ALTA Bank continues to set standards that work in favor of its clients and directly impact their budgets. By a decision of the bank, all fees on inflows from the SEPA zone have been abolished for both individuals and legal entities. In practice, this means that the full amount of any payment received from abroad is credited without any deduction.

Citizens and companies thus realize direct savings. Beyond the financial benefit, the system also delivers speed of execution. Experience to date has confirmed that transactions are processed without delays and within the anticipated timeframes, allowing clients to access their funds without waiting. Technological alignment with the SEPA standard ensures faster crediting and greater transparency, making financial management simpler and more efficient.

In addition to the clear and measurable benefit of fee-free inflows, ALTA Bank has also ensured that outgoing international transfers are offered at some of the most competitive rates on the domestic market. This service remains among the most competitive in the country, further optimizing the overall costs of business operations and personal finances.

This achievement is the result of months of preparation by ALTA Bank, which was among the first in the country to receive regulatory approval for the implementation of SEPA protocols. Drawing on the strength and expertise of the ALTA Group — which has for years set the standards in the field of payment services — the bank has fully implemented the European business model in the domestic market.

In an environment where speed and competitive pricing have become imperative, ALTA Bank has distinguished itself with a concrete and measurable offer for its clients. While the SEPA system levels the technical playing field for all participants, ALTA Bank makes the crucial difference — making speed, security and fee-free inflows standard practice in everyday business.

SEPA enables cashless euro payments to be made under the same basic conditions, rights and obligations, regardless of whether the transfer is domestic or cross-border within the SEPA zone. Compared to the conventional SWIFT model of international payments, SEPA enables shorter execution timelines, lower costs and a higher degree of process standardization.

The bank’s focus is already directed toward the next phase of development — SEPA instant real-time payments. Given that clients in Serbia have for years, thanks to the solutions of the National Bank of Serbia, been benefiting from the domestic IPS system — including the popular “Prenesi” (Transfer) feature — the introduction of SEPA standards represents a natural step forward. This approach makes it possible to mirror the efficiency that users have come to expect in domestic payments — with fund transfers completed in under ten seconds, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week — onto cross-border transactions as well.

ALTA Bank invites citizens and business owners to take advantage of what ALTA Bank has to offer for simpler and more affordable cross-border transactions. Their message: “Accelerate your business and keep every euro that is rightfully yours!“

Through a unique blend of business vision and partnership trust, ALTA Bank presented the benefits of the SEPA system at the Hilton Hotel — a system that, as of May 5th, brings faster and more efficient payments. The focus of the gathering was on new opportunities for the domestic economy and the improvement of everyday business operations through integration into modern European financial flows.

Wishing to bring the SEPA system, its significance and efficiency closer to the partners with whom it builds strong relationships on a daily basis, ALTA Bank last night hosted clients, associates and friends at the Hilton Hotel. As an institution that places responsibility toward its clients first, ALTA Bank dedicated this evening to a future that promises faster and simpler payments. The focus of the gathering was on the concrete solutions and changes that this new European payment standard will introduce as of May 5th. SEPA is the key that opens the doors of the European market to the domestic economy and citizens, and changes the way business is conducted with foreign partners. As a new gateway into modern payment flows, this standard represents a turning point for domestic business, and through this gathering, ALTA Bank has charted a course for its clients toward the most advanced financial network.

“It is my great pleasure that we have gathered today in this beautiful setting to exchange important information in a pleasant atmosphere and to discuss the step our banking market is taking to become part of the modern European network.

SEPA is our shared gateway into a world of faster, simpler and more efficient business — a space where borders in payment transactions virtually disappear. Our wish is that through today’s presentation you gain insight into the advantages this system brings to your business, and that we use the rest of the evening to exchange ideas and further strengthen our partnership,” said Dr. Una Sikimić, President of the Executive Board of ALTA Bank.

Guests had the opportunity to enjoy a carefully crafted gastronomic journey through the member countries of the SEPA area. From refined French appetizers to authentic Italian delicacies, the catering symbolically evoked the borderless market we are joining. The exchange of ideas and experiences among the attendees in a pleasant atmosphere confirmed that it is precisely strong partnerships that form the foundation upon which ALTA Bank is building its vision for the future.

