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Santander UK plc
2024 Annual Report
Part of the Banco Santander group
Important information for readers
Santander UK plc (the Company) and its subsidiaries (collectively Santander UK or the Santander UK group) operate primarily in the UK, and are part of the
Banco Santander group (comprising Banco Santander SA and its subsidiaries). Santander UK plc is regulated by the UK Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA)
and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and certain other companies within the Santander UK group are regulated by the FCA and the PRA.
This Annual Report contains forward-looking statements that involve inherent risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially from those contained
in such forward-looking statements. See Forward-looking statements on page 201.
Santander UK Group Holdings plc is the immediate parent company of Santander UK plc. The two companies operate on the basis of a unified business strategy,
albeit the principal business activities of the Santander UK Group Holdings plc group are carried on by Santander UK plc and its subsidiaries.
The Santander UK Group Holdings plc Corporate Governance and Risk Frameworks have been adopted by the Company and its subsidiaries to ensure consistency
of application.
Annual Report 2024
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Strategic Report
Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Strategic report
In this section
Strategic report
The strategic report outlines the key elements of the Annual Report and
provides context for the related financial statements.
Our business model and overview
It is also designed to help members of the Company assess how the
Directors have performed their duty under section 172 of the Companies Act
2006. The report highlights key financial and non-financial metrics which
help to explain our performance over the past year. It also highlights the
external environmental factors affecting the business along with Santander
UK’s positions in the UK banking market.
Financial overview
Sustainability overview
Sustainability
William Vereker
Chair
Financial statements
7 March 2025
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Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Our business model and overview
We follow the Santander Way
Our aim: to be the best open financial services platform, by acting responsibly and earning the lasting loyalty of our people, customers, shareholders
and communities.
Our purpose: to help people and businesses prosper.
Our how: everything we do should be Simple, Personal and Fair.
We create value for all
An engaged and talented team
generates...
customer loyalty
leading to...
strong financial results for our shareholders
so we deliver...
support for our communities
which motivates...
an engaged and talented team...
Santander UK
We provide financial products and services
Mortgages, consumer auto finance, unsecured loans, credit cards, banking and savings accounts, investment and insurance products for individuals and growth-focused
support and services for companies
Competitive advantage
Scaled and established bank in the UK.
Strong balance sheet with a prudent approach to risk.
Part of a global banking group.
A talented and motivated team.
Strategic priorities
Be customer centric and increase customer activity.
Focus on simplification, automation and digitalisation.
Create value and be disciplined with capital allocation.
Be a responsible and sustainable bank.
Our behaviours
We live our values of Simple, Personal and Fair through great behaviours and our people leaders.
T - Think Customer
E - Embrace Change
A - Act Now
M - Move Together
S - Speak Up
At a glance
14 million active UK customers.
444 branches
c18,000 full time equivalent employees
£165.2bn in mortgage lending
£176.7bn in customer deposits
Our sustainability strategy
Environment: Supporting our customers’ transition, aligning our activities with the Paris Agreement and embed climate risk
Social: Promote inclusive and sustainable growth and help people gain the skills they need to thrive
Governance: Act responsibly through strong culture, governance and conduct
A significant part of the Santander UK Group Holdings plc group
The Company and its subsidiaries represent almost all the business and operations of its immediate parent Santander UK Group Holdings plc. More information on
the Santander UK Group Holdings plc group, including the role of the Company as a ring-fenced bank, can be found in the Santander UK Group Holdings plc 2024
Annual Report, which does not form part of this report.
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Strategic Report
Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Our market overview
Improving economic environment
What we have seen
In the UK, we saw economic conditions improve despite another year of slow growth (0.9% in 2024 based on the latest data available, 0.4% in 2023).
Inflation fell towards the Bank of England’s target rate over the year. The housing market in the UK performed better than expected in 2024 (House Price Index: 4%)
and showed signs of increased activity as the year progressed.
This led to the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) cutting the Bank Rate twice in the second half of 2024 to 4.75% (50bps below 2023).
Our response and looking ahead
As we exit two years of high inflation and continue the rate-cut cycle, cost management became a significant focus industry-wide. We continued to deliver
our transformation through simplifying, automating and digitising processes, helping to manage our operating expenses in line with CPI for the year.
We remained focused on supporting our customers and delivering products and services that help them make the most of their money, and for those who needed
extra help we continued to provide the support they needed.
Looking ahead, we expect the Bank of England to cut the Bank Rate over 2025 by 100bps (including the 25bps cut in Feb-25) to support growth. As this occurs and
affordability improves for our customers, we expect to see activity in the mortgage market increase further.
Competitive UK market
What we have seen
M&A increased in the UK in 2024 and the banking sector is likely to see further consolidation in the near term.
Nationwide and Barclays completed acquisitions of Virgin Money and Tesco’s retail banking arms respectively in 2024, while Coventry Building Society’s acquisition
of Co-op Bank’s retail banking arm completed in early 2025, with NatWest’s acquisition of Sainsbury’s retail banking arm due for completion in 2025.
Nonetheless, the market remained highly competitive while operating in a higher rate environment. Established international and digital challengers continued to
compete for deposits and lending in the market in addition to our traditional peers.
2024 marked the second year in a row of over 1 million customers in the UK using the Current Account Switch Service.
Our response and looking ahead
2024 saw another year of pricing discipline and continuation of the strategic deleveraging of our portfolio. Over the year, customer lending decreased by £8.6bn to
£194.5bn and our customer deposits decreased by £10.7bn to £176.7bn.
We continued to monitor competitors’ products and invested in our multi-channel offerings throughout the year, to bring customers to Santander UK.
Looking forward, we expect large peers to continue investing in their product offerings to retain and attract customers, while we expect digital challengers to
continue in their pursuit of market share.
