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Alpha Astika Akinhta S.A.

Annual Report Sep 24, 2015

2661_10-k_2015-09-24_6bb459fd-3181-454a-ab53-872ab3ea3b30.pdf

Annual Report

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ALPHA BANK

ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT

For the period from 1st January to 31st December 2008 (In accordance with the Law 3556/2007)

Statement by the members of the Board of Directors6
Board of Directors' Report 7
Independent Auditors' Report 14
Group Financial Statements as at 31.12.2008
► Consolidated income statement 16
► Consolidated balance sheet 17
► Consolidated statement of changes in equity 18
► Consolidated cash flow statement 20
► Notes to the Group Financial Statements
General information 21
Accounting policies applied
1.1 Basis of presentation 23
1.2 Basis of consolidation 27
1.3 Segment reporting 28
1.4 Transactions in foreing currency and translation of foreign operations28
1.5 Cash and cash equivalents29
1.6 Classification and measurement of financial assets 29
1.7 Derivative financial instruments and hedge accounting31
1.8 Property, plant and equipment33
1.9 Investment property33
1.10 Goodwill and other intangible assets 33
1.11 Leases34
1.12 Insurance activities35
1.13 Impairment losses on loans and advances36
1.14 Deferred taxation 37
1.15 Non-current assets held for sale and related liabilities 37
1.16 Financial liabilities38
1.17 Employee benefits 39
1.18 Share options granted to employees 39
1.19 Provisions40
1.20 Sale and repurchase agreements 40
1.21 Securitization40
1.22 Equity 41
1.23 Interest income and expense 41
1.24 Fee and commission income 41
1.25 Discontinued operations42
1.26 Comparatives 42
2 Net interest income 43
3 Net fee and commission income43
4 Dividend income43
5 Gains less losses on financial transactions44
6 Other income 44
7 Staff costs45
8 General administrative expenses45
9 Impairment losses and provisions to cover credit risk46
10 Income tax 46
11 Profit after income tax from discontinued operations47
12 Earnings per share 48
13 Cash and balances with Central Banks 50
14 Due from banks 50
15 Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
– Held for trading51
16 Derivative financial instruments (assets and liabilities) 51
17 Loans and advances to customers 53
18 Investments securities – available-for-sale – held to maturity 54
19 Investments in associates 55
20 Investment property 56
21 Property, plant and equipment 57
22 Goodwill and other intangible assets 58
23 Deferred tax assets and liabilities 59
24 Other assets 60
25 Non-current assets held for sale and related liabilities 61
Liabilities
26 Due to banks 62
27 Due to customers 62
28 Debt securities in issue and other borrowed funds63
29 Liabilities for current income tax and other taxes 64
30 Employee defined benefit obligations 64
31 Other liabilities 68
32 Provisions 68
33 Share capital 70
34 Share premium 70
35 Reserves 70
36 Retained earnings 70
37 Treasury shares 71
38 Hybrid securities 71
Additional Information
39 Contingent liabilities and commitments 72
40 Group consolidated companies 74
41 Segment reporting 76
42 Financial risk management 78
42.1 Credit risk78
42.2 Market risk 88
42.3 Liquidity risk 94
42.4 Fair value of financial assets and liabilities 98
43 Capital management – capital adequacy 99
44 Related-party transactions 100
45 Acquisitions, disposals of subsidiaries and associates and other corporate events 100
46 Events after the balance sheet date 102
Independent Auditors' Report 103
Financial statements as at 31.12.2008
► Income Statement 105
► Balance sheet 106
► Statement of changes in equity 107
► Cash flow statement 109
► Notes to the financial statements
General information 110
Accounting policies applied
1.1 Basis of presentation 112
1.2 Segment reporting 116
1.3 Transactions in foreign currency and translation of foreign operations 116
1.4 Cash and cash equivalents117
1.5 Classification and measurement of financial assets117
1.6 Derivative financial instruments and hedge accounting120
1.7 Investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures 121
1.8 Property, plant and equipment122
1.9 Investment property 122
1.10 Goodwill and other intangible assets122
1.11 Leases 123
1.12 Impairment losses on loans and advances 124
1.13 Deferred taxation125
1.14 Non-current assets held for sale125
1.15 Financial liabilities126
1.16 Employee benefits126
1.17 Share options granted to employees127
1.18 Provisions127
1.19 Sale and repurchase agreements128
1.20 Securitization 128
1.21 Equity128
1.22 Interest income and expense129
1.23 Fee and commission income129
1.24 Comparatives 129
2 Net interest income 130
3 Net fee and commission income130
4 Dividend income130
5 Gains less losses from financial transactions131
6 Other income 131
7 Staff costs131
8 General administrative expenses132
9 Impairment losses and provisions for credit risk 132
10 Income tax133
11 Earnings per share134
12 Cash and balances with Central Banks 135
13 Due from banks 135
14 Securities held for trading135
15 Derivatives financial instruments (assets and liabilities)136
16 Loans and advances to customers 138
17 Investment securities Available for sale - Held to maturity 139
18 Investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures 140
19 Investment property142
20 Property, plant and equipment143
21 Goodwill and other intangible assets144
22 Deferred tax assets and liabilities 145
23 Other assets146
24 Non-current assets held for sale146
25 Due to banks147
26 Due to customers147
27 Debt securities in issue and other borrowed funds148
28 Liabilities for current income tax and other taxes149
29 Employee defined benefit obligations149
30 Other liabilities152
31 Provisions152
32 Share capital 153
33 Share premium153
34 Reserves153
35 Retained earnings154
36 Treasury shares154
37 Contingent liabilities and commitments155
38 Segment reporting156
39 Financial risk management158
39.1 Credit risk 158
39.2 Market risk166
Foreign currency risk166
Interest rate risk (Gap Analysis)169
39.3 Liquidity risk (Liquidity Gap Analysis)172
39.4 Fair values of financial Assets and Liabilities 176
40 Capital management - Capital adequacy177
41 Related-party transactions 177
42 Acquisitions, disposals of subsidiaries, associates and other corporate events 179
43 Events after the balance sheet date180
Financial Statements and Information of Alpha Bank A.E. and the Group181
Information Pursuant to Article 10 of Law 3401/2005183
Anailability of Annual Financial Report185

STATEMENT BY THE MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

(In accordance with article 4 paragraph 2 of Law 3556/2007)

To the best of our knowledge, the annual financial statements that have been prepared in accordance with the applicable International Financial Reporting Standards, give a true view of the assets, liabilities, equity and financial performance of Alpha Bank A.E. and of the group of companies included in the consolidated financial statements taken as a whole, as provided in article 4 paragraphs 3 and 4 of Law 3556/2007, and the Board of Directors' annual report presents fairly the information required by article 4 paragraphs 7 and 8 of Law 3556/2007 and the related decisions of the Hellenic Capital Market Commission.

Athens, 24 February 2009

THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

THE MANAGING DIRECTOR THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

YANNIS S. COSTOPOULOS I.D. No. Χ 661480

DEMETRIOS P. MANTZOUNIS I.D. No Ι 166670

MARINOS S. YANNOPOULOS I.D. No Ν 308546

Director's Report for year 2008

The activities and economic results of Alpha Bank in Greece and abroad in the year 2008 under review have developed along satisfactory lines, within an environment of rapidly deteriorating global financial markets. The difficulties faced by banks internationally in obtaining financing through the interbank and commercial paper markets has rendered their economic position fragile and has necessitated the extensive intervention of the monetary and fiscal authorities in each and every country in an effort to secure the stability and the functioning of the system.

In particular, interventions have taken the form of: a) facilitating the financing of the banks in each country from the central bank and the interbank markets, mainly through the provision of government securities that may be used as collateral, at a fee, b) providing, against an appropriate fee, government guarantees for the refinancing the loans that are on the books of banks via the commercial paper market and c) bolstering bank's own capital via the purchase of preferred or/and common stocks by the state.

Despite the extensive intervention, it was not possible to avert a significant slowdown or/and curtailment of credit expansion across economies. Already, the global financial system is going through a second bout of unfavorable effects flowing from the global financial crisis.

In particular, the severe financial crisis that started in July 2007 in the market for securitized subprime mortgages in the USA, expanded in the market for corporate bonds and in the whole of the global financial system. The crisis resulted in the write-off of a significant part of the value of the financial assets in the balance sheet of many of the major banks in the world as a consequence of their valuation in their new, much lower, current prices prevailing in the malfunctioning markets of securitized mortgages and other complex derivative financial products. The crisis compelled banks to look for capital of comparable magnitude and restore their capital base, a function which became all the more crucial in an environment of rapidly declining stock markets and one where the trust of the general public in the credit institutions of many countries, was gradually being eroded owing to the uncertainty regarding their exposure to the malfunctioning market of mortgages and asset backed bonds in the USA and their actual financial state.

On the other hand, the crisis has contributed to the curtailment of the liquidity in the interbank markets as the perceived counterparty risk between financial institutions increased substantially. Liquidity in these markets had been partially restored by July of 2008 which can be gagged from the fall in the margins observed in the interbank markets, as a result of intensive interventions by the Central Banks who accepted as collateral an extensive array of financial assets and of the drastic reduction, by the FED and the Bank of England, of their respective benchmark interest rates.

Nevertheless, in the first seven months of 2008, the financial crisis overlapped with the large increases in the price of oil and food products which contributed to the rise of inflation and the eruption of inflationary expectations in the USA and in Europe which led the ECB to increase (as opposed to the required decrease in) its benchmark interest rate in July of 2008. This fact was one of the basic factors which led to the abrupt deceleration of the economic activity across all economies from the 3rd quarter of 2008 and, importantly, to the deterioration and geographical amplification of the financial crisis from September of 2008 in all those countries which we now know to be affected by the crisis and which include emerging economies.

In particular, following the nationalization of the big mortgage securitization companies Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae in August of 2008, the continued fall in the housing market and the market for corporate bonds, resulted in the substantial increase in the write offs of non performing assets and the further curtailment of the capacity of the big investment banks and other financial institutions to refinance their liabilities in the interbank and the commercial paper markets. This led the situation to crisis point in the middle of September of 2008 when Lehman Brothers, the largest investment bank, went into bankruptcy, AIG, the largest insurance company in the world was virtually nationalized, Merrill Lynch was bought out by Bank of America, the remaining investment banks were transformed into banks under the oversight of and with access to FED refinancing, etc. These developments contributed to the almost total disruption of the functioning of the interbank markets and the markets for corporate bonds and commercial paper and led to the unveiling of the large problems of liquidity and doubtful liabilities that faced many European banks. In this way, the financial crisis was transferred with great force to Europe and to the emerging economies, compelling governments to take measures in support of banks, as has been previously mentioned. The resulting intensification of the credit crunch situation led all the advanced economies into a deep recession and all emerging economies to an abrupt slowdown of their economic growth and also to a large fall in commodities prices and the volume of international trade.

Moreover, the drastic reduction in the price of oil, in combination with the recession of the global economy, has led to a significant retrenchment of inflation in all economies. Thus in December 2008 inflation was 0.1% in the USA and 1,6% in the Euro zone, while, GDP fell considerably in annual terms in the 4th quarter of 2008 by -0.2% in the USA, -1.2% in the Euro zone and -4.6% in Japan. The general consensus holds that 2009 GDP will fall even more, by -2.0% in the USA, -2.3% in the Euro zone, -2.4% in Japan and -2.9% in the United Kingdom.

The considerable slowdown in the growth of emerging economies across the world, including the economies of southeastern Europe, is another contributing factor to the negative economic juncture currently underway. Greek banks have invested heavily in expanding their operation in the countries of South Eastern Europe, which have also undergone a slowdown in economic growth. In particular, the general consensus holds that GDP growth in China will slow to around 6.5% in 2009 from 9.0% in 2008, owing to the significant fall of its exports, as a result of the slowdown of global demand. Also, in our neighboring counties, growth is expected to slow in Bulgaria and Romania to 2.3% and 2.8% respectively in 2009, from 6.0% and 7.8% respectively in 2008.

The Greek economy retained a strong growth of 3.0% in 2008, from 4.0% in 2007, despite the significant slowdown it had to endure as a result of the global financial crisis. Growth in 2008 was characterized by the increase of consumer expenditure by 2.4%, the substantial fall in investment, especially investment in the housing sector, the increase of exports of goods and services by 3.0% in real terms and the decline of imports by around -0.5%. Furthermore, the abovementioned growth in 2008 was based on the increase of credit expansion in the private sector of the economy by 16.5%, with credit expansion to households slowing to 12.8% in December 2008 and credit expansion to businesses remaining robust at 19.8%. Finally, the economic growth in 2008 was combined with a new surge of the general government deficit to the 3.7% of GDP and the forecast in the 2008 Update of the Hellenic Stability and Growth Program 2008-2011 for an equally high deficit in 2009, as well as for a deficit above 3.0% of GDP in 2010. This apparent inability of making any headway in the management of the fiscal finances, in combination with pervasive risk aversion as a result of the global financial crisis, has led to the significant widening of the spread between the yields of German and Greek government bonds to 230- 300bps.

The report of the Bank of Greece concerning the Monetary Policy for 2008-2009 estimates a GDP growth in 2009 of around 0.5%, whereas the Stability and Growth Program foresees GDP growth to reach 1.1% in 2009. Nevertheless, the Bank of Greece also maintains that there are a number of important factors which could lead to a greater increase of GDP in Greece in 2009. Despite the high level of uncertainty surrounding economic developments in 2009 and the following years, prospects are still favorable for growth exceeding 1.5% in 2009.

In contrast to the significant problems faced by the banks in many countries of Europe and in USA, Greek banks have not recorded direct losses from the financial crisis. In order to secure their appropriate financing in the interbank and corporate bonds markets and in view of the unfavorable economic environment in 2009, the Greek banks are making use of the government measures of € 28 billion to strengthen liquidity in the Greek economy, ensuring the continuation of the financing and development of the economy. Overall, Greek banks are aiming to consolidate their position in the market for financial services not only in Greece but also across the countries of South Eastern Europe. The expansion of the Greek banks in the countries of South Eastern Europe was realized in full understanding of the macro-economic and other risks which existed and still exist in the region, especially in the previously mentioned turbulent environment of the global financial crisis. That which is primarily being monitored in the current period, is the systemic risks that arise as a result of the unavoidable curtailment of net capital inflows from abroad in these countries. In any case, this expansion was and still remains necessary for the Greek banks but also for the numerous Greek businesses that operate in the region. Moreover, it is not accidental that the increase of Greek exports of goods and services during the last years has been based on their substantial increase towards the countries of South Eastern Europe.

Alpha Bank, according to the decision made by the board of directors on 16.12.2008, will make use of the government measures of €28 billion that were implemented via the law 3723/2008 for the enforcement of the liquidity in economy as measure to encounter the effects of the global financial crisis. Alpha Bank's General Assembly on 12.01.2009, following the above-mentioned Board of Director's decision, has decided among other to increase the share capital till the amount of € 950 million through the issue and distribution of preference shares and to appoint a government representative as member of the Board of Directors as required by the abovementioned law and under the condition that the government will participate in the Bank's share capital.

Alpha Bank's rapid growth, both in Greece and Southeastern Europe, is reflected by the increase in market share in the majority of sectors within which the bank operates.

The Bank maintains its long-term leading position in corporate loans in Greece, which has been enhanced by the expansion of services to medium size enterprises, by utilizing its new centralized management relations scheme, a result of the creation of 10 new Business Centers. In mortgage lending, we achieved a market share of 14.4% and the second largest portfolio in the Greek Market. Furthermore, during 2008, our growth in consumer credit exceeded that of the market, increasing our market share to 13.5% from 13.0% in 2007. In the broader region of Southeastern Europe Alpha Bank operates has achieved a market share of more than 8%.

Our presence in Greece and in Southeastern Europe is supported by a solid network of approximately 1000 branches in both urban and rural areas, which has allowed us to easily adjust to the changing market conditions. However, due to the negative effect of the global financial crisis on the region, we have decided to postpone our plans to further expand our branch network. Instead, our focus has now shifted to fully utilizing our existing branch network and to increase our brand's visibility in the market.

Alpha Bank, under the current financial circumstances, has increased by 19,4% its assets as result of the dynamic expansion of loans by 20,5%, acquiring the funds from deposits and from the interbank markets.

The Bank, during 2008, has performed securitization of mortgage and consumer loans in order to enhance its liquidity. In detail, the Bank has issued two series of covered bonds, on 18 July, via its subsidiary Alpha Covered Bonds Plc that was founded for this reason. The 2 series of bonds, which amount to € 1 billion each, have three and five years duration, are guaranteed by the Bank and are covered by mortgage loans. The bonds that have been rated as AAA from three international firms (Standard & Poor's, Moody's και Fitch) have been used as collateral in monetary acts with Bank of Greece. Two more bond loans were issued in 9.12.2008 through the Bank's subsidiary company Katanalotika Plc with coverage of consumer loans. The bonds, which amount to € 1,5 billion, have been acquired by the Bank and their mutual issuance, that has been rated as Aa2 by the international firm Moody's, has been used for refinancing purposes with the Bank of Greece.

The guarantee of bank deposits that are insured by the deposit guarantee fund has been increased from € 20.000 to € 100.000 per depositor according to updated legislation as consequence of the financial uncertainty derived from the collapse of financial institutions abroad the last quarters of 2008. Consequence of the above measures that were mending to protect the banks' depositors is the increase of the contribution fees paid by the banks to the Hellenic deposit guarantee fund. The corresponding legislation that was presented in the Parliament, under the title "Deposit and investment guarantee fund" provides that the additional contribution formats a fund of which every financial institutions entitles a portion based on the amounts of its contribution.

The impairment charge that was performed in 2008 was up to 1,13% of the total balance of loans and receivables (31.12.2007: 0,6%) and the total percentage coverage of credit risk is up to 2,46% of the portfolio of loans and receivables. This increase reflects the

Bank's policy that requires the formation of adequate provisions in face of the anticipated deterioration in the repayments of the portfolio of loans.

Consequently, the profit after tax for year 2008 has decreased by 33% comparing to last year's results from continuing activities, mainly due to the increase in the impairment charge by 139%.

The capital adequacy has been preserved at high levels resulting in a capital adequacy ratio of 10,1% and core Tier 1 ratio of 8,3%. Capital adequacy from 1 January 2008 is calculated under the new regulatory framework (Basel II) which has been incorporated into Greek law by Law 3601/2007. The new regulatory framework significantly amends the measurement of credit risk and introduces capital requirements for operational risk. There are no significant changes in the measurement of market risk. Specifically, credit risk of the investment portfolio and operational risk are measured based on the Standardized Approach.

The main developments were the acquisitions of 93% of the newly established Ukraine bank OJSC Astra Bank and the transition of 100% of the share capital of company "Touristika Theretra A.E." owner of the hotel Hilton Rhodes Resort that was held by 50% from the "Greek Hotel Company Lampsa S.A." and by 50% from the "Plaka S.A". The total purchase price was up to € 35,5 million.

In the middle of the year, Alpha Bank has sold part of its treasury shares which represented 4% of its share capital to the Paramount Services Holding Limited, a company which is mainly controlled by one of the most prominent families of Qatar.

On 31.12.2008 the Bank owned 5.683.358 treasury shares, of acquisition value €68,9 million and of market value €38 million. The group's companies don't hold any treasury shares. In the period from 31.12.2008 till 16.2.2009, the Bank has purchased 457.601 treasury shares, of acquisition value €2,6 million (€5,83 per share). Therefore, the total number of treasury shares as at 16.2.2009 amounted to 6.140.959 shares of total acquisition value of €71,7million and represent 1,49% of the share capital.

Also, on 17.02.2009 the third securitization of a part of the portfolio of bond loans amounting to 1,25 billion was completed through the special purpose entity Talanto PLC. A part of those bonds, which has received an A1 rating from the international firm Moody's, is accepted by the European Central Bank as collateral for refinancing purposes.

Alpha Bank is constantly keeping apace with the evolving international macroeconomic environment, adapting to international trends and moving forwards with added emphasis on managing and controlling the quality of its lending, the inherent credit risk and its liquidity, and is continuously seeking to maximize the use of its capital, while strengthening the policies, procedures and the models used according to international best practices. Based on the above and its long-standing history, the Bank is steadily developing while maintaining strong and healthy assets.

The liquidity risk faced by the Bank has increased due to the current financial circumstances and the difficulty to access the international capital markets. During 2008, the Bank has proceeded to issue covered bonds on a collateral pool of mortgage loans and to securitize a portfolio of consumer loans, which are currently used as collateral to draw liquidity from Bank of Greece. During 2009 the Bank intends to proceed with additional securitization of loans as decided by the Asset/ Liability Committee (ALCO). If the current market conditions persist, the above securitizations will be used as collateral to draw liquidity from Bank of Greece. Additionally, the Bank has decided to participate in the Greek government's bank liquidity support plan, which will improve its liquid reserves and its capital adequacy ratios.

Moreover, today's challenges in global financial markets demand vigilance and the ability to manage uncertainty. Throughout its long standing history, Alpha Bank has always effortlessly and successfully navigated the changing market conditions, relying on its well established reputation, leveraging the Bank's organizational structure and qualified personnel while maintaining mutually beneficial relationships with customers and a conservative approach to risk taking.

The Board of Directors' intention was to propose a cash dividend for the year 2008, as per the provisions of Law 3723/2008. However, in light of the forthcoming legislative amendments regarding the distribution of dividend, the Board of Directors will suspend any decision on the distribution of dividend until the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, by which time it expects to be in a position to formulate its final proposal

According to the corresponding regulatory framework, the present report must contain the main transactions with related parties. All the transactions between the related parties, the bank and the group's companies are performed in the ordinary business course, conducted according the market's conditions and are authorized by corresponding management personnel. There are no other material transactions between the related parties beyond those described in the following paragraph.

a. The outstanding balances and the corresponding income and expense of the Group companies with members of their Boards of Directors and their close family members are as follows:

Loans 172.472
Deposits 73.991
Debt securities in issue 20.096
Letters of guarantee 21.392
Interest and similar income 10.295
Interest expense and similar charges 3.942
Staff costs 13.021

b. The outstanding balances and the corresponding results of the most significant transactions with subsidiaries are as follows: ΑLPHA BANK LONDON

Assets
Due from banks 169.715
Liabilities
Due to banks 202.793
Letters of guarantee 479.477
Income
Interest and similar income 10.003
ΑLPHA LEASING A.E
Assets
Loans and advances to customers 970.900
Income
Interest and similar income 47.510
ABC FACTORS A.E
Assets
Loans and advances to customers 455.212
Income
Interest and similar income 17.017
ALPHA LEASING ROMANIA S.A
Assets
Loans and advances to customers 115.893
Income
Interest and similar income 724
ALPHA BANK SRBIJA A.D
Assets
Due from banks
143.507
Income

ALPHA BANK ROMANIA

Assets
Due from banks 2.551.692
Letters of guarantee 52.637

Interest and similar income 8.176

Income
Interest and similar income 120.272
ALPHA CREDIT GROUP PLC
Assets
Investment securities Available for sale 5.464.510
Liabilities
Debt securities in issue and other liabilities 17.395.646
Income
Interest and similar income 224.204
Expenses
Interest expense and other expenses 1.026.366
ALPHA BANK CYPRUS LTD
Assets
Due from banks 2.863.071
Liabilities
Due to banks 1.977.836
Letters of guarantee 462.953
Income
Interest and similar income 67.597
Expenses
Interest expense and other expenses 63.054
ALPHA GROUP INVESTMENTS LTD
Income
Gain/Loss form financial transactions 84.297

Explanatory Report of the Board of Directors for the year 2008

The Explanatory Report of the Board of Directors for the year 2008 to the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders contains detailed information in accordance with article 11 of Law 3371/2005, the reference date being 31.12.2008.

a. The share capital of the Bank is Euro 1,931,590,264.40 and is divided into 410,976,652 common, nominal, voting, paperless shares of nominal value of Euro 4.70 each. All shares are listed on the Athens Exchange. The Bank shares are registered, voting and indivisible, in a paperless form or as the law provides from time to time.

It is reminded that the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders on 12.1.2009 approved:

Law 2190/1920, has not yet been implemented.

  • − The increase of the share capital of the Bank in a maximum amount of Euro 950,000,000, in accordance with Law 3723/2008, by means of the issuance and distribution of new, redeemable, preferred, non-voting, non tradable in an organised market, shares in material form, together with the abolition of the pre-emptive rights, if any, of its existing shareholders.
  • − The grant of authority to the Board of Directors of the Bank to specify the terms (of issuance) of the preferred shares.
  • − The amendment of article 5 of the Articles of Incorporation of the Bank to reflect the share capital increase and the adaptation to the terms of Law 3723/2008. The above decision has not yet been approved by the Ministry of Development and as per article 7b paragraph 11 of Codified
  • b. The Articles of Incorporation contain no restrictions on the transfer of shares, save as otherwise provided for in the law.
  • c. From the Bank's records there are no qualified, direct or indirect, holdings within the meaning of Law 3556/2007.
  • d. The Articles of Incorporation provide for no shares bestowing on their holders special rights of control.
  • e. The Articles of Incorporation contain no restrictions on voting rights and the deadlines for exercising the same, save as otherwise provided for in the law.
  • f. To the knowledge of the Bank, there are no shareholder agreements providing for restrictions on share transfers or the exercise of voting rights.
  • g. There are no rules for the appointment and replacement of the Board of Directors, as well as for the amendment of the Articles of Incorporation, which are at variance with those stipulated in Laws 3601/2007, 3016/2002 and Codified Law 2190/1920.
  • h. The Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of 3.4.2008 approved the increase of the share capital of the Bank by Euro 328,781,321.60 by the capitalisation of the "share premium" account of Euro 184,033,179.45 and part of the "retained earnings" account of Euro 144,748,142.15. No new shares were issued for this increase but the nominal value of the existing shares was increased from Euro 3.90 to Euro 4.70. The aforementioned resolution was communicated to the Ministry of Development and, by virtue of decision no. Κ2-5168/22.4.2008 of the latter, it was registered in the Register of Societes Anonymes. Following the aforementioned increase, the share capital of the Bank is as defined in the above paragraph a., where its modification thenceforth is also stated.

The Bank may increase its share capital by virtue of a resolution of its General Meeting of Shareholders or of its Board of Directors, in accordance with its Articles of Incorporation and the statutory provisions then in force. The Bank may acquire treasury shares according to the stipulations of the law. By virtue of its resolution dated 6 June 2006, in accordance with section 13 of Codified Law 2190/1920 and for a period of four (4) years, i.e. till the expiration of the term of the current Board of Directors, the General Meeting of the Bank's Shareholders assigned to its Board of Directors the authority to cause an extraordinary increase of the share capital of the Bank. If such authority is exercised, then, under section 13(4) of Codified Law 2190/1920, the share capital may be increased by an amount up to the outstanding paid in share capital on the date the above authority was granted i.e. up to the amount of Euro 1,589,971,702.80. By virtue of a resolution of the General Meeting of Shareholders and subject to the publicity requirements of section 7b of Codified Law 2190/1920, this authority of the Board of Directors may be renewed for a period not to exceed five (5) years per each renewal, such renewal to take effect upon the expiration of each five-year period.

The Bank may purchase its own shares by the definitions and under the provisions of the law. The Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of 3.4.2008 approved, in accordance with the provisions of article 16 of Codified Law 2190/1920 as in effect, a share buy-back scheme expiring on 3.4.2010 for up to 5.00% of the outstanding paid in share capital at a minimum price of Euro 1.00 and a maximum of Euro 33.00 per share. Acting on the above-mentioned resolution, in the period between 8.4.2008 through to 27.6.2008, the Bank purchased 7,989,610 treasury shares, representing 1.94% of the outstanding paid in share capital, at an aggregate acquisition cost of Euro 166,666,842.39. The total amount of treasury shares held by the Bank on 27.6.2008 was

16,522,691, representing 4.02% of the outstanding paid in share capital. On 30.6.2008 and by way of private placement, the Bank sold 16,439,066 treasury shares representing 4,00% of the Bank's outstanding paid in share capital to Paramount Services Holding Limited, a company representing the business interests of the most prominent family in Qatar. Furthermore, in the period between 4.7.2008 through to 31.12.2008, the Bank purchased 5,599,733 treasury shares, representing 1.36% of the outstanding paid in share capital, at an aggregate acquisition cost of Euro 67,247,830.52. On 31.12.2008, the Bank held 5,683,358 treasury shares, representing 1,38% of the outstanding paid in share capital, at an aggregate acquisition cost of Euro 68,984,548.89 and a market value of Euro 38,078,498.60 on 31.12.2008.

  • i. The Bank has entered into no major agreement, which comes into effect, is amended or expires upon a change of control of the Bank following a public tender offer.
  • j. The Bank has entered into no agreement with the Board Directors or the staff, providing for compensation upon their resignation, or dismissal without just cause, or termination of tenure/employment, owing to a public tender offer, except in accordance with the law.

Athens, 24 February 2009 THE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS YIANNIS S.COSTOPOULOS

KPMG Certified Auditors AE 3 Stratigou Tombra Street Aghia Paraskevi GR – 153 42 Athens Greece

Στρατηγού Τόμπρα 3 153 42 Αγία Παρασκευή Ελλάς ΑΡΜΑΕ29527/01AT/B/93/1 62/96

Telephone Τηλ: +30 210 60 62 100 Fax Φαξ: +30 210 60 62 111 Internet www.kpmg.gr e-mail [email protected]

Independent Auditors' Report

(Translated from the original in Greek)

To the Shareholders of ALPHA BANK A.E.

Report on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying Consolidated Financial Statements of ALPHA BANK A.E. (the "Bank") which comprise the balance sheet as at 31 December 2008, and the statements of income , changes in equity and cash flows for the year then ended, and a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes.

Management's Responsibility for the Financial Statements

Management is responsible for the preparation and the fair presentation of these Consolidated Financial Statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as adopted by the European Union. This responsibility includes: designing, implementing, and maintaining internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatements, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances.

Auditor's Responsibility

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these Consolidated Financial Statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing. Those Standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatements.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity's preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Bank's internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the consolidated financial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

Opinion

In our opinion, the Consolidated Financial Statements give a true and fair view, of the consolidated financial position of the Bank as of 31 December 2008, and of its consolidated financial performance and its consolidated cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as adopted by the European Union.

Report on other legal and regulatory requirements

We verified that the contents of the Board of Directors' Report are consistent and correspond with the accompanying Financial Statements within the scope set by articles 37 and 107 of C.L. 2190/1920

Athens, 24 February 2009

KPMG Certified Auditors AE

Marios T. Kyriacou Certified Auditor Accountant AM SOEL 11121

Nick Vouniseas Certified Auditor Accountant AM SOEL 18701

GROUP FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS AT 31.12.2008

Consolidated Income Statement

(Thousands of Euro)
From 1 January to
Note 31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Interest and similar income 2 4,406,935 3,406,725
Interest expense and similar charges 2 (2,608,333) (1,801,472)
Net interest income 2 1,798,602 1,605,253
Fee and commission income 505,039 507,651
Commission expense (40,625) (43,061)
Net fee and commission income 3 464,414 464,590
Dividend income 4 2,591 2,254
Gains less losses from financial transactions 5 (6,848) 82,542
Other income 6 79,944 81,432
75,687 166,228
Total income 2,338,703 2,236,071
Staff costs 7 (589,488) (526,935)
General administrative expenses 8 (495,623) (416,253)
Depreciation and amortization expenses 20, 21, 22 (88,949) (78,254)
Other expenses (4,256) (3,903)
Total expenses (1,178,316) (1,025,345)
Impairment losses and provisions to cover credit risk 9 (541,751) (226,683)
Share of profit/(loss) of associates 19 6,997 1,220
Profit before tax 625,633 985,263
Income tax 10 (112,186) (214,565)
Profit after tax from continuing operations 513,447 770,698
Profit after income tax from discontinued operations 11 80,388
Profit after tax 513,447 851,086
Profits attributable to:
Equity holders of the Bank 512,067 850,035
Minority interests 1,380 1,051
Earnings per share: 12
From continuing and discontinued operations
Basic earnings per share (€) 1.26 2.10
Diluted earnings per share (€) 1.26 2.09
From continuing operations
Basic earnings per share (€) 1.26 1.90
Diluted earnings per share (€) 1.26 1.89

Consolidated Balance Sheet

(Thousands of Euro)

Note 31.12.2008 31.12.2007
ASSETS
Cash and balances with Central Banks 13 3,450,947 3,263,612
Due from banks 14 2,829,970 3,509,696
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
- Held for trading 15 81,135 266,047
Derivative financial assets 16 485,026 383,432
Loans and advances to customers 17 50,704,702 42,072,071
Investments securities
-Available for sale 18 752,526 3,156,901
-Held to maturity 18 4,488,709 -
Investments in associates 19 59,260 5,320
Investment property 20 66,875 73,560
Property, plant and equipment 21 1,254,240 1,173,275
Goodwill and other intangible assets 22 159,961 134,497
Deferred tax assets 23 333,499 170,257
Other assets 24 549,299 385,676
65,216,149 54,594,344
Non-current assets held for sale 25 53,805 89,945
Total Assets 65,269,954 54,684,289
LIABILITIES
Due to banks 26 8,963,796 4,437,736
Derivative financial liabilities 16 805,346 384,139
Due to customers (including debt securities in issue) 27 42,546,777 34,665,158
Debt securities in issue held by institutional investors and other borrowed
funds 28 7,241,185 9,189,297
Liabilities for current income tax and other taxes 29 128,062 158,797
Deferred tax liabilities 23 197,779 94,807
Employee defined benefit obligations 30 42,762 42,019
Other liabilities 31 1,350,287 1,323,554
Provisions 32 53,263 95,935
61,329,257 50,391,442
Liabilities related to non-current assets held for sale 25 1,583
Total Liabilities 61,329,257 50,393,025
EQUITY
Equity attributable to equity holders of the Bank
Share capital 33 1,931,590 1,602,809
Share premium 34 184,033
Reserves 35 188,404 445,662
Retained earnings 36 969,815 1,138,195
Treasury shares 37 (68,985) (188)
3,020,824 3,370,511
Minority interest 32,567 32,859
Hybrid securities 38 887,306 887,894
Total Equity 3,940,697 4,291,264
Total Liabilities and Equity 65,269,954 54,684,289

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

(Thousands of Euro)

Note Share
capital
Share
premium
Reserves Retained
earnings
Treasury
shares
Total Minority
interests
Hybrid
securities
Total
equity
Balance 1.1.2007
Changes in equity
for the period
1.1 - 31.12.2007
Net change in fair
1,591,286 127,961 349,121 686,018 (14,653)2,739,733 44,280 829,654 3,613,667
value of available
for-sale securities
Net change in fair
value available-for
sale securities
(38,613) (38,613) (38,613)
transferred to profit
or loss from sales
Foreign currency
translation
123,054 123,054 123,054
differences for
foreign operations
68 68 68
Net income
recognized directly
in equity
84,509 84,509 84,509
Net income for the
period after tax 850,035 850,035 1,051 851,086
Total
Purchases/sales and
change of ownership
interests in
84,509 850,035 934,544 1,051 935,595
subsidiaries
Purchases/sales of
(3,613) (3,613) (11,395) (15,008)
treasury shares and
hybrid securities
37, 38 (18,197) 14,465 (3,732) 58,240 54,508
Recognition of
employee share
options
Exercise of
19,487 19,487 19,487
employee share
options
Issue of new shares
34, 35 25,477 (25,477)
due to share options
exercise
Dividends distributed
to equity holders of
33, 34 11,523 30,595 42,118 42,118
the Bank and
minority interest
Dividends paid to
hybrid securities
36 (304,421) (304,421) (1,077) (305,498)
holders
Transfer of reserves
(36,827) (52,996)
36,827
(52,996) (52,996)
Appropriation to
reserves
Other
35 54,849 (54,849)
(609)
(609) (609)
Balance
31.12.2007
1,602,809 184,033 445,662 1,138,195 (188)3,370,511 32,859 887,894 4,291,264

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity

(Thousands of Euro)

Note Share
capital
Share
premium
Reserves Retained
earnings
Treasury
shares
Total Minority
interests
Hybrid securities Total equity
Balance
1.1.2008
1,602,809 184,033 445,662 1,138,195 (188) 3,370,511 32,859 887,894 4,291,264
Changes in equity
for the period
1.1 - 31.12.2008
Net change in fair
value of available for
sale securities (after
tax)
(205,653) (205,653) (205,653)
Net change in fair
value available-for
sale reserve
transferred to profit
or loss from sales 33,655 33,655 33,655
Foreign currency
translation
differences for
foreign operations
(132,924) (132,924) (132,924)
Net income
recognized directly
in equity
(304,922) (304,922) (304,922)
Profit for the period,
after income tax
512,067 512,067 1,380 513,447
Total (304,922) 512,067 207,145 1,380 208,525
Share capital
increase by
capitalization of
share premium and
retained earnings
33, 34, 36 328,781 (184,033) (144,748)
Expenses relating to
the share capital
increase (2,204) (2,204) (2,204)
Purchases/ sales and
change of ownership
interests in
subsidiaries
Purchases/sales of
(5,270) (5,270) (1,140) (6,410)
treasury shares and
hybrid securities
37, 38 (57,789) (68,797) (126,586) (588) (127,174)
Dividends distributed
to equity holders of
the Bank and
minority interest
36 (362,199) (362,199) (532) (362,731)
Dividends paid to
hybrid securities
holders
(58,575) (58,575) (58,575)
Appropriation to
reserves
35 47,664 (47,664)
Other (1,998) (1,998) (1,998)
Balance
31.12.2008
1,931,590 188,404 969,815 (68,985) 3,020,824 32,567 887,306 3,940,697

Consolidated Cash Flow Statement

(Thousands of Euro)
From 1 January to
Note 31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Cash flows from operating activities
Profit before income tax 625,633 985,263
Adjustments for:
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment 20, 21 59,191 54,509
Amortization of intangible assets 22 29,758 23,745
Impairment losses from loans and provisions 614,490 237,398
Other adjustments 1,932 19,487
(Gains)/losses from investing activities 14,661 15,323
(Gains)/losses from financing activities 43,338 53,487
Share of (profit)/loss of associates (6,996) (1,220)
1,382,007 1,387,992
Net (increase)/decrease in assets relating to operating activities:
Due from banks (186,744) (240,602)
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss and derivative financial assets 83,319 (97,812)
Loans and advances to customers (9,260,424) (10,050,212)
Other assets (162,254) (13,071)
Net increase/(decrease) in liabilities relating to operating activities:
Due to banks 4,520,683 (2,307,395)
Derivative financial liabilities 421,206 159,563
Due to customers 6,255,366 6,216,867
Other liabilities (11,239) (33,841)
Net cash flows from operating activities before taxes 3,041,920 (4,978,511)
Income taxes and other taxes paid (153,537) (126,471)
Net cash flows from continuing operating activities 2,888,383 (5,104,982)
Cash flows from investing activities
Acquisitions of subsidiaries and associates (140,550) (22,387)
Proceeds from sale of investments in subsidiaries and associates 1,840 20
Dividends received 4 2,591 2,254
Purchase of property, plant and equipment (225,253) (183,060)
Disposal of property, plant and equipment 27,492 21,637
Net (increase)/decrease in investment securities (2,394,454) 4,451,770
Net cash flows from continuing investing activities (2,728,334) 4,270,234
Cash flows from financing activities
Equity increase from share options exercise 42,118
Expenses relating to the share capital increase (2,204)
Dividends paid (361,094) (303,531)
(Purchase)/sale of treasury shares (122,140) 11,466
Proceeds from the issue of loans 100,000 677,038
Repayment of loans (410,965) (526,956)
(Purchases)/sales of hybrid securities (210) 43,042
Dividends paid to hybrid securities holders (58,575) (52,996)
Net cash flows from continuing financing activities (855,188) (109,819)
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents (83,256) 67
Net increase /(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents from continuing
activities (778,395) (944,500)
Net cash flows from discontinued operating activities
Net cash flows from discontinued investing activities 160,700
Net cash flows from discontinued financing activities
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents from discontinued
activities 160,700
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period 13 3,792,031 4,575,831
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period 13 3,013,636 3,792,031
The attached notes (pages 23 to 102) form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

Notes to the Group Financial Statements

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Alpha Bank Group, which includes companies in Greece and abroad, offers services such as: banking, corporate and retail banking, financial services, investment banking and brokerage services, insurance services, real estate management, hotel activities. The parent company of the Group is ALPHA BANK A.E. which operates under the brand name of ALPHA BANK. The Bank's registered office is 40 Stadiou Street, Athens and it is listed as a societe anonyme with registration number 6066/06/B/86/05. The Bank's duration is until 2100 which can be extended by the General Meeting of Shareholders.

In accordance with article 4 of the Articles of Incorporation, the Bank's objective is to engage, on its own account or on behalf of third parties, in Greece and abroad, independently or collectively, including joint ventures with third parites, in any and all (main and secondary) operations, activities, transactions and services allowed to credit institutions, in conformity with whatever rules and regulations (domestic, Community, foreign) may be in force each time. In order to serve this objective, the Bank may perform any kind of action, operation or transaction which, directly or indirectly, is pertinent, complementary or auxiliary to the purposes mentioned above.

The term of the Board of Directors, elected by the Shareholders at the General Meeting of 19 April 2005, ends in 2010.

The General Meeting of Shareholders on 3 April 2008 approved the resolution to increase the number of the Directors from 14 to 15, as set out in the Bank's Articles of Incorporation and elected Mrs. Ioanna E. Papadopoulou as a non-executive member. It also elected Mr. Minas G. Tanes and Mr. George E. Agouridis as non-executive independent members. The Board of Directors as at 31 December 2008 consists of:

CHAIRMAN (Executive Member)

Yannis S. Costopoulos

VICE CHAIRMAN (Νon Εxecutive Independent Μember)

Minas G. Tanes***

EXECUTIVE MEMBERS

MANAGING DIRECTOR Demetrios P. Mantzounis

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS AND GENERAL MANAGERS Marinos S. Yannopoulos (CFO)*** Spyros N. Filaretos Artemis Ch. Theodoridis

NON-EXECUTIVE MEMBERS

Sophia G. Eleftheroudaki Paul G. Karakostas* Nicholaos I. Manessis ** Ioanna E. Papadopoulou

NON-EXECUTIVE INDEPENDENT MEMBERS

George E. Agouridis * Pavlos A. Apostolides ** Thanos M. Veremis Evangelos J. Kaloussis */*** Ioannis K. Lyras ** SECRETARY Hector P. Verykios

* Member of the Audit Committee

** Member of the Remuneration Committee

*** Member of the Risk Management Committee

The certified auditors of the semi-annual and year end financial statements are:

Principal Auditors: Marios T. Kyriacou
Nick E. Vouniseas
Substitute Auditors: Charalambos G. Sirounis
Nikolaos Ch. Tsiboukas

of KPMG Certified Auditors A.E.

The Bank's shares are listed in the Athens Stock Exchange since 1925. As at 31 December 2008 Alpha Bank was ranked sixth in terms of market capitalization. Since February 2004 the Bank has been included in the FTSE Eurofirst 300 Index, an index which consists of the 300 largest European companies. Additionally, the Bank is included in a series of other indices, such as S&P Europe 350, FTSE Med 100, MSCI Europe, DJ Euro Stoxx and FTSE4 Good.

Apart from the listing in Greece, the shares of the Bank are listed in the London Stock Exchange in the form of international certificates (GDR's) and they are traded over the counter in New York (ADR's).

As at 31 December 2008 the Bank has 410,976,652 shares in issue.

During 2008 the shares liquidity amounted to an average 1,422,261 shares per day. The credit rating of the Bank is evaluated by three international credit rating agencies (Standard & Poor's: BBB+, Moody's: A2, Fitch Ratings: A-).

The financial statements have been approved by the Board of Directors on 24 February 2009

ACCOUNTING POLICIES APPLIED

1.1 Basis of presentation

These consolidated financial statements relate to the fiscal year 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2008 and they have been prepared:

a) in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the European Union in accordance with Regulation 1606/2002 of the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union on 19 July 2002 and

b) on the historical cost basis except for the following assets and liabilities which are measured at fair value:

  • Securities held for trading
  • Derivative financial instruments
  • Available-for-sale securities

The financial statements are presented in Euro, rounded to the nearest thousand unless otherwise indicated.

The estimates and judgments applied in preparing the financial statements are based on historical information and assumptions which at present are considered appropriate.

The estimates and assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis to take into account current conditions, and the effect of any revisions are recognized in the period in which the estimate is revised.

The accounting policies, applied by the Group in the financial statements as at 31 December 2008, are the same as those applied in the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2007 after taking into account the following amendments to International Accounting Standards, and the new interpretations issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and adopted by the European Union which are effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2008:

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 39 «Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement» and the International Financial Reporting Standard 7 «Financial Instruments: Disclosures» regarding to the reclassification of financial assets (Regulation 1004/15.10.2008)

This amendment, issued on 13 October 2008, allows under specific conditions, the reclassification of certain financial assets to other categories with different measurement rules than those of the category in which the financial assets were classified upon initial recognition. This reclassification can be applied retrospectively from 1 July 2008. The Group made use of this amendment and the impact on the financial statements is set out to in note 17.

Interpretation 11 «IFRS 2 – Group and treasury share transactions» (Regulation 611/1.6.2007)

The adoption of this interpretation did not have a significant impact on the financial statements.

Interpretation 14 «IAS 19 – The limit on a defined benefit asset, minimum funding requirements and their interaction» (Regulation 1263/16.12.2008)

This interpretation defines when a surplus in a defined benefit plan can be recognized as an asset and to what extent the recognition is limited by any obligation to fund benefit that will accrue in the future.

The adoption of this interpretation did not have a significant impact on the Group's financial statements.

Apart from the above Standards and Interpretations, the European Union adopted the following standards and interpretations, which are effective for annual periods beginning after 1.1.2008 and which have not been early adopted by the Group.

International Financial Reporting Standard 8 «Operating Segments» (Regulation 1358/21.11.2007) Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009

This standard replaces IAS 14 «Segment reporting». Its adoption by the European Union and by the Group will have an impact on the Group's disclosures relating to operating segments.

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 23 «Borrowing costs» (Regulation 1260/10.12.2008) Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009

On 29 March 2007, the Board issued the revised IAS 23, which removes the option to expense borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition of assets that have a substantial period of time to be ready for use or sale. Such borrowing costs are capitalized as part of the cost of the asset.

