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Nova Ljubljanska Banka

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FY2022 Annual Report · Nova Ljubljanska Banka
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Creating better 
footprints.
For today.
NLB Group Annual Report 2022

Pictured: NLB employees

 
Contents

NLB Group at a Glance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Internal Audit  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .121

Statement by the Management Board of NLB  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Corporate Governance Statements. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 122

Statement by the Chairman of the Supervisory Board of NLB . . 7

Disclosure on Shares and Shareholders of NLB  . . . . . . . . . . . . . 143

Key Members Overview   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Events After the End of the 2022 Financial Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

Key Highlights  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Key Events   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Market Performance of NLB’s Shares and GDRs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

The Macroeconomic Environment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19

The Regulatory Environment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Reconciliation of Financial Statements in 
Business and Financial Part of the Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147

Alternative Performance Indicators  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 149

NLB Group Chart. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169

Organisational Structure of NLB  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 170

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

FINANCIAL REPORT  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .171

NLB Group Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 330

Definitions and Glossary of Selected Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .334

BUSINESS REPORT  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Strategy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Funding Strategy and MREL Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Risk Factors and Outlook  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

The Impact on Operations of the Russian  
invasion in Ukraine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36

Sustainability  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Overview of Financial Performance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Segment Analysis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Retail Banking in Slovenia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Corporate and Investment Banking in Slovenia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

Strategic Foreign Markets   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76

Financial Markets in Slovenia  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86

Non-Core Members. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 90

Report format 
The Annual Report in PDF format represents its unofficial 

version. The Annual Report in European Single Electronic 

Format (ESEF) is pursuant to Commission Delegated Regulation 

(EU) 2019/815 and paragraph one of Article 134 of the Market 

in Financial Instruments Act (ZTFI-1) and represents its official 

version published on SEOnet.

Risk Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .93

Forward-looking statements 
The expectations, forecasts and statements regarding future 

developments that are contained in this report are based on 

IT and Cyber Security  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 102

Human Resources  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .106

assumptions and are contingent on a number of factors that 

Corporate Governance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

will come into play in the future. Consequently, the actual 

situation may turn out to be different.

Compliance and Integrity  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .118

2

Vision

The Group will take care of the 

financial needs of its clients and 

improve the quality of life in its 

home region – South-Eastern 

Europe.

Our strategic focus

•  Be a regional champion

•  Put clients first

•  Grow our market position

•  Monetize opportunities and synergies

Who we are

•  The leading banking and financial group in the region, 
with eight banking members, companies for ancillary 

services (leasing, asset management, real estate 

management, etc.) and limited number of subsidiaries in 

a controlled wind-down.

Total 
Assets: 
EUR 24,160 
million

Total 
Capital: 
EUR 2,806 
million

Regular 
Income: 
EUR 779 
million

•  The leading and systemically most important bank in 

Slovenia.

•  Universal banking model offering services to retail  

and corporate clients. 

•  The market share of member banks in excess of 10% 
(measured by total assets) in six out of seven markets.

Number of 
active clients: 
more than 
2.7 million

Employees: 
8,228

Branches: 
440

Sustainable banking

•  NLB officially joined the  

Net-Zero Banking Alliance in May 2022.

•  Sustainalytics ESG Rating: 17.7 (top 15%).

•  Improving our operational energy 

efficiency and lowering carbon footprint.

•  Reduction of CO2 footprint 2022:

•  52% (Scope 1 and 2)
•  46% (Scope 1, 2, 3; category 15 
(financed emissions) excluded)

•  Substantial progress made in all three pillars:

•  Sustainable finance
•  Sustainable operations
•  Contribution to society

•  Following sustainability reporting standards:

•  Global Reporting Initiative 
•  UNEP FI Principles of Responsible Banking
•  TCFD standards

•  Implementation of ECB Guide on climate 

and environmental risk management.

NLB Group
at a 
Glance

Ratings

2021
BBB-

2022
BBB

Positive investment grade rating dynamics in S&P Global Ratings.

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

3

 Statement by the 
Management Board 
of NLB

Esteemed Stakeholders,

We have been living in an extremely turbulent period in 2022, 

with serious new challenges throughout the entire European 

society. In the past year, more than ever before, the systemically 

important role of the banks in the Group and the footprints we 

create in our home region of South-Eastern Europe (SEE) came 

to the forefront. 

“We consistently follow our 
strategic priorities and look into 
the future with confidence.”

of the energy sectors and by providing much-needed liquidity 

contributed to the successful mastering of this challenge as well.

All of this came on top of the Group’s regular business 

objectives of growth in all key segments and providing our 

clients with innovative, relevant solutions through an ever-

improving user experience. The Group responded to the global 

industry disruptive trends by establishing a Group competence 

centre, ‘NLB DigIT,’ in Belgrade to act as a development hub 

for group wide IT solutions. Nowadays, NLB Group is no longer 

just a banking group, but surely one of the most ambitious and 

most dedicated IT employers in the region. The Group’s clear 

objective is to keep and build its digital leadership position by 

using the most advanced available technologies in all of its 

home markets. 

Yet, NLB DigIT and the aforementioned N Banka, were not 

the only new strategic members of the Group in 2022. As we 

see the potential and believe that modern mobility solutions 

with embedded leasing services significantly complement our 

universal offering, we decided to gradually expand this activity 

by establishing a presence in Serbia and in North Macedonia. 

“We strive to keep and build 
Group’s digital leadership 
position.”

“Our high quality of the loan 
portfolio is a warranty for the 
sustainable growth of the Group.”

— Andreas Burkhardt, 
Member of the Management Board (CRO)

The need to prove our systemic importance has been 

accentuated soon after the beginning of the year. We entered 

2022 firmly positioned and prepared to tackle any challenges 

still anticipated by the post-covid recovery of the economies in 

SEE where we operate. What wasn’t anticipated, however, were 

the uncertainties, challenges, and consequences brought on by 

the Russian aggression in Ukraine. Nonetheless, our response 

was decisive and concrete. We are enormously proud to be 

able to confidently state that the Group and its member banks 

have contributed their share to stabilisation of the industry and 

regional economy. Following the sanctions directed towards 

the Russian Sberbank and its subsidiaries, including Sberbank 

banka d.d. Slovenija, NLB responded conscientiously and 

responsibly, and by entering the ownership structure of this 
Slovenian bank (later renamed to N Banka) at short notice 

helped to stabilise the Slovenian banking system during one 

of its most critical periods. In parallel, we also signalled our 

interest in resolving comparable challenges in Bosnia and 

Herzegovina and potentially Croatia (if legacy hurdles were 

removed), and in case of lack of alternatives, NLB was prepared 

— Blaž Brodnjak, 
CEO

to act as the last resort solution. Furthermore, the Group’s 

banks in various markets also stepped up in times of instability 

— Archibald Kremser, 
Member of the Management Board (CFO)

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

4

 the economic slowdown, 2022 was the best year in the history 

of this banking group, evidenced by the historically highest 

absolute net income of any business group headquartered 

in Slovenia. The financial performance was truly exceptional 

despite the level of fear and stress in the markets. While the 

Group generated EUR 446.9 million in profit after tax (89% 

higher year on year), we also enhanced market shares in all key 

segments. 

The Group’s strong business results translated into added value 

for our shareholders, with a substantial dividend pay-out in 

two tranches in the total amount of EUR 100 million. The Group 

remains committed to justify stakeholder expectations, and 

projects a total capital return through solid cash dividends in 

the cumulative amount of EUR 500 million (including 2022 pay-

outs) by 2025. This will, on one hand, ensure a stable dividend 

increase, and on the other provide room for incremental 

organic growth and pursuit of tactical M&A opportunities. 

More specifically, NLB has the capacity to grow organically or 

by acquisition in any of our existing, as well as neighbouring 

markets, including the currently missing Croatia, thus becoming 

a natural choice for a pan-regional platform. 

“We are a trusted partner 
for the financial well-being 
of the region.”

“We support our clients and 
stand for what’s right, in 
business and everyday life.”

— Hedvika Usenik, 
Member of the Management Board(i)

It is planned that in its mature phase, leasing will contribute 

more than EUR 1 billion to the total assets of the Group, through 

organic and potentially also inorganic growth. With leasing 

activities and its eventual partnering ecosystem, we aim to 

become one of the leading providers of mobility solutions in the 

region.

It is also worth to highlight one of the most challenging, but 

also the most important processes NLB has undertaken in 

recent years – the integration of NLB Banka, Beograd and 

Komercijalna Banka, Beograd to NLB Komercijalna Banka, 

Beograd in spring of 2022. This successfully completed process 

further strengthened NLB’s position in Serbia, providing it 

with the ability and the responsibility to truly influence the 

economic environment and society in one of the key markets in 

the region; while on the other hand once again confirming the 

ever-growing, key importance of subsidiary banks and their 

contribution to the Group’s financial performance. 

Despite the aforementioned precarious circumstances, the 

shadow of the war in Europe, the resulting energy crisis, and 

— Antonio Argir, 
Member of the Management Board(i)

(i) Since 28 April 2022.

“We are only as strong and 
robust as our clients are – our 
households and our economies.”

— Andrej Lasič, 
Member of the Management Board(i)

The Group’s business results, although remarkable and 

unprecedented thus far, are by no means the only indicator of 

the vital role the Group holds in SEE. At least equally important 

is our goal of improving the quality of lives and business 

environment in our home region. Guided by this objective, it is 

not surprising that we have put sustainability in its broadest 

sense at the heart of our business decisions and actions. Our 

efforts encompass the environmental, social and management 

aspects, and result in a number of initiatives and milestones, 

many of them reached in 2022. In the past year, we have, for 

example, established the NLB Group Sustainability framework 

and joined the United Nations Net Zero Banking Alliance, which 

aims to harmonise credit and investment portfolios to reaching 

zero net emissions by 2050 or earlier. We have continued to 

develop a range of green services and solutions, have been 

mindful of our own carbon footprint, and have supported and 

promoted sports, culture, and socially disadvantaged groups. 

We further recognised not only opportunities, but also our 

responsibility for helping the economy outside the framework 

of banking, as demonstrated by the project #FrameOfHelp in 

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

5

 its third edition, during which we encouraged reflection and 

/A-3, with a stable outlook; while the Top Employers Institute 

discussion about the sustainable future of our home region. 

awarded NLB the prestigious Top Employer certificate.

We are truly proud that our efforts and our progress were 

Looking at all these achievements and results of the Group in 

recognised by receiving our first ESG rating. Sustainalytics, one 

the past year, it can-not be denied that they are impressive and 

of the leading independent ESG research, ratings, and data 

make us feel extremely proud. However, with an entrepreneurial 

firms in the world has rated NLB with an ESG Risk Rating of 17.7 

mindset being amongst our core values, we are not the ones to 

and a low risk of experiencing material financial impacts from 

sit idly, resting on our laurels. Circumstances have arisen where 

ESG factors, due to medium exposure and strong management 

it is essential to look into the future. In it, we see plenty of new 

of material ESG issues. NLB thereby became the first bank 

challenges, but, above all, plenty of opportunities. The Group is 

with headquarters and an exclusive strategic interest in SEE 

extremely well positioned. We will do our best to live up to the 

which has obtained this rating, as well as the first among the 

expectations of all our stakeholders – shareholders, employees, 

companies listed on the Ljubljana Stock Exchange.

clients, and the public – to seize all opportunities and thereby 

create better footprints in the region which is our home. 

The first ESG rating, however, was not the only important 

recognition NLB received in 2022. Standard and Poor’s rating 

Yours truly,

agency raised NLB’s credit rating to BBB/A-2 from BBB-

EUR
446.9
million

net profit of NLB Group 
(EUR 184.1 million  
contribution of  
N Banka)

Management Board of NLB

Hedvika Usenik
Member

Andrej Lasič
Member

Archibald Kremser
Member

Andreas Burkhardt
Member

Antonio Argir
Member

Blaž Brodnjak
Chief executive officer

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

6

 Statement by the 
Chairman of the 
Supervisory Board  
of NLB

To Our Shareholders,

“It’s about being, not having” wrote Derek Sivers, in his heart-
warming book, Anything You Want. You might ask yourself what 
does this book have to do with banking? I’ll tell you that the 

answer lies in the mindset Derek describes in his book about 

the logic we should pursue when talking about “put clients first,” 

which is one of our strategic focus points. 

More specifically, if we want to grow with a self-sustaining long-

term rate, show the investment public our underwriting and 

lending practices are the industry’s best practices, grow using the 

principles of margin accretion (and not only volume), continue 

proving our business model is set to create value because we 

can profitably grow at a fast pace and increase the positive gap 

between the cost of our equity and our RAROC and ROE metrics, 

then we need to be the banking group that works on establishing 

— Primož Karpe, 
President of the Supervisory Board of NLB

a deep, even emotional connection with our growing client base. 

rates leaped from their historic lows, and with them, bank 

It is from that connection that our other stakeholder groups feed, 

margins increased after a decade or more of contraction. The 

including you shareholders. This connection should be created 

spread between inflation and interest rates in Europe reached 

everywhere you look within our banking group. Starting from the 

a 40-year high (almost 9 p.p. difference between the Eurozone 

welcoming smile at our retail desks, up to the complex financing 

inflation and marginal refinancing rate), something unseen 

instruments serving our most demanding corporate clients, while 

across the investors’ universe to-date. The business model of 

at the same time placing the utmost attention and skillset to the 

banks across the world started to create returns on equity above 

investment tactics we use to shield and profitably grow our big 

the cost of capital after years of languishing below it. It’s now 

surplus liquidity. Everything we embark upon, as we do our job, 

the time to realize that banks everywhere have an opportunity 

stems from the desire to be able to create an offering of services 

to make use of these higher margins to invest and reinvent as 

and products our existing and new clients will want to use on 

they lay the groundwork for long-term accelerated growth and 

a recurring basis. These are the services and products which 

profitability. Of course, there are strong divergences among 

they need, like, and will be ready to recommend to their friends, 

developed, emerging, and what is classified as frontier markets, 

neighbours, peers, and even competitors.

but our core region should be anything but a frontier. Since 

So, it’s all about what we want to be, before we get to the point 

market volatility peaked, some so-called “reinventors of financial 

of having and deciding what we’ll distribute to our shareholders, 

industry” (referring to several fintech segments) have come 

employees, and society. So, what do we want to be, and are we 

to the realisation that sales growth has to be profitable to be 

asset valuations have contracted across several industries, and 

on a good path to become that? 

sustainable. And somewhere in the background we observed the 

retrenchment to value investing. Seeing that, we in the NLB Group 

If you read this Annual Report, you should find some of the 

believe we sit at the heart of it. Because so many banks have 

answers yourself. We hope you see that we want to be a bank 

such low valuations, it is a clear sign that the banking industry 

which is customer-centric and exists and develops to serve our 

still lacks a persuasive future-proof business model to create 

clientele in a way that makes them happy. I personally believe 

the growth premium seen in other industries. And now is the 

our clients don’t care about our size and systemic nature, they 

perfect time to change the existing model and re-wire our mental 

care about their customer experience and nothing else. It’s also 

perception of the future. How?

about being a bank our current and future employees are and 

will be proud to work for, and it’s about being a bank whose 

We should focus on persistence. I mean, the persistence to 

business model is ESG-focused, creating a future-proof society 

innovate in the field of digital solutions and products, the 

impact alongside above-average returns. Furthermore, it’s about 

persistence to innovate in the field of middle and back-office 

showing our investors our regional risk premium is decreasing. 

processes, the persistence to step out of the “doing business 

as usual” mentality in the fields of talent attraction, and the 

You see, to have something is the means, not the end, while to be 

persistence in the digging deeper into the AI-driven data science 

something we promise is the final goal. The end game in sight 

to drive incremental value for the business through improved 

is the banking group, which is built on the strong fundamental 

business performance, better marketing leads, customer 

principles of a modern, future-focused financial institution 

satisfaction, and engagement experience. And finally, we should 

business model. We want to follow the best peers across the 

show the persistence to find ways to safeguard the bank by 

globe and to strive to learn from the best, while acknowledging 

applying sophisticated risk and fraud detection models.  

we have comparative advantages in our core region. We believe 

the business ideas embedded in our budget and forecasts are 

Dear shareholders, we at the NLB Group believe the right time to 

just the multiplier of our execution capacity, and is only up to our 

prove that is right now.

execution capacity to show we can deliver on our promises. And 

in our capacity as the Supervisory Board, we can only promise 

Yours truly,

you that we are doing everything in our power to spread this 

logic of thinking across our organisation, so that NLB Group will 

Supervisory Board of NLB

always be able to back its promises with its execution.  

Yes, 2022 brought precarious circumstances, like the continuing 

shadow of war in Europe, the resulting energy crisis, and the 

economic slowdown, but 2022 was also the year when suddenly 

almost everything changed in the world of banking. Interest 

Primož Karpe
Chairman

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

7

 This is our home. A region of opportunities.

NLB, Ljubljana

Market share
by total assets
27.6%

Result after tax
160
(in EUR milliions)

Total assets
13,939
(in EUR millions)

Active clients
687,537

N Banka, Ljubljana

Market share
by total assets
2.6%

Result after tax
11 
(in EUR milliions)

Total assets
1,293 
(in EUR millions)

Active clients
39,769

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2021

Financial Report

NLB Banka, Banja Luka

Market share
by total assets
20.1%

Result after tax
19
(in EUR milliions)

Total assets
995
(in EUR millions)

Active clients
211,356

NLB Komercijalna Banka, Beograd

Market share
by total assets
10.0%

Result after tax
66
(in EUR milliions)

Total assets
4,670
(in EUR millions)

Active clients
972,264

NLB Banka, Sarajevo

NLB Banka, Skopje

Market share
by total assets
5.9%

Result after tax
11
(in EUR milliions)

Total assets
838
(in EUR millions)

Active clients
138,454

Market share
by total assets
16.3%

Result after tax
38
(in EUR milliions)

Total assets
1,848
(in EUR millions)

Active clients
412,362

NLB Banka, Podgorica

NLB Banka, Prishtina

Market share
by total assets
13.3%

Result after tax
17
(in EUR milliions)

Total assets
852
(in EUR millions)

Active clients
84,720

Market share
by total assets
16.7%

Result after tax
32
(in EUR milliions)

Total assets
1,084
(in EUR millions)

Active clients
225,880

8

 
Key Members 
Overview1 

Table 1: Key members overview for 2022 or as at 31 December 2022

Slovenia

NLB Group

NLB, Ljubljana

N Banka, 
Ljubljana 

NLB Lease&Go, 
Ljubljana

NLB Skladi, 
Ljubljana

Market position

Total assets 
(in EUR millions)

Net loans to customers
(in EUR millions)

Deposits from customers
(in EUR millions)

Result after tax 
(in EUR millions)

Market share 
by total assets

Branches

Active clients

Macroeconomic indicators 

GDP (real growth)

Average inflation

Unemployment rate

Current account of the 
balance of payments 
(as a % of GDP)

Budget deficit/surplus 
(as a % of GDP)

24,160

13,073

13,939

6,062

20,028

10,984

160

27.6%

71

687,537

447

-

440(i)

2,772,342

3.8%

11.5%

9.3%

-4.6%

-2.9%

1,293

939

899

11

2.6%

11

39,769

217

189

-

1

-

-

-

1,960(iii)

-

-

8

39.1%(iv)

-

-

5.4%

9.3%

4.2%

-0.8%

-3.5%

(i) 7 out of 11 N Banka’s branches operating within NLB, Ljubljana branches, therefore not included in total number.
(ii) Number of active clients of NLB Komercijalna Banka, Beograd measured by different definitions as for the rest of the NLB Group members.
(iii) Assets under management.
(iv) Market share of assets under management in mutual funds.
(v) Market share as at 30 September 2022.
(vi) Market share in the Republic of Srpska. 
(vii) Market share in the Federation of BiH.
(viii) In April 2022 NLB Banka, Beograd merged with Komercijalna Banka, Beograd.

1  Data on a stand-alone basis as included in the consolidated financial 

statements of the Group. Only members with material contributions to the NLB 
Group performance are included.

Serbia

NLB 
Komercijalna 
Banka,  
Beograd(viii)

North 
Macedonia

NLB Banka, 
Skopje

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Kosovo

Montenegro

NLB Banka, 
Banja Luka

NLB Banka, 
Sarajevo

NLB Banka, 
Prishtina

NLB Banka, 
Podgorica

4,670

2,589

3,692

66

10.0%

180
972,264(ii)

2.3%

12.0%

9.4%

-7.0%

1,848

1,171

1,462

38

16.3%

48

412,362

2.1%

14.1%

14.4%

-6.0%

-3.3%

-4.5%

995

523

797

19

838

521

673

11

20.1%(v, vi)

5.9%(v, vii)

47

211,356

35

138,454

3.8%

14.0%

15.6%

-4.1%

0.5%

1,084

741

894

32

16.7%

33

225,880

3.3%

11.6%

17.0%

-9.4%

852

532

693

17

13.3%

22

84,720

6.1%

13.0%

14.8%

-11.6%

-1.6%

-5.3%

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 Key Highlights
Key Highlights

Records achieved in all financial dimensions
(in EUR millions)

Profit a.t.

447

173
NGW
N Banka

225

204

194

270
138
NGW
KB

236

92

110

62

-1,442

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

Net interest income

505

409

Net fee and commission income

273

237

330

340

317

309

313

318

300

234

138

140

147

146

155

161

170

170

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

Gross loans to customers

9,509

9,053

8,351

7,901

7,641

7,627

7,938

10,033
1,877
KB

13,397

954
N Banka

10,903

Non-performing loans (NPLs)

2,838

2,623

1,896

1,299

844

622

375

475

367

31 Dec
2013

31 Dec
2014

31 Dec
2015

31 Dec 
2016

31 Dec
2017

31 Dec
2018

31 Dec
2019

31 Dec
2020

31 Dec
2021

31 Dec
2022

31 Dec 
2013

31 Dec 
2014

31 Dec 
2015

31 Dec 
2016

31 Dec 
2017

31 Dec 
2018

31 Dec 
2019

31 Dec 
2020

31 Dec 
2021

328

31 Dec
2022

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10

 
Fortress balance sheet to enable seizing of growth opportunities

N Banka acquisition2

Capital 

MREL

Asset quality

negative goodwill

TCR

MREL ratio

cost of risk

EUR
173
million

19.2%

36.3%

14 bps

vs 15.1% 
requirement (incl. P2G)

vs 28.7%
 requirement

total assets

dividends paid out 

MREL funding 

NPL ratio

EUR
1,293
million

EUR 
500 
million

~ EUR
740
million

1.8%

ambition for 2022 to 2025
(of which EUR 100 million 
paid in 2022)

~ EUR 300 million 
 in subordinated debt   
~ EUR 440 million
 in other MREL eligible instruments

 2  On 1 March 2022 NLB acquired the Slovenian Sberbank and renamed it to N Banka. It is currently in the process of integration with NLB.

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Key Performance Indicators 

Table 2: Key financial indicators for NLB Group and NLB  

Income statement data (in EUR millions)

Net interest income

Net non-interest income

Net non-interest income (BoS)

Total costs

Operating costs (BoS)
Result before impairments and provisions(i)

Impairments and provisions

Gains less losses from capital investments in subsidiaries, associates, and joint ventures

Result before tax

Result of non-controlling interests

Result after tax

Financial position statement data (in EUR millions)

Total assets

Gross loans to customers

Impairments and deviations from FV

Net loans to customers

Financial assets

Deposits from customers

Equity

Non-controlling interests

Total off-balance sheet items

Key financial indicators

a) Capital adequacy

Total capital ratio

Tier 1 ratio

CET 1 ratio

Total RWA (in EUR millions)

RWA / Total assets

b) Asset quality

NPL coverage ratio 1 (coverage of gross non-performing 
loans with impairments for all loans)

NPL coverage ratio 2 (coverage of gross non-performing 
loans with impairments for non-performing loans)
NPL coverage ratio (EBA definition)(ii)
NPL coverage ratio (EBA definition) (BoS)(iii)

NPL volume (in EUR millions)

NPL ratio (internal def.; NPL/ Total loans)

Net NPL ratio (internal def.; net NPL / Total net loans)
NPL ratio (EBA definition)(ii)
NPL ratio (EBA definition) (BoS)(iii)

NPE ratio (EBA definition)

2022

505

294

503

-460

-496

338

-29

1

483

11

447

24,160

13,397

-324

13,073

4,877

20,028

2,366

57

5,449

19.2%

15.7%

15.1%

14,653

60.6%

98.9%

57.1%

58.1%

58.1%

328

1.8%

0.8%

2.4%

1.8%

1.3%

NLB Group

2021

409

258

294

-415

-451

252

9

1

261

11

236

21,577

10,903

-316

10,587

5,208

17,641

2,079

137

4,655

17.8%

15.5%

15.5%

12,667

58.7%

86.1%

57.9%

58.4%

58.4%

367

2.4%

1.0%

3.4%

2.4%

1.7%

2020

300

205

360

-294

-311

211

-71

1

278

3

270

19,566

10,033

-388

9,645

5,120

16,397

1,953

170

4,671

16.6%

14.2%

14.1%

12,421

63.5%

81.8%

57.3%

56.9%

56.9%

475

3.5%

1.5%

4.5%

3.4%

2.3%

2022

177

189

199

-208

-218

158

6

-

164

-

160

13,939

6,157

-95

6,062

2,961

10,984

1,603

-

4,046

25.6%

19.1%

18.1%

7,833

56.2%

86.1%

58.1%

58.2%

58.2%

111

1.1%

0.5%

1.7%

1.1%

0.9%

NLB

2021

139

222

232

-184

-193

178

34

-

211

-

208

12,700

5,250

-97

5,153

3,034

9,660

1,552

-

3,489

24.6%

20.3%

20.3%

6,709

52.8%

75.1%

60.6%

60.8%

60.8%

130

1.5%

0.6%

2.4%

1.5%

1.1%

2020

139

173

180

-180

-188

131

-17

-

114

-

114

11,027

4,753

-158

4,595

3,017

8,851

1,451

-

3,684

27.1%

22.3%

22.3%

6,029

54.7%

76.0%

57.9%

55.3%

55.3%

208

3.0%

1.3%

4.0%

2.8%

1.9%

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 NPE ratio (EBA definition) (BoS)(iv)

Received collaterals / NPL

NPL Collateral received / NPL (EBA definition)

Credit impairments and provisions / RWA

c) Profitability

Net interest margin (BoS)(v)

Financial intermediation margin (BoS)
Operational business margin(vi)

ROE b.t.

ROA b.t.

ROE a.t.

ROA a.t.

d) Business costs

Operating costs / Average total assets (BoS)

CIR

Total costs / RWA

Total costs / Total assets

e) Liquidity

Liquidity assets / Short-term financial liabilities to non-banking sector

Liquidity assets / Average total assets

Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR)

Net stable funding ratio (NSFR)

f) Leverage ratio

Leverage ratio

g) Other

Market share in terms of total assets

LTD

Total revenues / RWA

Key indicators per share
Shareholders(vii)

Shares

The corresponding value of one share (in EUR)

Book value (in EUR)

Branches

Number of branches

Employees

Number of employees

International credit ratings

S&P

2022

1.3%

61.0%

54.7%

0.1%

2.2%

4.4%

3.6%

20.6%

2.1%

19.9%

1.9%

2.2%

57.6%

3.1%

1.9%

48.5%

40.7%

220.3%

183.0%

9.1%

-

65.3%

5.4%

-

-

-

114.1

440

8,228

NLB Group

2021

1.7%

61.7%

58.8%

-0.3%

2.0%

3.4%

3.3%

11.8%

1.3%

11.4%

1.1%

2.2%

62.3%

3.3%

1.9%

48.9%

40.2%

252.6%

185.2%

10.2%

-

60.0%

5.3%

-

-

-

103.9

479(viii)

8,185

2020

2.3%

60.7%

42.4%

0.5%

2.0%

4.4%

3.2%

15.4%

1.8%

15.4%

1.8%

2.1%

58.3%

2.4%

1.5%

56.1%

51.8%

257.5%

165.7%

7.8%

-

58.8%

4.1%

-

-

-

97.6

530(ix) 

8,792

2022

0.9%

58.4%

75.6%

0.2%

1.3%

2.9%

2.5%

10.5%

1.2%

10.2%

1.2%

1.7%

56.8%

2.7%

1.5%

61.8%

49.8%

276.5%

177.6%

10.3%

27.6%

55.2%

4.7%

3,025

NLB

2021

1.1%

60.0%

63.1%

-0.4%

1.2%

3.1%

2.3%

14.0%

1.8%

13.8%

1.8%

1.6%

50.8%

2.7%

1.4%

59.4%

47.4%

314.5%

171.4%

13.6%

26.3%

53.3%

5.4%

 2,571

2020

1.9%

65.8%

43.5%

0.1%

1.3%

3.1%

2.5%

8.2%

1.1%

8.2%

1.1%

1.8%

57.9%

3.0%

1.6%

65.8%

54.9%

336.3%

162.1%

10.3%

24.7%

51.9%

5.2%

2,455

20,000,000

20,000,000

20,000,000

10

75.9

71

2,418

10

77.6

75 

2,510

10

72.5

80

2,591

NLB Rating 2022

NLB Rating 2021

NLB Rating 2020

NLB Outlook 2022

NLB Outlook 2021

NLB Outlook 2020

BBB

BBB-

BBB-

Stable

Stable

-

Stable

Negative

Negative

Stable

Fitch
Moody's(viii), (ix)
Further details on the definition of certain indicators in this table are available in the chapter Alternative Performance Indicators.
(i) The result before impairments and provisions of NLB Group for the years 2020 and 2022 does not include negative goodwill.
(ii) Loans and advances without loans and advances classified as held for sale, cash balances at central banks and other demand deposits.
(iii) Loans and advances including cash balances at CBs and other demand deposits.
(iv) The carrying amount of debt instruments measured at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI) is increased by value adjustments due to impairments.
(v) Calculated on the basis of average total assets.
(vi) Calculated as Net income from operational business (NII - Tier 2 expenses + Net fee and commission income + Recurring net income from financial operations)/Average total assets.
(vii) As per share register of Central Securities Clearing Corporation (KDD). The shares are listed on Ljubljana Stock Exchange. The Bank of New York Mellon (the 'GDR Depositary') represented in the share register of KDD as 
one holder is not the beneficial owner of shares, it holds shares in its capacity as the depositary for the GDR holders. The GDRs representing shares are issued against the deposit of shares and are listed on London Stock 
Exchange. Therefore, the number in the share register of KDD does not represent all final beneficial owners of the Bank shares. The rights under the deposited shares can be exercised by the GDR holders only through 
the GDR Depositary and individual GDR holders do not have any direct right to either attend the general meeting of bank's shareholders or to exercise any voting rights under the deposited shares.
(viii) Unsolicited rating.
(ix) For more information, see chapter Events After the End of the 2022 Financial Year.

Stable

Baa1

Baa1

Baa1

BB+

-

-

-

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 The Shareholder  
Structure of NLB

The Bank’s shares are listed on the Prime Market sub-segment 

of the Ljubljana Stock Exchange (ISIN SI0021117344, Ljubljana 

Stock Exchange trading symbol: NLBR), and the GDRs, that 

represent shares, are listed on the Main Market of the London 

Stock Exchange (ISIN: US66980N2036 and US66980N1046, 

London Stock Exchange GDR trading symbol: NLB and 55VX). 

Five GDRs represent one share of NLB.

Table 3: NLB’s main shareholders as at 31 December 2022(i)

Shareholder

Bank of New York Mellon on 
behalf of the GDR holders(ii)

of which EBRD(iii)

of which Schroders plc(iii), (iv)

Republic of Slovenia (RoS)

Other shareholders

Total

Number of 
shares

Percentage 
of shares

10,957,270

54.79

/

/

>5 and <10

>5 and <10

5,000,001

4,042,729

25.00

20.21

20,000,000

100.00

(i) The information is sourced from NLB’s shareholders book that is accessible at 
the web services of CSD (Central Security Depository, Slovenian: KDD - Centralna 
klirinško depotna družba) and available to CSD members. The information on 
major holdings is based on the self-declarations by individual holders pursuant 
to the applicable provisions of Slovenian legislation which require that the holders 
of shares in a listed company notify the company whenever their direct and/or 
indirect holdings pass the set thresholds of 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 1/3, 50%, or 
75%. The table lists all self-declared major holders whose notifications have been 
received. In reliance of this obligation vested with the holders of major holdings, the 
Bank postulates that no other entities nor any natural person holds directly and/or 
indirectly 10 or more percent of the Bank’s shares.
(ii) The Bank of New York Mellon holds shares in its capacity as the depositary 
(the GDR Depositary) for the GDR holders and is not the beneficial owner of such 
shares. The GDR holders have the right to convert their GDRs into shares. The rights 
under the deposited shares can be exercised by the GDR holders only through 
the GDR Depositary and individual GDR holders do not have any direct right to 
either attend the shareholder’s meeting or to exercise any voting rights under the 
deposited shares.
(iii) The information on GDR ownership is based on self-declarations by individual 
GDR holders as required pursuant to the applicable provisions of Slovenian law.
(iv) Further information is available in the chapter Key Events.

20.21%

Other shareholders

25%
+1 share

Republic of Slovenia

54.79%

Shares in GDR format(i)
(i) Bank of New York Mellon 
on behalf of the GDR holders

GDR holders with shares >5% and <10%:

- EBRD
- Schroders plc

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Key Events 

January
‘Top Employer’ 

certificate

March
Acquisition of 

N Banka

May
S&P 

upgrade

July
NLB 100%  

owner of NLB 

Komercijalna 

Banka, Beograd

Senior Preferred 

Notes issued

September
Leasing 

activities in 

N. Macedonia

AT1 Notes 

issued

November
T2 Notes issued

Leasing 

activities in 

Serbia

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

February 
New SREP 

Decision 

reduced P2R

April
Merger of 

Serbian 

subsidiaries

June
Dividend 

payment

August
Cancelation of high 

balance deposit fee

December
Dividend 

payment

ESG rating

New SREP 

Decision 
reduced P2R

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 Key Events 

May
•  1st Investor Day of NLB Group held in Beograd:  

November
•  Tier 2 Notes: The Bank issued 10NC5 subordinated Tier 2 

The commitment to exceed EUR 300 million 5 in regular profit 

notes in the amount of EUR 225 million.

January
•  ‘Top Employer’ certificate: The Top Employers Institute 

awarded the Bank the prestigious ‘Top Employer’ certificate 
for the 7th consecutive year.

February
•  Swiss Francs Law: NLB, together with eight other banks, filed 

an initiative to review the constitutionality of the adopted Swiss 

Francs Law by The National Assembly. The Constitutional 

Court adopted a decision to suspend in whole the 

implementation of the Swiss Francs Law until the final decision 

conformity of the Swiss Francs Law with the Constitution. In 

December, the Constitutional Court annulled the Law.

•  New Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process (SREP) 
Decision: The European Central Bank (ECB) issued a new 
SREP decision for the Bank under which it has reduced the 
P2R from 2.75% to 2.60%, while P2G remains at 1.00%.3

March
•  Acquisition of N Banka: NLB became a 100% owner of 

by 2025.

•  Rating upgrade: Standard and Poor’s rating agency 

upgraded NLB’s credit rating to BBB/A-2 from BBB-/A-3, with 

a stable outlook.

•  The Bank officially joined the UN-Convened Net-Zero 

Banking Alliance.

June
•  Notifications of major holdings change: The shareholding 

of Brandes Investment Partners, L.P. in the Bank changed to 

4.78%.

•  Dividend payment: The Bank paid the dividends (the first 

tranche) in the amount of EUR 50 million.

July
•  NLB became a 100% owner of NLB Komercijalna Banka, 

Beograd.

•  Supervisory Board change: Janja Žabjek Dolinšek member 

of the Supervisory Board – Workers’ Representative 

terminated her mandate.

•  Notifications of major holdings change: Schroders’s 

shareholding in the Bank changed from 5.05% to 5.12%.
•  Leasing activities: Acquisition of leasing company Zastava 

Istrabenz Lizing, Serbia, and it was renamed to NLB 

Lease&Go Leasing, Beograd on 17 January 2023.

December
•  Dividend payment: The Bank paid the dividends (the second 

tranche) in the amount of EUR 50 million.

•  ESG rating: NLB obtained for the first time an ESG Risk Rating 
of 17.7 for having a low risk of experiencing material financial 

impacts from ESG factors.

•  New SREP Decision: ECB issued a new SREP decision for 

the Bank under which it has reduced the P2R from 2.60% to 

2.40%, while P2G remains at 1.00%. The new SREP decision 
applies as of 1 January 2023. 6

•  Macroprudential instruments: The BoS raised the 

countercyclical capital buffer for exposures to Slovenia from 

zero to 0.5% of the total risk exposure amount. Banks have to 
meet the requirement by 31 December 2023.7 

Sberbank banka d.d. (Sberbank). Sberbank was renamed to 

•  Senior Preferred Notes: The Bank issued 3NC2 Senior 

N Banka and new supervisory board members of the bank 

Preferred notes in the amount of EUR 300 million.

were appointed.

•  Notifications of major holdings change: Schroders’s 

shareholding in the Bank changed from 5.061% to 4.95%.

April
•  New members of the Management Board: Hedvika Usenik, 
Antonio Argir and Andrej Lasič assumed their offices. Thus, 

the Management Board has six members.

•  Merger of Serbian subsidiaries: Serbian subsidiaries, 

Komercijalna Banka, Beograd and NLB Banka, Beograd 

merged and operate under the new name NLB Komercijalna 

banka a.d. Beograd.

•  New Macroprudential instruments: The BoS issued a new 
regulation on determining the requirement to maintain a 

systemic risk buffer for banks and savings banks which has 

with 1 January 2023 introduced the systemic risk buffer rates 
for the sectoral exposures.4

•  IT solutions: NLB established NLB DigIT in Serbia to act as a 

development hub for common IT Group solutions.

August 
•  High balance deposit fee: The Bank stopped charging fees 

on high balances for individuals and corporate clients.

September
•  Leasing activities: Leasing company NLB Liz&Go, Skopje was 

established, and it was renamed to NLB Lease&Go, Skopje in 

December.

•  Supervisory Board change: NLB Workers’ Council recalls a 

member of the Supervisory Board – workers’ representative 

Bojana Šteblaj. 

•  AT1 Notes: The Bank issued AT1 notes in the amount of 

EUR 82 million.

October
•  Notifications of major holdings change: Schroders’s 

shareholding in the Bank changed from 4.95% to 5.05%.

3   Further information is available in the chapter Capital.
4   Further information is available in the chapter Capital.

5  Further information is available in the chapter Risk Factors and Outlook, the 

subchapter Outlook.

6  Further information is available in the chapter Capital.
7  Further information is available in the chapter Capital.

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Market Performance 
of NLB’s Shares and 
GDRs

Figure 1: NLB shares’ price movement on the Ljubljana Stock Exchange and NLB GDR’s price movement on the London Stock Exchange (in EUR)

R
D
G

18.00
17.00
16.00
15.00
14.00
13.00
12.00
11.00
10.00
9.00
8.00
7.00
6.00
5.00
4.00
3.00
2.00
1.00
0.00

Ja n 2 0 22

Fe b 2 0 22

M ar 2 0 22

A pr 2 0 22

M a y 2 0 22

Ju n 2 0 22

Jul 2 0 22

A u g 2 0 22

S e p 2 0 22

O ct 2 0 22

N ov 2 0 22

D ec 2 0 22

85.00

80.00

75.00

70.00

65.00

60.00

55.00

50.00

45.00 

40.00

35.00

30.00

25.00

20.00

15.00

10.00

5.00

0.00

s
e
r
a
h
S

Growth 
in Trading 

Combined trading in our shares and GDRs  
in 2022 increased by more than

 40%

 as compared to the previous year

 Shares (NLBR) 

 GDR (NLB)

Source: Ljubljana Stock Exchange, Bloomberg. 

European banking stocks lost roughly only 4% in value during 

The SBI index saw its peak in the beginning of the year, 

2022, and it was all thanks to a stellar performance in the last 

towards the end of January 2022, and was in a steady decline 

quarter. Rebased to January 2022, the index saw it highest 

that lasted until mid-March 2022. A rebound that made up for 

point in February after growing approximately 15%, only to 

roughly half of the lost value was followed by a period where 

reach -15% in the beginning of March. Investors clearly were 

the indexes stuck to a certain level, followed by a drop in 

afraid that a weakening economy would result in credit losses, 

October 2022 that marked the lowest value of the year (losing 

which explains the steep fall. The lowest point of the year was 

almost 10% compared to the year’s maximum). The European 

reached in October 2022 with the index hovering in the negative 

stock markets had their worst year since 2018 due to the war, 

territory the whole time. Thanks to the strong close of the year, 

persisting inflation, and a tightened monetary policy, as the 

European banking stocks outperformed the European stock 

central banks were directing the markets with their action. 

index. In fact, the last quarter performance was the strongest 

amongst all sectors contributing to the index. The reason must 

The Bank’s stock declined through the vast majority of year 

lie in the higher interest rates, that saw banks increase their net 

2022. From its peak in January 2022, the value declined almost 

interest margins. Yet, still it was not enough to break into the 

24% in March 2022, a consequence of the hostilities breaking 

positive territory at the close of the year. A war, high (energy) 

out and the inflation imposing itself on the economy. Two 

prices, and the looming stagflation have weighed on the gains 

periods, consisting of a rebound and a steady decline ended 

from higher interest rates.

with the lowest value of the 2022 in November, after which the 

Bank’s stock gained some 15% in value again, to close the year 

on a positive note. In 2022, the stock lost 18% in value, while still 

outperforming the SBI top Slovenian blue-chip index by 2 p.p.

>EUR 
600,000

 in combined average regular  
trading volume per day  
(excluding block trades)

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17

 NLB Shares and GDRs

Table 4: NLB share information 

Share information

Total number of shares issued

Highest closing price (in 2022)

Lowest closing price (in 2022)
Closing price as at 30 December 2022(i)

NLB Group book value per share

NLB Group earnings per share (EPS) 

Price/NLB Group book value (P/B) 

Dividend per share (for the previous business year)
Market capitalisation(i)

(i) No market on 31 December 2022.

Indices 

The Investor Relations’ 
function

The Bank participated in varied forms of engagement, such 

as investor meetings, calls, conferences, and roadshows, to 

meet the requirements of the Bank’s ownership. Transparent 

communication with investors and analysts allowed for 

dialogue on strategic developments, as well as on the financial 

performance of the Group. The Bank promoted greater 

awareness and understanding of operating businesses, 

developments, and events which have an influence on the 

performance of the Bank’s share price. Performance of the 

Bank is covered by analysts from EFG Hermes, JP Morgan, 

31 Dec 2022

20,000,000

EUR 82.0

EUR 52.4

EUR 62.4

EUR 114.1

EUR 22.3

0.55

EUR 5.0

EUR 1,248,000,000

Deutsche Bank, Wood & Company, Citi, InterCapital, Raiffeisen 

Bank International and Ilirika BPH.

In May 2022, the Bank organised its first ever Investor 

Day. The event took place in Beograd, Serbia with the key 

message: “Welcome to our home, welcome to our region of 

opportunities!”

Ljubljana Stock Exchange  
awarded NLB as:

the  
Best Investor 
Relations

The Bank’s shares are included in several indices: the SBITOP 

index, SBITOP TR index, and ADRIA prime index of the Ljubljana 

During the inaugural Investor Day the Group communicated 

Stock Exchange, the FTSE Frontier Index, MSCI Frontier, and 

several KPIs for the year 2025, i.e. regular profit to exceed EUR 

MSCI Slovenia, the S&P Eastern Europe BMI, S&P Emerging 

300 million, EUR 100 million contribution from Serbian market, 

Frontier Super Composite BMI, S&P Extended Frontier 150, S&P 

EUR 500 million total capital return through cash dividends 

Frontier BMI, S&P Frontier Ex-GCC BMI, S&P Slovenia BMI, as 

well as the STOXX All Europe Total Market, STOXX Balkan Total 

Market, STOXX Balkan Total Market ex-Greece & Turkey, STOXX 

between 2022 and 2025, tactical M&A capacity of EUR 1.5 billion 
RWA, and ROE to exceed 12%.8

EU Enlarged Total Market, STOXX Eastern Europe 300, STOXX 

IR presentations, financial reports, and important information 

Eastern Europe 300 Banks, STOXX Eastern Europe Large 100, 

are available on the Bank’s website in line with IR’s Financial 

STOXX Eastern Europe Total Market, STOXX Eastern Europe 

Calendar.

Total Market Small, STOXX Global Total Market, and STOXX 

Slovenia Total Market, among others.

In December 2022, the Ljubljana Stock Exchange awarded 

the IR team as having the best investor relations among listed 

companies. 

Expanded  
Analyst 
Coverage 

In 2022, the list of respectable analysts covering 
NLB has further expanded with initiation of the 
report by EFG Hermes, helping us share our 
equity story to a larger investor universe

8  Further information is available in the chapter Risk Factors and Outlook,  

the subchapter Outlook.

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

18

 The Macroeconomic 
Environment

In 2022, the momentum from the 2021 rebound started to 

wane as the global economy was forced to deal with supply 

bottlenecks, a war in Ukraine, and rising inflation. High 

energy prices and the highest interest rates in 15 years cooled 

growth and sentiment indicators substantially in the second 

half, resulting in a low growth environment towards the  

year’s end.

as these firms are more affected by rising borrowing costs 

and declining fiscal support. China’s abrupt reversal of its 

‘COVID Zero’ policy resulted from the domestic backlash 

and pushed economic activity in December 2022 to its 

slowest pace since February 2020 as infections increased 

and kept people at home which prompted businesses to 

close. This pent-up demand is set to be released once 

the sentiment improves. China’s reopening has already 

elevated commodity prices and could rekindle pressures 

just as the year end brought some relief to the still elevated 

inflation and producer price indexes. Global manufacturing 

has been in decline most of the year, and its movement 

could hold the key whether the world will see stagflation or 

a “soft landing.”

The global and European 
economy

Momentum in the euro area remained subdued in the first 

months. Industrial production was weak in the period, 

weighed down by soaring commodity prices and supply 

constraints. The services sector suffered from surging 

Year 2022 opened with inflation above 5% and rising. The 
pace of the sequential GDP expansion slowed notably 

inflation and souring consumer sentiment. More positively, 
the unemployment rate continued to fall amid easing 

at the close of 2021. Momentum seemingly remained 

COVID-19 restrictions. In Q2, robust PMI readings suggested 

3.5% economic growth in the  

Euro-area in 2022

subdued at the outset of 2022. The spread of the Omicron 

solid activity, a resumption of some services sector activity, 

started retreating due to persisting inflation and rising 

variant and the highest inflation rate since the 1990s took 

and a healthy early tourism season. However, pessimistic 

interest rates that also hurt real wages. Energy prices 

a toll on the tertiary sector, as showed by deteriorating 

consumer sentiment and elevated inflation have started 

have risen to such an extent that they have also become 

Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI). Consumer sentiment 

weighing on household spending. In July, inflation climbed 

visible in other goods and services. This effect was most 

in February 2022 showed first signs of deterioration, while 

further, while consumer sentiment tanked, pointing to 

pronounced in food prices that continued going strong 

hawkish signals from the ECB and Russia’s invasion of 

consumer spending slowing its pace. Moreover, the PMI 

and rising further even though the end of the year could be 

Ukraine have put bond rates in the countries of Southern 

started contracting, due to slowing services sector activity 

categorised as disinflationary. 

Europe under pressure. The following months saw global 

and shrinking manufacturing output. Electricity prices 

real GDP contract modestly in China, Russia, and the 

hit new highs in August, amid the war in Ukraine and a 

The sharp rebound from the COVID recession has turned 

US, as well as sharp slowdowns in Eastern European 

prolonged heatwave, prompting the closure of European 

in the prospect of low growth in 2023. It had an effect on 

countries most directly affected by the war in Ukraine 

smelters and the adoption of energy-saving measures. 

the headline inflation and hence the calibration of the 

and international sanctions aimed at pressuring Russia to 

Many countries of the Euro area have chosen to cut energy 

monetary policy by central banks, which has tightened 

end hostilities. During 2022, the key trends were steadily 

taxes and excise duties. The ECB started raising interest 

much more than the CBs themselves had anticipated at 

slowing growth, a tightening labour market, and growing 

rates in July to cool demand. The slowdown came amid 

the beginning of the year. The FED set the stage for the 

inflation. Private consumption was the main driver of 

higher inflation, energy prices, and interest rates. Business 

hiking cycle at the January meeting, providing a hint that a 

growth, causing the savings rates to decrease and the 

and consumer sentiment tumbled due to the impact of the 

first hike would be seen in March. The hiking cycle brought 

appetite for loans to increase. The loan growth rates were 

war in Ukraine and global headwinds. The manufacturing 

the federal funds rate in 2022 from 0.25%-0.50% up 4 p.p. 

surprisingly marginally impacted by the growing interest 

and services PMIs contracted further in October 2022, 

As the FED started raising the interest rates before the 

rates that eventually started restraining global demand, 

while economic sentiment slipped again, pointing to a 

ECB, the dollar gained in value and pushed the euro to 

causing the retail indexes and sentiments to drop. In the 

further weakening in activity. Both industrial production 

fall below parity for the first time since December 2002. 

second half of the year, supply constraints eased off and 

and retail sales fell. The low number of new manufacturing 

However, the euro eventually appreciated, trading at 1.07 

commodities prices began falling. Large firms reported 

orders, shortening of suppliers’ delivery times, and 

dollars at the close of the year. The FED now foresees a 

a contraction in profit margins due to higher costs, while 

contracting manufacturing PMIs suggest/indicate that the 

higher peak in rates, at 5.0% by the end of 2023. The ECB 

downward pressures to global earnings growth appeared 

eurozone industrial sector moved into a cyclical downturn 

started hiking the key interest rates in July 2022, to rise from 

to be gaining momentum. In small firms, bankruptcies have 

nearing the year end. Supply bottlenecks started easing 

-0.75% to 2% at the end of the year in order to, according 

already started to increase in major advanced economies, 

off noticeably by year’s end, as household consumption 

to its mandate, bring inflation down. The last inflation rates 

MB Statement

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Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

19

 of the year offered positive reinforcement to the ECB’s 

the increased interest rates will push it down. Deteriorating 

endeavours, however, core inflation never eased in 2022. 

retail sales data in the euro area, even with declining 

That was the key message from the December 2022 ECB 

fuel prices, suggest that private consumption will remain 

meeting, when President Lagarde struck an unusually 

subdued in 2023 as increasing uncertainty, declining 

hawkish tone. The December 2022 HICP figures supported 

purchasing power, and rising political risk that will remain 

this view, while markets cheered another marked decline 

regionally contained, indicate a slowdown. We see the 

in headline inflation. It is lower energy prices and the 

euro area economy stagnating in 2023, the tightness of 

resulting base effects, as well as government interventions 

the labour market should decrease. Finally, the monetary 

that are pushing down headline inflation. In August, 

policy tightening works with long and variable lags, and so 

the Governing Council decided to reinvest the principal 

past and upcoming rate hikes and tightening of financial 

payments from maturing securities purchased under 

and bank lending conditions will continue to impact the 

the Pandemic Emergency Purchase Programme until at 

economy. 

5.4% economic growth in  

Slovenia in 2022

least the end of 2024. Their decision also ended full APP 

reinvestments in March 2023 and the decline with a pace of 

EUR 15 billion per month until June 2023. The pace beyond 

that is still to be determined. Such a reduction in the 

central banks’ demand could potentially translate into less 

potential to absorb shocks and therefore higher liquidity 

premiums and lower market liquidity. Consequently, the 

ECB approved the Transmission Protection Instrument (TPI) 

to ensure the uniform monetary policy transmission by 

alleviating prospective excessive pressures on sovereign 

bonds’ credit spreads.

Global activity should remain muted in 2023. Private 

consumption will be weighed on by stubbornly high 

inflation, tighter financing conditions, and depleted 

savings. Additionally, global economic headwinds will hit 

the external sector. Elevated interest rates, heavy public 

debts, and volatile commodity prices pose risks. The 

price pressures will decrease due to combined effects of 

increased key rates and quantitative tightening signalled 

by central banks. The labour markets are predicted to 

balance a little due to stagnation, and so pressures on 

wage growth should ease. Global trade should experience 

no additional supply shocks in energy and commodities. 

Political tensions are expected to remain, but will stay 

regionally contained. The GDP growth rate in 2024 and 

beyond should be supported by declining interest rates and 

The economy  
in the Group’s region

Private consumption has been the main driver of growth 

in 2022 as it has dwarfed government consumption. It 

has been spurred by surprisingly resilient and strong 

credit growth, remittances, and tourism, joined by strong 

export demand from the EU propping up the growth of 

regional economies. Fixed investment, which rebounded 

sharply after abrupt drops in 2021 for Montenegro and N. 

countries because of fossil fuel subsidies, price caps, 

and support to households and firms. The EU accession 

reforms, and investment mitigate the negative effects of 

Macedonia, also helped drive growth. The trend was the 

high energy and food prices, disruptions to trade and 

opposite in BiH and Serbia where investments diminished 

investment flows, and spillovers from the slowdown in the 

rapidly compared to 2021. The relatively high inflation rate 

euro area. However, there is significant political uncertainty 

can be explained by both relatively large price increases 

about the risk that parliamentary impasses will create 

in energy and food, as well as those items’ relatively large 

delays in the implementation of reforms, and thus prevent 

share in the consumer basket. Higher energy prices have 

efficient absorption of related funds (BiH, Montenegro, 

translated directly into larger import bills, a wider current 

N. Macedonia). Regional instability due to the rekindled 

account, and generated sizable fiscal costs in several 

conflict between Serbia and Kosovo also poses a risk.

Table 5: Movement of key macroeconomic indicators in the Euro area and NLB Group region

GDP
(real growth in %)

Average inflation
(in %)

Unemployment rate
(in %)

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

positive expectations regarding investments and durable 

Euro area

goods consumption.

A relatively warm winter, energy savings, and fiscal support 

measures helped to alleviate fears of imminent energy 

shortages in the euro area. Production levels will benefit 

from improving supply conditions and declining energy 

and commodity prices. The inflation rate will decrease as 

the expected Central Bank balance sheet reduction and 

Slovenia

Serbia

N. Macedonia

BiH

Kosovo

-6.3

-4.3

-0.9

-4.7

-3.3

-5.3

5.3

8.2

7.5

3.9

7.1

10.5

13.0

3.5

5.4

2.3

2.1

3.8

3.3

6.1

0.0

0.6

1.8

1.6

1.0

2.4

2.6

1.6

2.2

3.1

3.0

2.0

3.5

3.2

0.3

-0.1

1.6

1.2

-1.1

0.2

-0.3

2.6

1.9

4.1

3.2

2.0

3.3

2.4

8.4

9.3

12.0

14.1

14.0

11.6

13.0

6.1

6.8

10.1

8.5

8.0

7.0

7.5

3.0

3.9

5.4

3.6

3.0

3.5

2.6

8.0

5.0

9.7

16.4

15.9

7.7

4.7

11.0

15.7

17.4

26.0

20.8

17.9

16.6

6.7

4.2

9.4

14.4

15.6

17.0

14.8

7.0

4.0

9.5

13.9

15.2

16.5

13.7

7.3

4.2

9.2

13.7

15.1

16.0

13.3

Montenegro

-15.3

Source: Statistical offices, Focus Economics.
Note: NLB Forecasts are highlighted in grey.

MB Statement

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Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

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Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

20

 Table 6: Movement of the balance of payment and fiscal indicators in the Euro area and NLB Group region

Current account balance
(% GDP)

Fiscal balance
(% GDP)

Public debt
(% GDP)

Euro area

Slovenia

Serbia

N. Macedonia

BiH

Kosovo

Montenegro

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

2020

1.6

7.6

-4.1

-3.0

-3.2

-7.0

-26.1

2.3

3.8

-4.2

-3.1

-2.3

-8.7

-9.2

0.0

-0.8

-7.0

-6.0

-4.1

-9.4

-11.6

0.5

0.5

-6.5

-4.9

-4.5

-7.9

-11.2

1.1

0.9

-5.9

-4.1

-3.9

-7.6

-7.0

-7.7

-8.0

-8.2

-4.7

-7.1

-10.6

-10.2

-5.1

-4.7

-4.1

-5.4

0.7

-0.9

-2.0

-3.7

-3.5

-3.3

-4.5

0.5

-1.6

-5.3

-3.6

-4.3

-2.8

-4.0

0.0

-2.0

-4.9

-3.1

-2.7

-2.1

-3.4

0.2

-1.8

-4.4

97.0

79.6

57.0

51.9

36.5

22.4

103.5

2021

95.4

74.5

56.5

51.8

35.4

21.9

83.3

2022

94.1

70.0

53.4

50.9

31.0

21.2

77.5

2023

93.5

69.5

53.4

51.0

29.2

22.4

75.3

2024

92.9

68.1

51.9

51.5

28.1

23.4

74.6

MB Statement

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Financial Report

Source: Statistical offices, Focus Economics.
Note: Consensus Forecasts are highlighted in grey.

A macroeconomic snapshot 
for the NLB Group’s region

In Slovenia, the driver of growth was household 
consumption expenditure which started to lose steam as 

inflation persisted and sentiment deteriorated. Growth 

rates outperformed those of the euro area, and confirmed 

the presence of accumulated savings and consumers’ 

spending inclination. After lagging behind imports in H1 

2022, exports improved in Q3 2022, and in last months of 

the year decreased the deficit accumulated throughout the 

year. Prices remained elevated throughout 2022, easing 

off only marginally in the final two months. Household 

final consumption expenditures increased significantly 

due to the persistent growth of gross disposable income 

in nominal terms and the higher essential costs of living. 

For the first time in more than a decade, households in 

Slovenia in the Q3 2022, generated a deficit, mainly due to 

the significant decrease in gross savings and an increase 

in gross investments. The turning point in consumer survey 

was in April 2022 when indicators about major purchases, 

savings, and the financial situation in households began 

declining and stayed below average for the rest of the year.

In BiH, the economy performed well in 2022. Domestic 
demand was the key growth factor. Investment activity 

was robust due to infrastructure works, while private 

consumption rose, driven by the double-digit rise in 

nominal wages and higher remittances. Real export growth 

outpaced that of imports, but the net external contribution 

was still negative at the half-year mark. Despite the robust 

nominal growth in exports, the overall external balance 

deteriorated, due to a similar surge on the import side. 
Remittances inflow remained solid. On the financing side, 

net FDI slowed down. In the second half of 2022, activity 

started to wane. As real wages remained subdued by 

inflation, retail activity started decelerating. Headline 

inflation surged this year as food prices continue to soar, 

contributing roughly 50% of headline inflation at the close 

of the year, given its relatively high share in the consumer 

basket. BiH subsidized household electricity prices, so the 

cost was much lower than on the international markets.

In North Macedonia, moderate growth from 2021 continued 
with a soft pace into 2022 and was mainly driven by 

services. Investments rose significantly, reflecting stocking 

in inventories. Household demand grew at a stable pace, 

causing the demand to be served by surging imports, 

leading net exports into negative territory. The inflationary 

environment and underlying energy crisis continue to 

put the economy under pressure. Economic activity is 

correlated to the euro area, which is a key source of 

demand for the country’s goods and a source of investment 

3.8%economic growth in 

the Group’s region in 2022

and remittances. The inflation rate reflected the consecutive 

in May 2022. A new organic budget law was adopted in 

hikes in the regulated energy tariffs, full passthrough of 

September 2022.

fuel prices, no VAT rate reductions on food and fuel prices, 

and a large amount of food in the consumption basket. 

The energy crisis and deteriorating external demand are 

In Montenegro, the economy exhibited strong growth in the 
first half of 2022, courtesy of robust private consumption, 

creating a balance of payment pressures. The temporary 

inventory build-up, and solid export performance. Tourism, 

tax cuts on food and fuel products that were implemented 

as the most important sector, exceeded expectations. 

following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine were not extended 

Tourist arrivals in November YtD almost reached the 2019 

Contents

21

 level, missing the mark by roughly 10%, with the months 

of July and August exceeding it. A reform of the tax 

code had a noticeable effect on real wage growth and 

further lowered unemployment. By May, exports recorded 

strong growth of both - goods and services. At the same 

time, strong domestic demand pushed imports higher. 

Secondary accounts rose due to remittances, and FDIs 

exhibited solid growth in 2022. Inflationary pressures 

continue to weigh on the economy, with the most important 

driver being food and non-alcoholic beverages. High 

energy prices presented a unique opportunity, as the 

strong electricity generating capacity enabled energy 

exports to more than double in 2022, compared YoY.

In Serbia, the net external demand contributed strongly to 
growth. The drought during the summer months caused 

agriculture to underperform, as it hurt hydro electricity 

generation which Serbia usually exports. The coverage of 

imports by exports decreased significantly, reflecting the 

much higher yearly growth rates of imports compared to 

exports. The current account deficit increased sharply in 

2022, mainly due to higher costs of energy imports. The 

realised net foreign direct investments were lower than in 

2021. Inflation never eased off during the year, with food 

being the most important driver. Core inflation rose further, 

hurting the disposable income and dampening private 

consumption. The increase of gross and net salaries and 

wages translated to growth in real terms. The total public 

debt increased, as did total public revenues in real terms 

due to growth in most revenue categories - particularly 

in corporate income taxes, VAT, and custom duties, while 

excises revenues decreased. 

In Kosovo, services spurred by the diaspora’s demand, 
credit growth, and public transfers were the main drivers 

of growth. Trade deficit widened and final consumption 

expenditure was strong. The growth rate soon halved, 

driven by a notable contraction in construction and capital 

formation. Inflation started picking up in March 2022, 

peaked in July, and remained elevated thereafter, but lower 

than most other countries of the region. Food become an 

increasingly important driver. The second part of the year 

saw further moderation in most activities. The total amount 

of General Government revenues picked up in the second 

part of the year (VAT, income tax). 

The macroeconomic outlook 
for NLB Group’s region

In Slovenia, on the fiscal side, the 2023 budget deficit target 
is suggesting a more accommodative stance, with the 

expected widening of the gap reflecting the government’s 

efforts to tackle the energy crisis. The government is 

planning measures worth nearly EUR 5 billion to fight 

the energy crisis in 2023. The slowdown is to be induced 

by weaker external demand, still elevated inflation, and 

greater uncertainty, which are expected to weigh on 

private consumption and investment growth. The labour 

market will be slightly less tight, muting the pressures of 

wage demands. Inflation should ease off due to a tighter 

monetary policy.

In BiH, electricity price pressures are likely to be contained, 
as BiH has one of the largest electricity generations in 

the region and limited gas usage. Investments in energy 
and infrastructure will continue to add to overall growth, 

although to a lesser extent than in the last two years. 

Indirect effects stemming from destabilizing global 

commodity and financial markets negatively impact 

external account and domestic growth prospects. Inflation 

will ease in 2023, albeit remaining high in historical terms. 

The unemployment rate is expected to decline slightly in 

2023 with stabilization of the international situation.

In Kosovo, the gradual projected decline in commodity 
prices should bring relief, with expansionary fiscal policy 

contributing to activity. A slowdown in investments and 

private consumption is to be expected. Remittances should 

slow down as well as the current account. In addition, FDI 

and external lending will be key sources of financing for the 

current account. 

In North Macedonia, however, growth should be supported 
by planned investments in infrastructure and capacity 

expansion of the export sector. External demand will 

weaken, wage pressures will become more pronounced, 

and a further tightening of financial market conditions 

pose downside risks. Inflation should ease in 2023 as 

import prices will fall. The labour market should get 

slightly tighter. The opening of EU accession talks could 

boost capital inflows and momentum for reforms. Tighter 

financial conditions, and the withdrawal of wage subsidies 

is expected to weigh on consumer spending and business 

investments.

In Montenegro, growth should be subdued in 2023, but 
amongst the highest in the region. Private consumption 

will slow down. The current account deficit should remain 

amongst the highest in the region. Higher energy prices 

support its reduction as the growing capacities are used 

for energy exports. Together with exports, tourism, and 

transport services should aid in reducing the current 

account deficit. Further development of electricity-

generating capabilities, together with tourism revenue, has 

the potential to improve country’s external equation.

In Serbia, the economy is set to soften in 2023. Private 
spending growth will decelerate due to high inflation 

eroding real incomes, while a slowing global economy 

will see export growth cool. Regional instability and 

elevated inflation amid commodity price swings and gas 

supply disruptions represent downside risks. The current 

account deficit is set to increase. The inflation growth rate 

is expected to stay elevated in 2023, as we see it as the 

highest and most persistent in the region. The contribution 

of net exports to growth is expected to improve due to 

decelerating imports and an increased export capacity 

supported by the FDIs. Serbia remains an attractive 

destination for “nearshoring.”

The Group’s region is expected to grow at a rate of 1.3% in 

2023. Regional growth will cool significantly this year. A weaker 

Euro Area economy, elevated inflation, declining real wages, 

geopolitical volatility, and the war in Ukraine will restrain 

household spending, industrial production, and exports. In 

addition, tighter financing conditions should further subdue 

activity in most countries of the region. Performance will depend 

upon the euro area, with remittances and exports waiting upon 

the outlook to improve. Since tourism rebounded in 2022, 2023 

could be beneficial for tourism-dependent countries. Current 

accounts are mostly set to deteriorate in 2023. Growth should 

start picking up towards the end of the year. A reduction in 

inflation should happen in the second half of the year, providing 

some relief to real income and household consumption. The 

effect of the electricity prices pass-through waned in the second 

part of the year, after core inflation pressures were still rising 

in the beginning of the year. China’s reopening unsettled the 

MB Statement

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 Table 7: Movement of key banking systems indicators in the NLB Group region, 2022

Corporate loans

Household loans

Corporate deposits

Household deposits

Net interest margin

NPL

CAR

in EUR 
millions

10,487

13,641

3,349

4,681

2,689

1,413

∆ % YoY

in EUR 
millions

∆ % YoY

in EUR 
millions

∆ % YoY

in EUR 
millions

∆ % YoY

2021, in %

2022, in %

in %

∆ pp YoY

in %

∆ pp YoY

 12.8

 5.8

 11.5

 4.3

 15.2

 10.7

12,138

11,904

3,495

5,613

1,632

1,588

 7.8

 6.2

 7.3

 5.2

 16.7

 9.1

9,710

13,233

2,319

3,142

1,175

2,321

 7.9

 12.7

 3.7

 11.0

 19.0

 43.7

25,784

17,864

5,253

7,452

3,647

2,458

 7.6

 2.9

 5.8

 -0.8

 8.3

 12.6

1.4

2.7

3.0

2.3

4.5

4.0

1.6

2.9(ii)

3.0(i)

1.7(i)

3.9

4.0(i)

1.1

3.2(i)

2.9

4.9

2.0

5.9(i)

 -0.1

 -0.4

 -0.3

 -0.6

 -0.3

 0.3

17.0(i)

19.5(i)

17.7

19.2

14.8

18.4(i)

 -1.5

 -1.3

 0.4

0.0

 -0.5

 -0.1

Slovenia

Serbia

N. Macedonia

BiH

Kosovo

Montenegro

Source: Statistical offices, CBs, NLB.
Note: Net interest margin calculated on interest-bearing assets; Residential deposits and loans for Montenegro; (i) Data for Q3 2022; (ii) Data for 30 November 2022.

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commodity markets, caused prices to rise again, and didn’t 

bode well for industrial production. Growing wages will induce 

additional price pressures. Labour markets should continue 
with rising employment rates and the unemployment rate 

should reduce for the most part. Loan appetite in the region 

should cool amid tightened monetary policies and rising food 

prices, slowing down demand. Geopolitical tension remains 

a strong possible constraint on growth and on a predictable 

business environment.

The banking system in  
the Group’s region

Since the population of the region amassed notable savings 

since the COVID pandemic, consumption was amongst the 

most notable drivers of growth. As a result, the loan appetite 

of corporates and households alike remained very robust 

throughout the region, slowing down slightly towards the year 

Figure 2: LTD ratio in the Euro area and NLB Group region

Euro area

Slovenia

Serbia

N. Macedonia

BiH

Kosovo

Montenegro

Source: ECB, National CBs, NLB.
Note: LTD for Slovenia and BiH is from Q3 2022, and for Serbia for 30 November 2022.

 2021    

 2022

94.4%

95.4%

66.1%

69.1%

79.4%

85.8%

82.6%

86.1%

75.7%

76.5%

76.5%

78.3%

80.0%

70.1%

end. Corporate loans were particularly in high demand and 

grew notably due to a turbulent year, with supply bottlenecks, 

high producer prices, higher commodity prices, and stock 
refilling. Kosovo, Slovenia, Montenegro, and N. Macedonia 

saw corporate credit grow in double digits, with Serbia and 

BiH ending the year in mid-single digits. The household loans’ 

segment grew at a little softer pace in comparison, but was still 

fuelled by private consumption and exhibited higher growth 

rates than expected. The dynamics were very similar to the 

corporates. Likewise, Slovenia, Kosovo, Montenegro, and N. 

Macedonia saw the strongest growth, with Serbia growing at 

a slightly slower pace. BiH followed with a similar growth rate 

as in the corporate sector. The NPLs fell in all countries of the 

Group’s region, except for Montenegro.

The corporate deposit growth was in double digits in Kosovo, 

BiH, Serbia, and particularly in Montenegro, which saw notable 

growth. In N. Macedonia, the rate was subdued, while in 

Slovenia the growth was nearing the 8% mark. The growth of 

household deposits was much less pronounced as savings were 

being used to sustain consumption. Considering the macro 

circumstances Slovenia, Kosovo, N. Macedonia, and Serbia 

saw solid growth, with Montenegro as an outlier, exceeding the 

other rates by a big margin. BiH was the only country to register 

a contraction. 

Contents

23

 Figure 3: ROE ratio in the Euro area and NLB Group region

Euro area

Slovenia

Serbia

N. Macedonia

BiH

Kosovo

Montenegro

5.3%

4.8%

11.4%

10.7%

7.5%

10.6%

9.6%

12.9%

12.2%

12.6%

5.9%

14.3%

 2021    

 2022

19.5%

20.6%

Source: ECB, National CBs.
Note: Return on average equity (ROAE) used for BiH; Q3 2022 data for BiH and the Euro area. November 2022 data for Serbia. 

Figure 4: Loans to non-financial corporations and household loans (% GDP) in the Euro area and NLB Group region in 2022

Euro area

Slovenia

Serbia

N. Macedonia

BiH

Kosovo

Montenegro

44.3%

58.9%

18.1%
18.3%

22.8%

19.7%

26.4%

28.0%

20.8%

24.7%

18.4%

21.7%

30.6%

26.7%

Source: National CBs, National Statistical Offices.
Note: Q3 2022 annualised data for BiH and Kosovo. Residential loans for Montenegro.

 Loans to non-financial corporations, % GDP    

 Household loans, % GDP

The net interest margin was not moving uniformly in the 

Group region. It grew in Serbia and Slovenia, reflecting the 

interest rate hikes by respective central banks, the growth 

of lending, and price effects. It fell in BiH and in Kosovo, 

reflecting a competitive environment. In Montenegro and N. 

Macedonia, the margin saw no change YoY.

The capital adequacy ratio mostly saw slight negative 

change in Slovenia, Serbia, Montenegro, and in Kosovo. In 

N. Macedonia, the ratio improved. Despite a turbulent year, 

the banks in the Group remain solid and well-capitalized.

The LTD ratio increased in all countries, except in 

Montenegro where the growth of deposits was the highest. 

For the rest of the countries, the ratio movement reflects 

the growth of loans outpacing the growth of deposits. 

The profitability of the banking systems of the NLB 

group improved in all countries except in Slovenia and 

N. Macedonia, where slight decreases were noted. 

Loans potential outlook 
for the Group’s region

Loans to non-financial corporations and household 

loans as a percentage of GDP levels of the Group’s region 

suggest that the whole group has further potential for 

expansion, as compared to the same categories in the Euro 

area. This is so especially in the household loans sector 

where the growth in the euro area has been much more 

pronounced, as the households seemed more at ease with 

taking on additional debt. However, seeing that private 

consumption is expected to slow down in 2023, this does 

not bode well for new household credit origination. Private 

consumption is the most important driver of GDP growth 

and is expected to range between 0.7% in Slovenia and 

2.5% in Serbia. Fixed investment is expected to range from 

a contraction of -0.7% in BiH, and a growth of 4.3% in N. 

Macedonia. Banking sector loan growth is expected to 

slow down in 2023, however, in most of NLB Group home 

markets loan growth rates will likely stay positive in low 

to mid single-digit range for both, corporate and retail 

sectors.

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24

 The Regulatory 
Environment

During 2022, more than 100 changes in the EU and Slovenian 

regulatory environments were adopted with material effects 

on the Bank and the Group. The Group strives to be fully 

compliant with the existing and new requirements. Disclosure 

of the most relevant changes in legislation and regulation 

which influence the Group is presented herein.

The regulatory environment 
in Slovenia 

The Bank is subject to capital adequacy and liquidity rules 

imposed by the EU (CRR/CRD), which govern the activities in 
which banks may engage and are designed to maintain the 

safety and soundness of banks, as well as limit their exposure 

to risk. The CRD V was further transposed into the new Banking 

Act (ZBan-3). In October 2021, the European Commission 

adopted a further package of a review of the CRR and CRD. 

One core aspect of that package (Regulation (EU) 2022/2036 

which introduces targeted adjustments to improve the 

resolvability of banks) has already been finalised and published 

in the Official Journal in December 2022. 

As a financial institution offering benchmark-based products, 

the Bank meets its obligations under the Regulation 2016/1011 

(BMR) and regularly monitors developments in this area by 

adapting its operations to the requirements of regulators and 

industry.

Due to the constant care for the interests of its customers, 

especially the protection of their data, the legislation in the field 

of personal data protection is also important to the Bank. The 

Bank strictly adheres to its obligations imposed on it by GDPR in 

both Slovenia and the Group. The new Slovenian Personal Data 

Protection Act (ZVOP-2) was adopted in December 2022, and is 

in the process of implementation in the Bank’s operations.

In the field of financial markets, there were no significant 

changes in the regulatory environment in 2022. The Bank 

complies with the provisions of MiFIR/MiFID II and EMIR 

regarding financial markets transactions, enhanced investor 
protection, transparency, and reporting obligations.

The Group also considers and complies with the regulations 

In December 2022, the Digital Operational Resilience Act 

in the field of preventing money laundering and terrorist 

(DORA) Regulation was published in the EU’s Official Journal 

financing (AML/CTF). In April 2022, the new Prevention of Money 

alongside the revised directive on the security of network and 

Laundering and Terrorist Financing Act (ZPPDFT-2) entered 

information systems (NIS2). The new framework introduces a 

into force and replaced the law in force at the time. The new 

comprehensive set of rules concerning the information and 

Act has implemented the provisions of Directive (EU) 2019/1153, 

communications technologies (ICT), risk management of 

of Directive (EU) 2019/2177, and of Regulation (EU) 2018/1672 

financial sector firms to strengthen their digital operational 

into Slovenia's legislation. In addition, an Amendment and 

resilience, and prevents and mitigates cyber threats.

supplements to the Act on Prevention of Money Laundering and 

Terrorist Financing (ZPPDFT-2A) was published in the Slovenian 
Official Gazette in November 2022. Due to the aforementioned 
regulatory changes, several activities were carried out by the 

Group to ensure compliance with new AML/CFT requirements. 

Concerning the changed geopolitical environment related 

to the Russian aggression in Ukraine, the Group regularly 

monitors and manages all newly introduced financial sanctions 

stemming from all relevant regimes.

In the field of payment and settlement systems, there were 

no significant changes in the regulatory environment in 2022. 

The Bank meets its obligations under PSD2, the respective 

regulatory technical standards and Payment Services, Services 

for Issuing Electronic Money and Payment Systems Act 

(ZPlaSSIED). New regulatory requirements imposed by the 

regulator are constantly monitored and managed, also taking 

into account what constitutes the best user experience.

In light of the EBA Guidelines on outsourcing arrangements, 

the Group has undertaken a continuous effort to adhere to 

regulatory requirements. This has entailed the revision of 

internal policies and the modification of contracts with external 

(service) providers.

In the EU’s policy context under the European Green Deal, 

“sustainable finance” is understood as finance to support 

economic growth while reducing pressures on the environment, 

and taking into account social and governance aspects. The 

Bank formed a comprehensive sustainability governance 

structure and adopted the NLB Group Sustainability framework. 

In 2022, substantial effort was made in implementing EU 

Taxonomy regulation in the Group financing process. The Group 

has also performed stress-testing using the ECB’s adverse and 

severe scenarios.

In the field of consumer protection, the new Consumer 

Protection Act (ZVPot-1) was adopted by Slovenia's National 

Assembly in October 2022. 

The regulatory environment 
in the Group’s region

The regulatory environment in the rest of the region where the 

Group operates was dominated by actions to ensure the stable 

functioning of financial systems.

In Serbia throughout 2022, there were numerous regulatory 
changes adopted by the National Bank of Serbia with the 

intention to minimise the consequences of the COVID-19 

pandemic on the economy and the financial sector (e.g., 

the agreement concluded between the National Bank of 

Serbia and the banks in 2020, which, among other things, 

contains restrictions on the payment of dividends), as well as 

to determine and define the support of the citizens (e.g., to 

facilitate Access to Financing for Natural Persons, Adequate 

Management of Credit Risk in Agricultural Loans Portfolio in 

Conditions of Aggravated Agricultural Production). To protect 

citizen standards regarding payment services needed for 

everyday activities, the National Bank of Serbia adopted 

the Decision on the Payment Account with Basic Features. 

The National Bank of Serbia has also adopted the Decision 

Amending the Decision on Risk Management by Banks to 

provide an additional bank supervisory mechanism and ensure 

transparent and clear conduct of banks in the case of intended 

increases in fees for the provision of payment services and in 

the case of an introduction of new fees. 

In North Macedonia, the past year was marked by a significant 
change in the regulation that includes the adoption of two 

systemically important laws. The Law on Payment Services and 

Payment Systems, harmonised with European legislation in the 

relevant area – which includes liberalisation of the payment 

services market through entry of non-banking institutions 

such as payment institutions and electronic money institutions. 

Furthermore, it ensures transparency and comparability of fees 

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25

 for payment services, and enables the opening of an account 

with basic functions. Also, it limits the maximum charge for 

In Kosovo, three regulations were adopted by the Central Bank 
of Kosovo. The regulation on the liquidity coverage ratio, the 

natural person accounts and the introduction of an obligatory 

regulation on the net stable funding ratio, and the regulation 

number of transactions free-of-charge for vulnerable social 

on access to payment accounts with basic services. The Law on 

categories. The Law on the Prevention of Money Laundering 

Implementation of Targeted International Financial Sanctions 

and Financing of Terrorism, harmonised with European 

was adopted concerning the prevention and combating against 

legislation in the field of fighting organised crime. This law 

terrorism, terrorist financing, and the proliferation of weapons 

strengthens the analysis measures that banks should apply 

of mass destruction, etc., in accordance with the Resolutions 

when there is a high risk, when cross-border correspondence 

of the UN Security Council, and the European Union Acts. As 

is established, when the person is not physically present for 

foreseen by the Law on Electronic identification and Trust 

the purposes of identification, when the client is a politically 

Services in Electronic Transactions, 10 bylaws were adopted by 

exposed person, in a business relationship, or in a transaction 

the end of December 2022.

that is involved in a high-risk state. 

In the Federation of BiH, the most important decision of 
the regulator in 2022 was the new decision for managing 

In Montenegro, the main activities in 2022 were dedicated to 
the implementation of the new law on comparability of fees 

associated with consumer payment accounts, the transfer of 

outsourcing arrangements in the bank, which includes: activities 

consumer payment accounts, and payment accounts with 

and conditions for outsourcing, applications within the banking 

basic services. The amendments to the Law on Payment 

group, materially significant activities, risk assessment, duties 

Transactions were published in October 2022. Pursuant to 

and responsibilities of the bank’s Management and Supervisory 

the amendments to the Law on Tax Administration, banks are 

Board, conflict of interests, the outsourcing register, contracting, 

obliged to implement the new instruction on a way of reporting 

supervision, and the powers and procedures of the regulator. 

data to the administrative body responsible for taxation. This 

The new decision represents an alignment of local regulations 

instruction includes reporting under the Foreign Account Tax 

with EBA outsourcing standards. 

Compliance Act (FATCA) and the Common Reporting Standard 

(CRS). The Bank continued to regularly apply the decisions on 

In the Republic of Srpska, the most significant activity relates 
to the adoption of the Law on Amendments to the Law on 

the introduction of international restrictive measures in relation 

to activities that undermine or threaten the territorial integrity, 

National Payment Transactions in April 2022 by the Ministry 

sovereignty, and independence of Ukraine.

of Finance of the Republic of Srpska, with the aim of greater 

transparency of payment services, greater financial inclusion 

of individuals through the use of a basic payment account, 

introduction of safe deposit boxes for individuals and business 

entities, and the Law on Inter-banking Fees for Payment Card 

Transactions. In addition, other significant regulatory changes 

refer to the adoption of several bylaws related to the number 

of eligible deposits, temporary measures to mitigate the risk 

of interest rate growth, outsourcing of arrangements, and 

a new accounting framework for banks and other financial 

organisations.

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26

 BUSINESS REPORT

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 The record results in 2022 are just the tip of NLB 
Banka, Banja Luka successful operations over 
the past few years. We reached many important 
milestones and improved our market share. For 
the fifth year in a row, we received the Golden BAM 
award as the bank with the highest ROA and ROE 
in BiH. 

We intertwined the commitment to a better quality 
of life and ESG principles in all segments of our 
operations. Environmental and social actions 
supported responsible activities and initiatives 
through sponsorships and donations, supporting 
ecology, digitalization , energy efficiency, inclusion, 
and equality. Our focus on youth segment and 
digital channels created better footprints for today 
and made data-based decisions for the future.

Our business results are a solid basis for successful 
transformation to a modern digital bank that 
is ready for whatever may come, preserving 
the potential of our home region, and utilizing 
opportunities of sustainability.

Pictured: NLB Banka, Banja Luka employees

 
 
Strategy

Despite the challenging and uncertain economic 

environment, the Group has continued to duly execute its 

medium-term strategy. This includes focusing on protecting 

and strengthening its market position in its home region, 

actively participating in the growth and consolidation of 

the market, and promoting the Environmental, Social, and 

Governance (ESG) agenda. Digitalization, client centricity, and 

cost efficiency remain some of key strategic orientations to 

ensure delivery of the Group’s vision.

Be a regional champion

The Group aims to further strengthen its role as a systemically 

important financial institution in the SEE region. To achieve 

this, it strives to become a market leader in all its markets and 

to have a prominent role in the region’s development. The 

Group believes there is significant value to be unlocked by 

facilitating further development of the region and increasing 

its standard of living. This will be further accelerated by 

promoting advanced environmental, sustainability, and 

corporate governance agendas. The Group is accelerating its 

efforts to adhere to all modern standards, as well as catalyse 

their adoption throughout its client base and markets. It has 

created novel green financial products for financing clients’ 

green transformation, as well as invested significant efforts and 

resources to reduce the carbon footprint of the Group’s own 

business operations. For information on environmental risks 

that may affect the Group’s business results, please refer to the 

chapter Risk Factors below.

As one of the most important players in the region’s financial 

system, the Group is carrying its share of responsibility for 

building a stable banking system. The 2022 acquisition of 

N Banka in the wake of Russia’s attack on Ukraine is an 

example of the Group’s resolve to commit capital in turbulent 

times for the benefit of all stakeholders. By stopping the run on 

the bank in fast cooperation with the regulator, the Group has 

safeguarded unsecured deposits of retail and even more so of 

corporate customers. This endeavour brought not only stability 

to the Slovenian banking sector, but also enabled the Group to 

remain a leading player.

Put clients first

The Group is driving its customer-centricity agenda by starting 

with the client’s financial needs and looking for ways to improve 

and streamline its products and services to fulfil them to the 

utmost extent. One way the Group does this is by digitizing its 

distribution channels, allowing clients to access its products and 

services from anywhere at any time. This makes it easier for 

clients to manage their finances and take care of their banking 

needs at their own convenience without having to visit a physical 
branch.

The Group is committed to adding new financial solutions to 

meet unmet and new needs of its clients. By staying on top of 

the latest trends, needs, and technologies, it will stay competitive 

and provide the best possible banking experience.

Accelerating the development  

of the SEE region

Promoting the ESG agenda

Supporting stability of 

the banking sector

Growing client market share 

Creating value for shareholders 

Offering a great place to work

Be a regional 

champion

Put 

clients  

first

Grow our 

market  

position

Monetize 

opportunities  

and synergies

Digitalizing distribution channels 

Adding new financial solutions 

as per clients' needs 

Offering strong customer support

Finding inorganic expansion 

opportunlties 

Establishing horizontally 

diversified businesses 

Finishing integration of N Banka 

Continuing strategic transformation

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 Ensuring strong customer support remains one of the Group’s 

The Group regularly engages with its stakeholders in defining 

key focuses. It requires that its customer service team is 

what is material to both them and the Group. A variety of 

knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to assist clients with 

communication channels are used for an open and transparent 

their questions or concerns, wherever they may be.

dialogue on sustainability-related issues. Some of the most 

Digitalization

important channels for communications with the stakeholders 

(in addition to the regular publicly available periodic reports, 

presentations, and webcasts on the Group performance) are 

the NLB Group Sustainability Report, the Corporate Social 

The Group continues to implement substantial efforts and 

Responsibility (CSR) and Sustainability e-mail box, the corporate 

resources toward digital distribution channels and operating 

website, and social media channels.

models. The customers’ preference for an increased share 

of digital business interactions has remained even after 

The Group’s employees represent its key resource and are 

normalization since the COVID-19 pandemic. Effective and safe 

one of its main drivers for creating value. Through the focus 

digital distribution channels require novel operating models 

on recruitment, management, and continual development of 

and automated processes to minimise response times and 

employees, they are given the opportunity to thrive by making 

costs. The focus on digitalization is to enable quicker and better 

the most of their talent and experiences. They are encouraged 

customer service, a higher level of internal processes efficiency, 

to act in a responsive, respectful, and result-driven manner. The 

and consequently, additional cost savings.

ambition is to also involve the whole organisation in realising 

the Group’s sustainability ambitions.

The Group will continue to invest substantially in IT 
infrastructure and its digital capabilities and roles. The focus 

will be on improving the speed of IT delivery by adopting agile 

methodology principles, provision, and implementation of the 

best online experience for customers in the SEE, and enhancing 

capabilities for processing data, modelling, and relevance of 

services to clients. One such example is the establishment of 

technological hub NLB DigIT in Beograd that develops solutions 

for the whole Group. For more information on NLB DigIT please 

refer to the chapter Strategic Foreign Markets.

Due to the positive effects of working remotely during the 

pandemic, the Group has developed a hybrid working model 

(combination of work-from-home and work from the office) 

initiative, thus offering more flexibility to its workforce and 

achieving cost and carbon footprint benefits at the same time.

Grow our market position 

The Group is working to protect and strengthen its market 

position as a systemic player in its home region. To do this, the 

Group is monitoring how well it is adding value to three types of 

its main stakeholders: shareholders, customers, and employees. 

With respect to its shareholders, the Group views its decisions 

through a lens of maximising its return on equity. With respect 

to its customers, market shares and Net Promoter Scores 

(NPS) are tracked. With respect to its employees, an employee 

engagement metric is measured and analysed. In addition, 
other supporting indicators and benchmarks are tracked to 

continually revaluate current projects and utilise those insights 

for future decisions.

Monetize opportunities 
and synergies

The Group is monitoring additional M&A opportunities (within 

consolidation processes in banking sectors in the SEE) that 

could add value to the Bank’s shareholders. It makes sense to 

actively participate in the ongoing growth and consolidation 

of the banking markets. The Group is fully engaged in re-

establishing some key financial services (leasing, factoring, etc.) 

across all its markets, thus also diversifying its services on a 

horizontal level.

The Group is moving closer to the fintech ecosystem to find 

new and better ways of solving customers’ financial needs. 

To achieve this, it has established a corporate venture team 

eNLaB, for building business cooperation with ambitious fintech 

players, to accelerate the Group’s efforts in bringing novel use 
cases and business solutions to the market. It is looking into 

opportunities in the areas of credit underwriting, payments 

and digital banking services, financial enterprise technology, 

regulatory technology, web 3.0 and blockchain technology, and 

personal finance and asset management.

Significant strategic business efforts have been undertaken to 

achieve business synergies across the Group, both in costs and 

operational efficiency. The Group believes these can help offset 

the negative economic effects the rising inflation will have on 
the Group’s clients. In Slovenia, further synergies are expected 

after full integration of N Banka in 2023.

The increased importance 
of leasing – A new business 
opportunity

In the Group Strategy, leasing activities represent a significant 

part of the Group’s business mix. Leasing operations in Slovenia 

(NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana) are gaining momentum with 

increased total assets, while new leasing operations have been 

added in North Macedonia and Serbia. 

Management and governance structures are being set up 

in new leasing Group members, with full implementation of 

the Group’s corporate governance principles, including two 

members of NLB Management Board being Chair and Co-chair 

of NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana Supervisory Board. 

The Group expects leasing will once again become a significant 

part of its business operations. It is planned that in its mature 

phase, leasing will contribute more than EUR 1 billion to the total 

assets of the Group, through organic and potentially inorganic 

growth. For more information on leasing operations expansion 

in SEE please refer to the chapter Strategic Foreign Markets.

Continuing transformation

To facilitate the continuous transformation in an everchanging 

environment, the Group is following comprehensive plan 

to deliver its mission and financial targets. The Group has 

identified a series of projects and initiatives, and has dedicated 

considerable resources for their implementation. All major 

running change efforts are channelled into one overall strategic 

transformation programme.

The backbone of the strategy is strengthening customer-

centricity by establishing customer-based market management, 

improving the understanding of clients, reimagining digital 

client journeys, and accelerating innovation to provide lifestyle 

and value chain services to strengthen relationships.

The transformation programme also focuses efforts into 

increased operational efficiency, cost management, and the 

improved utilisation of the Group’s capital. Simultaneously, 

overall operational capabilities are being enhanced by 

improving human capital, optimising IT infrastructure, 

digitalizing internal processes, and leveraging information 

capital. To drive the transformation, a new change 

management platform has been set up.

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 Funding Strategy and 
MREL Compliance

A good client relationship is the main foundation for a 

stable and growing deposit base, while wholesale funding is 

primarily driven by fulfilment of minimum requirement of own 

funds and eligible liabilities (MREL) and further strengthening 

and optimizing the capital. The latter drives the average 

cost of funding higher, however, the total cost of funding 

remains low for now due to a comfortable high and stable 

deposit base and the inelasticity of the sight deposit pricing.

Figure 5: Average cost of funding (quarterly data)

standards, is regularly part of the Group business process. Year 

The NLB Resolution Group consists of NLB as the resolution 

2022 underlined the importance of proper liquidity pricing for 

entity and other non-banking members. The entities and their 

business stability in the uncertain environment. 

contribution to the NLB Resolution Group are presented in the 

Group retail deposits represent a majority in the structure and 

are the most stable funding source with around 80% being 

Table 8: Composition of NLB Resolution Group by TREA 

Table 8.

insured by the Deposit Guarantee Scheme. Despite turbulent 

business environment, Group retail deposits recorded an 

increase in 2022. Sight deposits represent around 90% of retail 

deposits and witnessed stable growth in recent years. This 

supports the stable business of the Group in the region, even 

during the volatile times on the wholesale funding markets. 

Entity

NLB 

NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana

NLB Skladi, Ljubljana

NLB Interfinanz - in liquidation

Corporate sector deposits, albeit representing a smaller share 

in the deposit structure of the Group, are an important source 

TARA HOTEL, Budva

REAM d.o.o., Beograd

of liquidity, as well. Corporations are offered various deposit 

products to manage their liquidity position in a flexible way, 

supporting young and small businesses, as well as already 

Other

TREA total

in EUR millions

31 Dec 2022

6,679

146

53

15

14

13

49

6,968

0.32%

established large firms in all sectors of the regional economy.

On 31 December 2022, the MREL ratio amounted to 36.32% and 

was well above the required level.

0.24%                            

As the funding structure of the Group relies mostly on non-

banking sector deposits, the Group’s average funding costs was 

The composition of the own funds and eligible liabilities items 

still relatively low.

by which the Bank met the MREL requirement was as presented 

0.12%                            

0.12%                            

Q1 2022                        

Q2 2022                       

Q3 2022

Q4 2022

Deposit strategy

Deposits from customers represent the main funding source 

for the Group, and each bank within the Group has established 

processes that enable prudent strategic deposits management 

that is aligned with business targets and regulatory 

requirements. Regular monitoring of deposits and its structure 

enables timely reactions whenever necessary due to business 

or regulatory-related reasons. Events that caused significant 

economic and even political disturbances in 2022 proved that 

the deposit base of the Group is robust and liquidity position 

strong – the LTD ratio evolution in recent years that include 

the COVID pandemic, as well as turbulent 2022 regime was still 

confined to a healthy liquidity zone below 70%.

A leading Group market position and a responsive relationship 

with clients are important factors for a stable deposit base, 

and besides that, proper deposit pricing plays a pivotal role in 

risk management and business decision-making. Established 

funds pricing, aligned with international liquidity pricing 

Wholesale funding 
and MREL 

Wholesale funding activities in the Group are conducted with the 

aim of achieving diversification, improving structural liquidity and 

capital position, and fulfilling regulatory requirements, especially 

ensuring compliance with the MREL requirement.

The MREL requirement for the Group is based on the Multiple 

Total

Point of Entry (MPE) approach. 

in the table below.

Table 9: Composition of the own funds and eligible liabilities of NLB 
Resolution Group 

Own funds and eligible liabilities items

CET1

Additional Tier 1 instruments

Tier 2 instruments

Unsecured and unsubordinated claims 
arising from debt instruments

in EUR millions

31 Dec 2022

1,451

82

508

490

2,531

As at 1 January 2022, NLB must comply with MREL requirement 

on a consolidated basis at resolution group level (i.e., NLB 

Resolution Group), which amounts to:
•  28.69% of Total Risk Exposure Amount (TREA) (consisting of (i) 
25.19% of TREA and (ii) 3.5% of Combined Buffer Requirement 
(CBR)),

•  8.03% of Leverage Ratio Exposure (LRE).

NLB has to ensure a linear build-up of own funds and eligible 

liabilities towards the MREL requirement applicable as at 1 

January 2024, which amounts to:

•  31.38% of TREA + applicable CBR,

•  9.97% of LRE.

To support the Group’s growth capacity and comply with MREL, 

the Bank was very active on the debt capital markets in 2022 with 

the issuance of EUR 300 million Senior Preferred notes in July 

2022, EUR 82 million Additional Tier 1 notes in September 2022, 

and EUR 225 million Tier 2 notes in November 2022. In addition, 

the Bank attracted EUR 114 million in eligible deposits and 

concluded loans in the amount of EUR 30 million. All mentioned 

instruments are MREL-eligible, while subordinated instruments 

also strengthened the capital position and the Bank’s rating.

The Bank expects to be active on debt capital markets in 2023 by 

issuing approximately EUR 300 million of new senior notes that 

count for MREL. This will lead to the Bank comfortably meeting 

the binding MREL requirement, applicable as at 1 January 2024.

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 Risk Factors  
and Outlook

Risk factors

Risk factors affecting the business  

outlook are (among others): 
•  The economy’s sensitivity to a potential slowdown in the euro 

area or globally 

•  Widening credit spreads 

•  Potential liquidity outflows 

•  Worsened interest rate outlook / Persistence of high inflation

•  Energy and commodity price volatility

•  Increasing Unemployment 

•  Potential cyber-attacks

•  Regulatory, other legislative, and tax measures impacting the 

banks 

•  Geopolitical uncertainties

In 2022, the Group’s region continued to grow on the back of 

the revival in private and investment consumption after being 

affected by the pandemic in the past period. Higher prices of 

energy, commodities, raw materials, and food as a result of 

the war in Ukraine, have and will further impact the economic 

momentum. As a result, a gradual slowdown in economic 

growth can be expected. The Group’s region is still expected 

to grow moderately, though the inflationary pressures might 

suggest a further slowdown, namely in the area of private 

consumption. However, it is not possible to assume with a high 

degree of confidence that the positive economic momentum will 

further continue. 

Lending growth in the corporate and retail segments is 

expected to remain relatively moderate, especially in the current 

circumstances. With regards to credit portfolio quality, the 
Group carefully monitors the most affected client segments with 

the intention to detect any significant increase in credit risk at 

a very early stage. The Group’s direct and indirect exposures 

towards Russia and Ukraine in 2022 was rather limited, 

additionally in February 2023 all remaining outstanding Russian 

government bonds were sold. 

Credit risk usually considerably increases in times of economic 

slowdown. In light of increasing energy prices, inflationary 

pressures, and a forecast of a decrease in economic growth, 

The Group is subject to a wide variety of regulations and 

the Group has thoroughly analysed potential impact on the 

laws relating to banking, insurance, and financial services. 

credit portfolio. The Group closely monitors the circumstances 

Respectively, it faces the risk of significant interventions by a 

in the most affected credit portfolio segments and makes the 

number of regulatory and enforcement authorities in each of 

necessary adjustments. The length and intensity of the war 

the jurisdictions in which it operates.

in Ukraine might cause additional spill-over effects in the 

mid-term period, such as raising the price of energy sources 

The SEE region is the Group's most significant geographic area 

or their availability, which might at a later period also have 

of operations outside of the RoS and the economic conditions 

some impact on other segments of the credit portfolio. These 

in this region are therefore important to the Group’s results 

adverse developments could affect the evolution of the cost of 

of operations and financial condition. The Group's financial 

risk and NPLs. Notwithstanding the established procedures in 

condition could be adversely affected as a result of any 

the Group’s credit risk management, there can be no certainty 

instability or economic deterioration in this region.  

that they will be sufficient to ensure the Group’s quality of credit 

portfolio or the corresponding impairments will remain at the 

In this regard, the Group closely follows the macroeconomic 

adequate level in the future.

indicators relevant to its operations:

•  GDP trends and forecasts,

The investment strategy of the Group, referring to the Group’s 

•  Economic sentiment,

bond portfolio kept for liquidity purposes, adapts to the 

•  Unemployment rate,

expected market trends in accordance with the set risk appetite. 

•  Consumer confidence,

The war in Ukraine has led to quite considerable volatility in the 

•  Construction sentiment,

financial markets, in particular shifts in credit spreads, rising of 

•  Deposit stability and growth of loans in the banking sector,

interest rates and foreign exchange rates fluctuations. Special 

•  Credit spreads and related future forecasts,

attention is given to the markets in the Balkans, neighbouring 

•  Interest rate development and related future forecasts,

countries to Ukraine and Russia and international banks with 

•  FX rates,

operations in Russia. The Group is closely monitoring its major 

•  Energy and commodity prices,

bond portfolio positions, mostly sovereigns, by incorporating 

•  Other relevant market indicators.

adequate early warning systems. Since the beginning of the 

crisis, the Group has been observing credit spreads widening, 

which impacted FVOCI positions. 

During 2022, the Group reviewed IFRS 9 provisioning by testing 
a set of relevant macroeconomic scenarios to adequately 
reflect the current circumstances and the related impacts in the 

No material movements were observed so far regarding the 

future. The Group established and developed multiple scenarios 

Group’s major FX positions. Current developments, market 

(i.e., baseline, mild, and severe) on the level of an Expected 

observations, and potential mitigations are very closely 

Cred Losses (ECL) calculation. The baseline scenario presents 

monitored and discussed. While the Group monitors its liquidity, 

a common forecast macroeconomic view for all countries 

interest rate, credit spread, FX position and corresponding 

of the Group. This scenario is constructed with the purpose 

trends, impacts of credit spread, interest rate and FX 

to culminate various outlooks into a unified projection of 

fluctuations on its positions, any significant and unanticipated 

macroeconomic and financial variables for the Group. This is in 

movements on the markets or variety of factors, such as 

line with the concept that the bank has a consolidated view on 

competitive pressures, customer confidence or other certain 

the future of economic development in SEE. The IFRS 9 baseline 

factors outside the Group’s control, could adversely affect the 

scenario is based on the most recent official and professional 

Group’s operations, capital, and financial condition.

forecaster outputs, with additional specific adjustments for 

Special attention is paid to the continuous provision of services 

to clients, their monitoring, health protection measures, and 

The macroeconomic rationale behind the alternative 

the prevention of cyber-attacks and potential fraud events. The 

scenarios is related to a range of plausible drivers of economic 

Group has established internal controls and other measures to 

development in the next three years. The narrative for the 

facilitate their adequate management. However, these measures 

alternative scenarios combines statistical techniques with 

may not always fully prevent potential adverse effects.

individual countries of the Group.

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 expert knowledge as a means of the concept and validation 

The stress-testing framework is integrated into Risk Appetite, 

pursuing a range of strategic activities to enhance its business 

of outputs. The Group developed both alternative scenarios 

Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP), 

performance. The interest rate outlook is uncertain given the 

through the lens of possible expected impact on the regional 

Internal Liquidity Adequacy Assessment Process (ILAAP), and 

adaptive monetary policy of the ECB and local central banks 

economic activity. In general, the mild scenario is a demand-

the Recovery Plan to determine how severe and unexpected 

to the general economic sentiment. The Bank is committed to 

driven optimistic scenario, where limited supply disruption 

changes in the business and macro environment might affect 

delivering sound financial performance. 

factors and an active role from the central banks help to 

the Group’s capital adequacy or liquidity position. Both the 

brighten the economic conditions and economic subjects' 

stress-testing framework and recovery plan indicators support 

Based on current and expected rates environment, growth 

confidence. This scenario narrates stronger economic growth, 

proactive management of the Group’s overall risk profile in 

outlook, strict costs control supported by IT/digital solutions and 

while the severe scenario envisions zero real economic growth 

these circumstances, including capital and liquidity positions 

successful implementation of the Group’s strategy and initiatives, 

for all Group home countries. Namely, the severe one is a 

from a forward-looking perspective. 

supply-driven pessimistic scenario, where both upside inflation 

the 2023 outlook and guidance for 2025 have been revised and 

further improved. During the inaugural Investor Day which took 

risk and downside growth risk materialize. The Bank includes 

Risk Management actions that might be used by the Group 

place in May 2022, the Group communicated several KPIs for 

these scenarios in calculating expected credit losses in the 

are determined by various internal policies and applied when 

the year 2025, i.e., regular profit will exceed EUR 300 million, a 

context of IFRS 9.

necessary. Moreover, the selection and application of mitigation 

EUR 100 million contribution from the Serbian market, EUR 500 

The Group formed three probable scenarios with an 

feasibility analysis of the measure, its impact on the Group’s 

and 2025, tactical M&A capacity of EUR 1.5 billion RWA, and ROE 

associated probability of occurrence for forward-looking 

business model, and the strength of the available measure.

will exceed 12%. The Group remains committed to deliver on 

measures follows a three-layer approach, considering the 

million total capital return through cash dividends between 2022 

assessment of risk provisioning in the context of IFRS 9. These 

IFRS 9 macroeconomic scenarios incorporate the forward-

looking and probability-weighted aspects of ECL impairment 

calculation. Both features may change when material changes 

Outlook 

these KPIs, moreover it is improving the outlook for regular profit 

(to be around EUR 400 million), tactical M&A capacity (to EUR 2 

billion RWA), and ROE (to exceed 13%).

in the future development of the economy are recognised and 

The indicated outlook constitutes forward-looking statements 

The measures and potentials outlined in the above strategy 

not embedded in previous forecasts. 

which are subject to a number of risk factors and are not 

are reflected in the Group’s outlook for the 2023-2025 period 

a guarantee of future financial performance. The Group is 

(Table 10).

The monitoring process of the macroeconomic environment 

revealed that uncertainties remain high in the global 

economy due to the energy crisis, inflation, and the war 

in Ukraine. The current economic situation led to sluggish 

growth projections, persistent inflationary pressures, and 

Table 10: Market performance and outlook for the period 2023-2025

Last Guidance 
for 2022

Actual 2022 
Performance

Last Guidance 
for 2023

Revised Guidance 
for 2023

Last Outlook 
for 2025

Revised Outlook 
for 2025

interest rate hikes. Increased uncertainty and changes in 

Regular income

~ EUR 750 million 

EUR 779 million 

> EUR 850 million

~ EUR 900 million 

expectations of macroeconomic development affected 

forecasts for some economies in the Group. Material decreases 

in growth projections for Slovenia and Serbia for 2023 was 

noticed. Hence, an executive decision was taken to adjust 

risk expectations using the scenario’s weight. The scenario 

probability weighting was changed to 0%-10%-90% where 

Costs

~ EUR 460 million

EUR 460 million

~ EUR 490 million

~ EUR 490 million

Cost of risk 

Loan growth

Below 30 bps

Low double-digit 
organic growth(ii) 

14 bps
14%(ii)
(23% with N Banka)

30-50 bps 

30-50 bps

Mid single-digit 

Mid single-digit 

High single-digit

Dividends

EUR 100 million

EUR 100 million

EUR 110 million

EUR 110 million

EUR 500 million
(2022-2025)

EUR 500 million 
(2022-2025)

severe and baseline scenarios reflect the likelihood of relevant 

future economic conditions for them. The likelihood of 

ROE a.t.

~ 10% w/o NGW, 
(ROE normalized(i): 
12% w/o NGW)

20%,
12% w/o NGW
(ROE normalized(i): 
16% w/o NGW)

> 10%, 
(ROE normalized(i): 
> 12%)

~11%, 
(ROE normalized(i): 
~14%) 

> 12%

> 13%, 
(ROE normalized(i): 
> 17%)

> EUR 1 billion

Flat on 2023 
level or below

30-50 bps 

occurrence for the pessimistic scenario was derived to 90%, 

whereby the baseline scenario received a weight of 10%. Minor 

changes were also applied in other countries based on the 

latest available forecast.

The Group established a comprehensive internal stress-testing 
framework and early warning systems in various risk areas 
with built-in risk factors relevant to the Group’s business model. 

Regular profit

Contribution from 
Serbian market

M&A potential

> EUR 300 million

~ EUR 400 million

EUR 100 million

> EUR 100 million

Tactical M&A 
capacity of 
EUR 1.5 billion RWA

Tactical M&A 
capacity of 
EUR 2 billion RWA

(i) ROE normalized = Result a.t. divided by Average risk adjusted capital. Average risk adjusted capital calculated as Tier 1 requirement of average Risk Weighted Assets (RWA) 
reduced for minority shareholder capital contribution.
(ii) Without N Banka.

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Outlook 2023 

Macroeconomic 

A warmer-than-expected winter, energy savings, and fiscal 

support measures helped to alleviate fears of imminent 

energy shortages in the euro area. Production levels should 

benefit from improving supply conditions, while energy and 

commodities markets are not expected to experience any 

additional supply shocks. The inflation rate growth should 

decrease, but remain elevated, due to the combined effects of 

higher interest rates, tighter financial conditions, and alleviated 

inflationary pressures stemming from commodities prices. 

Private consumption should remain subdued in 2023 due to 

declining purchasing power, as core inflation is to become the 

predominant inflation driver. Muted private consumption and 

uncertainty, stemming from continued although regionally 

contained political tensions, are expected to be the main drag 

on economic growth. The labour market tightness should 

slightly decrease due to the stagnating economy, which 

is expected to result in less pressure on wage growth and 

consequently fewer second round effects driving inflation. 

Overall, we see the euro area economy stagnating in 2023, 

while the Group’s region economies are expected to grow 1.3% 

on average in 2023. However, the Group’s region growth is set 

to cool notably this year with the weaker euro area economy, 

elevated inflation, declining real wages, geopolitical volatility, 

and the war in Ukraine restraining household spending, 

industrial production, and exports. On top of this, tighter 

financing conditions could further subdue activity in most 

countries of the region. More information is available in the 

chapter Macroeconomic Environment, and the subchapter 

Loans potential outlook for the Group’s Region.

Revenues 

Interest income growth is expected to be primarily driven by 

loan production, higher rates, and the productive use of liquid 

assets. Moderate growth of net fee and commission income is 

expected for 2023, mainly on the account of basic services such 

as payments and cards, but also bancassurance and asset 

management products. The continued increase of digital sales 

The Group remains very prudent in identifying any increase in 

activities, cross-sell, and new client acquisition should further 

credit risk, as well as proactive in the area of NPL management. 

support the growth of net fee and commission income going 

Consequently, a well-diversified and stable quality of credit 

forward. Based on these expectations, the outlook for regular 

portfolio is expected in 2023. Based on assessed environment, 

income increased from the previously communicated of more 

the expected cost of risk in 2023 will be between 30 to 50 bps. 

than EUR 850 million to around EUR 900 million in 2023. 

Costs 

Liquidity 

The Group continues to pursue a strong cost containment 

in 2022, and it is expected they will continue to grow in the next 

agenda addressing both employee and other cost elements. 

period. The liquidity position of the Group is expected to remain 

Total costs continue to be impacted by the business 

very robust even if a highly unfavourable liquidity scenario 

environment with a visible cost inflation throughout the region. 

materialises, as the Group holds sufficient liquidity reserves 

Additionally, the Group continues with its investment activities 

mostly in the form of high-quality liquid assets. 

From a liquidity perspective, deposits at the Group level grew 

into information technology upgrades amid the growing 

relevance of digital banking. Moreover, integration costs 

As major part of liquidity reserves, the Group closely monitors 

associated with N Banka will contribute to the total costs in 

its major bond portfolio positions, mostly sovereigns. Since 

2023. All this will increase the costs, with the expectation for the 

beginning of the crisis, the Group has been observing the rising 

cost base of around EUR 490 million in 2023.

yield environment and the widening of credit spreads, which 

Loan growth and portfolio quality 

The Group expects mid-single digit organic loan growth in 2023. 

Slower loan growth is foreseen for 2023 after exceptionally high 

new corporate and retail loan origination across all markets in 

2022 that is also influenced by expectations of higher interest 

rates. 

materially impacted FVOCI positions in 2022. Consequently, 

the Group will continue to carefully manage the structure and 

concentration of liquidity reserves in order to limit the potential 

sensitivity of regulatory capital. 

Capital and MREL

The capital position represents a strong basis to cover all 

regulatory capital requirements, including capital buffers and 

In light of the war in Ukraine, increasing energy prices, 

other currently known requirements, as well as the Pillar 2 

inflationary pressures, and a forecast of a decrease in economic 

Guidance. 

growth, the Group has thoroughly analysed potential impacts 

on its credit portfolio and made the necessary adjustments. 

Wholesale funding in 2023 will be driven by the MREL 

The Group’s direct and indirect exposures toward Russia and 

requirement, for this purpose the Bank intends to issue new 

Ukraine are quite limited. The most affected industries are 

senior MREL eligible notes of approximately EUR 300 million. 

carefully monitored with the intention to detect any additional 

This will lead to the Bank comfortably meeting binding MREL 

significant increase in credit risk at a very early stage. Increased 

requirement applicable as of 1 January 2024.

and prolonged inflationary pressures might cause some 

deterioration of the credit portfolio quality in the retail segment, 

The Bank will become more frequent issuer on capital markets 

though its impact should not be too excessive. As a result, the 

in the following years, mainly for the purpose of MREL 

Group strengthened the early warning system for this segment. 

compliance. The annual anticipated issuance / re-financing size 

will be in the area of EUR 300 million.

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 Dividends

Sustainability

The Bank’s general intention is to distribute dividends on a 

In 2023, the Group will continue to implement its sustainability 

yearly basis, while at the same time fulfilling all regulatory 

agenda in all three pillars of its Sustainability Framework. In the 

requirements, including the Pillar 2 Guidance and risk appetite. 

Sustainable Financing Pillar, the primary focus of the Group will 

The Group aims to maintain stable dividend growth and at the 

be in the development and implementation of net-zero business 

same time have room to support organic growth and potential 

strategy and financing, as well as measurement of portfolio 

M&A opportunities.

emissions. The first targets related to reducing its footprint in 

carbon-intensive industries will be published by the end of 2023. 

In the period between 2022 and 2025, the Bank envisages a 

In the Sustainable Operations Pillar, the Bank will continue to 

total capital return through cash dividends of EUR 500 million. 

adhere to high standard of corporate governance, which are 

Dividends in the amount of EUR 100 million were paid in 

the foundation of sustainable operation, and will maintain 

2022, while for the year 2023 the Bank anticipates a dividend 

long-term relationships with key stakeholders. The Group will 

payment in the amount of EUR 110 million.

also take measures to lower energy and resources consumption 

M&A opportunities

The Group’s drive to deliver value to the shareholders is subject 

to organic growth and the capacity to engage in further value 

accretive M&A opportunities. Such opportunities for inorganic 

growth will be subject to a diligent analysis of strategic, 

financial, and other resource utilisation. 

and to increase energy efficiency, disclose all relevant ESG data 

and further implement the EU Taxonomy. Focus will also be on 

analysis and implementation of the newly adopted Corporate 

Sustainability Reporting Directive, as well as the upcoming 

Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive. In the third 

pillar, the Group will continue with its active CSR programme 

contributing to development of local communities and society 

in all regions where the Group operates. Our sponsorship, 

donations, and partnership projects will continue to be based 

on supporting and following the UN Sustainable Development 

Goals (UN SDG).

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 The Impact on 
Operations of the 
Russian invasion 
in Ukraine

In 2022, the world was once again confronted with additional 

new challenges, as the war in Ukraine had unprecedented 

effects around the globe. The impact of the Russian invasion 

in Ukraine is still present and will continue to affect the 

economies to various degrees.

The impact on the global 
economy and SEE region 

The consequences of the war in Ukraine reached far beyond 

the Ukrainian-Russian border as the conflict had a lasting 

effect globally. Even prior to the beginning of the war in 

Ukraine, commodity prices had risen substantially, and global 

supply chains were strained. The start of the war exacerbated 

these trends. The global economy was impacted by the war 

through significant disruptions in trade, food, and fuel price 

shocks, decelerating global economic activity and intensifying 

inflationary pressures. The EU is among the most exposed 

economies due to geographical proximity to the war and 

heavy dependence on imports of fossil fuels from Russia. 

Reduced exports from Russia have affected fossil fuel trade 

and contributed to the steep increase in natural gas prices, 

as the EU needed to refill gas storages by diversifying energy 

suppliers. What is more, the wholesale price of electricity 

in the EU’s internal market is directly linked to the price of 

gas resulting in skyrocketing gas and electricity prices. High 

energy prices affected the profitability of energy-intensive 

firms, while inflationary pressures resulted in a sharp erosion 

of households’ purchasing power and deteriorated consumer 

sentiment. Real income losses, deteriorating economic 

sentiment, and heightened uncertainty resulted in worsened 

confidence also in the business sector amid high production 

costs, supply bottlenecks, and tighter financing conditions. In 

response to the cost-of-living crisis, European governments 

implemented a range of policy measures at national and 

supranational levels with policies tackling the impact of higher 

costs on consumers and businesses, and policies aiming at 

stabilisation and reduction of wholesale prices and ensuring 

energy security. Countries of the Group’s region are in general 

largely dependent on energy and food commodities imports. As 

a consequence, globally rising prices resulted in a widening of 

the current account deficits and double-digit inflation. The latter 

weighed on households’ purchasing power and consumption 

habits. To cope with the rising-cost-of-living crisis, governments 

implemented different measures that were to lessen the burden 

of the rising prices for households and businesses. 

Impact on credit portfolio 

In the light of the war in Ukraine, increasing energy prices, 

inflationary pressures, and a forecast of a decrease in 

economic growth, the Group has thoroughly analysed the 

potential impact on the credit portfolio. Increasing prices 

of raw materials, commodities, and energy may represent 
an important factor for certain corporate clients. Additional 

effects can be related to a potential gas shortage for certain 

corporate clients with high dependency on the production cycle 

mainly from steel, aluminium, glass, mineral, stone, chemicals, 

and the paper industry. The Group is closely monitoring the 

circumstances in the most affected industries (energy, transport, 

automotive, construction, and food production) and is in close 

communication with key clients to identify any changes in 

The Bank’s response to 
clients’ needs

After the war started in Ukraine, the international market 

environment has become strongly unpredictable and a higher 

demand for and utilisations of working capital facilities was 

recognised. With the emerging of energy crisis, the Bank rapidly 

responded to its clients’ needs and organised the arrangement 

of new syndication financing to the respective energy sector.

In March 2022, the Bank decided to help refugees coming from 

Ukraine. These customers received the management of the NLB 

Basic package account free-of-charge for three months after 

opening. For more information, see chapters Retail Banking in 

Slovenia and Corporate and Investment Banking in Slovenia.

Impact on payment 
transactions 

The execution of payments to banks that were excluded from 

the SWIFT area were stopped and all other payments to 

other banks to Russia and Belarus were also stopped. This 

action made these payments only possible after preliminary 

consideration and obtained a positive opinion from the 

authorities (compliance). The exchange of Russian rubles was 

business circumstances. The Group performed stress-testing 

suspended.

by applying adverse and severe scenarios, and the potential 

estimated losses are perceived as sustainable. In contrast, 

the inflation pressure and prices of energy sources may limit 

the credit capabilities in the retail segment. To enable early 

identification of a significant increase in credit risk (SICR), the 

Group strengthened the early warning system for the retail 

segment in Q3 2022.

N Banka – NLB's 
contribution to financial 
stability

NLB as a systemic institution responded responsibly and 

At the beginning of the war in Ukraine, the Group had limited 

decisively to the sudden challenge to the financial stability of 

exposure to Russian government bonds in the notional amount 

of USD 22.0 million. In May 2022, Russian government bonds 

the Slovenian banking sector due to the Russian invasion. As a 
complement to NLB’s Slovenian franchise, and as contribution 

in the notional amount of USD 14.0 million were fully repaid. 

to the financial stability of the Slovenian banking system, 

Therefore, on 31 December 2022, the Group had very limited 

NLB acquired Slovenian Sberbank in March 2022. With the 

exposure to Russian government bonds with the notional 

acquisition, NLB helped to provide certainty for Sberbank’s 

amount of USD 8.0 million, maturing in September 2023. In 

customers and strengthen the stability of the Slovenian banking 

February 2023, these bonds were sold. Further information is 

sector.

available in Note 5.4. of the financial part of this report. 

After the stabilisation period and rebranding to N Banka, 

the integration process started. The integration of N Banka 

is running on track, targeting completion of the legal and 

technical merger in September 2023. 

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 Acquisition

27 Feb 2022
SRB determines Sberbank Europe failing or likely to fail

1 Mar 2022
BoS Decision to utilize a resolution tool

1 Mar 2022
Decision to transfer all shares to NLB taken

2 Mar 2022
All the necessary approvals obtained

On 1 March 2022, NLB acquired 100% shareholding in 

Sberbank, Ljubljana (subsequently renamed to N Banka) in the 

course of the regulatory resolution procedure led by the Single 

Resolution Board (SRB) and the BoS. By that NLB contributed 

on one side to the financial stability of the Slovenian banking 

sector, however, on the other side it also further improved NLB’s 
market position in Slovenia. 

Following the acquisition, NLB worked on the corporate image 

of the new member of the Group that from 12 April 2022 now 

operates under the name of N Banka. NLB took over the control 

over the bank’s operations by setting a new Supervisory Board 

of the bank on 30 June 2022, and also engaged in the process 

of harmonisation with the Group standards, that finalised in Q3 

2022. 

In addition to contributing to the stability of the Slovenian 

banking sector, there were also strategic and financial 

rationales behind the acquisition, namely: 

•  Strategic Rationale: The key rationale motivating the 

acquisition of N Banka was the optimisation of business 

performance on one market. N Banka was running a 

subscale operation (68% CIR, 53,000 clients, relatively 

capped revenue base, costs increasing by approximately 

12% in the last four years); considering the additional 

capex investments needed to modernise the business and 

keep up with the technology development in the coming 

years, it would be difficult to maintain a satisfactory level 

of profitability of N Banka on a standalone basis. The 

transaction would complement NLB’s existing franchise 

in Slovenia, particularly in the corporate and Small and 

Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) segments which accounted 

for app. 56% of Sberbank’s net customer loans at the end 

of 2021. Additionally, the planned merger would also bring 

several benefits from the clients’ perspective, since they would 

be able to receive a full range of products and services, and 

so at the quality at the level of other NLB clients.

•  Financial rationale: Integration of two banks would improve 

market share in terms of total assets to 30.2% in the Slovenian 

banking system as per the end of 2022. NLB's capital position 

has been strengthened by the inclusion of negative goodwill 

(EUR 172.8 million) from the N Banka acquisition. From the new 

production perspective, the acquisition was anticipated to 

be earnings accretive already in 2023. Run rate synergies are 

estimated at a level exceeding EUR 14 million by 2025. Total 

integration costs are expected to be covered by synergies by 

the end of 2025.

The integration process  

NLB conducted a detailed post-acquisition review, and in line 

with the Management Board’s resolution of March 2022 started 

the process for the merger of the bank with NLB. The defined 

target operating model confirmed NLB’s commitment to keep 

its clients’ satisfaction as a clear priority. By the acquisition 

N Banka’s clients were given the access to the Group benefits. 

To ensure smooth and successful merger of N Banka, the Group 

established a comprehensive and well-structured integration 

project, that allows strong oversight of all integration initiatives, 

implementation of all necessary tasks according to agreed plan, 

and protection of the Group and its key stakeholder interests. 

A complete and comprehensive integration of N Banka into 

the organisational structure of NLB requires a merger to be 

conducted on two levels – legal and operational. According 

to the plan, they are going to be executed simultaneously – 

in September 2023.

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 Corporate banking

With the executed acquisition and initiated integration process 

with the Bank, the corporate segment of N Banka was primarily 

focused on the following goals: 

•   active integration of business and clients in the Group;

•   continued active financing of all existing corporate clients, 

primarily in the SME segment with working capital facilities;

•   continue executing project financing deals;

•   active processing of new financing products under special 

schemes from “Slovenski podjetniški sklad” and from “Sklad 

skladov” in cooperation with the SID bank.

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Financial performance

Table 11: Key performance indicators of N Banka(i)

in EUR thousands

Key performance indicators

Net interest income

Net non-interest income

Total costs

Impairments and provisions

Result before tax

Result after tax

Financial position statement indicators

Total assets

Net loans to customers

Gross loans to customers

Deposits from customers 

Equity

Key financial indicators

Total capital ratio

Net interest margin

CIR

NPL volume

NPL ratio (internal def.: NPL/Total loans)

Market share by total assets

LTD

2022

25,270

10,453

-22,976

925

13,672

11,085

1,293,280

939,238

955,035

898,768

186,423

21.4%

2.0%

64.3%

23,633

1.9%

2.6%

104.5%

(i) Data on a stand-alone basis for the period March-December as included in the 
consolidated financial statements of the Group. For year 2021, comparable data are 
not available. N Banka internal calculation of net interest margin and total capital 
ratio.

Since N Banka is in procedure of integration, the bank 

is running its business under special circumstances. The 

contribution of N Banka to NLB Group total assets and loans to 

customers amounted to 5% and 7% respectively at the end of 

2022. Loans portfolio was decreasing in 2022 as per integration 

plan and transferring of business clients from N Banka to NLB. 

Deposit base also decreased, however cash position and 

financial assets sum up to around 20% of the total assets and 

represents liquid assets which could be transferred to cash 

fast, if need for liquidity arises. Contribution to revenues and 

cost to the Group was approximately 5% in 2022. Full potential 

contribution is expected in 2025 when run-rate synergies kick 

in from employee optimization, IT synergies, head quarter 

synergies and other general and administrative expenses.

Business performance

Retail banking

Clients are the core focus of the Group. Therefore, in the 

merging process, special attention to client retention is paid, 

aiming at the smallest possible churn rate. At the end of the 

year, N Banka had 40,068 clients in the private individuals’ 

segment, of which 86% were active clients. In future, we expect 

a strong commercial push to activate the remaining idle 

customer base, to increase the cross sales of clients, for loan 

penetration, e/-m-bank usage, and bancassurance penetration.

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 Client care and responsible risk management are 
key to success; however, our results are foremost an 
indicator of the dedicated work of our whole team. 
In 2022, NLB Banka, Sarajevo was recognized as 
the second most desirable employer in the financial 
sector in BiH, which further confirmed our efforts to 
promote human-cantered values, the development 
of human potential, prosperity, and continuous 
learning and trust.

We are also proud of other recognitions, for 
example of the Golden BAM award for the most 
successful bank in the category growth in loan 
market share; and the Best Business Move 
in Tourism by Indikator.ba for the project of 
developing winter tourism. 

We believe that the best is yet to come, look forward 
to the upcoming challenges and the footprints we 
will create continuing to justify the trust given to us 
by shareholders, partners, and clients.

Pictured: NLB Banka, Sarajevo employees

 
 
Sustainability

An important part of our mission – besides taking care for our 

customers with our commitment, knowledge, and innovative 

solutions – is to create a better life and a better future for 

us all. That is why the Group has embarked on the path of 

intensive integration of sustainability into its operations and 

business model. In the broadest sense, the Group understands 

sustainability as its operations that meet the needs of this 

generation and simultaneously preserve the opportunities of 

future generations.

Implementation of 
sustainability into the 
Group’s business model 

In 2022, the world, and especially Europe, was faced with 

impactful geopolitical changes which had direct influence on 

the role of sustainability not only in business, but in our every-

day lives as well. The shift towards net-zero became ever more 

important, and in the EU the sustainable agenda received 

strong regulatory support with the adoption of the Corporate 

Sustainability Reporting Directive. Being aware of the changes 

and their far-reaching consequences, the Group has made 

important steps forward in implementing Sustainability into its 

operations and business model, and has also received its first 

external ratings for its endeavours. 

Sustainability Framework
In 2022, the Group continued to implement the activities as 

outlined in the NLB Group Sustainability Framework. Substantial 

progress has been made in all three pillars (Sustainable 

finance, Sustainable operations, and Contribution to society) 

alongside with implementation of public targets as announced 

in Sustainability report 2021. Special attention was given to 

implementation within the Group, having a direct effect on the 

improved level of comprehensiveness of sustainability.

Net-zero Banking Alliance 
After successful feedback on the Banks’ first self-assessment 

report on implementing the United Nations Environment 

Programme Finance Initiative’s Principles for Responsible 

Banking (UNEP FI PRB), the Group has committed itself to 

contributing to a climate-positive future. In May 2022, NLB 

(as the first bank from Slovenia) officially became a member 

of the United Nations-Convened Net-Zero Banking Alliance. 

With this step, the Bank made a pledge to align the bank’s 

lending and investment portfolio with net-zero emissions by 

2050, and published its first target, which will focus on priority 

sectors where the Bank can have the most significant impact, 

i.e., the most GHG-intensive sectors within their portfolios. 

For this purpose, the Group started with a portfolio emissions 

measurement and formed its net-zero business strategy.

ESG Rating 
In December 2022, NLB received an ESG Risk Rating of 17.7 and 

was assessed by Sustainalytics to be at low risk of experiencing 

material financial impacts from ESG factors, due to its medium 

exposure and strong management of material ESG issues. 

NLB’s efforts in the field of sustainability encompass the 

environmental, social, and management aspects. 

Carbon Footprint
After last year, the Group calculated its first operational carbon 

footprint for the years 2019–2021, special attention was given to 

reduction measures in 2022. In the field of energy consumption, 

the Group (where energy market rules allow) was supplied with 

electricity from zero-carbon sources. Extensive activities went 

on in the following areas: 

•  energy efficiency – possibilities for the continuation of energy 

consumption (electricity and heating) decreasing were 

reviewed,

•  renewable energy production – a review of the Group’s 

premises for setting up solar power plants and a review of 

renewable power purchase agreements,

•  transformation of the NLB car fleet – NLB Group Sustainable 

Car Fleet Management and Company Car Policy was 

successfully adopted and marks the start of the replacement 

of ICE vehicles for electric and hybrid,

•  office space-demand optimisation.

For the purpose of calculation of GHG Protocol Category 15 
(credit portfolio GHG emissions), several important activities 

started in 2022. For larger corporate clients, the Bank 

initiated direct Scope 1, Scope 2, & Scope 3 data gathering 

processes, whereas for the SME and micro segments the Bank 

developed its own proxies. In residential mortgages, the most 

important input for GHG calculation are the buildings’ energy 

performance certificates. By end of 2022, the Bank formed the 

emission calculation for the Slovenian market, whereas in the 

Region this process will continue and will be developed in 2023.

Sustainable Financing
The Group successfully started to fulfil its publicly announced 

target to generate at least EUR 785 million of new sustainable 

corporate financing by 2030. In 2022, the Group strengthened 

its activities in ESG financing and achieved EUR 166.9 million 

of new loans, out of which EUR 105.5 million in Slovenia. The 

purpose of financing throughout the region was to support 

wind farms, solar projects, biomass projects, energy efficient 

buildings. The Group arranged and co-arranged several larger 

projects financings, including major residential real estate in 

Bosnia and Hercegovina and a large renewables project in 

Serbia. The Bank upgraded its Green loan offer with two new 

loans for legal entities – the NLB Green loan for investments 

in energy efficiency of business buildings, and the NLB Green 

loan for reducing carbon footprint. Besides that, the Bank 

signed a partnership contract with two providers of the Green 

partner loan, covering renewable energy and energy efficiency 

purposes for private individuals and legal entities. A substantial 

amount of time was dedicated to training our employees, 

whereas sustainability has been the central topic in all our 
regional events with our clients. 

EU Taxonomy
To determine the eligibility of the portfolio, the Bank followed 

a sector approach (based on Statistical Classification of 

Economic Activities in the European Community (NACE) codes). 

In such manner, EU Taxonomy was implemented in the credit 

process where credit application was amended with display 

of listed/not listed activity based on NACE and SKD activity. 