Customers becoming digital
What we have seen
2024 was another year of customers moving towards digital banking over traditional banking channels.
Our digital customer base grew again in 2024 to  7.2 million users, with 88% of our retail current account openings in the year made through digital channels.
Our response and looking ahead
Following the pilot of our new mobile banking offering in 2023, OneApp became available to all our customers in 2024. OneApp is now being used by over six
million customers in the UK and provides our customers with faster and enhanced functionality, including personal insights into their spending.
We also launched new products to support our customers’ changing needs, including the latest edition of our Edge offerings – the Edge Credit Card.
Whilst digital banking is becoming embedded in our customers’ everyday lives, we remain committed to delivering customer engagement through our branch and
telephony channels.
In 2024, we completed 50 branch refurbishments, and made significant progress with planning two new Work Cafés in support of this commitment.
Looking ahead to 2025, we look forward to the opening of those two new Work Cafés as we continue to review our customers’ needs and provide them with
products and services that meet their requirements, while continuing to evolve our digital offerings and in person services.
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Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Deployment of AI technology
What we have seen
The market has evolved rapidly, which has provided opportunities to accelerate deployment of AI as well as challenges in how we manage risk.
Across the industry, banks have adopted a cautious approach, focusing on initial use cases with a ‘human in the loop’ to ensure outputs are reviewed before being
communicated to customers.
Most of these use cases have helped improve productivity without introducing material risk to our operations.
Our response and looking ahead
We delivered several new machine learning and generative AI solutions in 2024, including Agent Assist and Sandi.
Agent Assist gives our people access to knowledge bases through generative AI, allowing them to provide faster and more accurate responses to customers.
Sandi is our internal AI search tool helping our employees search and find answers to People & Culture related questions. Since its launch in November 2024, it has
answered 98% of the questions asked, with only 2% requiring additional ‘human touch’.
An internal working group supported the deployment of this technology and developed a stringent governance framework with the right controls.
In 2025, we expect industry use of AI to continue to grow and we plan to expand our use of it, allowing our colleagues to focus on the more complex customer
cases.
Evolving regulatory landscape
What we have seen
Regulatory change continues to be significant within the financial services sector, with 2024 seeing new proposals and interventions from UK regulators.
The FCA remained particularly active, continuing to monitor and engage with firms on Consumer Duty, while introducing new rules and guidance to address issues
on wider access to banking.
The Payments Systems Regulator (PSR) introduced mandatory reimbursement for Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud, providing significantly increased protections
to consumers. The publication of a National Payments Vision and wider exploration of innovation in the payments sector helped contribute to the regulatory space in 2024.
While there has been substantial activity, there has also been a wider recognition of the burden of regulation on the industry and the impact this has on economic growth.
Our response and looking ahead
Phase 2 of the FCA’s Consumer Duty was implemented for closed book products in July 2024, in addition to our work to meet new Basel capital requirements.
We welcome the UK government’s commitment to improving the balance of regulation, with a focus on driving growth and international competitiveness, we look
forward to continue working closely with the regulators to help drive growth in 2025.
The FCA’s review of its rulebook is a positive start to simplifying the current regulatory landscape.
Delivering on our ESG ambitions
What we have seen
Customers, governments, regulators, NGOs, and investors continue to scrutinise ESG activities with a real focus on the say-do gap of organisations, which in turn is
beginning to drive real-world action.
Our response and looking ahead
In 2024, we advanced our climate strategy by launching six retail green finance propositions to support our customers. We also enhanced our portfolio analysis,
reporting financed emissions from commercial real estate lending for the first time, in addition to focusing on aligning our activities with the UN Paris Agreement.
In the social space, we continued to proactively reach out to over 2.6 million customers showing potential early signs of financial difficulty and strengthened
our focus on education, employability, and entrepreneurship. This includes the launch of a free adult education initiative which aims to equip people above the age
of 18 with the skills needed to power the economy of the future. Within our business, we increased our gender and ethnicity senior level representation with senior female
representation at 34.1% and senior minority ethnic representation at 14.7%.
In 2024, we approved our new Governance Strategy focused on clear and robust governance with well-defined accountability promoting the success of our
business, customers, and stakeholders.
Looking ahead, we will continue to evolve how we report on ESG matters. This involves updating our ambitions with a focus on real world impact.
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Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Our strategic priorities
Focused on customer loyalty, improved efficiency and sustainable growth
Customer centric & customer activity
Initiatives focused to better serve and engage our customers by leveraging technological and operations synergies from the global Banco Santander group, enabling
access to financial services for our customers through several channels.
2024 progress: expanded our Edge portfolio for our customers through the launch of Edge Credit Card and Edge Home which enables live mortgage tracking for
all our broker partners. For our corporate customers, we launched a Virtual Account Management platform supporting the needs of our clients in the legal, real
estate, property and pensions sectors.
Simplification, automation & digitalisation
Reduce complexity, decrease friction and increase automation to streamline our products and processes. This is supported by becoming a ‘digital bank with a human
touch’.
2024 progress: launched OneApp which is now being used by over six million customers and achieved a customer rating of above 4.7 stars out of 5. We merged our
four legacy mortgage platforms into one and simplified payments operations by moving to Banco Santander’s PagoNxt platform as part of simplifying our business.
Lastly, we delivered several new AI solutions across the business including Agent Assist and Sandi.
Value creation & disciplined capital allocation
Focus on value creation for all (customers, employees, shareholders and communities) while managing risk and profitability and being disciplined with
capital allocation.
2024 progress: continued strategic deleveraging of our balance sheet delivering profits in line with expectations for our shareholder. We maintained significant
headroom on regulatory capital requirements and delivered substantial dividends back to Banco Santander.
