Greek financial markets were in turmoil on Wednesday with investors fearing the new anti-bailout government was determined to defy its international creditors. Greek five-year bond yields jumped to a record high of 13%, reflecting fears that investors may not get their money back. Share prices also fell for a third consecutive day, with the main Athens Stock Exchange (ASE), down 7.6%. The biggest losers were bank shares. In the two sessions since Sunday's election, banks have seen 23% of their value wiped off, with investors fretting that the possibility of Greece leaving the euro would see bank accounts converted back into a new Greek national currency. The sharp movements came after new Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said in his first cabinet meeting that he planned to negotiate with creditors over the €240bn (£179bn; $270bn) bailout. The EU has repeatedly warned the new government to stick to its commitments. A default could force Greece out of the euro.
Greece: Markets hit by debt default fears
Written by Super User 05 Feb 2015Additional Info
- Pray: for wise decisions by the Greek government as it seeks ways of solving the financial problems. (Pr.1:5)
- More: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-31022209