Raiffeisen Profits Rise Beyond Russian Operations

Raiffeisen Bank International has reported stronger earnings across its core European operations, supported by lending growth and a recently completed Romanian acquisition, even as its Russian exposure continues to complicate the bank's international strategy.

The Austrian lender generated consolidated profit of €1.13 billion excluding Russia during the first nine months of 2026, an increase of 10% from a year earlier. Revenue from its principal banking activities rose 8% to €4.97 billion, while net interest income increased 7% to €3.35 billion. Customer lending expanded 8% from the end of 2025 to €109 billion.

Raiffeisen also confirmed the completion of its acquisition of Garanti BBVA Group Romania, comprising a bank and leasing business. The transaction is expected to make its Romanian subsidiary the country's third-largest bank by assets, serving approximately 2.6 million customers. Meanwhile, the lender continues pursuing its proposed acquisition of Addiko Bank, having received acceptances representing almost 95% of the target's shares. Regulatory approvals remain necessary before that transaction can be completed.

The results underline Raiffeisen's efforts to strengthen its operations outside Russia, where sanctions and restrictions have constrained its ability to restructure its business. Its core capital ratio stood at 15.4%, calculated on the assumption that it could lose its entire equity in the Russian subsidiary. The performance demonstrates resilience across Central and Eastern Europe, although unresolved geopolitical risks remain significant. Future growth will depend partly on integrating acquisitions while managing the continuing uncertainty surrounding its Russian operations.