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OCH Budget Approved - Observations on Progress and Challenges

Published March 26, 2026, 20:12
OCH Budget Approved - Observations on Progress and Challenges

The House of Representatives approved the budget of the Housing Finance Organization (HFO) for 2026, which provides for expenditures of €23.3 million against revenues of €18.9 million, showing a deficit. Despite the deficit, a reduction in losses is expected compared to 2025 and a return to profitability from 2027, mainly due to a reduction in non-performing loans. During the discussion, MPs recognized the improved course of the HFO, noting an increase in restructurings, a reduction in application processing time, strengthening of capital adequacy and technological upgrades. However, concerns were also raised regarding restrictions imposed by the Central Bank and the need for substantial strengthening of human resources. The President of the Finance Committee, Christiana Erotokritou, stressed that the HFO has moved away from the path of “slow death” and is undergoing rehabilitation. The Parliamentary Spokesman of DIKO, Alekos Tryfonidis, referred to the intervention of the Parliament to strengthen the HFO in the past. The MP of DIKO, Zacharias Koulias, referred to the historical role of the HFO in supporting citizens, while the MP of AKEL, Giorgos Loukaidis, pointed out that the organization does not fully fulfill its social role due to the institutional framework.