Albanians increase savings in banks - BoA: Deposits in May increase again. Both in foreign currency and in lek
After a slight decrease in March, Albanians' savings in banks have returned to growth during May. Bank of Albania data show that deposits included in broad money reached around 1.53 trillion lek at the end of May 2026.
Compared to April, deposits increased by about 32 billion lek, or approximately 2.1% more. This indicates a return of interest in keeping money in the banking system, after the fluctuations of the first months of the year.
The majority of these savings continue to be held in foreign currency, mainly euros. In May, foreign currency deposits increased to about 782 billion lek, from about 765 billion in April. So, citizens and businesses increased their savings in foreign currencies by about 18 billion lek.
Deposits in lek also increased. They reached around 751 billion lek, increasing by around 14 billion lek compared to the previous month. The increase was seen in both deposits used for daily payments and savings deposits.
If we look at the type of deposits, the main increase in May came from transferable deposits, meaning money that can be used immediately for payments and transactions. This indicates more money movement in the economy.
As for the groups holding these savings, the majority continue to be held by other resident sectors, which mainly include individuals and families. They hold hundreds of billions of lek in banks and remain the main contributors to deposits.
Businesses also experienced deposit movements during the month, reflecting economic activity, payments, and liquidity needs.
Overall, data for May show that savings in banks have taken a positive direction. The increase in deposits shows that citizens and businesses continue to have confidence in the banking system, while the high level of savings remains an important element for the country's financial stability.
Global risks are rising - as a result of the debt boom, artificial intelligence and fragility
Global pressures from rising public debt to financial fragility and the sustainability of the artificial intelligence boom are increasing risks, underscoring......
"Appetite" for credit increases in May/ New loans reached 39.9 billion lek, the expansion was supported by individuals
According to the latest data from the "Bank of Albania", total credit to the economy reached 978 billion lek at the end of May 2026, expanding by about 9.8......
How has this week started for the major currencies?
The US dollar has started this week negatively, having a falling weekend like last week, as it was bought this Monday morning at 81.8 lek and sold at 82.87......
Regaining the license, a challenge for drivers - DPSHTRR: Only 7 out of 43 candidates pass
Regaining a driver's license remains a challenging process for drivers who must undergo retesting. According to the General Directorate of Road Transport,......
How will the new property tax be calculated? - Deadlines/Whoever does not pay, does not receive services in the municipality, cadastre and NCC
The new tax on buildings, construction plots, agricultural and livestock lands, as well as forestry lands, will be calculated by the municipality for any......
576 billion USD investment in AI chip - South Korean President reveals projects
South Korea launched sweeping chip and artificial intelligence mega-projects on Monday, as President Lee Jae Myung vowed to cement overwhelming leadership in......
Iran and US agree to halt attacks - Talks to resume Tuesday in Qatar
Iran and the United States agreed to stop recent mutual attacks in the Persian Gulf and resume talks regarding their dispute over the Strait of......
EU tax on Shein and Temu - Officials: Expensive goods, fairer competition for European businesses
Until now, goods worth less than 150 euros could enter the bloc without paying customs duties under the so-called “de minimis” exemption. Chinese platforms......
