Ukrainian banks increased their loan portfolios by 6.9% mom in September to $41.5 bln, up 46.3% since the beginning of the year, the largest 8M figure since 1996. Consumer lending was again the main growth driver, consumer loans grew in September by 7.4% mom, while corporate loans increased at a bit slower rate – 6.7% mom. September also saw the overall deposit base continue its expansion; total deposits grew by 4.3% mom to $32.6 bln, up 24% since the start of the year. Retail deposits were up by 2.8% mom, while corporate deposits increased by 6.3% mom, reflecting the overall revival of economic activity in the fall.