The National Bank of Serbia (NBS) has assured depositors of Alta Bank that their insured deposits will be fully paid out, emphasizing the stability and liquidity of the Serbian banking sector. This announcement comes after the bank’s operating license was revoked on October 31, 2026, due to significant financial deterioration. The NBS has confirmed that it possesses the necessary funds to cover all insured deposits, up to 50,000 euros per depositor, a guarantee backed by the Republic of Serbia.

In a recent statement, the NBS highlighted that the banking sector in Serbia remains stable and well-capitalized, with robust liquidity reserves. The bank reassured the public that there are comprehensive institutional, financial, and regulatory mechanisms in place to maintain financial stability. The NBS stated, “The problems in the operations of an individual bank cannot be equated with the state of the banking sector as a whole, which continues to provide regular services to citizens and the economy.”

The payout process for Alta Bank depositors is set to begin promptly, following the court’s decision on the bank’s bankruptcy. The NBS has committed to informing depositors about the procedures for accessing their funds through the designated bank handling the payouts. The agency responsible for deposit insurance has confirmed that it has sufficient resources to meet all insured obligations within the legally mandated timeframe.

The NBS also reiterated its commitment to maintaining the stability of the Serbian dinar against the euro, citing its significant foreign exchange reserves and readiness to intervene in the foreign exchange market if necessary. The bank’s statement underscored the importance of exchange rate stability as a cornerstone of Serbia’s macroeconomic policy.

Despite these assurances, there may still be public skepticism regarding the overall stability of the banking sector in light of the Alta Bank incident. The timeline for the payout process could be subject to delays depending on the progression of legal proceedings. However, the NBS has emphasized its readiness to provide additional liquidity support to banks if needed, in accordance with its legal mandate.

The revocation of Alta Bank’s license and the subsequent assurances by the NBS highlight the regulatory measures in place to protect depositors and maintain financial system stability in Serbia. The NBS’s actions aim to reassure the public and the market of the sector’s resilience and the continued provision of banking and payment services to citizens and businesses.