Be a responsible and sustainable bank
Initiatives aimed at supporting our customers with a secure and just transition to a sustainable economy and helping them get the skills they need to thrive.
2024 progress: continued to develop our new social strategy with a distinct focus on Education and Skills whilst also launching several test and learn initiatives to
support our customers in retrofitting their homes.
Our performance and key performance indicators
The directors of the Company’s immediate parent, Santander UK Group Holdings plc, manage the operations of the Santander UK Group Holdings plc group (which
includes the Santander UK group) on a business division basis. Key performance indicators are not set, monitored or managed at the Santander UK group level. As a
result, the Company’s Directors believe that analysis using key performance indicators for the Company is not necessary or appropriate for an understanding of the
development, performance or position of the Company.
The development, performance and position of the business of the Santander UK group is set out in the Financial review.
The key performance indicators of the Santander UK Group Holdings plc group can be found in its 2024 Annual Report, which does not form part of this report.
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Shareholder information
Risk management overview
Supporting our customers and business growth through simpler and improved processes was a key focus throughout 2024 and remains a key priority in 2025.
By simplifying and automating processes, using digital tools and designing smarter solutions, we are supporting the delivery of good customer outcomes and business
growth
Top Risks
We monitor our Top Risks quarterly at the Executive Risk Control Committee (ERCC) and Board Risk Committee (BRC).
In 2024, our focus shifted away from Inflationary and Supply Chain pressures to Margin Compression, with UK headline inflation falling towards 2% and markets
implying a peak in the UK Bank Rate.
We made further changes to our Top Risks by introducing three new areas (Resiliency, Payments Transformation, and AI/Machine Learning) and removing two existing
Top Risks (Ring-Fencing and People risk), although we continue to closely monitor human resource impacts as part of Strategic Transformation.
Conduct and Regulatory
In 2024, we continued to have significant regulatory engagement, notable among these were with respect to: Financial Crime, Technology risk, Regulatory Models,
Payments Services regulation, Outsourcing and Third-Party risk, Data Privacy, Operational Resiliency, Consumer Duty embedding, and Historical Motor Finance
Commissions. We have reduced our regulatory risk profile including closing issues related to Financial Crime, IT risk and Change Management projects, and
implementation of Regulatory Capital models.
Economic Crime
Financial Crime (FC) risk remains a key focus area for senior management and the Board. In 2024, we continued to mature our oversight capabilities and Centre of
Excellence operations to further integrate FC risk management into the business. We also continued to review our processes to address complex global sanctions
regimes and enhance our use of technology in screening processes.
Fraud losses continue to be a significant proportion of our overall operational losses, in line with the wider UK financial services industry. However, these losses
were significantly lower in 2024 compared to 2023, with the design and implementation of new fraud prevention tools to complement our existing systems and
controls. As part of our Fraud Transformation programme, we are taking action to reduce losses and case volumes.
Technology
The importance of IT risk management and control remains at the centre of our activities. We continued to progress our bank-wide programme to address risks that
could arise from obsolete technology and a Single Point of Failure (SPOF) in our network. We delivered further risk reduction in 2024 and closely monitored these
improvements through our risk governance framework. In parallel we leveraged business transformation, where both platform and application obsolescence
coincide.
Margin Compression
Implied Bank Rate fell in 2024 and risks appear to be skewed more towards downwards movements in rates, although higher for longer is a viable scenario should
inflation remain sticky. Regulatory pressure remains around deposit pricing and Consumer Duty and has the potential to increase deposit market competition. Our
Treasury team executed a Margin Compression investment strategy in 2024, approved by our Asset and Liability Committee (ALCO), which mitigated our risk
exposure. There is regular engagement between Treasury, Risk and the business to ensure key market and pricing assumptions and the strategy remain
appropriate.
Operational Resiliency
In 2024, we progressed our Operational Resilience and Recovery Plan (ORRP) which will enable us to meet a key regulatory deadline in March 2025. We also
prioritised scenario testing in key areas to reduce risk and to ensure we identify and remediate potential vulnerabilities in a timely fashion (we remain on-track to
meet the March 2025 regulatory deadline), although execution risk is elevated due to complexity. We continue to actively engage with industry working groups to
ensure we are cognisant of common vulnerabilities and third-party service providers.
Cybersecurity
In 2024, key drivers of risk included geopolitically motivated cybersecurity attacks where ransomware is inserted into supply-chains, posing a critical risk, and
exploitation of critical vulnerabilities. Our remediation plans drove improvements to our cybersecurity risk profile throughout 2024. This strengthened our overall
cybersecurity controls and improved our resilience, within a cybersecurity  threat landscape which continues to evolve.
Data Quality
In 2024, we enhanced our Data Operating and Ownership models, end-to-end data management controls, and governance for measuring and escalating data
quality issues. We have remediation plans in place as part of our Data Management Programme  to further enhance data quality, data privacy and protection.
Outsourcing and Third-Party
Under Operational Resilience regulations, loss of a critical third-party (SPOF) is deemed a severe but plausible scenario. Our ORRP programme addresses these risks,
along with the creation of specific playbooks which are cross-checked to business area continuity plans.
Strategic Transformation
Key areas of concern related to our plans include: potential risk of material disruption and incidents; insufficient funding to deliver critical business priorities; and the
risks arising from implementing cost driven efficiencies.
We have set up a taskforce with Risk participation to provide a review of, and challenge, project costs. Savings initiatives undergo rigorous governance and risk
assessment processes. Operational risk provides enhanced oversight on moderate and higher risk projects, which require risk assessments and mitigations to be in
place.
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Regulatory Capital
The level of capital we have to hold is highly sensitive to regulatory decisions on the implementation and interpretation of capital rules. Further complexity arises due to
dual regulation of Santander UK by the PRA and the ECB. Basel 3.1 ‘near-final’ rules have been published which could impact us, although they will not apply until
1 January 2027. However, our current and projected CET1 Capital surpluses provide significant capacity to absorb adverse capital movements.
