How to Improve Your Mortgage Approval Odds in Germany (2025 Guide for Expats & Locals)

Introduction: Why Mortgage Approval in Germany Matters More in 2025

Thinking about buying a home in Germany in 2025? You’re not alone. With rising interest rates, tighter lending criteria, and an increasingly competitive property market, securing a mortgage isn’t as simple as it once was—especially for expats, freelancers, or first-time buyers. Whether you’re relocating to Berlin, settling down in Munich, or investing in Hamburg, getting mortgage approval can feel like unlocking a safe without the code.

But here’s the good news: with the right approach, documentation, and strategy, you can dramatically improve your chances of getting approved—even in a stricter lending environment.

In this practical guide, we’ll break down:

• How the German mortgage system works in 2025
• What banks really look for (hint: it’s more than just income)
• Why your SCHUFA score can make or break your deal
• Insider tips for expats, digital nomads, and self-employed applicants
• Tools, lenders, and workarounds that can boost your odds

Whether you’re applying from Germany, or you’re an international buyer from Canada, Australia, Singapore, or the UK, this guide will help you navigate the German mortgage maze with confidence.

How the German Mortgage System Works: A Clear Guide for Expats and First-Time Buyers

Before you can improve your mortgage approval odds in Germany, you need to understand how the system works—because it’s quite different from what many buyers are used to in places like the USA, UK, Canada, or Australia.

Here’s a simplified overview to help you get up to speed:

1. What Is a Mortgage in Germany (Baufinanzierung)?

In Germany, a mortgage is called “Immobiliendarlehen” or “Baufinanzierung.”
You’re essentially borrowing money from a lender (typically a bank or broker) to buy or build a property, secured against the home itself.

2. Loan Types: Fixed-Rate vs. Variable-Rate Mortgages

Most German mortgages are:

• Fixed-rate loans (Annuitätendarlehen) — your interest rate and monthly payment stay the same for a set period (usually 5, 10, or 15 years).
• Variable-rate options are rare and riskier in Germany.

Tip: German banks don’t offer 30-year fixed mortgages like in the U.S. Instead, you often refinance after the initial fixed term ends.

3. Loan-to-Value Ratio (LTV): How Much You Can Borrow

LTV is the percentage of the property’s value that a bank is willing to finance.

• German banks typically lend up to 80%–90% for residents
• For non-residents or expats, banks may cap it at 60%–70%
• The rest? You’ll need to cover it as a down payment (Eigenkapital)

4. No Pre-Approval in the Traditional Sense

Unlike in the U.S. or UK, Germany doesn’t offer true mortgage pre-approvals.
Instead, lenders issue a Finanzierungszertifikat (financing certificate) to show you’re financially credible, which can help you negotiate with sellers.

5. Who Are the Main Lenders?

In Germany, you can get a mortgage from:

• Big banks (e.g., Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, DKB)
• Regional banks (e.g., Sparkasse, Volksbank)
• Online brokers (e.g., Interhyp, Dr. Klein, Hypofriend)

Some of these specialize in working with international buyers, freelancers, and expats.

Quick Comparison: German Mortgage System vs. USA/UK

Feature	Germany	USA	UK
Fixed Terms	5–15 years	15–30 years	2–10 years
Pre-Approval	Financing Certificate	True Pre-Approval	Decision in Principle
LTV for Expats	~60–70%	~80–95%	~75–90%
Loan Currency	EUR	USD	GBP

Credit Score Requirements in Germany: How SCHUFA Impacts Your Mortgage Approval

If you’ve ever applied for a mortgage in the U.S. or UK, you’re probably familiar with credit scores like FICO or Experian ratings. But in Germany, it all comes down to one powerful name: SCHUFA.

What Is SCHUFA?

SCHUFA stands for Schutzgemeinschaft für allgemeine Kreditsicherung, and it’s Germany’s main credit bureau. It gathers data about your financial behavior—everything from your:

• Bank accounts
• Utility bills
• Mobile contracts
• Past loans or missed payments

…and compiles it into a credit score that banks use when reviewing your mortgage application.

What Is a Good SCHUFA Score?

Your SCHUFA score ranges from 0 to 100%, and the higher, the better.

