The AECM Statistical Yearbook 2024 provides a comprehensive overview of the role and performance of credit guarantee institutions across Europe in a challenging economic environment. Amid subdued economic growth, geopolitical uncertainty, and easing inflation, AECM members continued to play a crucial role in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by facilitating access to finance and mitigating credit risk. In 2024, the total outstanding guarantee volume increased to EUR 217.9 billion, while the volume of newly granted guarantees declined, reflecting a transition from crisis-driven support to more stable, long-term investment financing. More than six million SMEs benefited from guarantees, underscoring the sector’s strong outreach and systemic importance. The Yearbook analyzes recent and long-term developments in guarantee activity, counter-guarantees, EU financial instruments, and agricultural guarantees, and presents evidence from impact studies demonstrating the positive effects of public guarantee schemes on SME growth, employment, and financial stability. Overall, the report highlights the continued relevance of guarantee institutions as key policy tools for fostering economic resilience, investment, and sustainable growth in Europe.