Representatives of the Bank are also actively involved in EU 

Taxonomy Task Force at the Slovenian Bank Association.

ESG Risk Management
In 2022, the Group continued with the implementation and 

upgrading of its environmental and social risk management 

requirements in line with ECB and EBA guidelines, showing 

in enhancement of the existing stress-testing framework and 

integration of ESG risks into the existing risk-management 

framework. As a systemically important institution, the Group 

successfully participated in the 2022 ECB Climate Stress test 

exercise. Being part of the Bank Association of Slovenia working 

groups, NLB experts participated in the preparation of ESG 

questionnaires on client & transaction levels, which result in an 

internal ESG rating. In recent years, the Bank signed Framework 

Agreements with the EBRD and the Contract of Guarantees 

with Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), whereas 

environmental and social performance requirements were 

implemented within the loan approval process (preparation 

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40

 of manuals & process instructions and their implementation 

and the impact of sustainable development and sustainable 

side, the Group will continue to lower its carbon footprint 

throughout the Group). More information is available in the Risk 

financing among employees within the Group in order to 

by implementing energy efficiency and energy resources 

Management chapter of this report.

successfully integrate ESG factors in the Bank’s operations.

management. NLB will sign the Commitment to respect Human 

rights in business, which is part of the National Action Plan on 

Business and Human Rights of the Republic of Slovenia, and 

appoint a Human Rights Custodian to monitor and manage 

human rights compliance. The Bank will continue to offer 

regular (internal and external) sustainability trainings to all 

its employees and new activities to the related well-being of 

employees and in line with the Full Family Friendly Company 

certificate. A NLB Procurement team will upgrade all relevant 

internal acts for the inclusion of ESG criteria in the supply chain.  

The Group will continue with its contributions to local 

communities. To raise the level of sustainability awareness 

among employees, the Bank will again organising the 

NLB Group Sustainability Day, which aims at presenting 

sustainability-related topics, holding lectures by prominent 

sustainability experts and other educational activities. Our 

sponsorship and donations will continue to be based on 

supporting and following the UN Sustainable Development 

Goals.

For more information, please refer to:

•  the chapter Risk Management, subchapter Incorporating ESG 

Risks

•  the Chapter Corporate Governance

•  Note 6 of the financial part of the report

•  the chapter Statement of Management of Risk

•  the NLB Group Sustainability Report 2022 

•  the Pillar 3 Disclosures

Sustainability Training 
With the goal to enhance and further develop the skills and 

Other Sustainability-related Topics 
Many of these outcomes reflect ongoing, long-term challenges, 

knowledge of employees, strong focus was given to different 

but at the same time they reflect the Group’s ability to reach 

levels and manners of sustainability training, namely:

tangible results in this area. It should be mentioned that in 

•  external (expert) ESG training programmes,

2022 several other sustainability-related topics were regularly 

•  internal workshops to facilitate the upgrading of employee 

addressed, such as:

skills in the ESG area (ESG Documentary Framework – 

•  Procurement

Commitments & Regulatory Requirements with Overview of 

•  Remuneration policy

Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) in 

NLB and NLB Group),

•  Digitalization 

•  Diversity policy

•  workshops where comprehensive integration of ESG 

•  CSR projects corresponding to UN SDGs

elements into the Group’s risk management framework and 

•  Talent development and caring for employees

corresponding data requirements were presented,

•  Partnership and capacity-building

•  regular training for NLB Group Supervisory Board members,

•  Innovation

•  providing essential information on sustainability and its 

implementation to the Group to competence lines and 

working groups in the Group.

NLB Group Sustainability Governance Structure
With the adoption of the NLB Sustainability Programme at 

the end of 2020, and the implementation of the NLB Group 

Sustainability Framework in the fall of 2021, the Group 

accelerated implementation of sustainability elements into its 

business model and upgraded sustainable operations of the 

Bank. Sustainability is centrally managed by a coordination 

team in NLB, which regularly reports to the Management and 

Supervisory Board. The sustainability team closely works with 

regional ESG coordinators and ESMS Officers, who manage 

the topic on the Group level. All relevant internal stakeholders 

(Management board of NLB and the Group members, 

designated directors, ESG coordinators, and ESMS officers) 

convene on a quarterly basis at the Sustainability Committee 

chaired by the CEO, which serves as a forum to address the 

most relevant sustainability topics. In 2022, four regular and one 

ad hoc sessions were carried out. For more information, please 
refer to the chapter Corporate Governance and the NLB Group 

Sustainability Report 2022. 

NLB Group Sustainability Day
For its employees, the Bank organised its first Group-wide 

sustainability awareness event – ‘NLB Group Sustainability 

Day.’ The main goal was to increase awareness, understanding, 

Outlook
In 2023, the Group will continue to implement its sustainability 

agenda in all three pillars. In the Sustainable Financing Pillar, 

the primary focus of the Group will be in development and 

implementation of net-zero business strategy and measurement 

of portfolio emissions. First targets related to reducing its 

footprint in carbon-intensive industries will be published 

by the end of 2023. The Group will continue its engagement 

in contributing to sustainable finance by incorporating 

environmental, social, and governance risks into its business 

strategies, risk management framework, and internal 

governance in accordance with ECB and EBA guidelines and 

best banking practises. The Group aims to improve its ESG 

rating and will finalize implementation of EBRD environmental 

and social performance requirements in its business model. The 

Group will continue to support its clients in their green transition 

– fine tuning its products and expanding its green financing.

In the Sustainable Operations Pillar, the Group will disclose all 

relevant ESG data and further implement the EU Taxonomy. 

Focus will also be on analysis and implementation of the newly 

adopted Corporative Sustainability Reporting Directive, as 

well as the upcoming Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence 

Directive. The Bank will further strengthen sustainability 

governance and will put extra effort in standardisation of 

sustainability throughout the Group. On the operational 

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 Corporate Social 
Responsibility

The Group remains determined in its intention to create better 

footprints in its home region. It strives to increase the share of 

Support for professional and youth sports
The Group's socially responsible operations are traditionally 

focused on the strong promotion of sports. Its goal is to raise 

awareness about the importance of physical exercise for 

preserving health, which during the previous years was a 

common concern and focused public's attention on the positive 

CSR activities that pursue the UN SDG every year. The Group’s 

impact that sport has on rehabilitation, socialisation, and 

target for 2022 – at least 40% of all CSR activities in every bank 

inclusion. The Group is particularly proud of the long tradition 

member should be aligned with UN SDG – was achieved, even 

of NLB Youth Sports project in Slovenia (in 2022, the project 

more, it was even exceeded. More information is also available 

continued for the eighth consecutive year with NLB supporting 

in NLB Group Sustainability Report 2022.

65 sports clubs) and NLB Wheel – an International Wheelchair 

Basketball League.

Environmental care – #FrameOfHelp focused 
on sustainable ideas
In 2022, the Group continued with the #FrameOfHelp project 

Culture and protection of cultural heritage
Most of the Group's efforts in protection of cultural heritage in 

for the third consecutive year, this time offering opportunity to 

2022 were concentrated on Bankarium, the Slovenian Banking 

regional companies that prioritise sustainable ideas. As many 

Museum. Founded by NLB, it is the first and only banking 

as 300 companies participated in the project with which the 

museum in the country. Visitors can walk through a 5,000-year-

Group sought sustainable solutions to challenges of the future. 
Among 60 finalists, three regional winners were selected and 

old history of world banking in a multimedia introduction, 
explore the 200-year-old banking heritage on the Slovenian 

awarded sponsorship funds and professional consulting on 

territory, learn about all the currencies that were valid here 

the successful introduction of sustainable business into the 

during this period, as well as different economic systems, a 

company's strategic and operational processes. The awarded 

major banking institution, and key personalities of the Slovenian 

companies presented solutions on circular economy with 

banking system. 

artificial intelligence being the key, water consumption and food 

production, and modern technology to face the threat of fires. 

Business and financial literacy
As a financial mentor, the Group is dedicated to counselling in 

the field of financial literacy. Bankarium is therefore not just a 

museum – it is also a financial literacy centre where visitors, 

mostly schoolchildren, can play digital games and quizzes, 

and learn or check their financial literacy in a playful way. 

Furthermore, NLB Banka, Podgorica helps customers with 

a special web platform within the web portal, offers advice 

and knowledge on social networks, and teaches courses at 

elementary schools and preschool institutions. NLB Banka, 

Sarajevo supports the Youth Business Camp – a project that 

educates and implements workshops with young people who 

want to develop in the business world. 

Humanitarian activities -  
End of the year charitable donation 
The Group concluded 2022 with charitable donations in all 

of the markets of its operations in a total amount of more 

than EUR 500,000 to various associations, humanitarian 

organisations, and groups, chosen by employees.

Inclusiveness – EBRD Support Program  
"Women in Business"
NLB Banka, Podgorica, the bank of primary choice for more 
than 32% of registered businesses managed by women in 

Montenegro, is the first commercial bank in this country that 

joined the EBRD Support Program "Women in Business", with 

the aim of supporting the potential of female entrepreneurs, 

providing access to financing, but also to the knowledge 

needed for business growth.

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MB Statement

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Financial Report

Overview of Financial 
Performance

The Group achieved a profit after tax in the amount of EUR 

446.9 million, 89% or EUR 210.5 million more than the year 

before (2021: EUR 236.4 million), with the EUR 184.1 million 

contribution of N Banka.

The Group’s result is based on the following key drivers:

•  Acquisition of N Banka, with a positive effect from negative 

goodwill in the amount of EUR 172.8 million.

•  EUR 2,493.9 million YoY increase of the Group’s gross loans 

to customers, with EUR 953.7 million increase due to the 

acquisition of N Banka; impressive new loan production with 

increasing interest rates supported growth of net interest 

income. 

•  An increase of the deposit base of the Group, EUR 2,386.9 

million YoY, of which EUR 898.5 million due to the acquisition 

of N Banka. 

Figure 6: Profit after tax of NLB Group – evolution YoY (in EUR millions)

•  Net interest income increased EUR 69.8 million YoY without N 

previously written-off receivables. Other impairments and 

Banka’s contribution mostly due to a higher volume of loans. 

provisions were net established in the amount of EUR 11.4 

Interest rates on loans and on central bank balances were 

million.

also increasing in the second half of the year - which had 

•  ROE a.t. stood at 19.9% or 12.2% without inclusion of negative 

positive influence on interest income. 

goodwill (N Banka EUR 172.8 million, NLB Lease&Go Leasing, 

•  Net fee and commission income increased 12% YoY without N 

Beograd EUR 0.1 million).

Banka’s contribution; the increase was recorded in all banks 

•  Cost of risk was 14 bps, with good asset quality trends and a 

of the Group, in the Bank by EUR 9.6 million due to higher fees 

decisive workout approach.

from cards, payments, investment funds and bancassurance 

•  A strong Total Capital Ratio (TCR) of 19.2%, mainly due to 

products, and income from high balance deposit fee, which 

inclusion of negative goodwill from N Banka, partial inclusion 

was cancelled in August. This cancellation negatively affected 

of 2022 result, and new AT1 and Tier 2 notes.  

net fee and commission income, but was compensated with 

•  The multi-year declining trend of the non-performing credit 

positive evolution of the interest income for central bank 

portfolio stock continued, mostly due to repayments, cured 

balances.

clients, collection, and the sale of claims. The combination 

•  Total costs increased YoY in most Group banking members, 

of successful resolution of NPL and credit growth of a high-

due to increasing employee costs and other general and 

quality portfolio resulted in the decrease of gross NPL ratio 

administrative expenses, mostly related to the overall inflation 

(EBA def.) from 3.4% to 2.4% YoY, and the NPE ratio (EBA def.) 

in the region. 

by 0.4 p.p. YoY to 1.3%.

•  The Group established net impairments and provisions for 

•  Unencumbered liquidity reserves portfolio amounted to 

credit risk in total amount of EUR 17.5 million, with portfolio 

EUR 9,187.5 million (39.0% of total assets).

development along with the portfolio growth being the key 

factors for the establishment, while the impact was partially 

offset by releases of provisions from successful collection of 

95.6                         

36.2                           

-0.1                          

-44.9                        

-37.6                 

-0.3                

172.9                         

-11.7                         

0.5                  

28.1          

25.7

8.1            

-1.9          

1.8           

-22.1        

-22.8        

172.8          

-38.7         

1.1            

-0.3          

0.1         

236.4

69.8         

-9.1          

-2.6          

0.5           

0.0

446.9

184.1

2021

Net interest income

Net fee and 
commission income

Other net non-
interest income

Total costs

Impairments and 
provisions

Gains and 
losses(i)

Negative goodwill

Income tax

Result of non-
controlling interests

2022

 NLB Group w/o N Banka    

 N Banka

(i) Gains less losses from capital investments in subsidiaries, associates, and joint ventures. 

Contents

43

 EUR
446.9
million

of net profit

EUR
172.8
million

negative goodwill 
from the N Banka 
acquisition

Recurring profit before impairments and provisions of the 

All banks reported a profit on stand-alone basis and positively 

Group totalled EUR 318.7 million, EUR 93.2 million or 41% 

contributed to the Group’s result. The largest contribution of 

higher YoY, with a EUR 9.6 million contribution from N Banka. 

EUR 184.1 million came from N Banka due to negative goodwill 

In Q2 2022, the result before impairments and provisions was 

from the acquisition, followed by contribution of the Bank and 

influenced by a one-time yearly payment of regulatory costs 

NLB Komercijalna Banka, Beograd with EUR 83.3 million and 

in the Bank (EUR 2.1 million Single Resolution Fund (SRF) and 

EUR 66.2 million, respectively. The YoY contribution of the Bank 

EUR 7.6 million Deposit Guarantee Scheme (DGS)), while in Q4 

was lower due to higher total costs, higher net impairments and 

various non-recurring effects were recorded (e.g., volatility of 

provisions, and the positive effects from non-recurring items 

financial markets, exchange rate differences, and the valuation 

in 2021. However, it was partially neutralized by higher regular 

of real estates). 

Figure 7: Result before impairments and provisions of NLB Group  
(in EUR millions)

income. SEE banks contributed 39% to the Group result with 

growth achieved in all banks, except NLB Banka, Skopje. For 

more information on banks’ operations, please refer to chapter 

Strategic Foreign Markets.

+34% 
YoY

338.3                                                                

251.5                           

260.6                           

26.0
-35.1

2021

354.9                                                                

19.5
-36.1

2022

71.8                             

77.0                             

1.5

-6.7

67.6                             

81.5                             

2.4

-16.4

91.7                            

95.6                            

2.6

-6.5

107.2

100.7

13.0

-6.5

Q1 2022

Q2 2022

Q3 2022

Q4 2022

 Result before impairments and provisions w/o non-recurring income and regulatory costs   
 Non-recurring net non-interest income
 Regulatory costs

Figure 8: Profit after tax by company – contribution (in EUR millions)

-31%
YoY

120.5      

83.3                    

184.1          

N
G
W
E
U
R

.

1
7
2
8
m

i
l
l
i

o
n

66.2

2.2

 NLB Banka, Beograd
 Komercijalna Banka, Beograd

22.7

18.4

2021 

64.0

4.3

2022

+192%
YoY

66.2           

-3%
YoY

34.1     33.1           

22.7   

+6%
YoY

+14%
YoY

18.3   

19.4            

9.7    

11.1           

+33%
YoY

26.6            

20.0   

+329%
YoY

16.6

3.9    

NLB

N Banka

NLB Komercijalna 
Banka, Beograd

NLB Banka, 
Skopje

NLB Banka, 
Banja Luka

NLB Banka, 
Sarajevo

NLB Banka, 
Prishtina

NLB Banka, 
Podgorica(i)

 2021    

 2022 

(i) Result for 2021 for NLB Banka, Podgorica includes also result of Komercijalna Banka, Podgorica (merger in November 2021).

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Balance sheet volume of the Group totalled to EUR 

24,160.2 million at the end of the year, with an 83% share 

of the total funding represented by customers’ deposits to 

support lending activity with LTD ratio at 65.3%. 

Figure 9: Balance sheet structure of NLB Group on  
31 December 2022 (in EUR millions)

State loans
2.3% 

Corporate  
loans
47.0% 

Individual 
loans
50.7% 

24,160

Other assets 
715

Financial assets 
4,877

Cash equivalents  
& placements  
with banks 
5,494

Net loans  
to customers 
13,073

24,160

Total equity 
2,422

Other liabilities 
507

Other debt  
securities in issue 
307

Subordinated  
debt securities 
509

Deposits from banks and 
central banks & Borrowings  
388

LTD
65.3%

Deposits from  
customers 
20,028

State deposits
2.6% 

Corporate  
deposits
27.8% 

Individual 
deposits
69.6% 

13,073

20,028

Assets

Liabilities

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 Income statement

Table 12: Income statement of NLB Group and NLB  

NLB Group

Net interest income

Net fee and commission income

Dividend income

Net income from financial transactions

Net other income

Net non-interest income

Total net operating income

Employee costs

Other general and administrative expenses

Depreciation and amortisation

Total costs

Result before impairments and provisions

Impairments and provisions for credit risk

Other impairments and provisions

Impairments and provisions

Gains less losses from capital investments in 
subsidiaries, associates, and joint ventures

Negative goodwill

Result before tax

Income tax

Result of non-controlling interests

Result after tax

NLB

Net interest income

Net fee and commission income

Dividend income

Net income from financial transactions

Net other income

Net non-interest income

Total net operating income

Employee costs

Other general and administrative expenses

Depreciation and amortisation

Total costs

Result before impairments and provisions

Impairments and provisions for credit risk

Other impairments and provisions

Impairments and provisions

Result before tax

Income tax

Result after tax

2022

2021

Change YoY

o/w N Banka 
contribution

Q4 2022

Q3 2022

Q2 2022

Q1 2022

in EUR millions

504.9

273.4

0.2

36.6

-16.6

293.6

798.5

-257.7

-155.2

-47.4

-460.3

338.3

-17.5

-11.4

-28.9

0.8

172.9

483.1

-25.2

11.0

446.9

2022

177.0

129.1

56.0

9.1

-5.1

189.2

366.2

-117.3

-73.6

-17.0

-207.9

158.3

-14.7

20.4

5.8

164.1

-4.5

159.6

409.4

237.2

0.2

38.4

-18.3

257.6

666.9

-231.3

-137.5

-46.5

-415.4

251.5

35.8

-27.1

8.8

1.1

0.0

261.4

-13.5

11.5

236.4

2021

139.1

119.6

79.6

19.0

4.2

222.4

361.5

-107.0

-59.1

-17.5

-183.6

177.9

26.1

7.5

33.6

211.5

-3.0

208.4

95.6

36.2

0.0

-1.8

1.7

36.1

131.6

-26.3

-17.7

-0.9

-44.9

86.7

-53.3

15.7

-37.6

-0.3

172.9

221.7

-11.7

-0.5

210.5

25.7

8.1

0.0

-7.0

8.8

9.9

35.6

-14.2

-6.8

-1.9

-22.8

12.7

-1.6

2.6

1.1

0.0

172.8

186.6

-2.6

0.0

184.1

 23%

 15%

 9%

 -5%

 9%

 14%

 20%
 -11%

 -13%

 -2%

 -11%

 34%
-

 58%

-

 -30%

-

 85%
 -86%

 -4%

 89%

151.8

69.2

0.0

12.6

1.2

83.0

234.9

-71.2

-44.2

-12.2

-127.7

107.2

-25.0

-6.3

-31.2

-0.4

0.1

75.7

-4.2

2.4

69.1

126.7

70.5

0.1

10.3

-2.0

78.9

205.6

-63.7

-38.3

-11.9

-113.9

91.7

9.8

0.2

10.0

-0.4

0.0

101.3

-10.4

0.1

90.8

118.6

69.1

0.1

8.5

-12.7

65.0

183.6

-65.2

-39.0

-11.8

-116.0

67.6

1.6

-4.9

-3.3

1.0

0.0

65.2

-5.4

4.3

55.5

107.8

64.5

0.0

5.2

-3.0

66.7

174.5

-57.5

-33.7

-11.5

-102.7

71.8

-4.0

-0.4

-4.4

0.6

172.8

240.8

-5.2

4.1

231.5

Change YoY

Q4 2022

Q3 2022

Q2 2022

Q1 2022

in EUR millions

37.9

9.6

-23.6

-9.9

-9.3

-33.2

4.7

-10.3

-14.5

0.5

-24.3

-19.6

-40.8

13.0

-27.8

-47.4

-1.4

-48.8

 27%

 8%

 -30%

 -52%

-

 -15%

 1%

 -10%

 -24%

 3%

 -13%

 -11%

-

 173%

 -83%

 -22%

 -47%

 -23%

57.2

31.3

21.6

3.3

2.1

58.4

115.6

-32.9

-22.9

-4.2

-60.0

55.5

-8.0

20.5

12.5

68.1

-2.7

65.4

42.3

33.7

0.8

2.7

2.0

39.2

81.5

-28.4

-17.4

-4.2

-49.9

31.6

-2.8

0.0

-2.9

28.7

-1.4

27.3

39.7

32.3

24.2

1.9

-7.5

50.9

90.6

-29.5

-17.9

-4.3

-51.6

39.0

-4.6

-0.1

-4.7

34.3

-0.1

34.2

37.9

31.8

9.5

1.1

-1.7

40.6

78.5

-26.5

-15.4

-4.3

-46.3

32.3

0.8

0.0

0.8

33.0

-0.4

32.7

MB Statement

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Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

46

 Net interest income
Figure 10: Net interest income of NLB Group (in EUR millions)

+23% YoY

+17% w/o  
N Banka

504.9                                        

27.6

409.4               

477.8               

542.2                                        

-68.5

2021

-63.0

-1.9

2022

 Interest income   
 N Banka interest income
 Interest expenses
 N Banka interest expenses

EUR
798.5
million

of total net operating 
income

107.8               

2.8

120.2               

118.6               

8.1

125.7               

126.7               

7.9

134.6               

8.7

151.8

161.6

-0.3

-15.0

-0.8

-14.5

-0.3

-15.5

-0.5

-18.0

Q1 2022

Q2 2022

Q3 2022

Q4 2022

Net interest income of the Group accounted for 63% of the 

Group’s total net revenues (2021: 61%) and totalled EUR 504.9 

million. Out of the EUR 95.6 million increase, EUR 25.7 million 

was contributed by N Banka. 

Not considering the contribution of N Banka, a higher level of 

interest income was achieved YoY, as a result of higher volumes, 

increase of key ECB and reference interest rates, and repricing 

of new loan production as a response to the rising inflation 

environment.

Interest expenses were influenced by the Bank's repayment of 

Targeted Longer-Term Refinancing Operations (TLTRO) 

financing with the ECB at a very favourable interest rate of -1% 

p.a. in June, issue of MREL-eligible Senior Preferred notes in 

the amount of EUR 300 million in July, and subordinated Tier 

2 notes in the aggregate nominal amount of EUR 225 million 

in November. These new issues increased interest expenses 

for EUR 8.8 million in second half of the year. In contrast, the 

interest expenses for deposits in SEE banks decreased due to 

the decrease of interest rates.

Figure 11: Net interest margin and Operational business margin of NLB 
Group(i) (quarterly data)

3.32%                                         

3.45%                                          

3.60%                                         

3.87%

Consequently, the annual net interest margin of the Group was 

improved by 0.23 p.p to 2.30% in 2022. The annual operational 

business margin was 3.57%, 0.29 p.p. higher YoY, due to net 

interest income and net fee and commission income growth. 

The increase in last quarter was solely due to the net interest 

2.07%                                         

2.16%                                          

2.27%                                         

2.65%

income growth.

Q1 2022                        

Q2 2022                        

Q3 2022                        

Q4 2022

 Net interest margin   
 Operational business margin

(i) Calculated on the basis of average interest-bearing assets. 

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 Net non-interest income
Figure 12: Net non-interest income of NLB Group (in EUR millions) 

+14% YoY
+10% w/o 
N Banka

293.6                                             

19.5

0.2

0.5
8.1

257.6                 

26.0

0.2

237.2                  

265.3                                             

1.5

0.6

66.7                    

1.1

65.0                    

2.4
2.9

0.1

2.6
5.7

78.9                    

83.0

0.1
0.9

0.8

13.0
3.2

63.5                    

66.2                    

69.6                    

66.0

-5.9

-6.6

2021

2022

Q1 2022

Q2 2022

Q3 2022

Q4 2022

 Net fee and commission income   
 N Banka net fee and commission income
 Dividend income
 Recurring other net non-interest income
 Non-recurring other net non-interest income

The net non-interest income reached EUR 293.6 million, of 

rate differences, valuation of real estates). At the same time, the 

which EUR 9.9 million was contributed by N Banka. A major 

2021 result was positively affected by non-recurring valuation 

part of the net non-interest income has been derived from the 

income in the amount of EUR 14.8 million from the repayment 

net fee and commission income, which grew YoY, mostly in the 

of exposure classified as non-performing, EUR 9.0 million of 

Bank (higher fees from investment funds and bancassurance 

other operation income from the settlement of a legal dispute, 

products, high balance deposit fee, and higher fees from cards 

and negatively affected by a EUR 8.1 million loss from the sale of 

and payment services). 

Komercijalna Banka, Banja Luka.

No major one-offs that influenced net non-interest income 

In Q3, two important effects on net fee and commissions were 

were recorded in the current year, just various smaller ones, 

observed, the cancellation of the high balance deposit fee, and 

in the total amount of EUR 19.5 million, the majority of which 

the Serbian central bank decision to contain retail fees for a 

occurred in Q4 (e.g., volatility of financial markets, exchange 

limited period.

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48

 Total costs
Figure 13: Total costs of NLB Group (in EUR millions) 

Breakdown of Other general 
and administrative expenses(i)

Other costs
6%

Material
4%

Services
30%

EUR 155.2 million

+11% YoY

+5% w/o 
N Banka

460.3                                                    

1.9

45.5

6.8

148.4                                                     

14.2

}

415.4                     

46.5

137.5                     

Communications
7%

Marketing
10%

Technology
21%

231.3                     

243.5                                                     

11.3

102.7                     

0.2
0.9

1.4

32.8                       

56.1                       

11.2

116.0                     

0.6
2.6

4.7

36.4                       

60.5                       

Buildings &
equipment
21%

11.3

113.9                     

0.6
2.5

4.2

35.8                       

59.5                       

11.7

0.6
0.8

3.9

127.7

43.4

67.3

2021

2022

Q1 2022

Q2 2022

Q3 2022

Q4 2022

 Employee costs
 Other general and administrative expenses
 Depreciation and amortisation
 N Banka employee costs
 N Banka other general and administrative expenses
 N Banka depreciation and amortisation

(i) Further information available in the Note 4.9. of the financial part of the report.

Total costs amounted to EUR 460.3 million of which EUR 22.8 
million from N Banka. Without the N Banka contribution, the 

Group banks in Serbia (NLB Banka, Beograd and Komercijalna 
Banka, Beograd), electricity costs (EUR 4.3 million higher YoY), 

network optimisation, etc.) to keep costs low. However, 
given the circumstances and economic situation, significant 

costs increased YoY by EUR 22.1 million due to an increase in 

and software maintenance (EUR 2.7 million due to the N Banka 

inflationary pressures have been noticed across all cost 

the Bank and in most of the SEE banking members. The Group 

acquisition).

is affected by the inflation and rising employee, material, and 

categories consuming much of the successful efficiency 

measures across the Group, and specifically in Serbia. 

energy costs, but has successfully kept them under control. 

Distribution of costs throughout the year was regular, with 

Combined with further planned investments into technology 

The largest YoY increases were recorded on employee costs 

higher share occurring in the last quarter of the year (28% of 

enhancements across the Group, upward cost trends are 

(EUR 12.2 million without N Banka contribution) and general 

total costs in current and previous year).

expected for 2023 which will still be a transition year with regard 

and administrative expenses (EUR 10.9 million without N Banka 

to integration processes in Serbia and Slovenia. 

contribution) with increasing marketing costs, especially in the 

The Group is undertaking several strategic initiatives (channel 

Bank related to the acquisition of N Banka and merger of the 

strategy, digitalization, going paperless, lean process, branch 

CIR stood at 57.6%, a 4.6 p.p. decrease YoY.

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49

 Impairments and provisions
Figure 14: Impairments and provisions of NLB Group (in EUR millions)

CoR
(bps)

-41

14

8.8                    

35.8                    

-27.1                 

-8.9                                            

-8.6                                            

-11.4                                                                 

-28.9                                           

10.0                   

9.8                    

-0.2

4.9                                             

-8.9

-0.4

-4.4                   

1.6

-4.9                                                

-3.3                 

-25.0

-6.3

-31.2

2021

2022

Q1 2022

Q2 2022

Q3 2022

Q4 2022

 Impairments and provisions for credit risk
 Other impairments and provisions
 N Banka 12 month expected credit losses recognised at acquisition date

The Group established net impairments and provisions 

Other impairments and provisions were established in the 

for credit risk in the amount of EUR 17.5 million. Portfolio 

amount of EUR 11.4 million, of which EUR 4.6 million and EUR 

development along with the portfolio growth during 2022 

5.7 million for the reorganisation in NLB Komercijalna Banka, 

was the key factor contributing to the establishment of net 

Beograd and N Banka, respectively. In contrast, EUR 8.4 million 

provisions. At the same time, expected 12-month credit losses 

provisions for contingent liabilities, which were recognised at 

were recognised at the acquisition date for the performing 

the acquisition of N Banka, where released in December, when 

portfolio of N Banka (EUR 8.9 million). As a result of less 

the possible obligation ceased to exist.

favourable macroeconomic forecasts and risk, parameters 

deteriorated, and additional impairments and provisions were 

The Group’s cost of risk settled at 14 bps.

formed in Q3 and Q4 2022. The positive effects derived also 

from a successful collection of previously written-off receivables 

due to successful NPL resolution, mostly in the corporate 

segment.

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50

 Statement of financial position

Table 13: Statement of financial position of NLB Group and NLB

NLB Group

ASSETS

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and 
other demand deposits at banks

Loans to banks

Net loans to customers

Gross loans to customers

 - Corporate

 - Individuals

 - State

Impairments and valuation of loans to customers

Financial assets

 - Trading book

 - Non-trading book

Investments in subsidiaries, associates, and joint ventures

Property and equipment

Investment property

Intangible assets

Other assets

TOTAL ASSETS

LIABILITIES

Deposits from customers

 - Corporate

 - Individuals

 - State

Deposits form banks and central banks

Borrowings

Subordinated debt securities

Other debt securities in issue

Other liabilities

Equity

Non-controlling interests

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

(i) Excluding funding provided by NLB in the amount of EUR 64.0 million.

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

Change YoY

31 Dec 2022

30 Sep 2022

30 Jun 2022

31 Mar 2022

in EUR millions

o/w N Banka

202.4 (i)

0.0

937.9

953.7

589.3

363.6

0.8

-15.8

62.1

0.0

62.1

0.0

7.9

1.0

1.5

16.2

5,271.4

223.0

13,073.0

13,397.3

6,345.7

6,743.4

308.2

-324.4

4,877.4

21.6

4,855.8

11.7

251.3

35.6

58.2

358.6

5,005.1

140.7

10,587.1

10,903.5

4,996.0

5,621.1

286.3

-316.3

5,208.3

7.7

5,200.6

11.5

247.0

47.6

59.1

271.1

266.3

82.3

2,485.9

2,493.9

1,349.7

1,122.4

21.8

-8.0

-330.9

13.9

-344.8

0.2

4.3

-12.0

-0.8

87.5

24,160.2

1,229.0

21,577.5

2,582.7

20,027.7

5,565.6

13,948.7

513.4

106.4

281.1

508.8

307.2

506.7

2,365.6

56.7

24,160.2

898.5

447.4

409.6

41.5

0.0

116.2

0.0

0.0

33.0

181.3

0.0

1,229.0

17,640.8

4,463.7

12,680.8

496.4

71.8

932.6

288.5

0.0

427.6

2,078.7

137.4

21,577.5

2,386.9

1,101.9

1,268.0

17.1

34.6

-651.5

220.3

307.2

79.1

286.9

-80.7

2,582.7

 5%

 58%

 23%

 23%

 27%

 20%

 8%

 -3%

 -6%

 181%

 -7%

 1%

 2%

 -25%

 -1%

 32%

 12%

 14%

 25%

 10%

 3%

 48%

 -70%

 76%

-

 18%

 14%

 -59%

 12%

5,271.4

223.0

13,073.0

13,397.3

6,345.7

6,743.4

308.2

-324.4

4,877.4

21.6

4,855.8

11.7

251.3

35.6

58.2

358.6

4,911.4

210.7

12,925.3

13,244.0

6,321.7

6,635.5

286.9

-318.7

4,765.1

21.3

4,743.8

11.9

255.8

37.4

55.2

325.0

4,321.1

176.8

12,620.2

12,944.2

6,213.5

6,445.0

285.7

-324.0

4,919.5

14.9

4,904.6

13.1

252.6

45.3

55.3

326.3

4,865.4

162.8

12,108.7

12,434.6

5,884.6

6,242.1

307.9

-325.9

5,219.9

10.9

5,209.0

12.1

254.0

48.2

57.8

290.2

24,160.2

23,497.8

22,730.3

23,019.1

20,027.7

5,565.6

13,948.7

513.4

106.4

281.1

508.8

307.2

506.7

2,365.6

56.7

24,160.2

19,573.1

5,387.4

13,569.2

616.5

108.3

322.0

290.4

302.6

504.3

2,339.8

57.2

23,497.8

19,151.1

5,091.8

13,498.1

561.2

138.0

326.8

287.8

0.0

507.6

2,195.6

123.5

22,730.3

18,525.8

4,934.8

13,097.3

493.6

115.0

1,241.0

287.0

0.0

474.3

2,254.4

121.6

23,019.1

MB Statement

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51

 NLB

ASSETS

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and 
other demand deposits at banks

Loans to banks

Net loans to customers

Gross loans to customers

 - Corporate

 - Individuals

 - State

Impairments and valuation of loans to customers

Financial assets

 - Trading book

 - Non-trading book

Investments in subsidiaries, associates, and joint ventures

Property and equipment

Investment property

Intangible assets

Other assets

TOTAL ASSETS

LIABILITIES

Deposits from customers

 - Corporate

 - Individuals

 - State

Deposits form banks and central banks

Borrowings

Subordinated liabilities

Other debt securities in issue

Other liabilities

Equity

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

Change YoY

31 Dec 2022

30 Sep 2022

30 Jun 2022

31 Mar 2022

in EUR millions

3,339.0

350.6

6,062.3

6,157.4

2,947.1

3,084.3

126.0

-95.1

2,960.7

21.7

2,939.0

908.6

78.6

6.8

30.4

202.3

3,250.4

199.3

5,153.0

5,250.4

2,411.1

2,694.4

144.9

-97.4

3,034.3

7.7

3,026.6

786.0

86.1

9.2

29.5

151.7

88.6

151.3

909.3

907.0

536.0

390.0

-18.9

2.2

-73.6

14.0

-87.6

122.6

-7.5

-2.4

1.0

50.6

13,939.3

12,699.5

1,239.8

10,984.4

2,874.9

7,916.2

193.3

212.7

57.5

508.8

307.2

265.9

1,602.9

13,939.3

9,659.6

2,436.7

7,078.9

144.0

109.3

873.9

288.5

0.0

216.3

1,551.9

12,699.5

1,324.8

438.2

837.3

49.3

103.3

-816.4

220.3

307.2

49.6

50.9

1,239.8

 3%

 76%

 18%

 17%

 22%

 14%

 -13%

 2%

 -2%

 182%

 -3%

 16%

 -9%

 -26%

 3%

 33%

 10%

 14%

 18%

 12%

 34%

 95%

 -93%

 76%

-

 23%

 3%

 10%

3,339.0

350.6

6,062.3

6,157.4

2,947.1

3,084.3

126.0

-95.1

2,960.7

21.7

2,939.0

908.6

78.6

6.8

30.4

202.3

3,019.1

278.2

5,931.7

6,024.8

2,868.5

3,026.4

129.9

-93.1

2,966.1

20.9

2,945.2

871.4

78.8

6.8

27.6

178.5

2,368.6

300.9

5,655.5

5,753.0

2,722.9

2,901.9

128.2

-97.5

3,121.1

10.7

3,110.4

809.2

79.5

9.0

28.0

185.9

3,127.4

406.6

5,327.7

5,426.8

2,499.6

2,791.9

135.3

-99.1

3,171.5

8.1

3,163.4

791.1

81.5

9.1

28.2

132.0

13,939.3

13,358.3

12,557.7

13,075.1

10,984.4

2,874.9

7,916.2

193.3

212.7

57.5

508.8

307.2

265.9

1,602.9

13,939.3

10,604.9

2,804.7

7,616.5

183.8

257.8

45.9

290.4

302.6

271.5

1,585.1

13,358.3

10,296.6

2,592.2

7,603.0

101.4

169.5

44.6

287.8

0.0

263.1

1,496.1

12,557.7

9,914.5

2,547.1

7,254.7

112.6

258.2

857.8

287.0

0.0

213.1

1,544.6

13,075.1

Balance sheet volume of the Group increased by EUR 2,582.7 

There was a decrease of borrowings totalling EUR 651.5 

Issued subordinated Additional Tier 1 notes in the amount of 

million YoY totalling to EUR 24,160.2 million, mainly due to the 

million, due to TLTRO early repayment (EUR 750 million) and 

EUR 82 million increased the equity of the Bank in September.

acquisition of N Banka (EUR 1,229.0 million). The strong inflow 

SID repayment (EUR 70 million) in the Bank in June, but there 

of deposits (EUR 2,386.9 million, of which EUR 898.5 million 

was an increase of debt securities with the issuance of MREL 

from N Banka) enabled substantial growth of gross loans to 

eligible Senior Preferred notes in the amount of EUR 300 million 

customers (EUR 2,493.9 million, of which EUR 953.7 million from 

at 6% coupon rate in July, and subordinated Tier 2 notes in the 

N Banka). 

aggregate nominal amount of EUR 225 million in November. 

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 Assets
Figure 15: Total assets of NLB Group – structure (in EUR millions)

+12% YoY

+6% w/o 
N Banka

24,160.2                                                          

715.5

4,877.4                                                             

13,073.0                                                           

5,494.3                                                             

31 Dec 2022

21,577.5                                                           

636.3

5,208.3                                                             

10,587.1                                                           

5,145.7                                                             

31 Dec 2021

 Cash equivalents, placements with banks and loans to banks   
 Net loans to customers
 Financial Assets
 Other Assets

57.7% of the total assets were related to Group members 

located in Slovenia (2021: 54.3%) and 19.3% in Serbia (2021: 

22.2%). 

Figure 16: Total assets of NLB Group by country (in %)(i)

22.2%

19.3%

Slovenia

Serbia

North Macedonia

BiH

Kosovo

Montenegro

8.1%
7.6%

7.4%
7.4%

4.3%
4.5%

3.6%
3.4%

Other

0.1%
0.1%

 31 Dec 2021    

 31 Dec 2022

(i) The geographical analysis includes a breakdown of items with respect to the 
country in which individual NLB Group members are located.

22,931.2

4,815.3

688.9

12,135.1

5,291.9

31 Dec 2022  
w/o N Banka

54.3%

57.7%

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 The lending activity continued with enviable growth in all the 

related to generally positive economic sentiment and successful 

environment has become strongly unpredictable, and a higher 

banks in 2022. The highest increases were recorded in Slovenia, 

marketing campaigns. The volume of consumer loans was 

demand for and utilisations of working capital facilities was 

with a 20% YoY increase of gross loans to corporate and state 

on the same level YoY, however, the new production in 2022 

recognised. With the emerging of energy crisis, the Bank rapidly 

(43% with N Banka) and a 14% YoY increase of gross loans to 

amounted to EUR 254.7 million and was higher compared to the 

responded to its clients’ needs and organised the arrangement 

individuals (28% with N Banka). Strategic foreign markets also 

previous year (EUR 229.3 million). 

of new syndication financing to the respective energy sector.

achieved strong growth, with 12% and 11% YoY increase of gross 

loans to individuals and corporate and state, respectively. 

Gross loans to corporate and state in the Bank recorded a 

The volume of gross loans to customers in Strategic Foreign 

EUR 517.1 million growth YoY, where growth derived from the 

Markets also increased, with even higher new production in 

Gross loans to individuals in the Bank grew mostly due to an 

corporate segment (EUR 536.0 million), while the state segment 

consumer loans compared to the more than successful previous 

increasing volume of housing loans (EUR 358.4 million YoY, with 

exposures shrank by EUR 18.9 million. New production was 

year, with all the Group member banks recording high YoY 

high new production of EUR 726.6 million contractual value 

high, with over EUR 1.5 billion of new loans approved in 2022. 

growth in outstanding loan balances.

in 2022, compared to EUR 558.3 million in the previous year) 

Since the war started in Ukraine, the international market 

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Figure 17: NLB Group gross loans to customers dynamics (in EUR millions)

NLB Group

+20% YoY

Gross loans to 
individuals

6,743.4                                                  

5,621.1                         

4.90%

4.74%

+28% YoY

+14% w/o 
N Banka

3.84%

2,694.4                         

31 Dec 2021 

31 Dec 2022 

31 Dec 2021 

+26% YoY

Gross loans to 
corporate & 
state

6,653.9                                                   

5,282.4                         

2.98%

3.04%

+43% YoY

+20% w/o
N Banka

2,556.0                         

1.91%

Slovenia(i)(ii)

Strategic foreign markets(i)(iii)

+12% YoY

5.83%

2,877.3                        

5.66%

3,220.9

31 Dec 2021 

31 Dec 2022

+11% YoY

3.92%

2,754.9                               

3.84%

3,050.3

3,448.0                                                

3.84%

3,084.3

363.6
31 Dec 2022 

3,664.5                                        

3,073.1

2.19%

591.4

31 Dec 2021 

31 Dec 2022 

31 Dec 2021 

31 Dec 2022 

31 Dec 2021 

31 Dec 2022

 Gross loans    

 N Banka gross loans   

 Interest rates

(i) On a standalone basis. 
(ii) Includes NLB and N Banka; interest rates only for NLB. 
(iii) Includes only banks.

Contents

54

 Figure 18: Loan portfolio(i) by segment, geography, currency, and rate type (in EUR millions)

Institutions
369
2% 

SME
3,649 
20%

State(ii)
4,746
26%

Other(iii)
550
3% 

Serbia
3,419
19% 

Slovenia
10,012
54% 

Despite significant portfolio growth in all NLB Group banks in 

2022, there were no major changes in the corporate and retail 

loan portfolio structure. The loan portfolio remained well-

diversified, and there was no large concentration in any specific 

industry or client segment. The share of retail portfolio in the 

whole loan portfolio was quite substantial, with the segment 

of mortgage loans still prevailing. The majority of the loan 

portfolio refers to euro currency, while the rest originates from 

local currencies of the Group banking members. From interest 

rate type, almost 62% of the loan portfolio was linked to a fixed 

interest rate, and the rest mostly to the Euribor reference rate. 

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EUR 18.4 billion

Corporates
2,897
16%

EUR 18.4 billion

Kosovo
913
5% 

Montenegro
679
4% 

N. Macedonia
1,419
8% 

Retail mortgages
3,932
21%

BiH
1,412
8% 

by segment(iv)

by geography

Retail  
consumer
2,812
15%

BAM
5%

Other
1%

MKD
5%

RSD
6%

EUR 18.4 billion

EUR
83%

Floating
38%

EUR 18.4 billion

Fixed
62%

by currency

by interest rate

(i) Loan portfolio also includes account balances and required reserves at CBs, as well as demand deposits at banks.
(ii) State includes exposures to CBs.
(iii) The largest part represents EU members.
(iv) Segmentation in accordance with the company size defined in the Companies Act of an individual country in the region.

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55

 Total liabilities of the Group increased and amounted to 

EUR 21,737.9 million. The Group’s funding base is dominated by 

customer deposits accounting for 83% in which sight deposits 

prevail (87%, same as at the end of 2021). The majority of 

customer deposits were from individuals (70%). 59% of deposits 

were collected in Slovenia (55% at 2021 YE), 18% in Serbia 

(22% at 2021 YE), and the rest in other Group banking members 

in SEE.

Liabilities
Figure 19: Total liabilities and equity of NLB Group – structure (in EUR 
millions)

+12% YoY

+6% w/o
N Banka

24,160.2                                                       

2,422.3                                                         

21,577.5                                                       

2,216.1                                                         

816.0

506.7

387.5

427.6

288.5

1,004.4

22,931.2

2,241.0

816.0

473.7

271.3

20,027.7                                                       

19,129.2

17,640.8 

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2022  
w/o N Banka

 Deposits from customers   
 Borrowings and Deposits from banks and central banks
 Subordinated liabilities and Other debt securities in issue
 Other liabilities
 Total equity

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 Deposits from customers increased by 8% YoY, without the 

uncertainty of rising prices and the expected impact on their 

and consumer behaviour, while slow growth was perceived in 

N Banka contribution. The largest increase of 19% was recorded 

financial situation in the future. 

in the corporate and state deposits in the Bank, due to various 

the remaining year in most members, with further outflow in 

the second half of the year in the Serbian market, mostly due to 

reasons, i.e., the increase of balances in investment and 

In Strategic Foreign Markets, deposits from corporate and state 

attractive offers with higher interest rates from competitors.

pension funds, and inflows from takeovers on the market. The 

recorded 6% growth, while deposits from individuals stayed on 

precautionary savings of households have contributed to a 12% 

the same level YoY. The main reason for this were the outflows in 

YoY increase in deposits from individuals in the Bank, due to the 

Q1 as a response to the Ukraine war and its influence on prices 

Figure 20: NLB Group deposits from customers dynamics (in EUR millions)

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NLB Group

Slovenia(i)(ii)

Strategic foreign markets(i)(iii)

Deposits from 
individuals

+10% YoY

12,680.8                       

1,720.5

13,948.7                                              

1,665.3

+18% YoY

+12% w/o
N Banka

7,078.9                         

341.6

106.7
302.9

8,325.8                                                  

295.3

10,960.2                       

12,283.4                                              

6,737.3                         

7,620.9                                                  

0% YoY

5,601.9                        

1,378.9

4,222.9                        

0.32%

5,623.0

1,263.3
4,359.6

0.17%

0.16%

0.10%

0.04%

0.05%

31 Dec 2021 

31 Dec 2022 

31 Dec 2021 

31 Dec 2022 

31 Dec 2021 

31 Dec 2022

Deposits from 
corporate & 
state

+23% YoY

6,079.0                                               

976.4

4,960.1                         

601.2

4,358.9                         

5,102.6                                               

0.13%

0.11%

+38% YoY

+19% w/o
N Banka

2,580.7                         

335.5

250.4

3,557.4                                                   

420.2

238.8

2,245.2                         
0.03%

2,648.0                                                   

0.05%

+6% YoY

2,433.3                        

274.1

2,159.1                        
0.22%

2,588.5
306.2

2,282.2
0.18%

31 Dec 2021 

31 Dec 2022 

31 Dec 2021 

31 Dec 2022 

31 Dec 2021 

31 Dec 2022

 Sight deposits    

 N Banka sight deposits    

 Term deposits   

 N Banka term deposits   

 Interest rates

(i) On a standalone basis.
(ii) Includes NLB and N Banka; interest rates only for NLB.
(iii) Includes only banks.

Contents

57

 Figure 21: Deposits from customers in NLB Group by type as at 
31 December 2022

19.2%

9.0%

Figure 22: NLB Group's LTD ratio movement

Figure 23: Off-balance sheet items of NLB Group (in EUR millions)

65.4%                      

65.9%                      

66.0%                      

65.3%

18,525.8     

19,151.1     

19,573.1   

20,027.7

80.8%

91.0%

12,108.7    

12,620.2    

12,925.3     

13,073.0     

+17% 
YoY

4,655.3

1,236.7

1,892.2

35.6

5,449.5

1,511.3

2,407.1

35.0

International

Slovenia

 Term deposits    

 Sight deposits

31 Mar 2022

30 Jun 2022

30 Sep 2022

31 Dec 2022

 LTD    

 Net loans (in EUR millions)    

 Deposits (in EUR millions)

1,490.8

1,496.0

The LTD ratio (net) was 65.3% at the Group level; a 5.3 p.p. YoY 

increase, as a result of the acquisition of N Banka, with a higher 

LTD, as well as a higher increase of gross loans compared to 

deposits.

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

 Guarantees   
 Letters of credit - risk bearing
 Commitments to extend credit and other risky commitments
 Derivatives

Off-balance sheet items of the Group amounted to EUR 5,449.5 

million and were comprised of guarantees (28%), letters of 

credit (1%), commitments to extend credit and other risky 

commitments (44%), and derivatives (27%).

Commitments to extend credit and other risky commitments 

were divided between loans (99% corporate), overdrafts (58% 

retail and 42% corporate), and cards (89% retail). A majority of 

the Group's derivatives were concluded by the Bank either for 

the hedging of the banking book or trading with customers.

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 Capital and capital 
adequacy

Capital 

Figure 24: NLB Group capital (in EUR millions)

2,065                                                   

297

2,252                                                   

287

1,768

1,966

2,806

511

2,296

Figure 25: NLB Group capital ratios and regulatory thresholds (in %)

16.63%           

15.25%                                                               

14.25%                                                               

14.12%                                        

17.78%           

15.25%                                                               

15.47%                                       

14.25%                                                               

19.15%           

15.10%

15.07%

14.10%

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

 Total capital ratio    

 CET1 ratio    

 OCR = MDA threshold (Total capital)    

 OCR+P2G (Total capital)   

Figure 26: NLB Group capital requirements as at 31 December 2022

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

 Tier 1    

 Tier 2

In 2022, the Overall Capital Requirement (OCR) for the Group 

was 14.10%, consisting of:

•  10.60% Total SREP Capital Requirement (TSCR) (8.00% Pillar 1 

Requirement and 2.60% Pillar 2 Requirement9) and

•  3.50% CBR (2.50% Capital Conservation Buffer, 1.00% O-SII 

Buffer 10 and 0.00% Countercyclical Buffer).

Pillar 2 Guidance (P2G) amounts to 1.0% of Common Equity 

8.00%           

Tier 1 (CET1). 

On 29 April 2022, the BoS issued a new Regulation on 

determining the requirement to maintain a systemic risk 

buffer for banks and savings banks, which will on 1 January 

2023, introduce the systemic risk buffer rates for the sectoral 

exposures: 

•  1.00% for all retail exposures to natural persons secured by 

residential real estate in Slovenia,

•  0.50% for all other exposures to natural persons in Slovenia.

CET1

4.50%

AT1

1.50%

T2

2.00%

2.60%           

1.46%

0.49%                             
0.65%

10.60%           

5.96%

1.99%

2.65%

15.10%           

1.00%

OCR 
14.10%

3.50%

10.46%

1.99%

2.65%

OCR+P2G 
(Total capital)

Pillar 1

Pillar 2

TSCR

Combined Buffer

P2G

Additionally, in December 2022, the BoS announced that due 

to growing uncertainties in the economic environment and 

systemic risks, the countercyclical buffer for exposures to the 

Republic of Slovenia is raised from 0% to the level of 0.5% 

of the total risk exposure amount. Banks have to meet the 

requirement by 31 December 2023.

9  As of 1 January 2023, the Pillar 2 Requirement decreased by 0.2 p.p. to 2.40%, as 

a result of better overall SREP assessment.

10 As of 1 January 2023, the O-SII Buffer amounts to 1.25%.

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Table 14: NLB Group Capital Requirements and buffers

Pillar 1 (P1R)

Pillar 2 (SREP req. - P2R)

Total SREP Capital requirement (TSCR)

Combined buffer requirement (CBR)

Conservation buffer

O-SII buffer

Countercyclical buffer

Overall capital requirement (OCR) = MDA threshold

Pillar 2 Guidance (P2G)

OCR + P2G

CET1

AT1

T2

CET1

Tier 1

Total Capital

CET1

Tier 1

Total Capital

CET1

CET1

CET1

CET1

Tier 1

Total Capital

CET1

CET1

Tier 1

Total Capital

2022

4.5%

1.5%

2.0%

1.46%

1.95%

2.60%

5.96%

7.95%

10.60%

2.5%

1.0%

0.0%

9.46%

11.45%

14.10%

1.0%

10.46%

12.45%

15.10%

2021

4.5%

1.5%

2.0%

1.55%

2.06%

2.75%

6.05%

8.06%

10.75%

2.5%

1.0%

0.0%

9.55%

11.56%

14.25%

1.0%

10.55%

12.56%

15.25%

2020

4.5%

1.5%

2.0%

1.55%

2.06%

2.75%

6.05%

8.06%

10.75%

2.5%

1.0%

0.0%

9.55%

11.56%

14.25%

1.0%

10.55%

12.56%

15.25%

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 As at 31 December 2022, the TCR for the Group stood at 19.2% 

Figure 27: Capital of NLB Group  – evolution YoY (in EUR millions)

(or 1.4 p.p. increase YoY), and the CET1 ratio stood at 15.1% (0.4 

p.p. decrease YoY). The higher total capital adequacy derives 

from higher capital (EUR 553.9 million YoY), which compensated 

the increase of the RWA (EUR 1,985.7 million YoY). The Group 

increased the capital with the inclusion of negative goodwill 

from the acquisition of N Banka in retained earnings (EUR 172.8 

million), a partial inclusion of 2022 profit (EUR 161.5 million), 

additional Tier 1 notes issued in September (EUR 82 million), 

and subordinated Tier 2 notes issued in November (EUR 222.9 
million 11). In accordance with the CRR ‘Quick fix’ from June 2020, 
temporary treatment of FVOCI for sovereign securities was 

implemented by the Group in September 2022, which increased 

the capital by EUR 61.6 million (i.e., accumulated other 

comprehensive income amounted EUR -98.5 million instead of 

EUR -160.1 million). This temporary measure ceased to apply as 

of 1 January 2023.

2,252                      

173                      

161                         

-88                       

82                       

223                        

n.a.                     

2,806

1.3%                     

1.4%                     

-0.7%                   

0.7%                     

1.7%                       

-3.0%

The capital calculation does not include a part of the 2022 result 

in the amount of EUR 110 million, which is envisaged to be paid 

17.8%

as the dividend distribution in 2023. 

19.2%

Dividend pay-out

The dividend pay-out in 2022 was split into two tranches. The 

first instalment in the amount of EUR 50.0 million was paid in 

June 2022, while the second was paid in the same amount of 

EUR 50.0 million in December 2022, thereby contributing to the 

2022 cumulative pay-out of EUR 100.0 million. 

TCR 
31 Dec 2021

NGW

Result

OCI

AT1 notes

Tier 2 notes            

RWA impact

TCR 
31 Dec 2022

11  T2 notes were issued in the amount of EUR 225 million, amount included in the 

capital was EUR 222.9 million (due to issuance below par).

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 Total risk exposure dynamic

Table 15: Total risk exposure for NLB Group 

Total risk exposure amount (RWA)

RWA for credit risk

Central governments or central banks

Regional governments or local authorities

Public sector entities

Institutions

Corporates

Retail

Secured by mortgages on immovable property

Exposures in default

Items associated with particularly high risk

Covered bonds

Claims in the form of CU

Equity exposures

Other items

RWA for market risk + CVA

RWA for operational risk

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

in EUR millions

Change YoY

14,653.1

11,797.9

1,109.2

101.2

57.9

292.0

3,520.3

4,371.0

987.7

156.4

642.4

31.5

17.9

90.1

420.1

1,445.1

1,410.1

12,667.4

10,205.2

1,158.5

99.8

47.0

310.2

2,748.7

4,171.0

453.0

179.4

442.5

41.1

19.4

88.5

446.0

1,218.2

1,244.0

1,985.7

1,592.7

-49.2

1.4

10.9

-18.2

771.6

200.0

534.7

-23.0

199.9

-9.6

-1.5

1.6

-25.9

226.9

166.1

In 2022 (YoY), the RWA of Group for credit risk increased by 

and NLB Banka, Skopje. At the same time, lower exposure 

the conclusion of longer term and higher size of derivatives by 

EUR 1,592.7 million, where EUR 747.1 million of the increase 

to the covered bonds in the Bank also reduced the RWA. The 

the Bank) and higher RWA for Traded Debt Instruments (TDI) 

relates to the acquisition of N Banka (on the purchase day the 

repayments, as well as the upgrade of some clients, additional 

risk in the amount of EUR 13.7 million (a consequence of new 

contribution of N Banka to NLB Group was EUR 858.9 million). 

impairments and provisions recognised, and the package 

derivatives businesses).

The remaining part of the RWA increase in the amount of 

sale of NPLs from Serbia contributed to a lower RWA for the 

EUR 845.6 million was mainly the consequence of ramping 

exposures in default.

up lending activity in all Group banks, the most in the Bank 

The increase in the RWA for operational risks (EUR 166.1 million 

YoY) derives from the higher three-year average of relevant 

and NLB Komercijalna Banka, Beograd. The RWA growth was 

The increase in RWAs for market risks and Credit Value 

income, as defined in Article 316 of CRR, which represented the 

partially mitigated by CRR eligible real estate collaterals from 

Adjustments (CVA) in the amount of EUR 226.9 million YoY was 

basis for the calculation. The main reasons for the increase 

BiH, Serbia, and North Macedonia. Higher RWA for high-risk 

the result of a higher RWA for FX risk in the amount of EUR 139.4 

were a generally higher income base in most Group members, 

exposures was the result of higher project finance exposure. 

million (mainly the result of more opened positions in domestic 

and the acquisition of N Banka in March 2022.

Furthermore, the RWA decrease was observed for liquidity 

currencies of non-euro subsidiary banks), higher RWA for 

assets mainly due to the maturity of some non-EU sovereign 

CVA risk in the amount of EUR 73.8 million (a consequence of 

Further information on capital and capital adequacy is 

bonds (mainly Serbia, Kosovo and Russia). The lower exposure 

an adjustment of calculating exposure in the CVA calculation 

available in the Note 5.23. of the financial part of the report and 

to institutions also resulted in the RWA reduction, the most in 
NLB Komercijalna Banka, Beograd, banks from BiH, the Bank, 

due to the change of a methodology from a mark to market 
method to the Original Exposure Method (OEM), and due to 

in Pillar 3 Disclosures.

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 Liquidity position

The Group’s liquidity remains strong, with a high level of 

unencumbered liquidity reserves in total assets (39.0%) that is 

reflected in the LCR ratio standing at 220.3% (31 December 2021: 

252.6%). The Group holds a comfortable liquidity position, with 

liquidity ratios standing well above the risk appetite limit at the 

Group and individual banking member level.

s
n
o

i
l
l
i

m
R
U
E
n

i

8,000

7,000

6,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

-

Figure 28: LCR quarterly dynamic of NLB Group

252.6%                    

233.3%                    

213.0%                    

218.5%                  

220.3%

300.0%

250.0%

200.0%

150.0%

100.0%

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Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

5,367 

5,690 

5,325 

5,772 

6,028    

2,125             

2,440             

2,500             

2,641           

2,737

50.0%

0.0%

31 Dec 2021

31 Mar 2022

30 Jun 2022

30 Sep 2022

31 Dec 2022

 Stock of HQLA    

 Net liquidity outflow    

 LCR    

As at 31 December 2022, the Group’s unencumbered liquidity 

reserves corresponded to EUR 9,187.5 million (2021: EUR 8,280.6 

million) comprised of cash, balances with CB without minimum 

reserve requirement, the debt securities portfolio, and credit 

claims eligible for CB-secured funding operations. Among 

others, these liquidity reserves provided the basis for future 

strategic growth. Encumbered liquidity reserves, used for 

operational and regulatory purposes, were excluded from the 

liquidity reserves portfolio and amounted to EUR 123.0 million 

(excluding obligatory reserves; 31 December 2021: EUR 877.6 

million). The decrease of the encumbered liquidity reserves was 

due to the early repayment of additional financing via the CB 

secured funding at the end of H1 2022. 

Figure 29: Evolution of NLB Group unencumbered liquidity reserves (in EUR millions)

s
n
o

i
l
l
i

m
R
U
E
n

i

10,000

9,000

8,000

7,000

6,000

5,000

4,000

3,000

2,000

1,000

0

8,280.6                                     

8,131.7                                     

8,049.8                                     

55.9%                                       

55.1%                                       

0.0%

0.0%

57.4%                                       

0.0%

43.1%                                       

43.9%                                        

37.1%                                        

8,645.4                                     

51.7%                                       

0.0%

42.2%                     

9,187.5

49.4%

0.0%

43.8%

1.0%

1.0%

5.5%

6.1%

6.8%

31 Dec 2021

31 Mar 2022

30 Jun 2022

30 Sep 2022                            

31 Dec 2022

 ECB eligible credit claims    
 Trading book debt securities (market value)    

 Cash & CB reserves    

 Banking book debt securities (market value)

Contents

63

  
 
 
 
 
 
Segment Analysis

Table 16: Segments of NLB Group 

Retail Banking 
in Slovenia

includes banking with 
individuals and micro 
companies (the Bank 
and N Banka), asset 
management (NLB 
Skladi), a part of NLB 
Lease&Go, Ljubljana 
that includes operations 
with retail clients, and 
the contribution to the 
result of the associated 
company Bankart.

Corporate and 
Investment Banking 
in Slovenia

includes banking with Key 
Corporate Clients, SMEs, 
Cross-Border Corporate 
financing, Investment 
Banking and Custody, 
Restructuring and 
Workout in the Bank and 
N Banka and a part of the 
NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana 
that includes operations 
with corporate clients.

Core Segments

Non-Core Segment

Strategic Foreign 
Markets12

Financial Markets 
in Slovenia

Other

Non-Core Members

include treasury activities 
and trading in financial 
instruments, while 
they also present the 
results of asset and 
liabilities management 
(ALM) in both, the 
Bank and N Banka.

accounts in the Bank 
and N Banka for the 
categories whose 
operating results cannot 
be allocated to specific 
segments, including 
negative goodwill from 
the acquisition of N Banka 
in March 2022, as well as 
subsidiaries NLB Cultural 
Heritage Management 
Institute and Privatinvest.

includes the operations of 
non-core Group members, 
i.e., REAM and leasing 
entities in liquidation, NLB 
Srbija, and NLB Crna Gora.

include the operations 
of strategic Group 
banking members in the 
strategic markets (North 
Macedonia, BiH, Kosovo, 
Montenegro, and Serbia), 
investment company 
KomBank Invest, Beograd, 
NLB DigIT, Beograd, to 
which IT services from 
NLB Banka, Beograd 
were transferred in 2022, 
the newly established 
leasing company NLB 
Lease&Go, Skopje and 
in 2022 the purchased 
company NLB Lease&Go 
Leasing, Beograd.

47

10%

3,677

15%

68.1%

58

52

11%

3,372

14%

61.9%

-42

187

39%

10,179

42%

53.4%

7

34

7%

6,514

27%

20.2%

/

172

36%

356

1%

79.1%

/

in EUR millions

-9

-2%

62

0%

268.4%

/

Profit b.t.

Contribution to Group’s profit 
b.t.

Total assets

% of total assets

CIR

Cost of risk (bps)

NLB Group

483

100%

24,160

100%

57.6%

14

NLB Group’s main indicator of a segment’s efficiency is 

net profit before tax. No revenues were generated from 

transactions with a single external customer that would 

amount to 10% or more of the Group's revenues.

12  Komercijalna banka, Banja Luka was sold outside the NLB Group on 

9 December 2021; its operations till that date are included in the result  
of the segment for the year 2021.

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64

 Retail Banking 
in Slovenia

Figure 30: Contribution to NLB Group

Financial performance

Table 17: Performance of the Retail Banking in Slovenia segment 

2022

2021

in EUR millions consolidated

Change YoY

o/w N Banka
contribution

10%

Result b.t.

21%

Net interest income

36%

Net interest income

Net interest income from Assets(i)
Net interest income from Liabilities(i)

Net non-interest income

o/w Net fee and commission income

Total net operating income

Total costs

Result before impairments and provisions

Impairments and provisions

Net gains from investments in 
subsidiaries, associates, and JVs'

Result before tax

Net loans to customers

Gross loans to customers

Housing loans

Interest rate on housing loans

Consumer loans

Interest rate on consumer loans

N Banka, Ljubljana

NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana

Other

Deposits from customers

Interest rate on deposits(ii)

N Banka, Ljubljana

Non-performing loans (gross)

Cost of risk (in bps)

CIR
Interest margin(ii)

 32%

 16%

-

 17%

 17%

 24%

 -24%

 24%

-

 -30%

 -4%

9.3

8.0

1.3

6.4

6.4

15.7

-16.3

-0.6

-3.3

-3.8

 31%

 31%

 20%

 1%

 71%

 12%

 18%

104.8

95.8

9.1

106.7

113.2

211.5

-144.0

67.4

-21.4

0.8

46.8

79.5

82.7

-3.1

91.5

96.6

171.0

-116.5

54.5

-6.7

1.1

49.0

25.3

13.1

12.2

15.2

16.7

40.4

-27.5

12.9

-14.8

-0.3

-2.2

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

Change YoY

3,586.5

3,641.0

2,173.9
2.35%

640.9
7.11%

446.1

69.0

311.1

9,085.8
0.05%

502.0

67.7

2022

58

68.1%

1.70%

2,731.6

2,769.7

1,815.5
2.34%

635.6
6.70%

40.4

278.2

7,703.6
0.03%

855.0

871.3

358.4

5.3

28.6

32.8

1,382.1

0.01 p.p.

0.41 p.p.

0.02 p.p.

58.1

9.6

 17%

2021

26

68.1%

1.55%

Change YoY

32

0.0 p.p.

0.15 p.p.

Net non-interest income

(i) Net interest income from assets and liabilities with the use of Fund Transfer Pricing (FTP).
(ii) Interest margins and interest rates only for NLB.

Knowing customers’ needs and with clients’ experience 

being our focus, the Bank strengthened its position as market 

leader in retail banking. The trigger to acquire new clients 

and to activate existing ones is to tailor its product and 

service offering to the needs of different segments. The Bank 

is available through its traditional branch offices, a unique 

mobile branch on wheels, and its wide ATM network. As the 

main goal is to be a bank that can compete in the digital 

world and can make the best use of strategic assets – through 

transformation of the sales process and improving of user 

experience. The Bank’s services are available to clients 24/7 
via the Contact Centre and digital banking.

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 Net interest income
The net interest income from loans to individuals was EUR 25.3 

million higher YoY (EUR 9.3 million contributed by N Banka), due 

to the higher volume of housing loans and overdrafts and the 

key ECB interest rate increase in the second half of the year that 

also impacted higher net interest income after use of FTP on 

clients’ deposits.

Net non-interest income
Higher net non-interest income in the amount of EUR 15.2 

million YoY was due to EUR 16.7 million higher net fee and 

commission income, of which EUR 6.4 million came from N 

Banka. The growth derived from all categories, in large part 

from card business, due to higher volume and active cost 

production stabilised in the last quarter due to an increased 

A well-established branch network and the largest ATM 

interest rate environment. 

network (31 December 2022: 538) with the only Slovenian 24/7 

banking Contact Centre are other factors establishing the Bank 

Retail part of NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana successfully continued 

as the market leader.

with a steady growth pace and concluded approximately EUR 

47 million new deals (of which in 97% subject of financing was 

The Bank retains its role as a market leader in payments by 

passenger vehicle, while in remaining 3% light commercial 

being a reliable and trustworthy provider of services and a 

vehicles were largely presented).

positive user experience. 

Deposits from customers
The deposits base increased by EUR 1,382.1 million (18%) 

YoY, with EUR 502.0 million from N Banka, as a result of 

precautionary savings of households, due to the uncertainty 

of rising prices and the expected impact on their financial 

The private banking arm of the Bank has been positioned as a 

leader in this segment in Slovenia for over 20 years. 

NLB Skladi has been strengthening its position for several years 

as a leading asset management company with the highest 

market share and annual net inflows among its peers.

management, but also from payments, asset management, 

situation in the future.

bancassurance products, and the income from the high balance 

deposit fee. 

Total costs
Higher costs by EUR 11.3 million without N Banka’s contribution, 

mostly due to higher operating costs resulting from inflationary 

pressures.

Net impairments and provisions
Net impairments and provisions were established in the amount 

of EUR 21.4 million, due to increase of loan volume and changes 

in risk parameters as a response to worsened macroeconomic 

projections.

Loans to customers
The high production of new housing loans in the Bank 

continued (EUR 726.6 million in 2022) and resulted in the 

increase of the portfolio by 20% YoY. However, the new 

Business performance

Ways to the Client

The market leader in retail banking 
in Slovenia

Branch network
The Bank’s main sales channel remains its branch network 

in Slovenia with 71 branches, however the preferences of our 

clients are changing with increasing use of digital solutions in 

Figure 31: NLB’s market share in Retail Banking in Slovenia

their interaction with the Bank, those being more simple, more 

31.3%                                                       

26.4%

23.4%

22.5% 

30.7%                                                       

26.9% 

24.7%

24.4% 

31.9%

convenient, and available wherever and whenever. The focus 

26.6%

26.2%

26.6%

for the future is in a more advisory role, thus educating clients 

about self-service on digital channels. 

Comprehensive renovation of branch offices, which was stalled 

by the pandemic, continued in 2022. An important milestone in 

N Banka’s integration was achieved with the smooth transfer 

of seven branch offices to a kiosk-type of office, which are now 

part of the NLB respective branches. 

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

 Market share in loans to customers
 Market share in deposits from customers
 Market share in housing loans
 Market share in consumer loans

Leader in Slovenia
The Bank continued to strengthen its leading position with a 
market of 26.2% in retail lending (31 December 2021: 24.7%), and 

31.9% deposit-taking (31 December 2021: 30.7%). 

Market shares in the category of housing loans increased, 

specifically in portfolio to 26.6% (31 December 2021: 24.4%), and 

in new production, as a result of the historic record sales of new 

housing loans, to 32.5% (2021: 32.2%).

30%annual growth of new housing 

loans production

26.6%market share in housing loans

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 Only 24/7 available banking service in Slovenia
The Contact Centre is positioned as a service and sales channel, 

transforming to a retail virtual bank for almost all of the Bank’s 

products like consumer and housing loans with straightforward 

collateral, overdrafts, insurance products, deposits, savings, 

and onboarding of e-bank and m-bank. In 2022, its share of 

concluded basic financing products of the Bank (consumer 

loans and overdrafts) was 11%. This part of Retail banking has 

an important role as a standalone sales and advisory remote 

channel, and at the same time offering very much support to 

customers of m-bank and branch network 24/7. 

The Contact Centre further strengthened its role of a proactive 

customer outbound calling centre and processed 27% more 

video calls YoY. With the new support for contact management, 

customers can now also use the “Call back" option and 

also give a customer experience rating for telephone 

communication. 

An average NPS for a video call was 75, and the first Customer 
Experience (CX) measurement on telephone communication 

achieved an NPS of 62.

Figure 32: NLB Contact Centre number of contacts (in thousands) 

The total volume of payments processed digitally through 

user experience and automated processes, some of which are 

e-bank and m-bank increased by 16% YoY. Moreover, products 

now possible due to regulatory changes. 

with contracts are finalized with digital signing of documents in 

m-bank Klikin, contributing to paperless operations.

With the acquisition and retention of clients, constant activity is 

Figure 33: Digital penetration of active clients

42%

34%

19%

48%

45%

17%

54%

52%

also an activation of existing client pools, resulting in growing 

the base of active clients. In 2022, the number of active clients 

increased by 1.7% YoY (+10,645 clients). 

Micro segment
The Bank expects to increase the volume of business in the 

segment, and consequently gain market share through 

adopting high standards and expertise. With the merging of N 

Banka’s client base, the Bank will be able to use cross-selling 

15%

and upselling, which will lead to better product penetration of 

the client portfolio. 

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

 E-bank   

 M-bank   

 Digital

Private banking 

Active clients' base increase 
Constant activities in attracting new clients in 2022 resulted in 

Leading private banking provider in Slovenia
The Bank was the first in Slovenia to have a clear vision of 

an exclusive offer of asset management for high net-worth 

the acquiring of 36,196 new clients, of which 20% are returning 

individuals and families. Today, 20 years later, this successful 

clients. However, with proper measures the retention of clients 

story of private banking is an integral part of the offer, with 

is also at high level and contributed to growth of the client base. 

more than EUR 1.3 billion assets under management (11% YoY 

The focus of client acquisition is primarily on the segment which 

growth) for 2,000 clients (11% increase YoY).

18% YoY

presents the Bank’s future client pool – young citizens. Several 

activities, also in cooperation with relevant companies, are 

By offering carefully selected and tailored products and 

reflected in adjusting products that are most suitable for this 

services, the Bank demonstrates that it can take good care 

27% YoY

segment.

of their clients’ wealth. Comprehensive wealth management 

brings a combination of banking and financial products and 

Package Digital onboarding for new clients was upgraded with 

the whole spectrum of advisory services.

key advantages including an adjusted view that provides better 

1,308

1,113

201

999

158

100

2020

2021

2022

2020

2021

2022

 Video call    

 Total contacts

Digital banking 
The number of digital users in 2022 increased by 14% YoY. The 

rate of m-bank Klikin and e-bank NLB Klik users YoY increase 

remains stable at 16% (66,018 new users) and 6% (23,619 new 

users), respectively, which is also clearly proven by the digital 

penetration of active clients (see the figure below). The latter is 

also an enabler for decreasing cash and transactional business 

in branches.

Increased 
digital 
penetration

by 6 p.p.

More than 36,000 

new clients 
acquired

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 As the global markets significantly changed in 2022, the sale 

Figure 35: Satisfaction with the attitude towards customers

The Bank teams organised the workshops entitled, "Modern 

of gold was introduced for the clients of private banking, with 

first encouraging results being achieved for this new investment 

offering.

Figure 34: Assets under management and the number of private 
banking clients 

2,000

1,800

1,580

1,231

1,309

753

911

1,075

1,243

1,377

31 Dec 2018

31 Dec 2019

31 Dec 2020 31 Dec 2021 

31 Dec 2022

 AuM (in EUR millions)    

  # of Clients

Client satisfaction  
is our focus
High level of client satisfaction
The Bank measures client satisfaction on two levels, 

each serving a specific purpose for customer experience 

management and offers improvements. In our Client 

Satisfaction Survey (CSS), a long-term relationship with the 

clients through the indicator Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) 

is measured. The indicator of transactional satisfaction after 

completed service with a focus on processes and attitude 

towards clients is the NPS.

The Bank maintained a high level of client satisfaction, as 

measured with CSI remaining stable and well above the 

competition. Furthermore, clients express a higher level of 

satisfaction with our advisors. Kindness and competence are 

valued the most and are the main reasons for higher client 

satisfaction (84 vs. 74 for the competition; 2022 Valicon Client 

Satisfaction Survey). Also, the NPS for 2022 shows a high level 

of satisfaction with value 62 (the benchmark for the financial 

sector in 2022 is 49; SurveyMonkey global benchmark), which 

Competitor banks' average 2022

74

NLB 2022

NLB 2021

NLB 2020

NLB 2019

84

81

83

77

Source: 2022 Valicon Client Satisfaction Survey.

Financing products
Dedicated sales teams and successful marketing campaigns 

played important roles in contributing to the excellent sales 

results.

To enable our clients’ management of unexpected costs or 

higher monthly expenses (car insurance, paying for vacations, 

buying school supplies, etc.), the Bank developed a solution of 

postponing the payment of one monthly instalment of the loan. 

Without giving a reason, the client can once in each calendar 

year freeze one payment, with the loan repayment period being 

extended for the period of payment deferrals. This option can 

be used after six months of regular loan repayments.

A gradual reduction of the overdraft with automatic renewal 

was very well accepted by clients who can decrease the 

amount of the overdraft every month by a pre-agreed amount 

until it’s paid off. Since the overdraft is automatically renewed, it 

can be paid off over several years. 

Sustainability 
Environmental and social sustainability are important goals 

of the Group. They are also being incorporated in the Group 

with our growing ESG product portfolio. Different financing 

products help customers implement sustainability measures in 

developing their own lasting environmental solutions. An ESG-

oriented offer includes the NLB Green housing loan to finance 

construction or purchase of a passive house, and finance the 

purchase of solar panels, heat pumps, and central ventilation 

also in cooperation with vendors. Connecting with partners to 

help our clients in their transition to energy efficiency resulted 

in the offer of the NLB Green partner loan as an end-to-end 

was mostly influenced by the high satisfaction with consultancy.

solution. In 2022, the Bank provided more than EUR 53 million in 

ESG-related loans.

Banking" for the elderly, where the use of modern digital 

banking services was presented. In addition to the excellent 

response and positive feedback, digital products were 

activated. With the participation of students working for the 

Contact Centre, this was a true intergenerational event.

Stable card portfolio
In 2022, Mastercard’s personal debit card was introduced 

in digital form only, enabling the card and PIN to be issued 

instantly, and can be used immediately after the client digitizes 

its card in the NLB Pay m-wallet. 

The contactless payment limit with no PIN needed was raised to 

EUR 50 for NLB cards, as well. With green awareness in mind, a 

receipt is issued only on demand.

Individual debit and credit card volumes and the number of 

payment transactions and cash withdrawals, YoY increased by 

18% or 16%, respectively.

Mobile wallet - NLB Pay 
From May onwards, online purchases have no longer been 

possible without strong authentication. Therefore, the use and 

download of NLB Pay m-wallet is even more important and 

proven with the continued increase of usage at a significant 

pace. With NLB Pay solution, the Bank was also among the 

first complying with the modern security standards of the EU 

directive.

Further strengthening  
of the market position in 

lending, 
deposits, 
and asset 
management

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The Flik solution is incorporated in NLB Pay, enabling client’s 

P2P (person to person) money transferring among all Slovenian 

bank clients, P2M (person to merchant) payments as purchase 

on NLB POS terminals, and on Point of Sale (POS) terminals 

of some other Slovenian banks which have upgraded their 

POS. The Bank is the first on the market also for Person to 

e-Merchant  (P2eM) for online purchases.

Added value in ancillary 
businesses

NLB Skladi – Slovenia’s largest asset 
management company
The conflict in Ukraine and higher energy costs, which led to 

The insurance company Vita remains the Bank’s strategic 

partner with products such as savings and investment 

insurance products, risk, and health insurance products being 

included in the Bank’s offer. 

Despite challenging circumstances, excellent results for 

Generali’s products of car insurance and home insurance were 

a further increase in inflation, higher interest rates and lower 

achieved, namely gross written premiums increased YoY by 13%.

Use of m-wallet NLB Pay increased at a significant pace with 

purchasing power of the population had a significant impact on 

the number of users and volume of transactions YoY, increasing 

the mutual funds market in 2022. Despite that, the market share 

by 67% and 63% YoY, respectively.

Figure 36: NLB Pay in numbers 

67% YoY

63% YoY

of NLB Skladi increased to 39.1% (31 December 2021: 37.3%). 

With EUR 115.3 million of net inflows in 2022, the company again 

ranked first among its peers in Slovenia, accounting for 55.2% 

of all net inflows in the market. 

The total assets under management nevertheless experienced 

a YoY drop of 7.9% and amounted to EUR 1,960.4 million (31 

December 2021: EUR 2,128.0 million) of which EUR 1,536.2 million 

consisted of mutual funds (31 December 2021: EUR 1,610.4 
million) and EUR 424.2 million of the discretionary portfolio (31 

December 2021: EUR 517.6 million). 

73,711

36,218

58,924

Bancassurance 
The Bank is the top sales channel among Slovenian banks with 

spectrum of life and non-life insurance products in its offer. 

In the Bank’s sales channels bancassurance products of the 

insurance companies Vita and GENERALI Zavarovalnica are 

44,097

18,402

12,577

sold. 

2020

2021

2022

2020

2021

2022

 # of users    

 Volume of transactions (in EUR thousands)

Figure 37: Active clients’ penetration of ancillary business

16.5%

8.4%

16.8%

9.4%

17.1%

10.3%

17.4%

10.6%

1.9%

2.2%

2.5%

2.6%

31 Dec 2019

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

  NLB Skladi    

  Vita    

  Generali

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Financial performance

Table 18: Performance of the Corporate and Investment Banking in Slovenia segment 

in EUR millions consolidated

Change YoY

o/w N Banka 
contribution 

 48%

 31%

 86%

 -21%

 12%

 4%

 -44%

 -29%

 -60%

 -40%

5.5

5.1

0.4

3.3

3.2

8.7

-12.9

-4.2

4.6

0.4

 44%

 43%

 47%

 24%

 -4%

 -31%

 103 %

 -14%

 41%

2022 

2021 

52.9

53.7

-0.8

52.3

43.6

105.2

-65.1

40.1

12.2

52.3

35.7

41.1

-5.4

65.8

38.9

101.5

-45.1

56.4

30.5

86.8

17.2

12.6

4.6

-13.5

4.7

3.7

-20.0

-16.3

-18.3

-34.6

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

Change YoY

3,370.1

3,424.6

3,311.5

2,623.2

1.95%

0.1

60.8

506.7

120.7

112.9
2.59%

2,731.0
0.07%

396.5

67.6

2022

-42

61.9%

1.80%

2,332.4

2,390.7

2,258.5

2,110.6

1.79%

0.1

88.2

59.6

131.9
2.07%

1,938.2
0.03%

1,037.7

1,033.9

1,052.9

512.5

0.0

-27.5

61.1

-19.0

792.8

0.16 p.p.

0.52 p.p.

0.04 p.p.

72.5

-4.9

 -7%

2021

-141

44.4%

1.76%

Change YoY

99

17.4 p.p.

0.05 p.p.

Net interest income

Net interest income from Assets(i)
Net interest income from Liabilities(i)

Net non-interest income

o/w Net fee and commission income

Total net operating income

Total costs

Result before impairments and provisions

Impairments and provisions

Result before tax

Net loans to customers

Gross loans to customers

Corporate

Key/SME/Cross Border Corporates
Interest rate on Key/SME/Cross 
Border Corporates loans

Investment banking

Restructuring and Workout

N Banka, Ljubljana

NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana

State

Interest rate on State loans

Deposits from customers

Interest rate on deposits(ii)

N Banka, Ljubljana

Non-performing loans (gross)

Cost of risk (in bps)

CIR
Interest margin(ii)

(i) Net interest income from assets and liabilities with the use of FTP.
(ii) Interest margins and interest rates only for NLB.

Corporate and 
Investment Banking 
in Slovenia

Figure 38: Contribution to NLB Group

11%

Result b.t.

10%

Net interest income

18%

Net non-interest income

The Bank reconfirmed its role of a leading and systemic 

player in its home region and supporting corporate clients 

with daily banking and tailor-made comprehensive solutions, 

including trade finance, corporate finance, and cross border 

financing. Customer centricity and sustainability are the basis 

of what we do.

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70

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net interest income
The interest income from loans to corporate and state was 

EUR 7.5 million higher YoY without N Banka’s contribution. The 

interest margin from loans in the Key, SME and Cross-Border 

Corporates in the Bank was EUR 5.2 million higher YoY, mostly 

due to higher volumes in all sub-segments. However, the 

interest rates also started to increase due to the key ECB interest 

rate hikes which impacted both, loans and deposits.  

Net fee and commission income
Higher net fee and commission income YoY, mostly due 

to higher income from cards, payment transactions, and 

guarantees. A high balance deposit fee was cancelled from 

August on and influences fee income by approximately EUR 0.8 

million each month, but was compensated with the net interest 

income after the user of FTP on clients’ deposits. 

Total costs
Higher costs by EUR 7.1 million without N Banka’s contribution, 

mostly due to higher operating costs resulting from inflationary 

pressures. 

Net impairments and provisions
Net impairments and provisions were released in the amount of 

EUR 12.2 million, mostly due to repayments of previously written-

off receivables, which offset the establishment of impairments 

and provisions due to higher exposures and changes in risk 

parameters as a response to worsened macroeconomic 

projections. 

Loans to customers
The volume of loans increased by EUR 1,033.9 million YoY, 

with N Banka contributing EUR 506.7 million, with the growth 

distributed in all sub-segments. With a EUR 61.1 million increase 

in the portfolio, the contribution of the NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana 

to the segment is growing.

Deposits from customers 
The volume of deposits increased for EUR 792.8 million YoY, of 

which EUR 396.5 million contributed N Banka, due to various 

reasons, i.e., the increase of balances in investment and pension 

funds, and inflows from takeovers on the market. 

Investment Banking and Custody
The total value of assets under custody increased YoY and 

amounted to EUR 16.4 billion (31 December 2021: EUR 15.9 

billion).  

Arranging

EUR 
961.1 
million

of syndicated loans

Business performance

Market leader focusing  
on customer needs

Figure 39: NLB’s market share in Corporate Banking in Slovenia

31.4%                                                          

31.5%                                                          

17.3%                                                     

17.0%                                                                                                                                 

18.9%                                                                   

18.3%

33.5%

20.8%

19.8%

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

 Market share in deposits from customers
 Market share in guarantees and letters of credit
 Market share in loans to customers

Main achievements of 2022
With deep and strong local and regional presences, the Bank 

further increased its corporate client base to over 10,000 

clients, and not only confirmed its leading role in all areas of 

corporate banking, but again reinforced its commitments to 

understanding and supporting the economy and the clients. 

The Bank approved over EUR 1.5 billion new financing volume 

to corporate and state clients, which generated an increase in 

loan volume by 21.9% YoY, and further strengthened their loan 

market share to customers to 19.8% (31 December 2021: 18.3%). 

Loan growth was realised in all business segments, specifically 

with large corporates enjoying a 17.2% increase YoY, with SME 

a 31.1% increase YoY, and in the cross border segment a 29.8% 

increase YoY. The market share of deposits also increased and 

reached 19.4% at the end of the year (31 December 2021: 18.9%) 

confirming its strong systemic position and trust from its broad 

client base. 

After the war started in Ukraine, the international market 

environment became unpredictable with a higher demand for 

working capital facilities. With the emerging of energy crisis, 

the Bank rapidly responded to its clients’ needs and arranged 

EUR 285 million of new syndication financing for the respective 

energy sector, with EUR 105 million of own participation. In 

addition, the Bank provided certain bilateral facilities, with all 

this confirming its position as a systemic bank and a strong 

supporter of the economy.

The Bank further improved its leading position in trade finance 

products, supporting clients with letters of guarantees, letters of 

credit, and purchases of receivables, which are also available 

through digital channels in a safe and fast way. 

22%annual growth in corporate

loans volume w/o N Banka 
contribution

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 Activities of the Bank in organising syndicated facilities 

continued with the total annual amount of EUR 961.1 million. 

In these transactions, the Bank acted as the mandated lead 

arranger, as an agent and as the leading bank with a EUR 

306.0 million participation.

Having a unique regional position with a local presence 

enabled the Bank to further expand cross-border financing 

activities and increased its portfolio by up to EUR 500 million 

of financing volume, including financing in the Group’s home 

region and across European Economic Area (EEA) with sound 

diversification in terms of geography and industry.

Sustainability has been at the centre of the Bank’s activities, 

where the Bank also introduced new green products for 

corporate clients, addressing the client needs at lower financing 

costs. In 2022, the Bank approved more than EUR 105 million in 

Comprehensive solution offering

Trade finance solutions
Strong market position
The Bank is a leading Slovenian bank in the field of trade 

finance with products that support domestic and international 

trade economy. The trade finance product range and tailor-

made solutions are comprehensive and included traditional 

trade finance products to other modern structures which 

provide safe financing throughout the supply chains. As a 

member of the Factor Chain International, the Bank also aims 

to offers exporters and importers the international purchase of 

receivables.

The Bank was regionally active in M&A and other financial 

advisory engagements (organising and coordinating M&A 

procedure, advising on optimal capital structure, organising 

takeover bids, etc.).

Brokerage services and Financial Instruments
In the brokerage services in 2022, the Bank executed clients’ 

buy and sell orders in the total amount of EUR 1.09 billion (2021: 

EUR 902.9 million), while in dealing in financial instruments, the 

Bank executed foreign exchange spot deals in the total amount 

of EUR 1.38 billion (2021: EUR 946.6 million) and for EUR 433.2 

million (2021: EUR 382.5 million) worth of transactions involving 

derivatives.

In all product fields (guarantees, letter of credit and purchase 

of receivables) the Bank realised over 30% volume growth YoY. 

Despite already strong market position in Slovenia, market 

Economic conditions in 2022 resulted in more activities of the 

clients in foreign, non-Euro markets. Consequently a 20% 

increase was recorded in the number of clients concluding FX 

new financing in the ESG area.

shares were further improved, namely in guarantees and letter 

deals.

Strategic priorities
The Bank remains fully devoted to its strategic priorities:

•  Remaining the leading and best preferred bank among 

all corporate clients, offering them best in class products 

and solutions, and enabling our clients to improve their 

international business and footprint.

•  Keeping deep customer relationships and continuing to 

improve customer satisfaction and experience, also by 

product and process digitalization.

•  Maintaining a leading position in Slovenia in the areas of 

trade finance, project finance, loan syndications, and M&A 

finance, aiming to further expand that role in the SEE region, 

while maintaining disciplined risk management.

•  Working closely with companies to help them transition 

towards net zero emissions and confirming the Bank’s 

commitment to sustainability finance by supporting new 

green projects in a broader region and contributing to 

society.

•  Focusing on profitability, also by improving fee business and 

strengthening our focus on capital light product solutions.

of credits to 33.5% (2021: 31.5%). 

We further enriched our offer with reverse factoring, which 

represents a safe and quick way of supplier finance, and the 

Bank can process the transactions in modern digital way. 

Special attention has been given to letter of guarantees 

and counter-guarantees by which the Bank supports major 

infrastructure and ESG projects in Slovenia and the wider home 

region. A strong market position reflects the Group’s active 

advisory approach towards its customers.

Investment banking and securities services
Arranger of several transactions
In 2022, the Bank organised six syndicated facilities in the 

total amount of EUR 961.1 million, where it also acted as the 

mandated lead arranger, as an agent, and as the leading bank 

with participation of EUR 306.0 million. 

The Bank was also very active in the field of issuing new 

financial instruments by arranging the issuance of both 
long-term and short-term instruments in the total amount of 

EUR 621.7 million on debt capital markets.

Custodian services
The Bank remains one of the top Slovenian players in custodian 

services for Slovenian and international customers. The total 

value of assets under custody on 31 December 2022, was 

together with the fund administration services EUR 16.4 billion 

(31 December 2021: EUR 15.9 billion).

33.5%market share in guarantees  

and letters of credit

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 Cross Border Financing 
Financing within the Group home region
Excess liquidity, a rather limited Slovenian market, and the 

desire to expand operations with existing and new clients are 

the main reasons why cross-border financing has become 

increasingly important.

At the end of 2022, the portfolio of approved cross-border 

transactions in the Bank reached EUR 500 million (thereof EUR 

360 million already drawn). Adding the participating shares 

of the Group subsidiaries, with the approved transactions 

amount exceed EUR 700 million. It is notable that in most 

cases approvals also meant that local Group subsidiaries can 

retain or increase their fee business and expand cross-selling 

potential with our clients.

Corporate lending in EEA 
The Bank is also active in different EU markets and diversified 

be used immediately after the client digitizes its card in the 

NLB Pay m-wallet with no visit to any Bank’s premises. This 

its cross-border portfolio across the EEA. Most notable 

is possible also to all authorised card’s holders and most 

transactions in the portfolio were concluded in Luxemburg, 

importantly, the green issue with less plastic. 

Germany, France, Austria, and the Netherlands. 

Deals are primarily made through participation in syndicated 

Mobile wallet NLB Pay
The Bank’s mobile wallet NLB Pay application enables clients 

international facilities or through participation in Schuldschein 

to make contactless, simple, fast, and secure payments on the 

loans, which also include some of world-renowned brands and 

contactless POS (in Slovenia and abroad) with the NLB Business 

leaders in their industries. The EEA lending part of cross-border 

debit Mastercard and NLB Business pay later Mastercard.

portfolio exceeds EUR 160 million and is expected to grow 

further due to very well-established relationships with some of 

the European partnership banks. The focus remains profitable 

A leader in merchant-acquiring
The Bank is a leader in merchant-acquiring by accepting all 

investments in stable EEA markets (with lower expected 

major payment cards, the local Flik instant payment scheme 

inflation and higher credit ratings) which significantly contribute 

and has a modern contactless POS network.

to the further diversification of the investment portfolio of cross-

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The overreaching theme of cross-border financing was 

border financing.

continuous support of our key clients and involvement in the 

financing of some of the key projects in our home region. On 

the corporate finance side, this has meant a dominant focus on 
supporting energy and telecommunication industries, while on 

the project finance and real estate side, the Group has arranged 

and co-arranged several key financings, including major 

residential real estate in BiH, large renewables project in Serbia, 

and office and residential real estate projects in Serbia.

Further potential in the home region can especially be observed 

in corporate financing, renewable energy, infrastructure, 

and residential/office real estate. Special focus is foreseen in 

financing renewable projects - as the Group’s priority, especially 

given the exceptional potential and opportunities which our 

home region offers in this respect.

30%annual growth in cross 

border financing volumes

Leasing financing within NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana
NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana potential
Leasing activity is and has been since the second half of 2020, 

again the Group core activity. In 2022, it successfully continued 

its market progress, with a steady growth pace. Concluded 

new business totalled approximately EUR 120 million in deals 

with legal entities. In almost 44% of the deals, the subject 

of financing was a passenger vehicle (where used vehicles 

presented 64%), followed by almost 36% on heavy commercial 

vehicles (where new vehicles presented 73%), 14% represented 

equipment and the remaining 6% largely concentrated on 

new light commercial vehicles. The vast majority of respective 

production consisted of financial leasing, including stock 

financing. As per the latest publicly available data (outstanding 

as per 31 December 2022), the company had approximately 10% 

of the market share in segment in the legal entities.

In March 2022, the Bank obtained permission from the BoS to 

intermediate in leasing transactions for corporate clients to the 

affiliated company NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana with the aim of 

offering bank clients comprehensive financing solutions and 
customer experience.

Transaction Banking and Payments
Basic products
After opening business account or any business package 

NLB E-commerce, a modern payment platform, enables secure 

and simple card payments, and enables competitive edge to 

providers, and good user experience to their clients. 

Figure 40: Transaction volume in acquiring (in EUR millions)

13% YoY

38% YoY

76

2,348

2,535

2,865

47

55

2020

2021

2022

2020

2021

2022

 e-commerce    

 POS

Instant payments
The Bank was the leading bank in the introduction of 

instant payments on the Slovenian market and is the only 

bank enabling users of m-banks to automatically send out 

Mastercard’s business debit card is available in digital form 

transactions as instant payments - every day of the year both in 

only, enabling the card and PIN to be issued instantly. It can 

Slovenia and in the SEPA area.

Contents

73

 Flik payments
Flik P2P (person to person) enables money transfer among all 

offer, a NLB Green Investment loan for energy efficient business 

premises with additional benefits included was implemented. 

Slovenian banks’ clients, while Flik P2M (person to merchant) 

Connecting with partners to help our clients in their transition 

payments enable purchase on NLB POS terminals and on POS 

to energy efficiency resulted in the NLB Green partner loan 

terminals of some other Slovenian banks which have upgraded 

to provide an end-to-end solution. The Bank will continue to 

their POS. The Bank is among the first banks on the market 

create green products, and in such a way makes clients aware 

also offering instant payments P2eM for online purchases to 

of the sustainable aspect.

merchants.

Global Payments Innovation (GPI)
The Group, as a first banking group in the SEE, enables services 

#FrameOfHelp
After two successful projects during the pandemic, the 

Group's #FrameOfHelp under the slogan ‘Looking for a New 

arising from the SWIFT Global Payment Initiative, which is 

Tesla’ started for the third time, offering an opportunity to 

international payments service enabling banks to transfer 

regional companies giving priority to sustainable ideas. The 

money faster and more safely worldwide. At the same time, 

Bank’s attention is focused on the future of this region, on the 

it enables full tracking of payment orders and monitoring of 

opportunities that are opening for it and that the Group can 

related costs.

support with decisions and services. 

Digital banking
NLB Trading
The new platform, ‘NLB Trading,’ is a modern way to facilitate 

the order of financial instruments to any of the Bank’s 

brokerage client. There are several advantages of NLB Trading 

which, among others, enable the overview of the portfolio with 

the possibility to review various options, placing and managing 

orders for sell or purchase at Ljubljana Stock Exchange, real 

time monitoring of trading by each instrument, and simple 

overview of transactions and concluded deals.

M-bank Klikpro
The number of m-bank Klikpro users continue to increase (YoY 

by 16%), proving that clients are more and more prone to digital 

banking. With included possibility of digital signing, this will 

further ease clients’ operations. 

Sustainable Finance 
ESG offer
Climate change is happening, with banks also playing their 

part with appropriate financing for the transition to a more 

sustainable future. A NLB Green loan for reducing the carbon 

footprint is offered within the existing offer of NLB loans, 

exclusively for purposes where a sufficient positive impact on 

the environment has been proven. To complement the ESG 

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 2022 was the most successful year for NLB Banka, 
Podgorica so far. Our team of motivated and 
ambitious professionals kept its focus on clients. 
We also started the transformation of our bank 
into an agile organization to speed up business 
processes and decision-making and thus become 
not only a better partner for our clients, but also 
a most desirable employer for top bankers and 
professionals in the region.

Our success was recognized by two renowned 
media houses: Euromoney and the Financial 
Times, who awarded us the prestigious awards 
Best Bank in Montenegro 2022 and Bank of the 
Year in Montenegro 2022. Through responsible 
environmental and societal actions, we created 
better footprints and once again confirmed our 
commitment and contribution to a better quality 
of life in South-Eastern Europe, our home region.

Pictured: NLB Banka, Podgorica employees

 
Strategic Foreign 
Markets 

Contribution to NLB Group

Figure 41: Contribution to NLB Group

assets of subsidiary banks exceed 10% in five out of six 

The Group banks ESG and CSR activities were continuously 

markets. The banks in the Group strategic foreign markets 

upgraded by supporting the financial literacy of clients, 

offer a full range of financial services to retail and corporate 

the #FrameOfHelp project for small entrepreneurs, tree 

clients. In 2022, the global rising inflation pressures impacted 

planting activities, and many more events, stated in the Group 

the Group’s region of operations, however, loan demand 

Sustainability report.

remained strong, especially in the H1 2022. Thus, Group banks 

marked remarkable double-digit growth of gross loans to 

In 2022, the Group banks accelerated their digital 

customers, above the local market average, especially in the 

transformation by automating processes and offering various 

retail segment thereby contributing to the overall economic 

digital solutions to clients, thus further boosting digital 

development of local countries households.

penetration by almost doubling the number of digital users.

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Financial performance

Table 19: Results of the Strategic Foreign Markets segment 

Net interest income

Interest income

Interest expense

Net non-interest income

o/w Net fee and commission income

Total net operating income

Total costs

Result before impairments and provisions

Impairments and provisions

Negative goodwill (NLB Lease&Go Leasing, Beograd)

Result before tax

o/w Result of minority shareholders

Net loans to customers

Gross loans to customers

Individuals

Interest rate on retail loans(i)

Corporate

Interest rate on corporate loans(i)

State

Interest rate on state loans(i)

Deposits from customers

Interest rate on deposits(i)

Non-performing loans (gross)

Cost of risk (in bps)

CIR
Interest margin(i)

(i) Changed methodology.

2022

298.0

322.8

-24.8

129.5

118.7

427.5

-228.1

199.4

-12.3

0.1

187.1

11.0

2021

266.8

299.6

-32.8

95.1

101.6

361.9

-227.9

134.0

-20.8

113.2

11.5

in EUR millions consolidated

Change YoY

31.2

23.2

8.1

34.3

17.2

65.6

-0.2

65.4

8.5

0.1

73.9

-0.5

 12%

 8%

 25%

 36%

 17%

 18%

0%

 49%

 41%

-

 65%

 -4%

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

Change YoY

6,077.5

6,271.4

3,221.0
5.66%

2,869.0
3.84%

181.4
3.65%

8,171.2
0.17%

160.6

2022

7

53.4%

3.14%

5,441.9

5,632.2

2,877.3
5.83%

2,613.5
3.96%

141.4
3.35%

7,998.8
0.29%

191.7

2021

-11

63.0%

2.86%

635.7

639.2

343.7

255.4

40.0

172.4

-31.1

 12%

 11%

 12%

 10%

 28%

 2%

 -16%

-0.18 p.p.

-0.11 p.p.

0.30 p.p.

-0.12 p.p.

Change YoY

19

-9.6 p.p.

0.29 p.p.

39%

Result b.t.

59%

Net interest income

44%

Net non-interest income

With the merger of two banks in Serbia, the establishment 

of an IT hub, and enlarging the leasing activities in the 

region, the core part of the Group in foreign markets now 

consists of six banks, one investment fund company, an IT 
company, and two leasing companies. The Group banking 
subsidiaries are locally strongly embedded as important 

financial institutions and market leaders in various business 

segments. All Group subsidiary banks have a stable market 

position and strong reputation. The market shares by total 

Contents

76

  
 
 
Sixsubsidiary banks,
two
one

leasing companies,

IT services company,

and

one

investment fund  
company

Net interest income
Net interest income increased by EUR 31.2 million (12%) YoY, due 

Gross loans to customers
Gross loans to customers increased by EUR 639.2 million (11%) 

to the high increase of loan volumes. 

YoY, with slightly higher growth to individuals (12%) than to 

Net non-interest income
Net non-interest income increased EUR 34.3 million YoY, of 

which net fee and commission income EUR 17.2 million. The 

largest increase was recorded in NLB Komercijalna Banka, 

Beograd due to the repricing of services in Q2, but the growth 

corporate (10%). The increase of the loan portfolio was visible in 

all of the banking members. New loan production continued its 

enviable growth, especially in consumer loans.

Deposits from customers
Deposits from customers recorded only 2% YoY growth, due 

did not continue in Q3, since the Serbian central bank decided 

to outflows in Q1 as a response to the Ukraine war and its 

to contain retail fees for a limited period. 

influence on prices and consumer behaviour, while slow growth 

Total costs
Total costs stayed on the same level YoY.

Net impairments and provisions
Net impairments and provisions were established in the 

amount of EUR 12.3 million, mainly due to impacts arising from 

successful NPL resolution, and despite additional provisions for 

reorganisation in NLB Komercijalna Banka, Beograd (EUR 4.6 

million).

was perceived in the remaining year in most members, with 

further outflow in the second half of the year in the Serbian 

market, mostly due to attractive offers with higher interest rates 

from competitors.

The market shares  
(by total assets) of subsidiary 
banks exceed

10%in five out of six markets

Profit before tax

EUR 187.1 
million

65% higher compared  
to last year

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 NLB Komercijalna Banka, 
Beograd

In 2022, Komercijalna Banka, Beograd and NLB Bank, 

Beograd were successfully merged with a crucial goal of 

minimising potential disturbance of clients’ operations. 

Table 21: Key performance indicators of NLB Banka, Beograd(i)

in EUR thousands

2022

2021 Change YoY

Despite the demanding integration, the bank also managed 

to significantly increase lending activities in all segments and 

throughout almost the whole year achieved growth higher 

Key performance indicators

Net interest income

Net non-interest income

than the market growth, while simultaneously improving the 

Total costs

quality of the loan portfolio.

After the integration, NLB Komercijalna Banka, Beograd 

Impairments and provisions

Result before tax

Result after tax

7,295

2,456

-7,242

-38

2,471

2,197

opened a new chapter, a complete transformation of the 

Financial position statement indicators

business model by introducing an agile, simple, and fast 

Total assets

work model, digitalizing products and services, and putting 

Net loans to customers

a sustainability concept at the centre of business decisions. 

Gross loans to customers

14%

Contribution to 
NLB Group’s 
result b.t.

EUR
69.1 
million 

Result b.t.

10.0%

4th

Key performance indicators

Net interest income

Net non-interest income

Total costs

Impairments and provisions

Financial performance

Table 20: Key performance indicators of NLB Komercijalna Banka, 
Beograd(i)

in EUR thousands

2022

2021 Change YoY

124,269

58,805

88,570

40,110

-102,137

-87,979

-11,801

69,136

66,014

-7,637

33,064

34,818

 40%

 47%

 -16%

 -55%

 109%

 90%

 12%

 44%

 44%

 8%

 16%

Financial position statement indicators

Total assets

4,670,405

4,165,249

Net loans to customers

2,589,222

1,795,882

Gross loans to customers

2,624,735

1,818,793

Deposits from customers 

3,692,213

3,424,633

Equity

737,972

634,643

Market share 
by total assets

Largest bank 
in the country

Result before tax

Result after tax

 -69%

 -65%

 67%

 99%

 -50%

 -49%

23,359

6,954

-22,170

-3,202

4,941

4,293

715,375

511,693

520,518

449,476

77,918

19.2%

3.4%

5.5%

0.6%

73.1%

9,489

1.5%

1.7%

113.8%

Deposits from customers 

Equity

Key financial indicators

Total capital ratio

Net interest margin

ROE a.t.

ROA a.t.

CIR

NPL volume

NPL ratio (internal def.: 
NPL/Total loans)

Market share by total assets

LTD

(i) Data on a stand-alone basis as included in the consolidated financial statements 
of the Group. In April 2022 NLB Banka, Beograd merged with Komercijalna Banka, 
Beograd.

Business performance

Retail banking

Key financial indicators

Total capital ratio

Net interest margin

ROE a.t.

ROA a.t.

CIR

NPL volume

NPL ratio (internal def.: 
NPL/Total loans)

Market share by total assets

LTD

24.6%

28.6%

-3.9 p.p.

The retail segment operated in a challenging environment, and 

3.0%

9.6%

1.5%

56.6%

32,519

1.0%

10.0%

70.1%

2.4%

5.5%

0.9%

68.4%

36,343

0.6 p.p.

4.0 p.p.

0.6 p.p.

-11.7 p.p.

-11%

1.4%

-0.4 p.p.

9.7%

52.4%

0.4 p.p.

17.7 p.p.

the bank continued to provide stable support for households in 

2022. Through a number of initiatives, such as #FrameOfHelp 

project, Awards for the best Organic agriculture projects, Real 

Opportunity to Live on Your Own campaign (housing loan 

campaign for young population), the bank continued to build 

a relationship based on trust and keeping its customer base of 

around 1 million active customers, stable and strong. 

(i) Data on a stand-alone basis as included in the consolidated financial statements 
of the Group. In April 2022 NLB Banka, Beograd merged with Komercijalna Banka, 
Beograd. Key financial indicators (ROE a.t., ROA a.t., CIR and net interest margin) 
calculated for merged bank.

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 New production in 2022 reached record levels regarding loans 

to individuals, and retail banking recorded a significant YoY 

growth in gross loans (11%), which is over the market average 

growth and driven mostly by the growth in housing loans (16% 

YoY). The key drivers of income growth were housing and cash 

consumer loans, but also fees from payment transactions and 

current accounts. The bank continued to gain the growth of 

the market share in cash consumer loans to almost 10% and in 

housing loans over 12%. 

Corporate banking

The corporate segment in 2022 marked a 10% growth in gross 

loans and 26% growth in documentary business. The bank 

aimed to build a strong value preposition for all products 

and services in the cross- & upselling program, which also 

brought added value to customers. The bank achieved growth 

in financing, as well as non-interest income, which was an 

additional stable revenue generator, with further focus on 

capital light products (trade finance products) and transaction 
business (payments, investment banking services, acquiring). In 

the agro segment, the bank confirmed the leading position in 

the market with almost 30% of the market share. 

Growth of the portfolio was based on acquisition efforts, short 

and mid-term financing of working capital, and financing of 

ongoing investments through increased borrowing to high-

rated clients. The Bank participated in the project financing 

of the first large wind farm development (windfarm Krivača 

in the amount of EUR 10.5 million) based on the corporate 

power purchase agreement, thus confirming its commitment 

to the green agenda and ESG targets through the support of 

the increase of renewable energy in Serbia. The bank also 

approved several project financings for important real estate 

developments and sovereign financing for road infrastructure 

development in the amount of EUR 136 million for the financing 

of Dunavska magistrala. 

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79

 NLB Banka, Skopje

EUR
41.7 
million 

Result b.t.

16.3%

9%

Contribution to 
NLB Group’s 
result b.t.

3rd

Market share 
by total assets

Largest bank 
in the country

Business performance

Retail banking

Significant growth in gross loans of 9% YoY was recorded, 

which was above the level of the market growth for 2022, and 

driven by the growth in housing loans (11%) and consumer loans 

(9%). The highest amounts of disbursed loans so far in the retail 

segment led to an increase in the market share to 22%. 

The retail loan portfolio was dominated by consumer loans 

(54% of gross loans), while housing loans occupied 38% of 

gross loans. The deposit base increased 6% YoY. The interest 

margin in the retail segment was still high, but under strong 

pressure from competition. The key drivers of income growth 

were the portfolio increase, foreign payment operations, 

account management, and card operations. 

Corporate banking

The corporate segment recorded a YoY growth of 6% in gross 

loans YE. The key drivers of income growth were long-term 

loans, investment, loans for working capital, and the liquidity 

needs of companies, as well as domestic and foreign payment 

operations and account management. 

As at 31 December 2022, the bank had a market share of 14% in 

corporate gross loans. It increased the portfolio, especially in 

the segment of long-term financing of high creditworthy clients, 

securing a stable portfolio and revenue generation. The bank 

had a total outstanding balance of EUR 46 million in project 

financing, and almost EUR 27 million outstanding balance of 

loans approved for investments in renewable sources and 

energy efficient investments. Additionally, the bank supported 

the business of the clients with documentary business 

instruments, which enabled them to adapt to the changed 

macroeconomic circumstances.

The Bank is a leading banking institution on the local market, 

and is identified as a systemically important bank. In 2022, 

its success was once again confirmed and recognised by 

receiving the prestigious award “Bank of the Year” by the 
financial magazine, The Banker, for the 11th consecutive year, 
followed by “The Best Bank in Macedonia” at the Europe 

Banking Awards, and also won the award from “Finance 

Central Europe,” the award for best automated chatbot 

tool, three recognitions from Visa, Inc. for exceptional 

performance and partnership, and the certificate for Fair 

financial services for consumers. As a support to outstanding 

user experience, one new branch was opened, and another 

was fully renovated, both equipped according to the most 

modern security, architectural, and technological standards. 

Several improvements were made to mobile and electronic 

banking, which were mostly aimed at increasing security 

during their use, as a response to the increased risk and 

the generally growing trend of cyber-attacks. The bank 

made improvements to the loans approved through mobile 

banking, enabling better service for its clientele, and 
increased throughput and sales of the product.

Financial performance

Table 22: Key performance indicators of NLB Banka, Skopje(i)

in EUR thousands

2022

2021 Change YoY

Key performance indicators

Net interest income

Net non-interest income

Total costs

Impairments and provisions

Result before tax

Result after tax

53,932

21,948

-31,778

-2,434

41,668

37,874

50,386

18,043

-28,619

3,244

43,054

39,000

Financial position statement indicators

Total assets

1,847,521

1,770,587

Net loans to customers

1,170,692

1,084,075

Gross loans to customers

1,234,343

1,144,420

Deposits from customers 

1,462,015

1,399,501

Equity

265,844

243,267

 7%

 22%

 -11%

-

 -3%

 -3%

 4%

 8%

 8%

 4%

 9%

Key financial indicators

Total capital ratio

Net interest margin

ROE a.t.

ROA a.t.

CIR

NPL volume

NPL ratio (internal def.: 
NPL/Total loans)

Market share by total assets

LTD

18.2%

3.1%

15.0%

2.1%

41.9%

18.0%

3.1%

15.9%

2.4%

41.8%

0.2 p.p.

0.0 p.p.

-0.9 p.p.

-0.2 p.p.

0.1 p.p.

54,549

59,728

-9%

3.6%

16.3%

80.1%

4.3%

-0.7 p.p.

16.9%

77.5%

-0.6 p.p.

2.6 p.p.

(i) Data on a stand-alone basis as included in the consolidated financial statements 
of the Group.

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 NLB Banka, Banja Luka

EUR
21.0 
million 

Result b.t.

20.1%

Market share 
by total assets

In 2022, the bank is the second most important bank in the 

Republic of Srpska market. The market share in loans to 

individuals increased by 1.3 p.p. to 19.7%. The predominant 

strength of the Bank was its market position in the corporate 

and retail segments, and a very strong deposit base. The 

bank received a “Golden BAM” award for the highest ROA 

and ROE on the local market for several consecutive years.

4%

Financial performance

Table 23: Key performance indicators of NLB Banka, Banja Luka(i)

Contribution to 
NLB Group’s 
result b.t.

2nd

Largest bank 
in the Republic 
of Srpska

in EUR thousands

2022

2021 Change YoY

Key performance indicators

Net interest income

Net non-interest income

Total costs

Impairments and provisions

Result before tax

Result after tax

23,594

14,941

-17,293

-280

20,962

19,281

Financial position statement indicators

Total assets

Net loans to customers

Gross loans to customers

Deposits from customers 

Equity

Key financial indicators

Total capital ratio

Net interest margin

ROE a.t.

ROA a.t.

CIR

NPL volume

995,308

523,238

540,533

796,668

96,237

16.0%

2.6%

20.2%

2.0%

44.9%

8,272

20,087

13,128

-15,182

1,379

19,412

18,180

927,152

471,144

488,672

759,915

97,149

16.9%

2.4%

17.0%

2.1%

 17%

 14%

 -14%

-

 8%

 6%

 7%

 11%

 11%

 5%

 -1%

-0.9 p.p.

0.2 p.p.

3.2 p.p.

0.0 p.p.

45.7%

-0.8 p.p.

9,371

-12%

NPL ratio (internal def.: 
NPL/Total loans)
Market share by total assets (ii)

LTD

1.1%

1.3%

-0.1 p.p.

20.1%

65.7%

19.1%

62.0%

1.0 p.p.

3.7 p.p.

(i) Data on a stand-alone basis as included in the consolidated financial statements 
of the Group.
(ii) Data for 2022 as at 30 September 2022.

Business performance

Retail banking

Retail banking recorded excellent double-digit YoY growth in 

gross loans (15%), while deposits grew by 5% YoY. Consumer 

loans increased by 21% and housing loans by 10% YoY. Housing 

loans still dominated in retail loans (51% of gross retail loans), 

while consumer loans represented 46%. The market share in 

retail loans was 1.3 p.p. higher and reached 19.7%, while the 

market share in retail deposits also increased by 2.2 p.p. and 

was 27.2%. The key drivers of income growth were interest 

income from new loan production and income from payments 

processing.  

The focus remains in further growth of the retail portfolio, 

with special emphasis on introducing additional services for 

customers, especially in the field of digitalisation. 

Corporate banking

Corporate banking recorded YoY growth in deposits (17%), 

as well as in gross loans (12%). The market share in loans 

consequently increased by 1.1 p.p. to 15.4%. The focus remains 

on cross-selling activities and raising awareness about 

environmentally responsible business. A Group project, 

#FrameOfHelp was successfully implemented in 2022, and had 

a great impact on the market of the bank's image as the “Bank 

supporting Sustainability.”

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 NLB Banka, Sarajevo 

In 2022, the bank marked solid performance and remarkable 

loan growth of 15% by boosting the bank's market share. The 

predominant strength of the bank was in consumer lending 

and the development of innovative retail products, largely 

contributing to the high share of net non-interest income 

Business performance

Retail banking

(34% of net fee and commission income in total net operating 

Retail banking recorded YoY growth in gross loans (18%), driven 

EUR
12.4 
million 

Result b.t.

5.9%

Market share 
by total assets

3%

Contribution to 
NLB Group’s 
result b.t.

6th

Largest bank in 
the Federation 
of BiH

income). Improving customer experience was achieved with 

the introduction of new digital products and robotic process 

automation (RPA) solutions.

Financial performance

Table 24: Key performance indicators of NLB Banka, Sarajevo(i)

in EUR thousands

2022

2021 Change YoY

Key performance indicators

Net interest income

Net non-interest income

Total costs

Impairments and provisions

Result before tax

Result after tax

19,524

12,152

-18,304

-982

12,390

11,436

Financial position statement indicators

Total assets

Net loans to customers

Gross loans to customers

Deposits from customers 

Equity

Key financial indicators

Total capital ratio

Net interest margin

ROE a.t.

ROA a.t.

CIR

NPL volume

NPL ratio (internal def.: 
NPL/Total loans)
Market share by total assets(ii)

LTD

838,117

521,326

542,001

673,402

90,608

16.5%

2.6%

12.5%

1.5%

57.8%

16,986

2.3%

5.9%

77.4%

17,795

10,256

-16,183

-920

10,948

10,012

727,860

452,977

473,118

593,026

87,838

16.9%

2.8%

10.7%

1.5%

57.7%

19,046

 10%

 18%

 -13%

 -7%

 13%

 14%

 15%

 15%

 15%

 14%

 3%

-0.4 p.p.

-0.1 p.p.

1.8 p.p.

0.0 p.p.

0.1 p.p.

-11%

3.1%

-0.7 p.p.

5.5%

76.4%

0.4 p.p.

1.0 p.p.

(i) Data on a standalone basis as included in the consolidated financial statements 
of the Group.
(ii) Data for 2022 as at 30 September 2022.

by growth of housing and consumer loans. Significant growth of 

housing loans of 28% YoY was the result of increased demand, 

many campaigns, and increased engagement of employees. 

The share of housing loans in total retail loans increased by 1.8 

p.p., to 22.3%. The average interest rate in the retail segment 

decreased (2022: 5.37%; 2021: 5.73%).

The bank continued with activities aimed to increase the active 

number of e- and m-banking users, with 133% increase in 2022, 

while the number of transactions increased by 39% YoY.

Corporate banking

The corporate banking segment recorded YoY growth in gross 

loans (11%). Focus was on increasing the client loan portfolio with 

acquisition of new creditworthy clients. Also, a positive trend was 

recorded in the volume of guarantees portfolio, mainly due to 

the introduction of a new product ‘Guarantee Line.’ 

Corporate deposits recorded YoY growth of 32%, with a change 

in the maturity structure, namely the share of corporate term 

deposits increased by 10% YoY.

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 NLB Banka, Prishtina

In 2022, the bank was a leader in terms of profitability 

and ranked as the second biggest bank in Kosovo. The 

predominant strength of the bank was in providing a full 

Business performance

spectrum of financial services to retail and corporate clients, 

and being a market leader in innovations in the local banking 

Retail banking

EUR
36.1 
million 

Result b.t.

16.7%

7%

Contribution to 
NLB Group’s 
result b.t.

2nd

Market share 
by total assets

Largest bank 
in the country

sector. A noticeable boost has been observed in e-banking 

usage that translates to an increased number of e-banking 

users by 27% YoY The bank received the EBRD award “Most 

Active Local Bank in Using TFP Line” for several consecutive 

years.

Financial performance

Table 25: Key performance indicators of NLB Banka, Prishtina(i)

in EUR thousands

2022

2021 Change YoY

Key performance indicators

Net interest income

Net non-interest income

Total costs

Impairments and provisions

Result before tax

Result after tax

39,844

8,547

-14,348

2,052

36,095

32,402

34,459

7,374

-13,546

-1,064

27,223

24,436

Financial position statement indicators

Total assets

1,083,638

930,545

740,775

777,202

894,242

113,844

15.7%

4.1%

29.2%

3.3%

29.7%

15,705

634,529

672,376

798,790

98,856

17.3%

3.8%

22.4%

2.7%

32.4%

15,614

Net loans to customers

Gross loans to customers

Deposits from customers 

Equity

Key financial indicators

Total capital ratio

Net interest margin

ROE a.t.

ROA a.t.

CIR

NPL volume

NPL ratio (internal def.: 
NPL/Total loans)

Market share by total assets

LTD

 16%

 16%

 -6%

-

 33%

 33%

 16%

 17%

 16%

 12%

 15%

-1.6 p.p.

0.2 p.p.

6.7 p.p.

0.6 p.p.

-2.7 p.p.

1%

(i) Data on a standalone basis as included in the consolidated financial statements 
of the Group.

In 2022, the bank recorded YoY growth in gross loans (18%) 

and deposits (7%). The retail loan portfolio was dominated 

by housing loans (68%), while consumer loans occupied 32% 

of gross loans. Growth was recorded in housing 14% and in 

consumer loans 28% YoY with the key drivers of income growth 

being consumer loans. 

The growth in retail was mainly driven by an increase in loan 

demand and a further increase of the general consumption 

pattern. This has resulted in the price increase of real-estate 

driven by inflation. In addition, the bank has signed several 

partnership agreements with construction and trade companies 

to finance their products, and boost the performance 

committed by the sales department. 

Corporate banking

Corporate banking recorded YoY growth in gross loans (14%), 

which was mainly driven by the disruption of the normal supply 

chain (external factors) and the cross-selling of products 

through existing corporate clients targeting new retail and 

SME clients, as well. Optimisation of bank’s liquidity structure 

was highlighted by a 27% YoY increase in the deposits. The key 

drivers of income growth were working capital loans, credit 

lines, and overdrafts.

The bank offers fast, safe, and reliable execution of payments, 

and competitive pricing led to an increased number of 

payments contributing to the non-interest income growth. 

Cooperation on the Group level resulted in the financing of 

the construction of a major locally recognised project that 

1.7%

1.9%

-0.3 p.p.

contributed largely to clean energy production from renewable 

16.7%

82.8%

16.3%

79.4%

0.4 p.p.

3.4 p.p.

sources.

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 NLB Banka, Podgorica

EUR
18.2 
million 

Result b.t.

13.3%

4%

Contribution to 
NLB Group’s 
result b.t.

2nd

Market share 
by total assets

Largest bank 
in the country

After the merger of Komercijalna Banka, Podgorica and 

NLB Banka, Podgorica in 2021, the merged bank became the 

second largest financial institution in Montenegro. On its local 

market, the bank is categorised as one of the systemically 

important banks. The predominant strength of the bank was 

Business performance

Retail banking

seen in housing and consumer loans, where the bank was an 

Retail banking recorded YoY growth in gross loans (9%) and 

important player on the local market. The year was marked 

with numerous campaigns for housing loans and innovations 

with regard to improving the offer for individual clients and 

for legal entities as well, such as developing a modern call 

centre and investing in digital channels. In July 2022, the 

deposits (9%). A major part of the retail loan portfolio was 

dominated by consumer loans (50%), while housing loans 

occupied 48%. Growth in gross loans was recorded mainly 

by the increase in consumer loans volume by 14% YoY, and 

housing loans by 7% YoY. Consumer loans growth was affected 

Bank received the recognition 'The Best Bank in Montenegro’, 

by salary increase through the state program “Europe now”, 

awarded by the world most influential financial magazine 

thus boosting higher demand.

"Euromoney.”

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Financial performance

Table 26: Key performance indicators of NLB Banka, Podgorica(i)

in EUR thousands

2022

2021 Change YoY

Key performance indicators

Net interest income

Net non-interest income

Total costs

Impairments and provisions

Result before tax

Result after tax

29,607

7,720

-20,252

1,165

18,240

16,613

Financial position statement indicators

Total assets

Net loans to customers

Gross loans to customers

Deposits from customers 

Equity

Key financial indicators

Total capital ratio

Net interest margin

ROE a.t.

ROA a.t.

CIR

NPL volume

NPL ratio (internal def.: 
NPL/Total loans)

Market share by total assets

LTD

851,630

532,254

552,470

692,872

106,937

18.4%

4.0%

16.7%

2.1%

54.3%

32,610

4.6%

13.3%

76.8%

21,953

6,161

-17,351

613

11,376

10,050

751,351

491,579

514,308

609,792

92,643

16.3%

4.0%

13.1%

1.7%

61.7%

42,166

 35%

 25%

 -17%

 90%

 60%

 65%

 13%

 8%

 7%

 14%

 15%

2.0 p.p.

0.0 p.p.

3.6 p.p.

0.4 p.p.

-7.5 p.p.

-23%

7.0%

-2.4 p.p.

14.1%

-0.8 p.p.

The bank was the first bank in the market that expanded 

its offer by introducing video calls to the market for 

communication with clients. The bank also offered usual 

products such as ‘Credit on the Spot,’ which enables purchases 

on credit in cooperation with partner merchants, without the 

need to come to the bank. NLB Credit on the Spot involves 

quick and simple approval of an interest-free loan at more than 
30 merchants in Montenegro, in just two minutes. The credit is 
approved when making a purchase at selected merchants, on 

the spot.

Corporate banking

The corporate banking segment recorded YoY growth in 

gross loans (8%) and deposits (26%). The loan portfolio 

predominantly consisted of the large corporates’ portfolio, 

which increased by 11% YoY. Record new production was 

recorded in both segments, large corporate and SME.

The bank presented a new, innovative, practical, and cost-

effective bank service that enriched its offer for companies. It is 

a fiscal cash register where it is possible to pay by card like on a 

standard POS terminal, and was a novelty for the local market. 

This device can be used simultaneously for cash payments 

and digital payments such as card payments and via the 

mobile phone. As with a standard POS terminal, it is possible 

for customers to make payments using mobile wallets or other 

mobile devices that support payment using NFC technology.

80.6%

-3.8 p.p.

The bank was the first bank on the local market to introduce an 

(i) Data on a standalone basis as included in the consolidated financial statements 
of the Group.

online account opening service for legal entities to the market, 

which significantly simplified and accelerated the account 

opening process, directly on the bank's website. Companies use 

a special platform to enter the necessary documentation for 

opening a business account. 

Contents

84

 NLB DigIT 

On May 2022, NLB DigIT was officially established as an IT 

service company to act as a regional hub supporting the 

Group members and delivering digital transformation projects. 

The company was built on the resource pool of the Group 

Competence Centre of NLB Banka, Beograd, and additional 

external staff onboarding. 

NLB DigIT’s primary focus is to deliver services for Group 

entities with a high level of quality in domains where IT 

resources and expertise are scarce throughout the region. NLB 

DigIT provides services mostly in key areas such as IT security 

setup for all the banks, IT delivery, data management, and 

others.

Leasing operations 
expansion in SEE

In 2022, the Group started to gradually expand its leasing 

operations in the region of operations by establishing a 

presence in North Macedonia and Serbia. 

In North Macedonia, the company NLB LIZ&GO DOO Skopje 

was established in September 2022, and was afterwards 

renamed to NLB Lease&Go, Skopje. NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana 

became the owner of Zastava Istrabenz Lizing in Serbia in 

November and later renamed it to NLB Lease&Go Leasing, 

Beograd.

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85

 Financial Markets 
in Slovenia

Financial performance

Table 27: Performance of the Financial Markets in Slovenia segment

Contribution to NLB Group

Figure 42: Contribution to NLB Group

7%

Result b.t.

9%

Net interest income

The segment is focused on the Group’s activities on 

international financial markets, including treasury operations. 

In the changed interest rate environment, continuous focus 

was on prudent liquidity reserves management. In 2022, the 

Bank was very active on the wholesale market, with three 

bond issuances in different asset classes (AT1, Tier 2, and SP 

notes) for a total of EUR 607 million. 

Net interest income

o/w ALM(i)

Net non-interest income

Total net operating income

Total costs

Result before impairments and provisions

Impairments and provisions

Result before tax

Balances with Central banks

Banking book securities

Interest rate(ii)

Borrowings

Interest rate(ii)

Subordinated liabilities (Tier 2)

Interest rate(ii)

Other debt securities in issue

Interest rate(ii)

in EUR millions consolidated

Change YoY

o/w N Banka 
contribution

2022

2021

47.3

31.1

-0.7

46.6

-9.4

37.2

-3.4

33.8

26.4

17.1

-2.3

24.1

-8.6

15.5

0.3

15.8

20.9

14.0

1.6

22.5

-0.8

21.7

-3.7

18.0

8.9

7.6

-0.2

8.7

-0.2

8.6

2.6

11.2

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

Change YoY

3,373.7

2,993.3
0.74%

160.5
-0.72%

508.8
4.16%

307.2
6.00%

2,982.2

2,977.5
0.68%

873.5
-0.46%

288.5
3.70%

391.4

15.9

-713.0

220.3

307.2

0.06 p.p.

-0.26 p.p.

0.46 p.p.

6.00 p.p.

 79%

 82%

 69%

 93%

 -9%

 140%

-

 114%

 13%

 1%

 -82%

 76%

-

(i) Net interest income from assets and liabilities with the use of FTP. 
(ii) Interest rates only for NLB.

Net interest income
Net interest income was EUR 20.9 million (79%) higher YoY, of 

which EUR 8.9 million was due to the N Banka contribution. 

Excluding N Banka, net interest income increased primarily due 

to the changed FTP policy, which in H1 partially transferred the 

costs of placing the excess liquidity from treasury to retail and 

the corporate segment to de-stimulate the deposit collection, 

while in H2 net interest income growth was driven by higher 

yields on treasury investments.

Net non-interest income
Net non-interest income was negative, mostly due to the 

negative effect from securities divestments and higher premium 

for RWA optimisation measures.

Balances with central bank
There was an increase in balances with central banks (EUR 

391.4 million YoY), due to the piling up of non-banking sector 

deposits and issues of new bonds for MREL purposes 

outweighing the early prepayments of wholesale funding.  

Wholesale funding
For meeting MREL requirement, the Bank issued new EUR 

300 million Senior Preferred notes in July 2022. In contrast, the 

subordinated Tier 2 debt increased by EUR 220 million due to 

the subordinated Tier 2 notes issuance on the international 

market in Q4 2022 (the Bank holding four outstanding 

subordinated notes). Borrowings decreased by EUR 713.0 

million YoY mainly due to early prepayment of TLTRO (EUR 750 

million) and certain credit lines (EUR 70 million) in H1.

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 Business performance13

The Group’s ALM

Focus
The purpose of the Group’s ALM process is to strategically 

manage the Group’s balance sheet with respect to the 

interest rate, currency, and liquidity risk considering the 

macroeconomic environment and financial markets 

development. 

