Banks tighten the criteria for granting loans. Who's gonna borrow the money now?

In 2025 Polish banking sector introduces significant exacerbations in credit policy, what Obstructs access to finance both private and business customers. These changes consequence from increasing legal risk, economic instability and changing regulations.

New credit realities for individual customers

Mortgage loans became more hard to access. Banks rise credit margins and sharpen creditworthiness requirements. In February 2025 the number of housing loans granted decreased by 31.9% compared to the same period in 2024 and their value decreased by 32%. The average value of the mortgage debt was PLN 417 210, which is simply a tiny decrease by 0.14% compared to the erstwhile year.

Cash loans increase in 22.5% the number of loans granted and 33.4% in their values in February 2025 compared to February 2024. The average value of cash debt was 27 065 zł, which represents an increase by 8.9%. This increase is partially due to client consolidation of debt.

Companies in the face of stricter credit conditions

Companies, especially those in the SME sector, encounter tightened lending criteria, especially long-term. Since 2017, banks have systematically tightened the financing conditions for large companies, which reduces the availability of capital for development.

Factors affecting the tightening of credit policy

1. Legal risk: Massive questioning of credit agreements in courts increases bank uncertainty about future liabilities.
2. Regulatory changes: The fresh rules and guidelines of financial supervisors require banks to be more careful in lending.
3. Macroeconomic situation: Increases in inflation and interest rates affect customers' creditworthiness and financing costs for banks.

Consequences for borrowers

The tightening of credit criteria means that possible borrowers must comply with stricter requirements creditworthiness, credit history and Own contribution. For many people and companies, this may mean putting aside investment plans or seeking alternate sources of funding.

In the face of these changes, it becomes crucial monitoring creditworthiness, regular analysis of bank offers and consultation with financial advisersto adapt to fresh conditions in the credit market.