The KPMG Real Estate Lending Barometer, now in its 16th edition, provides a detailed perspective on how banks in Central and Eastern Europe finance commercial properties. In 2026, the market is in a phase of slow but visible recovery, with financial institutions open to new financing, but with increased attention to solid projects and ESG criteria.
Key trends and conclusions of the study:
- Portfolio quality remains high: 93% of loans are performing, indicating low risk and prudent loan portfolio management.
- ESG becomes an essential criterion: More and more banks are integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into the lending process. Failure to meet these requirements may lead to financing being denied.
- Digitalization of the banking sector: 7% of banks already use artificial intelligence-based solutions, and 8% are in the process of implementing such technologies, signaling a gradual transformation of internal processes.
- Growth in loan portfolios: Over 66% of bankers anticipate an increase in loan portfolios over the next 12 months. Interest is increasingly focused on new residential projects, driven by strong housing demand.
Conclusion:
In 2026, real estate lending in Central and Eastern Europe is stabilizing, with a focus on portfolio quality, digitalization, and compliance with ESG criteria. The market is shifting toward residential projects, reflecting current consumer needs and sustainable development trends.
