Metro Bank has launched a formal sale process (FSP) to explore potential offers for the entire share capital of the business. The bank says it is not in active discussions with any potential bidders, and there is no certainty an offer will be made.
The Takeover Panel has approved the use of a formal sale process, allowing Metro Bank to hold confidential discussions with interested parties.
Potential bidders will not have to be publicly identified under the process and will be exempt from the usual 28-day deadline for announcing a firm intention to make an offer, for as long as they participate in the process.
Morgan Stanley has been appointed as the bank’s lead financial adviser and will handle expressions of interest from parties considering a potential transaction.
The move follows what Metro Bank describes as a successful transformation in recent years, with the business reporting improved financial performance and strong operating momentum.
The board said it remains confident in the bank’s standalone growth prospects and its ability to meet financial targets, which were reaffirmed in its third-quarter trading update on 4 November 2026.
Metro Bank reported its highest-ever annual profit for 2025, alongside growth in retail and business current account balances and lending in its target markets.
The board believes exploring potential interest from third parties, while continuing to deliver its existing business strategy, offers the best opportunity to create value for shareholders and other stakeholders.
In a statement today, the Bank said: "The significant progress made by Metro Bank means it is now well positioned to consider a broader range of strategic opportunities for its next phase of growth. Against this backdrop, the board unanimously believes that evaluating potential interest in the company through an FSP, alongside continuing to execute the standalone plan, will maximise the value creation opportunities available to shareholders and deliver benefits for all stakeholders."
Metro Bank reiterated that it has received no approach from a potential bidder and that shareholders should take no action at this stage.
