Economy & Finance
The big picture
Bank transactions surge in October as end-of-year activity boosts financial flows
Banking activity in Albania saw a significant uptick in October, with both the number and value of transactions sharply increasing. According to fresh data from the Bank of Albania, citizens...
Albania to limit cash payments to €5,000/month in 2026 as cash circulation hits €4.6 billion
Albania is facing a surge in cash circulation outside the banking system, which has now reached a record €4.6 billion, according to official data. Compared to October 2024, this marks...
Albania sees record housing price surge in early 2025, demand remains high despite slow sales
Albania’s housing market has entered a new phase of sharp price increases, according to the latest data published by the Bank of Albania. During the first half of 2025, average...
Albania boosts 2026 budget for flood protection and farmer support
Albania has significantly increased its 2026 budget for flood protection, irrigation, and agricultural resilience, following repeated floods in recent years – including several episodes this month that caused local damage...
Non-performing loans rise in Albania, signaling strain on households and small businesses
Non-performing loans (NPLs) in Albania have risen, highlighting continued pressure on family finances and small business operations. According to data published by the Bank of Albania, the NPL ratio climbed...
Albania to raise minimum wage to €500 in 2026, pledges further increases by end of mandate
Starting January 1, 2006, Albania’s minimum wage will increase by 10,000 ALL, reaching the equivalent of €500 per month — a move affecting over 307,000 workers nationwide. The announcement was...