The developments have prompted authorities to introduce temporary restrictions and regulatory interventions aimed at protecting clients and maintaining the stability of their respective financial systems.
In North Macedonia, the National Bank has placed Alta Bank AD Bitola under administrative management, following the revocation of the operating licence of its parent company, Alta Bank Belgrade. The measure took effect immediately and transfers temporary control of the bank’s assets to administrators appointed by the central bank.
Governor Trajko Slaveski said the intervention was intended to protect the bank’s assets and depositors, stressing that Alta Bank Bitola remains well-capitalised, liquid and compliant with supervisory standards. He also confirmed that around €2 million had been withdrawn from the bank by 1 November, while potential buyers from both North Macedonia and abroad had expressed interest in acquiring its shares.
The central bank has introduced temporary restrictions on certain withdrawals and payments from clients’ accounts. Individual customers will be able to withdraw or spend up to 10,000 denars per week using cards issued by the bank, while internal transfers between accounts held at Alta Bank Bitola will remain unrestricted. The authorities said the measure was necessary to safeguard the bank’s assets while allowing customers to continue making everyday payments. Opposition leader Venko Filipče has criticised the handling of the situation, questioning the restrictions imposed on depositors and calling for investigations into transactions linked to the group.
His allegations have not been established as facts.
In Montenegro, the Central Bank of Montenegro (CBCG) has revoked Alta Pay Group’s authorisation to provide payment services, after determining that the company no longer met the statutory requirements for operating in the sector. The decision followed a regulatory assessment that included the suitability of the holder of a qualifying ownership stake and the requirements for ensuring stable, secure and lawful operations. The CBCG stressed that Alta Pay Group is not a bank, does not accept deposits from citizens or businesses and poses no threat to Montenegro’s financial stability. It added that measures had been taken to ensure the orderly fulfilment of the company’s obligations and protect users’ interests.
In Serbia, the National Bank of Serbia revoked Alta Bank Belgrade’s operating licence on 30 October after identifying a significant deterioration in its financial position and liquidity, despite previous supervisory measures aimed at improving its financial condition. Bankruptcy proceedings are expected to follow, with the Deposit Insurance Agency to assume the role of bankruptcy administrator following a court decision.
The developments have triggered coordinated regulatory responses across the three markets, although the authorities have emphasised that the measures concerning Alta Bank Bitola and Alta Pay Group are intended to contain risks and protect customers within their respective jurisdictions.