Organisation
Monitoring and management of the Group’s exposure to 

market risk is decentralised. Uniform guidelines and limits for 

each type of risk are set for individual Group members. The 

exposure of an individual Group member is regularly monitored 

and reported to the Group ALCO.

Balance sheet management
From the interest rate risk perspective, the surplus liquidity 
position of the Group contributed to further growth of fixed 

interest rate loans, mostly housing loans, and investments 

in high quality debt securities. In terms of funding, the non-

banking sector deposits continued to increase in the form of 

sight deposits and savings accounts, and partly as a result of 

the acquisition of N Banka. The Group manages its positions 

and stabilises its interest margin by actively adjusting pricing 

policy for loans and by strict pricing of its stable deposit base, 

whereas for managing interest rate risk exposure the Group 

keeps outstanding plain vanilla derivatives. Active profitability 

management has been supported by a highly disciplined 

deposit pricing policy, enabling the response to a very 

competitive loan market all over the Group’s strategic markets.

The Group’s FX risk is measured and managed with the use 

of a combination of a sensitivity analysis, VaR, and stress test 

scenarios. In terms of the liquidity risk management, each 

Group member is responsible for ensuring adequate liquidity 

via the necessary sources of funding and their appropriate 

diversification, and for managing liquid assets and fulfilling the 

requirements of regulations governing liquidity. 

Liquidity management

Focus
The Group’s liquidity management focuses on ensuring a 

sufficient level of liquidity reserves to settle all due liabilities, 

minimising the cost of maintaining liquidity and optimising 

the structure of liquidity reserves. To ensure an appropriate 

level of liquidity for different situations, emergencies and crisis 

conditions are anticipated and therefore described in the 

liquidity contingency plan (LCP).

Organisation
Liquidity management in the Group is decentralised and 

therefore each Group member manages its own liquidity on 

operational and strategic levels. 

Liquid assets
For settling due liabilities, the Group uses its liquid assets, which 

are comprised of liquidity reserves (see the subchapter Liquidity 

Position in the chapter Overview of Financial Performance) and 

other liquid assets. The latter includes funds held on accounts 

with other banks and money market placements which, 

according to LCR calculation, are treated as inflows. Likewise, 

liquid assets are managed by each Group member on its own.

13  This business overview includes the operations of the Group's ALM, due to more 

comprehensive presentation of the operations on the group level.

78%government securities 

in the Group’s banking  
book securities portfolio

2.7
years

average duration of the 
Group’s banking book 
securities portfolio

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 Banking book securities portfolio
The purpose of the banking book securities is to provide 

liquidity, along with stabilisation of the interest margin, and 

Figure 43: Banking book securities portfolio of NLB Group and NLB by geographical structure and asset class as at 31 December 2022 (in EUR millions)

Geographical structure

interest rate risk management. At year-end, the banking book 

the Netherlands

debt securities portfolio constituted 19.7% of the Group’s total 

assets (20.7% of Bank’s total assets). 

In the rising interest rate environment of 2022, the value of the 

portfolio partially diminished on the account of bonds valued 

at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI). This 

portfolio at year-end represented 59.7% of total Group and 

44.7% of Bank securities portfolio with the average duration 

of 2.0 and 2.6 years respectively. Negative valuation of FVOCI 

Group portfolio during 2022 amounted to EUR 168.6 million 

(net of hedge accounting effects). As of 31 December 2022, 

total accumulated other comprehensive income for FVOCI 

debt securities was negative in the amount of EUR 144.6 million 

(Note 5.4.(c) of the financial part of this report), consisting of 

EUR 168.7 million negative valuation and EUR 24.1 million of 

related deferred taxes and impairments. Approximately 60% 
of accumulated other comprehensive income for FVOCI debt 

securities (EUR 82,913 thousand) was as at 31 December 2022 

already absorbed by the capital, with 40% of the valuation 

result for sovereign exposures exempt from the deduction in 

the capital due to the use of temporary treatment for FVOCI 

for sovereign securities. As of January 2023, the so-called 

‘quick fix’ from June 2020 ceased to apply. As and when these 

exposures are repaid (more than 70% of them mature over the 

next 3 years) all deductions from capital will be reversed. New 

FVOCI investments are typically placed at durations of 1 year 

maximum. Further information is available in Notes 6.1. (j), 6.1. (o) 

and 6.5. (e) of the financial part of this report.

Since the beginning of the bank stress and market turmoil, the 

financial institutions’ credit spreads widening and overall risk-

free rates decrease were observed, which is currently positively 

impacting the Group’s FVOCI positions. Further information 

is available in the Chapter Events After the End of the 2022 

Financial Year.

Finland

Austria

BiH

7

Belgium

Germany

N. Macedonia

70

France

Slovenia

Serbia

Other

4

Asset class distribution

Corporate bonds

Subordinated debt

Multilateral bank bonds

GGB

Covered bond

13
22

31
31

138
138

154
154

Bank senior unsecured bonds

Government bonds

277
277

430
435

157

170

142

172

148

175

185
185

185

223

244

324
318

354

Total NLB: EUR 2,935 million 
Total NLB Group: EUR 4,757 million

635

692

 NLB Group    

 NLB

924

1,085

1,292

Total NLB: EUR 2,935 million 
Total NLB Group: EUR 4,757 million

1,894

 NLB Group    

 NLB

3,700

Table 28: Maturity profile of NLB Group and NLB banking book securities as at 31 December 2022 

Characteristics of the banking book  
securities portfolio
The portfolio is well diversified from the geographical, asset 

class and maturity profile perspective. In 2022, due to the 

Ukraine-Russia conflict, some exposures to the neighbouring 

Domestic securities  
(the Group’s strategic markets)

- Slovenia

- Other SEE

countries were lowered, while the nominal value of EUR 20.6 

International securities

597.7

824.9

64.7

533.0

741.2

222.1

602.8

647.5

481.1

167.8

313.3

581.1

million in Russian sovereign bonds exposure on the day of the 

Total

1,338.9

1,472.4

1,062.1

Russian invasion, was partially left to mature (exposure EUR 13.1 

341.3

2,245.0

692.2

1,552.8

2,511.5

237.6

103.7

541.7

883.1

57.2

44.9

12.3

481.7

4,756.5

538.9

840.8

2024-
2025

208.1

184.9

23.2

632.7

NLB Group

2023

2024-
2025

2026-
2027

2028+

Total

2023

NLB

2026-
2027

211.5

167.8

43.7

577.0

788.6

in EUR millions

2028+

Total

248.7

237.6

11.1

517.8

766.5

725.5

635.2

90.3

2,209.3

2,934.8

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million, maturing in April 2022, settled in May 2022). The other 

part, the EUR 7.5 million exposure which matures in September 

2023 was considered as a technical default at the end of 

2022. This exposure was sold and successfully settled at the 

beginning of February 2023. Further information is available in 

Note 5.4. of the financial part of this report.

As the Group actively works on incorporating ESG in its 

business profile, the portfolio reflects the growing market of ESG 

bonds. Currently, these bonds (EUR 191.2 million) have a share 

of 4.0% in the Group banking book securities portfolio (5.7% in 

the Bank’s), and it grows simultaneously with the share of ESG 

reinvestments. 

Wholesale funding

Purpose
Wholesale funding activities in the Group are conducted with 

the aim of achieving diversification, improving structural 

liquidity and capital position, and fulfilling regulatory 

requirements, especially ensuring compliance with the MREL 

requirement. 

The Bank was active on the wholesale market with the issuance 

of EUR 300 million Senior Preferred notes in July, EUR 82 million 

Additional Tier 1 notes in September, and EUR 225 million Tier 

2 notes in November. All instruments are MREL eligible, while 

Additional Tier 1 and Tier 2 notes also improve the capital 

The average duration of the Group banking book securities is 

approximately 2.7 years as at year-end (3.4 years of the Bank’s). 

position. 

The average yield achieved in 2022 on the Group’s banking 

book securities portfolio was 1.11% (2021: 1.01%), 0.74% of the 

Bank’s (2021: 0.68%).

The Bank also optimised its funding structure by exercising an 

early repayment of the EUR 70 million credit line facility.

NLB Group members were also active on the wholesale market. 
More specifically, they obtained funding from international 

financial institutions in a total amount of EUR 10 million, which 

will be used for NLB Banka, Sarajevo for meeting its future 

MREL requirement.

3

bond issuances on international  
capital markets in different asset 
classes (AT1, Tier 2, and SP notes)

Table 29: Overview of outstanding securities

Type of bond

ISIN code

First call date

Interest Rate

Nominal Value

in EUR millions

Tier 2

Tier 2

Tier 2

SI0022103855

Issue Date

6 May 2019

Maturity

6 May 2029

6 May 2024

XS2080776607

19 November 2019

19 November 2029

19 November 2024

XS2113139195

5 February 2020

5 February 2030

5 February 2025

Senior Preferred

XS2498964209

19 July 2022

19 July 2025

19 July 2024

Additional Tier 1

SI0022104275

23 September 2022

Perpetual

between 
23 September 2027 
and 23 March 2028

4.2% p.a.

3.65% p.a.

3.40% p.a.

6.0% p.a.

9.721% p.a.

Tier 2

XS2413677464

28 November 2022

28 November 2032

28 November 2027

10.750% p.a.

45

120

120

300

82

225

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 Non-Core Members

Financial performance

Table 30: Results of the Non-Core Members segment 

The Non-Core Members segment includes the operations 

of non-core Group members. The main objective in the non-

Core segment remains a rigorous wind-down of all non-

core portfolios and the consequent reduction of costs. The 

implementation of the wind-down has been pursued with 

a variety of measures, including the sales of portfolios, sales 

of non-core entities, sales of individual assets, the collection 

or restructuring of individual assets, and active management 

of real-estate assets.

EUR 
18.4 
million

reduction of gross loans  
to customers in 2022

Net interest income

Net non-interest income

Total net operating income

Total costs

Result before impairments and provisions

Impairments and provisions

Result before tax

Segment assets

Net loans to customers

Gross loans to customers

Investment property and property & 
equipment received for repayment of loans

Other assets

Non-performing loans (gross)

2022

0.3

4.4

4.7

-12.6

-7.9

-0.8

-8.7

2021

1.3

5.9

7.2

-11.4

-4.1

5.4

1.3

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

61.5

13.8

35.4

39.6

8.1

32.3

95.9

24.3

53.9

65.6

6.0

45.0

Result before tax
The segment recorded a EUR 8.7 million loss before tax. 

Total assets
A decrease of the total assets of the segment YoY (EUR 34.4 

million) was in line with the divestment strategy of the non-core 

segment.

in EUR millions consolidated

Change YoY

-1.1

-1.5

-2.5

-1.2

-3.8

-6.2

-10.0

-34.4

-10.5

-18.4

-26.0

2.1

-12.8

 -80%

 -25%

 -35%

 -11%

 -91%

-

-

 -36%

 -43%

 -34%

 -40%

 36%

 -28%

Change YoY

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 Business performance
The wind-down of the Non-Core  
Members segment
The wind-down of the Non-Core Members segment in 2022 

included:

•  divestment of non-core Group members

•  active management of real-estate assets

Divestment of non-core Group 
members

Liquidation process
A liquidation process is ongoing in all non-core leasing and 

trade finance subsidiaries and some real estate subsidiaries. 

The divestment process has been running with thoughtful cost 

management and well-established collection procedures.

Decrease of non-core portfolio
New business has been suspended in all non-core Group 

members which that are in the process of being wound down. 

The decrease of the cumulative non-core subsidiaries’ portfolio 

remains ongoing through regular repayments and collection 

measures.

Active management  
of real estate assets 

Divestment process
The divestment process of the still remaining NPL exposures 

at the Bank or at the non-core subsidiaries’ level is being 

facilitated through a specialised team for repossessing, 

managing, and divesting collateral real estate. Real estate 

expertise and services are offered to the Group members 

assisting them in implementation of the most efficient 

divestment manner of the remaining non-performing portfolio 

or the repossession of the collateral real estates. 

Value-preserving strategies
The main task is to ensure value-preserving strategies for the 

real estate management, respectively the collateral value of 

NPL claims by either temporarily repossessing real-estate or 

ensuring a value-preserving divestment process of the real-

estate or a claim. From 2015 to 2022, real-estate transactions 

with a total sales value of EUR 242.1 million were executed or 

supported, and directly or indirectly contributed to a EUR 646.5 

million in NPL reduction, of which EUR 23.9 million in 2022 alone.

EUR 
48.3 
million

the total sales value  
of real-estate transactions 
executed or supported by the 
real-estate team in 2022

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 Our objectives are set prudently and strategically, 
focusing on the innovative, higher recurring 
growth financial products, and addressing digital 
innovation. 

In NLB Banka, Prishtina we started 2022 with a 
sense of optimism, confidence, and trust in what 
we do. We took brave decisions promoting loan 
demand, supporting our clients towards their 
investments, contributing to economic recovery, 
and actively supporting wider socio-economic 
development and a better quality of life through 
our CSR activities with commitment to different 
groups of society. The remarkable performance 
led to a record high profit and rank our bank as the 
first in the market in terms of profitability. The bank 
also received the EBRD award “Most Active Local 
Bank in Using TFP Line” for several consecutive 
years.

We remain fully dedicated and confident of 
achievements on our journey towards delivering 
our vision and creating better footprints for all.

Pictured: NLB Banka, Prishtina employees

 
 
Risk Management

The self-funded model, strong liquidity, and a solid capital 

position continued in 2022, demonstrating the Group’s 

financial resilience. Efficient management of risks and 

capital is crucial for the Group to sustain long-term profitable 

operations. A robust Risk Management framework is 

comprehensively integrated into decision-making, steering, 

and mitigation processes within the Group, with the aim 

of proactively supporting its business operations. The 

Group is engaged in contributing to sustainable finance by 

incorporating environmental, social, and governance risks 

into its business strategies, risk management framework, and 

internal governance arrangements.

1.3%NPE (EBA def.)

The Group has a well-diversified business model. In accordance 

low. The Group must maintain an appropriate level of liquidity 

with its strategic orientations, it intends to be a sustainably 

at all times, and also pursue an appropriate structure of the 

profitable; predominantly working with clients on its core 

sources of financing.

markets; providing innovative, but simple customer-oriented 

solutions; and actively contributing to a sustainable, more 

Table 31: NLB Group’s Key Risk Appetite indicators (KRIs) 

balanced, and inclusive economic and social system. Efficient 

managing of risks and capital is crucial for the Group to sustain 

long-term profitable operations. Risk Management in the Group 

is in charge of managing, assessing, and monitoring risks within 

the Bank as the main entity in Slovenia, and the competence 

centre for seven banking subsidiaries. 

Figure 44: Risk profile of NLB Group as at 31 December 2022

2.4% 1.9% 

8.2%

8.9%

64.7%

10.2%

3.8%

 Credit risk
 Concentration risk
 Credit spread risk
 Interest rate risk in banking book
 Operational risk
 Market risk
 Business and Strategic risk

Based on the Group’s business strategy, credit risk is the 

dominant risk category, followed by credit spread and 

interest rate risk in the banking book, and operational risk. 

Management of credit risk focuses on moderate risk-taking, 

striving to assure a diversified credit portfolio, adequate credit 

portfolio quality, the sustainable cost of risk, and optimal return 

considering the risks assumed. The Group has limited exposure 

to other aforementioned risks, while market risk and other non-

financial risks are less important from a materiality perspective. 

The Group integrates and manages ESG risks within the existing 

types of risks, such as credit, liquidity, market, and operational 

risk, as part of its risk management framework. These risks are 

estimated as low, except for transition risk in the area of credit, 

which is assessed as low to medium. Liquidity risk tolerance is 

KRIs

Total capital ratio

CET1 ratio

LCR

NSFR

Cost of Risk

NPL ratio (EBA definition)

NPE (EBA definition)

Interest rate risk (EVE)

31 Dec 2022

19.2%

15.1%

220.3%

183.0%

14 bps

2.4%

1.3%

-5.1%

In 2022, the war in Ukraine did not have a meaningful direct 

impact on the quality of the credit portfolio, nor on the liquidity 

of the Group. The Group’s credit portfolio quality remained 

solid, with a stable rating structure, portfolio diversification, 

and lower level of NPLs. In the light of increasing energy prices, 
inflationary pressures, and a forecast of a decrease in economic 

growth, the Group has thoroughly analysed potential impacts 

on its credit portfolio and made necessary adjustments. The 

most affected industries or segments are carefully monitored 

with the intention to detect any additional significant increase in 

credit risk at a very early stage.

The Group experienced high new corporate and retail loan 

origination across all markets in 2022, also influenced by 

expectations of the higher interest rate. The current economic 

situation led to sluggish growth projections, persistent 

inflationary pressures, and interest rate hikes. Based on that, 

slower lending growth in all segments is foreseen for 2023. 

During the year, the Group reviewed IFRS 9 provisioning 

by testing a set of relevant macroeconomic scenarios to 

adequately reflect the current circumstances and the related 

impacts in the future. Increased uncertainty and the changes 

in expectations of macroeconomic development affected 

forecasts for some economies in the NLB Group. Hence, an 

executive decision was made to adjust risk expectations 

by shifting the scenario's weights to reflect more severe 

development. The cost of risk remained at a relatively low level, 

at 14 bps, mainly due to further positive development in NPL 

resolution in the whole region.

Though the war in Ukraine, coupled with its implications on 

the business environment, the Group faced a stable liquidity 

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 position and managed to stay well capitalised in both the 

The organisation and delineation of competencies is designed 

Figure 45: NLB Group’s Risk Management framework

Group and banking member levels. The Group is still perceived 

to prevent conflicts of interest, and to ensure a transparent and 

as a safe heaven, and therefore, in H2 2022 again faced 

documented decision-making process that is subject to an 

growing liquidity, while the impacts of the crisis did not cause 

appropriate upward and downward flow of information. 

any material liquidity outflows. Significant attention was put 

into the structure and concentration of liquidity reserves by 

Competence line Risk Management in NLB is, by encompassing 

incorporating early warning systems, while keeping in mind 

several professional areas, in charge of:

the potential adverse negative market movements. Raising the 

•  formulating and controlling the Group’s  

interest rate environment and corresponding increased market 

Risk Management policies, 

demand for fixed interest rate products resulted in moderate 

•  setting limits, 

interest rate risk exposure, which stayed within the risk appetite 

•  overseeing the harmonisation, 

tolerance. 

•  regular monitoring of risk exposures and limits based on 

centralised reporting at the Group level. 

In 2022, the Group was included into the ECB Climate Stress 

test exercise, consisting of three modules. The exercise was 

Harmonization of risk management framework of N Banka, 

conducted in the first half of 2022 and the aggregate results 

which was acquired in March 2022, was fully implemented. 

were published in July 2022. By performing this exercise, 

Completion of the merger process is expected within this year. 

the ECB assessed how banks are prepared for dealing with 

financial and economic shocks stemming from climate risk. The 

The Group puts great emphasis on the risk culture and 

Group’s overall results were within the range of average peer 

awareness across the entire Group. The Group’s Risk 

results. Additionally, in 2023, the Group will be included into 

Management framework is forward-looking and tailored to its 

the regular EBA EU-wide/ECB SSM Stress test exercise. This 

business model and corresponding risk profile. The main risk 

EU-wide stress test is designed to provide valuable input for 

principles and limits are set forth by the Group’s Risk Appetite 

assessing the resilience of the European banking sector in the 

and Risk Strategy, and designed in accordance with its business 

current uncertain and changing macroeconomic environment.

strategy. The Group performs the risk identification process on 

The Bank is, as a systemic bank, involved in the 
Single Supervisory Mechanism (SSM).

Supervision is under the jurisdiction of the 
Joint Supervisory Team (JST) of:

ECB

BoS

ECB regulations are followed by the Group, where the Group 
subsidiaries operating outside Slovenia are compliant with 
the rules set by the local regulators. Third party equivalents 
are approved in Serbia, BiH, and North Macedonia, resulting 
in alignment of the local regulation with CRR rules.

Across the Group, risks are assessed, monitored, managed, 
or mitigated in a uniform manner, as defined in the Group’s 
Risk management standards, also considering the specifics of 
the markets in which individual Group members operate.

Risk Management and control is performed through a clear 

organisational structure with defined roles and responsibilities. 

a regular basis, as part of the ICAAP and ILAAP frameworks. 

In this process, all topical risks, including ESG-related ones, 

are comprehensively assessed, monitored, and mitigated 

where necessary. Special focus is placed on the inclusion of 

risk analysis into the decision-making process at strategic and 

operating levels, diversification to avoid large concentration, 

optimal capital usage and allocation, appropriate risk-

adjusted pricing, and overall compliance with internal rules and 

regulations. 

Risk Management focuses on managing and mitigating 

risks in line with the Group’s Risk Appetite and Risk Strategy, 

representing the foundation of the Group’s Risk Management 

framework. Within these frameworks, the Group monitors a 

range of risk metrics to assure the Group’s risk profile is in 

line with its Risk Appetite. In addition, the Group is constantly 

enhancing its Risk Management system, where consistent 

incorporation of ICAAP, ILAAP, the Recovery plan, and other 

internal stress-testing capabilities into the Risk Management 

system is essential. Moreover, the Group puts great emphasis 

on their integration into the overall Risk Management system to 

assure proactive support for informed decision-making.

ICAAP 
& 
ILAAP 
inputs

Business strategy

Risk identification

Risk Appetite (Limit system)

Capital and Financial planning

ILAAP
•  Economic and 

normative assessment 
of liquidity
•  Stress tests
•  Liquidity contingency 

plan (LCP)

ICAAP
•  Economic and 
normative 
assessment of 
capital

•  Stress tests

Results

Recovery plan
Assessment of liquidity and capital  
(significant deterioration)

The uniform stress-testing programme, which includes 

internally developed models, stress scenarios, and sensitivity 

analysis, was further complemented. In 2021, the Group 

established an internal ESG stress-testing concept to identify the 

most relevant financial vulnerabilities stemming from climate 

risk, which will be further enhanced by considering available 

ESG-related data. Such a stress-testing framework is the subject 

of a regular internal validation cycle and related procedures 

where the Group established a comprehensive validation 

framework. That is to say, the Group supports a strong 

validation governance process and controls over applied and 

selected risk approaches and internal models. 

The business and operating environment, relevant for the Group 

operations is changing, with trends such as sustainability, social 

responsibility, governance, changing customer behaviour, 

emerging new technologies and competitors, actively 

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 Maintaining a solid level and 
structure of liquidity 

Maintaining a solid level and structure of liquidity represents 

the next very important risk target. The liquidity position of the 

Group remained stable, and the impacts of the war in Ukraine 

and its overall economic implication did not cause any material 

2.40%

liquidity outflows. Strong liquidity positions are held at the 

Group and individual subsidiary bank levels. Group LCR slightly 

decreased to 220.3% (by 32.3 p.p. YoY), but remained well above 

the risk appetite limit (130%). The level of the unencumbered 

eligible liquid reserves remained at a high level, representing 

39.0% of total assets. The Group has sufficient liquidity reserves 

in the form of placements with the ECB, prime debt securities, 

and money market placements. Even in the event of the 

combined adverse stress scenario, the Group would survive 

at least three months under such stress conditions. The core 

funding base of the Group predominately represents retail 

customer deposits with a very stable and constantly growing 

base. LTD increased to 65.3% (31 December 2021: 60.0%), 

remaining at very comfortable level.

contributing to a more sustainable, balanced, and inclusive 

Figure 46: NLB Group’s Pillar 2 Requirement evolution 

3.50%

3.25%

2.75%

2.75%

2.60%

2018

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

One of the key aims of Risk Management is to preserve a 

whereby its fulfilment is regularly analysed and monitored. 

prudent level of the Group’s capital position. The Group 

NLB complies all interim targets. More information on MREL 

monitors its capital position at the Group and individual 

is available in the chapter Funding Strategy and MREL 

subsidiary bank level in accordance with the Risk Appetite, also 

Compliance.

MREL requirement forms part of the Group’s risk appetite, 

economic and social system, as well increasing new regulatory 

requirements. It should be noted that Risk Management is 

continuously adapting with the aim of detecting and managing 

new potential emerging risks.

Proactive Risk Management 
in 2022

Prudent capital level position and 
achieved interim MREL targets

incorporating normative and economic perspectives as part 

of the established ICAAP process. As at 31 December 2022, the 

Group had a very solid capital position and TCR of 19.2% (1.4 p.p. 

YoY increase). The CET1 ratio, representing capital of the highest 

quality, stood at 15.1% (0.4 p.p. YoY decrease).

The capital is higher mainly due to the inclusion of the negative 

goodwill from the acquisition of N Banka in retained earnings in 

the amount of EUR 172.8 million, a partial inclusion of 2022 profit 

in the amount of EUR 161.5 million, additional Tier 1 notes issued in 

September in the amount of EUR 82 million, and subordinated Tier 
2 notes issued in November in the amount of EUR 222.9 million,14 
which compensated the negative revaluation adjustments on 

FVOCI securities (EUR -98.5 million YoY). An increase of RWA in 

NLB Group for credit risk relates to the acquisition of N Banka and 

lending activity in all NLB Group banks. RWA growth was partially 

mitigated by CRR eligible real estate collaterals from BiH, Serbia, 

and North Macedonia. The increase in RWAs for market risks and 

CVA is the result of higher RWA for FX risk and higher RWA for CVA 

risk. The main effect of an increase in the RWA for operational risks 

refers to the acquisition of N Banka. 

Figure 47: NLB Group’s LCR 

300%

280%

260%

240%

220%

200%

180%

160%

140%

120%

100%

31 D ec 2 0 21

31 Ja n 2 0 22

28 Fe b 2 0 22

31 M ar 2 0 22

3 0 A pr 2 0 22

31 M a y 2 0 22

3 0 Ju n 2 0 22

31 Jul 2 0 22

31 A u g 2 0 22

3 0 S e p 2 0 22

31 O ct 2 0 22

3 0 N ov 2 0 22

31 D ec 2 0 22

 LCR NLB Group

As at 31 December 2022, the Group meets all fully loaded 

regulatory requirements. Moreover, enhanced overall corporate 

governance in recent years led to a lower P2R, which decreased 

Maintaining adequate credit 
portfolio quality

from 2.60% applicable in 2022 to 2.40% applicable from 

Maintaining adequate credit portfolio quality is the most 

1 January 2023, while Pillar 2 Guidance remains at a low level 

important goal, with the focus on cautious risk-taking and 

in line with best banking practices to further enhance the 

existing risk management tools, while at the same time enabling 

greater customer responsiveness. The restructuring approach 

in the Group is focused on the early detection of clients with 

potential financial difficulties and their proactive treatment. 

of 1%. 

14 T2 notes were issued in the amount of EUR 225 million, amount included in the 

capital was EUR 222.9 million (due to issuance below par).

quality of new loans leading to a diversified portfolio of 

customers. The Group is constantly developing a wide range of 

advanced approaches in the segment of credit risk assessment 

The Group is actively present on SEE markets by financing 

existing and new creditworthy clients. The Group’s lending 

strategy focuses on its core markets of retail, SME, and selected 

MB Statement

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Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

95

  
 
Figure 48: NLB Group structure of the credit portfolio(i) (gross loans) by segment (in EUR millions) and rating(ii)

Institutions
369 

State(iii)
4,746

SME 
3,649 

65%

63%

60%63% 62%

 31 Dec 2019
 31 Dec 2020 w/o KB
 31 Dec 2020
 31 Dec 2021
 31 Dec 2022

EUR 18.4 billion

Corporates
2,897

A

Highest 
quality

30% 28%

33% 32%

33%

NPLs

3%

3%

4%

3%

3%

2% 2% 2% 1% 1% 

2% 2% 2% 1% 1%

B

C

D

E

Default

Retail  
consumer
2,812

Retail housing
3,932

(i) Loan portfolio also includes reserves at CBs and demand deposits at banks.
(ii) Rating A, B, and C are performing exposures. Rating A: investment grade clients with high financial stability; Rating B: clients with high ability to repay their obligations, a 
significant aggravation of the economic environment would cause problems to them; Rating C: performing clients with increased level of risk who may encounter problems with 
settlement of liabilities in the future; Ratings D and E are NPLs: Default clients (article 178 of CRR), including clients in delay >90 days and other clients considered ‘unlikely to pay’ 
with delays below 90 days. The numbers may not add up to 100% due to rounding. 
(iii) State includes exposures to CBs.

corporate business activities within the region and EU. On 

Lending growth was observed in the corporate, as well as in 

portfolio consists of other liquid assets. The credit portfolio 

the Slovenian market, the focus is on providing appropriate 

the retail segments in 2022. In the circumstances of the growing 

remains well diversified, and there is no large concentration in 

solutions for retail, medium-sized companies, and small 
enterprise segments, whereas on the corporate segment, the 

EURIBOR, there was a certain transfer to fixed interest rates, 
especially in the housing loans market, which led to increased 

any specific industry or client segment. The share of the retail 
portfolio in the whole credit portfolio is quite substantial, with 

Bank established cooperation with selected corporate clients 

new production and the general increase in the volume of 

mortgage loans as the still prevailing segment. 

(through different types of lending or investment instruments). 

retail exposures. In the corporate segment, the Bank seized 

All other banking members in the SEE region where the Group 

opportunities to finance some of the top corporate clients in 

is present are universal banks, mainly focused on the retail, 

the region, while keeping the focus on SME as its key segment. 

medium-sized companies, and small enterprise segments. Their 

The current structure of credit portfolio (gross loans) consists 

primary goal is to provide comprehensive services to clients by 

of 36.6% retail clients, 15.7% large corporate clients, and 

applying prudent Risk Management principles. 

19.8% SMEs and micro companies, while the remainder of the 

Table 32: Overview of NLB Group loan portfolio by industry as at 31 December 2022

Corporate sector by industry

Accommodation and food service activities

Administrative and support service activities

Agriculture, forestry and fishing

Arts, entertainment and recreation

Construction industry

Education

Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning

Finance

Human health and social work activities

Information and communication

Manufacturing

Mining and quarrying

Professional, scientific and techn. act.

Public admin., defence, compulsory social.

Real estate activities

Services

Transport and storage

Water supply

Wholesale and retail trade

Other

Total Corporate sector

Corporate sector

NLB Group

216.7

79.8

326.2

23.7

569.8

13.9

550.5

224.7

46.8

314.9

1,458.8

54.2

187.1

188.7

312.8

16.8

629.5

51.4

1,278.0

1.3

6,545.6

%

3.3%

1.2%

5.0%

0.4%

8.7%

0.2%

8.4%

3.4%

0.7%

4.8%

22.3%

0.8%

2.9%

2.9%

4.8%

0.3%

9.6%

0.8%

19.5%

0.0%

100.0%

in EUR millions

∆ 2022

∆ 2022 w/o N Banka

60.4

-28.4

15.5

1.0

135.1

0.6

232.4

104.5

8.9

70.8

367.7

3.8

11.8

16.3

61.5

4.8

56.2

7.5

234.9

0.8

1,366.1

4.9

-33.5

14.7

-4.3

97.9

-0.7

180.8

93.3

2.3

63.5

197.9

-0.6

-59.8

15.5

20.2

-0.6

28.7

-1.7

157.1

0.6

776.2

Retail sector

Retail  
consumer
42%

EUR 6.7 billion

Retail 
housing
58%

MB Statement

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Performance Overview

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Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

96

  
MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Figure 49: NLB Group corporate and retail loan portfolio by interest 
rates as at 31 December 2022

Approximately 50% of the NLB Group corporate and retail 

Figure 50: NLB Group loan portfolio by stages as at 31 December 2022

loan portfolio is linked to a fixed interest rate, and the rest 

Corporate (incl. SME)

Consumer

Housing

to a floating rate (mostly to the Euribor reference rate). The 

64%

36%

40%

60%

36%

64%

 Fix   

 Float

Table 33: NLB Group loan portfolio by stages as at 31 December 2022

corporate segment is dominated by floating interest rates. 

In the retail segment, more than 60% of the loan portfolio is 

linked to a fixed interest rate, which is a result of considerable 

growth predominately of housing loans in 2022 and activities of 

changing the type of contractual interest rates for existing loans 
at the request of the client. 

FVTPL
0%
Stage 3
2%
Stage 2
3%

Corporate
34%

Institutions
2% 

State
27%

Retail
37% 

Stage 1
95%

Stage1

Credit portfolio

Stage2

Stage3 & FVTPL

Stage1

Stage2

Stage3 & FVTPL

Provisions and FV changes for credit portfolio

in EUR millions

Credit 
portfolio

Share of 
Total

YTD change

Credit 
portfolio

Share of 
Total

YTD change

Credit 
portfolio

Share of 
Total

YTD change

Provision 
Volume

Provision 
Coverage

Provision 
Volume

Provision 
Coverage

Provisions & 
FV changes

Coverage with 
provisions and 
FV changes

Total NLB Group

o/w Corporate

o/w Retail

o/w State

o/w Institutions

NLB-G w/o N Banka

o/w Corporate

o/w Retail

o/w State

o/w Institutions

17,457.5

5,920.1

6,423.0

4,745.6

368.9

16,379.6

5,394.7

6,077.4

4,538.6

368.9

94.9%

90.4%

95.2%

100.0%

100.0%

95.0%

90.6%

95.3%

100.0%

100.0%

2,819.6

1,394.5

1,051.9

543.2

-170.0

1,741.6

869.1

706.3

336.2

-170.0

618.3

425.7

192.6

-

-

558.9

377.3

181.6

-

-

3.4%

6.5%

2.9%

-

-

3.2%

6.3%

2.8%

-

-

85.9

13.5

72.4

-

-

26.5

-34.9

61.4

-

-

328.1

199.9

128.0

0.1

0.1

304.7

183.7

120.9

0.1

-

1.8%

3.1%

1.9%

0.0%

0.0%

1.8%

3.1%

1.9%

0.0%

-

-43.4

-41.9

-1.7

0.1

0.1

-66.8

-58.0

-8.8

0.1

-

92.5

59.3

31.3

1.8

0.1

85.5

53.6

30.1

1.8

0.1

0.5%

1.0%

0.5%

0.0%

0.0%

0.5%

1.0%

0.5%

0.0%

0.0%

45.0

31.1

13.9

-

-

39.8

26.8

13.0

-

-

7.3%

7.3%

7.2%

-

-

7.1%

7.1%

7.2%

-

-

187.4

110.6

76.6

0.1

0.1

183.6

108.2

75.3

0.1

-

57.1%

55.3%

59.8%

99.1%

96.3%

60.3%

58.9%

62.3%

99.1%

-

Figure 51: NLB Group Corporate and Retail loan portfolio (valued at amortised cost) by stages

Stage 1 by segment (in EUR millions)

Stage 2 by segment (in EUR millions)

Stage 3 by segment (in EUR millions)

+31% 
YoY

5,920 

4,526 

4,136  

3,207  3,170  

+20% 
YoY

5,371 

6,423 

4,779 

3,822 3,936 

+3% 
YoY

427    

427   

426

412  

367   

+60% 
YoY

193

133

133

120

104   

359   

324   

286   

-17% 
YoY

242   

200         

-1% 
YoY

111

117

130    128

87

Corporate

Retail

Corporate

Retail

Corporate

Retail

 31 Dec 2019   

 31 Dec 2020 w/o KB   

 31 Dec 2020   

 31 Dec 2021   

 31 Dec 2022

The majority of the Group’s loan portfolio is classified as Stage 1 

almost at the same level as at the end of  2021, i.e., at 95.2% in 

the retail segment as a result of the changed macroeconomic 

(94.9%), the remaining portfolio as Stage 2 (3.4%), and Stage 3 

the retail segment, while in the corporate segment, despite the 

conditions and improved Early Warning System (EWS) in the 

and FVTPL (1.8%). The portfolio quality remains very stable, with 

adverse economic conditions, improved to the level of 90.4%, 

increasing Stage 1 exposures and a relatively low percentage 

which is a result of cautious lending policy and successful 

of NPLs. The percentage of the Stage 1 loan portfolio remains 

closure of NPL. The volume of Stage 2 exposures increased in 

subsidiary banks, nevertheless the increase remains relatively 
low compared to the entire portfolio volume.   

Contents

97

 The Russia – Ukraine conflict did not have a meaningful 

trend of the non-performing credit portfolio stock continued, 

in dealing with clients with financial difficulties, resulting 

impact on the bank portfolio quality. The government adopted 

mostly due to repayments, cured clients, and the collection, and 

primarily from legacy portfolios, the Group has developed an 

intervention laws that contributed to a mitigation of fluctuations 

sale of claims. The non-performing credit portfolio stock in the 

extensive knowledge base both in the prevention of financial 

in energy prices for end users while large energy consumers 

Group decreased at the end of 2022 in comparison with the end 

difficulties for clients, to restructure viable clients in case of 

in the corporate segments set different strategies to eliminate 

of 2021 to EUR 328.3 million (the end of 2021: EUR 367.4 million). 

need, and to efficiently work out exposures with no realistic 

any material impact. The bank is closely monitoring any clients 

The combined result of contraction in the non-performing credit 

recovery prospects. This extensive knowledge base is available 

whose activity may be affected by the current situation on the 

portfolio stock and credit growth of a higher quality portfolio 

throughout the Group, and risk units, as well as restructuring 

energy and commodity prices.  

led to 1.8% of NPLs, while the internationally more comparable 

and workout teams are properly staffed and have the capacity 

New NPLs formation and NPL 
management

In March 2022, the Bank acquired N Banka, their NPE were 

included in the Group portfolio based on fair value. In 2022, 

NPL formation amounted to EUR 127 million or 0.7% of the total 

loan portfolio. Nevertheless, the total amount of NPL decreased 

during 2022. 

During the year, the Group reviewed IFRS 9 provisioning 

by testing a set of relevant macroeconomic scenarios to 

adequately reflect the current circumstances and applied 

necessary adjustments. Notably, the cost of risk remained at 

a relatively low level, more specifically due to further positive 

development in NPL collection in the whole region.

Figure 52: NLB Group gross NPL formation (in EUR millions) 

Formation / gross loans (stock)

0.7%

0.6%

64

36

16

12
2018
 Corporate   

56

35

20

2019

 SME   

 Retail

1.1%

148

78

60

10
2020

143

80

58

5
2021

127

70

51

7
2022

Precisely set targets and various proactive workout approaches 

facilitated the management of the non-performing portfolio. 

The Group’s approach to NPL management puts a strong 

emphasis on restructuring and the use of other active NPL 

management tools, such as foreclosure of collateral, the sale 

of claims, and pledged assets. In 2022, the multi-year declining 

NPE ratio, based on the EBA methodology, stood at 1.3%. The 

to deal, if needed, with considerably increased volumes in a 

Group’s indicator gross NPL ratio, defined by the EBA, is equal 

professional and efficient manner. 

to 2.4%.

Figure 53: NLB Group NPL, NPL ratio and Coverage ratio 1(i) (in EUR 
millions)

2,000

1,500

1,000

500

0

77.1% 

622 

6.9% 

89.2% 

81.8% 

86.1% 

98.9%

375 

475 

3.8% 

3.5% 

367 

2.4% 

328

1.8%

100

90

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

31 Dec 
2018

31 Dec 
2019

31 Dec 
2020

31 Dec 
2021

31 Dec 
2022

 Coverage ratio 1   

 NPL ratio   

 NPLs

An important Group strength is the NPL coverage ratio 1 

(coverage of gross NPLs with impairments for all loans), 

which remains high at 98.9%. Furthermore, the Group’s NPL 

coverage ratio 2 (coverage of gross NPLs with impairments 

for NPL) stands at 57.1%, which is well above the EU average 

as published by the EBA (44.1% for Q3 2022). As such, it 

enables a further reduction in NPLs without significantly 

influencing the cost of risk in the coming years. NPL coverage 

indicators were influenced by the special treatment of NPLs 

from the acquired entities. NPLs of NLB Komercijalna Banka, 

Beograd and N Banka are initially recognised at fair value, 

without any additional credit loss allowances. The latter is 

also reflected in the lower coverage ratio CR2 than the NLB 

Group banks average at the end of 2022 in NLB Komercijalna 

Banka, Beograd and NLB Banka, Podgorica, which merged 

with Komercijalna Banka, Podgorica in November 2021, and 
N Banka. 

Due to extensive experience gained in the last few years 

Table 34: NPL, NPL ratio(i) and Coverage ratio by NLB Group members 

NLB Group member

NLB, Ljubljana

NLB Banka, Skopje

NLB Banka, Banja Luka

NLB Banka, Sarajevo

NLB Banka, Prishtina

NLB Banka, Podgorica

NLB Komercijalna Banka, Beograd

N Banka, Ljubljana

Total NLB Group banks

Total NLB Group

(i) By internal definition

NPL 
31 Dec 2022

% NPL 
31 Dec 2022

NPL CR 1
31 Dec 2022

in EUR millions

NPL CR 2
31 Dec 2022

111.2

54.5

8.3

17.0

15.7

32.6

32.5

23.6

295.4

328.3

1.1%

3.6%

1.1%

2.3%

1.7%

4.6%

1.0%

1.9%

1.6%

1.8%

86.1%

116.9%

211.3%

122.6%

232.8%

62.1%

110.4%

67.3%

102.7%

98.9%

58.1%

70.9%

60.7%

87.7%

87.7%

45.1%

34.5%

16.2%

56.4%

57.1%

0.9%

0.7%

(i) By internal definition. 

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Contents

98

 The Group strives to ensure the best possible collateral for long-

term loans, namely mortgages in most cases. Thus, the real-

estate mortgage is the most frequent form of loan collateral for 

corporate and retail clients. At the corporate loans, government 

and corporate guarantees are also common types of collateral. 

In retail loans, the other most frequent types of loan collateral 

are loan insurances by insurance companies and guarantors. 

The Group follows the ECB guidelines to banks on NPLs with 

regard to the evaluation of collateral. The establishment of 

market values for collateral for NPLs is by means of individual 

Proactive management of interest 
rate risk in the banking book

The exposure to interest rate risk is moderate and derives 

mostly from the banking book positions. Bonds and loans with 

a fixed interest rate contribute the most to the interest rate 

risk exposure in terms of the Economic Value of Equity (EVE) 

indicator. In contrast, exposure is managed with core deposits 

which present the most important and material element of the 

interest rate risk management. To a lesser extent, the Group 

uses also plain vanilla derivatives for hedging the risk.

The exposure to interest rate risk remains modest, within the 

risk appetite limits. For NLB Group, the worst-case regulatory 

scenario is in the case of a parallel shock of IR by + 200 bps. 

From the EVE perspective, the estimated capital sensitivity in the 

case of a parallel shock is + 200 bps equals -5.1% of the Group’s 

T1 capital.

evaluation when NPL status is established. The value of 

Figure 54: NLB Group’s EVE evolution 

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collateral is then regularly monitored on a yearly level and 

updated by either independent evaluation (over prescribed 

threshold) or with the use of statistical re-evaluation for 

smaller values of NPL. For statistical re-evaluation, the indexes 

from the government agency or other relevant official data 

sources are used. The value of collateral is with the statistical 

approach always updated downwards, never upwards. Only 

if the individual appraisal shows a higher value of collateral, 

the upward re-evaluation would be performed. If the data 

from statistics would show significant decline in the real estate 

market, individual evaluations for such types of real estate 

would be performed and values corrected accordingly.

Low market risk in the trading book

Regarding market risks in the trading book, the Group pursues 

a low-risk appetite for market risk in the trading book. The 

exposure to trading (according to the CRR) is only allowed to be 

carried by the parent Bank as the main entity of the Group and 

is very limited. 

The Group carries its main business activities in euros, and the 

subsidiary banks, in addition to their domestic currencies, also 

operate in euros, which is the reporting currency of the Group. 

The Group’s net open FX position from transactional risk is 
low, and at 1.1% of capital. Regarding structural FX positions 
on a consolidated level, assets and liabilities held in foreign 

operations are converted into euro currency at the closing FX 

rate on the balance sheet date. FX differences of non-euro 

assets and liabilities are recognised in the other comprehensive 

income, and therefore affect shareholder’s equity and CET1 

capital. 

-7.3%

 -8.1%

 -7.1%

 -7.1%

 -6.4%

 -7.4%

 -6.3%

 -5.6%

 -5.1%

31 Dec 2020 

31 Mar 2021 

30 Jun 2021 

30 Sep 2021 

31 Dec 2021 

31 Mar 2022 

30 Jun 2022 

30 Sep 2022 

31 Dec 2022

Robust operational risk 
management

In the area of operational risk management, where the Group 

has established robust operational risk culture, the main 

qualitative activities refer to the reporting of loss events and 

identification, assessment, and management of operational 

risks. On this basis, constant improvements of control activities, 

processes, and/or organisation are performed. Besides that, 

the Group also focuses on proactive mitigation, prevention, 

and minimisation of potential damage. Special attention is 

dedicated to the stress-testing system, based on a scenario 

analysis referring to the potential high severity, low frequency 

events, and modelling data on loss events. For modelling, the 

Bank uses the gamma distribution technique which proved 

to be the most suitable. From an economic perspective, the 

aim is to assure the necessary capital for materially important 

risks which could happen extremely rarely. Consequently, data 

on realised loss events are used with a confidence interval of 

99.9%. Moreover, some add-ons are added for specific current 

and significant risks. In a normative view, a 90% confidence 

level is used for more plausible, but still severe events, which 

would be absorbed through P&L.

Apart from losses that are already included in the loss 

event database, the Bank could also experience one-off 

and unpredictable extreme events. The list of such potential 

events is updated yearly, based on current risks in the Bank's 

environment or past realised events in the banking industry. 

For those possible and topical events, scenario analyses are 

prepared by the Bank's experts. In 2022, 13 such scenarios were 

defined. The results show that the biggest loss could derive 

from the following potential events: external fraud events, major 

earthquake, legal risk, and cyber-attack. For these scenarios, 

existent controls were additionally revised, while for identifying 

potential deficiencies, mitigation measures were defined. 

Contents

99

  
Furthermore, key risk indicators, servicing as an early warning 

framework in the areas of credit, liquidity, market, and 

determination of the EU to reduce carbon emissions, according 

system for the broader field of operational risks (such as HR, 

operational risk. The management of ESG risks follows ECB and 

to its ambitious net zero strategy by 2050. With implementation 

processes, systems, and external conditions) are regularly 

EBA guidelines, following the tendency of their comprehensive 

of the Net Zero Strategy of NLB Group in 2023, it is expected that 

monitored, analysed, and reported with the aim of improving 

integration into all relevant processes. The availability of ESG 

its impacts will gradually diminish in the long run. Nevertheless, 

the existing internal controls and enabling on-time reactions. 

data in the region where the Group operates is still lacking. 

the Group assessed them more materially than physical risk.

Nevertheless, the Group made significant progress in the 

The Group supports proactive discussion of operational risks 

process of obtaining relevant ESG-related data from its clients, 

In recent years, the Bank signed Framework Agreements 

on all hierarchical levels. Every employee has the possibility 

being the prerequisite for adequate decision-making and the 

with the EBRD, such as the Contract of Guarantees with 

to report loss events. The biggest/most important operational 

corresponding proactive management of ESG risks. For the 

MIGA, and committed to the UN Principles of Responsible 

risks are escalated in a short-time period and discussed at the 

purpose of calculating credit portfolio GHG emissions, several 

Banking. Consequently, the Group established a mechanism 

Operational Risk Committee sessions, while implementation of 

important activities started in 2022. For larger corporate clients, 

for environmental and social screening of current or potential 

the mitigation measures is closely monitored.  

we initiated direct Scope 1 & 2 & 3 data-gathering processes, 

financing applications against the MIGA and EBRD Exclusion List, 

whereas for the SME and micro segments, we developed 

and applicable environmental and social laws. The management 

In addition, the Group was also diligently managing other, 

our own proxies in cooperation with an external expert. In 

of ESG risks is incorporated into the Group’s overall credit 

non-financial risks, referring to the Group’s business model 

residential mortgages, the most important input for GHG 

approval process and the related credit portfolio management. 

or arising from other external circumstances, within the 

calculation are the buildings’ energy performance certificates. 

Sustainable financing is implemented in accordance with the 

established ICAAP process. 

By end of 2022, we formed the emission calculation for the 

Group’s ESMS. In addition to addressing ESG risks in all relevant 

Incorporating ESG risks 

The Group is engaged in contributing to sustainable finance 

by incorporating ESG risks into its business strategies, 

risk management framework, and internal governance 

arrangements. With the adoption of the NLB Group 

Sustainability programme, the Group implemented the main 

sustainability elements into its business model. The NLB Group 

Sustainability Committee oversees the integration of ESG 

factors into the NLB Group business model. Thus, sustainable 

finance integrates ESG criteria into the Group’s business and 

investment decisions for the lasting benefit of the Group’s clients 

and society. 

ESG risks do not represent a new risk category, but rather one 

of the risk drivers of the existing type of risks, such as credit, 

liquidity, market, and operational risk. The Group integrates 

and manages them within the established risk management 

Slovenian market, whereas in the Region this process will 

stages of the credit-granting process, relevant ESG criteria were 

continue and will be developed in 2023. Besides the emissions, 

also considered in the collateral evaluation process. 

the Group collected, analysed, and used different relevant 

historical data for physical risk and publicly available climate 

In the process of the transaction approval, collecting ESG data 

change studies relevant for its region. 

at the KYC stage was established. A regulatory compliance 

check represents a next important step that includes verification 

The Group conducts a materiality assessment, as part of its 

that a client is adhering to the applicable laws, regulations, and 

overall risk identification process, to determine the level of 

standards. If the transaction is classified with a high E&S risk, 

transitional and physical risk to which the Group is exposed. In 

a strict deviation management process is in place that ensures 

this process, identification of environmental risk factors, relevant 

further enhanced risk assessment. During a project’s lifetime, 

transmission channels, and their materiality and impact to the 

ESG risk monitoring is established to assess the impact of each 

Group’s financial performance in the short- and long-term 

risk, as well as the creation of a strategy for their mitigation. 

period are assessed. From the perspective of physical risk, 

With that, is the Group ensures that the risks are being 

the most relevant natural disasters are drought and floods, 

adequately addressed and that any changes or newly emerged 

while hail and windstorm are also frequent, but less material. 

risks are identified and addressed promptly. 

Despite this, we can expect that its impact will increase in the 

long run if no adequate policy changes are implemented in 

The Group is analysing and monitoring its credit portfolio by 

a timely manner. Chronic risk is not determined as material 

using heat maps. For the purpose of heat maps, the Group 

risk. Transition risks already arise in the short term due to 

aggregates single risks by using predefined weights for 

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 the determination of a final risk score. Such an approach 

lives, goods, and reputation. Business continuity plans included 

enables different views over the Group’s corporate portfolio 

relevant ESG risks. They are prepared to be used in the event of 

from physical and transition risk perspectives. With regard to 

natural disasters, IT disasters, and the undesired effects of the 

physical risk, some negative historical events in the past years 

environment to mitigate their consequences. 

in the Region were observed on the public infrastructure and 

agriculture, but they were reimbursed to a large extent by 

In 2021, the Group established an internal ESG stress-testing 

the government or insurances. Consequently, there were no 

concept to identify the most relevant financial vulnerabilities 

material impacts on Group’s portfolio quality or liquidity. On 

stemming from transitional and physical climate risks, which will 

portfolio level, the Group does not face any large concentration 

be further enhanced by considering disposable ESG-related 

towards specific NACE industrial sectors exposed to climate 

data. The results of the climate stress tests showed no material 

risk, whereby the role of transitional risk is more prevailing. 

impacts on the Group’s capital and liquidity positions.

Based on industry segmentation of portfolio and corresponding 

emissions, the Group has a relatively low exposure to emission-

As a systemically important institution, the Group was included 

intensive sectors in its corporate client’s business. More 

into the 2022 ECB Climate Stress test exercise, which consisted 

exposed industries represent energy, transportation, industry, 

of three modules. The exercise was conducted in the first half 

and agriculture, though the exposure to the clients with high 

of 2022, and the aggregate results were published in July 2022. 

emissions in these branches is rather limited. As part of its 

By performing this exercise, the ECB assessed how banks 

strategy, the Group does not finance companies that extract 

were prepared for dealing with financial and economic shocks 

fossil fuels or operate coal-fired power plants. 

stemming from climate risk. The Group’s overall results were 

within the range of average peer results.

The Group carefully considers potential reputation and liability 

risks which could arise from sustainable financing of its clients. 

NLB obtained in 2022 for the first time an ESG Risk Rating. 

Special attention is given to the approval of new products and 

The assigned rating reflects a low risk of experiencing material 

monitoring of the fulfilment of relevant criteria by the clients. 

financial impacts from ESG factors. 

Additional key risk indicators have been addressed, servicing 

as an early warning system in the area of ESG risks. Besides, 

Further information on risk management is available in the 

physical risks, as part of ESG risks in the area of operational 

Note 6 of the financial part of the report, Pillar 3 Disclosures and 

risk, are addressed in the Group’s business continuity 

the NLB Group Sustainability Report 2022. 

management (BCM). As such, BCM is carried out to protect 

Proactive 
Risk 
Management

in 2022

14 bps

low level of cost of risk  
on Group level

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 IT and Cyber Security

IT infrastructure 
and reliability

The Group continues to provide its clients sustainable and 

efficient services supported through highly reliable and 

secure technology platforms. The Bank is also actively 

pursuing its technology transformation programme. In line 

with the upgraded IT strategy introduced in 2020, the IT 

team delivered on its timelines and started the programme 

of consolidating core banking systems. The IT Security, IT 

Infrastructure, and IT Governance made significant progress 

in the consolidation on the group level. The Bank also rolled 

out additional group business solutions like the contact 

centre, new product origination platform, launched the new 

digital banking platform for the internal pilot in Slovenia. 

Komercijalna Banka was fully integrated within group’s IT 

and infrastructure simplification and streamlining, and is on 

schedule with three datacentres consolidated in 2022. Due 
to the increase in general cyber security risks, special focus, 
extra resources, and investments were made to raise the 

overall level of cyber security resilience.

More than

1.5 
million

digital users in the Group

High performance confirmed with numbers 
IT performance is monitored through a set of relevant indicators 

that are linked to the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) system. The 

indicators show a high performance of IT operations and 

successful risk management in this area. The availability of the 

Core systems consolidation 
IT followed the core banking system strategy and successfully 

started the consolidation of core banking systems. Due to the 

N Banka integration in Slovenia, the programme course was 

adjusted and the N Banka consolidation strategy is now in line 

with the target core banking system.

Enterprise and application architecture
Enterprise and application architecture is focused on two 

information system in the Bank is at a very high level of 99.96% 

key areas. The first is the focus on the Group solution, and the 

(2021: 99.98%), and the share of unplanned interruptions is 

very low, 0.04% (2021: 0.02%). In 2022, the number of days 

majority of new solution selections are performed as a Group 

standard with related Group roadmaps. New Group solutions 

without system/service interruptions was at 81.1 % (2021: 83.6%). 

were selected in the areas of a digital web portal and Customer 

Harmonised Service Level Agreements (SLA) are in place with 

Relationship Management.

users of the information system, which the Bank managed to 

fulfil to a very high degree. High IT operational performance 

was also recorded by the Group members (between 99.87% 

and 99.99%).

Main IT initiatives
Transformation 
The main focus is the transformation of IT in terms of 

organisation, a group perspective, processes, people, and 

technology. IT supported a more agile way of delivery, to 

better partner with business, and as a result was more efficient 

and effective. Specifically, a Group IT domain concept was 

introduced, which promotes shared teams and IT solutions 

across the Group. The Group’s competence centre in Serbia was 

transferred from the Bank to the separated IT service company 

called ‘NLB DigIt.’

Change of delivery approach
The team managed to reach important achievements in the 

following new strategic directions in terms of solution delivery. 

They managed to migrate a new call centre solution in Slovenia 

and BiH, a new product origination platform in N. Macedonia 

and Kosovo, and delivered a new Digital Banking platform to 

the pilot mode in Slovenia. The team also continued to pursue a 
reduction in the dependency on the mainframe, and migrated 

the next set of applications from the mainframe to distributed 

systems. After the N Banka acquisition, the IT team focused 

on onboarding N Banka IT to the Group and preparing an 

integration plan and strategy.

The other is the setup of a standardised enterprise architecture 

management system for which a market standard tool was 

procured to enable simpler application portfolio management, 

managing of risk related to software obsolescence, and IT risk 
and support in defining transformation paths.

Group-wide capabilities extended
Group-wide capabilities were significantly extended and the 

Group competence centre in Belgrade, Serbia was transferred 

to a separate IT service company called ‘NLB DigIt.’ In the last 

two years, this team has grown from 15 to 80 employees. The 

datacentres consolidation programme has started, with the 

successful consolidation of three datacentres in Serbia and BiH.

Data management
The Bank continues to implement a Group-wide data 

management platform which encompasses an enterprise data 

warehouse, advanced analytics, risk management analytics, 

profitability, data governance, and consolidated Group 

regulatory reporting.

Digital penetration
Digitalization focus is on using the available, ever changing 

information technology tools, in order to increase the efficiency 

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 Figure 55: Digital penetration of the Group’s banks as at 31 December 2022

56%

55%

62%

53%

26%

24%

26%

20%

24%

25%

25%

18%

17%

13%

NLB, 
Ljubljana

NLB Komercijalna 
Banka, Beograd

NLB Banka, 
Skopje

NLB Banka, 
Sarajevo

NLB Banka, 
Banja Luka

NLB Banka, 
Prishtina

NLB Banka, 
Podgorica

 Penetration (all)   

 Penetration (active)

99.96 %the availability in NLB

of the Group through more innovative, personalized, accurate 

and prompt service to the clients. High growth in smart phone 

penetration, that they use anyhow on daily basis, creates the 

opportunity to move more customers to alternative distribution 

channels. The Group strives to a wide range of 24/7 digital 

solutions to come closer to clients and offering them anchor 

products and the most accessible and personalized digital 

services. Main target is digital penetration of active customers 

with goal of 55% of clients to be active on digital channels by 

Vision

2025.

Build the best digital 
banking IT team in 
the SEE region.

Main 
principles

IT Strategy 2020-2024 

At the end of the 2020, an upgraded IT Strategy was adopted that also incorporates the Group dimension. 

Outlook
In the coming years, the Bank is expected to continue to invest 

in newly adopted technologies to support the business strategy, 

especially in the areas of digital, data, the cloud, and customer 

relationship management (CRM), consolidating the Group’s 

infrastructure, simplifying core systems, and to achieve superior 

client experience in terms of quality, innovation, reliability, and 

security.

Enable the best client and 
employee experiences 
through reliable, effective, 
secure, accessible, and 
scalable IT solutions.

Mission

• 

increase client satisfaction in all segments with a new 
digital omnichannel platform, digitize client journeys and 
interactions (CRM), and achieve operational excellence;

•  have an effective IT architecture using cloud solutions 

• 

and open-source software where possible;
introduce a new way of agile development and DevOps 
transformation leading to shorter releases cycles, 
automated testing, and fewer manual tasks;
•  ensure the necessary development capacity – 
hire right talents with the digital skills and who 
are forward-looking to execute change;
introduce modern collaboration tools 
and digitize internal processes;
leverage the investment made in the data platform; 

• 
•  assure quality, security, and availability of 

• 

the IT systems and applications;

•  have a highly motivated, effective, and satisfied IT 

team working closely with the business side.

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 All employees educated,  
continuous information exchange 
All employees in the Group are continuously educated about 

the importance of information/cyber security, as well as social 

engineering techniques. The Group banks provide employees 

and customers with security notifications, especially for the 

occurrence of threats in the (global) environment with potential 

impact on the banks’ IT systems, services, products, and 

clients. The Bank also tests the awareness of its employees 

with social engineering attack simulations. Threat intelligence 

data is shared by the Group team to all Group members 

with information on the latest threats and recommendations 

on mitigation measures. In addition to a regular phishing 

simulation, the Group Cyber Security team has implemented 

their own phishing platform and successfully conducted 

simulation in NLB Sarajevo as a pilot for all other Members. 

Regular, controlled, simulations impact employee’s awareness 

on the highest level.

Strengthening  
the team and extra  
investments in 

cyber 
security

Cyber security 
Strengthening team and  
implementing new solutions
The Group is giving special focus to cyber security, and 

consequently assuring the confidentiality, integrity, and 

the availability of data, information, and IT systems that 

support banking services and products for clients. Cyber 

security in the Group is constantly tested and upgraded by 

security assessments, independent reviews, and penetration 

testing, also regularly discussed at the Bank’s Information 

Security Steering Committee, Operational Risk Committee, 

and Management Board meetings. During 2022, the Group 

increased its capacity in terms of human resources by hiring 

specialists in different domains, and additional improvements 

were made in vulnerability management where all Group 

members have a unified solution and configuration. The 

team has the ability to perform on-demand scans and can 

stay abreast of global trends and the most recently published 

vulnerabilities. This provides a more proactive approach to the 
whole vulnerability remediation process in the Group. A Cloud 

Web Application Firewall was introduced to the Group, and 

in all Banks the migration process was initiated. The goal is 

to have all publicly available applications under the same 

security tool and monitoring. The biggest achievement in the 

Group Cyber security team comes from the fact that almost all 

Bank members in 2022 had individual on-demand requests 

for different penetration testing services. More information 

about cyber security is available in the chapter Regulatory 

Environment.

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 In 2022, NLB Banka, Skopje confirmed its position 
as a systemically significant bank with high market 
share. We achieved positive business results and 
announced a new chapter in our operations – 
an investment in an associated company NLB 
Lease&Go, Skopje. 

Numerous awards and recognitions confirmed 
better footprints we created and successful 
operation of our bank, for example, Best Bank in 
Macedonia for 2021 by the renowned magazine 
EMEA Finance; five awards in the annual ranking 
of the magazine Finance Central Europe; three 
recognitions from the Visa Center for a bank 
that shows outstanding results, not only in North 
Macedonia, but also in the whole South-Eastern 
Europe, and the recognition as the Bank of the 
Year from the renowned international financial 
magazine The Banker for the 11th year in a row.

Pictured: NLB Banka, Skopje employees

 
Table 35: NLB Group headcount by countries

Human Resources

As a market leader, the Group realises that investing in 

 Country

Slovenia

Serbia

employees is crucial. Engaged employees contribute 

North Macedonia

significantly to business goals and results. That’s why the 

Group continued with its long-lasting tradition of investing 

in employee development, along with searching for new 

approaches, and introducing new practices to improve 

organisational culture, leadership, and employee experience. 

All the while also firmly trying to establish itself as a ‘Top 

employer’ on the workforce market.

BiH

Kosovo

Montenegro

Germany

Switzerland

Croatia

Group Total

31 Dec 2022

2,833
(NLB: 2,418,
other: 415)

2,614

954

971

467

380

1

2

6

8,228

31 Dec 2021

2,619
(NLB: 2,510,
other: 109)

2,901

877

942

463

374

1

2

6

8,185

Changes YoY

+214
(NLB: -92,
other: +306)

-287

+77

+29

+4

+6

0

0

0

+43

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Employee Headcount

Number of employees
The Group continues with the optimisation of processes and 

right-sizing its staffing level. Due to the acquisition of N Banka, 

the number of employees rose to 8,475, but has downsized 

throughout the year to reach 8,228 by the end of 2022.

Work from home 
The Group continuously enables employees, whose presence 

on the Group’s premises is not essential to the business process, 

to work from home (remotely) (the Group: 36%, NLB: 59%). With 

it we are enabling our employees, if they so choose, an option 

to better balance their work-life balance.

Top 
Employer 

in 2022 for the 7th consecutive year

Striving to remain 
a ‘Top Employer’

‘Top Employer’
The Group continues strengthening its Human Resources 

(HR) practises based on feedback from reputable institutions 

and benchmarks with best-in-class HR practises. In 2022 the 

Bank was once again recognised as a ‘Top Employer’ by the 
Dutch Top Employer Institute for the 7th consecutive year, 
demonstrating a high level of expertise and contribution in the 

areas from people strategy, leadership, digitalization, talent 

acquisition and development, performance management, 

sustainability, and a lot more. The Bank will continue to ensure 

aimed at improving it towards more constructive behavioural 

styles that will support the direction that NLB is heading in the 

future. Focus groups on three main areas were done throughout 

the Group at the end of 2021, through which improvement 

initiatives were defined. In 2022, we also defined renewed NLB 

values that were defined through workshops by employees 

from all levels and throughout the Group, and launched with 

several implementation initiatives. A leadership 360 feedback 

measurement and assessment, and individual development 

planning aimed towards improving organizational culture were 

implemented.

Leadership development
Significant influence on employee satisfaction derives from 

an even more stimulating work environment in the future.

their working environment, and leaders on all levels have 

Continuing a longstanding 
tradition of investing 
in employees 

a significant role in creating a productive atmosphere. The 

Group is actively developing leadership competencies of 

senior management to align with the activities of changing 

organisational culture. In line with this we had two major 

activities this year:

•  M/I and L/I 360 feedbacks on culture impact - all B and B1 

were provided individual feedback and coaching sessions to 

Organisational culture
Organisational culture is an important driving force of company 

set up development plans.

•  An in-depth Leadership assessment (Boyden Assessment) 

development and success, that’s why the Group has decided to 

was done across the Group. Based on results, development 

take an active and comprehensive approach to develop it. 

plans and journey in line with the strategy and culture 

After measuring our organisational culture, the activities are 

improvement, will be done in the following years.

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 Succession
To ensure the leadership succession pipeline, we are identifying 

Developing NLB Employer Brand
To attract top talent throughout the region, the Group has 

Engagement of employees
A crucial part of success is the motivation and engagement of 

potential successors in all Group members.

identified the need to develop the Employer Brand actively. The 

employees. In 2022, a total of 73% of employees participated in 

Group has done internal and external surveys, interviews with 

the survey.

Developing talent
Among its employees, the Group identified talents in the fields of 

stakeholders and multiple focus groups to identify the relevant 

employer value proposition. Based on this development, an 

leadership, professional, and young talents. They are provided 

employee value proposition and communication materials were 

additional opportunities, knowledge, and skills needed to 

prepared.

manage and lead in challenges of the future, as well as 

individual development activities. This year the topics of change 

Also, we have implemented a Group-wide focus on cooperation 

management, technological trends, communication and data 

with universities, to establish a connection with potential future 

storytelling and visualization were in focus along with individual 

employees and to raise the awareness of Group as an attractive 

development activities of talents.

employer. 

Mobility
We adopted a Mobility policy in all Group members to 

accelerate and promote mobility within the Group. Virtual 

Employment – Data science hackathon 
The strategic direction of the Bank defines the employment 

of new profiles needed on a Group level. In line with that, the 

teams were established and few job rotations and permanent 

Group continued with the organisation of external and internal 

reassignments were realised inside the Group this year. 

Retention
We revised our retention strategies and policies across the 

Group to better address present and future challenges to better 

cope with demanding workforce market.

NLB Hackathons. This year, we had two hackathons on the 
subject of Data Science to find internal and external talents 

from our home region and promote the Bank as a desirable 

employer. 

Figure 56: NLB Group Employee Engagement 2022

Engaged 

Not engaged 

Actively 
disengaged 

44%

39%

17%

8,228

employees in the  
Group family

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 Prepared to Tackle  
Future Challenges

The Remuneration System as a Motivation for Engaged  
and Committed Employees

Various training activities to embrace changes
The Group strives for the high-quality standards of a modern 

learning organisation. 

Due to the rapidly changing environment, we expanded our 

offer of trainings to support new relevant topics (such as 

Change management, Data analytics, Digital literacy, ESG, 

M&A, etc.), that are changing our business and environment. 

Our aim is to make trainings more accessible and on demand 

with a wide variety of online content, while also still providing 

quality in-class trainings and workshops, internally or 

externally.

Trainings, e-learning
The majority of training hours in the Group are provided 
through internal trainings (37 %) and internal e-learning 

programmes (37 %), while external trainings (18 %) and Udemy 

for business (8 %) are also utilised.

Online learning with access to 7,000+ courses
In 2022, Udemy for Business was activated across the Group to 

a substantial number of employees, enabling them access to 

7000+ English trainings. The aim is to empower employees over 

their own development and give them opportunities to upskill 

or reskill, at anytime, anywhere, to better prepare themselves 

for upcoming challenges.

Well-being & Health

Creating a work environment
The Group is always committed to offering knowledge on 

healthy habits, promotes activities that enhance the good 

health and satisfaction of employees, and strives to create a 

healthy work environment that enables quality interpersonal 

relationships and work-life balance.

Because of this, we are also the owner of a family-friendly 

certificate.

Promoting healthy habits and new health  
and safety measures
The Group organised Health trainings focused on stress 

management, healthy habits, mental health, mindfulness, 

personal energy, and communication. Between May and 

November, the Bank also had a Tour de NLB Group, a steps-

counting activity through a mobile app, with which employees 

were encouraged to walk more for a good cause.

For an employee working in the companies within the Group, salary is composed of:

Fixed part

Determined according to the complexity of the job position for which the employee has concluded a contract of employment.

Depends on the employee’s performance.

Variable part

Employees are assessed and awarded:  
- quarterly or half-yearly compensation, and 
- annual rewards related to the business performance of the bank in which they work. 

Performance assessment is done by the head of the employee’s organisational unit using a top-down approach to evaluate 
the employee’s achievements in relation to goals set for a particular assessment period (quarter or half-year). The goals are set 
according to the ‘SMART’ method, meaning that they have to be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. 

Remuneration policy for members  
of the Supervisory Board and Management 
Board of NLB 
On 19 October 2022, an amended Remuneration Policy of 

members of the Supervisory Board of NLB and members of the 

Management Board of NLB was adopted by the Supervisory 

Board of NLB. On 12 December 2022, the Remuneration Policy 

was submitted to the General Assembly of NLB for voting. The 

voting on the General Assembly is a consultative nature.

Members of the Supervisory Board may receive remuneration 

that is compliant with the relevant resolutions of the Bank’s 

General Meeting. 

Members of the Management Board receive remuneration 

consisting of a fixed part of the salary and a variable part of 

the salary. The variable part of the remuneration for each 

member of the Management Board is awarded and paid in 

the form of cash if the amount of the variable part does not 

exceed EUR 50,000 and is not higher than one-third of his/

her total remuneration for the respective business year. The 

variable part of the remuneration for each member of the 

Management Board is awarded and paid in the form of cash 

and in financial instruments if the amount of the variable part 

exceeds EUR 50,000 and is higher than one-third of his/her 

total remuneration for the respective business year.

On average

36 %of the Group’s employees

worked from home

At least 50% of the variable part of the salary of the 

Management Board member awarded for an individual 

business year shall be deferred for a period of at least five 

years starting on the day of payment of the non-deferred part 

of the variable part of the salary. 

Remuneration policy for employees  
in NLB and in the Group
In ‘Remuneration Policy for Employees in the Group,’ the 

basic framework of principles for rewarding employees in 

the Group are presented. The remuneration policy defines 

fixed and variable remuneration, the goal-setting system and 

performance criteria (Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)), 

and sets out the conditions for the allocation and payment 

of the variable part of remuneration, including deferral, 

malus, retention, and claw back of the variable part of 

remuneration for identified employees, and severance pays 

and compensation for the non-competition period for identified 

employees and pension benefits for all employees.

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Table 36: Diversity - review of management bodies and senior management

Wide range of knowledge, skills 
and professional experience 

International experience of the 
members in different areas

Continuity of composition of 
the management body

Personal integrity

Geographical provenance

Age structure

Share of women

Supervisory Board 
of NLB 

Management Board 
of NLB 

Senior Management 
of NLB 

2022

High

Medium
High

High

High

Medium
High

20-30 = 0 

30-40 = 0 

40-50 = 1 

50-60 = 7

60+ = 2

30%

Plan for 
2023

High

Medium
High

High

High

Medium
High

0

0

2

5

5

42%

2022

High

Medium
High

High

High

Medium
High

20-30 = 0

30-40 = 0

40-50 = 3

50-60 = 3 

60+ = 0

16.7%

Plan for 
2023

High

Medium
High

High

High

Medium
High

0

0

2

4

0

16.7%

2022

High

Medium  
High

High

High

Low

20-30 = 0 

30-40 = 3 

40-50 = 20

50-60 = 13 

60+ = 1 

41%

Plan for 
2023

High

Medium  
High

High

High

Low

0

1

18

16

2

45%

Diversity Policy

Framework
The Diversity Policy sets the framework for the Bank’s 

commitments to diversity in relation to representation on 

the Management Body, and senior management on certain 

aspects where specific goals and implementation of these 

goals related to gender structure, age structure, professional 

competencies, skills and experience, continuity of composition 

of the management body and senior management, 

international experience, personal integrity, and geographical 

provenance are defined.

Objectives 
•  Cover an adequately wide range of knowledge, skills, and 

expert experience of its members, and are composed with 

regard to the following criteria: experience, reputation, 

management of any conflicts of interest, independence, 

available time, and collective suitability of the body as a 

whole;

•  Diversity as regards gender representation; 

•  Diversity as regards the age structure, which should reflect 

the age structure in the Bank to the largest extent possible;

•  Diversity as regards international experience;

•  Continuity of composition of the management body and 

senior management;

•  The highest expectations relating to personal integrity and 

diversity with regard to geographical provenance.

The goals of the Policy shall also be reasonably applied to the 

provision of diversity of the wider management.

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 Corporate 
Governance

Corporate governance of the Bank is based on legislation of 

the RoS, particularly (but not exclusively) the provisions of 

the Companies Act (ZGD-1) and the Banking Act (ZBan-3), the 

Decision of the BoS on Internal Governance, the Management 

Body, and the Adequate Internal Capital Assessment 

Procedure for Banks and Savings Banks, the relevant EBA 

Guidelines on internal governance, the EBA Guidelines on the 

assessment of the suitability of members of the management 

body and key function holders, the EBA Guidelines on 

prudent remuneration, and the relevant EU regulations 

regarding sustainability issues and other relevant RoS and EU 

regulations.

Apart from binding legal framework, the Bank also follows the 
Slovenian Corporate Governance Code for Listed Companies 

(valid since 1 January 2022). In 2022, substantive changes were 

made to the mentioned Code. It applies to the Bank for the 2022 

financial year. The Code defines the governance, management, 

and leadership principles based on the ‘comply or explain’ 

principle of companies listed on the Ljubljana Stock Exchange. 

Deviations from the recommendations of the mentioned Code 

are published in the NLB Group Annual Report in the chapter 

Corporate Governance Statement of NLB. The mentioned 

statement is prepared according to Article 70 (paragraph 5) of 

the Companies Act (ZGD-1). The mentioned statement is also 

published on the Bank’s webpage, as well as on the webpage 

of the Ljubljana Stock Exchange – SEOnet.

Rules and Procedures

Articles of Association of NLB d.d.
In accordance with the applicable Banking Act (ZBan-3) and 

Companies Act (ZGD-1), the Articles of Association of NLB: the 

•  In the chapter Risk Management, subchapter Incorporating 

ESG Risks

•  In the chapter Statement of Management of Risk

Bank has a two-tier governance system, according to which the 

•  In a separate report on Pillar 3 Disclosures ESG Risks are 

Bank is managed by the Management Board and its operations 

disclosed

are supervised by the Supervisory Board (https://www.nlb.si/

corporate-governance). Shareholders exercise their rights at 

General Meetings of Shareholders. 

•  in Note 6 of the financial part of the report

Social (S):
•  In the chapter Human Resources 

Corporate Governance Policy of the NLB and
NLB Group Corporate Governance Policy 
The corporate governance framework of the Bank, being the 

•  In the diversity and remuneration chapters in a separate 

report on Pillar 3 Disclosures according to Basel Standards

•  In the Remuneration policy which is public disclosed on the 

Corporate Governance Policy of NLB (February 2023), is drawn 

Bank’s webpage. 

up jointly by the Management Board and the Supervisory Board 

of the Bank. In this policy, the Management and Supervisory 

Board publicly discloses commitments to shareholders, clients, 

creditors, employees, and other stakeholders as a whole, and 

explains how the Bank is managed and supervised, as well as 

Governance (G):
•  In this chapter of the report

•  In the chapter Corporate Governance Statement of NLB and 

on the Bank’s webpage and on the webpage of the Ljubljana 

adopts a decision on which corporate governance code the 

Stock Exchange

Bank follows (https://www.nlb.si/corporate-governance). The 

Corporate Governance Policy of NLB should be read together 

with the NLB Group Corporate Governance Policy in which the 

corporate governance principles and mechanisms of the Group 

members (NLB excluded) are defined and governed.

NLB Group Code of Conduct
In the NLB Group Code of Conduct, values, mission, and core 

principles of conduct are defined together with set guidelines to 

which the Group is committed. The Code describes the values 

and the basic principles of ethical business conduct that the 

Group respects, promotes, and expects to be followed in the 

whole Group. Operating with integrity and responsibility is a key 

element of the Group’s corporate culture. The Code demands 

that every employee, regardless of their job or location of work 

and every other stakeholder of the Group, complies with the 

highest standards of integrity (https://www.nlb.si/code-of-

conduct). 

Corporate governance of the Bank includes the processes 
through which Bank objectives are set and pursued (directed 

and controlled). Lately, it is becoming an efficient way to 

ESG factors and indirect economic factors are comprehensively 
recognised and managed according to GRI (Global Reporting 

Initiative – Global Standards (GRI GS)) standards. Key ESG 

channel investor-driven initiatives related to sustainability. The 

information is published in the following chapters of this report 

principles of corporate governance identify the distribution 

or other related webpages:

of rights and responsibilities among different stakeholders in 

the Bank (Management and Supervisory Board, shareholders, 

investors, creditors, auditor, regulators, and other stakeholders), 

Environment (E):
•  In the chapter Sustainability

and include the rules and procedures for making decisions in 

•  In separately published NLB Group Sustainability Report 2022 

corporate affairs. The most important rules and procedures are: 

published on the Bank’s webpage 

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 The Bank’s Governing 
Bodies

The Bank’s corporate governance is based on a two-tier system 

in which the Management Board manages the Bank, while its 

daily operations are supervised by the Supervisory Board. 

The shareholders decided on the allocation of distributable 

profit for 2021. The distributable profit of the Bank as at 

31 December 2021 was EUR 458,266,602.05. Shareholders 

decided that the part of the distributable profit in total amount 

of EUR 50 million shall be paid out to the shareholders as a 

dividend, which amounts to EUR 2.50 gross per share (the first 

tranche).

General Meeting of Shareholders

Supervisory Board

Management Board

The General Meeting of NLB also took note of various reports 

and voted on the proposal regarding the amendments and 

supplements to the Articles of Association of NLB, appointed the 

auditing company KPMG Slovenija, d.o.o. as the auditor of NLB 

for the financial years 2023–2026 and adopted the Policy on 

the provision of diversity of the management body and senior 

management.

General Meeting of Shareholders

The 39th General Meeting of NLB Shareholders held on 
12 December 2022 confirmed on additional allocation of 

The shareholders exercise their rights related to the Bank’s 

distributable profit for 2021, more precisely on the second 

operations at General Meetings. The Bank’s General Meeting 

tranche of dividend payments, the payment of additional 

passes decisions in accordance with the legislation and 

the Bank’s Articles of Association. Decisions adopted by 

the General Meeting include, among others: adopt and 

dividends at EUR 2.50 per share, making a total dividend pay-

out in 2022 of EUR 100 million. The remaining part of the NLB’s 

distributable profit will remain undistributed and represents 

amend the Articles of Association, use of distributable profit, 

retained earnings.

grant a discharge from liability to the Management and 

Supervisory Board, changes to the Bank’s share capital, 

At the General Meeting, NLB Shareholders also voted on the 

appoint and discharge members of the Supervisory Board 

Remuneration Policy for the Members of the Supervisory Board 

(representatives of capital), remuneration of members of the 

of NLB and the Members of the Management Board of NLB, 

Supervisory and Management Boards, and authorisation 

and took note of the termination of the term of office of two NLB 

The Supervisory Board 

In accordance with the Articles of Association, the Supervisory 

Board consists of 12 members, of which eight members 

represent the interests of shareholders, and four members 

represent the interests of employees. Members of the 

Supervisory Board of the Bank representing the interests of 

shareholders are elected and recalled at the Bank’s General 

Meeting from persons proposed by shareholders or the 

Supervisory Board of the Bank. Members of the Supervisory 

Board of the Bank representing the interests of employees are 

elected and recalled by the Workers’ Council of the Bank. All 

Supervisory Board members must be independent experts.

As at 31 December 2022:

Number of members: 

Diversity:

10 (8 are 
representatives of 
capital, while 2 are 
representatives of 
workers)(i)

3 out of 10 
members 
were female 
(30 %)(i)

(i) During 2022 also two additional female members were representatives of 
workers, more information below.

regarding the characteristics of the issue of securities.

Supervisory Board members - workers’ representatives, namely: 

There were two changes in the composition of the Supervisory 

There were two General Meetings of Shareholders in 2022. 
Shareholders of NLB gathered at the 38th General Meeting 
on 20 June 2022. Due to changes brought by the COVID-19 

pandemic, the General Meeting was hybrid, as it was held 

live and online. At the General Meeting, shareholders 

•  due to statement of Janja Žabjek Dolinšek made on 26 May 

Board in 2022. Janja Žabjek Dolinšek on 26 May 2022 made 

2022 regarding her termination of the function of a member 

a statement regarding her termination of the function 

of the Supervisory Board of NLB, because she was leaving 

of a member of the Supervisory Board of NLB–workers’ 

NLB, her term of office was terminated on 8 July 2022, as the 

representative, based on which her term of office terminated 

Works Council recalled her, 

on 8 July 2022. The NLB Works Council on 12 September 

•  that NLB Works Council on 12 September 2022 passed a 

2022 passed a decision on the recall of Bojana Šteblaj from 

acknowledged the adopted NLB Group 2021 Annual Report, the 

decision on the recall of Bojana Šteblaj from the function 

the function of a member of the Supervisory Board of NLB–

Report of the Supervisory Board of NLB on the Results of the 

Examination of the NLB Group Annual Report 2021, the Report 

of a member of the Supervisory Board of NLB, workers’ 

representative, based on which her term of office in the 

workers’ representative, based on which her term of office 

terminated on 12 September 2022. The General Meeting of 

on Renumerations for the Business Year 2021, and the Additional 

Supervisory Board of NLB terminated on 12 September 2022.

NLB, on its session dated 12 December 2022, took note of the 

information to the Report on Remuneration for the Business 

termination of term of office of two members of the Supervisory 

Year 2021 based on SSH’s Baselines. The shareholders also 

More information on the work of the General Meeting of the 

Board of NLB–workers’ representatives.

decided on the allocation of distributable profit for 2021 and 

granted a discharge from liability to the Management Board 

and Supervisory Board of NLB for the previous year.

Shareholders activities is available in the chapter Corporate 

Governance Statement of NLB, on the Bank’s website and the 

website of the Ljubljana Stock Exchange (SEOnet).

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 As at 31 December 2022, the Supervisory Board had the following members:

Representatives of Capital

Representative of Employees

Tadeja Žbontar Rems, M.Sc.
Member 
Term of office: 
2021–2025

Link to CV

Membership in NLB 
Supervisory Board 
committees:
•  Operations and IT 

Committee (Member)

Sergeja Kočar, M.Sc.
Member 
Term of office: 
2020–2024

Link to CV

Membership in NLB 
Supervisory Board 
committees:
•  Nomination Committee 

(Member)

•  Remuneration 

Committee (Member)

Membership in management 
bodies of related or 
unrelated companies:
•  None

Membership in management 
bodies of related or 
unrelated companies:
•  None

Further information about the work and composition of the 

Supervisory Board is available in the chapter Corporate 

Governance Statement of NLB.

Primož Karpe, M.Sc. 
Chairman 
Term of office: 2016–2020, 
renewed term 2020–2024

Andreas Klingen
Deputy Chairman 
Term of office: 2015–2019, 
renewed term 2019–2023

Link to CV

Link to CV

Membership in NLB 
Supervisory Board 
committees:
•  Nomination Committee 

(Chairman) 

•  Audit Committee (Member)
•  Operations and IT 

Committee (Member)

Membership in management 
bodies of related or 
unrelated companies:
•  Angler d.o.o. – Director
•  Aroma Global 3 

Ltd.–Chairman of the 
Supervisory Board

Membership in NLB 
Supervisory Board 
committees:
•  Nomination Committee 

(Deputy Chairman)

•  Risk Committee (Chairman) 
•  Operations and IT 

Committee (Member)

Membership in management 
bodies of related or 
unrelated companies:
•  Credit Bank of Moscow–

Member of the Supervisory 
Board (until 14 March 2022) 

•  Kyrgyz Investment and 

Credit Bank CISC–Member 
of the Board of Directors

•  Nepi Rockcastle N.V. – 

Lead Independent Non-
Executive Director

David Eric Simon
Member 
Term of office: 2016–2020, 
renewed term 2020–2024

Islam Osama Zekry, Ph.D.
Member 
Term of office: 
2021–2025

Link to CV

Link to CV

Membership in NLB 
Supervisory Board 
committees:
•  Audit Committee (Chairman)
•  Risk Committee (Member)

Membership in management 
bodies of related or 
unrelated companies:
•  Jihlavan a.s.–Chairman of 
the Supervisory Board

•  Czech Aerospace industries 
sro–Legal representative
•  Central Europe Industry 

Partners a.s.–Sole Member 
of the Supervisory Board

Membership in NLB 
Supervisory Board 
committees:
•  Operations and IT Committee 

(Deputy Chairman)

•  Risk Committee (Member)

Membership in management 
bodies of related or 
unrelated companies:
•  CIB Housing association, 
Egypt–President of the 
Supervisory Board
•  Egyptian AI Council 

(Ministry of Communication 
and Information 
Technology)–Member of 
the Supervisory Board

Shrenik Dhirajlal 
Davda, MBA, LLB
Member 
Term of office: 2019–2023

Link to CV

Membership in NLB 
Supervisory Board 
committees:
•  Risk Committee 

(Deputy Chairman)

•  Remuneration 

Committee (Member)

•  Audit Committee 

(Deputy Chairman)

Membership in management 
bodies of related or 
unrelated companies:
•  PJSC Ukrgasbank–

Independent Member of 
the Supervisory Board
IPSO, UK–Lay Member of the 
Board (since 8 March 2022)

• 

Gregor Rok Kastelic
Member 
Term of office: 
2019–2023

Link to CV

Membership in NLB 
Supervisory Board 
committees:
•  Remuneration Committee 

(Chairman)

•  Audit Committee (Member)
•  Risk Committee (Member)

Membership in management 
bodies of related or 
unrelated companies:
•  None

Mark William Lane 
Richards, M.Sc.
Member 
Term of office: 2019–2023

Link to CV

Membership in NLB 
Supervisory Board 
committees:
•  Operations and IT 

Committee (Chairman)
•  Remuneration Committee 

(Deputy Chairman)

•  Risk Committee (Member)

Membership in management 
bodies of related or 
unrelated companies:
•  Vencap International pic 
Ukraine (UK)–Chairman
•  Berry Palmer & Lyle Ltd. 
(BPL Global) (Lloyds of 
London insurance Broker)–
Non-Executive Director
•  Sheffield Haworth Ltd–
Non-Executive Director

Verica Trstenjak, Ph.D.
Member 
Term of office: 
2020–2024

Link to CV

Membership in NLB 
Supervisory Board 
committees:
•  Nomination Committee 

(Member)

Membership in management 
bodies of related or 
unrelated companies:
•  European Union Agency for 
fundamental rights, Vienna–
Member of the Management 
Board (until June 2022)

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 Committees of the 
Supervisory Board

Audit Committee
Audit Committee

Risk Committee
Risk Committee

Nomination 
Nomination 
Committee
Committee

Remuneration 
Remuneration 
Committee
Committee

Operations and 
Operations and 
Information 
Information 
Technology (IT) 
Technology (IT) 
Committee
Committee

The Supervisory Board appoints committees that prepare 

proposals for resolutions passed by the Supervisory Board, 

ensures their implementation, and performs other expert 

tasks. The Bank’s Supervisory Board has five collective 

decision-making and advisory committees, namely: 

Further information about the work and composition of the 

Committees of the Supervisory Board is available in the chapter 

Corporate Governance Statement of NLB.

David Eric 
Simon,
Chairman

Andreas 
Klingen, 
Chairman

Primož Karpe, 
Chairman

Gregor Rok 
Kastelic, 
Chairman

Mark William 
Lane Richards, 
Chairman

Shrenik 
Dhirajlal 
Davda,
Deputy 
Chairman

Shrenik 
Dhirajlal 
Davda,  
Deputy 
Chairman

Andreas 
Klingen,  
Deputy 
Chairman

Mark William 
Lane Richards, 
Deputy 
Chairman

Islam Osama 
Zekry,  
Deputy 
Chairman

Primož Karpe, 
Member

Islam Osama 
Zekry,  
Member

Verica 
Trstenjak, 
Member

Shrenik 
Dhirajlal Davda, 
Member

Andreas 
Klingen,  
Member 

Gregor Rok 
Kastelic,
Member

Mark William 
Lane Richards, 
Member

Sergeja Kočar, 
Member

Sergeja Kočar, 
Member

Primož Karpe, 
Member

David Eric 
Simon,  
Member

Gregor Rok 
Kastelic,  
Member

Bojana 
Šteblaj, 
Member  
(until 12 
September 
2022)

Bojana 
Šteblaj, 
Member  
(until 12 
September 
2022)

Tadeja 
Žbontar Rems,  
Member

Janja 
Žabjek 
Dolinšek, 
Member  
(until 8 July 
2022)

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 The Management Board 

As at 31 December 2022, the composition of the Management Board was as follows:

The Management Board represents the Bank and manages 

its daily operations, independently and at its own discretion, 

as provided for by the applicable laws and the Articles of 

Association of NLB. In accordance with mentioned Articles 

of Association, the Management Board has three to seven 

members (the president and up to six members) which 

are appointed and dismissed by the Supervisory Board. 

The president and members of the Management Board 

are appointed to a five-year term of office and may be 

reappointed or dismissed early in accordance with the law 

and Articles of Association. 

As at 31 December 2022:

Number of members: 

Mandate:

six members

five-year 
term of office

On 20 January 2022, the Supervisory Board appointed 

Hedvika Usenik, Antonio Argir, and Andrej Lasič as three new 

members of the Management Board. They assumed their 

functions on 28 April 2022, after receiving approval from the 

regulator. They all come from NLB or the Group, have extensive 

experience and a proven value-creating track record. Upon 

extension, the Management Board of the Bank consists of 

Blaž Brodnjak as President & CEO, Archibald Kremser as CFO, 

Andreas Burkhardt as CRO, as well as Hedvika Usenik as 

Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), responsible for Retail Banking 

and Private Banking, Andrej Lasič as CMO, responsible 

for Corporate and Investment Banking, and Antonio Argir, 

responsible for Group governance, payments, and innovations.

Andreas Burkhardt
CRO 
Term of office:  
2013–2016, 2016–2021, renewed 
term 2021–2026

Link to CV 

Other important functions 
and achievements:
•  21 years of experience in banking, 

especially in Central Europe.

Archibald Kremser
CFO 
Term of office:  
2013–2016, 2016–2021, 
renewed term 2021–2026

Link to CV 

Other important functions 
and achievements:
•  More than 22 years of experience in the 
financial services industry in Austria, 
CEE, and SEE focusing on finance 
and asset management, strategy, and 
corporate development, as well as 
performance improvement assignments.

Direct responsibility: 
•  Global Risk 
•  Credit Risk – Corporate
•  Credit Risk – Retail
•  Workout and Legal Support
•  Restructuring
•  Evaluation and Control
•  Financial Instruments Processing
•  Corporate Customer Delivery
•  Retail Banking Processing

Membership in management or supervisory 
bodies of related or unrelated companies:
•  Chairman of the Supervisory Board: 
•  NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana 
•  NLB Bank, Banja Luka
•  NLB Bank, Sarajevo

Direct responsibility: 
•  Financial Accounting and Administration
•  Controlling 
•  Financial Markets
•  Group Real Estate Management
• 
• 
•  Data Management
IT Governance
• 
IT Infrastructure
• 
IT Security
• 
•  Procurement

IT Architecture
IT Delivery

Membership in management or supervisory 
bodies of related or unrelated companies:
•  Chairman of the Supervisory Board: 
•  NLB Banka, Podgorica
•  NLB Komercijalna Banka, Beograd 

Blaž Brodnjak
CEO 
Term of office: 2012–2016, 2016–2021, 
renewed term 2021–2026 
(CEO since 2016)

Link to CV 

Other important functions 
and achievements:
•  More than 22 years of experience at 
managerial positions on all levels 
of international banking groups.

•  Named ‘Manager of the Year 2022’ by 
Managers’ Association of Slovenia
•  Was a chairman or member of the 

supervisory boards of 13 commercial 
banks in six countries, three insurance 
companies in three countries, leading 
asset management company in Slovenia 
and multinational production group.

Direct responsibility: 
•  Strategy and Business Development
•  Legal and Secretariat
•  Communication
•  Human Resources and 

Organisation Development
Internal Audit

• 
•  Compliance and Integrity

Membership in management or supervisory 
bodies of related or unrelated companies:
•  Chairman of the Supervisory Board:
•  NLB Banka, Skopje
•  Chairman of the Board of Directors:
•  NLB Banka, Prishtina
•  Member of the Board of Directors:
•  NLB Komercijalna Banka, Beograd 
•  President of the Association 

of Banks in Slovenia 

•  President of the Board of 

Governors: AmCham Slovenia 

•  Member of Executive Committee of 
the Handball Federation of Slovenia

•  Member of the Board of Directors:
•  Cedevita Olimpija  

(from 1 February 2022 – present)

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 Antonio Argir
Responsible for Group governance, 
payments and innovations 
Term of office: 2022–2027

Andrej Lasič
CMO (responsible for Corporate 
and Investment Banking)
Term of office: 2022–2027

Hedvika Usenik
CMO (responsible for Retail 
Banking and Private Banking)
Term of office: 2022–2027

Link to CV 

Link to CV 

Link to CV 

Other important functions 
and achievements:
•  Under the management of Antonio Argir, 
NLB Banka Skopje marked exceptional 
growth in all segments of its operations 
and perceived as the most innovative 
bank on the market, a significant 
increase in the profitability of the bank, 
and share price increased fivefold.

•  Vice President of the Economic Chamber 

of North Macedonia (2018 – present)

•  Member of the Assembly of 
the Macedonian Banking 
Association (2018 – 2021)

Direct responsibility: 
•  Group Steering
•  Cash Processing
•  Payment Processing
•  Card Operations, ATM business 

and payment services

Other important functions 
and achievements:
•  Over 25 years of experience in 

corporate and investment banking 
in international banking groups
•  President of the Supervisory Board 

of N Banka (2022 – present)

•  Member of the Supervisory Board, 
NLB Bank, Sarajevo (2021 – present)
•  Member of the Supervisory Board, NLB 
Lease&Go, Ljubljana (2020 – present)

Direct responsibility: 
•  Capital Structure Advisory and 

Cross Border Financing

•  Large Corporates
•  Small and Mid-Corporates
•  Trade Finance Services
• 

Investment Banking and Custody

Other important functions 
and achievements:
•  Over 20 years of experience in 

international banking groups, thereof more 
than 16 years of managerial experience

•  President of Supervisory Board of 

NLB Skladi (2021 – present)

•  Member of Supervisory Board of NLB 
Banka, Banja Luka (2021 – present)

•  Member of Supervisory Board 
of NLB Banka, Skopje and NLB 
Banka, Prishtina (2019 – 2021)

Direct responsibility: 
•  Private Banking
•  Call Centre 24/7
•  Distribution Network
•  Sales Development and Management

Membership in management or supervisory 
bodies of related or unrelated companies:
•  Vice President:
•  Economic Chamber of North Macedonia
•  Member of the Supervisory Board: 
•  NLB Lease&Go, Ljubljana 

Membership in management or supervisory 
bodies of related or unrelated companies:
•  Chairman of the Supervisory Board: 
•  N Banka
•  Member of the Board of Directors: 
•  NLB Bank, Sarajevo

Membership in management or supervisory 
bodies of related or unrelated companies:
•  Chairman of the Supervisory Board: 
•  NLB Skladi
•  Member of the Board of Directors: 
•  NLB Bank, Banja Luka

Further information about the work and composition of the 

Management Board is available in the chapter Corporate 

Governance Statement of NLB.

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 Collective Decision-making Bodies
Different committees, commissions, boards, and working bodies 

may be appointed by the Management Board for execution of 

individual tasks within powers of the Management Board. 

Corporate Credit Committee

Chairman: CRO 

Number of members: 8

The Committee determines credit ratings and makes 
decisions on the reclassification of clients and approves 
commercial banking investment transactions and limits 
that are beyond the competencies of the directors. 
The Committee adopts decisions on investment 
transactions in commercial banking within the statutory 
powers in the areas of corporate banking in the Bank 
(all companies, banks, and financial institutions), 
operations with clients in intensive care, and NPL. As a 
rule, committee meetings are convened once a week. 

Assets and Liabilities Management Committee  
of the NLB Group

Chairman: CFO

Number of members: equal to the number of the 
appointed members of the Management Board

The Committee monitors conditions in the 
macroeconomic environment and analyses the balance, 
changes to and trends in the assets and liabilities of the 
Bank and the Group companies, and drafts resolutions 
and issues guidelines for achieving the structure of 
the Bank’s and the Group’s balance sheet. Committee 
meetings are generally convened once a month. 

NLB Operational Risk Committee

The Change the Bank Committee

Chairman: CRO

Number of members: 16

The Committee is responsible for monitoring, 
guiding, and supervising operational risk 
management in the Bank, and for transferring this 
methodology to the Group members. As a rule, 
the Committee meets once every two months. 

Chairman: CEO

Number of members: equal to the number of the 
appointed members of the Management Board

The Committee is responsible for adopting decisions 
related to the development portfolio with the aim 
of transforming the Bank and decisions related to 
adopting the development guidelines. As a rule, the 
Committee meetings are convened once a month. 

The Risk Committee

Chairman: CRO

The Group Real Estate Management Committee

The Sales Committee

Chairman: CFO

Chairman: CMO (responsible for 
Corporate and Investment Banking)

Private Individual Credit Committee

Chairman: Director of Credit Risk – Retail

Number of members: 12 

Number of members: 3

Number of members: 13

Number of members: 5

The Risk Committee monitors and periodically 
reviews matters related to risk and commercial 
risk and prepares materials for the Management 
Board to take decisions. As a rule, committee 
meetings are convened quarterly.

The Committee is in charge of giving opinions on 
acquisition/purchase price of real property and 
additional investments in real property provided 
as collateral for NPL, the selling price of own real 
property, and the acquisition/purchase price for the 
real property mortgaged in the sale of receivables. As 
a rule, Committee meetings are convened once a week. 

The Sales Committee adopts decisions on the 
management of the range of products and services and 
the relations with the clients in the area of sales. As a 
rule, Committee meetings are convened once a week. 

The Committee decides on the approval of loans and 
other investment proposals, the conditions of which 
deviate from standard banking products and services, 
and which represent additional risks for the Bank. 
As a rule, meetings are convened when necessary. 

The Management Board also appointed working 
bodies that operate at a lower level:
Committee for New and Existing 
Products

Group Real Estate Management 
Sub Committee

Advisory bodies of the Bank’s Management Board
The Watch List Committee

Chairman: CRO

Number of members: 7 

The Watch List Committee is a body which monitors the 
progress of activities for clients on the Watch list. As a 
rule, committee meetings are convened quarterly. 

Committee for Business IT 
Architecture

Data Management Committee

Anti-Money Laundering 
Commission

Corporate Customer Acceptability 
Committee

NLB Group Non-Performing Assets Divestment Committee

NLB Group Sustainability Committee

Chairman: Director of Workout and Legal Support

Number of members: 7 

Chairman: CEO

Number of members: 17 

The NLB Group Non-Performing Assets Divestment Committee 
monitors operations of Non-Core Group Members and issues 
opinions, recommendations, and initiatives. The Committee shall 
discuss the strategies regarding optimal management of the Group 
members and shall monitor realisation of their strategic objectives. 
As a rule, committee meetings are convened quarterly.

Committee oversees the integration of the ESG factors to the NLB Group 
business model in a focused and coordinated way across the company and 
issues opinions, recommendations, initiatives, and takes relevant decisions 
when needed. As a rule, committee meetings are convened quarterly.

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 NLB Group’s Corporate 
Governance

As the parent bank, NLB implements the corporate 

governance of the Group members in compliance with EU 

and BoS legislation, the local legislation, and regulatory 

requirements applicable to respective Group members, while 

also considering internal rules, ECB Guidelines, and other 

applicable regulations. 

The roles, authorisations, and responsibilities of individual 

bodies and organisational units, as well as the manner to 

coordinate their operations to achieve the set business goals, 

are stipulated comprehensively in the NLB Group Corporate 

Governance Policy. In the Bank, the Group Steering Department 

is the principal partner of the Bank’s Management Board in the 

governance of strategic and non-strategic Group companies, 

and is responsible for appropriate corporate governance, 

the alignment of strategies, and the objectives achieved by 

subsidiaries. 

Well-functioning Corporate Governance in the Group is of 

special importance as several new companies were added to 

the Group in 2022:

•  N Banka, Ljubljana,

•  NLB DigIT, Beograd,

•  NLB Lease&Go, Skopje,

•  NLB Lease&Go Leasing, Beograd.

The Group is governed: 

•  In accordance with fundamental corporate rules through 

various bodies of the Group members: 

•  By voting at general meetings of the Group members;

•  By exercising supervision through the supervisory bodies of 

the Group members;

•  With proposals for appointing the management of the 

Group members;

•  With proposals for appointing representatives of the Bank 

to supervisory bodies;

•  Through participation of Bank’s representatives in various 

committees and commissions of the Group members.

•  Through mechanisms that ensure efficient business 

monitoring and governance, such as:

•  Harmonisation of operations in accordance with the so-

called “competence line principle”; 

•  Management Board of NLB for NLB Group, NLB Group 

Leadership meetings, NLB Group ALCO meetings, CMO/

CFO/CIO calls, etc.;

•  Development activities carried out via cross-functional 

working groups, group projects, competence centres, 

centres of excellence, etc.;

•  Through additional supervision of NLB Group members 

carried out by control functions (risk management, internal 

audit, compliance, AML, information, and physical security) 

and external supervising authorities (ECB, local regulators, 

external auditors).

In recent years, the concept of corporate governance of the 

Group has been upgraded, and the role of members of the 

Management Board of the Bank in management of other Group 

members strengthened. The target composition of supervisory 

bodies in the Group members was established, the functioning 

of the supervisory bodies optimised, and the reporting and 

standards related to the harmonisation of operations simplified. 

In line with strategic aspirations, the concept of ‘country 

managers’ was fully introduced with the main goal to support 

and steer the Group members, as well as to be a strong link 

between Group members and the Bank. They also facilitate 

best practice-sharing on different levels. Stream coordinators 

were introduced to address the facilitation of more in-depth 

knowledge of competence lines and greater integration 

between streams and the Group members, the increasing 

transmission of current information, needs, and other 

requirements from the Group members, and exploitation of 

synergies at the Group level. 

The legal and organisational structure of the banking 

group, including a description of the internal governance 

arrangements, the arrangements with regard to close links and 

the arrangements regarding the governance of subsidiaries, 

are available on the Bank’s webpage.

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 Compliance and 
Integrity

The Group addresses the challenges of high regulation and 

strict regulatory requirements with a systematic approach 

to mitigating compliance risks. It is important to ensure that 

employees and decision-makers know and understand 

the purpose and objectives of the regulations. The Group 

is continuously strengthening the compliance function and 

diligence of its operations. 

A culture of compliance is integrated into the day-to day 

business of the Bank to support its operations, to contribute 

to its strong internal control environment, and to ensure that 

compliance risks are mitigated. 

Group-wide ethics and 
integrity standards

Within the framework of the programme of ensuring business 

compliance, the Group also deals with the ethics and integrity 

of the organisation. For that reason, all of the employees are 

included in yearly training and awareness-raising activities 

in the areas of general ethics, anticorruption, anti-money 

laundering, information security, etc. The Group’s Code 

of Conduct provides guidance and principles of expected 

behaviour regarding ethical conduct and requires appropriate 

conduct from all employees at any level of the organisation, 

including its contractors.

The regime on inside 
information (MAR)

In line with the Market Abuse Regulation (MAR), and other 

relevant regulations, the Bank has a system in place on the level 

of the Bank and its entire Group for managing and publicly 

disclosing inside information on NLB in a manner that enables 

it to comply with the obligations related to inside information 

identification and disclosure in accordance with the rules and 

regulations applicable at any time. Also, the Bank has a system 

in place implementing the market abuse prevention regime 

in accordance with MAR to prevent insider trading, market 

manipulation, and illegal disclosure of inside information.

527

new laws, draft laws, regulations, 
and other information regarding 
regulatory environment of the Bank 
reviewed

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Prevention of Money 
Laundering and Terrorism 
Financing and Financial 
Sanctions Compliance

The Bank complies with national regulations on Anti-Money 

Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism (AML/

CFT), including the EBA, BoS, and other competent authorities’ 

guidelines and standards. The RoS is a member of the EU, and 

thus subject to the European AML/CFT Directives, the means 

by which the EU transposes the Financial Action Task Force 

(FATF) recommendations throughout the EU. For the Bank, it 

is of paramount importance to effectively mitigate the risk of 

money laundering, financing of terrorism, and breaches of 

financial sanctions. For these reasons, the rules, procedures, 

and technology in AML/CFT area are subject to strict and 

unified policies and standards. The same principles are also 

applied for setting out the Bank’s framework on financial 

sanctions. The Bank regularly updates and enhances the 

governance in line with directions set by the BoS. Through the 

system of performing risk assessment, regular reporting, and 

Oversight, 
monitoring, steering, 
and managing the 
Group compliance 
function and 
programme(I)

Business ethics and 
corporate integrity

Physical / technical 
security

Fraud prevention  
and investigation

AML/CTF

Privacy data 
protection and 
information 
security

The 
Compliance and 
Integrity in the 
Bank addresses 
the following 
risk areas:

Identification, 
assessment, and 
management of 
compliance, and 
integrity risks at 
the Bank and the 
Group levels

Fit and proper 
assessment 
procedures (as part of 
assessing reputation, 
financial strength, 
time availability, and 
conflict of interests)

Conflict of interests, 
gifts, and hospitality 
management

Corruption 
prevention

Regulatory 
compliance

(i) Established by standards for compliance and integrity for the Group and implementation of monitoring by off-site data analysis and onsite visits.

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 459

issued opinions, recommendations,
and guidelines on compliance and 
integrity topics

constant onsite and off-site control, the headquarters effectively 

of each local Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) office 

monitors the implementation and execution of standards 

in core subsidiaries. The focus was on awareness regarding 

throughout the Group.

local responsibility for information security management in 

accordance with the subsidiaries ‘executive management risk 

The Bank regularly performs customer due diligence, following 

appetite, organization‘s ability to build defences, and local 

the risk-based approach and, in the case of enhanced 

regulatory compliance.

risk, performs additional measures both in the segment of 

‘Know your customer,’ as well as ongoing monitoring of the 

The Bank is also a member of the only global cyber intelligence 

transactional activities. In the case of detected deviations, 

sharing community solely focused on financial services. All local 

also considering the AML/CFT indicators, the AML function 

CISO offices have access to intelligence exchange platform and 

of the Bank ensures the review and, if required by AML/CFT 

cyber resilience resources to anticipate, mitigate, and respond 

legislation, reports the customers and transactions to the 

to cyber threats.

competent Financial Intelligence Unit. In its Acceptance Policy, 

the Bank has also adopted additional measures to prevent 

To manage cyber risks, the Group is working on critical 

onboarding of customers that do not correspond to its risk 

intelligence access, strategies to address crisis events, and 

appetite. The Bank also ensures a high level of awareness on 

building trusted network of relationships. In 2022, the Group 

the AML/CFT area and the area of financial sanctions with 

implemented cyber-attack incident response exercise and 

regular training of all employees of the Bank.

participated at the European Cross-Border Exercise. The 

exercise explored how financial institutions may coordinate 

Concerning the changed geopolitical environment related 

across borders with peers, public sector partners, supporting 

to the Russian aggression in Ukraine, the Bank regularly 

service providers, and other major stakeholders to mitigate the 

monitors and manages all newly introduced financial sanctions 

impacts of major incidents.

stemming from all relevant regimes.

Information security and 
personal data protection
The information security area, inter alia, focused on 
implementation of measures for increasing the level of 

The Bank runs its operations in line with GDPR requirements, 

including the retention and processing of personal data, 

dedicated Data Privacy Officer, education, and training of 

employees. The new Slovenian Personal Data Protection 

Act (ZVOP-2) was adopted in 2022 and is in the process of 

implementation in the Bank’s operations.

information/cyber security, as well testing the cyber security 

resilience of information systems (pen-tests).

Prevention 

Furthermore, in line with the plan, several internal assessments/

compliance checks according to ISO/IEC 27001 standard 

were carried out in 2022, including assessment of information 

security at 41 outsourcing providers. Special obligatory 

e-trainings in the field of information security and social 
engineering were prepared for all employees and executed as 

part of prevention measures in this area.

In second half of 2022, the Bank detected increase in cyber 

fraud attempts of the Bank clients. This prompted the Group to 

respond by implementing additional controls mechanisms to 

counter client abuse risk.

New information security approaches were introduced 

across the Group, that improved the visibility and autonomy 

Based on the assessment of compliance risks, so-called 

‘Enterprise Compliance Risk Assessment (ECRA),’ the 

management of the Bank and in particular Compliance and 

Integrity can plan its activities; all with the aim to reduce 

or mitigate the compliance and integrity risks. As part of 

compliance programme, Compliance and Integrity is also 

involved, inter alia, in risk assessments regarding new and 

changed products, fit and proper assessments for key function 

holders, outsourcing, and other changes materially affecting 

the Bank’s business. 

As a standard compliance function, several workshops 

and compulsory e-education on ethics, the prevention of 

corruption, conflicts of interest, protection of personal data, 

AML/CFT, Information Security, Physical Security, and other 

relevant topics related to everyday work were prepared. For 

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 35cases investigated

all employees, yearly e-trainings are mandatory on subjects 

such as prevention of insider trading and market manipulation, 

ethics, anti-corruption, mitigation of conflict of interests, 

personal data protection, information security, and similar 

themes. The Group seeks to promote a corporate culture that 

facilitates compliance, and by continuously raising awareness, 

for example through communication via its monthly compliance 

newsletter, detailing not only important regulatory changes, 

but also current information and case studies on different 

compliance and ethics topics. 

Fraud prevention and 
investigation

The Group has a unified system in place for the prevention 

and investigation of suspected misconduct, which allows 

anyone, both internal and external stakeholders, to report 

potential misconduct through several different communication 

channels, including anonymously. Protection of the informant is 

comprehensively governed. The Bank uses various measures to 

ensure the total protection of the informant from any retaliation 

she/he could endure due to well-intended reporting of a 

suspicion of harmful conduct. All reports received are handled 

centrally by a specialised team according to pre-established 

internal procedures, and appropriate reporting mechanisms 

to management bodies are in place. Significant attention is 

devoted to employee awareness-raising and training for both 

all employees and specific target groups according to the 

identified risks.

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 Performed audits

The Internal Audit performs its tasks and responsibilities on 

its own discretion and in compliance with the annual audit 

plan as approved by the Management Board and confirmed 

by the Supervisory Board. Based on its internal methodology 

and comprehensive risk analysis for 2022, Internal Audit 

completed 69 audits, out of which 66 audits were planned 

and covered various areas of operation of the Bank and the 

Group. 21 of these assignments were branch inspections, 2 

advising management, and ensuring high quality and 

professional operations of the internal audit function within 

the Group. The Internal Audit also introduces uniform rules of 

operation of the internal audit function and regularly monitors 

the compliance with these rules within the Group.

The highest standards  
were followed

audits were conducted as joint audits with a local auditor and 

In 2022 external quality review of internal audit function was 

one quality review in a banking subsidiary. In addition, Internal 

performed and confirmed that Internal Audit and other internal 

Audit initiated and completed 3 new audits and was involved 

audit services in the Group operate in accordance with the: 

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Internal Audit

Internal Audit reviews key risks in the Group’s operations, 

advises management at all levels, and deepens 

understanding of the Bank’s operations. It provides 

independent and impartial assurance regarding the 

management of key risks, management of the Bank, 

operation of internal controls, and thereby strengthens and 

protects the value of the Bank.

Internal Audit is the independent, objective, and advisory 

control body responsible for a systematic and professional 

assessment of the effectiveness of risk management 

procedures, completeness, and functionality of internal control 

systems, and the management of the Group operations on 

an ongoing basis. The Internal Audit provided impartial 

assurance to the Management Board and Supervisory Board 

on the management of risks in key areas, i.e., cyber security 

governance framework and cyber security – emerging risk, 

anti-money laundry, management of repossessed assets, 

central vault – cash handling, ILAAP, project financing, lending 

processes (loans to retail – housing and mortgages loans, 

in several strategic projects as advisor. Six planned audits 

were postponed due to objective reasons. The majority of the 

recommendations given in 2022 were implemented within the 

agreed deadlines.

Implementation 
of uniform rules

loans to small and medium corporates), IT governance, IT risk 

Internal Audit increases efficiency. It focuses on monitoring 

management, operational risk management – risk appetite and 

the implementation of audit recommendations, training, and 

key risk indicators, cash management in branches, and others. 

education, updating the internal audit charter and manual, 

69

planned and extraordinary
audits conducted in the Bank

30Internal Audit  

experts

International 

Standards 
for the 

Professional 

Practice of 

Internal 

Auditing

Code of  

Ethics of 

 an Internal 

 Auditor

Banking Act (ZBan-3)  

or other relevant laws  

which regulate  

the operations of  

a Group member

Code of  

Internal 

Auditing 

Principles

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121

 Corporate 
Governance 
Statements

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 The Statement  
of Management’s 
Responsibility

In accordance with the provisions of Article 134 (2nd paragraph) 
of the Market and Financial Instruments Act,15 the Management 
Board hereby confirms the statements made in this business 

report, which are in accordance with the attached financial 

statements as at 31 December 2022, and represent the actual 

and fair financial standing of the Bank and the NLB Group, 

as well as their operating results in the year that ended 

31 December 2022.

The Management Board confirms that the business report 

gives a fair view of developments and operating results of the 

Bank and the Group and their financial standings, including 

their description of the key types of risks and Group companies 

included in the consolidation that are exposed as a whole.

Ljubljana, 12 April 2023

Management Board of NLB

Hedvika Usenik
Member

Andrej Lasič
Member

Archibald Kremser
Member

Andreas Burkhardt
Member

Antonio Argir
Member

Blaž Brodnjak
Chief executive officer

15 ZTFI-1, Official Gazette of the RoS, No. 77/18, 17/19 – corr., 66/19 in 123/21.

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 Authorisation to Perform 
Banking Services

In accordance with the provisions of Article 14 (1st paragraph) 
of the Regulation on Books of Accounts and Annual Reports 

of Banks and Savings Banks (Official Gazette of the RoS, No. 

184/21) adopted by the BoS on the basis of the authorisation 
from Article 109 of the Banking Act,16 (ZBan-3), NLB hereby lists 
all types of financial services which, in accordance with the 

authorisation of the BoS, took place during the period for which 

the business report was prepared.

NLB has the authorisation to perform banking services 

pursuant to Article 5 of the ZBan-3. Banking services are the 

acceptance of deposits and other repayable funds from the 

public and the granting of credits for its own account.

The bank has an authorisation to perform mutually recognised 

and additional financial services. 

It may perform the following mutually recognised financial 

services, pursuant to Article 5 of the ZBan-3, namely:

1. 

Accepting deposits and other repayable funds from the 

public 

2.  Granting of loans, including:

• 

consumer loans

•  mortgage loans

8.  Participation in securities issues and the provision of 

associated services 

9.  Corporate consultancy regarding capital structure, 

operational strategy, and related matters, and consultancy 

and services in connection with corporate mergers and 

acquisitions 

10.  Monetary intermediation on interbank markets 

11.  Advice on portfolio management 

12.  Safekeeping of securities and other related services 

13.  Credit rating services: collecting, analysing, and 

disseminating information regarding creditworthiness 

14.  Leasing of safe deposit boxes 

15. 

Investment services and transactions, and ancillary 

investment services in accordance with the Market and 

Financial Instruments Act (ZTFI) 

It may perform the following additional financial services, 

pursuant to Article 6 of the ZBan-3:

1. 

insurance agency service pursuant to the law governing 

the insurance industry 

4. 

custodian services according to the law governing 

investment funds and management companies

5. 

credit brokerage for consumer and other types of loans 

6.  other services or transactions:

6.1 

intermediation in financial leasing

6.2  sale and purchase of investments in gold

Authorisation to perform banking services is published on the 

• 

• 

purchase of receivables with or without recourse 

official webpage of the BoS. 

(factoring)

financing of commercial transactions, including export 

financing based on the purchase of non-current 

non-past-due receivables at a discount and without 

recourse, secured by financial instruments (forfeiting)

4.  Payment services 

5. 

Issuing and managing other payment instruments (e.g., 

travellers’ cheques and bank bills of exchange), insofar as 

such services are not included in the services referred to in 

the previous point

6. 

7. 

Issuing of guarantees and other commitments

Trading for own account or for the account of clients:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

in money-market instruments

in foreign legal tender, including currency exchange 

transactions

in standardised futures and options

in currency and interest-rate instruments

in transferable securities

16  Official Gazette of the RoS, No. 92/21 with amendments.

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Corporate Governance 
Statement of NLB

Pursuant to Article 70, paragraph 5, of the Companies Act 
(ZGD-1)17 NLB hereby gives the following Corporate Governance 
Statement of NLB as a part of the Business Report of the NLB 

Group Annual Report 2022. The main function of this statement 

is the prompt informing of investors on the coherence of the 

Bank’s corporate governance system.

1.  COMPLIANCE WITH 
THE CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE CODE

1.1. References to the Code on 
Corporate Governance

The recommended best corporate governance practices 

contribute to a transparent and understandable corporate 

The Corporate Governance Statement of NLB is included in the 

Business Report of the NLB Group Annual Report and is also 

published as a separate report on the Bank’s website under the 

chapter on Corporate Governance, as well as on the website of 

the Ljubljana Stock Exchange.

NLB strives to increase the level of its business transparency 

and informs the shareholders and other expert community in 

line with the Guidelines on Disclosure for Listed Companies 

(Ljubljana Stock Exchange, 18 December 2020) on electronic 

communications system of the Ljubljana Stock Exchange and 

in line with Rules and Regulations of the Luxembourg Stock 

Exchange, as well as in line with Rules of the London Stock 

Exchange through Regulatory News Services (RNS) of the 

London Stock Exchange.

NLB also has its own corporate governance code. The NLB 

Group Code of Conduct is a standardised document for all 

members of the Group that defines values, lays down the 

standards of ethical business conduct, and serves as the 

guideline for all our relationships regardless of whether 

it involves clients, competitors, business partners, state 

authorities, regulators, shareholders, or internal relationships 

governance system, which promotes both domestic and foreign 

between employees. At the same time, it is the basis of the 

investor confidence, as well as the confidence of employees, 

other stakeholders (regulators, suppliers, etc.), and the public. 

Group values and basic principles of conduct which provide 

specific conduct guidelines to its employees. The aim of this 

A decision on which code the Bank will follow was made jointly 

approach is to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, 

by the Management Board and the Supervisory Board of the 
Bank by adopting the Corporate Governance Policy of NLB. 18 
In 2022, the Bank analysed changes made with a renewed 

regulations, and standards. It is published on the Bank’s 

webpage.

version of the Slovenian Corporate Governance Code for Listed 

The Corporate Governance system of the Bank and all 

Companies, as it will be the first used for preparation of the 

relevant information on Bank’s management that exceeds the 

Corporate Governance Statement of NLB for the business year 

requirements of article 70 of the Companies Act (ZGD-1) are 

2022.

published in the chapter of Risk Management of this annual 

report, where ESG Risk Management for the year 2022 is 

Compliance with the Slovenian Corporate Governance Code 

described, as well as in the Sustainability chapter of this annual 

for Listed Companies is explained in this statement on ‘comply 

report, and the NLB Group Sustainability Report 2022. Some 

or explain basis,’ in which the Bank provides an explanation 

regarding deviations, reasoning for non-compliance with a 

certain recommendation, or alternative practices performed 

mostly due to stricter banking regulation. The statement 

refers to the Bank’s system of corporate governance from 

the beginning to the end of the financial year, which also 

other aspects about the functioning of the Bank’s managing 

bodies are described in the chapter of Corporate Governance 

of this annual report, as well as in the Corporate Governance 

Policy of NLB published on the NLB’s website. Information on 

the Diversity Policy and Remuneration Policy and ESG risks is 

also described in the Pillar 3 Disclosures according to Basel 

corresponds to the beginning and the end of the calendar year 

standards.

(from 1 January until 31 December). 

2. COMPLIANCE WITH THE 
SLOVENIAN CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE CODE FOR 
LISTED COMPANIES

The Bank does not follow or partially implement or adhere to 

different, in most cases stricter, banking regulations with regard 

to the following recommendations:

Recommendation 7: The Bank's strategic document and the 
overall framework for managing sustainable development is 

the publicly disclosed NLB Group Sustainability Framework. 

The Comprehensive Sustainability Policy of NLB and NLB 

Group will be adopted in 2023. The bank also started activities 

to develop the NLB Group Net Zero Business Strategy in line 

with UNEP FI – Net Zero Banking Alliance (NZBA) guidance 

and methodology to decarbonize its portfolios. The Net Zero 

Business Strategy will be adopted by the end of 2023, and Net 
Zero portfolio targets will be publicly announced.

Recommendation 7.1: Guidelines for identifying and acting 
on the bank's sustainability priorities are presented in the 

NLB Group Sustainability Report. As a signatory to the UNEP 
FI PRB 19, the Bank has undertaken an impact analysis with 
the aim of aligning the Bank's strategy and practices with 

the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 

Paris Climate Agreement. The analysis includes a materiality 

analysis (identification of key ESG issues that could affect the 

performance of the company and its stakeholders), the context 

of the Bank's business, and the specificities of the region in 

which the Bank operates.

Recommendation 7.2: The NLB Group Sustainability Framework 
has been adopted by the Bank's Management Board. 

Recommendation 7.4: Human rights issues, human health 
and environmental protection, fundamental labour rights, the 

prevention of discrimination and inequalities and the promotion 

and advancement of equal opportunities, consumer rights, 

fiscal responsibility, and the prevention of corruption and other 

illegal practices are included in the Human Rights Policy in the 

NLB Group.

17  The Companies Law (ZGD- 1; Official Gazette of the RoS, No. 65/09 and 

consecutive changes).

18 November 2020 and February 2023.

19 UNEFI PRB - United Nations Environment Programme Finance 

Initiative Principles for Responsible Banking.

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 Recommendation 12.1: In assessing a candidate’s eligibility as 
a Supervisory Board member, statutory criteria are applied, 

however, it is not necessary for candidates to have a certificate 

of NLB. Members of the Supervisory Board do not sign a special 

Board shall comprise ordinary or preference shares of NLB, or 

agreement on access to the archives upon taking the position.

share linked instruments, or equivalent non-cash instruments 

(hereinafter collectively: ‘Instruments’). This requirement applies 

evidencing their specialised professional competence for 

membership on a Supervisory Board, such as the Certificate 

Recommendation 17.6: Decisions discussed at the meeting are 
always available to members of the Supervisory Board in the 

to both the non-deferred and the deferred part of variable 

remuneration (which is different from recommendation 23.5, 

of the Slovenian Directors’ Association, or any other relevant 

bank's information system. As soon as it is possible, but no later 

which provides that variable remuneration given as shares, 

certificate. However, all strict conditions must be fulfilled 

than three working days after the meeting of the Supervisory 

as well as the execution of stock options and any other rights 

according to the banking legislature, including the wide range 

Board, the Secretariat prepares copies of the decisions adopted 

to acquire shares or be remunerated based on share price 

of knowledge, skills, and experience.

at the meetings of the Supervisory Board and forwards them 

movements, must not be made possible for at least three 

Recommendation 13.1: In 2022, Supervisory Board members 
did not inform each other of the content of the statements of 

employee of the Secretariat, who is present at the meeting, 

remuneration of an individual Identified Staff for a particular 

approves the amendments to the resolutions and thereby 

year does not exceed EUR 50,000 and does not exceed one 

independence at one of the meetings of the Supervisory Board. 

confirms the consistency of the content of the resolutions 

third of his/her total remuneration for such year, ZBan-3 

to the proposer and all recipients listed in each decision. An 

years after such rights were awarded). When the variable 

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However, starting in 2023 such good practice will be put in 

adopted at the meeting.

place. 

Recommendation no. 14.2: The currently valid Rules of 
Procedure of the Supervisory Board of NLB (Rules) are 

prepared according to strict rules governing banks. They do 

performing their function based on the decisions of the General 

of the Management Board of NLB, which was also approved 

not include the list of all types of transactions for which the 

Meeting of shareholders dated 21 October 2019 and 15 June 

by the General Meeting of shareholders of the Bank on 12 

Management Board needs prior approval of the Supervisory 

2020. Remuneration of the members of the Supervisory Board 

December 2022. Voting on this policy by the General Meeting of 

Board, as this provision is included in the Articles of Association 

is regulated by the Remuneration Policy for the Members 

shareholders was of a consultative nature. 

did not receive attendance fees but received payments for 

Members of the Supervisory Board of NLB. and the Members 

Recommendation 19.1: In 2022, the Supervisory Board members 
(representatives of capital and representatives of workers) 

allows for an exception from the requirement that a part of 

variable remuneration must comprise in Instruments. On 19 

October 2022, the Supervisory Board of the Bank adopted 

a new (i.e., version 2 of the) Remuneration Policy for the 

of NLB. Changes to the mentioned Rules that will be adopted 

in Q1 2023 will also list all tasks of the Supervisory Board. The 

currently mentioned Rules also do not include the Supervisory 

of the Supervisory Board of NLB and the Members of the 
Management Board of NLB.20 The voting on mentioned policy 
by the General Meeting of shareholders was of a consultative 

Board’s evaluation, education, and training of the members of 

nature. 

the Supervisory Board. However, the renewed Rules will also 

address those issues. The Rules of Procedure of the Supervisory 

Board of NLB also do not include provisions on the Agreement 

Recommendation 20: Minutes of the Supervisory Board are not 
taken only by the Secretary of the Supervisory Board, but also 

on access to the archives after expiration of the term of office 

by certain employees of the Secretariat who are present at the 

of the members of the Supervisory Board, as access to the 

meeting. 

Recommendation 26.6: The Bank maintains a list of 
transactions with related persons according to Banking Act 

(ZBan-3). A list of transactions with related persons is submitted 

to the Supervisory Board by special demand. 

Recommendation 30.4: NLB draws up its financial calendar, 
which is published on the Banks’ website and includes the date 

of the Annual General Meeting. However, it doesn’t provide 

information on the dividend payment date which is announced 

archives after expiration of the term of office is determined 

by the provisions of the Rules of Procedure of the Supervisory 

Board of NLB and not a special agreement.

Recommendation no. 14.3: The Rules of Procedure of the 
Supervisory Board of NLB do not include the scope of topics 

Recommendations 23.4 and 23.5: In 2022, NLB did not award 
or pay variable remuneration in the form of NLB’s shares to 

in the publication of the Agenda and Proposed Resolutions 

to be passed at the Annual General Meeting. The dividend 

any member of the NLB Management Board, nor do stock 

payment date is determined based on KDD Operations Rules 

option plans and comparable financial instruments make up 

(Central Securities Clearing Corporation).

most of the variable remuneration of any member of the NLB 

and timeframe to be respected by the Management Board in 

Management Board. In relation to the awarding and payment 

its periodic reporting of the Supervisory Board. However, the 

of variable remuneration in ordinary or preference shares 

scope of topics and time frames of periodic reporting to the 

Supervisory Board are included in annual Action Plan of the 

Supervisory Board. Competent organisational units of the Bank 

of NLB, or share linked instruments, or equivalent non-cash 
instruments NLB complies with the Banking Act (ZBan-3). 21  
In accordance with point 3 of the second paragraph of Article 

Recommendation 32.7: NLB does not publish the rules of 
procedure of its bodies (Management Board and Supervisory 

Board and its committees) on its website. However, each year 

the Bank discloses the composition, competences, and work of 

its managing bodies in the Corporate Governance Statement 

take care that timely information is provided to the Supervisory 

190 of the ZBan-3, at least 50% of the variable remuneration 

of NLB and publishes it in the NLB Group Annual Report on 

Board. 

of (among other) each member of the NLB Management 

the Bank's website, as well as on the webpage of the Ljubljana 

Stock Exchange.

Recommendation 14.6: Access to the archives after expiration 
of the term of office of the members of the Supervisory Board is 

determined by the Rules of Procedure of the Supervisory Board 

20  Adopted by the Supervisory Board on 15 October 2021 and confirmed by the 

General Meeting of shareholders on 16 December 2021, changes were adopted 
by the Supervisory Board on 19 October 2022 and confirmed by the General 
Meeting on 12 December 2022.

21  Banking Act (ZBan-3; Official Gazette of the RS, No 92/21 and 123/21).

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126

 3. MAIN FEATURES OF 
INTERNAL CONTROL 
AND RISK MANAGEMENT 
SYSTEMS IN RELATION TO 
FINANCIAL REPORTING

completeness, functionality, and adequacy of the internal 

The risk management function represents an important part 

control system. An internal audit is completely independent 

of the overall management and governance system in the 

of both the first line and the second-level control functions.