Climate Change
There are clear regulatory expectations on the embedding of climate risks in our risk management processes, strategies and remuneration targets.
In 2024, we made significant strides in integrating climate risk management into our business. For the first time, we ran internal models and scenarios for Climate
Internal Scenario Assessment (CISA), which considered the broader impacts of physical and transitional risks in addition to our internal climate transition plan and
green finance plan.
There are execution risks around these programmes, as well as regulatory risks. To address this, we are enhancing our data and governance processes to support
risk management and reporting.
Payments Risk Transformation
The payments industry landscape is rapidly evolving with new regulatory requirements, scheme changes and adoption of new technology and standards. Risks arise
from the scale and pace of transformation of payment systems which pose a challenge to capacity and capability to deliver. In 2024, we continued to progress an
improvement plan to address these requirements.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning
AI developments in the banking industry will test preparedness to safely manage and respond to its evolution given the velocity, pace and scale of change.
We have a planned phased approach to AI over our three-year plan period. To support this, we are improving data quality to enable model development, which is
being progressed primarily under our Data Management Programme.
We plan to incorporate AI into our Non-Financial risk structure, along with adopting a specific AI policy standard.
Emerging Risks
We monitor these risks using our Risk Radar and regularly provide updates to the ERCC and BRC.
Highlighted below are our Emerging Risks in 2024 and our associated management actions.
Most Emerging Risks we face are systemic risk issues which also impact our peers. Santander UK may be exposed to more idiosyncratic risk in areas impacting
regulation, where we face dual regimes, principally the PRA and FCA in the UK and the ECB in Europe.
In 2024, our portfolio of Emerging Risks was broadly unchanged, but we have identified and categorised specific Emerging Risks under the most significant
drivers below.
Strategic and business related risks are addressed under our risk types and cover the broader challenges in the banking sector including Market Competition. Under
Emerging Risks we focus on emerging digital business risks and opportunities which also impact market competition.
Uncertain Regulatory Agenda
UK Regulatory Demand on Banking Sector: adverse impacts on sector investability are likely to continue in the medium-term given the level of regulatory stretch
relative to the EU and US.
Whilst the PRA’s proposed Basel 3.1 rules have been received positively, total levels of capital in the UK banking system remain materially higher than in other
jurisdictions. This coupled with Consumer Duty, Financial Ombudsman Service determinations on complaints, normal course of business inspections of our
operations such as Liquidity Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process, and retrospective action on banking activity, is negatively impacting the UK banking sector’s
international competitiveness. Our Public Affairs and Regulatory Policy teams have been fully engaged with regulators and the UK Government to prompt action to
redress the balance.
Net Zero transition: given the UK Government’s acceleration of the clean power action plan from 2035 to 2030, there are potential risks to the economy if this is
not achieved. We have included a delayed transition scenario in our climate stress testing that assesses potential adverse economic impacts of carbon taxes, which
could be introduced to speed up transition, but inadvertently cause an economic shock. We also support Banco Santander with data for their mandatory disclosures
under CSRD, and align our qualitative and quantitative data as much as possible, although Santander UK is not subject to CSRD itself.
Chevron Deference: the US Supreme Court overturned a doctrine that ambiguity in a statute implied delegation of interpretive authority to a relevant federal
government agency. As such, long-standing positions of regulatory agencies in the US may be subject to change, and lead to regulatory uncertainty which we may
need to be cognisant of in certain areas such as capital markets.
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Increased uncertainty in Macroeconomic and Geopolitical Environment
UK Political risks: the banking sector was spared some measures to increase related taxes in the October 2024 budget, such as the Bank Levy and payment of
interest on commercial reserves.
However, there will be increased costs to businesses as a result of increased employer’s National Insurance (NI) which will also flow through to customers and the
wider economy. Our Public Affairs team regularly engages with government officials to understand policy direction and we consider potential financial and other
impacts in our business plans.
US Political risks (Deregulation): although the new Republican administration’s policy agenda is still evolving, there are directional signals: increased energy
production; lower corporation tax rates; variable trade tariff rates on imports; and deregulation policies.
Deregulation is likely to be a feature of the new Republican administration and could further increase UK banks’ uncompetitiveness should US banks gain further
regulatory advantage.
Trade Tariffs, Sanctions and Supply Chains: increased trade tariffs and/or sanctions either on specific nations or more broadly, given elevated geopolitical
tensions, could impede critical supply chains in the UK, reigniting inflationary concerns and a negative economic outlook.
In such a scenario, it is likely the MPC would have to hold rates rather than enact cuts to mitigate inflation. We consider the potential impacts of such a scenario in
our stress testing for Capital (ICAAP) and in our Operational Resilience planning and testing. Our third-party suppliers could be impacted through retaliatory
measures including cyber-attacks, which might then impact us.
Quantitative Tightening: driven mainly by Quantitative Easing (QE), the total stock of Bank of England (BoE) reserves reached a peak of £978bn in January 2022.
Since then, the MPC has been selling assets to unwind QE. The size of the BoE’s balance sheet is determined by the amount of reserves supplied, implying that
reserves will shrink going forwards. We are now undertaking asset purchases and lending through short-term and long-term repo operations as part of Liquidity
Management. As QE unwinds there could be unintended consequences for markets and financial stability.
Eurozone Sovereign Bank contagion: the ECB warned of Eurozone sovereign debt risks in its November 2024 Financial Stability Review. Elevated debt levels and
high budget deficits, coupled with weak long-term growth potential, increase the risk that market concerns over sovereign debt sustainability will reignite. The
banking and corporate sectors are not immune as rising sovereign bond yields could ultimately drive-up both banks’ and companies’ funding costs. We monitor
sovereign credit spreads and potential for market contagion via daily Market and Structural risk reports and at our ALCO.
