Erste Group’s Stock Soars Over 100% as Poland Expansion Nears Completion
Erste Group Bank’s stock has surged over the past year, making it one of Europe’s best-performing financial shares. The Austrian lender’s value has more than doubled since early 2024, rising by roughly 104.6%. This strong growth comes as the bank secures a major expansion into Poland’s banking sector.
The stock’s remarkable climb began in April, when it traded as low as $55. By Friday, it closed at $118.83—a new 52-week high and a gain of over 100%. The share price has also broken above the key psychological level of €100, drawing in more investors and reinforcing the upward momentum.
Technical indicators support the bullish trend. The stock remains well above its key moving averages, with a relative strength index (RSI) of 65.7—signalling a strong but not overbought position. Short-term performance has been equally impressive, with gains of 17.65% over seven days, 28.88% over 30 days, and 104.60% year-to-date. The latest boost follows regulatory approval for Erste Group’s expansion into the stock market. The Polish Financial Supervision Authority (KNF) has greenlit the bank’s acquisition of a 49% controlling stake in Santander Bank Polska. Once finalised in mid-January 2026, the deal will position Erste Group as Poland’s third-largest bank. The acquisition is fully funded from existing resources, requiring no additional capital.
Erste Group’s stock now stands at a record high, backed by strong technicals and a strategic expansion into the stock market. The approved Santander Bank Polska deal strengthens its market position without straining finances. Investors continue to drive demand, reflecting confidence in the bank’s growth trajectory.