Group. This function in NLB is organised within the Risk stream, 

covered by the member of the Management Board in charge of 

In the event of deficiencies, irregularities of breaches identified 

risk (Chief Risk Officer - CRO). 

in the process of implementation of internal controls the 

breaches are discussed at the Operational Risk Committee 

The risk management function is performed by the Global Risk 

(which is the collective decision-making body appointed by 

function. In accordance with the competences, authorisations, 

the Management Board of the Bank that is established for 

and responsibilities, Global Risk is represented by its General 

NLB is governed by the provisions of the Capital Requirements 

execution of individual tasks within powers of the Management 

Manager. Global Risk is in functional and organisational 

Regulation (CRR), with amendments, together with all 

applicable delegated acts, the Banking Act (ZBan-3) and 

the Regulation on Internal Governance Arrangements, the 

Board of the Bank). The mentioned committee adopts decisions 

terms separate from other functions where business decisions 

so that appropriate actions are taken and informs the 

are adopted and where a potential conflict of interest may 

Management Board of the Bank about deficiencies and actions 

arise with the risk management function. The head of the risk 

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Management Body and the Internal Capital Adequacy 

taken on that behalf.

Assessment Process for Banks and Savings Banks regulating, 

and relevant EBA Guidelines, among others, the Bank’s 

obligation to set up, maintain appropriate internal control, 

3.1.2. Internal Control Functions
The internal control functions are part of the system of the 

and risk management systems. Due to the above, NLB has 

internal governance in the Bank. Internal control functions 

developed a steady and reliable internal governance system 
encompassing the following:

include:

a) The Internal Audit Function
The Internal Audit function is organised according to 

the Charter on the Internal Audit of NLB adopted by the 

management function has direct access to the Management 

Board of the NLB, and at the same time unhindered and 

independent access to the Supervisory Board of NLB and the 

Risk Committee of the Supervisory Board of the NLB. 

Risk management and control is performed through a clear 

organisational structure with defined roles and responsibilities. 

The organisation and delineation of competencies is designed 

to prevent conflicts of interest, ensure a transparent and 

documented decision-making process, and is subject to an 

3.1. Internal control mechanisms

Suitability of the internal control mechanisms are determined by 

the independence, quality, and validity of:

• 

the rules for and controls of the implementation of the 

Bank's organisational procedures, business procedures, 

and work procedures (internal controls); and 

• 

the internal control functions and departments (internal 

control functions).

3.1.1. Internal Controls
The policy entitled, ‘Internal Control System’ defines a system of 

internal controls as set of rules, procedures, and organisational 

structures. The system of internal controls in NLB is designed 

to ensure that for each key risk there is a process or other 

measure to reduce or manage that risk, and that the process or 

measure is effective for that purpose.

The mentioned policy introduces a new description of the three 

lines of defence, namely:

1. 

First-level (or line) controls are implemented into business 

and non-business organisational units (OU);

2. 

Second-level controls are divided between Risk 

Management and Compliance control functions (including 

AML/CTF and Information security management) that 

carry out independent controls and supervision over the 

operation of the first line of defence; and 

3. 

The third level of controls is performed by the internal 

audit function, which assesses and regularly checks the 

Management Board on 13 November 2018 (and supplemented 

appropriate upward and downward flow of information. The 

on 13 August 2019), to which the Supervisory Board of NLB gave 

competence line Risk Management in NLB, encompassing 

its approval (30 November 2018 and 6 September 2019).

The Management Board has set up an independent internal 

audit function which gives assurances and advice about risk 

several professional areas, is in charge of formulating and 

controlling the Group’s risk management policies, setting 

limits, overseeing the harmonisation, regular monitoring of 

risk exposures, and limits based on centralised reporting at the 

management, internal controls system, and management of 

Group level. 

the NLB. The mission and the principal task of the Internal 

Audit is to consolidate and secure the value of the Bank 

by issuing objective assurances based on risk assessment, 

with consultancy and a deep understanding of the Bank’s 

In the members of the Group, the risk management function 

is organised according to the local legislation, considering 

the bases for set-up, organisation, and activities in risk 

operations. In addition to that, the Internal Audit carries out 

management in the members, as defined in the document ‘Risk 

regular control of the quality of operation of the other internal 

Management Standards in the NLB Group.’

audit departments in the Group and takes care of constant 

development of the internal auditing function.

The Supervisory Board of NLB must issue its approval of the 

c) The Compliance Function, Information Security Function, 

and the AML/CTF Function
Compliance and Integrity in the Group in its role as internal 

appointment, remuneration, and dismissal to the Head of the 

control function performs control activities with respect to the 

Internal Audit, which ensures their independence and so, the 

main following areas:

independence of the work of the Internal Audit.

b) The Risk Management Function
The Risk Management Function is organised according to the 

Charter of the Risk Management Function of NLB adopted by 

the Management Board, in agreement with the Supervisory 

Board of NLB. 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

anti-money laundering and counter-terrorist financing 

(separately for NLB and the Group);

information security and data protection;

personal data protection;

regulatory compliance management; 

prevention of fraud and internal investigations;

security;

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127

 • 

• 

development of compliance risk methodologies, and 

built control mechanisms in source applications, and archiving 

Explanation regarding the holders of securities that carry 

setting and monitoring ethics and integrity standards;

pursuant to the laws and internal regulations. Furthermore, 

special control rights 

harmonisation of policies and practices within the Group 

the policy precisely defines primary accounting controls, 

(Point 4 of the sixth paragraph of Article 70 of the ZGD-1)

(Competence line Compliance and Integrity).

performed in the scope of analytical bookkeeping, and 

secondary accounting controls, i.e., checking the efficiency 

The Bank did not issue any securities carrying special 

Compliance and Integrity is an organisational unit of the Bank, 

of implementation of primary accounting controls. With an 

controlling rights.

placed directly under the Bank’s Management Board in the 

efficient mechanism of controls in accounting reporting, NLB 

organisational structure. The Bank adopted an Integrity and 

ensures:

Explanation regarding restrictions related to voting rights, in 

Compliance Policy of NLB and NLB Group, which regulates the 

•  A reliable decision-making and operation support system;

particular: (i) restrictions of voting rights to a certain stake or 

method and scope of the activities of the compliance function 

•  Accurate, complete, and timely accounting data, the resulting 

certain number of votes, (ii) deadlines for executing voting 

in the Bank. Supervision over the compliance of operations is 

accounting, and other reports of the Bank;

rights, and (iii) agreements in which, based on the company’s 

within the competence of the Compliance and Integrity. This 

•  Compliance with legal and other requirements.

cooperation, the financial rights arising from securities are 

enables the Compliance and Integrity to operate independently 

separated from the rights of ownership of such securities 

from other Bank’s departments. 

Financial statements of NLB and consolidated financial 

(Point 6 of the sixth paragraph of Article 70 of the ZGD-1)

statements of the NLB Group are audited by the auditing 

The director of Compliance and Integrity does not perform any 

company Ernst & Young d.o.o., Ljubljana. The mentioned 

The shares of the Bank are freely transferable, subject to the 

other function at the Bank that could possibly lead to conflict 

auditing company was appointed as the auditor of NLB at the 

provisions of the Articles of Association of the Bank which 

of interests. To ensure his independence, the director reports 

General Meeting of shareholders of the Bank for the financial 

require the approval of the Supervisory Board, namely for the 

to the Management Board and to a specific member of the 

years 2018 to 2022.

Bank’s Management Board responsible for the compliance 

area (including information security, personal data protection, 

and AML/CTF functions), which additionally ensures the 

independence of operation of the Compliance and Integrity.

As information security, AML/CTF, and Group AML functions 

are organised within Compliance and Integrity, CISO for NLB, 

Group CISO, DPO (Data Protection Officer), head of AML/CTF 

area for NLB, and the head of Group AML are ensured full 

independence through equal reporting lines as the director 

of Compliance and Integrity and have direct access and a 

separate reporting line to the Bank’s Supervisory Board. 

Following NLB’s model, the compliance function has been 

established in the core members of the Group, and as well is 

based on the Group standards for the compliance and integrity 

area.

3.2. Financial reporting

With the aim of ensuring appropriate financial reporting 

procedures, NLB pursues the adopted Policy on Accounting 

Controls. The accounting controls are provided through the 

4. INFORMATION ON POINT 
4, PARAGRAPH 5, OF THE 
ARTICLE 70 OF THE ZGD-
1 regarding points 3, 4, 6, 
8, and 9 of paragraph 6 of 
the same article

Explanation regarding significant direct and indirect 

ownership of the company’s securities in the sense of 

achieving a qualified stake as determined by the act 

regulating acquisitions (Point 3 of the sixth paragraph of 

Article 70 of the ZGD-1)

Significant direct and indirect ownership of the company’s 

securities in terms of achieving a qualifying holding as defined 
in the Takeovers Act (as of 31 December 2022).

operation of the complete accounting function with the purpose 

Shareholder

of ensuring quality and reliable accounting information, and 

thereby accurate and timely financial reporting. The principal 

identified risks in this area are managed with an appropriate 

system of authorisations, a segregation of duties, compliance 

with accounting rules, documenting of all business events, a 

custody system, posting on the day of a business event, in-

RoS
EBRD(i)
Schroders plc(i)

(i) In the form of GDRs.

Number 
of shares

Percentage of 
shares

Nature of 
ownership

5,000,001

/

/

25.00

>5 and <10

>5 and <10

Shares

GDRs

GDRs

More information on the Bank’s Share Capital is available on 
the website: https://www.nlb.si/shares.

transfer of shares of the Bank by which the acquirer, together 

with the shares held by the holder before such an acquisition 

and the shares held by third parties for the account of the 

acquirer, exceeds the share of 25% of the Bank’s voting shares. 

Approval for the transfer of shares is issued by the Supervisory 

Board.

The Bank rejects the request for approval of transfer shares 

if the acquirer, together with the shares held by the acquirer 

before the acquisition and the shares held by third parties for 

the account of the acquirer, exceeded the 25% share of the 

Bank with voting rights, increased by one share.

Notwithstanding the provision mentioned in the first paragraph, 

approval for the transfer of shares is not required if the acquirer 

of the shares has acquired them for the account of third parties, 

so that it is not entitled to exercise voting rights from these 

shares at its sole discretion, while at the same time committing 

to the Bank, it will not exercise voting rights on the basis of the 

instructions of an individual third party for whose account it has 

acquired the shares if, together with the instructions for voting, 

it does not receive a written guarantee from that person that 

this person has shares for his own account, and that this person 

is not, directly or indirectly, a holder of more than 25% of the 

Bank’s voting rights.

The acquirer who exceeds the share of 25% of the Bank’s 

shares with voting rights and does not require the issuance 

of approval for the transfer of shares, or does not receive the 

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

128

 approval of the Bank, may exercise the voting right from 25% of 

law regulating banking. The Bank assesses every candidate 

law regulating banking. The Bank assesses every candidate 

the shares with the voting rights.

following the Bank’s Policy governing the Fit & Proper 

following the Bank’s Policy governing Fit & Proper assessment 

assessment prior to the appointment. 

prior to the appointment.

There are no restrictions other than those mentioned and those 

that are regulatory.

The Supervisory Board
The Supervisory Board of the Bank consists of a total of twelve 

Amendments to Articles of Association 
A qualified majority of at least 75% (seventy-five per cent) of the 

Explanation on the (i) company’s rules on appointment or 

members, of which eight members represent the interests of 

votes cast by shareholders at the general meeting of the Bank’s 

replacement of members of the management or supervisory 

shareholders and four members represent the interests of 

shareholders is required for the adoption of any amendments 

bodies, and (ii) changes to company’s Articles of Association 

employees. Members representing the interests of shareholders 

of the Articles of Association.

(Point 8 of the sixth paragraph of Article 70 of the ZGD-1)

shall be elected and recalled by the Bank’s General Meeting 

The appointment or replacement of members of the 

Board of the Bank and members representing the interests 

of the management, particularly authorisations to issue or 

management or supervisory bodies 

of employees shall be elected and recalled by the Workers’ 

purchase own shares 

The Management Board
Articles of Association define that the Management Board of 

the Bank is comprised of three to seven members, one of whom 

Council of the Bank. Members of the Supervisory Board 

(Point 9 of the sixth paragraph of Article 70 of the ZGD-1)

representing the interests of shareholders are elected by an 

ordinary majority of votes cast by shareholders. 

No authorisation exists which would authorise the members of 

the management to issue or purchase own shares of the Bank.

from persons proposed by shareholders or the Supervisory 

Explanation regarding the authorisation of the members 

is appointed President of the Management Board of the Bank. 

The term of office of the Supervisory Board members 

The number of Management Board members is determined by 

commences on the day their appointment enters into force 

a resolution of the Bank’s Supervisory Board. The President and 

(start of term of office) and lasts up until the end of the Bank's 

other members of the Management Board are appointed and 

Annual General Meeting of shareholders which decides on the 

recalled by the Supervisory Board of the Bank; the President 

use of accumulated profit for the fourth business year since the 

of the Management Board may propose to the Chair of the 

start of their term of office, unless otherwise stipulated at the 

Supervisory Board of the Bank to appoint or recall an individual 

time of appointment of individual members. In this context, the 

member or the remaining members of the Management Board 

first year is deemed the business year in which the members of 

of the Bank. 

the Supervisory Board of the Bank started their term of office.

The President and members of the Management Board shall be 

The General Meeting of the Bank may dismiss an individual 

appointed for a period of five years and may be re-appointed 

or all members of the Supervisory Board (representatives of 

for another term of office. The President and members of the 

shareholders) even before the expiration of their term of office. 

Management Board may be recalled prior to the expiry of their 

A resolution on a dismissal shall be valid if adopted with at least 

term of office in accordance with applicable laws and Articles 

a three-quarter majority of all votes cast. 

of Association. Each member of the Management Board of 

the Bank may prematurely resign her/his term of office with 

The Supervisory Board of the Bank shall at its first meeting after 

a period of notice of three months. A written notice shall be 

an appointment elect from among its members a Chair and at 

delivered to the Chair of the Supervisory Board of the Bank. The 

least one Deputy Chair of the Supervisory Board of the Bank. 

notice term may be shorter than three months if requested by 

A member representing the interests of employees cannot be 

the resigning member of the Management Board of the Bank in 

elected Chair or Deputy Chair of the Supervisory Board of the 

his/her notice and is subject to the approval of the Supervisory 

Bank. All the supervisory board members shall be independent 

Board of the Bank.

professionals as defined by the Articles of Association.

A member of the Bank’s Management Board may only be 

A member of the Bank’s Supervisory Board may only be a 

a person who fulfils the legally prescribed conditions for a 

person who fulfils the legally prescribed conditions for a 

management board member under the law on banking and 

supervisory board member under the law on banking and who 

who obtained a licence from the BoS or the ECB, if executing the 

obtained a licence from the BoS or the ECB, if executing the 

competences and tasks from Item (e) of paragraph 1 of Article 

competences and tasks from Item (e) of paragraph 1 of Article 

4 of Regulation (EU) no. 1024/2013 for the performance of the 

4 of Regulation (EU) no. 1024/2013 for the performance of the 

function of a bank’s management board member under the 

function of a bank’s supervisory board member under the 

5. INFORMATION ON THE 

WORK AND KEY POWERS 
OF THE SHAREHOLDERS’ 
MEETING AND OF ITS 
KEY POWERS, AND 
A DESCRIPTION OF 
SHAREHOLDERS’ RIGHTS, 
AND THE METHOD OF 
THEIR EXERCISING

The General Meeting is a body of the Bank through which 

shareholders exercise their rights, which include among others: 

decisions on corporate changes (amendments of the Articles 

of Association, increase or decrease of share capital) and legal 

restructuring (mergers, acquisitions), adopting decisions on all 

statutory issues in respect of appointing and discharging members 

of the Supervisory Board (representatives of shareholders), and 

appointment of an auditor, distribution decisions (appropriation of 

distributable profit), and the granting of discharge from liability to 

the Management and Supervisory Board. 

The General Meeting is convened by the Management Board. 

The General Meeting may be convened by the Supervisory 

Board in cases where the Management Board fails to convene 

the General Meeting or where a convocation is necessary to 

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

129

 ensure unhindered operations of the Bank. The Supervisory 

The shareholders decided on the allocation of distributable 

Board may amend the agenda of the General Meeting 

profit for 2021. The distributable profit of the Bank as at 31 

convened in line with the bylaws.

December 2021 was EUR 458,266,602.05. Shareholders decided 

that the part of the distributable profit in total amount of EUR 

As a rule, the General Meeting of the Bank shall be convened 

50 million shall be paid out to the shareholders as a dividend, 

at the registered office of the Bank, yet it may also be convened 

which amounts to EUR 2.50 gross per share (the first tranche).

at another venue specified by the convenor. The Management 

Board may stipulate that shareholders may attend or vote 

The General Meeting of NLB also took note on various reports 

before or at the General Meeting by electronic means without 

and voted on the proposal regarding the amendments and 

6. INFORMATION ABOUT THE 
COMPOSITION AND WORK 
OF THE MANAGEMENT 
AND SUPERVISORY BODY 
AND ITS COMMITTEES

physical presence. The General Meeting of shareholders shall 

supplements to the Articles of Association of NLB, appointed the 

adopt resolutions by simple majority of the votes cast, unless 

auditing company KPMG Slovenija, d.o.o. as the auditor of NLB 

6.1. The Management Board

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

the applicable laws or the Bank’s Articles of Association 

for the financial years 2023-2026, and adopted the Policy on 

stipulate a larger majority or other conditions (adoption and 

the provision of diversity of the management body and senior 

amendments of the Articles of Association, issue of convertible 

management.

bonds or other equity securities, exclusion of pre-emptive 

right of existing shareholders, decrease in share capital, the 

The 39th General Meeting of NLB Shareholders held on 

status restructuring of the Bank, or liquidation of the Bank and 

12 December 2022 confirmed on additional allocation of 

discharge of Supervisory Board members).

distributable profit for 2021, more precisely on the second 

tranche of dividend payments, the payment of additional 

The shareholders have the right to participate at the general 

dividends at EUR 2.50 per share, making a total dividend pay-

meeting of the Bank, the voting right, the pre-emptive right to 

out in 2022 EUR 100 million; The remaining part of the NLB’s 

subscribe for new shares in the case of a share capital increase, 

distributable profit will remain undistributed and represents 

the right to profit participation (dividends), the right to a share 

retained earnings.

in the surplus in the event of liquidation or bankruptcy of the 

Bank, and the right to be informed.

At the General Meeting, the NLB Shareholders also voted on 

the Remuneration Policy for the Members of the Supervisory 

According to Article 296 of the Companies Act, NLB informs 

Board of NLB and the Members of the Management Board of 

shareholders of their rights as shareholders in an Information 

NLB and took note of the termination of the term of office of two 

on the Rights of Shareholders that is published among the 

NLB Supervisory Board members - workers’ representatives, 

documents for convocation of each General Meeting (i.e., on 

namely: 

expansion of the agenda, proposals by shareholders, voting 

•  due to the statement of Janja Žabjek Dolinšek made on 

proposals by shareholders, and the shareholders’ right to be 

26 May 2022 regarding her termination of the function 

informed).

of a member of the Supervisory Board of NLB, workers’ 

representative, her term of office was terminated on 8 July 

There were two General Meetings of shareholders in 2022. 

2022; 

Shareholders of NLB gathered at the 38th General Meeting 

•  that NLB Works Council on 12 September 2022 passed 

on 20 June 2022. At the General Meeting, shareholders 

a decision on the recall of Bojana Šteblaj from the function 

acknowledged the adopted NLB Group 2021 Annual Report, 

of a member of the Supervisory Board of NLB, workers’ 

the Report of the Supervisory Board of NLB on the results of the 

representative, based on which her term of office in the 

examination of the NLB Group Annual Report 2021, the Report 

Supervisory Board of NLB terminated on 12 September 2022.

on renumerations for the business year 2021, and the Additional 

information to the Report on remuneration for the business year 

2021 based on SSH's Baselines. The shareholders also decided 

on the allocation of distributable profit for 2021 and granted 

a discharge from liability to the Management Board and 

Supervisory Board of NLB for the previous year.

At the beginning of 2022, the Management Board of the Bank 

consisted of Blaž Brodnjak, CEO, Archibald Kremser, CFO, 

Andreas Burkhardt, CRO. Due to new challenges brought by 

the Group expansion (the acquisition of Komercijalna Banka, 

intensive digitalisation, and the emphasis on top quality user 

experience, as well as a commitment to sustainable operations 

and development) the Supervisory Board on 20 January 2022 
appointed Hedvika Usenik, Antonio Argir, and Andrej Lasič as 

three new members of the Management Board. They assumed 

their functions on 28 April 2022, upon receiving approval from 

the regulator. They all come from NLB or the Group, and have 

extensive experience and a proven value-creating track record. 

With the mentioned extension, the Management Board of 

the Bank consists of six members, namely: Blaž Brodnjak as 

President & CEO, Archibald Kremser as Chief Financial Officer 

(CFO), Andreas Burkhardt as Chief Risk Officer (CRO), as well as 

Hedvika Usenik as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) - responsible 

for Retail Banking and Private Banking, Antonio Argir who is 

responsible for Group governance, payments, and innovations, 

and Andrej Lasič as CMO -responsible for Corporate and 

Investment Banking.

Work of the Management Board
In 2022, the Management Board continued to work on the 

implementation of the NLB Group Strategy and the ESG factors’ 

inclusion in the NLB Group business model. Even though 

the tragic war in Ukraine had significant influence on prices, 

consumer behaviour, and consequentially volatile capital 

markets, in 2022 the Group delivered remarkable business 

results. They enabled the Bank to pay out a distributable profit 

for 2021 in the form of dividends in the total amount of EUR 100 

million, thereby reaffirming NLB Group's stable and successful 

business operations and strong capital position. The dividends 

were paid in two instalments, more specifically in the amount 

of EUR 50 million in June 2022 and in the amount of EUR 50 

million in December 2022. 

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130

 The Bank reached important business milestones – such as the 

David Eric Simon, Gregor Rok Kastelic, and Verica Trstenjak), 

•  Proposals to convene the General Meeting of shareholders 

acquisition of Sberbank banka, Ljubljana in March 2022 (later 

and four were representatives of employees (Sergeja Kočar, 

for 20 June 2022 and 12 December 2022;

renamed to N Banka) and the merger of two Serbian banking 

Bojana Šteblaj, Janja Žabjek Dolinšek, and Tadeja Žbontar 

•  Proposed appointment of three new members of the 

subsidiaries (NLB Banka, Beograd and Komercijalna Banka, 

Rems as a member of the Supervisory Board of the NLB – the 

Management Board of the NLB; Nomination of candidates for 

Beograd, completed by the end of April 2022). After launching 

representative of the workers). 

members of the Supervisory Board;

the Lease&Go company in Ljubljana in 2020, strategic activities 

•  Collective F&P assessment suitability of the members of the 

of the Group were further enhanced by establishing leasing 

Due to the statement of Janja Žabjek Dolinšek made on 26 May 

Management Board and the Supervisory Board; Supervisory 

companies in North Macedonia and in Serbia. The Group will 

2022 regarding her termination of the function, because she 

Board self-assessment; Audit Committee Self-assessment 

continue growing prudently and increasing its market shares, 

was leaving NLB, her term of office was terminated on 8 July 

2021; Achievements of the goals of the Management Board in 

above all, however, we will focus on providing our clients with 

2022- as the NLB Works Council recalled her. The Works Council 

2021 and proposed goals for 2023; 

innovative solutions and an ever-improving user experience, 

passed a decision on 12 September 2022 on the recall of Bojana 

•  Proposed goals of the NLB Group; Annual assessment of the 

24/7/365. The work of the Management Board was not merely 

Šteblaj from the function, based on which her term of office as 

identified staff; Awarding of variable pay to the Management 

on the business performance, but also with its’ ability to 

a member of the Supervisory Board – Workers' Representative 

Board members and heads of control functions; Development 

quickly adapt to ever more complex business challenges and 

was terminated on 12 September 2022. The General Meeting 

plan for three new members of the Management Board; 

opportunities within the financial industry. In this sense, another 

of shareholders took note of the resignations of members of 

Training for the members of the Supervisory Board in 2022; 

important milestone the Group achieved, was founding the 

the Supervisory Board – Workers’ Representative in its session 

Reappointment of the Internal Audit Director;

NLB DigIT company in Belgrade. The company is dedicated 

dated 12 December 2022.

•  Selection of statutory auditor for financial years from 2023 

to finding and designing IT solutions for the entire Group, 

onwards;

to leverage the accumulated know-how and deploy the 

Statement of Independence of the Members of the 

•  Periodic reports on the status of information security in NLB 

underlying common tech solutions across the Group’s markets. 

Supervisory Board
In accordance with Article 16 of the Articles of Association of 

and the NLB Group; Annual Report for the 2021 ECRA – 

general risk assessment regarding integrity, and compliance 

In June 2022, NLB officially joined the Net-Zero Banking 

NLB, all Supervisory Board members must be independent 

operations at NLB and the Group level;

Alliance (NZBA), the UN-convened alliance of banks worldwide, 

experts. Persons representing the interests of employees in the 

•  NLB Group Financial Plan 2023 and financial projections 

committed to aligning their lending and investment portfolios 

Supervisory Board of the Bank are considered independent 

2024–2026; Interim Reports on the NLB Group Operations; 

with net-zero emissions by 2050 or sooner, as set by the 

despite the existence of an employment relationship with the 

Financial Calendar 2024;

most ambitious targets of the Paris Climate Agreement.  The 

Bank upon fulfilling certain terms and conditions. 

•  Regular risk reports for NLB and NLB Group; Information 

Management Board is deeply aware of the banks’ vital role in 

on Pillar III Disclosures for 2021; NLB Group Recovery Plan 

fighting climate change by supporting the global transition of 

A statement of independence, in which they declare themselves 

for 2022; Report on the Top 50 groups of clients by exposure 

the real economy towards net-zero, which is why we not only 

on their meeting of the criteria of conflict of interest, is provided 

in the NLB Group, Top 20 restructurings; Reputation Risk 

strive to reinforce, accelerate, and support the implementation 

by a candidate for a function as a member of the Supervisory 

Management; 

of decarbonisation, but also want to lead by example. Besides 

Board, upon each change that would mean change of his/her 

•  Internal Audit’s Annual Report for 2021; Internal Audit Plan 

environmental issues, the Management Board is equally active 

independence status once yearly. It is published on the Bank’s 

(2023 & long-term plan), Action Plan for Compliance & 

about addressing social and governance topics, we advocate 

webpage.

equal opportunities, as well as independent and professional 

corporate governance. To that extent, the Management Board 

was extremely proud of receiving very good first ESG rating in 

Work of the Supervisory Board 
In 2022, the Supervisory Board met at eight regular and 12 

•  Report of the progress and implementation of the 

sustainability factors in the NLB Group; Report on the 

Integrity for 2023; Regular periodic reports on Internal Audit; 

Compliance and Security, and on Information Security in NLB; 

December 2022 assessed by Sustainalytics. 

correspondence sessions. Upon receiving reports from its 

progress in the implementation of sustainability factors in the 

Detailed information on the composition of the Management 

the following most important decisions:

•  Reports on the documents received from the BoS and the 

Board can be found in Appendix C.1 of this statement.

•  NLB Group Strategy Progress Update; NLB Payments Strategy 

ECB and reports on implementation of deficiencies; ECB and 

committees, the Supervisory Board acquainted itself or adopted 

NLB Group; 

6.2. The Supervisory Board

At the beginning of 2022, the Supervisory Board of NLB 

consisted of 12 members, of which eight were representatives 

of shareholders (in addition to Primož Karpe, President and 

Andreas Klingen, Deputy members were also Mark William 

Lane Richards, Shrenik Dhirajlal Davda, Islam Osama Zekry, 

update; 

on the implementation of the requirements; ECB review and 

•  Annual NLB Group Report for 2021; E&Y report after the final 

evaluation process (SREP); 

audit of 2021 financial statements; Report of the Supervisory 

•  Review of the Diversity Policy; Changes to the Remuneration 

Board of NLB on the Results of Examining the Annual NLB 

Policy of the Members of Supervisory Board of NLB and 

Group Report for 2021; Corporate Governance Statement 

the Management Board of NLB; Remuneration Policy for 

of NLB; Risk Management Statement; Annual Report of 

Employees of NLB and NLB Group – annual review; Annual 

Internal Audit for 2021; Comprehensive Opinion of the Internal 

Review of the Diversity Policy; Amendment of the Policy to 

Audit for 2021; and Review of the remuneration report by an 

assess the suitability of the Management and Supervisory 

external auditor;

Board members; 

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Risk Factors & Outlook

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 •  IT integration plan for N Banka; Implementation of IT 

6.3.1.  The Audit Committee of the Supervisory 

Sustainable Committee; Report on the court proceedings 

Strategy; Status of IT – periodic Reports; Information on the 

Board of NLB

exceeding EUR 0.5 million;

achievement of goals for 2022 in the area of Information 

The Audit Committee monitors and prepares draft resolutions 

• 

Self-assessment of the Audit Committee for 2021.

Technology in the Group;

for the Supervisory Board on accounting reporting, internal 

•  Acquisition of the Sberbank banka; Merger of N Banka 

control and risk management, internal audit, compliance 

(former Sberbank banka) to NLB; merger of Serbian banks; 

of operations, and external audit, and as well monitors the 

Information on Project Afina; Foundation of a new IT 

implementation of regulatory measures. 

company in Serbia; Management of the largest exposures 

to clients in restructuring procedures; write-offs of claims, 

At the end of 2022, the composition of the committee was 

approvals of transactions with persons in special relations 

as follows: David Eric Simon (Chairman), Shrenik Dhirajlal 

with the Bank; Prior consent to legal transaction with MIGA, 

Davda (Deputy Chairman), Primož Karpe, Gregor Rok Kastelic 

Prior consent for borrowing of NLB in the form of Senior 

(members). Changes in membership of the committee 

Preferred notes; Large exposures, Approvals of transaction 

that occurred during the year are reflected in the chart on 

with persons in special relation with the bank; Sale of 

Supervisory Board Committees (C2 below).

receivables, Merger of companies in Serbia, Information on 

loan agreements in Swiss Francs, etc.

There were six regular, one extraordinary, and three 

Composition of the Supervisory Board members is described in 

following is a summary of key topics considered by the Audit 

correspondence sessions of the Audit Committee in 2022. The 

the Appendix C.2 of this statement.

6.3. The Supervisory Board 

Committees

All five Committees of the Supervisory Board function as 

consulting bodies of the Supervisory Board of NLB and discuss 

the material and proposals of Management Board of NLB for 

the Supervisory Board meetings related to a particular area. 

The Supervisory Board has the following committees:

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

The Audit Committee

The Risk Committee

The Nomination Committee

The Remuneration Committee

The Operations and IT Committee.

Committees are composed of at least three members of the 

Supervisory Board. The Worker’s Council can nominate one 

Supervisory Board member – a representative of the workers 

into each committee. The member of the Committee may only 

be appointed from among the members of the Supervisory 

Board. The term of office of Chair, the Deputy Chair, and 

members of the Committee should not exceed their term of 

office as Supervisory Board members. The responsibilities of 

committees are defined in Rules of Procedure of the Committees 

of the Supervisory Board of NLB.

Committee:
• 

NLB Group 2021 Annual Report, Key Performance 

Indicators; Comprehensive Opinion of Internal Audit for 

2021; Internal Audit Annual Report for 2021;Corporate 

Governance Statement of NLB; Statement on Management 

of Risk of the NLB, The NLB Group Sustainability Report 

for 2021; Annual Report for the 2021 ECRA – general risk 

assessment regarding integrity and compliance operations 

at NLB and NLB Group; Audit planning for 2022 financial 

statements; Confirmation of the services of the auditor to 

perform services to review the report on remuneration;

• 

Regular interim reports on the operations of the NLB 

Group, Business Performance Indicatory for NLB and 

NLB Group, Quarterly Internal Audit Reports, Compliance 

and Integrity Reports, Reports on Information security 

assurance in NLB; Assessment of the NLB Group identified 

employees in control functions for 2021; Approval of the 

payment of deferred variable part for Directors in control 

functions;

• 

Audit Plan 2022, Internal Audit Plan (2023 & long-term), 

Action Plan for Compliance and Integrity for 2023; 

Initiation of procurement process for selection of statutory 

auditor; Selection of statutory auditor for 2023 onwards; 

Reappointment of the Internal Audit Director;

• 

Regular reports on overdue material recommendations 

of the Internal Audit; Reports on the documents received 

from the BoS and ECB and on the implementation of the 

requirements of the BoS and ECB; Policy of the Internal 

Controls System; Rules of Procedure of the NLB Group 

6.3.2.  The Risk Committee of the Supervisory 

Board of NLB

The Risk Committee monitors and drafts resolutions for the 

Supervisory Board in all risk areas relevant to the Bank’s 

operations. It is consulted on the Group’s current and future risk 

appetite, the corresponding risk profile and risk management 

strategy, and helps carry out control over senior management 

concerning implementation of the risk management strategy.

At the end of 2022, the composition of the committee was 

as follows: Andreas Klingen (Chairman), Shrenik Dhirajlal 

Davda (Deputy Chairman), Islam Osama Zekry, Mark 

William Lane Richards, Gregor Rok Kastelic, and David Eric 

Simon (members). Changes in membership of the committee 

that occurred during the year are reflected in the chart on 

Supervisory Board Committees (C2 below).

There were five regular and one extraordinary sessions of the 

Risk Committee in 2022. Following is a summary of key topics 

considered by the Risk Committee:

•  Statement of Management of Risk of the NLB;

•  Regular quarterly risk reports of NLB and the NLB 

Group; Pillar III Disclosures of the NLB Group for 2021 and 

Acknowledgement of quarterly Pillar III Disclosures;

•  Risk Management Strategy of the NLB Group; Risk Appetite of 

the NLB Group; 

•  Internal liquidity adequacy process (ILAAP), The Internal 

Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP) in NLB Group;

•  NLB Group Recovery plan for 2022;

•  Top exposure to corporate client in NLB and NLB Group; 

NLB Group Non-Performing Exposure and Foreclosed Assets 

Strategy for the period 2022-2024; 

•  Quarterly Information on status of information security in NLB 

and NLB Group;

•  Report on Top 50 groups of clients by exposure in the NLB 

Group; Report on Top 20 largest restructuring cases 

•  Information of the assessment of the NLB Group and NLB 

results and identified employees in control function for the 

year 2021; Approval of the payment of the deferred variable 

part of the salary for the Director of the Global Risk;

•  Acquisition of Sberbank banka, Ljubljana; Proposals for the 

issuance of prior consent of the Supervisory Board of NLB 

for a legal transaction based on Banking Act (ZBan-3); prior 

consent to conclude legal deal with MIGA, consents to early 

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Risk Factors & Outlook

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 repayments; approval of overdraft on business account of a 

client and final write-offs of receivables over 1 million EUR; 

6.3.4  The Remuneration Committee of the 

6.3.5. The Operations and IT Committee of the 

Supervisory Board of NLB

Supervisory Board of NLB

•  Legal framework of sanctions; War between Russia and 

The Remuneration Committee carries out expert and 

The Committee monitors and prepares draft resolutions 

Ukraine – credit risk assessment; Analysis of scenarios in 

independent assessments of the remuneration policies and 

for the Supervisory Board, whereby the main tasks that it 

Serbia; 

practices and formulates initiatives for measures related to 

performs are the following: monitors the implementation of 

•  Report on the material court proceedings for NLB and the 

improving the management of the Bank’s risks, capital, and 

the IT Strategy, Information Security Strategy, and Operations 

Group members.

liquidity; prepares proposals for remuneration-related decisions 

Strategy; monitors key operations and IT KPIs and service 

6.3.3.  The Nomination Committee of the 
Supervisory Board of NLB 

The Nomination Committee drafts proposed resolutions for 

the Supervisory Board concerning the appointment and 

dismissal of the Management Board members; recommends 

candidates for Supervisory Board members; recommends 

to the Supervisory Board the dismissal of members of 

the Management Board and the Supervisory Board 

(representatives of capital); prepares the content of executive 

employment contracts for the President and members of 

the Management Board; evaluates the performance of the 

Management Board and the Supervisory Board; and assesses 

the knowledge, skills, and experience of individual members of 
the Management Board and Supervisory Board and the bodies 

as a whole. 

At the end of 2022, the composition of the committee was as 

follows: Primož Karpe (Chairman), Andreas Klingen (Deputy 

Chairman), Verica Trstenjak, Sergeja Kočar (members). 

Membership of Bojana Šteblaj was terminated on 12 September 

2022. Changes in membership of the committee that occurred 

during the year are reflected in the chart on Supervisory Board 

Committees (C2 below).

There were six regular sessions of the Nomination Committee 

in 2022. The following is a summary of key topics considered by 

the Nomination Committee:

•  Annual review of attendance of educational events and 

knowledge obtained by in individual Supervisory Board 

member;

•  Development Plan for Three New Members of the 

Management Board;

•  Amendment of the Policy on the provision of diversity of the 

management body and senior management; Amendment 

of the Policy to assess the suitability of the Management and 

Supervisory Board members; Annual Review of the Diversity 

Policy; 

of the Supervisory Board; and supervises the remuneration 

quality indicators; monitors key operations and IT projects and 

of senior management performing the risk management and 

initiatives; monitors operating risks in the area of Operations, 

compliance functions. 

IT and Security; monitors the recommendations for ensuring 

and increasing the level of information/cyber security issued 

At the end of 2022, the composition of the committee was as 

by CISO, addresses the report on potential violations, events, 

follows: Gregor Rok Kastelic (Chairman), Mark William Lane 

and incidents in the area of IT security; and monitors the Target 

Richards (Deputy Chairman), Shrenik Dhirajlal Davda and 

Operating Model implementation in the areas of IT, the Security 

Sergeja Kočar (members). Membership of Bojana Šteblaj was 

Operating System, Competence Centre, and Operations.

terminated on 12 September 2022. Changes in membership of 

the committee that occurred during the year are reflected in the 

At the end of 2022, the composition of the committee was as 

chart on Supervisory Board Committees (C2 below).

follows: Mark William Lane Richards (Chairman), Islam Osama 

There were six regular and three correspondence sessions 

Zekry (Deputy Chairman), Andreas Klingen, Primož Karpe, and 
Tadeja Žbontar Rems (members). The membership of Janja 

of the Remuneration Committee in 2022. The following is 

Žabjek Dolinšek was terminated on 8 July 2022. Changes in 

a summary of key topics considered by the Remuneration 

membership of the committee that occurred during the year 

Committee:

are reflected in the chart on Supervisory Board Committees (C2 

•  Proposed goals of the Group for 2022 for the members of the 

below).

Management Board of the NLB;

•  Confirmation of financial goals of the NLB Group, financial 

There were five sessions of the Operations and IT Committee 

goals of NLB and goals for each member of the Management 
Board of NLB for 2022; Confirmation of the assessment 
of the Group and NLB results and identified employees in 

2022. The Operations and IT Committee acknowledged itself 

with:

•  IT Strategy - progress report on strategic initiatives other than 

control function for the year 2021; Annual self-assessment of 

BIT and OMNI;

identified staff in accordance with the Remuneration Policy;

•  Key performance indicators in IT; Review of IT KPIs and 

•  Awarding of variable pay to the Management Board 

interim Goals & Objectives; Report on process metrics;

members for financial years 2019 and 2020 in instruments; 

•  Information on the achievement of goals for 2022 in the area 

•  Proposal for the introduction of an instrument for the 

of Information Technology in the Group;

allocation of part of variable remuneration to employees 

•  New NLB Group target IT operating model;

performing special work; Awarding and payment of the 

•  Payment IT strategy update; Payment transactions – analysis 

variable pay for 2021 for members of the Management Board 

of process of optimisation;

and payment of the deferred part of the variable pay for 

•  BIT project rollout; OMNI project; Web project readiness 

2018 for members of the Management Board and employees 

assessment;

performing special work in the control function;

•  Procurement in 2021 and future plans;

•  Proposal for aligning and proposal for signing employment 

•  Software-defined mainframe;

contracts with the members of the Management Board of 

•  IT integration plan of N Bank.

NLB;

•  Report on the implementation of the NLB remuneration policy 

to the Group members;

•  Report on remunerations – audit report;

•  Amendment of the contract of members of the Management 

Board;

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 7. DESCRIPTION POLICY 
ON THE PROVISION 
OF DIVERSITY OF THE 
MANAGEMENT BODY AND 
SENIOR MANAGEMENT

The Policy on the Provision of Diversity of the Management 

Body and Senior Management was adopted by the General 

Meeting of shareholders on 10 June 2019, and was amended 

in June 2022 according to EBA Guidelines on assessing the 

Board, and the Policy on the selection of suitable candidates for 

Regarding the age structure of the Supervisory Board, it is also 

members of the Management Board, as well as the procedures 

considered appropriate, according to the plan set up for 2022, 

of the Nomination Committee of the Supervisory Board. 

as members of the Supervisory Board are represented in the 

age groups from 40 to 60+. 

In order to achieve the objectives of this diversity policy, one of 

the measures that influences the selection process is also: if two 

candidates for the position of a member of the Management 

b) The Management Board
We estimate that the goals for 2022 have been achieved, as 

Board or a member of the Supervisory Board meet all the 

members of the Management Board as a whole meet the 

required tender criteria and at the same time the target gender 

high level of requirements related to the set goals, namely 

representation is not achieved in a certain body, the candidate 

age structure, gender structure, professional competencies, 

of the underrepresented sex shall be selected.

skills and experience, and requirements related to relevant 

international experience in various fields, personal integrity, 

Implementation and the results achieved by the diversity 

and geographical provenance.

suitability of members of the management body and holders 

policy during the reporting period:

of key functions, amendments to the Slovenian Corporate 

Governance Code, and EBA Guidelines on Internal Governance. 

a) The Supervisory Board
It is estimated that the goals for 2022 were achieved, as the 

With the extension of the members of the Management Board 

in 2022, also the gender structure meets the expectations due to 

the share of women increasing to 16.7%, or one woman. 

The Diversity policy was amended in a way that in addition 

members of the Supervisory Board as a whole covers an 

to already existing goals (gender structure, age structure, 
professional competences skills and experience, international 

experience) new goals have been added (continuity in the 

composition of the body, personal integrity, and geographical 

adequately wide range of knowledge, skills, and professional 

In 2022, regarding the age structure, with additional members 

experience of its members, and is composed with regard to 

being elected to the Management Board, the representation in 

the following criteria: experience, reputation, management of 

the age group of 51 to 60 increased (from 0 to 3) and stayed at 

potential conflicts of interest, independence, available time, and 

the same level of 3 members in the age group for 41 – 50. 

provenance). Regarding gender, the Bank has set a quantitative 

collective suitability. 

goal by defining a period for achieving this goal. NLB respects 

and follows the initiative 40/33/2026 of the Slovenian Directors’ 

Also, the Supervisory Board has a suitable ratio between the 

c) Senior Management
For 2022, we estimate that the goals were achieved, as senior 

Association for voluntary achievement of the goal of sexual 

diversity by the end of 2026: 40% for members of supervisory 

boards and a total of 33% for members of supervisory boards 

and management boards of the underrepresented sex in listed 

companies and state-owned companies.

existing and the new members, considering when appointing 

management at a high level met the requirements relating to 

new members to the Supervisory Board the ratio between 

the range of knowledge, skills, and professional experience. 

existing and new members is not below 70%. The members of 

Regarding the requirements related to international experience 

the Supervisory Board have a high level of personal integrity, 

in various fields, it is estimated that senior management has 

a suitable share of members of the Supervisory Board have 

largely relevant international experience. It is also estimated 

international experience, and have suitable geographical 

that the share of 41% of women in senior management is 

The Diversity policy sets out the targets to be pursued in terms 

experience as set in the plan for the year 2022.

appropriate. 

of representation on the supervisory board, management 

board, and senior management according to different diversity 

goals in order the management body is composed in such a 

way that, as a whole has the knowledge, skills, and experience 

Regarding the gender structure, the goal for the members of 

Regarding the age structure, it is also considered appropriate, 

the Supervisory Board has not been achieved since the plan 

as senior management in the age structure is very dispersed 

set up for the year 2022 assumed a 42% share of women on the 

and is thus represented in all age groups from 20 to 60 years.

necessary for an in-depth understanding of the Bank's strategy 

Supervisory Board, but taking into account two resignations 

and challenges and the risks to which it is exposed. The policy 

is annually reviewed by the Nomination Committee of the 

by Supervisory Board members (employee representatives), 

Additional information on the framework, objectives, and 

the proportion of women dropped down to 30%. In order to 

chart with set goals of the Diversity Policy can be found in the 

Supervisory Board. 

increase the proportion of women on the Supervisory Board, 

chapter, Human Resources of this annual report.

The Bank implements the principles of the Diversity policy 

it is suggested that all stakeholders endeavour to form an 

appropriate group of candidates in the recruitment process, 

through other policies and procedures, namely the Policy on the 

taking into account appropriate representation of the less 

selection of suitable candidates for members of the Supervisory 

represented gender. 

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 Statement on changes that occurred between the end of 

accounting period up to the publication of this statement
In accordance with Guidelines on Disclosure for Listed 

Companies, point 6.3.2 (Ljubljana Stock Exchange, 18 December 

2020) NLB hereby states that no changes occurred between the 

end of accounting period up to the publication of this statement.

Ljubljana, 12 April 2023

Supervisory Board of NLB

Primož Karpe
Chairman

Management Board of NLB

Hedvika Usenik
Member

Andrej Lasič
Member

Archibald Kremser
Member

Andreas Burkhardt
Member

Antonio Argir
Member

Blaž Brodnjak
Chief executive officer

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 Table 37: Composition of Management in financial year 2022 (C.1)

Name and 
Surname

Position held 
(President, 
Member)

Area of work 
covered within the 
Management Board

First appointment 
to the position

Conclusion of the 
position/
term of office

Citizenship

Year of birth

Qualification

Professional  
profile

Blaž Brodnjak

President

CEO

6 July 2016(i)

6 July 2026

Slovene

1974

MBA

Banking/Finance

Membership in 
supervisory bodies in 
companies not 
related to the 
company

Banks' Association 
of Slovenia,
AmCham Slovenia,
Handball Federation 
of Slovenia,
Cedevita Olimpija

Antonio Argir

Member

Responsible for  
Group governance, 
payments and 
innovations

28 April 2022

28 April 2027

Macedonian

1975

Andreas Burkhardt

Member

Archibald Kremser

Member

CRO

CFO

18 September 2013

6 July 2026

31 July 2013

6 July 2026

German

Austrian

Andrej Lasič

Member

Hedvika Usenik

Member

(i) Member of the Management Board since 2012.

CMO (responsible 
for Corporate and 
Investment Banking)

CMO (responsible for 
Retail Banking and 
Private Banking)

28 April 2022

28 April 2027

Slovene

28 April 2022

28 April 2027

Slovene

1971

1971

1970

1972

MBA

MBA

MBA

Banking/Finance

Economic Chamber 
of North Macedonia

Banking/Finance

Banking/Finance

Bachelor’s degree

Banking/Finance

MBA

Banking/Finance

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Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

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MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Table 38: Composition of Supervisory Board and Committees in financial year 2022 (C.2)

Name and 
Surname

Position held 
(Chairman, 
Deputy 
Chairman, 
Member)

First 
appointment to 
the position

Conclusion of 
the position / 
term of office

Representative 
of the 
company's 
capital 
structure /
employees

Attendance at 
SB session in 
regard to the 
total number 
of SB session 
(for example 
5/7) applicable 
on his/her 
mandate

Gender

Citizenship

Year of birth

Qualification

Professional 
profile

Independence 
under Article 
23 of the Code 
(YES/NO)

Existence of 
conflict of 
interest, in the 
business year 
(YES/NO)

Membership 
in supervisory 
bodies in other 
companies or 
institutions

Primož Karpe Chairman

10 February 
2016 

2024

Andreas 
Klingen

Deputy 
Chairman 

22 June 2015 

2023

David Eric 
Simon

Member

 4 August 2016  2024

Mark William 
Lane Richards

Member

10 June 2019

2023

Shrenik 
Dhirajlal Davda

Member

10 June 2019

2023

Gregor Rok 
Kastelic

Verica 
Trstenjak

Member

10 June 2019

2023

Member

15 June 2020

2024

Sergeja Kočar Member

17 June 2020

2024

Bojana Šteblaj Member

17 June 2020

12 September 
2022

Janja Žabjek 
Dolinšek

Member

20 November 
2020

8 July 2022

Tadeja Žbontar 
Rems

Member

22 January 2021 2025

Representative 
of the 
company's 
capital structure 

8/8

Representative 
of the 
company's 
capital structure 

8/8

Representative 
of the 
company's 
capital structure 

8/8

Representative 
of the 
company's 
capital structure 

8/8

male

Slovenian

1970

MSc

Banking/
Finance

YES

YES

male

German

1964

University 
Degree

Banking/
Finance

YES

NO

male

British

1948

Higher 
National 
Diploma in 
Business 
Studies

Banking/
Finance

YES

NO

male

British

1966

MSc

Banking/
Finance

YES

NO

Representative 
of the 
company's 
capital structure 
Representative 
of the 
company's 
capital structure 
Representative 
of the 
company's 
capital structure 
Representative 
of the 
company’s 
employees
Representative 
of the 
company’s 
employees
Representative 
of the 
company’s 
employees
Representative 
of the 
company’s 
employees

8/8

8/8

8/8

8/8

4/6

5/5

5/5

male

British

1960

MBA, LLB

Finance

YES

male

Slovenian

1968

MSc

Banking/
Finance

YES

female

Slovenian

1962

PhD

Law

YES

female

Slovenian

1968

MSc

Management

YES

female

Slovenian

1962

MSc

Management

YES

female

Slovenian

1957

MSc

female

Slovenian

1968

MSc

YES

YES

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO

NO

IT

IT

IT

Islam Osama 
Zekry

Member

14 June 2021

2025

Representative 
of the 
company's 
capital structure 

7/8

male

Egyptian

1977

PhD

(i) Until 14 March 2022.
(ii) Since 8 March 2022.
(iii) Until June 2022.

Angler d.o.o, 
Aroma Global 
3 Ltd.

Kyrgyz 
Investment, 
Credit Bank 
CISC, Credit 
Bank of 
Moscow(i), Nepi 
Rockcastle N.V.
Jihlavan 
a.s., Czech 
Aerospace 
industries 
sro, Central 
Europe Industry 
Partners a.s.
BPL Global 
(Lloyds of 
London 
insurance 
Broker), 
Sheffield 
Haworth 
Ltd, Vencap 
International pic 
Ukraine (UK)

PJSC 
Ukrgasbank, 
IPSO, UK(ii)

EU Agency for 
Fundamental
Rights, Vienna(iii)

YES

NO

CIB Housing 
association, 
Egypt, Egyptian 
AI Council 
(Ministry of 
Communication 
and Information 
Technology) 

Contents

137

  
 
 
 
Name and Surname

Membership in committees (audit, 
nominal, income committee, etc.)

First appointment 
to the position

Conclusion of the position/ 
term of office

Chairman/Deputy Chairman/
Member

Attendance at sessions of SB's 
Committees in regard to the total 
number of SB's session (applicable 
on his/her mandate)(i)

Shrenik Dhirajlal Davda

Remuneration Committee

Gregor Rok Kastelic

Remuneration Committee

Mark William Lane Richards

Remuneration Committee

Bojana Šteblaj

Sergeja Kočar

Primož Karpe

Andreas Klingen

Verica Trstenjak

Sergeja Kočar

Bojana Šteblaj

David Eric Simon

Primož Karpe

Shrenik Dhirajlal Davda

Gregor Rok Kastelic

Andreas Klingen

Shrenik Dhirajlal Davda

David Eric Simon

Mark William Lane Richards

Gregor Rok Kastelic

Islam Osama Zekry

28 June 2019

28 June 2019

26 June 2020

8 April 2021

26 June 2020

15 April 2016 

Remuneration Committee

Remuneration Committee

Nomination Committee

Nomination Committee

19 February 2016 

Nomination Committee

Nomination Committee

Nomination Committee

Audit Committee

Audit Committee

Audit Committee

Audit Committee

Risk Committee

Risk Committee

Risk Committee

Risk Committee

Risk Committee

Risk Committee

26 June 2020

26 June 2020

8 April 2021

7 April 2016

15 April 2016

 28 June 2019

28 June 2019

19 February 2016 

8 July 2021

7 April 2016 

28 June 2019

26 June 2020

8 July 2021

Mark William Lane Richards

Operational and IT Committee 

28 June 2019

Andreas Klingen

Primož Karpe

Tadeja Žbontar Rems

Janja Žabjek Dolinšek

Islam Osama Zekry

Operational and IT Committee 

28 June 2019

Operational and IT Committee 

15 April 2016

Operational and IT Committee

Operational and IT Committee

8 April 2021

8 April 2021

Operational and IT Committee

8 July 2021

(i) There were also extraordinary sessions of the committees that are not reflected in this table.

2023

2023

2024

12 September 2022

2024

2024

2023

2024

2024

12 September 2022

2024

2024

2023

2023

2023

2025

2024

2023

2023

2025

2023

2023

2024

2025

8 July 2022

2025

Member

Member/Chairman

Deputy Chairman

Member

Member

Chairman

Deputy Chairman

Member

Member

Member

Chairman

Member

Member/Deputy Chairman

Member

Chairman

Deputy Chairman

Member

Member

Member

Member

Chairman

Member

Member

Member

Member

Deputy Chairman

6/6

6/6

6/6

3/3

6/6

6/6

6/6

6/6

6/6

2/4

6/6

6/6

6/6

5/6

6/6

6/6

6/6

6/6

6/6

5/6

5/5

5/5

5/5

5/5

3/3

4/5

External member in committees (audit, nominal, income committee, etc.) - The Banking Act (ZBan-3) contains provision stipulating that, irrespective of provision of Companies Act (ZGD-1) only members of the Supervisory 
Board can be appointed to Supervisory committees.

Name and Surname

Attendance at sessions of SB's Committees in regard to 
the total number of SB's session (for example 5/7)

Gender

Qualification

Year of birth

Professional profile

Membership in supervisory bodies in companies 
not related to the company

none

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

138

  
 
 
 
 
 
Statement of Management 
of Risk

NLB’s Management Board and Supervisory Board provide 

herewith a concise statement of the risk management 

according to Article 17 of the Decision on Internal Governance 

Arrangements, the Management Body and the Internal Capital 

Adequacy Assessment Process for Banks and Savings Banks 

(Official Gazette of the RS, no. 73/15 and 115/2021), Regulation 

(EU) 575/2013, article 435 (Risk Management Objectives and 

Policies), point (e) and (f), as well as the EBA Guidelines on 

Internal Governance (EBA/GL/2021/05) and EBA Guidelines on 

Disclosure Requirements (EBA GL/2016/11).

Risk management in the Group, representing an important 

element of the Group’s overall corporate governance, is 

implemented in accordance with the set strategic guidelines, 

established internal policies, and procedures which take into 

account the European banking regulations, the regulations 
adopted by the BoS, the current EBA guidelines, and the 

relevant good banking practices. EU regulations are followed 

by NLB Group, where the Group subsidiaries operating 

outside Slovenia are also compliant with the rules set by the 

local regulators. The Group gives high importance to the risk 

culture and awareness of all relevant risks within the entire 

Group. Maintaining risk awareness is engrained in the business 

and risk strategy of the Group. The business and operating 

environment relevant for the Group’s operations is changing 

with trends such as sustainability, social responsibility, 

governance, changing customer behaviours, emerging new 

technologies and competitors, as well as increasing new 

regulatory requirements. Respectively, risk management is 

continuously adapting with the aim to detect and manage new 

potential emerging risks.  

The Group uses the ‘three lines of defence framework’ as an 

important element of its internal governance, whereby the risk 

management function acts as a second line of defence. The 
Group’s has enhanced overall corporate governance which is 

reflected in lower SREP requirement in recent years. Robust and 

comprehensive Risk Management framework is defined and 

The Group plans a prudent risk profile, optimal capital usage, 

organised with regards to the Group's business and risk profile, 

and profitable operations in the long run considering the 

based on a forward-looking perspective to meet internally 

risks assumed. The Business strategy, the Risk appetite, 

set strategic objectives and all external requirements. The 

the Risk strategy and the key internal risk policies of the 

proactive risk management and control system is primarily 

Group, approved by the Management Board and the 

based on Risk appetite and Risk strategy, which are consistent 

Supervisory Board of NLB, specify the strategic objectives 

with the Group’s Business strategy, and focused on early risk 

and guidelines concerning risk assumption, the approaches 

identification and efficient risk management. Set governance 

and methodologies of monitoring, measuring, mitigating and 

and different risk management tools enable adequate oversight 

managing all types of risk at different relevant levels. Moreover, 

of the Group’s risk profile, proactively support its business 

main strategic risk guidelines are consistently integrated into 

operations and its management by incorporating escalation 

the regular business strategy review, budgeting process, and 

procedures and using different mitigation measures when 

other strategic decisions, whereby informed decision-making 

necessary. In this respect, the Group is constantly enhancing 

is assured. The Group regularly monitors its target risk appetite 

and complementing the existing methods and processes in all 

profile and internal capital allocation, representing the key 

risk management segments. 

component of proactive management. Risk limits usage and 

potential deviations from limits or target values are regularly 

The Group is engaged in contributing to sustainable finance 

reported to the respective committees and/or the Management 

by incorporating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) 

Board of the Bank, the Risk Committee of the Supervisory 

risks into its business strategies, risk management framework, 

Board, and the Supervisory Board of the Bank.   

and internal governance arrangements. With the adoption 

of the NLB Group Sustainability programme, the Group 

Additionally, the Group established a comprehensive stress-

implemented main sustainability elements into its business 

testing framework and other early warning systems in different 

model. The goal of this strategic, organisation-wide initiative 

risk areas with the intention to contribute to setting and 

is to ensure sustainable financial performance of the Group by 

pursuing the Group’s business strategy, to support decision-

considering ESG risks and opportunities in its operations, and to 

making on an ongoing basis, to strengthen the existing internal 

actively contribute to a more balanced and inclusive economic 

controls, and to enable timely response when necessary. 

and social system. Thus, sustainable finance integrates ESG 

The stress-testing framework includes all material types of 

criteria into Group’s business and investment decisions for the 

risk, as well those related to ESG, and various relevant stress 

lasting benefit of Group’s clients and society. The NLB Group 

scenarios or sensitivity analysis, according to the vulnerability 

Sustainability Committee oversees the integration of the ESG 

of the Group’s business model. Stress-testing has an important 

factors to the Group business model. The management of 

role when assessing the Group’s resilience to stressed 

ESG risks addresses the Group’s overall risk management 

circumstances, namely from profitability, capital adequacy, 

framework, namely the credit approval process and related 

and liquidity in this forward-looking perspective. As such, it is 

credit portfolio management. It follows ECB and EBA guidelines, 

embedded into Group’s Risk management system, namely Risk 

with tendency of their comprehensive integration into all 

appetite, ICAAP, ILAAP, and Recovery plan, as an important 

relevant processes. The availability of ESG data in the region 

component of sound risk management. Beside internal stress-

where Group operates is still lacking. Nevertheless, the Group 

testing, the Group as a systemically important bank also 

made significant progress in the process of obtaining relevant 

participates in the regulatory stress test exercises carried out by 

ESG-related data from its clients, as it is a prerequisite for 

ECB.

adequate decision-making. 

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

139

 The Group is one of the largest Slovenian banking and financial 

risk appetite for operational risks is low to moderate, with a 

strategic business orientations, risk strategy and targeted risk 

groups, and it has an important presence in the SEE region. In 

focus on mitigation actions for important risks, and key risk 

appetite profile, were following: 

accordance with its strategic orientations, the Group intends to 

indicators serving as an early warning system. The conclusion 

•  Total capital ratio 19.2%,

be sustainably profitable, predominantly working with clients 

of transactions in derivative financial instruments at NLB is 

•  Tier 1 ratio 15.7%,

on its core markets, providing innovative but simple customer-

primarily limited to serving customers and hedging the Bank’s 

•  CET1 ratio 15.1%,

oriented solutions, and actively contributing to a more 

own positions. In the area of currency risk, the Group thus 

•  Leverage ratio 9.1%,

balanced and inclusive economic and social system. The Group 

pursues the goals of low to moderate exposure. Based on the 

•  Cost of risk 14 bps,

has a well-diversified business model. Efficient managing of 

environmental and climate risk assessment, the impact of these 

•  NPE ratio (EBA definition) 1.3%,

risks and capital is crucial for the Group to sustain long-term 

risks is estimated as low, except for transition risk in the area of 

•  NPL coverage ratio (EBA definition) 58.1%,

profitable operations. Based on the Group’s business strategy, 

credit, which is assessed as low to medium. The tolerance for all 

•  LTD 65.3%,

credit risk is the dominant risk category, followed by credit 

other risk types, including non-financial risks, is low with a focus 

•  Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR) 220.3%, 

spread risk on its banking book portfolio, interest rate risk in its 

on minimising their possible impact on the Group's operations.

•  Net stable funding ratio (NSFR) 183.0%,

banking book, operational risk, liquidity risk, market risk, and 

•  Interest rate risk (EVE) (of 200 bps) -5.1% of capital,

other non-financial risks. ESG risks do not represent a new risk 

The main NLB Group Risk Appetite Statement objectives are 

•  Transactional FX risk 1.1% of capital,

category, but rather one of risk drivers of the existing type of 

following:

•  No new financing of coal mining and coal-fired electricity 

risks, such as credit, liquidity, market, and operational risks. The 

•  preservation of regulatory capital adequacy;

generation (0 EUR), 

Group integrates and manages them within the established risk 

•  preservation of internal capital adequacy;

•  Net losses from operational risk 0.7% of capital requirement 

management framework. Regular risk identification and their 

•  fulfilment of MREL requirement;

for operational risk.

assessment is performed within the ICAAP process, with the aim 

•  maintenance of low leverage;

of assuring their overall control and effective risk management 

•  improvement in the quality of the credit portfolio, sufficient 

In 2022, the war in Ukraine did not have a meaningful impact 

on an ongoing basis. 

NPL coverage, sustainable credit risk volatility, sustainable 

on the quality of the credit portfolio, nor on the liquidity of the 

cost of risk across the economic cycle, limited Stage 2 

Group. The Group’s direct and indirect exposures toward Russia 

Managing risks and capital efficiently at all levels is crucial 

exposures, sustainable industry and individual concentration, 

and Ukraine are quite limited. In the light of increasing energy 

for NLB Group’s sustained, long-term profitable operations. 

sustainable exposure to project financing;

prices, inflationary pressures, and a forecast of a decrease 

Management of credit risk, representing the Group’s most 

•  maintenance of a solid liquidity position, maintaining stable 

in economic growth, the Group has thoroughly analysed 

important risk, focuses on the taking of moderate risks – 

customers' deposits as the main funding base;

potential impacts on its credit portfolio and made the necessary 

diversified credit portfolio, adequate credit portfolio quality, 

•  diversification of risk in exposures to banks and sovereigns;

adjustments. The most affected industries or segments are 

the sustainable cost of risk, and ensuring an optimal return 

•  limited exposure to credit spread risk;

carefully monitored with the intention to detect any additional 

considering the risks assumed. The liquidity risk tolerance is 

•  limited exposure to interest rate risk;

significant increase in credit risk at a very early stage. The 

low. The Group must maintain an appropriate level of liquidity 

•  limited exposure to foreign exchange risk;

liquidity position of the Group remains very robust. Even if a 

at all times to meet its short-term liabilities, even if a specific 

•  sustainable exposure to ESG risks;

highly unfavourable liquidity scenario would materialise, the 

stress scenario is realised. Further, with the aim of minimising 

•  sustainable tolerance to net losses from operational risk.

Group holds sufficient level of high-quality liquidity reserves. 

this risk, the Group pursues an appropriate structure of sources 

of financing. The Group’s limited exposure to credit spread 

During 2022, sustainable ESG financing in accordance with 

Consequently, the Group concluded 2022 as self-funded, with 

risk, arises from the valuation risk of debt securities portfolio 

Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS) was 

strong liquidity, and a solid capital position, demonstrating 

servicing as liquidity reserves, to the moderate level. The 

partly integrated in the Group's Risk appetite statement. 

the Group’s financial resilience. The acquired N Banka has a 

Group’s basic orientation in the management of interest rate 

Additional key risk indicators and targets in the area of ESG are 

business model quite similar to that of NLB, so there were no 

risk is to limit the unexpected negative effects on revenues and 

going to be addressed based in ongoing activities related to the 

major changes in the Group’s risk profile in 2022. Otherwise, 

capital that would arise from changed market interest rates, 

Net Zero Banking Alliance commitment, signed by the Group. 

there were no other transactions of sufficiently material nature 

and, therefore, a moderate tolerance for this risk is stated. When 

to impact on the Group’s risk profile or distribution of the risks 

assuming operational risk, the Group pursues the orientation 

Values of the most important risk appetite indicators of the 

on the Group level.

that such risk must not significantly impact its operations. The 

Group as at the end of 2022, reflecting interconnection between 

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

140

 The Condensed Statement of the management of risk is also 

published on the Bank intranet with the aim of strict adherence 

of the banks’ employees at daily operations of the Bank, as 

regards the definition and importance of a consistent tendency 

of the adopted risks, and ways to take into account when 

adopting its daily business decisions.

Ljubljana, 12 April 2023

Supervisory Board of NLB

Primož Karpe
Chairman

Management Board of NLB

Hedvika Usenik
Member

Andrej Lasič
Member

Archibald Kremser
Member

Andreas Burkhardt
Member

Antonio Argir
Member

Blaž Brodnjak
Chief executive officer

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

141

 Statement on  
Non-financial Operation

In accordance with Article 56 and in conjunction with Article 70c 

of the Companies Act, the Bank has prepared a Consolidated 

Statement on Non-Financial Operation as a separate report, 

called the NLB Group Sustainability Report 2022. 

The consolidated report enables interested parties to 

understand the material dimensions of the NLB Group’s 

development, performance, and position and the impact of its 

activities and includes the following non-financial information, 

which are disclosed in the NLB Group Sustainability Report 

2022: 

•  The NLB Group’s business model is presented in Chapters 

NLB Group at a Glance and Sustainability Strategy. 

•  Policy description and results on environmental, social, 

and human resources matters are described in Chapters 

Sustainable Operations and Sustainable Finance and Risk 
Management. 

•  Policy description and results on respect for human rights are 

described in Chapter Respecting Human Rights. 

•  Policy description and results on anti-corruption and anti-

•  the recommendations of the Task force on Climate Related 

bribery matters are covered in Chapter Fighting Against 

Financial Disclosures (TCFD) - in line with the requirements 

Corruption and Bribery. 

and recommendations of the Financial Conduct Authority 

•  The main risks regarding the aforementioned issues are listed 

(FCA); and

in Chapters Sustainable Operations and Sustainable Finance 

•  the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Sustainability Reporting 

and Risk Management.

Standards. 

•  Key non-financial performance indicators that are important 

for specific activities are described in the NLB Group 

The NLB Group Sustainability Report 2022 is published on the 

Sustainability Report 2022 and summarised in Appendix 1. 

Bank's website, on the Ljubljana Stock Exchange's SEOnet 

system, on the websites of the Agency of the Republic of 

In addition to the aforementioned information, the report 

Slovenia for Public Legal Records and Related Services (AJPES), 

discloses information based on the following legal bases, 

and on the London Stock Exchange (LSE), at the same time in 

requirements, recommendations, and reporting frameworks:  

the NLB Group Annual Report 2022. 

•  EU Taxonomy: Regulation (EU) 2020/852 establishing a 

framework for the promotion of sustainable investments and 

The NLB Group's Consolidated Annual Report 2022 is thus in 

the delegated acts adopted under this Regulation; 

line with the requirements of the Companies Act (ZGD-1), which 

•  Requirements and recommendations of regulatory 

requires public interest entities with an average number of 

authorities: BoS, Securities Market Agency (SMA); 

employees exceeding 500 on the balance sheet cut-off date 

•  the United Nations Principles for Responsible Banking (UN-

to include a Statement on Non-Financial Operation in their 

PRB);

business report. 

•  ECB Guide on Climate and Environmental Risks;

•  the European Commission's Guidelines on Non-Financial 

Ljubljana, 12 April 2023

Reporting; 

Management Board of NLB

Hedvika Usenik
Member

Andrej Lasič
Member

Archibald Kremser
Member

Andreas Burkhardt
Member

Antonio Argir
Member

Blaž Brodnjak
Chief executive officer

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

142

 Disclosure on Shares 
and Shareholders  
of NLB

1. 

Information pursuant to the 
Companies Act (ZGD-1), Article 
70, paragraph 6 

1.1  Structure of the Bank’s share capital
The Bank has issued only ordinary registered no-par value 

shares, the holders of which have a voting right and the right to 

participate in the General Meeting of the Bank’s shareholders, 

the pre-emptive right to subscribe for new shares in case 

of a share capital increase, the right to profit participation 

(dividends), the right to a share in the surplus in the event of 

acquirer of the shares has acquired them on the account of 

third parties, so that (s)he is not entitled to exercise voting 

rights from these shares at his/her sole discretion, while at 

the same time committing to the Bank, (s)he will not exercise 

voting rights on the basis of the instructions of an individual 

third party for whose account (s)he has acquired the shares if, 

together with the instructions for voting, (s)he does not receive 

a written guarantee from the person that this person has shares 

on his/her own account and that this person is not, directly 

or indirectly, a holder of more than 25% of the Bank’s voting 

rights. The acquirer who exceeds the share of 25% of the Bank’s 

shares with voting rights, and does not require the issuance 

of approval for the transfer of shares, or does not receive the 

approval of the Bank, may exercise the voting right from 25% of 

the shares with the voting rights.

1.7  All agreements among shareholders which 
are known to the company and could result 
in restrictions relating to the transfer of 
securities or voting rights
The Bank is not aware of such agreements.

1.8  The company’s rules on the appointment 
or replacement of management and 
supervisory board members and changes of 
the articles of association

This information is included in the chapter Corporate 

Governance Statement of NLB.

1.9  Authorisations given to management, 
particularly authorisations to issue or 
purchase own shares

This information is included in the chapter Corporate 

There are no restrictions other than those mentioned and those 

Governance Statement of NLB.

that are regulatory.

1.3  Qualifying holdings 
This information is included in the chapter Corporate 

liquidation or bankruptcy of the Bank, and the right to be 

Governance Statement of NLB. 

informed. All shares belong to a single class and are issued in 

book-entry form. 

1.4  Securities carrying special controlling rights 
This information is included in the chapter Corporate 

Information regarding the shareholder structure of NLB (as at 

Governance Statement of NLB.

31 December 2022) is available in the subchapter Shareholder 

Structure of NLB in the chapter Key Highlights.

1.5  The employee share scheme, if used by the 

1.2  All restrictions relating to the transfer of 

shares and the restrictions on voting rights
The shares of the Bank are freely transferable, subject to the 

provisions of the Articles of Association of the Bank which 

require the approval of the Supervisory Board, namely for the 

transfer of shares of the Bank by which the acquirer, together 

with the shares held by the holder before such an acquisition 

and the shares held by third parties for the account of the 

acquirer, exceeds the share of 25% of the Bank’s voting shares. 

Approval for the transfer of shares is issued by the Supervisory 
Board.

The Bank rejects the request for approval of transfer shares 

if the acquirer, together with the shares held by the acquirer 

before the acquisition and the shares held by third parties for 

the account of the acquirer, exceed the 25% share of the Bank 

with voting rights, increased by one share.

Notwithstanding the provision mentioned in the first paragraph, 

approval for the transfer of shares is not required if the 

company, for shares to which the scheme 
relates and about the method of exercising 
control over this scheme, if the controlling 
rights are not exercised directly by employees 

NLB does not have an employee share scheme. In accordance 

with the relevant remuneration policies, (when required by 

ZBan-3) a part of variable remuneration of NLB’s Identified Staff 

shall consist of NLB shares, or NLB share-linked instruments 

or equivalent non-cash instruments (the instrument used is 

determined by the Supervisory Board). So far, NLB has not used 

own shares for this purpose. It currently uses NLB share-linked 

instruments. More information will be available in the Report of 
the Remunerations for the Business Year 2022.

1.6  Explanation regarding restrictions related to 

voting rights

This information is included in the chapter Corporate 

Governance Statement of NLB.

1.10  All major agreements to which the company 
is a party and which take effect, are changed 
or cancelled following a change in control 
over the company resulting from a bid, as 
laid down by the Act governing M&A, and the 
effects of such agreements

There are no major agreements to which the Bank is a party, 

and which would take effect, be changed, or cancelled 

following a change in control over the Bank resulting from a bid. 

1.11  All agreements between the Bank and its 
management or supervision bodies or its 
employees which envisage compensation 
if, due to a bid as laid down by the Act 
governing M&A, these persons resign, are 
dismissed without a well-founded reason, or 
their employment is terminated 

In line with the employment contracts of the members of the 

Management Board, if the Supervisory Board recalls a member 

of the Management Board for other business and economic 

reasons, “such a member of the Management Board of NLB 

is entitled to compensation for early termination of his term 
of office. The member of the Management Board shall not be 

entitled to compensation for early termination of the term of 

office if he is employed in the Bank or in the Group after the 

termination of the term of office. In the event of resignation, the 

member of the Management Board shall not be entitled to any 

compensation for early discontinuation of the term of office, 

unless otherwise decided by the Supervisory Board.”

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

143

 There are some exemptions if dividends are paid 
to intermediaries and legal entities 
For the purposes of Slovenian tax legislation, the GDR 

depositary will qualify as an intermediary. Therefore, the 

dividends paid by the custodian to the GDR depositary will be 

subject to the deduction and withholding of Slovenian tax at the 

rate of 25%. A holder, an owner of a GDR or a beneficial owner 

will be entitled, if and to the extent applicable, to claim a refund 

of the withholding tax. 

In the case of legal entities, the exemptions are related to the 

characteristics of the legal entities.

Application of Double Tax Treaties
If the payee is not an intermediary, Slovenian tax authorities 

may approve the application of a lower tax rate specified in the 

double tax treaty between the RoS and the country of residence 

of the payee if the Slovenian payer provides certain information 

on the payee and a confirmation that the payee is a resident 

for taxation purposes in such a country, issued by the tax 

authorities of such a country.

Refund of Withholding Tax
If the Slovenian tax was deducted and withheld at a higher tax 

rate than it would be paid if a Slovenian payer would make the 

dividend payment directly to such person as a payee or higher 

tax rate, than the one specified in the double tax treaty, the 

payee of the dividend is entitled to the refund of the overpaid 

tax. The tax refund is enforced by filing a claim to the Financial 

Administration of the RoS (FURS).

Legal persons
Dividends with respect to the shares received by a legal 

person who is a Slovenian resident are exempt from Slovenian 
corporate income tax (davek od dohodkov pravnih oseb).

Individuals
The amount of tax withheld from a dividend payment received 

by an individual constitutes the final amount of Slovenian 
Personal Income Tax (dohodnina) with respect to such a 
dividend payment.

2.  Number of shares held by 

members of the Supervisory 
Board and Management Board

Table 39: Number of shares held by members of the Supervisory Board 
and Management Board

Shares held as at
31 Dec 2022

Name of member of 
Supervisory Board

Primož Karpe

Andreas Klingen
David Eric Simon(i)

Islam Osama Zekry

Gregor Rok Kastelic

Shrenik Dhirajlal Davda

Mark William Lane Richards

Verica Trstenjak

Sergeja Kočar

Tadeja Žbontar Rems

Name of member of 
Management Board

Blaž Brodnjak

Archibald Kremser

Andreas Burkhardt

Andrej Lasič

Hedvika Usenik

Antonio Argir

Number

1,286

1,298

582

—

—

—

—

—

190

—

Number

1,700

791

800

325

450

620

%

0.006%

0.006%

0.003%

—

—

—

—

—

0.001%

—

%

0.009%

0.004%

0.004%

0.002%

0.002%

0.003%

(i) David Eric Simon holds 2,910 GDRs, which is equal to 582 shares (as 1 share 
represents 5 GDRs). 

3. Stock option agreements 

The Bank has no stock option agreements in relation to its listed 

shares.

4. Dividend taxation

Withholding tax
In 2022 a Slovenian payer was required to deduct and withhold 

the amount of Slovenian corporate or personal income tax from 

dividend payments made to the certain categories of payees:

•  Individuals: 25%

•  Intermediaries: 25%

•  Legal entities (other than Intermediaries): 15%

In 2022, the tax rate for individuals and intermediaries has 

changed from 27.5% to 25%.

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 NLB Group’s unique geographical footprint became 
even more pronounced by the merger of two 
Serbian banks of the Group into NLB Komercijalna 
Banka, Beograd in April 2022. The first chapter in 
its history was marked by results that exceeded all 
plans and predictions – dynamic growth, increased 
share in the banking sector, and enviable net profit. 
The bank remained a reliable support for citizens in 
solving important life issues, defended its position 
as the absolute market leader in agricultural loans, 
and confirmed that the economy recognizes it as a 
strategically important partner. 

We created better footprints and with strong 
support of the National Bank of Serbia implemented 
numerous measures that preserved the life standard 
of citizens and operations of business entities. 
Most importantly, however, we managed to justify 
the trust of almost a million clients and the entire 
community in which we operate.

Pictured: NLB Komercijalna Banka, Beograd employees

 
Events After the End 
of the 2022 Financial 
Year

Rating upgrade
On 7 February 2023 Moody's upgraded NLB to A3 from Baa1.

USA regional banks & Credit Suisse turmoil
In March 2023, the collapse of two regional banks in the USA, 

Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank, prompted investors 

globally to scour for weak spots in the financial system, 

resulting in an emergence of stress in the banking sector and 

a turmoil in the capital markets. Developments in the USA 

had impacts also in Europe and put European banks under 

stress as well. Credit Suisse had been heavily impacted by 

the collapse in confidence as the demise of regional banks in 

the USA had spread fear about weaker institutions at time of 
increasing interest rates undermining value of some financial 

assets. To increase confidence in the banking sector, Swiss 

financial regulators engineered an emergency rescue plan for 

Credit Suisse in the form of UBS Group AG buying Credit Suisse. 

As of 31 March 2023, the Group has only small exposure to 

Credit Suisse, deriving mainly from limited investment in bonds. 

Since the beginning of the bank stress and market turmoil, the 

financial institutions’ credit spreads widening and overall risk-

free rates decrease were observed, which is currently positively 

impacting the Group’s FVOCI positions (other comprehensive 

income in relation to valuation of debt securities, net of related 

deferred tax in the first quarter of 2023 was positive in the 

amount of EUR 24 million). From a capital management point 

of view, most of FVOCI cumulative negative valuations (except 

a smaller part which was as of 31 December 2022 carved 

out by temporary treatment of sovereign debt introduced by 

COVID-19 related “quick fix” – see Note 5.23.) have already been 

accommodated in the Group’s capital ratios and thus going 

forward are rather supportive in terms of capital levels as those 

exposures mature and new investments are made only with 

short duration (i.e. low valuation risks).

With regard to debt securities measured at amortised cost, 

the difference between the carrying amount and fair values as 

of 31 March 2023 is negative in the amount of EUR 152 million. 

These differences are not reflected in the capital ratio given 

the Group’s intention to hold them to maturity and collect cash 

flows from payments of interest and principal – thus these 

differences will not be materialised and also diminish eventually 

to zero over the lifetime of the book (duration on average: 

3.75 years).

With regard to the liquidity management neither of these 

portfolios are intended to be used given the Group’s and NLB’s 

very high cash balances (EUR 5,306 million at the Group level 

and EUR 3,478 million at NLB level as of 31 March 2023). Even 

in extreme circumstances the portfolios could be used to large 

extent to raise funds from the central bank using securities as 

collateral without selling the asset – by that also not realising 

any losses. At the year-end, the total amount of HQLA amounts 

to EUR 6,028 million at the Group level. Finally, the amount 

of non-insured retail deposits at the Group level is very low, 

around 20%.

From a liquidity point of view, no material deviations from the 

normal intra-monthly deposit dynamics were identified at  the 

NLB Group level as a result of the turmoil.

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 in EUR millions Financial report

in EUR thousands

Notes

Reconciliation of Financial Statements in Business 
and Financial Part of the Report 

Table 40: Income Statement of NLB Group for the annual period ended 31 December 2022

Business report

Net interest income

Net fee and commission income

Dividend income

504.9

273.4

Interest and similar income

Interest and similar expenses

Fee and commission income

Fee and commission expenses

0.2 Dividend income

Net income from financial transactions

36.6

Net other income

(16.6)

Gains less losses from financial assets and liabilities not 
measured at fair value through profit or loss

Gains less losses from financial assets and liabilities held for trading

Gains less losses from non-trading financial assets 
mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss

Gains less losses from financial liabilities measured 
at fair value through profit or loss

Fair value adjustments in hedge accounting

Foreign exchange translation gains less losses 

Gains less losses from modification of financial assets

Gains less losses on derecognition of non-financial assets

Other net operating income

Cash contributions to resolution funds and deposit guarantee schemes

Gains less losses from non-current assets held for sale

Net non-interest income

Total net operating income

Employee costs

Other general and administrative expenses

Depreciation and amortisation

Total costs

Result before impairments and provisions

Impairments and provisions for credit risk

Other impairments and provisions

Impairments and provisions

Gains less losses from capital investment in 
subsidiaries, associates, and joint ventures

Negative goodwill

Result before tax

Income tax

Result of non-controlling interests

Result after tax

293.6  

798.5  

(257.7)

(155.2)

Administrative expenses 

(47.4) Depreciation and amortisation

(460.3)

338.3  

Provisions for credit losses

Impairment of financial assets

Provisions for other liabilities and charges

Impairment of non-financial assets

(17.5)

(11.4)

(28.9)

0.8

Share of profit from investments in associates and joint 
ventures (accounted for using the equity method)

172.9 Negative goodwill

483.1 Profit before income tax

(25.2)

Income tax

11.0 Attributable to non-controlling interests

446.9 Attributable to owners of the parent

569,776

(64,854)

381,599

(108,249)

242

866

33,451

90

286

1,655

297

(26)

1,861

16,778

(36,144)

921

293,627

798,549

(412,886)

(47,390)

(460,276)

338,273

(3,050)

(14,454)

(5,932)

(5,433)

(28,869)

781

172,878

483,063

(25,230)

10,971

446,862

4.1.

4.1.

4.3.

4.3.

4.2.

4.4.

4.5.

4.6.

5.5.a)

4.7.

4.12.

4.8.

4.10.

4.15.

4.9.

4.11.

4.13.

4.14.

4.13.

4.14.

5.12.e)

5.12.b), c)

4.16.

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Table 41: Statement of Financial Position of NLB Group as at 31 December 2022

in EUR millions Financial report

in EUR thousands

Business report

ASSETS

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and 
other demand deposits at banks

Loans to banks

Net loans to customers

Financial assets

- Trading book

- Non-trading book

Investments in subsidiaries, 
associates, and joint ventures

Property and equipment

Investment property

Intangible assets

Other assets

TOTAL ASSETS

LIABILITIES

Deposits from customers

Deposits from banks and central banks

Borrowings

Subordinated debt securities

Other debt securities in issue

5,271.4 Cash, cash balances at central banks and other demand deposits at banks

223.0 Financial assets measured at amortised cost - loans and advances to banks

13,073.0

Financial assets measured at amortised cost - 
loans and advances to customers

4,877.4  

21.6 Financial assets held for trading

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily at fair value 
through profit or loss - part (without loans)

4,855.8

Financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at amortised cost - debt securities

11.7

Investments in associates and joint ventures

251.3 Property and equipment

35.6 Investment property

58.2

Intangible assets

Financial assets measured at amortised cost - other financial assets

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Fair value changes of the hedged items in portfolio hedge of interest rate risk

358.6

Current income tax assets

Deferred income tax assets

Other assets

Non-current assets held for sale

24,160.2 Total assets

20,027.7 Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost - due to customers

106.4

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost - 
deposits from banks and central banks

281.1

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost - 
borrowings from banks and central banks

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost 
- borrowings from other customers

508.8 Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost -  
307.2

debt securities issued

Financial liabilities held for trading

Financial liabilities measured at fair value  
through profit or loss

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost -  
other financial liabilities

Other liabilities

506.7

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Provisions

Current income tax liabilities

Deferred income tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Equity

Non-controlling interests

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

2,365.6 Equity and reserves attributable to owners of the parent

56.7 Non-controlling interests

24,160.2 Total liabilities and equity

5,271,365

222,965

13,072,986

4,877,437

21,588

19,031

2,919,203

1,917,615

11,677

251,316

35,639

58,235

177,823

59,362

(23,767)

1,696

55,527

72,543

15,436

24,160,240

20,027,726

106,414

198,609

82,482

815,990

21,589

1,796

294,463

2,124

122,652

12,420

2,569

49,081

2,365,585

56,740

24,160,240

Notes

5.1.

5.6.b)

5.6.c)

5.2.a)

5.3.a)

5.4.

5.6.a)

5.12.e)

5.8.

5.9.

5.10.

5.6.d)

5.5.b)

5.5.c)

5.17.

5.13.

5.7.

5.15.a)

5.15.a)

5.15.b)

5.15.b)

5.15.c)

5.2.b)

5.3.b)

5.15.d)

5.5.b)

5.16.

5.17.

5.19.

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Alternative 
Performance 
Indicators 

Cost to income ratio (CIR) – Indicator of cost efficiency, 
calculated as the ratio between the total costs and total net 

operating income.

Table 43a: NLB Group and NLB CIR calculation

The Bank has chosen to present these APIs, either because 

they are in common use within the industry or because they 

are commonly used by investors and as such are useful for 

disclosure. The APIs are used internally to monitor and manage 

operations of the Bank and the Group, and are not considered 

Numerator

Total costs

Denominator

Total net operating income

Cost to income ratio (CIR)

 2022

460.3

798.5

57.6%

NLB Group

 2021

415.4

666.9

62.3%

 2020

293.9

504.5

58.3%

 2022

207.9

366.2

56.8 %

in EUR millions

 2020

180.5

311.7

57.9%

NLB

 2021

183.6

361.5

50.8%

to be directly comparable with similar KPIs presented by other 

Table 43b: NLB Group’s banking subsidiaries CIR calculation

companies. The Bank’s APIs are described below together with 

definitions.

Cost of risk – Calculated as the ratio between credit 
impairments and provisions annualized from the income 

statement and average net loans to customers. 

Table 42: NLB Group cost of risk calculation

Numerator

Credit impairments and provisions(i)

17.6

-40.8

in EUR millions

NLB Group

2022

2021

NLB Banka, 
Skopje

NLB Banka, 
Banja Luka

NLB Banka, 
Sarajevo

NLB Banka, 
Prishtina

NLB Banka, 
Podgorica

in EUR millions

NLB 
Banka, 
Beograd

NLB 
Komercijalna 
banka, 
Beograd

N Banka, 
Ljubljana

 2022

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2022

31.8

28.6

17.3

15.2

18.3

16.2

14.3

13.5

20.3

17.4

22.2

109.0

88.0

23.0

Numerator

Total cost

Denominator

Total net operating income

75.9

68.4

38.5

33.2

31.7

28.1

48.4

41.8

37.3

28.1

30.3

192.4

128.7

35.7

Cost to income ratio (CIR)

41.9% 41.8% 44.9% 45.7% 57.8% 57.7% 29.7% 32.4% 54.3% 61.7% 73.1% 56.6% 68.4% 64.3%

Average cost of funding (quarterly) – Calculated as the ratio 
between interest expenses annualized and average interest 

Denominator

Average net loans to customers(ii)

Cost of risk (bps)

12,256.6

10,080.9

14

-41

bearing liabilities.

Table 44: Average cost of funding (quarterly)

(i) NLB internal information. Credit impairments and provisions are annualized, 
calculated as all established and released impairments on loans and provisions 
for off balance (from the income statement) in the period divided by the number 
of months for reporting period and multiplied by 12. The net established Credit 
impairments and provisions are shown with a positive sign, and the net released 
Credit impairments and provisions are shown with a negative sign.
(ii) NLB internal information. Average net loans to customers are calculated as sum 
of the balance of the previous year end (31 December) and monthly balances of the 
last day of each month from January to month t divided by (t+1).

Numerator

Interest expenses(i)

Denominator

Q4 2022

Q3 2022

Q2 2022

Q1 2022

NLB Group

in EUR millions

66.5

48.0

23.8

23.6

19,298.6

0.12%

Average interest-bearing liabilities(ii)

Average cost of funding (quarterly)

20,780.7

0.32%

20,335.2

0.24%

20,206.8

0.12%

(i) Interest expenses (quarterly) are annualized, calculated as the sum of interest 
expenses in the period divided by the number of days in the quarter and multiplied 
by the number of days in the year. Interest expenses on interest bearing liabilities 
also include interest income from negative interest rate on financial liabilities.
(ii) NLB internal information. Average interest-bearing liabilities (quarterly) for the 
NLB Group are calculated as the sum of monthly balances (t) for the corresponding 
quarter and monthly balance at the end of the previous quarter divided by (t+1).

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 FVTPL – Financial assets measured mandatorily at fair value 
through profit or loss (FVTPL) represent the minor part (0.002% 

IFRS 9 classification into stages for loan portfolio: 

•  Stage 3 – An impaired portfolio: NLB Group recognises 

lifetime allowances for these financial assets. The definition of 

December 2022; 0.002% December 2021) of the loan portfolio 

IFRS 9 requires an expected loss model, where an allowance for 

default is harmonised with the EBA guidelines. 

(before the deduction of fair value for credit risk; loans with 

the expected credit losses (ECL) are formed. Loans measured 

contractual cash flows that are not solely payments of principal 

at amortised costs (AC) are classified into the following stages 

A significant increase in credit risk is assumed: when a credit 

and interest on the principal amount outstanding). Classification 

into stages is calculated in the internal data source, by which 

(before deduction of loan loss allowances):
•  Stage 1 – A performing portfolio: no significant increase of 

rating significantly deteriorates at the reporting date in 

comparison to the credit rating at initial recognition; when a 

the NLB Group measures the loan portfolio quality, and which 

credit risk since initial recognition, NLB Group recognises an 

financial asset has material delays over 30 days (days past due 

is also published in the Business Report of Annual and Interim 

allowance based on a 12-month period;

Reports.

•  Stage 2 – An underperforming portfolio: a significant increase 
in credit risk since initial recognition, NLB Group recognises 

an allowance for a lifetime period; 

are also included in the credit rating assessment); if NLB Group 

expects to grant the client forbearance or if the client is placed 

on the watch list. 

Table 45a: NLB Group Stage 1 calculation

Table 45d: NLB Group Stage 1 in the Corporate segment calculation

Table 45g: NLB Group Stage 1 in the Retail segment calculation

in EUR millions

NLB Group

2022

in EUR millions

NLB Group

2022

Numerator

Numerator

Numerator

Total (AC) loans in Stage 1

17,457.5

Total (AC) loans in Stage 1 to Corporates

5,920.1

Total (AC) loans in Stage 1 to Retail

Denominator

Total gross loans and advances

IFRS 9 classification into Stage 1 

18,403.9

94.9%

Denominator

Total gross loans to Corporates

Corporates - IFRS 9 classification into Stage 1 

6,545.6

90.4%

Denominator

Total gross loans to Retail

Retail - IFRS 9 classification into Stage 1 

in EUR millions

NLB Group

2022

6,423.0

6,743.6

95.2%

Table 45b: NLB Group Stage 2 calculation

Table 45e: NLB Group Stage 2 in the Corporate segment calculation

Table 45h: NLB Group Stage 2 in the Retail segment calculation

Numerator

Total (AC) loans in Stage 2

Denominator

Total gross loans and advances

IFRS 9 classification into Stage 2 

in EUR millions

NLB Group

2022

618.3

Numerator

Numerator

Total (AC) loans in Stage 2 to Corporates

425.7

Total (AC) loans in Stage 2 to Retail

in EUR millions

NLB Group

2022

Denominator

18,403.9

Total gross loans to Corporates

3.4%

Corporates - IFRS 9 classification into Stage 2 

6,545.6

6.5%

Denominator

Total gross loans to Retail

Retail - IFRS 9 classification into Stage 2 

in EUR millions

NLB Group

2022

192.6

6,743.6

2.9%

Table 45c: NLB Group Stage 3 calculation

Table 45f: NLB Group Stage 3 in the Corporate segment calculation

Table 45i: NLB Group Stage 3 in the Retail segment calculation

Numerator

Total (AC) loans in Stage 3

Total (FVTPL) non-performing loans

Denominator

Total gross loans and advances

IFRS 9 classification into Stage 3 

in EUR millions

NLB Group

2022

327.7

0.4

Numerator

Total (AC) loans in Stage 3 to Corporates

Total (FVTPL) non-performing loans

Denominator

18,403.9

Total gross loans to Corporates

1.8%

Corporates - IFRS 9 classification into Stage 3 

in EUR millions

NLB Group

2022

199.5

0.4

6,545.6

3.1%

Numerator

Total (AC) loans in Stage 3 to Retail

Denominator

Total gross loans to Retail

Retail - IFRS 9 classification into Stage 3 

in EUR millions

NLB Group

2022

128.0

6,743.6

1.9%

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Leverage ratio – its calculation uses Tier 1 as the numerator, 
and the denominator is the total exposure of all active balance 

sheet and off-balance-sheet items after the adjustments are 

made in the context of which the exposures from individual 

derivatives, exposures from transactions of security funding, 

and other off-balance sheet items are especially pointed out. 

The leverage ratio is a non-risk based supplementary measure 

to the risk-based capital requirements. A minimum leverage 

ratio requirement is 3%. The purpose of the leverage ratio is 

to limit the size of the Bank balance sheets, and with a special 

emphasis on exposures which are not weighted within the 

framework of the existing capital requirement calculations.

Table 46: NLB Group and NLB leverage ratio

Numerator

Tier I

Denominator

NLB Group

2022

2021

2020

2022

in EUR millions

NLB

2021

2020

2,295.7

1,965.6

1,768.1

1,496.7

1,362.7

1,347.0

Total Leverage Ratio exposure measure

Leverage ratio

25,240.5

9.1%

19,229.5

10.2%

22,603.9

7.8%

14,553.0

10.3%

10,041.1

13.6%

13,058.8

10.3%

Liquidity coverage ratio – LCR refers to high liquid assets held 
by the financial institution to cover its net liquidity outflows over 

a 30-calendar day stress period.

The LCR requires financial institutions to maintain a sufficient 

reserve of high-quality liquid assets (HQLA) to withstand a 

crisis that puts their cash flows under pressure. The assets to 

hold must equal to or greater than their net cash outflow over a 

30-calendar-day stress period (having at least 100% coverage). 

The parameters of the stress scenario are defined under Basel 

III guidelines. The calculations presented below are based on 

internal data sources. 

Table 47: NLB Group LCR calculation(i)

31 Dec 
2022

30 Nov 
2022

31 Oct 
2022

30 Sep 
2022

31 Aug 
2022

31 Jul 
2022

30 Jun 
2022

31 May 
2022

30 Apr 
2022

31 Mar 
2022

28 Feb 
2022

31 Jan 
2022

31 Dec 
2021

31 Dec 
2020

31 Dec 
2022

NLB Group

in EUR millions 

NLB

31 Dec 
2021

31 Dec 
2020

Numerator

Stock of HQLA

6,028.3

5,836.6

5,505.7

5,772.1

5,577.4

5,612.1

5,325.3

5,712.1

5,636.4

5,690.4

5,524.2

5,545.5

5,367.1

5,003.0

5,046.3

4,698.7

4,323.4

Denominator

Net liquidity outflow

2,736.6

2,612.2

2,587.4

2,641.3

2,568.0

2,498.5

2,499.6

2,524.2

2,548.1

2,439.6

2,163.5

2,134.5

2,125.0

1,943.1

1,825.2

1,493.9

1,285.4

LCR

220.3% 223.4% 212.8% 218.5% 217.2% 224.6% 213.0% 226.3% 221.2% 233.3%

255.3% 259.8% 252.6% 257.5% 276.5% 314.5% 336.3%

(i) Based on the European Commission’s Delegated Act on LCR.

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Net loan to deposit ratio (LTD) – Calculated as the ratio 
between net loans to customers and deposits from customers. 

There is no regulatory defined limitation on the LTD, however, 

the aim of this measure is to restrict extensive growth of the loan 

portfolio.

Table 48a: NLB Group and NLB LTD calculation

31 Dec 
2022

NLB Group

31 Dec 
2021

31 Dec 
2020

31 Dec 
2022

in EUR millions

31 Dec 
2020

NLB

31 Dec 
2021

Numerator

Net loans to customers

13,073.0

10,587.1

9,644.9

6,062.3

5,153.0

4,595.1

Denominator

Deposits from customers

Net loan to deposit ratio (LTD)

20,027.7

65.3%

17,640.8

60.0%

16,397.2

58.8%

10,984.4

55.2%

9,659.6

53.3%

8,850.8

51.9%

Table 48b: NLB Group’s banking subsidiaries LTD calculation

NLB Banka, 
Skopje

NLB Banka, 
Banja Luka

NLB Banka, 
Sarajevo

NLB Banka, 
Prishtina

NLB Banka, 
Podgorica

NLB Banka, 
Beograd

NLB Komercijalna  
Banka, Beograd

N Banka, 
Ljubljana

31 Dec 
2022

31 Dec 
2021

31 Dec 
2022

31 Dec 
2021

31 Dec 
2022

31 Dec 
2021

31 Dec 
2022

31 Dec 
2021

31 Dec 
2022

31 Dec 
2021

31 Dec 
2021

31 Dec 
2022

31 Dec 
2021

31 Dec 
2022

 in EUR millions

Numerator

Net loans to customers

1,170.7

1,084.1

523.2

471.1

521.3

453.0

740.8

634.5

532.3

491.6

511.7

2,589.2

1,795.9

939.2

Denominator

Deposits from customers

Net loan to deposit ratio (LTD)

1,462.0

80.1%

1,399.5

77.5%

796.7

65.7%

759.9

62.0%

673.4

77.4%

593.0

76.4%

894.2

82.8%

798.8

79.4%

692.9

76.8%

609.8

80.6%

449.5

113.8%

3,692.2

70.1%

3,424.6

52.4%

898.8

104.5%

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152

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net interest margin on the basis of interest-bearing assets – 
Calculated as the ratio between net interest income annualized 

and average interest-bearing assets.

Table 49: NLB Group’s banking subsidiaries net interest margin on the basis of interest-bearing assets calculation(iii)

NLB Banka, 
Skopje

NLB Banka, 
Banja Luka

NLB Banka, 
Sarajevo

NLB Banka, 
Prishtina

NLB Banka, 
Podgorica

NLB Banka, 
Beograd

NLB Komercijalna 
Banka, Beograd

N Banka, 
Ljubljana

2022

2021

2022

2021

2022

2021

2022

2021

2022

2021

2021

2022

2021

2022

 in EUR millions

53.9

50.4

23.6

20.1

19.5

17.8

39.8

34.5

29.6

22.0

23.4

131.6

88.6

27.8

Numerator

Net interest income(i)

Denominator

Average interest-bearing assets(ii)

1,714.0

1,605.3

Net interest margin on  
interest-bearing assets

3.1%

3.1%

915.1

2.6%

844.3

2.4%

746.3

2.6%

645.0

2.8%

978.4

4.1%

900.6

3.8%

737.2

4.0%

550.2

4.0%

678.3

4,389.0

3,742.6

1,377.0

3.4%

3.0%

2.4%

2.0%

(i) Net interest income is annualized, and calculated as the sum of interest income and interest expenses in the period divided by the number of days in the period and multiplied by the number of days in the year.
(ii) NLB internal information. Average interest-bearing assets for individual bank members are calculated as the sum of balance of previous year end (31 December) and monthly balances of the last day of each month from January to reporting month t divided by (t+1). 
N Bank internal information. Average interest-bearing assets for N Bank are calculated as the sum of daily balances in the period (from 1 January to day d – the last day in reporting period) divided by number of days d.
(iii) Data for N Bank internal information.

Net interest margin on the basis of interest-bearing assets – 
Calculated as the ratio between net interest income annualized 

and average interest-bearing assets.

Table 50: NLB Group’s net interest margin on the basis of interest-
bearing assets calculation

Numerator

Net interest income(i)

Denominator

Average interest-bearing assets(ii)

Net interest margin on interest-bearing assets

in EUR millions

NLB Group

2022

504.9

21,988.4

2.30%

(i) Net interest income is annualized, calculated as the sum of interest income and 
interest expenses in the period divided by the number of days in the period and 
multiplied by the number of days in the year.
(ii) NLB internal information. Average interest-bearing assets for the Group are 
calculated as the sum of balance from the previous year end (31 December) and 
monthly balances of the last day of each month from January to the reporting 
month t divided by (t+1).

Net interest margin on the basis of interest-bearing assets 
(quarterly) – Calculated as the ratio between the net interest 
income annualized and average interest-bearing assets.

Table 51: NLB Group net interest margin on the basis of interest-bearing assets calculation (quarterly)

Numerator

Net interest income(i)

Denominator

Average interest-bearing assets(ii)

Net interest margin on interest-bearing  
assets (quarterly)

Q4 2022

Q3 2022

Q2 2022

Q1 2022

NLB Group

in EUR millions

602.4

502.7

475.6

437.2

22,730.4

2.65%

22,155.9

2.27%

22,045.9

2.16%

21,087.6

2.07%

(i) Net interest income (quarterly) is annualized, calculated as the sum of interest income and interest expenses in the period divided by the number of days in the quarter and 
multiplied by the number of days in the year.
(ii) NLB internal information. Average interest-bearing assets (quarterly) for the NLB Group are calculated as the sum of monthly balances (t) for the corresponding quarter and 
monthly balance at the end of the previous quarter divided by (t+1). 

MB Statement

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Contents

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Net interest margin on total assets – Calculated as the ratio 
between net interest income annualized, and average total 

assets.

Table 52: NLB Group and NLB net interest margin on total assets calculation

Numerator

Net interest income(i)

Denominator

Average total assets(ii)

Net interest margin on total assets

2022

NLB Group

2021

504.9

409.4

2020

299.6

22,975.9

2.2%

20,659.0

2.0%

15,086.2

2.0%

2022

177.0

13,133.2

1.3%

in EUR millions

2020

138.9

10,336.2

1.3%

NLB

2021

139.5

11,853.9

1.2%

(i) Net interest income is annualized, and calculated as sum of interest income and interest expenses in the period divided by the number of days in the period and multiplied by 
the number of days in the year.
(ii) NLB internal information. Average total assets for the NLB Group are calculated as sum of balance of the previous year end (31 December) and monthly balances of the last 
day of each month from January to month t divided by (t+1). Average total assets for NLB are calculated as the sum of total assets of the previous year end (31 December) and 
daily balances in the period (from 1 January to day d – the last day in reporting month) divided by (d+1).

NPE – NPE includes risk exposure to D- and E-rated clients 
(includes loans and advances, debt securities, and off-balance 

exposures, which are included in report Finrep18; before 

the deduction of allowances for the ECL). Non-performing 

exposures measured by fair value loans through P&L (FVTPL) 

are taken into account at fair value increased by the amount of 

negative fair changes for credit risk.

NPE per cent. (on-balance and off-balance)/Classified 
on-balance and off-balance exposures – NPE per cent. in 

accordance with EBA methodology: NPE as a percentage of all 

exposures to clients in Finrep18, before deduction of allowances 

for the ECL; the ratio is in gross terms.

Where Non-Performing Exposure includes risk exposure to 

D- and E-rated clients (includes loans and advances, debt 

securities, and off-balance exposures, which are included in 

report Finrep18; before the deduction of allowances for the 

ECL). The share of NPEs is calculated on the basis of an internal 

data source, with which the NLB Group monitors the portfolio 

quality. The calculations presented below are based on internal 
data sources. 

Table 53: NLB Group and NLB NPE (EBA def.) calculation

NLB Group

2022

2021

2020

2022

in EUR millions 

NLB 

2021

2020

373.6

415.5

513.0

136.0

159.5

235.1

Numerator

Total Non-Performing on-
balance and off-balance 
Exposure in Finrep18

Denominator

Total on-balance and off-
balance exposures in Finrep18

NPE per cent.

1.3%

1.7%

2.3%

0.9%

1.1%

28,133.2

24,328.0

22,042.3

15,512.0

13,869.9

12,223.1

1.9%

MB Statement

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NPE – NPE indicator according to the BoS calculation differs 
from the EBA methodology in the treatment of debt instruments 

measured at FVOCI. The carrying amount of debt instruments 

measured at FVOCI is increased by value adjustments due to 

impairments.

Table 54: NLB Group and NLB NPE (EBA def.) (Bos) calculation

Numerator

Total Non-Performing on-balance and 
off-balance Exposure in Finrep18

Denominator

Total on-balance and off-balance 
exposures in Finrep18, where carrying 
amount of FVOCI is increased by value 
adjustments due to impairments

NLB Group

2022

2021

2020

2022

in EUR millions 

NLB 

2021

2020

373.6

415.5

513.0

136.0

159.5

235.1

28,134.7

24,339.2

22,051.0

15,506.3

13,872.1

12,225.5

NPE per cent.

1.3%

1.7%

2.3%

0.9%

1.1%

1.9%

MB Statement

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155

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Non-performing loans include loans to D- and E-rated clients, 
namely loans at least 90 days past due, or loans unlikely to be 

repaid without recourse to collateral (before deduction of loan 

loss allowances).

NPL per cent. – The share of non-performing loans in total 
loans: non-performing loans as a percentage of total loans to 

clients before deduction of loan loss allowances; ratio in gross 

terms. Where non-performing loans are defined as loans to 

D- and E-rated clients, namely loans at least 90 days past due, 

or loans unlikely to be repaid without recourse to collateral 

(before deduction of loan loss allowances). The share of non-

performing loans is calculated on the basis of an internal data 

source, with which the NLB Group monitors the loan portfolio 

quality.

Table 55a: NLB NPL calculation

in EUR millions 

NLB

2021

2020

2022

Numerator

Total Non-Performing Loans

111.2

130.4

208.4

Denominator

Total gross loans

NPL per cent.

9,667.2

8,522.5

6,980.8

1.1%

1.5%

3.0%

Table 55b: NLB Group NPL calculation

Numerator

Total Non-Performing Loans

Denominator

Total gross loans

NPL per cent.

2022

328.3

18,403.9

1.8%

2021

367.4

15,541.8

2.4%

2020

474.7

13,686.6

3.5%

NLB Group

2019

374.7

9,793.5

3.8%

in EUR millions 

2018

622.3

9,017.2

6.9%

2017

844.5

9,130.4

9.2%

Table 55c: NLB Group’s banking subsidiaries NPL calculation

NLB Banka, 
Skopje

NLB Banka,  
Banja Luka

NLB Banka,  
Sarajevo

NLB Banka,  
Prishtina

NLB Banka,  
Podgorica

NLB Komercijalna  
Banka, Beograd

N Banka, 
Ljubljana

in EUR millions 

NLB Group’s 
banking 
subsidiaries

Numerator

Total Non-Performing Loans

54.5

59.7

8.3

9.4

17.0

19.0

15.7

15.6

32.6

42.2

32.5

36.3

23.6

295.4

2022

2021

2022

2021

2022

2021

2022

2021

2022

2021

2022

2021

2022

2022

Denominator

Total gross loans

NPL per cent.

1,506.5

3.6%

1,383.8

4.3%

734.4

1.1%

734.7

1.3%

724.2

2.3%

621.0

3.1%

940.5

1.7%

802.0

1.9%

715.3

4.6%

602.0

7.0%

3,390.0

1.0%

2,610.1

1.4%

1,218.4

1.9%

18,174.2

1.6%

MB Statement

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156

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NPL coverage ratio 1 – The coverage of the gross non-
performing loans portfolio with loan loss allowances on the 

entire loan portfolio - loan impairment in respect of non-

performing loans. It shows the level of credit provisions that the 

entity has already absorbed into its profit and loss accounts 

with respect to the total of impaired loans. The NPL coverage 

ratio 1 is calculated on the basis of an internal data source, with 

which the NLB Group monitors the quality of loan portfolio.

Table 56a: NLB NPL coverage ratio 1 calculation

in EUR millions

NLB

2021

2020

2022

95.7

97.9

158.4

Numerator

Loan loss allowances 
entire loan portfolio

Denominator

Total Non-Performing Loans

111.2

130.4

208.4

NPL coverage ratio 1 (NPL CR 1)

86.1%

75.1% 76.0%

Table 56b: NLB Group NPL coverage ratio 1 calculation

Numerator

Loan loss allowances 
entire loan portfolio

Denominator

2022

2021

2020

2019

2018

2017

NLB Group

in EUR millions

324.8

316.5

388.4

334.2

479.6

654.8

Total Non-Performing Loans

NPL coverage ratio 1 (NPL CR 1)

328.3

98.9%

367.4

86.1%

474.7

81.8%

374.7

89.2%

622.3

77.1%

844.5

77.5%

Table 56c: NLB Group's banking subsidiaries NPL coverage ratio 1 
calculation

NLB Banka, 
Skopje

NLB Banka, 
Banja Luka

NLB Banka, 
Sarajevo

NLB Banka, 
Prishtina

NLB Banka, 
Podgorica

2022

in EUR millions

NLB 
Komercijalna 
Banka, 
Beograd

N Banka, 
Ljubljana

NLB Group’s 
banking 
subsidiaries

63.7

17.5

20.8

36.6

20.2

35.9

15.9

303.5

Numerator

Loan loss allowances 
entire loan portfolio

Denominator

Total Non-Performing Loans

NPL coverage ratio 1 (NPL CR 1)

54.5

116.9%

8.3

17.0

15.7

211.3%

122.6%

232.8%

32.6

62.1%

32.5

110.4%

23.6

67.3%

295.4

102.7%

MB Statement

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NPL coverage ratio 2 – The coverage of the gross non-
performing loans portfolio with loan loss allowances on the 

non-performing loans portfolio. The NPL coverage ratio 2 is 

calculated on the basis of on an internal data source, with 

which the NLB Group monitors the loan portfolio quality.

Table 57a: NLB Group and NLB NPL coverage ratio 2 calculation 

Numerator

Loan loss allowances non-
performing loan portfolio

Denominator

Total Non-Performing Loans

NPL coverage ratio 2 (NPL CR 2)

2022

187.4

328.3

57.1%

NLB Group

2021

212.9

367.4

57.9%

2020

272.1

474.7

57.3%

2022

64.5

111.2

58.1%

in EUR millions

NLB 

2021

2020

79.0

120.7

130.4

60.6%

208.4

57.9%

Table 57b: NLB Group’s banking subsidiaries NPL coverage ratio 2 
calculation

NLB Banka, 
Skopje

NLB Banka, 
Banja Luka

NLB Banka, 
Sarajevo

NLB Banka, 
Prishtina

NLB Banka, 
Podgorica

2022

in EUR millions

NLB 
Komercijalna 
Banka, 
Beograd

N Banka, 
Ljubljana

NLB Group’s 
banking 
subsidiaries

38.7

5.0

14.9

13.8

14.7

11.2

3.8

166.6

Numerator

Loan loss allowances non-
performing loan portfolio

Denominator

Total Non-Performing Loans

NPL coverage ratio 2 (NPL CR 2)

54.5

70.9%

8.3

60.7%

17.0

87.7%

15.7

87.7%

32.6

45.1%

32.5

34.5%

23.6

16.2%

295.4

56.4%

Net NPL Ratio – The share of net non-performing loans in 
total net loans: non-performing loans after deduction of 

loss allowances on the non-performing loans portfolio as 

a percentage of total loans to clients after the deduction of 

loan loss allowances; the ratio is in net terms. The calculations 

presented below are based on internal data sources.

Table 58: NLB Group and NLB Net NPL ratio calculation

Numerator

Net volume of non-performing loans

Denominator

Total Net Loans

Net NPL ratio per cent. (%Net NPL)

2022

140.9

18,079.1

0.8%

NLB Group

2021

154.5

15,225.4

1.0%

2020

202.7

13,298.2

1.5%

2022

46.6

9,571.5

0.5%

in EUR millions

2020

87.8

6,822.4

1.3%

NLB 

2021

51.4

8,424.7

0.6%

MB Statement

SB Statement

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Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

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Performance Overview

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Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

158

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Received collaterals for NPLs/NPL – The coverage of the 
gross non-performing loans portfolio with collateral for non-

performing loans. The collateral market value is used for this 

calculation. The calculations presented below are based on 

internal data sources.

Table 59: NLB Group in NLB Received collaterals for NPLs/NPL 
calculation

Numerator

Gross volume of Non-Performing 
Loans covered by collaterals 

Denominator

Total Non-Performing Loans

Received collaterals for NPLs / NPL

NLB Group

2022

2021

2020

2022

in EUR millions

NLB 

2021

2020

200.3

226.6

288.1

64.9

78.2

137.2

328.3

61.0%

367.4

61.7%

474.7

60.7%

111.2

58.4%

130.4

60.0%

208.4

65.8%

Non-performing loans and advances (EBA def.) –  
Non-performing loans include loans and advances in 

accordance with EBA Methodology that are classified as to D 
and E, namely loans at least 90 days past due, or loans unlikely 

to be repaid without recourse to collateral (before deduction of 

loan loss allowances).

Gross NPL ratio (EBA def.) – The gross NPL ratio is the ratio 
of the gross carrying amount of non-performing loans and 

advances to the total gross carrying amount of loans and 

advances, in accordance with the EBA methodology (report 

Finrep18). For the purpose of this calculation, loans and 

advances classified as held for sale, cash balances at CBs, 

and other demand deposits are excluded from both the 

denominator and the numerator. The calculations presented 

below are based on internal data sources.

Table 60: NLB Group and NLB Gross NPL ratio (EBA def.) calculation

Numerator

Gross volume of Non-Performing Loans and 
advances without loans held for sale, cash 
balances at CBs and other demand deposits

Denominator

Gross volume of Loans and advances in 
Finrep18 without loans held for sale, cash 
balances at CBs and other demand deposits

NLB Group

2022

2021

2020

2022

in EUR millions

NLB 

2021

2020

337.2

375.1

466.0

111.7

131.2

199.1

13,796.0

11,128.8

10,340.6

6,610.8

5,498.9

4,958.8

Gross NPL ratio per cent. (% NPL)

2.4%

3.4%

4.5%

1.7%

2.4%

4.0%

MB Statement

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Gross NPL ratio (EBA def.) (BoS) – The gross NPL ratio is the 
ratio of the gross carrying amount of non-performing loans 

and advances to the total gross carrying amount of loans and 

advances, in accordance with the EBA methodology (report 

Finrep18). Cash balances at CBs and other demand deposits 
are included in the calculation. The indicator for the banking 
sector in the EU is published quarterly by the EBA in the Risk 
dashboard. The calculations presented below are based on 
internal data sources.

Table 61: NLB Group and NLB Gross NPL ratio (EBA def.) (BoS) 
calculation

Numerator

Gross volume of Non-Performing 
Loans and advances

Denominator

NLB Group

2022

2021

2020

2022

in EUR millions

NLB 

2021

2020

337.2

375.1

466.0

111.7

131.2

199.1

Gross volume of Loans and advances in Finrep18

18,590.5

15,668.8

Gross NPL ratio per cent. (% NPL)

1.8%

2.4%

13,795.3

3.4%

9,780.9

1.1%

8,615.3

1.5%

7,028.2

2.8%

NPL coverage ratio (EBA def.) – The NPL coverage ratio is 
the ratio of the amount of accumulated impairment, negative 

changes in fair value due to credit risk to the non-performing 

loans and advances, in accordance with the EBA methodology 

(report Finrep18). Loans and advances classified as held for 

sale, cash balances at CBs and other demand deposits are 

excluded both from the denominator and from the numerator.

Table 62: NLB Group and NLB NPL coverage ratio (EBA def.) calculation

Numerator

Volume of allowances and value 
adjustments for credit losses on Non-
Performing loans and advances(i)

Denominator

Gross volume of Non-Performing 
loans and advances(i)

NPL coverage ratio per cent. (% CR)

NLB Group

2022

2021

2020

2022

in EUR millions

NLB 

2021

2020

195.9

219.1

265.3

65.0

79.8

110.1

337.2

58.1%

375.1

58.4%

466.0

56.9%

111.7

131.2

199.1

58.2%

60.8%

55.3%

(i) Without loans and advances classified as held for sale, cash balances at CBs, 
and other demand deposits.

MB Statement

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160

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NPL coverage ratio (EBA def.) (BoS) – The NPL coverage ratio 
is the ratio of the amount of accumulated impairment, negative 

changes in fair value due to credit risk to the non-performing 

loans and advances, in accordance with the EBA methodology 

(report Finrep18). Cash balances at CBs and other demand 

deposits are included in the calculation.

Table 63:  NLB Group and NLB NPL coverage ratio (EBA def.) (BoS) 
calculation

Numerator

Volume of allowances and value 
adjustments for credit losses on Non-
Performing loans and advances

Denominator

Gross volume of Non-Performing 
loans and advances

NPL coverage ratio per cent. (% CR)

NLB Group

2022

2021

2020

2022

in EUR millions

NLB 

2021

2020

195.9

219.1

265.3

65.0

79.8

110.1

337.2

58.1%

375.1

58.4%

466.0

56.9%

111.7

131.2

199.1

58.2%

60.8%

55.3%

Collateral received/NPL (EBA def.) – The NPL collateral ratio 
is the ratio of the collateral received for non-performing loans 

and advances to the gross carrying amount of collateralized 

non-performing loans and advances, in accordance with the 

EBA methodology (report Finrep18). The calculation is provided 

on single loan basis. The NPLs where the amount of collateral 

received exceeds the net non-performing of each loan exposure 

are the subject of calculation. 

Table 64: NLB Group and NLB NPL collateral coverage ratio (EBA def.) 
calculation

Numerator

Volume of collateral received up to the 
carrying amount of each loan or advance 

Denominator

Gross volume of collateralized Non-
Performing loans and advances

NLB Group

2022

2021

2020

2022

30.7

36.7

61.3

56.1

62.5

144.6

6.2

8.2

in EUR millions

NLB 

2021

2020

12.2

38.6

19.4

88.8

NPL Collateral received / NPL (%)

54.7%

58.8%

42.4%

75.6%

63.1%

43.5%

MB Statement

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Contents

161

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net stable funding ratio (NSFR) – The net stable funding ratio 
is a liquidity risk standard requiring financial institutions to hold 

enough stable funding to cover the duration of their long-term 

assets.

NSFR is defined as the amount of available stable funding 

relative to the amount of required stable funding and is based 

on the current Basel Committee guidelines. This ratio should 

be equal to at least 100% on an on-going basis. ‘Available 

stable funding’ is defined as the portion of capital and liabilities 

expected to be reliable over the time horizon considered by the 

NSFR, which extends to one year. The amount of such stable 

funding required of a specific institution is a function of the 

liquidity characteristics and residual maturities of the various 

assets held by that institution, as well as those of its off-balance-

sheet (OBS) exposures. The calculations presented below are 

based on internal data sources.

Table 65: NLB Group and NLB NSFR calculation

NLB Group

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2020

in EUR millions

Numerator

Amount of available stable funding

20,409.1

18,446.7

16,514.6

11,691.2

10,815.8

9,455.7

Denominator

Amount of required stable funding

NSFR

11,154.7

183.0%

9,960.8

185.2%

9,966.8

165.7%

6,582.3

177.6%

6,309.5

171.4%

5,833.7

162.1%

EVE (Economic Value of Equity) method – EVE method is a 
measure of sensitivity of changes in market interest rates on 

the economic value of financial instruments. EVE represents 

the present value of net future cash flows and provides a 

comprehensive view of the possible long-term effects of 

changing interest rates at least under the six prescribed 

standardised interest rate shock scenarios or more if necessary, 

according to the situation on financial markets. Calculations 

take into account behavioural and automatic options, as well as 

the allocation of non-maturing deposits.

The assessment of the impact of a change in interest rates of 

200 bps on the economic value of the banking book position:

Table 66: NLB Group EVE calculation

31 Dec 2022 30 Sep 2022 30 Jun 2022 31 Mar 2022

31 Dec 2021 30 Sep 2021

30 Jun 2021

31 Mar 2021 31 Dec 2020

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

Numerator

Interest risk in banking book – EVE 

-110,452.4

-115,458.9

-129,345.0

-141,035.8

-126,650.6

-135,133.4

-134,172.8

-140,567.2

-128,370.1

Denominator

Equity (Tier I)

EVE as % of Equity

2,166,333.0 2,065,707.0 2,048,380.0

1,906,112.0

1,972,485.0 1,903,800.0

1,879,365.0

1,734,545.0 1,765,000.0

-5.1%

-5.6%

-6.3%

-7.4%

-6.4%

-7.1%

-7.1%

-8.1%

-7.3%

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Operational business margin (OBM) – Calculated as the ratio 
between operational business net income annualized and 

average assets. 

Table 67: NLB Group and NLB OBM calculation

NLB Group

2022

2021

2020

 2022

in EUR millions

NLB

 2021

 2020

Numerator

Operational business net income(i)

820.0

678.1

490.3

326.8

274.3

257.7

Denominator

Average total assets(ii)

OBM (cumulative) 

22,975.9

20,659.0

15,086.2

3.6%

3.3%

3.2%

13,147.5

2.5%

11,876.0

2.3%

10,336.3

2.5%

(i) Operational business net income is annualized, and calculated as operational business income in the period divided by the number of days in the period and multiplied by 
the number of days in the year. Operational business income consists of net interest income (excluding interest expenses from subordinated securities), net fees and commissions 
and net gains and losses from financial assets and liabilities held for trading that derive from foreign exchange trading. 
(ii) NLB internal information. Average total assets is calculated as a sum of balance as at the end of the previous year end (31 December) and monthly balances of the last day of 
each month from January to month t divided by (t+1). 

Operational business margin (OBM) (quarterly) – Calculated 
as the ratio between operational business net income 

annualized and average assets. 

Table 68: NLB Group OBM (quarterly) calculation 

Numerator

Operational business net income(i)

Denominator

Average total assets(ii)

OBM (quarterly)

Q4 2022

Q3 2022

Q2 2022

Q1  2022

NLB Group

in EUR millions

917.9

834.0

795.1

730.7

23,740.9

3.87%

23,185.2

3.60%

23,050.6

3.45%

22,006.7

3.32%

(i) Operational business net income (quarterly) is annualized, and calculated as operational business income in the period divided by the number of days in the quarter and 
multiplied by the number of days in the year. Operational business income consists of net interest income (excluding interest expenses from subordinated securities), net fees and 
commissions and net gains and losses from financial assets and liabilities held for trading that derive from foreign exchange trading. 
(ii) NLB internal information. Average total assets (quarterly) for the NLB Group are calculated as the sum of monthly balances (t) for the corresponding quarter and monthly 
balance at the end of the previous quarter divided by (t+1). 

Return on equity before tax (ROE b.t.) – Calculated as the ratio 
between result before tax annualized and average total equity 

(including non-controlling interests). 

Table 69: NLB Group and NLB ROE b.t. calculation

Numerator

Result before tax(i)

Denominator

Average total equity(ii)

ROE b.t.

NLB Group 

 2022

 2021

 2020

 2022

in EUR millions

NLB

 2021

 2020

483.1

261.4

277.9

164.1

211.5

113.9

2,344.4

20.6%

2,222.8

11.8%

1,808.1

15.4%

1,558.3

10.5%

1,507.2

14.0%

1,384.6

8.2%

(i) The result before tax is annualized and calculated as the result before tax in the period divided by the number of months for the reporting period and multiplied by 12.
(ii) NLB internal information. Average total equity (including non-controlling interests) is calculated as the sum of the balance as at end of the previous year end (31 December) 
and monthly balances of the last day of each month from January to month t divided by (t+1).

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Return on equity after tax (ROE a.t.) – Calculated as the ratio 
between result after tax annualized and average equity. 

Table 70a: NLB Group and NLB ROE a.t. calculation

Numerator

Result after tax(i)

Denominator

Average equity(ii)

ROE a.t.

 2022

446.9

2,248.7

19.9%

NLB Group

 2021

236.4

2,069.9

11.4%

 2020

269.7

1,751.2

15.4%

 2022

159.6

1,558.3

10.2%

in EUR millions

 2020

114.0

1,384.6

8.2%

NLB

 2021

208.4

1,507.2

13.8%

(i) The result after tax is annualized and calculated as the result after tax in the period divided by the number of months for the reporting period and multiplied by 12.
(ii) NLB internal information. Average equity is calculated as the sum of the balance as at the end of the previous year end (31 December) and monthly balances of the last day of 
each month from January to month t divided by (t+1). 

Table 70b: NLB Group (w/o negative goodwill) ROE a.t. calculation

NLB Group (w/o NGW)

Numerator

Result after tax(i)

Denominator

Average equity(ii)

ROE a.t.

(i)(ii) Please refer to the notes under Table 70a.

in EUR millions

 2022

274.0

2,248.7

12.2%

Table 70c: NLB Group’s banking subsidiaries ROE a.t. calculation

NLB Banka, 
Skopje

NLB Banka, 
Banja Luka

NLB Banka, 
Sarajevo

NLB Banka, 
Prishtina

NLB Banka, 
Podgorica

NLB Banka, 
Beograd

NLB Komercijalna  
Banka, Beograd

 2022

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2021

 2022

 2021

in EUR millions

37.9

39.0

19.3

18.2

11.4

10.0

32.4

24.4

16.6

10.1

4.3

68.2

34.8

252.9

15.0%

245.4

15.9%

95.3

20.2%

106.7

17.0%

91.5

12.5%

93.5

10.7%

111.1

29.2%

108.9

22.4%

99.5

16.7%

76.5

13.1%

77.4

5.5%

713.0

9.6%

630.2

5.5%

Numerator

Result after tax(i)

Denominator

Average equity(ii)

ROE a.t.

(i)(ii) Please refer to the notes under Table 70a.

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Return on equity after tax (ROE a.t.) normalized(iii)– Calculated 
as the ratio between result after tax annualized and average 

risk adjusted capital.

Table 71: NLB Group ROE a.t. normalized calculation

Numerator

Result after tax(i)

Denominator

Average risk adjusted capital(ii)

ROE a.t.

in EUR millions

NLB Group

 2022

274.0

1,759.8

15.6%

(i) Result after tax is annualized, calculated as a result after tax in the period divided 
by the number of months for the reporting period and multiplied by 12.
(ii) NLB internal information. Average risk adjusted capital is calculated as a sum 
of Risk Weighted Assets (RWA)  balance as at the end of the previous year end (31 
December) and monthly Risk Weighted Assets (RWA) balances of the last day of 
each month from January to month t divided by (t+1), multiplied by Tier 1 regulatory 
capital requirement and decreased by minority shareholder capital.
(iii) Result a.t. w/o negative goodwill divided by Average risk adjusted capital. 
Average risk adjusted capital calculated as Tier 1 requirement of average Risk 
Weighted Assets (RWA) reduced for minority shareholder capital contribution.

Return on assets (ROA b.t.) – Calculated as the ratio between 
result before tax annualized and average total assets.

Table 72: NLB Group and NLB ROA b.t. calculation

Numerator

Result before tax(i)

Denominator

Average total assets(ii)

ROA b.t.

 2022

483.1

NLB Group

 2021

261.4

22,975.9

2.1%

20,659.0

1.3%

 2020

277.9

15,086.2

1.8%

 2022

164.1

13,147.5

1.2%

in EUR millions

 2020

113.9

10,336.3

1.1%

NLB

 2021

211.5

11,876.0

1.8%

(i) The result before tax is annualized and calculated as the result before tax in the period divided by the number of months for the reporting period and multiplied by 12.
(ii) NLB internal information. Average total assets are calculated as the sum of the balance as at the end of the previous year end (31 December) and the monthly balances of the 
last day of each month from January to month t divided by (t+1). 

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Return on assets (ROA a.t.) – Calculated as the ratio between 
result after tax annualized and average total assets.

Table 73a: NLB Group and NLB ROA a.t. calculation

Numerator

Result after tax(i)

Denominator

Average total assets(ii)

ROA a.t.

 2022

446.9

NLB Group

 2021

236.4

22,975.9

1.9%

20,659.0

1.1%

 2020

269.7

15,086.2

1.8%

 2022

159.6

13,147.5

1.2%

in EUR millions

 2020

114.0

10,336.3

1.1%

NLB

 2021

208.4

11,876.0

1.8%

(i) The result after tax is annualized and calculated as the result after tax in the period divided by the number of months for the reporting period and multiplied by 12.
(ii) NLB internal information. Average total assets are calculated as the sum of balance as at the end of the previous year end (31 December) and monthly balances of the last 
day of each month from January to month t divided by (t+1).  

Table 73b: NLB Group’s banking subsidiaries ROA a.t. calculation

NLB Banka, 
Skopje

NLB Banka, 
Banja Luka

NLB Banka, 
Sarajevo

NLB Banka, 
Prishtina

NLB Banka, 
Podgorica

NLB Banka, 
Beograd

NLB Komercijalna  
Banka, Beograd

 2022

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2022

 2021

 2021

 2022

 2021

in EUR millions

37.9

39.0

19.3

18.2

11.4

10.0

32.4

24.4

16.6

10.1

4.3

68.2

34.8

1,771.1

2.1%

1,658.6

2.4%

948.7

2.0%

874.5

2.1%

777.6

1.5%

673.5

1.5%

987.1

3.3%

906.0

2.7%

795.2

2.1%

593.5

1.7%

696.3

0.6%

4,668.8

1.5%

4,029.4

0.9%

Numerator

Result after tax(i)

Denominator

Average total assets(ii)

ROA a.t.

(i)(ii) Please refer to the notes under Table 73a.

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Total capital ratio (TCR) – TCR is the own funds of the institution 
expressed as a percentage of the total risk exposure amount.

