Hungarian political shifts and banking lobbying controversies

Political analyst Péter Farkas Zárug has criticized the current state of the Fidesz party, describing it as a “poisoned brand” and suggesting that Viktor Orbán may have approximately one year left in politics. He noted that the party has moved away from its original civic-conservative roots.

In related financial developments, János Erős, a former banker acquiring a significant stake in Gránit Bank, confirmed he participated in a 2024 lobbying attempt directed at Vladimir Putin. The effort, reportedly requested by Raiffeisen Bank International, aimed to secure the Russian president's approval for the acquisition of a Russian subsidiary for 350 million euros. The transaction did not take place.

István Tiborcz, whose interests are linked to Gránit Bank, denied involvement in the lobbying attempt or any negotiations with EU economic actors regarding the matter, stating he is “not a straw man for anyone.” Meanwhile, discussions continue regarding allegations of widespread corruption and the misappropriation of public funds involving figures connected to the current administration.