The manager highlights that the growing number of immigrants settling in the country has generated new housing needs, creating opportunities for the banking sector. “There are many immigrants creating lives in Portugal and the issue of housing is central,” he said.

Maya says that BCP has seen an increase in operations linked to real estate credit associated with this phenomenon, highlighting that the bank continues to apply strict criteria when granting credit, favouring clients with strong ties to the country. “If the person is here, if they want to settle down, if they have a job, BCP should be sought out,” he told the newspaper, adding that the bank remains focused on a “relationship banking” approach.

Regarding the public guarantee aimed at facilitating young people's access to their own home, Maya defends its usefulness, especially to allow 100% financing in cases where borrowers do not have the usual 10% down payment. However, it states that if the bank could fully finance without regulatory restrictions, this guarantee would be unnecessary. “I didn’t need the guarantee for anything if it was possible to finance 100%,” he says.

BCP's CEO also suggests that the public guarantee instrument should be subject to reassessment, based on its real impact. “If we come to the conclusion that the number of cases in which the State had to provide money was very small, perhaps it is the rule that needs to be reviewed,” he emphasises.

Despite the context of economic uncertainty, Miguel Maya is optimistic about the evolution of the sector and believes that Portugal is better prepared to deal with adversity, thanks to the solidity of the financial system and the resilience of families and companies.