• ✅ 97%–100% — Excellent (best mortgage terms)
• ✅ 95%–96.9% — Very good
• ⚠️ 90%–94.9% — Acceptable (but higher interest rates)
• 🚫 Below 90% — Risky; may result in rejection or require a larger down payment

How to Check Your SCHUFA Score

You’re legally entitled to one free SCHUFA report per year (called Datenkopie).
To get yours:

1. Visit meineschufa.de
2. Request a “Datenkopie nach Art. 15 DSGVO”
3. Submit ID and address documentation

Want it instantly? Use Bonify or Check24 for real-time (paid or freemium) SCHUFA insights.

How to Improve Your SCHUFA Score Before Applying

• Pay all bills on time — even mobile or internet contracts
• Avoid taking unnecessary loans or credit cards
• Keep old bank accounts open (they help show long-term reliability)
• Don’t apply for multiple mortgages at once—too many inquiries can hurt your score
• Clear any collection accounts or debts in dispute

What If You’re a Foreigner Without a SCHUFA History?

New to Germany? You might not have a SCHUFA record yet. In that case:

• Some banks will assess your foreign credit history (UK, US, Canada, etc.)
• Others may ask for payslips, tax returns, and work contracts instead
• Expect to pay a higher down payment or provide a guarantor initially

Tip: If you’re applying from abroad, focus on building your SCHUFA early—even a simple German mobile plan or utility contract in your name can help establish your creditworthiness.

Income, Job Stability & Documentation: What German Lenders Look for in 2025

If you’re serious about securing a mortgage in Germany, your income and job stability will be under the microscope. Unlike some countries where pre-approvals are quick and automated, German banks are cautious, conservative, and documentation-heavy—especially in 2025’s tightening financial climate.

Here’s what you need to prepare:

1. Employment Type: Why It Matters More Than You Think

German lenders typically prefer applicants who have:

• A permanent (unbefristet) employment contract
• Been with the same employer for at least 6 to 12 months
• A consistent income stream with no major gaps

Salaried Employees (Angestellte):
Most favored. Stable monthly income makes approval easier.

Freelancers/Self-Employed (Selbstständige):
You’ll need to prove income stability with at least 2–3 years of tax returns and may face stricter scrutiny.

Expats or Non-EU Residents:
You’ll be evaluated more conservatively. Many lenders will require:

• Residence permit (if applying from within Germany)
• Additional collateral or larger down payment

2. Minimum Income Thresholds in 2025

There’s no official minimum salary, but practically speaking:

• For singles: a gross annual income of €40,000+ is considered the baseline
• For families: expect €60,000–€80,000+ depending on dependents and debt

Note: Lenders will subtract living costs before calculating how much you can borrow.

3. Essential Documents for Your Mortgage Application

German mortgage lenders are documentation-heavy. Here’s what you’ll typically need:

For Salaried Employees:

• Last 3 payslips
• Employer contract
• Last 2 years’ tax returns (Lohnsteuerbescheinigung)
• Recent bank statements (3–6 months)

For Self-Employed Applicants:

• Last 2–3 years of tax assessments (Einkommensteuerbescheid)
• Profit & loss statements (BWA)
• Bank statements (business & personal)

For Expats or Foreign Buyers:

• Valid passport and visa/residency proof
• Proof of foreign income (translated, if needed)
• Local or international SCHUFA/credit report
• Down payment source declaration (some banks are strict about AML rules)

Bonus Tip: Be Transparent and Overprepared

In Germany, more documents are better than not enough. Any gaps in income or missing forms can slow things down or result in rejection.
Always include translated and notarized copies if submitting non-German documents.

Down Payment Strategies: What Percentage Do You Really Need in Germany?

If you’re planning to buy property in Germany, the down payment (Eigenkapital) is one of the most critical—and often misunderstood—parts of the mortgage approval process.

Unlike in the U.S. or UK, where 5–10% down payments are common, German lenders expect more upfront.

Let’s break it down:

What Is the Typical Down Payment in Germany in 2025?

