Raiffeisen Bank International, one of the prominent players in the international banking arena, has announced its plans to reduce ties with banks in Belarus. As a result of this development, Belarusian banks have been notified of the closure of their correspondent accounts by July 31, 2023. This decision reportedly was prompted by pressure from the ECB, European Commission, and American authorities.
The news has sparked surprise among the local banking community in Belarus, given that the working relationship between banks and Raiffeisen Bank International has lasted for over two decades. However, it appears that the association may not continue in the near future.
Various sources indicate that the decision to close the accounts is linked to pressure from the ECB, European Commission, and American authorities. Representatives of Raiffeisen Bank International have yet to comment on this news.
According to reports, several Belarusian banks have already received notifications of the closure of their correspondent accounts, including prominent players in the Belarusian market such as Belagroprombank, Belarusbank, BNBBank, among others.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the development, Belarusian banks are confident that they can navigate the situation. They are actively exploring alternative options and partnerships with other international banks.
Although the news has caused some concern in the banking community, economists note that this will not have catastrophic consequences for Belarus’s economy. Most banks have ties with other international banks, and it is expected that they can redirect their financial flows through alternate channels.
Raiffeisen Bank International will continue to operate in other regions worldwide as a robust player in the international banking community. However, this decision is likely to cause some damage to their presence in the Belarusian market.
По материалам lenta.ru.
