Greek banks and Aegean Airlines receive positive analyst ratings

Financial institutions are providing updated outlooks for Greek banking and aviation sectors. Jefferies has initiated coverage on Optima bank and CrediaBank with a ‘Buy’ recommendation. The firm highlights that the Greek banking market maintains some of the strongest growth margins in Europe, driven by high rates of business financing and low credit penetration. Optima bank is noted for its strong exposure to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and its ability to maintain high profitability through a streamlined branch network and relationship management model.

Separately, Optima bank has maintained a ‘Buy’ recommendation for Aegean Airlines, setting a target price of €14.70. While revenue is expected to see a slight increase due to higher average fares, analysts warn that second-quarter results may be impacted by a slowdown in passenger traffic and a significant rise in fuel costs. Fuel prices have reportedly climbed from approximately $700 to between $1,400 and $1,800 per ton, representing a major factor for the airline's operating expenses.