Skopje, 28 May 2025 (MIA) – National Bank has published its operations report covering the period 2018-2025, outlining key activities, polices and measures implemented amid complex global and domestic challenges.

National Bank Governor Anita Angelovska-Bezhoska highlighted that the central bank had effectively tackled challenges such as the pandemic, energy and price crises, global geopolitical tensions and deglobalization risks, the National Bank in a press release on Wednesday.

“Through dedication, professionalism, and expertise, the National Bank has not only maintained but also enhanced macroeconomic and financial stability, thereby providing strong support to both citizens and the economy,” the press release reads.

The Governor noted that the denar remained stable despite significant external and domestic pressures, and foreign exchange reserves have doubled. The banking system has reached a historic high in capital adequacy and a record low in non-performing loans, while credit support for businesses and citizens continues to be provided at interest rates that, for the first time in our history, are nearly at European levels.

"The report outlines key strategic achievements, including: accession to the IMF’s highest statistical standard – SDDS Plus (as the 18th country globally); a positive evaluation by the European Commission for compliance with EU standards in banking regulation and supervision (26th country worldwide); entry into SEPA, marking a major step toward integration into the European financial area and enabling fast and efficient euro payments, even prior to full EU membership; the establishment of an institutional framework for bank resolution; record-high foreign exchange reserves and sustained denar stability; launch of the first national Strategy for Financial Literacy and Inclusion, with a focus on youth, women, and vulnerable groups; global leadership in gender representation, with the central bank ranked first worldwide by OMFIF; high transparency ratings from the IMF; introduction of the first national fintech strategy and a medium-term plan for addressing climate-related financial risks," the central bank reported.

Photo: National Bank