The CNB’s survey of banks’ lending conditions for the second quarter came as no surprise; the most significant change concerned housing loans. The central bank’s stricter criteria for investment mortgages tightened not only the banks’ lending requirements. In line with historical experience, this supported demand, likely temporarily. The impact on lending conditions was partially offset by lower bank margins and more favorable repayment terms. In an environment of continued strong competition, the stronger demand helped mitigate the impact of the spike in market interest rates on mortgage rates, which consequently rose more modestly. However, expectations of weaker demand for housing loans in the third quarter are changing this narrative. Surveys on consumer and business loans are also likely to keep the CNB’s outlook on the hawkish side.
Miroslav Zámečník
06. 05. 2026
Commentary by Miroslav Zámečník, Chief Advisor of the Czech Banking Association
02. 10. 2025
Commentary by Miroslav Zámečník, Chief Advisor of the Czech Banking Association
06. 05. 2025
Commentary by Miroslav Zámečník, Chief Advisor of the Czech Banking Association