Reducing NPL portfolios with EOS as a partner 

EUR 361 billion was the amount of non-performing loans (NPLs) on the balance sheets of European banks in the third quarter of 2024. According to the ECB, the average NPL ratio was 2.31%. Regulators and central banks are urging institutions to systematically reduce risks.

In such situations, the involvement of a partner such as EOS is recommended to reduce complexity, assume responsibility, and provide structured relief. "We possess the expertise to acquire and professionally manage all distressed asset classes, including unsecured and secured claims, as well as real estate. Trust is central to our business. It grows over decades – through consistent, transparent actions and genuine reliability," says Karel Smerak, NPL Director at EOS. 

EOS is a prominent buyer of NPLs in Europe. With over 20 national subsidiaries and more than 6,000 employees, it forms the foundation for the work of the international group. Its extensive presence in national markets provides it with in-depth knowledge of local regulatory requirements and the necessary structures to acquire large and diverse portfolios of receivables.

"Banks can sell complex portfolios in a bundled and structured manner, ensuring that regulatory security and recovery quality are maintained. This encompasses a broad array of banking products, ranging from overdrafts for retail consumers to secured business loans, as well as the restructuring and management of owned real estate. EOS not only has a solid track record and valuable data but also the knowledge and expertise to discover optimal solutions for all parties involved by examining local market nuances while also incorporating an international perspective," explains Irina Berzkalne, Head of Secured Investments. She also noted that in the previous fiscal year, the company had made significant investments in NPL portfolios in countries such as Greece, France and Poland. 

As a subsidiary of the Otto Group, EOS is financially stable and focuses on long-term success. "Our calculations are based on realistic forecasts, providing the necessary security of both our business and that of the sellers to be successful today and in the future. Essentially, we are a family-run business, which makes a huge difference" says Karel. With over 50 years of experience and the stable financial development of the EOS Group, the company is one of the most reliable players in the European NPL market.

The strength of EOS as a reputable partner in the market, is also evident by the joint venture with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group. The shared objective is to enhance the liquidity of companies and the debt situation of consumers in Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Poland, Bulgaria, and Bosnia and Herzegovina through the responsible purchase of non-performing loans (NPL).

In addition to purchasing NPLs, EOS assumes responsibility for the servicing of these receivables, which encompasses the professional management of the portfolios. This comprehensive service encompasses communication with consumers, management of collateral, and adherence to legal requirements.

"Banks often lack the time in their daily operations to develop customized and personalized solutions with consumers or companies. We take this time approaching people on equal terms, delving into the stories behind large bank loans to find a good solution for everyone involved, “says Berzkalne. "In doing so, we meet all relevant banking standards at every stage of the process, which is of paramount importance to our partners," adds Smerak.

This combination of global reach and personalized support is a deciding factor for many clients. Another key reason to choose EOS is our extensive experience: The company has been active in the field of non-performing loans for several decades and continuously develops its services through international collaboration. "Our expertise is evident in the daily, consistent performance across all our client portfolios. What challenges can we help you overcome?" says Smerak.