Its adoption will not have a significant impact on the Group's financial statements.

  • Amendment of International Financial Reporting Standard 2 «Share based payments» (Regulation 1261/16.12.2008) Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009
  • This amendment issued on 17 January 2008 clarifies that the vesting conditions are distinguished to:

i. Service conditions which are further distinguished to:

  • vesting conditions that require to complete a specified period of service and
  • conditions that require performance targets
  • ii. Conditions that are not connected to service.

In addition, for each of the above categories the amendment defines when non-vesting conditions are taken into account in measuring the grant date fair value of the share-based payment as well as the respective accounting treatment. The adoption of this standard by the European Union and the Group, is not expected to have a significant impact on the financial statements.

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 1 «Presentation of financial statements» (Regulation

1274/17.12.2008)

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009

On 6 September 2007, the Board published the revised version of IAS 1. The most significant changes are the following:

i. Introduction of a statement of comprehensive income. This statement includes the profit or loss of the period and all non-owner changes in equity. Entities may present a separate income statement, but all non-owner changes in equity must be presented in an additional statement.

ii. The statement of changes in equity, will include transactions between the entity and the equity holders.

iii. In the instances where a new accounting standard is retrospectively implemented or items are restated, the comparative figures must include the opening and closing balance sheet of the prior year.

The adoption of this Standard by the European Union and the Group will affect the presentation of financial statements.

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 32 – «Financial instruments: Presentation» and IAS 1 «Presentation of Financial Statements» (Regulation 53/21.1.2009)

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009

With the implementation of the above amendment, issued on 14 February 2008, financial instruments that give the holder of the financial instrument the right to require the issuer to repurchase or repay the financial instruments may be classified as equity if certain conditions are met. A similar classification, under certain condition, is also possible for financial instruments where the holder is entitled to a pro-rata share of the net assets of the entity only on liquidation. This amendment requires additional disclosures on the financial statements.

The Group is examining whether there will be an impact from the adoption of the above amendment in the financial statements.

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 27 «Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements» and the International Financial Reporting Standard 1 «First Time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards» regarding the cost of an investment in a subsidiary, associate and jointly controlled entity. Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009 (Regulation 69/23.1.2009).

With this amendment, issued by the Council on 22 May 2008, the cost of an investment in a subsidiary, associate or joint venture in the investor's separate financial statements will not be adjusted for distributions of profits relating to periods prior to acquisition. These profit appropriations will be accounted in income statement as dividend income. This amendment also made changes to IAS 36 - Impairment of Assets, where indications of impairment on investments were included, based on the effect of dividend distribution on equity.

With regard to the first time adopters of IFRS and in order to facilitate the issuance of financial statements, options are given on the cost measurement of an investment in a subsidiary, associate and jointly controlled entity based on either their fair value at the date of transition or their previous GAAP carrying amount.

The amendment will make changes in accounting policies for recognition of dividend's income and determination of the cost of acquisition of Group's investments.

Interpretation 13 «Customer loyalty programs» (Regulation 1262/16.12.2008)

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.7.2008

This interpretation, issued on 28 June 2007, addresses the accounting of customer loyalty programs offered by entities to customers as an incentive to increase sales or revenues. In particular, it states that the value of credits awarded to customers must be separated from the initial sale and be recognized as revenue when the credits are redeemed. In cases where the entity collects amounts on behalf of third parties who grant reward points to the entity's customers, these should be accounted for as a liability to third parties.

The adoption of this interpretation is not expected to have a significant impact on the Group's financial statements.

Improvements to International Accounting Standards (Regulation 70/23.1.2009)

As part of the improvements project the International Accounting Standards Board issued on 22 May 2008, certain non urgent but necessary amendments to various standards. The majority of these are effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009.

The adoption of these improvements is not expected to have a significant impact on the Group's financial statements.

In addition, the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has issued the following standards and interpretations which have not yet been adopted by the European Union and they have not also been early adopted by the Group.

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 27 – «Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements» and International Financial Reporting Standard 3 «Business combinations»

Effective for annual period beginning on or after 1.7.2009

The main changes from the amended standards issued on 10 January 2008, are summarized as follows:

i. In cases of changes in ownership interests of subsidiaries with which control is obtained or lost, the value of the investment existed prior to the change of ownership interest or the remaining ownership interest, should be measured at fair value with changes recognized in profit and loss account.

ii. Upon initial recognition non-controlling interest might be measured at fair value. In addition non-controlling interest should absorb the total losses incurred attributable to their interest.

iii. Any contingent consideration of an entity is recognized as a liability and measured at fair value.

iv. Costs incurred by the acquirer are not included in the cost of a business combination but are expensed.

Finally, changes in a parent's ownership interest in a subsidiary that do not result in a loss of control are accounted for as equity transactions. The Group has already implemented the above accounting treatment (relevant note 1.2).

Amendment of International Financial Reporting Standard 1 «First time adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards»

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.7.2009.

On 27 November 2008 IASB published a revised edition with a change in the structure of this standard. The purpose of this change was to improve information and to facilitate implementation of future amedments. This revised edition does not apply to the Group's financial statements.

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 39 «Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement» concerning eligible hedged items.

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.7.2009.

This amendment issued on 31 July 2008 provides clarifications regarding the application of hedge accounting. It is clarified that in a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge the following can be designated as hedged items:

  • The partial change in fair value or cash flows of financial instruments
  • The change in cash flows related to inflation (under conditions)
  • The increase or decrease of cash flow or fair value in relation to a specific reference value (one-sided risk).

The Group is examining whether there will be an impact from the adoption of the above amendment in the financial statements.

Interpretation 12 «Service concession arrangements»

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2008

The interpretation issued on 30 November 2006, clarifies issues relating to the recognition and valuation of assets arising from service concession agreements of public infrastructure. This interpretation does not apply in Group's activities.

Interpretation 15 «Agreements for the construction of real estate»

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009

This interpretation issued on 3 July 2008 provides guidance on how to determine whether an agreement for the construction of real estate or agreements with buyers before the completion of real estate construction is within the scope of IAS 11 (construction contracts) or IAS 18 Revenue (as contracts to provide services or sell goods).

The adoption of this interpretation will have no impact on the financial statements since it does not apply to the Group.

Interpretation 16 «Hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation»

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.10.2008.

This interpretation, issued on 3 July 2008, provides clarifications regarding the application of hedge accounting of the net investment in a foreign operation which has different functional currency from that of the parent.

This interpretation is not expected to have a significant impact on the consolidated financial statements.

Interpretation 17 «Distribution of non-cash assets to owners»

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.7.2009

This interpretation, issued on 27 November 2008, provides guidance to an entity in order to recognize and subsequent measure a liability arising from the distribution of non-cash assets to owners. The Group is in the process of evaluating the potential effects of this interpretation.

Interpretation 18 «Transfer of assets from customers»

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.7.2009

This interpretation, issued on 29 January 2009, clarifies the accounting treatment for agreements under which an entity receives from a customer an item of property, plant and equipment that the entity must then use to serve conventional obligations to him. The interpretation applies also, in cases where the entity receives cash from customers to construct or to buy an item of property, plant and equipment to be used as defined above. This interpretation does not apply to Group activiities.

1.2 Basis of consolidation

The consolidated financial statements include the parent company Alpha Bank, its subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures.

a. Subsidiaries

Subsidiaries are entities controlled, directly or indirectly, by the Bank. The Group assesses control based on voting rights which are presently excercisable and the power to govern the financial operating policies of the entities. The financial statements of subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases.

The purchase method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries by the Group. When the cost of acquisition exceeds the fair value of the Group's share of the identifiable net assets acquired the excess is recorded as goodwill, which is tested for impairment annually. If the cost of acquisition is less than the fair value of the identifiable net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognized directly in the income statement.

When the Group's interest in a subsidiary increases as a result of an acquisition, the difference between the consideration paid and the share of net assets acquired is recognized directly to retained earnings.

Sales of ownership interests in subsidiaries that do not result in a loss of control for the Group, is considered as a transaction between equity parties and the gain or loss arising from the sale is recognized directly to retained earnings.

Special purpose entities are consolidated when the substance of the relationship between the Bank and the entity indicates that the entity is controlled by the Bank.

In assessing control, besides voting rights and the power to govern the financial and operating policies, the following circumstances may indicate a relationship in which, in substance, the Group controls the SPE:

i. the activities of the SPE are being conducted on behalf of the Group according to its specific business needs so that the Group obtains benefits from the SPE's operation,

ii. the Group has the decision-making powers to obtain the majority of the benefits of the activities of the SPE,

iii. the Group has rights to obtain the majority of the benefits of the SPE and therefore may be exposed to risks incident to the activities of the SPE.

iv. the Group retains the majority of the residual or ownership risk related to the SPE or its assets in order to obtain benefits from its activities.

The Group, according with the voting rights or the above mentioned circumstances controls the special purposes entities which are used for the issuance of debt and the securitization of financial assets.

Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been adjusted when neceassry to ensure consistency with the policies of the Group.

b. Associates

Associates are entities over which the Group has significant influence but not control, generally accompanying a shareholding, directly or indirectly, of between 20% and 50% of the voting rights.

Investments in associates are accounted for by the equity method of accounting.

The Group's share of the associates post-acquisition profits or losses is recognized separately in the income statement. Accounting policies of associates have been adjusted where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies of the Group.

c. Joint ventures

According to IAS 31, «joint ventures are those entities over whose activities, the Group has joint control, established by contractual agreement whereby two or more parties undertake an economic activity».

The consolidated financial statements include the Group's share of the joint venture under the proportionate consolidation method.

Inter company transactions are eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of impairment of the asset transferred and it is recognized in the consolidated balance sheet.

Details of the entities and the Group's ownership interest of subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures is provided in note 40.

1.3 Segment reporting

The Group after considering the present management and reporting structure, and that the majority of its income arises from activities in Greece decided that:

  • a. the primary reporting format are the following business segments:
  • Retail
  • Corporate
  • Asset Management and Insurance
  • Investment Banking and Treasury
  • South Eastern Europe
  • Other
  • b. the geographical segments are the secondary reporting format:
  • Greece
    • Other Countries

Detailed information relating to business and geographical segments is presented in note 41.

1.4 Transactions in foreign currency and translation of foreign operations

a. Transactions in foreign currency

The consolidated financial statements are presented in Euro, which is the functional currency and the currency of the country of incorporation of the parent company Alpha Bank.

Items included in the financial statements of the subsidiaries are measured using the currency of the country of incorporation or the currency of the primary economic environment in which the company operates or the currency used for the majority of transactions held.

Transactions in foreign currencies are translated to the functional currency of each subsidiary at the closing exchange rate at the date of the transaction.

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated to the functional currency at the closing exchange rate at that date. Foreign exchange differences arising on translation are recognized in the income statement.

Non-monetary assets and liabilities are recognized at the exchange rate ruling at initial recognition, except for non-monetary items denominated in foreign currencies that are stated at fair value. The exchange differences relating to these items are part of the change in fair value and they are recognized in the income statement or recorded directly in equity depending on the classification of the non-monetary item.

b. Translation of foreign operations

The financial statements of all group entities that have a functional currency that is different from the presentation currency of Group financial statements are translated as follows:

i. Assets and liabilities are translated to Euro at the closing rate applicable on the balance sheet date. The comparative figures presented are translated to Euro at the closing rates at the respective date of the comparative balance sheet.

ii. Income and expense items are translated to Euro at average exchange rates applicable for each period presented.

The resulting exchange difference from the retranslation and those arising from other monetary items designated as a part of the net investment in the entity are recorded in equity. When a foreign subsidiary is sold, the exchange differences are recognized in the income statement as part of the gain or loss on sale.

1.5 Cash and cash equivalents

For the purposes of the consolidated cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents consists of:

  • a. Cash on hand
  • b. Non-restricted placements with Central Banks and
  • c. Short-term balances due from banks

Short-term balances due from banks are amounts that mature within three months of the balance sheet date.

1.6 Classification and measurement of financial assets

Initial recognition

The Group, upon initial recognition measures financial assets at fair value plus, in case of securities not at fair value through profit or loss, incremental direct transaction costs.

Subsequent measurement

The Group classifies its financial assets as:

  • Loans and receivables
  • Held-to-maturity investments
  • Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
  • Available-for-sale financial assets

For each of the above classifications the following is applicable:

a) Loans and receivables

In this category, the Group has included:

  • i. loans to customers
  • ii. amounts paid for a portion or total acquisition of bonds issued by customers that are note quoted in an active market.

iii. all receivables from customers, banks etc.

This category is measured at amortized cost.

b) Held-to-maturity

Held-to-maturity investments are financial assets that the Group has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity.

In this category, the Group has included bonds and other debt securities with fixed maturity and fixed or determinable cash flows.

This category is carried at amortized cost.

c) Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets included in this category are:

i. Financial assets which are acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the near term for short term profit (held for trading).

The Group has included in this category fixed rate Greek Government bonds and treasury bills, except for certain specific issues, for which different decisions have been taken, and a limited number of shares.

ii. The Group, at initial recognition, designates these financial assets at fair value and recognizes changes in the fair value in the income statement.

This classification is used in the following cicrumstances:

• When management monitors and manages the financial instruments on a fair value basis in accordance with a documented risk management or investment strategy.

• When the designation eliminates an accounting mismatch which would otherwise arise from measuring financial assets and liabilities on a different basis (i.e. amortized cost) in relation to another financial asset or liability (i.e. derivatives which are measured at fair value through the profit or loss).

• When the financial instrument contains an embedded derivative that significantly modifies the cash flows, or the separation of these derivatives from the main financial instruments is not prohibited.

d) Available-for-sale

Available-for-sale financial assets are investments that have not been classified in any of the previous categories.

The Group has included in this category:

i. Variable debt securities and interest rate bonds

ii. Certain issues of fixed rate Greek Government bonds, for which a specific decision has been taken, and fixed rate bonds of other issuers

iii. Shares and

iv. Mutual fund units

This category is measured at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognized directly in equity until the financial asset is sold or impaired where upon the cumulative gains and losses previously recognized in equity are recognized in profit or loss. The financial assets included in this category are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. When a subsequent event causes the amount of impairment loss on an available-for-sale debt security to decrease, the impairment loss is reversed through profit or loss. An impairment loss is reversed through the profit or loss if it can be objectively related to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognized. However, any subsequent recovery in the fair value of an impaired available-for-sale equity security is recognized in equity. The measurement principles noted above are not applicable when a specific financial asset is the hedged item in a hedging relationship, in which case the principles set out in note 1.7.

Reclassification of financial assets

Reclassification of non-derivative financial assets is permitted as follows:

i. Reclassification out of the held-for-trading category to the loans and receivable category, investments held to maturity category or available-for-sale category is permitted only in rare circumstances and the financial assets are no longer held for sale in the foreseeable future.

ii. Reclassification out of held-for-trading category to either loans and receivables, or available-for-sale is permitted only if the financial assets meet the definition of loans and receivables and there is the intention to hold them for the foreseeable future or until maturity.

iii. Reclassification out of available-for-sale category to the loans and receivables category, is permitted for financial assets that would have met the definition of loans and receivables and the entity has the intent to hold the financial asset for the foreseeable future or until maturity.

iv. Reclassification out of available-for-sale category to the held to maturity category, is permitted for financial assets that meet the relevant characteristics and the entity has the intent and ability to hold that financial asset until maturity.

Reclassification out of the held-to-maturity category to other categories is not permitted. Any sale or reclassification of a more than insignificant amount of held-to-maturity investment would result in the reclassification of all held-to-maturity investments as available-for-sale, and also this would result in a prevention from classifying securities as held-for-maturity for the current and the following two financial years.

The Group has reclassified certain financial assets which is analysed in notes 17 and 18.

Derecognition

The Group derecognizes financial assets when:

• the cash flows from the financial assets expire.

• when it transfers the contractual right to receive the cash flows of the financial asset and at the same time it transfers both risks and rewards of ownership.

• when loans or investments in securities are no longer recoverable and consequently written off.

In the case of transactions, where despite the transfer of the contractual right to recover the cash flows from financial assets, both the risk and rewards remain with the Group no derecognition of these financial assets occurs. The amount received by the transfer is recognized as a financial liability. The accounting practises followed by the Group in such transactions are discussed further in notes 1.20 and 1.21.

In the case of transactions, whereby the Group neither maintains nor transfers risks and rewards of the financial assets, but retains control they are recognized, to the extent of the Group's continuing involvement. If the Group does not retain control of assets then their derecognition occurs, and in their position, it recognizes, distinctively, the assets and liabilities which are created or retained during the transfer. No such transactions occurred upon balance sheet date.

1.7 Derivative financial instruments and hedge accounting

Derivatives are financial instruments that upon inception have a minimal or zero value and subsequently change in accordance with a particular underlying instrument (foreign exchange, interest rate, index or other variable).

All derivatives are recognized as assets when their fair value is positive, and as liabilities when their fair value is negative.

Derivatives are entered into for either hedging or trading purposes and they are measured at fair value irrespective of the purpose for which they have been transacted.

In the cases when derivatives are embedded in other financial instruments, such as bonds, loans, deposits, borrowed funds etc and the host contract is not itself carried at fair value through profit or loss then they are accounted for as separate derivatives when the derivative is not closely related to the host contract. These embedded derivatives are measured at fair value and are recognized as derivative assets or liabilities.

In the cases where derivatives embedded in financial instruments have been designated at fair value through profit or loss, the changes in the fair value of the derivative is included in the fair value change of the combined instrument and recognized in gains less losses on financial transactions.

The Group uses derivatives as a means of exercising asset-liability management within the guidelines established by the Asset-Liability Committee (ALCO).

In addition the Group uses derivatives for trading purposes to exploit short-term market fluctuations, within the Group risk level set by the Asset-Liability Committee (ALCO)

Valuation differences arising from these derivatives are recognized in gains less losses on financial transactions.

When the Group uses derivatives for hedging purposes it ensures that appropriate documentation exists on inception of the transaction, and that the effectiveness of the hedge is monitored on an ongoing basis and the above are repeated at each balance sheet date.

We emphasize the following:

a. Synthetic Swaps

The parent company (Alpha Bank), in order to increase the return on deposits to selected customers, uses synthetic swaps.

This involves the conversion of a Euro deposit to JPY with a simultaneous forward purchase of JPY to cover the foreign exchange exposure.

The result arising from the forward foreign exchange is recognized as interest expense, foreign exchange differences and other gains less losses on financial transactions.

b. FX Swaps

These types of swaps are entered into primarily to hedge the exposures arising from customer loans and deposits.

As there is no documentation to support hedge accounting they are accounted for as trading instruments.

The result arising from these derivatives is recognized as interest, foreign exchange differences, in order to match with the interest element resulting from the deposits and loans, and other gains less losses on financial transactions.

Hedge accounting

Hedge accounting establishes the valuation rules to offset the gain or loss of the fair value of a hedging instrument and a hedged item which would not have been possible if the normal measurement principles were applied.

Documentation of the hedge relationship upon inception and of the effectiveness of the hedge on a on-going basis are the basic requirements for the adoption of hedge accounting.

The hedge relationship is documented upon inception and the hedge effectiveness test is carried out upon inception and it is repeated at each reporting date.

a. Fair value hedges

A fair value hedge of a financial instrument offsets the change in the fair value of the hedged item in respect of the risks being hedged. Changes in the fair value of both the hedging instrument and the hedged item in respect of the specific risk being hedged are recognized in the income statement.

When the hedge relationship no longer exists, the hedged items are remeasured based on the classification and valuation principles set out in notes 1.6 and 1.16.

Specifically any adjustment, up to the point that the hedge relationship ceases to be effective, to a hedged item for which the effective interest method is used, is amortized to interest income or expense based on a recalculated effective interest rate of the item, over its remaining life.

The Group uses interest rate swaps (IRS's) to hedge risks relating to borrowings, bonds, loans and fixed rate term deposits.

b. Cash flow hedge

A cash flow hedge changes the cash flows of a financial instrument from a variable rate to a fixed rate.

The effective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognized directly in equity, whereas the ineffective portion is recognized in profit or loss. The accounting treatment of the hedged item does not change.

There were no instances that would require cash flow hedge accounting.

c. Hedges of net investment in a foreign operation

The Group uses foreign exchange derivatives or borrowing to hedge foreign exchange risks arising from investment in foreign operations.

Hedge accounting of net investment in foreign operation is similar to cash flow hedge accounting. In cases where the hedge relationship no longer exists the cumulative gain or loss recognized in equity is reversed and recognized in profit or loss, at the time the disposal of the foreign operation takes place.

1.8 Property, plant and equipment

This caption includes: land, buildings (owned and leased) for use by the branches or for administrative purposes, additions and improvements of leased fixed assets and equipment. Property, plant and equipment are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.

Cost includes expenditures that are directed attributable to the acquisition of the asset.

Subsequent expenditure is recognized in carrying amount of the item when it increases future economic benefit. Expenditure on repairs and maintenance is recognized in profit or loss as an expense as incurred.

Depreciation is charged on a straight line basis over the estimated useful lives of property, plant and equipment.

The estimated useful lives are as follows:

  • Buildings: 20 to 33 years.
  • Additions to leased fixed assets and improvements: duration of the lease.
  • Equipment and vehicles: 4 to 20 years.

Land is not depreciated.

The right to use of land for indefinite period that is held by Alpha Real Estate D.O.O. Belgrade, a subsidiary of the Group, is recorded as land and is not depreciated. The residual value of property and equipment and their useful lives are periodically reviewed and adjusted if necessary at each reporting date.

Property, plant and equipment are reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there is an indication of impairment and if they are impaired the carrying amount is adjusted to its recoverable amount with the difference recorded in profit or loss.

Gains and losses from the sale of property and equipment are recognized in profit or loss.

1.9 Investment property

The Group includes in this category buildings or a portion of buildings together with the respective portion of the land that is held to earn rental income.

Investment property is measured at cost, which includes all expenditures directly attributable to the acquisition.

After initial recognition investment property is measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.

All costs for repairs and maintenance are recognized in profit or loss as incurred.

The estimated useful lives over which depreciation is calculated using the straight line method, are the same as those applied to property, plant and equipment.

1.10 Goodwill and other intangible assets

Goodwill

Goodwill represents the difference between the cost of an acquisition and the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired.

Positive goodwill arising from acquisitions after 1/1/2004 is recorded to "Goodwill and other intangible assets". Goodwill on acquisitions of associates is included in "Investment in associates".

At the end of each fiscal year recognized goodwill is tested for impairment.

Negative goodwill is recognized in profit or loss.

Other intangible assets

The Group has included in this caption:

a) Intangible assets (deposit base, relationships with customers and brand name) which were recognized from the acquisition of the Serbian Bank Jubanka A.D. Beograd (currently Alpha Bank Srbija A.D.) in accordance with IFRS 3.

The intangible assets are carried at cost less accumulated amortization. The amortization is charged over the estimated useful life of each asset which is as follows:

  • Deposit base and customer relationships: 6 year
  • Brand name: 2 years

b) Software, which is carried at cost less accumulated amortization. Amortization is charged over the estimated useful life which the Group has estimated between 3 to 4 years. Expenditure incurred to maintain the software programs is recognized in the income statement as incurred.

c) Brand names and other rights are carried at cost less accumulated amortization. The amortization is charged over the estimated useful life which the Bank has defined to 5 years.

Intangible assets are measured at cost less accumulated amortization, excluding those with indefinite useful life, which are not amortized. All intangible assets are subject to an impairment test.

For intangible assets no residual value is estimated.

1.11 Leases

The Group enters into leases either as a lessee or as a lessor.

When the risks and rewards incident to ownership of an asset are transferred to the lessee they are classified as finance leases.

All other lease agreements are classified as operating leases.

The accounting treatment followed depends on the classification of the lease, which is as follows:

a) When the Group is the lessor

i. Finance leases:

For finance leases where the Group is the lessor the aggregate amount of lease payments is recognized as loans and advances.

The difference between the present value (net investment) of lease payments, and the aggregate amount of lease payments, is recognized as unearned finance income and is deducted from loans and advances.

The lease rentals received decrease the aggregate amount of lease payments and finance income is recognized on an accrual basis.

The finance lease loans are subject to the same impairment testing as applied to customer loans and advances as described in note 1.13.

ii. Operating leases:

When the Group is a lessor of assets under operating leases, the leased asset is recognized and depreciation is charged over its estimated useful life. Income arising from the leased asset is recognized as other income on an accrual basis.

b) When the Group is the lessee

i. Finance leases:

For finance leases, where the Group is the lessee, the leased asset is recognized as property, plant and equipment and a respective liability is recognized in other liabilities.

At the commencement of the lease the leased asset and liability are recognized at amounts equal to the fair value of leased property or, if lower, the present value of the minimum lease payments. The discount rate used in calculating the present value of the minimum lease payments is the interest rate implicit in the lease or if this is not available the Group's borrowing rate for similar financing.

Subsequent to initial recognition the leased assets are depreciated over their useful lives unless the duration of the lease is less than the useful life of the leased asset and the Group is not expected to obtain ownership at the end of the lease, in which case the asset is depreciated over the term of the lease.

The lease payments are apportioned between the finance charge and the reduction of the outstanding liability.

ii. Operating leases:

For operating leases, the Group as a lessee does not recognize the leased asset but charges in general administrative expenses, the lease payments on an accrual basis.

1.12 Insurance activities

a) Insurance reserves

The insurance reserves are the current estimates of future cash flows arising from insurance life and non-life contracts. The reserves consist of:

i. Mathematical reserves

The insurance reserves for the term life contracts (e.g. term, comprehension, investment) are calculated on actuarial principles using the present value of future liabilities less the present value of premiums to be received.

The calculations are based on technical assumptions (mortality tables, interest rates) in accordance with the respective supervisory authorities on the date the contract was signed.

If the carrying amount of the insurance reserves is inadequate, the entire deficiency is provided for.

ii. Unearned premiums reserves

Represent part of net premiums earned which cover proportionally the period from the balance sheet date to the termination of the period the net premium covers.

iii. Outstanding claims reserves

Concern liabilities on claims occurred and reported but not yet paid at the balance sheet date. These claims are determined on a case-by-case basis based on existing information (loss adjustors' reports, doctors reports, court decisions etc) at the balance sheet date.

Provisions are also determined for claims incurred but not reported at the balance sheet date (IBNR), the calculation of these provisions is based on the estimated average cost of claim.

iv. Reserves for investments held on behalf and at risk of the insurance policy holders

These reserves are accounted for as assets and liabilities at the current value of the associated investments.

b) Revenue recognition

Revenue from life and non-life insurance contracts is recognized when it becomes payable.

c) Reinsurance

The reinsurance premiums ceded and the respective ceded portion of the insurance reserves follow the terms of the relevant reinsurance agreements.

d) Distinction of insurance products

In accordance with IFRS 4 contracts that do not transfer significant insurance risk are characterized as investment and/or service contracts, and their accounting treatment is covered by IAS 32 and IAS 39 for financial instruments, and IAS 18 for revenue.

Based on the above the following were separated from insurance services:

  • i. The individual unit-linked contracts with zero insured capital
  • ii. Group pension fund contracts under unit-linked management
  • iii. Group contract services provided for which the Group acts as intermediate
  • (e.g. motor assistance and accident care)

e) Liability adequacy test

In accordance with IFRS 4 an insurer shall assess at each reporting date whether its recognized insurance reserves are adequate less deferred acquisition costs to cover the risk arising from the insurance contracts.

If that assessment shows that the carrying amount of its insurance reserves is inadequate, the entire deficiency is recognized in profit or loss.

The methodology applied for life insurance was based on current estimates of all future cash flows from insurance contracts and of related handling costs. These estimates were based on assumptions representing current market conditions and regarding mortality, cancellations, future changes and allocation of administrative expenses, medical inflation relating to medical changes and the discount rate. The guaranteed return included in certain insurance contracts has also been taken into account in estimating cash flows.

For the liability adequacy test of claims reserves, the triangulation method (chain-ladder/link ratio) was used which is based on the assumption that the proportional relation occurred in past years between the amounts of cumulative claims (paid and outstanding) will be repeated in the future. Data of the last five years were used for the calculation of the relevant test.

1.13 Impairment losses on loans and advances

The Group assess as at each balance sheet date, whether there is evidence of impairment in accordance with the general principles and methodology set out in IAS 39 and the relevant implementation guidance.

Specifically, the steps performed are the following:

a. Establishement of events that provide objective evidence that a loan is impaired (trigger events)

The loans and advances with payment of interest or principal overdue by more than 90 days represents the majority of the loans which are tested for impairment.

In addition an impairment test may be performed for accounts with delays less than 90 days, or accounts with no delay when:

i. procedures for forced recovery and settlement of debts, with more burdensome conditions on the Group, have been initiated or

ii. the Group has information that indicates that the financial position of the borrower is deteriorating (reduced sales, gross margins, profit etc.) or other events (bankruptcy filing, extra-ordinary events such as floods, fire, etc at the installations of the borrower) which occurred after the date of initial recognition and which are considered to affect the ability of the borrower to adhere to the agreed repayment schedule.

Finally, an impairment test is performed on loans and advances granted to sectors of the economy or geographical regions which are experiencing problems that arose after the date of initial recognition of the loans.

b. The criteria of assessment on an individual or collective basis

The outstanding balance is the basic factor in determining whether the assessment of impairment will be performed on an individual basis or on a collective basis.

In determining the amount for each entity of the Group numerous factors are considered such as the composition of the loan portfolio, the specific circumstances of the market and experience obtained from the management of the portfolio.

More specifically for the Group's parent company Alpha Bank the separation point is the amount of € 1 million.

c. Establishment of groups of assets with similar risk characteristics

In those instances whereby based on the amount outstanding the assessment of impairment is performed on a collective basis of assets with similar risk characteristics, with respect to credit risk, the collective groups were determined as follows:

i. buckets arising from ageing analysis of loans and advances to customers.

ii. the type of loan (consumer, credit cards, mortgage etc.) for retail loans.

Based on detailed internal data the above groups are either expanded or combined in the event that this is justified from the historical data.

d. Methodology in determining future cash flows from impaired loans

The Group has accumulated a significant amount of historical data of the last six years, which includes the loss given default for loans after the completion of forced recovery, or other measures taken to secure collection of loans, including the realization of collaterals.

On the basis of this data the amount of the impairment is determined on both an individual and collective basis taking into account the time value of money.

The cash flows are discounted at the loans' original effective interest rate.

e. Interest income recognition

Interest income on impaired loans is recognized based on the carrying value of the loan net of impairment at the original effective interest rate.

f. Impairment recognition

Impaired loans are usually written-off, with the exception of a small number of accounts with large outstandings where an allowance account is established.

g. Recoveries

If in a subsequent period after the recognition of the impairment loss, events occur which require the impairment loss to be reduced, or there has been a collection of amounts from loans and advances previously written-off, the recoveries are recognized in profit and loss account.

1.14 Deferred taxation

Deferred taxation is the tax that will be paid, or for which relief will be obtained in future periods from the different period that certain items are recognized for financial reporting purpose and for taxation purposes. Deferred tax is provided for temporary differences between the tax base of assets and liabilities and their respective carrying amounts in the financial statements.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are calculated using the tax rates that are expected to apply the temporary difference reverses, based on the tax rate (and laws) enacted at the balance sheet date.

A deferred tax asset is recognized to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset can be utilized.

Deferred tax is recognized in profit or loss except to the extent that it relates to items recognized directly in equity, in which case it is recognized in equity.

1.15 Non-current assets held for sale and related liabilities

Non-current assets or disposal group comprise assets and liabilities that are expected to be recovered primarily through sale and therefore they are classified as held-for-sale.

These items consist of:

  • Assets acquired through the enforcement of security over customer loans and advances,
  • Items related to the company Tourist Resorts A.E. for which as at 15.1.2008 an agreement was reached for the transfer of 100% shares held by another subsidiary Ionian Hotel Enterprises A.E.
  • Items related to Alpha Insurance A.E., where the Group transferred its total shares at 23.3.2007 to the insurance company AXA (only for fiscal year 2006).

Before their classification as held for sale, the assets are remeasured in accordance with the respective accounting policy. Thereafter they are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less cost of sale.

Any loss arising from the above measurement is recorded in the profit or loss. This loss which can be reversed in the future, is allocated to assets in the disposal group that are within the scope of the measurement requirements of the Standard. The impairment loss on a disposal group first is allocated to goodwill and then to remaining assets and liabilities on a pro-rata basis.

Property in this category is not depreciated, however, it is reviewed for impairment at each reporting date.

Gains or losses from the sale of these assets are recognized in the income statement.

1.16 Financial liabilities

Initial recognition

At initial recognition financial liabilities are measured at fair value plus, for financial liabilities which are not measured at fair value through profit or loss, transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issue

Subsequent measurement

The Group for measurement purposes classifies financial liabilities in the following categories:

a) Financial liabilities measured at fair value through profit or loss

i. This category includes financial liabilities held for trading:

  • when the financial liability is acquired or incurred principally for the purpose of selling or repurchasing in the near term for short term profit or
  • they are derivatives which are not used for hedging purposes.

ii. In addition in this category the Group includes financial liabilities which are designated at initial recognition, as fair value through profit or loss in accordance to the principles set in note 1.6 (point cii).

The Group has included in the category of financial liabilities held for trading, derivatives which are not used for hedging purposes.

Liabilities arising from both the derivatives held for trading and derivatives which are used for hedging purposes are presented in "derivative financial liabililties" and measurement principles are set out in note 1.7.

At present no financial liabilities have been designated, at initial recognition, as at fair value through profit or loss.

b) Financial liabilities carried at amortized cost

The liabilities which are classified in this category are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method.

Liabilities to credit institutions and customers, debt securities in issue and other loan liabilities are classified in this category.

If financial liabilities included in this category are the hedged item in a hedge relationship the accounting principles applied are those set out in note 1.7.

Derecognition

The Group derecognizes a financial liability (or part thereof) when its contractual obligations are discharged or cancelled or expire.

The difference between the book value of a financial liability that has been repaid or transferred and the consideration paid is recognized in the financial results.

1.17 Employee benefits

The Group has both defined benefit and defined contribution plans. A defined benefit plan is a pension plan that defines an amount of pension benefit that an employee will receive on retirement which is dependent, among others, on years of service and salary on date of retirement and it is guaranteed by the Bank.

A defined contribution plan is where the Group pays fixed contributions into a separate entity and the Group has no legal or constructive obligation to pay further contributions if the fund does not have sufficient assets to pay all employees the benefits relating to employee service in current or prior years.

The liability recognized in the consolidated financial statements in respect of defined benefit pension plans is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date less the fair value of plan assets together with adjustments for unrecognized actuarial gains or losses and past service costs.

The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually based on actuarial valuation performed by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit method.

Cumulative actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes, and actuarial assumption variations to the extent that they exceed 10 per cent of the greater of the accrued obligation or the fair value of plan assets are amortized over the period equal to the average remaining working lives of the employees.

Past-service costs are recognized immediately in the income statement, unless the changes to the pension plan are conditional on the employees remaining in service for a specified period of time (the vesting period). In the second case, the past service costs are amortized on a straight line basis over the vesting period.

For defined contribution plans, the Group pays contributions to publicly or privately administered pension insurance plans, to insurance companies and other funds on a mandatory or voluntary basis. The Group has no further payment obligations once the contributions have been paid. The contributions are recognized as employee benefit expense on an accrual basis. Prepaid contributions are recognized as an asset to the extent that a cash refund or a reduction in the future payments is available.

1.18 Share options granted to employees

The Group rewards the performance of its executives and managers by granting share options. The number of granted share options, the price and the exercise date are decided from the Board of Directors in accordance to Shareholders' Meeting approvals.

The fair value calculated at grant date, is recognized over the period from the grant date and exercise date and recorded as an expense in payroll and related costs with an increase of a reserve in equity respectively. The amount paid by the beneficiaries of share options on the exercise date increases the share capital of the Group and the reserve in equity from previously recognized fair value of the exercised options is transferred to share premium.

1.19 Provisions

A provision is recognized if as a result of a past event, the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation that can be estimated reliably, and it is probable an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation.

Provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows. The discount rate applied reflects current market assessments of the time value of money required to settle the obligation. Cash payments are recorded to provisions to the extent that they relate to the specific provision. At each reporting period provisions are re-assessed.

Provisions are not recognized for future operating losses.

Future events that may affect the amount required to settle the obligation, for which a provision has been recognized, are taken into account when sufficient objective evidence exists that they will occur.

Reimbursements from third parties relating to a portion of or all of the estimated cash outflow are recognized as assets, only when it is virtually certain that they will be received. The expense recognized in the profit or loss relating to the provision may be presented net of the amount of the reimbursement.

1.20 Sale and repurchase agreements and securities lending

The Group enters into purchases of securities under agreements to resell at a certain date in the future at a fixed price. Securities purchased subject to commitments to resell them at future dates are not recognized as investments.

The amounts paid are recognized in loans and advances to either banks or customers. The difference between the purchase price and the resale price is recognized as interest on an accrual basis.

Securities that are sold under agreements to repurchase continue to be recognized in the consolidated balance sheet and are measured in accordance with accounting policy of the category that they have been classified and are presented as investments.

The proceeds from the sale of the securities are reported as liabilities to either banks or customers. The difference between the sales price and the repurchase price is recognized on an accrual basis as interest.

Securities borrowed by the Group under securities lending agreements are not recognized in the consolidated balance sheet except when they have been sold to third parties whereby the liability to deliver the security is recognized and measured at fair value.

1.21 Securitization

The Group securitises financial assets, by transferring these assets to special purpose entities, which in turn issue bonds.

In each securitization of financial assets the assessment of control of the special prupose entity is considered, based on the circumstances mentioned in note 1.2, so as to examine whether it should be consolidated. In addition, the contractual terms and the economic substance of transactions are considered, in order to decide whether the Group should proceed with the derecognition of the securitised financial assets, as referred in note 1.6.

1.22 Equity

Incremental costs of share capital increase

Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds.

Share premium

The difference between the nominal value of the shares issued and their market value, in cases of the exchange of shares as consideration for the acquisition of a business by the Group is recorded as share premium.

This also includes the difference between the nominal value of the shares and the cost consideration received in the case of a share capital increase.

Treasury shares

The cost of acquiring treasury shares is recognized as a reduction of equity. Subsequent gains or losses from the sale of treasury shares, after deducting all direct costs and taxes, is recognized directly in retained earnings.

Retained earnings

Dividends are deducted from retained earnings and recorded as a liability in the period that the dividend is approved by the shareholders in general meeting.

1.23 Interest income and expense

Interest income and expense is recognized in the income statement for all instruments measured at amortized cost.

The recognition of interest income and expense is performed on the accrual basis using the effective interest rate method.

The effective interest rate method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial asset or a financial liability and of allocating the interest income or interest expense over the relevant period.

The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments or receipts through the expected life of the financial instrument or the next repricing date, in order the present value of the future cash flows to be equal to the carrying amount of the financial instrument including fees or transaction costs.

Interest on financial assets that are impaired is determined on the balance after the impairment provision using the effective interest rate.

Interest income and expense is also calculated for interest bearing financial instruments that are measured at fair value.

1.24 Fee and commission income

Fee and commission income are recognized on a accrual basis when the relevant service has been provided.

Transaction revenues relating to the recognition of a financial instrument which measured at amortized cost, such as loans and advances, are capitalized and recognized in the income statement using the effective interest method.

1.25 Discontinued operations

A discontinued operation is a component of the Group that either has been disposed of, or it has been classified as held for sale and represents:

  • a major line of Group's business; or
  • a geographical area of operations; or
  • a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale.

The assets and liabilities of discontinued operation are presented separately from other assets and liabilities in balance sheet and are not offset.

Any cumulative income or expense recognized directly in equity relating to a discontinued operation are presented separately (as a separate line in equity).

The post tax profit or loss from discontinued operations and any losses recognized on the measurement to fair value less costs to sell of the disposal group are presented in a separate line in the face of the income statement after net profit from continuing operations.

The comparative financial statements are restated only for the income statement and the cash flow statement.

The Group has classified in 2006 its subsidiary Alpha Insurance A.E. representing significant line of Asset Management/Insurance business segment as a discontinued operation based on the signed agreement of sale to the insurance company AXA, reached on February 2008.

1.26 Comparatives

To the extent considered necessary the comparatives have been adjusted to facilitate changes in presentation of the current year amounts.

INCOME STATEMENT

2. Net interest income
From 1 January to
Interest and similar income 31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Due from banks 201,868 286,634
Loans and advances to customers 3,289,190 2,615,855
Securitized loans 74,635
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 7,523 10,035
Available-for-sale securities 140,852 170,030
Held to maturity securities 46,025
Derivative financial instruments 636,022 313,538
Other 10,820 10,633
Total 4,406,935 3,406,725
Interest expense and similar charges
Due to banks (255,019) (151,580)
Due to customers (942,971) (563,045)
Debt securities in issue and other borrowed funds (683,206) (684,800)
Derivative financial instruments (622,881) (310,625)
Other (104,256) (91,422)
Total (2,608,333) (1,801,472)
Net interest income 1,798,602 1,605,253

3. Net fee and commission income

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Loans 71,650 70,140
Letters of guarantee 40,398 36,821
Imports – Exports 15,588 17,071
Credit Cards 83,466 54,537
Fund transfers 88,389 89,214
Mutual funds 51,757 70,204
Advisory fees and securities transactions fees 4,955 4,175
Other 108,211 122,428
Total 464,414 464,590

4. Dividend income

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Available-for-sale securities 2,591 2,254
Total 2,591 2,254

5. Gains less losses on financial transactions

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Foreign exchange differences 64,378 46,732
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss:
- Bonds (10,967) (1,676)
- Shares (1,586) 4,414
Available-for-sale securities:
- Bonds 48,167 (38,245)
- Shares (31,154) 2,044
- Other securities (58) 13,129
Sale of participations 1,903
Derivative financial instruments (79,757) 54,490
Other financial instruments 2,226 1,654
Total (6,848) 82,542

6. Other income

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Insurance activities 6,026 2,669
Hotel activities 41,758 47,607
Operating lease income 6,133 5,773
Sale of property, plant and equipment 7,485 8,019
Other 18,542 17,364
Total 79,944 81,432

Income from insurance activities is analyzed as follows:

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Non-life Insurance
Premiums and other related income 12,726 12,911
Less:
- Reinsurance premiums ceded (3,986)
(3,385)
- Commissions (1,107)
(873)
- Claims from policyholders (6,244)
(6,395)
Reinsurers' participation 562
109
Net income from non-life insurance 1,951
2,367
Life insurance
Premiums and other related income 10,039 9,365
Less:
- Reinsurance premiums ceded (784)
(906)
- Commissions (1,254)
(1,147)
- Claims from policyholders (4,716)
(7,325)
Reinsurers' participation 790
315
Net income from life insurance 4,075
302
Total 6,026 2,669

7. Staff costs

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Wages and salaries 432,975 387,535
Social Security contributions 90,455 81,380
Ε.Τ.Α.Τ. 20,417
Employee defined benefit obligation (note 30) 6,163
16,539
Other 39,478 41,481
Total 589,488 526,935

The total employees of the Group as at 31.12.2008 were 15,619 (31.12.2007: 12,907) of which 8,421 (31.12.2007: 7,846) are employed in Greece and 7,198 (31.12.2007: 5,061) are employed abroad.

Defined contribution plans

All the employees of the Group in Greece receive their main pension from the Social Insurance Fund (IKA). Specifically for the Bank's employees the following apply:

a) The supplementary pension plan for employees of the former Ionian and Popular Bank of Greece is TAPILTAT, a multi-employer plan. The Bank has obtained legal opinions that indicate that it has no obligation if the fund does not have sufficient assets to pay employee benefits. Therefore the Bank considers that the fund is a defined contribution plan and it is accounted for as such. The Bank has applied for membership in ETAT (Common Insurance Fund of Bank Employees) for it's employees who are insured in TAPILTAT (Pension Plan for employees of Ionian – Popular Bank and other Banks).

b) All employees of the Bank receive medical benefits from the Bank Employee and Companies Common Benefit Plan (TAYTEKO). This plan has been accounted for as a defined contribution plan.

Defined benefit plans

An analysis of liabilities arising from defined benefit plans are set out in note 30.

8. General administrative expenses

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Rent of buildings 51,872 36,416
Rent and maintenance of EDP equipment 25,534 22,124
EDP expenses 45,536 39,314
Marketing and advertisement expenses 51,652 43,736
Telecommunications and postage 39,400 30,822
Third party fees 57,368 42,243
Consultants fees 9,983 8,981
Contribution to Deposit Guarantee Fund 16,785 12,697
Insurance 14,823 11,219
Consumables 11,334 9,834
Electricity 11,130 8,837
Agency fees 7,443 4,713
Taxes (VAT, real estate etc) 53,468 41,968
Other 99,295 103,349
Total 495,623 416,253

9. Impairment losses and provisions to cover credit risk

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Impairment losses on loans and advances to customers 601,285 206,232
Impairment loss of participation 5,100
Reversal of impairment losses from due from banks (24)
(14)
Provisions to cover credit risk relating to off balance sheet items (42,178) 30,983
Recoveries (22,432) (10,518)
Total 541,751 226,683

The severe aggravation of credit turmoil during the third quarter of 2008 and its gradual transfer to real economy represents a significant indication of loan impairment.

Despite the fact that there are not as yet any signs that the credit turmoil has affected the repayment of loans, the Group reassessed the potential impairment loss, which as a percentage of loans amounts for 2008 to 1.13% compared to 0.60% as of 2007.

10. Income tax

In accordance with Greek tax law the profits of entities in Greece are taxed at a rate of 25% for fiscal year 2007 and thereafter. According to Law 3697/08 the tax rate is reduced by one percent each year starting from 2010 until the rate reaches 20% in 2014 and thereafter.

In accordance with article 26 of Law 3634/2008 income tax is imposed for the fiscal year 2007, at the current tax rate (25%), on profits which previously were not subject to tax until distributed or capitalized (interest on Greek government bonds, gains from the sale of listed shares etc.). Only dividend income is not subject to tax since it has been already taxed at the corporate level for the fiscal years 2007 and 2008.

