More than 150 representatives of the British and Slovene delegations discussed today at the UK - Slovenia Investment Forum 2011 the economic growth, the development of the private sector, and foreign investments in Slovenia. Apart from Borut Pahor, the Slovene Prime Minister, the meeting was attended by ministers, state secretaries, and representatives of the foreign affairs, financial, economic and tourist sectors, as well as representatives of foreign investment agencies. As a representative of a Slovene bank, Matjaž Kovačič, President of the Management Board of OTP banka, attended the Forum as well.
During the initial session of the meeting, Mr. Kovačič gave a presentation on the current situation of investments in Slovenia. He pointed out that OTP banka would like to remain an important partner of Slovene companies also in the period of the crisis. To that effect, the Bank maintains a stable growth in the loan portfolio. While the total volume of loans granted to the corporate sector had remained relatively flat in the previous year, the number and the total value of loans slightly increased in 2010. The Bank has noticed an increasing demand for loans which are meant for the investment in renewable energy sources (solar power plants, hydro-power plants, biogas companies, etc). Moreover, despite opposite general trends in the banking system, during 2010 the volume of housing loans increased compared to 2009.
OTP banka maintains correspondent relations with 36 banks in Great Britain. In addition, it is present in the British market through its customers that operate in Great Britain.
During the meeting, the President of the Management Board of OTP banka had discussions with several potential institutional investors. He informed them of the Bank's intention to be listed on the Warsaw Stock Exchange, and of the possibility to purchase newly issued shares in the capital increase process.
At the end of the meeting, Mr. Kovačič said: »The OTP banka Group is one of the leading financial institutions in the area of South East Europe. We informed more than 100 high representatives of important industry sectors about our operations in this region. I believe that the participation of OTP banka in the Forum will be positively reflected in our future performance and cooperation with foreign investors.«
