France’s intrinsic resilience underpins our four-notch rating differential with Italy, as similar funding conditions contrast with different budgetary dynamics and governance challenges, although rating convergence is now more likely in the years ahead.

Profitability is set to remain strong in 2026. Moderate loan growth, steady fee expansion and stable costs will support profits. But we are projecting an increase in provisions as default rates normalise, while economic and other risks remain high.

Tuesday, November 25th 2025 - 3:00 PM (CET)

ABN AMRO’s announced acquisition of NIBC Bank carries low execution risk and is marginally supportive of the group’s strategic development and long-term credit profile.

EU banks trail US peers in profitability amid rising compliance costs. So policymakers are pushing to simplify regulation. This could bring positive outcomes but the potential for missteps should not be overlooked.

Scope seeks market participants’ feedback on analytical developments

European banks have little choice but to accelerate investment to adapt to digital payments now that the European Central Bank (ECB) plans a pilot phase for the digital euro in 2027.

Germany’s largest banks are poised for robust operating performance in the quarters ahead, resilience which they will need to absorb the relatively high cost of risk amid lingering concerns about asset quality, says Scope Ratings.

Webinar: Wednesday, November 5th 2025 - 3:00 PM (CET)

The claim that Europe’s gradual economic and geopolitical decline is irreversible is overstated. But it will require a strategic political shift to change the current trajectory.