It should be noted, that in accordance with Law 3697/08, dividends approved by the general shareholders meetings after 1.1.2009 are subject to a withholding tax of 10% with no further tax obligation for the beneficiary.

The tax rates of years 2007 and 2008 of the subsidiaries and the Bank's branches operating aborad, are as follows:

Fiscal year 2007 Fiscal year 2008
% %
Cyprus 10 10
Bulgaria 10 10
Serbia 10 10
Romania 16 16
Jersey 20 20
Ukraine 25 25
Luxembroug 29.63 29.63
FYROM 12 10
Albania 20 10
United Kingdom 30 28

The income tax expense is analysed as follows:

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Current tax 126,940 156,097
Deferred tax (14,754) 58,468
Total 112,186 214,565

Under the provisions of Law 3697/2008 concerning the gradual reduction of tax rates between the years 2010 to 2014, the Bank and the subsidiaries in Greece performed a recalculation of deferred taxes under the new tax rates. The effect was recorded in the financial statements.

Deferred tax recognized in the income statement is attributable to the following temporary differences:

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Depreciation and fixed asset write-offs 3,185 7,882
Fixed assets revaluation (8,236)
Valuation of loans 91,511 (6,844)
Suspension of interest accruals 40,108 29,108
Loans impairment (49,360) 27,301
Employee defined benefit obligations 17,508 15,454
Liabilities to E.T.A.T. (Common Insurance Fund of Bank Employees) 11,716
Valuation of derivatives (84,493) (3,595)
Effective interest rate 15,586 5,364
Valuation of liabilities to credit institutions and other borrowed funds due to fair
value hedge (10,119) 9,886
Valuation of bonds 10,067 1,838
Valuation of other securities (7,951)
Carry forward of unused tax losses (434) 516
Other temporary differences (43,842) (28,442)
Total (14,754) 58,468

The temporary differences attributable to the valuation of bonds and other securities are due to the tax imposed according to Law 3634/2008.

Reconciliation of effective and nominal tax rate:

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
% %
Profit before income tax 625,633 985,263
Income tax (nominal tax rate) 22.01 137,727 22.06 217,315
Increase/(decrease) due to:
Additional tax on income of fixed assets 0.09 538 (0.06) (552)
Non taxable income (4.58) (28,625) (2.32) (22,856)
Non deductible expenses 1.71 10,708 1.00 9,804
Part of profit relating to non taxable income 0.07 670
Part of profit relating to distributable income 5 (0.03) (295)
Effect of tax rates used for current and deferred tax (0.36) (2,236)
Other temporary differences (0.93) (5,832) 1.07 10,520
Usage of tax losses (0.02) (99) (0.01) (41)
Income tax (effective tax rate) 17.93 112,186 21.78 214,565

The applicable income tax rate of 22.01% for 2008 and 22.06% for 2007 is the weighted average nominal tax rate based on the nominal income tax rate and the profit before tax of the Group's subsidiaries.

11. Profit after income tax from discontinued operations

On 23 March 2007, the sale of 99.57% shares of the subsidiary Alpha Insurance A.E. to AXA, an insurance company which is the worldwide leader in financial protection was completed.

Alpha Bank and AXA have also signed a long term exclusive bankassurance agreement for the distribution of AXA products through the extensive branch network of the Bank.

The results of Alpha Insurance A.E. which has been classified as a discontinued operation for the period 1.1.2007 up to 23.3.2007 and the profit from the sale are included in caption "profit after income tax from discontinued operations" and are analyzed as follows:

From 1 January to
31.12.2007
Income
Net interest income 860
Net fee and commission income 409
Other income (premiums etc.) 3,573
Total income 4,842
Expense
Staff costs (2,338)
General administrative expenses (1,583)
Depreciation and amortization expenses (239)
Total expense (4,160)
Profit/(losses) before income tax 682
Income tax (421)
Profit/(losses) after income tax 261
Profit from the disposal of Alpha Insurance A.E. 80,127
Profit after income tax from discontinued operations 80,388

12. Earnings per share

a. Basic

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit after tax for the period attributable to the equity holders of the Bank by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding, after deducting the weighted average number of treasury shares held by the companies of the Group, during the period.

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Profit attributable to equity holders of the Bank from continuing and
discontinued operations 512,067 850,035
Weighted average number of outstanding ordinary shares 405,624,439 405,502,633
Basic earnings per share from continuing and discontinued operations (in €) 1.26 2.10
From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Profit attributable to equity holders of the Bank from continuing
operations 512,067 769,647
Weighted average number of outstanding ordinary shares 405,624,439 405,502,633
Basic earnings per share from continuing operations (in €) 1.26 1.90

b. Diluted

Diluted earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding to assume conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares.

The Bank has a single category of dilutive potential ordinary shares resulting from a share options program granted to executives and managers of the Group exercised during 2007.

For the share options, a calculation is performed to determine the number of shares that could have been acquired at fair value (determined as the average market share price of the Bank's shares for the period) based on the monetary value of the subscription rights attached to outstanding share options. Upon the issuance of new ordinary shares resulting from share options exercise, the shares are included in the calculation of basic and dilutive earnings per share.

The weighted average number of shares calculated as above is compared with the number of shares that would have been issued assuming the exercise of the share options.

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Profit attributable to equity holders of the Bank from continuing and
discontinued operations 512,067 850,035
Weighted average number of outstanding ordinary shares 405,624,439 405,502,633
Adjustment for share options 727,195
Weighted average number of outstanding ordinary shares for diluted earnings per
share 405,624,439 406,229,828
Diluted earnings per share from continuing and discontinued operations (in €) 1.26 2.09
From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Profit attributable to equity holders of the Bank from continuing
operations 512,067 769,647
Weighted average number of outstanding ordinary shares 405,624,439 405,502,633
Adjustment for share options 727,195
Weighted average number of outstanding ordinary shares for diluted earnings per
share 405,624,439 406,229,828
Diluted earnings per share from continuing operations (in €) 1.26 1.89

ASSETS

13. Cash and balances with Central Banks

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Cash 491,410 411,539
Cheques receivable 99,212 69,052
Balances with Central Banks 2,860,325 2,783,021
Total 3,450,947 3,263,612
Less: Deposits pledged to Central Banks (2,252,477) (1,826,958)
Total 1,198,470 1,436,654

The Bank is required to maintain a current account with the Bank of Greece (Central Bank) in order to facilitate interbank transactions with the Central Bank and other financial institutions through the Trans European – Automated Real Time Gross Settlement Express Transfer System (TARGET).

The Bank of Greece also requires, that all financial institutions established in Greece maintain reserve deposits with the Central Bank equal to 2% of customer deposits.

These deposits bear interest at the refinancing rate as set by the European Central Bank which as at 31.12.2008 was 2.50% (31.12.2007: 4.18%).

Cash and cash equivalents (as presented for the purposes of the cash flow statement)

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Cash and balances with Central Banks 1,198,470 1,436,654
Sale and repurchase agreements (Reverse Repos) 523,863 47,874
Short-term placements with other banks 1,291,303 2,307,503
Total 3,013,636 3,792,031
14. Due from banks
-- -------------------- --
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Placements with other banks 1,878,105 2,790,362
Sale and repurchase agreements (Reverse Repos) 523,863 47,874
Loans to credit institutions 435,869 678,157
Less:
Allowance for impairment losses (7,867) (6,697)
Total 2,829,970 3,509,696
Allowance for impairment losses
Balance 1.1.2007 7,683
Changes for the period 1.1 - 31.12.2007
Decrease of impairment losses from due from banks (note 9) (14)
Foreign exchange differences (972)
Balance 31.12.2007 6,697
Changes for the period 1.1 - 31.12.2008
Decrease of impairment losses from due from banks (note 9) (24)
Foreign exchange differences 1,194
Balance 31.12.2008 7,867

15. Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss – Held for trading

31.12.2007
241,724
21,459
270
2,594
266,047

31 December 2008

16. Derivative financial instruments (assets and liabilities)

Contract nominal Fair value
amount Assets Liabilities
Derivatives held for trading
a. Foreign exchange derivatives
Currency forwards 2,417,331 101,825 97,943
Currency swaps 3,444,037 49,595 95,481
Cross currency swaps 380,931 54,369 7,850
Currency options 151,341 2,246 2,207
Currency options embedded in customer products 4,083 59
Total non-listed 6,397,723 208,094 203,481
b. Interest rate derivatives
Interest rate swaps 14,983,030 208,482 263,290
Interest rate options (caps) 810,214 4,057 3,268
Total non-listed 15,793,244 212,539 266,558
Options 20,000 30
Total listed 20,000 30
c. Commodity derivatives
Commodity swaps 5,078 2,942 2,933
Total non-listed 5,078 2,942 2,933
d. Index derivatives
Otc options 10,000 423
Total non-listed 10,000 423
Futures 1,536 59 19
Options 6,284 34
Total listed 7,820 93 19
e. Credit derivatives
Credit default swaps embedded in debt securities 304,445 45,521
Total non-listed 304,445 45,521
Derivatives for hedging
a. Foreign exchange derivatives
Currency swaps 89,522 5,882 1,696
Cross currency swaps 237,831 21,865
Total non-listed 327,353 27,747 1,696
b. Interest rate derivatives
Interest rate swaps 3,124,810 24,616 285,138
Total non-listed 3,124,810 24,616 285,138
c. Index derivatives
Index swap 30,998 8,542
Total non-listed 30,998 8,542
Grand total 26,021,471 485,026 805,346

31 December 2007

Contract nominal Fair value
amount Assets Liabilities
Derivatives held for trading
a. Foreign exchange derivatives
Currency forwards 1,150,445 12,746 9,480
Currency swaps 2,888,361 35,013 44,797
Cross currency swaps 555,968 63,655 40,104
Currency options 175,822 3,438 3,261
Currency options embedded in customer products 631 1
Total non-listed 4,771,227 114,853 97,642
b. Interest rate derivatives
Interest rate swaps 8,199,341 161,842 136,593
Interest rate options (caps) 616,963 2,233 1,388
Total non-listed 8,816,304 164,075 137,981
Futures 354,305 99 28
Options 6,300 32
Total listed 360,605 131 28
c. Commodity derivatives
Commodity swaps 14,410 138 124
Total non-listed 14,410 138 124
d. Index derivatives
Futures 202 1
Options 383 4
Total listed 585 4 1
Derivatives for hedging
a. Foreign exchange derivatives
Currency swaps 137,380 12,114
Cross currency swaps 181,895 46,258
Total non-listed 319,275 12,114 46,258
b. Interest rate derivatives
Interest reate swaps 4,083,070 92,117 102,105
Total non-listed 4,083,070 92,117 102,105
Grand total 18,365,476 383,432 384,139

17. Loans and advances to customers

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Individuals
Mortgages:
- Non-Securitized 10,822,806 11,186,669
- Securitized 2,715,262
Consumer:
- Non-Securitized 3,183,581 3,606,631
- Securitized 1,485,843
Credit cards 1,285,118 1,092,863
Other 119,399 146,762
Total 19,612,009 16,032,925
Companies:
Corporate loans (1) 29,779,390 24,771,065
Leasing 1,448,224 1,338,340
Factoring 599,888 532,640
Total 31,827,502 26,642,045
Receivables from insurance and re-insurance activities 9,950 9,494
Other receivables 531,235 228,201
51,980,696 42,912,665
Less:
Allowance for impairment losses (2)
(1,275,994) (840,594)
Total 50,704,702 42,072,071
Allowance for impairment losses
Balance 1.1.2007 977,249
Changes for the period from 1.1 - 31.12.2007
Impairment of assets classified as held for sale (57)
Change in present value of impairment reserve 41,288
Foreign exchange differences (2,016)
Impairment losses for the period (note 9) 206,232
Loans written-off during the period (382,102)
Balance 31.12.2007 840,594
Changes for the period from 1.1 - 31.12.2008
Change in present value of impairment reserve 64,453
Foreign exchange differences (8,106)
Impairment losses for the period (note 9) 601,285
Loans written-off during the period (222,232)
Balance 31.12.2008 1,275,994

The Bank securitized mortgage and consumer loans through special purpose entities. The Group retains all risks of these loans as it has issued a guarantee to the holders of the bonds issued in the securitization.

(1) In accordance with amendments to IAS 39, the Group reclassified securities of €21.8 million from the available-for-sale portfolio to the loans portfolio. These securities are not traded in an active market and the Group has the intention to hold them in the foreseeable future. The above securities which are included in corporate loans have been impaired of amount of € 17.4 million.

(2) In addition to the allowance for impairment losses, an additional provision of € 3,627 (31.12.2007: €45,929) has been recorded to cover credit risk relating to off-balance sheet items (note 32). The total provision recorded to cover credit risk amounts to €1,279,621 (31.12.2007: €886,523).

The financial lease receivables are analyzed as follows:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Up to 1 year 456,651 398,360
From 1 year up to 5 years 716,826 675,630
More than 5 years 785,959 829,707
1,959,436 1,903,697
Unearned finance income (511,212) (565,357)
Total 1,448,224 1,338,340

The net amount of finance leases is analyzed by duration as follows:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Up to 1 year 374,042 316,096
From 1 year up to 5 years 502,288 456,249
More than 5 years 571,894 565,995
Total 1,448,224 1,338,340

18. Investment securities

a) Available for sale

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Government bonds 366,804 1,909,248
Other debt securities:
- Listed 89,994 1,065,924
- Non-listed 169,328 36,983
Shares:
- Listed 40,465 69,446
- Non-listed 36,597 21,661
Other variable yield securities 49,338 53,639
Total 752,526 3,156,901

b) Held to maturity

31.12.2008
Cost Fair value
Government bonds 1,805,579 1,697,446
Other debt securities:
- Listed 2,558,601 2,144,857
- Non listed 124,529 121,637
Total 4,488,709 3,963,940

The held-to-maturity portfolio includes bonds from the Bank amounting to €1.1 billion, which up to 30.6.2008 were classified as "Available-for-sale".

The reclassification of these bonds was performed at their fair value as at 30.6.2008, which became their new amortized cost on the basis of which the effective interest rate method was used to allocate the interest income thereafter. At that date the fair value of these bonds was €63.3 million less than their carrying amount. This difference, already recognized in equity, will be amortized to interest income over the remaining period to maturity of the bonds.

Had the above mentioned bonds not been reclassified from the available-for-sale portfolio, their fair value would have been lower than the carrying amount by an additional amount of €217 million.

19. Investments in associates

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Opening balance 5,320 4,091
Purchases/ Recognition of participation 46,954 20
Dividends received (11)
(11)
Share of profit/ (loss) 6,997 1,220
Closing balance 59,260 5,320

The increase of the account "Investments in associates" compared to 31.12.2007, is attributed to the recognition of EL.P.ET. Balcan S.A. which is valued under the equity method.

The Group's investments in associates are analyzed as follows:

Country of Group's ownership interest %
Name incorporation 31.12.2008 31.12.2007
a. Evisak A.E. Greece 27.00 27.00
b. AEDEP Thessalias & Stereas Ellados (1) Greece 50.00 50.00
c. A.L.C. Novelle Investments Ltd Cyprus 33.33 33.33
d. ΕL.P.ΕΤ. Balcan Α.Ε. Greece 26.71

The Group's share in profit and loss of each associate is set out below:

Name Equity
(in thousands of
€)
Profit/ (loss)
after tax
Total
(in thousands of
€)
Share of
profit/(loss)
31.12.2008
a. Evisak A.E. 3,166 179 3,345 11
b. AEDEP Thessalias & Stereas Ellados (1) 147 147
c. A.L.C. Novelle Investments Ltd 11,690 1,873 13,563 (739)
d. ΕL.P.ΕΤ. Balcan Α.Ε. 204,594 204,594 7,725
Total 219,597 2,052 221,649 6,997

(1) It is a non profit company

20. Investment property

Land and buildings

Balance 1.1.2007
Cost 34,948
Accumulated depreciation (3,430)
Net book value 1.1.2007 31,518
1.1.2007 – 31.12.2007
Net book value 1.1.2007 31,518
Foreign exchange differences (35)
Additions 26,602
Disposals (480)
Reclassification from "Property, plant and equipment" 16,628
Depreciation charge for the period (673)
Net book value 31.12.2007 73,560
Balance 31.12.2007
Cost 78,526
Accumulated depreciation (4,966)
1.1.2008 - 31.12.2008
Net book value 1.1.2008 73,560
Foreign exchange differences (90)
Additions 466
Reclassification from "Property, plant and equipment" (6,450)
Depreciation charge for the period (611)
Net book value 31.12.2008 66,875
Balance 31.12.2008
Cost 72,244
Accumulated depreciation (5,369)

Transfers from «Property, plant and equipment» in 2007 relate to a building owned by the subsidiary Oceanos A.T.O.E.E. amounting to € 15.8 million, leased by a subsidiary Alpha Insurance A.E. until 23.3.2007. The fair value of the above property as at 31.12.2007 was € 22 million.

The fair value of investment property as at 31.12.2008 as determined by Alpha Astika Akinita A.E. amounted to € 70,080.

21. Property, plant and equipment

Land and Leased
buildings equipment Equipment Total
Balance 1.1.2007
Cost 1,058,044 4,055 361,639 1,423,738
Accumulated depreciation (209,573) (1,963) (276,206) (487,742)
Net book value 1.1.2007 848,471 2,092 85,433 935,996
1.1.2007 – 31.12.2007
Net book value 1.1.2007 848,471 2,092 85,433 935,996
Foreign exchange differences (1,669) (73) (536) (2,278)
Additions 64,714 1,747 37,848 104,309
Disposals (5,435) (1,349) (6,784)
Additions from companies consolidated for first time in 2007 145,909 23,346 169,255
Reclassification to "Investment property" (16,628) (16,628)
Reclassification from "Non-current assets held-for-sale" (1) 42,405 42,405
Other reclassifications (268) (268)
Depreciation charge for the period (2) (24,405) (694) (27,633) (52,732)
Net book value 31.12.2007 1,053,362 3,072 116,841 1,173,275
Balance 31.12.2007
Cost 1,283,906 5,414 414,199 1,703,519
Accumulated depreciation (230,544) (2,342) (297,358) (530,244)
1.1.2008 - 31.12.2008
Net book value 1.1.2008 1,053,362 3,072 116,841 1,173,275
Foreign exchange differences (10,174) (400) (3,294) (13,868)
Additions 93,192 54,108 147,300
Disposals (842) (930) (1,145) (2,917)
Additions from companies consolidated for first time in 2008 1,465 1,115 2,580
Reclassification to "Investment property" (3) 6,450 6,450
Other reclassifications 4,038 345 (4,383)
Depreciation charge for the period (26,840) (280) (31,460) (58,580)
Net book value 31.12.2008 1,120,651 1,807 131,782 1,254,240
Balance 31.12.2008
Cost 1,373,990 2,814 454,795 1,831,599
Accumulated depreciation (253,339) (1,007) (323,013) (577,359)

As at 31 December 2008 "Land and Buildings" include owned fixed assets of € 1,048,391. The fair value of these assets as determined by Alpha Astika Akinita A.E. the same date was €1,151,849.

Srbija A.D.

_________________

(1) During 2007 property, plant and equipment amounting to € 42.4 million was reclassified from «Non-current assets held for sale» due to Bank's decision for own use. The depreciation for the respective period that the specific Property, plant and equipment was classified as "Non-current assets held for sale" amounts to € 2.2 million and it was charged to the profit and loss account in 2007.

(2) The depreciation charge for the period 1.7 – 31.12.2007 does not include an amount of € 1.1 million that concerns Hilton Rhodes Resort

which was classified as "Non current assets held for sale" (note 25).

(3) The reclassifications from "Investment property" relate to a building owned by Alpha Real Estate D.O.O. Beograd leased by Alpha Bank

22. Goodwill and other intangible assets

Other
Goodwill intangible Software Total
Balance την 1.1.2007
Cost 58,344 18,293 144,745 221,382
Accumulated amortization -
(5,884)
(98,360) (104,244)
Net book value 1.1.2007 58,344 12,409 46,385 117,138
1.1.2007 - 31.12.2007
Net book value 1.1.2007 58,344 12,409 46,385 117,138
Foreign exchange differences (336) 145 (233) (424)
Additions 5,340 35,484 40,824
Disposals (920) (920)
Reclassification from "Property, plant and equipment" 268 268
Additions from companies consolidated for first time in 2007 1,333 1,333
Amortization charge for the period -
(3,484)
(20,238) (23,722)
Net book value 31.12.2007 58,008 15,743 60,746 134,497
Balance 31.12.2007
Cost 58,008 25,785 181,273 265,066
Accumulated amortization (10,042) (120,527) (130,569)
1.1.2008 - 31.12.2008
Net book value 1.1.2008 58,008 15,743 60,746 134,497
Foreign exchange differences (7,272) (479) (640) (8,391)
Additions 17,947 44,499 62,446
Disposals (183) (183)
Other reclassifications (3,453) 3,453
Additions from companies consolidated for first time in 2008
(1) 1,551 1 49 1,601
Impairment losses for the period (2) (251) (251)
Amortization charge for the period -
(4,669)
(25,089) (29,758)
Net book value 31.12.2008 52,036 25,090 82,835 159,961
Balance 31.12.2008
Cost 52,036 37,983 227,612 317,631
Accumulated amortization (12,893) (144,777) (157,670)

The annual impairment test performed on the goodwill arising from the acquisition of Alpha Bank Srbija A.D. confirmed that no adjustment to the carrying amount is necessary. Specifically, the value in use and the fair value less costs to sell were determined to be higher than the carrying amount of the subsidiary presented in the consolidated financial statements and therefore no impairment loss exists.

Other intangible assets which were recognized upon acquisition of the above mentioned bank that relate to the deposit base, and customer relationships, their recoverable amount was also estimated to be higher than their carrying amount and no impairment loss was required. The only exception was the brand name and the software which have been fully amortized and no longer used.

(1) The goodwill of 2008 relates to the acquisition of 90% ownership interest of Astra Bank OJSC (note 45d).

(2) The impairment losses of the period concern goodwill of the subsidiary Evremathea A.E..

23. Deferred tax assets and liabilities

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Deferred tax assets 333,499 170,257
Deferred tax liabilities (197,779) (94,807)
Total 135,720 75,450
Deferred tax assets and liabilities arise from:
1.1.2008 - 31.12.2008
Recognized in
Balance
1.1.2008
Income statement Equity Balance
31.12.2008
Depreciation 4,104 (3,185) (175) 744
Revaluation of fixed assets 8,236 8,236
Valuation of loans 19,803 (91,511) (71,708)
Suspension of interest accruals (53,320) (40,108) (93,428)
Impairment of loans (21,978) 49,360 27,382
Valuation of derivative financial instruments 3 84,493 84,496
Tax losses carry forward 4,329 434 954 5,717
Other provisions 28,037 43,842 1,036 72,915
Effective interest rate 2,212 (15,586) (13,374)
Employee defined benefit obligations 111,770 (17,508) 94,262
Common Insurance Fund of Bank employees
obligation (11,716) (11,716)
Valuation of liabilities to credit institutions and
other borrowed funds due to fair value hedge (17,672) 10,119 (7,553)
Valuation of investments due to hedge 7,951 5,252 13,203
Valuation of bonds (1,838) (10,067) 38,449 26,544
Total 75,450 14,754 45,516 135,720
1.1.2007 - 31.12.2007
Recognized in
Balance Balance
1.1.2007 Income statement Equity 31.12.2007
Depreciation 15,009 (7,882) (3,023) 4,104
Valuation of loans 12,977 6,844 (18) 19,803
Suspension of interest accruals (24,212) (29,108) (53,320)
Impairment of loans 5,323 (27,301) (21,978)
Valuation of derivative financial instruments (3,592) 3,595 3
Tax losses carry forward 4,988 (516) (143) 4,329
Other provisions (742) 28,442 337 28,037
Effective interest rate 7,576 (5,364) 2,212
Employee defined benefit obligations 127,224 (15,454) 111,770
Valuation of liabilities to credit institutions and
other borrowed funds due to fair value hedges (7,786) (9,886) (17,672)
Valuation of bonds (1,838) (1,838)
Total 136,765 (58,468) (2,847) 75,450
24. Other assets
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Investments on behalf of life insurance policyholders 21,486 18,109
Prepaid expenses 18,344 25,759
Accrued income 7,078 3,316
Tax advances and withholding taxes 186,578 166,723
Receivables from employee defined benefit plan (note 30) 47,311 49,189
Additional contribution to TEK 52,290
Other 216,212 122,580
Total 549,299 385,676

In accordance with article 6 of Law 3714/7.11.2008 the amount of deposits guaranteed by the deposit guarantee fund, increased from € 20,000 to € 100,000. The contribution paid by banks to deposit guarantee fund also increased.

Thus, the Banks have made additional contributions for 2008. The Law 3746/16.2.2009 concerning the "Deposits Guarantee Fund and Investment (TEKE)" provides that the difference between the regular annual contribution of credit institutions resulting from the application of article 6 of Law 3714/2008 will be included in a special assets group whose elements are jointly included in the proportion of each participant in the credit institutions.

25. Non-current assets held for sale and related liabilities

a. Fixed assets

As at 31.12.2008 "Non-current assets held for sale" include land and buildings amounting to € 53,574 (31.12.2007: € 54,651) and office equipment amounting to € 231 (31.12.2007: € 570). The fair value of "Non-current assets held for sale" as determined by Alpha Astika Akinita AE amounted to € 64,815.

b. Other

As at 28.3.2008 Ionian Hotel Enterprises A.E. transferred the shares of the subsidiary Tourist Resort A.E., which owns the Rhodes Hotel Resort (note 45b).

The assets and liabilities of Hilton Rhodes Resort as at 31 December 2007 have been classified as "Non-current assets held for sale" and "Liabilities related to non-current assets held for sale" respectively and were as follows:

31.12.2007
Non-current assets held for sale
Cash and balances with Central Banks 38
Loans and advances to customers 1,336
Goodwill and other intangible assets 9
Property, plant and equipment 29,745
Deferred tax assets 3,319
Other assets 277
Total 34,724
Liabilities related to non-current assets held for sale
Liabilities for current income tax and other taxes 39
Deferred tax liabilities 308
Other liabilities 970
Employee defined benefit obligations 266
Total 1,583

LIABILITIES

26. Due to banks

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Deposits:
- Current accounts 426,525 66,591
- Term deposits
- European Central Bank term deposits 5,187,133 96,314
- Other credit institutions term deposits 1,364,140 2,002,813
Sale and repurchase agreements (Repos) 934,078 1,923,548
Borrowings 1,051,920 348,470
Total 8,963,796 4,437,736

27. Due to customers (including debt securities in issue)

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Deposits:
- Current accounts 6,340,839 6,857,487
- Savings accounts 7,985,913 9,212,287
- Term deposits 24,872,206 11,977,552
Debt securities in issue 3,151,516 6,335,599
Sale and repurchase agreements (Repos) 34,742 94,078
42,385,216 34,477,003
Cheques payable 161,561 188,155
Total 42,546,777 34,665,158

28. Debt securities in issue and other borrowed funds

Short term securities (ECP) (1)
Balance 1.1.2008
Changes for the period 1.1 – 31.12.2008
New issues 2,605,910
(Purchases)/sales by Group companies (115,000)
Maturities/Redemptions (2,409,223)
Accrued interest 20,851
Foreign exchange differences 27,492
Balance 31.12.2008 130,030
Senior debt securities
Balance 1.1.2008 14,296,007
Changes for the period 1.1 – 31.12.2008
New issues (2) 4,972,407
(Purchases)/sales by Group companies (1,940,808)
Maturities/Redemptions (8,083,035)
Fair value change due to hedging 25,887
Accrued interest (10,347)
Foreign exchange differences 27,470
Balance 31.12.2008 9,287,581
Subordinated debt
Balance 1.1.2008 1,228,888
Changes for the period 1.1 – 31.12.2008
New issues (3) 100,000
(Purchases)/sales by Group companies (69,637)
Maturities/Redemptions (4) (350,000)
Fair value change due to hedging 11,931
Accrued interest (2,584)
Foreign exchange differences 56,492
Balance 31.12.2008 975,090
Total 10,392,701

Of the above debt securities in issue an amount of € 3,151,516 (31.12.2007: € 6,335,598) held by Bank customers has been reclassified to "Due from customers". Therefore the balance of "Debt securities in issue held by institutional investors and other borrowed funds" as at 31 December 2008 amounts to € 7,241,185 (31.12.2007: €9,189,297).

(1) The Bank raises short term liquidity, through a Euro Commercial paper program amounting to total € 5 billion. Under this program commercial paper may be issued at a discount or may bear floating, fixed or index linked interest with 1 to 364 days duration. The commercial paper can be issued in Euro, US Dollar, GB pound, Swiss Franc, Japanese Yen, Australian Dollar, Canadian Dollar and any other currency that will be agreed by the counterparties.

Issues in Euro pay an average spread of 9 to 35 basis points over Euribor of the respective period.

The issues in US Dollars were set on from 14 to 42 basis points over Libor of the respective period.

The issues in YEN were set on from 20 to 25 basis points over Libor of the respective period

(2) The new senior debt issues amounting to € 4,609 million pay a Euribor floating rate, with a spread from 12 up to 125 basis points, depending on the duration of issue.

Additionally, new senior debt issues amounting to € 555 million, an embedded put option for the investor exists which bears Euribor plus variable spread. If the investor does not exercise the option, the spread may increase to a maximum between 40 and 120 basis points.

(3) On 30.5.2008 the subsidiary Alpha Bank Cyprus Ltd, issued subordinate debt securites (lower Tier II) amounting to € 100 million with a 10 year duration paying three month Euribor plus 180 basis points for the first 5 years. If Alpha Bank Cyprus Ltd does not redeem the security, the spread for the following years increases to 280 basis points.

(4) On 19 February 2008, five years after issuance, the Bank redeemed a 10 year subordinated debt amounting to € 100 million. On 10 July 2008, five years after issuance, the Bank redeemed a 10 year subordinated debt amounting to € 100 million.

On 24 November 2008, five years after issuance, the Bank redeemed a 10 year subordinated debt amounting to € 150 million.

On 18 July 2008 the issuance of two covered bonds was performed by Alpha Covered Bonds Plc, a subsidiary of the Bank, in accordance with paragraph 91 of Law 3601/2007 and P.D./BOG 2598/2-11-2007. Each covered bond issue amounts to € 1 billion, and has a three and five year duration respectively. The bonds are guaranteed by the Bank and they are collaterised with mortgage loans. The bonds received a AAA rating from three international credit rating agencies (Standard & Poor's, Moody's, and Fitch). To date the bonds have been pledged as collateral for monetary policy purposes with the Bank of Greece. In the future these bonds may also be sold to investors.

The liability due to the securitization of the Bank's mortgage loans is not presented in "bond securities in issue and other borrowed funds" since these securities, issued by the Bank's subsidiary Alpha Covered Bond PLC, are held by the Bank.

On 9 December 2008, the issuance of the bond loans, through the Bank's Subsidiary Katanalotika Plc was completed. The bonds are collaterized with personal, consumer and car loans of the Bank. The bonds rated as Aa2 by the credit rating agency Moody's have been retained by the Bank and pledge as collateral for refinancing purposes with the Bank of Greece.

The € 1.45 billion liability due to the securitization of consumer loans is not presented in "debt securities in issue and other borrowed funds" since these securities, issued by the Bank's subsidiary, are held by the Bank.

29. Liabilities for current income tax and other taxes

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Current income tax 86,849 127,360
Other taxes 41,213 31,437
Total 128,062 158,797

30. Employee defined benefit obligations

The total amounts recognized in the financial statements for employee defined benefit obligations are presented in the table below:

Balance sheet
31.12.2008
Liability/
(Asset)
Income statement
1.1.-31.12.2008
Expense/(Income)
Balance sheet
31.12.2007
Liability/
(Asset)
Income statement
1.1.-31.12.2007
Expense/(Income)
(1,199)
3,008 (49,189) 4,203
3,008 (49,189) 3,004
- (3,733) 3,733 8,194
37,673 6,438 33,320 5,650
5,089 450 4,966 (309)
16,539
-
-
(47,311)
(47,311)
-
6,163

Balance sheet and income statement amounts are as follows:

i. Bank

a. Supplementary Pension Fund (TAP) of former Alpha Credit Bank Employees

After TAP was absorded by the Common Insurance Fund of Bank Employees for the supplementary pension (Article 10, Law 3620/2007), TAP obligation is restricted to paying a lump-sum benefit to retiring employees, which is guaranteed by the Bank. The amounts in balance sheet are analyzed as follows:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Present value of defined benefit obligations 128,895 127,035
Fair value of plan assets (156,268) (162,031)
Deficit/(Surplus) (27,373) (34,996)
Unrecognized actuarial losses (19,938) (14,193)
Asset in balance sheet (47,311) (49,189)

Amounts included in profit and loss are as follows:

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Current service cost 4,751
5,484
Interest cost 6,391
5,342
Expected return on plan assets (8,134)
(6,623)
Total (included in staff costs) 3,008
4,203

The movement in present value of accrued liabilities is as follows:

2008 2007
Opening balance 127,035 121,463
Current service cost 4,751 5,484
Interest cost 6,391 5,342
Employee contributions 1,396 1,032
Benefits paid (6,912) (8,466)
Benefits paid directly by the Bank (1,130) (1,357)
Expenses (5) (68)
Actuarial losses/(Gain) (2,631) 3,605
Closing balance 128,895 127,035

The movement in fair value of plan assets is as follows:

2008 2007
Opening balance 162,031 165,051
Expected return 8,134 6,623
Bank contribution - -
Employee contributions 1,396 1,032
Benefits paid (6,912) (8,466)
Expenses (5) (68)
Actuarial losses (8,376) (2,141)
Closing balance 156,268 162,031

The Plan assets include deposits with Alpha Bank of € 36.7 million, receivables from Alpha Bank of € 31.1 million bonds issued, Alpha Credit Group plc of € 82.6 million and Alpha Bank shares of € 3.2 million.

The movement of the receivable is as follows:
Balance 1.1.2007 (52,035)
Accrued expense 4,203
Contributions paid -
Benefits paid directly by the Bank (1,357)
Balance 31.12.2007 (49,189)
Balance 1.1.2008 (49,189)
Accrued expense 3,008
Contributions paid -
Benefits paid directly by the Bank (1,130)
Balance 31.12.2008 (47,311)

The principal actuarial assumptions used are the following:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Discount rate 5.8% 5.5%
Expected return on plan assets 5.0% 5.0%
Future salary increases 3.5% 3.5%

b. Ionian and Popular Bank Insurance Fund (TAPILT – welfare sector)

Ionian and Popular Bank Insurance Fund (TAPILT – Welfare Sector) is responsible for the payment of a lump sum to retired employees of the former Ionian Bank.

In accordance with article 10 of Law 3655/2008 passed on 31.3.2008 a public sector entity was established "Bank employee and Companies Common Benefit Plan (TAYTEKO)" to provide supplementary insurance, lump sum benefits and health insurance. This insurance fund includes the welfare sector of TAPILT among other funds. For this fund the Bank had applied defined benefit plan accounting as it considered that it had a constructive liability.

The liability was written off due to the adoption of the above law and the incorporation of TAPILT's welfare sector to TAYTEKO from 1.10.2008.

The amounts recognized in Balance Sheet are as follows:

31.12.2007
Present value of defined benefit obligations 74,737
Fair value of plan assets (64,006)
Deficit/(Surplus) 10,731
Unrecognized actuarial losses (6,998)
Liability (asset) in balance sheet 3,733
Amounts included in profit and loss are as follows:
31.12.2007
Current service cost 255
Interest cost 2,744
Expected return on plan assets (2,508)
Actuarial losses recognized in this fiscal year 28
Past service cost 7,675
Total (included in staff costs) 8,194
The movement in present value of the liabilities in 2007 is as follows:
2007
Opening balance 63,458
Current service cost 255
Interest cost 2,744
Employees contribution 3,061
Benefits paid (3,096)
Expenses (85)
Past service cost 7,675
Actuarial losses 725
Closing balance 74,737

The movement in fair value of plan assets during 2007 is as follows:

2007
Opening balance 61,202
Expected return 2,508
Employees contribution 3,061
Benefits paid (3,096)
Expenses (85)
Actuarial gain/(losses) 416
Closing balance 64,006
The movement of liability is as follows
Balance 1.1.2007 (4,461)
Accrued expense 8,194
Balance 31.12.2007 3,733
Balance 1.1.2008 3,733
Accrued expense (66)
Income from the write-off liability (3,667)
Balance 31.12.2008 -
The principal actuarial assumptions used are the following:
31.12.2007
Discount rate 5.5%
Expected return on plan assets 5.0%
Future salary increases 3.5%

ii. Group companies

a. Alpha Bank Cyprus Ltd

Personnel receive a lump sum benefit on retirement which is calculated based on the years of service and salary.

Amounts included in balance sheet are as follows:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Present value of defined benefit obligations 44,860 42,378
Unrecognized actuarial gains (7,187)
(9,058)
Recognized liability 37,673 33,320
Amounts included in profit and loss are as follows:
From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Current service cost 4,042
3,452
Interest cost 2,186
1,870
Net actuarial losses recognized in fiscal year 210
125
Past service cost 203
Total (included in staff costs) 6,438
5,650

The movement of the present value of accrued benefit arises as follows:

2008 2007
Opening balance 33,320 31,281
Current service cost 4,042 3,452
Interest cost 2,186 1,870
Actuarial losses recognized in fiscal year 210 125
Past service cost recognized in fiscal year - 203
Foreign exchange differences - (389)
Benefits paid (2,085) (3,222)
Closing balance 37,673 33,320
The principal actuarial assumptions used are the following:
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Discount rate 5.75% 5.25%
Future salary increases 6.50% 6.50%

b. Other companies

32. Provisions

_____________

The employees of the subsidiaries in Greece with indefinite employment contracts receive a lump sum payment on retirement, which is defined by Law 2112/1920. In the subsidiary Alpha Bank Srbija A.D., the employees receive a lump sum payment on retirement, which equals three salaries of Serbian State employees. The liability arises as follows:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Liability in balance sheet 5,089 4,966
From 1 Janaury to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Expense (included in staff costs) 450 (309)
31. Other liabilities
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Dividends payable 9,965 8,304
Liabilities to third parties 233,364 241,970
Liabilities to E.T.A.T.(1) 518,400 565,263
Brokerage services 22,872 37,970
Deferred income 59,090 59,659
Accrued expenses 83,143 50,807
Liabilities from credit cards 228,789 225,127
Reinsurance activities 115 1,574
Financial lease 72 407
Other 194,477 132,473
Total 1,350,287 1,323,554
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Insurance provisions 39,770 41,561
Provisions to cover credit risk 3,627 45,929
Other 9,866 8,445
Total 53,263 95,935

(1) In accordance with article 10 of Law 3620/2007 and the mandatorily joint of TAP members to Common Insurance Fund of Bank Employees (E.T.A.T.) from 1.1.2008 (note 30), Bank's financial burden amounted to € 543 million which will be attributed in ten equal annual installments. In 31.12.2007 liability it is included the above amount and interest for 2007 while 31.12.2008 liability has been formed from the payment of the annual installments and interest for the current year.

a. Insurance provisions

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Non-life insurance
Unearned premiums 5,163 4,643
Outstanding claim reserves 4,109 5,780
Total 9,272 10,423
Life insurance
Mathematical reserves 7,635 6,992
Outstanding claim reserves 1,377 1,325
Total 9,012 8,317
Reserves for investments held on behalf and at risk of life insurance
policy holders 21,486 22,821
Total 39,770 41,561
b. Provisions to cover credit risk
Balance 1.1.2007 14,946
Changes for the period 1.1. – 31.12.2007
Provisions to cover credit risk relating to off-balance sheet items (note 9) 30,983
Balance 31.12.2007 45,929
Changes for the period 1.1. – 31.12.2008
Provisions to cover credit risk relating to off-balance sheet items (note 9) (42,178)
Exchange differences (124)
Balance 31.12.2008 3,627
c. Other provisions
Balance 1.1.2007
11,432
Changes for the period 1.1. – 31.12.2007
Decrease of provision for contingent liabilities (2,895)
Provisions used during the period (18)
Foreign exchange differences (74)
Balance 31.12.2007 8,445
Changes for the period 1.1. – 31.12.2008
Provisions charged to profit and loss 2,190
Provisions used during the period (443)
Foreign exchange differences (326)
Balance 31.12.2008 9,866

The amount of other provisions charged to profit and loss is included in "other expenses" of the income statement.

EQUITY

33. Share capital
Number of shares Paid-in capital
Opening balance 1 January 2007 408,022,002 1,591,286
Exercise of share options 2,954,650 11,523
Balance 31 December 2007 410,976,652 1,602,809
Share capital increase through the capitalization of the share premium reserve of
€ 184,033 and part of taxed retained earnings of € 144,748, with an increase of
the nominal value of each share from € 3.90 to € 4.70 (Decision of Shareholders'
meeting held on 3 April 2008) 328,781
Balance 31 December 2008 410,976,652 1,931,590
Each share has a single voting right in the Shareholders meetings.
34. Share premium
Opening balance ( 1 January 2007) 127,961
Difference of exercised share options 56,072
Balance 31 December 2007 184,033
Capitalization (note 33) (184,033)
Balance 31 December 2008

35. Reserves

Reserves are analyzed as follows

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Statutory reserve 460,184 412,520
Available for sale reserve (173,773) (1,775)
Foreign exchange difference reserve from the translation of foreign operations (98,007) 34,917
Total 188,404 445,662

According to the Bank's articles of association (article 26) as amended in May 2008, the Bank is required to transfer 5% of its annual net profit to the statutory reserve, until the reserve amounts to 50% of share capital. This reserve can only be used to offset losses according to article 44 of Law 2190/1920.

For the companies incorporated abroad the statutory reserve is formed according to local regulations.

36. Retained earnings

a. Included in retained earnings are gains from the sale of listed shares and other non-taxable income or special taxable income that is not subject to tax and will not be distributed.

The reserves which were formed by 31 December 2005, have been taxed.

The reserves which were formed during 2007 and thereafter are subject to tax at the rate applicable to the Bank (Law 3634/2008).

The reserves which have been subject to tax may be distributed or capitalized without any further tax liability.

b. According to the article 3 paragraph 1 of Law 148/1967 entities are obliged to distribute each year dividends, unless decided otherwise by the Shareholders in general meeting a minimum amount equal to 35% of the annual profits after the deduction of the statutory reserve appropriation and the gain from the sale of shares. The net profit arising from the valuation of financial instruments to fair value after deducting losses for the same reason is not included in the calculation of the dividend as defined by the law 148/67.

According to paragraph 3 of article 1 of Law 3723/2008 relating to strength of liquidity in order to deal with the challenges of the international crisis, the dividend distribution cannot exceed 35% as determined in the above law.

The ordinary General Shareholders' Meeting held on 3 April 2008, approved the distribution of a dividend for 2007 of € 0.90 per share. As at 31.12.2008, the total amount of € 362,199 has been deducted from retained earnings.

37. Treasury shares

On 25 February 2008 the Bank's wholly subsiadiary Alpha Insurance Agents A.E. sold 10,080 of the Bank's shares with cost value € 188 at the sale price of €20,8 per share. The net of proceeds of the sale amounted to € 21, which was recognized directly to retained earning.

The Bank pursuant to the decisions of prior years General Meeting of Shareholders, purchased during the first quarter of 2008, 8,123,677 treasury shares at a cost of € 167,551 (€ 20.63 per share).

Based on the decision of the general meeting of shareholders held on 3 April 2008 which approved the establishment of a share buy back program, for the period April 2008 - April 2010, the Bank acquired during 1.4 - 31.12.2008 13,998,747 treasury shares at a cost of € 242,839 (€ 17.35 per share).

On 30 June 2008, the Bank completed the sale of 16,439,066 treasury shares the cost of which amounted to € 341,405, through a private placement, which represented 4% of its issued share capital. The result of the above transaction has been recognized directly to the Retained earnings.

As at 31 December 2008 the Bank holds 5,683,358 treasury shares with a cost of € 68,985 (€ 12.14 per share).

The number of treasury shares and the cost are analyzed as follows:

Number of shares Cost Percentage
Balance 31.12.2007 10,080 188
Purchases 1.1 - 31.12.2008 22,122,424 410,390 5.38%
Sales 1.1 - 31.12.2008 (16,449,146) (341,593) (4.01%)
BBalance 31.12.2008 5,683,358 68,985 1.38%

38. Hybrid Securities

Alpha Group Jersey a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank has issued the following hybrid securities:

• On 5 December 2002 an amount of € 200 million preferred securities with interest step up clause, which represent Lower Tier 1 capital for the Group.

These are perpetual securities and may be redeemed by the issuer after the expiration of 10 years. The issuer has the discretion not to pay a dividend on the conditions that the Bank does not pay a dividend to common Shareholders. They carry interest at 3-month Euribor plus a margin of 2.65%. If redemption option is not exercised by the issuer the margin is increased by 1.325% reaching 3.975% in total. The preferred securities are listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange.

  • On 5 December 2003 an amount of € 100 million preferred securities were issued with the same characteristics as those issued on 5 December 2002.
  • On 18 February 2005 amount of € 600 million preferred securities without an interest step up clause, which also represent Lower Tier 1 capital for the Group since they fulfill the requirements of securities with interest step up clause as described above. The expenses of the issue amounted to € 12 million.

Non-cumulative dividend of preferred securities carry fixed interest at 6% for the first 5 years and thereafter interest is determined based on the formula 4x(CMS10-CMS2) with a ceiling and floor rate of 10% and 3.25% respectively. CMS10 and CMS2 represent the Euribor of interest rate swaps of 10 and 2 years, respectively.

Hybrid securities 31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Perpetual with 1st call option in 2012 300,000 300,000
Perpetual with 1st call option in 2015 588,000 588,000
Total 888,000 888,000
Securities held from Group companies (694) (106)
Total 887,306 887,894

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

39. Contingent liabilities and commitments

a) Legal issues

The Bank, in the ordinary course of business, is a defendant in claims from customers and other legal proceedings. No provision has been recorded because after consultation with legal department, the ultimate disposition of these matters is not expected to have a material effect on the financial position or operations of the Bank.

