The economic challenges facing Turkish banks are expected to persist throughout the next year, according to Hakan Aran, the chief executive of Isbank, Turkey’s largest private bank by assets. These challenges stem from the country’s ongoing economic transformation, which has been characterized by high inflation and tightening measures implemented by Turkish authorities to stabilize the economy. As a result, banks like Isbank are facing pressure on their net interest margins and asset quality, with the CEO predicting a tough year ahead for the industry.
Aran highlighted that the government’s policies aimed at combating inflation have had a direct impact on the profitability of banks. The exclusion of banks from applying inflation-adjusted accounting methods to their balance sheets has masked the true financial health of many institutions. This has led to a decrease in banks’ return on equity and raised concerns about their ability to remain profitable in the long run.
Despite the challenges faced by Turkish banks, Aran expressed optimism about the central bank’s monetary policy stance. He predicted that the central bank would start cutting interest rates in November, with a gradual reduction expected to bring the rate down to 25% by the end of 2025. This move is aimed at bringing down inflation and stimulating economic growth, which could potentially benefit the banking sector in the long term.
International Expansion and Digital Transformation
In response to the changing economic landscape, Isbank is planning to expand its footprint in payment system infrastructure, digital platforms, and service banking. The bank is looking to make new partnerships and acquisitions abroad, particularly in the United Kingdom and European Union, to strengthen its position in the global banking industry. Additionally, Isbank aims to become a regional fintech hub, leveraging the recent merger of its subsidiary Moka Payment Institution with Birlesik Odeme Hizmetleri.
Despite the challenges facing Turkish banks, Isbank remains optimistic about its future prospects. The bank, founded in 1924, has ambitious international plans and aims to be among the top banks globally in terms of the breadth of geographies it operates in and the number of clients it serves. With a focus on digital banking and payment systems, Isbank is positioning itself for future growth and success in the evolving financial landscape.
The challenges faced by Turkish banks, including Isbank, are significant and ongoing. The economic turnaround in Turkey has put pressure on the banking sector, but there are opportunities for growth and expansion in the midst of these challenges. By adapting to the changing economic environment, investing in digital transformation, and exploring new partnerships and acquisitions, Turkish banks can position themselves for long-term success in the global banking industry.