According to the Bank Al-Maghrib (BAM), the increase in bank credit in the non-financial sector primarily reflects the evolution of loans to private non-financial companies. After a 0.7% decrease in January 2024, loans to these companies have returned to their February 2023 levels. On the other hand, the growth of credit to households remained almost stable at 1.3%, while loans to public non-financial companies decelerated to 20.8% after 22.5%.
From an economic perspective, the evolution of bank credit in the non-financial sector includes a decrease in working capital loans by 3.3%, with a decline in loans to private companies by 8.4%. Loans for real estate remained almost stagnant at 0.6%, while loans for equipment increased by 5.1% and consumer loans increased by 0.5%. According to the Central Bank, non-performing loans increased by 6% in February, after a 5% increase the previous month, with their ratio to credit standing at 8.7%.
Overall, the increase in bank credit by 2.5% in February 2024 indicates a positive trend in lending activities in the financial sector. This growth in credit reflects the improving economic conditions and increased demand for loans from both companies and households. It also demonstrates the confidence of banks in the creditworthiness of borrowers and their ability to repay loans.
In conclusion, the recent increase in bank credit in the financial sector in February 2024 in France points towards a positive outlook for the economy. The availability of credit is essential for businesses to finance their operations and for individuals to make investments and purchases. As the economy continues to recover, it is expected that the trend of increasing bank credit will contribute to further growth and development in the financial sector.
