According to the review of the financial sector developments last year carried out by the central bank, its stability and improved financial results rendered it more attractive for investment. The central bank concluded that domestic commercial banks increased their profitability and capitalization last year. New branches and offices have been launched all over the country. Branch number reached a total of 131, while the number of offices is at 117. The new Union Bank entered the market and became the 17th licensed institution. In addition, the state successfully sold its 40% share in the Italian Albanian Bank, as well as the former Dardania Bank transferred its equity to two Italian investors. These developments signify the increased attractiveness of the Albanian banking sector but also the greater need for monitoring of the banks' credit portfolio risk structure and their financial performance.