There are no pending legal cases or issues in progress which may have a material impact on the financial statements or operations of the other companies of the Group. However, the Group recorded a provision amounting to € 4.2 million for pending legal cases or issues in progress.

b) Tax issues

The Bank and the companies, Alpha Astika Akinita A.E., Messana Holdings S.A., Ionian Hotel Enterprises A.E., ABC Factors A.E. and Kafe Alpha A.E. have been audited by the tax authorities for the years up to and including 2005. The Bank's branches in Bulgaria and in Albania have been audited by the tax authorities for the years up to and including 2007, while in London has been audited by tax authorities for the years up to and including 2005. Alpha Bank Romania S.A. and Alpha Insurance Agents AE. have been audited by the tax authorities for the year up to and including 2006. Tax audits are in progress at Alpha Finance A.E.P.E.Y., and Alpha Leasing A.E. for fiscal years from 2003-2006 and 2005-2007 respectively. The companies Alpha Ventures A.E., Alpha Private Investment Services A.E.P.E.Y., Oceanos A.T.O.E.E., Ionian Holdings A.E., Evremethea A.E. and APE Commercial Property A.E. used the clauses of Law 3697/08 and concluded their unaudited tax fiscal years 2002-2006, 2002-2005, 2003-2006, 2005-2006, 2005- 2006 and 2003-2006, respectively. The remaining companies of the Group has been audited by the tax authorities, for the years up to and including the year ended 31 December 2002.

Additional taxes and penalties may be imposed for the unaudited years.

c) Operating leases

The Group's minimum future lease payments are:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
less than one year 48,624 30,894
between one and five years 162,958 92,662
more than five years 134,604 79,219
T Total 346,186 202,775
The minimum future revenues are:
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
less than one year 6,056 6,017
between one and five years 19,267 22,806
more than five years 6,901 9,177
T Total 32,224 38,000
d) Off balance sheet liabilities
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Letters of credit 191,937 48,014
Letters of guarantee 5,652,060 4,835,271
Undrawn credit facilities 18,040,379 17,573,361
Total 23,884,376 22,456,646

e) Assets pledged

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Loans to customers 964,490 800,490
Securities from reverse Repos 400,000
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 60,964
Investment securities 5,632,896 160,000
Total 7,058,350 960,490

The Bank has collaterized customer loans to the Bank of Greece in accordance with the Monetary Policy Council Act No 54/27.2.2004 as in force, and following its amendment by Monetary Policy Council Act No 61/6.12.2006. With this act the Bank of Greece accepts as collateral for monetary policy purposes and intraday credit, non-marketable assets, which should meet the terms and conditions of the above act.

From the investments securities an amount of €5 million is pledged as collateral to the clearing house of derivative transactions "ETESEP AE" as a margin account insurance.

The above mentioned financial assets measured at fair value through profit or loss derived from reserve repos and investments securities are pledged as collateral to Bank of Greece for the participation in the Intra – Europe clearing of payments system on an ongoing time (TARGET) and in major acts of financing from European Central Bank.

From the above securities € 3.5 billion are held by the Bank from the securitization of mortgage and consumer loans. The above bonds are not presented in "Investment Securities" but are presented net from the banks liabilities to the special purpose entities that issued these securities.

f) Other pledges

On 7 May 2008 the Bank completed a new Medium Term Notes Program amounting to USD 7.5 billion, according to Rule 144A of the American Law, which will be offered to institutional investors. The issuer will be Alpha Group Jersey Limited a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank. The Notes will be guaranteed by the Bank and will be traded in Luxembourg's stock exchange. The program is not yet active.

40. Group consolidated companies

The consolidated financial statements apart from the parent company ALPHA BANK include the following entities:

A. Subsidiaries

Country of Group's ownership interest %
Name Incorporation 31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Banks
1. Alpha Bank London Ltd United Kingdom 100.00 100.00
2. Alpha Bank Cyprus Ltd Cyprus 100.00 100.00
3. Alpha Bank Romania S.A. Romania 99.91 99.91
4. Alpha Bank AD Skopje FYROM 100.00 100.00
5. Alpha Bank Jersey Ltd Jersey 100.00 100.00
6. Alpha Bank Srbija A.D. Serbia 100.00 99.99
7. Astra Bank OJSC (note 45d) Ukraine 93.33
Leasing Companies
1. Alpha Leasing A.E. Greece 100.00 100.00
2. Alpha Leasing Romania S.A. Romania 99.99 99.99
3. ABC Factors A.E. Greece 100.00 100.00
4. Alpha Asset Finance C.I. Ltd Jersey 100.00 100.00
Investment Banking
1. Alpha Finance A.E.P.Ε.Υ. (note 45a) Greece 100.00 100.00
2. Alpha Finance US Corporation USA 100.00 100.00
3. Alpha Finance Romania S.A. Romania 99.98 99.98
4. Alpha Ventures Α.Ε. Greece 100.00 100.00
5. AEF European Capital Investments B.V. (note 45c) The Netherlands 100.00
6. Alpha Ventures Capital Management (note 45h) Greece 100.00
Asset Management
1. Alpha Asset Management Α.Ε.D.Α.Κ. Greece 100.00 100.00
2. Alpha Private Investment Services A.E.P.E.Y. Greece 100.00 100.00
3. ABL Independent Financial Advisers Ltd United Kingdom 100.00 100.00
Insurance
1. Alpha Insurance Agents Α.Ε. Greece 100.00 100.00
2. Alpha Insurance LTD Cyprus Cyprus 100.00 100.00
3. Alpha Insurance Brokers S.R.L. Romania 99.91 99.91
4. ALPHALIFE A.A.E.Z. Greece 100.00 100.00
Real estate and hotel
1. Alpha Astika Akinita Α.Ε. Greece 88.59 84.10
2. Ionian Hotel Enterprises Α.Ε. Greece 96.64 94.81
3. Oceanos Α.Τ.Ο.Ε.Ε. Greece 100.00 100.00
4. Alpha Real Estate D.O.O. Beograd Serbia 88.59 84.10
5. Alpha Astikα Akinita D.O.O.E.L. Skopje FYROM 88.59 84.10
6. Tourist Resorts Α.Ε. (note 45b) Greece 94.81
7. Alpha Immovables Bulgaria E.O.O.D. Bulgaria 88.59 84.10
Special purpose entities
1. Alpha Credit Group Plc United Kingdom 100.00 100.00
2. Alpha Group Jersey Ltd Jersey 100.00 100.00
3. Alpha Group Investment Ltd Cyprus 100.00 100.00
4. Ionian Holdings Α.Ε. Greece 100.00 100.00
5. Messana Holdings S.A. Luxemburg 100.00 100.00
6. Ionian Equity Participations Ltd Cyprus 100.00 100.00
7. Alpha Covered Bonds Plc (note 45ib) United Kingdom 100.00
8. ABL Holdings Jersey Ltd (note 45id) Jersey 100.00
9. Katanalotika Plc (note 45ie) United Kingdom
Other companies
1. Alpha Bank London Nominees Ltd United Kingdom 100.00 100.00
2. Alpha Trustees Ltd Cyprus 100.00 100.00
3. Flagbright Ltd United Kingdom 100.00 100.00
4. Alpha Advisory Romania S.R.L. Romania 99.98 99.98
5. Evremathea Α.Ε. Greece 100.00 100.00
6. Kafe Alpha A.E. Greece 100.00 100.00
7. Ionian Supporting Services Α.Ε. Greece 100.00 100.00
74

B. JOINT VENTURES

Country of Group's ownership interest %
Name Incorporation 31.12.2008 31.12.2007
1. Cardlink Α.Ε. Greece 50.00 50.00
2. APE Fixed Assets Α.Ε. Greece 60.10 60.10
3. APE Commercial Property Α.Ε. Greece 72.20 60.10
4. Anadolu Alpha Gayrimenkul Ticaret Anonim Sirketi (note 45ic) Turkey 50.00
5. APE Investment Property S.A. Greece 67.42 67.42
6. Αlpha TANEO A.K.E.S. (note 45h) Greece 51.00

The subsidiaries were fully consolidated and the joint ventures were consolidated under the proportionate method.

The Group hedges the foreign exchange risk arising from the net investment in Alpha Bank London Ltd., Alpha Bank Romania S.A. and Alpha Finance US Corporation through the use of the FX swaps and interbank deposits in the functional currency of the above subsidiaries.

C. ASSOCIATES

Country of Group's ownership interest %
Name Incorporation 31.12.2008 31.12.2007
1. Evisak Α.Ε. Greece 27.00 27.00
2. AEDEP Thessalias and Stereas Ellados Greece 50.00 50.00
3. A.L.C. Novelle Investments Ltd Cyprus 33.33 33.33
4. EL.P.E.T. Valkaniki Α.Ε. (note 45ι) Greece 26.71

The associates included in consolidated financial statements are measured under the equity method.

41. Segment reporting

a. Analysis by sector

amounts in million Euro

1.1 - 31.12.2008

Investment South
Corporate Asset Banking/ Eastern
Retail Banking Management/Insurance Treasury Europe Other Group
Interest 1,093.8 322.9 15.3 21.8 342.6 2.2 1,798.6
Commission 185.9 86.0 65.3 43.2 85.7 (1.7) 464.4
Other income 14.2 12.0 1.6 (15.4) 68.9 1.4 82.7
Total income 1,293.9 420.9 82.2 49.6 497.2 1.9 2,345.7
Total
expenses (595.3) (129.9) (51.2) (40.7) (295.7) (65.5) (1,178.3)
Impairment
losses (278.9) (172.6) (0.3) (0.1) (89.9) (541.8)
Profit before
tax 419.7 118.4 30.7 8.8 111.6 (63.6) 625.6
Assets 23,605.0 19,925.4 1,800.4 8,722.7 10,532.6 683.9 65,270.0
Liabilities 34,267.3 2,898.1 1,935.3 13,825.5 6,880.7 1,522.4 61,329.3
Capital
expenditures 80.8 30.1 2.1 6.7 85.3 5.2 210.2
Depreciation and
amortization 37.3 10.4 2.0 1.8 23.4 14.0 88.9

1.1 - 31.12.2007

Asset
Corporat
e
Management
/
Investmen
t Banking/
South
Eastern
Discontinued Group
(continuing
Retail Banking Insurance Treasury Europe Other Group operation operation)
Interest 993.6 308.4 18.7 36.9 231.7 16.9 1,606.2 0.9 1,605.3
Commission 166.0 91.5 89.6 50.6 69.2 (2.0) 464.9 0.4 464.5
Other
income 18.6 5.5 13.3 28.7 44.9 140.2 251.2 83.7 167.5
Total
income 1,178.2 405.4 121.6 116.2 345.8 155.1 2,322.3 85.0 2,237.3
Total (201.3 (1,029.5
expenses (554.0) (110.3) (63.8) (38.1) ) (62.0) ) (4.2) (1,025.3)
Impairment
losses (115.7) (84.0) 1.0 (27.4) (0.6) (226.7) (226.7)
Profit
before tax 508.5 211.1 57.8 79.1 117.1 92.5 1,066.1 80.8 985.3
Assets 19,877.5 17,455.1 2,284.6 7,423.5 7,104.0 539.6 54,684.3 54,684.3
Liabilities 28,430.3 2,552.0 1,818.8 9,626.2 6,198.8 1,766.9 50,393.0 50,393.0
Capital
expenditures 72.7 41.9 2.0 2.0 55.2 9.2 183.0 183.0
Depreciation
and
amortization 35.9 8.6 2.3 1.2 19.8 10.7 78.5 0.2 78.3

i. Retail banking

Includes all individuals (retail banking customers) of the Group, professionals small and very small companies operating in Greece and abroad except from South-Eastern Europe countries.

The Group through its extensive branch network offers all types of deposit products (deposits/ savings accounts, working capital/ current accounts, investment facilities/ term deposits, Repos, Swaps), loan facilities (mortgages, consumer, corporate loans, letter of guarantees) and debit and credit cards to the above customers.

ii. Corporate Banking

Includes all medium-sized and large companies, corporations with international activities, corporations managed by the Corporate Banking Division (Corporate) and shipping corporations operating in Greece and abroad except from South-Eastern Europe countries. The Group offers working capital facilities, corporate loans, and letters of guarantees.

This sector also includes the leasing products which are offered through Alpha Leasing A.E. and factoring services to third parties through ABC Factors A.E.

iii. Asset Management / Insurance

Consists of a wide range of asset management services through Group's private banking and Alpha Asset Management A.E.D.A.K. In addition commissions are included due to the wide range of insurance products to individuals and companies through AXA Insurance which is the corporate successor of the subsidiary Alpha Insurance A.E.

iv. Investment Banking / Treasury

Includes stock exchange, advisory and brokerage services relating to capital markets, and also investment banking facilities, offered either by the Bank or specialized Group companies (Alpha Finance AEPEY, Alpha Ventures A.E.). It is also includes activities of the Dealing Room in the interbank market (FX Swaps, Bonds, Futures, IRS, Interbank placements – Loans etc.).

v. South-Eastern Europe

Consists of the Bank's branches and subsidiaries operating in South Eastern Europe.

vi. Other

This segment consists of the non-financial subsidiaries of the Group and Bank's income and expenses that are not related to its operating activities.

b. Analysis by geographical sector

amounts in million Euro

1.1 - 31.12.2008
Other
Greece countries Group
Interest 1,437.5 361.1 1,798.6
Commission 375.4 89.0 464.4
Other income 11.5 71.2 82.7
Total income 1,824.4 521.3 2,345.7
Total expenses (869.1) (309.2) (1,178.3)
Impairment (402.0) (139.8) (541.8)
Profit before tax 553.3 72.3 625.6
Assets 51,234.4 14,035.6 65,270.0

1.1 - 31.12.2007

Group
Discontinued (continuing
Greece Other countries Group operation operation)
Interest 1,359.8 246.4 1,606.2 0.9 1,605.3
Commissions 393.5 71.4 464.9 0.4 464.5
Other income 203.4 47.8 251.2 83.7 167.5
Total income 1,956.7 365.6 2,322.3 85.0 2,237.3
Total expenses (816.1) (213.4) (1,029.5) (4.2) (1,025.3)
Impairment (199.3) (27.4) (226.7) (226.7)
Profit before tax 941.3 124.8 1,066.1 80.8 985.3
Assets 45,524.2 9,160.1 54,684.3 54,684.3

42. Financial risk management

The Group has established a systematic and disciplined management framework for the reliable measurement of risk. Considering the stability and continuity of its operations, management places high priority on the goal of implementing and continuously improving this framework, in order to minimize potential negative effects on Group's financial results.

The Board of Directors of the Bank has overall responsibility for the improvement and oversight of the Risk Management framework. Risk Management Committee meets on a quarterly basis and reports its activities to the Board of Directors. The Risk Management Committee is responsible for the implementation and monitoring compliance with the risk management policies. The Bank reexamines the effectiveness of the risk management framework on a regular basis in order to ensure compliance with international best practices and regulatory framework.

Risk management division operate within the Group under the supervision of the Group's Chief Risk Officer and have been assigned with the responsibility of implementing the risk management framework, according to the directions of the Risk Management Committee.

42.1 Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Group if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations. Credit risk is considered the most significant risk for the Group, and its continuous monitoring is management's first priority.

The Group in order to effectively manage credit risk has developed specific methodologies and systems to measure credit risk. These systems and methodologies are continuously evolving so as to provide to the maximum extent possible current and productive support in the decisions making process of the business units in order to avoid possible adverse consequences on the results of the Group.

The main tool for the measurement of credit risk is the credit risk grading system established in Alpha Bank Group. Current systems use both quantitative and qualitative criteria of measurement and also criteria of transactional behavior in order to report customer probabilities of loss given defaults. Respective models are continuously improved in order for the total loan portfolio to be included in the new system of internal grading imposed by capital adequacy. The credit grading system consists of nine basic grades. Additionally, the Group uses ratings provided by International Rating Agencies.

Credit risk rating also determine both credit limits and collaterals and it is systematically reassessed on a six or twelve month basis. The reassessment is based on the customer's credit worthiness and on any new information and events that may have a significant impact on the level of credit risk.

Credit risk grading systems are being constantly tested qualitatively in order to assure at every turn their ability.

At the same time the Group performs stress testing exercises concerning credit risk on a regular basis. Based on respective stress testing an estimation is provided of the size of financial losses that could occur under extreme transactional behavior of the clients or of economic environment. Additionally, on regular basis large exposures are monitored and management and the Board of Directors are informed.

The Group assesses on regular basis whether there is objective evidence of impairment.

The Group assesses as at each balance sheet date, whether there is evidence of impairment in accordance with the general principles and methodology set out in IAS 39 and the relevant implementation guidance.

Specifically the above mentioned procedures include the following steps:

a. Establishment of events that provide objective evidence that a loan is impaired (trigger events).

  • b. The criteria for assessment on an individual or collective basis.
  • c. Establishment of groups of assets with similar risk characteristics.
  • d. Methodology in determing future cash flows from impaired loans.
  • e. Interest income recognition.
  • f. Recoveries/ Receivable from loans impaired.

In note 1.13 "Impairment losses on loans and advances" the accounting principles applied for loan impairment are described in detail.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS CREDIT RISK

31.12.2008
Exposure
before
impairment
Impairment Net exposure
to credit risk
31.12.2007
Exposure
before
impairment
Impairment Net exposure
to credit risk
A. Credit risk exposure
relating
to on balance sheet items
Due from banks 2,837,837 7,867 2,829,970 3,516,393 6,697 3,509,696
Loans and advances to
customers:
Individuals:
▪ Mortgages 13,538,068 94,384 13,443,684 11,186,669 55,402 11,131,267
▪ Consumer 4,669,423 195,228 4,474,195 3,606,631 142,221 3,464,410
▪ Credit cards 1,285,118 56,154 1,228,964 1,092,863 54,123 1,038,740
▪ Other 119,400 119,400 146,762 146,762
Total 19,612,009 345,766 19,266,243 16,032,925 251,746 15,781,179
Corporate loans:
▪ Companies 29,779,390 863,259 28,916,131 24,771,065 521,921 24,249,144
▪ Leasing 1,448,224 29,101 1,419,123 1,338,340 24,977 1,313,363
▪ Factoring 599,888 3,215 596,673 532,640 3,215 529,425
▪ Other receivables 541,185 34,653 506,532 237,695 38,735 198,960
Total 32,368,687 930,228 31,438,459 26,879,740 588,848 26,290,892
Financial asset at fair value
through profit or loss
▪ Government bonds 78,458 78,458 241,724 241,724
▪ Other debt securities 2,677 2,677 21,729 21,729
▪ Derivative financial
instruments 485,026 485,026 383,432 383,432
Total 566,161 566,161 646,885 646,885
Investment securities:
▪ Available for sale
(government bonds) 366,804 366,804 1,925,351 1,925,351
▪ Available for sale (other) 336,384 336,384 1,086,803 1,086,803
▪ Available for sale (other
variable yield securities)
▪ Held to maturity (government
49,338 49,338 53,640 53,640
bonds) 1,805,579 1,805,579
▪ Held to maturity (other) 2,683,130 2,683,130
Total 5,241,235 5,241,235 3,065,794 3,065,794
Total amount of on balance
sheet items exposed to
credit risk (a) 60,625,929 1,283,861 59,342,068 50,141,737 847,291 49,294,446
Other on balance sheet items not
exposed to credit risk 5,927,886 5,927,886 5,280,413 5,280,413
Total Assets 66,553,815 1,283,861 65,269,954 55,422,150 847,291 54,574,859
B. Credit risk exposure
relating to off balance
sheet items:
Letters of guarantee and letters
of credit 5,843,997 3,627 5,840,370 4,883,285 45,929 4,837,356
Undrawn credit facilities (1) 18,040,379 18,040,379 17,573,361 17,573,361
Total amount of off balance
sheet items exposed to
credit risk (b) 23,884,376 3,627 23,880,749 22,456,646 45,929 22,410,717
Total credit risk exposure
(a+b)
84,510,305 1,287,488 83,222,817 72,598,383 893,220 71,705,163

(1) Undrawn credit facilities as of 31.12.2008 include an amount of € 1,051.6 million (31.12.2007: € 921 million) which are committed limits that cannot be canceled in cases where it becomes apparent that the counterparty will fail to meet their contractual obligations .

LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS – Analysis of past due amounts

31.12.2008
Neither past
due nor
Past due but
impaired not impaired Impaired Total
Loans and advances to individuals
▪ Mortgage
Performing loans 11,701,254 11,701,254
Past due 1 - 90 days 1,410,752 1,410,752
Past due > 90 days 426,062 426,062
11,701,254 1,410,752 426,062 13,538,068
▪ Credit cards, consumer and other loans
Performing loans 4,969,771 4,969,771
Past due 1 - 90 days 781,971 781,971
Past due > 90 days 322,199 322,199
4,969,771 781,971 322,199 6,073,941
Corporate loans
Performing loans 27,536,637 421,406 27,958,043
Past due 1 - 90 days 3,000,557 114,479 3,115,036
Past due > 90 days 230,380 1,065,228 1,295,608
27,536,637 3,230,937 1,601,113 32,368,687
Total portfolio
Performing loans 44,207,662 421,406 44,629,068
Past due 1 - 90 days 5,193,280 114,479 5,307,759
Past due > 90 days 230,380 1,813,489 2,043,869
Total 44,207,662 5,423,660 2,349,374 51,980,696
31.12.2007
Neither past
due nor
impaired
Past due but
not impaired
Impaired Total
Loans and advances to individuals
▪ Mortgage
Performing loans 9,833,963 9,833,963
Past due 1 - 90 days 1,083,852 1,083,852
Past due > 90 days 268,854 268,854
9,833,963 1,083,852 268,854 11,186,669
▪ Credit cards, consumer and other loans
Mortgage 4,209,177 4,209,177
Past due 1 - 90 days 431,590 431,590
Past due > 90 days 205,489 205,489
4,209,177 431,590 205,489 4,846,256
Corporate loans
Mortgage 22,826,730 240,585 23,067,315
Past due 1 - 90 days 2,605,516 84,853 2,690,369
Past due > 90 days 263,823 858,233 1,122,056
22,826,730 2,869,339 1,183,671 26,879,740
Total portfolio
Performing loans 36,869,870 240,585 37,110,455
Past due 1 - 90 days 4,120,958 84,853 4,205,811
Past due > 90 days 263,823 1,332,576 1,569,399
Total 36,869,870 4,384,781 1,658,014 42,912,665

LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS – Neither past due or impaired

31.12.2008

Mortgage Credit cards,
consumer and
other loans
Corporate
loans
Total
Low risk 11,701,254 4,969,771 26,577,295 43,248,320
Under surveillance 959,342 959,342
Total 11,701,254 4,969,771 27,536,637 44,207,662
31.12.2007 Credit cards,
Mortgage consumer and
other loans
Corporate
loans
Total
Low risk 9,833,963 4,209,177 22,046,275 36,089,415
Under surveillance 780,455 780,455
Total 9,833,963 4,209,177 22,826,730 36,869,870

This category includes loans that have indications that the counterparty will not be able to meet their contractual obligations, accounts were a settlement was agreed during the last 12 months, and they are subsequently meet their obligations. These loans amounted to € 167.7 million as at 31.12.2008 (31.12.2007: € 51.6 million)

LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS – Past due and not impaired

31.12.2008
Mortgage Credit cards,
consumer and
other loans
Corporate
loans
Total
Past due 1 - 90 days 1,410,752 781,971 3,000,557 5,193,280
Past due > 90 days 230,380 230,380
Total 1,410,752 781,971 3,230,937 5,423,660
Fair value of collaterals 1,976,438 51,001 4,481,826 6,509,265
31.12.2007
Mortgage Credit cards,
consumer and
other loans
Corporate
loans
Total
Fair value of collaterals 1,647,538 106,949 3,693,984 5,448,471
Total 1,083,852 431,590 2,869,339 4,384,781
263,823 263,823
Past due > 90 days
Past due 1 - 90 days 1,083,852 431,590 2,605,516 4,120,958

LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS – Impaired

Mortgage Credit cards,
consumer and
other loans
Corporate
loans
Total
Carrying amount before impairment 426,062 322,199 1,601,113 2,349,374
Allowance of impairment (94,384) (251,382) (930,228) (1,275,994)
Carrying amount 331,678 70,817 670,885 1,073,380
Fair value of collaterals 381,926 28,166 1,300,868 1,710,960

31.12.2008

31.12.2007
Mortgage Credit cards,
consumer and
other loans
Corporate
loans
Total
Carrying amount before impairment 268,854 205,489 1,183,671 1,658,014
Allowance of impairment (55,402) (196,344) (588,848) (840,594)
Carrying amount
Fair value of collaterals
213,452
260,899
9,145
21,582
594,823
1,000,142
817,420
1,282,623

DUE FROM BANKS: DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND DEBT SECURITIES

31.12.2008
Due from Banks Trading
securities
Derivatives
financial
instruments
Available
for sale
Held to
maturity
Total
ΑΑΑ 30,310 1,359 170,391 202,060
ΑΑ- to ΑΑ+ 520,029 1,261 49,725 306,390 877,405
Α- to Α+ 1,055,286 68,462 252,091 285,250 3,059,931 4,721,020
Lower than Α- 1,262,522 12,673 2,786 416,192 951,997 2,646,170
Unrated 198,578 198,578
Total 2,837,837 81,135 485,026 752,526 4,488,709 8,645,233

31.12.2007

Due from Banks Trading
securities
Derivatives
financial
instruments
Available
for sale
Held to
maturity
Total
ΑΑΑ 81,305 81,305
ΑΑ- to ΑΑ+ 289,905 265,630 10,000 565,535
Α- to Α+ 1,664,704 244,813 54,622 2,062,609 4,026,748
Lower than Α- 1,561,784 18,640 347 911,880 2,492,651
Unrated 62,833 62,833
Total 3,516,393 263,453 383,432 3,065,794 7,229,072

DEBT SECURITIES, GOVERNMENT BONDS AND OTHER SECURITIES - Analysis of past due amounts 31.12.2008

Due from Banks Trading
securities
Derivatives
financial
instruments
Available
for sale
Held to
maturity
Total
Neither past due nor
impaired
2,829,970 81,135 485,026 752,526 4,488,709 8,637,366
Past due and not
impaired
Impaired 7,867 7,867
Total 2,837,837 81,135 485,026 752,526 4,488,709 8,645,233

31.12.2007

Due from Banks Trading
securities
Derivatives
financial
instruments
Available
for sale
Held to
maturity
Total
Neither past due nor
impaired
Past due and not
impaired
3,509,696 263,453 383,432 3,065,794 7,222,375
Impaired 6,697 6,697
Total 3,516,393 263,453 383,432 3,065,794 7,229,072

In the following tables are presented the financial instruments exposed to credit risk carrying amounts by industry sectors of the counterparties.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS CREDIT RISK – Analysis by industry sector

31.12.2008

Financial
Institutions
and other
financial
services
Manufacturing Construction
and real
estate
Wholesale
and retail
trade
Public sector Transportation Shipping Hotels -
Tourism
Other sectors Individuals Total
Credit risk
exposure
relating to on
balance sheet
items
Due from
banks
2,837,837 2,837,837
Loans and
advances to
customers
Individuals:
▪ Mortgage 13,538,068 13,538,068
▪ Credit cards
and consumer
5,954,541 5,954,541
▪ Other
receivables
119,400 119,400
Total 19,612,009 19,612,009
Corporate
loans:
▪ Companies 921,906 5,958,662 5,248,953 7,135,998 238,705 2,276,743 1,635,567 2,236,160 4,667,881 30,320,575
▪ Leasing 13,745 252,693 410,402 384,897 264 29,612 86,505 270,106 1,448,224
▪ Factoring 43,571 263,141 4,229 225,176 5,194 1,965 56,612 599,888
Total 979,222 6,474,496 5,663,584 7,746,071 238,969 2,311,549 1,635,567 2,324,630 4,994,599 32,368,687
Financial
assets at fair
value
through
profit or
loss:
▪ Debt
securities
439 73,936 6,760 81,135
▪ Derivative
financial
instruments 412,272 72,754 485,026
Total 412,272 439 73,936 79,514 566,161
Investment
securities
▪ Available for
sale
209,351 26,104 42,423 336,569 138,079 752,526
▪ Held to
maturity
2,297,517 119,100 123,459 72,213 1,876,420 4,488,709
Total carrying
amount of
on balance
sheet items
exposed to
credit risk
(a)
6,736,199 6,593,596 5,813,147 7,861,146 2,525,894 2,311,549 1,635,567 2,324,630 5,212,192 19,612,009 60,625,929
Other on
balance sheet
items not
exposed to
credit risk
5,927,886 5,927,886
Total assets 6,736,199 6,593,596 5,813,147 7,861,146 2,525,894 2,311,549 1,635,567 2,324,630 11,140,078 19,612,009 66,553,815
Credit risk
exposure
relating to
off balance
sheet
Total credit
risk
exposure
(a+b)
6,762,169 7,749,061 7,849,673 8,954,389 2,536,101 2,368,600 1,692,548 2,429,811 24,555,944 19,612,009 84,510,305
Total carrying
amount of
off balance
sheet items
exposed to
credit risk
(b)
25,970 1,155,465 2,036,526 1,093,243 10,207 57,051 56,981 105,181 19,343,752 23,884,376
Undrawn
credit
facilities and
other credit
liabilities
18,040,379 18,040,379
Letters of
guarantee
and letters
of credit
25,970 1,155,465 2,036,526 1,093,243 10,207 57,051 56,981 105,181 1,303,373 5,843,997
items:

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS CREDIT RISK – Analysis by industry sector

31.12.2007

Financial
Institutions
and other
financial
services
Manufacturing Construction
and real
estate
Wholesale
and retail
trade
Public sector Transportation Shipping Hotels -
Tourism
Other sectors Individuals Total
Credit risk
exposure
relating to on
balance sheet
items
Due from
banks
3,516,393 3,516,393
Loans and
advances to
customers
Individuals:
▪ Mortgage 11,186,669 11,186,669
▪ Credit cards
and consumer
4,699,494 4,699,494
▪ Other
receivables
146,762 146,762
Total 16,032,925 16,032,925
Corporate
loans:
▪ Companies 1,206,591 4,844,582 3,649,578 6,099,197 238,362 1,935,614 1,360,515 2,034,856 3,639,465 25,008,760
▪ Leasing 133,151 251,264 360,413 344,364 481 64,245 184,422 1,338,340
▪ Factoring 34,113 269,615 2,685 168,996 1,265 55,966 532,640
Total 1,373,855 5,365,461 4,012,676 6,612,557 238,843 1,935,614 1,360,515 2,100,366 3,879,853 26,879,740
Financial
assets at fair
value
through
profit or loss:
▪ Debt
securities
236,340 27,113 263,453
▪ Derivative
financial
instruments 324,929 58,503 383,432
Total
Investment
securities
324,929 236,340 85,616 646,885
▪ Available for
sale
803,345 82,100 80,246 1,856,217 243,886 3,065,794
Total carrying
amount of on
balance sheet
items
exposed to
credit risk (a)
6,018,522 5,447,561 4,012,676 6,692,803 2,331,400 1,935,614 1,360,515 2,100,366 4,209,355 16,032,925 50,141,737
Other on
balance sheet
items not
exposed to
credit risk
5,280,413 5,280,413
Total assets 6,018,522 5,447,561 4,012,676 6,692,803 2,331,400 1,935,614 1,360,515 2,100,366 9,489,768 16,032,925 55,422,150
Credit risk
exposure
relating to off
balance sheet
items:
Letters of
guarantee
and letters
11,009 729,337 902,888 770,334 4,534 10,203 38,701 124,063 2,292,216 4,883,285

86

Total credit
risk
exposure
(a+b)
6,029,531 6,176,898 4,915,564 7,463,137 2,335,934 1,945,817 1,339,216 2,224,429 24,074,932 16,032,925 72,598,383
Total
carrying
amount of
off balance
sheet items
exposed to
credit risk
(b)
11,009 729,337 902,888 770,334 4,534 10,203 38,701 124,063 19,865,577 22,456,646
Undrawn
credit
facilities and
other credit
liabilities
17,573,361 17,573,361
of credit

42.2. Market risk

Market risk is the risk of losses arising from unfavourable changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, stock exchange indexes, equity prices and commodities. Losses may also occur either from the trading portfolio or from the banking book.

i. Trading portfolio

The market risk is measured by the Value at Risk – VAR. The method applied for calculating Value at Risk is historical simulation. The Bank applies a holding period of 1 and 10 days, depending on the time required to liquidate the portfolio.

1 day value at risk, 99% confidence level (2 years historical data)

2008 2007
Foreign currency Interest
risk rate risk Price risk Covariance Total Total
31 December 418,401 1,085,578 189,006 (17,623) 1,128,506 320,791
Average daily value (annual) 246,199 2,006,198 302,964 (485,090) 2,070,271 1,019,495
Maximum daily value (annual) 57,275 3,460,779 645,807 (439,967) 3,723,894 3,027,642
Minimum daily value (annual) 95,617 651,307 102,094 (268,428) 580,590 223,039

The above items concern the Bank. The Group's subsidiaries and branches have limited trading positions, which are immaterial compared to the positions of the Bank. As a result the market risk effect deriving from these positions is immaterial.

The Value at Risk methodology is complemented with stress tests based on both historical and hypothetical extreme movements of market parameters, in order to estimate the potential size of losses that could arise in extreme conditions.

Within the scope of policy-making for financial risk management by the Assets and Liabilities Management Committee (ALCO), exposure limits and maximum loss (stop loss) limits for various products of the trading portfolio have been set. In particular limits have been set for the following risks:

  • Foreign currency risk regarding spot and forward positions.
  • Interest rate risk regarding positions on bonds, Interest Rate Swaps, Interest Futures, Interest Options.
  • Price risk regarding positions in shares, index futures and options.
  • Credit risk regarding interbank transactions, corporate bonds and emerging market government bond.

Positions held in these products are monitored during the day and are examined as to the corresponding limit percentage cover and limit excess.

ii. Other financial instruments or assets and liabilities

Apart from the trading portfolio market risk may also arise from the Banking Book. This risk is foreign currency risk and interest rate risk.

a. Foreign currency risk

The Group takes on exposures to effects of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. The General Management of the Bank sets limits on the level of exposure by currency and in total for both overnight and intra-day positions. The total position arises from the net on balance sheet position and derivatives forward position as presented in the tables below:

31.12.2008
USD GBP CHF JPY RON RSD Other F/C EURO Total
ASSETS
Cash and
balances
with Central
Banks
1,298,584 1,898 642 84 127,224 87,008 76,608 1,858,899 3,450,947
Due from
banks
290,022 1,602 77,743 (9,697) 12,902 49,317 40,591 2,367,490 2,829,970
Financial
asset at fair
value
through
profit or loss
39 33 7,080 73,983 81,135
Derivative
financial
instruments
485,026 485,026
Loans and
advances to
customers
2,293,991 633,792 2,249,582 62,355 730,419 90,514 241,391 44,402,658 50,704,702
Investment
Securities
- Available
for-sale
61,997 586 11,406 100,077 3,134 114,869 460,457 752,526
- Held to
maturity
523,911 3,964,798 4,488,709
Investments
in
subsidiaries,
associates
and joint
ventures
59,260 59,260
Investment
property
1,106 65,769 66,875
Property,
plant and
equipment
35 2,360 59,160 58,712 48,097 1,085,876 1,254,240
Goodwill and
other
intangible
assets
Deferred tax
131 2,769 59,843 8,775 88,443 159,961
assets
Other assets
656 1,485
32,079
41 363
9,555
3,702
10,522
208
2,938
327,741
493,508
333,499
549,299
Non-current
assets held
for sale
522 53,283 53,805
Total Assets 4,469,235 673,933 2,328,008 64,148 1,042,502 363,858 541,079 55,787,191 65,269,954
LIABILITIES
Due to banks
and
customers
4,659,498 448,964 3,625 1,196,546 827,727 115,966 586,608 43,671,639 51,510,573
Derivative
financial
instruments
805,346 805,346

89

Debt
securities in
issue and
other
borrowed
funds
64,352 577 110,288 240,103 217,172 114,319 6,494,374 7,241,185
Liabilities for
current
income tax
and other
taxes 99 9,595 136 403 117,829 128,062
Deferred tax
liabilities
12 4,726 867 170 192,004 197,779
Employee
defined
benefit
obligations
566 42,196 42,762
Other
liabilities 3,376 29,895 734 564 8,765 1,121 (6,624) 1,312,456 1,350,287
Provisions 7 37 2,144 160 50,915 53,263
Total
liabilities
4,727,233 479,547 114,647 1,437,213 1,068,022 120,800 695,036 52,686,759 61,329,257
Net on
balance
sheet
position
(257,998) 194,386 2,213,361 (1,373,065) (25,520) 243,058 (153,957) 3,100,432 3,940,697
Derivatives
forward
foreign
exchange
position
261,345 (180,386) (2,220,769) 1,370,877 113,924 (9,820) 288,704 388,160 12,035
Total
Foreign
Exchange
Position
3,347 14,000 (7,408) (2,188) 88,404 233,238 134,747 3,488,592 3,952,732
Undrawn
credit facilities 161,786 102,107 237 49,252 23,770 17,703,227 18,040,379
31.12.2007
USD GBP CHF JPY Other F/C EURO Total
Total Assets 3,258,506 852,047 1,489,756 28,942 3,679,183 45,375,855 54,684,289
Total liabilities 4,390,310 539,841 110,297 1,012,275 3,346,162 40,994,140 50,393,025
Net on-balance sheet position (1,131,804) 312,206 1,379,459 (983,333) 333,021 4,381,715 4,291,264
Derivatives forward foreign
exchange position
1,150,203 (294,136) (1,383,736) 978,495 49,646 (320,192) 180,280
Total Foreign Exchange
Position 18,399 18,070 (4,277) (4,838) 382,667 4,061,523 4,471,544
Undrawn credit facilities 158,990 84,645 512,007 16,817,719 17,573,361

The high exposure in other currencies is due to our participation in Ukraine.

The net foreign exchange position as at 31.12.2008 presents the following sensitivity analysis.

Exchange rate variation Impact on net income
Currency scenario against Euro(%) before tax Impact on equity
Appreciation of USD 5% 176
USD Depreciation of USD 5% (159)
Appreciation of GBP 5% 737
GBP Depreciation of GBP 5% (667)
Appreciation of CHF 5% (390)
CHF Depreciation of CHF 5% 353
Appreciation of RON 5% 5,036
RON Depreciation of RON 5% (4,556)
Appreciation of RSD 5% 12,276
RSD Depreciation of RSD 5% (11,107)
Appreciation of UAH 5% 4,831
UAH Depreciation of UAH 5% (4,371)

b. Interest rate risk

Gap analysis is performed in order to examine the interest rate risk of assets and liabilities. Assets and liabilities are allocated into time bands according to their repricing date for variable interest rate instruments, or according to their maturity date for fixed rate instruments.

Gap Analysis is presented in the table below:

Less than
1 month
1 to
3 months
3 to
6 months
6 to
12 months
1 to
5 years
More than
5 years
Non
interest
bearing
Total
ASSETS
Cash and balances with Central
Banks 2,701,103 749,844 3,450,947
Due from banks 2,260,624 301,609 80,983 25,677 153,613 7,464 2,829,970
Financial asset at fair value
through profit or loss 4,253 246 67,233 3,704 275 5,424 81,135
Derivative financial instruments 485,026 485,026
Loans and advances to
customers 27,996,110 7,494,753 4,685,497 2,419,609 7,123,900 984,833 50,704,702
Investment securities
- Available-for-sale 65,624 159,788 74,904 108,048 225,729 38,795 79,638 752,526
- Held to maturity 667,966 1,182,592 1,682,605 139,956 354,213 461,377 4,488,709
Investments in subsidiaries,
associates and joint ventures
Investment property 59,260 59,260
Property, plant and equipment 66,875 66,875
Goodwill and other intangible
assets
1,254,240 1,254,240
Deferred tax assets 159,961
333,499
159,961
333,499
Other assets 549,299 549,299
Non-current assets held for sale 53,805 53,805
Total Assets 34,180,706 9,138,988 6,591,222 2,696,994 7,857,730 1,497,893 3,306,421 65,269,954
LIABILITIES
Due to banks 7,042,377 1,761,626 112,372 38,363 6,850 2,208 8,963,796
Derivatives financial instruments 805,346 805,346
Due to customers 27,722,621 8,260,079 3,480,953 1,638,603 1,297,102 147,419 42,546,777
Debt securities in issue and
other borrowed funds 3,241,006 3,368,875 407,946 10,573 212,785 7,241,185
Liabilities for current income tax
and other taxes 128,062 128,062
Deferred tax liabilities 197,779 197,779
Employee defined benefit
obligations
42,762 42,762
Other liabilities 1,350,287 1,350,287
Provisions 53,263 53,263
Total liabilities 38,811,350 13,390,580 4,001,271 1,687,539 1,516,737 149,627 1,772,153 61,329,257
EQUITY
Share capital 1,931,590 1,931,590
Share premium
Reserves 188,404 188,404
Retained earnings 969,815 969,815
Treasury shares (68,985) (68,985)
Minority interests 32,567 32,567
Hybrid securities 887,306 887,306
Total Equity 887,306 3,053,391 3,940,697
Total Liabilities and Equity 38,811,350 14,277,886 4,001,271 1,687,539 1,516,737 149,627 4,825,544 65,269,954
GAP (4,630,644) (5,138,898) 2,589,951 1,009,455 6,340,993 1,348,266 (1,519,123)
CUMULATIVE GAP (4,630,644) (9,769,542) (7,179,591) (6,170,136) 170,857 1,519,123

31.12.2008

31.12.2007
Less than
1 month
1 to
3 months
3 to
6 months
6 to
12 months
1 to
5 years
More than
5 years
Non
interest bearing
Total
ASSETS
Cash and balances
with Central Banks 2,712,836 550,776 3,263,612
Due from banks 2,621,128 179,809 42,390 132,781 522,910 6,727 3,951 3,509,696
Financial asset at fair
value through profit
or loss 11,577 1,100 24,210 274 37,068 191,818 266,047
Derivative financial
instruments 383,432 383,432
Loans and advances
to customers 22,707,257 7,819,711 3,823,368 1,014,238 6,487,910 219,587 42,072,071
Investment securities
- Available-for-sale 157,570 583,990 1,861,064 128,553 56,316 271,342 98,066 3,156,901
Investments in
associates 5,320 5,320
Investment property 73,560 73,560
Property, plant and
equipment
1,173,275 1,173,275
Goodwill and other
intangible assets
134,497 134,497
Deferred tax assets 170,257 170,257
Other assets 385,676 385,676
Non-current assets
held for sale
89,945 89,945
Total Assets 28,593,800 8,584,610 5,751,032 1,275,846 7,104,204 689,474 2,685,323 54,684,289
LIABILITIES
Due to banks 2,935,144 1,309,583 156,254 34,154 722 1,198 681 4,437,736
Derivatives financial
instruments 384,139 384,139
Due to customers 28,710,388 2,747,807 1,138,970 734,091 1,267,459 7,577 58,866 34,665,158
Debt securities in
issue and other
borrowed funds 2,004,290 6,548,581 612,409 20,659 3,358 9,189,297
Liabilities for current
income tax and other
taxes 158,797 158,797
Deferred tax liabilities 94,807 94,807
Employee defined
benefit obligations 42,019 42,019
Other liabilities 1,323,554 1,323,554
Provisions 95,935 95,935
Liabiliteis related to
assets held-for-sale
1,583 1,583
Total liabilities
EQUITY
34,033,961 10,605,971 1,907,633 788,904 1,271,539 8,775 1,776,242 50,393,025
Share capital 1,602,809 1,602,809
Share premium 184,033 184,033
Reserves 445,662 445,662
Retained earnings 1,138,195 1,138,195
Treasury shares (188) (188)
Minority interest 32,859 32,859
Hybrid securities 887,894 887,894
Total Equity 887,894 3,403,370 4,291,264
Total Liabilities and
Equity 34,033,961 11,493,865 1,907,633 788,904 1,271,539 8,775 5,179,612 54,684,289
GAP (5,440,161) (2,909,255) 3,843,399 486,942 5,832,665 680,699 (2,494,289)
CUMULATIVE GAP (5,440,161) (8,349,416) (4,506,017) (4,019,075) 1,813,590 2,494,289

GAP Analysis allows an immediate calculation of changes in net interest income and equity for available-for-sale securities upon application of alternative scenarios, such as changes in market interest rates or changes in the Bank's and in Group subsidiaries base interest rates.

Currency Interest rate variation scenario
(parallel fall or rise in yield
curves)
Sensitivity for net interest
income (annual)
Sensitivity of equity
+ 50 basis points 3,956 (2,639)
EUR 50 basis points (3,956) 2,691
+ 50 basis points (2,917) (269)
USD 50 basis points. 2,917 274
+ 50 basis points (33) (7)
GBP 50 basis points. 33 8

42.3 Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk relates to the Group's ability to maintain sufficient funds to cover its obligations.

A substantial portion of the Group's assets are funded with customer deposits and bonds issued by the Group. This type of funding comprises two categories:

a) Customer deposits for working capital purposes

Deposits for working capital purposes consist of savings accounts and sight deposits. Although these deposits may be withdrawn on demand the number of accounts and type of depositors ensure that unexpected fluctuations are limited and that these deposits constitute mostly a stable deposit base.

b) Customer deposits and bonds issued for investment purposes

Customer deposits and bonds issued for investment purposes concern customer term deposits, customer repurchase agreements (repos) and sale of bonds issued by the Group.

According to Liquidity Gap Analysis, cash flows arising from all assets and liabilities are estimated and allocated into time bands, depending on when they occur, with the exception of securities held for trading and available-for-sale securities. In the case of such portfolios, which are considered liquid, they are allocated in the first period using relevant haircuts.

It is set below tables of liquidity and it should be noted that term deposits are presented with their contractual due date. On total term deposits 80% is renewed at the expiration date and therefore are considered as a part of the stable deposit base.

