Four Greek bank governors released statements to Greek daily, Kathimerini, expressing their satisfaction with the stress tests conducted by the European Central Bank (ECB).

Piraeus Bank Chairman Michael Sallas said that the successful conclusion to the stress tests brings an end to the cycle of recapitalizations and paves the way for new initiatives on the part of banks for the restructuring and the financial support of businesses. He believes that the way is paved to strengthen competition and growth prospects.

Alpha Bank Chairman Dimitris Mantzounis noted that the successive capital injections, recovery of the operating profitability and general improvement of the economic conditions contributed to a positive result which helped create confidence.

Governor of the National Bank of Greece Alexandros Tourkolias noted that Greek banks are now free to focus on funding the Greek economy.

Eurobank CEO Christos Megalou said that banks can now focus on implementing their business plans and funding credible investment plans and households. He also said that non-performing loans would also be effectively dealt with.

Governor of the Bank of Greece Yannis Stournaris said that the results of the tests were better than expected but should not lead to complacency.