Table 74a: NLB Group and NLB TCR calculation

NLB Group

NLB 

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2020

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2020

in EUR millions 

Numerator

Total capital (Own funds)

2,806.4

2,252.5

2,065.5

2,004.2

1,647.3

1,631.6

Denominator

Total risk exposure Amount (Total RWA)

Total capital ratio

14,653.1

19.2%

12,667.4

17.8%

12,421.0

16.6%

7,832.7

25.6%

6,708.5

24.6%

6,028.8

27.1%

Table 74b: NLB Group’s banking subsidiaries TCR calculation

Numerator

Total capital

Denominator

Total risk exposure 
Amount (Total RWA)

Total capital ratio

NLB Banka, 
Skopje

NLB Banka, 
Banja Luka

NLB Banka, 
Sarajevo

NLB Banka, 
Prishtina

NLB Banka, 
Podgorica

NLB Banka, 
Beograd

NLB Komercijalna  
Banka, Beograd

N Banka, 
Ljubljana

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021 31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021 31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021 31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021 31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2021 31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021 31 Dec 2022

in EUR millions

251.4

243.6

81.4

77.1

80.4

75.0

117.5

112.3

77.0

70.0

87.7

620.9

555.8

188.3

1,384.8

1,354.4

508.3

456.7

488.1

445.0

18.2%

18.0%

16.0%

16.9%

16.5%

16.9%

746.0

15.7%

647.9

17.3%

419.6

429.3

456.3

2,521.5

1,946.7

877.9

18.4%

16.3%

19.2%

24.6%

28.6%

21.4%

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 Big stories don’t write themselves. In NLB they 
are written by experts, visionaries, and caring 
mentors – in NLB we write them together, mindful 
of our business decisions and actions, and of the 
footprints we create.

Despite the precarious circumstances, the shadow 
of war in Europe, the resulting energy crisis, and the 
economic slowdown, 2022 was the best year in the 
history of our Bank and Group. We reached many 
important milestones and through responsible 
environmental and societal actions once again 
confirmed our commitment and contribution to 
a better quality of life in South-Eastern Europe, 
our home region. We are proud that our efforts 
and our progress in the field of sustainability were 
recognized by our first ESG Risk Rating.

The results give us confidence to pursue future 
growth ambitions. We will continue to create 
added value for our shareholders, live up to the 
expectations of our clients and the public, as well 
as seize all opportunities in front of us.

Pictured: NLB employees

 
 
NLB Group Chart

Nova Ljubljanska banka d.d., 
Ljubljana

Core

Non-core

Banks

Financial institutions

Companies

Financial institutions

Companies

Slovenia

Slovenia

Slovenia

Slovenia

Slovenia

N Banka, Ljubljana

NLB Skladi, Ljubljana

Bankart, Ljubljana(ii)

100%

100%

100%

100%

45.64%

46.03%

NLB Lease&Go, leasing, 
Ljubljana

NLB Cultural Heritage 
Management Institute

100%

100%

100%

100%

NLB Leasing, Ljubljana- 
v likvidaciji (iii)

100%

100%

Prvi faktor,  
v likvidaciji, Ljubljana

50%

50%

S-REAM, Ljubljana

100%

100%

PRO-REM, Ljubljana -  
v likvidaciji

100%

100%

ARG-Nepremičnine, Horjul

75%

75%

PRIVATINVEST, Ljubljana (iv)

100%

100%

Foreign countries

Foreign countries

Foreign countries

Foreign countries

Foreign countries

NLB Lease&Go, Skopje (v)

NLB DigIT, Beograd

51%

100%

100%

100%

NLB Lease&Go Leasing, 
Beograd (vi)

95.20%

95.20%

NLB Banka, Sarajevo

97.35%

97.35%

NLB Banka, Podgorica

99.87%

99.87%

NLB Banka, Prishtina

82.38%

82.38%

NLB Banka, Banja Luka

99.85%

99.85%

NLB Banka, Skopje

86.97%

86.97%

NLB Komercijalna Banka, 
Beograd

100%

100%

KomBank Invest, Beograd

100%

100%

Legend:
The chart shows voting rights shares. The Group includes entities according to the definition in the Financial Conglomerates Act (Article 2).

Subsidiary

% direct share

% indirect share at 
the group level

Associate

% direct share

% indirect share at 
the group level

Joint venture

% direct share

% indirect share at 
the group level

(i.a)  100% direct ownership Prvi Faktor, v likvidaciji, Ljubljana.
(i.b)  90% direct ownership Prvi Faktor, v likvidaciji, Ljubljana, 5% NLB, 5% SID banka d.d.
(ii)  - 45.64% share NLB d.d., 0.39% share N Banka.

- Abanka merged into Nova KBM, which currently has a 29.22% share in Bankart. 
This is over the 25% threshhold set in the Founding agreement - no shareholder other than 
NLB can have more than 25% capital share in Bankart. 

(iii)  100% direct ownership NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o. Ljubljana.
(iv)  100% direct ownership N Banka d.d., Ljubljana.
(v)  51% direct ownership NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o. Ljubljana, 49% NLB Banka AD Skopje.
(vi)  95.20% direct ownership NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o. Ljubljana.

Former name of the company: Zastava Istrabenz Lizing, d.o.o., Beograd (change was 
registered on 17 January 2023).

REAM, Beograd

100%

100%

REAM, Podgorica

100%

100%

Tara Hotel, Budva

12.71%

100%

SPV 2, Beograd

100%

100%

NLB Srbija, Beograd

100%

100%

REAM, Zagreb

100%

100%

OL Nekretnine, Zagreb -  
u likvidaciji

100%

100%

NLB InterFinanz in 
Liquidation, Zürich

100%

100%

NLB InterFinanz, Beograd - 
u likvidaciji

100%

100%

NLB Leasing, Beograd -  
u likvidaciji

100%

100%

LHB AG, Frankfurt

100%

100%

NLB Crna Gora, Podgorica

100%

100%

Prvi faktor u likvidaciji, 
Zagreb(i.a)

100%

100%

Prvi faktor-faktoring, 
Beograd - u likvidaciji(i.b)

90%

95%

Optima Leasing u likvidaciji, 
Zagreb

100%

100%

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Organisational 
Structure of NLB

SUPERVISORY BOARD

MANAGEMENT BOARD

Internal Audit

Strategy and Business Development

Compliance and Integrity

Legal and Secretariat

Group Steering

Worker´s Council(i)

Communication

Human Resources and Organization Development

Global Risk

Group Real Estate Management

CSA & Cross-border Financing

IT Delivery

Credit Risk - Corporate

Controlling

Large Corporates

Data Management

Credit Risk - Retail

Financial Accounting and Administration

Small and Mid Corporates

Evaluation and Control

Financial Markets

Trade Finance Services

IT Governance

 IT Security

Restructuring

CFO

Investment Banking and Custody

IT Infrastructure

Workout and Legal support

CRO

  Understanding of the tasks and responsibilities of Global Risk, Compliance and 

Integrity and Internal Audit is taken into account in accordance to the definitions 
of the (currently valid) Banking Act (ZBan-3).

(i)  Worker´s Council is independent organisational unit with no subordinate or 
superior organisational units and it operates in accordance with ZSDU.

Procurement

Card Operations

Payments Processing

Cash Processing

Financial Instruments Processing

Corporate Customer Delivery

Retail Banking Processing

COO

 NLB Group Corporate and Investment Banking 
Management

Sales Development and Management

Private Banking

KC 24/7

Distribution Network

Area Branch Ljubljana

Area Branch Northwest and Central Slovenia

Area Branch Northeast Slovenia

Area Branch Southeast Slovenia

Area Branch Southwest Slovenia

Micro Enterprises

Mobile Banking

CMO

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 FINANCIAL REPORT

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 Contents

Independent auditor’s report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 174

2.13.  Allowances for financial assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 192

3. 

Changes in the composition of the NLB Group  . . . . . 204

Statement of management’s responsibility   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178

2.14.  Forborne loans  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

4. 

Notes to the income statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205

Income statement for the annual period  
ended 31 December  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179

Statement of comprehensive income  
for the annual period ended 31 December. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 180

2.15.  Repossessed assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

4.1. 

Interest income and expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 205

2.16.  Offsetting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

4.2.  Dividend income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206

2.17. 

Sale and repurchase agreements  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195

4.3. 

Fee and commission income and expenses. . . . . . . . . . 206

Statement of financial position as at 31 December . . . . . . . . .  181

2.18.  Property and equipment  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196

4.4.  Gains less losses from financial assets and liabilities  

Statement of changes in equity for the annual  
period ended 31 December . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183

2.19. 

Intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196

2.20. 

Investment properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196

not measured at fair value through profit or loss. . . . . .207

4.5.  Gains less losses from financial assets and  

liabilities held for trading . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 208

Statement of cash flows for the annual period  
ended 31 December  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185

Notes to the financial statements  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

1. 

2. 

General information  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

Summary of significant accounting policies . . . . . . . . . 187

2.21.  Non-current assets and disposal groups  

classified as held for sale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196

4.6.  Gains less losses from non-trading financial assets 

mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss  . . . . . . 208

2.22.  Accounting for leases  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 196

4.7. 

Foreign exchange translation gains less losses . . . . . . 209

2.23.  Cash and cash equivalents   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197

4.8.  Other net operating income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 209

2.1. 

Statement of compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

2.24.  Borrowings, deposits, and issued debt securities  

with characteristics of debt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197

2.2. 

Basis for presenting the financial statements . . . . . . . . . 187

2.25.  Other issued financial instruments with  

characteristics of equity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197

4.9.  Administrative expenses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210

4.10.  Cash contributions to resolution funds and  

deposit guarantee schemes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .211

2.3. 

Comparative amounts  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

4.11.  Depreciation and amortisation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .211

2.4. 

Consolidation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 187

4.12.  Gains less losses from modification of financial assets  211

2.26.  Provisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197

2.5. 

Business combinations, goodwill,  
and bargain purchases  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188

2.27.  Contingent liabilities and commitments. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198

2.28.  Taxes  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198

4.13.  Provisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212

4.14. 

Impairment charge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212

2.6. 

Investments in subsidiaries, associates  
and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 188

2.29.  Fiduciary activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 198

4.15.  Gains less losses from non-current  

2.30.  Employee benefits  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199

assets held for sale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 212

2.7. 

A combination of entities or businesses  
under common control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189

2.31.  Share-based payment transactions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199

4.16. 

Income tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 213

2.8. 

Foreign currency translation  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189

2.32.  Share capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199

4.17.  Earnings per share. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214

2.9. 

Interest income and expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189

2.33.  Segment reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199

2.10.  Fee and commission income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 189

2.11.  Dividend income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .190

2.34.  Critical accounting estimates and judgments  

in applying accounting policies  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200

2.12.  Financial instruments  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .190

2.35. 

Implementation of the new and revised International 
Financial Reporting Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .202

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Strategy
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Performance Overview
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Events After 2022
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172

  
5. 

Notes to the statement of financial position . . . . . . . . . 214

5.22.  Accumulated other comprehensive  

income and reserves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 261

5.1. 

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and other  
demand deposits at banks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214

5.23.  Capital adequacy ratios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .262

5.2. 

Financial instruments held for trading   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 215

5.24.  Off-balance sheet liabilities  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 265

5.3.  Non-trading financial instruments measured  

5.25.  Funds managed on behalf of third parties . . . . . . . . . . . 266

at fair value through profit or loss  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216

5.4. 

Financial assets measured at fair value  
through other comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 217

6. 

Risk management  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267

6.1. 

Credit risk management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .269

5.5.  Derivatives for hedging purposes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219

6.2.  Market risk . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 287

5.6. 

Financial assets measured at amortised cost . . . . . . . . . 221

6.3. 

Liquidity risk  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .293

5.7.  Non-current assets held for sale  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224

6.4.  Management of non-financial risks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 305

6.5. 

Fair value hierarchy of financial and  
non-financial assets and liabilities. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306

6.6.  Offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities . . . . . 315

7. 

8. 

9. 

Analysis by segment for NLB Group  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 316

Related-party transactions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320

Events after the reporting date . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .329

5.8. 

Property and equipment  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224

5.9. 

Investment property. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227

5.10. 

Intangible assets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228

5.11. 

Leases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .229

5.12. 

Investments in subsidiaries, associates  
and joint ventures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 231

5.13.  Other assets  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .239

5.14.  Movements in allowance for the impairment  

of financial assets   . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 240

5.15.  Financial liabilities, measured at amortised cost . . . . . . 247

5.16.  Provisions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .249

5.17.  Deferred income tax  . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 256

5.18. 

Income tax relating to components  
of other comprehensive income . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 259

5.19.  Other liabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 259

5.20.  Share capital . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260

5.21.  Other equity instruments issued . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260

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Key Highlights

Strategy
Strategy

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Events After 2022
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Independent auditor’s report

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR'S REPORT  

To the Shareholders of Nova Ljubljanska Banka, d.d. 

REPORT ON THE AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

Opinion  

We  have  audited  the  separate  financial  statements  of  Nova  Ljubljanska  Banka,  d.d.  (“the  Bank”)  and  the 
consolidated financial statements of the Nova Ljubljanska Banka, d.d. and its subsidiaries (together “the Group”), 
which comprise the separate and consolidated statement of financial position as at December 31 2022, the separate 
and  the  consolidated  income  statement,  the  separate  and  the  consolidated  statement  of  other  comprehensive 
income, the separate and the consolidated statement of changes in equity and the separate and the consolidated 
statement  of  cash  flows  for  the  year  then  ended,  and  a  summary  of  significant  accounting  policies  and  other 
explanatory information.  

In  our  opinion,  the  accompanying  separate  and  consolidated  financial  statements  present  fairly,  in  all  material 
respects, the financial position of the Bank and the Group as at 31 December 2022 and its financial performance 
and  its  cash  flows  for  the  year  then  ended  in  accordance  with  International  Financial  Reporting  Standards  as 
adopted by the European Union. 

Basis for opinion  

We  conducted our  audit in  accordance  with  International  Standards  on  Auditing  (ISA)  and  Regulation  (EU)  No. 
537/2014  of  the  European  Parliament  and  of  the  Council  of  16  April  2014  on  specific  requirements  regarding 
statutory  audit  of  public-interest  entities  (“Regulation  (EU)  No.  537/2014  of  the  European  Parliament  and  the 
Council“). Our responsibilities under those rules are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit 
of the separate and the consolidated financial statements section of our report. We are independent of the Bank 
and the Group in accordance with the International Ethics Standards Board of Accountants’ (IESBA) International 
Code  of  Ethics  for  Professional  Accountants  (including  International  Independence  Standards)  (IESBA  Code) 
together with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the separate and the consolidated financial 
statements in Slovenia, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements 
and the IESBA Code. 

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.  

Key audit matters 

Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our audit of 
the separate and the consolidated financial statements of the current period. These matters were addressed in the 
context of our audit of the separate and the consolidated financial statements as a whole and in forming our opinion 
thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these  matters. For each matter below, our description of 
how our audit addressed the matter is provided in that context.  

We have fulfilled the responsibilities described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the separate and the 
consolidated financial statements section of our report, including in relation to these matters. Accordingly, our audit 
included  the  performance  of  procedures  designed  to  respond  to  our  assessment  of  the  risks  of  material 
misstatement  of  the  separate  and  the  consolidated  financial  statements.  The  results  of  our  audit  procedures, 
including the procedures performed to address the matters below, provide the basis for our audit opinion on the 
accompanying separate and the consolidated financial statements.  

Credit risk and impairment of loans and advances to customers including the impact of the conflict in Ukraine and 
the uncertain macroeconomic environment  

The  carrying  amount  of  loans  and  advances  to 
customers  at  amortized  cost  amounts  to  EUR  6.1 
billion  (or  43%  of  total  assets)  of  the  Bank  and  EUR 
13.1 billion (or 54% of total assets) of the Group as of 
31  December  2022.  As  of  31  December  2022,  total 
credit impairment allowances of the Bank amounted to 
EUR 93 million and of the Group to EUR 324 million.   

We  understood  and  evaluated  the  processes  and 
control environment for identifying default events (i.e. 
credit impairment events) within the loan portfolios, as 
well as the processes and controls for assessment of 
impairment  losses  related  to  loans  and  advances  to 
customers. 

1/7 

The impairment of loans and advances to customers is 
a  highly  subjective  area  which  requires  a  significant 
amount  of  judgment  to  be  applied  by  management 
specifically around expected credit losses (ECL), loss 
given default (LGD) and probability of default (PD) in 
the case of Stage 1 and Stage 2 (i.e. for those loans 
and  advances  that  are not  yet  credit  impaired).  Also, 
the assessment of individual credit provisions for loans 
and advances to customers in Stage 3 (i.e. those that 
are  credit  impaired),  which  are  determined  based  on 
scenarios  and  their  likelihood  of  occurrence  requires 
management  judgement.  Scenarios  are  based  on 
'going'  and  'gone'  assumptions  of  debt  repayment. 
Management  judgements  include  assumptions  and 
estimates 
identification  of  significant 
changes in credit risk, impairment triggers, probabilities 
of  scenarios  for  cash  flow  forecasts  and  collateral 
realization, all containing high level of complexity and 
subjectivity. 
the  assessment  of  credit 
impairment was made more complex as a result of the 
conflict  in  Ukraine  and  the  increasingly  uncertain 
macroeconomic  environment 
interest 
rates, energy prices and inflation). The Bank’s Stage 3 
gross  balance  of  loans  and  advances  to  customers 
was EUR 108 million as of 31 December 2022 (Group: 
EUR  301  million)  and  total  provisions  were  EUR  64 
million (Group: EUR 190 million). 

(increasing 

In  2022, 

related 

to 

Provisions  for  loans  and  advances  to  customers  in 
Stage 1 and Stage 2 are determined based on complex 
models  and  the  parameters  used  in  those  models, 
such as lifetime PDs, LGDs, identification of significant 
changes  in  credit  risk,  inclusion  of  forward-looking 
elements  and  segmentation  of  exposures,  all  involve 
significant  management  assumptions  and  estimates. 
The  Bank’s  Stage  1  and  Stage  2  combined  gross 
balance of loans and advances to customers was EUR 
6.0 billion (Group: EUR 12.9 billion) as of 31 December 
2022 and total credit impairment allowances were EUR 
29 million (Group: EUR 137 million). 

As provisions for loans and advances to customers are 
significant to understanding the financial statements as 
a whole and bear significant judgements, we consider 
this  to  be  a  significant  item  for  our  audit  and  a  key 
auditing  matter.  For  further  information,  refer  to  Note 
6.1.  Credit  risk  management  of  the  separate  and 
consolidated financial statements. 

For  a  sample  of performing  loans  (i.e.  those  that are 
not  credit  impaired)  with  characteristics  that  might 
imply  a  default  event  had  occurred,  we  assessed 
whether the criteria for determining whether a default 
event had occurred are fulfilled and therefore whether 
there  was  a  requirement  to  calculate  an  impairment 
provision using the Stage 3 methodology or not.  

re-performed  management’s 

For a sample of Stage 3 individually impaired loans, we 
understood  the  latest  developments  at  the  borrower 
and the basis of measuring the impairment provisions 
and  considered  whether  key 
judgments  were 
appropriate  given  the  borrowers’  circumstances.  We 
impairment 
also 
calculation for mathematical accuracy. In addition, we 
tested  the  key  inputs  of  the  impairment  calculation, 
including the expected future cash flows and valuation 
of  collateral  held,  and  inquired  with  the  management 
as  to  whether  valuations  were  up  to  date,  consistent 
with  the  strategy  being  followed  in  respect  of  the 
particular borrower and appropriate for the purpose.  

In  respect  of  statistical  models  that  are  used  for  the 
estimation  of  credit  risk  related  impairment  losses  of 
Stage 1 and Stage 2 exposures, we involved Credit risk 
the  model 
in  an  evaluation  of 
specialists 
documentation  and  other  related  evidence  such  as 
model  governance,  segmentation  policy,  expected 
credit  loss  estimation  process.  We  also  reviewed 
changes  in  risk  models  implemented  in  the  current 
period.  We  evaluated  the  application  of  the  models 
through the recalculation for mathematical accuracy of 
credit risk related impairment losses, allowances and 
provisions defined by IFRS 9. We have tested the days 
past  due  calculation  and  the  effect  on  the  staging 
classification of the exposures. 

Furthermore,  we  assessed  how  the  Bank  and  Group 
incorporated  uncertainty  related  to  the  conflict  in 
Ukraine  and  in  the  macroeconomic  environment 
(increasing interest rates, energy prices and inflation) 
in the parameters used for the calculation of collective 
impairments.  Our  Credit  risk  specialists  reviewed 
forward looking information (FLI) and input parameters 
used and assessed whether the uncertainty related to 
the macroeconomic situation was adequately reflected 
in the PD.. 

We have assessed the adequacy of the Bank’s and the 
Group’s  disclosures  included  in  Note  6.1.  Credit  risk 
management,  5.14.  Movements  in  allowance  for  the 
impairment of financial assets and 2.13. Allowances for 
financial  assets  of  the  separate  and  consolidated 
financial statements. 

2/7 

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Information technology (IT) systems and controls over revenue recognition  

A significant part of the Bank's and the Group’s interest 
and  fee  revenue  recognition  process  is  reliant  on  IT 
systems with automated processes and controls over 
the  capture,  storage  and  extraction  of  information.  A 
fundamental  component  of  these  processes  and 
controls is ensuring that appropriate user access and 
change  management  protocols  exist  and  are  being 
adhered to. 

These  protocols  are  important  because  they  ensure 
that  access  and  changes  to  IT  systems  and  related 
data  are  made  and  authorized  in  an  appropriate 
manner. 

As our audit sought to place a high level of reliance on 
IT systems and application controls related to interest 
and fee revenue recognition, a high proportion of the 
overall  audit effort  was  in  this  area.  Furthermore,  the 
complexity  of  IT  systems  and  nature  of  application 
controls requires special expertise to be involved in the 
audit.  We  therefore  consider  this  to  be  a  key  audit 
matter.  

We focused our audit on those IT systems and controls 
that  are  significant  for  the  Bank’s  and  the  Group’s 
interest  and  fee  revenue  recognition  processes.  As 
audit procedures over the IT systems and application 
controls require specific expertise, we involved IT audit 
specialists  in  our  audit  procedures.  This  includes 
among other procedures, testing of IT dependant and 
application controls specific to interest and fee revenue 
recognition in the Bank’s and Group’s IT systems. We 
have tested algorithms used to calculate interest and 
fee income for products generating significant income 
using the Bank’s pricing tables. 

We  understood  and  assessed  the  overall  IT  control 
environment and the controls in place which included 
controls over access to systems and data, as well as 
system  changes.  We  adjusted  our  audit  approach 
based on the financial significance of the system and 
whether there were automated procedures supported 
by that system.  

As  part  of  our  audit  procedures,  we  tested  the 
operating  effectiveness  of  controls  over  appropriate 
access rights to assess whether only appropriate users 
had the ability to create, modify or delete user accounts 
for the relevant in-scope applications. We also tested 
the operating effectiveness of controls around system 
development  and  program  changes  to  establish  that 
changes to the system were appropriately authorized, 
implemented.  Additionally,  we 
developed  and 
assessed  and 
the  design  and  operating 
effectiveness of the application controls embedded in 
the processes relevant to our audit.  

tested 

income,  4.1. 

We assessed the adequacy of the disclosures related 
to  interest  and  fee  revenue  included  in  Notes  2.9. 
income  and  expenses,  2.10.  Fee  and 
Interest 
commission 
income  and 
expenses  and  4.3.  Fee  and  commission  income  and 
expenses  of  the  separate  and  the  consolidated 
financial  statements  in  accordance  with  International 
Financial  Reporting  Standards  as  adopted  by  the 
European Union. 

Interest 

Identification and measurement of the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed with respect to the 
acquisition of N-Banka d.d, Ljubljana 

On 1 March 2022, the Bank completed the acquisition 
of  N-Banka  d.d.,  Ljubljana  for  an  acquisition  price  of 
EUR 5.1 million.  

As part of our audit of the separate and consolidated 
financial statements we have performed the following 
procedures: 

As  described  in  Note  5.12  b)  Acquisition  of  N  Banka 
d.d.,  Ljubljana,  the  purchase  price  allocation  was 
determined during the period, as a result of which EUR 
172.8 million in negative goodwill (Bargain purchase), 
was recognized in the income statement. Note 5.12 b) 
Acquisition  of  N  Banka  d.d.,  Ljubljana  also  provides 
details  of  the  accounting  methods  applied  to  the 
business combinations.  

We  have  examined  the  relevant  legal  documents 
pertaining to the acquisition of N-Banka d.d., Ljubljana 
with a view to identifying the specific clauses impacting 
the determination and recognition of the purchase price 
and the negative goodwill.  

We  obtained,  read  and  understood  the  corporate 
resolutions and administrative authorizations. We have 
performed audit procedures to obtain evidence of the 

We deemed the identification and measurement of fair 
value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed N-
Banka d.d., Ljubljana to be a key audit matter due to 
the significance of the transaction, the material impact 
of the negative goodwill on the current year result, and 
because  it  required  estimations  and  judgments  from 
Group  management  in  terms  of  determining  how  the 
purchase  price  should  be  allocated  to  the  difference 
classes of assets acquired and liabilities assumed. 

 acquisition-date balances which, as provided for in the 
terms of acquisition. We assessed the criteria used for 
recognition  of 
transaction  as  a  business 
combination  and  the  determination  of  the  acquisition 
date and the consideration transferred.  

the 

We  evaluated,  with  the  involvement  of  valuation 
experts,  the  approaches  used  to  determine  the  fair 
values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed, 
the  underlying  assumptions  and  the  mathematical 
accuracy of the calculations made.  

reviewed 

the  qualitative  and  quantitative 
We 
information included in the accompanying notes to the 
consolidated  financial  statements.  We  assessed  the 
adequacy of the disclosures included in Note 5.12 b) 
Acquisition of N Banka d.d., Ljubljana of the separate 
in 
and 
accordance  with  International  Financial  Reporting 
Standards as adopted by the European Union. 

financial  statements 

the  consolidated 

Other information  

Other  information  comprises  the  information  included  in  the  Annual  Report  other  than  the  separate  and  the 
consolidated financial statements and auditor’s report thereon. Management is responsible for the other information. 

Our opinion on the separate and the consolidated financial statements does not cover the other information and we 
do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.  

In connection with our audit of the separate and the consolidated financial statements, our responsibility is to read 
the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the 
separate and the consolidated financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to 
be materially misstated. In addition, we assess whether the other information has been prepared, in all material 
respects, in accordance with applicable law or regulation, in particular, whether the other information complies with 
law or regulation in terms of formal requirements and procedure for preparing the other information in the context 
of materiality, i.e. whether any non-compliance with these requirements could influence judgments made on the 
basis of the other information. 

Based on the procedures performed, to the extent we are able to assess it, we report that: 

• 

• 

The other information describing the facts that are also presented in the separate and the consolidated 
financial statements is, in all material respects, consistent with the separate and the consolidated financial 
statements; and  

The other information is prepared in compliance with applicable law or regulation. 

In addition, our responsibility is to report, based on the knowledge and understanding of the Bank and the Group 
obtained  in  the  audit,  on  whether  the  other  information  contains  any  material  misstatement.  Based  on  the 
procedures we have performed on the other information obtained, we have not identified any material misstatement. 

Responsibilities of management and those in charge with governance  for the separate and consolidated 
financial statements  

Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the separate and the consolidated financial 
statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union, and 
for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of  separate and the 
consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.  

In preparing the separate and the consolidated financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the 
Bank’s and the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going 
concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Bank 
and the Group or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.  

Those in charge with governance are responsible for overseeing the Company’s and the Group’s financial reporting 
process and to approve the annual report. 

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Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the separate and the consolidated financial statements  

REPORT ON OTHER LEGAL AND REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS 

Our  objectives  are  to  obtain  reasonable  assurance  about  whether  the  separate  and  the  consolidated  financial 
statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s 
report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance but is not a guarantee that an 
audit conducted in accordance with ISA will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements 
can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably 
be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these separate and consolidated 
financial statements.  

As part of an audit in accordance with audit rules, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional 
skepticism throughout the audit. We also:  

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

identify  and  assess  the  risks  of  material  misstatement  of  the  separate  and  the  consolidated  financial 
statements, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, 
and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of 
not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as 
fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal 
control;  

obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that 
are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness 
of the Bank’s and the Group’s internal control;  

evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates 
and related disclosures made by management;  

conclude  on  the  appropriateness  of  management’s  use  of  the  going  concern  basis  of  accounting  and, 
based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions 
that may cast significant doubt on the Bank’s and the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we 
conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the 
related disclosures in the separate and the consolidated financial statements or, if such disclosures are 
inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the 
date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Bank and the Group to 
cease to continue as a going concern;  

evaluate  the  overall  presentation,  structure  and  content  of  the  separate  and  the  consolidated  financial 
statements, including the disclosures, and whether the separate and the consolidated financial statements 
represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation;  

•  Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or business 
activities  within  the  Group  to  express  an  opinion  on  the  consolidated  financial  statements.  We  are 
responsible  for  the  direction,  supervision  and  performance  of  the  group  audit.  We  remain  solely 
responsible for our audit opinion.  

We communicate with those in charge with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and 
timing of  the  audit and  significant  audit  findings,  including any  significant deficiencies  in internal control  that  we 
identify during our audit. 

We also provide those in charge with governance  with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical 
requirements  regarding  independence  and  communicate  with  them all  relationships  and other matters  that  may 
reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and where applicable,  actions taken to eliminate threats or 
safeguards applied.  

From the matters communicated with those in charge with governance, we determine those matters that were of 
most significance in the audit of the separate and the consolidated financial statements of the current period and 
are therefore the key audit matters.  

OTHER REQUIREMENTS ON CONTENT OF AUDITOR’S REPORT IN COMPLIANCE WITH REGULATION (EU) 
No. 537/2014 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL  

Appointment and Approval of Auditor  

We were appointed as auditors of the Bank and the Group at the general meeting of shareholders on 27 June 2018, 
the president of the supervisory board has signed the audit agreement on 7 September 2018. The agreement was 
signed for the period of 5 years.  

Total uninterrupted engagement period, including previous renewals (extension of the period for which we were 
originally appointed) and reappointments for the statutory auditor, has lasted for 10 years. Sanja Košir Nikašinović 
and Simon Podvinski are certified auditors, responsible for the audit in the name of Ernst & Young d.o.o. 

Consistence with Additional Report to Audit Committee 

Our audit opinion on the separate and the consolidated financial statements expressed herein is consistent with the 
additional report to the audit committee of the Bank, which we issued on the 12 April 2023. 

Non-audit Services 

No  prohibited  non-audit  services  referred  to  in  Article  5(1)  of  Regulation  (EU)  No. 537/2014  of  the  European 
Parliament  and  of  the  Council  were  provided  by  us  to  the  Bank  and  its controlled  undertakings  and  we  remain 
independent from the Bank and its controlled undertakings/the Group in conducting the audit.  

In addition to statutory audit services and services disclosed in the annual report and in the financial statements, 
no other services which were provided by us to the Bank and its controlled undertakings. 

AUDITOR'S REPORT ON THE COMPLIANCE OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS IN ELECTRONIC FORMAT WITH 
THE  REQUIREMENTS  OF  DELEGATED  REGULATION  NO.      2019/815  ON  A  SINGLE  ELECTRONIC 
REPORTING FORMAT  

We have conducted a reasonable assurance engagement whether the audited the separate and the consolidated 
financial statements of the Bank and the Group for the financial year ended 31 December 2022 which are included 
in  annual  report  (hereinafter:  the  audited  separate  and  the  consolidated  financial  statements),  are  prepared  in 
accordance with the requirements of Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/815 of 17 December 2018  as 
well as adjusted Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/815 of 11 November 2020 supplementing Directive 
2004/109 / EC of the European Parliament and of the Council Annex 1 with regard to regulatory technical standards 
on  the  specification  of  a  single  electronic  reporting  format  applicable  for  2021  (hereinafter  referred  to  as  the 
"Delegated Regulation").  

Responsibility of the management and those responsible for governance  

Management  is  responsible  for  the  preparation  and  accurate  presentation  of  the  audited  separate  and  the 
consolidated  financial  statements  in  electronic  format  in  accordance  with  the  requirements  of  the  Delegated 
Regulation, and for such internal control as the management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of 
the  audited  separate  and  consolidated  financial  statements  in  electronic  format  that  are  free  from  material 
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.  

Those  in charge  of  governance  are  responsible  for  overseeing  the  preparation of  the  audited separate and  the 
consolidated  financial  statements  in  electronic  format  in  accordance  with  the  requirements  of  the  Delegated 
Regulation. 

Auditor's Responsibility  

Our responsibility is to perform a reasonable assurance engagement and to express a conclusion on whether the 
audited  consolidated  financial  statements  have  been  prepared  in  accordance  with  the  requirements  of  the 
Delegated  Regulation.  We  conducted  our  reasonable  assurance  engagement  in  accordance  with  the  revised 
International Standard on Assurance Engagements 3000 (revised), Assurance Engagements other than Audits or 
Reviews of Historical Financial Information (ISAE 3000), issued by the International Auditing and Assurance  

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Standards Board. This standard requires that we plan and perform the engagement to obtain reasonable assurance 
for reaching the conclusion.  

We have acted in accordance with the independence and ethical requirements of the Regulation EU no. 537/2014, 
and  the  International  Code  of  Ethics  for  Professional  Accountants  issued  by  the  International  Ethics  Standards 
Board  for  Accountants  (including  International  Independence  Standards)  (IESBA  Code),  which  establishes  the 
fundamental  principles  of  integrity,  objectivity,  professional  competence  and  due  care,  confidentiality  and 
professional behavior. We apply International Standards on Quality Management (ISQM) 1, and accordingly, we 
maintain a robust system of quality control, including policies and procedures documenting compliance with relevant 
ethical and professional standards and requirements of applicable law and regulation.  

Summary of Work Performed  

Within the scope of work, we have performed primarily the following procedures:  

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

identified and assessed the risk of material non-compliance of the audited separate and the separate 
consolidated financial statements with the requirements of the Delegated Regulation due to fraud or 
error;  

obtained an understanding of internal control relevant to the reasonable assurance engagement in 
order  to  design  procedures  that  are  appropriate  in  the  circumstances,  but  not  for  the  purpose  of 
expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity's internal control;  

assessed  whether  the  audited  separate  and  the  consolidated  financial  statements  meet  the 
requirements of the Delegated Regulation applicable at the reporting date;  

obtained reasonable assurance that the audited separate and the consolidated financial statements, 
which are included in the annual report of the issuer are accurately presented in electronic XHTML 
format;  

obtained reasonable assurance that the values and disclosures in the XHTML format of the audited 
consolidated financial statements are marked-up correctly using the Inline XBRL technology (iXBRL), 
and that machine reading of these documents ensures complete and true information contained in the 
audited consolidated financial statements.  

We believe that the evidence obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our conclusion. 

Conclusion  

Based  on  the  procedures  performed  and  the  evidence  obtained,  in  our  opinion  the  audited  separate  and  the 
consolidated financial statements of the Company and the Group for the financial year ended 31 December 2022, 
which  are  included  in  the  annual  report,  have  been  prepared,  in  all  material  respects,  in  accordance  with  the 
requirements of the Delegated Regulation.   

Ljubljana, 12 April 2023 

                          Sanja Košir Nikašinović                                                             Simon Podvinski 
                         Director, Certified auditor                                                             Certified auditor 
                             Ernst & Young d.o.o. 

                       Dunajska 111, Ljubljana 

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Statement of management’s 
responsibility 

The Management Board hereby confirms its responsibility for 

preparing the consolidated financial statements of NLB Group 

and the financial statements of NLB for the year ending on 31 

December 2022, and for the accompanying accounting policies 

and notes to the financial statements. 

The Management Board is responsible for the preparation and 

fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance 

with the International Financial Reporting Standards as 

adopted by the European Union, and with the requirements 

of the Slovenian Companies Act and the Banking Act so as to 

give a true and fair view of the financial position of NLB Group 

and NLB as at 31 December 2022, and their financial results and 

cash flows for the year then ended.

The Management Board also confirms that the appropriate 
accounting policies were consistently applied, and that the 

accounting estimates were prepared according to the principles 

of prudence and good management. The Management Board 

further confirms that the financial statements of NLB Group 

and NLB, together with the accompanying notes, have been 

prepared on a going-concern basis for NLB Group and NLB, 

and in line with valid legislation and the International Financial 

Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union. 

The Management Board is also responsible for appropriate 

accounting practices, the adoption of appropriate measures for 

safeguarding assets, and the prevention and identification of 

fraud and other irregularities or illegal acts.

The Management Board of NLB

Hedvika Usenik
Member

Andrej Lasič
Member

Archibald Kremser
Member

Andreas Burkhardt
Member

Antonio Argir
Member

Blaž Brodnjak
Chief executive officer

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Income statement for the annual period ended 31 December

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

Interest income calculated using the effective interest method

Other interest and similar income 

Interest and similar income

Interest expenses calculated using the effective interest method 

Other interest and similar expenses

Interest and similar expenses

Net interest income

Dividend income

Fee and commission income

Fee and commission expenses

Net fee and commission income

Gains less losses from financial assets and liabilities not 
measured at fair value through profit or loss

Gains less losses from financial assets and liabilities held for trading

Gains less losses from non-trading financial assets 
mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss

Gains less losses from financial liabilities measured 
at fair value through profit or loss

Fair value adjustments in hedge accounting

Foreign exchange translation gains less losses

Net gains or losses on derecognition of investments in 
subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures

Gains less losses on derecognition of non-financial assets

Other net operating income 

Administrative expenses

Cash contributions to resolution funds and deposit guarantee schemes

Depreciation and amortisation

Gains less losses from modification of financial assets

Provisions for credit losses

Provisions for other liabilities and charges

Impairment of financial assets

Impairment of non-financial assets

Negative goodwill

Share of profit from investments in associates and joint 
ventures (accounted for using the equity method)

Gains less losses from non-current assets held for sale

Profit before income tax

Income tax

Profit for the year

Attributable to owners of the parent

Attributable to non-controlling interests

Notes

4.1.

4.1.

4.2.

4.3.

4.3.

4.4.

4.5.

4.6.

5.5.a)

4.7.

5.12.d)

4.8.

4.9.

4.10.

4.11.

4.12.

4.13.

4.13.

4.14.

4.14.

5.12.b), c)

5.12.e)

4.15.

4.16.

Earnings per share/diluted earnings per share (in EUR per share)

4.17.

The notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

2022

561,467

8,309

569,776

(43,785)

(21,069)

(64,854)

504,922

242

381,599

(108,249)

273,350

866

33,451

90

286

1,655

297

-

1,861

16,778

(412,886)

(36,144)

(47,390)

(26)

(3,050)

(5,932)

(14,454)

(5,433)

172,878

781

921

483,063

(25,230)

457,833

446,862

10,971

22.3

2021

467,500

10,329

477,829

(40,460)

(28,009)

(68,469)

409,360

223

332,589

(95,413)

237,176

167

21,194

16,838

-

167

345

(9,298)

2,681

23,221

(368,851)

(35,140)

(46,528)

(263)

8,504

(22,670)

27,331

(4,407)

-

1,108

248

261,406

(13,538)

247,868

236,404

11,464

11.8

2022

214,163

7,799

221,962

(27,373)

(17,562)

(44,935)

177,027

56,044

166,440

(37,291)

129,149

(1,050)

11,332

(1,451)

163

1,655

(1,588)

-

33

4,411

(190,865)

(9,713)

(17,001)

-

282

(2,325)

(14,968)

22,767

-

-

168

164,070

(4,468)

159,602

159,602

-

8.0

2021

170,002

9,183

179,185

(15,297)

(24,749)

(40,046)

139,139

79,616

155,217

(35,623)

119,594

24

4,596

13,492

-

167

700

-

53

13,747

(166,079)

(9,535)

(17,522)

-

8,028

(72)

18,067

7,547

-

-

(94)

211,468

(3,047)

208,421

208,421

-

10.4

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Statement of comprehensive income for the annual period ended 31 December

Net profit for the year after tax

Other comprehensive income after tax
Items that will not be reclassified to income statement

Actuarial gains/(losses) on defined benefit pensions plans

Fair value changes of equity instruments measured at 
fair value through other comprehensive income

Share of other comprehensive income/(losses) of 
entities accounted for using the equity method

Income tax relating to components of other comprehensive income

Items that have been or may be reclassified subsequently to income statement

Foreign currency translation

Translation gains/(losses) taken to equity

Debt instruments measured at fair value through 
other comprehensive income

Valuation gains/(losses) taken to equity

Transferred to income statement

Income tax relating to components of other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income for the year after tax

Attributable to owners of the parent

Attributable to non-controlling interests

The notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

NLB Group

 in EUR thousands

NLB

Notes

5.16.c)

5.4.c)

5.18.

5.4.c)

4.4., 4.14.

5.18.

2022

457,833

(149,677)

4,031

(2,383)

121

17

596

596

(163,055)

(168,593)

5,538

10,996

308,156

297,936

10,220

2021

247,868

(30,168)

(1,377)

3,072

(30)

(1)

611

611

(37,394)

(40,081)

2,687

4,951

217,700

207,854

9,846

2022

159,602

(90,445)

2,048

(1,925)

-

80

-

-

(92,030)

(98,172)

6,142

1,382

69,157

69,157

-

2021

208,421

(15,281)

(115)

(383)

-

94

-

-

(17,359)

(17,187)

(172)

2,482

193,140

193,140

-

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Statement of financial position as at 31 December

NLB Group

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and other demand deposits at banks
Financial assets held for trading
Non-trading financial assets mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss
Financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income
Financial assets measured at amortised cost

 - debt securities
 - loans and advances to banks
 - loans and advances to customers
 - other financial assets
Derivatives - hedge accounting
Fair value changes of the hedged items in portfolio hedge of interest rate risk
Investments in subsidiaries
Investments in associates and joint ventures
Tangible assets

Property and equipment
Investment property

Intangible assets
Current income tax assets
Deferred income tax assets
Other assets
Non-current assets held for sale
Total assets

Financial liabilities held for trading
Financial liabilities measured at fair value through profit or loss
Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost
 - deposits from banks and central banks
 - borrowings from banks and central banks
 - due to customers
 - borrowings from other customers
 - debt securities issued
 - other financial liabilities
Derivatives - hedge accounting
Provisions
Current income tax liabilities
Deferred income tax liabilities
Other liabilities
Total liabilities

Equity and reserves attributable to owners of the parent
Share capital
Share premium
Other equity instruments
Accumulated other comprehensive income
Profit reserves
Retained earnings 

Non-controlling interests
Total equity
Total liabilities and equity

The notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

Notes
5.1.
5.2.a)
5.3.a)
5.4.

5.6.a)
5.6.b)
5.6.c)
5.6.d)
5.5.b)
5.5.c)
5.12.a)
5.12.e)

5.8.
5.9.
5.10.

5.17.
5.13.
5.7.

5.2.b)
5.3.b)

5.15.a)
5.15.b)
5.15.a)
5.15.b)
5.15.c)
5.15.d)
5.5.b)
5.16.

5.17.
5.19.

5.20.
5.22.a)
5.21.
5.22.b)
5.22.a)

31 Dec 2022
5,271,365
21,588
19,031
2,919,203

1,917,615
222,965
13,072,986
177,823
59,362
(23,767)
-
11,677

251,316
35,639
58,235
1,696
55,527
72,543
15,436
24,160,240

21,589
1,796

106,414
198,609
20,027,726
82,482
815,990
294,463
2,124
122,652
12,420
2,569
49,081
21,737,915

200,000
871,378
84,184
(160,588)
13,522
1,357,089
2,365,585
56,740
2,422,325
24,160,240

31 Dec 2021
5,005,052
7,678
21,161
3,461,860

1,717,626
140,683
10,587,121
122,229
568
7,082
-
11,525

247,014
47,624
59,076
3,948
38,977
91,221
7,051
21,577,496

7,585
-

71,828
858,531
17,640,809
74,051
288,519
206,878
35,377
119,404
5,878
3,045
49,468
19,361,373

200,000
871,378
-
(10,552)
13,522
1,004,385
2,078,733
137,390
2,216,123
21,577,496

31 Dec 2022
3,339,024
21,692
15,411
1,334,061

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2021
3,250,437
7,682
12,360
1,585,751

1,597,448
350,625
6,054,413
114,399
59,362
(23,767)
904,040
4,571

78,592
6,753
30,425
-
34,888
13,161
4,235
13,939,333

22,150
2,514

212,656
57,292
10,984,411
216
815,990
164,567
2,124
45,216
3,940
-
25,387
12,336,463

200,000
871,378
84,184
(81,677)
13,522
515,463
1,602,870
-
1,602,870
13,939,333

1,436,424
199,287
5,145,153
92,404
568
7,082
781,540
4,483

86,122
9,181
29,453
3,761
31,902
11,853
4,089
12,699,532

7,602
352

109,329
873,479
9,659,605
406
288,519
102,527
35,377
49,363
-
-
21,039
11,147,598

200,000
871,378
-
8,768
13,522
458,266
1,551,934
-
1,551,934
12,699,532

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The Management Board of NLB has authorised for issue the financial statements and the accompanying notes.

Hedvika Usenik
Member

Andrej Lasič
Member

Archibald Kremser
Member

Andreas Burkhardt
Member

Antonio Argir
Member

Blaž Brodnjak
Chief executive officer

Ljubljana, 12 April 2023

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182

 Statement of changes in equity for the annual period ended 31 December

Share capital Share premium

Other equity 
instruments

NLB Group

Notes

Balance as at 1 January 2022

- Net profit for the year

- Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income after tax

Dividend paid

Other equity instruments issued

Transactions with non-controlling 
interests (note 3.)

Transfer of fair values reserve

Other

5.20.

200,000

5.22.a)

871,378

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Balance as at 31 December 2022

200,000

871,378

 in EUR thousands

Accumulated other  
comprehensive income

Fair value 
reserve of 
financial assets 
measured at 
FVOCI

5.22.b)

11,366

-

(153,255)

(153,255)

-

-

(1,020)

-

-

Foreign 
currency 
translation 
reserve

5.22.b)

(17,184)

-

632

632

-

-

67

-

-

(142,909)

(16,485)

Other Profit reserves

Retained 
earnings 

Equity 
attributable to 
owners of the 
parent

Equity 
attributable to 
non-controlling 
interests

Total equity

5.22.b)

(4,734)

-

3,697

3,697

-

-

(140)

(17)

-

(1,194)

5.22.a)

13,522

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,004,385

2,078,733

446,862

-

446,862

446,862

(148,926)

297,936

(100,000)

(100,000)

-

82,000

137,390

10,971

(751)

10,220

(4,568)

-

2,216,123

457,833

(149,677)

308,156

(104,568)

82,000

8,230

17

(2,405)

7,137

-

(221)

(86,358)

(79,221)

-

56

-

(165)

13,522

1,357,089

2,365,585

56,740

2,422,325

5.21.

-

-

-

-

-

82,000

-

-

2,184

84,184

NLB Group

Notes

Balance as at 1 January 2021

- Net profit for the year

- Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income after tax

Dividends paid

Transactions with non-controlling 
interests (note 3.)

Transfer of fair values reserve

Other

Share capital Share premium

5.20.

200,000

5.22.a)

871,378

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Balance as at 31 December 2021

200,000

871,378

Accumulated other 
comprehensive income

Fair value 
reserve of 
financial assets 
measured at 
FVOCI

Foreign  
currency 
translation 
reserve

Other

Profit reserves

Retained 
earnings 

Equity 
attributable to 
owners of the 
parent

Equity 
attributable to 
non-controlling 
interests

Total equity

  in EUR thousands

5.22.b)

42,496

-

(28,005)

(28,005)

-

149

(3,274)

-

11,366

5.22.b)

(17,724)

-

540

540

-

-

-

-

5.22.b)

(3,645)

-

(1,085)

(1,085)

-

-

(4)

-

5.22.a)

13,522

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

846,762

236,404

-

236,404

(92,200)

10,168

3,278

(27)

1,952,789

236,404

(28,550)

207,854

(92,200)

170,251

11,464

(1,618)

9,846

(7,710)

10,317

(34,997)

-

(27)

-

-

2,123,040

247,868

(30,168)

217,700

(99,910)

(24,680)

-

(27)

(17,184)

(4,734)

13,522

1,004,385

2,078,733

137,390

2,216,123

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NLB

Notes

Balance as at 1 January 2022

- Net profit for the year

- Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income after tax

Dividends paid

Other equity instruments issued

Other

Share capital

Share premium

5.20.

200,000

5.22.a)

871,378

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Balance as at 31 December 2022

200,000

871,378

Accumulated other  
comprehensive income

Other equity 
instruments

Fair value reserve 
of financial assets 
measured at FVOCI

Other

Profit reserves

Retained earnings 

Total equity

in EUR thousands

5.21.

-

-

-

-

-

82,000

2,184

84,184

5.22.b)     

12,464

-

(92,207)

(92,207)

-

-

-

5.22.b)

(3,696)

-

1,762

1,762

-

-

-

5.22.a)

13,522

-

-

-

-

-

-

(79,743)

(1,934)

13,522

5.20.

458,266

159,602

-

159,602

(100,000)

-

(2,405)

515,463

1,551,934

159,602

(90,445)

69,157

(100,000)

82,000

(221)

1,602,870

 in EUR thousands

NLB

Notes

Balance as at 1 January 2021

- Net profit for the year

- Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income after tax

Dividends paid

Transfer of fair values reserve

Balance as at 31 December 2021

Share capital

Share premium

Fair value reserve 
of financial assets 
measured at FVOCI

Accumulated other  
comprehensive income

5.20.

200,000

-

-

-

-

-

5.22.a)

871,378

-

-

-

-

-

200,000

871,378

5.22.b)     

27,694

-

(15,177)

(15,177)

-

(53)

12,464

Other

5.22.b)

(3,592)

-

(104)

(104)

-

-

(3,696)

Profit reserves

Retained earnings 

Total equity

5.22.a)

13,522

-

-

-

-

-

13,522

5.20.

341,992

208,421

-

208,421

(92,200)

53

458,266

1,450,994

208,421

(15,281)

193,140

(92,200)

-

1,551,934

The notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

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Statement of cash flows for the annual period ended 31 December

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Interest received
Interest paid
Dividends received
Fee and commission receipts
Fee and commission payments
Realised gains from financial assets and financial 
liabilities not at fair value through profit or loss
Net gains/(losses) from financial assets and liabilities held for trading
Payments to employees and suppliers
Other receipts
Other payments
Income tax (paid)/received
Cash flows from operating activities before 
changes in operating assets and liabilities
(Increases)/decreases in operating assets
Net (increase)/decrease in trading assets
Net (increase)/decrease in non-trading financial assets 
mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss
Net (increase)/decrease in financial assets measured at 
fair value through other comprehensive income
Net (increase)/decrease in loans and receivables 
measured at amortised cost
Net (increase)/decrease in other assets
Increases/(decreases) in operating liabilities
Net increase/(decrease) in deposits and 
borrowings measured at amortised cost
Net increase/(decrease) in other liabilities
Net cash flows from operating activities
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Receipts from investing activities
Proceeds from sale of property, equipment, and investment property
Proceeds from sale of subsidiaries, net of cash and cash equivalents
Proceeds from non-current assets held for sale
Proceeds from disposals of debt securities measured at amortised cost
Payments from investing activities
Purchase of property, equipment, and investment property
Purchase of intangible assets
Purchase of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired 
and increase in subsidiaries’ equity
Increase in associates and joint ventures’ equity
Purchase of debt securities measured at amortised cost
Net cash flows from investing activities
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Proceeds from financing activities
Issuance of subordinated bonds
Issuance of Senior Preferred notes
Issuance of ordinary shares and other equity instruments
Other proceeds related to financing activities
Payments from financing activities
Dividends paid
Purchase of subsidiary’s treasury shares 
Net cash flows from financing activities
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

The notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

Notes

5.12.d)

3., 5.12.b), c)

5.15.c)
5.15.c)
5.21.

2022

624,528
(50,824)
965
382,354
(105,086)

3,365

32,799
(428,539)
19,148
(43,260)
(18,336)

417,114

(1,002,409)
(213)

3,357

349,351

(1,357,757)

2,853
468,473

467,966

507
(116,822)

211,536
19,675
-
1,081
190,780
(252,726)
(26,910)
(14,273)

198,241

-
(409,784)
(41,190)

599,338
217,873
299,029
82,000
436
(123,628)
(104,586)
(19,042)
475,710
6,213
317,698
5,176,311
5,500,222

2021

541,219
(69,578)
635
332,575
(92,102)

171

21,563
(382,529)
27,516
(51,129)
(8,617)

319,724

(964,998)
68,965

36,500

(57,015)

(1,020,944)

7,496
2,108,374

2,106,985

1,389
1,463,100

495,174
5,077
(47,832)
966
536,963
(832,512)
(23,013)
(12,704)

(24,437)

(2,900)
(769,458)
(337,338)

-
-
-
-
-
(100,503)
(100,503)
-
(100,503)
14,640
1,025,259
4,136,412
5,176,311

2022

247,675
(30,982)
75,071
162,129
(37,183)

1

12,073
(186,831)
10,159
(11,955)
3,635

243,792

(819,088)
(213)

(3,048)

76,653

(890,003)

(2,477)
620,902

616,303

4,599
45,606

138,980
2,915
21,130
645
114,290
(442,731)
(5,748)
(6,684)

(120,944)

-
(309,355)
(303,751)

598,902
217,873
299,029
82,000
-
(100,000)
(100,000)
-
498,902
(1,106)
240,757
3,254,784
3,494,435

2021

214,866
(43,343)
56,606
152,288
(33,927)

24

5,404
(170,986)
17,723
(16,026)
(1,603)

181,026

(469,788)
2,471

35,792

90,215

(598,138)

(128)
1,589,861

1,589,415

446
1,301,099

478,851
12
15,310
791
462,738
(697,976)
(9,093)
(6,889)

(40,046)

(2,900)
(639,048)
(219,125)

-
-
-
-
-
(92,200)
(92,200)
-
(92,200)
3,219
989,774
2,261,791
3,254,784

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Cash and cash equivalents comprise:

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and 
other demand deposits at banks

Loans and advances to banks with original maturity up to three months

Debt securities measured at fair value through other comprehensive 
income with original maturity up to three months

Total

Notes

5.1.

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

5,272,538

208,404

19,280

5,500,222

5,005,946

142,319

28,046

5,176,311

3,339,381

155,054

-

3,494,435

3,250,784

4,000

-

3,254,784

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Notes to the financial 
statements

1.  General information

Nova Ljubljanska banka d.d. Ljubljana (hereinafter: ‘NLB’ 

or ‘the Bank’) is a Slovenian joint-stock entity providing 

universal banking services. NLB Group consists of NLB and 

its subsidiaries located in nine countries, mainly in Slovenia 

and the SEE market. Information on NLB Group’s structure 

is disclosed in note 5.12. Information on other related party 

relationships of NLB Group is provided in note 8.

NLB is incorporated and domiciled in Slovenia. The address 

of its registered office is Trg Republike 2, 1000 Ljubljana. NLB’s 

shares are listed on the Ljubljana Stock Exchange, and the 

global depositary receipts (‘GDR’) representing ordinary shares 

of NLB, are listed on the London Stock Exchange. Five GDRs 
represent one share of NLB.

As at 31 December 2022 and as at 31 December 2021, the largest 

shareholder of NLB with significant influence is the Republic of 

Slovenia, owning 25.00% plus one share. 

All amounts in the financial statements and in the notes to the 

financial statements are expressed in thousands of euros unless 

otherwise stated.

2. Summary of significant 

accounting policies

The principal accounting policies adopted for the preparation 

of the separate and consolidated financial statements are set 

out below. The policies have been consistently applied to all 

the years presented, except for changes in accounting policies 

resulting from the application of new standards or changes to 

standards.

2.1. Statement of compliance

The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation 

of the separate and consolidated financial statements were 

prepared in accordance with the International Financial 

Accounting Standards (hereinafter: ‘the IFRS’) as adopted by 

the European Union (hereinafter: ‘EU’). Additional requirements 

under the national legislation are included where appropriate.

2.3. Comparative amounts

The separate and consolidated financial statements are 

comprised of the income statement and statement of 

comprehensive income, the statement of financial position, the 

statement of changes in equity, the statement of cash flows, 

significant accounting policies, and the notes.

2.2. Basis for presenting the 
financial statements

The financial statements have been prepared on a going-

concern basis, under the historical cost convention as modified 

by the revaluation of financial assets measured at fair value 

through other comprehensive income, financial assets, and 

financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, including 

all derivative contracts, hedged items in fair value hedge 

accounting relationships, non-current assets held for sale, and 

investment property.

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with the 

Except when a standard or an interpretation permits or 

requires otherwise, all amounts are reported or disclosed with 

comparative amounts. Where IAS 8 applies, comparative figures 

have been adjusted to conform to the changes in presentation 

in the current year. 

Compared to the presentation of the Statement of financial 

position as at 31 December 2021, the line item ‘Subordinated 

liabilities’ was renamed to ‘Debt securities issued.’ In years 2020 

and 2021, all issued debt securities were subordinated liabilities, 

while in 2022 the Bank also issued Senior Preferred notes. 

All issued debt securities are included in one line item and 

separately disclosed in note 5.15.c). 

2.4. Consolidation

In the consolidated financial statements (NLB Group), 

subsidiaries which are directly or indirectly controlled by NLB 

have been fully consolidated. Subsidiaries are consolidated 

from the date on which effective control is transferred to NLB 

IFRS requires the use of estimates and assumptions that affect 

Group. 

the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure 

of contingent assets and liabilities on the date of the financial 

statements, and the reported amounts of revenue and expenses 

during the reporting period. Although these estimates are 

based on management’s best knowledge of current events 

and activities, actual results may ultimately differ from those 

estimates. Accounting estimates and underlying assumptions 

are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions of accounting 

estimates are recognised in the period in which the estimate 

is revised. Critical accounting estimates and judgements in 

applying accounting policies are disclosed in note 2.34.

This document contains both the separate financial statements 

of NLB, and the consolidated financial statements of NLB 

Group. The presented accounting policies apply to both sets of 

financial statements, with the exception of policies described 

in notes 2.4. and 2.5., which only apply to the consolidated 

financial statements and policies described in note 2.6., where 

differences in the accounting treatment for investments in 

subsidiaries, and associated and joint ventures between 

separate and consolidated financial statements are described. 

Data relating to separate financial statements is marked ‘NLB,’ 

while data relating to consolidated financial statements is 

marked ‘NLB Group.’ 

NLB controls an entity when all three elements  

of control are met: 

•  it has power over the entity; 

•  it is exposed or has rights to variable returns from its 

involvement with the entity; and 

•  it has the ability to use its power over the entity to affect the 

amount of the entity’s returns. 

NLB reassesses whether it controls an entity if facts and 

circumstances indicate there are changes to one or more of the 

three elements of control. If the loss of control of a subsidiary 

occurs, the subsidiary is no longer consolidated from the date 

that the control ceases. 

Where necessary, the accounting policies of subsidiaries 

have been amended to ensure consistency with the policies 

adopted by NLB. The financial statements of consolidated 

subsidiaries are prepared as at the parent entity’s reporting 

date. Non-controlling interests are disclosed in the consolidated 

statement of changes in equity. Non-controlling interest is 

that part of the net results, and of the equity of a subsidiary, 

attributable to interests which NLB does not own, either directly 

or indirectly. NLB Group measures non-controlling interest on a 

transaction-by-transaction basis, either at fair value, or by the 

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 non-controlling interest’s proportionate share of net assets of 

deducted from the equity, and all other transaction costs 

disposed operation and the portion of the cash-generating unit 

the acquiree.

associated with the acquisition are expensed. 

retained.

Inter-company transactions, balances, and unrealised gains 

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a 

The goodwill of associates and joint ventures is included in the 

on transactions between NLB Group entities are eliminated. 

business combination are, with limited exceptions, measured 

carrying value of investments. 

Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the transaction 

initially at their fair values at the acquisition date.

provides evidence of impairment of the asset transferred.

In a business combination achieved in stages, NLB Group 

A contingent consideration classified as equity is not re-

remeasures its previously held equity interest in the acquiree at 

NLB Group treats transactions with non-controlling interests as 

measured and its subsequent settlement is accounted for within 

its acquisition-date fair value and recognises the resulting gain 

transactions with equity owners of NLB Group. For purchases 

equity. A contingent consideration classified as an asset or 

or loss, if any, in profit or loss.

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of subsidiaries from non-controlling interests, the difference 

liability that is a financial instrument and within the scope of 

between any consideration paid and the relevant share 

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments is measured at fair value at each 

acquired of the carrying value of net assets of the subsidiary 

reporting date and changes in fair value are recognised in the 

is deducted from the equity. For sales to non-controlling 

statement of profit or loss in accordance with IFRS 9. Other 

interests, the differences between any proceeds received and 

contingent considerations that are not within the scope of 

the relevant share of non-controlling interests are also recorded 

IFRS 9 are measured at fair value at each reporting date, and 

in the equity. All effects are presented in the line item ‘Equity 

changes in fair value are recognised in profit or loss. 

Attributable to Non-controlling Interest.’ 

2.5. Business combinations, 

goodwill, and bargain 
purchases

For each business combination, NLB Group elects whether to 

measure the non-controlling interests in the acquiree at fair 

value or at the present ownership instruments’ proportionate 

share in the recognised amounts of the acquiree’s identifiable 

net assets at the date of acquisition. All other components of 

non-controlling interests are measured at their acquisition-date 

NLB Group accounts for business combinations using the 

fair values, unless another measurement basis is required by 

acquisition method when the acquired set of activities and 

IFRSs. 

assets meets the definition of a business and control is 

transferred to the Group. In determining whether a particular 

Goodwill is measured as the excess of the aggregate of the 

set of activities and assets is a business, the Group assesses 

consideration transferred measured at fair value, the amount 

whether the set of assets and activities acquired includes, at a 

of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree, and the fair 

minimum, an input and substantive process, and whether the 

value of an interest in the acquiree held immediately before 

acquired set has the ability to produce outputs. The acquired 

the acquisition date over the net amounts of the identifiable 

process is considered substantive if it is critical to the ability to 

assets acquired, as well as the liabilities assumed. Any negative 

continue producing outputs; and the inputs acquired include an 

amount, a gain on a bargain purchase (or ‘negative goodwill’), 

organised workforce with the necessary skills, knowledge, or 

is recognised in profit or loss after management reassesses 

experience to perform that process or it significantly contributes 

whether it has identified all the assets acquired and all the 

to the ability to continue producing outputs and is considered 

liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed, and reviews the 

unique or scarce or cannot be replaced without significant cost, 

appropriateness of their measurement.

effort, or delay in the ability to continue producing outputs. 

Goodwill is tested annually for impairment. For the purpose 

The consideration transferred is measured at the fair value of 

of impairment testing, goodwill arising from a business 

the assets transferred, equity interest issued, liabilities incurred 

combination is, from the acquisition date, allocated to the 

or assumed, including the fair value of assets or liabilities 

Group’s cash-generating units (CGUs) or groups of CGUs that 

from contingent consideration arrangements and fair value 

are expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination. 

of any pre-existing equity interest in the subsidiary. However, 

Where goodwill has been allocated to a cash-generating unit 

this excludes amounts related to the settlement of pre-existing 

(CGU) and part of the operation within that unit is disposed of, 

relationships which are recognised in profit or loss. Acquisition-

the goodwill associated with the disposed operation is included 

related costs such as advisory, legal, valuation, and similar 

in the carrying amount of the operation when determining 

professional services are recognised in profit or loss as well. 

the gain or loss on disposal. Goodwill disposed in these 

Transaction costs incurred for issuing equity instruments are 

circumstances is measured based on the relative values of the 

2.6. Investments in subsidiaries, 
associates and joint ventures

In the separate financial statements (NLB), investments in 

subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures are accounted 

for with the cost method. Dividends from subsidiaries, joint 

ventures, or associates are recognised in the income statement 

when NLB’s right to receive the dividend has been established.

In the consolidated financial statements, investments in 

associates are accounted for using the equity method of 

accounting. These are generally undertakings in which NLB 

Group holds between 20% and 50% of the voting rights, and 

over which NLB Group exercises significant influence, but does 

not have control.

Joint ventures are entities over whose activities NLB Group 

has joint control, established by contractual agreement. In the 

consolidated financial statements, investments in joint ventures 

are accounted for using the equity method of accounting.

NLB Group’s share of its associates’ and joint ventures’ post-

acquisition profits or losses is recognised in the consolidated 

income statement, and its share of other comprehensive income 

is recognised in other comprehensive income. The cumulative 

post-acquisition movements are adjusted against the carrying 

amount of the investment. When NLB Group’s share of losses in 

an associate and joint venture equals or exceeds its interest in 

the associate and joint venture, including any other unsecured 

receivables, NLB Group does not recognise further losses unless 

it has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the 

associate and joint venture. NLB Group resumes recognising its 

share of those profits only after its share of the profits equals the 

share of losses not recognised (note 5.12.e).

NLB Group’s subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures are 

Contents

presented in note 5.12.

188

 2.7. A combination of entities or 
businesses under common 
control

A merger of entities within NLB Group is a business combination 

involving entities under common control. For such mergers, 

members of NLB Group apply merger accounting principles, 

and use the carrying amounts of merged entities as reported 

in the consolidated financial statements. No goodwill is 

recognised on mergers of NLB Group entities.

Mergers of entities within NLB Group do not affect the 

consolidated financial statements.

2.8. Foreign currency translation

Functional and presentation currency
Items included in the financial statements of each of NLB 

Group’s entities are measured using the currency of the primary 

economic environment in which the entity operates (i.e., the 

functional currency). The financial statements are presented in 

euros, which is NLB Group’s presentation currency. 

Transactions and balances
Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional 

currency at the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the 

transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from 

the settlement of such transactions and from the translation 

of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign 

currencies are recognised in the income statement, except 

when deferred in other comprehensive income as qualifying 

cash flow hedges. 

Translation differences resulting from changes in the amortised 

cost of monetary items denominated in a foreign currency and 

classified as financial assets measured at fair value through 

other comprehensive income, are recognised in the income 

statement. 

Translation differences on non-monetary items, such as equity 

instruments at fair value through profit or loss, are reported 

as part of the fair value gain or loss in the income statement. 

Translation differences on non-monetary items, such as equity 

instruments classified as financial assets measured at fair value 

through other comprehensive income, are included together 

with valuation reserves in the valuation (losses)/gains taken to 

other comprehensive income and accumulated in the equity. 

Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency purchases and 

amortised cost of a financial liability. Interest income includes 

sales for trading purposes are included in the income statement 

coupons earned on fixed-yield investments and trading 

as gains less losses from financial assets and liabilities held for 

securities, and accrued discounts and premiums on securities. 

trading.

NLB Group entities
The financial statements of all NLB Group entities that have a 

The calculation of the effective interest rate includes all fees 

and points paid or received by parties to the contract and all 

transaction costs, but excludes future credit risk losses. 

functional currency different from the presentation currency are 

Interest income is calculated by applying the effective interest 

translated into the presentation currency as follows:

rate to the gross carrying amount of financial assets other than 

•  assets and liabilities for each statement of financial position 

credit-impaired assets.

presented are translated at the closing rate on the reporting 

date;

When a financial asset becomes credit-impaired and is, 

•  income and expenses for each income statement are 

therefore, classified in Stage 3, interest income is calculated by 

translated at average exchange rates; and

applying the effective interest rate to the net amortised cost of 

•  components of equity are translated at the historical rate.

the financial asset. If the financial asset cures and is no longer 

credit-impaired, interest income is again calculated on a gross 

Goodwill and fair value adjustments arising from the acquisition 

basis.

of a foreign entity are treated as assets and liabilities of the 

foreign entity and translated at the closing rate. 

In the case of purchased or originated credit-impaired financial 

assets (POCI), the credit-adjusted effective interest rate is 

In the consolidated financial statements, exchange differences 

applied to the amortised cost of the financial asset from initial 

arising from the translation of the net investment in foreign 

recognition. The credit-adjusted effective interest rate is the 

operations are recognised in other comprehensive income. 

interest rate that, at initial recognition, discounts the estimated 

When control over a foreign operation is lost, the previously 

future cash flows (including credit losses) to the amortised cost 

recognised exchange differences on translations to a 

of the purchased or originated credit-impaired financial asset. 

different presentation currency are reclassified from other 

At the NLB Group level, most POCI exposures relate to the 

comprehensive income to profit and loss for the year. On the 

initial recognition of non-performing exposures in the case of a 

partial disposal of a subsidiary without loss of control, the 

business combination.

related portion of accumulated currency translation differences 

is reclassified as a non-controlling interest within the equity. 

2.9. Interest income and expenses

2.10. Fee and commission income

Fees and commissions mainly include fees received from 

credit cards and ATMs, customer transaction accounts, 

Interest income and expenses for all financial instruments 

payment services, investment funds, and commissions from 

measured at amortised cost, and financial assets measured at 

guarantees. Fee and commission income are recognised at 

fair value through other comprehensive income are recognised 

an amount that reflects the consideration to which the Group 

in the income statement for all interest-bearing instruments on 

expects to be entitled, in exchange for providing the services. 

an accrual basis using the effective interest method. Interest 

The performance obligations, as well as the timing of their 

income on all trading assets and financial assets mandatorily 

satisfaction, are identified and determined at the inception 

required to be measured at fair value through profit or loss is 

of the contract. The Group’s revenue contracts do not include 

recognised using the contractual interest rate. The effective 

multiple performance obligations.

interest method is used to calculate the amortised cost of a 

financial asset or financial liability, and to allocate the interest 

When the Group provides a service to its customers, the 

income or interest expenses over the relevant period. The 

consideration is invoiced and generally due immediately upon 

effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated 

satisfaction of a service provided at a point in time. When the 

future cash payments or receipts over the expected life of the 

service is provided over time, the consideration is invoiced and 

financial instrument, or a shorter period (when appropriate) 

due in line with the contractual provisions. 

to the gross carrying amount of the financial asset or to the 

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 The Group has generally concluded that it is the principal in its 

interest method, foreign exchange gains and losses, and 

IFRS 9 includes an option to designate financial assets at fair 

revenue arrangements because it typically controls the services 

impairment are recognised in profit or loss. Each of them is 

value through profit or loss if doing so eliminates or significantly 

before transferring them to the customer.

presented as a separate line item in the income statement. Any 

reduces a measurement or recognition inconsistency that 

Fees and commissions that are integral to the effective interest 

line item ‘Gains less losses from financial assets and liabilities 

recognising the gains or losses on them on different bases. 

gain or loss on derecognition is recognised in profit or loss in 

would otherwise arise from measuring assets or liabilities, or 

rate of financial assets and liabilities are presented within 

not classified at fair value through profit or loss.’

interest income or expenses. 

2.11. Dividend income

Dividends are recognised in the income statement within the 

line item ‘Dividend income’ when NLB Group’s right to receive 

payment has been established and an inflow of economic 

benefits is probable. In the consolidated financial statements, 

dividends received from associates and joint ventures reduce 

the carrying value of the investment. 

2.12. Financial instruments 

a) Classification and measurement 
Financial instruments are initially measured at fair value plus 

or minus, in the case of a financial instrument not measured 

Financial liabilities

Debt financial instruments are measured at FVOCI if they are 

Financial liabilities are subsequently measured at the amortised 

held within a business model for the purpose of both collecting 

cost or at fair value through profit or loss, when they are held 

contractual cash flows and selling (‘held to collect and sell’), 

for trading, derivative instruments, or the fair value designation 

and if cash flows are solely payments of principal and interest 

is applied. 

on the principal amount outstanding. FVOCI results in the debt 

instruments being recognised at fair value in the statement 

Upon initial recognition, financial liability may be irrevocably 

of financial position and at the AC in the income statement. 

designated as measured at fair value through profit or loss 

Interest income is calculated using the effective interest method, 

if that eliminates or significantly reduces a measurement or 

foreign exchange gains and losses, and impairments are 

recognition inconsistency that would otherwise arise from 

recognised separately in the income statement. Other net gains 

measuring assets or liabilities or recognising the gains or 

and losses are recognised in other comprehensive income, until 

losses on them on different bases, or if the liabilities are part of 

the instrument is derecognised. At derecognition of the debt 

a group of financial instruments which are managed and their 

financial instrument, the cumulative gains and losses previously 

performance evaluated on a fair value basis in accordance with 

recognised in other comprehensive income are reclassified to 

a documented risk management or investment strategy. 

the income statement under the line item ‘Gains less losses from 

financial assets and liabilities not classified at fair value through 

Changes in the fair value of financial liabilities designated as 

at fair value through profit or loss, transaction costs that are 

profit or loss.’

measured at fair value through profit or loss are recognised 

in profit or loss, with the exception of movement in the fair 

directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of the financial 

instrument. Subsequent measurement depends on the 

classification of the instrument.

Financial assets

All debt financial assets need to be assessed based on a 

combination of the Group’s business model for managing 

the assets and the instruments’ contractual cash flow 

Equity instruments that are not held for trading may be 

value due to changes of NLB Group’s own credit risk. Such 

irrevocably designated as FVOCI, with no subsequent 

changes are presented in other comprehensive income with no 

reclassification of gains or losses to the income statement. 

subsequent reclassification to the income statement.

Dividends are recognised as income in profit or loss unless 

the dividend clearly represents a recovery of part of the cost 

Other financial liabilities are subsequently measured 

of the investment, in which case, such gains are recorded in 

at amortised cost using the effective interest method. 

other comprehensive income. Other net gains and losses are 

Interest expenses and foreign exchange gains and losses 

characteristics. The measurement categories of financial assets 

recognised in other comprehensive income and are never 

are recognised in profit or loss. Any gain or loss on the 

are as follows:

•  Financial assets, measured at amortised costs (AC);

•  Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive 

income (FVOCI);

•  Financial assets held for trading (FVTPL); and 

•  Non-trading financial assets, mandatorily at fair value 

through profit or loss (FVTPL).

reclassified to profit or loss. In NLB Group, the most material 

derecognition of a financial liability is recognised in profit 

equity instrument irrevocably designated as FVOCI is the 

or loss. In the event of derecognition of a financial liability 

investment in the National Resolution Fund (note 5.4.a). NLB 

measured at amortised cost, the gains and losses are 

Group decided to use this presentation alternative because 

recognised in the line item ‘Gains less losses from financial 

the fund was established based on the law and it has a highly 

assets and liabilities not classified at fair value through profit 

regulated investment strategy in order to ensure safety, low risk, 

or loss.’ Gains and losses on disposals of financial liabilities 

and the high liquidity of the fund.

designated as measured at fair value through profit or loss are 

Financial assets are measured at AC if they are held within a 

All other financial assets are mandatorily measured at FVTPL, 

business model for the purpose of collecting contractual cash 

including financial assets within other business models such as 

Assessment of NLB Group’s business model

also presented separately from those held for trading.

flows (‘held to collect’), and if cash flows are solely payments 

of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding. 

After initial recognition, they are measured at the amortised 

cost using the effective interest method and are subject to 

impairment. Interest income calculated using the effective 

financial assets managed at fair value or held for trading and 

NLB Group has determined its business model separately 

financial assets with contractual cash flows that are not solely 

for each reporting unit within NLB Group, and is based on 

payments of principal and interest on the principal amount 

observable factors for different portfolios that best reflect how 

outstanding. Net gains and losses, including any interest or 

dividend income, are recognised in profit or loss.

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 the Group manages groups of financial assets to achieve its 

flows are consistent with the SPPI test. The principal amount 

business objective, such as:

reflects the fair value at initial recognition less any subsequent 

b) Reclassification 
Financial assets can be reclassified when and only when NLB 

•  how the performance of the business model and the financial 

changes, e.g. due to repayment. The interest must represent 

Group’s business model for managing those assets changes. 

assets held within that business model are evaluated and 

only the consideration for the time value of money, credit risk, 

The reclassification takes place from the start of the reporting 

reported to key management personnel;

other basic lending risks, and a profit margin consistent with 

period following the change. Such changes are expected to 

•  the risks that affect the performance of the business model 

basic lending features. If the cash flows introduce more than 

be very infrequent, and none occurred during the presented 

and, in particular, the way those risks are managed;

de minimis exposure to risk or volatility that is not consistent 

periods. Financial liabilities shall not be reclassified. 

•  how the managers of the business are compensated (e.g., 

with basic lending features, the financial asset is mandatorily 

whether the compensation is based on the fair value of the 

measured at fair value through profit or loss.

assets or on collection of contractual cash flows); and

c) Day one gains or losses
The best evidence of fair value at initial recognition is the 

•  the expected frequency, value, and timing of sales.

NLB Group reviews the portfolio within ‘held to collect’ and 

transaction price (i.e., the fair value of the consideration given 

‘held to collect and sale’ for standardised products on a level 

or received), unless the fair value of that instrument is evidenced 

The business model assessment is based on reasonably 

of a product and for non-standardised products on a single 

by a comparison with other observable current market 

expected scenarios without taking worst-case and stress case 

exposure level. The Group has established a procedure for SPPI 

transactions in the same instrument (i.e., without modification 

scenarios into consideration. In general, the business model 

identification as part of regular investment process with defined 

or repackaging), or based on a valuation technique whose 

assessment of the Group can be summarised as follows: 

responsibilities for primary and secondary controls. Special 

variables only include data from observable markets.

•  Loans and deposits given are included in a business model 

emphasis is put on new and non-standardised characteristics 

‘held to collect’ since the primary objective of NLB Group for 

of loan agreements.

the loan portfolio is to collect the contractual cash flows;

•  Debt securities are divided into three business models:

Accounting policy for modified financial assets

If the transaction price on a non-active market is different 

than the fair value from other observable current market 

transactions in the same instrument, or is based on a valuation 

•  the first group of debt securities presents ‘held for trading’ 

When contractual cash flows of a financial asset are modified, 

technique whose variables only include data from observable 

category;

NLB Group assesses if the terms and conditions have been 

markets, the difference between the transaction price and fair 

•  debt securities in the second group are held under a 

modified to the extent that, substantially, it becomes a new 

value is recognised immediately in the income statement (‘day 

business model ‘held to collect and sale’ with the intention 

financial asset. The following factors are, amongst others, 

one gains or losses’). 

of collecting the contractual cash flows and sale of financial 

considered when making such assessment: 

assets, and forms part of the Group’s liquidity reserves;

•  reason for modification of cash flows (commercial or client’s 

In cases where the data used for valuation are not fully 

•  the third part of debt securities is held within the business 

financial difficulties);

model for holding them with objective to collect contractual 

•  change in currency of the loan; 

cash flows.

•  introduction of an equity feature;

observable in financial markets, day one gains or losses are not 

recognised immediately in the income statement. The timing of 

recognition of deferred day one gains or losses is determined 

•  replacement of initially agreed debtor with a new debtor that 

individually. It is either amortised over the life of the transaction, 

With regard to debt securities within the ‘held to collect’ 

is not related party to initial debtor; and

deferred until the instrument’s fair value can be determined 

business model, the sales which are related to the increase of 

•  if the modification changes the result of the SPPI test.

using market observable inputs, or realised through settlement.

the issuers’ credit risk, concentrations risk, sales made close to 

the final maturity, or sales in order to meet liquidity needs in a 

If the modification results in derecognition of a financial asset, 

stress case scenario are permitted. Other sales, which are not 

the new financial asset is initially recognised at fair value, with 

d) Derecognition
A financial asset is derecognised when the contractual rights 

due to an increase in credit risk may still be consistent with a 

the difference recognised as a derecognition gain or loss, 

to the cash flows from the financial asset expire, or when the 

held to collect business model if such sales are incidental to the 

to the extent that an impairment loss has not already been 

financial asset is transferred, and the transfer qualifies for 

overall business model, and: 

recorded. If the modification does not result in cash flows that 

derecognition. A financial liability is derecognised only when it 

•  are insignificant in value both individually and in aggregate, 

are substantially different, the modification does not result 

is extinguished, i.e., when the obligation specified in the contract 

even when such sales are frequent;

in derecognition. In such cases, NLB Group recalculates the 

is discharged, cancelled, or expires.

•  are infrequent even when they are significant in value.

gross carrying amount of the financial asset and recognises 

A review of instruments’ contractual cash flow characteristics 

carrying amount is recalculated as the present value of the 

modification gain or loss in the income statement. The gross 

e) Write-offs
NLB Group writes off financial assets in their entirety or a 

(the SPPI test – solely payment of principal and interest on 

renegotiated or modified contractual cash flows that are 

portion thereof when it has exhausted all practical recovery 

the principal amount outstanding)

discounted at the financial asset’s original effective interest 

efforts and has no reasonable expectations of recovery. Criteria 

The second step in the classification of the financial assets in 

rate (or credit-adjusted effective interest rate for purchased or 

indicating that there is no reasonable expectation of recovery 

portfolios being ‘held to collect’ and ‘held to collect and sell’ 

originated credit-impaired financial assets). 

include default period, quality of collateral, and different stages 

relates to the assessment of whether the contractual cash 

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 of enforcement procedures. NLB Group may write off financial 

Hedge accounting is used when certain criteria are met. 

When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, or when a hedge 

assets that are still subject to enforcement activities, but this 

NLB Group and NLB have exercised the option to continue 

no longer meets hedge accounting criteria, any cumulative 

does not affect its rights in the enforcement procedures. NLB 

applying the existing IAS 39 hedge accounting requirements 

gain or loss existing in other comprehensive income and 

Group still seeks to recover all amounts it is legally entitled to in 

in accordance with the policy choice permitted under IFRS 9. 

previously accumulated in equity at that time remains in other 

full. A write-off reduces the gross carrying amount of a financial 

However, disclosures that are required by the IFRS 9 related 

comprehensive income and in equity, and is recognised in 

asset and allowance for the impairment. Any subsequent 

amendments to IFRS 7 ‘Financial Instruments: Disclosures’ are 

profit or loss only when the forecasted transaction is ultimately 

recoveries are credited to credit loss expenses. Write-offs and 

implemented.

recoveries are disclosed in note 5.14.a). 

recognised in the income statement. When a forecasted 

transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain 

f) Fair value measurement principles
The fair value of financial instruments traded on active markets 

At the inception of the transaction, NLB Group documents 

or loss that was reported in other comprehensive income is 

the relationship between hedged items and hedging 

immediately transferred to the income statement.

instruments, as well as its risk management objective, valuation 

is based on the price that would be received to sell the assets 

methodology, and strategy for undertaking various hedge 

Hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation 

or transfer liability (exit price) being measured at the reporting 

transactions. NLB Group also documents its assessment, both 

Hedges of net investments in foreign operations are accounted 

date, excluding transaction costs. If there is no active market, 

at the hedge inception and on an ongoing basis, of whether the 

for in consolidated financial statements similar to cash flow 

the fair value of the instruments is estimated using discounted 

derivatives used in hedging transactions are highly effective in 

hedges. Any gain or loss on the hedging instrument relating 

cash flow techniques or pricing models.

offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of hedged items. 

to the effective portion of the hedge is recognised directly in 

The actual results of a hedge must always fall within a range of 

equity. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is 

If discounted cash flow techniques are used, estimated future 

80–125%. 

cash flows are based on management’s best estimates; and 

the discount rate is a market-based rate at the reporting 

Fair value hedge

recognised immediately in the consolidated income statement 

in ‘Gains Less Losses on Financial Assets and Liabilities Held for 

Trading.’ Gains and losses accumulated in other comprehensive 

date for an instrument with similar terms and conditions. If 

Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated 

income are included in the consolidated income statement 

pricing models are used, inputs are based on market-based 

and qualify as fair value hedges are recognised in the income 

when the foreign operation is disposed of as part of the gain or 

measurements at the reporting date.

statement together with any changes in the fair value of the 

loss on the disposal.

hedged asset or liability that are attributable to the hedged risk. 

g) Derivative financial instruments and hedge accounting
Derivative financial instruments – including forward and futures 

Effective changes in the fair value of hedging instruments and 

related hedged items are reflected in ‘Fair Value Adjustments in 

contracts, swaps, and options – are initially recognised in the 

Hedge Accounting’ in the income statement. Any ineffectiveness 

statement of financial position at fair value. Derivative financial 

from derivatives is recorded in ‘Gains Less Losses on Financial 

instruments are subsequently re-measured at their fair value. 

Assets and Liabilities Held for Trading.’ 

Fair values are obtained from quoted market prices, discounted 

cash flow models, or pricing models, as appropriate. All 

If a hedge no longer meets the hedge accounting criteria, the 

derivatives are carried at their fair value within assets when 

adjustment to the carrying amount of the hedged item for 

the derivative position is favourable to NLB Group, and within 

which the effective interest method is used is amortised to profit 

liabilities when the derivative position is unfavourable to NLB 

or loss over the remaining period to maturity. The adjustment to 

Group. 

the carrying amount of a hedged equity security is included in 

the income statement upon disposal of the equity security. 

The method of recognising the resulting fair value gain or loss 

depends on whether the derivative is designated as a hedging 

Cash flow hedge

instrument and, if so, the nature of the item being hedged. NLB 

The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives 

Group designates certain derivatives as either:

that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges is 

•  hedges of the fair value of recognised assets or liabilities or 

recognised in other comprehensive income. The gain or loss 

firm commitments (fair value hedge); 

relating to the ineffective portion is immediately recognised in 

•  hedges of highly probable future cash flows attributable to a 

the income statement.

recognised asset or liability, or a highly probable forecasted 

transaction (cash flow hedge); or

Amounts accumulated in equity are recycled as a 

•  hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation (net 

reclassification from other comprehensive income to the income 

investment hedge). 

statement in the periods when the hedged item affects the profit 

or loss. 

2.13. Allowances for financial assets

a) Expected credit losses for collective allowances
IFRS 9 applies an expected loss model that provides an 

unbiased and probability-weighted estimate of credit losses 

by evaluating a range of possible outcomes that incorporates 

forecasts of future economic conditions. The expected loss 

model requires NLB Group to recognise not only credit losses 

that have already occurred, but also losses that are expected 

to occur in the future. An allowance for expected credit losses 

(ECL) is required for all loans and other debt financial assets 

not measured at FVTPL, together with loan commitments and 

financial guarantee contracts. 

In the general model, the allowance is based on the expected 

credit losses associated with the probability of default in the 

next 12 months unless there has been a significant increase 

in credit risk since initial recognition, in which case, the 

allowance is based on the probability of default over the life 

of the financial asset (LECL). When determining whether the 

risk of default increased significantly since initial recognition, 

the Group considers reasonable and supportable information 

that is relevant and available without undue cost or effort. This 

includes both quantitative and qualitative information and 

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 analysis, based on the Group’s historical data, experience, 

a rating from international credit rating agencies – Fitch, 

ECL for each facility is calculated as a weighted average ECL 

expert credit assessment, and incorporation of forward-looking 

Moody’s, or the S&P. Ratings are set on a basis of the average 

for each scenario.

information. In 2022, the NLB Group made improvements to the 

international credit rating. If there are no international credit 

SICR (significant increase of credit risk) identification concept by 

ratings, the classification is based on the internal methodology 

The EAD represents the anticipated outstanding amount 

including a watch list for retail clients.

of NLB Group.

owed by the obligor, which is determined as the sum of on-

balance exposure and expected future drawings of the off-

Classification into stages

The classification into stages is based on the facility level, 

balance exposure. The drawings are assessed by applying 

NLB Group prepared a methodology for ECL defining the 

nevertheless occurring delays on one facility may trigger the 

the CCF (credit conversion factor) based on the Bank’s historic 

criteria for classification into stages, transition criteria between 

stage deterioration of other facilities of the same client. When 

experience with similar types of facilities. 

stages, models for risk indicators calculation, forward-looking 

the SICR criteria no longer exist, the facility may be transferred 

scenarios, and the validation of models. The Group classifies 

to a more favourable stage subject to the prescribed cure 

The PD is the estimation of likelihood of default over a given 

financial instruments into Stage 1, Stage 2, and Stage 3, based 

period of three months.

on the applied ECL allowance methodology as described 

time horizon. The estimation is performed separately for each 

unique segment (corporate clients by size, institutions, central 

below:

The ECL for Stage 1 financial assets is calculated based on 

government) or by product group (mortgage, consumer 

•  Stage 1 – performing portfolio: no significant increase of 

12-month PDs or shorter period PDs, if the remaining maturity 

loans and other retail products). Through the cycle, the PD is 

credit risk since initial recognition, NLB Group recognises an 

of the financial asset is shorter than 1 year. The 12-month PD 

supplemented with the forward-looking aspect using three 

allowance based on 12-month period;

already includes the macroeconomic impact effect. Allowances 

possible scenarios.

•  Stage 2 – underperforming portfolio: significant increase 

in Stage 1 are designed to reflect expected credit losses that had 

in credit risk (SICR) since initial recognition, NLB Group 

been incurred in the performing portfolio, but have not been 

The PD is the estimation of likelihood of default over a given 

recognises an allowance for lifetime period; and

identified.

•  Stage 3 – impaired portfolio: NLB Group recognises lifetime 

time horizon. The estimation is performed separately for each 

unique segment (corporate clients by size, institutions, or 

allowances for these defaulted financial assets. 

The ECL for Stage 2 financial assets is calculated based on 

central government) or by product group (mortgage, consumer 

The Bank has aligned its definition of credit impaired assets 

significantly since their initial recognition. This calculation is also 

supplemented with the forward-looking aspect using three 

lifetime PDs (LPD) because their credit risk has increased 

loans, and other retail products). Through the cycle, the PD is 

under IFRS 9 to the new European Banking Authority (EBA) 

based on a forward-looking assessment that considers several 

possible scenarios.

definition of non-performing loans (NPLs) as at 31 December 

economic scenarios in order to recognise the probability of 

2020. The Bank uses a unified definition of past due and default 

losses associated with the predicted macro-economic forecasts.

Risk parameter calculations are based on the data from each 

exposures; defaulted clients are rated D, DF, or E based on the 

subsidiary, while the calculations and modelling are performed 

internal rating system and contains the clients with material 

For financial instruments in Stage 3, the same treatment 

centrally. In the case where the data samples are not sufficiently 

delays over 90 days, as well as the clients that were assessed 

is applied as for those considered to be credit impaired. 

large, hurdle rates are applied based on the regulatory or other 

as unlikely to pay. All facilities of retail clients obtain a unified 

Exposures below the materiality threshold obtain collective 

benchmarks.

credit rating.

allowances using a PD of 100%. Financial instruments will be 

transferred out of Stage 3 if they no longer meet the criteria 

Expected Life

A significant increase in credit risk is assumed: 

of being credit-impaired after a probation period. Special 

When measuring ECL, the Bank must consider the maximum 

•  when a credit rating significantly deteriorates at the reporting 

treatment applies for purchased or originated credit-impaired 

contractual period over which the Bank is exposed to credit risk. 

date in comparison to the credit rating at initial recognition 

financial instruments (POCI), where only the cumulative 

For certain revolving credit facilities that do not have a fixed 

(which is accompanied with the increase of Probability of 

changes in lifetime expected losses since the initial recognition 

maturity, the expected life is estimated based on the period 

default (PD) indicator),

are recognised as a loss allowance.

•  when a threefold increase of LPD since initial recognition is 

over which the Bank is exposed to credit risk and where the 

credit losses would not be mitigated by management actions.

detected,

The calculation of collective allowances is performed by 

•  when a financial asset has material delays over 30 days (days 

multiplying the EAD (exposure at default) at the end of each 

Forward-looking information

past due are also included in the credit rating assessment),

month with an appropriate PD and LGD (loss-given default). 

During 2022, the Group reviewed IFRS 9 provisioning by testing 

•  if NLB Group grants the forbearance to the borrower,

The obtained result for each month is discounted to the present 

a set of relevant macroeconomic scenarios to adequately 

•  if the facility is placed on the watch list or intensive care list,

time using the original effective interest rate of the facility. For 

reflect the current circumstances and the related impacts in the 

•  if a retail client is placed on the watch list.

Stage 1 exposures, the ECL only takes a 12-month period into 

future.

The methodology of credit rating for banks and sovereign 

maturity date are included. Risk parameters are calculated 

NLB Group established and developed multiple scenarios (i.e., 

classification depends on the existence or non-existence of 

separately for each of the three possible scenarios. The final 

baseline, mild, and severe) on the level of ECL calculation. The 

account, while for Stage 2 or 3 all potential losses until the 

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 baseline scenario presents a common forecast macroeconomic 

NLB Group formed three probable scenarios with an associated 

the risk expectations of credit management due to uncertain 

view for all countries that are present in the NLB Group. This 

probability of occurrence for forward-looking assessment of 

conditions in the macroeconomic environment. The Bank 

scenario is constructed with the purpose to culminate various 

risk provisioning in the context of IFRS 9. IFRS 9 macroeconomic 

follows the conservative stance for the LGD parameter due to 

outlooks into a unified projection of macroeconomic and 

scenarios incorporate the forward-looking and probability-

the particularities of the local market. 

financial variables for the NLB Group. This is in line with the 

weighted aspects of ECL impairment calculation. Both features 

concept that the bank has a consolidated view on the future 

may change when material changes in the future development 

Effects of changed risk parameters

of economic development in Southeast Europe (SEE). The 

of the economy are recognised and not embedded in previous 

The effects of the changed risk parameters on the amount of 

IFRS 9 baseline scenario is based on the most recent official 

forecasts. For the year 2022, we have initially assigned the 

expected credit losses are disclosed in notes 5.14. and 5.16.b). 

and professional forecasters outputs, with additional specific 

scenario probability weights of 10% to the optimistic, 60% to the 

adjustments for individual countries of the NLB Group.

baseline, and 30% to the pessimistic scenarios. 

b)  Individual assessment of allowances for impaired financial 

assets 

The macroeconomic rationale behind the alternative scenarios 

The monitoring process of the macroeconomic environment 

NLB Group assesses impairments of financial assets separately 

is related to a range of plausible drivers on economic 

revealed that uncertainties remain high in the global economy 

for all individually significant assets classified in Stage 3. The 

development during the next three years. The narrative for 

due to the energy crisis, inflation, and the war in Ukraine. 

materiality threshold is set at a EUR 0.5 million exposure for 

the alternative scenarios combines statistical techniques 

The current economic situation led to sluggish growth 

legal entities, and EUR 0.1 million for private persons on the 

with expert knowledge as a means of concept and outputs 

projections, persistent inflationary pressures, and interest rate 

level of NLB, while the Group members apply lower thresholds 

validation. The Group developed both alternative scenarios 

hikes. Increased uncertainty and changes in expectations of 

applicable to their portfolio size. All other financial assets obtain 

through the lens of possible expected impact on regional 

macroeconomic development affected forecasts for some 

collective allowances.

economic activity. In general, the mild scenario is a demand-

economies in the NLB Group. The NLB Group noticed a material 

driven optimistic scenario, where limited supply disruption 

decrease in growth projections for Slovenia and Serbia for 2023. 

The amount of loss is measured as the difference between the 

factors and an active role from the central banks help to 

Hence, the executive decision was to adjust risk expectations 

asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated 

brighten the economic conditions and economic subjects’ 

using the scenario's weight. The Bank changed the scenario 

future cash flows, which are discounted to the estimation date. 

confidence. This scenario narrates stronger economic growth, 

probability weighting set to 0%–10%–90%, where the severe 

The scenario of expected cash flows can be based on the ‘going 

while the severe scenario envisions zero real economic growth 

and baseline scenarios reflect the likelihood of relevant future 

concern’ assumption, where the cash flow from operations is 

for all NLB Group home countries. Namely, the severe scenario 

economic conditions for them. We have derived the likelihood 

considered along with the sale of collateral that is not crucial 

is supply-driven pessimistic scenario, where both upside 

of occurrence for the pessimistic scenario to 90%, whereby the 

for future business. In the case of the ‘gone concern’ principle, 

inflation risk and downside growth risk materialize. The bank 

baseline scenario received a weight of 10%. Minor changes 

the repayments are based on expected cash flows from the 

includes these scenarios in calculating expected credit losses in 

were also applied in other countries based on the latest 

sale of collateral. The expected payment from the collateral is 

the context of IFRS 9.

available forecast. These adjustments are adopted to reflect 

calculated from the appraised market value of the collateral, 

Macroeconomic scenarios for explanatory variables, developed for each country in the NLB Group (in %):

Mild scenario

Baseline scenario

Severe scenario

the haircut used as defined in the Haircut Methodology, and 

discounted. Off-balance sheet liabilities are also assessed 

individually and, where necessary, related allowances are 

2022

2023

2024

2022

2023

2024

2022

2023

2024

recognised as liabilities.

Slovenia

Real GDP

Unemployment rate

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Real GDP

Unemployment rate

Montenegro

Real GDP

Unemployment rate

North Macedonia

Real GDP

Unemployment rate

Serbia

Real GDP

Unemployment rate

Kosovo

Real GDP

Unemployment rate

4.7

4.3

4.0

15.3

6.2

16.1

4.1

15.0

4.8

9.9

4.4

23.6

5.5

4.2

4.9

15.1

6.9

15.5

6.0

14.4

6.5

9.2

6.5

22.6

4.0

4.0

4.6

14.4

5.2

14.5

5.2

13.9

5.0

8.8

5.1

21.8

3.5

4.4

2.4

15.3

4.2

16.1

2.9

15.2

3.6

10.0

2.8

23.6

3.1

4.4

2.3

15.1

3.9

15.5

3.6

14.9

4.1

9.4

3.9

22.6

2.8

4.3

3.0

14.4

3.2

14.5

4.0

14.6

3.8

9.1

3.5

21.8

1.5

4.6

(0.1)

15.4

1.2

16.2

(0.1)

15.5

1.6

10.4

0.3

23.7

0.6

5.6

(0.7)

15.8

(0.1)

16.2

0.1

16.4

1.6

11.5

0.9

23.3

1.8

7.9

1.8

16.4

1.7

16.5

2.5

19.1

2.8

15.3

2.3

23.8

The carrying amount of financial assets measured at amortised 

cost is reduced through an allowance account and the loss is 

recognised in the income statement line item ‘Impairment of 

financial assets.’ If the amount of allowances for ECL decreases 

subsequently due to an event occurring after the impairment 

was recognised (e.g., repayment in the collection process 

exceeds the assessed expected payment from collateral), 

the reversal of the loss is recognised as a reduction in the 

allowance account, and the gain is recognised in the same 

income statement item. For off-balance exposures, the amount 

of ECL is recognised in the statement of financial position in the 

line item ‘Provisions’ and in the income statement in the line item 

‘Provisions for credit losses.’

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The ECLs for debt instruments measured at fair value through 

forborne loan. When NLB Group is embarking on the forborne 

assets are measured and accounted for in accordance 

other comprehensive income do not reduce the carrying 

loan by taking possession of other assets (i.e., property, plant 

with the policies applicable to the relevant asset categories. 

amount of these financial assets in the statement of financial 

and equipment; securities; and other financial assets), including 

Repossessed assets mainly represent items of real estate that 

position, which remains at fair value. Instead, an amount equal 

investments in the equity of debtors obtained via debt-to-

NLB Group classifies within investment properties measured in 

to the allowance that would arise if the assets were measured 

equity swaps, it recognises the acquired assets in the statement 

accordance with an IAS 40 Investment property (note 2.20.), and 

at amortised cost is recognised in other comprehensive income 

of financial position at fair value, recognising the difference 

other assets measured in accordance with IAS 2 Inventories. 

as an accumulated impairment amount, with a corresponding 

between the fair value of the asset and the carrying amount of 

charge to profit or loss. The accumulated loss recognised in 

the eliminated claim in profit or loss.

other comprehensive income is recycled to the profit or loss 

Real estate obtained as collateral from the foreclosure of 

loans and receivables, classified as other assets are initially 

upon derecognition of the assets, or when the amount of 

Forborne exposures may be identified in both the performing 

recognised at fair value less costs to sell (realisable value), 

allowances for ECL decreases due to an event occurring after 

and non-performing parts of the portfolio. Where the forborne 

wherein only the direct costs of sales can be considered. At 

the impairment was recognised.

loan is classified in the non-performing part of the portfolio, it 

subsequent measurement, the realisable value is verified at 

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2.14. Forborne loans

A forborne loan (or restructured financial asset) arises as 

a result of a debtor’s inability to repay a debt under the 

originally agreed terms, either by modifying the terms of the 

original contract (via an annex) or by signing a new contract 

under which the contracting parties agree the partial or total 

repayment of the original debt. When receivables from the 

client receive restructuring status, the debtor must be classified 

in the rating grade C or lower. 

The definitions of forborne loans closely follow definitions that 

were developed by the European Banking Authority (EBA). 

These definitions aim to achieve comprehensive coverage of 

exposures to which forbearance measures have been extended.

The accounting treatment of forborne loans depends on the 

type of restructuring. When NLB Group embarks on a forborne 

loan via the modified terms of repayment proceeding from 

extending the deadline for the repayment of the principal 

and/or interest, and/or a forbearance of the repayment of 

the principal, and/or interest or a reduction in the interest 

rate, and/or other expenses, it adjusts the carrying amount 

of the forborne loan on the basis of the discounted value of 

the estimated future cash flows under the modified terms, and 

recognises the resulting effect in profit or loss. In the event of 

the reduction of a claim against the debtor via the reduction in 

the amount of the claims as a result of a contractually agreed 

debt waiver and ownership restructuring or debt to equity 

can be reclassified to the performing part when exposure is no 

least annually. Valuations of the fair value of real estate are 

longer considered as impaired or defaulted, when determined 

performed by certified real estate appraisers. The real estate is 

amounts were repaid, when one year has passed from the 

impaired when the carrying value exceeds the realisable value. 

latest of the events defined (introduction of forbearance, 

The effect of impairment is recognised as the impairment of 

classification in the non-performing part, repayment of the 

other assets and the reversal of impairment as income from the 

last overdue amount, end of the grace period), and after the 

reversal of the impairment of other assets. 

introduction of forbearance there have been no overdue 

amounts or doubts concerning the repayment of the entire 

exposure, under the terms and conditions after the forbearance. 

The absence of doubt is confirmed by analysis of the financial 

situation of the debtor.

The forborne status is withdrawn when:

•  at least a 2-year probation period has 

passed since the latest of:

•  the moment of extending the restructuring measures, or

•  the forborne exposure was deemed performing;

•  regular payments of the principal or interest were made, in 

a substantial total amount, during at least half the probation 

2.16. Offsetting

Financial assets and liabilities are offset, and the net amount 

reported in the statement of financial position when there is a 

legally enforceable right to offset the recognised amounts, and 

there is an intention to settle on a net basis, or to realise the 

asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

2.17. Sale and repurchase 

agreements

period;

Securities sold under sale and repurchase agreements (repos) 

•  no exposure, in the probation period, is more than 30 days in 

are retained in the financial statements, and the counterparty 

default of more than EUR 100;

•  the client fulfils determined financial indicators.

liability is recognised in financial liabilities measured at an 

amortised cost. Securities sold subject to sale and repurchase 

agreements are reclassified in the financial statements as 

In the case of a deferral of payment approved due to the 

pledged assets when the transferee has the right by contract or 

COVID-19 crisis, the probation period is extended for the period 

custom to sell or re-pledge the collateral. Securities purchased 

of deferral.

2.15. Repossessed assets

swap, NLB Group derecognises the claim in the part relating to 

In certain circumstances, assets are repossessed following the 

the write-down or the contractually agreed upon debt waiver. 

foreclosure on loans that are in default. Repossessed assets are 

The new estimate of the future cash flows for the residual claim, 

initially recognised in the financial statements at their fair value 

not yet written down, is based on an updated estimate of the 

and classified in the appropriate category according to their 

probability of loss. NLB Group considers the debtor’s modified 

purpose and are sold as soon as it is feasible in order to reduce 

position, the economic expectations, and the collateral of the 

exposure (note 6.1.l). After initial recognition, the repossessed 

under agreements to resell (reverse repos) are presented as 

loans to other banks or customers, as appropriate.

In financial statements, the difference between the sale and 

repurchase price is treated as interest and accrued over the life 

of the repo agreements using the effective interest method.

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195

 2.18. Property and equipment

2.19. Intangible assets

All items of property and equipment are initially recognised 

Intangible assets include software licenses, goodwill (note 

at cost. They are subsequently measured at cost less any 

2.5.), and identifiable intangible assets acquired in a business 

accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment 

combination. Intangible assets other than goodwill, have a finite 

loss.

useful life and are in the statement of financial position stated 

at cost, less accumulated amortisation and impairment losses. 

Each year, NLB Group assesses whether there are indications 

Amortisation is calculated on a straight-line basis at rates 

that property and equipment may be impaired. If any such 

designed to write-down the cost of an intangible asset over its 

indication exists, the recoverable amounts are estimated. The 

estimated useful life. The core banking system is amortised over 

recoverable amount is the higher of the fair value less costs 

a period of 10 years, and other software over a period of three 

to sell and value in use. If the recoverable amount exceeds 

to five years. Amortisation does not begin until the assets are 

the carrying value, the assets are not impaired. If the carrying 

available for use. 

amount exceeds the recoverable amount, the difference is 

recognised as an impairment loss in the income statement. 

The identifiable intangible assets acquired in a business 

Items of a largely independent property and equipment which 

combination and recognised separately from goodwill, are 

do not generate cash flows are included in the cash-generating 

recorded at fair value on the acquisition date if the intangible 

unit and later tested for possible impairment.

asset is separable or arises from contractual or other legal 

rights. After initial recognition, intangible assets acquired in a 

Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the 

business combination are measured in accordance with IAS 38 

assets’ estimated useful lives. The following annual depreciation 

Intangible Assets. Other intangible assets acquired in a business 

rates were applied:

NLB Group and NLB

Buildings

Leasehold improvements

Computers

Furniture and equipment

Motor vehicles

in %

2 – 5

5 – 25

14.3 – 50

10 – 33.3

12.5 – 25

Depreciation does not begin until the assets are available for 

use.

The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed and 

adjusted if appropriate on each reporting date. Gains and 

losses on the disposal of items of property and equipment 

are determined as the difference between the sale proceeds 

and their carrying amount, and are recognised in the income 

statement. 

Maintenance and repairs are charged to the income statement 

during the financial period in which they are incurred. 

Subsequent costs that increase future economic benefits 

are recognised in the carrying amount of an asset, and the 

replaced part, if any, is derecognised.

combination (note 5.10.) relate to core deposits and trade name. 

Their useful life is assessed to be five years. Amortisation of a 

trade name is calculated on a straight-line basis, while for core 

deposits accelerated amortisation is applied, since it better 

reflects the pattern of the asset’s consumption.

2.20. Investment properties

Investment properties include properties held to earn rentals, 

or to increase the value of a long-term investment, rather than 

to be used by NLB Group. Investment properties are carried 

at fair value determined by a certified appraiser. Fair value is 

based on current market prices. Any gain or loss arising from a 

change in the fair value is recognised in the income statement. 

2.21. Non-current assets and 

disposal groups classified  
as held for sale

Non-current assets and disposal groups are classified as held 

for sale if their carrying amount will be recovered through 

a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. This 

condition is deemed to be met only when the sale is highly 

probable, and the asset is available for immediate sale in its 

present condition. Management must be committed to the 

sale, which should be expected to qualify for recognition as a 

completed sale within one year from the date of classification. 

Non-current assets and disposal groups classified as held for 

sale are measured at the lower of the assets’ previous carrying 

amount and fair value less costs to sell. 

In the case of business combinations, NLB Group measures an 

acquired non-current asset (or disposal group) that is classified 

as held for sale at the acquisition date in accordance with 

IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued 

Operations at fair value less costs to sell. 

During subsequent measurement, certain assets and liabilities 

of a disposal group that are outside the scope of IFRS 5 

measurement requirements are measured in accordance 

with the applicable standards (e.g., deferred tax assets, 

assets arising from employee benefits, financial instruments, 

investment property measured at fair value, and contractual 

rights under insurance contracts). Tangible and intangible 

assets are not depreciated. The effects of sale and valuation are 

included in the income statement as a gain or loss from non-

current assets held for sale.

Liabilities directly associated with disposal groups are 

reclassified and presented separately in the statement of 

financial position.

2.22. Accounting for leases

A lease is a contract, or part of a contract which creates 

enforceable rights and obligations and conveys the right 

to control the use of an identified asset for a period of 

time in exchange for consideration. Thus, IFRS 16 requires 

determination whether a contract is, or contains, a lease. 

NLB Group as a lessee

NLB Group recognises a liability to make lease payments and 

an asset representing the right to use the underlying asset 

(i.e., the right-of-use asset) during the lease term for all leases, 

except for short-term leases and leases of low-value. Short-

term leases are defined as those which at the commencement 

date have a lease term of 12 months or less without the option 

to purchase the underlying asset. Leases of underlying assets 

with a value, when new, lower, or equal to EUR 5 thousand 

are defined as low value leases, and are thus recognised as 

expenses on a straight-line basis over the lease term.

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 Right-of-use assets

the lessee. When assets are leased under a finance lease, 

Repurchased own debt is disclosed as a reduction of 

At the commencement date, NLB Group measures the right-

the present value of the lease payments is recognised as a 

liabilities in the statement of financial position. The difference 

of-use asset at cost. The cost of right-of-use assets consists of 

receivable. Income from finance lease transactions is amortised 

between the book value and the price at which own debt was 

the amount of lease liabilities recognised, the initial direct costs 

over the lifetime of the lease using the effective interest method. 

repurchased is disclosed in the income statement.

incurred, an estimate of costs to be incurred by the lessee in 

Finance lease receivables are recognised at an amount equal 

dismantling and removing the underlying asset to the condition 

to the net investment in the lease, including the unguaranteed 

required by the terms and conditions of the lease and lease 

residual value. 

payments made at or before the commencement date less 

any lease incentives received. After the commencement date, 

Sale-and-leaseback transactions

NLB Group measures the right-of-use asset using a cost model 

NLB Group also enters into sale-and-leaseback transactions (in 

(the asset is measured at cost, reduced by any accumulated 

which NLB Group is primarily a lessor) under which the leased 

depreciation and impairment losses, and adjusted for any 

assets are purchased from, and then leased back to the lessee. 

remeasurement of lease liabilities) and recognises depreciation 

These contracts are classified as finance leases or operating 

of the right-of-use assets, on a straight-line basis over the 

leases, depending on the contractual terms of the leaseback 

lease term, and (separately) interest on the lease liabilities. 

agreement.

2.25. Other issued financial 
instruments with 
characteristics of equity

Upon initial recognition, other issued financial instruments 

are classified in part or in full as equity instruments if the 

contractual characteristics of the instruments are such that NLB 

Group must classify them as equity instruments in accordance 

with IAS 32 Financial Instruments: Presentation. An issued 

financial instrument is only considered an equity instrument if 

In the statement of financial position, right-of-use assets are 

presented in the line item ‘Property and equipment.’

Lease liabilities

Leases recognised in a business combination

that instrument does not represent a contractual obligation for 

In most leases acquired in business combinations, the acquiree 

payment.

is the lessee. For such leases, NLB Group applies the IFRS 16 

At the commencement date, NLB Group measures the lease 

initial measurement provisions (with exceptions for leases with 

liability at the present value of the lease payments that are not 

remaining term of 12 months or less and low value leases) and 

paid at that date. The lease payments consist of fixed payments, 

recognises the acquired lease liability as if the lease contract 

variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate, 

was a new lease at the acquisition date. The right-of-use asset 

Issued financial instruments with characteristics of equity are 

recognised in equity in the statement of financial position. 

Transaction costs incurred for issuing such instruments are 

deducted from retained earnings. The corresponding interest is 

amounts expected to be paid under residual value guarantees, 

is measured at an amount equal to the recognised liability. 

recognised directly in retained earnings. 

the exercise price of a purchase option if there exists a 

There are no favourable or unfavourable terms of the leases 

reasonable certainty for it to be exercised, and payments of 

relative to market terms, which would require the adjustment of 

penalties for terminating the lease if the lease term reflects 

the right-of-use assets. 

The carrying value of an issued financial instrument with 

characteristics of equity is presented in the statement of 

changes in equity in the line item ‘Other Equity Instruments.’

exercising the option to terminate. Subsequently (after the 

commencement date), NLB Group measures the lease  

liability by: 

•  increasing the carrying amount to reflect interest on the lease 

liability;

•  reducing the carrying amount to reflect the lease payments 

made; 

•  remeasuring the carrying amount to reflect any reassessment 

or lease modifications.

In the statement of financial position, lease liabilities are 

presented in line item ‘Other financial liabilities.’

NLB Group as a lessor

Payments under operating leases are recognised as income 

on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease. Assets 

leased under operating leases are presented in the statement 

of financial position as investment property or as property and 

equipment. 

2.23. Cash and cash equivalents 

For the purpose of the statement of cash flows, cash and cash 

equivalents comprise cash and balances with central banks 

2.26. Provisions

Provisions are recognised when NLB Group has a present legal 

and other demand deposits at banks, debt securities held for 

or constructive obligation as a result of past events, and it is 

trading, loans to banks, and debt securities not held for trading 

probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic 

with an original maturity of up to three months. Cash and cash 

benefits will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable 

equivalents are disclosed under the cash flow statement. 

2.24. Borrowings, deposits, and 
issued debt securities with 
characteristics of debt

Loans and deposits received and issued debt securities are 

initially recognised at fair value. Borrowings are subsequently 

measured at the amortised cost. The difference between the 

value at initial recognition and the final value is recognised 

in the income statement as interest expenses, applying the 

estimate of the amount of the obligation can be made. They 

are recognised in the amount that is the best estimate of the 

expenditure required to settle the present obligation at the end 

of the reporting period. When the effect of the time value of 

money is material, NLB Group determines the level of provisions 

by discounting the expected cash flows at a pre-tax rate 

reflecting the current rates specific to the liability.

NLB Group classifies a lease as a finance lease when the risks 

and rewards incidental to ownership of a leased asset lie with 

effective interest rate. 

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 2.27.  Contingent liabilities and 

commitments

Other contingent liabilities and commitments
Other contingent liabilities and commitments represent 

Deferred tax assets are recognised if it is probable that future 

taxable profit will be available in the foreseeable future against 

undrawn loan commitments to extend credit, uncovered letters 

which the temporary differences can be utilised.

Financial and non-financial guarantees
Financial guarantees are contracts that require the issuer to 

make specific payments to reimburse the holder for a loss it 

incurs because a specific debtor fails to make payments when 

due, in accordance with the terms of debt instruments. Such 

financial guarantees are given to banks, financial institutions, 

and other bodies on behalf of the customer to secure loans, 

overdrafts, and other banking facilities.

The issued guarantees covering non-financial obligations of the 

clients represent the obligation of the Bank (guarantor) to pay if 

the client fails to perform certain works in accordance with the 

terms of the commercial contract. 

Financial and non-financial guarantees are initially recognised 

at fair value, which is usually evidenced by the fees received. 

The fees are amortised to the income statement over the 

contract term using the straight-line method. NLB Group’s 

liabilities under guarantees are subsequently measured at the 

greater of:

•  the initial measurement, less amortisation calculated to 

recognise fee income over the period of guarantee; or 

•  ECL provisions as set out in note 2.13.

Documentary letters of credit
Documentary (and standby) letters of credit constitute a written 

and irrevocable commitment of the issuing (opening) bank on 

behalf of the issuer (importer) to pay the beneficiary (exporter) 

the value set out in the documents by a defined deadline:

•  if the letter of credit is payable on sight; and

•  if the letter of credit is payable for deferred payment, the bank 

will pay according to the contractual agreement when and if 

the beneficiary (exporter) presents the bank with documents 

that are in line with the conditions and deadlines set out in the 

letter of credit. 

A commitment may also take the form of a letter of credit 

confirmation, which is usually done at the request or 

authorisation of the issuing (opening) bank and constitutes a 

firm commitment by the confirming bank, in addition to that of 

the issuing bank, which independently assumes a commitment 

to the beneficiary under certain conditions.

of credit, and other commitments.

The nominal contractual values of guarantees, letters of credit, 

enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the reporting 

and undrawn loan commitments where the loan agreed to 

period that are expected to apply to the period when the asset 

be provided is on market terms, are not recognised in the 

is realised, or the liability is settled. At each reporting date, NLB 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at tax rates 

statement of financial position.

Group reviews the carrying amount of deferred tax assets and 

assesses future taxable profits against which temporary taxable 

Contingent liabilities recognised in a business combination 
A contingent liability recognised in a business combination 

differences can be utilised.

is initially measured at its fair value and is recognised in the 

Deferred tax assets for temporary differences arising from 

statement of financial position in the line item ‘Provisions.’ After 

impairments of investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint 

initial recognition, it is measured at the higher of:

ventures are recognised only to the extent that it is probable 

•  the amount that would be recognised in accordance with IAS 

that: 

37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets; or 

•  the temporary differences will be reversed in the foreseeable 

•  the amount initially recognised less, if appropriate, the 

future; and

cumulative amount of income recognised in accordance 

•  taxable profit will be available.

with the principles of IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with 

Customers. This requirement does not apply to contracts 

Slovenian tax law does not set deadlines by which uncovered 

accounted for in accordance with IFRS 9.

tax losses must be utilised. 

2.28. Taxes

Income tax expenses comprises current and deferred income 

tax. 

Current corporate income tax in NLB Group is calculated 

on taxable profits at the applicable tax rate in the respective 

jurisdiction. The corporate income tax rate for 2022 in Slovenia 

was 19% (2021: 19%). 

Current and deferred taxes are recognised in profit or loss, 

except to the extent that they relate to a business combination 

or taxes related to effects recognised directly in equity (deferred 

tax related to the fair value re-measurement of financial assets 

measured at fair value through other comprehensive income, 

cash flow hedges, and actuarial gains and losses on defined 

benefit pension plans is charged or credited directly to other 

comprehensive income).

In the case of business combination, deferred tax balances 

are recognised if related to temporary differences and carry-

forwards of an acquiree that exist at the acquisition date, or 

if they arise as a result of the acquisition. Income taxes are 

measured in accordance with IAS 12 Income Taxes.

A tax on financial services is a tax on fees, paid for prescribed 

financial services rendered (financial services, exempt from 

value added tax (with the exception of securities transactions) 

and the services of insurance brokers and agents), paid in 

Slovenia. The tax rate is 8.5% (2021: 8.5%) and the tax is paid 

monthly. Given that the tax on financial services is classified 

as a sales tax, it reduces accrued revenues in the financial 

statements.

2.29. Fiduciary activities

NLB Group provides asset management services to its clients. 

Assets held in a fiduciary capacity are not reported in NLB 

Deferred income tax is calculated using the balance sheet 

Group’s financial statements as they do not represent assets of 

liability method for temporary differences arising between the 

NLB Group. Fee and commission income and expenses relating 

tax bases of assets and liabilities, and their carrying amounts 

to fiduciary activities are generally recognised in the income 

for financial reporting purposes. 

statement when the service has been provided (see also note 

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 2.10.). Fee and commission income charged for this type of 

employment benefits, actuarial gains and losses from the 

service is broken down by items in note 4.3.b). Further details on 

effect of changes in actuarial assumptions and experience 

2.32. Share capital

transactions managed on behalf of third parties are disclosed 

adjustments (differences between the realised and expected 

in note 5.25. 

payments) are recognised in other comprehensive income 

under the line item ‘Actuarial Gains/(Losses) on Defined 

Based on the requirements of Slovenian legislation, NLB Group 

Benefit Pensions Plans,’ and will not be recycled to the income 

has, in note 5.25., additionally disclosed the assets and liabilities 

statement. Actuarial gains and losses that relate to other 

on accounts used to manage financial assets from fiduciary 

employment benefits are recognised in the income statement 

activities, i.e., information related to the receipt, processing, and 

as defined benefit costs. In the statement of financial position, 

execution of orders and related custody activities.

liabilities for short-term employee benefits are included in the 

2.30. Employee benefits

Employee benefits include:

•  short-term employee benefits (such as salary, compensations, 

annual holiday allowance, separation allowance, and non-

monetary benefits);

•  reimbursement of commuting costs, meal allowance, 

compensation for use of own resources;

•  retirement indemnity bonuses (post-employment benefits);

•  other employment benefits (jubilee long-service benefits, 

voluntary supplementary pension insurance);

•  variable remuneration. 

Short-term employee benefits are recognised in the period to 

which they relate and included in the income statement line 

item ‘Administrative expenses.’ Among others, they include the 

payment of contributions for pension and disability insurance, 

which according to local legislation (for employer) amount to 

8.85% of the gross salaries.

According to legislation, employees retire after they fulfil certain 

conditions according to Pension and Disability Insurance Act 

(ZPIZ), they are entitled to a lump-sum severance payment. 

Employees are also entitled to a long-service bonus for every 10 

years of service in NLB. 

These obligations are measured at the present value of future 

cash outflows considering future salary increases and other 

conditions, and then apportioned to past and future employee 

service based on the benefit plan’s terms and conditions.

Service costs are included in the income statement in the line 

item ‘Administrative expenses’ as defined benefit costs, while 

interest expenses on the defined benefit liability are recognised 

in the line item ‘Interest and similar expenses.’ These interest 

expenses represent the change during the period in the defined 

benefit liability that arises from the passage of time. For post-

line item ‘Other liabilities,’ while liabilities for post-employment 

benefits and other employment benefits (jubilee long-service 

benefits) are included in the line item ‘Provisions.’

In the case of a business combination employee benefits are 

recognised and measured in accordance with IAS 19 Employee 

Benefits, i.e., not at fair value.

2.31.  Share-based payment 

transactions

Cash-settled share-based payment transactions
If certain conditions are met, members of the Management 

Board and employees performing special work (i.e., those 

who can significantly impact the risk profile of the Group in the 

scope of their tasks and activities) receive part of their variable 

remuneration in the form of financial instruments, whose value 

is linked to the value of NLB share. Upon expiration of legally 

prescribed period (up to five years), beneficiaries receive cash 

payments depending on the value of a NLB share. The first 

contracts, including share-based payment transactions, were 

concluded in the second quarter of 2022.

In the statement of financial position, a liability is recognised in 

line ‘Financial liabilities measured at fair value through profit 

or loss.’ Its fair value is measured initially and at each reporting 

date up to and including the settlement date, with changes in 

fair value recognised in the income statement line ‘Gains less 

losses from financial liabilities measured at fair value through 

profit or loss.’

Equity-settled share-based payment transactions
NLB Group does not have any equity-settled share-based 

payment transactions.

Dividends on ordinary shares
Dividends on ordinary shares are recognised in equity in the 

period in which they are approved by NLB’s shareholders.

Treasury shares
If NLB or another member of NLB Group purchases NLB shares, 

the consideration paid is deducted from the total shareholders’ 

equity as treasury shares. If such shares are subsequently sold, 

any consideration received is included in equity. If NLB shares 

are purchased by NLB itself or other NLB Group entities, NLB 

creates reserves for treasury shares in equity.

Share issue costs
Costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares are 

recognised in equity as a reduction in the share premium 

account.

2.33. Segment reporting

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with 

internal reporting to the Management Board of the Bank, 

which is the executive body that makes decisions regarding 

the allocation of resources and assesses the performance of a 

specific segment. 

Transactions between organisational units (OUs) are managed 

under normal operating conditions. Interest income among 

individual OUs in the parent bank (NLB) and N Banka is 

allocated using a fund transfer pricing method and shown 

within the net interest income of each OU. Net non-interest 

income is allocated to the OU that actually provides the service 

that generates income. Direct costs are attributed to the 

segment that is directly related to the provided service, and 

indirect costs (costs which service centres provide for profit 

centres) are attributed to the segment for which the service is 

provided, whereas overhead costs are allocated according 
to general keys. External net income is the net income of NLB 

Group from the consolidated income statement. Income tax is 

not allocated between segments. Analysis by segment for NLB 

Group is presented in note 7.a).

In accordance with IFRS 8, NLB Group has the following 

reportable segments: Retail Banking in Slovenia, Corporate 

and Investment Banking in Slovenia, Strategic Foreign Markets, 

Financial Markets in Slovenia, Non-core members, and Other 

Activities.

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 2.34. Critical accounting estimates 

and judgments in applying 
accounting policies 

NLB Group’s financial statements are influenced by accounting 

policies, assumptions, estimates, and management’s judgment. 

NLB Group makes estimates and assumptions that affect 

the reported amounts of assets and liabilities within the next 

financial year. All estimates and assumptions required in 

conformity with the IFRS are best estimates undertaken in 

accordance with the applicable standard. Estimates and 

judgments are evaluated on a continuing basis, and are based 

on past experience and other factors, including expectations 

with regard to future events.

a)  Allowances for expected credit losses on loans and 

advances

NLB Group monitors and checks the quality of the loan portfolio 

at the individual and portfolio levels to continuously estimate 

the necessary allowances for ECL. NLB Group creates individual 

allowances for individually significant financial assets attributed 

to Stage 3. Such an assignment is based on information 

regarding the fulfilment of contractual obligations or other 

financial difficulties of the debtor, and other important facts. 

Individual assessments are based on the expected discounted 

cash flows from operations and/or the assessed expected 

payment from collateral.

Allowances are assessed collectively for financial assets 

assigned to Stage 1 or 2, or for financial assets in Stage 3 with 

exposure below the materiality threshold. The ECL in this 

group of assets are estimated based on expected value of risk 

parameters combining the historic movements with the future 

macroeconomic predictions for three separate scenarios. The 

models used to estimate future risk parameters are validated 

In terms of credit risk, the scenario has an unfavourable impact 

value, NPV) of financial instruments. NLB Group applies market 

on default rates (transfer of assets from performing to default) 

yield curves for valuation, and fair values are additionally 

and loss rates (expected losses after occurrence of default). 

adjusted for credit risk of the counterparty.

Furthermore, a transfer of assets within the performing sub-

portfolio to rating classes with worse default probabilities is 

The fair value hierarchy of financial instruments is disclosed in 

envisaged. Based on the existing exposures (static balance 

note 6.5.

sheet assumption), additional allowances for expected credit 

losses are assessed on existing default exposures and new 

c)  Impairment of investments in subsidiaries, associates and 

default flows, as well as on the remaining performing portfolio.

joint ventures

The process of identifying and assessing the impairment of 

The results of the stress scenario for NLB Group shows an 

investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures is 

increase of credit risk impairments in the first year of stress 

inherently uncertain, as the forecasting of cash flows requires 

by EUR 188 million (2021: EUR 177 million), and an increase in 

the significant use of estimates, which themselves are sensitive 

the coverage of the credit portfolio by impairments by 1.02 

to the assumptions used. The review of impairment represents 

percentage points (2021: 1.14 percentage points).

management’s best estimate of the facts and assumptions such 

as: 

b) Fair value of financial instruments
The fair values of financial investments traded on the active 

•  Future cash flows from individual investments present the 

estimated cash flow for periods for which adopted business 

market are based on current bid prices (financial assets) or 

plans are available. For core members, estimated cash 

offer prices (financial liabilities). 

flows are based on a five-year business plan. For non-core 

members, estimated cash flows are based on a period in 

The fair values of financial instruments that are not traded on 

line with the strategy of divestment. The business plans of 

the active market are determined by using valuation models. 

individual entities are based on an assessment of future 

These include a comparison with recent transaction prices, 

economic conditions that will impact an individual member’s 

the use of a discounted cash flow model, valuation based 

business and the quality of the credit portfolio;

on comparable entities, and other frequently used valuation 

•  The growth rate in cash flows for the period following the 

models. These valuation models at their best estimate reflect 

adopted business plan is between 2.3 and 4.0%;

current market conditions at the measurement date, which 

•  The target capital adequacy ratio of an individual bank is 

may not be representative of market conditions either before 

between 14 and 17%;

or after the measurement date. Management reviewed 

•  The discount rate derived from the capital asset pricing model 

all applied models as at the reporting date to ensure they 

that is used to discount future cash flows is based on the cost 

appropriately reflect current market conditions, including the 

of equity allocated to an individual investment. The discount 

relative liquidity of the market and the applied credit spread. 

rate reflects the impact of a range of financial and economic 

Changes in assumptions regarding these factors could affect 

variables, including the risk-free rate and risk premium. The 

the reported fair values of financial instruments held for trading, 

value of variables used is subject to fluctuations outside 

and financial assets measured at fair value through other 

management’s control. The pre-tax discount rate is between 

and back-tested on a regular basis to make the loss estimations 

comprehensive income. 

13.1 and 22.2% (31 December 2021: between 9.66 and 15.88%).

as realistic as possible.

NLB Group performs regular stress-testing as part of the ICAAP 

process normative approach, where the 3-year budget is tested 

for adverse circumstances. The selected stress scenario predicts 

adverse economic circumstances as a result of the escalation of 

geopolitical tension and a fragile supply. This scenario features 

a fall in output, growing inflationary pressures, and a sudden 

increase in interest rates that hampers the debtors’ ability to 

repay. 

The fair values of derivative financial instruments are 

For strategic NLB Group members in 2022 and 2021, there 

determined on the basis of market data (mark-to-market), in 

were no indications of impairment for equity investments. In 

accordance with NLB Group’s methodology for the valuation of 

2022, NLB released previously formed impairment of equity 

financial instruments. The market exchange rates, interest rates, 

investments in the amount EUR 23,388 thousand and impaired 

yield, and volatility curves used in valuations are based on the 

equity investments in non-core members in the amount of EUR 

market snapshot principle. Market data are saved daily at 4 

615 thousand (2021: EUR 458 thousand). 

p.m., and later used for the calculation of the fair values (market 

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 d) Employee benefits 
Liabilities for certain employee benefits are calculated by an independent actuary. The main assumptions included in the actuarial 

calculation are as follows:

Actuarial assumptions

Discount factor

Wage growth based on inflation, 
promotions, and wage growth 
based on past years of service

Other assumptions

NLB Group

2022

2021

3.1% - 8.3%

0.5% - 4.3%

NLB

2022

3.1%

2021

0.6%

2.3% - 14.2%

1.8% - 4.8%

3.0% - 7.0%

2.5% - 3.0%

Number of employees eligible for benefits

7,154

7,014

2,369

2,444

A sensitivity analysis of significant actuarial assumptions for post-employment benefit:

31 Dec 2022

NLB Group

NLB

Impact on provisions for employee benefits 
- post-employment benefits (in %)

Discount rate

Future salary  
increases

Discount rate

Future salary  
increases

 +0.5 p.p. 

