On Monday, the Spanish retail banking sector highlighted a concerted effort to support rural communities and older customers, with a focus on social inclusion and sustainable development. The Financial Conference of Prensa Ibérica and Grant Thornton showcased plans that aim to strengthen financial access for the elderly, fund livestock initiatives, promote sustainable farming, and extend the reach of bank branches into rural areas. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to community welfare alongside traditional financial services.
The event featured a round table titled Regional Rooting: alternatives to competing with giants. Participants included José Ignacio Oto, Ibercaja’s network director and deputy general manager; Aitor Aranburu, Kutxabank’s general manager for retail; and Jacobo Sanmartín, who leads corporate and commercial banking at Banco Cooperativo Español. The discussion examined how regional banks can differentiate themselves by deepening local ties and delivering practical, locally tailored solutions.
Speaking about Ibercaja’s long-standing mission, José Ignacio Oto emphasized the group’s emphasis on social impact. He noted that dividends flow to four key foundations—Ibercaja Banking Foundation, Caja Inmaculada Foundation, Caja Badajoz Foundation, and Caja Círculo Banking Foundation—and that these foundations directly influence community projects. He highlighted that 90% of Ibercaja’s offices serve rural populations, underscoring the network’s role in regional development and access to financial services in less populated areas.
Oto also reflected on recent years, stating that all institutions have completed their homework on legislative matters and that Ibercaja demonstrated resilience during the pandemic. His remarks pointed to a broader trend in which banks balance compliance with a proactive social agenda that supports customers beyond traditional banking needs.
Jacobo Sanmartín raised observations on inflation and housing demand, noting that inflation has been trending toward the 2 percent target and that the housing market has shown a cooling effect, with fewer homes being purchased. He argued that maintaining customer confidence hinges on clear communication and solid health metrics within institutions. Sanmartín pointed out that it is essential to keep branches open to serve communities, a stance he described as a sign of solidarity with the evacuated regions of Spain. He defended Banco Cooperativo Español as an institution with an extensive branch network spanning multiple provinces, a critical asset for local access to financial services.
Aitor Aranburu of Kutxabank stressed the importance of prudent operation and robust solvency. He linked the bank’s solid outlook to tangible indicators: a notable share of assets in socially responsible investing and a substantial ecological footprint. Specifically, he cited that Kutxabank holds around 14 percent of its market exposure in social responsibility investment funds, compared with about 7 percent in traditional funds, and that the group manages approximately 900 hectares of forest land. These figures illustrate how the institution aligns financial performance with environmental stewardship and responsible investing, reinforcing trust among customers who value sustainable practices.
The discussions and data shared at the conference painted a picture of a banking sector that recognizes its responsibilities within rural Spain and neighboring regions. By prioritizing community-oriented programs, maintaining an accessible branch network, and pursuing sustainable growth strategies, these institutions aim to balance profitability with social impact. The resulting narrative communicates a commitment to stability, local engagement, and resilient operations that can weather market fluctuations while supporting daily life in smaller communities. As observers noted, the path forward involves ongoing collaboration with regional stakeholders, transparent communication with clients, and continued investment in inclusive, long-term programs that benefit society as a whole. [Attribution: Financial Conference of Prensa Ibérica and Grant Thornton proceedings]