Swedbank AB Acquires Barclays' Entercard Stake

Barclays has sold its stake in Entercard to partner Swedbank. The deal is part of Barclays' efforts to simplify its operations and focus on core businesses. Swedbank, a banking group operating in Sweden and the Baltic States, acquired the stake to expand its investment, financial, and market banking services.

Stockholm - Swedbank AB has announced the acquisition of Barclays' 50% ownership stake in Entercard, transforming the credit company into a wholly owned subsidiary. The transaction, which was finalized on August 28, 2025, aims to create the largest card business in the Nordic and Baltic regions [1].

Entercard, which has been jointly owned by Swedbank and Barclays since 2005, offers credit cards and consumer loans through partnerships across Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Finland. The acquisition will allow Swedbank to consolidate its position in the Nordic market and expand its service offerings.

The purchase price is based on 50% of Entercard’s equity value at the time of acquisition. As of the first quarter of 2025, the company’s total equity was approximately SEK 5.2 billion. The transaction is expected to reduce Swedbank’s Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio by approximately 30 basis points upon completion [2].

Tomas Hedberg, Deputy CEO of Swedbank, stated, "Today we are forming the largest card business in the Nordics and Baltics. Through this acquisition, Swedbank continues to invest in and develop our business" [1]. Entercard will continue to operate under its own brand and is expected to experience new business opportunities as a full part of Swedbank.

The acquisition is subject to regulatory approvals from relevant authorities and is expected to complete by year-end 2025 [2].

This acquisition aligns with Barclays' strategy to simplify its operations and focus on core businesses. The sale of its stake in Entercard is part of Barclays' efforts to reduce risk-weighted assets (RWAs) and improve its capital adequacy ratio [4].

Swedbank's expansion into the Nordic card market will provide it with a stronger foothold in the region and enhance its ability to compete with other financial institutions. The acquisition also underscores Swedbank's commitment to growth and development in the financial services sector.

References:
[1] https://www.investing.com/news/company-news/swedbank-to-acquire-barclays-stake-in-entercard-creating-nordic-leader-93CH-4213851
[2] https://www.tradingview.com/news/reuters.com,2025-08-28:newsml_RSb0244Xa:0-reg-swedbank-ab-swedbank-acquires-entercard/
[4] https://www.investegate.co.uk/announcement/rns/barclays--barc/disposal-of-shareholding-in-entercard-group-ab/9077288