31.12.2008
Less than 1 to 3 to 6 to More than
1 month 3 months 6 months 12 months 1 year Total
ASSETS
Cash and balances with Central
Banks 3,450,947 3,450,947
Due from banks 2,056,270 373,224 151,816 20,725 227,935 2,829,970
Financial asset at fair value
through profit or loss 77,078 4,057 81,135
Derivative financial assets 485,026 485,26
Loans and advances to customers 2,268,849 2,139,717 2,351,111 3,195,773 40,749,252 50,704,702
Investment securities
- Available-for-sale 711,466 41,060 752,526
- Held to maturity 3,142,096 1,346,613 4,488,709
Investments in subsidiaries,
associates and joint ventures 59,260 59,260
Investment property 66,875 66,875
Property, plant and equipment 1,254,240 1,254,240
Goodwill and other intangible
assets
159,961 159,961
Deferred tax assets 333,499 333,499
Other assets 180,083 23,513 9,527 336,176 549,299
Non-current assets held for sale 53,805 53,805
Total Assets 12,371,815 2,512,941 2,526,440 3,226,025 44,632,733 65,269,954
LIABILITIES
Due to banks 7,000,709 855,933 141,197 411,071 554,886 8,963,796
Derivatives financial liabilities 805,346 805,346
Due to customers
(including debt securities in
issue) 12,411,831 7,654,310 3,660,407 2,682,524 16,137,705 42,546,777
Debt securities in issue held by
institutional investors and other
borrowed funds 867,792 439,780 413,359 1,185,401 4,334,853 7,241,185
Liabilities for current income tax
and other taxes 128,062 128,062
Deferred tax liabilities 197,779 197,779
Employee defined benefit
obligations 42,762 42,762
Other liabilities 998,317 71,577 60,690 61,182 158,521 1,350,287
Provisions 53,263 53,263
Liabiliteis related to assets held
for-sale
Total liabilities 22,212,057 9,021,600 4,275,653 4,340,178 21,479,769 61,329,257
Total Equity 3,940,697 3,940,697
Total Liabilities and Equity 22,212,057 9,021,600 4,275,653 4,340,178 25,420,466 65,269,954
Liquidity GAP (9,840,242) (6,508,659) (1,749,213) (1,114,153) 19,212,267

31.12.2007

Less than
1 month
1 to
3 months
3 to
6 months
6 to
12 months
More than
1 year
Total
ASSETS
Cash and balances with Central
Banks 3,228,742 2,552 1,408 2,137 28,773 3,263,612
Due from banks 2,573,667 130,342 80,716 134,673 590,298 3,509,696
Financial assets at fair value
through profit or loss
- Bonds 252,745 13,302 266,047
Derivative financial instruments 383,432 383,432
Loans and advances to customers 944,848 2,985,886 3,950,801 6,380,285 27,810,251 42,072,071
Investment securities
- Bonds classified in available for
sale 2,904,519 152,869 3,057,388
- Shares classified in available for
sale 89,562 9,951 99,513
Investments in associates 5,320 5,320
Investment property 73,560 73,560
Property, plant and equipment 1,173,275 1,173,275
Goodwill and other intangible
assets 134,497 134,497
Deferred tax assets 170,257 170,257
Other assets 7,581 14,415 158,230 205,450 385,676
Non-current assets held for sale
Total Assets
10,385,096 3,118,780 4,047,340 6,675,325 89,945
30,457,748
89,945
54,684,289
LIABILITIES
Due to banks 2,938,843 849,253 140,094 32,714 476,832 4,437,736
Derivatives financial instrurments 384,139 384,139
Due to customers
(including debt securities in
issue) 7,470,658 3,010,010 1,710,240 1,884,253 20,589,997 34,665,158
Debt securities in issue held by
institutional investors and other
borrowed funds 457,103 9,859 12,576 698,538 8,011,221 9,189,297
Liabilities for current income tax
and other taxes 50,533 101,880 6,384 158,797
Deferred tax liabilities 94,807 94,807
Employee defined benefit
obligations 42,019 42,019
Other liabilities 1,131,238 54,098 33,521 64,493 40,204 1,323,554
Provisions 95,935 95,935
Liabiliteis related to assets held
for-sale 1,583 1,583
Total Liabilities 12,434,097 3,923,220 1,998,311 2,686,382 29,351,015 50,393,025
Total Equity 4,291,264 4,291,264
Total Liabilities and Equity 12,434,097 3,923,220 1,998,311 2,686,382 33,642,279 54,684,289
Liquidity GAP (2,049,001) (804,440) 2,049,029 3,988,943 (3,184,531)

Cash flows arising from financial liabilities including derivative financial liabilities, are allocated into time bands according to their due date. Estimated interest payments are also included. Liabilities in foreign currency have been translated into Euro. Especially for derivatives, their outflows and inflows are estimated according to their contractual terms.

31.12.2008

Total Nominal in flows/(outflows)
Balance
Sheet
Less than
1 month
2 to 3
months
4 to 6
months
7 to 12
months
More than
1 year
TOTAL
Non-derivative
Liabilities
Due to Banks 8,963,796 (7,013,654) (884,500) (147,975) (464,957) (522,770) (9,033,856)
Due to customers 42,546,777 (13,564,585) (7,718,609) (3,531,239) (2,657,075) (18,854,052) (46,325,560)
Debt securities in
issue held by
institutional
investors and
other borrowed
funds 7,241,185 (734,783) (613,375) (727,883) (1,632,978) (6,472,087) (10,181,106)
Other liabilities 1,337,970 (965,366) (71,577) (60,690) (61,182) (179,155) (1,337,970)
Derivatives held
for liabilities fair
value hedge 47,551
- Outflows (1,370) (7,392) (9,935) (23,734) (355,462) (397,893)
- Inflows 946 9,015 8,404 22,287 423,027 463,679
Derivatives held
for assets fair
value hedge 242,103
- Outflows (47,341) (20,198) (1,251,662) (1,319,201)
- Inflows 5,266 8,971 16,381 33,500 1,209,036 1,273,154
Derivatives held
for trading 515,692
- Outflows (2,202,465) (1,477,314) (148,858) (253,383) (1,536,747) (5,618,767)
- Inflows 2,113,739 1,386,812 132,291 233,112 1,573,501 5,439,455
Total 60,895,074 (22,362,272) (9,367,969) (4,516,845) (4,824,608) (25,966,371) (67,038,065)
Off balance
sheet items
Unrecognized
loans
commitments
Financial
(1,051,615) (1,051,615)
guarantees
Total off balance
(96,144) (40,233) (25,747) (60,109) (135,479) (357,712)
sheet items (1,147,759) (40,233) (25,747) (60,109) (135,479) (1,409,327)

31.12.2007

Total Nominal in flows/(outflows)
Balance
Sheet
Less than
1 month
2 to 3
months
4 to 6
months
7 to 12
months
More than
1 year
TOTAL
Non-derivative
Liabilities
Due to Banks 4,437,736 (2,942,944) (860,877) (151,698) (47,796) (521,779) (4,525,094)
Due to customers
Debt securities in
issue held by
34,665,158 (7,902,917) (2,964,211) (1,775,079) (2,054,059) (20,291,945) (34,988,211)
institutional investors
and other borrowed
funds 9,189,297 (445,475) (123,272) (118,009) (880,748) (11,011,239) (12,578,743)
Other liabilities 1,323,554 (1,131,238) (54,098) (33,521) (64,493) (40,203) (1,323,553)
Derivatives held for
liabilities fair value
hedge 103,670
- Outflows (2,618) (14,647) (6,575) (19,459) (811,865) (855,164)
- Inflows 2,825 13,540 4,102 14,833 707,756 743,056
Derivatives held for
assets fair value
hedge 44,160
- Outflows (48,430) (8,431) (1,202,158) (1,259,019)
- Inflows 7,810 5,839 13,598 27,061 1,158,024 1,212,332
Derivatives held for
trading 236,309
- Outflows (2,196,887) (304,231) (258,690) (133,733) (864,133) (3,757,674)
- Inflows 2,132,027 317,068 242,863 117,933 700,966 3,510,857
Total 49,999,884 (12,479,417) (3,984,889) (2,131,439) (3,048,892) (32,176,576) (53,821,213)
Off balance sheet
items
Unrecognized loans
commitments
(921,273) (921,273)
Financial guarantees
Total off balance
(73,860) (44,776) (29,966) (46,853) (136,074) (331,529)
sheet items (995,133) (44,776) (29,966) (46,853) (136,074) (1,252,802)

42.4 Fair value of financial Assets and Liabilities

The table below presents the carrying amounts and the fair values of financial assets and liabilities which are not carried at fair value in the financial statements.

The fair value of loans is estimated based on the interbank market yield curves adjusted with the credit spread of loans.

The fair value of deposits is estimated based on the interbank market yield curves deducted with customers spread depending on form of the deposit.

Both loans and deposits future cash flows are discounted based on their duration and the respective interest rates.

31.12.2008
Carrying amount
Fair value
ASSETS
Loans and advances to customers
50,704,702 51,589,715
LIABILITIES
Due to customers
42,546,777 42,696,404

For the remaining financial assets and liabilities which are carried at amortized cost the fair values are not substantially different from the carrying amount.

43. Capital management – capital adequacy

The policy of the Group is to maintain a strong capital base so as to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence and to sustain future development of the business.

The dividend policy is always examined in order to achieve the best balance between the higher return for the shareholder and the security affected by the sound capital position.

Share capital increases are performed through shareholders meeting or Board of Directors decisions in accordance with articles of association or relevant laws.

Specifically, the Shareholders' General Meeting held on 6 June 2006 gave the authority to the Board of Directors for the period of four years to approve a share capital increase in accordance with Law 2190/1920 article 13.

The Group is allowed to purchase treasury shares based on the terms and conditions of law.

The Group uses all modern methods to manage capital adequacy. It has issued hybrid and subordinated debt which are included as regulatory own-funds. The cost of these securities is lower than share capital and adds value to the shareholders.

The Bank's capital adequacy is monitored by the Bank of Greece, to which the Bank reports on a quarterly basis.

The minimum capital adequacy ratios (Tier I and capital adequacy ratio) which the Group must adhere to are established by decisions of the Governor of the Bank of Greece.

The calculation of capital adequacy from 1 January 2008 is determined under the new regulatory framework (Basel II), which have been transposed into Greek law by Law 3601/2007. The new regulatory framework significantly amends the measurement of credit risk and introduces capital requirements for operational risk. There are no significant changes in the measurement of market risk. Specifically, credit risk of the investment portfolio and operational risk are measured based on the Standardized Approach.

The capital adequacy ratio is determined by comparing the Bank's regulatory own funds with the risks that the Group undertakes (risk weighted assets). Own funds include Tier I capital (share capital, reserves, minority interest), additional Tier I capital (hybrid securities) and Tier II capital (subordinated debt and fixed asset revaluation reserves). The risk-weighted assets arise from the credit risk of the investment portfolio, the market risk of the trading portfolio and the operational risk.

The current capital ratios (Tier I ratio and capital adequacy ratio) are much higher than the regulatory limits set by the Bank of Greece directive (4% and 8%, respectively) and the capital base is capable to support the business growth of the Bank in all areas for the next years.

31.12.2008
Basel II
31.12.2007
Basel I
Tier I 8.3%
9.6%
Capital adequacy ratio Tier I + Tier II 10.1% 12.5%

Elements concerning the disclosure of regulatory information for capital adequacy and risk management (Basel II, Pilar III - P.D./BOG 2592/07) will be published in Bank's website.

44. Related party transactions

The Bank and the Group companies entered into a number of transactions with related parties in the normal course of business. These transactions are performed at arms length and are approved by the Group's relevant committees.

a. The outstanding balances of the transactions with members of the Board of Directors, their close family members and the controlled by them entities are as follows:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Assets
Loans and advancwes to customers 172,472 39,951
Liabilities
Due to customers 73,991 43,523
Debt securities in issue 20,096 9,009
Total 94,087 52,532
Letters of guarantee 21,392 83
From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Interest and similar income 10,295 477
Interest expense and similar charges 3,942 1,640

b. The outstanding balances with associates and the related results of these transactions are as follows:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Assets
Loans and advances to customers 277
Liabilities
Due to customers 406 26
From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Income
Interest and similar income 16 33
Expenses
Interest expense and similar charges 2
Other expenses 3,173 2,971

c. The Group Companies' Board of Directors and Executive General Managers' fees recorded in the income statement for 2008 amounted to €13,021 (31.12.2007: €26,554).

45. Acquisitions, disposals of subsidiaries and associates and other corporate events

a. According to Law 3606/2007, which incorporates in Greek Legislation the European's Parliament guidance MiFID (2004/2007) and after the relevant decision of the Extraordinary Shareholders' Meeting held on 14.12.2007 and the approval of the Ministry of Development on 11.2.2008, the name of Alpha Finance A.X.E.P.E.Y. was changed to Alpha Finance A.E.P.E.Y.

b. As at 28.3.2008, the subsidiary Ionian Hotel Enterprises A.E. completed the transfer of 100% of Tourist Resort A.E., owner of Hilton Rhodes Resort to the Greek Hotel Company Lampsa S.A. and to Plaka S.A. by 50% respectively. The sale resulted in a gain of € 1.5 million for the Group.

c. On 31.3.2008 the subsidiary AEF European Capital Investments B.V. was liquidated. No profit or loss resulted from the liquidation.

d. On 4.4.2008 the Bank acquired 90% of the newly established Ukrainian Bank Astra Bank OJSC at a cost of € 10.9 million. The Bank agreed with the founders of Astra Bank that they will hold a stake up to 10% of the share capital and will remain as executive members of management.

e. On 22.4.2008 the Bank's subsidiary Alpha Ventures A.E. sold its shares in BIOMAGN AMETVE. From the sale resulted a gain amounting to € 328 thousand.

f. On 8 May 2008 the Bank participated in Alpha Bank Srbija A.D. share capital increase at the total amount of € 49.8 million.

g. On 9.5.2008 the subsidiary Alpha Ventures Α.Ε. established the company Alpha Ventures Capital Management. Alpha Ventures Capital Management has the management of mutual fund of ALPHA-TANEO A.K.E.S., which was founded on 2.6.2008 and the Bank holds a 51% ownership interest.

h. On 21.5.2008 the Bank acquired 847 shares of APE Commercial Property. After the acquisition the Bank's interest in APE Commercial Property was 72.20%.

i. On 21.5.2008, the Group recognised its participation to associate EL.P.E.T. Balcan S.A. which was included in the consolidated financial statements under the equity method.

j. On 30.6.2008 the Bank participated in Astra Bank OJSC share capital increase at the total amount of € 126.4 million plus expenses. After this share capital increase the Bank's interest is 93.33%.

k. On 2.7.2008 Alpha Covered Bonds Plc was established in United Kingdom by the Bank (which has 100% ownership interest) with primary activity the issuance of covered bonds.

l. On 15.8.2008 the Bank sold its participation in "Anadolu Alpha Gayrimenkul Ticaret A.S." or 50% of the share capital, to the other shareholder of Anadolu Group. No profit or loss resulted from the sale.

m. On 29.9.2008 the wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank, Alpha Bank London Limited established in the United Kingdom the company ABL Holdings Jersey Limited. Alpha Bank London Limited transferred its participation in the subsidiary Alpha Asset Finance C.I.Limited to ABL Holdings Jersey Limited.

n. On 10 October 2008 Katalonica plc was established in United Kingdom by the Bank with primary activity the issuance of collaterized securities. The Company is a special purpose entity and is fully consolidated by the Bank as it serves specific Banks needs.

o. On 8 December 2008 the Bank participated in the share capital increase of Alpha Bank Romania by € 20 million.

p. On 18 December 2008 the Bank participated in the share capital increase of Efrimathia A.E. by € 990 thousands.

q. On 19 December 2008 the Bank sold its participation in Alpha Astika Akinita A.E. and Ionian Hotel Enterprises A.E. to the subsidiary Alpha Group Investments Ltd.

r. On 23 December 2008, Real Car A.E. was established in which Alpha Leasing A.E. has a 100% ownership interest.

s. On 29 December 2008 the Bank participated in the share capital increase of APE Commercial Property A.E. by € 3.8 million.

t. On 31 December 2008 the Bank participated in the share capital increase of APE Fixed Assets A.E. by € 3 million.

46. Events after the balance sheet date

1. Based on the approved by the general meeting of shareholders held on 3.4.2008 share buy back program, the Bank acquired during 1.1.2009 up to 16.2.2009 457,601 treasury shares at a cost of € 2,666 (or € 5.83 per share).

As at 16.2.2009 the Bank holds 6,140,959 tresury shares at a total cost of € 71,650 or 1.49% of its issued share capital.

2. On 16 December 2008, the Board of Director has decided the Bank's participation, proportionally, to the regulations of law 3723/2008 enhancing economy's liquiding to address the impact of credit crunch.

In this context, on 12 January 2009 in the Bank's extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders approved:

  • The share capital increase of the Bank amounting up to € 950 million in accordance with to Law 3723/2008 requirements, with abolition of preference right of existing Shareholders (where applicable), and by issuing and distributing new preferred shares without voting right, tangible and redeemable shares. Delegation to the Board of Directors in order to specify the terms (issuance) of preferred shares. The amendment of the Article 5 of the Bank's article of Incorporation for the purpose of increasing the share capital and to adjust to the regulations of Law 3723/2008.
  • The change in the number of members of the Board of Directors of the Bank and amending Article 7 of the Article of Incorporation.
  • The election of the Greek government representative, as a new member of the Board of Directors in accordance with Law 3723/2008 and subject to the option of Greek government participation in the Bank's share capital.

3. On 17.2.2009 was completed successfully the securitization of part of Bank's bonds portfolio amounting to € 1.25 billion, through a special purpose entity Talanto Plc. A part of the bonds which have received a A1 rating from the Moody's credit rating agency amounts to € 811 million is accepted by the European Central Bank as collateral for refinancing operations.

4. The Board of Directors' intention was to propose a cash dividend for the year 2008, as per the provisions of Law 3723/2008. However, in light of the forthcoming legislative amendments regarding the distribution of dividend, the Board of Directors will suspend any decision on the distribution of dividend until the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, by which time it expects to be in a position to formulate its final proposal.

Athens, 24 February 2009
The Chairman of the Board
of Directors
The Managing Director The Executive Director Group Financial
Reporting Officer
Yannis S. Costopoulos
I.D. No. Χ 661480
Demetrios P. Mantzounis
I.D. No. Ι 166670
Marinos S. Yannopoulos
I.D. No. Ν 308546
George N. Kontos
I.D. No. AB 522299

KPMG Certified Auditors AE 3 Stratigou Tombra Street Aghia Paraskevi GR – 153 42 Athens Greece

Στρατηγού Τόμπρα 3 153 42 Αγία Παρασκευή Ελλάς ΑΡΜΑΕ29527/01AT/B/93/1 62/96

Telephone Τηλ: +30 210 60 62 100 Fax Φαξ: +30 210 60 62 111 Internet www.kpmg.gr e-mail [email protected]

Independent Auditors' Report

(Translated from the original in Greek)

To the Shareholders of ALPHA BANK A.E.

Report on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying Financial Statements of ALPHA BANK A.E. (the "Bank") which comprise the balance sheet as at 31 December 2008, and the statements of income , changes in equity and cash flows for the year then ended, and a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory notes.

Management's Responsibility for the Financial Statements

Management is responsible for the preparation and the fair presentation of these Financial Statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as adopted by the European Union. This responsibility includes: designing, implementing, and maintaining internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements that are free from material misstatements, whether due to fraud or error; selecting and applying appropriate accounting policies; and making accounting estimates that are reasonable in the circumstances.

Auditor's Responsibility

Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these Financial Statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing. Those Standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial statements are free of material misstatements.

An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity's preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Bank's internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements.

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

Opinion

In our opinion, the Financial Statements give a true and fair view, of the financial position of the Bank as of 31 December 2008, and of its financial performance and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards, as adopted by the European Union.

Athens, 24 February 2009

KPMG Certified Auditors AE

Marios T. Kyriacou Certified Auditor Accountant AM SOEL 11121

Nick Vouniseas Certified Auditor Accountant AM SOEL 18701

BANK FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Income Statement

(Thousands of Euro)
From 1 January to
Note 31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Interest and similar income 2 4,118,961 3,106,845
Interest expense and similar charges 2 (2,768,455) (1,879,187)
Net interest income 2 1,350,506 1,227,658
Fee and commission income 346,494 349,399
Commission expense (29,418) (27,480)
Net fee and commission income 3 317,076 321,919
Dividend income 4 74,937 45,462
Gains less losses from financial transactions 5 (20,584) (42,833)
Other income 6 21,138 34,878
75,491 37,507
Total income 1,743,073 1,587,084
Staff costs 7 (429,213) (386,694)
General administrative expenses 8 (362,411) (338,490)
Depreciation and amortization expenses 19, 20, 21 (57,592) (51,186)
Other expenses (3,072) (2,486)
Total expenses (852,288) (778,856)
Impairment losses and provisions for credit risk 9 (495,382) (194,587)
Profit before tax 395,403 613,641
Income tax 10 (61,165) (156,635)
Profit after tax 334,238 457,006
Earnings per share: 11
Basic earnings per share (€) 0.82 1.13
Diluted earnings per share (€) 0.82 1.12

Balance Sheet

(Thousands of Euro)
Note 31.12.2008 31.12.2007
ASSETS
Cash and balances with Central Banks 12 1,724,081 1,650,327
Due from banks 13 8,420,793 7,349,675
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss-Held for trading 14 86,880 264,788
Derivative financial assets 15 494,386 384,466
Loans and advances to customers 16 42,189,278 35,267,874
Investment securities 17
- Available-for-sale 6,033,897 6,300,377
- Held to maturity 4,488,709
Investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures 18 1,750,902 1,626,100
Investment property 19 42,195 42,370
Property, plant and equipment 20 649,452 603,831
Goodwill and other intangible assets 21 68,723 55,836
Deferred tax assets 22 316,069 158,160
Other assets 23 419,526 280,626
66,684,891 53,984,430
Non-current assets held for sale 24 53,283 54,706
Total Assets 66,738,174 54,039,136
LIABILITIES
Due to banks 25 10,883,969 5,637,562
Derivative financial liabilities 15 804,172 383,129
Due to customers 26 33,816,094 23,334,888
Debt securities in issue and other borrowed funds 27 17,395,646 20,521,976
Liabilities for current income tax and other taxes 28 97,855 127,863
Deferred tax liabilities 22 158,212 82,960
Employee defined benefit obligations 29 3,733
Other liabilities 30 1,204,462 1,159,012
Provisions 31 8,415 47,796
Total Liabilities 64,368,825 51,298,919
EQUITY
Share capital 32 1,931,590 1,602,809
Share premium 33 184,033
Reserves 34 165,848 333,892
Retained earnings 35 340,896 619,483
Treasury shares 36 (68,985)
Total Equity 2,369,349 2,740,217
Total Liabilities and Equity 66,738,174 54,039,136

Statement of Changes in Equity

(Thousands of Euro)

Retained
Note Share capital Share premium Reserves earnings Treasury shares Total
Balance 1.1.2007 1,591,286 127,961 207,853 523,201 (14,465) 2,435,836
Changes in equity for the period
1.1 – 31.12.2007
Net change in fair value of available
for-sale securities
(48,196) (48,196)
Net change in fair value of available
for- sale securities transferred to
profit or loss from sales
Foreign currency translation
126,825 126,825
differences for foreign operations 200 200
Net income recognized directly in
equity
78,629 200 78,829
Profit for the period, after income
tax 457,006 457,006
Total 78,629 457,206 535,835
Purchase of treasury shares (329,189) (329,189)
Sale of treasury shares (2,999) 343,654 340,655
Dividends distributed (304,421) (304,421)
Appropriation to reserves 53,400 (53,400)
Recognition of employee share
options 19,487 19,487
Exercise of employee share options 25,477 (25,477)
Issue of new shares due to share
options exercise 11,523 30,595 42,118
Other (104) (104)
Balance 31.12.2007 1,602,809 184,033 333,892 619,483 2,740,217

Statement of Changes in Equity

(Thousands of Euro)

Note Share capital Share premium Reserves Retained
earnings
Treasury shares Total
Balance 1.1.2008 1,602,809 184,033 333,892 619,483 2,740,217
Changes in equity for the period
1.1 - 31.12.2008
Net change in fair value of
available-for-sale securities (after
tax)
(247,883) (247,883)
Net change in fair value of
available-for-sale securities
transferred to profit or loss
33,739 33,739
Foreign currency translation
differences for foreign operations
(130) (130)
Net income recognized directly in
equity
(214,144) (130) (214,274)
Profit for the period after income
tax
334,238 334,238
Total (214,144) 334,108 119,964
Purchase of treasury shares 36 (410,390) (410,390)
Sale of treasury shares 36 (54,291) 341,405 287,114
Share capital increase by
capitalization of share premium and
retained earnings
32,33,34 328,781 (184,033) (144,748)
Expenses relating to the share
capital increase
(2,204) (2,204)
Dividends distributed 35 (362,199) (362,199)
Appropriation to reserves 34 46,100 (46,100)
Other (3,153) (3,153)
Balance 31.12.2008 1,931,590 165,848 340,896 (68,985) 2,369,349

Cash Flow Statement

(Thousands of Euro)
From 1 January to
Note 31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Cash flows from operating activities
Profit before income tax 395,403 613,641
Adjustments for:
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment 19,20 35,393 33,355
Amortization of intangible assets 21 22,199 17,831
Impairment losses from loans and provisions 515,105 205,733
Other adjustments 19,487
(Gains)/losses from investing activities (138,148) 57,547
(Gains)/losses from financing activities 190,159 115,678
1,020,111 1,063,272
Net (increase)/decrease in assets relating to operating activities:
Due from banks (962,676) (1,589,718)
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss and derivative financial assets 67,988 (48,481)
Loans and advances to customers (7,508,784) (7,202,283)
Other assets (138,900) (1,611)
Net increase/(decrease) in liabilities relating to operating activities:
Due to banks 5,246,407 (1,584,555)
Derivative financial liabilities 421,044 156,905
Due to customers 7,638,987 7,984,035
Other liabilities 90,179 (11,747)
Net cash from operating activities before taxes 5,874,356 (1,234,183)
Income taxes and other taxes paid (101,736) (86,412)
Net cash flows from operating activities 5,772,620 (1,320,595)
Cash flows from investing activities
Acquisitions of subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures (235,758) (28,325)
Proceeds from sale of subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures 195,721 1,136
Dividends received 4 74,937 45,462
Purchase of property, plant and equipment (133,172) (98,649)
Disposal of property, plant and equipment 25,556 27,897
Net (increase)/decrease in investment securities (4,556,655) 1,133,696
Net cash flows from investing activities (4,629,371) 1,081,217
Cash flows from financing activities
Share capital increase from share options exercise 42,118
Expenses relating to the share capital increase (2,204)
(Purchases)/sales of treasury shares (122,140) 11,466
Dividends paid (360,538) (302,474)
Proceeds from the issue of debt securities and other borrowed funds 677,038
Repayment of debt securities and other borrowed funds (477,410) (440,749)
Net cash flows from financing activities (962,292) (12,601)
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents 1,239 500
Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 182,196 (251,479)
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 12 4,356,928 4,608,407
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 12 4,539,124 4,356,928

Notes to the Financial Statements

GENERAL INFORMATION

The Bank operates under the brand name of ALPHA BANK A.E. and with the sign of ALPHA BANK. Its registered office is 40 Stadiou Street, Athens and it is listed as a societe anonyme, with number 6066/06/B/86/05. The Bank's duration is until 2100 which can be extended by the General Meeting of Shareholders.

In accordance with article 4 of the Articles of Incorporation, the Bank's objective is to engage, on its own account or on behalf of third parties, in Greece and abroad, independently or collectively, including joint ventures with third parites, in any and all (main and secondary) operations, activities, transactions and services allowed to credit institutions, in conformity with whatever rules and regulations (domestic, Community, foreign) may be in force each time. In order to serve this objective, the Bank may perform any kind of action, operation or transaction which, directly or indirectly, is pertinent, complementary or auxiliary to the purposes mentioned above.

The term of the Board of Directors, elected by the Shareholders at the General Meeting of 19 April 2005, ends in 2010.

The General Meeting of Shareholders on 3 April 2008 approved the resolution to increase the number of the Directors from 14 to 15, as set out in the Bank's Articles of Incorporation and elected Mrs. Ioanna E. Papadopoulou as a non-executive member. It also elected Mr. Minas G. Tanes and Mr. George E. Agouridis as non-executive independent members. The Board of Directors as at 31 December 2008 consists of:

CHAIRMAN (Executive Member)

Yannis S. Costopoulos VICE CHAIRMAN (Νon Εxecutive Independent Μember) Minas G. Tanes***

EXECUTIVE MEMBERS

MANAGING DIRECTOR Demetrios P. Mantzounis

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS AND GENERAL MANAGERS Marinos S. Yannopoulos (CFO)*** Spyros N. Filaretos Artemis Ch. Theodoridis

NON-EXECUTIVE MEMBERS

Sophia G. Eleftheroudaki Paul G. Karakostas* Nicholaos I. Manessis ** Ioanna E. Papadopoulou

NON-EXECUTIVE INDEPENDENT MEMBERS

George E. Agouridis * Pavlos A. Apostolides ** Thanos M. Veremis Evangelos J. Kaloussis */*** Ioannis K. Lyras **

SECRETARY

Hector P. Verykios

  • * Member of the Audit Committee
  • ** Member of the Remuneration Committee
  • *** Member of the Risk Management Committee

The certified auditors of the semi-annual and year end financial statements of the Bank are:

Principal Auditors: Marios T. Kyriacou
Nick E. Vouniseas
Substitute Auditors: Charalambos G. Sirounis
Nikolaos Ch. Tsiboukas

of KPMG Certified Auditors A.E.

The Bank's shares are listed in the Athens Stock Exchange since 1925. As at 31 December 2008 Alpha Bank was ranked sixth in terms of market capitalization. Since February 2004 the Bank has been included in the FTSE Eurofirst 300 Index, an index which consists of the 300 largest European companies. Additionally, the Bank is included in a series of other indices, such as S&P Europe 350, FTSE Med 100, MSCI Europe, DJ Euro Stoxx and FTSE4 Good.

Apart from the listing in Greece, the shares of the Bank are listed in the London Stock Exchange in the form of international certificates (GDR's) and they are traded over the counter in New York (ADR's).

As at 31 December 2008 the Bank has 410,976,652 shares in issue.

During 2008, the shares' liquidity amounted to an average 1,422,261 shares per day. The credit rating of the Bank is evaluated by three international credit rating agencies (Standard & Poor's: BBB+, Moody's: A2, Fitch Ratings: A-).

The financial statements have been approved by the Board of Directors on 24 February 2009

ACCOUNTING POLICIES APPLIED

1.1 Basis of presentation

These financial statements relate to the fiscal year 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2008 and they have been prepared: a) In accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the European Union in accordance with Regulation 1606/2002 of the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union on 19 July 2002 and

b) Based on the historical cost basis except for the following assets and liabilities which are measured at fair value:

  • Securities held for trading
  • Derivative financial instruments
  • Available-for-sale securities

The financial statements are presented in Euro, rounded to the nearest thousand unless otherwise indicated.

The estimates and judgments applied in preparing the financial statements are based on historical information and assumptions which at present are considered appropriate.

The estimates and assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis to take into account current conditions, and the effect of any revisions are recognized in the period in which the estimate is revised.

The accounting policies, applied by the Bank in the financial statements as at 31 December 2008, are the same as those applied in the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2007 after taking into account the amendments and interpretations issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and adopted by the European Union which are effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2008:

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 39 «Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement» and the International Financial Reporting Standard 7 «Financial Instruments: Disclosures» regarding to the reclassification of financial assets (Regulation 1004/15.10.2008).

This amendment, issued on 13 October 2008, allows under certain conditions, the reclassification of certain financial assets to other categories with different measurement rules than those of the category in which the financial assets where classified upon initial recognition. This reclassification can be applied retrospectively from 1 July 2008. The Bank made use of this amendment and the impact on the financial statements is set out to in note 16

Interpretation 11 «IFRS 2 – Group and treasury share transactions» (Regulation 611/1.6.2007)

The adoption of this interpretation did not have a substantial impact on the Bank's financial statements.

Interpretation 14 «IAS 19 – The limit on a defined benefit asset, minimum funding requirements and their interaction» (Regulation 1263/16.12.2008)

This interpretation defines when a surplus in defined benefit plan can be recognized as an asset and to what extent the recognition is limited by any obligation to fund benefit that will accrue in the future.

The adoption of this interpretation did not have a substantial impact on the Bank's financial statements.

Apart from the above Standards and Interpretations, the European Union adopted the following standards and interpretations, which are effective for annual periods beginning after 1.1.2008 and which have not been early adopted by the Bank.

International Financial Reporting Standard 8 «Operating Segments» (Regulation 1358/21.11.2007) Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009

This standard replaces IAS 14 «Segment reporting». Its adoption by the European Union and by the Bank will have an impact on the Bank's disclosures relating to operating segments.

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 23 «Borrowing costs» (Regulation 1260/10.12.2008) Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009

On 29 March 2007, the Board issued the revised IAS 23, which removes the option to expense borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition of assets that have a substantial period of time to be ready for use or sale. Such borrowing costs are capitalized as part of the cost of the asset.

Its adoption will not have a substantial impact on Bank's financial statements.

  • Amendment of International Financial Reporting Standard 2 «Share based payements» (Regulation 1261/16.12.2008) Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009
  • This amendment issued on 17 January 2008 clarifies that the vesting conditions are distinguished to:

i. Service conditions which are further distinguished to:

  • vesting conditions that require to complete a specified period of service and
  • conditions that require performance targets
  • ii. Conditions that are not connected to service.

In addition, for each of the above categories the amendment defines when non-vesting conditions are taken into account in measuring the grant date fair value of the share-based payment as well as the respective accounting treatment. The adoption of this standard by the European Union and the Bank, is not expected to have a significant impact on the financial statement.

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 1 «Presentation of financial statements» (Regulation

1274/17.12.2008)

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009

On 6 September 2007, the Board published the revised version of IAS 1. The most significant changes are the following:

i. Introduction of a statement of comprehensive income. This statement includes the profit or loss of the period and all non-owner changes in equity. Entities may present a separate income statement, but all non-owner changes in equity must be presented in an additional statement.

ii. The statement of changes in equity, will include transactions between the entity and the equity holders.

iii. In the instances where a new accounting standard is retrospectively implemented or items are restated, the comparative figures must include the opening and closing balance sheet of the prior year.

The adoption of this Standard by the European Union and the Bank will affect the presentation of financial statements.

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 32 – «Financial instruments: Presentation» and IAS 1 «Presentation of Financial Statements» (Regulation 53/21.1.2009)

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009

With the implementation of the above amendment, issued on 14 February 2008, financial instruments that give the holder of the financial instrument the right to require the issuer to repurchase or repay the financial instruments may be classified as equity if certain conditions are met. A similar classification, under certain condition, is also possible for financial instruments where the holder is entitled to a pro-rata share of the net assets of the entity only on liquidation. This amendment requires additional disclosures on the financial statements.

The Bank is examining whether there will be an impact from the adoption of the above amendment in the financial statements.

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 27 «Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements» and International Financial Reporting Standard 1 «First Time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards» regarding the cost of an investment in a subsidiary, associate and jointly controlled entity. Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009 (Regulation 69/23.1.2009).

With this amendment, issued by the Council on 22 May 2008, the cost of an investment in a subsidiary, associate or joint venture in the investor's separate financial statements will not be adjusted for distributions of profits relating to periods prior to acquisition. These profit appropriations will be accounted in income statement as dividend income. This amendment also made changes to IAS 36 - Impairment of Assets, where indications of impairment on investments were included, based on the effect of dividend distribution on equity.

With regard to the first time adopters of IFRS and in order to facilitate the issuance of financial statements, options are given on the cost measurement of an investment in a subsidiary, associate and jointly controlled entity based on either their fair value at the date of transition or the previous GAAP carrying amount.

The amendment will make changes in accounting policies for recognition of dividend's income and determination of the cost of acquisition of Bank's investments.

Interpretation 13 «Customer loyalty programs» (Regulation 1262/16.12.2008)

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.7.2008

This interpretation, issued on 28 June 2007, addresses the accounting of customer loyalty programs offered by entities to customers as an incentive to increase sales or revenues. In particular, it states that the value of credits awarded to customers must be separated from the initial sale and be recognized as revenue when the credits are redeemed. In cases where the entity collects amounts on behalf of third parties who grant reward points to the entity's customers, these should be accounted for a liability to third parties.

The adoption of this interpretation is not expected to have a significant impact on the Bank's financial statements.

Improvements to International Accounting Standards (Regulation 70/23.1.2009)

As part of the improvements project the International Accounting Standards Board issued on 22 May 2008, certain non urgent but necessary amendments to various standards. The majority of these are effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009.

The adoption of these improvements is not expected to have a significant impact on the Bank's financial statements.

In addition, the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has issued the following standards and interpretations which have not yet been adopted by the European Union and they have not also been early adopted by the Bank.

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 27 – «Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements» and International Financial Reporting Standard 3 «Business combination»

Effective for annual period beginning on or after 1.7.2009

The main changes from the amended standards issued on 10 January 2008, are summarized as follows:

i. In circumstances where changes in ownership interests of subsidiaries after control is obtained or the loss of control, the value of the investment existed prior to the change of ownership interest or the remaining ownership interest, should be measured at fair value with changes recognized in profit and loss account.

ii. Upon initial recognition non-controlling interest might be measured at fair value. In addition non-controlling interest should absorb the total losses incurred attributable to their interest.

iii. Any contingent consideration of an entity is recognized as a liability and measured at fair value.

iv. Costs incurred by the acquirer are not included in the cost of a business combination but are expensed.

Finally, changes in a parent's ownership interest in a subsidiary that do not result in a loss of control are accounted for as equity transactions.

Amendment of International Financial Reporting Standard 1 «First time adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards»

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.7.2009.

On 27 November 2008 published a revised edition with a change in the structure of this standard. The purpose of this change was to improve information and to facilitate implementation of future amedments. This revised edition does not apply to the Bank's financial statements.

Amendment of International Accounting Standard 39 «Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement» concerning eligible hedged items.

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.7.2009.

This amendment issued on 31 July 2008 provides clarifications regarding the application of hedge accounting. It is clarified that as hedged items in fair value hedge or cash flow hedge can be defined as:

  • The partial change in fair value or cash flows of financial instruments
  • The change in cash flows related to inflation (under conditions)
  • The increase or decrease of cash flow or fair value in relation to a specific reference value (one-sided risk).

The Bank is examining whether there will be an impact from the adoption of the above interpretation in the financial statements.

Interpretation 12 «Service concession arrangements»

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2008

The interpretation issued on 30 November 2006, clarifies issues relating to the recognition and valuation of assets arising from service concession agreements of public infrastructure. This interpretation does not apply in Bank's activities.

Interpretation 15 «Agreements for the construction of real estate»

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.1.2009

This interpretation issued on 3 July 2008 provides guidance as how to determine whether an agreement for the construction of real estate or agreements with buyers before the completion of real estate construction is within the scope of IAS 11 (construction contracts) or IAS 18 Revenue (as contracts to provide services or sell goods).

The adoption of this interpretation will have no impact on the financial statements since it does not apply to the Bank.

Interpretation 16 «Hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation»

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.10.2008.

This interpretation, issued on 3 July 2008, provides clarifications on in the application of hedge accounting of the net investment in a foreign operation which has different functional currency from that of the parent.

This interpretation applies to the Bank's consolidated financial statements.

Interpretation 17 «Distribution of non-cash assets to owners»

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.7.2009

This interpretation, issued on 27 November 2008, provides guidance to an entity in order to recognize and subsequent measure a liability arising from the distribution of non-cash assets to owners. The Bank is in the process of evaluating the potential effects of this interpretation.

Interpretation 18 «Transfer of assets from customers»

Effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1.7.2009

This interpretation, issued on 29 January 2009, clarifies the accounting treatment for agreements under which an entity receives from a customer an item of property, plant and equipment that the entity must then use to serve conventional obligations to them. The interpretation applies also, in cases where the entity receives cash from customers to construct or to buy an item of property, plant and equipment to be used as defined above. This interpretation does not apply in Bank activities.

1.2 Segment reporting

The Bank after considering the present management and reporting structure, and that the majority of its income arises from activities in Greece decided that:

  • a. the primary reporting format are the following business segments:
  • Retail
  • Corporate Banking
  • Asset Management/Insurance
  • Investment Banking/Treasury
  • South Eastern Europe
  • Other

b. the following geographical segments are the secondary reporting format:

  • Greece
  • Other countries

Detailed information relating to business and geographical segments is presented in note 38.

1.3 Transactions in foreign currency and translation of foreign operations

a. Transactions in foreign currency

The financial statements are presented in Euro, which is the functional currency and the currency of the country of incorporation of the Bank.

Items included in the financial statements of each of the foreign branches are measured at the functional currency of each branch which is the currency of the country of incorporation in which the branch operates or the currency used for the majority of transactions held.

Transactions in foreign currencies are translated to the functional currency at the closing exchange rate at the date of the transaction.

Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated to the functional currency at the closing exchange rate at that date. Foreign exchange differences arising on translation are recognized in the income statement.

Non-monetary assets and liabilities are recognized at the exchange rate ruling at initial recognition, except for non-monetary items denominated in foreign currencies that are stated at fair value. The exchange differences relating to these items are part of the change in fair value and they are recognized in the income statement or recorded directly in shareholders' equity depending on the classification of the non-monetary item.

b. Translation of foreign operations

The results and financial position of all foreign branches that have a functional currency that is different from the presentation currency of Bank's financial statements are translated as follows:

i. Assets and liabilities are translated to Euro at the closing rate applicable on the balance sheet date. The comparative figures presented are translated to Euro at the closing rate at the respective date of the comparative balance sheet.

ii. Income and expense items are translated to Euro at average exchange rates applicable for each period presented.

The resulting exchange differences from the above translation and those arising from other monetary items designated as a part of the net investment in a foreign entity are recorded in equity. These translation differences are recognized in the income statement when a foreign entity is sold.

1.4 Cash and cash equivalents

For the purposes of the cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents consist of:

  • a Cash on hand
  • b Non-restricted placements with Central Banks
  • c. Short-term balances due from banks

Short-term balances due from banks are amounts that mature within three months of the balance sheet date.

1.5 Classification and measurement of financial assets

Initial recognition

The Bank, upon initial recognition measures financial assets at fair value plus, in case of securities not at fair value through profit or loss, incremental direct transaction costs.

Subsequent measurement

The Bank classifies its financial assets as:

  • Loans and receivables
  • Held-to-maturity investments
  • Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
  • Available-for-sale financial assets

For each of the above classifications the following is applicable:

a) Loans and receivables

Included in this category are:

i. loans to customers

ii. amounts paid for a portion or total acquisition of bonds issued by customers that are not quoted in an active market.

iii. all receivables from customers, banks etc.

This category is measured at amortized cost.

b) Held-to-maturity

Held-to-maturity investments are financial assets that the Bank has the positive intent and ability to hold to maturity.

In this category, the Bank has included bonds and other debt securities with fixed maturity and fixed or determinable cash flows.

This category is carried at amortized cost.

c) Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Financial assets included in this category are:

i. Financial assets acquired principally for the purpose of selling in the near term for short term profit.

The Bank has included in this category fixed rate Greek Government bonds and treasury bills, except for certain specific issues, for which different decisions have been taken, and a limited number of shares and corporate loans.

ii. The Bank, at initial recognition, designates these financial assets at fair value and recognizes changes in the fair value in the income statement.

This classification is used in the following circumstances:

• When management monitors and manages the financial instruments on a fair value basis in accordance with a documented risk management or investment strategy.

• When the designation eliminates an accounting mismatch which would otherwise arise from measuring financial assets and liabilities on a different basis (i.e. amortized cost) in relation to another financial asset or liability (i.e. derivatives which are measured at fair value through the profit or loss).

• When the financial instrument contains an embedded derivative that significantly modifies the cash flows.

The Bank, has not classified financial assets at fair value through profit or loss.

d) Available-for-sale

Available-for-sale financial assets are investments that have not been classified in any of the previous categories.

The Bank has included in this category:

i. Variable debt securities and interest rate bonds

ii. Certain issues of fixed rate Greek Government bonds, for which a specific decision has been taken, and fixed rate bonds of other issuers

iii. Shares

iv. Mutual fund units

This category is measured at fair value. Changes in fair value are recognized directly in equity until the financial asset is sold or impaired whereupon the cumulative gains and losses previously recognized in equity are recognized in profit or loss. The financial assets included in this category are reviewed at each balance sheet date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. When a subsequent event causes the impairment loss on an available-for-sale debt security to decrease, the impairment loss is reversed through profit or loss. An impairment loss is reversed through the profit or loss if it can be objectively related to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognized. However, any subsequent recovery in the fair value of an impaired available-for-sale equity security is recognized in equity.

The measurement principles noted above are not applicable when a specific financial asset is the hedged item in a hedging relationship, in which case the principles set out in note 1.6 apply.

Reclassification of financial assets

Reclassification of non-derivative financial assets is permitted as follows:

i. Reclassification out of the held-for-trading category to the loans and receivable category, investments held to maturity category or available-for-sale category is permitted only in rare circumstances and the financial assets are no longer held for sale in the foreseeable future.

ii. Reclassification out of held-for-trading category to either loans and receivables, or available-for-sale is permitted only if the financial assets meet the definition of loans and receivables and there is the intention to hold them for the foreseeable future or until maturity.

iii. Reclassification out of available-for-sale category to the loans and receivables category, is permitted for financial assets that would have met the definition of loans and receivables and the entity has the intent to hold the financial asset for the foreseeable future or until maturity.

iv. Reclassification out of available-for-sale category to the held to maturity category, is permitted for financial assets that meet the relevant characteristics and the entity has the intent and ability to hold that financial asset until maturity.

Reclassification out of the held-to-maturity category to other categories is not permitted. Any sale or reclassification of a more than insignificant amount of held-to-maturity investment would result in the reclassification of all held-to-maturity investments as available-for-sale, and also this would result in a prevention from classifying securities as held-for-maturity for the current and the following two financial years. The Bank has reclassified certain financial assets which is analysed in notes 16 and 17.

Derecognition

The Bank derecognizes financial assets when:

  • the cash flows from the financial assets expire.
  • when it transfers the contractual right to receive the cash flows of the financial asset and at the same time it transfers both risks and rewards of ownership.
  • when loans or investments in securities are no longer recoverable and consequently written off.

In the case of transactions, where despite the transfer of the contractual right to recover the cash flows from financial assets, both the risk and rewards remain with the Bank no derecognition of these financial assets occurs. The amount received by the transfer is recognized as a financial liability. The accounting practises followed by the Bank in such transactions are discussed further in notes 1.19 and 1.20.

