Working breakfast with economic journalists
On December 13, 2024, the Albanian Association of Banks (AAB) organized the traditional “Working Breakfast” with economic journalists from several visual and print media with whom AAB collaborates. During this meeting, the President of AAB, Mr. Bledar Shella, presented the key achievements of the banking industry and AAB during 2024, emphasizing the two major projects: the implementation of SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area), and the developments in Open Banking.
The year 2024 holds special significance as it marks the 25th anniversary of AAB’s establishment. During this year, the AAB focused on several projects, including: drafting the law for the creation of the Credit Bureau; communication campaign aimed at promoting transparency and fostering public trust in the banking system, and, the three-year partnership with IFC (International Finance Corporation) to advance the digitalization of financial services and promote efficiency and innovation across banking channels.
The economic journalists attending the event expressed their interest in various aspects of the banking sector’s development and its impact on the economy. President Shella highlighted that 2024 has been the most successful year yet for the banking sector, reflected in significant improvements across key performance indicators, such as: growth in lending, reduction in non-performing loans, increase in bank deposits, and development of digital channels, offering faster, more secure, and user-friendly financial services.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides reaffirming the importance of maintaining a strong and productive partnership between the banking sector and economic media. This collaboration plays an important role in raising public awareness about banking reforms and projects that positively impact the economy. In closing, Mr. Shella extended wishes for a successful New Year, expressing confidence that 2025 will bring even greater achievements for the banking sector and continued growth for the Albanian economy as a whole.