Markets, Competition & Technology
Digital Bank challengers: market competition continues to intensify with challengers, having achieved improved profitability and viability, posing a significant
medium-term challenge to the business. Our investments in digital and data capabilities are ongoing to enhance digital offerings, including: our new mobile
banking app, which has been well received by customers, pre-approved aggregator credit card sales, and enhanced customer relationship management capabilities
to leverage our insights into customer behaviour.
Digital Pound (Central Bank Digital Currency): our initial concerns over adverse market liquidity and funding implications were fed back to the BoE in 2023, along
with our peers. The BoE now appears to be more receptive to the use of Central Bank Digital Currencies in the Wholesale sphere, which may benefit retail use cases,
in which we have an aspiration to develop. We are working with our peers on the Regulated Liability Network programme to develop an alternative retail offering,
and to the Digital Pound. Our Regulatory Policy team monitors developments in this area with the business and risk.
Digital Risks: the banking sector is accelerating innovation and elevating business and market competition through adopting technologies that are shaping the
present and future of financial services. These include: AI, Quantum Computing, Crypto & Blockchain, Open Banking/Finance, and Cloud Computing. These
innovations will likely result in enhanced regulatory scrutiny and disclosure requirements and a fully fledged regulatory/supervisory framework. We are enhancing
our risk management approach to these broader digital risks, as well as leveraging potential business opportunities and will track progress via our top and
Emerging Risk updates.
Environmental and Social
Environmental and Social related risks are increasing. Significant wealth disparity both within nations and globally is driving geopolitical fragmentation, with
emerging pushback to international regulations and globalisation, as well as mass migration to the US and Europe.
Climate Change and Biodiversity concerns are prominent, including more frequent extreme weather events and related risks such as natural resource shortages and
global pandemics. Environmental regulations are also becoming more disruptive, although there are emerging signs of a significant pushback to these generally.
There are potential implications for economic stability, our customers and colleagues, which we will carefully consider in our business and resource planning.
Annual Report 2024
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Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Financial overview
Summarised Consolidated Income Statement
2024
2023
£m
£m
Net interest income
4,312
4,658
Non-interest income(1)
345
438
Total operating income
4,657
5,096
Operating expenses before credit impairment charges, provisions and charges
(2,548)
(2,456)
Credit impairment charges
(71)
(205)
Provisions for other liabilities and charges
(689)
(335)
Profit before tax
1,349
2,100
Tax on profit
(378)
(559)
Profit after tax
971
1,541
1. Comprises ‘Net fee and commission income’ and ‘Other operating income’.
A more detailed Consolidated Income Statement is contained in the Consolidated Financial Statements.
2024 compared to 2023
Profit before tax fell to £1,349m in 2024, a 36% decrease from 2023. This decrease reflects market wide pressures on customer deposit costs and was impacted by
the £295m charge for historical motor finance commission payments made in the year.
Net interest income decreased 7%, largely due to higher customer deposit costs and a reduction in mortgage loans.
Non-interest income was down 21%, driven by the 2023 revaluation gain of our shares in Euroclear which was not repeated in 2024.
Operating expenses before credit impairment charges, provisions and charges increased by 4%, due to further investment in efficiency and customer experience
and two years of high inflation.
Credit impairment charges were down 65% to£(71)m, given the improved economic outlook with lower unemployment rate and higher house prices expected.
Provisions for other liabilities and charges were up£354m, driven by the £295m charge for historical motor finance commission payments in the third quarter of
2024, as well as higher transformation costs.
Tax on profit decreased 32%, reflecting the reduction in profit in 2024.
The FCA Motor Finance review
Following the FCA’s Motor Market review in 2019, we received a number of claims and complaints in respect of our historical use of discretionary commission
arrangements (DCAs) prior to rule changes made in 2021.
In January 2024, the FCA commenced a review of the use of DCAs between lenders and credit brokers (the FCA review) and in July 2024 announced that it expected
to share the outcome of its review by May 2025.
In October 2024, the Court of Appeal handed down a judgment in relation to cases against other lenders involving DCAs that was unexpected and materially
changed the expectations of the FCA review.
What this means for us
In light of the Court of Appeal judgment, we recognised a provision of £295m in the third quarter of 2024, materially impacting our 2024 financial performance.
This provision included estimates for operational and legal costs and potential awards, based on various scenarios using a range of assumptions. 
There remain significant uncertainties as to the nature, extent and timing of any remediation action required, and the outcomes of the FCA review will provide
the market with more clarity and guidance.
Ultimately, the total financial impact remains unknown and could be materially higher or lower than the amount provided.
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Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Summarised segmental balance sheet
At 31 December (£bn)
2024
2023
Customer loans by segment
Retail & Business Banking
171.7
180.0
Consumer Finance
4.8
5.2
Corporate & Commercial Banking
18.0
17.9
Corporate Centre
0.0
0.0
Customer loans
194.5
203.1
Loans to JVs, accrued interest, ECL and other
4.9
4.3
Loans and advances to customers
199.4
207.4
Cash, repos, other financial assets and other assets non-interest earning
60.5
68.0
Total assets
259.9
275.4
Customer deposits by segment
Retail & Business Banking
151.8
158.3
Corporate & Commercial Banking
22.1
24.1
Corporate Centre
2.8
5.0
Customer deposits
176.7
187.4
Deposits from JVs, accrued interest and other
4.3
3.5
Deposits by customers
181.0
190.9
Financial liabilities, repos and other liabilities non-interest earning
65.2
69.9
Total liabilities
246.2
260.8
Shareholders' equity
13.8
14.6
Total liabilities and equity
259.9
275.4
A more detailed Consolidated Balance Sheet is contained in the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Segmental profit before tax
Profit / (loss) before tax (£m)
2024
2023
Retail & Business Banking
1,224
1,703
Consumer Finance
(175)
174
Corporate & Commercial Banking
351
570
Corporate Centre
(51)
(347)
Total
1,349
2,100
2024 compared to 2023
Retail & Business Banking
Customer loans and deposits reduced with disciplined pricing.