SEPA in Practice: Efficiency and Savings

In practice, SEPA delivers tangible benefits to companies that regularly do business with partners in the European Union. Faster crediting of euro inflows directly improves liquidity management, while the optimization and reduction in the number of participants in the payment chain — compared to the conventional SWIFT model — leads to lower overall operating costs. Uniform execution timelines and a clear fee structure contribute to more precise financial planning, and faster invoice settlement shortens the collection cycle and reduces the need for additional working capital financing. For exporters, distributors and companies operating in the European market, this framework simplifies everyday processes, as the same payment model is applied across multiple markets without the need to adapt procedures for each country individually.

ALTA Bank’s focus is on the consistent application of European rules and clearly defined processes that provide clients with reliability and predictability.

This approach draws on the practice and expertise built within the ALTA Group in the area of payment services. Through ALTA Pay — a payment platform with a developed network and significant operational volume — the ALTA Group has for years operated in an environment that demands speed, continuity and reliability in processing a high volume of transactions. These foundations have been further reinforced by experience gained through the application of open banking principles, enabling a high degree of interoperability with modern payment standards.

It is precisely this operational maturity that forms the basis for the consistent application of SEPA standards in a banking context.

Although SEPA introduces a new framework for euro-denominated business, ALTA Bank retains full payment functionality outside the SEPA area through international payment networks. Additionally, in accordance with the applicable regulatory framework, ALTA Bank provides regional clearing services for transactions between businesses in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Montenegro, with clearing conducted through the National Bank of Serbia. Clients of the bank are provided with a complete range of services for international business.

The implementation of the SEPA payment system creates a market framework that levels the playing field for all banks and further intensifies the competitive dynamics among market participants. In such an environment, differentiation is built through organization, operational readiness and the ability of banks to deliver concrete benefits and simpler operations to clients through the SEPA payment system. In this setting, ALTA Bank receives validation of a business model that is already aligned with the European way of working and market expectations.

ALTA Bank crowned yet another successful business year with recognition from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia as the fastest-growing bank in the country’s market. The plaque for achievement in 2025 was today presented to the President of ALTA Bank’s Executive Board, Dr. Una Sikimić.

By joining the top ten leading banks in Serbia, ALTA Bank further consolidated its market position throughout 2025, confirming that its dynamic growth is accompanied by sustainable and measurable business results. During the year in which ALTA Bank officially positioned itself among the ten leading banks in the country, it achieved strong portfolio growth, stable profitability, and a historically low non-performing loan ratio of 0.5%. The Bank expanded its corporate and retail client base, enhanced its digital services, and further consolidated key operational processes, significantly strengthening its position in the domestic banking sector.

The regional dimension of this growth was also marked by the acquisition of a majority stake in Stopanska Banka AD Bitola, which now operates as ALTA Banka AD Bitola, opening up new synergies within the ALTA Group and enabling stronger integration of financial flows across the region.

“With a tradition of nearly half a century, ALTA Bank is today a modern, agile, and growing financial institution building its future on stability, a clear vision, and continuous transformation. As part of the ALTA Group, one of the most dynamic financial systems in the region, we develop banking services within a broad ecosystem of financial and technological innovation. The recognition from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia holds special significance for us, as it comes from an institution that objectively evaluates market results and the contribution of the financial sector to the domestic economy. The fact that we are confirming our status as the fastest-growing bank for the second consecutive year shows that our strategy is not only ambitious, but consistently and successfully executed,” said Dr. Una Sikimić.

Speaking about the achievements of 2025, Dr. Una Sikimić noted that ALTA Bank had a significant share in the overall growth of the banking sector — accounting for 20% of total asset growth and 24% of the sector’s total deposit portfolio growth. In terms of deposit growth rate, ALTA Bank ranked first in the Serbian market, which, in her words, is a clear indicator of client confidence, among both individual citizens and business entities. Alongside these trends, strong client base growth was also recorded — 29% in the retail segment and 19% in the corporate segment — further confirming the relevance of the Bank’s offering and business approach.

