In remarks at the Italian Banking Association (ABI) annual assembly, the Ministry of Economy and Finance argued that the strengthening of Italy’s banking system has not translated into easier credit conditions and called on banks to refocus on their core intermediation role, including through a rethink of shareholder distribution policies. Giancarlo Giorgetti linked banks’ improved balance sheet and prudential indicators to a mix of legislation, public support and supervisory action, noting that Italian banks have also benefited from stronger public finances and tighter spreads. He said the shift in activity from credit intermediation to wealth management has reduced banks’ “classic” function and coincided with a sharp contraction in lending to firms, with loans to businesses down by more than one third since 2011. The speech also highlighted the continuing legacy of Covid-era public support, citing state exposure related to bank lending of about EUR 294 billion as of 31 December 2024, or around 13% of GDP, and arguing that tighter European fiscal constraints require a move away from an emergency framework towards “business as usual” credit assessment by banks.
Ministry of Finance (Italy) 2025-07-11
Italy's Ministry of Economy and Finance urges banks to return to lending after business credit fell by over a third since 2011
At the Italian Banking Association assembly, the Ministry of Economy and Finance noted that despite stronger balance sheets, Italian banks haven't eased credit conditions and should refocus on intermediation. Giancarlo Giorgetti highlighted a shift from credit intermediation to wealth management, reducing firm lending. He emphasized transitioning from Covid-era public support to standard credit assessment amid tighter European fiscal constraints.