Erste Group Bank AG has acquired a 49% stake in Santander Bank Polska and a 50% stake in Santander's Polish asset management business for approximately €7 billion, enhancing its strategic presence in the Polish banking sector.

Target Information

In May 2025, Banco Santander announced the strategic decision to engage with Erste Group Bank AG for the sale of a significant stake in its Polish operations. Erste acquired a 49% stake in Santander Bank Polska and a 50% stake in the associated Polish asset management business, TFI, for a total cash consideration approximating €7 billion. This transaction results in a notable net capital gain of around €1.9 billion for Santander, reflecting the bank's robust financial standing.

Following this acquisition, Santander has consolidated its ownership of Santander Consumer Bank in Poland by acquiring the remaining 60% stake it did not previously own, thus enabling full operational control. This move suggests Santander's intent to maintain a strong and enduring presence in the Polish market through its consumer finance division.

Industry Overview in Poland

The Polish banking sector has experienced substantial growth and transformation in recent years, amplified by increasing digitalization and an expanding consumer base. As one of the largest economies in Central and Eastern Europe, Poland showcases a competitive