Van Petegem: “It would be better for bank profits to end up with savers rather than in our government fund” | Economy

During the weekly question period, the minister was asked a series of questions about one-year government bonds, which unexpectedly raised just under €22 billion from around 700,000 Belgians. Making it the most successful case in our country’s history.

The reason for issuing government bonds was to encourage banks to increase interest on savings accounts. Many respondents indicated that the interest rate increase was disappointing. According to the minister, the fact that some banks came up with alternatives during the issuance clearly proves that competition existed. “But once the external pressure was gone, they went back to their old habits,” says Van Petegem.

The minister did not comment on the issuance of second government bonds. This depends on the conditions prevailing at the time, such as the interest rate climate and the banks’ reaction. But such a process will always be done in consultation with the debt agency.

Party leader Peter De Ruover (N-VA) warned that a second government bond would put small banks in the danger zone. He asked: “Is it your turn to take this step?” For Jill van den Boer (Ecolo), the second issue should include green government bonds.

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