The CBCG noted that the banking system remains stable, well-capitalized, and liquid, with continued growth in major balance sheet positions. In the first month of SEPA implementation, transaction volumes rose significantly, especially for amounts under €200, with a clear preference for faster, cheaper digital channels, which cost about half as much as branch transactions. Several banks now process over 80% of payments through SEPA, indicating a shift away from traditional SWIFT transfers.
The meeting also covered recent CBCG fee reductions, with RTGS fees halved from €1.50 to €0.75 and DNS fees from €0.10 to €0.05. Banks are expected to pass these savings on to customers by December 1, 2025, while CBCG will monitor compliance to ensure transparent and efficient payment services.
Radović highlighted the CBCG’s continued efforts to align Montenegro’s regulatory framework with EU standards, including draft amendments to the Law on Credit Institutions in line with CRD VI, effective in EU states from January 11, 2026. The central bank also stressed ongoing initiatives to strengthen risk management, sector resilience, ESG compliance, cyber resilience under DORA, and consumer protection.
The CBCG and commercial banks share responsibility for building a modern and resilient financial system, with priorities including payment infrastructure modernization, service quality improvements, and strict implementation of European supervisory standards.
