In NLB Group we have entered into a share purchase agreement with Skupina PRVA d.d. and its related parties for the acquisition of a 25.66% of all dematerialised shares in Deželna banka Slovenije d.d. (DBS). The transaction is expected to be completed following receipt of all required regulatory approvals, most likely in the second half of next year. NLB Group expects no obstacles to obtaining such approvals. Additionally, NLB Group also explores the possibility of acquiring additional shares in DBS.
With the intended acquisition of an ownership stake in DBS NLB Group recognizes the importance of the agricultural sector – a segment that DBS largely serves through its products and services, while within the NLB Group it has long been understood and supported as an area of broader societal importance.
In times when the world is facing increasing uncertainty, the ability to secure a reliable domestic food supply chain has become a strategic issue. Slovenian farmers, food producers, agri-food companies, and the agricultural sector as a whole play a crucial role not only in ensuring food security but also in the broader Slovenian economy and national resilience, as well as in preserving tradition, identity, and the future of our society and Slovenian landscape. As Slovenia's leading bank, NLB is a crucial development partner. With the intended acquisition of this ownership stake, we wish to further strengthen our systemic role and make a meaningful contribution to shaping Slovenia's future. We namely firmly believe that the heart of the rural Slovenia must remain stable and in domestic hands.
The PRVA Group companies hold an ownership interest in DBS primarily through their role as managers of pension funds whose investment portfolios include shares of the bank. In addition, the bank’s shares are also held in the investment portfolios of PRVA Group and PRVA Finance. From PRVA’s perspective, decisions regarding the ownership of DBS shares are primarily a matter of responsible asset management on behalf of the members of the pension funds managed by PRVA Pension Company. PRVA Pension Company manages the retirement savings of approximately 100,000 Slovenians, and its fundamental responsibility is therefore to act in the best interests of pension fund members. In managing these assets, we pursue the objective of generating appropriate long-term returns while carefully managing risk. Whenever we assess that a particular investment has achieved its expected investment objectives and that its sale represents the best course of action for fund members, we proceed with the divestment. This is the only way to ultimately realize the returns generated and transfer the benefits to the savers.
Despite its strong international presence across Southeast Europe, which significantly contributes to the growth and profitability of the NLB Group, our roots remain firmly anchored in our home market. It is therefore no surprise we wish to strengthen our role in the Slovenian economy and society, not only as a banking and financial group safeguarding a significant share of savings, financing, and wealth management activities, but also as a responsible institution that understands the broader economic landscape, its social responsibility, and, above all, long-term structural changes.
At NLB, we aim to contribute to a stronger, more resilient, and more competitive Slovenian economy, one that can adapt more successfully to change and make better use of future development opportunities, thereby ensuring the long-term stability of Slovenian society. Therefore, we invest where we see our systemic role and agriculture is undoubtedly a sector that deserves the support of Slovenia's leading banking and financial group.
For further information please contact:
NLB Communications and Skupina PRVA d.d.
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