After a tough few years, the banking sector in Portugal is back on track, paying dividends on profits, and gathering steam for future growth.
Western Europe
Latest articles from Portugal

Portugal’s economy moves from neutral to first gear
June 3, 2019Portugal’s economy has successfully turned a corner, surpassing its potential growth rate. However, economic imbalances persist.

Portugal's economy minster upbeat as banks cut NPLs
June 3, 2019Portugal’s economy has recovered and the banking system is stronger, the country’s economy minister Pedro Siza Vieira tells Brian Caplen.

Portugal’s banks prepare for next wave of challenges
May 1, 2018Having emerged from bailout and recession, Portugal's banks are gearing up to contend with digitalisation, further regulation and tougher competition in a still-crowded market. Most of them are relying on decent levels of growth, capitalisation and provision for bad loans to see them through, as Peter Wise reports.

Portugal CBG looks to tackle NPL and fintech conundrums
May 1, 2018Carlos da Silva Costa, Portugal’s central bank governor, talks to Peter Wise about the country’s priorities, which include further reduction of bad loans and improving profitability, while tackling forthcoming challenges such as an ageing population.

Portugal's coalition shows alternative to austerity
May 1, 2018Portugal’s left-wing government has not only surprised observers with its stability and popularity, the coalition some called a geringonça, or contraption, has overseen the country’s move from bailout recipient to credit rating star. But, as Peter Wise reports, there is still work to be done.

Finance minister sees Portugal's efforts rewarded
May 1, 2018Portugal's finance minister, Mário Centeno, believes his election as president of the EU’s Eurogroup reflects the country’s efforts to achieve economic recovery, and proves anti-austerity policies can be compatible with EU fiscal rules. Peter Wise reports.

Portugal's economy defies the odds and the critics
April 3, 2017The left-wing coalition government of Portuguese prime minister António Costa has silenced critics with what has so far been an effective financial policy. Now it must convince the ratings agencies and Portugal’s international creditors. Peter Wise reports.

Portugal’s banks rise from the ashes
April 3, 2017Once one of the standard bearers for the travails of the eurozone, Portugal appears to be in the early stages of a recovery, one in which its revitalised banks are playing a leading role – albeit heavily backed by foreign investment. Peter Wise reports.

Novo Banco’s chief executive takes a lesson from history
April 3, 2017The chief executive of Portugal’s Novo Banco, António Ramalho, tells Peter Wise why 2017 will be the final year in its search for a controlling shareholder, and how he is easing the burden of non-performing loans.