In the case of transactions, whereby the Bank neither maintains or transfers risks and rewards of the financial assets, but retains control they are recognized, to the extent if the Bank's continuing involvement. If the Bank does not retain control of assets then their derecognition occurs, and in their position, it recognizes, distinctively, the assets and liabilities which are created or retained during the transfer. No such transactions occurred upon balance sheet date.

1.6 Derivative financial instruments and hedge accounting

Derivatives are financial instruments that upon inception have a minimal or zero value and subsequently change in accordance with a particular underlying instrument (foreign exchange, interest rate, index or other variable).

All derivatives are recognized as assets when their fair value is positive, and as liabilities when their fair value is negative.

Derivatives are entered into for either hedging or trading purposes and they are measured at fair value irrespective of the purpose for which they have been transacted.

In the cases when derivatives are embedded in other financial instruments, such as bonds, loans, deposits, borrowed funds etc and the host contract is not itself carried at fair value through profit or loss then they are accounted for as separate derivatives when the derivative is not closely related to the host contract. These embedded derivatives are measured at fair value and are recognized as derivative assets or liabilities.

In the cases where derivatives embedded in financial instruments have been designated at fair value through profit or loss, the changes in the fair value of the derivative is included in the fair value change of the combined instrument and recognized in gains less losses on financial transactions.

The Bank uses derivatives as a means of exercising asset-liability management within the guidelines established by the Asset-Liability Committee (ALCO).

In addition the Bank uses derivatives for trading purposes to exploit short-term market fluctuations, within the Bank risk level set by the Asset-Liability Committee (ALCO).

Valuation differences arising from these derivatives are recognized in gains less losses on financial transactions.

When the Bank uses derivatives for hedging purposes it ensures that appropriate documentation exists on inception of the transaction, and that the effectiveness of the hedge is monitored on an ongoing basis and the above are repeated at each balance sheet date.

We emphasize the following:

a. Synthetic Swaps

The Bank, in order to increase the return on deposits to selected customers, uses synthetic swaps.

This involves the conversion of a Euro deposit to JPY with a simultaneous forward purchase of JPY to cover the foreign exchange exposure.

The result arising from the forward foreign exchange is recognized as interest expense, foreign exchange differences and other gains less losses on financial transactions.

b. FX Swaps

These types of swaps are entered into primarily to hedge the exposures arising from customer loans and deposits.

As there is no documentation to support hedge accounting they are accounted for as trading instruments.

The result arising from these derivatives is recognized as interest, foreign exchange differences, in order to match with the interest element resulting from the deposits and loans, and other gains less losses on financial transactions.

Hedge accounting

Hedge accounting establishes the valuation rules to offset the gain or loss of the fair value of a hedging instrument and a hedged item which would not have been possible if the normal measurement principles were applied.

Documentation of the hedge relationship upon inception and of the effectiveness of the hedge on a on-going basis are the basic requirements for the adoption of hedge accounting.

The hedge relationship is documented upon inception and the hedge effectiveness test is carried out upon inception and it is repeated at each reporting date.

a. Fair value hedge

A fair value hedge of a financial instrument offsets the change in the fair value of the hedged item in respect of the risks being hedged. Changes in the fair value of both the hedging instrument and the hedged item in respect of the specific risk being hedged are recognized in the income statement.

When the hedge relationship no longer exists, the hedged items are re-measured based on the classification and valuation principles set out in notes 1.5 and 1.15. Specifically any adjustment up to the point of hedge effectiveness relationship, to a hedged item for which the effective interest method is used, is amortized to interest income or expense as part of the recalculated effective interest rate of the item over its remaining life.

The Bank uses interest rate swaps (IRS's) to hedge risks relating to borrowings, bonds, loans and fixed rate term deposits. In addition the Bank uses foreign exchange derivatives to hedge foreign exchange risks arising from investments in subsidiaries.

b. Cash flow hedge

A cash flow hedge changes the cash flows of a financial instrument from a variable rate to a fixed rate.

The effective portion of the gain or loss on the hedging instrument is recognized directly in equity, whereas the ineffective portion is recognized in profit or loss. The accounting treatment of the hedged item does not change.

There were no instances that would require cash flow hedge accounting.

c. Hedges of net investment in a foreign operation

The accounting for hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation is similar to cash flow hedge accounting. Upon disposal of the foreign operation or in cases where the hedge relationship no longer exists the cumulative gain or loss recognized in equity is reversed and recognized in profit or loss

1.7 Investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures

Investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures are carried at cost, plus any expenses directly attributable to the acquisition less impairment losses.

Dividends received relating to post-acquisition profits are recorded in the income statement, as dividend income.

Dividend income is recognized when the right to receive income is established, which is when the decision to this effect has been taken by the shareholders' general meeting.

Amounts received from accumulated earnings before the acquisition date are considered as a return of capital and reduces the cost of the investment.

1.8 Property, plant and equipment

This caption includes: land, buildings for use by the branches or for administrative purposes, additions and improvements of leased fixed assets and equipment.

Property, plant and equipment are measured at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.

Expenditure directly attributable to the acquisition of an asset is included as part of its cost.

Subsequent expenditure is recognized in the carrying amount of the item when it increases future economic benefits. Expenditure on repairs and maintenance is recognized in profit or loss as incurred.

Depreciation is recognized in profit or loss on a straight line basis over the estimated useful lives of property, plant and equipment.

The estimated useful lives are as follows:

  • Buildings: 33 years.
  • Additions to leased fixed assets and improvements: duration of the lease.
  • Equipment and vehicles: 4 to 20 years.

Land is not depreciated.

Residual values of property and equipment and useful lives are reassessed and adjusted, if necessary, at each reporting date.

Property, plant and equipment are reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there is an indication of impairment and if they are impaired the carrying amount is adjusted to its recoverable amount with the difference recorded in profit or loss.

Gains and losses from the sale of property and equipment are recognized in profit or loss.

1.9 Investment property

The Bank includes in this category buildings or a portion of buildings together with the respective portion of the land that is held to earn rental income.

Investment property is measured at cost, which includes all expenditures directly attributable to the acquisition, less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.

Expenditure on repairs and maintenance is recognized in profit or loss as incurred.

The estimated useful lives, over which depreciation is calculated using the straight line method, are the same as those applied to property, plant and equipment.

1.10 Goodwill and other intangible assets

The Bank has included in this category:

a) Software, which is carried at cost less accumulated amortization. Amortization is charged over the estimated useful life, which the Bank has estimated between 3 to 4 years. Expenditure incurred to maintain software programs is recognized in the income statement as incurred.

b) Brand names and banking rights which are carried at cost less accumulated amortization. Amortization is charged over the estimated useful life, which the Bank has estimated at 5 years.

Intangible assets are measured at cost less accumulated amortization, excluding those with indefinite useful life, which are not amortized. All intangible assets are subject to an impairment test.

For intangible assets no residual value is estimated.

1.11 Leases

The Bank enters into leases either as a lessee or as a lessor.

When the risks and rewards incident to ownership of an asset are transferred to the lessee they are classified as finance leases.

All other lease agreements are classified as operating leases.

The accounting treatment followed depends on the classification of the lease, which is as follows:

a) When the Bank is the lessor

i. Finance leases:

For finance leases where the Bank is the lessor the aggregate amount of lease payments is recognized as loans and advances.

The difference between the present value (net investment) of lease payments, and the aggregate amount of lease payments, is recognized as unearned finance income and is deducted from loans and advances.

The lease rentals received decrease the aggregate amount of lease payments and finance income is recognized on an accrual basis.

The finance lease loans are subject to the same impairment testing as applied to customer loans and advances as described in note 1.12.

ii. Operating leases:

When the Bank is a lessor of assets under operating leases, the leased asset is recognized and depreciation is charged over its estimated useful life. Income arising from the leased asset is recognized as other income on an accrual basis.

b) When the Bank is the lessee

i. Finance leases:

For finance leases, where the Bank is the lessee, the leased asset is recognized as property, plant and equipment and a respective liability is recognized in other liabilities.

At the commencement of the lease the leased asset and liability are recognized at amounts equal to the fair value of leased property or, if lower, the present value of the minimum lease payments.

The discount rate used in calculating the present value of the minimum lease payments is the interest rate implicit in the lease or if this is not available the Bank's borrowing rate for similar financing.

Subsequent to initial recognition the leased assets are depreciated over their useful lives unless the duration of the lease is less than the useful life of the leased asset and the Bank is not expected to obtain ownership at the end of the lease, in which case the asset is depreciated over the term of the lease.

The lease payments are apportioned between the finance charge and the reduction of the outstanding liability.

ii. Operating leases:

For operating leases, the Bank as a lessee does not recognize the leased asset but charges in general administrative expenses, the lease payments on an accrual basis.

1.12 Impairment losses on loans and advances

The Bank assess as at each balance sheet date, whether there is evidence of impairment in accordance with the general principles and methodology set out in IAS 39 and the relevant implementation guidance.

Specifically, the steps performed are the following:

a) Establishement of events that provide objective evidence that a loan is impaired (trigger events)

The loans and advances with payment of interest or principal overdue by more than 90 days represents the majority of the loans which are tested for impairment.

In addition an impairment test may be performed for accounts with delays less than 90 days, or accounts with no delay when:

i. procedures for forced recovery and settlement of debts, with more burdensome conditions on the Bank, have been initiated or

ii. the Bank has information that indicates that the financial position of the borrower is deteriorating (reduced sales, gross margins, profit etc.) or other events (bankruptcy filing, extra-ordinary events such as floods, fire, etc at the installations of the borrower) which occurred after the date of initial recognition and which are considered to affect the ability of the borrower to adhere to the agreed repayment schedule.

Finally, an impairment test is performed on loans and advances granted to sectors of the economy or geographical regions which are experiencing problems that arose after the date of initial recognition of the loans.

b) The criteria of assessment on an individual or collective basis

The outstanding balance is the basic factor in determining whether the assessment of impairment will be performed on an individual basis or on a collective basis.

More specifically the separation point for the Bank is the amount of € 1 million

In determining the amount numerous factors are considered such as the composition of the loan portfolio, the specific circumstances of the market and experience obtained from the management of the portfolio.

c) Establishment of groups of assets with similar risk characteristics

In those instances whereby based on the amount outstanding the assessment of impairment is performed on a collective basis of assets with similar risk characteristics, with respect to credit risk, the collective groups were determined as follows:

i. buckets arising from ageing analysis of loans and advances to customers.

ii. the type of loan (consumer, credit cards, mortgage etc.) for retail loans.

Based on detailed internal data the above groups are either expanded or combined in the event that this is justified from the historical data.

d) Methodology in determining future cash flows from impaired loans

The Bank has accumulated a significant amount of historical data of the last six years, which includes the loss given default for loans after the completion of forced recovery, or other measures taken to secure collection of loans, including the realization of collaterals

On the basis of this data the amount of the impairment is determined on both an individual and collective basis taking into account the time value of money.

The cash flows are discounted at the loans' original effective interest rate.

e) Interest income recognition

Interest income on impaired loans is recognized based on the carrying value of the loan net of impairment at the original effective interest rate.

f) Impairment recognition

Impaired loans are usually written-off, with the exception of a small number of accounts with large outstandings where an allowance account is established

g) Recoveries

If in a subsequent period after the recognition of the impairment loss, events occur which require the impairment loss to be reduced, or there has been a collection of amounts from loans and advances previously written-off, the recoveries are recognized in impairment losses and provisions to cover credit risk.

1.13 Deferred taxation

Deferred taxation is the tax that will be paid, or for which relief will be obtained in future periods from the different period that certain items are recognized for financial reporting purpose and for taxation purposes. Deferred tax is provided for temporary differences between the tax base of assets and liabilities and their respective carrying amounts in the financial statements.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are calculated using the tax rates that are expected to apply when the temporary difference reverses, based on the tax rate (and laws) enacted at the balance sheet date.

A deferred tax asset is recognized to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the asset can be utilized.

Deferred tax is recognized in profit or loss except to the extent that it relates to items recognized directly in equity, in which case it is recognized in equity.

1.14 Non-current assets held for sale

Non-current assets held for sale consist of assets acquired through the enforcement of security over customer loans and advances, and liabilities that are expected to be recovered primarily through sale

Before their classification as held for sale, the assets are remeasured in accordance with their respective accounting policy. Thereafter they are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less cost to sell.

Any loss arising from the above measurement is recorded in the profit or loss. This loss which can be reversed in the future, is allocated to assets in the disposal group that are within the scope of the measurement requirements of the Standard. The impairment loss on a disposal group first is allocated to goodwill and then to remaining assets and liabilities on a pro-rata basis.

Property in this category is not depreciated, however, it is reviewed for impairment at each reporting date.

Gains or losses from the sale of these assets are recognized in the income statement.

1.15 Financial liabilities

Initial recognition

At initial recognition financial liabilities are measured at fair value, plus for financial liabilities which are not measured at fair value through profit or loss their value transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issue.

Subsequent measurement

The Bank for measurement purposes classifies financial liabilities in the following categories:

a) Financial liabilities measured at fair value through profit or loss

  • i) This category includes financial liabilities held for trading: when the financial liability is acquired or incurred principally for the purpose of selling or repurchasing in the near term for short term profit or they are derivatives which are not used for hedging purposes.
  • ii) In addition in this category the Bank includes financial liabilities which are measured on initial recognition, at fair value through profit or loss in accordance to the principles set in note 1.5 (point c(ii)).

The Bank has included in the category of financial liabilities held for trading, derivatives which are not used for hedging purposes.

The derivatives and the liabilities arising from derivatives which are used for hedging purposes are presented in derivatives liabilities and valuation principles are set out in note 1.6.

At present no financial liabilities have been classified as fair value through profit or loss.

b) Financial liabilities carried at amortized cost

The liabilities which are classified in this category are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method.

Liabilities to credit institutions and customers, debt securities in issue and other loan liabilities are classified in this category.

If financial liabilities included in this category are the hedged item in a hedge relationship the accounting principles applied are those set out in note 1.6.

Derecognition

The Bank derecognizes a financial liability (or part thereof) when its contractual obligations are discharged or cancelled or expire.

The difference between the book value of a financial liability that has been repaid or transferred and the consideration paid is recognized in the financial results.

1.16 Employee benefits

The Bank has both defined benefit and defined contribution plans. A defined benefit plan is a pension plan that defines an amount of pension benefit that an employee will receive on retirement which is dependent, among others, on years of service and salary on date of retirement and it is guaranteed by the Bank.

A defined contribution plan is where the Bank pays fixed contributions into a separate entity.

The Bank has no legal or constructive obligation to pay further contributions if the fund does not have sufficient assets to pay all employees the benefits relating to employee service in current or prior years.

The liability recognized in the balance sheet in respect of defined benefit pension plans is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date less the fair value of plan assets together with adjustments for unrecognized actuarial gains or losses and past service costs.

The amount resulting from the above method may be negative i.e.an asset. The recognized asset is limited to the net total of:

  • a) of any unrecognized actuarial losses and past services costs; and
  • b) the present value of any future refunds of Bank's plan or reductions in future contributions to Bank's plan.

The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually based on actuarial valuation performed by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit method.

The present value of the defined benefit is determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows using interest rates of high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in which the benefits will be paid, and that have terms to maturity approximating to the terms of the related pension liability.

Cumulative actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes, and actuarial assumption variations to the extent that they exceed 10 per cent of the greater of the accrued obligation or the fair value of plan assets are amortized over the period equal to the average remaining working lives of the employees.

Past-service costs are recognized immediately in the income statement, unless the changes to the pension plan are conditional on the employees remaining in service for a specified period of time (the vesting period). In the second case, the past service costs are amortized on a straight line basis over the vesting period.

For defined contribution plans, the Bank pays contributions to publicly or privately administered pension insurance plans, to insurance companies and other funds on a mandatory or voluntary basis. The Bank has no further payment obligations once the contributions have been paid. The contributions are recognized as employee benefit expense on an accrual basis. Prepaid contributions are recognized as an asset to the extent that a cash refund or a reduction in the future payments is available.

1.17 Share options granted to employees

The Bank rewards the performance of its executives and managers by granting share options. The number of granted share options, the price and the exercise date are decided from the Board of Directors in accordance to Shareholders' Meeting approvals.

The fair value calculated at grant date, is recognized over the period from the grant date and exercise date and recorded as an expense in payroll and related costs with an increase of a reserve in equity respectively. The amount paid by the beneficiaries of share options on the exercise date increases the share capital of the Bank and the reserve in equity from previously recognized fair value of the exercised options is transferred to share premium.

1.18 Provisions

A provision is recognized if as a result of a past event, the Bank has a present legal or constructive obligation that can be estimated reliably, and it is probable an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation.

Provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows. The discount rate applied reflects current market assessments of the time value of money required to settle the obligation. Cash payments are recorded to provisions to the extent that they relate to the specific provision. At each reporting period provisions are re-assessed.

Provisions are not recognized for future operating losses.

Future events that may affect the amount required to settle the obligation, for which a provision has been recognized, are taken into account when sufficient objective evidence exists that they will occur.

Reimbursements from third parties relating to a portion of or all of the estimated cash outflow are recognized as assets, only when it is virtually certain that they will be received. The expense recognized in the profit or loss relating to the provision may be presented net of the amount of the reimbursement.

1.19 Sale and repurchase agreements and securities lending

The Bank enters into purchases of securities under agreements to resell at a certain date in the future at a fixed price. Securities purchased subject to commitments to resell them at future dates are not recognized as investments.

The amounts paid are recognized in loans and advances to either banks or customers. The difference between the purchase price and the resale price is recognized as interest on an accrual basis.

Securities that are sold under agreements to repurchase continue to be recognized in the balance sheet and are measured in accordance with accounting policy of the category that they have been classified and are presented as investments.

The proceeds from the sale of the securities are reported as liabilities to either banks or customers. The difference between the sales price and the repurchase price is recognized on an accrual basis as interest.

Securities borrowed under securities lending agreements are not recognized except when they have been sold to third parties whereby the liability to deliver the security is recognized and measured at fair value.

1.20 Securitization

The Bank securitized financial assets, by transferring these assets to special purpose entities, which in turn issue bonds.

In each securitization of financial assets the Bank considers, the contractual terms and the economic substance of transactions are considered, in order to decide whether the Bank should proceed with the derecognition of the securitized assets, as reffered in note 1.5.

1.21 Equity

Incremental costs of share capital increase

Incremental costs directly attributable to the issue of new shares are shown in equity as a deduction, net of tax, from the proceeds.

Share premium

The difference between the nominal value of the shares issued and their market value, in cases of the exchange of shares as consideration for the acquisition of a business by the Bank is recorded as share premium.

This also includes the difference between the nominal value of the shares and the cost consideration received in the case of a share capital increase.

Treasury shares

The cost of acquiring treasury shares is recognized as a reduction of equity. Subsequent gains or losses from the sale of treasury shares, after deducting all direct costs and taxes, is recognized directly in retained earnings.

Retained earnings

Dividends are deducted from retained earnings and recorded as a liability in the period that the dividend is approved by the shareholders in general meeting.

1.22 Interest income and expense

Interest income and expense is recognized in the income statement for all instruments measured at amortized cost.

The recognition of interest income and expense is performed on the accrual basis using the effective interest rate method.

The effective interest rate method is a method of calculating the amortized cost of a financial asset or a financial liability and of allocating the interest income or interest expense over the relevant period.

The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments or receipts through the expected life of the financial instrument or the next repricing date, in order the present value of the future cash flows to be equal to the carrying amount of the financial instrument including fees or transaction costs.

Interest on financial assets that are impaired is determined on the balance after the impairment provision using the effective interest rate.

Interest income and expense is also calculated for interest bearing financial instruments that are measured at fair value.

1.23 Fee and commission income

Fee and commission income are recognized on a accrual basis when the relevant service has been provided.

Transaction revenues relating to the recognition of a financial instrument which measured at amortized cost, such as loans and advances, are capitalized and recognized in the income statement using the effective interest method.

1.24 Comparatives

To the extent considered necessary the comparatives have been adjusted to facilitate changes in presentation of the current year amounts.

INCOME STATEMENT

2. Net interest income

Interest and similar income From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Due from banks 352,575 367,698
Due from customers 2,640,178 2,194,124
Securitized loans 74,635
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 7,325 10,377
Available-for-sale securities 360,300 220,564
Securities held for trading 46,021
Derivative financial instruments 636,023 313,538
Other 1,904 544
Total 4,118,961 3,106,845
Interest expense and similar charges
Due to banks (303,782) (199,028)
Due to customers (717,206) (424,464)
Debt securities in issue (1,026,605) (855,391)
Derivative financial instruments (622,728) (310,620)
Other (98,134) (89,684)
Total (2,768,455) (1,879,187)
Net interest income 1,350,506 1,227,658

3. Net fee and commission income

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Loans 61,092 60,149
Letters of guarantee 34,235 30,899
Imports – Exports 14,591 16,033
Credit Cards 75,142 49,900
Fund transfers 55,404 58,337
Mutual funds 33,484 47,141
Advisory fees and securities transactions fees 6,565 6,232
Other 36,563 53,228
Total 317,076 321,919

4. Dividend income

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Subsidiaries and associates 72,908 43,924
Available-for-sale securities 2,029 1,538
Total 74,937 45,462

5. Gains less losses on financial transactions

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Foreign exchange differences 19,660 43,634
Securities held for trading:
- Bonds (11,258) (1,290)
- Shares 3,030
Available-for-sale securities:
- Bonds 5,649 (135,907)
- Shares (31,150) 9,283
- Mutual funds (25,156) 9,172
Held-to-maturity investment:
- Bonds (1,680)
Investments 84,059 (1,408)
Derivative financial instruments (68,616) 29,060
Other financial instruments 7,908 1,593
Total (20,584) (42,833)

6. Other income

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Rental income 3,896 3,397
Sale of property, plant and equipment 7,360 16,770
Insurance indemnities 345 238
Secondment of personnel to group companies 2,110 2,445
Preparation of business plans and financial studies 2,197 6,237
Other 5,230 5,791
Total 21,138 34,878

7. Staff costs

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Wages and salaries 289,888 277,483
Social Security contributions 71,415 66,205
E.T.A.T. 20,417
Employee defined benefit obligation (note 29) (725) 11,198
Other 48,218 31,808
Total 429,213 386,694

The total employees of the Bank as at 31.12.2008 were 8,903 (31.12.2007: 7,963) of which 7,558 (31.12.2007: 6,960) are employed in Greece and 1.345 (31.12.2007: 733) are employed abroad.

Defined contribution plans

All the employees of the Bank receive their main pension from the Social Insurance Fund (IKA).

a) The supplementary pension plan for employees of the former Ionian and Popular Bank of Greece is TAPILTAT, a multiemployer plan. The Bank has obtained legal opinions that indicate that it has no obligation if the fund does not have sufficient assets to pay employee benefits. Therefore the Bank considers that the fund is a defined contribution plan and it is accounted for as such. The Bank has applied for membership in ETAT (Common Insurance Fund of Bank Employees) for it's employees who are insured in TAPILTAT (Pension Plan for employees of Ionian – Popular Bank and other Banks).

b) All employees of the Bank receive medical benefits from the Bank Employee and Companies Common Benefit Plan (TAYTEKO). This plan has been accounted for as a defined contribution plan.

Defined benefit plans

An analysis of liabilities arising from defined benefit plans are set out in note 29.

8. General administrative expenses

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Rent of buildings 35,208 27,407
Rent and maintenance of EDP equipment 19,858 17,295
EDP expenses 42,806 36,988
Marketing and advertisement expenses 38,256 35,434
Telecommunications and postage 30,466 23,963
Third party fees 29,825 23,105
Consultants fees 8,043 7,371
Contribution to Deposit Guarantee Fund 13,482 11,193
Insurance 5,781 6,740
Consumables 7,511 6,841
Electricity 6,871 5,480
Taxes (VAT, real estate etc) 41,885 35,487
Repairs of buildings and equipment 5,643 4,245
Cleaning fees 3,425 2,612
Security 8,694 7,075
Transportation 3,875 3,741
Agency fees 7,273 4,637
Other 53,509 78,876
Total 362,411 338,490

9. Impairment losses and provisions for credit risk

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Impairment losses on loans and advances to customers 548,662 172,264
Impairment loss of participation 5,100
Provisions to cover credit risk relating to off balance sheet items (41,729) 30,983
Recoveries (16,651) (8,660)
Total 495,382 194,587

The severe aggravation of credit turmoil during the third quarter of 2008 and its gradual transfer to real economy represents a significant indication of loan impairment.

Despite the fact that there are not as yet any signs that the credit turmoil has affected the repayment of loans, the Bank reassessed the potential impairment loss, which as a percentage of loans amounts for 2008 to 1.24% compared to 0.53% as of 2007.

10. Income tax

In accordance with Greek tax law the profits of entities in Greece are taxed at a rate of 25% for fiscal year 2007 and thereafter. According to Law 3697/08 the tax rate is reduced by one percent each year starting from 2010 until the rate reaches 20% in 2014 and thereafter.

In accordance with article 26 of Law 3634/2008 income tax is imposed for the fiscal year 2007, at the current tax rate (25%), on profits which previously were not subject to tax until distributed or capitalized (interest on Greek government bonds, gains from the sale of listed shares etc.). Only dividend income is not subject to tax since it has been already taxed at the corporate level for the fiscal years 2007 and 2008.

It should be noted, that in accordance with Law 3697/08, dividends approved by the general shareholders meetings after 1.1.2009 are subject to a withholding tax of 10% with no further tax obligation for the beneficiary.

The income tax expense is analysed as follows:

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Current tax 75,727 108,373
Deferred tax (14,562) 48,262
Total 61,165 156,635

Under the provisions of Law 3697/2008 concerning the gradual reduction of tax rates between the years 2010 to 2014, the Bank performed a recalculation of deferred taxes under the new tax rates. The effect was recorded in the financial statements.

Deferred tax recognized in the income statement is attributable to the following temporary differences:

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Depreciation and fixed asset write-offs 5,325 7,141
Fixed assets revaluation (870) -
Valuation of loans 71,142 (6,829)
Suspension of interest accruals 23,108 29,175
Loans impairment (48,439) 12,012
Employee defined benefit obligations 17,352 15,310
Liabilities to E.T.A.T. (Common Insurance Fund of Bank Employees) 11,716
Valuation of derivatives (86,335) (5,496)
Effective interest rate 14,757 4,534
Valuation of liabilities to credit institutions and other borrowed funds due to fair value hedge (10,120) 9,887
Valuation of investments in subsidiaries due to hedging 547 (2,976)
Valuation of securities (7,951)
Valuation of bonds (1,862) 1,838
Other temporary differences (2,932) (16,334)
Total (14,562) 48,262

The temporary differences attributable to the valuation of investments, bonds and other securities are due to the tax imposed according to Law 3634/2008.

Reconciliation of effective and nominal tax rate

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
% %
Profit before income tax 395,403 613,641
Income tax (nominal tax rate) 25 98,851 25 153,410
Increase/(decrease) due to:
Additional tax on income of fixed assets 0.09 339 0.03 183
Non taxable income (9.84) (38,881) (1.89) (11,572)
Non deductible expenses 2.86 11,297 1.12 6,894
Effect of tax rates used for deferred tax (0.53) (2,080)
Other temporary differences (2.11) (8,361) 1.27 7,720
Income tax
(effective tax rate) 15.47 61,165 25.53 156,635

11. Earnings per share

a. Basic

Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing the profit after tax for the period by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding, after deducting the weighted average number of treasury shares held, during the period.

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Profit attributable to shareholders 334,238 457,006
Weighted average number of outstanding ordinary shares 405,624,439 405,512,713
Basic earnings per share (in €) 0.82 1.13

b. Diluted

Diluted earnings per share is calculated by adjusting the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding to assume conversion of all dilutive potential ordinary shares.

The Bank had a single category of dilutive potential ordinary shares resulting from a share options program granted to executives and managers of the Bank exercised during 2007.

For the share options, a calculation is performed to determine the number of shares that could have been acquired at fair value (determined as the average market share price of the Bank's shares for the period) based on the monetary value of the subscription rights attached to outstanding share options. Upon the issuance of new ordinary shares resulting from share options exercise, the shares are included in the calculation of basic and dilutive earnings per share.

The weighted average number of shares calculated as above is compared with the number of shares that would have been issued assuming the exercise of the share options.

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Profit attributable to shareholders 334,238 457,006
Weighted average number of outstanding ordinary shares 405,624,439 405,512,713
Adjustment for share options 727,195
Weighted average number of outstanding ordinary shares for diluted earnings per share 405,624,439 406,239,908
Diluted earnings per share (in €) 0.82 1.12

ASSETS

12. Cash and balances with Central Banks

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Cash 329,269 324,234
Cheques receivable 88,672 52,546
Balances with Central Banks 1,306,140 1,273,547
Total 1,724,081 1,650,327
Less: Deposits pledged with Central Banks (703,202) (564,505)
Balance 1,020,879 1,085,822

The Bank is required to maintain a current account with the Bank of Greece (Central Bank) in order to facilitate interbank transactions with the Central Bank and other financial institutions through the Trans European – Automated Real Time Gross Settlement Express Transfer System (TARGET).

The Bank of Greece also requires, that all financial institutions established in Greece maintain reserve deposits with the Central Bank equal to 2% of customer deposits.

These deposits bear interest at the refinancing rate as set by the European Central Bank which as at 31.12.2008 was 2.50% (31.12.2007: 4.18%).

Cash and cash equivalents (as presented for the purposes of the cash flow statement)

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Cash and balances with Central Banks 1,020,879 1,085,822
Sale and repurchase agreements (Reverse Repos) 483,851
Short-term placements with other banks 3,034,394 3,271,106
Total 4,539,124 4,356,928
13. Due from banks
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Placements with other banks 7,550,750 6,679,979
Sale and repurchase agreements (Reverse Repos) 483,851
Loans to financial institutions 386,192 669,696
Total 8,420,793 7,349,675

14. Securities held for trading

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Government bonds 73,936 236,340
Other debt securities:
- Listed 12,511 28,178
- Non-listed 433 270
Total 86,880 264,788

15. Derivative financial instruments (assets and liabilities)

31 December 2008
Contract nominal Fair value
amount Assets Liabilities
Derivatives held for trading
a. Foreign exchange derivatives
Currency forwards 2,419,581 101,913 97,976
Currency swaps 3,755,931 56,891 92,592
Cross currency swaps 380,931 54,369 7,850
Currency options 151,341 2,246 2,207
Currency options embedded in customer products 4,083 59
Total non-listed 6,711,867 215,478 200,625
b. Interest rate derivatives
Interest rate swaps 15,069,590 210,508 264,991
Interest rate options (caps) 810,214 4,057 3,268
Total non-listed 15,879,804 214,565 268,259
Options 20,000 30
Total listed
c. Commodity derivatives
20,000 30
Commodity swaps 5,078 2,942 2,933
Total non-listed 5,078 2,942 2,933
d. Index derivatives
Otc options 10,000 423
Total non-listed 10,000 423
Futures 595 9
Listed options 6,284 34
Total listed 6,879 43
e. Credit derivatives
Credit default swaps embedded in debt securities 304,445 45,521
Total non-listed 304,445 45,521
Derivatives for hedging
a. Foreign exchange derivatives
Currency swaps 89,522 5,882 1,696
Cross currency swaps 237,831 21,865
Total non-listed 327,353 27,747 1,696
b. Interest rate derivatives
Interest rate swaps 3,124,810 24,616 285,138
Total non-listed 3,124,810 24,616 285,138
c. Index derivatives
Index swaps 30,998 8,542
Total non-listed 30,998 8,542
Grand total 26,421,234 494,386 804,172

31 December 2007

Fair value
Contract nominal
amount
Assets Liabilities
Derivatives held for trading
a. Foreign exchange derivatives
Currency forwards 1,149,379 12,635 9,563
Currency swaps 3,148,553 40,986 43,648
Cross currency swaps 555,968 63,655 40,104
Currency options 175,822 3,438 3,261
Currency options embedded in customer products 631 1
Total non-listed 5,030,353 120,715 96,576
b. Interest rate derivatives
Interest rate swaps 8,262,962 161,194 136,648
Interest rate options (caps) 616,963 2,233 1,388
Total non-listed 8,879,925 163,427 138,036
Futures 354,305 99 28
Options 6,300 32
Total listed 360,605 131 28
c. Commodity derivatives
Commodity swaps 14,410 138 124
Total non-listed 14,410 138 124
d. Index derivatives
Futures 202 1
Options 383 4
Total listed 585 4 1
Derivatives for hedging
a. Foreign exchange derivatives
Currency swaps 95,849 7,935
Cross currency swaps 181,895 46,258
Total non-listed 277,744 7,935 46,258
b. Interest rate derivatives
Interest rate swaps 4,083,070 92,116 102,106
Total non-listed 4,083,070 92,116 102,106
Grand Total 18,646,692 384,466 383,129

16. Loans and advances to customers

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Individuals:
Mortgages:
- Non-Securitized 8,461,267 9,741,095
- Securitized 2,715,262
Consumer:
- Non-Securitized 2,109,934 2,922,529
- Securitized 1,485,842
Credit cards 1,229,778 1,046,941
Other 96,770 100,031
Total 16,098,853 13,810,596
Companies:
Corporate loans (1) 26,615,726 21,900,097
Other receivables 488,845 166,342
43,203,424 35,877,035
Less:
Allowance for impairment losses (2)
(1,014,146) (609,161)
Total 42,189,278 35,267,874
Allowance for impairment losses
Balance 1.1.2007 739,327
Foreign exchange differences (163)
Impairment losses for the period (note 9) 172,264
Change in present value of impairment reserve 38,700
Loans written-off during the period (340,967)
Balance 31.12.2007 609,161
Foreign exchange differences 18
Impairment losses for the period (note 9) 548,662
Change in present value of impairment reserve 50,241
Loans written-off during the period (193,936)

Balance 31.12.2008 1,014,146

The Bank securitized mortgage and consumer loans through special purpose entities. The Bank retains all risks of these loans as it has issued a guarantee to the holders of the bonds issued in the securitization.

(1) In accordance with amendments to IAS 39, the Bank reclassified securities of €16.8 million from the available-for-sale portfolio to the loans portfolio. These securities are not traded in an active market and the Bank has the intention to hold them in the foreseeable future. The above securities are included in corporate loans and are impaired by € 13.4 million.

(2) In addition to the allowance for impairment losses, an additional provision of € 4,200 (31.12.2007: €45,929) has been recorded to cover credit risk relating to off-balance sheet items (note 31). The total provision recorded to cover credit risk amounts to €1,018,346 (31.12.2007: €655,090).

17. Investment securities

a. Available-for-sale

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Government bonds 239,757 1,856,217
Other debt securities:
- Listed 5,530,410 4,310,379
- Non-listed 195,062 34,269
Shares:
- Listed 37,920 62,672
- Non-listed 4,408 6,172
Other variable yield securities 26,340 30,668
Total 6,033,897 6,300,377
b. Held to maturity
31.12.2008
Cost Fair value
Government bonds 1,805,579 1,697,446
Other debt securities
- Listed 2,558,601 2,144,857
- Non listed 124,529 121,637
Total 4,488,709 3,963,940

The held-to-maturity portfolio includes bonds amounting to €1.1 billion, which up to 30.6.2008 were classified as "Available-forsale".

The reclassification of these bonds was performed at their fair value as at 30.6.2008, which became their new amortized cost on the basis of which the effective interest rate method was used to allocate the interest income thereafter. At that date the fair value of these bonds was €63.3 million less than their carrying amount. This difference, already recognized in equity, will be amortized to interest income over the remaining period to maturity of the bonds.

Had the above mentioned bonds not been reclassified from the available-for-sale portfolio, their fair value would have been lower than the carrying amount by an additional amount of €217 million.

18. Investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures

From 1 Jnauary to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Subsidiaries
Opening balance 1,625,309 1,587,804
Additions (1) 231,114 52,634
Disposals (2) (116,067) (1,117)
Valuation of investments due to fair value hedge (3) (239) (14,012)
Closing balance 1,740,117 1,625,309
Associates
Opening balance 74 5,624
Additions 20
Disposals (5,570)
Closing balance 74 74
Joint Ventures
Opening balance 717 122
Additions (4) 10,008 615
Disposals (14) (20)
Closing balance 10,711 717
Grand Total 1,750,902 1,626,100

Additions represent: Share purchases, participation in share capital increases and acquisitions of shares from mergers.

Disposals represent: Sales of shares, return of capital, proceeds arising from the liquidiation of companies, contributions in kind and impairments.

  • (1) The following amounts are included:
  • a. Share capital increases
  • € 126,342 due to Astra Bank OJSC
  • € 49,770 due to Alpha Bank Srbija A.D.
  • € 19,918 due to Alpha Bank Romania S.A.
  • € 7,300 due to Ionian Equity Participations Ltd
  • b. Shares purchase
  • € 13,058 of Astra Bank OJSC
  • € 4,741 of Alpha Astika Akinita A.E.
  • € 3,878 of Ionian Hotel Enterprises
  • (2) Mainly concerns the sale in the Bank's subsidiary Alpha Group Investment Ltd:
  • € 48.495 of Alpha Astika Akinita A.E.
  • € 62.397 of Ionian Hotel Enterprises
  • (3) The Bank uses FX Swaps and money market loans to hedge the foreign exchange risk of its investments in Alpha Bank London Ltd, Alpha Bank Romania S.A.and Alpha Finance U.S. Corporation.
  • (4) The following amounts are included:
  • a. Share capital increases
  • € 3,827 A.P.E. Commercial Property A.E.
  • € 3,005 A.P.E. Fixed Assets A.E.
  • b. Shares purchase
  • € 3,060 of Mutual Fund Alpha-TANEO A.K.E.S.
  • € 116 of A.P.E. Commercial Property A.E.

Subsidiary financial information

Α. SUBSIDIARIES

Balance 1.1 - 31.12.2008 1.1 - 31.12.2008
Company Country of
incorporation
Profit/ (loss) Bank's
Ownership
Assets Equity Liabilities Turnover before taxes interest %
Banks
1. Alpha Bank London Ltd
United Kingdom 681,008 68,729 612,279 42,732 2,031 100.00
2. Alpha Bank Cyprus Ltd Cyrpus
3. Alpha Bank Romania S.A. Romania 6,921,357 407,925 6,513,432 369,506 102,144 100.00
4. Alpha Bank AD Skopje 4,340,320 262,931 4,077,389 520,960 43,068 99.44
FYROM 191,445 25,800 165,645 13,490 (1,792) 100.00
5. Alpha Bank Srbija A.D. Serbia 648,828 167,990 480,838 566,234 9,993 100.00
6. Astra Bank OJSC
Leasing companies
Ukraine 143,840 94,589 49,251 13,650 1,743 93.33
1. Alpha Leasing A.E. Greece 1,275,915 286,083 989,832 88,537 21,080 100.00
2. Alpha Leasing Romania S.A. Romania 138,703 12,400 126,303 36,064 249 62.94
3. ABC Factors A.E. Greece 545,646 77,659 467,987 37,576 12,040 100.00
Investment Banking
1. Alpha Finance A.E.Π.Ε.Υ.
Greece 80,628 55,734 24,894 43,158 15,408 99.62
2. Alpha Finance US Corporation USA 1,208 1,101 107 629 (445) 100.00
3. Alpha Finance Romania S.A. Romania 3,092 1,023 2,069 1,287 (396) 45.68
4. Alpha Ventures A.E. Greece 27,903 27,490 413 1,931 1,026 99.42
Asset Management
1. Alpha Asset Management Α.Ε.D.Α.Κ.
2. Alpha Private Investment Services Greece 41,201 36,264 4,937 46,268 10,648 85.21
A.E.P.E.Y. Greece 11,760 9,916 1,844 7,812 (1,724) 99.00
Insurance
1. Alpha Insurance Agents A.E. Greece 8,767 7,723 1,044 9,261 9,174 100.00
2. Alpha Insurance Cyprus Ltd Cyprus 52,699 10,083 42,616 31,473 2,349 17.95
3. ALPHALIFE A.A.E.Z. Greece 5,996 5,992 4 89 (10) 99.90
Special purpose and holding entities
1. Alpha Credit Group Plc United Kingdom 17,462,851 18,834 17,444,017 1,032,386 23,733 100.00
2. Alpha Group Jersey Ltd Jersey 1,064,379 381 1,063,998 65,572 196 100.00
3. Alpha Group Investment Ltd Cyprus 272,478 272,018 460 11,023 10,995 100.00
4. Ionian Holdings Α.Ε. Greece 362,793 361,364 1,429 16,734 16,639 100.00
5. Messana Holdings S.A. Luxembourg 68 62 6 19 3 99.00
6. Ionian Equity Participations Ltd Cyprus 31,003 27,612 3,391 80 56 100.00
7. Alpha Covered Bonds Plc United Kingdom 17 17 100.00
Other companies
1. Oceanos Α.Τ.Ο.Ε.Ε. Greece 19,919 19,503 416 1,603 1,102 100.00
2. Evremethea Α.Ε. Greece 1,212 303 909 32 (58) 100.00
7. Kafe Alpha Α.Ε. Greece 235 146 89 264 37 99.00
8. Ionian Supporting Services Α.Ε. Greece 34,462 (2,914) 37,376 (4,075) 99.00
B. ASSOCIATES
1. EVISAK Α.Ε. Greece 3,345 27.00
2. AEDEP Thessalias and Stereas Ellados Greece 147 50.00
C. JOINT VENTURES
1. Cardlink A.E Greece 500 160 340 970 (132) 50.00
2. APE Fixed Assets A.E. Greece 45,844 311 45,532 2 (2,512) 60.10
3. APE Commercial Property A.E. Greece 71,212 154 71,058 24 (3,501) 72.20
4. APE Investment Property S.A.
Greece 252,367 (4,804) 257,171 24,110 (8,828) 67.42
5. Alpha TANEO A.K.E.S. Greece 5,410 5,396 14 149 (604) 51.00

19. Investment property

Land and Buildings
Balance 1.1.2007
Cost 48,449
Accumulated depreciation (6,443)
Net book value 1.1.2007 42,006
1.1.2007 – 31.12.2007
Net book value 1.1.2007 42,006
Additions 770
Depreciation charge for the period (406)
Net book value 31.12.2007 42,370
Balance 31.12.2007
Cost 49,219
Accumulated depreciation (6,849)
1.1.2008 - 31.12.2008
Net book value 1.1.2008 42,370
Additions 519
Reclassification to "Property, plant and equipment" (274)
a) Cost (425)
b) Accumulated depreciation 151
Depreciation charge for the period (420)
Net book value 31.12.2008
Balance 31.12.2008
42,195
Cost 49,313
Accumulated depreciation (7,118)

The fair value of investment property, as determined by Alpha Astika Akinita A.E. at 31.12.2008 was €43.592.

20. Property, plant and equipment

Land and Leased
Buildings equipment Equipment Total
Balance την 1.1.2007
Cost 663,951 1,142 269,300 934,393
Accumulated depreciation (166,618) (942) (222,197) (389,757)
Net book value 1.1.2007 497,333 200 47,103 544,636
1.1.2007 - 31.12.2007
Net book value 1.1.2007 497,333 200 47,103 544,636
Additions 32,462 21,926 54,388
Foreign exchange differences 42 12 54
a) Cost 62 40 102
b) Αccumulated depreciation (20) (28) (48)
Disposals (4,592) (111) (4,703)
a) Cost (7,517) (1,551) (9,068)
b) Αccumulated depreciation 2,925 1,440 4,365
Reclassification from "Non-current assets held for sale" (1) 42,405 42,405
a) Cost 43,298 43,298
b) Αccumulated depreciation (893) (893)
Depreciation charge for the period (15,640) (120) (17,189) (32,949)
Net book value 31.12.2007 552,010 80 51,741 603,831
Balance 31.12.2007
Cost 732,256 1,142 289,715 1,023,113
Accumulated depreciation (180,246) (1,062) (237,974) (419,282)
1.1.2008 - 31.12.2008
Net book value 1.1.2008 552,010 80 51,741 603,831
Additions 49,677 31,339 81,016
Foreign exchange differences (49) (23) (72)
a) Cost (73) (61) (134)
b) Accumulated depreciation 24 38 62
Disposals (220) (401) (621)
a) Cost (770) (3,282) (4,052)
b) Accumulated depreciation 550 2,881 3,431
Reclassification from "Investment property " 281 281
a) Cost 433 433
b) Accumulated depreciation (152) (152)
Reclassification (60) 50 (10)
a) Cost (1,142) 1,132 (10)
b) Accumulated depreciation 1,082 (1,082)
Depreciation charge for the period (15,163) (20) (19,790) (34,973)
Net book value 31.12.2008 586,536 62,916 649,452
Balance 31.12.2008
Cost 781,523 318,843 1,100,366
Accumulated depreciation (194,987) (255,927) (450,914)

The value of land and buildings as of 31.12.2008 amounted to € 514,276. The fair value of these assets as determined by Alpha Astika Akinita A.E. at 31-12-2008 was €546.375.

(1) During 2007 property, plant and equipment amounting to € 42.4 million was reclassified from «Non-current assets held for sale» due to Bank's decision for own use. The depreciation for the respective period that the specific Property, plant and equipment was classified as "Non-current assets held for sale" amounts to € 2.2 million and it was charged to the profit and loss account in 2007.

21. Goodwill and other intangible assets

Software Banking righs Total
Balance 1.1.2007
Cost 126,671 126,671
Accumulated amortization (84,567) (84,567)
Net book value 1.1.2007 42,104 42,104
1.1.2007 – 31.12.2007
Net book value 1.1.2007 42,104 42,104
Additions (1) 30,385 1,785 32,170
Foreign exchange differences 11 11
a) Cost 11 11
b) Accumulated amortization
Disposals (618) (618)
a) Cost (618) (618)
b) Accumulated amortization
Amortization charge for the period (17,801) (30) (17,831)
Net book value 31.12.2007 54,081 1,755 55,836
Balance 31.12.2007
Cost 156,449 1,785 158,234
Accumulated amortization (102,368) (30) (102,398)
1.1.2008 - 31.12.2008
Net book value 1.1.2008 54,081 1,755 55,836
Additions 35,172 35,172
Foreign exchange differences (13) (13)
a) Cost (21) (21)
b) Accumulated amortization 8 8
Disposals (73) (73)
a) Cost (178) (178)
b) Accumulated amortization 105 105
Amortization charge for the period (21,842) (357) (22,199)
Net book value 31.12.2008 67,325 1,398 68,723
Balance 31.12.2008
Cost 191,422 1,785 193,207
Accumulated amortization (124,097) (387) (124,484)

(1) The amount of € 1,785 concerns the purchase of a brand name as well as other banking rights amortized over 5 years period of time.

