The Spanish bank aims to transfer buy-now-pay-later credit risk, boosting investor confidence amid rising consumer finance concerns.
Banco Santander’s stock rose after reports the bank plans to transfer risk from its buy-now-pay-later (BNPL) portfolio. The move targets exposure to consumer credit defaults, a growing concern in Europe’s tightening lending environment.
Shares climbed as much as 3% in early trading, outpacing the broader banking sector. Santander’s BNPL book has expanded rapidly, with outstanding balances nearing €5 billion in 2023, up 40% year-over-year.
No immediate market reaction details were disclosed, but analysts suggest the risk transfer could improve capital ratios and reduce volatility in earnings.