Greek Daily News 18/04/2024

ECONOMY

-Alpha Bank CEO Vassilis Psaltis eyes further expansion and acquisitions in Romania in a joint interview with CEO of Italian lender UniCredit for Bloomberg. After creating the No. 3 lender in Romania, the two firms may even team up on another takeover in that country.

-The International Monetary Fund in its Fiscal Monitor sees a primary surplus of 2.1% of GDP for Greece in 2024 and a reduction in public debt to 158.8% of GDP.

-The average monthly salary of 1,175 euros is 20% lower than 15 years ago, according to labour ministry figures.

-The Hellenic Gas Transmission System Operator (DESFA) reported a 30.91%-increase in Russian natural gas consumption in Q1 2024 y-o-y, as Russian natural gas imports to Greece are apparently skyrocketing, To Vima reported.

SHIPPING

Greece ranks first in the world, as the largest ship management center, according to the latest annual report by Menon Economics and DNV.

REAL ESTATE

-In Q1 2024, in the center of Athens, properties operating as short-term rental accommodation reached 12,762 according to AirDNA. The tax authorities are increasing the burden on owners choosing to rent out their property short-term.

-Greece’s tax authorities are increasing the burden on owners choosing to rent out their property short-term, Kathimerini reported.

TOURISM

Malta-based carrier Universal Air will link Valletta with Athens twice per week and Corfu three times per week from May until October, it stated.

GENERAL

The Athens Trade Association announced extended Easter opening hours: from April 25 to Holy Thursday (May 2) from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and on Sunday, April 28 from 11 a.m. until 4 p.m, on Good Friday (May 3) from 1 until 7 p.m. and on Holy Saturday (May 4) from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. All shops and stores will remain closed on Easter Sunday, Easter Monday and on Tuesday due to the transfer of Labor Day from May 1 to 7.