Financial activities of the European Investment Bank – annual report 2024
This resolution reviews the European Investment Bank's (EIB) financial activities in 2024, highlighting its role in supporting EU policies and investments. It acknowledges the EIB's significant balance sheet and record investment levels, while emphasizing its crucial function in bridging Europe's investment gap and fostering competitiveness. The EIB Group, comprising the EIB and the European Investment Fund (EIF), affects various sectors and entities. This includes small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the defence industry, climate and environmental projects, housing, and digital innovation. The EIB also plays a role in investments outside the EU through its EIB Global arm. Key changes and obligations include increased investment targets for 2025, a raised gearing ratio to boost lending capacity, and a strengthened focus on security and defence investments. The EIB is also urged to simplify procedures, reduce administrative burdens, and enhance transparency and accountability in its operations. The resolution calls for continued efforts to complete the Capital Markets Union and Banking Union to further support EIB operations. It also emphasizes the need to maintain the EIB's 'triple A' credit rating, which is vital for its lending capacity and investor confidence.
Analysis
The EIB Group's total investment reached a record EUR 88.8 billion in 2024, with EUR 50.7 billion allocated to climate and environment.
What changes
- The EIB Board of Governors decided to increase the EIB's gearing ratio limit from 250% to 290%.
- The EIB's eligibility criteria for security and defence investments are broadened, with no fixed ceiling for these investments.
- A Defence Equity Facility, a fund of funds with a EUR 175 million budget (2024-2027), is being established to support private investment in European SMEs developing dual-use defence technologies.
Expected impact
- The EIB's 'triple A' rating is essential for maintaining investor confidence and ensuring low borrowing costs, which is crucial for its lending capacity.
- Increased EIB investment in the defence sector may encourage commercial banks to increase their investment in this area.
- The EIB's operational framework will integrate a dedicated transversal public policy goal to enhance Europe's peace and security.
Limitations
- The document is a resolution of the European Parliament and does not contain detailed financial statements or operational data beyond what is cited.
- Specific figures for future EIB investments in certain sectors are projections or plans, not confirmed outcomes.
- The document refers to various reports and decisions, but the full content of these referenced documents is not provided.
Shadow Rapporteurs
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