Best bank 2025: VÚB banka
In 2024, VÚB banka delivered robust growth, operational efficiency and pioneering advances in digital services and customer accessibility.
Despite a 3.8% decline in net profit driven by a new bank levy, the lender narrowed the gap with the market leader in net operating profit, a notable achievement given its smaller asset base.
Meanwhile, its share of the corporate loan market climbed by over one percentage point, and its net loan portfolio expanded by 10.8% over the year, outpacing several peers and strengthening its strong position in Slovakia’s lending landscape.
As part of its Digical project, the bank rolled out a new mobile and internet banking platform, with more than 250,000 clients migrating by year-end.
In a drive to enhance accessibility, VÚB banka introduced tactile credit cards for visually impaired customers and deployed 15 additional cash-in ATMs, contributing to a 15% rise in ATM deposits.
Finally, the launch of the bank’s digital branch project and the pilot of its remote agent system bolstered consumer engagement: consumer loan sales grew by 17%, while non-life insurance sales rose by 30%.
Best digital bank 2025: 365.bank
365.bank has demonstrated its unparalleled leadership in the digital banking sector in Slovakia, earning it the award for Slovakia’s best digital bank. In 2024, the bank significantly enhanced its digital offerings, leading to a 12% increase in sales thanks to the adoption of virtual card usage and the seamless integration of biometric onboarding processes. This innovation not only streamlined customer experiences but also broadened the scope of digital wallet services, reinforcing 365.bank’s commitment to technological advancement.
Further cementing its reputation, the bank introduced Syslenie and Investičné syslenie, innovative savings and micro-investing platforms that boast attractive interest rates of up to 3.65%. These platforms offer users the flexibility of managing multiple sub-accounts, tailored specifically to encourage and facilitate personal financial growth among its customers.
Adding to its youth engagement, the bank launched the SMARTIE app alongside unique wearable payment solutions, such as payment-enabled rings and bracelets. This initiative not only promoted financial literacy but also catered to the convenience sought by younger demographics.
The bank’s creative use of technology extended to the 365.Gopass scheme launched in 2024, which provides users with discounts on ski and aquapark admissions, operable through app-linked Gopass accounts enhanced by the practicality of QR codes. Another notable upgrade was in the Click to Pay feature, now secured with tokenisation technology, highlighting the bank’s focus on cybersecurity. The bank’s commitment was further illustrated by its Cybersecurity Day event, which involved the distribution of 750 educational game licences to schools, fortifying community trust and engagement.
Best bank for ESG 2025: Tatra banka
Tatra banka has firmly established itself as a leader in environmental, social and governance (ESG) banking in Slovakia. Since issuing its first green bond in 2021, Tatra banka has positioned itself as a strong issuer in the market and has successfully issued green bonds totalling over €1 billion.
In June 2024, Tatra banka launched its ESG Deposit TB Framework. This critical initiative is designed to allocate client funds specifically into environmentally and socially sustainable projects, ensuring that deposits contribute directly to more sustainable economic activities.
Additionally, the bank’s commitment to green financing is underscored by its issuance of green senior unsecured MREL bonds, which reached a total of €950 million and $20 million by the end of 2024, providing substantial financial backing for green projects.
Tatra banka’s dedication to ESG extends beyond financial products to a focus on education and internal culture.
On the ground, Tatra banka has also made significant contributions to sustainable development through its support for flagship projects such as the Sky Park Residences and Pribinova 40 in Bratislava. Both projects feature near-zero energy consumption and have received advanced green building certifications, setting benchmarks in sustainable urban development.
Through these efforts, Tatra banka not only supports financial growth but also contributes vitally to the sustainability of the Slovakian economy and environment.
Best bank for corporate responsibility 2025: Slovenska sporitelna
Slovenska sporitelna has broadened its focus on sustainable financing, environmental operations, community engagement and inclusive governance to amplify its social impact.
Sustainable corporate lending rose by 20%, surpassing €1.3 billion, while sustainable mortgage volumes grew to €1.5 billion. Key drivers included eco loans, European Investment Fund-guaranteed small and medium-sized enterprise financing and the lender’s Mortgage for the Future product.
The bank also showed tangible improvements in its environmental footprint: Scope 1 and 2 emissions fell by 15% in 2024, aided by integrating electric vehicles – now 29% of the fleet – and installing photovoltaic panels at the head office.
Community support initiatives reached 267 clients facing financial hardship and delivered financial education to 1,313 individuals. Tools such as an energy savings calculator and the bank’s benefits app for single parents have further bolstered household financial literacy and resilience.
To improve accessibility, the bank upgraded ATM software for visually impaired users, introduced resound hearing-support devices and completed a language audit to ensure clear, inclusive communication across all customer touchpoints.
Social governance was strengthened by setting a 2024 target of 30% female representation in board and senior roles and launching the SHEgrows leadership programme. Emerging diversity and inclusion efforts, including employee resource groups, flexible working arrangements and support for domestic violence survivors, reflect an inclusive workplace ethos.
Best bank for consumers 2025: Tatra banka
Tatra banka has demonstrated strong financial health alongside a firm commitment to sustainable, consumer-focused innovation.
Despite the impact of a significant banking levy, the lender reported year-on-year growth in both net income and pre-tax profits, underscoring its resilience in a challenging fiscal environment.
Building on this performance, the bank introduced a sustainable deposit offering that mobilised substantial resources for environmental and social initiatives, highlighting its proactive approach to stewardship and responsibility.
Consumer engagement and digital innovation have driven its strategy forward. A new digital-first premium banking service attracted a broad client base, markedly increasing mobile usage while streamlining the overall customer experience. Complementing this, a youth-oriented app was developed with input from young users, reflecting the bank’s dedication to inclusive financial education.
To diversify its offerings, Tatra banka expanded its investment range to include environmental, social and governance-labelled funds and strengthened sustainable strategies across its existing portfolio. This development aligns with growing client interest in ethically invested capital.
