European Banks Flex Their Muscles
According to officials and analysts at the Institute of International Finance conference in Brussels, European banks are gaining strength and attractiveness compared to their US counterparts. Ana BotÃn, the executive chair of Santander Group, highlighted that the largest US bank is valued similarly to the top European banks due to weaker growth and profitability since the 2008 financial crisis. However, European banks have better levels of credit default swaps, indicating lower risk for bondholders. While recent volatility and the sale of Credit Suisse raised concerns, BotÃn clarified that it was not a sign of a systemic banking crisis but rather issued specifically to certain banks.
She emphasized that European banks are well-positioned in capital, liquidity supervision, and customer data protection. However, there is a need for increased capacity to support growth and enhance profitability. The conference focused on the importance of regulation and collaboration to boost growth in the European banking sector. Davide Serra, CEO of Algebris Investments, highlighted the superior liquidity ratios of European banks compared to their US counterparts, attributing it to US banks optimizing their deposit base for higher interest rates. Serra also predicted further consolidation in the US banking industry, favoring stronger banks. Overall, the conference underlined the growing strength of European banks and the need for regulatory measures and collaboration to ensure continued growth.
How do European banks compare to their US counterparts regarding strength and attractiveness? And how can regulation and collaboration contribute to the growth of the European banking sector?
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