Banking & Finance

Due to recent economic developments and reforms in South East Europe, the region has experienced accelerated economic growth, new investments and growing lending rates. Indicators show significant improvements in asset quality and liquidity, which has given way to growth in the banking sector, while economic policy and reforms stimulate investor confidence with improved banking sector regulation and supervision. Although regional banks are generally liquid, well-capitalized and profitable, non-performing loans (NPLs) remain high and constrain bank lending capabilities. The banking sector also remains challenged by the legacy effects of the global financial crisis, however the continuous efforts of national governments to improve the business climate by harmonizing national legislation with the relevant EU regulations has significantly attracted both foreign and local capital investments. In addition, recent M&A activity in commercial banking, insurance, investment banking and asset management has made it clear that financial sector consolidation in the region is underway, with several notable deals taking place over the past several years, which has resulted in certain advantages such as risk diversification, the capacity to finance larger scale projects, stimulated financial activity and increased attention being given to policy development. This has further supported the growth potential of the regional economy by increasing banks earning capacity, their ability to effectively compete in relatively saturated markets and their capacity to fund large credit demands.

Areas of Service

SELA advises strategic investors, investment funds, banks, institutional investors and corporates on the full array of financial transactions. SELA’s member firms can guide your business through the local market idiosyncrasies and the intricacies of the regional banking and finance market and offers legal services in the areas of Banking M&A’s, capital markets, financial regulation, financial instruments, general lending, infrastructure finance, project finance, public-private partnerships (PPP), NPL portfolio services and restructuring and distressed transactions.

Testimonials

The member firms of SELA are recognised by leading international legal directories, including Chambers & Partners and The Legal 500, for their expertise in banking, finance and financial transactions.

• Dimitrijević & Partners: “Highly knowledgeable of the local law, and even more important when speaking about jurisdiction as complex as Bosnia and Herzegovina, of the local practices.” – The Legal 500, firm testimonials

• Drašković Popović & Partners: “Among the individuals I work with, Vuk Drašković stands out as an exceptional partner whose combination of legal expertise, strategic thinking, and personal dedication is rare in the market.” – The Legal 500 2026, Banking and Finance

• BDV Law Firm LLP: “BDV stands out for its expertise and professionalism in banking and finance. With extensive experience, the team handles even the most complex matters with precision and efficiency.” – The Legal 500 2026, Banking, Finance and Capital Markets

• Hoxha, Memi & Hoxha: The firm is recognised for its broad commercial practice, including finance work, energy and infrastructure projects, and advice to international investors. – The Legal 500 2026, Leading Firms

• Dinova Rusev & Partners: The firm advises on commercial transactions and related financial matters. A current, directly attributable testimonial specific to banking and finance could not be verified in the latest directory editions.

• Apostolska, Aleksandrovski & Partners: The firm is recognised by The Legal 500 among the leading firms in North Macedonia. A current, directly attributable testimonial specific to banking and finance could not be verified.

• Drakopoulos: The firm advises on financial and commercial matters across its regional offices. A current, directly attributable banking and finance testimonial could not be verified in the latest directory editions.

• Kirm Perpar Gorjup: The firm is recognised by The Legal 500 among the leading firms in Slovenia. A current, directly attributable testimonial specific to banking and finance could not be verified in the latest directory editions.