Sustainability approach
Sustainability is the foundation of the future, and Halkbank envisions its role as a driver of positive change. Through strategic activities, innovation, and long-term dedication, the Bank strives to create a balance between economic progress, social equity, and environmental responsibility.
In 2024, Halkbank launched the ambitious “One million seedlings in five years” program in partnership with the National Forests Public Enterprise, aiming to contribute to reforestation and the enhancement of natural resources. This initiative not only reduces the carbon footprint, but also fosters a sense of unity in caring for the environment.
As part of its commitment to energy transition, Halkbank actively supports green initiatives, including financing renewable energy projects and promoting energy efficiency measures. The Bank offers specialized financial products for households and businesses, focusing on investments in insulation, renewable energy sources, and modern heating and cooling systems. These efforts not only reduce costs for users but also significantly contribute to environmental preservation and the transition toward a climate-neutral economy.
Simultaneously, the Bank invests in digitalization and sustainable technologies, enabling efficient and environmentally conscious operations. With advanced solutions for paperless banking, waste management, and energy consumption reduction, Halkbank is laying the foundation for a more sustainable corporate ecosystem.
Through its socially responsible projects, Halkbank continues to strengthen society by supporting education, local communities, and promoting social inclusion. The Bank believes that long-term success lies in creating added value for all - clients, shareholders, employees, and the broader community. With high ethical standards and a strong commitment to innovation, Halkbank is dedicated to ensuring sustainable growth, raising awareness, and leading positive change. For the Bank, sustainability is not just a goal - but a vision for a brighter and more sustainable future for everyone.
Corporate governance
Halkbank recognizes the importance of corporate governance as a key factor for long-term success and sustainable development. In 2024, the Bank continued to enhance its practices, ensuring compliance with the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and ethics.
Focusing on innovation and digitalization, Halkbank modernized its banking service platform, offering clients a more efficient and convenient experience. Technological advancements were integrated across all aspects of operations, not only to boost operational efficiency, but to also promote sustainable practices that directly contribute to reducing environmental impact.
Beyond innovation, the Bank has made continuous efforts to strengthen community relations. In the year of 2024, emphasis was placed on supporting social, environmental, and educational projects as part of its long-term commitment to corporate social responsibility. Dedicated to sustainable growth, Halkbank builds its reputation through professionalism, innovation, and accountability.
The corporate philosophy at Halkbank is rooted in the belief that highly motivated and satisfied employees contribute highest to the organization they serve. To this end, the Bank consistently invests in human capital and working conditions. Investments in employee training and development further enhance the organizational culture, ensuring that all team members contribute to achieving the Bank’s strategic goals. Corporate governance at Halkbank is not merely a formality but an integral part of its business model. This strategy ensures that the Bank remains a trusted partner for clients and continues to support the ambitions of all stakeholders - clients, shareholders, employees, and the community.
On Clients
Halkbank remains committed to delivering high-quality banking services tailored to meet the needs and expectations of its clients. The Bank positions itself as a trusted partner, offering reliable and straightforward access to financial solutions by combining innovation, technological advancements, and a personalized approach.
In 2024, Halkbank's focus is on developing digital platforms that simplify daily access to services while providing speed, efficiency, and maximum convenience for users. With a modern infrastructure and a wide range of alternative channels, customers can perform transactions seamlessly, wherever they are.
Personalized service is at the core of Halkbank's operations. The Bank continually designs products to meet the specific needs of its clients, from attractive credit offerings to investment and savings solutions, aiming to facilitate the journey toward financial stability and progress. As a leading supporter of small and medium enterprises, Halkbank offers solutions that drive growth and development in the local business sector. Through partnerships with international financial institutions, the Bank provides financial support that directly impacts the country’s economy.
In the area of retail lending, Halkbank continues to offer competitive products, following trends and continually innovating to enhance customer services. This ensures the Bank’s offerings remain accessible, flexible, and aligned with the contemporary needs. With a strategy that prioritizes sustainability and innovation, Halkbank is advancing its daily operations by combining high-quality standards, modern technologies, and a client-centric focus. The Bank remains a leading financial institution, delivering added value to its clients, shareholders, business community, society, and the environment.
On Employees
At Halkbank, the employees are the greatest asset and the foundation of success. They contribute not only to the Bank's growth and development, but also to realizing its vision and mission. We believe that employee satisfaction and professional growth are key to the long-term advancement of the organization. Therefore, we are dedicated to creating an environment that encourages employees to reach their full potential.
By the end of 2024, our team consists of 832 employees, individuals with diverse experiences, qualifications, and perspectives. This diversity serves as a foundation for innovation and success in the dynamic financial sector. Through dedicated support and continuous investment in training and education, we foster conditions where every employee can grow professionally and contribute to achieving the Bank’s strategic goals.
Halkbank practices a corporate philosophy that believes that only motivated and satisfied employees give their best contribution to the organization. With this aim in mind, the Bank continually invests in human capital and improving working conditions.
