NLB Banka has been honored as the “Best Bank in Montenegro” at the prestigious Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2024. This accolade, presented by the renowned financial magazine Euromoney, recognizes financial institutions that excel in delivering top-tier service, innovation, and expertise.
The award highlights NLB Banka’s exceptional performance, including robust profitability, operational efficiency, and significant growth in its credit portfolio. The bank’s dedication to corporate social responsibility and ESG principles has positioned it as a leader in Montenegro’s green transition.
Martin Leberle, Chairman of the Board of NLB Banka, accepted the award at a ceremony in London.
“I am incredibly proud that NLB Banka has received the Euromoney award for Best Bank in Montenegro for the third consecutive year. It is a great honor for us to be consistently recognized by this prestigious financial magazine for our outstanding business performance and strategic direction in a challenging market. Our focus remains on meeting client needs, ensuring employee satisfaction, and contributing to community development. Our market advantage is driven by our commitment to simplification, digitalization, and sustainability. This award is a significant recognition but also a responsibility to continue on this path with dedication. I extend my gratitude to our colleagues for their professionalism and to our clients for their continued trust,” said Martin Leberle.
Euromoney, based in London, has been a leading financial publication since 1969. The Euromoney Awards for Excellence, established in 1992, are among the most prestigious in the global banking industry. This year saw a record number of submissions from banks worldwide, with a rigorous selection process evaluating financial performance, market position, quality, and innovation. UBS was named Best Bank in the World, JP Morgan was recognized as Best Investment Bank, and Citi was awarded Best Digital Bank.
Euromoney’s panel praised NLB Banka for its strong growth and record financial results. By December 2023, the bank achieved a net profit of €27 million, a 23% increase from 2022, driven by a 36% rise in net interest income and a 17% increase in net fees and commissions. The growth in net interest income was supported by higher interest rates and a 9% increase in the loan portfolio. NLB Banka also saw a significant expansion in its customer base, including a 4% increase in personal accounts, a 40% rise in legal entities, and a modest increase in small and medium-sized enterprises. Under Martin Leberle’s leadership, the bank has enhanced its products and services, especially in digital offerings, and broadened its range of sustainable financing.
NLB Banka’s sustained success underscores its commitment to high-quality service and positive community impact. Its impressive results are attributed to the dedication of its employees and the strong support from the NLB Group, which continues to strengthen its position as a financial and regional leader in Southeast Europe.
