Italian banks among the best in Europe in terms of governance

Standard Ethics has published the Corporate Standard Ethics Ratings (SER) for the 40 largest European banks by market capitalization. Among the latest actions is the confirmation of the "EE+" rating for UniCredit , although the bank remains under monitoring pending the divestment of its Russian operations.

Among the new developments, DNB was upgraded to "E+" with a "Positive" Outlook, anticipating a possible upgrade to Sustainable Grade ("EE-"). In the early months of the year, Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena 's rating was also raised to "EE+," in line with other positive signals received in the final quarter of 2024.

Among those who improved their position were CommerzBank (upgraded to “EE”), FinecoBank (upgraded to “EEE-”), Nationwide Building Society (from “Pending” to “EE-”), BPER Banca , whose Outlook changed from “Stable” to “Positive.”

Currently, 24 out of 40 companies (60%) have an adequate level of sustainability (Sustainable Grade), a percentage that could rise to 65% with the probable upgrade to “EE-” of the ratings of CaixaBank and DNB, both currently “E+” with a “Positive” Outlook.

Overall, the banking sector remains among the most advanced in sustainability, according to Standard Ethic's assessment. Among these, five Italian banks are listed with an "EE+" rating or higher.