We place great importance on ensuring that every employee has opportunities for personal and professional development. That’s why we actively support their participation in external training programs, seminars, and conferences, where they can gain new knowledge and share ideas. Additionally, we encourage initiatives that allow employees to discover and develop new talents, expanding beyond traditional banking skills.
Beyond financial rewards, we carefully develop additional benefits such as private health insurance, opportunities for sports and recreation, and recognition systems for achieved results. Our goal is to create an inspiring environment where every employee feels valued, supported, and motivated. Halkbank's success is the result of teamwork, dedication, and the vision of our employees. They are our strength and the driving force for the future.
On Society
As an integral part of this society, Halkbank creates values that improve every aspect of the community living. These values arise from real societal circumstances and processes in economic, cultural, social, and environmental areas, which we continuously strive to support and elevate to a higher level. Our activities are guided by the principle that responsibility toward the community is the foundation for creating a better and more sustainable tomorrow.
Part of this responsibility, and even more as an expression of our belief and dedication, corporate social responsibility represents an opportunity for us to drive and create positive changes. Through our platform "People matter," we invest in numerous initiatives that encourage community development.
In the country, Halkbank is recognized as an eco-oriented bank, dedicated to raising awareness about environmental issues. Our activities, which began with the HalkEco app, have quickly expanded, transforming the app into a platform that supports initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles and environmental protection.
In the spirit of sustainable development and environmental care, this year, Halkbank is focusing on the initiative "One million seedlings in five years". This initiative aims not only to contribute to a greener Macedonia, but to also raise public awareness about the importance of ecology and environmental responsibility.
Tree planting symbolizes our commitment to creating healthier and more sustainable communities, and in 2025, we will intensify our efforts toward this vital goal. Our attention is directed towards identifying challenges within the community and creating solutions that bring positive change. With every action and initiative we undertake, we reaffirm our belief that, above all, people matter.
On Environment
Planet Earth is our greatest responsibility and legacy. In an era of increasing environmental challenges, the need for sustainable and responsible actions is crucial for preserving the environment. Halkbank AD Skopje, with its dedication to environmental awareness and sustainability, implements numerous activities and projects aimed at improving living conditions and fostering collective responsibility.
One of the Bank’s most significant initiatives is the HalkEco platform, which encourages citizens to adopt a more active lifestyle. Through activities such as walking, running, and cycling, participants contribute to reducing harmful gas emissions. For every kilometer covered, the Bank plants trees, transforming physical activity into a direct contribution to expanding green areas.
To date, HalkEco activities have resulted in the planting of thousands of trees, enriching a number of urban and rural areas. The platform also organizes (now) traditional events such as the HALK VELO GREEN cycling race, renovates public spaces, and develops urban green areas. In addition to this, HalkEco supports educational programs and workshops that raise public awareness about the importance of sustainable practices and environmental protection. These activities reflect the Bank’s commitment to creating an environmentally responsible community, and to motivating citizens to be part of positive changes that enhance the quality of life for current and future generations. The Bank places significant emphasis on waste management as well, promoting recycling and proper sorting. These efforts set an example of responsibility and efficiency in addressing environmental challenges while contributing to the protection of air quality and natural resources.
Halkbank launched an ambitious new initiative in 2024, titled: "One million seedlings in five years." Through this campaign, the Bank plans to plant one million seedlings across Macedonia by 2029. With 20,000 trees planned for 2025 and an annual target of 250,000 seedlings thereafter, the initiative will support forest restoration, biodiversity protection, and the creation of a healthier environment for present and future generations. Halkbank remains committed to its mission of protecting the environment by continuously implementing projects that promote public awareness, improve local communities, and contribute to sustainable development. Through collective efforts, this vision becomes a reality, creating a healthier and greener future for all.
On National Economy
The banking sector is a key pillar of any country's economy, ensuring stability, growth, and support for all economic participants. A bank's lending activity plays a vital role in driving investments and consumption, which are significant engines of economic development.
Halkbank stands out as an example of financial stability and support for the domestic economy. Through targeted lending activities toward both individuals and the corporate sector, the Bank contributes to the growth and development of all segments of society. Investments in the development of innovative products and services tailored to clients' needs represent the cornerstone of the Halkbank's strategy. Particular attention is given to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, which are a significant driver of economic progress.
The Bank continues its success story with substantial growth and improved financial performance. In 2024, the Bank's assets reached €1.85 billion. The profit growth at 48% reflects our efforts to maintain strong profitability and sustainability.
The loan portfolio saw an increase of €152 million, while the deposit base reached nearly €1.5 billion, marking a growth of €211 million. These results confirm Halkbank's position as a stable and reliable financial partner. We are particularly proud of the record number of disbursed loans to individuals, amounting to a total of €189 million, as well as the significant support provided for project financing in the corporate sector. These achievements demonstrate Halkbank's commitment to supporting economic development and strengthening client trust.