 -0.5 p.p. 

 +0.5 p.p. 

 -0.5 p.p. 

 +0.5 p.p. 

 -0.5 p.p. 

 +0.5 p.p. 

 -0.5 p.p. 

(4.7)

5.0

5.1

(4.8)

(4.5)

4.8

4.9

(4.7)

31 Dec 2021

NLB Group

NLB

Impact on provisions for employee benefits 
- post-employment benefits (in %)

Discount rate

Future salary  
increases

Discount rate

Future salary  
increases

 +0.5 p.p. 

 -0.5 p.p. 

 +0.5 p.p. 

 -0.5 p.p. 

 +0.5 p.p. 

 -0.5 p.p. 

 +0.5 p.p. 

 -0.5 p.p. 

(5.3)

5.7

5.5

(5.1)

(5.1)

5.5

5.5

(5.2)

Individual analysis is done by changing one assumption for 

+/- 0.5 percentage points, while all other assumptions stay 

the same.

The breakdown of actuarial gains and losses for post-employment benefit by causes:

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

Actuarial gains and losses due to 
changed financial assumptions

Actuarial gains and losses due to 
changes in demographic assumptions

Actuarial gains and losses due to experience

Total actuarial gains and losses for the year

The weighted average duration of liabilities in years:

2022

4,093

-

(62)

4,031

2021

251

(1,211)

(417)

(1,377)

2022

1,759

-

289

2,048

Post-employment benefit 

NLB Group

NLB

2022

11.1 - 22.0

2021

9.4 - 19.0

2022

11.1

2021

292

151

(558)

(115)

2021

11.0

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e) Taxes
NLB Group operates in countries governed by different laws. 

amendments add an exception to the recognition principle 

the treatment of lease incentives. The amendments to IFRS 

for liabilities and contingent liabilities within the scope of IAS 

1 – First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting 

The deferred tax assets recognised as at 31 December 2022 

37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets 

Standards permits a subsidiary that becomes a first-time 

are based on profit forecasts and take the expected manner of 

or IFRIC 21 Levies. The amendments also clarify existing 

adopter of IFRS Standards later than its parent to measure 

recovery of the assets into account. Changes in assumptions 

guidance for contingent assets. There is no impact on NLB 

cumulative translation differences at amounts included in 

regarding the likely manner of recovering assets or changes 

Group’s and NLB’s financial statements.

the consolidated financial statements of the parent, based 

in profit forecasts can lead to the recognition of currently 

unrecognised deferred tax assets or derecognition of previously 

•  IAS 16 (amendment) – Property, Plant and Equipment: 

created deferred tax assets. If NLB profit projections used for 

estimation of the amount of deferred tax assets which are 

Proceeds before Intended Use is effective for annual periods 
beginning on or after 1 January 2022. The amendment 

on the parent’s date of transition to IFRS Standards. The 

amendments to IAS 41 – Agriculture remove the requirement 

to exclude cash flows for taxation when measuring fair value 

under IAS 41. This amendment is intended to align with the 

expected to be reversed in foreseeable future (i.e., within five 

prohibits the deduction from the cost of an item of property, 

requirement in the standard to discount cash flows on a post-

years) would change by 10%, the estimated amount of deferred 

plant and equipment of any proceeds from the sale of 

tax basis. This will ensure consistency with the requirements in 

tax assets would change by approximately EUR 3.4 million 

produced items while the asset is being prepared for its 

IFRS 13 – Fair Value Measurement. There is no impact on NLB 

(notes 4.16. and 5.17.). 

intended use. The proceeds from selling such items, and 

Group’s and NLB’s financial statements.

2.35. Implementation of the new and 
revised International Financial 
Reporting Standards

During the current year, NLB Group adopted all new 

and revised standards and interpretations issued by the 

International Accounting Standards Board (hereinafter: ‘the 

IASB’) and the International Financial Reporting Interpretations 

Committee (hereinafter: ‘the IFRIC’), and that are endorsed 

the cost of producing those items, are recognised in profit 

or loss. It also clarifies that an entity is ‘testing whether the 

Accounting standards and amendments to existing standards 

asset is functioning properly’ when it assesses the technical 

that were endorsed by the EU, but not adopted early by NLB 

and physical performance of the asset. The financial 

Group

performance of the asset is not relevant to this assessment. 

The amendment further requires separate disclosure of the 

New and revised accounting standards and interpretations 

amounts of proceeds and costs relating to items produced 

endorsed by the EU that are not mandatory for annual 

that are not an output of the entity’s ordinary activities. It is 

accounting periods beginning on 1 January 2022, were 

also necessary to disclose the line item in the statement of 

not adopted early by NLB Group. These standards and 

comprehensive income where the proceeds are included. 

amendments are not expected to have a material impact on 

There is no impact on NLB Group’s and NLB’s financial 

the consolidated financial statements of NLB Group in the 

by the EU that are effective for annual accounting periods 

statements.

beginning on 1 January 2022. 

Accounting standards and amendments to existing standards 

effective for annual periods beginning on 1 January 2022 that 

were endorsed by the EU and adopted by NLB Group

•  IFRS 16 (amendment) – Covid-19-Related Rent Concessions 

beyond 30 June 2021 is effective for annual periods beginning 
on or after 1 April 2021. The amendment extended the 

availability of the practical expedient by one year so that it 

applies to rent concessions for which any reduction in lease 

payments affects only payments originally due on or before 

30 June 2022, provided the other conditions for applying 

the practical expedient are met. There is no impact on NLB 

•  IAS 37 (amendments) – Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and 
Contingent Assets: Onerous Contracts – Cost of Fulfilling 
a Contract is effective for annual periods beginning on or 
after 1 January 2022. The amendments modify the standard 

regarding costs a company should include as the cost of 

fulfilling a contract when assessing whether a contract is 

onerous. The amendments specify that the ‘cost of fulfilling’ 

future reporting periods and on foreseeable future transactions. 

NLB Group plans to adopt the accounting standards and 

amendments listed below for reporting periods commencing on 

or after the effective date.

•  IAS 1 (amendment) – Presentation of Financial Statements 
and IFRS Practice Statement 2 – Disclosure of Accounting 
policies is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 
January 2023. The amendments to IAS 1 require companies to 

a contract comprises the ‘costs that relate directly to the 

disclose their material accounting policy information rather 

contract.’ The costs that relate directly to a contract can either 

than their significant accounting policies. The amendments to 

be incremental costs of fulfilling that contract or an allocation 

IFRS Practice Statement 2 provide guidance on how to apply 

of other costs that relate directly to fulfilling contracts. There is 

the concept of materiality to accounting policy disclosures. 

no impact on NLB Group’s and NLB’s financial statements.

NLB Group and NLB do not expect an impact on their 

financial statements.

Group’s and NLB’s financial statements. 

•  Annual Improvements to IFRS Standards 2018-2020 

•  IFRS 3 (amendment) – Business Combinations – Reference 

to the Conceptual Framework is effective for annual periods 
beginning on or after 1 January 2022. The amendments 

update a reference in IFRS 3 to the Conceptual Framework 

for Financial Reporting without changing the accounting 

requirements for business combinations. Furthermore, the 

(amendments) are effective for annual periods beginning on 

•  IAS 8 (amendment) – Accounting policies, Changes in 

or after 1 January 2022. The amendments to IFRS 9 clarify 

which fees and costs should be included in the ‘10 per cent’ 

test for derecognition of a financial liability. The amendment 

Accounting Estimates and Errors: Definition of Accounting 
Estimates is effective for annual periods beginning on or 
after 1 January 2023. The amendments clarify how companies 

to IFRS 16 – Leases removes from the example the illustration 

should distinguish changes in accounting policies from 

of the reimbursement of leasehold improvements by the 

changes in accounting estimates. That distinction is important 

lessor in order to resolve any potential confusion regarding 

because changes in accounting estimates are applied 

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 prospectively only to future transactions and other future 

Accounting standards and amendments to existing standards, 

events, but changes in accounting policies are generally also 

but not endorsed by the EU

applied retrospectively to past transactions and other past 

events. NLB Group and NLB do not expect an impact on their 

•  IAS 1 (amendment and deferral of effective date) – 

financial statements.

•  IFRS 17 (new standard including amendments) – Insurance 

Contracts is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 
1 January 2023. The new standard provides a comprehensive 

Presentation of Financial Statements: Classification 
of Liabilities as Current or Non-current is effective for 
annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2024. The 

amendments clarify that liabilities are classified as either 

current or non-current, depending on the rights that exist at 

principle-based framework for the measurement and 

the end of the reporting period. Classification is unaffected 

presentation of all insurance contracts. The new standard will 

by the expectations of the entity or events after the reporting 

replace IFRS 4 Insurance Contracts and requires insurance 

date. The amendment also clarifies what IAS 1 means when it 

contracts to be measured using current fulfilment cash 

refers to the ‘settlement’ of a liability. NLB Group and NLB do 

flows, and for revenue to be recognised – as the service is 

not expect an impact on their financial statements.

provided over the coverage period. The additionally issued 

amendments to IFRS 17 simplify some requirements and 

explanation of financial performance, and provide additional 

transition reliefs to reduce the complexity of applying 

•  IAS 1 (amendment) – Presentation of Financial Statements: 

Non-current Liabilities with Covenants is effective for 
annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2024. The 

standard for the first time. NLB Group and NLB do not expect 

amendments improved the information an entity provides 

an impact on their financial statements.

•  IAS 12 (amendment) – Income Taxes: Deferred Tax related 

to Assets and Liabilities arising from a Single Transaction is 
effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 

when its right to defer settlement of a liability for at least 

12 months is subject to compliance with covenants. The 

amendments also responded to stakeholders’ concerns 

about the classification of such a liability as current or non-

current. NLB Group and NLB do not expect an impact on their 

2023. IAS 12 specifies how a company accounts for income 

financial statements.

tax, including deferred tax, which represents tax payable 

or recoverable in the future. In specified circumstances, 

companies are exempt from recognising deferred tax when 

they recognise assets or liabilities for the first time. The 

•  IFRS 16 (amendment) – Leases: Lease Liability in a Sale 

and Leaseback is effective for annual periods beginning 
on or after 1 January 2024. The amendments affect only the 

amendments clarify that the exemption does not apply and 

subsequent measurement of lease liabilities arising from a 

that companies are required to recognise deferred tax on 

sale and leaseback transaction with variable lease payments, 

such transactions. NLB Group and NLB do not expect an 

which occurred from the date of initial application of IFRS 

impact on their financial statements.

16 and for which the seller-lessee’s accounting policy differs 

from the requirements specified in these amendments. NLB 

Group and NLB do not expect an impact on their financial 

statements.

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 was fully paid in cash (note 5.12.b). At the General Meeting of 

Other changes:

3. Changes in the 
composition  
of the NLB Group

Changes in 2022
Capital changes:

•  In March 2022, in accordance with Resolution and 

Compulsory Winding-Up of Banks Act, NLB became an 

owner of 100% shares of Sberbank banka d.d., Ljubljana. 

The purchase price for the bank was EUR 5,109 thousand and 

Shareholders of Sberbank banka d.d., Ljubljana, held in April 

2022, a decision was made to rename Sberbank banka d.d., 

Ljubljana to ‘N Banka d.d., Ljubljana.’

•  In March 2022, Komercijalna banka a.d. Beograd bought 

2.90% of all ordinary shares in the amount of EUR 19,047 

thousand of treasury shares from dissenting shareholders, 

which Komercijalna banka a.d. Beograd should dispose of 

within 12 months of their takeover.

•  In April 2022, NLB established IT services company named 

‘NLB DigIT d.o.o., Beograd.’

•  In May 2022, NLB acquired an additional 442,799 ordinary 

shares of NLB Komercijalna banka a.d. Beograd and 

combined with existing shareholding reached the ownership 

of 90.2155% of the basic capital and 91.7294% of shares 

with voting rights. The increase in capital investment was 

recognised in the amount of EUR 15,715 thousand.

company was EUR 1,036 thousand and was fully paid in cash 

•  An increase in equity reserves in the form of a cash 

(note 5.12.c). In January 2023, the company was renamed to 

contribution in the amount of EUR 300 thousand in REAM 

‘NLB Lease&Go leasing d.o.o. Beograd.’

d.o.o., Beograd to ensure regular business operations.

•  In December 2022, an increase in share capital in the form of 

•  In October 2021, NLB increased its business share in Bankart 

a cash contribution in the amount of EUR 2,100 thousand in 

d.o.o., Ljubljana from 40.08% to 45.64%.

NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., Ljubljana for the purpose of 

•  In November 2021, Komercijalna banka a.d. Podgorica 

achieving NLB Group’s leasing strategy.

merged with NLB Banka a.d. Podgorica. After this merger, 

•  In December 2022, an increase in share capital in the form of 

Komercijalna banka a.d. Beograd has 23.97% shareholding of 

a cash contribution in the amount of EUR 21,130 thousand in 

NLB Banka a.d. Podgorica, while NLB d.d. has 75.90%.

S-REAM d.o.o., Ljubljana for the purpose of consolidation of 

•  In December 2021, an increase in share capital in the form of 

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real estate companies in Slovenia.

a cash contribution in the amount of EUR 15,309 thousand in 

NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., Ljubljana for the purpose of 

achieving NLB Group’s leasing strategy.

•  After obtaining all regulatory licenses, as well as by 

•  In December 2021, NLB increased its ownership in settlement 

registering the merger with the Business Registers Agency, 

agreement in relation to the put and call option of shares of 

the integration process of Komercijalna banka a.d. Beograd 

NLB Banka sh.a., Prishtina from 81.21% to 82.38%. The increase 

and NLB Banka a.d., Beograd, was successfully completed. 

in capital investment was recognised in the amount of EUR 

From 30 April 2022, the bank operates under the new name 

223 thousand. 

NLB Komercijalna banka a.d. Beograd. Based on the merger 

of NLB Banka a.d., Beograd to Komercijalna banka a.d. 

Other changes:

Beograd as the acquirer, NLB Komercijalna Banka a.d. 

•  In April 2021 company BH-RE d.o.o., Sarajevo – u likvidaciji 

Beograd is its universal legal successor.

was liquidated. In accordance with a court order, the 

•  In November 2022, NLB Komercijalna banka a.d. Beograd 

company was removed from the court register. 

sold its 23.97% ownership interest in NLB Banka a.d., 

•  In September 2021, NLB sold its 0.002% ownership interest in 

Podgorica to NLB.

Komercijalna banka a.d. Banja Luka to Komercijalna banka 

•  In December 2022, NLB sold its 100% ownership interest in 

a.d. Beograd.

PRO-REM d.o.o., Ljubljana – v likvidaciji to S-REAM d.o.o., 

•  In November 2021, Prvi Faktor d.o.o., Sarajevo - u likvidaciji 

Ljubljana.

was liquidated. In accordance with a court order, the 

company was removed from the court register. 

•  In December 2021, Komercijalna banka a.d. Beograd sold its 

subsidiary Komercijalna banka a.d. Banja Luka.

•  In July 2022, NLB successfully squeezed out the remaining 

shareholders of NLB Komercijalna banka a.d. Beograd and 

Changes in 2021
Capital changes:

thereby became the owner of 100% of this Serbian bank. 

Prior to the squeeze-out process, NLB owned 90.2155% of 

share capital and 91.7294% of voting rights. Through the 

squeeze-out process, NLB acquired 1,528,110 regular shares 

and 316,260 preferred shares with a total value of EUR 61,865 

thousand.

•  In September 2022, an increase in share capital in the form 

of a cash contribution in the amount of EUR 306 thousand in 
NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., Ljubljana for the purpose of 

achieving NLB Group’s leasing strategy.

•  In September 2022, NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., Ljubljana 

(51%) and NLB Banka a.d., Skopje (49%) established financial 

company named ‘NLB Liz&Go d.o.o. Skopje.’ In December 

2022, the company was renamed to ‘NLB Lease&Go d.o.o. 

Skopje.’

•  In November 2022, NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., Ljubljana 

became an owner of 95.20% of financial company ‘Zastava 

Istrabenz Lizing, d.o.o., Beograd.’ The purchase price for the 

•  In April 2021, NLB increased the share of voting rights in the 

•  In December 2021, NLB sold its subsidiary NLB Leasing d.o.o., 

takeover bid for the remaining shares of Komercijalna banka 

Ljubljana – v likvidaciji to NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., 

a.d. Beograd from 83.23% to 87.999%, and also acquired 

Ljubljana.

15.328% of preference shares. This increased NLB’s share in 

total shareholding of the bank from 81.42% to 86.42%. The 

increase in capital investment was recognised in the amount 

of EUR 23,098 thousand.

•  In May 2021, NLB increased the share of voting rights in the 

public offering of ordinary shares of Komercijalna banka a.d. 

Beograd from 87.999% to 88.28%. This increased NLB’s share 

in total shareholding of the bank from 86.42% to 86.70%. The 

increase in capital investment was recognised in the amount 

of EUR 1,337 thousand.

•  In May 2021, NLB acquired the remaining shares of minority 

shareholders of NLB Banka a.d., Beograd and increased its 

ownership from 99.997% to 100%. The increase in capital 

investment was recognised in the amount of EUR 2 thousand. 

Contents

204

 4. Notes to the income statement

4.1.  Interest income and expenses

Analysis by type of assets and liabilities

Interest and similar income
Interest income calculated using the effective interest method

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Securities measured at amortised cost

Deposits with banks and central banks

Loans and advances to banks measured at amortised cost

Loans and advances to customers at amortised cost

Other interest and similar income 

Financial assets held for trading

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily 
at fair value through profit or loss

Negative interest

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Other

Total

Interest and similar expenses
Interest expenses calculated using the effective interest method 

Deposits from banks and central banks

Borrowings from banks and central banks

Due to customers

Borrowings from other customers

Subordinated liabilities

Debt securities issued

Lease liabilities (note 5.11.a)

Other interest and similar expenses

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Negative interest

Financial liabilities held for trading

Interest expenses on defined employee benefits (note 2.30., 5.16.c)

Other

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

2021

2022

2021

561,467

38,840

16,791

12,067

3,770

489,999

8,309

3,732

48

3,966

559

4

467,500

40,347

14,049

239

416

412,449

10,329

4,757

780

3,980

-

812

214,163

11,215

11,431

10,868

6,106

174,543

7,799

3,352

166

3,718

559

4

170,002

11,733

10,150

101

3,937

144,081

9,183

4,455

744

3,981

-

3

569,776

477,829

221,962

179,185

43,785

795

1,236

19,464

939

12,737

8,183

431

21,069

7,468

9,301

3,497

374

429

40,460

865

1,797

25,575

1,205

10,548

-

470

28,009

10,279

12,711

4,222

202

595

27,373

692

617

5,116

-

12,737

8,183

28

17,562

7,468

6,793

3,144

144

13

15,297

6

1,647

3,067

-

10,548

-

29

24,749

10,279

9,845

4,222

48

355

64,854

68,469

44,935

40,046

Net interest income

504,922

409,360

177,027

139,139

The item ‘Negative interest’ classified under the line item ‘Other 

interest and similar income’ mainly includes the interest from 

targeted longer-term refinancing operations (TLTRO) in the 

amount of EUR 3,902 thousand for NLB Group (2021: EUR 3,979 

thousand) and EUR 3,677 thousand for NLB (2021: EUR 3,979 

thousand) (note 5.15.b). 

The item ‘Negative interest’ classified under the line item 

‘Other interest and similar expenses’ includes the interest from 

deposits with banks and central banks in the amount of EUR 

8,746 thousand for NLB Group (2021: EUR 11,692 thousand), and 

EUR 6,238 thousand for NLB (2021: EUR 8,826 thousand). It also 

includes interest from deposits with financial organisations in 

the amount of EUR 186 thousand for NLB Group and NLB (2021: 

EUR 336 thousand), and interest from securities with a negative 

yield in the amount of EUR 369 thousand for NLB Group and 

NLB (2021: EUR 683 thousand).

Other interest income in year 2021 for NLB Group in the amount 

of EUR 809 thousand relates to interests in relation to a refund 

of VAT from the Slovenian Tax Authority.

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4.2. Dividend income

Financial assets measured at fair value through 
other comprehensive income

 - related to investments held at the end of reporting period

Investments in subsidiaries

Investments in associates and joint ventures

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily at 
fair value through profit or loss

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

2021

2022

2021

173

173

-

-

69

242

184

184

-

-

39

223

-

-

55,244

754

46

56,044

-

-

79,136

441

39

79,616

4.3. Fee and commission income and expenses

a) Fee and commission income and expenses relating to activities of NLB Group and NLB

Fee and commission income
Fee and commission income relating to financial 
instruments not at fair value through profit or loss

Credit cards and ATMs 

Customer transaction accounts

Other fee and commission income

Payments

Investment funds

Guarantees

Agency of insurance products

Other services

Total

Fee and commission expenses
Fee and commission expenses relating to financial 
instruments not at fair value through profit or loss

Credit cards and ATMs 

Other fee and commission expenses

Payments

Insurance for holders of personal accounts and gold cards

Investment banking

Guarantees

Other services

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

2021

2022

2021

113,358

89,277

94,035

29,640

16,417

10,511

17,336

370,574

93,644

90,212

77,248

27,095

13,918

8,642

10,445

321,204

44,476

52,120

24,005

9,034

8,418

7,973

11,019

38,389

57,147

22,751

8,694

7,831

7,010

4,484

157,045

146,306

78,291

67,860

28,390

27,952

13,812

1,335

4,036

1,713

5,594

104,781

11,567

3,650

3,468

1,026

4,535

92,106

1,148

841

944

1,580

917

33,820

917

1,015

664

957

808

32,313

Net fee and commission income related to banking activities

265,793

229,098

123,225

113,993

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b) Fee and commission income and expenses relating to fiduciary activities

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

Fee and commission income related to fiduciary activities

Receipt, processing, and execution of orders

Management of financial instruments portfolio

Initial or subsequent underwriting and/or placing of 
financial instruments without a firm commitment basis

Custody and similar services

Management of clients’ account of non-materialised securities

Safe-keeping of clients’ financial instruments

Advice to companies on capital structure, business 
strategy, and related matters and advice, and services 
relating to mergers and acquisitions of companies

Total

Fee and commission expenses related to fiduciary activities

Fee and commission related to Central Securities 
Clearing Corporation and similar organisations

Fee and commission related to stock exchange 
and similar organisations

Total

Net fee income related to fiduciary activities 

2022

1,928

1,601

143

5,150

1,696

34

473

11,025

3,374

94

3,468

7,557

2021

1,942

2,118

264

5,290

1,595

26

150

11,385

3,188

119

3,307

8,078

2022

1,657

-

143

5,426

1,696

-

473

9,395

3,377

94

3,471

5,924

2021

1,655

-

264

5,247

1,595

-

150

8,911

3,191

119

3,310

5,601

Total fee and commission income

Total fee and commission expenses

381,599

108,249

332,589

95,413

166,440

37,291

155,217

35,623

Total a) and b)

273,350

237,176

129,149

119,594

4.4.  Gains less losses from financial assets and liabilities not measured at fair 

value through profit or loss

Debt instruments measured at fair value through other comprehensive income

- gains

- losses

Debt instruments measured at amortised cost

- gains

- losses

Total

NLB Group

2022

96

(1,764)

3,269

(735)

866

2021

171

(4)

-

-

167

2022

-

(316)

1

(735)

(1,050)

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

24

-

-

-

24

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4.5. Gains less losses from financial assets and liabilities held for trading

Foreign exchange trading

- gains

- losses

Debt instruments

- gains

- losses

Derivatives

- currency

- interest rate

- securities

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

2021

2022

2021

43,213

(13,988)

237

(175)

3,636

512

16

33,451

28,160

(7,114)

776

(616)

(199)

749

(562)

21,194

19,388

(11,465)

195

(175)

2,768

605

16

11,332

10,799

(5,795)

460

(571)

(484)

749

(562)

4,596

Interest income from financial assets held for trading is included 

in the income statement line item ‘Interest and similar income’ 

and interest expenses from financial liabilities held for trading in 
line item ‘Interest and similar expenses’ (note 4.1.).

4.6. Gains less losses from non-trading financial assets mandatorily  

at fair value through profit or loss

Equity securities

- gains

- losses

Debt securities
- gains

- losses

Loans and advances to customers

- gains

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

3,481

(3,162)

70

(299)

-

90

2021

2,208

(1,049)

5

(63)

15,737

16,838

2022

2,699

(1,925)

-

-

(2,225)

(1,451)

2021

1,157

(855)

-

-

13,190

13,492

Material exposure that was restructured in 2014, and classified 

Interest income from non-trading financial assets mandatorily 

as non-performing, was repaid in April 2021. This resulted in 

at fair value through profit or loss is included in the income 

positive valuation effect in the amount of EUR 14,837 thousand 

statement line item ‘Interest and similar income’ (note 4.1.).

at the NLB Group level and EUR 13,033 thousand at the NLB 

level.

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4.7. Foreign exchange translation gains less losses

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

Financial assets and liabilities not measured 
as at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets measured at fair value through profit or loss

Other

Total

4.8. Other net operating income

Other operating income

Income from non-banking services

- cash transportation

- operating leases of movable property

- IT services

- other

Rental income from investment property

Revaluation of investment property to fair value (note 5.9.)

Sale of investment property

Other operating income

Total

Other operating expenses

Expenses related to issued service guarantees

Revaluation of investment property to fair value (note 5.9.)

Other operating expenses

Total

2022

(95)

(11)

403

297

2022

6,952

3,327

1,252

254

2,119

2,912

3,766

2,450

7,366

23,446

451

674

5,543

6,668

NLB Group

2021

359

37

(51)

345

2021

6,528

3,241

1,074

426

1,787

3,558

4,447

778

14,335

29,646

453

858

5,114

6,425

2022

(1,980)

(11)

403

(1,588)

2022

6,367

3,383

475

1,020

1,489

459

85

393

2,912

10,216

451

1

5,353

5,805

2021

714

37

(51)

700

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

5,884

3,250

471

1,098

1,065

567

411

-

10,633

17,495

453

105

3,190

3,748

Other net operating income

16,778

23,221

4,411

13,747

Other operating expenses mainly include expenses associated 

Other operating income in year 2021 includes settlement of 

with donations, penalties and damages, and licences.

legal dispute in the amount of EUR 8,978 thousand in the NLB 

Group and EUR 8,559 thousand in NLB.

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4.9. Administrative expenses

Employee costs

Gross salaries, compensations, and other short-term benefits

Defined contribution scheme

Social security contributions

Defined benefit expenses (note 5.16.c)

Post-employment benefits

Other employee benefits

Total

Other general and administrative expenses

Material

Services

Intellectual services

Costs of supervision

Costs of other services

Tax expenses

Membership fees and similar

Business travel

Marketing

Buildings and equipment

Electricity

Rents and leases

Maintainance costs

Costs of security

Insurance for tangible assets

Other costs related to buildings and equipment

Technology

Maintainance of software and hardware

Licences

Data assets and subscription costs

Other technology costs

Communications
Postal services

Telecommunication and internet

Other communication costs

Other general and administrative costs

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

2021

2022

2021

230,277

16,343

11,404

(365)

(82)

(283)

205,821

15,065

10,363

73

126

(53)

104,278

7,217

6,002

(207)

(38)

(169)

94,433

6,891

5,715

(59)

(27)

(32)

257,659

231,322

117,290

106,980

6,091

47,053

20,393

5,422

21,238

4,096

833

1,230

15,340

33,092

10,212

2,079

8,846

6,181

689

5,085

32,735

15,792

9,725

3,022

4,196

11,146

4,043

4,717

2,386

3,611

5,806

40,193

16,504

4,628

19,061

7,584

823

502

11,407

27,085

5,960

1,928

7,450

6,015

851

4,881

30,599

12,949

9,895

2,518

5,237

11,377

4,859

4,131

2,387

2,153

1,529

24,748

9,932

3,325

11,491

956

322

326

7,916

15,230

5,740

273

4,335

1,935

156

2,791

16,349

6,140

6,760

1,876

1,573

4,423

2,612

649

1,162

1,776

1,521

17,896

5,468

2,493

9,935

932

307

129

5,641

11,676

2,357

283

4,347

1,821

166

2,702

15,107

6,053

6,332

1,655

1,067

4,770

2,935

669

1,166

1,120

155,227

137,529

73,575

59,099

Total administrative expenses

412,886

368,851

190,865

166,079

Number of employees

8,228

8,185

2,418

2,510

Costs of other services include costs for cash transport, 

administrative legal costs, other insurances and session fees to 
the members of the Supervisory Board. 

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In the presented years, NLB Group and NLB paid the following expenses related to the services of the statutory auditor:

External audit services

Audit of annual report

Other non-audit services

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

750

412

1,162

2021

679

195

874

2022

275

287

562

2021

232

153

385

Additionally, to the services included in the table above, the 

to the issuance of bonds in the amount of EUR 151 thousand 

statutory auditor in 2022 performed also some services related 

(2021: EUR 325 thousand). 

4.10. Cash contributions to resolution funds and deposit guarantee schemes

Cash contributions to deposit guarantee schemes

Cash contributions to resolution funds

Total

4.11. Depreciation and amortisation

Amortisation of intangible assets (note 5.10.)

Depreciation of property and equipment:

- own property and equipment (note 5.8.b)

- right-of-use assets (note 5.11.a)

Total

NLB Group

NLB Group

2021

33,148

1,992

35,140

2021

16,211

21,607

8,710

46,528

2022

33,884

2,260

36,144

2022

15,757

22,941

8,692

47,390

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

7,543

1,992

9,535

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

6,022

10,610

890

17,522

2022

7,614

2,099

9,713

2022

5,769

10,260

972

17,001

4.12. Gains less losses from modification of financial assets

2022

2021

12-month 
expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL 
not credit - 
impaired

Lifetime 
ECL credit-
impaired

Total

12-month 
expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL 
not credit - 
impaired

Lifetime 
ECL credit-
impaired

Total

 in EUR thousands

NLB Group

Financial assets modified 
during the period

Amortised cost before modification

Net modification gains/(losses)

1,046

(56)

1,361

5

698

25

3,105

(26)

15,569

(48)

5,259

(12)

4,435

(203)

25,263

(263)

NLB Group

Financial assets modified since initial recognition

in EUR thousands

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

Gross carrying amount of financial assets for which loss allowance has changed to 12-month measurement during the period

-

162

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4.13. Provisions

Guarantees and commitments (note 5.16.b) 

Restructuring provisions (note 5.16.d)

Provisions for legal risks (note 5.16.e)

Other provisions (note 5.16.f)

Total

4.14. Impairment charge

Impairment of financial assets

Cash balances at central banks, and other demand deposits at banks 

Loans and advances to banks measured at amortised cost (note 5.14.a)

Loans and advances to individuals measured 
at amortised cost (note 5.14.a)

Loans and advances to other customers 
measured at amortised cost (note 5.14.a)

Debt securities measured at fair value through 
other comprehensive income (note 5.14.b)

Debt securities measured at amortised cost (note 5.14.b)

Other financial assets measured at amortised cost (note 5.14.a)

Total impairment of financial assets

Impairment of investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures

Investments in subsidiaries

Investments in associates and joint ventures

Total

Impairment of other assets

Property and equipment (note 5.8.)

Intangible assets (note 5.10.)

Other assets

Total

Total impairment of non-financial assets

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

(8,504)

14,797

7,873

-

14,166

NLB Group

2021

117

57

13,414

(44,639)

2,854

(383)

1,249

2022

(282)

-

125

2,200

2,043

2022

10

34

13,523

(4,744)

5,826

161

158

2021

(8,028)

-

72

-

(7,956)

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

89

27

6,830

(24,840)

(148)

(17)

(8)

(27,331)

14,968

(18,067)

-

-

-

216

936

3,255

4,407

(22,685)

(88)

(22,773)

-

-

6

6

(7,522)

79

(7,443)

-

-

(104)

(104)

4,407

(22,767)

(7,547)

2022

3,050

10,325

1,645

(6,038)

8,982

2022

(6,600)

67

17,140

(2,629)

3,870

474

2,132

14,454

-

-

-

1,620

-

3,813

5,433

5,433

Total impairment

19,887

(22,924)

(7,799)

(25,614)

4.15. Gains less losses from non-current assets held for sale

Gains less losses from property and equipment

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

921

921

2021

248

248

2022

168

168

2021

(94)

(94)

Impairment of financial assets in 2022 includes EUR 8,900 

thousand of 12-month expected credit losses for Stage 1 

financial assets, acquired through a business combination (note 

5.12.b). Of that, EUR 8,894 thousand relates to financial assets 

measured at amortised cost, EUR 5 thousand to financial assets 

measured at fair value through other comprehensive income, 

and EUR 1 thousand to cash balances at central banks and 
other demand deposits at banks.

Impairment of debt securities measured at fair value through 

other comprehensive income in 2022 relates mainly to 

impairment of Russian sovereign debt, which was sold in 

February 2023 (note 5.4.).

In 2022, NLB impaired equity investment in non-core subsidiary 

in amount of EUR 615 thousand. The release of impairments 

relates to equity investments in subsidiaries and an associate in 

total amount of EUR 23,388 thousand.

In 2021, NLB impaired equity investments in non-core 

subsidiaries and an associate in total amount of EUR 458 

thousand. The release of impairments in amount of EUR 7,901 

thousand relates to sale of non-core subsidiary (note 3.). 

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4.16. Income tax

Current income tax

Deferred income tax (note 5.17.)

Total

NLB Group

2022

26,753

(1,523)

25,230

2021

16,961

(3,423)

13,538

Income tax differs from the amount of tax determined by applying the Slovenian statutory tax rate as follows:

Profit before tax

Tax calculated at prescribed rate of 19%

Income not assessable for tax purposes

Expenses not deductible for tax purposes

Effect of unrecognised deferred tax assets on 
impairments of subsidiaries and associates 

Tax reliefs

Effect of unrecognised deferred tax assets on tax losses

Effects of different tax rates in other countries

Withholding tax suffered in other countries for which 
no tax credit was available in Slovenia

Adjustment to tax in respect of prior periods

Other

Total

NLB Group

2021

261,406

49,667

(12,685)

6,510

(32,036)

(463)

10,675

(11,345)

3,156

50

9

13,538

2022

483,063

91,782

(45,791)

7,246

(7,518)

(4,132)

(12,963)

(4,535)

1,617

(282)

(194)

25,230

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

3,159

(112)

3,047

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

211,468

40,179

(14,900)

1,160

(36,446)

-

9,886

-

3,156

3

9

3,047

2022

5,992

(1,524)

4,468

2022

164,070

31,173

(10,387)

1,488

(11,818)

(2,792)

(4,641)

-

1,617

-

(172)

4,468

Each member of NLB Group (disclosed in note 5.12.a) is taxable 

NLB recognised deferred tax assets accrued on the basis of 

liabilities are recognised are excluded from this calculation (e.g., 

deferred tax assets for temporary non-deductible expenses for 

impairment of debt securities measured at fair value through 

other comprehensive income and deferred tax assets related to 

fair value hedge accounting). 

NLB Group members did not recognise deferred tax assets for 

tax losses if there is uncertainty about whether the tax losses 

can be utilised, because it is not probable that future taxable 

profits will be available against which the deferred tax assets 

can be utilised. 

The tax authorities may audit operations of NLB Group entities. 

In general, tax inspection, which may result in the emergence 

of additional tax liability, default interest, and penalties, may 

be initiated at any time within four to six years from the date of 

tax statement or from the year in which tax should have been 

assessed. NLB is not aware of any circumstances that could 
give rise to a potential material tax liability in this respect. 

In 2018, the Financial Administration of the Republic of Slovenia 

(FURS) granted NLB special tax status for a period of three 

years. This status was extended in March 2021 for another three 

years. The purpose of the status is to establish cooperation 

between FURS and the taxpayers, with the aim of encouraging 

voluntary compliance and reduce administrative burdens on 

financial supervision. FURS cooperates with NLB and responds 

quickly to resolve NLB’s tax compliance issues, which reduces 

as required by local tax legislation. Income tax rates within NLB 

temporary differences in an amount that, given future profit 

NLB’s tax risks and uncertain tax positions.

Group ranges from 9 to 32%. 

estimates, is expected to be reversed in the foreseeable future 

(i.e., within five years). Due to some uncertainties regarding 

A tax rate of 19% was applied in Slovenia in 2022 (2021: 19%).

external factors (regulatory environment, market situation, etc.), 

a lower range of expected outcomes was considered for the 

The effective tax rate of NLB Group relating to operations in 

2022, calculated as a ratio of the tax expenses and profit before 

tax is 5.2% (2021: 5.2%). The effective tax rate for NLB is 2.7% 

Non-taxable income of NLB relates mostly to dividends. 

purposes of deferred tax assets calculation.

(2021: 1.4%). 

Non-taxable dividend income in 2022 amounts to EUR 53,242 

thousand (2021: EUR 75,635 thousand).

NLB did not recognise deferred tax assets arising from tax 

losses and tax reliefs. NLB recognised deferred tax assets 

For the year 2021, NLB realised tax loss due to the utilisation of 

on all temporary differences, except for impairments of non-

previously tax non-deductible expenses for impairments in the 

strategic capital investments and the valuation of financial 

subsidiary, which was divested in 2021. The effects of the sale 

instruments where deferred tax assets are recognised in the 

of the subsidiary are included into the effect of unrecognised 

amount that, taking into account other recognised deferred 

deferred tax assets on impairments of subsidiaries and 

tax assets, reaches the total amount of deferred tax assets, for 

associates, and the effects of new tax loss are included into 

which a reversal is expected within five years. The deferred 

effect of unrecognised deferred tax assets on tax losses.

tax assets with respect to which simultaneously deferred tax 

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4.17. Earnings per share

Earnings per share are calculated by dividing the net profit by 

Diluted earnings per share are the same as basic earnings per 

the weighted average number of ordinary shares in issue, less 

share for NLB Group and NLB, since subordinated bonds and 

treasury shares. 

other issued debt securities have no future conversion options, 

and consequently there are no dilutive potential ordinary shares.

Net profit attributable to the owners of the parent (in EUR thousands)

Weighted average number of ordinary shares (in thousands)

Basic earnings per share (in EUR per share)

Diluted earnings per share (in EUR per share)

NLB Group

NLB

2022

446,862

20,000

22.3

22.3

2021

236,404

20,000

11.8

11.8

2022

159,602

20,000

8.0

8.0

2021

208,421

20,000

10.4

10.4

5. Notes to the statement of financial position

5.1. Cash, cash balances at central banks, and other  

demand deposits at banks

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

4,536,526

489,197

246,815

4,133,104

509,596

363,246

5,272,538

5,005,946

(1,173)

(894)

5,271,365

5,005,052

3,104,442

180,483

54,456

3,339,381

(357)

3,339,024

2,982,576

178,045

90,163

3,250,784

(347)

3,250,437

Balances and obligatory reserves with central banks 

Cash

Demand deposits at banks

Allowance for impairment

Total 

Slovenian banks are required to maintain a compulsory reserve 

with the Bank of Slovenia relative to the volume and structure 

of their customer deposits. Other banks in NLB Group maintain 

a compulsory reserve in accordance with local legislation. NLB 

and other banks in NLB Group fulfil their compulsory reserve 

deposit requirements.

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5.2. Financial instruments held for trading 

a) Financial assets held for trading

Derivatives, excluding hedging instruments

Swap contracts

- currency swaps

- interest rate swaps

Options

- interest rate options

- securities options

Forward contracts

- currency forward

Total derivatives

Securities

Treasury bills

Total securities

Total

- quoted securities

of these debt instruments

The notional amounts of derivative financial instruments are 

disclosed in note 5.24.b). 

b) Financial liabilities held for trading

Derivatives, excluding hedging instruments

Swap contracts

- currency swaps

- interest rate swaps

Options

- interest rate options

Forward contracts

- currency forward

Total

The notional amounts of derivative financial instruments are 

disclosed in note 5.24.b).

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

16,169

743

15,426

2,312

2,295

17

2,904

2,904

21,385

203

203

21,588

203
203

6,665

438

6,227

54

53

1

959

959

7,678

-

-

7,678

-
-

16,274

849

15,425

2,312

2,295

17

2,903

2,903

21,489

203

203

21,692

203
203

6,675

448

6,227

54

53

1

953

953

7,682

-

-

7,682

-
-

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

15,903

1,550

14,353

2,800

2,800

2,886

2,886

21,589

6,609

716

5,893

53

53

923

923

7,585

16,535

1,963

14,572

2,742

2,742

2,873

2,873

22,150

6,626

733

5,893

53

53

923

923

7,602

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5.3.  Non-trading financial instruments measured  

at fair value through profit or loss

a) Financial assets mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss

Assets

Shares

Investment funds

Bonds

Loans and advances to companies

Total

- quoted securities

of these equity instruments

of these debt instruments

- unquoted securities

of these equity instruments

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

5,579

10,336

3,116

-

19,031

3,484

368

3,116

15,547

15,547

4,472

12,428

4,261

-

21,161

4,261

-

4,261

16,900

16,900

5,211

2,308

-

7,892

15,411

-

-

-

7,519

7,519

4,472

-

-

7,888

12,360

-

-

-

4,472

4,472

As at 31 December 2022, the value of assets received by taking 
possession of collateral and included in financial assets 

at 31 December 2021, NLB did not have any assets received by 
taking possession of collateral and included in financial assets 

mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss by NLB Group 

mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss (note 6.1.l).

amounted to EUR 368 thousand. As at 31 December 2022 and as 

b) Financial liabilities measured at fair value through profit or loss

Liabilities 

Loans and advances to companies

Other financial liabilities (note 2.31.)

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

-

1,796

1,796

-

-

-

1,786

728

2,514

352

-

352

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5.4.  Financial assets measured at fair value through  

other comprehensive income

a) Analysis by type of financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income

Bonds

- governments

- Republic of Slovenia

- other EU members

- Republic of Serbia

- other non-EU members

- banks

- other issuers

Shares

National Resolution Fund

Treasury bills

- Republic of Slovenia

- other EU members

- other non-EU members

Commercial bills

Total

of these debt securities

of these equity securities

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

2,506,224

1,895,891

269,853

271,464

898,531

456,043

578,552

31,781

22,285

58,122

310,748

52,723

170,382

87,643

21,824

2,919,203

2,838,796

80,407

3,191,280

2,416,739

314,929

406,315

1,196,724

498,771

739,935

34,606

22,109

44,490

166,412

6,475

125,980

33,957

37,569

3,461,860

3,395,261

66,599

1,196,760

1,526,237

586,427

199,224

253,346

3,913

129,944

578,552

31,781

269

42,515

94,517

32,908

10,888

50,721

-

1,334,061

1,291,277

42,784

766,688

270,423

331,676

5,021

159,568

724,943

34,606

219

44,490

14,805

-

14,805

-

-

1,585,751

1,541,042

44,709

Allowance for impairment (note 5.14.b)

(15,876)

(12,016)

(8,799)

(3,001)

- quoted securities

of these debt instruments

of these equity instruments

- unquoted securities

of these debt instruments

of these equity instruments

2,612,330

2,593,533

18,797

306,873

245,263

61,610

3,205,277

3,204,745

532

256,583

190,516

66,067

1,291,277

1,291,277

-

42,784

-

42,784

1,541,042

1,541,042

-

44,709

-

44,709

As at 31 December 2022, bonds at the NLB Group and NLB level 

As at 31 December 2021, NLB Group and NLB also held Russian 

include Russian government bonds maturing in September 

government bonds with a notional amount of USD 14,000 

2023, with a notional amount of USD 8,000 thousand (EUR 

thousand, which was fully repaid in May 2022. 

7,500 thousand). Their fair value as at 31 December 2022 is 

assessed to be EUR 2,026 thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 

NLB Group and NLB do not have any other direct exposures 

7,531 thousand), while the impairment for these bonds amounts 

towards Russia. 

to EUR 5,979 thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 19 thousand). 

In February 2023, NLB sold these bonds and released 

The credit quality analysis for financial assets and contingent 

impairments in the amount of EUR 4,299 thousand. 

liabilities is disclosed in note 6.1.j) and movements in allowance 

for the impairment of debt securities in note 5.14.b).

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b) Movements of financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income

Balance as at 1 January

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b)

Additions

Derecognition

Net interest income

Exchange differences on monetary assets

Changes in fair values

Disposal of subsidiary (note 5.12.d)

Balance as at 31 December

NLB Group

NLB

2022

2021

2022

2021

Debt securities

Equity securities

Debt securities

Equity securities

Debt securities

Equity securities

Debt securities

Equity securities

3,395,261

1,358

53,223

1,699,839

(2,141,377)

38,471

3,104

(211,083)

-

2,838,796

66,599

30

16,164

-

-

-

-

(2,386)

-

80,407

3,446,491

67,799

1,541,042

44,709

1,671,204

45,147

1,194

-

1,455,823

(1,468,240)

40,310

8,367

(52,085)

(36,599)

3,395,261

31

-

-

(4,297)

-

-

3,066

-

66,599

-

-

290,245

(414,666)

10,846

4,484

(140,674)

-

1,291,277

-

-

-

-

-

-

(1,925)

-

42,784

-

-

219,733

(338,929)

11,696

8,452

(31,114)

-

-

-

-

(55)

-

-

(383)

-

1,541,042

44,709

in EUR thousands

As at 31 December 2022, and as at 31 December 2021, NLB 

By selling equity securities measured at fair value through other 

Group and NLB do not have any equity instruments measured 

comprehensive income in 2021, NLB Group realised a net gain 

at fair value through other comprehensive income obtained 
by taking possession of collateral in the statement of financial 

in the amount of EUR 3,362 thousand, and NLB a net gain in the 
amount of EUR 53 thousand. The realised gain in year 2021 was 

position (note 6.1.l).

transferred to retained earnings (note 5.4.c). 

c) Accumulated other comprehensive income related to financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income

NLB Group

NLB

2022

2021

2022

2021

Debt securities

Equity securities

Debt securities

Equity securities

Debt securities

Equity securities

Debt securities

Equity securities

in EUR thousands

Balance as at 1 January

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Disposal of subsidiaries (note 5.12.d)

- valuation and impairment

- deferred income tax (note 5.17.)

7,481

(12)

-

-

3,257

3

-

-

Net gains/(losses) from changes in fair value 

(168,581)

(2,386)

Gains/losses transferred to net 
profit on disposal (note 4.4.)

Impairment (note 4.14.)

Transfer of gains/losses to retained 
earnings (note 5.4.b)

Deferred income tax (note 5.17.)

Balance as at 31 December

1,668

3,870

-

10,996

(144,578)

-

-

-

458

1,332

39,924

(7)

(1,916)

193

(38,158)

(167)

2,854

-

4,758

7,481

3,726

12,365

6

-

-

-

-

-

99

-

-

-

3,066

(98,172)

(1,925)

-

-

(3,362)

(179)

3,257

316

5,826

-

1,382

(78,283)

-

-

-

366

(1,460)

27,242

452

-

-

-

(17,187)

(24)

(148)

-

2,482

12,365

-

-

-

(383)

-

-

(53)

83

99

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5.5.  Derivatives for hedging 

purposes

NLB Group entities measure exposure to interest rate risk using 

a) Fair value adjustment in hedge accounting recognised in profit or loss

repricing gap analysis and by calculating the sensitivity of the 

statement of financial position and off-balance-sheet items in 

terms of the economic value of equity. The portfolio duration is 

NLB Group and NLB

Fair value hedge

used as a measure of risk in the management of securities in 

Net effects from hedging instruments

the banking book.

- interest rate swap for micro hedge

- interest rate swap for macro hedge

NLB Group entities use various derivatives such as interest 

Net effects from hedged items

rate swaps (IRS) and currency interest rate swaps (CIRS) to 

- loans measured at amortised cost - micro hedge

close open positions in an individual maturity bucket. Micro 

- bonds measured at amortised cost - micro hedge

and macro fair value hedges are used for that purpose, i.e., 

- bonds measured at fair value through OCI - micro hedge

the swapping of a fixed interest rate on a hedged item for 

- loans measured at amortised cost- macro hedge

a variable interest rate. Micro cash flow hedges are also 

2022

1,655

89,894

57,981

31,913

(88,239)

(57)

(14,834)

(42,499)

(30,849)

in EUR thousands

2021

167

26,406

19,547

6,859

(26,239)

(105)

(5,443)

(13,929)

(6,762)

occasionally used, i.e. the swapping of a variable interest rate 

In both years presented, all fair value hedges were effective, 

applied a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation in years 

on a hedged item for a fixed interest rate. All cash flow hedges 

with actual results of the hedge ratio within a range of 80–125%, 

2011 and 2012, and at that time recognised a EUR 754 thousand 

are made on liability items, while fair value hedges are used on 

therefore, no discontinuation of the hedge accounting was 

gain on the hedging instrument in other comprehensive income 

asset items. 

required. 

(note 5.22.b). This gain will be included in the consolidated income 

statement when the foreign operation is disposed of as a part of 

Hedge accounting principles (i.e., fair value and cash flow 

As at 31 December 2022 and 2021, NLB Group and NLB had no 

the gain or loss on the disposal.

hedging) were applied in the hedging of interest rate risk using 

relationships designated for cash flow hedge accounting or for 

interest rate swaps. These hedge relationships are designated 

hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation. NLB Group 

in such a way that the characteristics of the hedging instrument 

and those of the hedged item match (i.e., the principal terms 

b) Notional amounts of interest rate swaps

match), while the dollar-offset method is used to regularly 

measure hedge effectiveness retrospectively. Prospective 

NLB Group and NLB

Notional amount

testing of hedge effectiveness is carried out regularly for macro 

hedges where the characteristics of both items in the hedge 

Fair value hedge

relationship do not fully match by comparing the change in the 

fair value of both items to the shift in the yield curve.

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

644,132

572,455

in EUR thousands

Fair value

Liability

2,124

35,377

Asset

59,362

568

Hedge accounting principles were not applied in economic 

hedges using CIRS. Thus, the effects of valuation are disclosed 

in the income statement in the line item ‘Gains less losses from 

financial assets and liabilities held for trading.’

Sources of hedge ineffectiveness may arise, but are not limited 

to the discount rates used for valuation of derivatives at fair 

value, and notional and timing differences, as well differences in 

the amortisation plan between hedged items and the hedging 

instrument. Hedge effectiveness is assessed monthly, by 

comparing changes in the fair value of the hedged item that are 

attributable to a hedged risk with changes in the fair value of 

the hedging instrument. 

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c) Accumulated fair value adjustments arising from the 

financial position as a hedged item, except for macro fair value 

corresponding continuing hedge relationships

hedges. In such relationships, hedged items are presented in 

The table below presents accumulated fair value adjustments 

the line item ‘Financial assets measured at amortised cost,’ 

arising from the corresponding continuing hedge relationships, 

while the accumulated fair value adjustment is presented in a 

irrespective of whether there has been a change in the hedge 

separate line item ‘Fair value changes of the hedged items in 

designation during the year. The accumulated fair value 

portfolio hedge of interest rate risk.’

adjustment is presented in the same line of statement of 

NLB Group and NLB

Micro fair value hedges

Fixed rate corporate loans measured at AC

Fixed rate bonds measured at AC

Fixed rate bonds measured at FVOCI

Macro fair value hedges 

Fixed rate retail loans

2022

Carrying amount 
of hedged items

in EUR thousands

2021

Accumulated 
amount of FV 
adjustments 
on the 
hedged item

Carrying amount 
of hedged items

Accumulated 
amount of FV 
adjustments 
on the 
hedged item

371,431

573

108,979

261,879

153,594

153,594

(33,923)

3

(6,721)

(27,205)

(23,767)

(23,767)

479,574

1,662

117,368

360,544

145,638

145,638

23,783

60

8,426

15,297

7,082

7,082

d) IBOR reform
NLB Group closely monitors the development of Benchmark 

November 2019, the Euro risk-free rates (RFR) Working Group 

materially changes or ceases to be provided. NLB has prepared 

published high level recommendations for fallback provisions 

a plan, which sets out an inexhaustive/summary action list, 

Interest Rate Reform and is actively preparing for the changes 

for products referencing EURIBOR. The inclusion of robust 

and will continue to closely follow market standards to identify 

imposed by the regulation. In 2018, NLB formed a special 

fallback language is a requirement in contracts subject to the 

alternative benchmarks that could be referenced in substitute of 

working group which deals with the preparation for the 

EU Benchmark Regulation. The Bank already incorporated the 

existing benchmarks. 

discontinuation of some important reference interest rates and 

generic fallback clause into all new EURIBOR (both retail and 

reports on this to NLB Group ALCO.

corporate) contracts. 

LIBOR (imminent) discontinuation
Since many LIBOR settings ceased to exist at the beginning 

NLB Group no longer offers new products that would be tied 

In May 2021, the Euro RFR Working Group produced its 

of 2022, the Bank finished the process of winding-down 

to reference rates in termination. The exception are products 

recommendations on EURIBOR fallback trigger events and 

the exposures in a most efficient way. Incremental LIBOR 

related to EURIBOR, which is not scheduled for discontinuation. 

€STR-based EURIBOR fallback rates. Our mid-term activities 

transactions were not allowed unconditionally.

Therefore, NLB Group’s attention in the past few years was 

are expected to undertake on the implementation of more 

focused on the modification of new contractual relationships 

precise fallback provisioning, based on these recommendations. 

NLB Group activities for implementation of LIBOR transition 

with customers in which EURIBOR occurs and the amendment 

NLB identified potential €STR-based fallbacks for EURIBOR, in 

were as follows: 

of existing contractual relationships with customers in which 

line with the current market consensus on those fallbacks and 

•  review of outstanding LIBOR referencing loans,

other benchmarks in termination appear. 

intends to proceed with the activities for inclusion on EURIBOR 

•  identification of alternative reference rate to be used for loan 

EURIBOR (possible) discontinuation 
Due to the timely transition to the new hybrid EURIBOR 

the Bank is also expected to include fallback provisions in legacy 

•  analysis of how the alternative reference rate will be 

contracts. The exact timing depends on regulatory development 

calculated and how to calculate any economic difference 

methodology which meet the BMR requirements, EURIBOR 

and best market practice.

can continue to be used in new and legacy contracts for the 

between LIBORs and the selected alternative reference rates,

•  consideration of IT system accommodation with alternative 

foreseeable future. 

NLB as a supervised entity, is required to comply with the 

reference rates, 

fallbacks into all new EURIBOR-based contracts. In the next step, 

portfolio,

Benchmark regulation and, as a user of benchmarks, must 

•  documentation of the transition of the loans. 

EU-supervised entities are bound to include robust fallback 

produce and maintain a robust written plan setting out 

clauses into contractual documentation with the clients. In 

the actions NLB would take in the event that a benchmark 

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The table below indicates the notional amount and weighted 

rate basis. The derivative hedging instruments provide a close 

average maturity of derivatives in hedging relationships that 

approximation to the extent of the risk exposure NLB Group 

will be affected by the IBOR reform, analysed on an interest 

manages through hedging relationships.

NLB Group and NLB

Interest rate swaps

EURIBOR (3 months)

EURIBOR (6 months)

USD LIBOR (6 months)

2022

in EUR thousands

2021

Notional amount 
(in EUR thousands)

Weighted average 
maturity (years)

Notional amount 
(in EUR thousands)

Weighted average 
maturity (years)

280,981

355,651

7,500

10.01

6.06

0.71

186,472

371,866

14,117

4.23

7.00

0.98

As can be seen from the table, the majority of long-term 

when a change of EURIBOR could be expected. As at 31 

derivatives in hedging relationships are exposed to EURIBOR, 

December 2022, derivatives with remaining maturity of five or 

therefore, the uncertainty arising from interest rate benchmark 

more years amount to EUR 295,580 thousand (31 December 

reform derives mainly from derivatives with longer maturities, 

2021: EUR 272,730 thousand).

5.6. Financial assets measured at amortised cost

Analysis by type

Debt securities

Loans and advances to banks

Loans and advances to customers 

Other financial assets

Total 

NLB Group

31 Dec 2022

1,917,615

222,965

13,072,986

177,823

15,391,389

31 Dec 2021

1,717,626

140,683

10,587,121

122,229

12,567,659

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

1,597,448

350,625

6,054,413

114,399

8,116,885

1,436,424

199,287

5,145,153

92,404

6,873,268

The credit quality analysis for financial assets and contingent 

liabilities is disclosed in note 6.1.j). 

a) Debt securities

Governments

Companies

Banks

Financial organisations

Allowance for impairment (note 5.14.b)

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

1,317,248

79,852

295,653

28,178

1,720,931

(3,305)

1,717,626

1,184,601

64,913

323,944

25,980

1,599,438

(1,990)

1,597,448

1,041,787

72,632

295,653

28,178

1,438,250

(1,826)

1,436,424

31 Dec 2022

1,486,496

84,979

323,944

25,980

1,921,399

(3,784)

1,917,615

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b) Loans and advances to banks

Loans

Time deposits

Reverse sale and repurchase agreements

Purchased receivables

Allowance for impairment (note 5.14.a)

Total 

c) Loans and advances to customers 

Loans

Overdrafts

Finance lease receivables (note 5.11.b)

Credit card business

Called guarantees

Allowance for impairment (note 5.14.a)

Total 

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

782

118,241

102,358

1,853

223,234

(269)

222,965

31 Dec 2022

12,626,259

425,135

193,948

148,870

2,772

13,396,984

(323,998)

13,072,986

NLB Group

10,200

130,602

-

79

140,881

(198)

140,683

31 Dec 2021

10,310,300

352,018

108,715

129,330

2,731

10,903,094

(315,973)

10,587,121

127,717

221,271

-

1,853

350,841

(216)

350,625

31 Dec 2022

5,873,443

208,499

-

64,460

1,423

6,147,825

(93,412)

6,054,413

117,490

81,900

-

79

199,469

(182)

199,287

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2021

5,006,871

174,063

-

59,305

1,333

5,241,572

(96,419)

5,145,153

Analysis of loans and advances to customers by sector

Governments

Financial organisations

Companies

Individuals

Total 

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

303,443

116,078

6,031,795

6,621,670

13,072,986

281,010

141,709

4,645,112

5,519,290

10,587,121

124,736

286,504

2,606,674

3,036,499

6,054,413

143,864

226,144

2,118,210

2,656,935

5,145,153

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d) Other financial assets
Analysis by type of other financial assets

Receivables in the course of settlement 
and other temporary accounts

Credit card receivables

Debtors

Fees and commissions

Receivables to brokerage firms and others for 
the sale of securities and custody services

Accrued income

Dividends

Prepayments

Other financial assets

Allowance for impairment (note 5.14.a)

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

36,712

41,364

8,516

8,737

31,587

3,390

-

2,563

53,988

186,857

(9,034)

177,823

40,436

22,670

8,227

7,303

613

1,715

-

1,526

45,965

128,455

(6,226)

122,229

19,370

30,544

2,710

2,359

31,081

3,413

-

-

25,935

115,412

(1,013)

114,399

23,945

15,270

1,311

3,041

610

1,690

20,493

-

27,197

93,557

(1,153)

92,404

Receivables in the course of settlement are temporary balances 
which will be transferred to the appropriate item in the days 

recognised in accordance with the ‘Act for Value Protection of 
Republic of Slovenia’s Capital Investment in Nova Ljubljanska 

following their occurrence.

banka d.d., Ljubljana’ (note 5.16.a). The remaining balance 

includes claims for securities and trust services, claims arising 

Other financial assets in the amount of EUR 23,464 thousand 

from re-invoicing costs and claims to pension funds for early 

(31 December 2021: EUR 22,192 thousand) relate to a receivable 

retirement payments.

Analysis of other financial assets by sector

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

Banks

Government

Financial organisations

Companies

Individuals

Total 

e) Movement of called non-financial guarantees

Balance as at 1 January

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Called guarantees

Paid guarantees

Write-offs

Balance as at 31 December

38,362

78,285

23,644

6,368

31,164

177,823

2022

717

1

891

(1,087)

(125)

397

NLB Group

33,325

43,432

15,979

5,994

23,499

122,229

2021

1,838

(1)

1,541

(1,904)

(757)

717

11,918

55,708

17,578

670

28,525

114,399

2022

420

-

82

(287)

(125)

90

34,131

23,769

12,818

647

21,039

92,404

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

440

-

1,207

(470)

(757)

420

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5.7. Non-current assets held for sale 

The line item ‘Non-current assets held for sale’ includes 

EUR 651 thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 699 thousand). As 

business premises and assets received as collateral that are in 

at 31 December 2022, and as at 31 December 2021, NLB did not 

the process of being sold. As at 31 December 2022, the value of 

have any non-current assets obtained by taking possession of 

assets received by taking possession of collateral and included 

collateral and included in non-current assets held for sale (note 

in non-current assets held for sale by NLB Group amounted to 

6.1.l).

Analysis of movements of non-current assets held for sale

Balance as at 1 January

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Additions

Transfer from/(to) property and 
equipment (note 5.8.)

Transfer from/(to) other assets

Transfer from/(to) investment property (note 5.9.)

Disposals

Valuation

Balance as at 31 December

5.8. Property and equipment

a) Analysis by type

Own property and equipment

Right-of-use assets (note 5.11.)

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

7,051

9

-

8,226

-

-

(637)

787

15,436

2021

8,658

3

97

605

20

(22)

(1,952)

(358)

7,051

2022

4,089

-

-

617

-

-

(532)

61

4,235

2021

4,454

-

-

518

-

-

(547)

(336)

4,089

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

228,944

22,372

251,316

223,593

23,421

247,014

75,262

3,330

78,592

82,905

3,217

86,122

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b) Movement of own property and equipment

Land & 
Buildings

Computers

Other 
equipment

Total 

Land & 
Buildings

Computers

Other 
equipment

Total 

NLB Group

NLB

for own use

in operating 
lease

for own use

in operating 
lease

 in EUR thousands

Cost

Balance as at 1 January 2022

346,858

80,131

94,729

5,609

527,327

195,852

43,899

55

-

-

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries 
(note 5.12.b) c)

Additions

Disposals

Reversal of impairment (note 4.14.)

Transfer to/from investment 
property (note 5.9.)

Transfer to/from non-current 
assets held for sale (note 5.7.)

Balance as at 31 December 2022

Depreciation and impairment     

39

4,552

8,118

(1,242)

79

(1,358)

(9,794)

347,252

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Disposals

Depreciation (note 4.11.)

Impairment (note 4.14.)

Transfer to/from investment 
property (note 5.9.)

Transfer to/from non-current 
assets held for sale (note 5.7.)

Balance as at 31 December 2022

Net carrying value

(3)

(1,109)

7,030

1,699

(313)

(1,568)

177,896

84,875

95,075

9,304

536,506

42,180

43,783

3,722

285,370

13

818

13,508

(9,595)

-

-

-

3

1,154

10,767

(11,550)

-

(28)

-

-

-

4,262

(567)

-

-

-

7

(9,608)

9,108

-

-

-

74,415

4

(8,084)

5,979

-

(4)

-

3,326

-

(134)

824

-

-

-

6,524

36,655

(22,954)

79

(1,386)

(9,794)

8

(18,935)

22,941

1,699

(317)

(1,568)

53,340

72,310

4,016

307,562

1,448

-

-

-

(1,615)

195,685

-

-

3,748

-

-

(998)

138,264

3,072

(4,791)

-

-

-

-

(4,713)

4,245

-

-

-

46,143

-

1,420

(3,780)

-

-

-

3,519

-

271

(68)

-

-

-

289,413

-

6,211

(8,639)

-

-

(1,615)

37,782

-

(904)

2,013

-

-

-

3,125

-

(45)

254

-

-

-

29,619

38,891

3,334

12,561

13,812

4,892

8,361

388

394

206,508

-

(5,662)

10,260

-

-

(998)

210,108

75,262

82,905

Balance as at 1 January 2022

172,160

53,833

303,734

135,514

30,087

Balance as at 31 December 2022

169,356

31,535

22,765

5,288

228,944

57,421

Balance as at 1 January 2022

174,698

26,298

20,314

2,283

223,593

60,338

As at 31 December 2022, the value of assets received by 

NLB did not have any assets received by taking possession 

taking possession of collateral and included in property and 
equipment by NLB Group amounted to EUR 11,962 thousand (31 

of collateral and included in property and equipment (31 
December 2021: EUR 7 thousand) (note 6.1.l).

December 2021: EUR 13,559 thousand). As at 31 December 2022 

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Land & 
Buildings

Computers

Other 
equipment

Total 

Land & 
Buildings

Computers

Other 
equipment

Total 

NLB Group

NLB

for own use

in operating 
lease

for own use

in operating 
lease

 in EUR thousands

345,769

62

3,987

(1,385)

(126)

4,377

(5,707)

(119)

346,858

173,404

7

(684)

7,124

90

(2,676)

(5,102)

(3)

172,160

81,729

17

7,296

(8,710)

-

-

-

(201)

80,131

53,822

10

(8,634)

8,733

-

-

-

98,838

30

4,871

(8,393)

-

-

-

(617)

94,729

76,897

26

(7,577)

5,196

-

-

-

(98)

53,833

(127)

74,415

4,309

-

1,948

(648)

-

-

-

-

5,609

2,924

-

(152)

554

-

-

-

-

3,326

530,645

197,043

49,580

49,355

3,514

299,492

109

18,102

(19,136)

(126)

4,377

(5,707)

(937)

527,327

-

3,321

-

-

(2,423)

(2,089)

-

195,852

307,047

135,343

43

(17,047)

21,607

90

(2,676)

(5,102)

(228)

303,734

-

-

3,825

-

(2,083)

(1,571)

-

135,514

-

1,513

(7,194)

-

-

-

-

-

1,510

(4,722)

-

-

-

-

-

9

(4)

-

-

-

-

43,899

46,143

3,519

-

6,353

(11,920)

-

(2,423)

(2,089)

-

289,413

32,905

-

(7,194)

4,376

-

-

-

-

39,944

-

(4,248)

2,086

-

-

-

-

2,805

210,997

-

(3)

323

-

-

-

-

-

(11,445)

10,610

-

(2,083)

(1,571)

-

30,087

37,782

3,125

206,508

Cost

Balance as at 1 January 2021

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Additions

Disposals

Impairment (note 4.14.)

Transfer to/from investment 
property (note 5.9.)

Transfer to/from non-current 
assets held for sale (note 5.7.)

Disposal of subsidiary (note 5.12.b)

Balance as at 31 December 2021

Depreciation and impairment     

Balance as at 1 January 2021

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Disposals

Depreciation (note 4.11.)

Impairment (note 4.14.)

Transfer to/from investment 
property (note 5.9.)

Transfer to/from non-current 
assets held for sale (note 5.7.)

Disposal of subsidiary (note 5.12.b)

Balance as at 31 December 2021

Net carrying value

Balance as at 31 December 2021

174,698

26,298

20,314

2,283

223,593

60,338

13,812

Balance as at 1 January 2021

172,365

27,907

21,941

1,385

223,598

61,700

16,675

8,361

9,411

394

709

82,905

88,495

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5.9. Investment property

Balance as at 1 January

Effects of translation of foreign operations to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12. b) c) 

Additions

Disposals

Transfer from/(to) property and equipment (note 5.8.)

Transfer from/(to) non-current assets held for sale (note 5.7.)

Transfer from/(to) other assets

Net valuation to fair value (note 4.8.)

Disposals of subsidiaries (note 5.12.d)

Other

Balance as at 31 December

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

47,624

22

766

70

(17,004)

1,069

-

-

3,092

-

-

35,639

2021

54,842

19

-

-

(4,075)

(7,053)

22

1,397

3,589

(1,215)

98

47,624

2022

9,181

-

-

-

(2,512)

-

-

-

84

-

-

6,753

2021

8,300

-

-

-

-

340

-

137

306

-

98

9,181

As at 31 December 2022, the value of assets received by taking 

2021: EUR 36,009 thousand), and in NLB amounted to EUR 1,901 

possession of collateral and included in investment property by 

thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 4,176 thousand) (note 6.1.l). 

NLB Group amounted to EUR 25,326 thousand (31 December 

Operating expenses arising from investment properties:

Leased to others

Not leased to others

Total

NLB Group

2022

2,496

564

3,060

2021

1,103

231

1,334

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

355

300

655

2021

291

183

474

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5.10. Intangible assets

Cost    

Balance as at 1 January 2022

Effects of translation of foreign operations to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b), c)

Additions

Disposals

Write-offs

NLB Group

Software 
licenses

Other  
intangible 
assets

Goodwill

Total 

NLB

Software 
licenses

in EUR thousands

245,607

(7)

1,444

14,170

(535)

(995)

13,211

16

-

-

-

-

32,336

291,154

201,028

-

-

-

-

-

9

1,444

14,170

(535)

(995)

-

-

6,741

-

-

Balance as at 31 December 2022

259,684

13,227

32,336

305,247

207,769

Amortisation and impairment

Balance as at 1 January 2022

Effects of translation of foreign operations to presentation currency

Amortisation (note 4.11.)

Write-offs

Balance as at 31 December 2022

Net carrying value

Balance as at 31 December 2022

198,997

(8)

12,655

(823)

210,821

4,274

8

3,102

-

7,384

28,807

232,078

-

-

-

28,807

-

15,757

(823)

247,012

171,575

-

5,769

-

177,344

48,863

5,843

3,529

58,235

30,425

Balance as at 1 January 2022

46,610

8,937

3,529

59,076

29,453

Other intangible assets represent additionally identified 

intangible assets in a business combination, namely core 

deposits and trade name.

Cost    

Balance as at 1 January 2021

Effects of translation of foreign operations to presentation currency

Additions

Write-offs

Disposal of subsidiary (note 5.12.d)

Balance as at 31 December 2021

Amortisation and impairment

Balance as at 1 January 2021

Effects of translation of foreign operations to presentation currency

Amortisation (note 4.11.)

Impairments (note 4.14.)

Write-offs

Disposal of subsidiary (note 5.12.d)

Balance as at 31 December 2021

Net carrying value

Balance as at 31 December 2021

in EUR thousands

NLB Group

Software 
licenses

Other  
intangible 
assets

Goodwill

Total 

246,687

13

14,866

(15,527)

(432)

245,607

201,748

8

11,944

936

(15,435)

(204)

198,997

13,200

32,336

11

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

13,211

32,336

292,223

24

14,866

(15,527)

(432)

291,154

-

7

4,267

-

-

-

28,807

230,555

-

-

-

-

-

15

16,211

936

(15,435)

(204)

232,078

4,274

28,807

NLB

Software 
licenses

201,614

-

7,370

(7,956)

-

201,028

173,509

-

6,022

-

(7,956)

-

171,575

46,610

8,937

3,529

59,076

29,453

Balance as at 1 January 2021

44,939

13,200

3,529

61,668

28,105

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5.11. Leases

a) NLB Group as a lessee

Right-of-use assets

Land and buildings

Vehicles

Furniture and equipment

Total

Lease liabilities

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

19,567

130

2,675

22,372

23,840

19,545

390

3,486

23,421

24,324

2,241

1,089

-

3,330

3,349

2,244

960

13

3,217

3,256

In the statement of financial position, right-of-use assets are 

Additions to the right-of-use assets during 2022 in NLB Group 

included in the line item ‘Property and equipment’ and lease 

amounted to EUR 6,411 thousand (2021: EUR 10,172 thousand), 

liabilities are included in the line item ‘Other financial liabilities.’

and in NLB EUR 1,751 thousand (2021: EUR 1,245 thousand).

The income statement shows the following amounts relating to leases:

Depreciation of right-of-use assets (note 4.11.)

Land and buildings

Vehicles

Furniture and equipment

Total

Interest expenses on lease liabilities (note 4.1.)

Expenses relating to short-term leases 
(included in administrative expenses)

Expenses relating to leases of low-value assets that are not shown 
above as short-term leases (included in administrative expenses)

Income from sub-leasing right-of-use assets 
(included in other operating income)

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

7,092

276

1,324

8,692

2022

(431)

(855)

(1,129)

77

2021

7,159

444

1,107

8,710

NLB Group

2021

(470)

(606)

(1,050)

108

2022

511

448

13

972

2022

(28)

(158)

(185)

-

2021

465

410

15

890

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

(29)

(179)

(157)

-

The total cash outflow for leases in 2022 in NLB Group was EUR 
8,547 thousand (2021: EUR 9,397 thousand), and in NLB EUR 

a lease term of five years is assumed, with the exemption of 
business premises on strategic locations where management 

1,001 thousand (2021: EUR 933 thousand).

assesses a different (longer) lease term. Vehicles and other 

equipment generally have lease terms between 1 to 5 years. 

NLB Group leases various offices, branches, vehicles, and other 

There are several lease contracts that include extension 

equipment used in its business. Rental contracts for offices and 

and termination options. These options are negotiated by 

branches generally have lease terms between 5 to 20 years, 

management to align with the Group’s business needs. Lease 

while some contracts are made for indefinite periods. Contracts 

payments to be made under reasonably certain extension 

for indefinite periods are included in the measurement of the 

options are included in measurement of the liability.

liability in accordance with planning projections. Normally, 

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Lease terms are negotiated on an individual basis and contain 

Finance leases

a range of different terms and conditions. The lease agreements 

Loans and advances to customers in NLB Group include 

do not impose any covenants other than the security interests in 

finance lease receivables.

the leased assets that are held by the lessor. Leased assets may 

not be used as security for borrowing purposes.

The following table sets out a maturity analysis of lease 

NLB Group also has certain leases of other equipment with a 

received after the reporting date. 

receivables, showing the undiscounted lease payments to be 

lease term of 12 months or less, and equipment with low value. 

For these leases, NLB Group applies the short-term lease and 

the lease of low-value assets recognition exemptions. Lease 

payments on short-term leases and leases of low-value assets 

are recognised as expenses on a straight-line basis over the 

lease term.

For calculation of the net present value of the future lease 

payments, NLB Group applies the internal transfer price for 

retail deposits as a discount rate.

NLB Group and NLB do not have expenses relating to 

variable payments and gains or losses arising from a sale and 

leaseback transactions. 

A maturity analysis of lease liabilities is disclosed in note 6.3.f).

b) NLB Group as a lessor
Finance and operating leases of motor vehicles and operating 

leases of business premises and POS terminals represent the 

majority of agreements in which NLB Group acts as a lessor.

Most of the lease agreements entered into by NLB Group 

as lessor contracts are finance lease agreements. Most of 

the finance lease agreements are concluded for a non-

cancellable period of between 48 and 60 months. By paying 

the last instalment at the end of the contract, the leasing object 

becomes the lessee’s property. The financial leasing receivables 

are secured by the object of financing. NLB Group does not 

have finance lease contracts with variable payments not 

included in the measurement of the net investment in the lease. 

The investment properties are leased to the lessee under 

operating leases with rentals payable monthly. There are no 

variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate. The 

investment properties generally have lease terms between 2 to 

10 years. Some contracts are made for an indefinite period.

As at 31 December 2022, the allowance for unrecoverable 

finance lease receivables included in the allowance for loan 

impairment amounted to EUR 726 thousand (as at 31 December 

2021 EUR 436 thousand).

NLB Group

Less than one year

One to two years

Two to three years

Three to four years

Four to five years

More than five years

Total undiscounted 
lease receivable

Unearned finance income

Net investment in the lease

 in EUR thousands

2022

70,629

46,515

39,899

29,423

17,422

13,878

217,766

(23,818)

193,948

2021

36,465

25,723

21,276

16,435

10,375

8,604

118,878

(10,163)

108,715

During 2022, NLB Group recognised interest income on lease 

receivables in the amount of EUR 6,607 thousand (2021: EUR 

3,452 thousand). 

Operating lease

A maturity analysis of lease payments, showing the 

undiscounted lease payments to be received after the reporting 

date.

Less than one year

One to two years

Two to three years

Three to four years

Four to five years

More than five years

Total

in EUR thousands

NLB Group

NLB

2022

2,580

1,657

1,028

694

488

1,314

7,761

2021

2,757

1,396

817

597

430

1,211

7,208

2022

2021

345

343

340

315

315

1,224

2,882

375

348

346

342

301

1,029

2,741

NLB Group realised rental income arising from: investment 

properties in the amount of EUR 2,912 thousand (2021: EUR 

3,558 thousand); and movable property in the amount of 

EUR 1,252 thousand (2021: EUR 1,074 thousand). NLB realised 

rental income arising from: investment properties in the amount 

of EUR 459 thousand (2021: EUR 567 thousand); and movable 

property in the amount of EUR 475 thousand (2021: EUR 471 

thousand) (note 4.8.).

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5.12. Investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures

a) Analysis by type of investment in subsidiaries

NLB

Banks

Other financial organisations

Enterprises

Total

 in EUR thousands

31 Dec 2022

 31 Dec 2021

813,362

32,126

58,552

904,040

696,538

29,720

55,282

781,540

Data of subsidiaries as included in the consolidated financial statements of NLB Group as at 31 December 2022:

  Nature 
of Business

Country of 
Incorporation

Equity as at 
31 Dec 2022

Profit/(loss) 
for 2022

NLB’s 
shareholding %

NLB’s 
voting rights %

NLB Group’s 
shareholding %

NLB Group’s 
voting rights%

in EUR thousands

Core members

NLB Banka a.d., Skopje

NLB Banka a.d., Podgorica

NLB Banka a.d., Banja Luka

NLB Banka sh.a., Prishtina

NLB Banka d.d., Sarajevo

NLB Komercijalna banka a.d. Beograd

KomBank Invest a.d. Beograd

N Banka d.d., Ljubljana

Privatinvest d.o.o., Ljubljana

NLB Skladi d.o.o., Ljubljana

NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., Ljubljana

NLB Lease&Go, d.o.o. Skopje**

NLB Lease&Go leasing d.o.o. Beograd

NLB Zavod za upravljanje kulturne 
dediščine, Ljubljana

NLB DigIT d.o.o., Beograd

Non-core members

NLB Leasing d.o.o., Ljubljana - v likvidaciji*

Optima Leasing d.o.o., Zagreb - “u likvidaciji”

NLB Leasing d.o.o., Beograd - u likvidaciji

Tara Hotel d.o.o., Budva

REAM d.o.o., Podgorica

REAM d.o.o., Beograd - Novi Beograd

SPV 2 d.o.o., Beograd - Novi Beograd

S-REAM d.o.o., Ljubljana

REAM d.o.o., Zagreb

PRO-REM d.o.o., Ljubljana - v likvidaciji

OL Nekretnine d.o.o., Zagreb - u likvidaciji

NLB Srbija d.o.o., Beograd

NLB Crna Gora d.o.o., Podgorica

NLB InterFinanz AG, Zürich in Liquidation

NLB InterFinanz d.o.o., Beograd

Banking

Banking

Banking

Banking

Banking

Banking

Finance

Banking

Real estate

Finance

Finance

Finance

Finance

Cultural heritage 
management

North Macedonia 

Montenegro 

Bosnia and 
Herzegovina 

Kosovo

Bosnia and 
Herzegovina 

Serbia 

Serbia 

Slovenia 

Slovenia 

Slovenia 

Slovenia 

North Macedonia 

Serbia 

Slovenia 

IT services

Serbia 

Finance

Finance

Finance

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Finance

Finance

Finance

Slovenia 

Croatia 

Serbia 

Montenegro 

Montenegro 

Serbia 

Serbia 

Slovenia 

Croatia 

Slovenia 

Croatia 

Serbia 

Montenegro 

Switzerland 

Serbia 

LHB AG, Frankfurt
*100% ownership of NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., Ljubljana.
**51% ownership of NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., Ljubljana and 49% ownership of NLB Banka a.d., Skopje.

Germany 

Finance

265,844

106,937

96,237

113,844

90,608

737,972

1,203

186,423

123

12,598

19,578

529

766

3,414

2,368

16,936

821

5,899

13,546

1,767

1,758

867

23,141

994

19,974

1,467

31,591

3,295

10,029

4

1,086

37,874

16,613

19,281

32,402

11,436

66,014

(148)

11,085

(99)

8,404

810

(68)

(390)

2,601

(36)

366

(434)

(91)

(3,255)

71

(90)

35

(184)

66

162

153

(709)

165

(2,213)

1

(646)

86.97

99.87

99.85

82.38

97.34

100

-

100

-

100

100

-

-

100

100

-

-

100

12.71

100

100

100

100

-

-

-

100

100

100

-

100

86.97

99.87

99.85

82.38

97.35

100

-

100

-

100

100

-

-

100

100

-

-

100

12.71

100

100

100

100

-

-

-

100

100

100

-

100

86.97

99.87

99.85

82.38

97.34

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

86.97

99.87

99.85

82.38

97.35

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

95.20

95.20

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

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Data of subsidiaries as included in the consolidated financial statements of NLB Group as at 31 December 2021:

Nature of 
Business

Country of 
Incorporation

Equity as at  
31 Dec 2021

Profit/(loss)  
for 2021

NLB’s  
shareholding %

NLB’s  
voting rights %

NLB Group’s 
shareholding %

NLB Group’s 
voting rights%

in EUR thousands

Core members

NLB Banka a.d., Skopje

NLB Banka a.d., Podgorica

NLB Banka a.d., Banja Luka

NLB Banka sh.a., Prishtina

NLB Banka d.d., Sarajevo

NLB Banka a.d., Beograd

Komercijalna banka a.d. Beograd

KomBank Invest a.d. Beograd

NLB Skladi d.o.o., Ljubljana

NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., Ljubljana

NLB Zavod za upravljanje kulturne 
dediščine, Ljubljana

Non-core members

NLB Leasing d.o.o., Ljubljana - v likvidaciji*

Optima Leasing d.o.o., Zagreb - “u likvidaciji”

NLB Leasing d.o.o., Beograd - u likvidaciji

Tara Hotel d.o.o., Budva

PRO-REM d.o.o., Ljubljana - v likvidaciji

OL Nekretnine d.o.o., Zagreb - u likvidaciji

REAM d.o.o., Podgorica

REAM d.o.o., Beograd - Novi Beograd

SPV 2 d.o.o., Beograd - Novi Beograd

S-REAM d.o.o., Ljubljana

REAM d.o.o., Zagreb

NLB Srbija d.o.o., Beograd

NLB Crna Gora d.o.o., Podgorica

NLB InterFinanz AG, Zürich in Liquidation

NLB InterFinanz d.o.o., Beograd

LHB AG, Frankfurt

*100% ownership of NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., Ljubljana.

Banking

Banking

Banking

Banking

Banking

Banking

Banking

Finance

Finance

Finance

Cultural heritage 
management

Finance

Finance

Finance

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Real estate

Finance

Finance

Finance

Finance

North Macedonia 

Montenegro 

Bosnia and 
Herzegovina 

Kosovo

Bosnia and 
Herzegovina 

Serbia 

Serbia 

Serbia 

Slovenia 

Slovenia 

Slovenia 

Slovenia 

Croatia 

Serbia 

Montenegro 

Slovenia 

Croatia 

Montenegro 

Serbia 

Serbia 

Slovenia 

Croatia 

Serbia 

Montenegro 

Switzerland 

Serbia 

Germany 

243,267

92,643

97,149

98,856

87,838

77,918

634,643

1,345

14,966

16,342

814

18,058

1,258

5,985

16,802

19,966

1,319

1,696

1,844

831

2,197

1,025

32,259

3,130

12,395

3

2,221

39,000

10,050

18,180

24,436

10,012

4,293

34,818

4

8,969

(921)

436

2,545

(94)

40

(223)

154

(93)

44

(217)

9

850

5

188

2,375

1,725

-

489

86.97

75.90

99.85

82.38

97.34

100

86.70

-

100

100

100

-

-

100

12.71

100

-

100

100

100

100

-

100

100

100

-

100

86.97

75.90

99.85

82.38

97.35

100

88.28

-

100

100

100

-

-

100

12.71

100

-

100

100

100

100

-

100

100

100

-

100

86.97

99.87

99.85

82.38

97.34

100

86.70

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

86.97

99.87

99.85

82.38

97.35

100

88.28

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

100

Changes in ownership interest in the subsidiaries of NLB Group in 2022 and 2021 are presented in note 3. 

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Data of subsidiaries with significant non-controlling interests, before intercompany eliminations:

NLB Banka,  
Skopje

NLB Banka,  
Prishtina

in EUR thousands

NLB Komercijalna 
banka, Beograd 

Non-controlling interest in equity in %

Non-controlling interest’s voting rights in %

Income statement and statement 
of comprehensive income

Revenues

Profit/(loss) for the year

Attributable to non-controlling interest

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income

Attributable to non-controlling interest

Paid dividends to non-controlling interest

Statement of financial position

Current assets

Non-current assets

Current liabilities

Non-current liabilities

Equity

Attributable to non-controlling interest

2022

13.03

13.03

94,624

37,874

4,935

(5,071)

32,803

4,274

1,332

826,723

1,020,798

1,404,491

177,186

265,844

34,639

2021

13.03

13.03

87,864

39,000

5,082

(759)

38,241

4,983

3,222

719,846

1,050,742

1,335,444

191,877

243,267

31,698

2022

17.62

17.62

58,296

32,402

5,710

(309)

32,093

5,656

3,014

563,629

520,009

806,646

163,148

113,844

20,063

2021

17.62

17.62

51,509

24,436

4,306

(311)

24,125

4,252

4,160

446,182

484,363

756,702

74,987

98,856

17,421

2021

13.30

11.72

156,710

34,818

4,631

(10,117)

24,701

3,285

-

1,859,605

2,305,644

3,266,253

264,353

634,643

84,408

Data for NLB Komercijalna banka, Beograd is presented only 

for year 2021, as during the year 2022 NLB became 100% owner  

of the subsidiary (note 3.).

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b) Acquisition of N Banka d.d., Ljubljana
On the level of the European Central Bank and the Single 

the Bank of Slovenia issued a decision using the instrument of 

In April 2022, Sberbank banka d.d., Ljubljana was renamed to N 

sale of operation in a way that all shares are transferred from 

Banka d.d., Ljubljana.

Resolution Board, a decision was made on 28 February 2022 

the shareholders to the transferee. In the process of finding a 

to suspend the business operations of the banking group 

new owner of Sberbank banka d.d., Ljubljana, a sale agreement 

The purchase price for the bank was EUR 5,109 thousand and 

Sberbank Europe AG, which also had a subsidiary bank in 

was concluded with NLB, which became an owner of 100% of 

was fully paid in cash. There are no contingent consideration 

Slovenia. At the same time, a transitional period or short-term 

the bank’s shares as at 1 March 2022. At the date of acquisition, 

arrangements. At the acquisition date, cash in acquired entities 

moratorium was adopted, during which a solution for the 

the acquired bank had one 100% owned subsidiary, company 

amounted to EUR 265,062 thousand, therefore the net inflow 

Slovenian subsidiary, Sberbank banka d.d., was found with the 

Privatinvest d.o.o., whose assets consist only of repossessed real 

of cash amounted to EUR 259,953 thousand (included in 

aim to ensure the continuity of the business operations for all of 

estate. It also had an investment into Bankart d.o.o., Ljubljana, 

the statement of cash flows within payments from investing 

its clients. On 1 March 2022, in order to maintain financial stability 

which is in individual financial statements of the acquired bank 

activities). 

in Slovenia, the Single Resolution Board, in cooperation with 

accounted for as financial asset measured at fair value through 

the Bank of Slovenia, adopted a scheme and resolution plan 

other comprehensive income, while on the level of NLB Group it 

for Sberbank banka d.d., Ljubljana. Based on this resolution, 

is an associate.

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The assets and liabilities recognised as a result of the acquisition are as follows:

Cash, cash balances at central banks and other demand deposits at banks

Financial assets held for trading

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income 

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- debt securities

- loans and advances to banks

- loans and advances to customers

- other financial assets

Investments in associates and joint ventures

Tangible assets

Property and equipment

- own property and equipment (note 5.8.b)

- right-of-use assets

Investment property 

Intangible assets 

Current income tax assets

Deferred income tax assets

Other assets

Total assets

Financial liabilities held for trading

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- other financial liabilities

Provisions 

Current income tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

Net identifiable assets acquired 

Consideration given

Bargain purchase (negative goodwill)

in EUR thousands

NLB owns 100% of N Banka, therefore no non-controlling 

265,062

4,788

332

69,387

12,819

2,489

interests were recognised as a result of acquisition. 

The acquisition of N Banka resulted in a gain from a bargain 

purchase (negative goodwill) in the amount of EUR 172,810 
thousand, which is recognised in the income statement under 

the line item ‘Negative goodwill.’ Current market conditions, 

when banks are generally valued below their net book 

1,148,615

values, usually result in recognition of a gain from a bargain 

3,465

11

purchase, which is in the case of N Banka even higher than it 

would be as a result of an orderly transaction, since the bank 

was acquired in the process of resolution. Negative goodwill is 

10,905

not taxable.

As a result of the acquisition, NLB Group’s off-balance sheet 

liabilities increased by EUR 277,772 thousand:

4,518

6,387

464

1,424

46

4,481

2,169

Guarantees

- financial

- non-financial

1,526,457

Commitments to extend credit

Letters of credit

4,698

Total

in EUR thousands

136,309

41,615

94,694

138,749

2,714

277,772

Since the bank was acquired within a very short timeframe 

in the process of resolution, acquisition-related costs were 

immaterial. 

NLB obtained all the necessary information for measuring fair 

values, therefore no amounts were measured and recognised 

on a provisional basis.

24,937

190,008

1,072,411

30,155

21,896

2,249

2,184

1,348,538

177,919

5,109

172,810

Contents

234

  
 
 
 
The valuation techniques used for measuring the fair value of material assets and liabilities acquired were as follows:

Assets acquired

Valuation technique
Discounted cash flow approach: Since these are performing loans, it was assumed that they 
would be repaid by future cash flows in accordance with amortisation schedules. Credit risk was 

considered for loans which are classified in Stage 2 in N Banka individual financial statements, by 

reducing future cash flows accordingly. Also prepayment risk was estimated for consumer and 

Performing loans

mortgage loans.

Non-performing loans

The discount rates used for fair value measurement of loans were based on the publicly available 

interest rates published by Bank of Slovenia, that represent market rates and are thus considered 

the most appropriate. Discount rates differ based on product type, client segment, maturity and 

currency. 
Discounted cash flow approach: Since these are non-performing loans, it could generally not be 
assumed that they would be repaid with cash flows from client’s regular business. Instead, gone 

concern principle was used, taking into account liquidation value of collateral as expected cash 

flows. Appropriate haircuts for age of valuations, type of collateral, type of location, and type of real 

estate were used to estimate the liquidation value of collateral, which was then discounted for a 

period of 4 years, with the required yield of 15%.

For debt securities classified in Level 1 of fair value hierarchy, fair values were determined by an 

observable market price in an active market for an identical asset. For valuing debt securities in 

Debt securities

Level 2, income approach was used, based on the estimation of future cash flows discounted to the 

present value. The input parameters used in the income approach were the risk-free yield curve 

and the spread over the yield curve (credit, liquidity, country).

Three approaches were used for estimating the value of real estate - the income capitalisation 

approach, the sale comparison approach and the residual land value approach. Each views the 

valuation from different perspectives and considers data from different market sources. The most 

suitable approach depends on the characteristics and use of individual real estate.
The income capitalization approach: Values property by the amount of income - cash flow that it 
can potentially generate. The value of the property is derived by converting the expected income 

The fair value of acquired loans and advances to customers is 

EUR 1,148,615 thousand, of which EUR 1,127,261 thousand relates 

to performing portfolio and EUR 21,354 thousand to non-

performing portfolio. The latter was recognised as purchased 

or originated credit-impaired financial assets (POCI). The 

gross contractual amount for performing loans and advances 

to customers is EUR 1,135,072 thousand and for this exposure 

12-month expected credit losses in the amount of EUR 8,552 

thousand were recognised through the income statement. 

The gross contractual amount for non-performing loans 

and advances to customers is EUR 49,641 thousand, and it is 

expected that approximately EUR 23 million of the contractual 

cash flows will not be collected. 

Immediately after acquisition, 12-month expected credit 

losses for Stage 1 financial assets in the amount of EUR 8,900 

thousand and attributable deferred taxes in the amount of 

EUR 1,691 thousand were recognised. Additionally, EUR 39,657 

thousand of revenue, EUR 18,294 thousand of gain after tax, 

and EUR 2,650 thousand of other comprehensive loss were 

recognised in NLB Group financial statements since the 

acquisition date. Had the acquisition occurred on 1 January 

2022, management estimates that the consolidated revenue 

(excluding negative goodwill) would have been approximately 

EUR 960 million, and the consolidated profit for the year 

(excluding negative goodwill) approximately EUR 265 million. 

The exact result is difficult to determine due to the changed 

circumstances during the year, especially the impact of the war 

Real estate

generated from a property into a present value estimate using market capitalization rate. This 

in Ukraine.

method is commonly used for valuing income-generating properties.
The sale comparison approach: Values property by comparing similar properties that have been 
sold recently. This approach is sometimes referred to as the ‘direct sales comparison approach.’ 

The reliability of an indication found by this method depends on the quality of comparable data 

found in the marketplace and application of adequate adjustments for individually appraised 

real estate. When sale transactions are not available, the direct sales comparison approach is not 

applicable.
Residual land value approach: is a method for calculating the value of development land. It is 
performed by subtracting from the total value of a development project, all costs associated with 

the development project, including profit but excluding the cost of the land. It is applicable only for 

development/construction land.

Liabilities acquired

Deposits

Valuation technique
Discounted cash flow approach: Aggregated future cash flows were discounted by applying 
market interest rates for term deposits. As a discount rate, average market rates on the deposits, 

published by Bank of Slovenia, were used.

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235

 c) Acquisition of NLB Lease&Go leasing d.o.o. Beograd
In November 2022, NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., Ljubljana 

The purchase price for the company was EUR 1,036 

thousand and was fully paid in cash. There are no contingent 

became an owner of 95.20% of financial company Zastava 

consideration arrangements. At the acquisition date, cash in 

Istrabenz Lizing, d.o.o., Beograd.

acquired entity amounted to EUR 117 thousand, therefore the 

net outflow of cash amounted to EUR 919 thousand (included 

In January 2023, Zastava Istrabenz Lizing, d.o.o., Beograd was 

in the statement of cash flows within payments from investing 

renamed to NLB Lease&Go leasing d.o.o. Beograd.

activities). 

The assets and liabilities recognised as a result of the acquisition are as follows:

Cash, cash balances at central banks and other demand deposits at banks

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- loans and advances to banks

- loans and advances to customers

- other financial assets

Tangible assets

Property and equipment

- own property and equipment (note 5.8.b)

Investment property

Intangible assets 

Current income tax assets

Other assets

Total assets

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- borrowings from other customers

- other financial liabilities

Provisions 

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

Net identifiable assets acquired (100%)

Less: non-controling interests

Net assets acquired (NLB Group share)

Consideration given

Bargain purchase (negative goodwill)

in EUR thousands

117

171

913

5

137

137

302

20

5

2

1,672

490

7

7

8

512

1,160

56

1,104

1,036

68

NLB Group recognises non-controlling interests in NLB 
Lease&Go leasing d.o.o. Beograd at the non-controlling 

The acquisition of NLB Lease&Go leasing d.o.o. Beograd 
resulted in a gain from a bargain purchase (negative goodwill) 

interest’s proportionate share of the acquired entity’s net 

in the amount of EUR 68 thousand, which is recognised in 

identifiable assets. 

the income statement under the line item ‘Negative goodwill.’ 

Negative goodwill is not taxable.

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236

  
 
 
 
d) Disposal of Komercijalna banka a.d. Banja Luka
In December 2021, Komercijalna banka a.d. Beograd sold its 

subsidiary Komercijalna banka a.d. Banja Luka.

The assets and liabilities derecognised from NLB Group financial statements as a result of the disposal are as follows:

in EUR thousands

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and other demand deposits at banks

Financial assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- loans and advances to customers

- other financial assets

Tangible assets

Property and equipment

- own property and equipment (note 5.8.b)

- right-of-use assets

Investment property (note 5.9.)

Intangible assets (note 5.10.)

Current income tax assets

Other assets

Total assets

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- borrowings from other customers

- other financial liabilities

Provisions

Deferred income tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets of subsidiary

Total disposal consideration

Cash and cash equivalents in subsidiary sold

Cash outflow on disposal

Consideration for disposal of the subsidiary

Carrying amount of net assets disposed of

Transfer of FV OCI revaluation reserve to P&L

Loss from disposal of subsidiary in consolidated financial statements

- Non-controlling interest

- Attributable to owners of the parent

Effect of the sale of Komercijalna banka a.d. Banja Luka is 

included in the segment ‘Strategic Foreign Markets.’

75,699

36,599

131,928

381

2,438

709

1,729

1,215

228

29

1,026

249,543

15,514

172,900

25,120

2,289

361

61

277

216,522

33,021

22,000

(69,832)

(47,832)

22,000

33,021

1,723

(9,298)

(1,237)

(8,061)

MB Statement

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237

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
e) Analysis by type of investment in associates and joint ventures 

Carrying amount of the NLB Group’s interest 

Other financial organisations

Enterprises

Total

NLB Group’s associates

2022

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

 31 Dec 2022

 31 Dec 2021

 31 Dec 2022

 31 Dec 2021

11,677

-

11,677

11,525

-

11,525

4,282

289

4,571

4,282

201

4,483

in %

Nature of  
Business

Country of 
Incorporation

Shareholding

Voting rights

Shareholding

Voting rights

NLB Group

NLB

Bankart d.o.o., Ljubljana

Card processing

ARG - Nepremičnine 
d.o.o., Horjul

Real estate

Slovenia

Slovenia

46.03

75.00

46.03

75.00

45.64

75.00

2021

45.64

75.00

in %

Nature of  
Business

Country of 
Incorporation

Shareholding

Voting rights

Shareholding

Voting rights

NLB Group

NLB

Bankart d.o.o., Ljubljana

Card processing

ARG - Nepremičnine 
d.o.o., Horjul

Real estate

Slovenia

Slovenia

45.64

75.00

45.64

75.00

45.64

75.00

45.64

75.00

By contractual agreement between the shareholders, NLB 

does not control ARG-Nepremičnine, Horjul, but does have a 

significant influence. Therefore, the entity is accounted as an 

associate.

The carrying amount of interests in associates included in the  

consolidated financial statements of NLB Group: 

Carrying amount of the NLB Group’s interest 

NLB Group’s share of:

- Profit for the year

- Other comprehensive income

- Total comprehensive income

 in EUR thousands

2021

11,525

1,108

(30)

1,078

2022

11,677

781

121

902

NLB Group's interest in an associate was in previous years 

reduced to zero, consequently NLB Group did not recognise a 

share of profit in the amount of EUR 94 thousand in 2022 (2021: 

EUR 88 thousand). The cumulative unrecognised share of losses 

of an associate as at 31 December 2022 amounted to EUR 2,083 

thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 2,176 thousand). 

MB Statement

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238

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NLB Group’s joint ventures

Prvi Faktor Group, Ljubljana

Nature of  
Business

Finance

Country of  
Incorporation

Slovenia

Voting rights

Voting rights

50

50

2022

in %

2021

NLB Group's interest in a joint venture was in previous years 

(2021: EUR 435 thousand). The cumulative unrecognised share 

reduced to zero, consequently NLB Group did not recognise 

of losses of a joint venture as at 31 December 2022 amounted to 

a share of profit in the amount of EUR 429 thousand in 2022 

EUR 14,396 thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 14,825 thousand).

f) Movements of investments in associates

NLB Group

Balance as at 1 January

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b)

Increase in capital share

Share of result before tax

Share of tax

Net gains/(losses) recognised in other comprehensive income

Dividends received

Balance as at 31 December

5.13. Other assets

2022

11,525

11

-

827

(46)

121

(761)

11,677

in EUR thousands

2021

7,988

-

2,900

1,339

(231)

(30)

(441)

11,525

Assets, received as collateral (note 6.1.l)

Deferred expenses

Inventories

Claim for taxes and other dues

Prepayments

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

51,586

12,200

4,961

1,509

2,287

72,543

75,450

10,046

2,173

1,826

1,726

91,221

3,170

6,929

2,324

417

321

13,161

4,827

6,202

42

621

161

11,853

Assets, received as collateral on NLB Group in the amount of 

EUR 50,913 thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 74,717 thousand), 

and on NLB in the amount of EUR 3,170 thousand (31 December 

2021: EUR 4,827 thousand) consist of real estate (note 6.1.l). 

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239

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.14. Movements in allowance for the impairment of financial assets 

a) Movements in allowance for the impairment of loans and receivables measured at amortised cost

Balance as at 
1 Jan 2022

Effects of 
translation 
of foreign 
operations to 
presentation 
currency

Transfers

Increases/ 
(Decreases)

Write-offs

Changes in 
models/risk 
parameters

Foreign 
exchange 
differences 
and other 
movements

NLB Group

Notes

12-month expected credit losses

Loans and advances to banks

Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to 
other customers

Other financial assets

Lifetime ECL not credit-impaired

Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to 
other customers

Other financial assets

Lifetime ECL credit-impaired 

Loans and advances to banks

Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to 
other customers

Other financial assets

Of which: Purchased or originated credit-impaired 

Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to 
other customers

Other financial assets

198

18,336

50,961

476

7,398

26,624

36

-

76,047

136,607

5,714

(157)

613

(608)

1

(6)

6

1

(4)

2

(1)

-

4

626

(3)

1

(2)

-

-

19,708

(4,026)

(263)

(12,893)

2,175

13

-

(6,815)

1,851

250

-

-

-

4.14.

(46)

(12,932)

18,487

911

16,206

2,943

1

108

28,969

(9,912)

1,556

24

(11,136)

(1,034)

-

(239)

(1)

(72)

(18)

(1)

(26)

-

(21,199)

(27,759)

(1,136)

(219)

(244)

-

4.14.

5

6,521

(5,585)

20

3,897

(493)

12

-

(751)

144

(22)

-

-

-

Column Increases/(Decreases) also includes 12-month expected 

Other movements relate mainly to income from repayments 

credit losses recognised at acquisition of N Banka in the 

of non-performing exposures in NLB Komercijalna banka and 

amount of EUR 187 thousand for Loans and advances to banks, 

N Banka, which were at acquisition recognised at fair value, 

in the amount of EUR 8,552 thousand for Loans and advances 

without a corresponding allowance for the impairment and to 

to customers, and in the amount of EUR 95 thousand for Other 

expenses due to initial recognition of non-performing exposure 

financial assets (notes 4.14. and 5.12.b).

at fair value in NLB.

in EUR thousands

Balance as at  
31 Dec 2022

Repayments 
of written-off 
receivables

5.6.b), c), d)

4.14.

MB Statement

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Financial Report

3

(3)

(2)

173

(4)

(20)

3

-

(448)

9,597

1,391

(148)

7,635

1,827

161

31,385

59,840

1,246

14,582

31,230

38

108

75,807

111,154

7,750

(499)

(3,134)

185

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

8,213

24,770

346

1,537

3,546

12

Contents

240

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NLB Group

Notes

12-month expected credit losses
Loans and advances to banks

Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to other customers

Other financial assets

Lifetime ECL not credit-impaired
Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to other customers

Other financial assets

Lifetime ECL credit-impaired 
Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to other customers

Other financial assets

Of which: Purchased or 
originated credit-impaired
Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to other customers

Other financial assets

Balance as at 
1 Jan 2021

Effects of 
translation 
of foreign 
operations to 
presentation 
currency

Transfers

Increases/ 
(Decreases)

Write-offs

Changes in 
models/risk 
parameters

Foreign  
exchange 
differences  
and other 
movements

141

25,044

49,475

276

8,151

32,682

30

61,305

195,623

5,247

-

1,319

4

-

5

20

(2)

1

4

-

14

587

-

1

-

(1)

-

14,152

4,036

202

(8,554)

(3,515)

-

(5,598)

(521)

(202)

-

-

-

4.14.

9

(13,005)

2,476

115

6,975

(240)

7

25,606

8

1,770

(1,157)

(3,243)

(602)

-

(164)

(8)

(54)

(35)

(231)

(7)

(15,160)

(66,532)

(847)

(702)

(2,312)

(9)

4.14.

48

(7,479)

(4,292)

(70)

898

(1,960)

9

7,868

1,641

(112)

-

-

-

-

(3)

31

10

(3)

21

(3)

2,135

6,226

(142)

1,701

4,849

-

in EUR thousands

Disposal of 
subsidiary

Balance as at 
31 Dec 2021

Repayments  
of written-off 
receivables

5.6.b), c), d)

4.14.

-

(214)

(777)

(1)

(35)

(137)

-

(123)

(425)

-

-

-

-

198

18,336

50,961

476

7,398

26,624

36

76,047

136,607

5,714

(157)

613

(608)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

7,449

42,272

470

-

-

-

Other movements relate mainly to income from repayments of 

allowance for the impairment and to expenses due to initial 

non-performing exposures in Komercijalna banka, which were 

recognition of non-performing exposure at fair value in NLB.

at acquisition recognised at fair value, without a corresponding 

Balance as at 
1 Jan 2022

Transfers

Increases/ 
(Decreases)

Write-offs

Changes in 
models/risk 
parameters

Foreign 
exchange 
differences 
and other 
movements

NLB 

Notes

12-month expected credit losses

Loans and advances to banks

Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to other customers

Other financial assets

Lifetime ECL not credit-impaired

Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to other customers

Other financial assets

Lifetime ECL credit-impaired 

Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to other customers

Other financial assets

Of which: Purchased or 
originated credit-impaired

Loans and advances to other customers

Other financial assets

Other movements relate mainly to expenses due to initial 

recognition of non-performing exposure at fair value. 

182

3,503

10,101

62

2,421

1,787

1

31,497

47,110

1,090

838

6

-

7,665

833

16

(6,808)

1,192

-

(857)

(2,025)

(16)

-

-

4.14.

34

(6,686)

5,358

95

8,313

(2,277)

2

9,321

3,922

225

4,801

(5)

-

(238)

(1)

(17)

(15)

(1)

(1)

(5,761)

(11,178)

(491)

-

-

4.14.

-

1,916

(1,440)

46

3,474

100

-

(279)

(94)

-

-

-

in EUR thousands

Balance as at 
31 Dec 2022

Repayments  
of written-off 
receivables

5.6.b), c), d)

4.14.

-

1

29

1

-

(1)

-

365

(7,835)

-

(5,001)

-

216

6,161

14,880

203

7,385

800

2

34,286

29,900

808

638

1

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,536

10,313

210

-

-

MB Statement

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241

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance as at 
1 Jan 2021

Transfers

Increases/ 
(Decreases)

Write-offs

Changes in 
models/risk 
parameters

Foreign 
exchange 
differences 
and other 
movements

NLB 

Notes

12-month expected credit losses

Loans and advances to banks

Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to other customers

Other financial assets

Lifetime ECL not credit-impaired

Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to other customers

Other financial assets

Lifetime ECL credit-impaired 

Loans and advances to individuals

Loans and advances to other customers

Other financial assets

Of which: Purchased or 
originated credit-impaired

Loans and advances to other customers

Other financial assets

155

8,973

16,664

73

2,351

8,936

2

22,855

83,593

1,255

1,319

4

-

3,881

4,740

14

(2,181)

(2,651)

-

(1,700)

(2,089)

(14)

-

-

4.14.

27

(4,914)

(5,419)

41

2,007

(2,715)

(1)

8,779

(659)

129

1,339

2

-

(156)

(1)

(12)

(27)

(3)

-

(6,020)

(33,269)

(280)

-

-

4.14.

-

(4,281)

(5,915)

(57)

270

(1,799)

-

7,566

349

-

-

-

in EUR thousands

Balance as at 
31 Dec 2021

Repayments  
of written-off 
receivables

5.6.b), c), d)

4.14.

-

-

32

3

1

19

-

17

(815)

-

(1,820)

-

182

3,503

10,101

62

2,421

1,787

1

31,497

47,110

1,090

838

6

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,597

8,682

120

-

-

Other movements relate mainly to expenses due to initial 

and that are still subject to enforcement activity for NLB 

thousand) and EUR 1,140 thousand in NLB (31 December 2021: 

recognition of non-performing exposure at fair value. 

Group amounted to EUR 29,654 thousand (31 December 2021: 

EUR 1,265 thousand) represents interest receivables that have 

EUR 76,252 thousand), and for NLB amounted to EUR 9,949 

not been recognised in the income statement prior to the  

The contractual amount outstanding on financial assets that 

thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 8,136 thousand), of which 

write-off.

were written off during the year ending 31 December 2022 

EUR 1,730 thousand in NLB Group (31 December 2021: EUR 2,251 

b) Movements in allowance for the impairment of debt securities 

NLB Group

Notes

12-month expected credit losses

Debt securities measured at amortised cost

Debt securities measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Lifetime ECL not credit-impaired

Debt securities measured at amortised cost

Debt securities measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Lifetime ECL credit-impaired

Debt securities measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Balance as at 
1 Jan 2022

Effects of 
translation 
of foreign 
operations to 
presentation 
currency

Transfers

Increases/ 
(Decreases) 

Changes in 
models/risk 
parameters

3,253

11,148

52

70

798

(2)

5

1

-

-

-

(25)

-

(803)

828

4.14.

158

(2,049)

271

739

5,235

4.14.

104

(67)

(59)

12

-

Foreign 
exchange 
differences 
and other 
movements

in EUR thousands

Balance as at 
31 Dec 2022

5.4.a), 5.6.a)

6

17

-

52

(84)

3,519

9,029

265

70

6,777

Column Increases/(Decreases) includes also 12-month expected 
credit losses recognised at the acquisition of N Banka in the 

amortised cost, and in the amount of EUR 5 thousand for Debt 
securities measured at fair value through other comprehensive 

Impairment of debt securities measured at fair value through 
other comprehensive income relates mainly to impairment of 

amount of EUR 60 thousand for Debt securities measured at 

income (notes 4.14. and 5.12.b).

Russian sovereign debt (note 5.4.).

MB Statement

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Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

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Contents

242

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NLB Group

Notes

12-month expected credit losses

Debt securities measured at amortised cost

Debt securities measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Lifetime ECL not credit-impaired

Debt securities measured at amortised cost

Debt securities measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Lifetime ECL credit-impaired

Debt securities measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

NLB

Notes

12-month expected credit losses

Debt securities measured at amortised cost

Debt securities measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Lifetime ECL not credit-impaired

Debt securities measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Lifetime ECL credit-impaired

Debt securities measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Balance as at 
1 Jan 2021

Effects of 
translation 
of foreign 
operations to 
presentation 
currency

Transfers

Increases/ 
(Decreases) 

Changes in 
models/risk 
parameters

3,685

8,656

-

28

798

1

2

-

-

-

(32)

-

32

-

-

4.14.

997

81

16

24

-

4.14.

(1,400)

2,731

4

18

-

Balance as at 
1 Jan 2022

Transfers

Increases/ 
(Decreases) 

1,826

2,203

-

798

-

(25)

(803)

4.14.

119

(192)

751

828

5,235

Foreign 
exchange 
differences 
and other 
movements

in EUR thousands

Disposal of 
subsidiary

Balance as at 
31 Dec 2021

5.4.a), 5.6.a)

2

18

-

-

-

-

(340)

-

-

-

3,253

11,148

52

70

798

Changes in 
models/risk 
parameters

4.14.

Foreign 
exchange 
differences 
and other 
movements

in EUR thousands

Balance as at 
31 Dec 2022

5.4.a), 5.6.a)

42

32

-

-

3

4

52

1,990

2,022

-

(84)

6,777

Impairment of debt securities measured at fair value through 

other comprehensive income relates mainly to impairment of 

Russian sovereign debt (note 5.4.).

NLB

Notes

12-month expected credit losses

Debt securities measured at amortised cost

Debt securities measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Lifetime ECL credit-impaired

Debt securities measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Balance as at 
1 Jan 2021

Increases/ 
(Decreases) 

Changes in 
models/risk 
parameters

1,841

2,343

798

4.14.

456

(22)

-

4.14.

(473)

(126)

-

Foreign 
exchange 
differences 
and other 
movements

in EUR thousands

Balance as at 
31 Dec 2021

5.4.a), 5.6.a)

2

8

-

1,826

2,203

798

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

243

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
c) Explanation of how significant changes in the gross carrying amount of financial instruments contributed to changes in the loss allowance

Movement of gross carrying amount of loans to banks

12-month expected 
credit losses

2022

NLB Group

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

2021

12-month expected 
credit losses

Balance as at 1 January 

Effects of translation of foreign operations 
to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b), c)

Decreases/Increases

Exchange differences on monetary assets

Transfer

Balance as at 31 December

140,881

74

2,660

75,516

4,103

(108)

223,126

Movement of gross carrying amount of loans and advances to individuals

-

-

-

-

-

108

108

NLB Group

197,146

(7)

-

(61,245)

4,987

-

140,881

2022

12-month expected 
credit losses

199,469

NLB

in EUR thousands

2021

12-month expected 
credit losses

158,475

-

-

150,644

728

-

350,841

NLB

-

-

41,094

(100)

-

199,469

in EUR thousands

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Individuals

Balance as at 1 January 2022

Effects of translation of foreign operations 
to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b)

Transfers

Increases/(Decreases)

Write-offs

Exchange differences on monetary assets

Modification losses (note 4.12.)

Balance as at 31 December 2022

Individuals

Balance as at 1 January 2021

Effects of translation of foreign operations 
to presentation currency

Transfers

Increases/(Decreases)

Write-offs

Exchange differences on monetary assets

Modification losses (note 4.12.)

Disposal of subsidiary

Balance as at 31 December 2021

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Total

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Total

5,372,551

120,235

128,285

5,621,071

2,570,925

66,035

57,396

2,694,356

672

411,068

(106,876)

746,532

(239)

(746)

(85)

(12)

-

78,073

(8,179)

(18)

34

(12)

8

6,583

28,803

(12,059)

(21,199)

12

13

668

417,651

-

726,294

(21,456)

(700)

(84)

-

-

(46,023)

396,545

(238)

1,698

-

-

-

35,084

596

(15)

44

-

-

-

10,939

(2,932)

(5,761)

38

-

-

-

-

394,209

(6,014)

1,780

-

6,422,877

190,121

130,446

6,743,444

2,922,907

101,744

59,680

3,084,331

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Total

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

NLB Group

NLB

117,193

5,027,593

2,295,630

4,777,413

1,268

(39,411)

666,437

(164)

1,930

(31)

(34,891)

5,372,551

132,987

(8)

4,604

(16,708)

(35)

27

(6)

(626)

120,235

26

34,807

(8,010)

(15,160)

32

(2)

(601)

128,285

1,286

-

641,719

(15,359)

1,989

(39)

(36,118)

5,621,071

-

(17,729)

291,509

(156)

1,671

-

-

in EUR thousands

Total

2,411,949

-

-

286,857

(6,203)

1,753

-

-

64,675

-

5,230

(3,888)

(27)

45

-

-

51,644

-

12,499

(764)

(6,020)

37

-

-

2,570,925

66,035

57,396

2,694,356

In year 2022, the loss allowance for loans and advances to 

and the acquisition of subsidiaries, while at the NLB level it 

level, while at the NLB level it increased by EUR 3,242 thousand. 

individuals increased by EUR 19,993 thousand at the NLB 

increased by EUR 389,975 thousand.

Group level, while at the NLB level it increased by EUR 10,411 

Even though the gross carrying amount increased mainly in 

Stage 1 due to new exposures, the increase of loss allowance 

thousand. The main reasons for this increase are changed 

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b) contributed EUR 417,651 

was observed mostly in Stage 3. The main reason for this were 

risk parameters, which increased loss allowance by EUR 9,667 

thousand to the gross carrying amount of loans and advances 

changes in the risk parameters, which increased loss allowance 

thousand at the NLB Group level, and by EUR 5,111 thousand 

to individuals on the NLB Group level.

for Stage 3 loans and advances to individuals in the amount  

at NLB level and an increase of the gross carrying amount. 

of EUR 7,868 thousand at the NLB Group level and  

At the NLB Group level, the gross carrying amount increased 

In year 2021, the loss allowance for loans and advances to 

EUR 7,566 thousand at the NLB level. 

by EUR 1,122,373 thousand, mainly due to increased exposure 

individuals increased by EUR 7,281 thousand at the NLB Group 

Contents

244

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Movement of gross carrying amount of loans and advances to other customers

Other customers

Balance as at 1 January 2022

Effects of translation of foreign operations 
to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b), c)

Transfers

Increases/(Decreases)

Write-offs

Exchange differences on monetary assets

Modification losses (note 4.12.)

Balance as at 31 December 2022

Other customers

Balance as at 1 January 2021

Effects of translation of foreign operations 
to presentation currency

Transfers

Increases/(Decreases)

Write-offs

Exchange differences on monetary assets

Modification losses (note 4.12.)

Disposal of subsidiary

Balance as at 31 December 2021

NLB Group

NLB

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Total

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Total

4,630,485

412,184

239,354

5,282,023

2,351,275

123,304

72,637

2,547,216

in EUR thousands

1,189

716,577

(154,654)

835,299

(1)

(639)

29

87

-

123,967

(112,477)

(1)

(106)

17

893

15,300

30,687

(56,944)

(27,759)

41

12

2,169

731,877

-

665,878

(27,761)

(704)

58

-

-

34,662

572,648

(1)

1,871

-

-

-

(37,337)

(34,158)

(1)

98

-

-

-

2,675

(13,056)

(11,178)

55

-

-

-

-

525,434

(11,180)

2,024

-

6,028,285

423,671

201,584

6,653,540

2,960,455

51,906

51,133

3,063,494

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Total

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Total

NLB Group

NLB

4,219,862

1,220

(110,801)

608,913

(8)

3,620

(17)

(92,304)

4,630,485

427,166

82

85,364

(98,209)

(231)

235

(6)

(2,217)

412,184

317,519

4,964,547

1,982,033

193,835

119,733

2,295,601

852

25,437

(34,880)

(66,532)

159

(201)

(3,000)

239,354

2,154

-

475,824

(66,771)

4,014

(224)

(97,521)

5,282,023

-

(13,004)

379,138

(1)

3,109

-

-

-

11,931

(82,687)

(3)

228

-

-

-

1,073

(15,037)

(33,269)

137

-

-

-

-

281,414

(33,273)

3,474

-

-

2,351,275

123,304

72,637

2,547,216

in EUR thousands

In year 2022, the gross carrying amount of loans and advances 

at the NLB Group level and EUR 50,195 thousand), with main 

only by EUR 2,808 thousand, while at the NLB level it decreased 

to other customers increased by EUR 1,371,517 thousand at the 

reasons being write-offs (EUR 66,771 thousand at the NLB 

by EUR 140 thousand. The main reason for this moderate 

NLB Group level and EUR 516,278 thousand at the NLB level, 

Group level and EUR 33,273 thousand at the NLB level) and 

increase at the NLB Group level and decrease on the NLB level 

mostly in Stage 1 due to the acquisition of subsidiaries and the 

changes in the risk parameters (a decrease of loss allowance at 

are write-offs (EUR 1,234 thousand at the NLB Group level and 

increased exposure. Regardless of that, the loss allowance 

the NLB Group level for EUR 4,611 thousand and at the NLB level 

EUR 509 thousand at the NLB level).

decreased for EUR 11,968 thousand at the NLB Group level and 

for EUR 7,365 thousand). 

EUR 12,631 thousand at the NLB level, mainly in Stage 3. The 

main reason for the decrease were write-offs in the amount 
of EUR 27,761 thousand at the NLB Group level and EUR 11,180 

Movement of gross carrying amount of other financial assets 

The gross carrying amount of other financial assets in year 2022 

The loss allowance for other financial assets in year 2021 on the 

NLB Group level moved in line with the gross carrying amount 
and increased by EUR 673 thousand. At the NLB level, the gross 

thousand at the NLB level. 

increased (for EUR 58,402 thousand at the NLB Group level and 

carrying amount increased by EUR 37,724 thousand, but most of 

EUR 21,855 thousand at the NLB level), with the majority of this 

this increase relates to receivables with a very short maturity (of 

In year 2021, the gross carrying amount of loans and advances 

increase relating to credit card receivables and receivables for 

that EUR 20,492 thousand to receivables towards a subsidiary 

to other customers increased by EUR 317,476 thousand at the 

the sale of securities. As these receivables are by their nature 

for dividends declared in 2021). Therefore, the loss allowance 

NLB Group level and EUR 251,615 thousand at the NLB level, 

short-term, they did not contribute significantly to the increase 

in 2021 slightly decreased (by EUR 177 thousand), with the main 

mostly in Stage 1 due to the increased exposure. Regardless of 

of the loss allowance. Therefore the loss allowance for other 

reason being write-offs in the amount of EUR 292 thousand. 

that, the loss allowance decreased (for EUR 63,588 thousand 

financial assets in year 2022 on the NLB Group level increased 

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

245

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Movement of gross carrying amount of debt securities measured at amortised cost

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

2021

2022

2021

12-month expected  
credit losses

Lifetime ECL  
not credit - impaired

12-month expected  
credit losses

Lifetime ECL  
not credit - impaired

12-month expected  
credit losses

12-month expected  
credit losses

Balance as at 1 January

Effects of translation of foreign operations 
to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b)

Additions

Derecognition

Net interest income

Exchange differences on monetary assets

Other

Transfers

Balance as at 31 December

1,713,711

(187)

12,819

411,723

(226,884)

16,792

1,030

(14,834)

-

1,914,170

7,220

1,506,772

9

-

-

-

-

-

-

7,229

74

-

769,067

(564,041)

13,144

1,348

(5,444)

(7,209)

1,713,711

-

11

-

-

-

-

-

-

7,209

7,220

Movement of gross carrying amount of debt securities measured at fair value through other comprehensive income

1,438,250

1,279,721

-

-

310,394

(146,939)

11,431

1,136

(14,834)

-

1,599,438

-

-

639,735

(486,630)

9,504

1,364

(5,444)

-

1,438,250

in EUR thousands

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Total

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Total

NLB Group

NLB

Balance as at 1 January 2022

Effects of translation of foreign operations 
to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b)

Additions

Derecognition

Net interest income

Exchange differences on monetary assets

Transfers

Balance as at 31 December 2022

Balance as at 1 January 2021

Effects of translation of foreign operations 
to presentation currency

Additions

Derecognition

Net interest income

Exchange differences on monetary assets

Disposal of subsidiary

Balance as at 31 December 2021

3,396,101

1,370

53,223

1,699,839

(2,171,808)

38,554

2,054

(20,303)

2,999,030

184

-

-

-

(13,750)

38

973

12,720

165

798

3,397,083

1,526,972

-

-

-

-

(121)

77

7,583

8,337

1,370

53,223

1,699,839

(2,185,558)

38,471

3,104

-

3,007,532

-

-

290,245

(443,781)

10,929

3,434

(20,303)

1,367,496

-

-

-

-

(13,731)

38

973

12,720

-

798

1,527,770

-

-

-

-

(121)

77

7,583

8,337

-

-

290,245

(457,512)

10,846

4,484

-

1,375,833

in EUR thousands

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Total

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Total

NLB Group

NLB

3,407,394

1,204

1,455,823

(1,481,974)

40,310

8,367

(35,023)

3,396,101

203

-

-

(19)

-

-

-

184

798

3,408,395

1,639,915

-

-

-

-

-

-

798

1,204

1,455,823

(1,481,993)

40,310

8,367

(35,023)

3,397,083

-

219,733

(352,824)

11,696

8,452

-

1,526,972

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

798

1,640,713

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

219,733

(352,824)

11,696

8,452

-

798

1,527,770

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

246

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
5.15. Financial liabilities, measured at amortised cost

Analysis by type of financial liabilities, measured at the amortised cost

Deposits from banks and central banks

Borrowings from banks and central banks

Due to customers

Borrowings from other customers

Debt securities issued

Other financial liabilities

Total 

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

106,414

198,609

71,828

858,531

212,656

57,292

109,329

873,479

20,027,726

17,640,809

10,984,411

9,659,605

82,482

815,990

294,463

74,051

288,519

206,878

216

815,990

164,567

406

288,519

102,527

21,525,684

19,140,616

12,235,132

11,033,865

a) Deposits from banks and central banks and amounts due to customers

Deposit on demand

- banks and central banks

- other customers

- governments

- financial organisations

- companies

- individuals

Other deposits

- banks and central banks

- other customers

- governments

- financial organisations

- companies

- individuals

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

86,892

17,386,022

421,770

306,836

4,374,028

12,283,388

19,522

2,641,704

91,662

237,758

646,944

1,665,340

20,134,140

56,427

15,319,112

401,295

303,858

3,653,713

10,960,246

15,401

2,321,697

95,062

125,310

380,815

1,720,510

17,712,637

193,523

10,268,908

151,251

254,948

2,241,793

7,620,916

19,133

715,503

42,049

95,637

282,560

295,257

94,323

8,982,546

109,228

265,900

1,870,118

6,737,300

15,006

677,059

34,801

71,582

229,093

341,583

11,197,067

9,768,934

b) Borrowings from banks and central banks and other customers

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

thousand. The carrying amount of the loan as at 31 December 

2022 amounts to EUR 62,755 thousand (EUR 92,850 as at the 

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

acquisition date). 

Loans

- banks and central banks

- other customers

- governments

- financial organisations

- companies

Total

198,609

82,482

21,535

60,731

216

281,091

858,531

74,051

20,607

52,958

486

932,582

57,292

216

-

-

216

57,508

873,479

406

-

-

406

873,885

As at 31 December 2022, NLB Group and NLB had EUR 96,878 

31 December 2021 amounted to EUR 746,021 thousand. The loan 

thousand in undrawn borrowings (31 December 2021: EUR 94,115 

was early repaid in June 2022.

thousand).

In June 2021, the Bank participated in the ECB TLTRO III.8 

operation and had drawn a credit tranche of EUR 93,000 

operation and had drawn a credit tranche of EUR 750,000 

thousand for three years. In December 2022, N Banka early 

thousand for three years. The carrying amount of the loan as at 

repaid a part of the loan in the amount of EUR 30,000 

In December 2021, N Banka participated in ECB TLTRO III.10 

NLB Group accounts for these loans according to the 

requirements of IFRS 9 and recognises interest income by 

applying the expected effective interest rate (note 4.1.). The 

expected effective interest rate was estimated based on the 

expectation of achieving a lending performance threshold, 

and in the case of NLB, also expected early repayment was 

taken into account. As the lending performance threshold was 

achieved in both banks, there were no changes in estimates 

of payments due to the revised assessment of meeting the 

eligibility criteria. NLB Group does not consider these loans as 
loans at below-market rate of interest, as these targeted longer-

term refinancing operations were available to all banks under 

the same conditions.

MB Statement

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Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

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Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

247

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
c) Debt securities issued

NLB Group and NLB

Subordinated bonds

Total Subordinated bonds

Senior Preferred notes

Total Senior Preferred notes

Total Debt securities issued

  Currency

Due date

Interest rate

Carrying amount

Nominal value

Carrying amount

Nominal value

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

in EUR thousands

EUR

EUR

EUR

EUR

EUR

06.05.2029

19.11.2029

05.02.2030

28.11.2032

4.20% to 06.05.2024, thereafter 5Y MS + 4.159% p.a.

3.65% to 19.11.2024, thereafter 5Y MS + 3.833% p.a.

3.40% to 05.02.2025, thereafter 5Y MS + 3.658% p.a.

10.75% to 28.11.2027, thereafter 5Y MS + 8.298% p.a.

19.07.2025

6% to 19.07.2024, thereafter 1Y MS + 4.835% p.a.

45,941

119,677

123,106

220,054

508,778

307,212

307,212

45,000

120,000

120,000

225,000

510,000

300,000

300,000

45,903

119,577

123,039

-

288,519

-

-

45,000

120,000

120,000

-

285,000

-

-

815,990

810,000

288,519

285,000

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

All issued subordinated bonds represent non-convertible Tier 2 

b.  with the same priority (pari passu) as, and proportionally 

instruments (note 5.23.). In the event of bankruptcy or liquidation 

with the obligations arising from other instruments which 

of the issuer, obligations arising from Tier 2 instruments shall be 

qualify as Tier 2 instruments or have the same priority of 

repaid:

repayment as the Tier 2 instruments;

a.  after repayment of all unsubordinated obligations of the 

c. 

in priority to the obligations arising from shares or other 

Issuer, as well as at all subordinated obligations (if any) 

instruments which qualify as Common Equity Tier 1 capital 

which are expressed to rank in priority to Tier 2 instruments;

instruments or Additional Tier 1 instruments or have the 

same priority of repayment as these instruments.

Movement of debt securities issued

NLB Group and NLB

Balance as at 1 January

Cash flow items:

- new issued

- repayment of interest

Non-Cash flow items:

- accrued interest

Balance as at 31 December

Subordinated bonds

Senior Preferred notes

in EUR thousands

2022

288,519

207,523

217,873

(10,350)

12,736

12,736

508,778

2021

288,321

(10,350)

-

(10,350)

10,548

10,548

288,519

2022

-

299,029

299,029

-

8,183

8,183

307,212

2021

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Contents

248

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
d) Other financial liabilities

Items in the course of settlement

Debit or credit card payables

Suppliers

Lease liabilities (note 5.11.a)

Accrued expenses

Fees and commissions

Liabilities to brokerage firms and others for 
securities purchase and custody services

Other financial liabilities

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

70,232

72,148

19,608

23,840

33,574

751

224

74,086

294,463

57,934

27,325

17,514

24,324

25,852

1,609

297

52,023

206,878

16,281

54,920

13,455

3,349

15,898

633

205

59,826

164,567

5,940

24,638

12,049

3,256

12,909

1,504

202

42,029

102,527

Other financial liabilities in the amount of EUR 24,788 thousand 

banka d.d., Ljubljana’ (note 5.16.a). The remaining balance 

(31 December 2021: EUR 23,495 thousand) relate to a liability 

includes also liabilities to insurance companies, liabilities for 

recognised in accordance with the ‘Act for Value Protection of 

received EIB financial initiatives, received warranties, and 

Republic of Slovenia’s Capital Investment in Nova Ljubljanska 

obligations for the purchase of securities.

