Latest articles from Jules Stewart

A branch of BPI

Portuguese banks ‘cautiously positive’

May 23, 2023

The country’s banks are in a more solid position than their European peers, but ESG and digitisation remain challenging for the sector, and more consolidation could be on the cards. 

Fork in the road

Spain’s banks prepare for an uncertain future

November 9, 2022

The Spanish banking sector is facing a number of headwinds, including inflationary pressure, a proposed government windfall tax and macroeconomic uncertainties, but market analysts are generally optimistic about the banks’ future profitability. 

Caixabank

Spain’s banks ponder organic growth versus M&As

March 24, 2022

An aggressive process of M&A activity among Spanish banks has radically reshaped the country’s financial services map. But now lenders are focused on expanding organically, although some believe further consolidation remains a viable option. 

banco sabadell

Spain’s banks bounce back from pandemic

March 15, 2022

The Spanish banking sector has rebounded strongly from the pandemic, posting strong results for 2021. However, uncertainties remain over inflationary pressures and the evolution of interest rates. 

sabadell

New blood at Sabadell bets big on digital

August 17, 2021

The appointment of César González-Bueno as CEO of Spain’s fourth biggest bank highlights the lender’s focus on digital banking. 

jose

Bankia-CaixaBank tie-up shows how size matters

March 22, 2021

José Ignacio Goirigolzarri, executive chairman of CaixaBank, on coming out of retirement to help the Spanish economy out of a tricky situation.

bankia small

Spanish banks on consolidation trail

March 1, 2021

Spanish banks have exhibited resilience in the face of the pandemic, but an uncertain future is leading many to seek mergers.

spain downturn

Tourism slump deals Spain a body blow

March 1, 2021

Spain is reeling from a huge drop in tourism revenues as a result of the pandemic. 

Nadia Calviño

Spain pushing ahead with post-pandemic reforms

February 12, 2021

Digital and green reforms are central to recovery plan, says economy minister Nadia Calviño.

spain banks

Behind the numbers in Spain's banking mega-merger

October 2, 2020

CaixaBank-Bankia union will create country's biggest bank with 20 million customers and 24% market share in deposits.

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