The importance of dividends

The payment of dividends to the shareholders of banks for the first time in 16 years constitutes yet another milestone that certifies the Greek economy's return to normalcy. It also signifies the success of the financial institutions' restructuring.

At the same time, however, it should also signal a more active engagement in stimulating the real economy. The taxpayer is also entitled to a "dividend" of the profits, as the state contributed to keeping the banks alive.