ECB rate rise lifts Greek mortgage costs, fuels Athens Stock surge

The European Central Bank increased its key rate to 2.25% on 11 June, its first hike since 2023. The rise adds roughly €13–19 to the monthly payment of variable‑rate mortgages, for typical loans of €100,000 over 20 years or €150,000 over 30 years, and will raise total interest paid by several thousand euros over the life of the loan. Bank executives say the higher rates do not threaten credit expansion, which has reached a modest positive level after 15 years.

At the same time, the Athens Stock Exchange posted a 2.80% weekly gain, reaching its highest levels since December 2009. The General Price Index rose to 2 421.69 points, up 14.19% since the start of the year. Major indices such as the FTSE/ASE 25 and the banking index advanced 3.12% and 3.55% respectively. Trading volume climbed to €1.38 billion for the week. Analysts link the market rally to easing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and a generally positive international climate.