Santander books record Q3 profit as strong US unit offsets weaker Brazil

Core Insights - Santander bank reported a 7.8% year-on-year increase in third-quarter net profit, reaching 3.5 billion euros ($4.08 billion), exceeding analysts' expectations of 3.39 billion euros, marking the sixth consecutive record-high quarterly result [1][2] Financial Performance - The bank experienced a 4.3% rise in fees and a 0.87% increase in revenues, which offset a 1.1% decline in lending income [2] - The tangible-equity ratio (ROTE) remained stable at 16.2%, with the bank on track to meet its target of around 16.5% for the year and a full-year revenue target of approximately 62 billion euros [2] Strategic Outlook - Executive Chair Ana Botin emphasized the importance of Santander's geographical diversification across 10 core markets in Europe and the Americas as a stabilizing factor amid global uncertainties [3] - The bank is confident in achieving its 2025 targets and continuing profitable growth despite geopolitical and market challenges [3] Regional Performance - Underlying net profit in the U.S., Santander's fifth-largest market, surged by 64%, driven by increased lending income and higher fees from corporate and investment banking [4] - The bank has benefited from higher interest rates and growth in key Latin American markets, providing a competitive edge over more Europe-dependent rivals [4] - However, Santander faced challenges from currency depreciations in emerging markets, particularly in Brazil, where the real's devaluation led to a 5.9% decline in underlying net profit for the quarter [4]