5.16. Provisions

a) Analysis by type of provisions

Provisions for guarantees and commitments (note 5.24.a)

Stage 1

Stage 2

Stage 3

Employee benefit provisions

Restructuring provisions

Provisions for legal risks

Other provisions

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

37,609

18,826

1,953

16,830

18,026

21,036

43,209

2,772

122,652

33,441

12,912

1,640

18,889

21,447

19,217

45,288

11

119,404

20,299

8,156

378

11,765

11,876

7,288

3,584

2,169

45,216

20,560

3,909

141

16,510

14,206

11,131

3,466

-

49,363

Provisions for guarantees and commitments represent expected 

recognised in accordance with IAS 19, while all other provisions 

credit losses in accordance with IFRS 9, employee benefits are 

are recognised according to IAS 37.

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249

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Legal risks

pending for such a long time, the penalty interest already 

Despite the agreement in the Memorandum of Understanding 

Provisions for legal risks are formed based on expectations 

exceeds the principal amount. As NLB is not liable for the old 

to stay all of the proceedings commenced, the Court of Appeal, 

regarding the probable outcome of legal disputes. As at 31 

foreign currency savings, based on numerous process and 

the County Court of Zagreb, ruled in six claims (as explained 

December 2022, NLB Group was involved in 41 (31 December 

content-related reasons, NLB has all along objected to these 

below in detail) in favour of the plaintiff. In four of those cases, 

2021: 38) legal disputes with material claims against Group 

claims. Two key reasons NLB is not liable for the old foreign 

NLB filed a constitutional suit after an extraordinary legal 

members in the total amount of EUR 462,564 thousand, 

currency savings are that it was only founded on the basis of 

measure of NLB with the Supreme Court of the Republic 

excluding accrued interest (31 December 2021: EUR 404,001 

the Constitutional Act on 27 July 1994 (at the time the savings 

of Croatia was not successful, and in two, NLB filed an 

thousand). As at 31 December 2022, NLB was involved in 17 

were deposited with LB Branch Zagreb, NLB did not yet exist), 

extraordinary legal measure with the Supreme Court of the 

(31 December 2021: 16) legal disputes with material monetary 

and NLB did not assume any such obligations. Moreover, this 

Republic of Croatia.

claims against NLB. The total amount of these claims, excluding 

is a former Yugoslavia succession matter, as the governments 

accrued interest, was EUR 219,847 thousand (31 December 2021: 

of the Republic of Slovenia and the Republic of Croatia agreed 

Contrary to the decisions of the court described above in 

EUR 180,077 thousand). 

in a Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2013 whose 

another case, a claim filed by the PBZ was refused and the 

In connection with legal risks, the largest amount of material 

savings of Ljubljanska banka in Croatia (LB) on the basis of the 

legal measure with the Supreme Court of the Republic of 

monetary claims relates to civil claims filed by Privredna 

Agreement on Succession Issues. The Memorandum also said 

Croatia, filed by the plaintiff, was dismissed by the Supreme 

intent was to find a solution to the transferred foreign currency 

judgment became final in favour of NLB. The extraordinary 

banka Zagreb (the PBZ) and Zagrebačka banka (the ZaBa) 

that the Republic of Croatia would ensure the stay of all the 

Court on 16 June 2015. 

against NLB, referring to the old savings of LB Branch Zagreb 

proceedings commenced by the PBZ and the ZaBa in relation 

savers, which were transferred to these two banks in a 

to the transferred foreign currency savings until the issue was 

In the other cases, with respect to which court procedures 

principal amount of approximately EUR 173.4 million (as per 

finally resolved.

described above are pending, final court decisions have not yet 

31 December 2022). Due to the fact the proceedings had been 

been issued.

The table below summarises the amounts according to final court decisions (not including penalty interest):

Date of the ruling

Plaintiff

Principal  
amount

Costs of the 
proceedings

Measures taken by NLB

May 2015

PBZ

254.76 EUR

15,781.25 HRK

April 2018

PBZ

222,426.39 EUR

253,283.37 HRK

September 2017

ZaBa

492,430.53 EUR

748,583.75 HRK

November 2017

PBZ

220,115.98 EUR

688,268.12 HRK

December 2018

PBZ

3,855,173.35 SEK

679,926.08 HRK

March 2019

PBZ

9,185,141.76 USD

3,198,760.00 HRK

Constitutional suit against the final judgement, as NLB found the court decision contrary to the legislation in force and constitutional principles and 
as well contrary to the Memorandum concluded between the Republic of Slovenia and the Republic of Croatia. Constitutional Court of the Republic of 
Croatia rejected the constitutional appeal of NLB d.d. on 21 May 2018. 

Constitutional suit against the court decisions (including the decision of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Croatia in the revision proceeding), as NLB 
found the court decision contrary to the legislation in force and constitutional principles, and as well contrary to the Memorandum concluded between 
the Republic of Slovenia and the Republic of Croatia. Constitutional Court of the Republic of Croatia rejected the constitutional appeal of NLB d.d. on 5 
October 2021.

Constitutional suit against the court decisions (including the decision of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Croatia in the revision proceeding), as NLB 
found the court decision contrary to the legislation in force and constitutional principles, and as well contrary to the Memorandum concluded between 
the Republic of Slovenia and the Republic of Croatia. Constitutional Court of the Republic of Croatia rejected the constitutional appeal of NLB d.d. on 5 
October 2021.

NLB challenged the judgments with the extraordinary legal measure (revision) on the Supreme Count of the Republic of Croatia and later, if necessary, 
will challenge the judgments with all other available remedies of the obligations of the old foreign currency savings in accordance with Slovenian 
Constitutional Law are not the liabilities of NLB.

Constitutional suit against the court decisions (including the decision of the Supreme Court of the Republic of Croatia in the revision proceeding), as NLB 
found the court decision contrary to the legislation in force and constitutional principles and as well contrary to the Memorandum concluded between 
the Republic of Slovenia and the Republic of Croatia.

NLB challenged the judgment with the extraordinary legal measure (revision) on the Supreme Count of the Republic of Croatia and later, if necessary, 
will challenge the judgment with all other available remedies of the obligations of the old foreign currency savings in accordance with Slovenian 
Constitutional Law are not the liabilities of NLB.

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 The NLB Shareholders’ Meeting provided the Management 

NLB and the Fund, as envisaged by the ZVKNNLB (which was 

The Swiss Francs Law

Board of NLB with instructions how to act in the event of existing 

concluded on 14 August 2018), NLB has to contest the claims 

On 2 February 2022, the Slovenian Parliament passed the ‘Law 

or potential new final decisions by Croatian courts against LB 

made against it in court proceedings in relation to transferred 

on limitation and distribution of foreign exchange risk between 

and NLB regarding the transferred foreign currency deposits, 

foreign currency deposits, and use against court decisions that 

creditors and borrowers concerning loan agreements in Swiss 

especially not to voluntarily settle the adjudicated amounts, and 

are disadvantageous for NLB, all reasonable legal remedies 

francs’ (here and after the CHF Law), which stipulated that 

also gave some additional instructions on the usage of legal 

and to continue to actively challenge the judicial decisions of 

all loan agreements denominated in Swiss francs concluded 

remedies and regarding the management of the property from 

the courts of the Republic of Croatia in relation to transferred 

between banks operating in Slovenia (including NLB) as lenders 

that perspective.

foreign currency deposits on the basis of which enforcement 

and individuals as borrowers in the period from 28 June 2004 to 

took place, leading, on the basis of ZVKNNLB, to the 

31 December 2010, are subjected to a cap on the exchange rate 

On 19 July 2018, the National Assembly of the Republic of 

compensation of the sums recovered from NLB by enforcement. 

between Swiss francs and the Euro to be set at 10% volatility 

Slovenia passed the ‘Act for Value Protection of Republic of 

In the aforementioned case from May 2015, the Succession Fund 

(the ‘FX cap’) and shall be applied from the conclusion of any 

Slovenia’s Capital Investment in Nova Ljubljanska banka 

of the Republic of Slovenia has already compensated the sums 

of the affected loan agreements and any overpayment on 

d.d., Ljubljana’ (Zakon za zaščito vrednosti kapitalske 

recovered from NLB by enforcement.

such loans by the relevant borrowers shall be subject to default 

naložbe Republike Slovenije v Novi Ljubljanski banki d.d., 

interest to be paid by the lender.

Ljubljana, hereinafter: ‘the ZVKNNLB’) which entered into 

All procedures relating to the receivables of PBZ and ZaBa, as 

force on 14 August 2018. In accordance with the ZVKNNLB, the 

well as NLB’s view on this matter, were also discussed with the 

On 28 February 2022, the banks filed an initiative with the 

Succession Fund of the Republic of Slovenia (Sklad Republike 

ECB as the supervisor of both Croatian banks.

Constitutional Court of the Republic of Slovenia to initiate 

Slovenije za nasledstvo, javni sklad, hereinafter: ‘the Fund’), 

proceedings to assess the constitutionality of the CHF Law 

shall compensate NLB for the sums recovered from NLB by 

Provisions for legal risks for claims filed by PBZ and ZaBa 

and a proposal for its temporary suspension of enforcement. 

enforcement of final judgements delivered by Croatian courts 

are not formed, since NLB believes that based on the factual 

The Constitutional Court of the Republic of Slovenia adopted 

with regard to the transferred foreign currency deposits, that 

and legal evaluation there are greater prospects for the court 

a decision on 10 March 2022 to suspend in whole the 

is the principle amount, accrued interest, expenses of court, 

proceedings to end in favour of NLB than the opposite.

implementation of the CHF Law, and on 17 November 2022 it 

attorney’s expenses and other expenses of the plaintiff, and 

adopted a decision to abrogate the CHF Law. The decision 

expenses related to enforcement with the accrued interest, and 

Regardless of the negative judgements, in the financial 

of the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Slovenia on 

shall not compensate NLB for its own costs or for the difference 

statements NLB Group did not recognise the negative 

abrogation of the CHF Law was published in the Official 

between the book value of its assets sold in enforcement 

impact due to protection provided by the ZVKNNLB. For final 

Gazette on 16 December 2022.

proceedings and the price obtained for such assets in 

judgements, NLB Group recognised the liabilities and related 

enforcement proceedings. There shall be no compensation 

assets, which are included within other financial assets (note 

for any voluntarily made payments by NLB. In accordance 

5.6.d) and other financial liabilities (note 5.15.d).

with the ZVKNNLB and pursuant to the agreement between 

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 b) Provisions for guarantees and commitments 

Movements in provisions for guarantees and commitments

NLB Group

Notes

12-month expected credit losses

Guarantees and commitments

Lifetime ECL not credit-impaired

Guarantees and commitments

Lifetime ECL credit-impaired

Guarantees and commitments

Of which: Purchased or 
originated credit-impaired

Guarantees and commitments

NLB Group

Notes

12-month expected credit losses

Guarantees and commitments

Lifetime ECL not credit-impaired

Guarantees and commitments

Lifetime ECL credit-impaired

Guarantees and commitments

Of which: Purchased or 
originated credit-impaired

Guarantees and commitments

NLB

Notes

12-month expected credit losses

Guarantees and commitments

Lifetime ECL not credit-impaired

Guarantees and commitments

Lifetime ECL credit-impaired

Guarantees and commitments

Of which: Purchased or 
originated credit-impaired

Guarantees and commitments

Balance as at 
1 Jan 2022

Effects of translation 
of foreign operations 
to presentation 
currency

Acquisition of 
subsidiaries

5.12.b)

12,912

1,640

18,889

4,344

2

(1)

(1)

-

921

-

180

180

Transfer

Increases/ 
(Decreases) 

Changes in 
models/risk 
parameters

Foreign exchange 
differences and 
other movements

in EUR thousands

Balance as at 
31 Dec 2022

740

(55)

(685)

4.13.

1,468

291

(1,462)

(11)

(444)

4.13.

2,765

76

(88)

-

18

2

(3)

26

5.16.a)

18,826

1,953

16,830

4,095

in EUR thousands

Balance as at 
1 Jan 2021

Effects of translation 
of foreign operations 
to presentation 
currency

Transfer

Increases/ 
(Decreases) 

Changes in 
models/risk 
parameters

Foreign exchange 
differences and 
other movements

Disposal 
of subsidiary

Balance as at 
31 Dec 2021

15,796

2,767

23,611

5,057

1

-

1

-

1,388

(730)

(659)

4.13.

(1,337)

(358)

(4,239)

-

(755)

4.13.

(2,810)

(37)

277

-

5.12.d)

5.16.a)

(122)

(6)

(150)

12,912

1,640

18,889

-

4,344

(4)

4

48

42

Balance as at 
1 Jan 2022

Transfer

Increases/ 
(Decreases) 

Changes in 
models/risk 
parameters

Foreign exchange 
differences and 
other movements

3,909

141

16,510

4,041

570

60

(630)

4.13.

(229)

192

(4,146)

(11)

(1,179)

4.13.

3,910

(15)

6

-

(4)

-

25

25

in EUR thousands

Balance as at 
31 Dec 2022

5.16.a)

8,156

378

11,765

2,876

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NLB

Notes

12-month expected credit losses

Guarantees and commitments

Lifetime ECL not credit-impaired

Guarantees and commitments

Lifetime ECL credit-impaired

Guarantees and commitments

Of which: Purchased or 
originated credit-impaired

Guarantees and commitments

Balance as at 
1 Jan 2021

Transfer

Increases/ 
(Decreases) 

Changes in 
models/risk 
parameters

Foreign exchange 
differences and 
other movements

in EUR thousands

Balance as at 
31 Dec 2021

7,510

732

20,301

3,808

530

(123)

(407)

4.13.

(1,451)

(340)

(3,698)

-

186

Movement of contractual amounts of guarantees and commitments in off-balance sheet

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not  
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL  
credit-impaired 

NLB Group

Balance as at 1 January 2022

3,027,971

97,536

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b)

Increases/(Decreases)

Foreign exchange differences

Transfers

Balance as at 31 December 2022

541

277,325

543,028

703

(6,275)

3,843,293

24

-

(14,927)

16

621

83,270

38,998

4

447

(18,212)

6

5,654

26,897

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

NLB Group

Balance as at 1 January 2021

2,824,750

103,950

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Increases/(Decreases)

Foreign exchange differences

Transfers

Disposal of subsidiary

Balance as at 31 December 2021

687

219,688

2,733

(685)

(19,202)

3,027,971

24

(4,666)

101

(1,752)

(121)

97,536

46,270

9

(9,309)

51

2,437

(460)

38,998

Total

3,164,505

569

277,772

509,889

725

-

3,953,460

Total

2,974,970

720

205,713

2,885

-

(19,783)

3,164,505

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL  
credit-impaired 

1,913,572

49,102

26,903

-

-

477,730

631

5,809

2,397,742

-

-

(11,491)

6

(399)

15,019

-

-

(8,465)

16

(5,410)

35,243

NLB

12-month expected 
credit losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL  
credit-impaired 

1,896,418

-

4,769

2,570

9,815

-

1,913,572

73,255

-

(14,315)

92

(9,930)

-

49,102

34,907

-

(8,167)

48

115

-

4.13.

(2,683)

(129)

273

-

NLB

3

1

41

47

5.16.a)

3,909

141

16,510

4,041

in EUR thousands

Total

1,989,577

-

-

457,774

653

-

2,448,004

in EUR thousands

Total

2,004,580

-

(17,713)

2,710

-

-

26,903

1,989,577

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c) Movements in employee benefit provisions

Post-employment benefits

Balance as at 1 January

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b), c)

Disposal of subsidiaries (note 5.12.d)

Additional provisions (note 4.9.)

Provisions released (note 4.9.)

Interest expenses (note 4.1.)

Utilised during year (payments)

Actuarial gains and losses

Balance as at 31 December

Other employee benefits

Balance as at 1 January

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b)

Additional provisions (note 4.9.)

Provisions released (note 4.9.)

Interest expenses (note 4.1.)

Utilised during year

Balance as at 31 December

2022

19,227

2

1,393

-

1,046

(1,128)

335

(823)

(4,031)

16,021

2022

2,220

167

275

(558)

39

(138)

2,005

NLB Group

Other employee benefits include NLB Group’s obligations for 

jubilee long-service benefits.

d) Movements in restructuring provisions

Balance as at 1 January

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Additional provisions (note 4.13.)

Provisions released (note 4.13.)

Utilised during year

Balance as at 31 December

NLB Group

2022

19,217

10

10,335

(10)

(8,516)

21,036

Additional restructuring provisions recognised during the year 

2022 relate mainly to N Banka and NLB Komercijalna banka 

and are based on reorganisation plans in both banks. 

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

18,162

-

-

(83)

1,957

(1,831)

177

(532)

1,377

19,227

2021

2,545

-

222

(275)

25

(297)

2,220

2021

15,565

11

14,797

-

(11,156)

19,217

2022

12,781

-

-

-

635

(673)

130

(153)

(2,048)

10,672

2022

1,425

-

90

(259)

14

(66)

1,204

2022

11,131

-

-

-

(3,843)

7,288

2021

12,695

-

-

-

723

(750)

43

(45)

115

12,781

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

1,525

-

100

(132)

5

(73)

1,425

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

15,354

-

-

-

(4,223)

11,131

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e) Movements in provisions for legal risks

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

Balance as at 1 January

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b)

Additional provisions (note 4.13.)

Provisions released (note 4.13.) 

Utilised during year

Balance as at 31 December

f) Movements in other provisions

Balance as at 1 January

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b)

Additional provisions (note 4.13.)

Provisions released (note 4.13.) 

Utilised during year

Other

Balance as at 31 December

2022

45,288

54

1,790

7,595

(5,950)

(5,568)

43,209

2022

11

17,452

2,372

(8,410)

(106)

(8,547)

2,772

2021

46,602

40

-

16,632

(8,759)

(9,227)

45,288

2021

11

-

-

-

-

-

11

NLB Group

2022

3,466

-

-

125

-

(7)

3,584

2022

-

-

2,200

-

(31)

-

2,169

2021

5,673

-

-

1,881

(1,809)

(2,279)

3,466

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

At acquisition of N Banka on 1 March 2022, other provisions 

were used to decrease the amount of related receivables, 

increased for EUR 17,452 thousand, which represents the 

mainly for unsettled derivative transactions. Additionally, the 

assessed fair value of contingent liabilities of N Banka as at the 

amount of other provisions significantly decreased in December 

acquisition date. During March 2022, some unfavourable events, 

2022 (for EUR 8,400 thousand), when possible obligation 

which were taken into account already at assessing initial fair 

ceased to exist. 

values realised, therefore EUR 8,547 thousand of provisions 

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5.17. Deferred income tax

a) Analysis by type of deferred income taxes

Deferred income tax assets

Valuation of financial instruments and capital investments

Impairment of financial assets

Provisions for liabilities and charges

Depreciation and valuation of non-financial assets

Fair value adjustments of financial assets measured at amortised cost

Unpaid dividends

Tax losses

Tax reliefs

Other

Total deferred income tax assets

Deferred income tax liabilities

Valuation of financial instruments

Depreciation and valuation of non-financial assets

Impairment of financial assets

Fair value adjustments of financial assets measured at amortised cost

Other

Total deferred income tax liabilities

Net deferred income tax assets

Net deferred income tax liabilities

Included in the income statement

- valuation of financial instruments and capital investments

- impairment of financial assets

- provisions for liabilities and charges

- depreciation and valuation of non-financial assets

- tax losses

- unpaid dividends

- tax reliefs

- fair value adjustments of financial assets measured at amortised cost

- other

Included in other comprehensive income

- valuation and impairment of financial assets measured 

at fair value through other comprehensive income

- actuarial assumptions and experience

Included in equity - transfer of fair value reserve

- valuation of financial assets measured at fair value 

through other comprehensive income

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

48,415

9,480

9,899

4,737

2,046

-

-

-

141

74,718

8,375

1,641

5,501

5,366

877

21,760

55,527

(2,569)

2022

1,523

6,416

2,934

(1,718)

962

(253)

(3,876)

(945)

(2,540)

543

11,013

11,454

(441)

-

-

33,002

5,879

10,128

3,505

320

3,876

253

945

62

38,028

2,050

1,819

109

-

-

-

-

-

31,696

917

2,660

112

-

3,876

-

-

-

57,970

42,006

39,261

12,026

1,374

3,960

3,338

1,340

22,038

38,977

(3,045)

NLB Group

2021

3,423

(1,024)

2,260

1,453

(338)

253

3,876

(234)

(3,413)

590

4,950

4,772

178

368

368

5,283

163

1,672

-

-

7,118

34,888

-

2022

1,524

4,819

1,133

(555)

3

-

(3,876)

-

-

-

1,462

1,748

(286)

-

-

6,620

169

570

-

-

7,359

31,902

-

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

112

(3,241)

(30)

(489)

(4)

-

3,876

-

-

-

2,576

2,565

11

-

-

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Temporary differences on which NLB did not recognise 

five years are presented in the table below, together with non-

deferred tax assets, as related deferred tax assets would exceed 

recognised deferred tax assets.

the amount of deferred tax assets expected to be reversed in 

NLB

Tax loss

Tax reliefs

Impairments and valuation of capital investments  
and financial instruments  

31 Dec 2022

in EUR thousands

31 Dec 2021

Temporary  
difference

Non-recognised 
deferred tax assets

Temporary  
difference

Non-recognised 
deferred tax assets

950,469

-

116,913

180,589

-

22,213

974,902

4,329

73,359

185,231

823

13,938

Tax loss on which NLB did not recognise deferred tax assets, 

NLB Group did not recognise deferred tax assets on temporary 

as at 31 December 2022 amounts to EUR 950,469 thousand (31 

differences arising from the impairments of investments in 

December 2021: 974,902 thousand). Slovenian tax law does not 

subsidiaries and associates where it is not probable that the 

set deadlines by which uncovered tax losses must be utilised, 

temporary difference will reverse in the foreseeable future. 

but the use of tax loss is limited to 50% of the actual tax base. 

These temporary differences amount to EUR 282,092 thousand 

Other banking members have no unrecognised deferred tax 

as at 31 December 2022 (31 December 2021: EUR 315,531 

assets for tax losses.

thousand). 

b) Movements in deferred income taxes

Deferred income tax assets

NLB Group

Balance as at 1 January 2021

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

(Charged)/credited to profit and loss

(Charged)/credited to other 
comprehensive income

Disposal of subsidiaries

Balance as at 31 December 2021

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

(Charged)/credited to profit and loss

(Charged)/credited to other 
comprehensive income

Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.b)

Balance as at 31 December 2022

Provisions for 
liabilities and 
charges

Valuation 
of financial 
instruments 
and capital 
investments

Depreciation 
and valuation 
of non-financial 
assets

Impairment of 
financial assets

Unpaid 
dividends

Tax 
losses

Tax  
relief

Fair value 
adjustments of 
financial assets 
measured at 
amortised cost

in EUR thousands

Other

Total

8,489

8

1,453

178

-

10,128

6

(1,718)

(441)

1,924

9,899

37,729

-

(3,368)

(1,359)

-

33,002

2

4,837

10,270

304

48,415

4,063

1

(480)

-

(79)

3,505

3

1,229

-

-

3,190

4

2,791

-

(106)

5,879

7

3,583

-

11

4,737

9,480

-

-

3,876

-

-

3,876

-

(3,876)

-

-

-

-

-

253

-

-

253

-

(253)

-

-

-

1,179

-

(234)

-

-

945

-

(945)

-

-

-

938

-

(618)

-

-

320

-

(516)

-

2,242

2,046

111

2

(51)

-

-

62

-

79

-

-

141

55,699

15

3,622

(1,181)

(185)

57,970

18

2,420

9,829

4,481

74,718

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NLB

Balance as at 1 January 2021

(Charged)/credited to profit and loss

(Charged)/credited to other 
comprehensive income

Balance as at 31 December 2021

(Charged)/credited to profit and loss

(Charged)/credited to other 
comprehensive income

Balance as at 31 December 2022

Deferred income tax liabilities

Provisions for 
liabilities and 
charges

3,138

(489)

11

2,660

(555)

(286)

1,819

NLB Group

Impairment of 
financial assets

3,271

1

531

157

-

3,960

-

649

892

5,501

Balance as at 1 January 2021

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Charged/(credited) to profit and loss

Charged/(credited) to other 
comprehensive income

Disposal of subsidiaries

Balance as at 31 December 2021

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Charged/(credited) to profit and loss

Charged/(credited)to other 
comprehensive income

Balance as at 31 December 2022

NLB

Balance as at 1 January 2021

Charged/(credited) to profit and loss

Charged/(credited) to other 
comprehensive income

Balance as at 31 December 2021

Charged/(credited) to profit and loss

Charged/(credited) to other 
comprehensive income

Balance as at 31 December 2022

Valuation 
of financial 
instruments 
and capital 
investments

37,650

(3,367)

(2,587)

31,696

4,688

1,644

38,028

Valuation 
of financial 
instruments 
and capital 
investments

21,023

3

(2,344)

(6,656)

-

12,026

4

(1,579)

(2,076)

8,375

Depreciation 
and valuation 
of non-financial 
assets

Impairment of 
financial assets

Unpaid 
dividends

140

(28)

-

112

(3)

-

109

Depreciation 
and valuation 
of non-financial 
assets

1,515

1

(142)

-

-

1,374

-

267

-

1,641

947

(30)

-

917

1,133

-

2,050

Other

1,984

1

(641)

-

(4)

1,340

1

(464)

-

877

-

3,876

-

3,876

(3,876)

-

-

Fair value 
adjustments of 
financial assets 
measured at 
amortised cost

592

1

2,795

-

(50)

3,338

4

2,024

-

5,366

Impairment of 
financial assets

Valuation 
of financial 
instruments 
and capital 
investments

Depreciation 
and valuation 
of non-financial 
assets

597

-

(27)

570

-

1,102

1,672

11,871

(126)

(5,125)

6,620

(131)

(1,206)

5,283

193

(24)

-

169

(6)

-

163

in EUR thousands

Total

41,875

(38)

(2,576)

39,261

1,387

1,358

42,006

in EUR thousands

Total

28,385

7

199

(6,499)

(54)

22,038

9

897

(1,184)

21,760

in EUR thousands

Total

12,661

(150)

(5,152)

7,359

(137)

(104)

7,118

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5.18. Income tax relating to components of other comprehensive income

2022

NLB Group

NLB

  in EUR thousands

Actuarial gains and losses

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Share of associates and joint ventures

Total

2021

  Before tax

Tax expense

Net of tax

Before tax

Tax expense

Net of tax

4,031

(165,438)

121

(161,286)

(441)

11,454

-

11,013

3,590

2,048

(153,984)

(93,955)

121

-

(150,273)

(91,907)

(286)

1,748

-

1,462

1,762

(92,207)

-

(90,445)

NLB Group

NLB

  Before tax

Tax expense

Net of tax

Before tax

Tax expense

Net of tax

  in EUR thousands

Actuarial gains and losses

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Share of associates and joint ventures

Total

(1,377)

(34,322)

(30)

(35,729)

178

4,772

-

4,950

(1,199)

(29,550)

(30)

(30,779)

(115)

(17,742)

-

(17,857)

11

2,565

-

2,576

(104)

(15,177)

-

(15,281)

5.19. Other liabilities

Accrued salaries

Unused annual leave

Deferred income

Taxes payable

Payments received in advance

Total

NLB Group

  in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

21,948

6,886

11,177

5,724

3,346

49,081

18,615

6,032

11,374

9,450

3,997

49,468

14,014

2,569

4,749

4,023

32

25,387

9,050

2,425

5,257

3,999

308

21,039

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5.21. Other equity instruments issued

On 23 September 2022, NLB issued subordinated notes 

intended to qualify as Additional Tier 1 Instruments in the 

aggregate nominal amount of EUR 82 million. The notes have 

no scheduled maturity date. The issuer has the option for early 

redemption of the notes in the period between 23 September 

2027 and 23 March 2028, and on each distribution payment 

date after 23 March 2028. Until 23 March 2028, the interest 

on the principal of the notes will accrue at the interest rate of 

9.721% per annum, and for each subsequent 5-year period, 

will accrue at the applicable interest rate, which shall be reset 

prior to the commencement of each such period (5Y MS + 

7.20% per annum). The coupon payments are discretionary 

and non-cumulative. The notes terms provide for a temporary 

write-down in the event that the Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 

NLB Group and/or NLB drop(s) below 5.125%. The issue price 

was equal to 100% of the nominal amount of the notes. The ISIN 

code of the notes is SI0022104275. The carrying amount as of 31 

December 2022 is EUR 84,184 thousand. 

5.20. Share capital

The share capital of NLB amounts to EUR 200,000 thousand 

and did not change in 2022. It is comprised of 20,000,000 no-

par-value ordinary registered shares, with the corresponding 

value of EUR 10.0 for one share. All issued shares are fully 

paid and there are no un-issued authorised shares. As at 31 

December 2022, the major shareholder of NLB with significant 

influence is the Republic of Slovenia, owning 25.00% plus one 

share.

The book value of a NLB share on a consolidated level as at 31 

December 2022 was EUR 114.1 (31 December 2021: EUR 103.9), 

and on a solo level was EUR 75.9 (31 December 2021: EUR 77.6). 

It is calculated as the ratio of net assets’ book value excluding 

other equity instruments issued and the number of shares.

Distributable profit as at 31 December 2022 amounts to EUR 

515,463 thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 458,266 thousand) 

and consists of NLB net profit for 2022 in the amount of EUR 

159,602 thousand (2021: EUR 208,421 thousand), and retained 

earnings from previous years in the amount of EUR 358,267 

thousand reduced for the interests and direct issue costs 

of subordinated bonds issued in the year 2022, which are 

considered instruments of additional basic capital in the 

amount of EUR 2,405 thousand. Its allocation will be subject to 

a decision by the Bank’s General Assembly. The proposal for 

the General Assembly will be prepared by the Management 

and the Supervisory Board, considering restrictions imposed 

by the regulators, the Group’s risk appetite, the target capital 

adequacy at the Group’s level and actual prevailing capital 

position at the time of the proposal.

The shares give to their holders the right to vote at the NLB’s 

meeting of shareholders where, as a rule, each share entitles its 

holder to one vote. Nevertheless, a shareholder who acquires 

shares which, together with the shares already held by such 

shareholder or by a third person on behalf of such shareholder, 

represent more than 25% of the NLB’s share capital, may only 

exercise its voting rights under such shares if NLB’s Supervisory 

Board approves such an acquisition. The Supervisory Board’s 

approval may only be rejected if, following such an acquisition, 

such a person would hold shares representing more than 25% 

of NLB’s issued share capital plus one share. The approval shall 

be considered given if not expressly rejected in 20 days. No 

such approval is necessary in respect of the shares acquired 

by a person on behalf of third persons provided that such 

a person is not entitled to exercise the voting rights arising 

out of such shares at its own discretion and undertakes to 

NLB that it will not exercise the voting rights based on voting 

instructions unless such voting instructions are accompanied 

with a confirmation that the person giving such instructions is 

the beneficial owner of the shares in respect of which votes are 

to be exercised and does not hold in the aggregate, directly or 

indirectly 25% or more NLB shares with voting rights.

The shares also give their holders the right to be informed, as 

well as the pre-emptive right to subscribe for new shares on a 

pro rata basis in the case of a share capital increase, the right 

to a pro-rata share of remaining assets in case of bankruptcy 

or liquidation or NLB and the right to receive a dividend. In 

2022, NLB paid dividends for previous year in the amount of 

EUR 5.0 per share (2021: EUR 4.61 per share), which decreased 

retained earnings for EUR 100,000 thousand (2021: EUR 92,200 

thousand).

As at 31 December 2022 and 31 December 2021, NLB holds 

no own shares. In June 2019, the General Assembly of NLB 

authorised the Management Board that in the period of 36 

months from the adoption of the shareholders’ resolution, it 

can buy own shares of the Bank for the payment of variable 

remuneration to certain employees as required by the Banking 

Act and other relevant regulations. NLB did not buy any own 

shares based on this authorisation. 

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5.22. Accumulated other comprehensive income and reserves

a) Reserves
The share premium account as at 31 December 2022 and 31 

As at 31 December 2022 and 31 December 2021, profit reserves 

December 2021 comprises paid-up premiums in the amount of 

in the amount of EUR 13,522 thousand relate entirely to legal 

EUR 822,173 thousand and the revaluation of share capital from 

reserves in accordance with the Companies Act. 

previous years in the amount of EUR 49,205 thousand. 

b) Accumulated other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at fair value through other 
comprehensive income - debt securities

Financial assets measured at fair value through other 
comprehensive income - equity securities

Actuarial defined benefit pension plans

Foreign currency translation

Hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation

In 2022, NLB recorded a net profit in the amount of EUR 159,602 

thousand (2021: net profit EUR 208,421 thousand) which is 

included in the retained earnings as at 31 December 2022.

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

(143,954)

1,045

(1,948)

(16,485)

754

8,540

2,826

(5,488)

(17,184)

754

(78,283)

(1,460)

(1,934)

-

-

12,365

99

(3,696)

-

-

Total

(160,588)

(10,552)

(81,677)

8,768

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5.23. Capital adequacy ratios

Paid up capital instruments 

Share premium

Retained earnings - from previous years

Profit eligible - from current year

Accumulated other comprehensive income

Other reserves

Minority interest

Prudential filters: Additional Valuation Adjustments (AVA)

(-) Goodwill

(-) Other intangible assets

(-) Insufficient coverage for non-performing exposures

COMMON EQUITY TIER 1 CAPITAL (CET1)

Capital instruments eligible as AT1 Capital

Minority interest

Additional Tier 1 capital

TIER 1 CAPITAL

Capital instruments and subordinated loans eligible as Tier 2 capital

Minority interest

TIER 2 CAPITAL

TOTAL CAPITAL

RWA for credit risk

RWA for market risks

RWA for credit valuation adjustment risk

RWA for operational risk

TOTAL RISK EXPOSURE AMOUNT (RWA)

Common Equity Tier 1 Ratio

Tier 1 Ratio

Total Capital Ratio

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

200,000

871,378

908,965

334,297

(98,470)

13,522

26,806

(2,981)

(3,529)

(41,351)

(418)

2,208,219

82,000

5,481

87,481

2,295,700

507,516

3,159

510,675

2,806,375

11,797,851

1,359,476

85,600

1,410,132

200,000

200,000

871,378

767,152

135,968

(10,091)

13,522

27,905

(3,498)

(3,529)

(39,116)

(90)

1,959,601

-

5,950

5,950

1,965,551

284,595

2,344

286,939

2,252,490

10,205,172

1,206,363

11,850

1,244,023

871,378

355,861

49,602

(50,527)

13,522

-

(1,385)

-

(23,675)

(80)

1,414,696

82,000

-

82,000

1,496,696

507,516

-

507,516

2,004,212

6,356,959

776,963

86,138

612,654

200,000

871,378

249,845

39,613

8,768

13,522

-

(1,606)

-

(18,829)

(10)

1,362,681

-

-

-

1,362,681

284,595

-

284,595

1,647,276

5,411,433

698,463

11,850

586,781

14,653,059

12,667,408

7,832,714

6,708,527

15.1%

15.7%

19.2%

15.5%

15.5%

17.8%

18.1%

19.1%

25.6%

20.3%

20.3%

24.6%

European banking capital legislation – CRD IV, is based on the 

requirement it represents the minimum total SREP capital 

Basel III guidelines. The legislation defines three capital ratios 

requirement – TSCR),

reflecting a different quality of capital:

•  The applicable combined buffer requirement (CBR): a system 

•  Common Equity Tier 1 ratio (ratio between common or CET1 

of capital buffers to be added on top of TSCR – breaching of 

capital and risk-weighted exposure amount or RWA), which 

the CBR is not a breach of capital requirement, but triggers 

must be at least 4.5%,

limitations in the payment of dividends and other distributions 

•  Tier 1 capital ratio (Tier 1 capital to RWA), which must be at 

from capital. Some of the buffers are prescribed by law for 

least 6%, and

all banks and some of them are bank-specific, set by the 

•  Total capital ratio (total capital to RWA), which must be at 

supervisory institution (CBR and TSCR together form the 

least 8%.

overall capital requirement – OCR), 

•  Pillar 2 Capital Guidance: capital recommendation set by 

In addition to the aforementioned ratios which form the 

the supervisory institution through the SREP process. It is 

Pillar 1 requirement, NLB must meet other requirements 

bank-specific and is a recommendation, and not obligatory. 

and recommendations that are imposed by the supervisory 
institutions or by the legislation:

Any non-compliance does not affect dividends or other 
distributions from capital; however, it might lead to intensified 

•  The Pillar 2 Requirement (SREP requirement): bank-specific, 

supervision and the imposition of measures to re-establish 

obligatory requirement set by the supervisory institution 

a prudent level of capital (including preparation of capital 

through the SREP process (together with the Pillar 1 

restoration plan).

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NLB’s overall capital requirement on the consolidated level:

SREP requirement

Pillar 1 (P1R)

Pillar 2 (P2R)

Total SREP Capital Requirement (TSCR)

Combined buffer requirement (CBR)

Conservation buffer

O-SII buffer

Countercyclical buffer

Overall capital requirement (OCR) = MDA threshold

Pillar 2 Guidance (P2G)

OCR + P2G

CET1

AT1

T2

CET1

Tier 1

Total Capital

CET1

Tier 1

2022

4.5%

1.5%

2.0%

1.46%

1.95%

2.60%

5.96%

7.95%

Total Capital

10.60%

CET1

CET1

CET1

CET1

Tier 1

Total Capital

CET1

CET1

Tier 1

Total Capital

2.5%

1.0%

0.0%

9.46%

11.45%

14.10%

1.0%

10.46%

12.45%

15.10%

2021

4.5%

1.5%

2.0%

1.55%

2.06%

2.75%

6.05%

8.06%

10.75%

2.5%

1.0%

0.0%

9.55%

11.56%

14.25%

1.0%

10.55%

12.56%

15.25%

2020

4.5%

1.5%

2.0%

1.55%

2.06%

2.75%

6.05%

8.06%

10.75%

2.5%

1.0%

0.0%

9.55%

11.56%

14.25%

1.0%

10.55%

12.56%

15.25%

In 2022, the Overall Capital Requirement (OCR) for the Group 

and systemic risks is raising the countercyclical buffer for 

was 14.10%, consisting of:

exposures to the Republic of Slovenia from 0% to the level of 

•  10.60% TSCR (8.00% Pillar 1 Requirement and 2.60% Pillar 2 

0.5% of the total risk exposure amount, valid from December 

Requirement); and

2023 onwards. 

•  3.50% CBR (2.50% Capital Conservation Buffer, 1.00% O-SII 

Buffer 22 and 0.00% Countercyclical Buffer).

The Bank and Group’s capital covers all the current and 

announced regulatory capital requirements, including capital 

P2G amounts to 1.0% of CET1. The Pillar 2 Requirement for 2023 

buffers and other currently known requirements, as well as the 

decreased by 0.2 p.p. to 2.40%, as a result of better overall SREP 

P2G.

assessment.

As at 31 December 2022, NLB Group capital ratios on a 

On 29 April 2022, the Bank of Slovenia issued a new Regulation 

consolidated basis stand at:

on determining the requirement to maintain a systemic risk 

buffer for banks and savings banks, which is with 1 January 

•  15.1% CET1 ratio,

•  15.7% Tier 1 ratio,

2023 introducing the systemic risk buffer rates for the sectoral 

•  19.2% Total Capital ratio. 

exposures: 

•  1.00% for all retail exposures to natural persons secured by 

In the scope of regulatory risks, which include credit 

residential real estate,

•  0.50% for all other exposures to natural persons.

risk, operational risk, and market risk, NLB Group uses a 

standardised approach for credit and market risks, while the 

calculation of capital requirement for operational risks is made 

Additionally, in December 2022 the Bank of Slovenia announced 

according to a basic indicator approach. The same approaches 

that due to growing uncertainties in the economic environment 

22 As of 1 January 2023, the O-SII Buffer will amount to 1.25%.

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are used for calculating the capital requirements for NLB on 

of EUR 845.6 million was mainly the consequence of ramping 

CRR, which represents the basis for the calculation. The main 

a standalone basis, except for the calculation of the capital 

up lending activity in all NLB Group banks, the most in NLB 

reasons for the increase were a generally higher income base 

requirement for operational risks where the standardised 

and NLB Komercijalna banka. RWA growth was partially 

in most Group members, and the acquisition of N Banka in 

approach is used.

mitigated by CRR-eligible real estate collaterals from Bosnia 

March 2022.

and Herzegovina, Serbia, and North Macedonia. Higher 

As at 31 December 2022, the Total capital ratio for the Group 

RWA for high-risk exposures was the result of higher project 

The most important goal of internal capital adequacy 

stood at 19.2% (or a 1.4 p.p. increase compared to 31 December 

finance exposure. Furthermore, RWA decrease was observed 

assessment process (ICAAP) in NLB Group, set up in accordance 

2021), and the CET1 ratio stood at 15.1% (a 0.4 p.p. decrease 

for liquidity assets mainly due to maturity of some non-EU 

with ECB Guidelines, is ensuring adequate capital and 

compared to 31 December 2021). The higher total capital 

sovereign bonds (mainly Serbia, Kosovo and Russia). The 

sustainability on an ongoing basis. The purpose of this process 

adequacy derives from higher capital (EUR 553,9 million 

lower exposure to institutions also resulted in RWA reduction, 

is to have in place sound, effective, and comprehensive 

compared to 31 December 2021), which compensated the 

the most in NLB Komercijalna banka, banks from Bosnia 

strategies and processes to assess and maintain capital on 

increase of the RWA (EUR 1,985.7 million compared to 31 

and Herzegovina, NLB and NLB Banka Skopje. At the same 

an ongoing basis, as well the adequate distribution of internal 

December 2021). The Group increased the capital with the 

time, lower exposure to covered bonds in NLB also reduced 

capital for covering the nature and level of the risks to which 

inclusion of negative goodwill from the acquisition of N Banka 

RWA. The repayments, as well as the upgrade of some clients, 

NLB Group is or might be exposed. In addition, NLB Group 

in retained earnings (EUR 172.8 million), a partial inclusion of 

additional impairments and provisions recognised, and the 

gives strong emphasis on its integration into the overall risk 

2022 profit (EUR 161.5 million), additional Tier 1 notes issued in 

package sale of NPLs from Serbia contributed to a lower RWA 

management system in order to assure proactive support for 

September (EUR 82 million) and additional Tier 2 notes issued 

for the exposures in default.

informed decision-making.

in November (EUR 222.9 million). In accordance with the CRR 

‘Quick fix’ from June 2020, the temporary treatment of FVOCI 

The increase in RWAs for market risks and CVA (Credit Value 

From an economic perspective, NLB Group manages its 

for sovereign securities was implemented by the Group in 

Adjustments) in the amount of EUR 226.9 million compared to 

capital adequacy by ensuring that all its risks are adequately 

September 2022, which increased the capital by EUR 61.6 million 

31 December 2021 is the result of higher RWA for FX risk in the 

covered by internal capital. A normative perspective is a 

(i.e., accumulated other comprehensive income amounted 

amount of EUR 139.4 million (mainly the result of more opened 

multiyear forward-looking assessment of NLB Group which 

EUR -98.5 million instead of EUR -160.1 million). This temporary 

positions in domestic currencies of non-euro subsidiary banks), 

shows its ability to fulfil all of its capital-related regulatory 

measure ceased to apply as of 1 January 2023.

higher RWA for CVA risk in the amount of EUR 73.8 million (a 

and supervisory requirements and risk appetite of NLB 

consequence of an adjustment of calculating exposure in the 

Group. Within these capital constraints, NLB Group defines its 

The capital calculation does not include a part of the 2022 result 

CVA calculation due to the change of a methodology from a 

management buffers in the Risk appetite above the regulatory 

in the amount of EUR 110 million which is envisaged to be paid 

mark to market method to the OEM (original exposure method), 

and supervisory requirement and internal capital needs that 

as the dividend distribution in 2023. Therefore, there will be no 

and due to the conclusion of longer term and the higher size 

allow it to sustainably follow its business strategy. A normative 

effect on the capital once the dividends in this amount are paid.

of derivatives by NLB) and the higher RWA for TDI risk in the 

perspective includes several stress scenarios which are 

amount of EUR 13.7 million (a consequence of new derivatives 

integrated into NLB Group’s annual business plan review and 

In 2022, the RWA of NLB Group for credit risk increased by 

businesses).

budgeting process.

EUR 1,592.7 million, where EUR 747.1 million of the increase 

relates to the acquisition of N Banka (at the acquisition date 

The increase in the RWA for operational risks (EUR 166.1 million 

the contribution of N Banka to NLB Group was EUR 858.9 

compared to 31 December 2021) derives from the higher three-

million). The remaining part of RWA increase in the amount 

year average of relevant income, as defined in Article 316 of 

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5.24. Off-balance sheet liabilities

a) Contractual amounts of off-balance sheet financial instruments 

Short-term guarantees
- financial

- non-financial

Long-term guarantees
- financial

- non-financial

Loan commitments

Letters of credit

Other

Provisions (note 5.16.b)

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

407,967

220,786

187,181

1,103,341

427,743

675,598

2,388,468

35,029

18,655

3,953,460

(37,609)

3,915,851

258,975

139,732

119,243

977,759

393,901

583,858

1,878,988

35,615

13,167

3,164,504

(33,441)

3,131,063

176,535

96,473

80,062

613,061

230,318

382,743

1,635,498

13,204

9,706

2,448,004

(20,299)

2,427,705

112,758

63,188

49,570

614,343

226,747

387,596

1,259,489

1,950

1,037

1,989,577

(20,560)

1,969,017

Fee income from issued non-financial guarantees amounted to 

accordance with the Capital Requirements Regulation (credit 

EUR 7,535 thousand (2021: EUR 7,578 thousand) in NLB Group, 

and other lines which can be irrevocably cancelled by a bank). 

and to EUR 4,574 thousand (2021: EUR 4,547 thousand) in NLB. 

As at 31 December 2022, these items at the NLB Group level 

In addition to the instruments presented in the table above, 

372,403 thousand), and at the NLB level EUR 316,977 thousand 

NLB Group and NLB have also some low-risk off-balance sheet 

(31 December 2021: EUR 302,063 thousand).

items, for which a 0% credit conversion factor is applied in 

amount to EUR 657,232 thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 

b) Analysis of derivative financial instruments by notional amounts

Swaps

- currency swaps

- interest rate swaps

Options

- interest rate options

- securities options

Forward contracts

- currency forward

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

Short-term Long-term Short-term Long-term Short-term Long-term Short-term Long-term

257,015

256,820

195

72

72

-

54,660

54,660

311,747

1,111,946

-

1,111,946

60,626

46,963

13,663

11,720

11,720

99,349

99,349

1,284,832

16,844

-

1,267,988

9,880

-

9,880

38,825

38,825

30,945

30,945

-

26,921

26,921

359,978

359,587

391

72

72

-

54,384

54,384

1,111,690

-

1,111,690

60,626

46,963

13,663

11,720

11,720

109,137

109,137

1,284,832

16,844

-

1,267,988

9,880

-

9,880

37,511

37,511

30,945

30,945

-

26,921

26,921

1,184,292

148,054

1,342,698

414,434

1,184,036

156,528

1,342,698

1,496,039

1,490,752

1,598,470

1,499,226

The notional amounts of derivative financial instruments that 

thousand) (note 5.5.b). Derivatives that qualify for hedge 

qualify for hedge accounting at NLB Group and NLB amount 

accounting are used to hedge interest rate risk.

to EUR 644,132 thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 572,455 

c) Capital commitments

Capital commitments for purchase of:

- property and equipment

- intangible assets

Total

The fair values of derivative financial instruments are disclosed 

in notes 5.2. and 5.5. 

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

1,651

5,246

6,897

1,696

4,243

5,939

1,496

5,206

6,702

1,623

4,094

5,717

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5.25. Funds managed on behalf of third parties

Funds managed on behalf of third parties are accounted 

fund, and no liability falls on NLB Group in connection with 

separately from NLB Group’s funds. Income and expenses 

these transactions. NLB Group charges fees for its services.

arising with respect to these funds are charged to the respective 

Funds managed on behalf of third parties

Fiduciary activities

Settlement and other services

Total

Fiduciary activities

Assets

Clearing or transaction account claims for client assets

- from financial instruments

- receipt, processing, and execution of orders

- management of financial instruments portfolio

- custody services

- to Central Securities Clearing Corporation or bank 
settlement account for sold financial instrument

- to other settlement systems and institutions 
for bought financial instrument (debtors)

Clients’ money

- at settlement account for client assets

- at bank transaction accounts

Liabilities

Clearing or transaction liabilities for client assets

- to client from cash and financial instruments

- receipt, processing, and execution of orders

- management of financial instruments portfolio

- custody services

- to Central Securities Clearing Corporation or bank 
settlement account for bought financial instrument

- to other settlement systems and institutions 
for bought financial instrument (creditors)

- to bank or settlement bank account 

for fees and costs, etc.

NLB Group

31 Dec 2022

26,935,868

1,247,360

28,183,228

31 Dec 2021

26,670,696

1,079,548

27,750,244

31 Dec 2022

24,990,075

1,156,361

26,146,436

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2021

24,806,894

977,197

25,784,091

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

26,886,137

26,866,494

10,004,881

509,000

16,352,613

891

18,752

49,731

22,037

27,694

26,935,868

26,931,466

10,024,193

519,728

16,387,545

444

3,540

418

26,601,809

26,554,920

10,085,409

588,761

15,880,750

180

46,709

69,897

50,114

19,783

26,670,696

26,659,703

10,110,124

591,772

15,957,807

134

10,472

387

24,950,876

24,931,891

9,166,585

-

15,765,306

233

18,752

39,199

22,037

17,162

24,990,075

24,986,135

9,185,897

-

24,741,052

24,694,275

9,346,002

-

15,348,273

68

46,709

65,842

46,059

19,783

24,806,894

24,797,057

9,371,707

-

15,800,238

15,425,350

444

3,078

418

2022

9,395

1,363

10,758

134

9,316

387

in EUR thousands

NLB

2021

8,911

1,552

10,463

Fee income for funds managed on behalf of third parties 

Fiduciary activities (note 4.3.b)

Settlement and other services

Total

NLB Group

2021

11,385

1,567

12,952

2022

11,025

1,372

12,397

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6. Risk management

Risk management in NLB Group is implemented in accordance 

with the set strategic guidelines, established internal 

policies, and procedures which take into account European 

banking regulations, the regulations adopted by the Bank of 

Slovenia, current EBA guidelines, and relevant good banking 

practices. In addition, the Group is constantly enhancing and 

complementing the existing approaches, methodologies, and 

processes in all risk management segments with the aim to 

proactively support decision-making.

Managing risks and capital efficiently is crucial for NLB 

Group sustained long-term profitable operations. Robust Risk 

Management framework is comprehensively integrated into 

decision-making, steering, and mitigation processes within the 

Group. NLB Group gives high importance to the risk culture and 

awareness of all relevant risks within the entire Group.

NLB Group’s Risk management framework supports 

business decision-making on strategic and operating levels, 

comprehensive steering, proactive risk management, and 

mitigation by incorporating:

•  risk appetite statement and risk strategy orientations; 

•  yearly review of strategic business goals, budgeting, and the 

capital planning process;

•  internal capital adequacy assessment process (ICAAP) and 

internal liquidity adequacy assessment process (ILAAP);

•  recovery plan activities;

•  other internal stress-testing capabilities, early warning 

systems, and regular risk analysis;

•  regulatory and internal management reporting.

NLB Group uses the ‘three lines of defence framework’ as an 

important element of its internal governance, whereby the 

Risk management function acts as a second line of defence. 

Set governance and different risk management tools enable 

adequate oversight of the Group’s risk profile. Moreover, 

they support business operations and enable efficient risk 

management by incorporating escalation procedures and 

different mitigation measures when necessary. 

a) Risk management strategies and processes 
The key goal of NLB Group’s Risk Management is to proactively 

manage, assess, and monitor risks within the Group. Sound 

and holistic understanding of risk management is embedded 

into the entire organisation, focusing on risk identification at a 

very early stage, efficient risk management, and mitigation of 

them with the aim of ensuring the prudent use of its capital and 

of the existing types of risks, such as credit, liquidity, market 

adequate liquidity structure to support the financial resilience of 

and operational risk. The Group integrates and manages 

the Group. 

them within the established risk management framework. The 

management of ESG risks follows ECB and EBA guidelines 

Key strategic risk management principles of NLB Group are 

with the tendency to comprehensively integrate them into all 

defined by its Risk Appetite and Risk Strategy, designed in 

relevant processes. Based on environmental and climate risk 

accordance with the Group’s business model, integrating 

assessment impact of these risks is estimated as low, except for 

forward-looking perspective. The Strategy of NLB Group, the 

transition risk in the area of credit which is assessed as low to 

Risk Appetite, Risk Strategy, and the key internal policies of 

medium. The availability of ESG data in the region where NLB 

NLB Group – which are approved by the Management and 

Group operates is still lacking. Nevertheless, the Group made a 

Supervisory Boards – specify the strategic goals, risk appetite 

large progress in the process of obtaining relevant ESG related 

guidelines, approaches, and methodologies for monitoring, 

data from its clients, being prerequisite for adequate decision-

measuring, and managing all types of risk in order to meet 

making and the corresponding proactive management of ESG 

internal strategic objectives and fulfil all external requirements. 

risks.

The main strategic risk guidelines are comprehensively 

integrated into decision-making, including the business plan 

Risk management focuses on managing and mitigating risks 

review and budgeting process.

in line with the Group’s Risk Appetite and Risk Strategy. Within 

these frameworks, the Group monitors a range of risk metrics, 

NLB Group plans a prudent risk profile and optimal capital 

including internal capital allocation in order to assure Group’s 

usage, representing an important element of its business 

risk profile is in line with its risk appetite. The usage of risk 

strategy and related mid-term financial targets. The 

limits and potential deviations from limits and target values 

management of credit risk, which is the most important risk 

are regularly reported to the respective committees and/or 

category in NLB Group, concentrates on taking moderate 

the Management Board of the Bank. The banking subsidiaries 

risks – a diversified credit portfolio, adequate credit portfolio 

within NLB Group adapted a corresponding approach to 

quality, the sustainable costs of risk, and ensuring an optimal 

monitor and manage their target risk profiles. 

return considering the risks assumed. As regards liquidity risk, 

the tolerance is low, while the activities are geared towards 

NLB Group established a comprehensive stress-testing 

ensuring an adequate liquidity position on an ongoing basis. 

framework and other early warning systems in different risk 

The Group limited exposure to credit spread risk, arising 

areas with the intention to strengthen the existing internal 

from the valuation risk of debt securities portfolio servicing 

controls and timely response when necessary. Robust and 

as liquidity reserves, to moderate level. The fundamental 

uniform stress-testing programme includes all material types 

orientation in the management of interest rate risk is to limit 

of risk and relevant stress scenario analysis, according to 

unexpected negative effects on revenues and capital, therefore, 

the vulnerability of the Group’s business model. The Group 

a moderate tolerance for this risk is stated. When assuming 

established an internal ESG stress-testing concept to identify 

operational risk, the Group pursues the orientation that such a 

most relevant financial vulnerabilities stemming from climate 

risk must not significantly impact its operations. On this basis, 

risk, which will be further enhanced by considering disposable 

changes of control activities, processes, and/or organisation 

ESG-related data. Stress testing is integrated into the risk 

are performed. Besides the Group also focuses on proactive 

appetite, ICAAP, ILAAP, Recovery Plan, and budgeting process 

mitigation, prevention, and minimisation of potential damage. 

to support proactive management of the Group’s risk profile, 

The conclusion of transactions with derivative financial 

namely the capital and liquidity positions in a forward-looking 

instruments at NLB is primarily limited to servicing customers 

perspective. In addition, the Group also performs reverse stress 

and hedging Bank’s own positions. In the area of currency risk, 

tests with the aim to test its maximum recovery capacity. Other 

NLB Group pursues the goals of low to moderate exposure. The 

partial risk assessments are covered by other risk analysis, 

tolerance for other risk types is low and focuses on minimising 

based on relevant risk parameters, and integrated into the 

their possible impacts on NLB Group’s entire operations. 

process of setting a risk management limit system.

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks do not 

For the purpose of an efficient risk mitigation process, NLB 

represent a new risk category, but rather one of risk drivers 

Group applies a single set of standards to retail and corporate 

loan collateral, representing a secondary source of repayment 

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 with the aim of efficient credit risk management and optimal 

Credit Risk – Retail Department and the Evaluation and Control 

Supervisory Board (the Risk Committee of the Supervisory 

capital consumption. The Group has a system for monitoring 

Department are responsible within NLB, and which reports to 

Board or Board of Directors).

and reporting collateral at fair (market) value in accordance 

the Assets and Liabilities Committee (ALCO) of the Management 

with the International Valuation Standards (IVS). The eligibility 

Board and the Risk Committee of the Supervisory Board. The 

of collateral, by types and ratios referring to prudent lending 

risk management competence line is in charge of formulating 

c) Risk measurement and reporting systems
As a systemic banking group, NLB Group is subject to the Single 

criteria, is set within internal lending guidelines. Credit risk 

and controlling the risk management policies of NLB Group, 

Supervisory Mechanism (SSM), which is supervised by the Joint 

mitigation principles and rules in NLB Group are described in 

setting limits, establishing methodologies, overseeing the 

Supervisory Team (JST) of the ECB and the Bank of Slovenia. 

more relevant details in the section ‘Credit risk management.’ 

harmonisation of risk management policies within the NLB 

The Group member complies with the ECB regulation, while 

When hedging market risks, namely interest rate risk and 

Group, monitoring NLB Group’s risk exposures, and preparing 

NLB Group subsidiaries operating outside Slovenia are also 

foreign exchange risk, in line with the set risk appetite, 

external and internal reports. 

NLB Group follows the principle of natural hedge or using 

compliant with the rules set by the local regulators. A third-party 

equivalent was approved in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, 

derivatives in line with hedge accounting principles.

All members of NLB Group that are included in the financial 

and North Macedonia, resulting in alignment of local regulation 

statements of NLB Group, report their exposure to risks to the 

with CRR rules. With regards to capital adequacy, based on the 

b) Risk management structure and organisation 
NLB Group’s corporate governance framework is based 

competent organisational units within the Risk management 

provisions of the Directive (CRD), Decision (CRR), NLB Group 

competence line. These organisational units then report all 

applies a standardised approach to credit and market risk, 

on the principles of sound and responsible governance, in 

relevant risk information to the Assets and Liabilities Committee 

and the basic approach (a simplified approach with less data 

accordance with the applicable legislation of the Republic 

(ALCO) of the Management Board, the Management Board and 

granularity) to operational risks, with the exception of NLB 

of Slovenia, particularly the provisions of the Companies 

the Risk Committee of the Supervisory Board, which is where 

which applies the standardised approach.

Act (ZGD-1) and the Banking Act (ZBan-3), the Regulation on 

the Management Board and the Supervisory Board, adopt 

Internal Governance Arrangements, the Management Body, 

appropriate measures. 

and the Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process for 

Across the Group, risks are assessed, monitored, managed, 

or mitigated in a uniform manner, as defined in the Group’s 

Banks and Savings Banks, the EBA Guidelines on internal 

The credit ratings of clients that are materially important 

Risk management standards, and consider the specifics of the 

governance, the EBA Guidelines on the assessment of the 

to NLB Group and the issuing of credit risk opinions are 

markets in which individual NLB Group members operate. For 

suitability of members of the management body, and key 

centralised via the Credit Committee of NLB. The process 

the purposes of measuring exposure to credit risk, liquidity 

function holders, as well as the EBA Guidelines on remuneration 

follows the co-decision principle, in which the credit committee 

risk, interest rate, and credit spread risk in the banking book, 

practices. Several layers of management provide cohesive risk 

of the respective Group member first approves their decision, 

operational risk, market risk, ESG, and non-financial risks, 

management governance in NLB Group.

following which the Credit Committee of NLB gives their 

in addition to the prescribed regulations, NLB Group uses 

opinion. The resolution of the Credit Committee of NLB is 

internal methodologies and approaches that enable more 

NLB Group established three lines of a defence framework with 

made on the basis of all available documentation, including 

detailed monitoring and management of risks. These internal 

the aim of managing risks effectively. The three lines of defence 

a non-binding rating opinion prepared by the underwriting 

methodologies are aligned with ECB, EBA, and Basel guidelines, 

concept provides a clear division of activities and defines roles 

department of NLB. This same principle and process is also set 

as well as best practices in banking methodologies. 

and responsibilities for risk management at different levels 

for the issuing of credit exposures for the materially important 

within the Group. Risk management in the Group acts as a 

clients of NLB Group.

second line of defence, accountable for appropriate managing, 

As for risk reporting, NLB Group’s internal guidelines reflect, in 

addition to internal requirements, the substance and frequency 

assessing, monitoring, and reporting of risks in the Bank as the 

Risk monitoring in NLB Group members is operating within 

of reporting required by the Bank of Slovenia and the ECB. 

main entity in Slovenia, and as the competence centre in charge 

an independent and/or separate organisational unit. This 

In addition, each member of NLB Group also complies with 

of six banking members and other non-core subsidiaries which 

way, monitoring of risks is established based on standardised 

the requirements of its local regulations. Risk reporting is 

are in a controlled wind-out. 

and systemic risk management approaches. This monitoring 

carried out in the form of standardised reports, pursuant to 

enables a comprehensive overview of the Group’s and of each 

risk management policies based on common methodologies 

Overall, the organisation and delineation of competencies in 

member’s statement of financial position. In compliance with 

for measuring exposure to risks, uniform database structure 

NLB Group’s risk management structure is designed to prevent 

the risk appetite, risk management strategy, and policies of NLB 

within Data Warehouse (DWH), comprehensive data quality 

conflicts of interest and ensure a transparent and documented 

Group, risk monitoring in each NLB Group member is separated 

assurance, and automated report preparation, which ensures 

decision-making process, subject to an appropriate upward 

from its management and/or business function to maintain 

the quality of reports and reduces the possibility of errors.

and downward flow of information. Risk management in NLB 

the objectivity required when assessing business decisions 

Group is managed within the Risk management competence 

(three lines of defence concept). The organisational unit for 

line, which is a specialised competence line encompassing 

managing risks directly reports to the Management Board and 

d) Data and IT system 
Risk data are calculated and stored in NLB Group DWH, 

several professional areas for which the Global Risk 

its committees (Credit Committee, ALCO and the Operational 

collected from NLB and other Group member’s DWH. The 

Department, the Credit Risk – Corporate Department, the 

Risk Committee) and Management Board, which report to the 

established process provides an integrated information in 

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 common reference structure where business users can access 

impacts on its credit portfolio and made necessary adjustments. 

Bank of Slovenia, and the EBA guidelines. This area is governed 

in a consistent and subject-oriented format. Data are regularly 

The most affected industries or segments are carefully 

in greater detail by the internal methodologies and procedures 

checked and validated. Data used for internal risk assessment, 

monitored with the intention to detect any additional significant 

set out in internal acts.

management, and reporting are the same as data which NLB 

increase in credit risk at a very early stage. The liquidity position 

Group uses for regulatory reporting.

of the Group remains very robust. Even if a highly unfavourable 

Through regular reviews of the business practices and the 

The Group has established a strong and robust data 

level of high-quality liquidity reserves.

management of those entities function in accordance with NLB 

governance program that aligns with the goals and objectives 

Group’s risk management standards to enable meaningfully 

of the Group’s risk management function. NLB Group data 

The Group is engaged in contributing to sustainable finance 

uniform procedures at the consolidated level.

liquidity scenario would materialise, the Group holds a sufficient 

credit portfolios of NLB entities, NLB ensures that the credit risk 

governance and data quality framework consists of identifying 

by incorporating environmental, social, and governance 

risks, developing policies and controls on data confidentiality, 

(ESG) risks into its business strategies, risk management 

NLB Group manages credit risk at two levels:

integrity, accuracy, and availability, and by executing the 

framework, and internal governance arrangements. With the 

•  At the level of the individual customer/group of customers 

second line of defence controls by an independent validation 

adoption of the NLB Group Sustainability programme, NLB 

appropriate procedures are followed in various phases of 

unit under the responsibility of Group Data Governance Officer. 

Group implemented sustainability elements into its business 

the relationship with a customer prior to, during, and after 

This framework covers agreed service level standards for both 

model. Thus, sustainable finance integrates ESG criteria into 

the conclusion of an agreement. Prior to concluding an 

in-house and outsourced data-related processes. 

the Group’s business and investment decisions for the lasting 

agreement, a customer’s performance, financial position, and 

benefit of the Group’s clients and society. The NLB Group 

past cooperation with NLB are assessed. To objectively assess 

e) Main emphasis of risk management in 2022
Efficient managing of risks and capital remains crucial for 

Sustainability Committee oversees the integration of the ESG 

a client’s operation, internal scoring models for particular 

factors to the NLB Group business model. As a systemically 

client segments or product types have been developed. It is 

NLB Group to sustain long-term profitable operations. The 

important institution, the Group was included into 2022 ECB 

also important to secure high-quality collateral even though 

Group further enhanced the robustness of its risk management 

Climate Stress test exercise. The exercise was conducted in the 

it does not affect a customer’s credit rating. This is followed 

system in all respective risk categories in order to manage them 

first half of 2022 and aggregate results were published in July 

by various forms of monitoring a customer, in particular an 

proactively, comprehensively, and prudently. Risk identification 

2022.

in a very early stage, its efficient managing, and the 

assessment of its ability to generate sufficient cash flows 

for the regular settlement of its liabilities and contractual 

corresponding mitigation processes represent essential steps 

The management of ESG risks follows ECB and EBA guidelines 

obligations. In this part of the credit process, regular 

in such a system. The business and operating environment 

with a tendency of their comprehensive integration into all 

monitoring of clients within the Early Warning System (EWS) 

relevant for NLB Group operations is changing with trends, such 

relevant processes. It addresses the Group’s overall credit 

is important. In the case of client default, restructuring or 

as sustainability, social responsibility, governance, changing 

approval process and related credit portfolio management. 

work-out is initiated depending on the severity of the client’s 

customer behaviours, emerging new technologies and 

Sustainable ESG financing in accordance with Environmental 

position. 

competitors, as well as increasing new regulatory requirements. 

and Social Management System is integrated into the Group’s 

•  The quality and trends in the credit portfolio, including 

Respectfully, the risk management framework is regularly 

Risk Appetite Statement. As part of its strategy, the Group 

on-balance and off-balance sheet exposures, are actively 

adapted with the aim of detecting and managing new potential 

does not finance companies that extract fossil fuels or operate 

monitored and analysed at the level of the overall portfolio of 

emerging risks.

coal-fired power plants. The availability of ESG data in the 

NLB Group and single banking entities. 

The NLB Group gives special focus on the inclusion of risk 

the Group made a large progress in the process of obtaining 

Comprehensive analyses are regularly performed to assure 

analysis into the decision-making process on strategic and 

relevant ESG-related data from its clients, being prerequisite 

monitoring of the portfolio quality through time and to identify 

operating levels, diversification in order to avoid a large 

for adequate decision-making and corresponding proactive 

any breach of limits or targets. Great emphasis is placed on the 

concentration, optimal usage of internal capital, appropriate 

management of ESG risks.

evolution of portfolio structure in terms of client segmentation, 

region where NLB Group operates is still lacking. Nevertheless, 

risk-adjusted pricing, regular education/trainings at all levels 

of management, and the assurance of overall compliance with 

internal policies/rules and relevant regulations. 

In 2022, the war in Ukraine did not have a meaningful impact 

on the quality of the credit portfolio, nor on the liquidity of the 

Group. The Group’s direct and indirect exposures toward Russia 

and Ukraine are quite limited. In the light of increasing energy 

prices, inflationary pressures, and a forecast of a decrease in 

economic growth, the Group has thoroughly analysed potential 

6.1. Credit risk management

a) Introduction 
In its operations, NLB Group is exposed to credit risk, or the risk 

of losses due to the failure of a debtor to settle its liabilities to 

NLB Group. For that reason, it proactively and comprehensively 

monitors and assesses the aforementioned risk. In that process, 

NLB Group follows the International Financial Reporting 

Standards, regulations issued by the European Central Bank or 

credit rating structure, structure by stages (based on IFRS 

9), and NPL ratios. Furthermore, the coverage of NPL is an 

important indicator of potential future losses that is closely 

monitored.

Apart from analysing the portfolio as a whole, vintage analysis 

is used to monitor the quality of new loans production and 

test the conservativity of the lending standards, which should 

ensure the portfolio quality is maintained within the Group Risk 

Appetite.

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 Beside default risk, the portfolio management is also focused 

The management of ESG risks addresses the Group’s 

retail exposures. In the Corporate segment, the Bank seized 

on monitoring single name and industry concentration, 

overall credit approval process and related credit portfolio 

opportunities to finance some of the top corporate clients in 

migration risk, and FX lending risk. Increasing emphasis is 

management. Sustainable financing is implemented through 

the region while keeping the focus on SME as its key segment. 

also placed on stress tests that forecast the effects of adverse 

amended documentary framework:

Credit portfolio remains well-diversified, there is no large 

negative macroeconomic movements on the portfolio, on the 

•  Lending Policy for Non-Financial Companies in NLB d.d. 

concentration in any specific industry or client segment. The 

level of impairments and provisions, and on capital adequacy. 

and NLB Group where in special Chapter Environmental and 

share of retail portfolio in the whole credit portfolio is quite 

Capital requirements for credit risk at NLB Group level within 

Social Framework three categories are defined (prohibited, 

substantial, with still prevailing segment of mortgage loans.

the first pillar are calculated according to the Standardised 

restricted, normal activities)

approach, while within the second pillar an internal IRB 

•  Policy Environmental and Social Transaction Policy 

In 2022, the Group’s credit portfolio quality remained solid 

approach is used to estimate the RWA for default, migration, 

Framework in NLB d.d. and NLB Group applies to certain 

with a stable rating structure and diversified portfolio. Great 

and FX lending risk. In addition, a single name concentration 

transactions with greatest potential for significant E&S impact 

emphasis was placed on intensive and proactive handling of 

add-on is based on the Granularity adjustment methodology, 

(exclusion list, regulatory compliance check, category A list). 

problematic customers and early warning system for detecting 

and an industry concentration add-on is estimated based on 

•  Methodology Environmental and Social Transaction 

increased credit risk at a very early stage. The stock of NPE 

the HHI concentration indexes.

Categorisation Methodology Framework in NLB d.d. and 

volume decreased, as a result of active workout management. 

NLB Group provides a guide to the typical level of inherent 

As at 31 December 2022, the share of non-performing exposure 

NLB and other NLB Group members assess the level of credit 

environmental and social risk according to NACE codes.

by EBA methodology in NLB Group was 1.3% (1.7% at the end of 

risk losses on an individual basis for material claims, and at the 

2021). Moreover, the coverage ratio remains high at 57.1%, which 

collective level for the rest of the portfolio.

Beside addressing ESG risks in all relevant stages of the credit-

is well above the EU average published by the EBA (44.1% in 3Q 

granting process relevant ESG criteria were considered also 

2022).

An individual review is performed for material Stage 3 financial 

in the collateral evaluation process. On the portfolio level, the 

assets which have been rated as non-performing based 

Group does not face any large concentration towards specific 

on the information regarding significant financial problems 

NACE industrial sectors exposed to climate risk, whereby the 

encountered by a customer, actual breaches of contractual 

role of transitional risk is more prevailing. The availability of ESG 

obligations such as arrears in the settlement of liabilities, 

data in the region where NLB Group operates is still lacking, 

whether financial assets will be restructured for economic or 

nevertheless the Group has made material progress in this 

legal reasons, and the likelihood that a customer will enter 

respect in 2022 and has ambitious plans for the following year.

bankruptcy or a financial reorganisation. Expected future cash 

flows (from ordinary operations and possible redemption of 

collateral) are assessed following an individual review. If their 

b) Main emphasis in 2022
In the process of constantly complementing and enhancing 

discounted value differs from the book value of the financial 

credit risk management, NLB Group focuses on taking 

asset in question, impairment must be recognised. 

moderate risks, and at the same time ensuring an optimal 

return considering the risks assumed. Preserving high credit 

Collective ECL allowances are made for the remainder of 

portfolio quality represents the most important key aim, with a 

the portfolio, which is not assessed on an individual basis. 

focus on the quality of new placements leading to a diversified 

Based on IFRS 9 requirements, financial assets measured at 

portfolio of customers. The Group is actively present on the 

amortised cost or at fair value through other comprehensive 

market in the region, financing existing and new creditworthy 

income are attributed to the appropriate stage based on the 

clients. To further enhance existing risk management tools, 

estimated increase of credit risk of a single exposure since 

the Group is constantly developing a wide range of advanced 

initial recognition. The stage of financial assets determines 

approaches supported by mathematical and statistical models 

whether a 12-month or lifetime ECL must be considered. The 

in credit risk assessment in line with best banking practises, 

ECL calculation is based on the forward-looking probability 

while at the same time enabling faster responsiveness towards 

of default (PD) and loss given default (LGD), which are 

clients.

calculated using historic data and statistical modelling, as 

well as predicted macroeconomic parameters for different 

Lending growth was observed in the Corporate, as well as in 

scenarios. For off-balance financial assets, the probability of 

the Retail segment in 2022. In the circumstances of growing 

the redemption of guarantees is considered when creating 

EURIBOR, there was certain transfer to fixed interest rates, 

collective provisions. The models used to estimate future risk 

especially in the housing loans market, which led to increased 

parameters are validated and backtested on a regular basis to 

new production and the general increase in the volume of 

make loss estimations as realistic as possible.

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c) Maximum exposure to credit risk 

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and 
other demand deposits at banks

Financial assets held for trading

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily 
at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets at fair value through 
other comprehensive income

Financial assets at amortised cost

Debt securities

Loans to governments

Loans to banks

Loans to financial organisations

Loans to individuals

Loans to companies

Other financial assets

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Total net financial assets

Guarantees

Financial guarantees

Non-financial guarantees

Loan commitments

Other potential liabilities

Total contingent liabilities

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

5,271,365

5,005,052

3,339,024

3,250,437

21,588

3,116

7,678

4,261

21,692

7,892

7,682

7,888

2,838,796

3,395,261

1,291,277

1,541,042

1,917,615

303,443

222,965

116,078

6,621,670

6,031,795

177,823

59,362

1,717,626

281,010

140,683

141,709

5,519,290

4,645,112

122,229

568

1,597,448

124,736

350,625

286,504

3,036,499

2,606,674

114,399

59,362

1,436,424

143,864

199,287

226,144

2,656,935

2,118,210

92,404

568

23,585,616

20,980,479

12,836,132

11,680,885

1,511,308

648,529

862,779

2,388,468

53,684

3,953,460

1,236,734

533,633

703,101

1,878,988

48,782

3,164,504

789,596

326,791

462,805

1,635,498

22,910

2,448,004

727,101

289,935

437,166

1,259,489

2,987

1,989,577

Total maximum exposure to credit risk

27,539,076

24,144,983

15,284,136

13,670,462

Maximum exposure to credit risk is a presentation of NLB 

their net book value as reported in the statement of financial 

Group’s exposure to credit risk separately by individual types 

position, and for off-balance sheet items in the amount of their 

of financial assets and contingent liabilities. Exposures stated 

nominal value. 

in the above table are shown for the balance sheet items in 

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d) Collateral from financial assets that are credit-impaired

31 Dec 2022

NLB Group

NLB

in EUR thousands

Fully/over collateralised 
financial assets

Financial assets not or not fully 
covered with collateral

Fully/over collateralised 
financial assets

Financial assets not or not fully 
covered with collateral

Net value 
of financial assets

Fair value 
of collateral

Net value 
of financial assets

Fair value 
of collateral

Net value 
of financial assets

Fair value of 
collateral

Net value 
of financial assets

Fair value 
of collateral

Financial assets at amortised cost

Loans to individuals

Loans to other customers

Other financial assets

Total

32,322

69,180

104

101,606

135,480

426,805

7,301

569,586

19,235

19,227

1,374

39,836

5,607

22,607

46

28,260

16,518

17,154

2

33,674

50,403

93,719

379

144,501

8,876

4,077

22

12,975

3,311

2,130

7

5,448

31 Dec 2021

NLB Group

NLB

in EUR thousands

Fully/over collateralised 
financial assets

Financial assets not or not fully 
covered with collateral

Fully/over collateralised 
financial assets

Financial assets not or not fully 
covered with collateral

Net value 
of financial assets

Fair value 
of collateral

Net value 
of financial assets

Fair value 
of collateral

Net value 
of financial assets

Fair value 
of collateral

Net value 
of financial assets

Fair value 
of collateral

Financial assets at amortised  cost

Loans to individuals

Loans to other customers

Other financial assets

Total

32,372

79,120

127

111,619

122,205

446,308

6,661

575,174

18,718

23,364

2,098

44,180

7,645

23,694

32

31,371

17,785

21,490

6

39,281

49,518

117,862

408

167,788

8,114

4,037

22

12,173

3,924

4,478

5

8,407

e) Collateral from loans mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss

NLB

Loans mandatorily at fair value  
through profit or loss

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

in EUR thousands

Fully/over 
collateralised loans

Loans not or not fully 
covered with collateral

Fully/over 
collateralised loans

Loans not or not fully 
covered with collateral

Net value of loans

Fair value of 
collateral

Net value of loans

Fair value of 
collateral

Net value of loans

Fair value of 
collateral

Net value of loans

Fair value of 
collateral

4,345

4,699

3,547

2,000

4,198

4,500

3,690

2,050

f) Credit protection policy 
NLB Group applies a single set of standards to retail and 

risk management and consuming capital economically. In 

accordance with Basel II, collateral may consist of pledged 

corporate loan collateral, as developed by NLB Group members 

deposits, government guarantees, bank guarantees, debt 

in accordance with regulatory requirements. The master 

securities issued by central governments and central banks, 

document regulating loan collateral in the NLB Group is the Loan 

bank debt securities, and real-estate mortgages (the real 

Collateral Policy in NLB d.d. and NLB Group. The Policy has been 

estate must be, beside other criteria, located in the European 

adopted by the Management Board of NLB Group. The Policy 
represents the basic principles that NLB Group’s employees must 

Economic Area or in country recognised in EBA’s third party 

equivalent list for the effect on capital to be recognised).

take into account when signing, evaluating, monitoring, and 

reporting collateral, with the aim of reducing credit risk. 

Loans made to companies and sole proprietors may be 

secured by other forms of collateral, as well (e.g., a lien on 

In line with the policy, the primary source of loan repayment 

movable property, a pledge of an equity stake, investment 

is the debtor’s solvency, and the accepted collateral is a 

coupons, collateral by pledged/assigned receivables, etc.) if it is 

secondary source of repayment in case the debtor ceases to 

assessed that the collateral could generate a cash flow if it were 

repay the contractual obligations.

needed as a secondary source of payment. If there is of a lower 

probability that this type of collateral would generate a cash 

NLB Group primarily accepts collateral complying with 

flow, NLB Group takes a conservative approach and accepts 

the Basel II requirements with the aim of improving credit 

the collateral while reporting its value as zero.

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g) The processes for valuing collateral
In compliance with relevant regulations, NLB Group has 

from appraisers with whom the NLB has a contract for real-

using mortgaged real estate is monitored annually by either 

estate valuations. For corporate loans, appraisals are usually 

preparing individual assessments or using the internal 

established a system for monitoring and reporting collateral at 

submitted by clients. If a client submits an appraisal that is 

methodology for preparing an own value appraisal of real 

fair (market) value. 

not made by an appraiser included on the NLB’s reference 

estate (which applies to Republic of Slovenia, and partly, for 

list, the NLB’s expert department which employs certified real 

the housing segment to Serbia, Montenegro, and Bosnia 

The market value of real estate used as collateral is obtained 

estate appraisers in construction with licences granted by the 

and Herzegovina) based on public records and indexes 

from valuation reports of licensed appraisers. The market value 

Slovenian Ministry of Justice, and certified real-estate value 

of real-estate value published by the relevant government 

of movable property is obtained from valuation reports of 

appraisers with licences granted by the Slovenian Institute of 

authorities (the Surveying and Mapping Authority in the 

licensed appraisers or from sales agreements. Both, valuation 

Auditors, will verify the appraisal. The expert department is also 

Republic of Slovenia). The value of pledged movable property is 

reports and sales agreements must not be older than one year. 

responsible for reviewing valuations of real estate serving as 

monitored once a year (in NLB automated, with a straight-line 

In NLB and members of NLB Group, most reports of external 

collateral for large loans. 

depreciation over the period of the remaining useful life).

real estate appraisers are controlled. Controls are performed 

by internal appraisers. The subject of control is the content, 

Other NLB Group members obtain valuations from in-house 

value, scope, and format of the report, its compliance with 

appraisers and outsourced appraisers, all possessing the 

h) The main types of collateral taken by the NLB Group
NLB Group accepts different forms of material and personal 

international valuation standards, and the estimated value. If 

necessary licences. NLB Group has compiled a reference list 

security as loan collateral.

they notice deviations, they estimate needed correction of the 

of appraisers for valuations of real estate located outside the 

value of the external valuation (in %) and correct the value 

Republic of Slovenia. Appraisals must be made in accordance 

Material loan collateral gives the right in the case of a debtor 

of the external valuation. The value adjustment can only be 

with the international valuation standards, and for larger 

(borrower) defaulting on their contractual obligations to sell 

negative and can be applied only in a limited range. For the 

exposures, real-estate evaluations must also be reviewed by 

a specific property to recover claims, keep specific non-cash 

purposes of business decisions and the calculation of the 

an internal licensed appraiser with knowledge of the local 

property or cash, or reduce or offset the amount of exposure 

necessary impairments and provisions, additional deductions 

real-estate market. If the appraisal does not correspond to the 

against the counterparty’s debt to the Bank.

(haircuts) are applied to the eventual adjusted market value, 

international valuation standards or if the value adjustment 

depending on the type of collateral. These haircuts for purpose 

is greater than certain limit, the appraisal is rejected as 

NLB Group accepts the following material types of loan 

of liquidation value are for real estate in the range of 30 to 

inadequate. 

collateral:

70%, depending on the type of real estate and location, and for 

•  Collateral in the form of business and residential real estate: 

movables they range between 50 and 100%, depending on the 

When assuring collateral, NLB Group follows the internal 

land, buildings, and individual parts of buildings in a storeyed 

type of movable.

regulations which define the minimum security or pledge ratios. 

property intended for living in or performing a business 

NLB Group strives to obtain collateral with a higher value 

activity, such as land in the area foreseen for construction, 

The market value of financial instruments held by NLB Group 

than the underlying exposure (depending on the borrower’s 

apartments, residential buildings, garages and holiday 

is obtained from the organised market – such as the stock 

rating, loan maturity, etc.) with the aim of reducing negative 

homes, business premises, industrial buildings, offices, shops, 

exchange, for listed financial instruments or determined in 

consequences resulting from any major swings in market prices 

hotels, branches and warehouses, forests, parking spaces, 

accordance with the internal methodology for unlisted financial 

of the assets used as collateral. If real estate, movable property, 

etc. The objects can be completed or under construction. 

instruments (such collateral is used exceptionally and on a small 

and financial instruments serve as collateral, NLB Group’s lien 

Priority is given to property where the pledge right of the 

scale in loans granted to companies and sole proprietors). 

on such assets should be top ranking. Exceptionally, where the 

Bank is entered in the first place and real estate is already 

NLB has compiled a reference list of licensed real estate 

have a different priority order.

there must be a market, and it must be redeemable within a 

appraisers for real estate. All appraisals must be made for 

reasonable time; 

the purpose of secured lending and in accordance with 

NLB Group monitors the value of collateral during the loan 

•  Collateral in the form of movable property: priority is given 

the international valuation standards (IVS, EVS, and RICS). 

repayment period in accordance with the mandatory periods 

to the types of movable property, that are highly likely to be 

Appraisals related to retail loans are generally ordered only 

and internal instructions. For example, the value of collateral 

sold in the event of execution, and the funds received are 

value of the mortgaged real estate is large enough, the lien can 

owned by the debtor and/or the pledger. For real estate, 

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 used to repay the collateralised claims (their market value 

•  Guarantees by national and regional development agencies 

NLB Group has the largest concentration of collaterals arising 

must be estimated with considerable reliability). Among the 

with which the Bank has a contract on the acceptance of 

from mortgages on real estate, which is a relatively reliable 

appropriate types of movable property, the Bank includes 

guarantees (e.g. Slovene Enterprise Fund); 

and quality type of collateral. Due to the possible decrease of 

motor vehicles, agricultural machinery, construction 

•  Other types of personal loan collateral.

real estate market prices, the Group closely monitors the real-

machinery, production lines, and series-produced machines, 

estate collateral values and, where required, establishes higher 

and some custom-made production machines; 

Loans are very often secured by a combination of collateral 

amounts of impairments and provisions for non-performing 

•  Collateral by a pledge of financial assets (bank deposits or 

types. The general recommendations on loan collateral are 

loans secured by real estate, based on estimated discounts 

cash-like instruments, debt securities of different issuers, 

specified in the internal instructions and include the elements 

of the real-estate value, which are expected to be achieved in 

investment fund units, equity securities, or convertible bonds): 

specified below. The decision on the type of collateral and 

a sale (expected payment from collateral). Priority is given to 

•  Cash receivable collateral: bank deposits and savings with 

the coverage of loan by collateral depends on the client’s 

property where the pledge right of the Group is entered in the 

Bank are appropriate in domestic and foreign currency;

creditworthiness (credit rating), loan maturity, and varies 

first place and the real estate is already owned by the debtor 

•  Debt and equity securities: bonds and shares which, 

depending on whether the loan is granted to retail or a 

and/or the pledger. For real estate, there must be a market, and 

according to the Bank’s assessment, are suitable for 

corporate client. 

it must be redeemable within a reasonable time. 

securing investments and are traded on a regulated market 

(marketable securities of higher-quality Slovenian and 

NLB has also created, in the area of real-estate loan collateral, 

Collateral consisting of securities entails market risk, specifically 

foreign issuers);

an ‘online’ connection with the Surveying and Mapping 

the risk of changes in the prices of securities on capital markets. 

•  The pledge of investment coupons of mutual funds 

Authority in the Republic of Slovenia, which allows direct and 

To limit such risks and restrict the possibility of the value of 

managed by management companies (a priority company 

immediate verification of the existence of property.

instruments received as collateral falling below approved 

NLB Skladi) and are, according to the Bank’s assessment, 

limits, the Rules determine minimum pledge ratios for securing 

suitable for insurance of investments.

NLB Group strives to ensure the best possible collateral for 

loans based on pledged securities and equity shares in NLB. 

•  A pledge of an equity stake: non-marketable capital shares 

long-term loans, in particular mortgages where possible. As a 

Deviations from the Rules are subject to the prior approval of 

with a credit rating of at least B are adequate;

result, the mortgaging of real estate is the most frequent form 

the respective decision bodies of the Bank. The ratio between 

•  A pledge or assignment of receivables as collateral: cash 

of loan collateral of corporate and retail clients. In corporate 

the loan amount and the securities’ value is determined 

receivables must have longer maturities than the maturity of 

exposures, the next most frequent forms of collateral are 

regarding the rating of the issuer, the securities’ liquidity, 

the investment and they must not be due and not be paid;

government and corporate guarantees, while in retail loans, it is 

maturity and correlation with changes in market indexes, i.e., by 

•  Other material forms of loan collateral (e.g., life insurance 

guarantors.

policies pledged to NLB): The Bank accepts products of 

considering the key features reflecting the level of volatility of 

market prices, and the ability to sell the securities at the market 

Vita, life insurance company d.d. Ljubljana – a pledge of an 

investment life insurance policy and a life insurance policy 

i) Risks, deriving from valuation of received collateral 
Client/counterparty credit risk is the key decision parameter 

price.

with a guaranteed return that includes saving, in addition to 

when approving exposures. Collateral is a secondary source of 

Collateral consisting of the sureties of corporate clients, sureties 

insurance.

repayment, and therefore decisions on approvals of exposures 

of private individuals, and bank guarantees entail the credit risk 

should not primarily be based on the provided collateral. 

of the provider of the collateral. NLB Group includes the amount 

Personal loan collateral is a method for reducing credit risk 

However, collateral is an important comfort element in the 

of the guarantees received in the exposure of the guarantor, 

whereby a third party undertakes to pay the debt in case of the 

approval process and, depending on the credit rating of the 

and guarantees are only taken into account as collateral if the 

primary debtor (borrower) defaulting. 

client, a prerequisite. NLB Group has prescribed the minimum 

guarantor has sufficient overall creditworthiness. 

NLB Group accepts the following types of personal loan 

ratios between the value of collateral and the loan amount, 

collateral: 

depending on the type of collateral, loan maturity and the client 

The Business Rules – Collateral for Retail and Corporate Loans 

•  Joint and several guarantees by retail and corporate 

rating. The ratios are based on experience and regulatory 

regulate which forms of collateral are acceptable, and which 

clients: for the collateralisation of private individuals’ loans, 

guidelines.

preconditions a type of collateral needs to fulfil to be able to be 

employees, or pensioners are adequate guarantors. They 

considered.

must not be in the process of personal bankruptcy. They are 

NLB Group pays particular attention to closely monitoring 

responsible for fulfilling the debtor’s obligations for loans 

the fair value of collateral, and to receiving regular and 

with a repayment period not exceeding 60 months. For the 

independent revaluations by applying the International 

collateralisation of legal entities investments, legal entities, 

Valuation Standards. Through a detailed examination of all 

individuals, or private individuals are adequate guarantors. 

collateral received, NLB has ensured that only collateral from 

•  Bank guarantees; 

which payment can be realistically expected if it is liquidated, is 

•  Government guarantees (e.g., of the Republic of Slovenia); 

considered. 

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 j) Credit quality analysis for financial assets and contingent liabilities

in EUR thousands

31 Dec 2022

Debt securities at amortised cost
A
B
C
Loss allowance
Carrying amount

Loans and advances to banks 
at amortised cost
A
B
C
D and E
Loss allowance
Carrying amount

Loans and advances to individuals 
at amortised cost
A
B
C
D and E
Loss allowance
Carrying amount

Loans and advances to other 
customers at amortised cost
A
B
C
D and E
Loss allowance
Carrying amount

Other financial assets at amortised cost
A
B
C
D and E
Loss allowance
Carrying amount

Debt instruments at fair value through 
other comprehensive income
A
B
C
D and E
Loss allowance

Contingent liabilities
A
B
C
D and E
Loss allowance
Carrying amount

12-month 
expected credit 
losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Purchased 
credit-impaired 
financial assets

Total

12-month 
expected credit 
losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Purchased 
credit-impaired 
financial assets

NLB Group

NLB

1,388,564
525,606
-
(3,519)
1,910,651

87,422
135,704
-
-
(161)
222,965

6,327,508
80,749
14,620
-
(31,385)
6,391,492

1,366,495
4,508,706
153,084
-
(59,840)
5,968,445

138,353
37,103
1,370
-
(1,246)
175,580

1,453,671
1,545,358
-
-
(9,029)

1,500,489
2,294,429
48,375
-
(18,826)
3,824,467

-
-
7,229
(265)
6,964

-
-
-
-
-
-

82,441
40,465
67,215
-
(14,582)
175,539

1,405
146,749
275,517
-
(31,230)
392,441

57
169
577
-
(38)
765

-
-
165
-
(70)

6,657
38,878
37,735
-
(1,953)
81,317

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
108
(108)
-

-
-
-
122,350
(76,306)
46,044

-
-
-
178,206
(114,288)
63,918

-
-
-
7,940
(7,565)
375

-
-
-
8,338
(6,777)

-
-
-
20,134
(12,735)
7,399

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-
-

772
50
1,514
5,760
499
8,595

-
15
1,898
21,465
3,134
26,512

-
-
-
1,288
(185)
1,103

-
-
-
-
-

34
318
88
6,323
(4,095)
2,668

1,388,564
525,606
7,229
(3,784)
1,917,615

87,422
135,704
-
108
(269)
222,965

6,410,721
121,264
83,349
128,110
(121,774)
6,621,670

1,367,900
4,655,470
430,499
199,671
(202,224)
6,451,316

138,410
37,272
1,947
9,228
(9,034)
177,823

1,453,671
1,545,358
165
8,338
(15,876)

1,507,180
2,333,625
86,198
26,457
(37,609)
3,915,851

1,318,134
281,304
-
(1,990)
1,597,448

350,138
703
-
-
(216)
350,625

2,915,578
7,329
-
-
(6,161)
2,916,746

1,007,159
1,907,775
45,521
-
(14,880)
2,945,575

102,414
11,362
759
-
(203)
114,332

1,159,704
207,791
-
-
(2,022)

1,118,801
1,256,792
22,149
-
(8,156)
2,389,586

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-
-

37,725
29,299
34,720
-
(7,385)
94,359

91
23,418
28,397
-
(800)
51,106

2
19
23
-
(2)
42

-
-
-
-
-

4,426
17,906
12,911
-
(378)
34,865

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
59,680
(34,286)
25,394

-
-
-
47,824
(29,262)
18,562

-
-
-
832
(807)
25

-
-
-
8,338
(6,777)

-
-
-
11,575
(8,889)
2,686

-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-
-

-
-
2
3,307
(638)
2,671

-
-
-
1
(1)
-

-
-
-
-
-

-
101
25
3,318
(2,876)
568

Total

1,318,134
281,304
-
(1,990)
1,597,448

350,138
703
-
-
(216)
350,625

2,953,303
36,628
34,720
59,680
(47,832)
3,036,499

1,007,250
1,931,193
73,920
51,131
(45,580)
3,017,914

102,416
11,381
782
833
(1,013)
114,399

1,159,704
207,791
-
8,338
(8,799)

1,123,227
1,274,799
35,085
14,893
(20,299)
2,427,705

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

275

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
31 Dec 2021

Debt securities at amortised cost

A

B

C

Loss allowance

Carrying amount

Loans and advances to banks 
at amortised cost

A

B

Loss allowance

Carrying amount

Loans and advances to individuals 
at amortised cost

A

B

C

D and E

Loss allowance

Carrying amount

Loans and advances to other 
customers at amortised cost

A

B

C

D and E

Loss allowance

Carrying amount

Other financial assets at amortised cost

A

B

C

D and E

Loss allowance

Carrying amount

Debt instruments at fair value through 
other comprehensive income

A

B

C

D and E

Loss allowance

Contingent liabilities

A

B

C

D and E

Loss allowance

Carrying amount

  in EUR thousands

12-month 
expected credit 
losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Purchased 
credit-impaired 
financial assets

Total

12-month 
expected credit 
losses

Lifetime ECL not 
credit - impaired

Lifetime ECL 
credit-impaired 

Purchased 
credit-impaired 
financial assets

NLB Group

NLB

1,218,597

495,114

-

(3,253)

1,710,458

89,499

51,382

(198)

140,683

5,305,833

60,891

5,827

-

(18,336)

5,354,215

1,172,770

3,333,087

124,628

-

(50,961)

4,579,524

92,430

26,908

319

-

(476)

119,181

1,587,032

1,809,069

-

-

(11,148)

1,405,533

1,574,401

48,037

-

(12,912)

3,015,059

-

-

7,220

(52)

7,168

-

-

-

-

46,972

23,933

49,330

-

(7,398)

112,837

59

198,824

213,301

-

(26,624)

385,560

37

128

694

-

(36)

823

-

-

184

-

(70)

6,451

67,514

23,571

-

(1,640)

95,896

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

125,297

(76,204)

49,093

-

-

-

209,229

(135,994)

73,235

-

-

-

6,703

(6,322)

381

-

-

-

798

(798)

-

-

-

24,565

(14,545)

10,020

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

249

16

293

2,430

157

3,145

3

26

17

30,079

(613)

29,512

-

-

-

1,236

608

1,844

-

-

-

-

-

38

11

18

14,366

(4,344)

10,089

1,218,597

495,114

7,220

(3,305)

1,717,626

89,499

51,382

(198)

140,683

1,183,578

254,672

-

(1,826)

1,436,424

199,390

79

(182)

199,287

5,353,054

2,554,006

84,840

55,450

127,727

(101,781)

5,519,290

1,172,832

3,531,937

337,946

239,308

(214,192)

5,067,831

92,467

27,036

1,013

7,939

(6,226)

122,229

1,587,032

1,809,069

184

798

16,919

-

-

(3,503)

2,567,422

875,912

1,421,398

53,965

-

(10,101)

2,341,174

83,943

5,223

3,224

-

(62)

92,328

1,308,690

218,282

-

-

(12,016)

(2,203)

1,412,022

1,641,926

71,626

38,931

(33,441)

3,131,064

1,041,295

844,526

27,751

-

(3,909)

1,909,663

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

26,634

15,108

24,293

-

(2,421)

63,614

26

85,402

37,876

-

(1,787)

121,517

1

19

29

-

(1)

48

-

-

-

-

-

5,657

34,180

9,265

-

(141)

48,961

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

57,396

(31,497)

25,899

-

-

-

68,782

(46,272)

22,510

-

-

-

1,107

(1,084)

23

-

-

-

798

(798)

-

-

-

19,252

(12,469)

6,783

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

3,855

(838)

3,017

-

-

-

11

(6)

5

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

7,651

(4,041)

3,610

Total

1,183,578

254,672

-

(1,826)

1,436,424

199,390

79

(182)

199,287

2,580,640

32,027

24,293

57,396

(37,421)

2,656,935

875,938

1,506,800

91,841

72,637

(58,998)

2,488,218

83,944

5,242

3,253

1,118

(1,153)

92,404

1,308,690

218,282

-

798

(3,001)

1,046,952

878,706

37,016

26,903

(20,560)

1,969,017

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

276

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The NLB Group’s client credit rating classification is based on 

Rating Groups D (D and DF rating classes) and E represent 

an internally developed methodology, drawing from internal 

non-performing clients that are treated as defaulted. D, DF, 

statistical analyses, good banking practices, as well as Bank 

and E rating classified clients are ordinarily transferred to the 

of Slovenia regulations, and ECB and EBA guidelines and 

specialised units for restructuring (which performs business 

requirements. The aligned rating methodology is used across 

and financial restructuring with a goal of minimising losses and 

the entire NLB Group. It includes a uniform credit grade scale of 

restoring the client to a performing status) or workout and legal 

12 rating classes, out of which nine represent performing clients 

support (with the goal of minimising losses due to default).

and three non-performing clients. 

Rating Group A (AAA to A rating classes) includes the best 

the EBA guidelines, where the materiality threshold for delays 

clients with a low degree of default probability, characterised 

is determined in absolute and relative terms (EUR 100 for 

by high coverage of financial liabilities with free cash flow. The 

retail and EUR 500 for non-retail segment and 1% of the total 

Rating Group A is considered as investment grade classification.

on-balance exposure on the client level). At the same time, the 

In 2020, NLB Group applied a new default definition based on 

assessment of rating for private individuals was improved by 

Rating Group B (BBB to B rating classes) includes clients with 

establishing a common rating on the client level. 

a low credit risk, starting one notch lower than ‘A’ rating group 

clients. These clients show stable performance, acceptable 

A standard corporate rating methodology, with the prescribed 

financial ratios, and qualitative elements, and have sufficient 

set of parameters (qualitative and quantitative) applies to all 

cash flow to settle their obligations, but may be more sensitive 

the NLB Group bank entities. Groups of connected clients are 

to changes in the industry or the economy. The Rating Group B 

treated as materially important for the NLB Group whenever 

classification is an investment grade for BBB, and an ‘invest with 

exposure exceeds EUR 7 million, or EUR 15 million for NLB 

care’ for BB and B. 

Group members with total assets greater than EUR 1 billion. 

Materially important clients are submitted to the NLB Credit 

Rating Group C (CCC to C rating classes) includes clients who 

Committee.

are exposed to a higher and above-average level of credit 

risk. CCC rated clients are financed by the Bank only in the 

NLB regularly reviews the business practices and credit 

case when such support brings more positive effects for the 

portfolios of NLB Group entities to make sure they are operating 

Bank; however, the Rating Group C is overall considered as a 

in accordance with the minimum risk management standards 

substantial risk. The Bank reasonably restricts cooperation with 

of NLB Group. This ensures appropriate standard processes for 

such clients and decreases its exposure to them.

managing and reporting credit risks at the consolidated level.

k) Forborne loans

31 Dec 2022

All forborne exposures

Gross 
carrying 
amount

Performing

Non - performing

Impaired

Defaulted

Impairment, provisions and 
value adjustments

Performing 
forborne 
exposures

Non-
performing 
forborne 
exposures

Collateral 
and financial 
guarantees 
received on 
forborne 
exposures

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

Loans and advances (including at 
amortised cost and fair value)

Governments

Other financial organisations

Non-financial organisations

Households

Debt instruments other than held for trading

Loan commitments given

272,193

117,808

154,441

154,385

(9,929)

(79,535)

121,376

840

1,526

207,417

62,410

272,193

1,392

604

201

89,871

27,132

117,808

743

236

1,325

117,602

35,278

154,441

649

236

1,325

117,546

35,278

154,385

649

(12)

(6)

(7,267)

(2,644)

(9,929)

(2)

(234)

(1,325)

(61,900)

(16,076)

(79,535)

(209)

-

-

87,245

34,131

121,376

740

122,116

Total exposures with forbearance measures

273,585

118,551

155,090

155,034

(9,931)

(79,744)

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Performance Overview

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277

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
NLB Group

 in EUR thousands

31 Dec 2021

All forborne exposures

Gross 
carrying 
amount

Performing

Non - performing

Impaired

Defaulted

Impairment, provisions and 
value adjustments

Performing 
forborne 
exposures

Non-
performing 
forborne 
exposures

Collateral 
and financial 
guarantees 
received on 
forborne 
exposures

Loans and advances (including at 
amortised cost and fair value)

Governments

Other financial organisations

Non-financial organisations

Households

Debt instruments other than held for trading

Loan commitments given

Total exposures with forbearance measures

239,208

57,058

182,094

182,150

(4,602)

(100,963)

109,177

1,093

2,744

180,754

54,617

239,208

718

239,926

828

213

35,422

20,595

57,058

96

57,154

265

2,531

145,276

34,022

182,094

622

182,716

265

2,531

145,332

34,022

182,150

622

(11)

(8)

(3,268)

(1,315)

(265)

(2,531)

(83,243)

(14,924)

(4,602)

(100,963)

-

(374)

-

12

79,260

29,905

109,177

294

182,772

(4,602)

(101,337)

109,471

NLB

in EUR thousands

31 Dec 2022

All forborne exposures

Loans and advances (including at 
amortised cost and fair value)

Other financial organisations

Non-financial organisations

Households

Debt instruments other than held for trading

Loan commitments given

Total exposures with forbearance measures

Gross 
carrying 
amount

84,638

1,526

42,414

40,698

84,638

687

85,325

Performing

Non - performing

Impaired

Defaulted

Impairment, provisions and 
value adjustments

Performing 
forborne 
exposures

Non-
performing 
forborne 
exposures

Collateral 
and financial 
guarantees 
received on 
forborne 
exposures

(1,628)

(37,260)

38,474

16,694

68,000

201

3,521

12,972

16,694

41

16,735

1,325

38,949

27,726

68,000

646

68,646

67,944

1,325

38,893

27,726

67,944

646

(6)

(40)

(1,582)

(1,628)

(2)

(1,325)

(22,935)

(13,000)

(37,260)

(207)

-

19,073

19,401

38,474

416

38,890

68,590

(1,630)

(37,467)

NLB

in EUR thousands

31 Dec 2021

All forborne exposures

Loans and advances (including at 
amortised cost and fair value)

Other financial organisations

Non-financial organisations

Households

Debt instruments other than held for trading

Loan commitments given

Total exposures with forbearance measures

Gross 
carrying 
amount

Performing

Non - performing

Impaired

Defaulted

109,674

25,485

2,744

69,299

37,631

109,674

688

110,362

213

13,100

12,172

25,485

96

25,581

84,133

2,531

56,143

25,459

84,133

592

84,725

84,189

2,531

56,199

25,459

84,189

592

84,781

Impairment, provisions and 
value adjustments

Performing 
forborne 
exposures

Non-
performing 
forborne 
exposures

Collateral 
and financial 
guarantees 
received on 
forborne 
exposures

(1,130)

(48,898)

(8)

(291)

(831)

(1,130)

-

(2,531)

(35,930)

(10,437)

(48,898)

(344)

(1,130)

(49,242)

51,837

12

31,564

20,261

51,837

294

52,131

MB Statement

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Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

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Forborne exposures of debt instruments by periods of forbearance 

31 Dec 2022

Performing exposures

Non-performing exposures

Total exposures with forbearance measures

31 Dec 2021

Performing exposures

Non-performing exposures

Total exposures with forbearance measures

Up to 3 months

 3 to 6 months 

6 to 12 months

Over 12 months

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

2,930

4,343

7,273

7,411

26,835

34,246

45,452

3,472

48,924

5,055

4,856

9,911

NLB 

4,714

13,351

18,065

9,860

18,540

28,400

54,783

53,684

108,467

30,130

30,956

61,086

in EUR thousands

31 Dec 2022

Performing exposures

Non-performing exposures

Total exposures with forbearance measures

31 Dec 2021

Performing exposures

Non-performing exposures

Total exposures with forbearance measures

Up to 3 months

 3 to 6 months 

6 to 12 months

Over 12 months

2,063

1,939

4,002

2,819

7,467

10,286

608

1,261

1,869

3,898

2,410

6,308

1,864

7,300

9,164

7,008

13,863

20,871

10,531

20,184

30,715

10,630

11,551

22,181

The main forbearance measurements used by NLB Group 

others, either as a single forbearance measurement or as a 

and NLB are: deferral of payment, reduction of interest rates, 

combination of those.

acquisition of collateral for partial repayment of claims, and 

l) Repossessed assets
NLB Group and NLB received the following assets by taking 

possession of collateral held as security and held them at the 

reporting date:

Nature of assets

Equity securities mandatorily measured at fair 
value through profit or loss (note 5.3.a)

Investment property (note 5.9.)

Property and equipment (note 5.8.)

Investments in subsidiaries and associates

Real estates (note 5.13.)

Other assets (note 5.13.)

Non-current assets held for sale (note 5.7.)

Total

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

Net value

Net value

368

25,326

11,962

-

50,913

673

651

89,893

-

36,009

13,559

-

74,717

733

699

125,717

-

1,901

-

2,049

3,170

-

-

7,120

-

4,176

7

2,333

4,827

-

-

11,343

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

279

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
m)  Analysis of loans and advances by industry sectors

NLB Group

Industry sector

Banks

Finance

Electricity, gas, and water

Construction industry

Heavy industry

Education

Agriculture, forestry, and fishing

Public sector

Individuals

Mining

Entrepreneurs

Services

Transport and communications

Trade industry

Health care and social security

Other financial assets

Total

NLB

Industry sector

Banks

Finance

Electricity, gas, and water

Construction industry

Heavy industry

Education

Agriculture, forestry, and fishing

Public sector

Individuals

Mining

Entrepreneurs

Services

Transport and communications

Trade industry

Health care and social security

Other financial assets

Total

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

in EUR thousands

Gross loans

Impairment 
provisions

Gross loans

Impairment 
provisions

223,234

235,737

601,556

547,251

1,415,304

13,246

98,813

285,495

6,743,441

53,854

389,376

809,891

920,149

1,239,161

43,710

186,857

(269)

(2,579)

(10,704)

(27,686)

(25,553)

(1,313)

(3,063)

(4,737)

(121,771)

(2,747)

(9,162)

(41,343)

(19,476)

(53,113)

(751)

(9,034)

Net loans

222,965

233,158

590,852

519,565

1,389,751

11,933

95,750

280,758

6,621,670

51,107

380,214

768,548

900,673

1,186,048

42,959

177,823

(%)

1.65

1.73

4.39

3.86

10.31

0.09

0.71

2.08

49.14

0.38

2.82

5.70

6.68

8.80

0.32

1.32

13,807,075

(333,301)

13,473,774

100.00

140,881

90,538

361,520

420,173

1,059,774

12,888

91,735

231,488

5,621,071

49,936

341,670

778,569

798,822

1,008,369

36,541

128,455

11,172,430

(198)

(2,851)

(5,392)

(29,459)

(30,352)

(1,358)

(3,530)

(5,269)

(101,781)

(1,604)

(7,554)

(34,587)

(25,902)

(64,364)

(1,970)

(6,226)

Net loans

140,683

87,687

356,128

390,714

1,029,422

11,530

88,205

226,219

5,519,290

48,332

334,116

743,982

772,920

944,005

34,571

122,229

(322,397)

10,850,033

(%)

1.30

0.81

3.28

3.60

9.49

0.11

0.81

2.08

50.87

0.45

3.08

6.86

7.12

8.70

0.32

1.13

100.00

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

in EUR thousands

Gross loans

Impairment 
provisions

350,841

383,781

371,356

150,715

688,517

3,529

15,432

104,303

3,084,331

23,736

64,471

342,882

589,152

308,724

24,788

115,412

6,621,970

(216)

(3,167)

(1,467)

(9,714)

(6,161)

(19)

(70)

(1,176)

(47,832)

(185)

(1,722)

(12,336)

(3,155)

(6,143)

(265)

(1,013)

(94,641)

Net loans

350,625

380,614

369,889

141,001

682,356

3,510

15,362

103,127

3,036,499

23,551

62,749

330,546

585,997

302,581

24,523

114,399

(%)

5.37

5.83

5.67

2.16

10.45

0.05

0.24

1.58

46.52

0.36

0.96

5.06

8.98

4.64

0.38

1.75

Gross loans

Impairment 
provisions

199,469

169,679

228,423

71,989

583,658

4,045

13,073

94,176

2,694,356

22,316

54,600

482,176

556,786

248,823

25,360

93,557

(182)

(3,109)

(724)

(9,870)

(6,747)

(27)

(100)

(974)

(37,421)

(514)

(1,942)

(11,421)

(5,459)

(16,492)

(1,619)

(1,153)

Net loans

199,287

166,570

227,699

62,119

576,911

4,018

12,973

93,202

2,656,935

21,802

52,658

470,755

551,327

232,331

23,741

92,404

(%)

3.66

3.06

4.18

1.14

10.60

0.07

0.24

1.71

48.80

0.40

0.97

8.65

10.13

4.27

0.44

1.70

6,527,329

100.00

5,542,486

(97,754)

5,444,732

100.00

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

280

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
n) Analysis of net loans and advances by geographical sectors

Country

Slovenia

Other European Union members

Serbia

Other countries

Total

NLB Group

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

6,704,603

274,795

2,790,892

3,703,484

13,473,774

4,861,968

249,772

2,320,491

3,417,802

10,850,033

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2021

4,856,305

156,425

136,696

295,306

5,444,732

31 Dec 2022

5,824,477

180,842

184,530

337,480

6,527,329

As at 31 December 2022, Other countries include direct exposure 

level. Direct exposure to Ukraine amounts to EUR 21 thousand 

to Russia in the amount of EUR 284 thousand (31 December 

(31 December 2021: EUR 4 thousand) at the NLB Group level and 

2021: EUR 94 thousand) at the NLB Group level and EUR 4 

EUR 1 thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 2 thousand) at the NLB 

thousand (31 December 2021: EUR 84 thousand) at the NLB 

level. 

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

281

  
 
 
 
 
MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

o) Analysis of debt securities and derivative financial instruments by geographical sectors

NLB Group

NLB

in EUR thousands

Financial assets 
measured at 
amortised cost

Financial assets 
held for trading

Financial assets 
measured at fair 
value through OCI

Derivative 
financial 
instruments

Financial assets 
measured at 
amortised cost

Financial assets 
held for trading

Financial assets 
measured at fair 
value through OCI

Derivative 
financial 
instruments

31 Dec 2022

Country 

Slovenia

Other members of 
European Union

- Austria

- Belgium

- Bulgaria

- Czech Republic

- Cyprus

- Denmark

- Finland

- France

- Germany

- Greece

- Hungary

- Ireland

- Italy

- Latvia

- Lithuania

- Luxembourg

- Netherlands

- Poland

- Portugal

- Romania

- Slovakia

- Spain

- Sweden

- Other 

United States of America

Other countries

- Bosnia and Herzegovina

- Kosovo

- Montenegro

- North Macedonia

- Serbia

- Albania

- Canada

- Great Britain

- Iceland

- Israel

- Kazakhstan

- Norway

- Russia

- Switzerland

- Other

360,623

1,214,523

96,349

129,217

41,233

12,901

10,187

5,975

57,440

184,831

139,370

-

37,346

53,384

37,472

15,507

16,798

91,588

57,523

19,772

46,750

37,802

31,523

55,076

24,753

11,726

25,966

316,503

7,648

-

40,672

189,383

25,490

-

3,007

-

7,746

-

-

16,186

-

19,287

7,084

Non-trading 
financial assets 
mandatorily at FV 
through profit 
or loss

-

2,267

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

99

-

-

-

2,168

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

849

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

331,539

951,992

79,119

94,088

3,029

-

1,553

13,333

114,292

169,157

105,082

10,888

5,260

31,592

13,544

-

-

27,256

112,907

17,691

16,440

4,827

31,592

39,097

61,245

-

62,170

1,493,095

177,746

58,034

20,949

134,268

898,531

25,866

21,147

54,178

7,892

9,053

12,970

11,206

2,026

54,572

4,657

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

203

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

203

-

203

2,450

36,606

-

11,397

-

-

-

-

-

10,087

10,447

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

4,675

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

41,691

-

17

-

5

-

-

-

41,669

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

347,976

1,184,663

96,349

129,217

41,233

12,901

10,187

5,975

57,440

179,844

114,497

-

37,346

53,384

37,472

15,507

16,798

91,588

57,523

19,772

46,750

37,802

31,523

55,076

24,753

11,726

4,690

60,119

4,056

-

6,780

15,260

-

-

3,007

-

7,746

-

-

16,186

-

-

7,084

1,597,448

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

203

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

203

-

203

241,095

774,380

51,193

55,622

3,029

-

1,553

13,333

84,477

137,668

70,207

10,888

5,260

29,525

13,544

-

-

27,256

99,933

17,691

16,440

4,827

31,592

39,097

61,245

-

11,859

263,943

2,905

-

2,819

54,590

3,913

25,866

21,147

54,178

7,892

9,053

12,970

11,206

2,026

50,721

4,657

2,449

36,606

-

11,397

-

-

-

-

-

10,087

10,447

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

4,675

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

41,796

-

17

-

31

79

-

-

41,669

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Total

1,917,615

2,838,796

3,116

80,747

Other members of the European Union included in the line item 

Other members of the ‘Other countries’ in the line item ‘Other’ 

‘Other’ are Malta and Estonia. 

are Egypt, Uzbekistan, and Oman.

1,291,277

80,851

Contents

282

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NLB Group

NLB

in EUR thousands

Financial assets 
measured at 
amortised cost

Financial assets 
held for trading

Financial assets 
measured at fair 
value through OCI

Derivative 
financial 
instruments

Financial assets 
measured at 
amortised cost

Financial assets 
held for trading

Financial assets 
measured at fair 
value through OCI

Derivative 
financial 
instruments

31 Dec 2021

Country 

Slovenia

Other members of 
European Union

- Austria

- Belgium

- Bulgaria

- Czech Republic

- Cyprus

- Denmark

- Finland

- France

- Germany

- Greece

- Hungary

- Ireland

- Italy

- Latvia

- Lithuania

- Luxembourg

- Netherlands

- Poland

- Portugal

- Romania

- Slovakia

- Spain

- Sweden

- Other 

United States of America

Other countries

- Bosnia and Herzegovina

- Kosovo

- Montenegro

- North Macedonia

- Serbia

- Albania

- Canada

- Great Britain

- Iceland

- Israel

- Kazakhstan

- Norway

- Russia

- Other

Total

Non-trading 
financial assets 
mandatorily at FV 
through profit 
or loss

-

2,428

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

107

-

-

-

2,321

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,833

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

331,155

1,180,521

81,063

93,404

3,173

12,795

1,755

20,234

107,633

193,668

115,180

14,805

6,547

100,689

10,910

-

27,226

30,087

143,546

18,989

18,704

5,484

34,627

64,377

75,625

-

75,498

1,808,087

145,522

76,533

23,578

152,886

1,196,724

29,823

27,247

81,218

8,857

10,468

14,254

16,210

20,105

4,662

324,705

1,076,225

76,628

126,828

43,374

-

12,447

-

45,899

170,425

105,368

-

21,719

51,906

26,190

24,929

15,321

78,097

67,678

17,829

47,842

23,365

21,603

70,347

15,128

13,302

5,061

311,635

4,048

-

37,349

221,697

7,167

-

14,026

-

5,768

-

-

14,606

-

6,974

1,717,626

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

6,835

1,388

-

642

-

-

-

-

-

528

167

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

51

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

23

-

1

-

6

-

-

-

16

-

-

-

-

-

-

324,705

1,041,207

76,628

126,828

43,374

-

12,447

-

45,899

160,423

95,361

-

21,719

51,906

26,190

24,929

15,321

78,097

57,670

17,829

47,842

23,365

21,603

65,346

15,128

13,302

5,061

65,451

4,048

-

6,799

13,230

-

-

14,026

-

5,768

-

-

14,606

-

6,974

Other members of the European Union included in the line item 

Other members of the ‘Other countries’ in the line item ‘Other’ 

‘Other’ are Malta and Estonia. 

are Egypt, Uzbekistan, and Oman.

3,395,261

4,261

8,246

1,436,424

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

280,174

970,192

56,551

59,830

3,173

12,795

1,755

20,234

99,578

162,625

92,622

14,805

6,547

32,639

10,910

-

27,226

30,087

135,529

18,989

18,704

5,484

34,627

49,857

75,625

-

8,667

282,009

3,204

-

3,073

57,867

5,021

29,823

27,247

81,218

8,857

10,468

14,254

16,210

20,105

4,662

6,835

1,388

-

642

-

-

-

-

-

528

167

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

51

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

27

-

1

-

-

10

-

-

16

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,541,042

8,250

MB Statement

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Performance Overview

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p) Internal rating of derivatives counterparties 

A

B

C

D and E

Total

NLB Group

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

in %

88.90

11.10

0.00

0.00

100.00

74.08

25.69

0.03

0.19

100.00

90.18

9.82

0.00

0.00

100.00

74.25

25.53

0.03

0.19

100.00

All derivatives in the banking book are entered into with 

rating, but all such transactions are covered through back-

counterparties with an external investment-grade rating. 

to-back transactions involving third parties with an external 

investment-grade rating. 

When derivatives are entered into on behalf of NLB Group’s 

customers, such customers usually do not have an external 

r) Debt financial instruments in NLB Group’s and NLB’s portfolio that represent subordinated liabilities for the issuer

31 Dec 2022

Internal rating

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehwensive income

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- debt securities

- loans and advances to banks

- loans and advances to customers

Total

31 Dec 2021

Internal rating

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- loans and advances to banks

- loans and advances to customers

Total

A

28,014

2,612

-

-

30,626

A

48,099

-

-

48,099

NLB Group

B

-

-

-

-

-

C

-

-

-

-

-

D

Total

A

-

-

-

-

-

28,014

28,014

2,612

-

-

2,612

84,713

-

30,626

115,339

NLB Group

B

-

-

-

-

C

-

-

-

-

D

Total

A

-

-

-

-

48,099

33,107

-

-

84,399

-

48,099

117,506

NLB

C

-

-

-

6,613

6,613

NLB

C

-

-

6,522

6,522

B

-

-

-

-

-

B

-

-

-

-

in EUR thousands

D

Total

-

-

-

-

-

28,014

2,612

84,713

6,613

121,952

in EUR thousands

D

Total

-

-

-

-

33,107

84,399

6,522

124,028

MB Statement

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Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

284

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
s) Presentation of net financial instruments by measurement category

31 Dec 2022

Cash and obligatory reserves with central 
banks, and other demand deposits at banks

Securities

- Bonds

- Shares

- Commercial bills

- Treasury bills

- Investment funds

Derivatives

Loans and receivables

- Loans to governments

- Loans to banks

- Loans to financial organisations

- Loans to individuals

- Loans to other customers

Other financial assets

Total financial assets

31 Dec 2021

Cash and obligatory reserves with central 
banks, and other demand deposits at banks

Securities

- Bonds

- Shares

- Commercial bills

- Treasury bills

- Investment funds

Derivatives

Loans and receivables

- Loans to governments

- Loans to banks

- Loans to financial organisations

- Loans to individuals

- Loans to other customers

Other financial assets

Total financial assets

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

Financial assets 
held for trading

Non-trading 
financial assets 
mandatorily at 
FV through P&L

Financial assets 
measured at 
FV through OCI

Financial assets 
measured at 
amortised cost

Financial leases

Derivatives for 
hedge accounting

-

203

-

-

-

203

-

21,385

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

19,031

3,116

5,579

-

-

10,336

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,919,203

2,506,224

80,407

21,824

310,748

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

5,271,365

1,917,615

1,917,615

-

-

-

-

-

13,102,729

303,086

222,965

116,046

6,550,704

5,909,928

177,823

21,588

19,031

2,919,203

20,469,532

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

193,222

357

-

32

70,966

121,867

-

193,222

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

59,362

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

59,362

Total

5,271,365

4,856,052

4,426,955

85,986

21,824

310,951

10,336

80,747

13,295,951

303,443

222,965

116,078

6,621,670

6,031,795

177,823

23,681,938

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

Financial assets 
held for trading

Non-trading 
financial assets 
mandatorily at 
FV through P&L

Financial assets 
measured at 
FV through OCI

Financial assets 
measured at 
amortised cost

Financial leases

Derivatives for 
hedge accounting

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

7,678

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

21,161

4,261

4,472

-

-

12,428

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

3,461,860

3,191,280

66,599

37,569

166,412

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

7,678

21,161

3,461,860

5,005,052

1,717,626

1,707,960

-

-

9,666

-

-

10,619,525

280,961

140,683

141,698

5,473,278

4,582,906

122,229

17,464,432

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

108,279

49

-

11

46,012

62,206

-

108,279

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

568

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

568

Total

5,005,052

5,200,647

4,903,501

71,071

37,569

176,078

12,428

8,246

10,727,804

281,010

140,683

141,709

5,519,290

4,645,112

122,229

21,063,978

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

285

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
31 Dec 2022

Cash and obligatory reserves with central 
banks, and other demand deposits at banks

Securities

- Bonds

- Shares

- Treasury bills

- Investment funds

Derivatives

Loans and receivables

- Loans to governments

- Loans to banks

- Loans to financial organisations

- Loans to individuals

- Loans to other customers

Other financial assets

Total financial assets

31 Dec 2021

Cash and obligatory reserves with central 
banks, and other demand deposits at banks

Securities

- Bonds

- Shares

- Treasury bills

Derivatives

Loans and receivables

- Loans to governments

- Loans to banks

- Loans to financial organisations

- Loans to individuals

- Loans to other customers

Other financial assets

Total financial assets

Financial assets 
held for trading

Non-trading financial 
assets mandatorily at 
FV through P&L

-

203

-

-

203

-

21,489

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

21,692

-

7,519

-

5,211

-

2,308

-

7,892

-

-

-

-

7,892

-

15,411

Financial assets 
held for trading

Non-trading financial 
assets mandatorily at 
FV through P&L

-

-

-

-

-

7,682

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

7,682

-

4,472

-

4,472

-

-

7,888

-

-

-

-

7,888

-

12,360

NLB

Financial assets 
measured at 
FV through OCI

-

1,334,061

1,196,760

42,784

94,517

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,334,061

NLB

Financial assets 
measured at 
FV through OCI

-

1,585,751

1,526,237

44,709

14,805

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,585,751

Financial assets 
measured at 
amortised cost

Derivatives for 
hedge accounting

3,339,024

1,597,448

1,597,448

-

-

-

-

6,405,038

124,736

350,625

286,504

3,036,499

2,606,674

114,399

11,455,909

-

-

-

-

-

-

59,362

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

59,362

Financial assets 
measured at 
amortised cost

Derivatives for 
hedge accounting

3,250,437

1,436,424

1,436,424

-

-

-

5,344,440

143,864

199,287

226,144

2,656,935

2,118,210

92,404

10,123,705

-

-

-

-

-

568

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

568

in EUR thousands

Total

3,339,024

2,939,231

2,794,208

47,995

94,720

2,308

80,851

6,412,930

124,736

350,625

286,504

3,036,499

2,614,566

114,399

12,886,435

in EUR thousands

Total

3,250,437

3,026,647

2,962,661

49,181

14,805

8,250

5,352,328

143,864

199,287

226,144

2,656,935

2,126,098

92,404

11,730,066

As at 31 December 2022 and 31 December 2021, all of NLB 

Group’s financial liabilities, except for derivatives designated as 

hedging instruments, trading liabilities, and financial liabilities 

measured at fair value through profit or loss, were carried at 

amortised cost.

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6.2. Market risk

positions. In accordance with the provisions of the Strategy on 

the volatility in the income statement. FX exposures in banking 

trading with financial instruments in NLB Group, the trading 

book result from core banking business activities.

NLB Group defines market risk as the risk of potential financial 

losses due to changes in rates and/or market prices (exchange 

rates, credit spreads, and equity prices), or in parameters that 

affect prices (volatilities and correlations). Losses may impact 

profit or loss directly, for example in the case of trading book 

positions. However, for the banking book positions they are 

reflected in the revaluation reserve. The exposure to the market 

risk is to a certain degree integrated into the banking industry 

and offers an opportunity to create financial results and value.

The Global Risk Department of NLB is independent from the 

trading activities and reports to the Bank’s Assets and Liabilities 

Committee (ALCO). Global Risk also monitors and manages 

exposure to market risks separately for the banking and trading 

books. Exposures and limits are monitored daily and reported 

to the ALCO committee on a regular basis.

The Bank uses a wide selection of quantitative and qualitative 

tools for measuring, managing, and reporting market risks 

such as value-at-risk (VaR), sensitivity analysis, stress-

testing, backtesting, scenarios, other market risk mitigants 

(concentration of exposures, gap limits, stop-loss limits, etc.), 

net interest income sensitivity, economic value of equity, and 

economic capital. Stress-testing provides an indication of the 

potential losses that could occur in severe market conditions.

In the area of currency risk, NLB Group pursues the goal of 

low to medium exposure. NLB monitors the open position 

of NLB Group on an ongoing basis. The orientation of NLB 

Group in interest rate risk management is to prevent negative 

effects on the net interest income and economic value of equity 

arising from changed market interest rates. The conclusion 

of transactions involving derivatives at NLB is limited to the 

servicing of the clients’ and hedging of the Group’s own open 

activities in other NLB Group members are very restricted. 

For monitoring and managing NLB Group’s exposure to 

which also includes a limit system and is in line with the parent 

market risks, uniform guidelines and exposure limits for 

Bank’s guidelines and standards, as well as local regulatory 

each type of risk are set for individual NLB Group entities. 

requirements. Policies are confirmed by either the local 

The methodologies are in line with regulatory requirements 

Management Board or Supervisory Board. NLB monitors and 

on individual and consolidated levels, while reporting to the 

manages NLB Group currency risk exposure on a monthly basis 

regulator on the consolidated level is carried out using the 

for each member and on the consolidated level. 

Each member is responsible for its own currency risk policy, 

standardised approach. Pursuant to the relevant policies, 

NLB Group entities must monitor and manage exposure to 

NLB Group banks follow the guidelines for managing FX 

market risks and report to NLB accordingly. The exposure of an 

lending in NLB Group. The guidelines’ goal is to address risks 

individual NLB Group entity is regularly monitored and reported 

stemming from the potential excessive growth of FX lending, to 

to the Assets and Liabilities Committee of NLB Group (NLB 

identify hidden risks, and tail-event risks related to FX lending, 

Group ALCO).

6.2.1. Currency risk (FX) 
Foreign currency risk (FX) is a risk of the potential losses 

from the open FX positions due to the changes of the foreign 

currency rates. The exposures of NLB to the movement of the FX 

rates have an impact on the financial position and cash flows of 

the Bank. The Bank measures and manages the FX risk with a 

usage of combination of sensitivity analysis, VaR, scenarios, and 

stress-testing.

In the trading book, similar to the other market risks, risk is 

managed on the basis of VaR limits which are approved by 

the Management Board of the Bank and in accordance to the 

adopted policy of managing market risk in the trading book of 

NLB. Trading FX risk is managed on an integrated basis at a 

portfolio level. 

NLB monitors and manages FX risk in the banking book 

according to the policy of managing FX risk in NLB. The policy 

is primarily composed to protect Common Equity Tier 1 against 

the negative effects of the volatility of the FX rates, whilst limiting 

to mitigate the respective risk, to internalise the respective costs, 

and to hold adequate capital with respect to FX lending.

The positions of all currencies in the statement of financial 

position of NLB, for which a daily limit is set, are monitored 

daily. FX positions are managed on the currency level so that 

they are always within the limits.

Regarding structural FX positions on a consolidation level, 

assets, and liabilities held in foreign operations are translated 

into euro currency at the closing FX rate on the reporting date. 

Foreign exchange differences of non-euro assets and liabilities 

against euro are recognised in OCI, and therefore affect 

shareholder’s equity and CET1 capital. NLB Group ALM employs 

strategies to manage this foreign currency exposure, including 

matched funding of assets and liabilities.

