Santander is the financial institution that issues the highest number of loans compared to its peers
Santander, the Spanish banking giant, has cemented its position as the leading international bank in lending activities, excluding Chinese banks, according to industry consensus and reports. The bank's extensive footprint in Europe and Latin America has been instrumental in its success.
The latest figures reveal that Santander's loan portfolio increased by 2% compared to the previous quarter and 5% year on year, amounting to a worldwide total of 1.01 trillion euros at the end of the first quarter this year. This growth is particularly significant in the individuals segment, where mortgages have seen a notable increase.
Santander's lending activities have been diverse, encompassing sectors like real estate, manufacturing, and sustainable transportation. The bank has financed various activities, from helping families buy a new home to promoting sustainable mobility by granting loans for the purchase of electric vehicles.
The bank's digital arm, Digital Consumer Bank (DCB), has also contributed to its success, with lending growing by 1% and production increasing by 17% year-on-year.
The United Kingdom and Spain make up more than 50% of Santander's total lending activity, with Europe, North America, and South America experiencing a 4%, 8%, and 9% year-on-year increase in credit investment, respectively. This growth has been a key factor in Santander's leading role in Europe.
In the global lending landscape, Chinese banks dominate, with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC) holding the top position. However, Santander consistently ranks as the top European bank and one of the leading global banks in international lending, thanks to its robust presence in Europe and Latin America.
The Bank for International Settlements (BIS) reports that global cross-border bank lending reached a record $34.7 trillion in Q1 2025, with the largest increases in lending coming from banks based in the United States, France, and the United Kingdom. Santander, headquartered in Spain, is among the largest lenders from the European jurisdiction, often leading in cross-border credit volumes.
While specific ranked lending volumes by bank (excluding Chinese banks) are not detailed in the available BIS data, the consensus in the industry is clear: Santander is the leading international lender outside the dominance of major Chinese banks like ICBC and China Construction Bank.
The Santander Corporate & Investment Banking segment has also experienced growth, with a 11% increase compared to the same period last year. This growth allows Santander to continue to accompany the growth of its 155 million customers with more loans.
In conclusion, Santander's strong lending activities, diverse portfolio, and robust international presence have positioned it as a leading bank in the global lending market, particularly outside of the dominance of Chinese banks. The bank's success is a testament to its commitment to supporting businesses and individuals in their growth and expansion.
Santander's lending growth is evident in its loan portfolio increase of 2% compared to the previous quarter and 5% year-on-year, reaching a total of 1.01 trillion euros. (finance)
The bank's commitment to diverse sectors like real estate, manufacturing, and sustainable transportation is demonstrated through financing activities such as granting loans for electric vehicles and helping families buy homes. (finance)