• For residents with stable income: Minimum 20% of the property price
• For expats or foreign buyers: Often 30–40%, especially if you have limited SCHUFA history
• For investment properties: Some banks ask for 40–50% down

Example:
For a €400,000 flat in Berlin, you may need:

• €80,000 (20%) if you’re a permanent resident with solid employment
• €120,000–€160,000 if you’re a freelancer, new arrival, or applying from abroad

Don’t Forget the Closing Costs (Nebenkosten)

In addition to your down payment, you’ll also need around 10–15% extra for:

• Property transfer tax (Grunderwerbsteuer): 3.5%–6.5% depending on the state
• Notary & registration fees: ~1.5%–2%
• Broker (Makler) fees: 1.5%–3.5% if applicable

That means you should plan to contribute around 30%–45% of the total cost upfront in most cases.

Smart Ways to Boost or Supplement Your Down Payment

1. Use Gifted Funds:
Gifts from family members are allowed, but may need a formal gift letter (Schenkungserklärung) for legal and tax transparency.

2. Tap Foreign Assets:
Have savings abroad? You can transfer them, but document the source clearly to comply with anti-money laundering (AML) rules.

3. Government Subsidies & Support Programs:
For eligible residents (especially families or first-time buyers), check out:

• KfW Loans – government-backed low-interest loans for energy-efficient properties
• Baukindergeld – a now-retired program, but new incentives may be introduced post-2025 elections

Final Tip: Don’t Borrow for Your Down Payment

Unlike in some countries, German banks usually won’t allow borrowed down payments (from personal loans or credit cards). They want to see that your capital is stable, traceable, and self-funded.

Your down payment is more than just cash—it’s a trust signal to the lender that you’re financially stable, low-risk, and serious about the property.

Which Banks Offer the Best Mortgage Deals in Germany for Foreign Buyers?

Not all banks in Germany are created equal—especially when you’re applying as an expat, non-EU citizen, or international investor. The good news? A growing number of lenders and digital platforms now cater to foreign buyers, offering competitive rates, multilingual support, and flexible documentation policies.

Here’s a breakdown of the best mortgage providers for your situation in 2025:

1. Traditional Banks with Expats in Mind

These institutions have decades of experience working with non-German borrowers:

• Deutsche Bank: Offers English-speaking service, tailored mortgage products for foreigners with or without German residency.
• Commerzbank: Known for flexibility with EU and non-EU buyers. Requires solid income proof and may request a higher down payment.
• Sparkasse / Volksbank (Local Banks): Regional banks with deep market knowledge—especially helpful if you’re buying outside of Berlin, Hamburg, or Munich. However, English-speaking service may be limited.

2. Online Mortgage Brokers (Fast & Expat-Friendly)

Digital brokers offer side-by-side loan comparisons and take care of the application legwork.

• Interhyp: Germany’s largest mortgage broker, with access to 400+ banks. Offers multilingual advisors and high approval rates.
• Dr. Klein: Popular with foreigners, especially in cities like Frankfurt and Düsseldorf. Known for strong relationships with lenders and customized solutions.
• Hypofriend: Digital-first and built specifically for expats. Provides instant affordability checks, risk scores, and customized mortgage plans in English.

3. Neobanks & Fintech Solutions (New Players in 2025)

A new wave of fintech companies are simplifying the German mortgage process:

• Baufi24: Offers digital document submission, quick approval, and partnerships with top banks.
• LoanLink24: Focuses on foreign buyers and German property investors abroad.

These platforms may use Open Banking data to assess your income and risk—perfect for tech-savvy users who want fast decisions.

Quick Comparison Table: Best German Mortgage Providers for Foreigners

Provider	Language Support	Ideal For	Approval Speed	Min. Down Payment
Interhyp	EN, DE	Expats, Residents	3–7 days	~20%–30%
Hypofriend	English-focused	Non-EU, Digital Nomads	2–5 days	~30%
Deutsche Bank	EN, DE	Professionals, Investors	5–10 days	~20%–25%
Dr. Klein	EN, DE	Self-employed, families	5–7 days	~20%–30%
Commerzbank	EN, DE	Mixed-income applicants	7–14 days	~30%–40%

How to Choose the Right Lender for Your Needs

• For non-EU residents: Choose banks that allow foreign income and don’t require German residency (Interhyp, Hypofriend).
• For families and first-time buyers: Local banks like Sparkasse may offer lower rates if you’re eligible for regional programs.
• For freelancers or remote workers: Choose brokers with flexible underwriting (Dr. Klein, LoanLink24).

Pro Tip: Don’t apply directly to multiple banks—this can trigger several SCHUFA inquiries and lower your score. Instead, use one broker who can shop offers for you with only one credit check.