Profit before tax was down, largely due to higher customer deposit costs and a reduction in customer balances.
Consumer Finance
Lower lending was driven by a decision to focus on value and capital generation.
Loss before tax was driven by the £295m provision relating to historical motor finance commission payments.
Corporate & Commercial Banking (CCB)
We continued to focus on high-value and international business, with over 500 new clients onboarded in 2024. Over 1,000 new users are now on our Santander
Navigator platform 
Profit before tax was down, largely due to pressures on income from higher deposit costs and inflationary pressures on operating expenses.
Corporate Centre
loss before tax was down, mainly due to transformation expenses in 2023 which were not repeated in 2024.
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Santander UK plc
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Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Sustainability overview
We are working with our stakeholders to support a secure and inclusive transition to a more sustainable society. Our Sustainability strategy sets out how Santander
UK will tackle the challenges identified by the 2024 double materiality assessment (DMA). It is also aligned with Banco Santander's Sustainability strategy.
More detailed information on our Sustainability strategy, goals, and progress is set out in our 2024 ESG Supplement. The Supplement is published on our website
and does not form part of this Annual Report. It also includes the results of a limited assurance exercise on specific ESG metrics. Banco Santander lists all of its ESG
reports and disclosures on its website.
Section 172: Stakeholder voice
The Boards of the Company and Santander UK plc (the RFB and the Boards) have identified our customers, employees, regulators, communities and investors as our
key stakeholder groups on the basis of their importance in ensuring the continuing success of Santander UK. While not a stakeholder in the strictest sense, we also
take into account our impact on the environment and climate given its criticality to life and business in general, and as required by s172 Companies Act 2006 (s172).
Balancing the interests of these stakeholder groups alongside the interests of Santander UK is key to ensuring that we operate as a sustainable, responsible and
profitable business, and we therefore seek to ensure that this is embedded in our strategy and culture.
To support the Boards and their Committees in their considerations, our Board paper template and training includes a specific focus on the directors' duties arising
from s172 and how management's preparation of their papers plays a key role in ensuring that the Directors can discharge their responsibilities in a fully informed
manner.
In 2024, the Boards continued to spend time, inside and outside of formal meetings, engaging with stakeholders and discussing their interests, including visiting
branches, contact centres and offices around the UK to better understand the needs of our customers, employees and communities. You can read more about
Directors’ engagement with employees in 2024 on the following page.
Each Director meets with our principal regulators, the PRA and FCA, on a periodic basis to understand their views, and these regulators also attend our Board
meetings from time to time. The Board meets regularly with members of management and the directors of Banco Santander SA, the Company’s shareholder, and,
as usual, the Board held its February 2024 Board cycle in Madrid in order to strengthen relations and understand Banco Santander’s views more clearly.
Employee voice in the boardroom
Section 172 matters
A. The likely consequences of any decision in the long term
B. The interests of the company’s employees
C. The need to foster the company’s business relationships with suppliers, customers and others
D. The impact of the company's operations on the community and the environment
E. The desirability of the company maintaining a reputation for high standards of business conduct
Stakeholders considered
Customers, Employees, Regulators
Background
The Board has appointed a designated director for employee engagement, Lisa Fretwell, who drives the Board’s employee engagement programme and
reports quarterly to the Board Responsible Banking Committee on Directors’ findings.
How the Board approached it
Again in 2024, the Board had a full programme of employee engagement opportunities including listening sessions where employees were encouraged
to speak openly about their views of Santander UK, and their experiences working here and supporting our customers. In addition, each of our employee
Networks has a non-executive Director sponsor who attends events and champions their cause.
Outcome
As well as reporting to RBC at each of its quarterly meetings on the key messages from non-executive Directors’ listening sessions, Lisa also passed on these
findings to management: We find that this is another helpful way of receiving positive and constructive feedback from employees which allows for actions
to be taken where necessary. For example, following a branch visit, management took a number of actions designed to improve support and security for
employees as well as customers’ access to cash machines. In another instance, management took actions to improve the process for the final stages of our
graduate recruitment programme.
Non-Financial and Sustainability Information Statement
The Company’s disclosures under Section 414CA and 414CB of the Companies Act 2006, are included in the Strategic Report in Santander UK Group Holdings plc’s
Annual Report which reports on behalf of that company and its subsidiaries, including the Company.
Annual Report 2024
Santander UK plc
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Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Sustainability
In this section
Climate-related financial disclosures
Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR)
Annual Report 2024
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Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Sustainability overview
Climate-related financial disclosures
Banco Santander has set out ambitions to be a net zero bank by 2050. We are implementing the recommendations of the TCFD, and taking action to meet the
expectations set by the PRA, BoE and FCA. This requires wide-ranging collaboration both within the bank and externally to develop the tools and methodologies
needed. As such, we adopted a unified approach across the Santander UK Group Holdings plc group and therefore present TCFD disclosures on that basis in the
Santander UK Group Holdings plc Annual Report.
Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR)
We continue to monitor and evaluate our energy and carbon footprint in line with the SECR regulation. Our emissions are calculated using the UK Government
Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) conversion factors. In 2024, we used 89,511,0411 kWh of energy, compared to the 92,907,880 kWh used in
2023. This change was due to reductions in our gas consumption. We emitted 5466 tCO2e market-based greenhouse gas emissions, compared to 5299 tCO2e in 2023.
