Banks collect €1.44 bln from fees and services in first half

Greek banks collected approximately €1.44 billion in revenue from fees and services during the first half of 2026, marking a 25.3% rise compared to the same period in 2025, according to data shared by the country's four major systemic banks, Alpha Bank, Eurobank, National Bank of Greece, and Piraeus Bank. This increase reflects a broader trend toward diversifying revenue streams beyond traditional lending and interest income. Payments, cards, and transaction-based fees accounted for the largest portion of the total, contributing €375 million, which represents 26% of the overall fee income. These services include processing payments, managing card transactions, and handling digital financial interactions. Financing-related fees, such as those tied to loan structuring, disbursements, guarantees, and trade finance, totaled €327 million, making up 22.7% of the total. The expansion of credit facilities in recent years has contributed significantly to these gains, with banks earning both interest and service-based revenues from loans. Investment and asset management services came in third, generating €275 million, or 19.1%, of the total fee income. This category includes revenue from mutual fund investments, managed portfolios, and other financial products. As more customers turn to institutional investment options, banks have been expanding their offerings in wealth management to capitalize on this trend. Additional revenue streams included €145 million from real estate and related services, €89 million from investment banking and capital markets activities, and €56 million from trade finance and guarantee fees. Insurance-related activities also gained traction, with banks earning around €135 million from insurance services during the period. These developments suggest a strategic shift in how Greek banks are positioning themselves within the financial sector. The data highlights a transition in the operational focus of Greek banks, moving away from purely transactional banking towards offering more complex and value-added services. While core banking functions remain essential, there is a noticeable emphasis on generating income through specialized financial solutions. This evolution aligns with broader industry trends observed globally, where banks are increasingly relying on non-interest income to sustain profitability amid fluctuating interest rates and economic uncertainty. The growth in fee-based income underscores the resilience of the Greek banking sector despite ongoing challenges. With continued credit expansion and increased customer engagement in investment and insurance products, banks are adapting their models to meet evolving market demands. This diversification is likely to play a crucial role in maintaining stability and competitiveness in the region.