22. Deferred tax assets and liabilities

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Deferred tax assets 316,069 158,160
Deferred tax liabilities (158,212) (82,960)
Total 157,857 75,200

Deferred tax assets and liabilities arise from:

1.1.2008 - 31.12.2008

Recognized in

Balance Balance
1.1.2008 Income statement Equity 31.12.2008
Depreciation 8,555 (5,325) 3,230
Revaluation of fixed assets 870 870
Valuation of loans 18,535 (71,142) (52,607)
Suspension of interest accruals (53,459) (23,108) (76,567)
Impairment of loans (4,707) 48,439 43,732
Valuation of derivative financial instruments (695) 86,335 85,640
Other provisions 17,378 5,072 22,450
Other receivables (3,204) (2,140) (5,344)
Effective interest rate (1,385) (14,757) (16,142)
Employee defined benefit obligations 110,716 (17,352) 93,364
Liabilities to Common Insurance Fund of Bank
Employees (ETAT) (11,716) (11,716)
Valuation of liabilities to credit institutions and
other borrowed funds due to fair value hedge (17,672) 10,120 (7,552)
Valuation of investments due to hedge 2,976 (547) 2,429
Valuation of shares 7,951 5,252 13,203
Valuation of bonds (1,838) 1,862 62,843 62,867
Total 75,200 14,562 68,095 157,857

1.1.2007 - 31.12.2007 Recognized in

Balance Balance
1.1.2007 Income statement Equity 31.12.2007
Depreciation 15,696 (7,141) 8,555
Valuation of loans 11,706 6,829 18,535
Suspension of interest accruals (24,284) (29,175) (53,459)
Impairment of loans 7,305 (12,012) (4,707)
Valuation of derivative financial instruments (6,191) 5,496 (695)
Other provisions 590 16,788 17,378
Other receivables (2,750) (454) (3,204)
Effective interest rate 3,149 (4,534) (1,385)
Employee defined benefit obligations 126,026 (15,310) 110,716
Valuation of liabilities to credit institutions and other
borrowed funds due to fair value hedge (7,785) (9,887) (17,672)
Valuation of investments due to hedge 2,976 2,976
Valuation of bonds (1,838) (1,838)
Total 123,462 (48,262) 75,200

23. Other assets

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Prepaid expenses 8,441 11,669
Accrued income 7,665 3,845
Tax advances and withholding taxes 181,235 161,558
Employee advances 7,618 7,431
Receivables from employee defined benefit plan (note 29) 47,311 49,189
Additional contribution to TEK (Law 3714/2008) 52,290
Other 114,966 46,934
Total 419,526 280,626

In accordance with article 6 of Law 3714/7.11.2008 the amount of deposits guaranteed by the deposit guarantee fund, increased from € 20,000 to € 100,000 per depositor. The contribution paid by banks to deposit guarantee fund also increased.

Thus, the banks have made additional contributions for 2008. The Law concerning the "Deposits Guarantee Fund and Investment (TEKE)" provides that the difference between the regular annual contribution of credit institutions resulting from the application of article 6 of Law 3714/2008 will be included in a special assets group whose elements are jointly included in the proportion of each participant in the credit institutions.

24. Non-current assets held for sale

As at 31.12.2008 "Non-current assets held for sale" amounts to € 53,283 (31.12.2007: € 54,706) and include land and buildings amounting to €53,077 (31.12.2007: € 54,161) and office equipment amounting to € 206 (31.12.2007: € 545).

The fair value of "Non-current assets held for sale" as at 31.12.2008 as determined by Alpha Astika Akinita was € 64,319.

LIABILITIES

25. Due to banks

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Deposits:
- Current accounts 400,433 40,090
-Term deposits
European Central Bank 5,183,611 96,314
Other credit institutions 3,285,691 3,308,628
Sale and repurchase agreements (Repos) 1,063,730 1,923,548
Borrowings 950,504 268,982
Total 10,883,969 5,637,562

26. Due to customers

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Deposits:
- Current accounts 5,348,640 5,734,927
- Savings accounts 7,900,871 9,122,487
- Term deposits:
Synthetic Swaps 1,103,037 724,038
Other 19,247,515 7,469,973
Sale and repurchase agreements (Repos) 60,742 113,174
33,660,805 23,164,599
Cheques payable 155,289 170,289
Total 33,816,094 23,334,888

27. Debt securities in issue and other borrowed funds

Short term securities (ECP) (1)

Balance 1.1.2008 -
Changes for the period 1.1 – 31.12.2008
New issues 2,605,910
Maturities/Redemptions (2,409,223)
Accrued interest 24,193
Foreign exchange differences 27,492
Balance 31.12.2008 248,372
Senior debt securities
Balance 1.1.2008 18,187,633
Changes for the period 1.1 – 31.12.2008
New issues (2) 4,945,354
Maturities/Redemptions (8,083,035)
Fair value change due to hedging 28,545
Accrued interest (8,925)
Foreign exchange differences 27,470
Balance 31.12.2008 15,097,042
Subordinated debt
Balance 1.1.2008 1,412,431
Changes for the period 1.1 – 31.12.2008
Maturities/Redemptions (3) (350,000)
Fair value change due to hedging 11,931
Accrued interest (2,562)
Foreign exchange differences 56,492
Balance 31.12.2008 1,128,292
Hybrid securities
Balance 1.1.2008 921,912
Changes for the period 1.1 – 31.12.2008
Accrued interest 28
Balance 31.12.2008 921,940
Total 17,395,646

On 18 July 2008 the issuance of two covered bonds was performed by Alpha Covered Bonds Plc, a subsidiary of the Bank, in accordance with article 91 of Law 3601/2007 and P.D./BOG 2598/2-11-2007. Each covered bond issue amounts to € 1 billion, and has a three and five year duration respectively. The bonds are guaranteed by the Bank and they are collateralized with the above loans. The bonds received a AAA rating from three international credit rating agencies (Standard & Poor's, Moody's, and Fitch).

(1) The Bank raises short term liquidity, through a Euro Commercial paper program amounting to total € 5 billion. Under this program commercial paper may be issued at a discount or may bear floating, fixed or index linked interest with 1 to 364 days duration. The commercial paper can be issued in Euro, US Dollar, GB pound, Swiss Franc, Japanese Yen, Australian Dollar, Canadian Dollar and any other currency that will be agreed by the counterparties.

Issues in Euro pay an average spread of 9 to 35 basis points over Euribor of the respective period.

The issues in US Dollars were set on from 14 to 42 basis points over Libor of the respective period.

The issues in YEN were set on from 20 to 25 basis points over Libor of the respective period

(2) The new senior debt issues amounting to € 4,609 pay a Euribor floating rate, with a spread from 12 up to 125 basis points, depending on the duration of issue. Additionally, new senior debt issues amounting to € 555 million, an embedded put option for the investor exists which bears Euribor plus variable spread. If the investor does not exercise the option, the spread may increase to a maximum between 40 and 120 basis points.

(3) On 19 February 2008, five years after issuance, the Bank redeemed a 10 year subordinated debt amounting to € 100 million.

On 10 July 2008, five years after issuance, the Bank redeemed a 10 year subordinated debt amounting to € 100 million.

On 24 November 2008, five years after issuance, the Bank redeemed a 10 year subordinated debt amounting to € 100 million.

To date these issues have been retained by the Bank and pledged as collateral for monetary policy purposes with the Bank of Greece. In the future they may also be sold to investors.

The liability from the securitization of mortgage loans is not presented in "debt securities in issue and other borrowed funds", since these securities, issued by the Bank's subsidiary Alpha Covered Bonds Plc, are held by the Bank.

On 9 December 2008, the issuance of the bond loans, through the Bank's Subsidiary Katanalotika Plc was completed. The bonds are collaterized with personal, consumer and car loans of the Bank. The bonds rated as Aa2 by the credit rating agency Moody's have been retained by the Bank and pledge as collateral for refinancing purposes with the Bank of Greece.

The € 1.45 billion liability due to the securitization of consumer loans is not presented in "debt securities in issue and other borrowed funds" since these securities, issued by the Bank's subsidiary, are held by the Bank.

28. Liabilities for current income tax and other taxes

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
71,616 104,266
26,239 23,597
97,855 127,863

29. Employee defined benefit obligations

The total amounts recognized in the financial statements for employee defined benefit obligations are presented in the table below:

Balance sheet Balance sheet
31.12.2008 Income statement 31.12.2007 Income statement
Liability/ 1.1.-31.12.2008 Liability/ 1.1.-31.12.2007
(Asset) Expense/(Income) (Asset) Expense/(Income)
TAP – Supplementary pension (1,199)
TAP – Lump sum benefit (47,311) 3,008 (49,189) 4,203
Total (47,311) 3,008 (49,189) 3,004
TAPILT - (3,733) 3,733 8,194
Total (725) 11,198

Balance sheet and income statements amounts are analysed as follows:

a) Supplementary Pension Fund (TAP) of former Alpha Credit Bank Employees

After TAP was absorded by the Common Insurance Fund of Bank Employees for the supplementary pension (Article 10, Law 3620/2007), TAP obligation is restricted to paying a lump-sum benefit to retiring employees, which is guaranteed by the Bank. Amounts included in balance sheet are as follows:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Present value of defined benefit obligations 128,895 127,035
Fair value of plan assets (156,268) (162,031)
Deficit / (surplus) (27,373) (34,996)
Unrecognized actuarial losses (19,938) (14,193)
Recievable in balance sheet (47,311) (49,189)

The amounts recognized in income statement are as follows:

From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Current service cost 4,751 5,484
Interest cost 6,391 5,342
Expected return on plan assets (8,134) (6,623)
Total (included in staff cost) 3,008 4,203
The movement in present value of liability as follows:
2008 2007
Opening balance 127,035 121,463
Current service cost 4,751 5,484
Interest cost 6,391 5,342
Employee contributions 1,396 1,032
Benefits paid (6,912) (8,466)
Contributions paid directly by the Bank (1,130) (1,357)
Expenses (5) (68)
Actuarial losses/(gains) (2,631) 3,605
Closing balance 128,895 127,035
The movement in fair value of plan assets is as follows:
2008 2007
Opening balance 162,031 165,051
Expected return 8,134 6,623
Bank contribution - -
Employee contribution 1,396 1,032
Benefits paid (6,912) (8,466)
Expenses (5) (68)
Actuarial losses (8,376) (2,141)
Closing balance 156,268 162,031

The plan assets include deposits with Alpha Bank of € 36.7 million, receivables from Alpha Bank of € 31.1 million, bonds issued, Alpha Credit Group plc of € 82.6 million and Alpha Bank shares of € 3.2 million.

Balance at 1.1.2007
Accrued expense
Benefits paid
Contributions paid directly from the Bank
Balance at 31.12.2007
Balance at 1.1.2008
Accrued expense
Benefits paid
Contributions paid directly from the Bank
Balance at 31.12.2008
The movement in the receivable is as follows:
(52,035)
4,203
-
(1,357)
(49,189)
(49,189)
3,008
-
(1,130)
(47,311)

The actuarial assumptions used are as follows:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Discount rate 5.8% 5.5%
Expected return on plan assets 5.0% 5.0%
Future salary increases 3.5% 3.5%

ii. Ionian and Popular Bank Insurance Fund (TAPILT – welfare sector)

Ionian and Popular Bank Insurance Fund (TAPILT – Welfare Sector) is responsible for the payment of a lump sum to retired employees of the former Ionian Bank.

In accordance with article 70 of Law 3655/2008 passed on 31.3.2008 a public sector entity was established "Bank employee and Companies Common Benefit Plan (TAYTEKO)" to provide supplementary insurance, lump sum benefits and health insurance. This insurance fund includes the welfare sector of TAPILT among other funds. For this fund the Bank had applied defined benefit plan accounting as it considered that it had a constructive liability.

The liability was written off due to the adoption of the above law and the incorporation of TAPILT's welfare sector to TAYTEKO from 1.10.2008.

The amounts recognized in balance sheet are as follows:

31.12.2007
Defined benefit obligation 74,737
Fair value of plan assets (64,006)
Deficit/(surplus) 10,731
Unrecognised actuarial losses (6,998)
Liability (receivable) in Balance Sheet 3,733
The amounts recognized in income statement are as follows:
31.12.2007
Current service cost 255
Interest cost 2,744
Expected return on plan assets of fund (2,508)
Actuarial losses recognized during the period 28
Past service cost 7,675
Total (included in staff costs) 8,194
Movement in present value of liability during 2007 is analyzed as follows:
2007
Opening balance 63,458
Current service cost 255
Interest cost 2,744
Employee contributions 3,061
Benefits paid (3,096)
Expenses (85)
Past service cost 7,675
Actuarial losses 725
Closing balance 74,737

Movement in fair value of plan assets during 2007 is analyzed as follows:

2007
Opening balance 61,202
Expected return 2,508
Employee contributions 3,061
Benefits paid (3,096)
Expenses (85)
Actuarial profits (losses) 416
Closing balance 64,006
The movement of liability is as follows:
Balance 1.1.2007 (4.461)
Accrued expense 8,194
Balance 31.12.2007 3,733
Balance 1.1.2008 3,733
Accrued expense (66)
Income from liability write off (3,667)

Balance 31.12.2008

The principal actuarial assumptions used are the following:

31.12.2007
Discount rate 5.5%
Expected return on plan assets 5.0%
Future salary increases 3.5%

30. Other liabilities

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Suppliers 48,717 38,234
Deferred income 3,846 3,752
Accrued expenses 72,278 41,183
Liabilities to third parties 225,371 237,444
Liabilities to E.T.A.T. (1) 518,400 565,263
Liabilities from credit cards 228,789 226,982
Other 107,061 46,154
Total 1,204,462 1,159,012
31. Provisions
Balance 1.1.2007 17,901
Changes for the period 1.1 – 31.12.2007
Provisions used during the period (443)
Other provisions charged to profit and loss 2,791
Reversal of provisions to cover credit risk relating to off-balance sheet items (note 9) (41,729)
Changes for the period 1.1 – 31.12.2008
Balance 31.12.2007 47,796
Provisions used during the period (10)
Reversal of provisions (1,078)
Provisions to cover credit risk relating to off-balance sheet items (note 9) 30,983

The amount of other provisions charged to profit and loss is included in "other expenses" of the income statement.

(1) In accordance with article 10 of Law 3620/2007 and the fact that employees and pensioners of T.A.P. jointed E.T.A.P. from 1.1.2008 (note 29), the charge to the Bank is € 543 million payable in 10 equally annual installments. In 31.12.2007 balance the above amount and the interest charged for 2007 are included, while the 31.12.2008 balance is set from the payment of the annual installment and the interest of the current year.

EQUITY

32. Share capital

Paid-in
Number of shares share capital
Opening balance 1 January 2007 408,022,002 1,591,286
Exercise of share options 2,954,650 11,523
Balance 31 December 2007 410,976,652 1,602,809
Share capital increase through the capitalization of the share premium reserve of
€ 184,033 and part of taxed retained earnings of € 144,748, with an increase of the
nominal value of each share from € 3.90 to € 4.70. (Decision of General Meeting on
3.4.2008) 328,781
Balance 31 December 2008 410,976,652 1,931,590
Each share has a single voting right in the shareholders meetings.
33. Share premium
Opening Balance ( 1 January 2007) 127,961
Difference of exercised share options 56,072

Balance 31 December 2007 184,033 Capitalization(note 32) (184,033)

Balance 31 December 2008

34. Reserves

Reserves are analyzed as follows:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Statutory reserve 382,280 336,180
Available-for-sale reserve (216,432) (2,288)
Total 165,848 333,892

According to the Bank's articles of association (article 26) as amended in May 2008, the Bank is required to transfer 5% of its annual net profit to the statutory reserve, until the reserve amounts to 50% of share capital. This reserve can only be used to offset losses according to article 44 of Law 2190/1920.

35. Retained earnings

a. Included in retained earnings are gains for the sale of listed shares and other non-taxable income or special taxable income that is not subject to tax and will not be distributed.

The reserves which were formed by 31 December 2005, have been taxed.

The reserves which were formed during 2007 and thereafter are subject to tax at the rate applicable to the Bank (Law 3634/2008).

The reserves which have been subject to tax may be distributed or capitalized without any further tax liability.

b. According to the article 3 paragraph 1 of Law 148/1967 entities are obliged to distribute each year dividends, unless decided otherwise by the Shareholders in general meeting, a minimum amount equal to 35% of the annual profits after the deduction of the statutory reserve appropriation and the gain from the sale of shares. The net profit arising from the valuation of financial instruments to fair value after deducting losses for the same reason is not included in the calculation of the dividend as defined by the relevant legislation.

According to paragraph 3 of article 1 of Law 3723/2008 relating to strength of liquidity in order to deal with the challenges of the credit crunch, the dividend distribution cannot exceed 35% as determined in the above law.

The ordinary General Shareholders' Meeting held on 3 April 2008, approved the distribution of a dividend for 2007 of € 0.90 per share. As at 31.12.2008, the total amount of € 362,199 has been deducted from retained earnings.

36. Treasury shares

The Bank pursuant to the decisions of prior years General Meeting of Shareholders, purchased during the first quarter of 2008, 8,123,677 treasury shares at a cost of € 167,551 (€ 20.63 per share).

Based on the decision of the general meeting of shareholders held on 3 April 2008 which approved the establishment of a share buy back program, for the period April 2008 - April 2010, the Bank acquired during 1.4 - 31.12.2008 13,998,747 treasury shares at a cost of € 242,839 (€ 17.35 per share).

On 30 June 2008, the Bank completed the sale of 16,439,066 treasury shares the cost of which amounted to € 341,405, through a private placement, which represented 4% of its issued share capital. The result of the above transaction has been recognized directly to the Retained earnings account of equity.

As at 31 December 2008 the Bank holds 5,683,358 treasury shares with a cost of € 68,985 (€ 12.14 per share).

The number of treasury shares and the cost are analyzed as follows:

Number of shares Cost Percentage
Balance 31.12.2007
Purchases 1.1 - 31.12.2008 22,122,424 410,390 5.38%
Sale 30.6.2008 (16,439,066) (341,405) (4.00%)
Balance 31.12.2008 5,683,358 68,985 1.38%

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

37. Contingent liabilities and commitments

a) Legal issues

The Bank, in the ordinary course of business, is a defendant in claims from customers and other legal proceedings. No provision has been recorded because after consultation with legal department, the ultimate disposition of these matters is not expected to have a material effect on the financial position or operations of the Bank.

b) Tax issues

The Bank's books and records have been audited by the tax authorities up to and including the year ended 31 December 2005.

The Bank's branches in Albania and Bulgaria have been audited by the tax authorities for the year up to and including 2007, while the London branch has been audited for all years up to and including 2005.

Additional taxes and penalties may be imposed for the unaudited years.

c) Operating leases

The Bank as a lessee

The Bank has various obligations with respect to leases of buildings which are used as branches or for administration purposes. The duration of the lease agreements is initially for 12 years with a renewal option or extension. In accordance with the lease agreements the rent is subject to annual indexation adjustment, usually according to official annual inflation rate.

The policy of the Bank is to renew these contracts.

The minimum future lease payments are:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
► Less than one year 28,498 25,410
► Between one and five years 88,492 70,904
► More than five years 78,732 57,918
Total 195,722 154,232

The total lease expense for 2008 relating to rental of buildings amounts to € 35,208 (2007: € 27,407) and are included in "General administrative expenses".

The Bank as a lessor

The Bank's receivables from leases relate to buildings leased either to group companies or third parties.

The minimum future revenues are:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
► Less than one year 3,788 3,720
► Between one and five years 8,767 10,307
► More than five years 6,054 7,218
Total 18,609 21,245

The lease revenues for the year 2008 amount to € 3,896 (2007: € 3,397), and are included in "Other income".

d) Off balance sheet liabilities

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Letters of guarantee 6,253,944 5,453,629
Letters of credit 104,567 82,857
Credit commitments 16,912,309 16,386,205
Guarantees relating to bonds issued by subsidiaries of the Bank 17,328,137 20,485,817
Total 40,598,957 42,408,508

e) Assets pledged

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Loans to customers 964,490 800,490
Securities from reserve repos 400,000
Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss 60,964
Investment secutities 5,632,896 160,000
Total 7,058,350 960,490

The Bank has collaterized customer loans to the Bank of Greece in accordance with the Monetary Policy Council Act no 54/27.2.2004 as in force, and following its amendment by Monetary Policy Council Act 61/6.12.2006 with this act the Bank of Greece accepts as collateral for monetary policy purposes and intraday credit non-marketable assets which should meet the terms and conditions of the above act.

From the investment securities portfolio € 5,000 is pledged as collateral to clearing house of derivative transactions "ETESEP" A.E. as a margin account insurance.

The above mentioned financial assets measured at fair value through profit or loss derived from reserve repos and investments securities are pledged as collateral to Bank of Greece for the participation in the Intra-Europe clearing of payments system on an ongoing time (TARGET) and in the European Central Bank's main refinancing operations.

Securities amounting € 3.5 billion, included in the above amounts and issued due to the securitization of mortgage and consumer loans, are held by the Bank. The above securities are not presented in "Investment Securities" but are presented net from the Banks' liabilities to special purpose entities that have issued these securities.

f) Other pledges

On 7 May 2008 the Bank completed a new Medium Term Notes Program amounting to USD 7.5 billion, according to Rule 144A of the American Law, which will be offered to institutional investors. The issuer will be Alpha Group Jersey Limited a wholly owned subsidiary of the Bank. The Notes will be guaranteed by the Bank and will be traded in Luxembourg's stock exchange. The program is not yet active.

38. Segment reporting

a. Analysis by sector

(Millions of Euro)
1.1. - 31.12.2008
Total Retail
Banking
Corporate
Banking
Asset
Management/Insurance
Investment
Banking/
Treasury
South
Eastern
Europe
Other
Interest 1,350.5 1,003.2 272.2 1.9 32.2 41.0 0.0
Commission 317.1 173.3 83.3 35.3 18.3 6.9 0.0
Other income 75.5 11.6 10.7 1.2 (34.2) 3.1 83.1
Total income 1,743.1 1,188.1 366.2 38.4 16.3 51.0 83.1
Expenses (852.3) (592.4) (118.1) (23.3) (22.7) (48.2) (47.6)
Impairment (495.4) (278.9) (203.2) (13.3)
Profit before income
tax 395.4 316.8 44.9 15.1 (6.4) (10.5) 35.5
Assets 66,738.2 24,129.1 18,890.9 235.8 19,555.1 1,706.6 2,220.7
Liabilities 64,368.8 36,750.7 2,714.2 1,757.9 20,006.8 799.3 2,339.9
Capital expenditure 116.7 80.8 22.0 1.4 1.6 10.9
Depreciation and
Amortization 57.6 39.8 10.9 0.7 0.8 5.4 0.0
1.1. - 31.12.2007
Total Retail
Banking
Corporate
Banking
Asset
Management/Insurance
Investment
Banking/
Treasury
South
Eastern
Europe
Other
Interest 1,227.7 921.0 246.8 3.6 31.5 24.8
Commission 321.9 162.7 89.7 51.8 11.9 5.8
Other income 37.5 18.1 5.0 2.4 26.8 0.9 (15.7)
Total income 1,587.1 1,101.8 341.5 57.8 70.2 31.5 (15.7)
Expenses (778.9) (551.8) (99.3) (31.3) (22.6) (22.5) (51.4)
Impairment (194.6) (115.7) (78.9)

Profit before income

(67.1)
54,039.1 19,696.4 16,858.3 181.5 14,327.2 1,051.2 1,924.5
51,298.9 29,916.7 2,078.8 1,199.8 14,805.3 697.5 2,600.8
98.6 72.7 17.0 1.3 1.2 6.4
51.2 37.6 9.1 0.8 0.6 3.1
613.6 434.3 163.3 26.5 47.6 9.0

i. Retail banking

Includes all individuals (retail banking customers) of the Bank, professionals, and small companies.

The Bank offers through its extended branch network, all types of deposit products (deposits/ savings accounts, working capital/ current accounts, investment facilities/ term deposits, Repos, Swaps), loan facilities (mortgages, consumer, corporate loans, letter of guarantees) and debit and credit cards to the above customers.

ii. Corporate Banking

Includes all medium-sized and large companies, corporations with international activities, corporations managed by the Corporate Banking Division (Corporate) and shipping corporations.

The Bank offers working capital facilities, corporate loans, and letters of guarantees.

iii. Asset Management / Insurance

Consists of a wide range of asset management services through the Bank's private banking units. In addition it offers a wide range of insurance products to individuals and corporations.

iv. Investment Banking / Treasury

Includes stock exchange, advisory and brokerage services relating to capital markets, and also investment banking facilities, offered by the Bank. Includes also the activities of the Dealing Room in the interbank market (FX Swaps, Bonds, Futures, IRS, Interbank placements – Loans etc.).

v. South Eastern Europe

Consists of the Bank's branches operating in South Eastern Europe.

vi. Λοιπά

This segment consists of the Bank's administration section

b. Analysis by geographical sector

(millions of Euro)
31.12.2008
Total Greece Other countries
Interest 1,350.5 1,303.2 47.3
Commission 317.1 309.0 8.1
Other income and income on financial transactions 75.5 70.3 5.2
Total income 1,743.1 1,682.5 60.6
Total expenses 852.3 800.9 51.4
Impairment 495.4 432.2 63.2
Profit before income tax 395.4 449.4 (54,0)
Assets 66,738.2 63,096.6 3,641.6
31.12.2007
Total Greece Other countries
Interest 1,227.7 1,201.1 26.6
Commission 321.9 315.7 6.2
Other income and income on financial transactions 37.5 36.0 1.5
Total income 1,587.1 1,552.8 34.3
Total expenses (778.9) (753.7) (25.2)
Impairment (194.6) (194.6)
Profit before income tax 613.6 604.5 9.1
Assets 54,039.1 52,607.2 1,431.9

39. Financial risk management

The Bank has established a systematic and disciplined management framework for the reliable measurement of risk. Considering the stability and continuity of its operations, management places high priority on the goal of implementing and continuously improving this framework, in order to minimize potential negative effects on Bank's financial results.

The Board of Directors of the Bank has overall responsibility for the improvement and oversight of the Risk Management framework. Risk Management Committee is established, which meets on a quarterly basis and reports to the Board of Directors on its activities. The Risk Management Committee is responsible for the implementation and monitoring compliance with the risk management policies. The Bank re-examines the effectiveness of the risk management framework on a regular basis in order to ensure compliance with international best practices and regulatory framework.

In the Bank the risk management departments are under the authority of the Group's risk management director and are entitled with the responsibility for the implementation of the risk management framework, according to the directions of the Risk Management Committee.

39.1 Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Bank if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations. Credit risk is considered the most significant risk for the Bank, and its continuous monitoring is management's first priority.

The Bank in order to effectively manage credit risk has developed specific methodologies and systems to measure credit risk. These systems and methodologies are continuously evolving so as to provide to the maximum extent possible current and productive support in the decisions making process of the business units in order to avoid possible adverse consequences on the result of the Bank.

The main tool for the measurement of credit risk is the credit risk grading system. Current systems use both quantitative and qualitative criteria of measurement and also criteria of transactional behavior in order to report customer probabilities of loss given defaults. Respective models are continuously improved in order for the total loan portfolio to be included in the new system of internal grading imposed by capital adequacy requirements. The credit grading system consists of nine basic grades. Additionally, the Bank uses ratings provided by International Rating Agencies.

At the same time, statistical models are being developed in order to calculate loss given default and the exposure at default.

Credit risk rating also determine both credit limits and collaterals and it is systematically reassessed on a six or twelve month basis. The reassessment is based on the customer's credit worthiness and on any new information and events that may have a significant impact on the level of credit risk.

Credit risk grading systems are being constantly tested qualitatively in order to assure at every turn their ability. At the same time the Bank performs stress testing exercises concerning credit risk on a regular basis. Based on respective stress testing an estimation is provided of the size of financial losses that could occur under extreme transactional behavior of the clients. Additionally, on regular basis large exposures are monitored and management and the Board of Directors are informed.

The Bank assess as at each balance sheet date, whether there is evidence of impairment in accordance with the general principles and methodology set out in IAS 39 and the relevant implementation guidance.

Specifically the above mentioned procedures include the following steps:

a) Establishment of events that provide objective evidence that a loan is impaired (trigger events)

  • b) The criteria for assessment on an individual or collective basis
  • c) Methodology in determing future cash flows from impaired loans.
  • d) Interest income recognition
  • e) Recoveries

In note 1.12 "Impairment losses on loans and advances" the accounting principles applied for loan impairment are described in detail.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS CREDIT RISK

Exposure before
Net exposure to
Exposure before
Net exposure to
impairment
Impairment
credit risk
impairment
Impairment
credit risk
Α. Credit risk exposure relating to
on-balance sheet items
Due from Banks
8,420,793
8,420,793
7,349,675
Loans and advances to
customers:
Individuals:
▪ Mortgages
11,176,529
78,536
11,097,993
9,741,095
51,641
▪ Consumer
3,595,776
118,495
3,477,281
2,922,529
72,940
▪ Credit cards
1,229,778
52,899
1,176,879
1,046,941
53,039
▪ Other loans
96,770
96,770
100,031
Total
16,098,853
249,930
15,848,923
13,810,596
177,620
13,632,976
Companies:
▪ Corporate loans
26,615,726
764,216
25,851,510
21,900,097
426,321
21,473,776
▪ Other receivables
488,845
488,845
166,342
5,220
27,104,571
764,216
26,340,355
22,066,439
431,541
21,634,898
Total
43,203,424
1,014,146
42,189,278
35,877,035
609,161
35,267,874
Financial assets at fair value through
profit of loss:
7,349,675
9,689,454
2,849,589
993,902
100,031
161,122
▪ Government bonds
73,936
73,936
236,340
236,340
▪ Other debt securities
12,944
12,944
28,448
28,448
▪ Derivative financial instruments
494,386
494,386
384,466
384,466
Total
581,266
581,266
649,254
649,254
Investment Securities:
▪ Available-for-sale (government
bonds)
239,757
239,757
1,856,217
1,856,217
▪ Available-for-sale (other)
5,767,800
5,767,800
4,344,648
4,344,648
▪ Available-for-sale (other variable
yield securities)
26,340
26,340
30,668
30,668
▪ Held to maturity (government
bonds)
1,805,579
1,805,579
▪ Held to maturity (other)
2,683,130
2,683,130
Total
10,522,606
10,522,606
6,231,533
6,231,533
Total amount of on balance sheet
items exposed to credit risk (a)
62,728,089
1,014,146
61,713,943
50,107,497
609,161
49,498,336
Other on-balance sheet items not
exposed to credit risk
5,024,231
5,024,231
4,540,800
4,540,800
Total Assets
67,752,320
1,014,146
66,738,174
54,648,297
609,161
54,039,136
B. Credit risk exposure relating to
off balance sheet items:
Letters of guarantee and letters of
credit
6,358,511
4,200
6,354,311
5,536,486
45,929
5,490,557
Undrawn credit facilities
16,912,309
16,912,309
16,386,205
16,386,205
Guarantees relating to bonds issued
by subsidiaries of the Bank
17,328,137
17,328,137
20,485,817
20,485,817
Total amount of off balance sheet
items exposed to credit risk (b)
40,598,957
4,200
40,594,757
42,408,508
45,929
42,362,579
Total credit risk exposure (a+b)
103,327,046
1,018,346
102,308,700
92,516,005
655,090
91,860,915

(1) Undrawn credit facilities as of 31.12.2008 include an amount of € 601 million (31.12.2007 € 531 million) which are committed limits that cannot be cancelled in

cases where it becomes apparent that the counterparty will fail to meet their contractual obligations.

LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS – Analysis of past due amounts

31.12.2008
Neither past due
nor impaired
Past due but not
impaired
Impaired Total
Loans and advances to individuals
▪ Mortgages
Performing loans 9,595,938 9,595,938
Past due 1-90 days 1,201,623 1,201,623
Past due >90 days 378,968 378,968
9,595,938 1,201,623 378,968 11,176,529
▪ Credit cards, consumer and other loans
Performing loans 4,019,525 4,019,525
Past due 1-90 days 641,346 641,346
Past due >90 days 261,453 261,453
4,019,525 641,346 261,453 4,922,324
Corporate loans
Performing loans 23,391,103 299,945 23,691,048
Past due 1-90 days 2,236,443 82,781 2,319,224
Past due >90 days 218,705 875,594 1,094,299
23,391,103 2,455,148 1,258,320 27,104,571
Total portfolio
Performing loans 37,006,566 299,945 37,306,511
Past due 1-90 days 4,079,412 82,781 4,162,193
Past due >90 days 218,705 1,516,015 1,734,720
Total 37,006,566 4,298,117 1,898,741 43,203,424
31.12.2007
Neither past due
nor impaired
Past due but not
impaired
Impaired Total
Loans and advances to individuals
▪ Mortgages
Performing loans 8,486,531 8,486,531
Past due 1 - 90 days 997,867 997,867
Past due > 90 days 256,697 256,697
8,486,531 997,867 256,697 9,741,095
▪ Credit cards, consumer and other loans
Performing loans 3,486,190 3,486,190
Past due 1 - 90 days 405,368 405,368
Past due > 90 days 177,943 177,943
3,486,190 405,368 177,943 4,069,501
Corporate loans
Performing loans 18,921,994 240,585 19,162,579
Past due 1 - 90 days 1,849,329 84,852 1,934,181
Past due > 90 days 260,267 709,412 969,679
18,921,994 2,109,596 1,034,849 22,066,439
Total portfolio
Performing loans 30,894,715 240,585 31,135,300
Past due 1 - 90 days 3,252,564 84,852 3,337,416
Past due > 90 days 260,267 1,144,052 1,404,319
Total 30,894,715 3,512,831 1,469,489 35,877,035

LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS – Neither past due or impaired

31.12.2008
Credit cards, consumer
Mortgage and other loans Corporate Loans Total
Low risk 9,595,938 4,019,525 22,621,610 36,237,073
Under surveillance 769,493 769,493
Total 9,595,938 4,019,525 23,391,103 37,006,566
31.12.2007
Credit cards, consumer
Mortgage and other loans Corporate Loans Total
Low risk 8,486,531 3,486,190 18,296,246 30,268,967
Under surveillance 625,748 625,748
Total 8,486,531 3,486,190 18,921,994 30,894,715

This category includes loans that have indications that the counterparty will not be able to meet their contractual obligations, accounts were a settlement was agreed during the last 12 months, and they are subsequently meeting their obligations. These loans amounted to € 160,335 million as at 31.12.2008 (31.12.2007: € 46,665).

LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS – Past due or impaired

31.12.2008
Credit cards, consumer
Mortgage and other loans Corporate Loans Total
Past due 1 - 90 days 1,201,623 641,346 2,236,443 4,079,412
Past due > 90 days 218,705 218,705
Total 1,201,623 641,346 2,455,148 4,298,117
Fair value of collaterals 1,805,614 6,125 3,781,443 5,593,182
31.12.2007
Credit cards, consumer
Mortgage and other loans Corporate Loans Total
Past due 1 - 90 days
997,867
405,368 1,849,329 3,252,564
Past due > 90 days 260,267 260,267
Total
997,867
405,368 2,109,596 3,512,831
Fair value of collaterals
1,527,534
89,843 2,942,557 4,559,934

LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS – Impaired

31.12.2008
Credit cards, consumer
Mortgage and other loans Corporate Loans Total
Carrying amount before impairment 378,968 261,453 1,258,320 1,898,741
Allowance of impairment (78,536) (171,394) (764,216) (1,014,146)
Carrying amount 300,432 90,059 494,104 884,595
Fair value of collaterals 347,965 15,000 1,144,303 1,507,268
31.12.2007
Credit cards, consumer
Mortgage and other loans Corporate Loans Total
Carrying amount before impairment 256,697 177,943 1,034,849 1,469,489
Allowance of impairment (51,641) (125,979) (431,541) (609,161)
Carrying amount 205,056 51,964 603,308 860,328
Fair value of collaterals 236,794 21,206 951,098 1,209,098

DUE FROM BANKS: DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND DEBT SECURITIES

31.12.2008
Derivatives financial Available for
Due from Banks Trading securities instruments sale Held to maturity Total
ΑΑΑ 34,892 1,244 170,391 206,527
ΑΑ- to ΑΑ+ 520,029 1,261 13,962 306,390 841,642
Α- to Α+ 6,838,709 79,457 258,314 5,788,336 3,077,895 16,042,711
Lower than Α- 1,062,055 7,423 2,786 230,355 934,033 2,236,652
Unrated 197,133 197,133
Total 8,420,793 86,880 494,386 6,033,897 4,488,709 19,524,665

31.12.2007

Due from Banks Trading securities Derivatives financial
instruments
Available for
sale
Held to maturity Total
ΑΑΑ 81,305 81,305
ΑΑ- to ΑΑ+ 400,905 266,664 10,000 677,569
Α- to Α+ 5,497,986 246,148 54,622 5,274,148 11,072,904
Lower than Α- 1,450,784 18,640 347 866,080 2,335,851
Unrated 62,833 62,833
Total 7,349,675 264,788 384,466 6,231,533 14,230,462

The above do not present delays and no impairment exists after relevant tests.

In the following tables are presented the financial instruments carrying amounts by industry sectors of the counterparties.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS CREDIT RISK – Analysis by industry sector

31.12.2008

Financial
Institutions and
other financial
services
Manufacturing Construction and
real estate
Wholesale
and retail
trade
Public sector Transportation Shipping Hotels -
Tourism
Other
sectors
Individuals Total
Credit risk exposure relating to on
balance sheet items
Due from banks 8,420,793 8,420,793
Loans and advances to customers:
Individuals:
▪ Mortgage 11,176,529 11,176,529
▪ Credit cards and consumer 4,825,554 4,825,554
▪ Other receivables 96,770 96,770
Total 16,098,853 16,098,853
Corporate loans
and other receivables
2,506,433 5,532,747 2,927,067 6,549,900 173,721 2,283,759 1,634,610 2,095,491 3,400,843 27,104,571
Total 2,506,433 5,532,747 2,927,067 6,549,900 173,721 2,283,759 1,634,610 2,095,491 3,400,843 16,098,853 43,203,424
Financial assets at fair value
through profit or loss:
▪ Debt securities 12,505 439 73,936 86,880
▪ Derivative financial instruments 420,228 74,158 494,386
Total 432,733 439 73,936 74,158 581,266
Investment securities
▪ Available-for-sale 5,673,888 26,104 42,423 230,839 60,643 6,033,897
▪ Held to maturity 2,315,481 119,100 123,459 72,213 1,858,456 4,488,709
Total 7,989,369 119,100 149,563 114,636 2,089,295 60,643 10,522,606
Total carrying amount of on
balance sheet items exposed to
credit risk (a)
19,349,328 5,651,847 3,076,630 6,664,975 2,336,952 2,283,759 1,634,610 2,095,491 3,535,644 16,098,853 62,728,089
Other on-balance sheet items not
exposed to credit risk
5,024,231 5,024,231
Total assets 19,349,328 5,651,847 3,076,630 6,664,975 2,336,952 2,283,759 1,634,610 2,095,491 8,559,875 16,098,853 67,752,320
Credit risk exposure relating to on
balance sheet items:
Letters of guarantee and letters of
credit
28,256 1,257,194 2,215,825 1,189,493 11,106 62,074 61,997 114,441 1,418,125 6,358,511
Undrawn credit facilities 16,912,309 16,912,309
Guarantees for bonds issued by
subsidiaries of the Bank
17,328,137 17,328,137
Total carrying amount of off
balance sheet items exposed to
credit risk (b)
28,256 1,257,194 2,215,825 1,189,493 11,106 62,074 61,997 114,441 35,658,571 40,598,957
Total credit risk exposure (a+b) 19,377,584 6,909,041 5,292,455 7,854,468 2,348,058 2,345,833 1,696,607 2,209,932 39,194,215 16,098,853 103,327,046

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS CREDIT RISK – Analysis by industry sector

31.12.2007

Financial
Institutions and
other financial
services
Manufacturing Construction and
real estate
Wholesale
and retail
trade
Public sector Transportation Shipping Hotels -
Tourism
Other
sectors
Individuals Total
Credit risk exposure relating to on
balance sheet items
Due from banks 7,349,675 7,349,675
Loans and advances to customers:
Individuals:
▪ Mortgage 9,741,095 9,741,095
▪ Credit cards and consumer 3,969,470 3,969,470
▪ Other receivables 100,031 100,031
Total 13,810,596 13,810,596
Corporate loans
and other receivables
2,490,290 4,529,146 1,901,826 5,582,347 162,472 1,935,614 1,360,515 1,943,729 2,160,500 22,066,439
Total loans and advances to
customers
2,490,290 4,529,146 1,901,826 5,582,347 162,472 1,935,614 1,360,515 1,943,729 2,160,500 13,810,596 35,877,035
Securities held for trading
▪ Debt securities 236,340 28,448 264,788
▪ Derivative financial instruments 324,929 59,537 384,466
Total 324,929 236,340 87,985 649,254
Investment securities
▪ Available-for-sale 3,946,821 82,100 80,246 1,856,217 266,149 6,231,533
Total carrying amount of on
balance sheet items exposed to
credit risk (a)
14,111,715 4,611,246 1,901,826 5,662,593 2,255,029 1,935,614 1,360,515 1,943,729 2,514,634 13,810,596 50,107,497
Other on-balance sheet items not
exposed to credit risk
4,540,800 4,540,800
Total assets 14,111,715 4,611,246 1,901,826 5,662,593 2,255,029 1,935,614 1,360,515 1,943,729 7,055,434 13,810,596 54,648,297
Credit risk exposure relating to off
balance sheet items:
Letters of guarantee and letters of
credit
6,188 676,299 887,606 750,258 2,414 10,203 38,700 123,970 3,040,848 5,536,486
Undrawn credit facilities 16,386,205 16,386,205
Guarantees for bonds issued by
subsidiaries of the Bank
20,485,817 20,485,817
Total carrying amount of off
balance sheet items exposed to
credit risk (b) 6,188 676,299 887,606 750,258 2,414 10,203 38,700 123,970 39,912,870 42,408,508
Total credit risk exposure (a+b) 14,117,903 5,287,545 2,789,432 6,412,851 2,257,443 1,945,817 1,399,215 2,067,699 42,427,504 13,810,596 92,516,005

39.2. Market risk

Market risk is the risk of losses arising from unfavourable changes in interest rates, foreign exchange rates, stock exchange indexes, equity prices and commodities. Losses may also occur either from the trading portfolio or from the banking book.

i. Trading portfolio

The market risk is measured by the Value at Risk – VAR. The method applied for calculating Value at Risk is historical simulation. The Bank applies a holding period of 1 and 10 days, depending on the time required to liquidate the portfolio.

1 day value at risk, 99% confidence level (2 years historical data)

2008 2007
Foreign currency
risk
Interest rate
risk
Price risk Covariance Total Total
31 December 418,401 1,085,578 189,006 (17,623) 1,675,362 320,791
Average daily value (annual) 246,199 2,006,198 302,964 (485,090) 2,070,271 1,019,495
Maximum daily value (annual) 57,275 3,460,779 645,807 (439,967) 3,723,894 3,027,642
Minimum daily value (annual) 95,617 651,307 102,094 (268,428) 580,590 223,039

The Value at Risk methodology is complemented with stress tests based on both historical and hypothetical extreme movements of market parameters, in order to estimate the potential size of losses that could arise in extreme conditions.

Within the scope of policy-making for financial risk management by the Asset and Liability Management Committee (ALCO), exposure limits and maximum loss (stop loss) for various products of the trading portfolio have been set. In particular the following limits have been set for the following risks:

  • Foreign currency risk regarding spot and forward positions.
  • Interest rate risk regarding positions on bonds, Interest Rate Swaps, Interest Futures, Interest Options.
  • Price risk regarding position in shares, index Futures and options.
  • Credit risk regarding interbank transactions, corporate bonds and emerging market Government bonds.

Positions held in these products are monitored during the day and are examined as to the corresponding limit percentage cover and limit excess.

ii. Other financial instruments of assets and liabilities

Apart from the trading portfolio market risk may also arise from the Banking Book from the analysis. This risk is foreign currency risk and interest rate risk.

a. Foreign currency risk

The Bank takes on exposures to effects of fluctuations in foreign exchange rates.