Our total Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions for 2024 are set out in the SECR table. The slight increase in Scope 2 location-based emissions was due to the opening of Unity Place,
our head office building, and an increase in staff returning to offices across the estate. However, we saw reductions in natural gas in 2024, mainly due to rationalisation
across our Head Office Estate. Business travel also continued to rise in 2024 leading to an increase in Scope 3 emissions. As a result, in 2024 our overall scope 1, 2 and
3 business travel emissions increased compared to 2023. Refurbishments at Triton Square our London office, are close to completion. These include replacing lower
efficiency mechanical, electrical and plumbing items (i.e. pumps, LED lights, fan coil units, air handling units (AHUs), HVAC replacements). Our Bradford and Sheffield
sites completed energy saving projects in 2024. Redhill and Glasgow started projects in 2024 that will continue into 2025.
2024
2023
2022
Scope 1 tCO2 e
2,456
2,814
4,512
Scope 2 tCO2 e (Location-based)
16,195
16,127
15,571
Scope 2 tCO2 e (Market-based)
1.13
0.34
0.4
Scope 3 tCO2 e (Business Travel) 1
3,009
2,485
1,383
Total1
5,466
5,299
5,895
YoY %
3%
(10)%
(7)%
Total emissions per employee (tCO2 e/FTE)1
0.3
0.27
0.32
(1)Employees that had left Santander UK or were temporarily absent during the 2023 reporting period had been excluded from Scope 3 business travel but should have been included. We have estimated this
exclusion based on available data. This estimation also impacts the Total CO2e emissions, CO2e emissions per employee, and year-on-year percentage for 2023. This excluded population has been included for the
related data points in 2024 but 2023 data was not updated due to confidence in the previous calculation based on available data.
Additional notes on GHG emissions calculations
Boundary
Scope 1-3 GHG emissions include the activities and facilities owned and/or under operational control of Santander UK plc.
Calculation
Scope 1: GHG emissions from oil, gas, direct transport, and fugitive gas emissions. Consumption and transport data is extracted from relevant source systems and
records. Data is sourced from internal systems, including meter readings, maintenance records, and internal travel systems, as well as external systems such as bill
validation systems and external supplier invoices. Emissions calculated for gas, oil, direct travel, and fugitive gases follow the GHG Protocol Corporate Standard. We
use the relevant UK Government Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) conversion factors and collate emissions into a total Scope 1 emissions
figure. We use billing invoices, meter readings, mileage claims, and maintenance records to obtain our consumption data.
Scope 2: GHG emissions from purchased electricity, electric fleet and company cars. For Santander UK, we use the market-based approach to quantify
our emissions, meaning we use emissions factors provided by our electricity suppliers. For our Scope 2 emissions, this reflects the emissions from electricity we
have purchased via green tariffs. These provide electricity from renewable sources including biomass and wind generation. Scope 2 emissions for electricity
consumption are calculated using the relevant UK Government DESNZ conversion factors and guidance. Emissions from the electric fleet are calculated using the
Residual Mix from DESNZ Fuel Mix Disclosure. Data for electricity consumption and travel for electric fleet and company cars are extracted from relevant source
systems.
Scope 3 – Business travel: This includes indirect travel emissions created through our value chain that have not been included in Scope 1 and 2. Our Scope 3
reporting encompasses emissions from business travel (air, road, and rail). Business travel records are extracted from relevant internal systems or provided by our
third-party travel admin operator. The distance in kilometres travelled is converted into carbon emissions using relevant factors from UK Government DESNZ and
collated into a total Scope 3 emissions figure. Car data is based on engine size, flight figures are based on average cabin seat class, and for rail they are based on
average cabin seat class. Rail figures are based on national rail conversion factors. We source data from mileage claims and third-party travel reports. Taxi travel is
excluded due to the lack of mileage data.
Annual Report 2024
Santander UK plc
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Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Governance
In this section
Governance overview
Corporate Governance report
Chair's report on corporate governance
Directors' Remuneration report
Remuneration policy report
Remuneration implementation report
Directors' report
Annual Report 2024
Santander UK plc
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Sustainability and
Responsible Banking
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Governance overview
Santander UK plc Board
Board Nomination &
Governance Committee
Board Risk
Committee
Board Audit
Committee
Board Responsible
Banking Committee
Board Remuneration
Committee
Executive level committees
Due to the alignment in Board membership, the Santander UK Group Holdings plc and Santander UK plc Board and Board Committees meet substantively
simultaneously. As such, this report details the governance arrangements, practices and activities of both Santander UK Group Holdings plc's and Santander UK plc's
Boards and Board Committees.
Board changes in 2024
1 January
5 March
1 September
1 December
13 December
Mark Lewis, Dirk Marzluf
and Nicky Morgan
appointed 1
Angel Santodomingo
appointed
David Gledhill appointed
David Oldfield appointed
Announced the
appointment of Enrique
Alvarez2
1. Santander UK Group Holdings plc only – following changes to the Santander UK ring-fencing rule modifications
2. Appointment effective from 12 February 2025
Compliance with the UK Corporate Governance Code
The UK Corporate Governance Code 2018 (the Code) sets out the framework for premium listed companies in the UK. We feel that it is appropriate for a
Company of our size and systemic importance to the UK economy to adopt the Code and as such, this Governance section details how we comply with its
principles and provisions. Any sections of the Code that we do not comply with are explained in the Directors’ Report.