Reduce Your Debt-to-Income Ratio: Why It Matters for Approval Odds

One of the most critical (and often overlooked) factors in securing a mortgage in Germany is your debt-to-income ratio (DTI)—called “Haushaltsrechnung” or “Beleihungsauslauf” in local terms. In 2025, as interest rates fluctuate and inflation squeezes monthly budgets, lenders are tightening their DTI limits to reduce risk.

If you want to improve your mortgage approval odds, this is the number you need to optimize.

What Is Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI) in Germany?

It’s the percentage of your monthly gross income that goes toward repaying debt—including your new mortgage.

Formula:
(Total monthly debt payments ÷ Gross monthly income) × 100

German lenders generally want this ratio to stay below 35%, especially for non-resident or self-employed applicants.

Ideal DTI Benchmarks in Germany (2025)

Applicant Type	Target DTI %
Salaried resident	≤ 35%
Freelancer/self-employed	≤ 30%
Non-EU applicant	≤ 25%–30%
Dual-income household	≤ 40% (combined)

How to Lower Your DTI Before Applying

Here are practical steps to increase your approval odds:

1. Pay Off Unsecured Debt
Credit card balances, personal loans, or auto leases count against your DTI. Paying these down before applying improves your profile.

2. Increase Your Monthly Income (Legally)
Even a side hustle or rental income can help. Include all verifiable income streams in your application.

3. Delay Other Financing Plans
Avoid financing new cars, electronics, or travel on credit until after your mortgage is approved.

4. Choose a Longer Loan Term
A 15–20 year mortgage may lower your monthly repayment and reduce your DTI, though it increases total interest paid.

5. Apply Jointly (If Possible)
Applying with a spouse or partner can increase total household income, thereby reducing the DTI ratio.

What Happens If Your DTI Is Too High?

If your DTI is too high:

• You may get rejected outright
• Lenders may offer a lower loan amount
• You’ll be asked to increase your down payment
• You may be offered a mortgage at a higher interest rate

Bonus: Use a Free DTI Calculator

Platforms like Hypofriend, Interhyp, or LoanLink24 offer easy online DTI calculators that show whether you’re “mortgage-ready” in Germany.

Bottom line: A healthy DTI is one of your strongest leverage points. Even a few percentage points can be the difference between rejection and approval—or between a good rate and a great one.

Pre-Approval Tips: How to Get Prequalified for a German Mortgage

In Germany, mortgage pre-approval doesn’t work the same way it does in places like the U.S. or UK. There’s no instant online letter saying “you’re good to go.” Instead, you’ll need to request what’s called a Finanzierungszertifikat—a financing certificate that shows sellers and real estate agents you’re a serious buyer.

Getting this document can greatly boost your chances of offer acceptance and speeds up the final mortgage approval process.

What Is a Finanzierungszertifikat?

A Finanzierungszertifikat is an official letter from a mortgage broker or bank that confirms:

• You’ve submitted income and financial documents
• You meet the lender’s basic criteria
• You’re likely eligible for a mortgage up to a specific amount

Note: This is not a binding offer. Final approval only comes once a specific property is identified and assessed.

Steps to Get Prequalified in Germany (2025)

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

• Payslips (3 months)
• Income tax returns (1–2 years)
• SCHUFA report or foreign credit score
• Bank statements (3–6 months)
• Passport and residence proof (if applicable)
• Down payment evidence

Step 2: Choose a Broker or Bank
Use expat-friendly platforms like:

• Hypofried
• Interhyp
• Dr. Klein

These services will review your documents and provide the certificate within 48–72 hours.

Step 3: Include It with Your Property Offers
A Finanzierungszertifikat shows sellers you’re a financially ready buyer—which can give you an edge in competitive real estate markets like Berlin or Munich.

Benefits of Getting Prequalified

• Builds trust with real estate agents
• Helps you stay within budget
• Speeds up your final mortgage approval
• Increases negotiating power (especially for expats)

Pro Tip: Always Check the Validity Period

Most certificates are valid for 1–3 months. If your financial situation changes (new job, debt, etc.), request an updated version.

Comparative Table: Mortgage Approval Criteria – Germany vs. USA, UK, and Australia

Understanding how Germany’s mortgage process stacks up against other high-CPM countries like the USA, UK, and Australia can help expats and foreign buyers manage expectations—and better prepare their applications.

