CrediaBank has confirmed its intention to enhance its role as the fifth banking force in Greece by calling an extraordinary general meeting for its shareholders on March 16. The focus will be on a potential capital increase of up to 300 million euros. This move includes the option to limit or abolish the pre-emption rights of existing shareholders, marking a strategic shift in the bank's shareholder management and capital structure.

This development follows CrediaBank's significant agreement announced in late December with HSBC Continental Europe, regarding the acquisition of a majority stake in HSBC Bank Malta plc. The agreement involves purchasing 70.03% of shares for 200 million euros in cash, which will allow CrediaBank to greatly enhance its assets and outreach. HSBC Malta, with approximately 5 billion euros in assets and over 6 billion euros in customer deposits, represents a substantial expansion opportunity for CrediaBank and supports its endeavor to solidify its market position.

Overall, the planned capital raise is part of a broader strategy to increase competitiveness in the Greek banking sector. Given the recent acquisitions and expansions, CrediaBank is positioning itself to offer better services and increase market share, aligning with the ongoing trends of consolidation and growth within the banking industry. This meeting and the resulting capital adjustment could have significant implications for the financial stability and future growth trajectory of the bank.