“This result is, above all, a collective success of the entire ALTA Bank team. I am proud of the dedication and professionalism of our employees, as it is precisely this approach that has positioned us among the ten leading banks in Serbia. Today, ALTA Bank is a strong and operationally efficient institution with clear ambitions for further development in the country and the region. In the period ahead, we are focused on further strengthening our market position, and this recognition represents both a standard and an obligation to continue at the same pace. We continue to build a reliable and modern bank that meets the needs of the economy and serves as a secure foundation for citizens. We place particular emphasis on corporate social responsibility through initiatives that contribute to community development, support education, sport and culture, and create sustainable value for generations to come. Ethical principles, transparency, and care for people and the community are part of our corporate philosophy,” Dr. Una Sikimić emphasized.

ALTA Bank entered 2026 with a clear focus on sustainable growth and the development of services that keep pace with the needs of the modern market. Particular emphasis has been placed on enhancing the customer experience, modernizing digital and transactional processes, and further strengthening the portfolio while maintaining high operational efficiency. This approach confirms that ALTA Bank is consistently building a business model grounded in reliability, responsibility, and long-term sustainability — values that remain the foundation of its continued growth.

ALTA Bank is offering another benefit to its clients — a discount of 5 RSD per liter on all types of fuel at NIS Petrol and Gazprom petrol stations across Serbia.

The promotion is valid until March 23, 2026, and is available exclusively when paying through the IPS “Show” option within the bank’s mobile application.

Using this option enables a fast and simple transaction — a QR code is generated instantly, and the discount is automatically applied at the checkout after the code is scanned. This payment method provides additional savings and convenience to all users of the ALTA Bank mobile app, delivering a digital experience that saves time and simplifies everyday tasks.

This initiative is implemented in cooperation with the National Bank of Serbia (NBS) with the aim of promoting modern and secure instant payment systems (IPS) in the domestic market.

The Vienna Eschenbach Palace was the center of a meeting of tradition, ambition, and a strong sense of belonging to the Serbian homeland. In the presence of influential entrepreneurs who have built their business success in Austria, the launch of the “Together for the Diaspora” campaign was officially presented. As a partner of the initiative, ALTA bank supports efforts to make it easier for members of our diaspora to invest in their homeland, with modern financial models, security, and continuity that accompany all their plans and business ventures. The event was marked by a spirit of unity and trust, in an atmosphere that clearly demonstrated how strong our diaspora is and that Serbia stands beside it.

180 leading entrepreneurs from all parts of Austria gathered — leaders who have been building the reputation of the Serbian community for years. The conversations throughout the evening were open, concrete, and focused on new investment opportunities in Serbia. Stable institutions play a key role in connecting the diaspora with Serbia. Among them is ALTA bank, which enables our people to invest reliably in their homeland. It was precisely the energy of the gathered entrepreneurs that gave new momentum to the “Together for the Diaspora” campaign, created as a response to their needs and development plans for future investments.

Danijel Krstonić, Director for Premium Clients, and Đorđe Širca, Chief Advisor to the Executive Board of ALTA bank, presented financial solutions designed for our people abroad that enable safe and straightforward investment in Serbia. “The goal is to provide the Serbian community with easier access to investments in Serbia. ALTA bank is ready to make that possible through loans, savings, and guarantees,” said Krstonić.

The emphasis was on services that meet the high standards of modern banking and the stability of state institutions, giving the diaspora confidence in long-term planning. The strength and reliability of ALTA bank is further confirmed by the strategic expansion of the ALTA Group in the region, particularly through the acquisition of Stopanska Banka Bitola, which opens new channels for secure capital transfer.

The “Together for the Diaspora” campaign provides a framework connecting our people from Austria, Germany, and Switzerland with institutions in Serbia, creating clear conditions for new investments and the return of capital to the country. ALTA bank, as a partner of the initiative, remains committed to providing our people with a stable and professional path to investing in Serbia, so that the ties that unite us become even stronger, more long-lasting, and more sustainable.

This event marked the beginning of a new chapter of modern partnership, connecting Serbia and its diaspora through stronger and even more promising bonds.

For additional information, please send an inquiry to dijaspora@altabanka.rs or message us at +381 66 87 30 841.

The development of women’s entrepreneurship in our society remains an актуелно and important issue within the domestic business environment. Today, this topic was the focus of a panel discussion held at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, organized as part of the initiative “Women’s Entrepreneurship Towards EXPO 2027.”