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of key mortgage approval factors across four countries in 2025:

Mortgage Approval Criteria Comparison (2025)

Criteria	Germany 🇩🇪	USA 🇺🇸	UK 🇬🇧	Australia 🇦🇺
Credit Score Used	SCHUFA (0–100%)	FICO (300–850)	Experian/Equifax (0–999)	Equifax/Illion (0–1200)
Preferred Employment	Permanent job (6–12 mo)	Any steady income	Stable income (3–6 mo)	Full-time or self-employed
Minimum Down Payment	20%–40% (higher for expats)	5%–20%	5%–15%	10%–20%
Debt-to-Income Ratio	≤35% (≤30% for expats)	≤43% (standard)	≤45% (stress-tested)	≤30%–40%
Pre-Approval Process	Financing certificate	Formal pre-approval letter	Decision in Principle	Conditional approval
Foreign Income Accepted?	Yes (with stricter terms)	Yes (varies by lender)	Yes (proof needed)	Yes (strong documentation)
Common Loan Term	10–15 years fixed	15–30 years	2–10 years fixed	25–30 years

Key Takeaways:

• Germany is more conservative in approval requirements—especially for non-EU residents or self-employed applicants.
• While you can secure financing with foreign income, you’ll need thorough documentation and often a larger down payment.
• The SCHUFA system is stricter than credit scoring in other countries, which can surprise new arrivals.
• Germany lacks the “pre-approval culture” seen in the U.S., but the Finanzierungszertifikat serves a similar purpose.

If You’re Relocating from Abroad…

Knowing what lenders expect in Germany vs. your home country can help you:

• Adjust your expectations early
• Budget for higher initial costs
• Focus on what matters most: clean financials, job stability, and good documentation

Tools, Calculators & Brokers That Help You Qualify Faster

Navigating Germany’s mortgage approval process can be time-consuming—but thanks to 2025’s growing ecosystem of digital tools and expert brokers, you don’t have to do it alone.

Whether you’re an expat, freelancer, or first-time buyer, the right tech and support can simplify your application, flag issues early, and boost your approval odds.

1. Mortgage Affordability Calculators (Haushaltsrechner)

These help you understand how much house you can actually afford based on your income, down payment, and loan term.

✅ Top Tools to Try:

• Hypofriend’s Affordability Tool: Designed for expats with visual breakdowns
• Interhyp Haushaltsrechner: Calculates income/expenditure and borrowing potential
• LoanLink24 Budget Tool: Easy-to-use interface for English speakers

Tip: Try entering different down payment scenarios to see how they affect your monthly payment and interest rate.

2. Online Document Checklists & Upload Portals

No printer? No problem. Most top brokers now offer secure online portals where you can:

• Upload payslips, tax documents, and ID
• Track progress in real-time
• Chat with a mortgage advisor
• Receive a financing certificate (pre-qualification letter) in 1–3 days

Especially useful for busy professionals, remote workers, or applicants living outside Germany.

3. Expert Mortgage Brokers That Work With Foreign Buyers

Brokers are often better than going to banks directly because:

• They access dozens of lenders with one credit check
• They understand expat scenarios and alternative income sources
• They speak English (and sometimes other languages)

Recommended for Expats in 2025:

• Dr. Klein: Great for freelancers and families
• Hypofriend: Built for international professionals in Germany
• LoanLink24: Focuses on English-speaking buyers

4. Mobile Apps That Track Your Mortgage Progress

Some platforms now provide:

• Real-time approval status updates
• Push notifications for document requests
• Mortgage “readiness” score based on your current finances

Popular in 2025: Hypofriend App, Interhyp Mobile, and Bonify (for monitoring SCHUFA).

By using smart tools and experienced brokers, you’ll save time, reduce errors, and avoid delays—especially when the clock is ticking on your dream property.

What to Do if You’re Rejected: Second Chances & Workarounds

A mortgage rejection in Germany can feel discouraging—but it’s not the end of the road. Rejections happen for many reasons, especially for expats, freelancers, or those new to the country. The key is to understand why you were denied, then take strategic steps to improve your financial profile and reapply successfully.

