Brussels’ finances are at risk as Belfius and ING face the expiration of two 500 million euro credit lines by the end of the year, threatening liquidity unless new arrangements are found, according to Brussels Finance Minister Dirk De Smedt.

The minister’s handling of the crisis drew partisan critique from across the spectrum, with analysts from Ecolo and CD&V weighing in and coalition partners accusing each other of risk-taking on budgetary matters.

The government is stressing transparency, budget discipline, and prudent risk management to restore bank confidence amid concerns voiced by Groen and DéFI about ING-related developments.

De Smedt faced questions from ten deputies after reports that ING would not extend the credit line beyond year-end, a claim the bank subsequently denied, fueling further political debate.

Context around Belfius’s rumored privatization—without a stock market listing or aggressive expansion—helps explain the region’s risk assessment and financing challenges facing the banks.

De Smedt said the contract ends on December 31, 2025, arguing no formal decision is needed to terminate the line, while promising to reassure banks and pursue solutions through the cabinet’s ordinary channels to optimize the 2025 budget and the 2026 budget under provisional appropriations.