The General Management of the Bank sets limits on the level of exposure by currency and in total for both overnight and intraday positions. The total position arises from the net on balance sheet position and derivatives forward position as presented in the tables below:

OTHER
USD GBP CHF JPY RON RSD F/C EURO Total
ASSETS
Cash and balances with Central
Banks 8,719 946 308 84 59,053 1,654,971 1,724,081
Due from banks 1,611,240 84,710 1,791,341 5,402 210,018 2 15,729 4,702,351 8,420,793
Financial asset at fair value
through profit or loss 2,747 6,985 77,148 86,880
Derivative financial instruments 494,386 494,386
Loans and advances to customers 2,126,648 300,188 452,703 41,891 65,376 165,862 39,036,610 42,189,278
Investment Securities
- Available-for-sale 39,361 472 16,635 11,406 91,493 5,874,530 6,033,897
- Held to maturity 523,911 3,964,798 4,488,709
Investments in subsidiaries,
associates and joint ventures 3,028 54,135 133,417 247,687 139,400 1,173,235 1,750,902
Investment property 42,195 42,195
Property, plant and equipment 38,609 610,843 649,452
Goodwill and other intangible
assets 5,915 62,808 68,723
Deferred tax assets 316,069 316,069
Other assets 609 29,206 41 942 (139) 388,867 419,526
Non-current assets held for sale 53,283 53,283
Total Assets 4,316,263 469,657 2,261,028 58,783 409,753 247,689 522,907 58,452,094 66,738,174
LIABILITIES
Due to banks and costumers 4,456,064 271,251 25,108 1,191,367 83 526,115 38,230,075 44,700,063
Derivative financial instruments 804,172 804,172
Debt securities in issue and other
borrowed funds 71,743 1,051 102,390 240,196 217,313 139,411 16,623,542 17,395,646
Liabilities for current income tax
and other taxes 97,855 97,855
Deferred tax liabilities 158,212 158,212
Other liabilities 2,358 28,453 220 537 549 (6,991) 1,179,336 1,204,462
Provisions 8,415 8,415
Total liabilities 4,530,165 300,755 127,718 1,432,100 217,945 658,535 57,101,607 64,368,825
Net on-balance sheet position (213,902) 168,902 2,133,310 (1,373,317) 191,808 247,689 (135,628) 1,350,487 2,369,349
Derivatives forward foreign
exchange position 217,065 (182,761) (2,138,687) 1,370,877 (230,859) 288,157 696,936 20,728
Total Foreign Exchange
Position 3,163 (13,859) (5,377) (2,440) (39,051) 247,689 152,529 2,047,423 2,390,077
Undrawn credit facilities 61,966 80,190 17,244 16,752,909 16,912,309

31.12.2008

31.12.2007
USD GBP CHF JPY OTHER F/C EURO Total
ASSETS
Cash and balances with Central Banks 7,463 1,129 325 35 49,814 1,591,561 1,650,327
Due from banks 541,625 164,192 1,097,502 (4,112) 478,149 5,072,319 7,349,675
Financial asset at fair value through
profit or loss 2,362 9,704 252,722 264,788
Derivative financial instruments 384,466 384,466
Loans and advances to customers 2,053,940 380,546 374,790 26,385 110,339 32,321,874 35,267,874
Investment Securities
- Available-for-sale 691,101 96,516 5,512,760 6,300,377
Investments in subsidiaries, associates
and joint ventures 2,953 57,403 290,662 1,275,082 1,626,100
Investment property 42,370 42,370
Property, plant and equipment 18,925 584,906 603,831
Goodwill and other intangible assets 365 1,024 54,447 55,836
Deferred tax assets 158,160 158,160
Other assets 5,299 763 250 1 3,275 271,038 280,626
Non-current assets held for sale 54,706 54,706
Total Assets 3,304,743 604,398 1,472,867 22,309 1,058,408 47,576,411 54,039,136
LIABILITIES
Due to banks and costumers 4,136,488 344,069 14,184 822,950 602,655 23,052,104 28,972,450
Derivative financial instruments 383,129 383,129
Debt securities in issue and other
borrowed funds 264,010 91,723 183,704 379,613 19,602,926 20,521,976
Liabilities for current income tax and
other taxes
Deferred tax liabilities 127,863 127,863
82,960 82,960
Employee defined benefit obligations 3,733 3,733
Other liabilities 5,694 393 396 411 1,251 1,150,867 1,159,012
Provisions 47,796 47,796
Total liabilities 4,406,192 344,462 106,303 1,007,065 983,519 44,451,378 51,298,919
Net on-balance sheet position (1,101,449) 259,936 1,366,564 (984,756) 74,889 3,125,033 2,740,217
Derivatives forward foreign exchange
position 1,123,294 (291,357) (1,371,230) 979,824 (168,244) (89,267) 183,020
Total Foreign Exchange Position 21,845 (31,421) (4,666) (4,932) (93,355) 3,035,766 2,923,237
Undrawn credit facilities 95,061 25,667 10,668 16,254,809 16,386,205

The Bank's high exposure in other currencies is primarily due to the UAH/EUR position.

The net foreign exchange position as at 31.12.2008 presents the following sensitivity analysis:

Exchange rate variation scenario against
Currency Euro(%) Impact on net income before tax
Aprreciation of USD 5% 166
USD Depreciation of USD 5% (151)
Aprreciation of GBP 5% (729)
GBP Depreciation of GBP 5% 660
Aprreciation of RON 5% (2.055)
RON Depreciation of RON 5% 1.860
Aprreciation of RSD 5% 13.036
RSD Depreciation of RSD 5% (11.795)
Aprreciation of UAH 5% 7.337
UAH Depreciation of UAH 5% (6.638)

b. Interest rate risk

Gap analysis is performed in order to examine the interest rate risk of assets and liabilities. Assets and liabilities are allocated into time bands according to their repricing date for variable interest rate instruments, or according to their maturity date for fixed rate instruments.

GAP Analysis of assets and liabilities is set out in the table below:

Less than 1
1 to 3
3 to
6 to
1 to
More than
Non-interest
month
months
6 months
12 months
5 years
5 years
bearing
Total
ASSETS
Cash and balances with Central Banks
1,183,095
540,986
1,724,081
Due from banks
5,004,463
1,988,461
298,011
337,239
785,503
7,116
8,420,793
Financial asset at fair value through
profit or loss
4,682
68,225
3,639
4,759
5,575
86,880
Derivative financial instruments
494,386
494,386
Loans and advances to customers
22,885,207
5,617,721
4,047,395
2,285,263
6,453,809
899,883
42,189,278
Investment Securities
- Available-for-sale
4,765,406
592,072
273,942
96,316
210,324
40,173
55,664
6,033,897
- Held to maturity
667,966
1,182,592
1,682,605
139,956
354,213
461,377
4,488,709
Investments in subsidiaries,
associates and joint ventures
1,750,902
1,750,902
Investment property
42,195
42,195
Property, plant and equipment
649,452
649,452
Goodwill and other intangible assets
68,723
68,723
Deferred tax assets
316,069
316,069
Other assets
419,526
419,526
Non-current assets held for sale
53,283
53,283
Total Assets
35,005,205
9,380,846
6,370,178
2,862,413
7,808,608
1,414,124
3,896,800
66,738,174
Liabilities
Due to banks
8,086,854
2,633,867
115,583
47,665
10,883,969
Derivatives financial instruments
804,172
804,172
Due to customers
22,936,232
6,557,914
2,448,552
1,036,960
696,545
139,891
33,816,094
Debt securities in issue and other
borrowed funds
9,158,844
7,606,613
619,634
10,555
17,395,646
Liabilities for current income tax and
other taxes
97,855
97,855
Deferred tax liabilities
158,212
158,212
Other liabilities
1,204,462
1,204,462
Provisions
8,415
8,415
Total Liabilities
40,986,102
16,798,394
3,183,769
1,095,180
696,545
139,891
1,468,944
64,368,825
EQUITY
Share capital
1,931,590
1,931,590
Share premium
Reserves
165,848
165,848
Retained earnings
340,896
340,896
Treasury shares
(68,985)
(68,985)
2,369,349
2,369,349
Total Equity
Total Liabilities and Equity
40,986,102
16,798,394
3,183,769
1,095,180
696,545
139,891
3,838,293
66,738,174
(5,980,897) (7,417,548)
3,186,409
1,767,233
7,112,063
1,274,233
58,707
GAP
(5,980,897) (13,398,445)
(10,212,036)
(8,444,803)
(1,332,740)
(58,707)
CUMULATIVE GAP
31.12.2008
31.12.2007
Less than 1
month
1 to 3
months
3 to
6 months
6 to
12 months
1 to
5 years
More than
5 years
Non-interest
bearing
Total
ASSETS
Cash and balances with Central Banks 1,273,667 376,660 1,650,327
Due from banks 4,278,703 1,619,996 500,885 364,180 579,007 6,904 7,349,675
Financial asset at fair value through
profit or loss
2,147 1,296 24,326 1,114 44,081 191,824 264,788
Derivative financial instruments 384,466 384,466
Loans and advances to customers 20,098,772 4,919,167 3,089,640 951,173 6,028,332 180,790 35,267,874
Investment Securities
- Available-for-sale 3,021,988 955,633 1,775,414 116,317 101,335 260,718 68,972 6,300,377
Investments in subsidiaries,
associates and joint ventures
1,626,100 1,626,100
Investment property 42,370 42,370
Property, plant and equipment 603,831 603,831
Goodwill and other intangible assets 55,836 55,836
Deferred tax assets 158,160 158,160
Other assets
280,626 280,626
Non-current assets held for sale 54,706 54,706
Total Assets 29,059,743 7,496,092 5,390,265 1,432,784 6,752,755 640,236 3,267,261 54,039,136
LIABILITIES
Due to banks 3,531,555 1,520,321 557,671 27,884 131 5,637,562
Derivatives financial instruments 383,129 383,129
Due to customers
Debt securities in issue and other
19,384,594 1,986,757 802,867 337,192 823,478 23,334,888
borrowed funds 12,237,861 7,727,744 532,051 20,920 3,400 20,521,976
Liabilities for current income tax and
other taxes
127,863 127,863
Deferred tax liabilities 82,960 82,960
Employee defined benefit obligations 3,733 3,733
Other liabilities 1,159,012 1,159,012
Provisions 47,796 47,796
Total Liabilities 35,537,139 11,234,822 1,892,589 385,996 827,009 1,421,364 51,298,919
EQUITY
Share capital 1,602,809 1,602,809
Share premium 184,033 184,033
Reserves 333,892 333,892
Retained earnings 619,483 619,483
Treasury shares
Total Equity 2,740,217 2,740,217
Total Liabilities and Equity 35,537,139 11,234,822 1,892,589 385,996 827,009 4,161,581 54,039,136
GAP (6,477,396) (3,738,730) 3,497,676 1,046,788 5,925,746 640,236 (894,320)
CUMULATIVE GAP (6,477,396) (10,216,126) (6,718,450) (5,671,662) 254,084 894,320

GAP Analysis allows an immediate calculation of changes in net interest income and equity for available-for-sale securities upon application of alternative scenarios, such as changes in market interest rates or changes in the Bank's base interest rates.

Currency Interest rate variation scenario Sensitivity for net interest
(parallel fall or rise in yield curves) income (annual) Sensitivity of equity
EUR + 50 basis points (3,879) (6,361)
- 50 basis points 3,879 6,442
USD + 50 basis points (2,863) (273)
- 50 basis points 2,863 278
GBP + 50 basis points (345) (1)
- 50 basis points 345 1

39.3 Liquidity risk (liquidity gap analysis)

Liquidity risk relates to the Bank's ability to maintain sufficient funds to cover its obligations.

A substantial portion of the Bank's assets are funded with customer deposits and bonds issued by the Group. This type of funding comprises two categories:

a) Customer deposits for working capital purposes

Deposits for working capital purposes consist of savings accounts and sight deposits. Although these deposits may be withdrawn on demand, the number of the accounts and type of depositors ensure that unexpected fluctuations are limited and that these deposits constitute mostly a stable deposit base.

b) Customer deposits and bonds issued for investment purposes

Customer deposits and bonds issued for investment purposes concern customer term deposits, customer repurchase agreements (repos) and sale of bonds issued by the Group.

In accordance with Liquidity Gap Analysis, cash flows arising from all assets and liabilities are estimated and allocated into time bands, depending on when they occur, with the exception of assets held for trading and available-for-sale securities. In the case of such portfolios, which are considered liquid, they are allocated in the first period using relevant haircuts.

The Liquidity Gap Analysis is given in the table below. It should be noted that term deposits are presented with their contractual due date. On total term deposits 80% is renewed at the expiration date and therefore are considered as a part of the stable deposit base.

31.12.2008
Less than 1
month
1 to 3 months 3 to
6 months
6 to
12 months
1 to
5 years
More than 5
years
ASSETS
Cash and balances with Central Banks 1,724,081 1,724,081
Due from banks 2,812,374 1,225,127 226,845 419,363 3,737,084 8,420,793
Financial assets at fair value through
profit or loss
82,536 4,344 86,880
Derivative financial instruments 494,386 494,386
Loans and advances to customers 1,797,686 1,578,429 1,786,873 2,416,257 34,610,033 42,189,278
Investment Securities
- Available-for-sale 5,728,769 305,128 6,033,897
- Held to maturity
Investments in subsidiaries,
3,142,096 1,346,613 4,488,709
associates and joint ventures 1,750,902 1,750,902
Investment property 42,195 42,195
Property, plant and equipment 649,452 649,452
Goodwill and other intangible assets 68,723 68,723
Deferred tax assets 316,069 316,069
Other assets 176,678 23,513 9,527 209,808 419,526
Non-current assets held for sale 53,283 53,283
Total Assets 15,958,606 2,803,556 2,037,231 2,845,147 43,093,634 66,738,174
LIABILITIES
Due to banks 8,080,204 1,729,910 108,834 420,432 544,589 10,883,969
804,172
Derivatives financial instruments 804,172
Due to customers 10,691,788 6,830,772 2,920,617 2,019,209 11,353,708 33,816,094
Debt securities in issue and other
borrowed funds
878,677 511,840 603,633 1,291,771 14,109,725 17,395,646
Liabilities for current income tax and
other taxes
97,855 97,855
Deferred tax liabilities 158,212 158,212
Other liabilities 898,795 71,577 60,690 61,182 112,218 1,204,462
Provisions 8,415 8,415
Total Liabilities 21,451,491 9,144,099 3,693,774 3,792,594 26,286,867 64,368,825
EQUITY
Total Equity 2,369,349 2,369,349
Total Liabilities and Equity 21,451,491 9,144,099 3,693,774 3,792,594 28,656,216 66,738,174
Liquidity gap (5,492,885) (6,340,543) (1,656,543) (947,447) 14,437,418
31.12.2007
Less than 1
month
1 to 3 months 3 to
6 months
6 to
12 months
1 to
5 years
More than 5
years
ASSETS
Cash and balances with Central Banks 1,650,327 1,650,327
Due from banks 3,168,792 450,145 443,267 560,924 2,726,547 7,349,675
Securities held for trading
- Bonds 251,549 13,239 264,788
Derivative financial instruments 384,466 384,466
Loans and advances to customers 806,986 2,554,329 3,423,359 5,499,579 22,983,621 35,267,874
Investment Securities
- Bonds classified in available for sale 5,890,821 310,043 6,200,864
- Shares classified in available for
sale 89,562 9,951 99,513
Investments in subsidiaries,
associates and joint ventures
1,626,100 1,626,100
Investment property 42,370 42,370
Property, plant and equipment 603,831 603,831
Goodwill and other intangible assets 55,836 55,836
Deferred tax assets 158,160 158,160
Other assets 4,503 14,414 157,593 104,116 280,626
Non-current assets held for sale 54,706 54,706
Total Assets 12,247,006 3,004,474 3,881,040 6,218,096 28,688,520 54,039,136
LIABILITIES
Due to banks 3,526,414 1,051,730 551,096 32,385 475,937 5,637,562
Derivatives financial instruments 383,129 383,129
Due to customers 5,369,299 2,372,011 1,354,136 1,439,499 12,799,943 23,334,888
Debt securities in issue and other
borrowed funds 457,103 42,707 12,576 698,538 19,311,052 20,521,976
Liabilities for current income tax and
other taxes
19,599 101,880 6,384 127,863
Deferred tax liabilities 82,960 82,960
Employee defined benefit obligations 3,733 3,733
Other liabilities 983,091 53,830 33,521 64,493 24,077 1,159,012
Provisions 47,796 47,796
Total Liabilities 10,738,635 3,520,278 2,053,209 2,241,299 32,745,498 51,298,919
EQUITY
Total Equity 2,740,217 2,740,217
Total Liabilities and Equity 10,738,635 3,520,278 2,053,209 2,241,299 35,485,715 54,039,136
Liquidity gap 1,508,371 (515,804) 1,827,831 3,976,797 (6,797,195)

The financial liabilities cash flows including derivatives financial liabilities are allocated according to the remaining maturities. Estimated interest payments are also included. Liabilities in foreign currency have been translated into Euro. Specifically for derivatives outflows and inflows analysis is done according to contractual terms.

31.12.2008

Total Balance 2 to 4 to 7 to more than
Sheet To 1 month 3 months 6 months 12 months 1 year TOTAL
Liabilities - non-derivative
Due to banks 10,883,969 (8,112,793) (1,726,252) (151,038) (474,440) (522,207) (10,986,730)
Due to customers 33,816,094 (10,682,346) (6,899,492) (3,057,899) (2,150,793) (11,536,005) (34,326,535)
Debt securities in issue and other
borrowed funds 17,395,646 (772,548) (715,458) (967,054) (1,812,461) (16,595,546) (20,863,067)
Other liabilities 1,204,462 (898,795) (71,577) (60,690) (61,182) (112,218) (1,204,462)
Derivatives held for liabilities
fair value hedge 47,551
- Outflows (1,370) (7,392) (9,935) (23,734) (355,462) (397,893)
- Inflows 946 9,015 8,404 22,287 423,027 463,679
Derivatives held for assets fair
value hedge 242,103
- Outflows (47,341) (20,198) (1,251,662) (1,319,201)
- Inflows 5,266 8,971 16,381 33,500 1,209,035 1,273,153
Derivatives held for trading 514,518
- Outflows (2,042,892) (1,477,314) (148,858) (253,383) (1,536,746) (5,459,193)
- Inflows 1,953,548 1,386,812 132,291 233,112 1,573,500 5,279,263
Total 64,104,343 (20,550,984) (9,492,687) (4,285,739) (4,507,292) (28,704,284) (67,540,986)
Off Balance sheet items
Unrecognized loans commitments (601,320) (601,320)
Financial guarantees (84,104) (26,682) (11,986) (11,651) (95,223) (229,646)
Total off Balance sheet items (685,424) (26,682) (11,986) (11,651) (95,223) (830,966)
Nominal in flow/(outflow)
Total Balance
Sheet
To 1 month 2 to
3 months
4 to
6 months
7 to
12 months
more than
1 year
TOTAL
Liabilities - non-derivative
Due to banks 5,637,562 (3,529,678) (1,063,807) (569,914) (47,470) (521,350) (5,732,219)
Due to customers 23,334,888 (5,307,148) (2,390,802) (1,498,454) (1,564,664) (12,794,445) (23,555,513)
Debt securities in issue and other
borrowed funds 20,521,976 (484,301) (213,314) (218,814) (1,063,621) (23,435,353) (25,415,403)
Other liabilities 1,159,012 (983,089) (53,830) (33,521) (64,493) (24,079) (1,159,012)
Derivatives held for liabilities
fair value hedge 103,670
- Outflows (2,618) (14,647) (6,575) (19,459) (811,865) (855,164)
- Inflows 2,825 13,540 4,102 14,833 707,756 743,056
Derivatives held for assets fair
value hedge 44,160
- Outflows (48,430) (8,431) (1,202,158) (1,259,019)
- Inflows 7,810 5,839 13,598 27,061 1,158,024 1,212,332
Derivatives held for trading 235,299
- Outflows (1,952,215) (220,187) (258,722) (134,078) (865,372) (3,430,574)
- Inflows 1,884,358 233,443 242,887 118,263 702,219 3,181,170
Total 51,036,567 (10,364,056) (3,703,765) (2,373,843) (2,742,059) (37,086,623) (56,270,346)
Off Balance sheet items
Unrecognized loans commitments (531,063) (531,063)
Financial guarantees (57,532) (32,597) (12,626) (14,166) (75,203) (195,124)
Total off Balance sheet items (588,595) (32,597) (12,626) (14,166) (75,203) (726,187)

31.12.2007

39.4 Fair value of financial assets and liabilities

The table below presents the carrying amounts and the fair values of financial assets and liabilities which are not carried at fair value in the financial statements. For the remaining financial assets and liabilities carried at amortized cost the fair values are not substantially different from carrying amounts.

The fair value of loans is estimated based on the interbank market yield curves adjusted with the credit spread of loans.

The fair value of deposits is estimated based on the interbank market yield curves deducted with customers spread depending on form of the deposit.

Both loans and deposits future cash flows are discounted based on their duration and the respective interest rates.

31.12.2008
Carrying amount Fair value
ASSETS
Loans and advances to customers 42,189,278 43,010,559
LIABILITIES
Due to customers 33,816,094
33,903,163

40. Capital management - Capital Adequacy

The policy of the Bank is to maintain a strong capital base so as to maintain investors, creditor and market confidence and to sustain future development of the business.

The dividend policy is always examined in order to achieve the best balance between the higher return for the shareholder and the security affected by the sound capital position.

Share capital increases are performed through Shareholders General Meeting or Board of Directors decisions in accordance with articles of association or relevant laws.

Specifically, the Shareholders' General Meeting held on 6 June 2006 gave the authority to the Board of Directors for the period of four years to approve a share capital increase in accordance with Law 2190/1920 article 13.

The Bank is allowed to purchase treasury shares based on the terms and conditions of law.

The Bank uses all modern methods to manage capital adequacy. It has issued hybrid and subordinated debt which are included as regulatory own-funds. The cost of these securities is lower than share capital and adds value to the shareholders.

The Bank capital adequacy is monitored by the Bank of Greece to which the Bank reports on a quarterly basis.

The minimum capital adequacy ratios (Tier I and capital adequacy ratio) which the Bank must adhere to are established by decisions of the Governor of the Bank of Greece.

The calculation of capital adequacy from 1 January 2008 is determined under the new regulatory framework (Basel II), which have been transposed into Greek law by Law 3601/2007. The new regulatory framework significantly amends the measurement of credit risk and introduces capital requirements for operational risk. There are no significant changes in the measurement of market risk. Specifically, credit risk of the investment portfolio and operational risk are measured based on the Standardized Approach.

The capital adequacy ratio is determined by comparing the Bank's regulatory own funds with the risks that the Bank undertakes (risk weighted assets). Own funds include Tier I capital (share capital, reserves), additional Tier I capital (hybrid securities) and Tier II capital (subordinated debt and fixed asset revaluation reserves). The risk-weighted assets arise from the credit risk of the investment portfolio, the market risk of the trading portfolio and the operational risk.

The current capital ratios (Tier I ratio and capital adequacy ratio) are much higher than the regulatory limits set by the Bank of Greece directive (4% and 8%, respectively) and the capital base is capable to support the business growth of the Bank in all areas for the next years.

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Basel ΙΙ Basel Ι
Tier I ratio 7.8% 6.5%
Capital adequacy ratio (Tier I + Tier II) 9.6% 12.0%

41. Related-party transactions

The Bank enters into a number of transactions with related parties in the normal course of business. These transactions are performed at arms length and are approved by relevant Bank committees.

a. The outstanding balances of the transactions with members of the Board of Directors, their close family members and the controlled by these entities are as follows:

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Assets
Loans and advances to customers 166,137 38,649
Liabilities
Due to customers 71,915 43,123
Letters of guarantee 21,392 83
From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Interest and similar income 10,142 432
Interest expense and similar charges 2,760 1,131

b. The outstanding balances with subsidiaries and associates and the related results of these transactions are as follows:

I. Subsidiaries

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Assets
Due from banks 5,803,055 4,114,320
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 12,486 8,075
Derivative financial assets 10,330 2,003
Loans and advances to customers (1) 1,933,878 1,527,856
Available-for-sale securities 5,555,443 3,368,618
Other assets 511
Total 13,315,703 9,020,872
Liabilities
Due to banks 2,183,803 1,574,301
Due to customers 132,323 101,128
Derivative financial liabilities 778 87
Debt securities in issue and other borrowed funds 17,395,646 20,521,976
Other liabilities 2,260 1,196
Total 19,714,810 22,198,688
Letters of guarantee and other guarantees 1,010,387 1,001,394
From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Income
Interest and similar income 515,650 247,092
Dividend income 72,897 43,915
Fee and commission income 36,712 51,356
Gains less losses on financial transactions 84,297
Other income 2,558 3,006
Total 712,114 345,369
Expenses
Interest expenses and similar charges 1,098,889 923,556
Commission expense 821 1,374
General administrative expenses 12,664 13,169
Total 1,112,374 938,099

(1) In "loans and advances to customers" are included € 131,382 from the off-setting of debt securities of "Alpha Covered Bond Plc" .and "Katanalotika Plc" held by the Bank, assets and liabilities from the securitization of mortgage and consumer loans, as well as the outstanding loans granted by the Bank to the above companies.

II. Associates

31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Assets
Loans and advances to customers 277
Liabilities
Due to customers 406 26
From 1 January to
31.12.2008 31.12.2007
Income
Interest and similar income 16 33
Dividend income 11 9
Total 27 42
Expenses
Interest and similar expenses 2
Total 2

c. The Board of Directors and Executive General Managers' fees recorded in the income statement of 2008 amounted to € 4,962 (31.12.2007: € 19,590).

42. Acquisitions, disposals of subsidiaries, associates and other corporate events

a. On 4 April 2008 the Bank acquired 90% of the newly established ukrainian bank Astra Bank OJSC at a cost of € 10.9 million. The Bank agreed with the founders of Astra Bank that they will hold a stake up to 10% of the share capital and will remain as executive members of management.

b. On 8 May 2008 the Bank participated in the share capital increase of Alpha Bank Srbija A.D. by € 49.8 million.

c. On 21 May 2008 the Bank acquired 847 shares of APE Commercial Property. After the acquisition the Bank's interest in APE Commercial Property was 72.20%.

d. On 2 June 2008 the Mutual Fund ALPHA-TANEO A.K.E.S., was established. The Bank holds a 51% ownership interest.

e. On 30 June 2008 the Bank participated in Astra Bank OJSC share capital increase at the total amount of € 126.4 million plus expenses. After this share capital increase, the interest is 93.33%.

f. On 2 July 2008 Alpha Covered Bonds Plc was established in United Kingdom by the Bank (which has 100% ownership interest) with primary activity the issuance of covered bonds.

g. On 15 August 2008 the Bank sold its participation in "Anadolu Alpha Gayrimenkul Ticaret A.S." or 50% of the share capital, to the other shareholder of Anadolu Group. No profit or loss resulted from the sale.

h. On 8 December 2008 the Bank participated in the share capital increase of Alpha Bank Romania by € 20 million.

i. On 18 December 2008 the Bank participated in the share capital increase of Evremethea A.E. by € 990 thousands.

j. On 19 December 2008 the Bank sold its participation in Alpha Astika Akinita A.E. and Ionian Hotel Enterprises A.E. to the subsidiary Alpha Group Investments Ltd.

k. On 29 December 2008 the Bank participated in the share capital increase of APE Commercial Property A.E. by € 3,8million.

l. On 31 December 2008 the Bank participated in the share capital increase of APE Fixed Assets A.E. by € 3 million.

43. Events after the balance sheet date

1. Based on the approved by the general meeting of shareholders held on 3.4.2008 share buy back program, the Bank acquired during 1.1.2009 up to 16.2.2009 457,601 treasury shares at a cost of € 2,666 (or € 5.83 per share).

As at 16.2.2009 the Bank holds 6,140,959 tresury shares at a total cost of € 71,650 or 1.49% of its issued share capital.

2. On 16 December 2008, the Board of Director has decided the Bank's participation, proportionally, to the regulations of law 3723/2008 enhancing economy's liquidity to address the impact of credit crunch.

In this context, on 12 January 2009 in the Bank's extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders approved:

  • The share capital increase of the Bank amounting up to € 950 million in accordance with Law 3723/2008 requirements, with abolition of preference right of existing Shareholders (where applicable), and by issuing and distributing new preference shares without voting right, tangible and redeemable shares. Delegation to the Board of Directors in order to specify the terms (issuance) of preferred shares. The amendment of the Article 5 of the Bank's article of Incorporation for the purpose of increasing the share capital and to adjust to the requirements of Law 3723/2008.
  • The change in the number of members of the Board of Directors of the Bank and amending Article 7 of the Article of Incorporation.
  • The election of the Greek government representative, as a new member of the Board of Directors in accordance with Law 3723/2008 and subject to the option of Greek government participation in the Bank's share capital.

3. On 17.2.2009 was completed successfully the securitization of part of Bank's bonds portfolio amounting to € 1.25 billion, through a special purpose entity Talanto PLC. A part of the bonds which have received a A1 rating from the Moody's credit rating agency amounts to € 811 million and is accepted by the European Central Bank as collateral for refinancing operations.

4. The Board of Directors' intention was to propose a cash dividend for the year 2008, as per the provisions of Law 3723/2008. However, in light of the forthcoming legislative amendments regarding the distribution of dividend, the Board of Directors will suspend any decision on the distribution of dividend until the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders, by which time it expects to be in a position to formulate its final proposal.

Athens, 24 February 2009
The Managing Director The Executive Director Group Financial
Reporting Officer
Demetrios P. Mantzounis
I.D. No. Ι 166670
Marinos S. Yannopoulos
I.D. No. Ν 308546
George N. Kontos
I.D. No. AB 522299
INDEPENDENT MEMBERS
George E. Agouridis
Pavlos A. Apostolides
Evangelos J. Calousis
Thanos M. Veremis
NON-EXECUTIVE
Ioannis K. Lyras
NON-EXECUTIVE MEMBERS
Sophia G. Eleftheroudaki
Ioanna E. Papadopoulou
Nicholaos I. Manessis
Paul G. Karakostas
From 1 January to
Alpha Bank
From 1 January to
Consolidated
(1,320,595)
31.12.2007
5,772,620
31.12.2008
(5, 104, 982)
31.12.2007
(1,320,595)
1,081,217
(4,629,371)
5,772,620
(5, 104, 982)
4,270,234
(12,601)
1,081,217
(4,629,371)
(962, 292)
(109, 819)
160,700
4,430,934
(12,601)
(251, 979)
(962, 292)
180,957
(109, 819)
(783, 867)
(251,479)
500
1,239
182,196
(783, 800)
67
4,608,407
4,356,928
4,356,928
4,539,124
4,575,831
3,792,031
Alpha Bank
Consolidated
31,12,2007
From 1 January to
31.12.2008
31.12.2007
From 1 January to
2,435,836
126,825
2,740,217
33,739
123,054
3,613,667
33,655
(48, 196)
200
(247, 883)
(130)
(38,613)
68
78,829
457,006
(214, 274)
334,238
84,509
851,086
61,605
61,605
(2,204)
(15,008)
(2,204)
(6,410)
(304, 421)
(362, 199)
(305, 498)
(52,996)
11,466
(123,276)
54,508
ξ
2,740,217
(3,153)
2,369,349
(609)
4,291,264
(1,998)
Marinos S. Yannopoulos (CFO)
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS AND
Artemis Ch. Theodoridis
GENERAL MANAGERS
(Executive Members)
Spyros N. Filaretos
2,888,383
31.12.2008
(2.728.334)
2,888,383
(855, 188)
(2,728,334)
(855, 188)
(695, 139)
(83,256)
(778, 395)
3,013,636
3,792,031
31.12.2008 4,291,264 (205, 653)
(132, 924)
(304, 922)
513,447
(362,731)
(58,575)
(127, 174) 3,940,697
The financial reformation set out bed a presentation of the financial position and read the fact that Comparison the recommend to the reader, before any investment decision or transaction is performed with the Bank, where
(In accordance with Codified Law 2190/20 article 135, concerning businesses that prepare annual financial statements, consolidated or not, in accordance with International Accounting Standards, I.A.S.)
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND INFORMATION OF ALPHA BANK A.E. AND THE GROUP
MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS:
(Non-Executive Independent Member)
CHAIRMAN (Executive Member)
Demetrios P. Mantzounis
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Yannis S. Costopoulos
Executive Member)
VICE CHAIRMAN
Minas G. Tanes
for the period from January 1, 2008 to December 31, 2008
(Amounts in thousands of $\epsilon$ )
CASH FLOW STATEMENT Net cash flows from continuing operating activities Net cash flows from discontinued operating activities
Net cash flows from continuing investing activities
Net cash flows from operating activities (a)
Net cash flows from discontinued investing activities
Net cash flows from continuing financing activities
Net cash flows from investing activities (b)
Net increase / (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents of the period $(a) + (b) + (c)$
Net cash flows from discontinued financing activities
Net cash flows from financing activities (c)
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents
Total cash flows for the period
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the fiscal year
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the fiscal year
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY Net change in fair value of available for sale securities transferred to income statement (a)
Equity at the beginning of the fiscal year (1.1.2008 and 1.1.2007 respectively)
Exchange differences on translating foreign operations (c)
Net change in fair value of available for sale securities (b)
Net income recognized directly in equity $(a) + (b) + (c)$
Net income for the fiscal year after income tax
Share capital increase Change of ownership interests in subsidiaries
Expenses for share capital increase
Dividends paid to hybrid securities holders
Dividends distributed
Purchases / sales of treasury shares and hybrid securities Equity at the end of the fiscal year (31.12.2008 and 31.12.2007 respectively)
Other
31.12.2007
Alpha Bank
7,349,675
1,650,327
264,788
384,466
35,267,874
1,626,100
6,300,377
42,370
603,831
158,160
55,836
280,626
53,984,430
54,706
54,039,136
5,637,562
383,129
23,334,888
20,521,976 82,960
127,863
3,733
1,159,012
47,796
51,298,919 51,298,919 1,602,809
184,033
333,892
619,483
2,740,217 54,039,136
2,740,217
31.12.2008 8,420,793
1,724,081
86,880
494,386
42,189,278
4,488,709
6,033,897
42,195
1,750,902
649,452
316,069
68,723
419,526
66,684,891
66,738,174
53,283
10,883,969
804,172
33,816,094
17,395,646 97,855
158,212
8,415
1,204,462
64,368,825 64,368,825 1,931,590 165,848
340,896
(68,985)
2,369,349
66,738,174
2,369,349
18701) 31.12.2007 3,263,612
3,509,696
266,047
383,432
42,072,071
3,156,901 5,320
73,560
173,275
134,497
170,257
385,676
89,945
54,684,289
$\frac{4}{3}$
384,139
437,736
,665,158
$\frac{34}{5}$
189,297
ø
158,797
50°/6
42,019
95,935
323,554
391,442
1,583
$\frac{5}{2}$
50,393,025 602,809
184,033
445,662
1,138,195
(188)
1370,511
887,894 4,291,264
54,684,289
Bank of Greece, Ministry of Development
Marios T. Kyriacou (A.M. SOEL 11121)
40 Stadiou Street, 102 52 Athens
Nick E. Vouniseas (A.M. SOEL
KPMG Certified Auditors S.A.
Unqualified opinion
February 24, 2009
6066/06/B/86/05
www.alpha.gr
Consolidated
31.12.2008
2,829,970
3,450,947
81,135
485.026
50,704,702
752,526
4,488,709
59,260
1,254,240
66,875
549,299
333,499
159,961
53,805
65,269,954
8,963,796
805,346
42,546,777
7,241,185 197,779
128,062
53,263
42,762
1,350,287
61,329,257 61,329,257 1,931,590 188,404
969,815
(68,985)
3,020,824
887,306
32,567
3,940,697
65,269,954
by the Board of Directors:
(from which the financial statements and Information were derived):
Date of approval of the Financial Statements
INFORMATION OF ALPHA BANK
Type of Auditor's Report:
Web site address:
Supervising authority:
Certified Auditors:
Registered office:
Audit company:
R.N.S.A.
BALANCE SHEET Cash and balances with Central Banks
Due from banks
ASSETS
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
Loans and advances to customers
Derivative financial assets
- Held for trading
Investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures
Investment securities
- Available for sale
- Held to maturity
Property, plant and equipment
Investments in associates
Investment property
Goodwill and other intangible assets
Deferred tax assets
Other assets
Non-current assets held for sale
Total Assets
(including debt securities in issue)
Derivative financial liabilities
Due to customers
LIABILITIES
Due to banks
Debt securities in issue held by institutional investors and other
borrowed funds
Liabilities for current income tax and other taxes
Deferred tax liabilities
Employee defined benefit obligations
Other liabilities
Provisions
Liabilities related to non-current assets held for sale Total Liabilities (a)
EQUITY
Share premium
Share Capital
Retained earnings
Reserves
Equity attributable to equity holders of the Bank
Treasury shares
Minority interest
Hybrid securities
Total Liabilities and Equity $(a) + (b)$
Total Equity (b)
* New company: The company Addit Substituted by the Bank and the substituted by the problem of the facture of the first time on 200.000.
The company Alpha Coursed Bonde Fig. Tourised by the Bank and Link Substituted by Alp
of 100% of Tourist Resorts A.E., owner of Hilton Rhodes Resort to the Greek Hotel Company Lampsa S.A. and to Plaka S.A. by 50% respectively 3. In the consolided financial demonstrational commercial Bank of London Canal Canal Canal Action, as well as the companies Singular Hospital Scale (SHS AE), HSD Europe BV and Philas AE, which are fully impaired and are un Financial Statements as at 3.1.12.2008 of the Boark and the Group respectively.
attements of the Group and the Boark. The Group has rated a provision for them which and the Statement of the Boark amount to 6 49.1 million a
. With members of the Board of Decket Alb (management personerie) and the Coupon constant of the Substant of the Board of the Board Substant, Responding E 71,955 thousand, and a guarantee E 21,992 thousand.
1. With other a
REPORTING OFFICER
GROUP FINANCIAL
GEORGE N. KONTOS
I.D. No. AB 522299
31.12.2007 3,106,845
(1,879,187)
1,227,658
949,359
$\begin{array}{r} (27,480) \ \hline 321,919 \ \hline 45,462 \ (42,833) \end{array}$ 37,507
34,878
1,587,084
(386,694)
(338,490)
$(51,186)$
$(2,486)$
$(778,856)$
(194,587)
(194, 587) (156, 635)
613,641
457.006 1.1270
1.1250
0.9000 THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MARINOS S. YANNOPOULOS
I.D. No. N 308546
Alpha Bank From 1 January to 31.12.2008 4,118,961
(2,768,455)
1,350,506
346,494
(29, 418) 317,076
74,937
(20, 584)
21,138
75,491
743,073 (362, 411)
(57, 592)
(3,072) (495,382)
(852, 288)
(495, 382) (61, 165)
395,403
334.238 0.8240
0.8240
Total 3,407,585
(1,801,472)
606,113
508,060
(43,061) 464,999
82,542
85,005
169,801
2,240,913 (417,836)
(78, 493)
(3,903) (1,029,505)
(226,683)
1,220
(225, 463) (214,986)
985,945
851,086
80.127
850,035
1,051
2.0925
2.0963
Athens, 24 February 2009
31,12,2007 Discontinued
operations
860 860
Ş
409 3,573 4,842
(2,338)
(1,583)
(239)
(4, 160) (421)
682
80,127
80.388
80,388 0.1983
0.1979
Consolidated From 1 January to operations
Continued
3,406,725
(1,801,472)
1,605,253 (43,061) 464,590
82,542
166,228
81,432
2,236,071 (416,253)
(78, 254)
(3,903) (226, 683)
(1,025,345)
1,220
(225, 463) (214, 565)
985,263
770,698 769,647
1.051
1,8980
1.8946
Bank: income € 712,141 thousand, expenses € 1,112,376 thousand THE MANAGING DIRECTOR DEMETRIOS P. MANTZOUNIS
31.12.2008 4,406,935
(2,608,333)
1,798,602
505,039
(40,625) 464,414
(6,848)
79,944 2,338,703
2,338,703
(S89,488)
(495, 623)
(88, 949)
(4,256) $(1,178,316)$
$(541,751)$
6,997
(534,754)
(534,754)
625,633
(112, 186) 513.447 1,380
512,067
1.2624
1.2624
as described above.
at 31.12.2008
follows:
INCOME STATEMENT Interest and similar income Interest expense and similar charges
Fee and commission income
Net interest income
Commission expense Net fee and commission income
Dividend income
Gains less losses from financial transactions
Other income
Total income Depreciation and amortization expenses
General administrative expenses
Staff costs
Other expenses Impairment losses and provisions for credit risk
Share of profit / (loss) of associates
Total expenses
Profit before income tax Income tax Profit from the sale of Alpha Insurance A.E.
Profit after income tax
Equity holders of the Bank
Profit attributable to:
Minority interest
Earnings per share:
Basic (€ per share)
Diluted (E per share)
Proposed dividend for the year 2008 (E per share)
Dividend for the year 2007 (E per share)
ADDITIONAL DATA AND INFORMATION 1. Companies in the consolidated financial statements, other than "Alpha Buys participation in the matrix" and the method of consolidation which was spylled, is presented in note 40 of the Group Financial Statements as at • Sales/Liquidations: On 26.3.2008, the subsidiary Ionian Hotel Enterprises A.E. completed the transfer
In Concerning companies consistance under the proposition of the subsidiary investments B.V. was liquidated.
In Concer
+ Seles: On 15.8.2008 the Bank sold its participation in "Anadolu Alpha Gasyrimenkul Travet A.S.", or 50% of the share capital, to the other shareholder of Anadolu Group
The company Alpha - TANEO A.K.E.S., in which the Bank holds a 51% ownership interest was consolidated for the first time on 30.6.2008.
· New companies:
c. Concerning companies accounted for under the equity method:
• New companies: On 21.5.2008, the Group recognized its participation to the associate ELP.ET. Balkaniki S.A.
4. A description of the discontinued operations is presented in note 11 of the Group Financial Statements as
5. The net income recognized directly in equity is extensively referred at the "Statement of changes in equity
8. The number of teasury shares held by the Bank as at 11.2.2008 is 683.833 at a cot of € 68,985 thousand. The other compares of the compares of the mean a province.
9. The total number of employees of the Group as a 31.12
6. The unaudited tax years of the Bank and the Group companies are mentioned in notes 37b and 39b of the
7. There are no pending legal cases or issues in progress, which may have a material impact on the financial
+ Vith members of the Board of Directors and other key management personnel: a) of the Group: income of a group of the Sanch and the Sanch more of 10,142 thousand, expenses 6.7,722 thousand . With other related parties: a) of the Group: income € 16 thousand, expenses € 3,175 thousand b) of the
The balances as at 31.12.2008 of the receivables and liabilities arising from the above transactions are as f
of Shareholders, by which time it expects to be in a position to formulate its final proposal. OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
THE CHAIRMAN
YANNIS S. COSTOPOULOS
I.D. No. X 661480

INFORMATION PURSUANT TO ARTICLE 10 OF LAW 3401/2005

The Corporate announcements of the year 2008 are available on the web site of the Bank www.alpha.gr/page/default.asp?id=5695&la=2

Subject Date Invitation to the Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders 30.12.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 17.12.2008 18.12.2008 Use of provisions of Law 3723/2008 17.12.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 16.12.2008 17.12.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 10.12.2008 11.12.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 08.12.2008 09.12.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 05.12.2008 08.12.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 04.12.2008 05.12.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 03.12.2008 04.12.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 28.11.2008 01.12.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 27.11.2008 28.11.2008 Nine Month 2008 Results 25.11.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 20.11.2008 21.11.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 19.11.2008 20.11.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 17.11.2008 18.11.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 14.11.2008 17.11.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 13.11.2008 14.11.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 12.11.2008 13.11.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 11.11.2008 12.11.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 31.10.2008 03.11.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 30.10.2008 31.10.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 29.10.2008 30.10.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 27.10.2008 29.10.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 24.10.2008 27.10.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 22.10.2008 23.10.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 20.10.2008 21.10.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 17.10.2008 20.10.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 16.10.2008 17.10.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 3.9.2008 04.09.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 29.8.2008 01.09.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 26.8.2008 27.08.2008 Η1 2008 Results 26.08.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 25.8.2008 26.08.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 20.8.2008 21.08.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares on 14.8.2008 18.08.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares 13.08.2008 First Half 2008 results announcement scheduled for 26 August 2008 13.08.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares 11.08.2008 Announcement of Purchase of Own Shares 08.08.2008 New Interest Rates from Alpha Bank 25.07.2008

Purchase of treasury shares 01.07.2008

Purchases in the interim share buyback period 30.06.2008 Completion of the sale of treasury shares 30.06.2008

Sale of treasury shares 27.06.2008

183

Termination of the interim share buyback period 27.06.2008
Q1 2008 Results. 27.05.2008
Notification about a significant change in the number of voting rights according to Law
3556/2007 [27.5.2008] 27.05.2008
Resolutions and Results of the Second General Meeting of Shareholders, held to decide upon
postponed items from the Ordinary General Meeting, of Alpha Bank on 13.5.2008 (article 278
of the ATHEX Regulations) 13.05.2008
Second General Meeting of the Shareholders of Alpha Bank on May 13, 2008 13.05.2008
First Quarter 2008 Results announcement scheduled for 27 Μay 2008 13.05.2008
Notification of important changes concerning the voting rights deriving from shares under
L.3556/2007 12.05.2008
Share Capital Increase through an adjustment of the Nominal Value of the Shares 07.05.2008
Invitation to the Second General Meeting of Shareholders to decide upon postponed items
from the Ordinary General Meeting 24.04.2008
Resolutions and Results of the First General Meeting of Shareholders, held to decide upon
postponed items from the Ordinary General Meeting, of Alpha Bank on 23.4.2008 (article 278
of the ATHEX Regulations)
23.04.2008
First General Meeting of the Shareholders of Alpha Bank 23.04.2008
Notification of important changes concerning the voting rights deriving from shares under
L.3556/2007 21.04.2008
Purchase of treasury shares 04.04.2008
Completion of the acquisition of 90% of the share capital of OJSC Astra Bank 04.04.2008
Appointment of two independent members of the Board of Directors, among the existing non
executive members and election of a new member of the Board of Directors 04.04.2008
Resolutions and Results of the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of Alpha Bank on
3.4.2008 (article 278 of the ATHEX Regulations) 04.04.2008
Invitation to the First General Meeting of Shareholders to decide upon postponed items from
the Ordinary General Meeting 04.04.2008
Purchase of treasury shares 03.04.2008
Distribution of dividend 03.04.2008
Annual General Meeting of the Shareholders of Alpha Bank 2008. Euro 0.90 dividend per share,
payable April 15, 2008
Notification of important changes concerning the voting rights deriving from shares under
03.04.2008
l.3556/2007 01.04.2008
Alpha Bank enters the Ukrainian market 27.03.2008
Invitation to the Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders 11.03.2008
Financial Calendar 27.02.2008
Full Year 2007 Results. 26.02.2008
New Interest Rates from Alpha Bank 22.02.2008
Full Year 2007 results announcement scheduled for 26 February 2008 13.02.2008
Purchase of treasury shares 04.01.2008

AVAILABILITY OF ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT

The Annual Financial Report which includes the Statement of the Board of Directors, the Annual Financial Statements of the Bank and the Group, Independent Auditors' Report, Board of Directors' Report and the financial information of the Bank and the Group, are available on the website address: http://www.alpha.gr/page/default.asp?la=2&id=6081

The Annual Financial Statements, Independent Auditors' report and the Board of Directors' Report of consolidated companies are available on the website address: http://www.alpha.gr/page/default.asp?la=1&id=6628

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