Banks in Belarus are on the verge of change; here's a look at the anticipated developments:
Banking Shift-Up in June: Bracing for Change in Belarus
Monthly shifts in banking dynamics are a constant in Belarus, and June 2025 was no exception. Here's a lowdown on the changes that hit the financial sector.
Some financial institutions, like Belinvestbank and BNB Bank, updated their fee schedules for transactions and services. Others, such as Sber Bank (Belarus) and MTBank, modified their service criteria and terms.
The National Bank maintained the Standard Risk Calculation (RWSR) indicators from May, keeping the annual interest rate limits for loans and deposits unchanged.
Let's dive into the specifics:
Stiffing Up the Bankroll: New Fees Galore
Starting June 2, Belarusbank initiated charges for opening foreign currency accounts, applicable for residents and non-residents alike, with a few exemptions for certain categories. From the same date, Alfa Bank imposed a 3.5% (min. Br4.50) cash withdrawal fee at other banks' cash desks.
Sber Bank extended the validity of Visa and Mastercard cards until 2027, with an easy reactivation method via checking the card balance at any ATM.
Service Alters: What's New in the Banking Game
BNB Bank clarified its tariff calculation for card servicing, MTBank made adjustments to card operation notifications and commission-free withdrawal limits, while Belgazprombank added a new foreign currency exchange commission.
Perks & Discounts: Banks Rewarding Loyalty
Various banks offered incentives like bonuses for Visa cardholders from Priorbank and Belarusbank. Keep your eyes peeled for more attractive deals on entertainment events, like the rock festival "Solkhsvyatanie" and Bolshoi Theater tickets.
Watch Your Wallet: Scammers aren't Taking a Break
As always, be vigilant about new banking news. Keep an ear out for updates from financial institutions on evolving scamming strategies, like the latest reports from Belgazprombank on test answer access scams.
It's worth keeping track of local Belarusian financial news sources or official announcements from banks for up-to-date and accurate info. And remember, when in doubt, consult like-minded professionals, or better yet, your friendly neighborhood Assistant.
A Peek into the Future: Banking Trends Shaping Up
The global banking scenario is undergoing a transformation, with AI automating workflows, enhancing user experiences, and assisting in risk assessments. Belarusian banks might soon follow suit.
Recent ownership changes, like the sale of Priorbank to an UAE investor, will likely shape future strategic directions for the banking sector in Belarus.
European financial development, such as cross-border payment infrastructure expansions, may influence Belarusian banks indirectly through partnerships or regulatory changes.
Stay tuned for more developments in the ever-evolving world of banking!
In the banking sector of Belarus, financial institutions like Belinvestbank and BNB Bank introduced new fees for their transactions and services, whereas Sber Bank and MTBank made changes to their service criteria and terms in June 2025. As AI automation is transforming the global banking scenario, Belarusian banks may soon follow suit, potentially altering the strategic directions of the banking sector in Belarus.