ALTA Bank, as one of the key partners of the initiative, once again confirmed its strategic commitment to empowering women in business and creating a sustainable environment for the growth and development of small enterprises.

ALTA Bank was represented by Bojana Tomić, Director of the Retail and Micro Client Sales Management Division, who emphasized that supporting women’s entrepreneurship is one of ALTA Bank’s strategically important development directions.

“ALTA Bank is a modern, agile financial institution that understands the real challenges faced by domestic women entrepreneurs. Our role is not only to provide a financial product, but to be a reliable and accessible partner to women entrepreneurs — offering knowledge, advisory support, and an understanding of the everyday needs of running a business,” Tomić stated.

Solutions Designed for Women Building Their Businesses

ALTA Bank’s support program integrates key instruments for the development of women’s entrepreneurship — loans aimed at business growth and stabilization, benefits for using modern POS payment systems of the ALTA Group, overdraft facilities to support liquidity, payment services under stimulating conditions, digital banking solutions, as well as deposit products that enable safer and more long-term financial management.

Special emphasis is placed on a personalized advisory approach. With the support of an advisor who understands the needs of small businesses, each entrepreneur can define the most efficient path for financing and further growth.

“It is precisely this combination of expertise, experience, and dedication that makes the difference. There is no universal solution — our approach to each entrepreneur is built so that the solution aligns with her goals and the authentic logic of her business,” Tomić emphasized.

Continuation of the Initiative: Panels Across Serbia

Representatives of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia announced that a series of panels will be held across cities in Serbia by the end of the year as part of the initiative, including Novi Sad, Subotica, Šabac, Kragujevac, Vršac, Niš, and Sombor.

ALTA Bank will actively participate in all events, exchanging experiences and providing practical advice to women who wish to improve their businesses.

“Our goal is to provide women entrepreneurs not only with financial support, but also with knowledge, contacts, and real-life examples. That is what encourages them to step into the next phase of business development,” Tomić stated.

Panel Message: Women Have Support – It Is Time for Their Potential to Be Recognized

The discussion confirmed that women entrepreneurs in Serbia today have strong institutional and financial support. The initiative of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia, in partnership with ALTA Bank and other stakeholders, is building a framework that enables networking among women entrepreneurs and facilitates the development and public presentation of their ideas.

“Our goal is for every businesswoman — whether at the beginning of her journey or in the phase of business expansion — to receive adequate support. When women are given opportunity and professional security, success is inevitable,” concluded Bojana Tomić.

Clients of ALTA bank will be the first in the country to experience the benefits of the single European payment area thanks to the introduction of SEPA standards. Serbia has officially stepped into a new era of financial integration with Europe, and ALTA bank has positioned itself as the absolute leader of this process. As the first financial institution in our market to receive approval for the introduction of SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) standards, ALTA bank once again confirms its vision of a modern, digitally-oriented bank.

What does SEPA mean for your wallet?

This strategic step represents a historic turning point for the Serbian banking sector, as for ALTA bank clients, the implementation of the SEPA protocol in practice means erasing barriers in doing business with Europe. The new era of cross-border payments brings savings primarily through a significant reduction in fees and transaction costs in euros to member countries of the SEPA zone. This benefit enables clients to make payments under the same conditions in all 27 European Union member countries, as well as in other states that belong to this system.

In addition to financial benefits, clients can count on maximum speed, with money reaching the recipient in the shortest possible time, often on the same day, thanks to the complete elimination of unnecessary intermediaries. The entire process is designed to provide maximum simplicity and security, using the unified IBAN standard with the highest European data protection protocols.

Strong support for the domestic economy

The fact that ALTA bank was the first to receive confirmation for the introduction of this system is the result of continuous investment in digitalization and infrastructure. In this way, the bank directly supports the domestic economy, making it easier for exporters, small businesses, but also individuals to access the European market under conditions that apply within the EU.

“We are proud to be among the first banks in Serbia to receive approval and to open the doors of the SEPA system to our clients. Our goal is to make banking simple, fast and accessible, and this is a key step in that direction,” they announce from ALTA bank.

Adapting to SEPA standards is not just a technical improvement, but a clear message to clients that their bank is ready for the global competition and that it always puts clients’ needs first.”

