Traian Halalai: As a Romanian bank, we will continue to support the business environment and contribute to the recovery of the economy
“We are prepared to finance investments in production facilities, projects with predictable cash flow, and initiatives that generate multiplier effects in the economy. We are aiming for a solid evolution of lending, with growth rates above the market’s anticipated dynamics, which indicates our confidence in the economy’s potential. Beyond the quantitative targets we have established, one of the essential aspects is the direction we are focusing on: using capital where it can create the greatest impact, generating real progress for companies and for the economy,” declared Traian Halalai, Executive President of Exim Banca Romaneasca, in an interview with Ziarul Financiar.
The publication notes that Exim Banca Romaneasca has maintained an active role in financing the real economy over the past five years, granting corporate loans totaling approximately 22 Billion Lei (around 4.5 Billion Euros). 2025 was a landmark year, with over 7 Billion Lei in approved loans—the highest level in this period—according to Traian Halalai, Executive President of the state-owned bank, which ranks among the top 10 largest credit institutions on the Romanian market.
“We have contributed to the implementation of major investment projects, the extending of existing production capacities, the support of working capital, and the creation of jobs, generating direct positive effects in the economy. The loans we granted have boosted the competitiveness of Romanian companies, facilitated the transition toward more efficient business models, and accelerated development.”
This evolution is all the more significant as it took place in a complex local context, marked by ongoing merger processes, operational consolidation, and strengthening of the capital base. The capital increase carried out in 2025 was a strategic moment that enhanced the bank’s capacity to support business projects, he said. Last year, Exim Banca Romaneasca received approval from the European Commission for a capital increase of 1.25 Billion Lei (250 Million Euros). The bank’s capital increased by 80%, reaching 2.75 Billion Lei. EximBank acquired Banca Romaneasca, which brought it to 8th place in the banking system, therefore needing capital to consolidate its position.
Asked about the share of investment loans in the bank’s portfolio, the head of Exim Banca Romaneasca stated that currently, investment loans represent almost half (41%) of the bank’s corporate portfolio, “a proportion that reflects the strategic decision to support projects that generate growth and bring added value to the economy.”
Regarding the bank’s lending plans for 2026, Traian Halalai says that this year marks a new stage for Exim Banca Romaneasca, “one of accelerated growth, built with balance and responsibility,” with lending expansion above the banking market average.
“We aim for a solid evolution of lending, with growth rates above the anticipated market dynamics, which indicates our confidence in the economy’s potential. Beyond the quantitative targets we have assumed, one of the essential aspects is the direction we are focusing on: using capital where it can create the greatest impact, generating real progress for companies and the economy. Even though we are navigating an highly prudent economic context, as a Romanian bank we are determined to continue supporting business activities and to contribute to the swiftest possible recovery of the national economy.”
As for the strategic sectors the bank intends to finance, the Executive President of Exim Banca Romaneasca says that the priority is not the sector itself, but the quality and sustainability of the project, and the bank’s lending strategy is built on a realistic understanding of economic demand, with a focus on projects with solid foundations and long-term development prospects.
“For us, the priority is not the sector in itself, but the quality and sustainability of the project, as well as its ability to generate long-term value. We have both the expertise and the resources necessary to structure standard financing or complex transactions and, at the same time, we have the flexibility to quickly adjust our financial solutions depending on market developments.”
Thus, the bank is prepared to finance investments in production facilities, projects with predictable cash flow, and initiatives that generate multiplier effects in the economy. Exim Banca Romaneasca’s lending strategy focuses on ensuring working capital for SMEs, including facilitating access to financing through guarantee instruments offered by the European Investment Fund under the InvestEU program. The bank is also targeting financing for renewable energy and energy infrastructure projects, including project finance, as well as syndicated loans for large companies and financing the commercial real estate segment.
The bank’s lending strategy also focuses on supporting companies’ cash flow and diversifying revenue sources through the expansion of factoring and trade finance solutions, as detailed by the bank official. Additionally, Traian Halalai notes, Exim Banca Romaneasca will prioritize projects that leverage government programs and European funds, including the NRRP (PNRR), to help companies access non‑reimbursable resources under competitive financial conditions. To facilitate this process and ensure the rapid implementation of projects, the bank has created a specialized department dedicated to European funds and government programs, offering comprehensive support in structuring, financing, and executing initiatives with strategic impact.
March 20, 2026