Bank Pekao as a Leader in the Polish Domestic Market

In 2021, Bank Pekao strengthened its position as the leader of the domestic debt securities market. The institution was also trusted by the largest number of cities and municipalities that issued municipal bonds last year. The bank’s ambition is to become the first choice bank for Polish companies that will use debt financing on the international market.

The Details of Bank Pekao:

Based on data from Fitch Polska, last year Bank Pekao owned 31 % of the market share in the area of ​​organization and servicing of non-treasury debt securities. The bank turned out to be incomparable in the segment of organizing the issue of corporate bonds, in which it had nearly 39 % of the market share. Also was responsible for 13 % of the bank debt securities organization.

In 2021, Bank Pekao was an active player in the Polish capital market as well. They have handled numerous bond and stock issues, and have advised on mergers and acquisitions. They consistently implemented the ESG strategy and increased their presence and recognition in the international market.

– Our ambition is to be the main partner for entities looking for financing on the debt capital market in this part of Europe – said Jerzy Kwieciński, vice president of Bank Pekao, supervising the Corporate Banking, Markets, and Investment Banking Division.

In addition to being active in the domestic market, in 2021 Bank Pekao participated as a global coordinator in a record number of issues of debt securities on the international market.

In May, Pekao became one of the global coordinators and co-bookers of the demand book for the issue of 7-year green bonds of PKN Orlen, worth EUR 500 million, carried out on the international market.

Implications for Banking and Business

Developments in the Polish banking sector affect businesses operating in the country in several ways. Access to corporate banking services, credit availability, deposit rates, and payment infrastructure are all critical factors for companies — whether established Polish firms or foreign-owned entities entering the market.

For foreign entrepreneurs setting up operations in Poland, choosing the right banking partner is a strategic decision. Major Polish banks including mBank, ING Bank Śląski, Bank Millennium, PKO BP, and Santander Poland offer varying levels of service for international clients, including English-language online banking, multicurrency accounts, and dedicated relationship managers for corporate clients.

The Polish banking market is well-regulated by the KNF (Financial Supervision Authority) and participates in the EU deposit guarantee scheme (BFG — Bank Guarantee Fund), providing deposit protection up to EUR 100,000 per depositor per institution. This regulatory framework provides stability and confidence for businesses maintaining corporate funds in Polish banks.

If you are doing business in Poland or considering entering the Polish market, Zalewski Consulting can help. Learn more about our corporate tax advisory, or contact us for a free consultation.