ALTA Bank today ceremoniously opened the doors of its first branch in Kraljevo, bringing modern financial services and reliable solutions to clients, with high standards of quality and security. This step is part of the strategy to expand the network and strengthen presence in local communities throughout Serbia. The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the beginning of the branch’s operations with the message that ALTA Bank continues to build modern, flexible and accessible banking.

“Kraljevo is a city with strong potential and rich tradition. By opening this branch, we continue to implement our strategy to be present in all cities of Serbia and offer services that follow the highest market standards and premium customer experience. Our focus is on innovation, digital banking and solutions adapted to contemporary market trends, along with flexible savings and loan products that support the population and economic development. At the same time, we want to show that our growth is accompanied by care for the community, through gestures, assistance and initiatives that bring real value,” emphasized Ranko Kerić, representative of ALTA Bank, adding that care for the community is part of their identity and a value they nurture in every city where they operate.

The branch opening was marked by a gesture that brought warmth to the holiday season. The ALTA Bank team visited the Day Center for Children and Youth in Kraljevo, where the little ones greeted them with smiles and joy. Santa Claus arrived with gift packages carefully prepared by the employees, and the children enjoyed moments they will remember. The bank also donated books for the center’s library, as a sign of support for education and development of creativity. The action was implemented as part of the ‘For a City Worth Loving’ program in cooperation with the “Inclusive Serbia” Center and the Ministry of Labor, Employment, Veteran and Social Affairs.

As a sign of gratitude, Ivan Matić, director of the Day Center for Children and Youth, presented the bank representatives with an award for selfless help and support that symbolizes solidarity and care for the youngest. Representatives of the City Administration of Kraljevo attended the opening of ALTA Bank’s first branch in this city and supported the humanitarian initiative.

ALTA Bank is one of the most accessible banks in Serbia, with a network of branches that combine traditional closeness and modern services. A special convenience is the extended working hours – from 9 AM to 8 PM on weekdays, and until 5 PM on Saturdays. Additionally, ALTA Bank develops digital services that further facilitate daily operations, confirming that accessibility and flexibility remain its priority.

The new branch in Kraljevo is an important step in that direction, and the “For a City Worth Loving” campaign once again shows that ALTA Bank is not only building business results, but also lasting connections.

ALTA Bank, as the general sponsor of the Wrestling Federation of Serbia, celebrated exceptional sports results at a ceremonial annual awards ceremony that gathered the best wrestlers, coaches, and sports workers of Serbia.

At the event, held on December 18 in Hall 5 of the Belgrade Fair, awards were given to the most successful in the past year, highlighting outstanding results that contributed to the international reputation of Serbian wrestling.

Exceptional results of athletes and coaches

The central awards of the evening went to Aleksandar Komarov and Vojislav Trajković:

• Aleksandar Komarov was named the best wrestler of Serbia in 2025.
• The World Wrestling Federation declared him the best wrestler in the world in Greco-Roman style.
• Vojislav Trajković received the award for best coach of Serbia, after a series of outstanding results that the national team achieved under his leadership.

During the year, Komarov won gold at the World Championship in Zagreb, bronze at the European Championship in Bratislava, as well as first place on the world ranking list, thereby confirming his status as one of the best Serbian athletes of today.

Partnership that brings results

The ceremony was an opportunity to pay tribute to institutions and organizations that contribute to the development of wrestling in Serbia, among which is ALTA Bank as a reliable partner and strong pillar of the Federation.

President of the Wrestling Federation of Serbia Damir Šabić emphasized that these results are part of a clear strategy aimed at winning a medal at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles in 2028, with the key support of the state and ALTA Bank as general sponsor.

On behalf of ALTA Bank, Director of the Microbusiness Department Miroslav Reljić emphasized the importance of investing in sports and young talents, as well as the importance of continuous cooperation that contributes to the outstanding achievements of Serbian athletes.

Long-term support for sports in Serbia

ALTA Bank remains committed to the development of sports in Serbia and further promotion of the values that sports represent – dedication, discipline, and excellence. As the general sponsor of the Wrestling Federation of Serbia, the bank will continue to support the development of wrestling and the efforts of athletes on the path to new international successes.