Common Reasons Why German Mortgage Applications Get Rejected

1. Poor SCHUFA score or no credit history
2. Insufficient down payment (less than 20–30%)
3. High debt-to-income (DTI) ratio
4. Unstable or short-term employment
5. Unverifiable foreign income or incomplete documentation
6. Applying to the wrong type of lender for your profile

Actionable Steps to Bounce Back After a Rejection

1. Ask for a Rejection Explanation (Ablehnungsschreiben)
German banks will often provide a written reason. This helps you know exactly what to fix.

2. Improve Your Creditworthiness

• Pay off outstanding debts
• Avoid multiple loan applications within a short time
• Correct any errors in your SCHUFA report
• Establish utility contracts or phone bills in your name to build credit

3. Adjust Your Application Strategy

• Apply with a higher down payment
• Choose a lower-priced property
• Extend the loan term to reduce monthly repayments
• Add a co-applicant or guarantor (e.g. spouse, partner)

4. Work with a Specialized Broker
Brokers like Dr. Klein, LoanLink24, or Hypofriend have access to banks that accept complex cases—such as self-employed individuals or buyers without German residency.

5. Wait and Reapply
Sometimes the best option is to wait 3–6 months while you improve your income stability, build credit, or save a larger down payment.

Alternative Paths to Homeownership in Germany

If traditional mortgages aren’t working for you, consider:

• Developer Financing (Bauträgerfinanzierung): Some property developers offer payment plans
• Private Lending: Peer-to-peer lending or family loans with notarized contracts
• Rent-to-Own Options (Mietkauf): Rare in Germany but worth exploring in smaller cities

Real Talk: Rejection Is a Delay, Not a Denial

Many expats are rejected the first time. But with a strategic pause, financial cleanup, and help from the right broker, second-time approvals are very achievable.

FAQs, Glossary & Recommended Resources for Mortgage Success in Germany

To wrap up, here’s a quick-reference guide with answers to the most common questions foreign buyers ask, plus a handy glossary of German mortgage terms and trusted resources to continue your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Can foreigners get a mortgage in Germany in 2025?
Yes—foreigners, including non-EU citizens, can get mortgages in Germany. However, banks usually require a higher down payment (30%+) and extensive documentation.

Q2. Do I need to live in Germany to get approved for a mortgage?
Not always. Some lenders work with non-resident investors, but you’ll need strong credit, a larger down payment, and possibly income in euros.

Q3. Is it possible to get a mortgage in Germany without SCHUFA?
Yes, but it’s harder. Some expat-friendly lenders accept foreign credit reports or offer workarounds with higher equity.

Q4. How long does mortgage approval take in Germany?
On average, 2–4 weeks, but can be faster (1 week) through digital brokers like Hypofriend or Interhyp.

Q5. Can freelancers or self-employed people get a mortgage in Germany?
Yes, but you’ll need to show 2–3 years of tax returns, steady income, and a higher down payment.

Glossary: German Mortgage Terms Simplified

German Term	English Meaning
Baufinanzierung	Real estate financing / mortgage
SCHUFA	Credit score bureau in Germany
Eigenkapital	Equity or down payment
Annuitätendarlehen	Fixed-rate mortgage with equal payments
Finanzierungszertifikat	Financing certificate (pre-qualification)
Beleihungsauslauf	Loan-to-value ratio (LTV)
Haushaltsrechnung	Household affordability calculation
Grundschuld	Mortgage lien registered against the property

Final Thought

Getting approved for a mortgage in Germany in 2025 might feel like navigating a labyrinth—but with the right knowledge, tools, and team, it becomes a structured, achievable process. Whether you’re an expat dreaming of a Berlin apartment or a digital nomad eyeing a Bavarian retreat, this guide gives you the roadmap to turn “maybe” into “approved.”

References:

Here are the reference links only:

1. https://www.expatica.com/de/housing/buying/getting-a-mortgage-in-germany-740222
2. https://wise.com/us/blog/mortgage-in-germany
3. https://germanpedia.com/mortgage-in-germany
4. https://hypofriend.de/en/4-mistakes-with-mortgage.afb
5. https://www.securities.io/de/wie-man-eine-Hypothek-bekommt
6. https://www.fitchratings.com/research/banks/german-bank-mortgage-lending-to-benefit-from-lower-risk-buffers-13-05-2025