Greece’s Ministry of National Economy and Finance held its first meeting with the leadership of the Hellenic Bank Association (HBA), focusing on how the banking sector can translate improved system conditions into greater support for households and businesses and on accelerating digital modernisation. Discussions covered international developments, strengthened liquidity and a significantly reduced non-performing loan ratio as factors supporting domestic financial stability, alongside the positive impact of Greece’s return to investment grade. The agenda also highlighted consumer-facing technological developments, including commission-free instant payments via the IRIS system, whose market expansion was reported as being voted in Parliament, and the need to intensify digital transformation and simplify banking processes. The Ministry linked the “return to normality” to both shareholder rewards and more lending opportunities for businesses, as well as improved returns for retail depositors. The HBA said it put forward specific proposals, particularly on digital transformation, to improve the functioning of the banking system and the wider economy.