With economic growth in 2007 expected to come out at 3.4 %, the Austrian credit market performed well despite the difficult international economic situation. The earnings power of Austrian banks was satisfactory, and their capital and reserves continued at healthy levels.

The performance of the Austrian leasing market was similarly strong, with a further increase in new contract volumes during the year. The ship leasing business is still enjoying a boom, and together with lease financing for aircraft and photovoltaic plants continues to drive growth in this segment. Real estate leasing reported further increases in 2007, extending the rapid growth recorded in 2006. Growth of the vehicle leasing market also continued unabated in the year under review.