Bank the preferred partner in the market.

KosovaPress: Can you share some of the latest digital products and services Raiffeisen has introduced to make banking easier and more accessible for clients?

Raiffeisen Bank has continuously invested in developing digital services to make banking easier and more accessible for clients in Kosovo. Some of the newest digital products and services include:

Online account opening – for both individuals and businesses, without visiting a branch. The process is end-to-end digital, saving time and simplifying banking.

Personal loans up to €20,000 – entirely online through the Mobile Banking app (RaIKesh), without a branch visit.

Credit card applications – fully online, making the process fast, simple, and secure.

Last year, we became the first bank in Kosovo to integrate digital signatures into our processes, another important facilitation for clients. These innovations demonstrate our commitment to combining modern technology with client experience, providing flexible, fast, and accessible services 24/7, regardless of the client’s location.

KosovaPress: Banks, not only in Kosovo but globally, are focused on sustainable financing, particularly for businesses with a greater environmental impact. What measures is Raiffeisen taking to support this approach in Kosovo?

Regarding sustainable financing—companies willing to comply with the EU Taxonomy and contribute positively to environmental and social impact can qualify for green financing. We support our clients in all aspects of sustainable activities with appropriate financing. In this context, we help clients finance activities that contribute to: renewable energy, energy efficiency, circular economy, green buildings, waste management, water management, manufacturing, and healthcare.

Within sustainable financing, we offer products tailored to client needs and ESG investments, in line with EU Taxonomy guidelines. This includes ESG investment loans, ESG project financing, and sustainable real estate financing.