OTP Bank, which was yesterday mentioned as a potential acquirer of HSBC Bank Malta, has addressed recent speculation regarding its strategic operations, reaffirming its commitment to transparency while maintaining discretion on acquisition and expansion plans.

It has told WhosWho.mt that for prudential and business reasons, it cannot comment on media reports regarding whether it is bidding to acquire HSBC Malta. 

Responding to a recent WhosWho.mt article, the bank stated that, for prudential and business reasons, it will not disclose such information to the media, adding that OTP Group is the leading banking group in Central and Eastern Europe, a listed company for 30 years, with a reputation for prudence and transparency.

The bank also took the opportunity to clarify its position regarding its past inclusion on the so-called "Ukrainian list of shame." According to OTP Group, the allegations leading to its placement on the list were repeatedly refuted and “ultimately proven to be false”. The bank was not only temporarily lifted from the list but was later removed from it entirely before the list itself was discontinued.

Further reinforcing its industry standing, OTP Bank stated that it was recently ranked as Europe’s top-performing bank in S&P Global Market Intelligence’s 2024 ranking of Europe’s 50 largest listed banks. This recognition highlights the institution’s financial strength, operational excellence, and leadership in the sector.

WhosWho.mt yesterday reported that HSBC Malta’s exit process is heating up, with APS Bank confirming it has started a formal due diligence process of the bank. Additionally, unconfirmed reports suggest that a group of investors, potentially involving leading Maltese businesses, are also interested in acquiring HSBC Malta. A third potential bidder is OTP Bank, making it the first foreign bank reportedly entering the race.