Exposure to currency risks is discussed at daily liquidity 

meetings and monthly meetings of the ALCO committee of the 

NLB Group, and quarterly on the consolidated level.

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 a) Analysis of financial instruments by currency exposure 

31 Dec 2022

Financial assets

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and 
other demand deposits at banks

Financial assets held for trading

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily 
at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- debt securities

- loans and advances to banks

- loans and advances to customers

- other financial assets

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Fair value changes of the hedged items in 
portfolio hedge of interest rate risk

NLB Group

 in EUR thousands

EUR

RSD

USD

CHF

Other

Total

4,371,725

275,809

46,277

78,264

499,290

5,271,365

21,385

8,704

-

5,116

-

5,211

203

-

-

-

21,588

19,031

1,977,055

627,667

157,859

54,572

102,050

2,919,203

1,677,506

82,041

10,952,838

108,884

59,362

(23,767)

6,964

102,510

804,520

12,280

-

-

49,088

20,582

20,791

23,935

-

-

19,287

3,047

53,759

44

-

-

164,770

14,785

1,917,615

222,965

1,241,078

13,072,986

32,680

-

-

177,823

59,362

(23,767)

Total financial assets

19,235,733

1,834,866

323,743

209,176

2,054,653

23,658,171

Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities held for trading

Financial liabilities measured at fair 
value through profit or loss

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- borrowings from other customers

- debt securities issued

- other financial liabilities

Total financial liabilities

21,580

1,157

2,124

84,104

184,920

9

155

-

1,539

-

16,639,644

1,156,350

82,266

815,990

207,887

-

-

30,372

18,039,672

1,188,425

-

-

-

2,604

13,689

370,113

216

-

29,698

416,320

-

-

-

-

484

-

21,589

1,796

2,124

5,788

-

12,379

-

106,414

198,609

201,228

1,660,391

20,027,726

-

-

-

-

1,933

24,573

82,482

815,990

294,463

208,949

1,697,827

21,551,193

Net on-balance sheet  financial position

1,196,061

646,441

(92,577)

227

356,826

2,106,978

Derivative financial instruments 

(75,897)

42,632

82,411

(2,031)

51,477

98,592

Net financial position

1,120,164

689,073

(10,166)

(1,804)

408,303

2,205,570

31 Dec 2021

Total financial assets

Total financial liabilities

16,625,162

1,886,101

15,728,879

1,270,088

365,955

404,640

213,497

184,689

1,980,345

21,071,060

1,595,282

19,183,578

Net on-balance sheet  financial position

896,283

616,013

(38,685)

28,808

385,063

1,887,482

Derivative financial instruments 

(27,149)

2,002

44,115

(24,124)

(13,568)

(18,724)

Net financial position

869,134

618,015

5,430

4,684

371,495

1,868,758

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31 Dec 2022

Financial assets

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and 
other demand deposits at banks

Financial assets held for trading

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily 
at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- debt securities

- loans and advances to banks

- loans and advances to customers

- other financial assets

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Fair value changes of the hedged items in 
portfolio hedge of interest rate risk

Total financial assets

Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities held for trading

Financial liabilities measured at fair 
value through profit or loss

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- borrowings from other customers

- debt securities issued

- other financial liabilities

Total financial liabilities

EUR

RSD

3,282,376

471

21,489

10,200

1,215,923

1,566,474

326,513

6,002,314

91,777

59,362

(23,767)

12,552,661

22,150

2,514

2,124

172,334

43,603

10,707,852

-

815,990

138,753

NLB

USD

9,315

-

5,211

in EUR thousands

CHF

Other

Total

11,672

35,190

3,339,024

203

-

-

-

21,692

15,411

51,641

50,721

15,776

1,334,061

27,812

-

14,902

22,000

-

-

-

16,776

36,418

1

-

-

3,162

7,336

779

618

-

-

1,597,448

350,625

6,054,413

114,399

59,362

(23,767)

-

-

-

11,423

13,689

147,439

216

-

24,009

196,776

-

-

-

8,397

-

77,583

-

-

265

86,245

-

-

-

20,400

-

22,150

2,514

2,124

212,656

57,292

51,535

10,984,411

-

-

1,540

73,475

216

815,990

164,567

12,261,920

-

-

-

-

-

-

3

-

-

-

-

-

102

-

2

-

-

-

474

130,881

115,791

62,861

12,862,668

11,905,320

104

Net on-balance sheet  financial position

647,341

370

(65,895)

29,546

(10,614)

600,748

Derivative financial instruments 

(79,626)

-

65,535

(29,451)

24,326

(19,216)

Net financial position

567,715

370

(360)

95

13,712

581,532

31 Dec 2021

Total financial assets

Total financial liabilities

11,383,613

10,759,098

1,219

18

164,554

194,704

83,457

57,960

104,305

65,416

11,737,148

11,077,196

Net on-balance sheet  financial position

624,515

1,201

(30,150)

25,497

38,889

659,952

Derivative financial instruments

(15,358)

-

35,825

(25,132)

(14,076)

(18,741)

Net financial position

609,157

1,201

5,675

365

24,813

641,211

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b) FX sensitivity analysis

Scenarios

USD

CHF

CZK

RSD

MKD

JPY

AUD

HUF

HRK

BAM

31 Dec 2022

Appreciation of

USD

CHF

CZK

RSD

MKD

Other

Effects on comprehensive income

Depreciation of

USD

CHF

CZK

RSD

MKD

Other

Effects on comprehensive income

NLB Group and NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

+/-9.27%

+/-7.88%

+/-5.70%

+/-0.40%

+/-1.62%

+/-12.35%

+/-9.91%

+/-13.43%

+/-0.98%

+/-0 %

+/-5.74%

+/-4.23%

+/-4.55%

+/-0.35%

+/-1.34%

+/-5.66%

+/-6.77%

+/-6.53%

+/-1.38%

+/-0%

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

Effects on 
income 
statement

Effects on other 
comprehensive 
income

Effects on 
income 
statement

Effects on other 
comprehensive 
income

(333)

(662)

(2)

11

1

251

(734)

277

565

2

(11)

(1)

(203)

629

-

463

-

3,167

4,518

48

8,196

-

(396)

-

(3,142)

(4,375)

(48)

(7,961)

(482)

423

7

1

1

1

144

(328)

400

(6)

(1)

(1)

(1)

(121)

270

-

-

-

-

-

423

(351)

-

-

-

-

-

(351)

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31 Dec 2021

Appreciation of

USD

CHF

CZK

RSD

MKD

Other

Effects on comprehensive income

Depreciation of

USD

CHF

CZK

RSD

MKD

Other

Effects on comprehensive income

in EUR thousands

NLB Group regularly measures interest rate risk exposure in 

NLB Group

NLB

Effects on 
income 
statement

Effects on other 
comprehensive 
income

Effects on 
income 
statement

Effects on other 
comprehensive 
income

454

(358)

11

2

2

23

134

(405)

329

(10)

(2)

(2)

(21)

(111)

-

566

-

2,501

3,570

70

6,707

-

(520)

-

(2,484)

(3,476)

(69)

(6,549)

(132)

6

11

4

285

(17)

157

117

(5)

(10)

(4)

(277)

15

(164)

42

-

-

-

-

-

42

(38)

-

-

-

-

-

(38)

the banking book under various standardised and additional 

scenarios of changes in the level and shape of interest rate 

yield curve, including all significant sources of risk, taking 

into account behavioural and modelling assumptions. Part of 

non-maturing deposits, which is considered as a core part is 

allocated long-term by using replicating portfolio approach. 

Optionality risk is mainly derived from behavioural options, 

reflected in prepayments and withdrawals, and embedded 

options such as caps and floors. Moreover, considering 

expected cash flows, non-performing exposures, as well as off-

balance sheet items are considered when measuring interest 

rate risk exposure.

The interest rate risk is closely measured, monitored, and 

managed within approved risk limits and controls. The Group 

manages interest rate positions and stabilises its interest rate 

margin primarily with the pricing policy and a fund transfer 

pricing policy. An important part of the interest rate risk 

management is presented by the banking book securities 

portfolio, whose primary purpose is to maintain adequate 

liquidity reserves, while it also contributes to the stability of 

The effect on the other comprehensive income statement 

each currency. Interest rate risk management in NLB Group is 

the interest rate margin, which is why valuation risk has been 

of NLB Group has increased due to the higher translation 

adopted in accordance with the risk appetite and risk strategy, 

included in the Group’s interest rate risk management model. 

positions in MKD and RSD currencies and due to the higher 

based on general Basel standards on interest rate management 

volatility growths’ scenarios for MKD and RSD currencies.

in the banking book (IRRBB; hereinafter: ‘Standards’) and 

NLB Group also manages interest rates risk by using plain 

6.2.2. Managing market risks in the trading book 
Market risk exposure in the trading book arises mostly as a 

European Banking Authority guidelines. 

vanilla derivative financial instruments (interest rate swaps, 

overnight index swaps, cross currency swaps, and forward rate 

In the trading book, interest rate risk is measured on the basis 

agreements), most of which are treated according to hedge 

result of the changes in interest rates, credit spreads, FX rates, 

of the VaR method and BPV method, in accordance with the 

accounting rules.

and equity prices.

adopted policy for managing market risk in the trading book of 

The Management Board determines low total risk appetite 

NLB.

Each member of NLB Group is responsible for its own interest 

rate risk policy, which includes the limit system and is in line 

and limits by the risk type. The limits are monitored daily by the 

The interest rate risk in the banking book is measured and 

with the parent Bank’s guidelines and standards, as well as 

Global Risk Department.

monitored within a framework of interest rate risk management 

with the local regulatory requirements. NLB regularly monitors 

policy that establishes consistent methodologies, models, and 

the interest rate risk exposure of each individual member 

NLB uses an internal VaR model based on the variance-

limit systems. NLB Group manages interest rate risk exposure 

of NLB Group in accordance with the Standards for Risk 

covariance method for other market risks. The daily calculation 

through application of two main measures:

of the VAR value is adjusted to Basel standards (99% 

confidence interval, a monitored period of 250 business days, a 

10-day holding position period).

•  Economic value sensitivity – using BPV method (Basis Point 
Value), which measures the extent to which the economic 

value of the banking book would change if interest rates 

Management in NLB Group. The aforementioned document 

comprises guidelines for uniform and effective interest rate risk 

management within individual NLB Group members.

6.2.3. Interest rate risk 
Interest rate risk is the risk to NLB Group’s capital and profit 

or loss arising from changes in market interest rates. Interest 

rate risk management of NLB Group includes all interest rate-

change according to the scenario.

Interest rate risk in the banking book is measured, monitored, 

•  Sensitivity of net interest income – using EaR method 

and reported by the Global Risk Department (weekly in the 

(Earnings at Risk), which measures the impact of the interest 

case of NLB and monthly on Group level), while positions are 

rate change on future net interest income over a one-year 

managed by Financial Markets. Exposure to interest rate risk 

period, assuming constant balance sheet volume and 

is discussed on ALCO monthly on NLB’s individual level and 

sensitive on- and off-balance sheet assets and liabilities which 

structure.

are divided into the trading and banking book according to 

regulatory standards. It takes into account the positions in 

quarterly on the consolidated level.

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a) Analysis of financial instruments according to the exposure 

Financial instruments without maturity such as sight deposits 

to interest rate risk

are presented in the first gap irrespective of their behavioural 

The following table presents open net interest rate risk positions 

characteristics and the NLB Group’s expectations.

by the most important currencies of NLB Group.

31 Dec 2022

Currency

EUR

RSD

MKD

Other

31 Dec 2021

Currency

EUR

RSD

MKD

Other

31 Dec 2022

Currency

EUR

Other

31 Dec 2021

Currency

EUR

Other

1 - 3 years

(2,061,940)

338,852

192,033

(131,316)

1 - 3 years

(2,404,620)

203,340

141,261

(32,296)

in EUR thousands

NLB Group

5 - 10 years

Over 10 Years

1,389,104

52,070

17,792

52,832

667,013

2

10,070

6,652

3 - 5 years

1,461,068

213,972

13,086

73,414

NLB Group

3 - 5 years

5 - 10 years

Over 10 Years

in EUR thousands

1,211,248

341,214

21,960

124,132

1,573,325

62,458

13,835

66,726

446,585

1,912

9,378

3,234

NLB

in EUR thousands

1 - 3 years

(1,871,890)

(81,512)

3 - 5 years

5 - 10 years

Over 10 Years

1,050,116

29,436

1,023,946

395

550,833

7,189

NLB

in EUR thousands

1 - 3 years

(1,803,603)

1,626

3 - 5 years

5 - 10 years

Over 10 Years

815,356

32,325

1,203,636

1,242

389,570

6,627

b) Net interest income sensitivity analysis and an economic 

The assessment of the impact of a change in interest rates of 

view of interest rate risk in the banking book 

50/100 basis points on the amount of net interest income of the 

The analysis of interest income sensitivity for the horizon of the 

banking book position:

next 12 months assumes a sudden parallel interest rate shock 

down by 50 basis points or 100 basis points. The analysis 

assumes that the positions used remain unchanged.

Net interest income sensitivity

Net interest income sensitivity - as % of Equity

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

43,713

2.02%

18,520

0.94%

21,393

1.48%

6,668

0.49%

The values in the table are calculated on short-term interest 

economic value of financial instruments. The EVE represents 

rate gaps, where the applied parallel interest rate shock down 

the present value of net future cash flows and provides 

by 50/100 basis points represents a realistic and practical 

a comprehensive view of the possible long-term effects of 

scenario. The calculations of the sensitivity of net interest 

changing interest rates at least under the six prescribed 

income are implemented in technological support.

standardised interest rate shock scenarios or more if necessary, 

according to the situation on financial markets. Calculations are 

The ‘EVE’ (Economic Value of Equity) method is a measure 

considering behavioural and automatic options, as well as the 

of the sensitivity of changes in market interest rates on the 

allocation of non-maturing deposits.

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The assessment of the impact of a change in interest rates of 200 basis points on the economic value of the banking book position:

in EUR thousands

Interest risk in banking book - EVE

Interest risk in banking book - EVE as % of Equity

NLB Group

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

122,276

5.60%

126,651

6.42%

82,714

5.72%

84,130

6.14%

The applied sudden parallel interest rate shock up is by 200 basis 

points, which represents a “worst case” scenario for NLB Group. 

The calculation takes into the account allocation of the core part 

of non-maturing deposits and other behavioural assumptions.

In the risk identification process, first the reasons for the 

Risk tolerance for liquidity risk is low, therefore NLB Group must 

realisation of each identified material risk are analysed and 

be able to provide sufficient funds for settling its liabilities at all 

grouped together in short risk descriptions. Material risks are 

times, even if a specific stress scenario is realised. NLB Group 

then classified into three groups based on what part of liquidity 

measures and manages its liquidity in two stages:

Exposure to the interest rate risk of the banking book mainly 

arises from investments in long-term debt securities and 

loans with fixed interest rate, as well as from transformation of 

term to sight deposits due to a low interest rate environment. 

Long-term interest positions of other members in NLB Group, 

which present a majority of their exposure to interest-rate risk 

(an economic point of view), mainly arise from a portfolio of 
mortgage loans with a fixed interest rate.

6.3. Liquidity risk 

is affected by the realisation of the material risks: liabilities 

•  Static view (current exposure),

side, assets side, intraday liquidity risk. The origin of each risk 

•  Forward-looking and stress-testing. 

is determined as being internal, external, or a combination of 

internal and external (internal shock, meaning it originates 

The objectives of monitoring and managing liquidity risk in NLB 

within the bank, or external shock; meaning it comes from 

Group are as follows: 

outside the bank - e.g., a major macroeconomic event, physical 

•  ensuring a sufficient amount of liquidity for the settlement of 

or transition event, ESG rating downgrade). Based on the 

all NLB Group’s liabilities;

identified material risks, key liquidity risk drivers are defined. 

•  minimising the costs of maintaining liquidity;

Based on the identified material risks, key liquidity risk drivers 

•  determining an adequate amount of counterbalancing 

are defined. Key risk drivers of the liquidity position are factors 

capacity and optimal liquidity management;

that are expected to trigger a substantial deterioration of the 

•  ensuring adequate control environment;

Group’s liquidity position. This deterioration may take place in 

•  ensuring an appropriate level of liquidity for different 

Liquidity risk is the risk of the NLB Group being unable to fulfil 

the form of an increase in outflows, a decrease in inflows or a 

situations and stress scenarios; 

current or future expected and unexpected cash requirements, 

decrease in the liquidity value of the counterbalancing capacity.

•  anticipating emergencies or crisis conditions, and 

across all time horizons. The risk may stem from the reduction in 

implementing contingency plans in the event of extraordinary 

funding sources or a reduction in the liquidity of certain assets.

Liquidity risk is defined as an important risk type for NLB Group, 

circumstances;

and one which must be managed carefully. NLB Group has 

•  ensuring regular projections of future cash flows and stress-

Liquidity risk is related to funding liquidity risk (the NLB 

a liquidity risk management framework in place that enables 

testing of liquidity risk;

Group’s liquidity on the liabilities-side) and market liquidity 

maintaining a low risk tolerance for liquidity risk. NLB Group 

•  preparing proposals for establishing additional financial 

risk (counterbalancing capacity on the assets-side). On the 

formulated a set of liquidity risk metrics and limits to manage 

assets as collateral for sources of funding;

liabilities-side, liquidity risk can result in a loss if the Bank is 

liquidity position within the requirements set by the regulator. 

•  to ensure that climate-related and environmental risks which 

unable to settle all its liabilities or when the Bank, because of its 

By maintaining a smooth long-term maturity profile, limiting 

could have a material impact on net cash outflows or liquidity 

incapacity to provide sufficient funds to settle its obligations, is 

dependence on wholesale funding, and holding a solid liquidity 

reserves, are incorporate into liquidity risk management and 

forced to raise the necessary funds at a cost which significantly 

reserve, the NLB Group maintains a sound and robust liquidity 

liquidity reserves calibration.

exceeds the normal cost. On the assets-side, the liquidity risk 

position, even under severely adverse conditions.

is related to the market value of counterbalancing capacity 

Overall assessment of the liquidity position of NLB Group is 

and arises in case of significant reduction of market value of 

The Management Board approves the Liquidity Risk 

assessed in the Internal Liquidity Adequacy Assessment Process 

an individual financial instrument and may result in insufficient 

Management Policy, which outlines the key principles for the 

(ILAAP) at least once per year for NLB Group, and it includes a 

value of counterbalancing capacity to cover the NLB Group’s 

Bank’s liquidity management. ALCO receives a regular report 

clear formal statement on liquidity adequacy, supported by an 

liquidity needs.

on the liquidity position and the performance against approved 

analysis of ILAAP outcomes. The ILAAP process is integral to risk 

Intraday liquidity risk is the capacity required during the 

Bank’s funding and liquidity position and decides on liquidity 

appetite which is consistent with the business model and approved 

business day to enable financial institutions to make payments 

risk-related issues in NLB Group.

by the management board. Based on the Risk Appetite, the NLB 

limits and targets. ALCO oversees the development of the 

management frameworks and is aligned with the NLB Group’s risk 

and settle obligations.

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Group prepares a business plan and financial forecasts which are 

given to the fulfilment of the liquidity regulation (CRR/CRD), 

liquidity risk management in NLB Group Risk Management 

crucial for defining internal capital needs (ICAAP process) and 

with monitoring and reporting of the liquidity coverage ratio 

Standards. Each Group member is responsible for ensuring 

internal liquidity assessment (ILAAP process). Both processes are 

(LCR) according to the Delegated Act and net stable funding 

adequate liquidity via the necessary sources of funding 

conducted from the normative and economic perspectives and 

ratio (NSFR). This also includes monitoring and reporting 

and their appropriate diversification and maturity, and by 

supplemented by the stress-testing programme. 

of Additional Liquidity Monitoring Metrics (ALMM) on solo 

managing liquidity reserves and fulfilling the requirements of 

and consolidated levels. In accordance with the Commission 

regulations governing liquidity. The exposure of an individual 

NLB Group performs stress tests on a regular basis for a 

Implementing Regulation (EU), NLB Group regularly monitors 

NLB Group member towards liquidity risk is regularly monitored 

variety of bank-specific and market-wide stress scenarios 

and issues quarterly reports on asset encumbrance. 

and reported to ALCO, and to local Assets and Liabilities 

(individually and in combination) to identify sources of potential 

Committees.

liquidity strain and to ensure that current exposures remain 

The Group manages its liquidity position (liquidity within one 

in accordance with the NLB Group’s established liquidity risk 

day) daily, for a period of several days or weeks in advance, 

tolerance. Stress test outcomes are used to adjust its liquidity 

based on the planning and monitoring of cash flows. Each NLB 

a) Managing NLB Group’s liquidity reserves
NLB Group has liquidity reserves available to cover liabilities 

risk management strategies, policies, and positions, define 

Group member is responsible for its own liquidity position and 

that fall or may become due. Liquidity reserves must become 

minimum amount of counterbalancing capacity, and to develop 

carries out the following activities:

effective contingency plans.

•  managing intraday liquidity; 

•  planning and monitoring cash flows;

available on short notice. Liquidity reserves are comprised of 

cash, the settlement account at the central bank above reserve 

requirement, debt securities, and loans eligible as collateral for 

NLB Group has a formal liquidity contingency plan (LCP) 

•  monitoring and complying with the liquidity regulations of the 

the Eurosystem’s liquidity providing operations on the basis of 

that clearly sets out the procedures for addressing liquidity 

central bank; 

shortfalls in stressed situations. The plan outlines procedures 

•  adopting business decisions; 

which the Bank may generate the requisite liquidity at any time. 

The available liquidity reserves are liquidity reserves decreased 

to manage a range of stress environments, establish clear 

•  forming and managing liquidity reserves; and 

by the required balances for the continuous performance of 

lines of responsibility, include clear invocation and escalation 

•  performing liquidity stress test to define the liquidity reserves 

payment transactions, encumbered securities, and/or credit 

procedures, and is regularly tested and updated to ensure that 

for smooth functioning of the payment system in stressed 

claims for different purposes (secured funding).

it is operationally robust.

circumstances. 

NLB Group maintains a sufficient amount of liquidity reserves 

NLB Group members actively manage liquidity over the course 

the basis of the methodology pertaining to liquidity risk stress 

in the form of high credit quality debt securities that are eligible 

of a day, taking into account the characteristics of payment 

tests. The amount represents a sum of liquidity reserves that 

for refinancing via the ECB/central bank or on the market. 

settlements to ensure the timely settlement of liabilities in 

would enable the survival of a severe stress over a period of 

In the current situation, NLB Group also strives to follow as 

normal and stressed circumstances.

closely as possible the long-term trend of diversification on 

one month in a combined stress scenario and comprises high 

quality liquid assets according to LCR methodology, specified 

both the liability and asset sides of the balance sheet. NLB 

Liquidity risk management in NLB Group is under strict 

in Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2015/61 and the later 

The minimum amount of liquidity reserves is determined on 

Group regularly performs stress tests with the aim of testing 

monitoring by NLB as a parent bank. Reporting to NLB by all 

amendments.

the liquidity stability and the availability of liquidity reserves 

Group members is performed daily. Global Risk gives guidelines 

in various stress situations. In addition, special attention is 

and defines minimal standards for Group members regarding 

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The structure of liquidity reserves is shown in the following table.

Liquidity reserves

Cash, cash balances at central banks* 

Trading book securities

Banking book securities

ECB eligible loans

Total available liquidity reserves

Encumbered liquidity reserves

*above reserve requirement

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

3,918,043

203

4,665,913

624,278

9,208,437

125,556

3,567,873

-

4,615,374

80,043

8,263,290

874,827

3,180,523

203

2,831,685

624,278

6,636,689

57,041

3,068,123

-

2,479,952

80,043

5,628,118

874,827

As at 31 December 2022, 81.0% (31 December 2021: 79.8%) 

The ECB-eligible credit claims comprise loans which fulfil the 

of debt securities in the banking book of NLB Group were 

high eligibility criteria set by the ECB itself and for domestic 

government securities (including government guaranteed 

loans are specified in the general terms about execution of 

bonds – GGB), and 9.1% (31 December 2021: 10.0%) were senior 

monetary policy framework (Part 4) adopted by the Bank of 

unsecured bonds. 

Slovenia. NLB is the only member of NLB Group that complies 

with the conditions set by the Eurosystem to classify as an 

The purpose of banking book securities is to provide liquidity, 

eligible counterparty. As such, these ECB credit claims are 

along with stabilisation of the interest margin and the interest 

included among liquidity reserves. 

rate risk management, simultaneously. When managing the 

portfolio, NLB Group uses conservative principles, particularly 

Members of NLB Group manage their liquid assets on a 

with respect to the portfolio’s structure in terms of issuers’ 

decentralised basis in compliance with the local liquidity 

ratings and asset class. The framework for managing the 

regulation and valid policies of NLB Group.

banking book securities is the Policy for managing debt 

securities in the Financial Markets’ banking book and the Policy 

for Managing Domestic (Slovenian) Corporate Debt Securities 

in Large Corporates, which clearly define the objectives and 

characteristics of the associated portfolio.

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b) Encumbered/unencumbered assets 

31 Dec 2022

Loans on demand

Equity instruments

Debt securities

Loans and advances 
other than loans 
on demand

Other assets

Total

31 Dec 2021

Loans on demand

Equity instruments

Debt securities

Loans and advances 
other than loans 
on demand

Other assets

Total

Carrying amount 
of encumbered 
assets

Fair value 
of encumbered 
securities

Carrying amount 
of unencumbered 
assets

Fair value 
of unencumbered 
securities

Carrying amount 
of encumbered 
assets

Fair value 
of encumbered 
ecurities

Carrying amount 
of unencumbered 
assets

Fair value 
of unencumbered 
securities

NLB Group

NLB

 in EUR thousands

1,109,016

742

77,522

27,000

-

1,214,280

-

742

74,992

-

-

NLB Group

3,673,152

95,580

4,682,208

13,446,808

1,048,212

22,945,960

-

95,580

4,516,292

-

-

112,804

-

57,041

11,413

-

181,258

-

-

54,510

-

-

NLB

3,045,737

50,303

2,831,887

6,515,916

1,314,232

13,758,075

-

50,303

2,679,423

-

-

in EUR thousands

Carrying amount 
of encumbered 
assets

Fair value 
of encumbered 
securities

Carrying amount 
of unencumbered 
assets

Fair value 
of unencumbered 
securities

Carrying amount 
of encumbered 
assets

Fair value 
of encumbered 
ecurities

Carrying amount 
of unencumbered 
assets

Fair value 
of unencumbered 
securities

1,083,713

780

454,939

471,556

-

2,010,988

-

780

455,631

-

-

3,411,743

82,719

4,662,209

10,378,477

1,031,360

19,566,508

-

82,719

4,689,116

-

-

101,854

-

497,515

464,027

-

1,063,396

-

-

500,328

-

-

2,970,538

49,181

2,479,951

4,980,705

1,155,761

11,636,136

-

49,181

2,501,899

-

-

c) Collateral received – unencumbered
The nominal amount of collateral received, or own debt securities issued not available for encumbrance are shown in the table below:

Equity instruments

Loans and advances other 
than loans on demand

Other assets

Total

NLB Group

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

262,947

167,431

12,876,402

13,306,780

242,682

140,751

9,839,848

10,223,281

in EUR thousands

NLB

31 Dec 2021

203,620

20,245

4,120,940

4,344,805

31 Dec 2022

239,405

16,867

4,721,729

4,978,001

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d) Source of encumbrance

NLB Group

NLB

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

Collateralised 
liability

Assets given 
as collateral

Collateralised 
liability

Assets given 
as collateral

Collateralised 
liability

Assets given 
as collateral

Collateralised 
liability

Assets given 
as collateral

3,238

62,755

13,753

65,048

42,292

746,021

53,744

835,066

9,607

13,001

20,051

12,971

42,292

790,505

2,901

1,135,479

3,698

1,122,179

-

148,235

-

53,744

877,641

132,010

68,894

1,214,280

792,011

2,010,989

22,608

181,257

832,797

1,063,395

in EUR thousands

Derivatives 

Deposits

Other sources of 
encumbrance

Total

As at 31 December 2022, NLB Group and NLB had a large 

(31 December 2021: EUR 2,011 million), relating to the deposit 

share of unencumbered assets. Other sources of encumbrance 

guarantee scheme and to targeted longer-term refinancing 

mostly relate to the obligatory reserve. On the NLB Group level, 

operations (TLTRO) which is held only by the N Banka.

the amount of encumbered assets equalled EUR 1,214 million 

e) Non-derivative cash flows
The tables below illustrate the cash flows from non-derivative 

year. The amounts disclosed in the table are the undiscounted 

contractual cash flows determined on the basis of spot rates at 

financial instruments by residual maturities at the end of the 

the end of the reporting period. 

in EUR thousands

31 Dec 2022

Financial liabilities and credit-
related commitments

Financial liabilities measured at fair 
value through profit or loss

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- borrowings from other customers

- debt securities issued

- other financial liabilities

Credit risk related commitments

Non-financial guarantees

Total 

Total financial assets

85,924

1,386

17,972,715

651

-

200,302

1,025,323

238,213

19,524,514

6,989,609

Up to 
1 Month

1 Month to 
3 Months

3 Months to 
1 Year

1 Year to 
5 Years

Over 
5 Years

NLB Group

-

-

-

1,796

Total

1,796

106,787

201,625

20,069,028

85,495

1,176,970

294,463

3,090,681

862,779

-

-

63,074

17,148

41,846

646,795

1,382

438,012

80,271

101

2,067

301,188

1,413

4,427

8,979

191,162

65,243

164

5,809

958,293

6,247

52,572

22,610

863,679

155,752

20,598

129,289

819,684

35,338

473,176

61,190

572,505

323,300

574,580

985,475

2,065,126

3,601,095

2,436,876

8,665,468

1,288,528

5,776,769

25,889,624

26,018,416

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31 Dec 2021

Financial liabilities and credit-
related commitments

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

Up to 
1 Month

1 Month to 
3 Months

3 Months to 
1 Year

1 Year to 
5 Years

Over 
5 Years

Total

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

56,073

954

173

480

- due to customers

15,772,513

270,238

- borrowings from other customers

- debt securities issued

- other financial liabilities

Credit risk related commitments

Non-financial guarantees

Total 

Total financial assets

614

-

120,694

578,233

30,426

16,559,507

6,179,369

1,929

4,427

11,678

166,473

72,983

528,381

820,022

15,448

99,842

743,774

29,554

41,400

55,321

470,308

342,426

1,798,073

8,110,038

684

748,496

859,204

6,824

6,803

17,866

838,890

195,917

2,674,684

2,704,322

NLB

-

6,048

22,543

40,862

318,201

1,319

407,499

61,349

857,821

72,378

855,820

17,668,272

79,783

370,831

206,878

2,461,403

703,101

22,418,466

5,031,994

22,845,745

in EUR thousands

Up to 
1 Month

1 Month to 
3 Months

3 Months to 
1 Year

1 Year to 
5 Years

Over 
5 Years

Total

31 Dec 2022

Financial liabilities and credit-
related commitments

Financial liabilities measured at fair 
value through profit or loss

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- borrowings from other customers

- debt securities issued

- other financial liabilities

Credit risk related commitments

Non-financial guarantees

Total

Total financial assets

31 Dec 2021

Financial liabilities and credit-
related commitments

Financial liabilities measured at fair 
value through profit or loss

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- borrowings from other customers

- debt securities issued

- other financial liabilities

Credit risk related commitments

Non-financial guarantees

Total

Total financial assets

728

1,786

2,514

4,643,031

3,344,409

13,996,664

in EUR thousands

Up to 
1 Month

1 Month to 
3 Months

3 Months to 
1 Year

1 Year to 
5 Years

Over 
5 Years

119,935

208,066

-

193,526

13,086

10,604,437

1

-

122,875

536,542

23,682

11,494,149

4,036,868

-

-

681

60,516

-

4,427

4,891

140,256

52,473

263,244

402,218

-

-

-

-

52,572

6,494

618,940

106,608

904,549

1,570,138

NLB

-

94,326

44,569

9,303,784

-

-

71,942

503,492

16,714

10,034,827

3,678,758

-

-

-

65,745

-

4,427

4,041

96,524

45,786

216,523

308,197

-

-

742,584

125,834

-

6,803

616

451,614

100,102

1,427,553

1,061,588

19,441

45,052

215

473,176

29,915

396,200

243,618

1,416,411

352

15,197

82,882

158,637

406

41,400

25,501

280,201

240,761

845,337

-

-

3,417

-

646,795

392

293,261

36,424

-

212,967

58,819

10,996,371

216

1,176,970

164,567

1,985,199

462,805

982,075

15,060,428

Total

352

109,523

870,035

406

370,831

102,527

1,552,411

437,166

13,105,957

12,480,103

-

-

-

-

318,201

427

220,580

33,803

581,717

8,706

9,662,706

4,150,714

3,280,846

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When determining the gap between the financial liabilities and 

and based on its approach to risk, in previous years NLB 

financial assets in the maturity bucket of up to one month, it is 

Group compiled a substantial amount of high-quality liquid 

necessary to be aware of the fact that financial liabilities include 

investments, mostly government securities and selected loans, 

total demand deposits, and that NLB may apply a stability 

which are accepted as adequate financial assets by the ECB. 

weight of 60% to demand deposits when ensuring compliance 

with the central bank’s regulations concerning calculation of 

Liabilities and credit-related commitments are included in 

the liquidity position. To ensure NLB Group’s and NLB’s liquidity, 

maturity buckets based on their residual contractual maturity.

f) An analysis of the statement of financial position by residual contractual maturity 

31 Dec 2022

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and 
other demand deposits at banks

Financial assets held for trading

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily 
at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- debt securities

- loans and advances to banks

- loans and advances to customers

- other financial assets

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Fair value changes of hedged items in 
portfolio hedge of interest rate risk

Non-current assets held for sale

Property and equipment

Investment property

Intangible assets

Investments in associates and joint ventures

Current income tax assets

Deferred income tax assets

Other assets

Total assets

Financial liabilities held for trading

Financial liabilities measured at fair 
value through profit or loss

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- borrowings from other customers

- debt securities issued

- other financial liabilities

- lease liabilities

Provisions

Current income tax liabilities

Deferred income tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

Up to 
1 Month

1 Month to 
3 Months

3 Months to 
1 Year

1 Year to 
5 Years

Over 
5 Years

5,271,365

21,385

6,028

-

203

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

13,003

Total

5,271,365

21,588

19,031

581,522

167,836

365,650

1,525,431

278,764

2,919,203

20,627

216,239

589,494

145,171

59,362

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

90,756

752

208,048

4,460

602,256

2,650,299

5,804

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

3,100

-

(166)

15,436

-

-

-

-

1,696

4,610

14,012

927,083

1,512

5,110,381

23,699

-

671,101

2

1,917,615

222,965

4,120,556

13,072,986

49

-

177,823

59,362

(2,770)

(20,831)

(23,767)

-

29,482

31,399

13,797

-

-

35,781

36,129

-

221,834

4,240

44,438

11,677

-

15,136

170

15,436

251,316

35,639

58,235

11,677

1,696

55,527

72,543

13,618

6,924,811

8,614

876,221

3,267,145

7,731,924

5,360,139

24,160,240

21,589

-

2,124

85,864

1,334

-

-

-

-

-

-

101

1,807

164

5,551

17,971,630

298,609

943,776

616

-

196,862

3,440

15,173

3,610

-

30,797

1,335

3,689

8,548

431

1,434

506

-

1,311

5,667

12,198

19,697

2,913

30,812

8,304

-

2,788

-

1,796

-

20,285

126,867

797,893

33,086

299,026

44,890

16,300

73,879

-

2,569

10,409

-

-

-

-

63,050

15,818

41,778

501,077

626

756

1,354

-

-

3,776

21,589

1,796

2,124

106,414

198,609

20,027,726

82,482

815,990

270,623

23,840

122,652

12,420

2,569

49,081

18,333,039

317,771

1,031,870

1,427,000

628,235

21,737,915

Credit risk related commitments

Non-financial guarantees

1,025,323

238,213

191,162

65,243

863,679

155,752

572,505

323,300

438,012

80,271

3,090,681

862,779

Total liabilities and credit-related commitments

19,596,575

574,176

2,051,301

2,322,805

1,146,518

25,691,375

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299

  
31 Dec 2021

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and 
other demand deposits at banks

Financial assets held for trading

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily 
at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- debt securities

- loans and advances to banks

- loans and advances to customers

- other financial assets

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Fair value changes of hedged items in 
portfolio hedge of interest rate risk

Non-current assets held for sale

Property and equipment

Investment property

Intangible assets

Investments in associates and joint ventures

Current income tax assets

Deferred income tax assets

Other assets

Total assets

Financial liabilities held for trading

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- borrowings from other customers

- debt securities issued

- other financial liabilities

- lease liabilities

Provisions

Current income tax liabilities

Deferred income tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

Up to 
1 Month

1 Month to 
3 Months

3 Months to 
1 Year

1 Year to 
5 Years

Over 
5 Years

5,005,052

7,678

6,739

-

-

-

-

-

921

-

-

-

-

3,340

10,161

Total

5,005,052

7,678

21,161

401,080

163,233

400,588

1,888,222

608,737

3,461,860

38,317

119,930

466,930

92,505

568

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

19,107

16,827

547,238

3,309

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

23,983

9,655

124,948

2,374

783,028

1,552

752,226

-

1,717,626

140,683

1,912,038

4,519,726

3,141,189

10,587,121

773

25,538

-

-

7,051

-

-

-

-

3,948

620

19,859

-

1,330

-

89,813

43,693

29,259

-

-

31,934

37,563

104

-

5,752

-

157,201

3,931

29,817

11,525

-

6,423

161

122,229

568

7,082

7,051

247,014

47,624

59,076

11,525

3,948

38,977

91,221

6,162,782

759,369

2,473,120

7,454,998

4,727,227

21,577,496

7,585

35,377

56,053

889

-

-

-

442

15,771,461

268,484

535

-

120,182

512

7,314

2,722

-

36,495

1,770

3,689

10,655

1,023

1,183

3,156

-

748

-

-

521

751,773

852,576

6,186

1,759

13,817

4,049

39,914

-

-

5,749

-

-

15,254

99,418

727,308

27,074

-

37,643

17,678

69,863

-

3,045

4,867

-

-

-

6,009

20,980

38,486

283,071

257

1,062

1,130

-

-

1,609

7,585

35,377

71,828

858,531

17,640,809

74,051

288,519

182,554

24,324

119,404

5,878

3,045

49,468

16,039,125

291,150

1,676,344

1,002,150

352,604

19,361,373

Credit risk related commitments

Non-financial guarantees

578,233

30,426

166,473

72,983

838,890

195,917

470,308

342,426

407,499

2,461,403

61,349

703,101

Total liabilities and credit-related commitments

16,647,784

530,606

2,711,151

1,814,884

821,452

22,525,877

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300

  
 
31 Dec 2022

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and 
other demand deposits at banks

Financial assets held for trading

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily 
at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- debt securities

- loans and advances to banks

- loans and advances to customers

- other financial assets

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Fair value changes of hedged items in 
portfolio hedge of interest rate risk

Non-current assets held for sale

Property and equipment

Investment property

Intangible assets

Investments in subsidiaries, 
associates and joint ventures

Deferred income tax assets

Other assets

Total assets

Financial liabilities held for trading

Financial liabilities measured at fair 
value through profit or loss

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- borrowings from other customers

- debt securities issued

- other financial liabilities

- lease liabilities

Provisions

Current income tax liabilities

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

NLB

in EUR thousands

Up to 
1 Month

1 Month to 
3 Months

3 Months to 
1 Year

1 Year to 
5 Years

Over 
5 Years

3,339,024

21,489

552

-

203

80

-

-

-

-

-

-

143

6,806

7,830

Total

3,339,024

21,692

15,411

65,845

103,900

203,422

792,812

168,082

1,334,061

20,601

112,181

315,265

90,598

59,362

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

417

28,445

55,033

131,802

34,255

790,360

76,880

626,240

72,276

1,597,448

350,625

185,007

1,043,235

2,417,414

2,093,492

6,054,413

375

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

89

-

(166)

4,235

-

-

-

7,663

-

5,494

23,320

-

17

-

114,399

59,362

(2,770)

(20,831)

(23,767)

-

15,054

6,753

5,661

-

63,538

-

24,764

4,235

78,592

6,753

30,425

36,865

864,083

908,611

34,888

7,250

-

-

34,888

13,161

4,025,334

373,043

1,430,172

4,211,293

3,899,491

13,939,333

22,150

-

2,124

193,526

13,086

10,604,203

1

-

122,793

82

360

-

14,496

-

-

-

-

517

59,717

-

3,689

4,736

155

756

-

181

-

-

-

-

-

116,014

-

12,198

5,830

664

16,665

3,940

1,052

10,972,821

69,751

156,363

-

728

-

19,130

43,689

201,162

215

-

1,786

-

-

-

22,150

2,514

2,124

212,656

57,292

3,315

10,984,411

-

216

299,026

501,077

815,990

27,859

2,056

27,435

-

5,922

627,222

-

392

-

-

3,736

161,218

3,349

45,216

3,940

25,387

510,306

12,336,463

Credit risk related commitments

Non-financial guarantees

536,542

23,682

140,256

52,473

618,940

106,608

396,200

243,618

293,261

36,424

1,985,199

462,805

Total liabilities and credit-related commitments

11,533,045

262,480

881,911

1,267,040

839,991

14,784,467

Investments in subsidiaries with expected residual maturity 
between 3 months and 1 year include investment in N Banka 

in the amount 5,109 EUR thousands, which is expected to be 
merged with NLB during the year 2023.

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31 Dec 2021

Cash, cash balances at central banks, and 
other demand deposits at banks

Financial assets held for trading

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily 
at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- debt securities

- loans and advances to banks

- loans and advances to customers

- other financial assets

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Fair value changes of hedged items in 
portfolio hedge of interest rate risk

Non-current assets held for sale

Property and equipment

Investment property

Intangible assets

Investments in subsidiaries, 
associates and joint ventures

Current income tax assets

Deferred income tax assets

Other assets

Total assets

Financial liabilities held for trading

Financial liabilities measured at fair 
value through profit or loss

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- borrowings from other customers

- debt securities issued

- other financial liabilities

- lease liabilities

Provisions

Other liabilities

Total liabilities

NLB

in EUR thousands

Up to 
1 Month

1 Month to 
3 Months

3 Months to 
1 Year

1 Year to 
5 Years

Over 
5 Years

3,250,437

7,682

614

-

-

29

-

-

-

-

-

-

306

6,939

4,472

Total

3,250,437

7,682

12,360

24,773

57,473

141,428

918,421

443,656

1,585,751

2,825

916

317,315

66,454

568

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

6,984

18,182

40,463

171,605

658

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

90,276

50,129

676,938

3,100

-

-

4,089

-

-

-

24,282

3,761

-

4,869

608,223

32,066

716,918

75,713

2,183,239

1,796,056

1,436,424

199,287

5,145,153

92,404

568

7,082

4,089

86,122

9,181

29,453

-

-

5,752

-

66,818

-

15,198

723,757

786,023

-

-

-

3,761

31,902

11,853

22,192

-

1,330

-

19,304

9,181

14,255

37,984

-

31,902

-

3,678,568

288,410

999,178

3,885,036

3,848,340

12,699,532

7,602

-

35,377

94,326

44,569

9,303,755

-

-

71,866

76

544

14,216

-

-

-

-

-

65,612

-

3,689

3,895

146

672

166

-

-

-

-

746,028

125,287

-

1,759

2

614

18,501

1,442

-

352

-

15,003

82,882

156,322

406

-

23,495

2,006

29,646

3,683

-

-

-

-

-

7,602

352

35,377

109,329

873,479

8,629

9,659,605

-

283,071

13

414

-

1,532

406

288,519

99,271

3,256

49,363

21,039

9,572,331

74,180

893,633

313,795

293,659

11,147,598

Credit risk related commitments

Non-financial guarantees

503,492

16,714

96,524

45,786

451,614

100,102

280,201

240,761

220,580

33,803

1,552,411

437,166

Total liabilities and credit-related commitments

10,092,537

216,490

1,445,349

834,757

548,042

13,137,175

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g) Derivative cash flows
The table below illustrates cash flows from derivatives, 

contractual undiscounted cash flows prepared on the basis of 

broken down into the relevant maturity buckets based on 

spot rates on the reporting date. 

residual maturities. The amounts disclosed in the table are the 

31 Dec 2022

Foreign exchange derivatives

- Forwards

- Outflow

- Inflow

- Swaps

- Outflow

- Inflow

Interest rate derivatives

- Interest rate swaps and cross-currency swaps

- Outflow

- Inflow

- Caps and floors

- Outflow

- Inflow

Total outflow

Total inflow

31 Dec 2021

Foreign exchange derivatives

- Forwards

- Outflow

- Inflow

- Swaps

- Outflow

- Inflow

Interest rate derivatives

- Interest rate swaps and cross-currency swaps

- Outflow

- Inflow

- Caps and floors

- Outflow

- Inflow

Total outflow

Total inflow

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

Up to 
1 Month

1 Month to 
3 Months

3 Months  to 
1 Year

1 Year to 
5 Years

Over 
5 Years

Total

(31,846)

31,895

(194,674)

193,719

(819)

816

(14)

45

(22,128)

22,136

(52,726)

53,098

(2,100)

2,560

(36)

30

(5,856)

5,863

(10,042)

9,996

(6,475)

6,487

-

-

-

-

-

-

(10,699)

19,982

(105,839)

76,356

(667)

850

(16,104)

1,468

(24,177)

44,616

(8,632)

15

(66,305)

66,381

(257,442)

256,813

(143,634)

144,330

(25,453)

2,408

(227,353)

226,475

(76,990)

77,824

(27,264)

36,691

(128,418)

(32,809)

(492,834)

84,311

44,631

469,932

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

Up to 
1 Month

1 Month to 
3 Months

3 Months  to 
1 Year

1 Year to 
5 Years

Over 
5 Years

Total

(26,202)

26,214

(96,742)

96,483

(1,116)

34

-

-

(10,460)

10,465

(2,362)

2,364

(16,853)

16,865

(17,335)

17,346

(12,180)

12,199

-

-

-

-

-

-

(65,695)

65,743

(116,439)

116,193

(2,107)

237

(10,153)

3,321

(26,901)

7,179

(12,053)

7,287

(52,330)

18,058

-

-

(1)

2

(51)

52

-

-

(52)

54

(124,060)

122,731

(14,929)

13,066

(44,342)

37,534

(39,132)

19,430

(12,053)

7,287

(234,516)

200,048

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31 Dec 2022

Foreign exchange derivatives

- Forwards

- Outflow

- Inflow

- Swaps

- Outflow

- Inflow

Interest rate derivatives

- Interest rate swaps and cross-currency swaps

- Outflow

- Inflow

- Caps and floors

- Outflow

- Inflow

Total outflow

Total inflow

31 Dec 2021

Foreign exchange derivatives

- Forwards

- Outflow

- Inflow

- Swaps

- Outflow

- Inflow

Interest rate derivatives

- Interest rate swaps and cross-currency swaps

- Outflow

- Inflow

- Caps and floors

- Outflow

- Inflow

Total outflow

Total inflow

NLB

in EUR thousands

Up to 
1 Month

1 Month to 
3 Months

3 Months  to 
1 Year

1 Year to 
5 Years

Over 
5 Years

Total

(31,557)

31,618

(22,128)

22,136

(5,856)

5,863

(6,475)

6,487

(249,950)

248,993

(110,588)

110,595

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(66,016)

66,104

(360,538)

359,588

(844)

819

(50)

45

(2,027)

2,567

(55)

30

(12,366)

20,349

(919)

850

(41,180)

77,243

(1,824)

1,468

(22,621)

44,616

(79,038)

145,594

(41)

15

(2,889)

2,408

(282,401)

281,475

(134,798)

135,328

(19,141)

27,062

(49,479)

85,198

(22,662)

44,631

(508,481)

573,694

NLB

in EUR thousands

Up to 
1 Month

1 Month to 
3 Months

3 Months  to 
1 Year

1 Year to 
5 Years

Over 
5 Years

Total

(24,891)

24,902

(102,036)

101,772

(10,460)

10,465

(6,875)

6,864

(16,853)

16,865

(17,335)

17,346

(12,180)

12,199

-

-

-

-

-

-

(64,384)

64,431

(126,246)

125,982

(1,116)

34

-

-

(2,107)

237

(10,153)

3,321

(26,901)

7,179

(12,053)

7,287

(52,330)

18,058

-

-

(1)

2

(51)

52

-

-

(52)

54

(128,043)

126,708

(19,442)

17,566

(44,342)

37,534

(39,132)

19,430

(12,053)

7,287

(243,012)

208,525

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6.4.  Management of  

non-financial risks

a) Operational risk 
When assuming operational risks, NLB Group follows the 

guideline that such risks may not materially impact its 

operations and, therefore, the risk appetite for operational risks 

is low to moderate. The risk is also gradually decreasing due 

to the reduced complexity of operations in NLB Group, with 

disinvestment process of non-core activities and optimisation of 

internal processes. NLB Group has set up a system of collecting 

loss events, identification, assessment, and management 

of operational risks, all with the aim of ensuring quality 

management of operational risks. This is particularly valid in 

strategic banking members.

All NLB Group banking members monitor risk appetite limits 

for operational risk. The upper tolerance limit is defined as the 

limit amount of net loss that an individual member still allows 

in its operations. If the sum of net loss exceeds the tolerance 

limit, a special treatment of major loss events is required and, 

if necessary, takes additional measures for the prevention or 

mitigation of the same or similar loss events are taken. The 

warning and critical limit of loss events are also defined, which in 

case of exceeding require escalation procedures an acceptance 

of possible additional risk management measures. In addition, 

the Bank does not allow certain risks in its business – for them 

a so-called ‘zero tolerance’ was defined. For monitoring some 

specific more important key risk indicators that could show a 

possible increase of an operational risk, the Bank developed a 

specific methodology as an early warning system. Such risks 

are periodically monitored in different business areas, and the 

results are discussed at the Operational Risk Committee. The 

latter was named as the highest decision-making authority in 

the area of operational risk management. Relevant operational 

risk committees were also appointed at other NLB Group banks. 

The Management Board serves in this role at other subsidiaries. 

The main task of the aforementioned bodies is to discuss 
the most significant operational risks and loss events, and to 

monitor and support the effective management of operational 

risks including their mitigation within an individual entity. All NLB 

Group entities, which are included in the consolidation, have 

adopted relevant documents that are in line with NLB Group 

standards. In banking members, these documents are in line 

with the development of operational risk management and 

regularly updated. The whole NLB Group uses uniform software 

support, which is also regularly upgraded.

In NLB Group, the reported incurred net loss arising from loss 

events in 2022 was significantly  lower than in the previous year 

and remained within the set tolerance limits for operational risk.

In general, considerable attention is paid to reporting loss 

The basis for modernising the business continuity plans is the 

events, their mitigation measures, and defining operational 

regular annual Business Impact Analysis (BIA). On its basis, the 

risks in all segments. To treat major loss events appropriately 

adequacy of the plans for Organizational Unit Plans (merged 

and as soon as possible, the Bank introduced an escalation 

office buildings and HR plans) and IT plans are checked. The 

scale for reporting bigger or more important loss events to 

best indicator of the adequacy of the business continuity plans 

the top levels of decision-making at NLB and the Supervisory 

is testing. In 2022, NLB tested evacuation, Manual Procedures, 

Board of NLB. Additional attention is paid to the reporting of 

backup locations and IT. No major deviations were identified.

potential loss events in order to improve the internal controls, 

and thus minimise those and similar events. Furthermore, the 

In NLB Group, know-how and methodologies are transferred 

methodology to monitor, analyse, and report key risk indicators 

to the members. The members have adopted appropriate 

is established, servicing as an early warning system. The aim is 

documents which are in line with the standards of NLB and 

to improve business and supporting processes, as well enabling 

revised in accordance with the development of business 

prompt response.

continuity management. The activity of the members is 

monitored throughout the year, and expert assistance is 

Through comprehensive identification of operational 

provided if necessary. 

risks, possible future losses are identified, estimated, and 

appropriately managed. Each year, special emphasis is 

For more efficient functioning of the business continuity 

placed on current risks as a result of risk identification 

management system in NLB Group, training courses and visits 

process, including ESG risks. For the later key risk indicators 

to individual banking members are also provided. All preventive 

(KRIs) have been also addressed for ESG risks, servicing as 

and response measures with regard to business continuity are 

an early warning system. The major operational risks are 

regularly sent to the members with the purpose to help and 

actively managed with the measures taken to reduce them. 

act in the uniform way. Besides, workshops are performed 

An operational risk profile is prepared once a year based on 

to present development of Business Continuity Management 

the operational risk identification. Special emphasis is put on 

System to all the NLB Group members to be more resilient in all 

the most topical risks, among which in particular are those 

relevant circumstances.

with a low probability of occurrence and very high potential 

financial influence. For this purpose, the Bank has developed 

With regards to IT failures, the Bank successfully used the IT 

the methodology of stress-testing for operational risk. The 

plans and instructions for manual procedures, and thus also 

methodology is a combination of modelling loss event data and 

ensured business operations in emergency situations.

scenario analysis for exceptional, but plausible events. Scenario 

analyses are made based on experience and knowledge of 

c) Management of other types of non-financial risks – 

experts from various critical areas. 

strategic risks, reputation risk, and profitability risk
Risks not included in the regulatory capital requirements 

The capital requirement for operational risk is calculated using 

(standardised approach) but have or might have an important 

the basic indicator approach at the NLB Group level and using 

influence on the risk profile of NLB Group, are regularly 

the standardised approach at the NLB level.

assessed, monitored, and managed. In addition, they are 

integrated into internal capital adequacy assessment process 

b) Business Continuity Management (BCM)
In NLB Group, business continuity management is carried out to 

(ICAAP). NLB Group established internal methodologies for 

identifying and assessing specific types of risk, referring to 

protect lives, goods, and reputation. Business continuity plans 

the Group’s business model or arising from other external 

are prepared to be used in the event of natural disasters, IT 

circumstances. If a certain risk is assessed as a materially 

disasters, epidemic/pandemic, and the undesired effects of the 

important risk, relevant disposable preventive and mitigation 

environment to mitigate their consequences. 

measures are applied, including regular monitoring of their 

effectiveness. On this basis, internal capital is considered and its 

The concept of the action plan that is prepared each year 

consumption regularly monitored.

is such that the activities contribute to the upgrading or 

improvement of the Business Continuity Management System. 

In 2022, Business Continuity Management was upgraded 

System according to external influence – we added list of all 

critical employees and their deputies for all Organizational 

Units.

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6.5.  Fair value hierarchy of financial 
and non-financial assets and 
liabilities

Fair value is the price that would be received when selling an 

asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction 

between market participants at the measurement date. NLB 

Group uses various valuation techniques to determine fair 

value. IFRS 13 specifies a fair value hierarchy with respect to the 

inputs and assumptions used to measure financial and non-

In the absence of a principal market, the most advantageous 

liability. An active market is a market in which transactions for 

market for the asset or liability must be determined. 

an asset or liability are executed with sufficient frequency and 

volume to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. 

•  Level 2 – A valuation technique where inputs are observable, 

Assets and liabilities measured at fair value in active markets 

either directly (i.e., prices) or indirectly (i.e., derived from 

are determined as the market price of a unit (e.g., share) at the 

prices). Level 2 includes prices quoted for similar assets or 

measurement date, multiplied by the quantity of units owned 

liabilities in active markets and prices quoted for identical or 

by NLB Group. The fair value of assets and liabilities whose 

similar assets, and liabilities in markets that are not active. 

market is not active is determined using valuation techniques. 

The sources of input parameters for financial instruments, 

These techniques bear a different intensity level of estimates 

such as yield curves, credit spreads, foreign exchange rates, 

and assumptions, depending on the availability of observable 

and the volatility of interest rates and foreign exchange rates, 

market inputs associated with the asset or liability that is the 

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financial assets and liabilities at fair value. Observable inputs 

is Bloomberg.

reflect market data obtained from independent sources, while 

unobservable inputs reflect the assumptions of NLB Group. This 

hierarchy gives the highest priority to observable market data 

when available, and the lowest priority to unobservable market 

data. NLB Group considers relevant and observable market 

prices in its valuations, where possible. The fair value hierarchy 

comprises the following levels: 

•  Level 1 – Quoted prices (unadjusted) on active markets. 

This level includes listed equities, debt instruments, gold, 

subject of the valuation. Unobservable inputs shall reflect the 

estimates and assumptions that other market participants 

•  Level 3 – A valuation technique where inputs are not based 

would use when pricing the asset or liability.

on observable market data. Unobservable inputs are used to 

the extent that relevant observable inputs are not available. 

For non-financial assets measured at fair value and not 

Unobservable inputs must reflect the assumptions that 

classified at Level 1, fair value is determined based on valuation 

market participants would use when pricing an asset or 

reports provided by certified valuators. Valuations are prepared 

liability. This level includes non-tradable shares and bonds, 

in accordance with the International Valuation Standards (IVS). 

and derivatives associated with these investments and 

other assets and liabilities for which fair value cannot be 

derivatives, units of investment funds, and other unadjusted 

determined with observable market inputs. 

market prices of assets and liabilities. When an asset or 

liability may be exchanged in multiple active markets, the 

Wherever possible, fair value is determined as an observable 

principal market for the asset or liability must be determined. 

market price in an active market for an identical asset or 

Contents

306

 a) Financial and non-financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value in the financial statements

31 Dec 2022

Financial assets

Financial instruments held for trading

Debt instruments

Derivatives

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Debt instruments

Equity instruments

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily 
at fair value through profit and loss

Debt instruments

Equity instruments

Loans

Financial liabilities

Financial instruments held for trading

Derivatives

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Financial liabilities measured at fair 
value through profit or loss

Non-financial assets

Investment properties

Non-current assets held for sale

Non-financial assets impaired during the year

Recoverable amount of property and equipment

Recoverable amount of investments in 
subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total fair value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total fair value

NLB Group

NLB

in EUR thousands

203

203

-

-

1,746,405

1,745,896

509

11,512

3,116

8,396

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

21,368

-

21,368

59,362

1,169,306

1,090,664

78,642

-

-

-

-

21,589

21,589

2,124

1,796

12,192

15,436

-

-

17

-

17

-

3,492

2,236

1,256

7,519

-

7,519

-

-

-

-

-

23,447

-

30,636

-

21,588

203

21,385

59,362

2,919,203

2,838,796

80,407

19,031

3,116

15,915

-

21,589

21,589

2,124

1,796

35,639

15,436

30,636

-

203

203

-

-

1,282,584

1,282,584

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

21,472

-

21,472

59,362

49,182

6,667

42,515

7,892

-

-

7,892

22,150

22,150

2,124

2,514

6,753

4,235

-

-

17

-

17

-

2,295

2,026

269

7,519

-

7,519

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

3,301

21,692

203

21,489

59,362

1,334,061

1,291,277

42,784

15,411

-

7,519

7,892

22,150

22,150

2,124

2,514

6,753

4,235

-

3,301

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31 Dec 2021

Financial assets

Financial instruments held for trading

Derivatives

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

Debt instruments

Equity instruments

Non-trading financial assets mandatorily 
at fair value through profit and loss

Debt instruments

Equity instruments

Loans

Financial liabilities

Financial instruments held for trading

Derivatives

Derivatives - hedge accounting

Financial liabilities measured at fair 
value through profit or loss

Non-financial assets

Investment properties

Non-current assets held for sale

Non-financial assets impaired during the year

Recoverable amount of 
property and equipment

Recoverable amount of intangible assets

Recoverable amount of investments in 
subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total fair value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total fair value

NLB Group

NLB

 in EUR thousands

-

-

-

2,010,485

2,009,699

786

16,689

4,261

12,428

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

7,677

7,677

568

1,449,888

1,385,211

64,677

-

-

-

-

7,585

7,585

35,377

-

19,982

7,051

-

-

-

1

1

-

1,487

351

1,136

4,472

-

4,472

-

-

-

-

-

27,642

-

2,990

872

-

7,678

7,678

568

3,461,860

3,395,261

66,599

21,161

4,261

16,900

-

7,585

7,585

35,377

-

47,624

7,051

2,990

872

-

-

-

-

1,533,797

1,533,797

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

7,681

7,681

568

51,735

7,245

44,490

7,888

-

-

7,888

7,602

7,602

35,377

352

9,181

4,089

-

-

201

1

1

-

219

-

219

4,472

-

4,472

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2,618

7,682

7,682

568

1,585,751

1,541,042

44,709

12,360

-

4,472

7,888

7,602

7,602

35,377

352

9,181

4,089

-

-

2,819

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b) Significant transfers of financial instruments between levels of valuation
NLB Group’s policy of transfers of financial instruments between levels of valuation is illustrated in the table below.

Fair value  
hierarchy

1

2

3

Transfers

Equities

Equity stake

Gold

Funds

Debt securities

Loans

market value from 
exchange market

market value from 
spot market

regular valuation by 
fund management 
company

market value from 
exchange market

Equities

Currency

Interest

Derivatives

valuation model

valuation model

valuation model        
(underlying in level 1)

valuation model

valuation model

valuation model

valuation model

valuation model

valuation model

valuation model

valuation model    
(underlying instrument 
in level 3)

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from level 1 to 3

equity excluded from 
exchange market

from level 1 to 3

companies 
in insolvency 
proceedings 

from level 1 to 3

equity not liquid (not 
trading for 2 months)

from level 3 to 1

equity included in 
exchange market

from level 1 to 3

from level 1 to 2

from level 2 to 3

from level 2 to 3

fund management 
company stops 
publishing regular 
valuation
from level 3 to 1

fund management 
company starts 
publishing regular 
valuation

debt securities 
excluded from 
exchange market

counterparty 
reclassified from 
performing to NPL

underlying instrument 
excluded from 
exchange market

from level 1 to 2

from level 3 to 2

from level 3 to 2

debt securities not 
liquid (not trading 
for 6 months)

counterparty 
reclassified from 
NPL to performing

underlying 
instrument included 
in exchange market

from level 1 to 3 
and from 2 to 3

companies 
in insolvency 
proceedings 
from level 2 to 1 
and from 3 to 1

start trading with 
debt securities on 
exchange market
from level 3 to 2

until valuation 
parameters are 
confirmed on 
ALCO (at least on 
quarterly basis)

Due to technical default of Russia in June 2022, there is no more 

maturity taking into account the required yield of the bond in 

For 2021, neither NLB Group nor NLB had any significant 

active market for Russian bonds. Consequently, NLB Group 

the market at the time of default, 100% repayment after four 

transfers between levels of valuation of financial instruments 

and NLB transferred Russian bonds with notional amount of 

years from maturity taking into account the required yield of 

measured at fair value in financial statements. 

USD 8 million from Level 1 to 3. Fair value at the date of transfer 

NPL on emerging markets, and no repayment. Each scenario 

was EUR 1,812 thousand. As of 31 December 2022, the bond is 

represents a third of the probability of an event occurring.

evaluated according to three scenarios; 100% repayment at 

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309

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
c)  Financial and non-financial assets and liabilities at Level 2 

At least one of the three valuation methods are used for the 

calculated on the basis of the discounted expected future 

regarding the fair value hierarchy

valuation of investment property. The majority of investment 

cash flows with the required rate of return. In defining the 

Financial instruments on Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy at 

property is valued using the income approach where the 

expected cash flows for non-performing loans, the value of 

NLB Group and NLB include:

present value of future expected returns is assessed. When 

collateral and other pay off estimates can be used; and

•  debt securities: mostly bonds not quoted on active markets 

valuing an investment property, average rents at similar 

•  Russian bonds due to technical default in June 2022. 

and valuated by a valuation model;

locations and capitalisation ratios such as: the risk-free yield, 

•  derivatives: derivatives except forward derivatives and 

risk premium, and the risk premium to account for capital 

Non-financial assets on Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy at 

options on equity instruments that are not quoted on active 

preservation are used. Rents at similar locations are generated 

NLB Group include investment properties.

markets;

from various sources, like data from lessors and lessees, web 

•  performing loans measured at fair value, which according to 

databases, and own databases. NLB Group has observable 

NLB Group uses three valuation methods for the valuation of 

IFRS 9 do not pass SPPI test. Fair value is calculated on the 

data for all investment property at its disposal. If observable 

equity financial assets mentioned in first bullet: income, market, 

basis of the discounted expected future cash flows with the 

data for similar locations are not available, NLB Group uses 

and cost approaches.

required rate of return; and

•  the National Resolution Fund.

data from wider locations and adjusts it appropriately. 

d) Financial and non-financial assets and liabilities at Level 3 

input data within a reasonable possible range, but uses model 

NLB Group selects valuation model and values of unobservable 

Non-financial assets on Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy at 

of the fair value hierarchy

and input data that other market participants would use. 

NLB Group and NLB include investment properties.

Financial instruments on Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy in 

When valuing bonds classified on Level 2, NLB Group 

•  equities: mainly financial equities that are not quoted on 

valuation of investment property. The majority of investment 

primarily uses the income approach based on an estimation 

active markets; 

property is valued using the income approach where the 

of future cash flows discounted to the present value. The input 

•  derivative financial instruments: forward derivatives and 

present value of future expected returns is assessed. When 

parameters used in the income approach are the risk-free 

options on equity instruments that are not quoted on an 

valuing an investment property, average rents at similar 

yield curve and the spread over the yield curve (credit, liquidity, 

active organised market. Fair values for forward derivatives 

locations and capitalisation ratios such as: the risk-free yield, 

NLB Group and NLB include:

At least one of the three valuation methods are used for the 

country).

are determined using the discounted cash flow model. Fair 

risk premium and the risk premium to account for capital 

values for equity options are determined using valuation 

preservation are used. Rents at similar locations are generated 

Fair values for derivatives are determined using a discounted 

models for options (the Garman and Kohlhagen model, 

from various sources, like data from lessors and lessees, web 

cash flow model based on the risk-free yield curve. Fair values 

binomial model, and Black-Scholes model). Unobservable 

databases, and own databases. NLB Group has observable 

for options are determined using valuation models for options 

inputs include the fair values of underlying instruments 

data for all investment property at its disposal. If observable 

(the Garman and Kohlhagen model, binomial model, and 

determined using valuation models. The source of observable 

data for similar locations are not available, NLB Group uses 

Black-Scholes model). 

market inputs is the Bloomberg information system; 

data from wider locations and adjusts it appropriately.

•  non-performing loans measured at fair value, which 

according to IFRS 9 do not pass the SPPI test. Fair value is 

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310

 Movements of financial assets and liabilities at Level 3

NLB Group

Derivatives

Debt instruments

Equity instruments

Equity instruments

Loans and other 
financial assets

Financial instruments 
held for trading

Financial assets  
measured at fair 
value through OCI

Non-trading financial assets 
mandatorily at fair value  
through profit or loss

 in EUR thousands

Total financial 
assets

Balance as at 1 January 2021

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Valuation:
- through profit or loss

- recognised in other comprehensive income

Foreign exchange differences

Increases

Decreases

Balance as at 31 December 2021

Effects of translation of foreign 
operations to presentation currency

Acquisition of subsidiaries

Valuation:
- through profit or loss

- recognised in other comprehensive income

Foreign exchange differences

Increases

Decreases

Transfers to Level 3

Balance as at 31 December 2022

NLB

Balance as at 1 January 2021

Valuation:
- through profit or loss

Foreign exchange differences

Increases

Decreases

Balance as at 31 December 2021

Valuation:
- through profit or loss

- recognised in other comprehensive income

Foreign exchange differences

Increases

Decreases

Transfers to Level 3

Balance as at 31 December 2022

786

-

(785)

-

-

-

-

1

-

-

16

-

-

-

-

-

17

900

-

-

-

-

63

(612)

351

-

-

-

239

(25)

-

(141)

1,812

2,236

927

(2)

-

266

-

-

(55)

1,136

(2)

12

-

110

-

-

-

-

1,256

4,171

-

(56)

-

357

-

-

4,472

-

-

477

-

262

2,873

(565)

-

7,519

25,076

-

15,747

-

9

3,017

(43,849)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

Financial instruments 
held for trading

Financial assets  
measured at fair 
value through OCI

Non-trading financial assets 
mandatorily at fair value  
through profit or loss

Derivatives

Debt instruments

Equity instruments

Equity instruments

Loans and other 
financial assets

786

(785)

-

-

-

1

16

-

-

-

-

-

17

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

239

(25)

-

-

1,812

2,026

274

-

-

-

(55)

219

-

50

-

-

-

-

269

4,171

(56)

357

-

-

4,472

477

-

262

2,873

(565)

-

7,519

22,988

13,749

9

3,005

(39,751)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

31,860

(2)

14,906

266

366

3,080

(44,516)

5,960

(2)

12

493

349

237

2,873

(706)

1,812

11,028

in EUR thousands

Total financial 
assets

28,219

12,908

366

3,005

(39,806)

4,692

493

289

237

2,873

(565)

1,812

9,831

NLB Group and NLB recognise the effects from valuation of 

loans mandatorily measured at fair value through profit or 

at fair value through other comprehensive income in the 

trading instruments in income statement line item ‘Gains less 

loss in income statement line item ‘Gains less losses from non-

accumulated other comprehensive income line item ‘Financial 

losses from financial assets and liabilities held for trading,’ 

trading financial assets mandatorily at fair value through profit 

assets measured at fair value through other comprehensive 

effects from valuation of non-trading equity instruments and 

or loss,’ and effects from valuation of financial assets measured 

income.’

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In 2022 and in 2021, NLB Group and NLB recognised the following unrealised gains or losses for financial instruments that were at Level 

3 as at 31 December:

NLB Group

2022

Items of Income statement

Gains less losses from financial assets 
and liabilities held for trading

Gains less losses from non-trading assets 
mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss

Foreign exchange translation gains less losses

Item of Other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

NLB Group

2021

Items of Income statement

Gains less losses from non-trading assets 
mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss

Foreign exchange translation gains less losses

Item of Other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

NLB

2022

Items of Income statement

Gains less losses from financial assets 
and liabilities held for trading

Gains less losses from non-trading assets 
mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss

Foreign exchange translation gains less losses

Item of Other comprehensive income

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through other comprehensive income

NLB

2021

Items of Income statement

Gains less losses from financial assets 
and liabilities held for trading

Gains less losses from non-trading assets 
mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss

Foreign exchange translation gains less losses

Financial assets held 
for trading

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through OCI

in EUR thousands

Non-trading financial 
assets mandatorily 
at fair value through 
profit or loss

Derivatives

Debt instruments

Equity instruments

Equity instruments

16

-

-

-

-

-

(25)

239

Financial assets held 
for trading

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through OCI

-

-

-

110

-

477

262

-

in EUR thousands

Non-trading financial 
assets mandatorily 
at fair value through 
profit or loss

Derivatives

Debt instruments

Equity instruments

Equity instruments

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

266

(56)

357

-

Financial assets held 
for trading

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through OCI

in EUR thousands

Non-trading financial 
assets mandatorily 
at fair value through 
profit or loss

Derivatives

Debt instruments

Equity instruments

Equity instruments

16

-

-

-

-

-

(25)

239

Financial assets held 
for trading

Financial assets measured at fair value 
through OCI

-

-

-

50

-

477

262

-

in EUR thousands

Non-trading financial 
assets mandatorily 
at fair value through 
profit or loss

Derivatives

Debt instruments

Equity instruments

Equity instruments

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(56)

357

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Movements of non-financial assets at Level 3

Investment property
Balance as at 1 January
Effects of translation of foreign operations to presentation currency
Acquisition of subsidiaries (note 5.12.c)
Additions
Disposals
Transfer from/(to) property and equipment
Transfer from/(to) non-current assets held for sale
Transfer from/(to) other assets
Net valuation to fair value
Disposal of subsidiary (note 5.12.d)
Balance as at 31 December

in EUR thousands

NLB Group

2021
32,210
19
-
-
(502)
(7,568)
22
1,260
3,416
(1,215)
27,642

2022
27,642
22
302
3
(7,578)
434
-
-
2,622
-
23,447

e)  Fair value of financial instruments not measured at fair 

For respective instruments fair values are calculated for 

value in financial statements

disclosure purposes only, and do not impact NLB Group 

Financial instruments not measured at fair value in financial 

statement of financial position or income statement.

statements are not managed on a fair value basis. 

The table below shows estimated fair values of financial instruments not measured at fair value in the statement of financial position.

Financial assets measured at amortised cost
- debt securities
- loans and advances to banks
- loans and advances to customers
- other financial assets

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost
- deposits from banks and central banks
- borrowings from banks and central banks
- due to customers
- borrowings from other customers
- debt securities issued
- other financial liabilities

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

Carrying value

Fair value

Carrying value

Fair value

Carrying value

Fair value

Carrying value

Fair value

NLB Group

NLB

in EUR thousands

1,917,615
222,965
13,072,986
177,823

106,414
198,609
20,027,726
82,482
815,990
294,463

1,749,169
223,077
12,883,859
177,823

106,627
193,774
20,031,938
80,684
788,892
294,463

1,717,626
140,683
10,587,121
122,229

71,828
858,531
17,640,809
74,051
288,519
206,878

1,745,225
140,843
10,751,051
122,229

69,720
849,834
17,658,686
73,744
292,130
206,878

1,597,448
350,625
6,054,413
114,399

212,656
57,292
10,984,411
216
815,990
164,567

1,442,453
362,422
5,965,468
114,399

212,880
52,897
10,989,255
216
788,892
164,567

1,436,424
199,287
5,145,153
92,404

109,329
873,479
9,659,605
406
288,519
102,527

1,461,185
204,743
5,235,839
92,404

109,522
863,970
9,664,607
406
292,130
102,527

Loans and advances to banks
The estimated fair value of deposits is based on discounted 

Deposits and borrowings

Other financial assets and liabilities

The fair value of sight deposits and overnight deposits equals 

The carrying amount of other financial assets and liabilities is 

cash flows using prevailing market interest rates for instruments 

their carrying value. However, their actual value for NLB Group 

a reasonable approximation of their fair value as they mainly 

with similar credit risk and residual maturities. The fair value of 

depends on the timing and amounts of cash flows, current 

relate to short-term receivables and payables.

overnight deposits equals their carrying value.

market rates, and the credit risk of the depository institution 

Loans and advances to customers
The estimated fair value of loans and advances represents the 

discounted amount of estimated future cash flows expected 

itself. A portion of sight deposits is stable, similar to term 

deposits. Therefore, their economic value for NLB Group differs 

from the carrying amount.

to be received. Expected cash flows are discounted at current 

The estimated fair value of other deposits and borrowings from 

market rates for debts with similar credit risk and residual 

customers is based on discounted cash flows using interest 

maturities to determine their fair value.

rates for new deposits with similar residual maturities.

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Fair value hierarchy of financial instruments not measured at fair value in financial statements

31 Dec 2022

NLB Group

NLB

in EUR thousands

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- debt securities

- loans and advances to banks

- loans and advances to customers

- other financial assets

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- borrowings from other customers

- debt securities issued

- other financial liabilities

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total fair value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total fair value

1,476,615

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

748,958

-

265,325

223,077

12,883,859

177,823

106,627

193,774

20,031,938

80,684

39,934

294,463

7,229

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,749,169

223,077

12,883,859

177,823

106,627

193,774

20,031,938

80,684

788,892

294,463

1,350,003

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

748,958

-

92,450

362,422

5,965,468

114,399

212,880

52,897

10,989,255

216

39,934

164,567

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,442,453

362,422

5,965,468

114,399

212,880

52,897

10,989,255

216

788,892

164,567

31 Dec 2021

NLB Group

NLB

in EUR thousands

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total fair value

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total fair value

Financial assets measured at amortised cost

- debt securities

- loans and advances to banks

- loans and advances to customers

- other financial assets

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

- deposits from banks and central banks

- borrowings from banks and central banks

- due to customers

- borrowings from other customers

- debt securities issued

- other financial liabilities

1,434,411

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

245,700

-

303,647

140,843

10,751,051

122,229

69,720

849,834

17,658,686

73,744

46,430

206,878

7,167

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,745,225

140,843

10,751,051

122,229

69,720

849,834

17,658,686

73,744

292,130

206,878

1,358,293

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

245,700

-

102,892

204,743

5,235,839

92,404

109,522

863,970

9,664,607

406

46,430

102,527

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,461,185

204,743

5,235,839

92,404

109,522

863,970

9,664,607

406

292,130

102,527

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6.6.  Offsetting financial assets and 

financial liabilities

NLB Group has entered into bilateral foreign exchange netting 

arrangements with certain banks and corporates. Cash flows 

from such transactions that are due on the same day in the 

same currency, are settled on a net basis, i.e., a single cash flow 

for each currency. The settlement of all interest rates derivatives 

is also carried out by netting of both legs of transaction. Assets 

and liabilities related to these netting arrangements are not 

All derivatives are conducted under the conditions of signed 

presented in a net amount in the statement of financial position 

Master Agreements (MA), with international banks ISDA MA is 

because netting rules apply to cash flows and not to the entire 

in place along with CSA annex and for corporates domestic 

financial instrument. 

MA is in place, which enable daily evaluation and exchange of 

margining.

In 2013, NLB Group also novated certain standardised 

derivatives (some interest rate swaps) to a clearing house or 

central counterparty. A system of daily margins assures the 

mitigation and collateralisation of exposures, as well as the 

daily settlement of cash flows for each currency.

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31 Dec 2022

Financial assets/liabilities

Derivatives - assets 

Derivatives - liabilities

31 Dec 2021

Financial assets/liabilities

Derivatives - assets 

Derivatives - liabilities

31 Dec 2022

Financial assets/liabilities

Derivatives - assets 

Derivatives - liabilities

31 Dec 2021

Financial assets/liabilities

Derivatives - assets 

Derivatives - liabilities

NLB Group and NLB have no financial assets/liabilities set off 

in the statement of financial position.

Gross amounts of recognised 
financial assets/liabilities

Impact of master 
netting agreements

Financial instruments 
collateral

Amounts not set off in the statement of financial position

NLB Group

80,724

17,482

72,204

1,959

3,053

3,053

NLB Group

Gross amounts of recognised 
financial assets/liabilities

Impact of master 
netting agreements

Financial instruments 
collateral

Amounts not set off in the statement of financial position

8,239

42,961

445

41,121

998

998

NLB

Gross amounts of recognised 
financial assets/liabilities

Impact of master 
netting agreements

Financial instruments 
collateral

Amounts not set off in the statement of financial position

80,834

24,273

72,204

8,251

3,133

3,133

NLB

Gross amounts of recognised 
financial assets/liabilities

Impact of master 
netting agreements

Financial instruments 
collateral

Amounts not set off in the statement of financial position

8,249

42,978

1,008

1,008

445

41,121

in EUR thousands

Net amount

5,467

12,470

in EUR thousands

Net amount

6,796

842

in EUR thousands

Net amount

5,497

12,889

in EUR thousands

Net amount

6,796

849

Contents

315

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
7. Analysis by segment for NLB Group

a) Segments

2022

Total net income

Net income from external customers

Intersegment net income

Net interest income

Net interest income from 
external customers

Intersegment net interest income

Administrative expenses

Depreciation and amortisation

Reportable segment profit/(loss) before 
impairment and provision charge

Other net gains/(losses) from 
equity investments in subsidiaries, 
associates and joint ventures 

Negative goodwill

Impairment and provisions charge

Profit/(loss) before income tax

Owners of the parent

Non-controlling interests

Income tax

Profit for the year

Reportable segment assets

Investments in associates 
and joint ventures

Reportable segment liabilities

Additions to non-current assets

Retail 
Banking 
in Slovenia

Corporate and 
Investment 
Banking in 
Slovenia

NLB Group

Financial 
Markets 
in Slovenia

Non-Core 
Members

Other 
activities

Unallocated

Total

in EUR thousands

Strategic 
Foreign 
Markets

427,519

429,999

(2,480)

298,042

303,349

(5,307)

(199,593)

(28,538)

199,388

-

68

(12,325)

187,131

176,160

10,971

-

105,198

121,042

(15,844)

52,930

71,832

(18,902)

(60,471)

(4,629)

40,098

-

-

12,156

52,254

52,254

-

-

46,601

5,558

41,043

47,304

2,169

45,135

(8,812)

(618)

37,171

-

-

(3,363)

33,808

33,808

-

-

3,372,047

10,179,396

6,514,047

-

2,777,001

6,088

-

8,539,025

29,042

-

1,118,681

261

211,474

227,590

(16,116)

104,809

125,541

(20,732)

(132,893)

(11,149)

67,432

781

-

(21,435)

46,778

46,778

-

-

3,665,110

11,677

9,108,497

10,717

4,697

4,426

271

267

453

(186)

(12,109)

(498)

(7,910)

-

-

(829)

(8,739)

(8,739)

-

-

61,563

-

3,754

99

10,024

9,934

90

1,570

1,578

(8)

(7,309)

(621)

2,094

-

172,810

(3,073)

171,831

171,831

-

-

356,400

-

190,957

4,688

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(25,230)

-

-

-

-

805,513

798,549

6,964

504,922

504,922

-

(421,187)

(46,053)

338,273

781

172,878

(28,869)

483,063

472,092

10,971

(25,230)

446,862

24,148,563

11,677

21,737,915

50,895

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2021

Total net income

Net income from external customers

Intersegment net income

Net interest income

Net interest income from external customers

Intersegment net interest income

Administrative expenses

Depreciation and amortisation

Reportable segment profit/(loss) before 
impairment and provision charge

Other net gains/(losses) from equity investments 
in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures 

Impairment and provisions charge

Profit/(loss) before income tax

Owners of the parent

Non-controlling interests

Income tax

Profit for the year

Reportable segment assets

Investments in associates and joint ventures

Reportable segment liabilities

Additions to non-current assets

Retail 
Banking 
in Slovenia

Corporate and 
Investment 
Banking in 
Slovenia

171,046

188,629

(17,583)

79,535

98,898

(19,363)

(104,844)

(11,659)

54,543

1,108

(6,684)

48,967

48,967

-

-

2,811,209

11,525

7,720,693

9,972

101,505

110,588

(9,083)

35,714

44,481

(8,767)

(40,829)

(4,278)

56,398

-

30,450

86,848

86,848

-

-

2,333,769

-

1,966,530

4,218

Strategic 
Foreign 
Markets

361,945

363,452

(1,507)

266,804

270,839

(4,035)

(198,589)

(29,329)

134,027

-

(20,779)

113,248

101,784

11,464

-

9,797,839

-

8,315,316

26,608

NLB Group

Financial 
Markets 
in Slovenia

Non-Core 
Members

Other 
activities

Unallocated

Total

in EUR thousands

24,107

(8,855)

32,962

26,377

(6,188)

32,565

(7,963)

(677)

15,467

-

329

15,796

15,796

-

-

6,190,193

-

1,231,669

264

7,223

7,014

209

1,331

1,751

(420)

(10,534)

(833)

(4,144)

-

5,403

1,259

1,259

-

-

95,905

-

7,749

(10,036)

6,127

6,091

36

(401)

(421)

20

(10,259)

(619)

(4,751)

-

39

(4,712)

(4,712)

-

-

337,056

-

119,416

2,039

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(13,538)

-

-

-

-

671,953

666,919

5,034

409,360

409,360

-

(373,018)

(47,395)

251,540

1,108

8,758

261,406

249,942

11,464

(13,538)

236,404

21,565,971

11,525

19,361,373

33,065

Segment reporting is presented in accordance with the 

retail clients, as well as the contribution to the result of the 

•  Other accounts in NLB and N Banka for the categories whose 

strategy on the basis of the organisational structure used in 

associated company Bankart.

management reporting of NLB Group’s results. NLB Group’s 

operating results cannot be allocated to specific segments, 

including negative goodwill from acquisition of N Banka NLB 

segments are business units that focus on different customers 

•  Corporate and Investment Banking in Slovenia, which 

Lease&Go leasing Belgrade, as well as the subsidiaries NLB 

and markets. They are managed separately because each 

includes banking with Key Corporate Clients, SMEs, Cross-

Cultural Heritage Management Institute and Privatinvest.

business unit requires different strategies and service levels.

border corporate financing, Investment Banking and Custody, 

Restructuring and Workout in NLB and N Banka, and part 

Non-Core Members include the operations of non-core 

The business activities of NLB and N Banka are divided into 

of the subsidiary NLB Lease&Go Ljubljana that includes 

NLB Group members, namely REAM and leasing entities in 

several segments. Interest income and expenses are reallocated 

operations with corporate clients.

between segments on the basis of fund transfer prices (FTP). 
Other NLB Group members are, based on their business 

•  Strategic Foreign Markets, which consist of the operations 

liquidation, NLB Srbija, and NLB Crna Gora. NLB Leasing 

Ljubljana was sold to the strategic company NLB Lease&Go 
Ljubljana within the NLB Group in 2021. Despite the change in 

activity, included in only one segment except NLB Lease&Go 

of strategic Group banks in the strategic markets (North 

ownership, its operations continue to be monitored within the 

Ljubljana which is according to its business activities divided 

Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, 

segment of non-core members.

into two segments.

and Serbia), as well as investment company KomBank Invest, 

Beograd, NLB DigIT, Beograd, NLB Lease&Go Skopje and 

NLB Group is primarily a financial group, and net interest 

The segments of NLB Group are divided into core and non-core 

NLB Lease&Go leasing Belgrade. Komercijalna banka, Banja 

income represents the majority of its net revenues. NLB Group’s 

segments. 

Luka was sold outside the NLB Group on 9 December 2021; 

main indicator of a segment’s efficiency is net profit before tax.

The core segments are the following:

segment for the year 2021.

•  Retail Banking in Slovenia, which includes banking with 
individuals and micro companies (NLB and N Banka), 

•  Financial Markets in Slovenia include treasury activities and 

asset management (NLB Skladi), and part of subsidiary 

trading in financial instruments, while they also present the 

NLB Lease&Go Ljubljana that includes operations with 

results of asset and liabilities management (ALM) in both NLB 

its operations till that date are included in the result of the 

and N Banka. 

No revenues were generated from transactions with a single 

external customer that would amount to 10% or more of NLB 
Group’s revenues.

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b) Geographical information
Geographical analysis includes a breakdown of items with 

respect to the country in which individual NLB Group entities 

are located.

NLB Group

Slovenia

South East Europe

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Croatia

Kosovo

Montenegro

North Macedonia

Serbia

Western Europe
Germany

Switzerland

Total

Revenues

Net income

Profit/(loss) before 
income tax

in EUR thousands

Income tax

2022

445,749

505,855

84,065

23

58,297

49,528

94,660

219,282

13

-

13

2021

352,053

458,571

83,087

5

51,512

43,983

87,936

192,048

17

1

16

2022

367,121

431,267

71,205

473

49,251

38,251

78,369

193,718

161

58

103

2021

301,021

365,649

52,735

207

42,595

34,756

70,157

165,199

249

499

(250)

2022

288,563

194,764

33,475

(170)

35,922

15,436

41,807

68,294

(264)

(647)

383

2021

137,857

121,301

15,236

(181)

27,056

6,508

43,277

29,405

2,248

488

1,760

2022

(9,719)

(15,487)

(2,635)

(45)

(3,693)

(1,838)

(3,795)

(3,481)

(24)

-

(24)

2021

(5,043)

(8,462)

(2,213)

(1)

(2,787)

(1,484)

(4,054)

2,077

(33)

-

(33)

951,617

810,641

798,549

666,919

483,063

261,406

(25,230)

(13,538)

The column ‘Revenues’ includes interest and similar income, 

dividend income, and fee and commission income.

The column ‘Net Income’ includes net interest income, dividend 

income, net fee and commission income, the net effect of 

financial instruments, foreign exchange translation, the effect 

on the derecognition of assets, net operating income, and gain 

less losses from non-current assets held for sale.

NLB Group

Slovenia

South East Europe

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Croatia

Kosovo

Montenegro

North Macedonia

Serbia

Western Europe
Germany

Switzerland

Total

Non-current assets

Total assets

Number of employees

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

31 Dec 2022

31 Dec 2021

in EUR thousands

152,037

204,802

35,550

377

14,289

17,416

36,348

100,822

28

28

-

150,829

214,380

34,782

383

14,988

18,328

37,384

108,515

30

30

-

13,935,167

10,216,136

1,799,877

3,557

1,082,474

825,400

1,832,477

4,672,351

8,937

691

8,246

11,716,270

9,845,128

1,596,370

4,025

930,383

775,238

1,758,269

4,780,843

16,098

971

15,127

2,833

5,392

971

6

467

380

954

2,614

3

1

2

2,619

5,563

942

6

463

374

877

2,901

3

1

2

356,867

365,239

24,160,240

21,577,496

8,228

8,185

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318

  
 
 
 
 
 
 
The table below presents data on NLB Group members before intercompany eliminations and consolidation journals:

NLB Group

Slovenia

South East Europe

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Croatia

Kosovo

Montenegro

North Macedonia

Serbia

Western Europe
Germany

Switzerland

Total

Revenues

Net income

Profit/(loss) before 
income tax

2022

523,774

507,243

84,107

128

58,296

49,738

94,624

220,350

25

1

24

2021

448,559

459,405

83,275

3

51,509

43,978

87,864

192,776

19

1

18

2022

431,187

429,307

70,211

617

48,391

37,822

75,882

196,384

(12)

54

(66)

2021

387,692

374,776

67,806

274

41,833

35,417

68,429

161,017

86

493

(407)

2022

191,900

199,981

33,352

(170)

36,095

18,374

41,601

70,729

(2,835)

(646)

(2,189)

2021

225,706

146,496

30,895

(181)

27,223

7,969

43,054

37,536

2,247

489

1,758

in EUR thousands

Income tax

2022

(9,153)

(15,952)

(2,635)

(45)

(3,693)

(1,838)

(3,795)

(3,946)

(24)

-

(24)

2021

(5,252)

(8,940)

(2,213)

(1)

(2,787)

(1,484)

(4,054)

1,599

(33)

-

(33)

1,031,042

907,983

860,482

762,554

389,046

374,449

(25,129)

(14,225)

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319

  
8. Related-party 
transactions

A related party is a person or entity that is related to NLB 

Group in such a manner that it has control or joint control, 

has a significant influence, or is a member of the key 

management personnel of the reporting entity. Related parties 

Related-party transactions with Management Board and 

of NLB Group and NLB include: key management personnel 

other key management personnel, their family members and 

(Management Board, other key management personnel and 

companies these related parties have control, joint control, or 

their family members); the Supervisory Board; companies in 

which members of the Management Board, key management 

significant influence
A number of banking transactions are entered into with related 

personnel, or their family members have control, joint control, 

parties within regular course of business. The volume of 

or a significant influence; a major shareholder of NLB with 

related-party transactions and the outstanding balances are as 

significant influence, subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures.

follows:

NLB Group

Loans issued

Balance at 1 January

Increase

Decrease

Balance at 31 December

Interest income

Deposits received

Balance at 1 January

Increase

Decrease

Balance at 31 December

Interest expenses

Other financial liabilities

Other financial liabilities measured at fair 
value through profit or loss (note 2.31.)

Other operating liabilities

Guarantees issued and loan commitments

Fee income

Other income

Other expenses

Management Board and 
other Key management 
personnel

Family members of the 
Management Board and 
other key management 
personnel

Companies in which 
members of the 
Management Board, key 
management personnel or 
their family members have 
control, joint control or a 
significant influence

in EUR thousands

Supervisory Board

2022

2,097

1,526

(1,450)

2,173

41

2,170

2,938

(2,552)

2,556

(7)

2

801

6,559

237

19

17

-

2021

2,284

1,041

(1,228)

2,097

39

1,610

2,048

(1,488)

2,170

(4)

3

-

2,265

215

12

13

-

2022

415

324

(270)

469

10

718

634

(426)

926

-

-

-

-

70

7

-

-

2021

444

228

(257)

415

7

956

595

(833)

718

-

1

-

-

72

6

-

-

2022

532

8

(540)

-

-

590

6,413

(6,785)

218

-

3

-

-

-

66

-

(382)

2021

-

891

(359)

532

6

136

1,625

(1,171)

590

-

14

-

-

194

83

-

(78)

2022

60

76

(82)

54

-

505

398

(555)

348

(2)

-

-

-

17

2

-

-

2021

305

55

(300)

60

4

323

321

(139)

505

(1)

-

-

-

23

2

-

-

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NLB

Loans issued

Balance at 1 January

Increase

Decrease

Balance at 31 December

Interest income

Deposits received

Balance at 1 January

Increase

Decrease

Balance at 31 December

Interest expenses

Other financial liabilities

Other financial liabilities measured at fair 
value through profit or loss (note 2.31.)

Other operating liabilities

Guarantees issued and loan commitments

Fee income

Other income

Other expenses

Management Board and 
other Key management 
personnel

Family members of the 
Management Board and 
other key management 
personnel

Companies in which 
members of the 
Management Board, key 
management personnel or 
their family members have 
control, joint control or a 
significant influence

in EUR thousands

Supervisory Board

2022

2,097

1,480

(1,405)

2,172

41

2,170

2,643

(2,277)

2,536

(7)

2

728

6,539

223

18

17

-

2021

2,284

1,041

(1,228)

2,097

39

1,610

2,048

(1,488)

2,170

(4)

3

-

2,265

215

12

13

-

2022

415

324

(270)

469

10

718

634

(426)

926

-

-

-

-

70

7

-

-

2021

444

228

(257)

415

7

956

595

(833)

718

-

1

-

-

72

6

-

-

2022

532

8

(540)

-

-

590

6,413

(6,785)

218

-

3

-

-

-

66

-

(382)

2021

-

891

(359)

532

6

136

1,625

(1,171)

590

-

14

-

-

194

83

-

(78)

2022

60

76

(82)

54

-

505

398

(555)

348

(2)

-

-

-

17

2

-

-

2021

305

55

(300)

60

4

323

321

(139)

505

(1)

-

-

-

23

2

-

-

Key management compensation
The remuneration for the members of the Supervisory Board of 

NLB d.d. and the Management Board of NLB d.d. is regulated in 

in case of every significant change submit the Remuneration 

Members of the Supervisory Board may, in relation to their 

Policy to the General Meeting of Shareholders for voting, and in 

function of a member of the Supervisory Board, only receive 

Remuneration Policy for the Members of the Supervisory Board 

any case at least every four years.

remuneration that is compliant with the relevant resolutions of 

the Bank’s General Meeting. The Supervisory Board members 

of NLB d.d. and the Members of the Management Board of NLB 

d.d. The remuneration for the identified employees and other 

employees is regulated in Remuneration Policy for employees of 

NLB d.d. and NLB Group.

In 2022, NLB d.d. in accordance with the EBA Guidelines on 

sound remuneration policies under Directive 2013/36/EU, 

Companies Act (ZGD-1) and the Banking Act (ZBan-3), adopted 

a new Remuneration Policy for members of the Supervisory 

Board of NLB d.d. and members of the Management Board of 

In the Remuneration Policy and based thereon and in 

are entitled to a remuneration for performing their function 

accordance with Commission Delegated regulation (EU) 

and/or attendance fees for their membership in the Supervisory 

2021/923, the Bank designates identified employees. In 

Board of the Bank and the committees of the Supervisory 

designating identified employees, the internal organisation 

Board of the Bank, which are determined in accordance with 

and the nature, scope and complexity of the Bank’s activities 

respective applicable resolution by the General Meeting of 

are taken into account. The criteria fully take into account the 

the Bank, and to reimbursement of travel expenses, daily 

risks that the Bank or the NLB Group is or could be exposed to 

allowances, and accommodation costs up to the amount 

its given risk profile and risk appetite. The Remuneration Policy 

provided by the regulations governing reimbursement of costs 

includes members of the Supervisory Board, members of the 

related to work and other income not included in the tax base.

NLB d.d., which was adopted by the Supervisory Board of NLB 

Management Board, senior management, and other identified 

d.d. and then submitted to the General Meeting of Shareholders 

employees who are included in the Policy on the basis of the 

of NLB d.d., where it was voted in December 2021. Pursuant 

Bank’s self-assessment.

to Article 294.a of the Companies Act (ZGD-1), the Bank must 

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The Bank’s General Meeting may determine and change 

The variable portion of receipts for a given financial year may 

If the variable remuneration part of payment of an identified 

the remuneration of the members of the Supervisory Board 

not exceed seven salaries of a member of the Management 

employee exceeds EUR 50 thousand or/and is higher than 

independently from the Remuneration Policy, and may change, 

Board in the financial year. Other identified employees are 

one-third of his/her total remuneration for each financial 

repeal, or replace any of its resolutions in relation to the 

entitled to a variable part of remuneration according to the 

year and if this is permissible in accordance with the relevant 

remuneration of the Supervisory Board members at any time, 

category of employee in the maximum amount of three to six 

regulation, then at least 50% of the variable remuneration must 

or adopt a new resolution in relation to the remuneration of the 

salaries. Key management shall be entitled to a variable part 

consist of instruments. The part of the variable remuneration 

Supervisory Board members.

of the performance benefit only in proportional part to the 

of an identified employee consisting of instruments shall be 

actual period of employment (duration of the term of office) of 

awarded and paid, under the terms and conditions in the valid 

The performance of key management is defined by financial 

the Bank during the period to which the variable part of the 

Remuneration Policy, in instruments whose value is based on 

and non-financial criteria. In addition to the salary determined 

performance benefit relates.

the value of the share of NLB d.d. (with these instruments not 

in their employment contract, they are entitled to the annual 

giving any dividends or other yields). 

variable part of the salary based on their achievement of 

The non-deferred part of variable remuneration is paid no 

the financial and non-financial performance criteria, which 

later than three months after the adoption of the Annual Report 

The deferred part of the variable part of the salary must be 

encompass the goals of NLB Group or NLB, the goals of the 

of NLB Group for the business year to which the variable 

deferred for a period of at least five years of the day on which 

organisational unit, and the personal goals of the employee 

remuneration relates. Variable remuneration part of payment of 

the non-deferred part of such variable remuneration is paid 

performing special work. 

an identified employee is awarded and paid in cash, provided 

and it is paid in proportional shares, according to the relevant 

that the amount does not exceed EUR 50 thousand or/and is 

legislation. 

The objectives and criteria of each member of the Management 

higher than one-third of his/her total remuneration for each 

Board shall be determined each year by the Supervisory Board 

financial year, and if this is permissible in accordance with the 

NLB d.d. at the time of adoption of the Bank’s annual business 

relevant regulation.

plan. The objectives and criteria for the identified employees 

are determined by the Management Board.

The table below shows payments in presented periods:

NLB Group and NLB

Management Board

Other key 
management 
personnel

  in EUR thousands

Supervisory Board

Short-term benefits

Cost refunds

Long-term bonuses:

- severance pay

- other benefits

- variable part of payments

Total

Short-term benefits include: 

2022

2,282

6

-

7

276

2,571

2021

1,589

4

385

5

394

2,377

2022

6,148

98

-

77

1,425

7,748

2021

5,480

83

5

70

2,898

8,536

2022

696

74

-

-

-

770

2021

705

26

-

-

-

731

The reimbursement of cost comprises food allowances, travel 

•  monetary benefits (gross salaries, supplementary insurance, 

expenses, and use of own resources.

holiday allowances and other bonuses);

•  non-monetary benefits (company cars, health care, 

residential facilities, etc.).

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Payments to individual members of the Management Board 

Member

Blaž Brodnjak
01.12.2012

Short-term benefits:

- gross salary and holiday allowance
- benefits and other short-term bonuses

Costs refunds
Long-term bonuses:
- other benefits
- variable part of payments

Total

Andreas Burkhardt 
18.09.2013

Short-term benefits:

- gross salary and holiday allowance
- benefits and other short-term bonuses

Costs refunds
Long-term bonuses:
- other benefits
- variable part of payments

Total

Archibald Kremser
31.07.2013

Short-term benefits:

- gross salary and holiday allowance
- benefits and other short-term bonuses

Costs refunds
Long-term bonuses:
- other benefits
- variable part of payments

Total

Antonio Argir
28.04.2022

Short-term benefits:

- gross salary and holiday allowance
- benefits and other short-term bonuses

Costs refunds
Long-term bonuses:
- other benefits
- variable part of payments

Total

Andrej Lasič
28.04.2022

Short-term benefits:

- gross salary and holiday allowance
- benefits and other short-term bonuses

Costs refunds
Long-term bonuses:
- other benefits
- variable part of payments

Total

Hedvika Usenik
28.04.2022

Short-term benefits:

- gross salary and holiday allowance
- benefits and other short-term bonuses

Costs refunds
Long-term bonuses:
- other benefits
- variable part of payments

Total

Petr Brunclík
18.05.2020 - 30.06.2021

Short-term benefits:

- gross salary and holiday allowance
- benefits and other short-term bonuses

Costs refunds
Long-term bonuses:

- severance payments
- other benefits
- variable part of payments

Total

2022

542,370
6,908
1,318

1,912
95,214
647,722

486,438
33,588
1,243

1,452
89,132
611,853

517,370
39,220
1,302

1,452
91,870
651,214

205,291
30,077
796

859
-
237,023

205,292
4,216
796

859
-
211,163

205,292
5,512
782

859
-
212,445

-
-
-

-
-
-
-

in EUR

2021

441,770
2,310
1,302

1,410
130,211
577,003

405,092
32,672
1,290

1,410
122,919
563,383

420,809
34,117
1,249

1,410
126,044
583,629

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

221,963
30,092
476

385,000
705
14,633
652,869

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Payments to individual members of the Supervisory Board

Member

Primož Karpe
11.02.2016

Andreas Klingen
22.06.2015

David Eric Simon
04.08.2016

Gregor Rok Kastelic
10.06.2019

Shrenik Dhirajlal Davda
10.06.2019

Mark William Lane Richards
10.06.2019

Verica Trstenjak
15.06.2020

Sergeja Kočar
17.06.2020

Islam Osama Bahgat Zekry
14.06.2021

Tadeja Žbontar Rems
22.01.2021

Bojana Šteblaj
17.06.2020 - 12.09.2022

Janja Žabjek Dolinšek
20.11.2020 - 08.07.2022

Peter Groznik
08.09.2017 - 14.06.2021

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

Session fees
Annual compensation
Other bonuses - benefit
Costs refunds

2022

-
96,000
382
10,952

-
90,000
382
7,360

-
81,000
382
7,931

-
81,000
382
9,340

-
72,000
382
8,767

-
81,000
382
9,493

-
66,000
382
1,473

-
8,327
382
1,183

-
72,000
382
17,622

-
31,215
382
185

-
12,014
-
-

-
1,473
-
32

-
-
-
-

in EUR

2021

-
96,000
447
4,629

-
90,000
447
4,947

-
81,000
447
5,251

-
81,000
447
758

-
72,000
447
2,367

-
81,000
447
2,643

-
65,790
447
-

-
11,856
447
-

-
38,608
447
5,705

-
26,656
447
-

-
15,655
447
-

-
6,839
447
-

-
32,800
-
-

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Related-party transactions with subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures

NLB Group

Loans issued

Balance at 1 January

Acquisition of subsidiaries 

Increase

Decrease

Balance at 31 December

Interest income

Impairment

Deposits received

Balance at 1 January

Effects of translation of foreign operations to presentation currency 

Increase

Decrease

Balance at 31 December

Interest expenses

Other financial assets

Other financial liabilities

Guarantees issued and loan commitments

Income/(expenses) provisions for guaranties and commitments

Fee income

Fee expenses

Other income

Other expenses

Associates

in EUR thousands

Joint ventures

2022

1,011

77

145

(176)

1,057

39

(8)

7,967

-

5,982

(8,574)

5,375

-

7

1,116

2,034

(1)

69

(12,894)

92

(571)

2021

1,106

-

89

(184)

1,011

38

26

3,973

-

7,610

(3,616)

7,967

-

20

1,148

2,032

-

38

(13,583)

162

(726)

2022

201

-

2

(2)

201

3

2

3,492

3

1,073

(1,497)

3,071

(46)

-

1

-

-

-

-

5

-

2021

851

-

7

(657)

201

4

69

3,434

3

7,706

(7,651)

3,492

(59)

-

1

-

-

1

-

2

-

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NLB

Loans issued

Balance at 1 January

Increase

Decrease

Balance at 31 December

of which at amortised cost

of which at fair value through profit or loss

Interest income

Impairment

Valuation

Deposits

Balance at 1 January

Increase

Decrease

Balance at 31 December

Interest income

Interest expenses

Impairment

Loans received

Balance at 1 January

Increase

Decrease

Balance at 31 December

Interest income

Interest expenses

Deposits received

Balance at 1 January

Increase

Decrease

Balance at 31 December

Interest expenses

Derivatives

Fair value

Contractual amount

Interest income

Interest expenses

Other financial assets

Impairment

Other financial liabilities

Guarantees issued and loan commitments

Income/(expenses) provisions for guaranties and commitments

Received loan commitments and financial guarantees

Fee income

Fee expenses

Other income

Other expenses

Gains less losses from financial assets and liabilities held for trading

Subsidiaries

Associates

Joint ventures

2022

2021

2022

2021

2022

2021

in EUR thousands

250,303

169,176

536,279

170,308

(448,682)

(89,181)

337,900

250,303

328,641

241,840

9,259

7,461

(645)

(2,225)

8,463

4,906

1,075

(558)

83,948

69,386

2,171,418

433,380

(2,031,874)

(418,818)

223,492

83,948

940

(5)

(18)

44,484

13,001

(44,484)

3

-

2

-

44,484

-

13,001

44,484

9

(2)

1

-

1,011

145

(174)

982

982

-

39

27

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1,106

89

(184)

1,011

1,011

-

38

26

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

201

2

(2)

201

201

-

3

2

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

851

7

(657)

201

201

-

4

69

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

68,372

19,415

23,967,799

7,558,162

(23,870,393)

(7,509,205)

165,778

68,372

7,967

5,982

(8,574)

5,375

3,973

7,610

(3,616)

7,967

27

82

(69)

40

284

213

(470)

27

(465)

(6,681)

113,711

312

(181)

(2)

(7)

9,789

-

-

2,514

25,491

(8)

1,860

34,016

584

14,541

9,720

5

2,710

46,366

(85)

10,983

10,200

(280)

1,543

(5,864)

(7,132)

-

-

-

-

-

7

-

972

2,034

(1)

-

69

-

-

-

-

-

20

-

1,001

2,032

-

-

38

(21)

(9,964)

(10,782)

1,078

(2,133)

(298)

92

(559)

-

162

(708)

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

1

-

2

-

-

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Related-party transactions with major shareholder with significant influence
The volumes of related party transactions with major shareholder are as follows: 

Loans issued

Balance at 1 January

Increase

Decrease

Balance at 31 December

Interest income

Investments in securities

Balance at 1 January

Exchange difference on opening balance

Acquisition of subsidiaries

Increase

Decrease

Valuation

Balance at 31 December

Interest income

Interest expenses

Other financial assets

Other financial liabilities

Guarantees issued and loan commitments

Fee income

Fee expenses

Other income

Other expenses

Gains less losses from financial assets and liabilities held for trading

NLB Group

in EUR thousands

NLB

2022

2021

2022

2021

20,534

3,708

(6,647)

17,595

713

534,522

36

151,047

672,692

(746,698)

(47,312)

564,287

5,816

-

31,141

2

1,194

350

(28)

257

(3)

(66)

23,219

13,199

(15,884)

20,534

713

20,534

3,708

(6,647)

17,595

713

23,219

13,199

(15,884)

20,534

713

691,868

483,656

597,123

-

-

1,247,211

(1,392,356)

(12,201)

534,522

6,021

(652)

659

4

1,184

309

(27)

212

(5)

(158)

-

-

553,823

(521,066)

(43,024)

473,389

5,844

-

31,141

2

1,194

350

(28)

257

(3)

(66)

-

-

947,581

(1,049,482)

(11,566)

483,656

6,389

(652)

659

4

1,184

309

(27)

212

(5)

(158)

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NLB Group and NLB disclose all transactions with the major 

shareholder with significant influence. For transactions with 

other government-related entities, NLB Group discloses 

individually significant transactions. 

NLB Group and NLB

Guarantees issued and loan commitments

NLB Group and NLB

Loans

Debt securities measured at amortised cost

Borrowings, deposits and business accounts

Guarantees issued and loan commitments

NLB Group and NLB

Interest income from loans

Fees and commissions income 

Interest income from debt securities measured at amortised cost and  
net valuation effects from hedge accounting

Interest expenses from borrowings, deposits, and business accounts

Amount of significant 
transactions concluded 
during the year

2022

188,000

2021

70,000

Year-end balance of all 
significant transactions

2022

565,330

64,913

108,606

152,500

2021

507,159

72,633

184,267

152,500

in EUR thousands

Number of significant 
transactions concluded 
during the year

2022

3

2021

1

in EUR thousands

Number of significant 
transactions at year-end

2022

10

1

3

2

2021

7

1

3

2

in EUR thousands

Effects in income 
statement 
during the year

2022

5,130

777

(4,940)

(99)

2021

3,141

241

(990)

(213)

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9. Events after  

the reporting date

USA regional banks & Credit Suisse 
turmoil

In March 2023, two regional banks in the USA, Silicon Valley 

Bank and Signature Bank collapsed. Developments in the 

USA also had impacts in Europe and put European banks 

under stress. Credit Suisse was impacted by the collapse in 

confidence as the demise of regional banks in the USA. To 

increase confidence in the banking sector, Swiss financial 

regulators engineered an emergency rescue plan for Credit 

Suisse resulting in the UBS Group AG buying Credit Suisse. As 

of 31 March 2023, the NLB Group has only a small exposure to 

Credit Suisse, deriving mainly from limited investment in bonds. 

From a capital management point of view, most of the 

cumulative negative valuations of FVOCI securities (except 

for a smaller part which as of 31 December 2022 was carved 

out by the temporary treatment of sovereign debt introduced 

by COVID-19 related ‘quick-fix’ – see Note 5.23.) have already 

been reflected in the NLB Group’s capital ratios and thus going 

forward are rather supportive in terms of capital levels as those 

exposures mature and new investments are made only with a 

short duration (i.e. low valuation risks).

From a liquidity point of view, no material deviations from the 

normal intra-monthly deposit dynamics were identified at the 

NLB Group level as a result of the turmoil.

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

329

 NLB Group Directory

Nova Ljubljanska banka d.d., Ljubljana
Trg republike 2

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 476 39 00, +386 1 477 20 00

E-mail: info@nlb.si

www.nlb.si

Blaž Brodnjak, CEO 

Antonio Argir, Responsible for Group governance, payments 
and innovations 23
Andreas Burkhardt, CRO 

Archibald Kremser, CFO

Andrej Lasič, CMO (responsible for Corporate and Investment 
Banking)24
Hedvika Usenik, CMO (responsible for Retail Banking and 
Private Banking)25

Slovenian network

Area Branch Ljubljana
Trg republike 2

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 476 23 30

Area Branch Northwest and Central Slovenia
Ljubljanska cesta 62

1230 Domžale, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 724 55 01

Area Branch East Slovenia26
Titova cesta 2

2000 Maribor, Slovenia

Tel: +386 2 234 45 20

Area Branch Northeast Slovenia27
Rudarska cesta 3

3320 Velenje, Slovenia

Tel: +386 2 234 45 04

23  Since 28 April 2022.
24  Since 28 April 2022.
25  Since 28 April 2022.
26  From 1 January 2023, new area branch.
27  From 1 January 2023, relocated.

Podravsko-Pomurska region
Titova cesta 2

2000 Maribor, Slovenia

Tel.: +386 2 234 45 00

Savinjsko-Koroška region
Kocenova 1

3000 Celje, Slovenia

Tel.: +386 3 424 01 11

Dolenjsko-Posavska region29
Seidlova cesta 3

8000 Novo mesto, Slovenia

Tel.: +386 7 339 14 13

CSA & Cross-border 
Financing

Trg republike 2

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 476 26 18

Large corporates

Institutional Investors
Trg republike 2

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 476 24 92

Large Corporates
Trg republike 2

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 476 26 92

Area Branch Southeast Slovenia
Seidlova cesta 3

8000 Novo mesto, Slovenia

Tel: +386 7 339 14 56

Area Branch Southwest Slovenia
Cesta Zore Perello - Godina 7

6000 Koper, Slovenia

Tel: +386 5 610 30 10

Private Banking
Trg republike 2

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 476 23 66

Micro Enterprises
Trg republike 2

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 476 50 01

Mobile banking
Trg republike 2

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 476 44 39

Small and  
Mid-corporates

Central region
Trg republike 2

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel.: +386 1 476 26 11

Northwest region
Ljubljanska cesta 62

1230 Domžale, Slovenia

Tel.: +386 1 724 54 75

Primorsko-Goriška region28
Cesta Zore Perello - Godina 7

6000 Koper, Slovenia

Tel.: +386 5 610 30 17

28  From 1 January 2023, reorganized.

29  From 1 January 2023, new business centre.

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

330

 Members of NLB Group

NLB Komercijalna Banka AD Beograd 
Svetog Save 14

11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Tel: +381 11 30 80 100

Email: kontakt.centar@nlbkb.rs

www. nlbkb.rs

Vlastimir Vuković, President of the Management Board

Dejan Janjatović, Deputy of the president of the Management 

Board

Dragiša Stanojević, Member of the Management Board

Bojana Kaličanin - Stojanović, Member of the Management 

Board

NLB Banka AD Skopje
Majka Tereza 1

1000 Skopje, North Macedonia

Tel: +389 2 15 600

E-mail: info@nlb.mk

www.nlb.mk

Branko Greganović, President of the Management Board
Günter Friedl, Member of the Management Board30
Peter Zelen, Member of the Management Board

Igor Davčevski, Member of the Management Board

NLB Banka a.d. Banja Luka
Milana Tepića 4

78000 Banja Luka, Republic of Srpska,

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Tel: +387 51 248 588 

E-mail: helpdesk@nlb-rs.ba 

www.nlb-rs.ba

Goran Babić, President of the Management Board

Marjana Usenik, Member of the Management Board

Ljiljana Krsman, Member of the Management Board

NLB Banka d.d., Sarajevo
Ul. Koševo br. 3 

71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Tel: +387 33 720 300

E-mail: info@nlb.ba

www.nlb.ba

Lidija Žigić, President of the Management Board

Denis Hasanić, Member of the Management Board

Jure Peljhan, Member of the Management Board

NLB Banka sh.a., Prishtina
Rr. Ukshin Hoti nr. 124

10000 Prishtina, Kosovo

Tel: +383 38 744 000

E-mail: info@nlb-kos.com

www.nlb-kos.com

Albert Lumezi, President of the Management Board

Gem Maloku, Member of the Management Board

NLB Lease&Go, leasing, d.o.o., Ljubljana
Šlandrova ulica 2 

1231 Ljubljana - Črnuče, Slovenia 

Tel: +386 1 586 29 00

E-mail: info@nlbleasego.si

www.nlbleasego.si 

Andrej Pucer, Director 

Anže Pogačnik, Director

Lavdim Koshutova, Member of the Management Board

Claus-Peter Martin Mueller, Director

NLB Banka a.d., Podgorica
Bulevar Stanka Dragojevića 46

81000 Podgorica, Montenegro

Tel: +382 20 402 000

E-mail: info@nlb.me

www.nlb.me

Martin Leberle, President of the Management Board

Vujošević Dražen, Member of the Management Board  
Lana Đurasović, Member of the Management Board31

N Banka d.d. Ljubljana 
Dunajska cesta 128a 

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia 

Tel: +386 80 22 65 

E-mail: info@nbanka.si 

www.nbanka.si 

Heribert Fernau, President of the Management Board 

NLB Lease&Go d.o.o. Skopje
Majka Tereza 1, 

1000 Skopje, North Macedonia

Tel.: + 389 2 5100 845

E-mail: info@nlbleasego.mk

Gregor Martinuč, Director   

Gjore Andonovski, Director

NLB Lease&Go Leasing d.o.o.  Beograd
Bulevar Despota Stefana 12 11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Tel.: +381 11 3342 644

E-mail: office@nlbleasego.rs

Boris Stević, Chairman of the Executive Board 

Michael Krenn, member of the Executive Board

NLB Cultural Heritage Management Institute, Ljubljana 
Čopova ulica 3 

Elena Burdakova, Member of the Management Board 

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia 

Martin Mavrič, Member of the Management Board

NLB DigIT d.o.o. Beograd
Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 165v 11070 New Belgrade, Serbia

Tel: +386 1 476 42 63 
E-mail: irena.cuk@nlb.si
Irena Čuk, Director

Tel.: +381 11 7220 112 

E-mail: office@nlbdigit.rs

www.nlbdigit.rs

Vladimir Rupar, Director

Dragana Marjanović Gencel, Director

KomBank Invest a.d. Beograd
Kralja Petra 19 

11000 Belgrade, Serbia

Tel.: +381 11 330 8310

E-mail: vladimir.garic@kombankinvest.com

www.kombankinvest.com

Vladimir Garić, Director

NLB Leasing d.o.o., Ljubljana – v likvidaciji
Šlandrova ulica 2

1231 Ljubljana - Črnuče, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 586 29 41

E-mail: anze.pogacnik@nlbleasing.si

Anže Pogačnik, Liquidator

NLB Leasing d.o.o. Beograd – u likvidaciji
Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 165 v

11070 New Belgrade, Serbia

Tel: +381 11 222 01 16

E-mail: veljko.tanic@nlbleasing.rs

Veljko Tanić, Liquidator 

30  Until 18 December 2022.

31   From 3 June 2022.

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

331

 Optima Leasing d.o.o. u likvidaciji, Zagreb 
Miramarska 24

NLB Skladi, upravljanje premoženja, d.o.o., Ljubljana
Tivolska cesta 48

REAM d.o.o., Podgorica 
Bul. Džordža Vašingtona br. 102, I. sprat/20 

10000 Zagreb, Croatia

Tel: +385 1 632 99 79

E-mail: vjekoslav.budimir@optima-leasing.hr

Vjekoslav Budimir, Liquidator

Prvi faktor d.o.o., v likvidaciji, Ljubljana 
Slovenska cesta 17

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

E-mail: france.zupan@prvifaktor.si

E-mail: iztok.zupanc@prvifaktor.si

France Zupan, Liquidator

Iztok Zupanc, Liquidator

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 476 52 70

E-mail: info@nlbskladi.si

www.nlbskladi.si
Kruno Abramovič, President of the Management Board32
Blaž Bračič, Member of the Management Board

Bankart d.o.o., Ljubljana
Celovška cesta 150

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 583 42 02

E-mail: info@bankart.si

www.bankart.si

Prvi faktor – faktoring d.o.o., Beograd – u likvidaciji
Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 165 v

Aleksander Kurtevski, Director

Jure Kvaternik, Director

81000 Podgorica, Montenegro 

Tel: +382 20 674 900 

E-mail: gligor.bojic@nlb.me 

Gligor Bojić, Director 

Marko Furlan, Authorised Representative 

REAM d.o.o., Zagreb
Ulica Damira Tomljanovića - Gavrana 11

10000 Zagreb, Croatia

Tel: +385 99 636 46 77

E-mail: josip.zurga@ream-cro.com

E-mail: julijana.milic@ream-cro.com

Josip Žurga, Director

Julijana Milić, Director

OL Nekretnine d.o.o. u likvidaciji, Zagreb 
Miramarska 24

10000 Zagreb, Croatia

Tel: +385 1 56 25 919

E-mail: ivan.strek@ream-cro.com

Vjekoslav Budimir, Liquidator 

11070 New Belgrade, Serbia

Tel: +381 64 642 4915

E-mail: zeljko.atanaskovic@prvifaktor.rs

Željko Atanasković, Liquidator

Prvi faktor d.o.o. u likvidaciji, Zagreb
Miramarska cesta 24

10000 Zagreb, Croatia

Tel: +385 1 6165 000

E-mail: info@prvifaktor.hr

Vjekoslav Budimir, Liquidator

NLB InterFinanz AG in Liquidation, Zürich 
Beethovenstrasse 48

8002 Zürich, Switzerland 

E-mail: info@nlbinterfinanz.ch

Jean-David Barnezet Llort, Liquidator

Polona Žižmund, Liquidator 

NLB InterFinanz d.o.o., Beograd – u likvidaciji
Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 165 v

11070 New Belgrade, Serbia

Tel: +381 11 22 25 351

Liljana Zoraja, Liquidator

LHB Aktiengesellschaft, Frankfurt am Main
Silberbornstrasse 14 

D-60320 Frankfurt, Germany

Tel: +49 69 95 62 58 27 

E-mail: matjaz.jevnisek@lhb.de

Matjaž Jevnišek, President of the Management Board

Ivan Štrek, Liquidator

PRIVATINVEST d.o.o. Ljubljana
Dunajska cesta 128A 

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel: +386 80 22 65

E-mail: info@nbanka.si 

Heribert Fernau, Director

Miha Hiršl, Director

PRO-REM d.o.o., Ljubljana - v likvidaciji
Čopova 3

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Tel: +386 1 586 29 16

E-mail: info@s-ream.si

www.nlbrealestate.com

Jovica Jakovac, Liquidator 

Nataša Batagelj, Liquidator

REAM d.o.o., Beograd – Novi Beograd
Bulevar Mihaila Pupina 165 v

11070 New Belgrade, Serbia

Tel: +381 11 22 25 374

E-mail: vladimir.vasilijevic@ream-srb.com

Vladimir Vasilijević, Director 
Marko Bradić, Director33
Miroslav Živković, Director34

SPV2 d.o.o., Beograd – Novi Beograd
Bulevar Mihaila Pupina 165 v

11070 New Belgrade, Serbia

Tel: +381 11 22 25 374

E-mail: office@ream-srb.com

Vladimir Vasilijević, Director

32  From 16 February 2023 new President of the Management Board Luka 

Podlogar.

33  Until 31 December 2022.
34  From 1 January 2023.

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

332

 Branches and representative 
offices of NLB Group 
members outside their 
country of residence

NLB InterFinanz AG in liquidation
Ljubljana Branch in liquidation

Puharjeva ulica 3

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Marko Čelebić, Director

Tara Hotel d.o.o., Budva 
Bulevar Džordža Vašingtona 102, Podgorica 

81000 Podgorica, Montenegro

Tel: +:382 20 674 900

E-mail: gligor.bojic@nlb.me 

Gligor Bojić, Director 

NLB Srbija d.o.o., Beograd
Bulevar Mihajla Pupina 165 v

11070 New Belgrade, Serbia

Tel: +381 11 22 25 366

E-mail: office@nlbsrbija.co.rs

www.nlbsrbija.co.rs
Veljko Tanić, Director35
Željko Atanasković, Director

NLB Crna Gora d.o.o., Podgorica 
Bulevar Džordža Vašingtona 102, 

II sprat/38

81000 Podgorica, Montenegro 

Tel: +382 68 886 441

E-mail: goran.lalicevic@nlb.me 

Goran Laličević, Executive Director

Barbara Šink, Authorised Representative

Marko Čelebić, Authorised Representative

S-REAM d.o.o., Ljubljana 
Čopova 3

1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
Tel: +386 1 586 29 16 
E-mail: info@s-ream.com

www.nlbrealestate.com

Jovica Jakovac, Director

Lamija Hadžiosmanović, Director

ARG - Nepremičnine d.o.o.
Vrhniška cesta 30, 

1354 Horjul, Slovenia

Tel: +386 59 784 943  

E-mail: matic.kermavnar@cbre.com

Matic Kermavnar, Director

35  Until 31 December 2022.

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

333

 Definitions and Glossary of Selected Terms

AC
ALCO
ALM
ALMM
AML/CTF
AT1
BCM
BIA
BiH
BMR
BoS
bps
BPV
CB
CBR
CCF
CEE
CEO
CET1
CFO
CGU
CIR
CIRS
CISO
CMO
CoR
CRD
CRM
CRO
CRR
CSA
CSD
CSI
CSR
CVA
DGS
DWH
EAD
EaR
EBA
EBRD
ECB
ECL
ECRA
EEA
EIB
EMIR
EPS
ESEF
ESG
ESMS
EU
EVE
EVS
EWS
FATF
FTP
FURS
FVOCI

Amortised Costs
Asset and Liability Committee
Asset and Liability Management
Additional Liquidity Monitoring Metrics
Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing
Additional Tier 1 capital
Business Continuity Management
Business Impact Analysis
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Benchmarks Regulation
Bank of Slovenia
Basis Points
Basis Point Value
Central Bank
Combined Buffer Requirement
Credit Conversion Factor
Central Eastern Europe
Chief Executive Officer
Common Equity Tier 1 capital
Chief Financial Officer
Cash-Generating Units
Cost-to-Income Ratio
Currency Interest Rate Swaps
Chief Information Security Officer
Chief Marketing Officer
Cost of Risk
Capital Requirements Directive
Customer Relationship Management 
Chief Risk Officer
Capital Requirements Regulation
Credit Support Annex
Central Security Depository
Customer Satisfaction Index
Corporate Social Responsibility
Credit Value Adjustments
Deposit Guarantee Scheme
Data Warehouse
Exposure at Default
Earnings at Risk
European Banking Authority
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
European Central Bank
Expected Credit Losses
Enterprise Compliance Risk Assessment
European Economic Area
European Investment Bank
European Market Infrastructure Regulation
Earnings Per Share
European Single Electronic Format
Environmental, Social and Governance
Environmental and Social Management System 
European Union
Economic Value of Equity
European Valuation Standards
Early Warning System
Financial Action Task Force
Fund Transfer Pricing
Financial Administration of the Republic of Slovenia
Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income

FVTPL
FX
GDP
GDPR
GDR
GGB
GRI GS
HHI
HR
IAS
IASB
ICAAP
IFRIC
IFRS
ILAAP
IRRBB
IRS
ISDA
IVS
JST
KB
KDD
KPI
KRI
LCP
LCR
LECL
LGD
LPD
LRE
LTD
M&A
MA
MAR
MiFID II
MiFIR
MIGA

MREL
NACE

NLB or the 
Bank
NPE
NPL
NPS
NPV
NSFR
OBM
OCR
OEM
O-SII
OU
p.p.
P1R
P2eM
P2G
P2M
P2P
P2R

Fair Value Through Profit or Loss
Foreign Exchange
Gross Domestic Product
General Data Protection Regulation 
Global Depositary Receipts 
Government Guaranteed Bonds
Global Reporting Initiative - Global Standards
Herfindahl-Hirschman Index
Human Resources
International Accounting Standard
International Accounting Standards Board
Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process
International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee
International Financial Reporting Standard
Internal Liquidity Adequacy Assessment Process
Interest Rate Risks for Banking Book
Interest Rate Swaps
International Swaps and Derivatives Association
International Valuation Standards
Joint Supervisory Team
Komercijalna Banka
Central Securities Clearing Corporation
Key Performance Indicator
Key Risk Indicators
Liquidity Contingency Plan
Liquidity Coverage Ratio
Lifetime Expected Credit Losses
Loss Given Default
Lifetime Probability of a Default
Leverage Ratio Exposure
Loan-to-Deposit Ratio
Mergers and Acquisitions
Master Agreements
Market Abuse Regulation
Markets in Financial Instruments Directive
Markets in Financial Instruments Regulation Rules
Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (part of the World 
Bank Group)
Minimum Requirement of Own Funds and Eligible Liabilities
Statistical Classification of Economic Activities in the European 
Community
NLB d.d.

Probability of Default
Purchased or Originated Credit-Impaired 
Point of Sale
Payments Services Directive 
Real Estate Asset Management
Risk-Free Rates
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors
Return on Assets
Return on Equity
Republic of Slovenia
Robotic Process Automation
Risk Weighted Assets
South-Eastern Europe
Significant Increase of Credit Risk
Service Level Agreements
Small and Medium-sized Enterprises
Solely Payment of Principal and Interest
Single Resolution Board
Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process
Single Resolution Fund
Single Supervisory Mechanism
Total Capital Ratio
Traded Debt Instruments

PD
POCI
POS
PSD2
REAM
RFR
RICS
ROA
ROE
RoS
RPA
RWA
SEE
SICR
SLA
SME
SPPI
SRB
SREP
SRF
SSM
TCR
TDI
The Group  NLB Group
Targeted Longer-Term Refinancing Operations
TLTRO
Total Risk exposure Amount
TREA
Total SREP Capital Requirement
TSCR
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
UN SDG
UNEP FI PRB United Nations Environment Programme Finance Initiative’s 

Principles for Responsible Banking
Value-at-Risk
Value Added Tax
Slovenian Banking Act
Companies Act 
Slovenian Pension and Disability Insurance Act
Prevention of Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing Act

VaR
VAT
ZBan-3
ZGD-1
ZPIZ
ZPPDFT-2
ZPPDFT-2A Act Amending the Prevention of Money Laundering and 

ZTFI-1
ZVKNNLB

ZVOP-2
ZVPot-1

Terrorist Financing Act
Financial Instruments Market Act
Slovenian Act for Value Protection of Republic of Slovenia’s 
Capital Investment in Nova Ljubljanska banka d.d., Ljubljana
Slovenian Personal Data Protection Act
Consumer Protection Act

Non-Performing Exposures
Non-Performing Loans
Net Promoter Score
Net Present Value
Net stable funding ratio
Operational Business Margin
Overall Capital Requirement
Original Exposure Method
Other Systemically Important Institutions
Organisational Units
Percentage Point(s)
Pillar 1 Requirement
Person to e-Merchant
Pillar 2 Guidance
Person to Merchant
Person to Person
Pillar 2 Requirements

MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

334

 MB Statement

SB Statement

Key Highlights

Strategy

Risk Factors & Outlook

Sustainability

Performance Overview

Risk Management

Events After 2022

Financial Report

Contents

335

NLB d.d., Ljubljana

nlb.si

NLB d.d.

Production: Saatchi & Saatchi Ljubljana

Photographs: Archive NLB Group members and IStock

Copyright: NLB d.d., Ljubljana

Ljubljana, April 2023