SPECIAL CONTENT
- Interview with María Cruz Rivera, territorial director of CaixaBank in the Balearic Islands
Society is facing important economic transformations and challenges. What role do you think the financial sector plays in this context?
In recent years, we have witnessed profound transformations in all areas of society. In this context, the financial sector plays an essential role, not only as a channel for savings and a provider of financing, but also as a key agent in helping families, companies and society to face new challenges.
At CaixaBank, our purpose is to be close to people for everything that matters. In this sense, we have just launched our new Strategic Plan, based on three fundamental pillars: accelerating growth, driving transformation and investment in the business, and consolidating our position as a benchmark in sustainability. These objectives will enable us to contribute more effectively to economic and social development in the Balearic Islands and throughout the region.
¿How do you assess the economic outlook in the Balearic Islands and what are its main strengths?
The Balearic Islands are going through a moment of great economic dynamism. Tourism continues to be the main engine of the Balearic economy, with record occupancy and tourist spending figures in 2024.
In addition, sectors such as construction are showing remarkable growth, driven by new sustainable projects. We cannot forget other key sectors such as commerce, services and transportation, which are also making efforts to become more competitive and productive.
In this scenario, what role do training and sustainability play in the development of the Balearic Islands?
Training is essential to ensure sustainable growth in the Balearic Islands. We need to ensure that people have the skills that our economy demands, attract talent and generate quality employment. At CaixaBank we actively support vocational training through programs such as CaixaBank Dualiza.
Sustainability is a key differentiating factor. Companies that incorporate sustainable practices, such as energy efficiency, accessibility and responsible resource management, not only contribute to social welfare, but also strengthen their long-term competitiveness.
How does CaixaBank contribute to the development of tourism and the economy in the Balearic Islands?
Through our specialized division, CaixaBank Hotels & Tourism, we have achieved significant milestones in the Balearic Islands, such as exceeding 10 billion euros in loans granted to the hotel sector since 2017. The Balearic Islands represent the main territory for this business division, with an overall position of 3.5 billion euros and nearly 1,500 clients in the sector.
In addition, our offering includes products and services tailored to the needs of the hotel and tourism market, helping to optimize the profitability of their businesses and simplify their daily operations. We also place a strong emphasis on sustainable projects, such as improvements in energy efficiency and resource management, and we promote social initiatives like the ReUseMe program, which channels surplus materials from hotel companies to social entities.
What is the outlook for the tourism sector in the Balearic Islands for 2024 and 2025?
According to the CaixaBank Research report, the Spanish tourism sector started 2024 with record figures in visitor arrivals, spending and activity. The Balearic Islands, as one of Spain’s most important destinations, is experiencing sustained growth. Tourism GDP is expected to grow by around 5% in 2024 and 3.2% in 2025, driven by the recovery of European households’ purchasing power and the perceived safety of our destination.
What differentiates CaixaBank in its relationship with society and the business fabric in the Balearic Islands?
Our way of banking is different. We combine the goal of sustainable profitability with a strong social commitment. In the Balearic Islands, we have worked hard to contribute to the economic and social well-being of the region.
Thanks to MicroBank, the largest microcredit bank in Europe, we have supported the creation of 895 jobs and entrepreneurship in the Islands in the last year. In addition, 30% of our results are returned to society through the “la Caixa” Foundation, supporting projects in areas such as education, social inclusion and health
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