A Madrid-based bank with a strong regional footprint in Alicante
Alicante houses the bank’s regional headquarters, supported by over 1,500 employees and 132 offices across the province. The institution has established itself as a trusted partner for personalized financial services aimed at businesses, with a clear focus on small and medium-sized enterprises and a commitment to local economic growth.
“Businesses are the engine of the economy, and they account for a central share of our activity, especially the small and medium enterprises, the segment we lead since about half of all SMEs rely on us,” said Fernando Canós, Territorial Director for the East region. “In Alicante, the reliance is even higher, at 58%, reflecting strong market presence and the favorable view SMEs have of our services.”
The sustained territorial investment is reflected in the business mix: 63% of activity comes from corporate business, rising to more than 68% with large enterprises. The personal banking segment represents 36% of the total.
“Businesses are the engine of the economy and they form a fundamental part of our activity, especially SMEs, the segment we lead, as about half of them place their trust in us.”
Canós emphasized that the bank’s core values help drive these results: offering a close, one-on-one approach, transparency, empathy, and tailored financial guidance that truly understands the needs of each company. The bank also provides digital tools to modernize operations and recently added 300 specialized managers, including 11 in Alicante.
A flagship hub for business, the first and only Enterprise Hub in Valencia, specializes in SMEs and plays a key role in supporting local companies. Opened in 2019, this center strengthens relationships and growth through networking events, master classes, and expert advisory services.
A continuous partnership, fast responses, and business protection
Beyond expert managers, the bank’s value proposition centers on ongoing support with a dedicated corporate director and regular planning sessions to monitor progress.
Financing remains a key focus, offering rapid responses to client needs and stable, variable-rate funding for a minimum period of six months.
Regarding business protection in cybersecurity, the bank is implementing solutions to safeguard client data and operations, shielding them from potential cyber threats and ensuring business continuity. “Cybersecurity is critical to the success and sustainability of any organization,” Canós notes. “That is why we have developed a range of tools to help clients protect their digital assets and keep the business running through any threat.”
Digital transformation is another strategic priority. The bank is expanding self-service capacities and refining the online banking experience, while also offering portfolio valuation services for debtors and specialized collection insurance.
Key partner in international expansion
International growth poses significant challenges for many firms, including navigating foreign markets, acquiring the right knowledge, and securing appropriate funding. In this context, a trusted, experienced partner can make a meaningful difference.
With extensive experience, the bank provides a wide range of services to facilitate internationalization, such as project-specific financing for expansion, guidance on foreign markets, and support for foreign trade. “Our commitment to exporters positions us as a leader in international operations, with a notable 30% share in export and import credit,” Canós remarks.
Ten years ago, the BStartup program was launched, establishing itself as a benchmark in specialized financial services for startups.
“When we started BStartup, it became a reference for financial support tailored to emerging companies,” Canós adds, highlighting its role as a catalyst for the regional startup ecosystem.
Industry specialization
The regional director also highlights the bank’s strong commitment to the tourism sector, deeply rooted in Alicante. “We back the sector with a broad set of solutions, including funding for tourism infrastructure investments, credit lines to upgrade and modernize establishments, and treasury management products adapted to the needs of this group,” he explains.
In addition, the Valencian Community hosts a vibrant ecosystem of startups, which the bank aims to support through the BStartup program. “We have specialized in risk management and ongoing support for these firms,” the executive notes. “A decade ago we launched BStartup, a standout in specialized financial services for emerging companies.”
With an investment of 1.2 billion euros and collaboration with more than 4,500 startups, BStartup has played a pivotal role in driving the development of these ventures. “This initiative provides not only financing but also the guidance and resources necessary for growth and success,” the executive concludes.