Berliner Sparkasse consistently continued its business development in the first half of the 2026 financial year. Despite ongoing economic and political challenges, the institution recorded increases in key performance indicators. Earnings amounted to EUR 253 million, surpassing the previous year's figure of EUR 135 million. Berliner Sparkasse also further strengthened its capitalisation, reflected in a Common Equity Tier 1 ratio of 21.1 per cent.
In new lending business, a total of EUR 1.56 billion was granted to private customers, corporate clients, and in the commercial real estate financing sector. This represents an increase compared to EUR 1.5 billion in the same period last year. A significant portion was attributable to commercial real estate financing, with a volume of EUR 933 million, up from EUR 870 million in the previous year's period. Private real estate financing recorded EUR 253 million, which is on par with the previous year's level. The total loan portfolio decreased slightly to EUR 28.81 billion, compared to EUR 29.35 billion in the previous year.
Risk provisions amounted to EUR 61 million, which was below the previous year's figure of EUR 74 million. Loan loss provisions totalled EUR 68 million, also significantly below the previous year. Deposits saw an increase to EUR 31.86 billion compared to EUR 31.62 billion in the same period last year. Securities business also showed positive development, with a net increase of almost 8,000 custody accounts and an increase in custody volume of approximately EUR 648 million to EUR 9.65 billion.
Johannes Evers, Chairman of the Board of Berliner Sparkasse, noted that the continuous positive development occurred despite a difficult political environment and weak economic momentum. He emphasised the Sparkasse's economic robustness and its investments in its future viability. Evers also expressed willingness to support the capital region's economy with investments in affordable housing, digitalisation, education, and infrastructure, but called for reliable framework conditions and a positive welcoming culture for investors.
Berliner Sparkasse is continuing its branch modernisation programme. A total of six centre modernisations are planned for 2026. In Berlin, the Sparkasse operates the densest network of branches and services, comprising 78 branches, five Corporate Centres, seven Sector-Specific Corporate Centres, two Real Estate Centres, and four Private Banking locations. This also includes a Healthcare Professionals Centre and a location for financial advice for young people, supplemented by two Sparkasse buses. With over 500 ATMs and around 300 self-service terminals, the institution significantly contributes to cash supply in Berlin. In parallel, investments are being made in digital infrastructure to ensure the integration of personal and digital channels, as demonstrated by the successful introduction of the S-Neo Depot.
For the full year 2026, Berliner Sparkasse anticipates continued demanding overall and geopolitical framework conditions. Despite the associated uncertainties, the Sparkasse remains confident that it can conclude a solid financial year. Continuing the targeted expansion of customer business and increasing customer satisfaction remain key objectives.