Annual Report 2024
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Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Chair’s report on corporate governance
Our approach
Board and governance structure
Maintaining high standards of corporate
governance is vital to ensuring effective decision
making by the Board and therefore the ongoing
success of the Company. We also adhere to various
internal governance frameworks and practices
which ensure that we have the right systems and
controls in place to allow the Board to effectively
oversee the business and provide challenge where
needed. These include:
The UK Group Framework, which defines clearly
our responsibilities and relationship with Banco
Santander SA, our ultimate shareholder, taking
account of our fiduciary and regulatory
responsibilities. This gives us the autonomy to
discharge our responsibilities in the UK in line
with best practice as an independent board
while providing Banco Santander SA with the
oversight it needs. Clarity of roles and
responsibilities is key to ensuring proper
accountability for decisions and outcomes.
The Corporate Governance Framework (CGF),
which is designed to support the Boards in
discharging their responsibilities and ensuring
an appropriate degree of delegation throughout
the Santander UK group.
We review the CGF regularly to confirm that
governance arrangements remain effective and
appropriate. The corporate governance structure is
supported by internal control and risk management
systems. An important principle applied throughout
the CGF is the delegation of executive authority
from the Board to the CEO, who further delegates
aspects of their authority to Executive level
committees or other individuals. This supports
effective decision making and accountability in
discharging their responsibilities.
Santander UK group structure and ring-fencing
governance arrangements
The substantive business of the Santander UK
group continues to be conducted by Santander UK
plc, our principal ring-fenced bank (RFB). Ring-
fenced banks operate within governance rules
defined and overseen by the PRA who granted
Santander UK plc certain ring-fencing governance
rule modifications, recognising our ownership
structure and chosen ring-fencing business model.
As set out in last years' report, with effect from
1 January 2024, the PRA approved revisions
to our ring-fencing rule modifications which
simplified our governance arrangements,
including the ability to have common Santander UK
Group Holdings plc and Santander UK plc Board and
Board Committee memberships, subject to certain
safeguards. As such, Mark Lewis, Dirk Marzluf
and Nicky Morgan were appointed to the Board
of Santander UK Group Holdings plc, and the
composition of the Board Committees was aligned.
One of the safeguards agreed is that if a conflict
matter (as defined by the PRA) arises between the
two companies, three INEDs holding PRA senior
management functions (SMF) will have veto rights
on Board decisions. These INEDs are Nicky Morgan,
Mark Lewis and Ed Giera. David Oldfield will
succeed Ed Giera in this role with effect from
10 March 2025. Nicky Morgan will chair the RFB
Board meeting in the event of a conflict matter
decision.
The role and responsibilities of the Board
The Board is collectively responsible for promoting
the success of Santander UK for the benefit of its
stakeholders, taking into account the likely impact
of our decisions in the long-term, as well as
balancing the interests of our other stakeholders
and our contribution to wider society. Our Section
172: Stakeholder voice statement in the Strategic
Report explains how we engaged with our
stakeholders in the year.
The key decisions and matters reserved for the
Board's approval, such as the long-term strategy
and priorities, are set out in the CGF. A copy of the
Schedule of Matters Reserved for the Board is also
available on our website at aboutsantander.co.uk,
which does not form part of this Annual Report.
As Chair, I have overall responsibility for the
leadership of the Board, for ensuring its
effectiveness in all aspects of operation and for
promoting a culture of openness and debate. These
responsibilities are formalised in the CGF. The
composition of the Board helps to ensure that no
one individual or small group dominates the
Board's decision-making. The diversity of skills,
experience and background of Directors enables
them to provide constructive challenge, strategic
guidance and offer specialist advice.
There is a clear division of responsibilities between
the leadership of the Board and the executive
leadership of the business. The responsibilities of
the Chair, CEO, Senior Independent Director (SID)
and Non-Executive Directors (NEDs) are agreed by
the Board and set out in separate role statements
within the CGF and are available on our website at
aboutsantander.co.uk, which does not form part of
this Annual Report. The Board is also supported by
its Committees, who make decisions and
recommendations on specific responsibilities
delegated to them. This enables the Board to spend
more of its time on strategic, forward-looking
matters.
Board Committees
The Committees play an essential role in
supporting the Board, giving focused oversight
of key areas and aspects of the business. Their
roles and responsibilities are set out in their
Terms of Reference which are available at
aboutsantander.co.uk and which do not form part
of this Annual Report. The Terms of Reference are
regularly reviewed by each Committee to make
sure they remain appropriate. Cross-Committee
memberships provide visibility and awareness of
matters relevant across the Committees, and the
chair of each Committee reports back to the Board
on its activities after each meeting.
In addition to our five core Board Committees,
shown on the previous page, the Board are also
supported by committees which are stood up as
needed to allow dedicated time for topics at a more
focused forum. In December 2024, we created a
Board Special Projects Committee to focus on
remediation, special projects and transformation
matters.
Each of the core Committees is chaired by and
comprised of only INEDs, except for the Board
Nomination & Governance Committee, where
Pamela Walkden, a Banco Santander group
appointed NED (GNED) is a member.
How governance contributes to the delivery of
our strategy
Our governance arrangements contribute to the
development and delivery of our strategy by
promoting accountability and responsibility, and
ensuring information flows and independent
insight from the NEDs.
While all Directors are collectively responsible for
the success of the Company, the NEDs exercise
objective judgement in respect of Board decisions,
and scrutinise and challenge management
constructively. They also have responsibilities on
the integrity of financial information, internal
controls and risk management.
As a Board, we are responsible for ensuring that the
business is purpose-led and that our decision
making and activities reflect our core purpose to
help people and businesses prosper. We do this by
setting and developing our strategy, approving risk
appetite and policies and overseeing their delivery
and implementation by management. The Board is
accountable to our shareholders for the proper
conduct of the business and seeks to represent the
interests of all stakeholders.
The Board has identified the following key
stakeholders: Customers, Employees, Regulators,
Communities and Investors. For more on how the
Board balances the interests of these stakeholders,
see our Section 172: Stakeholder voice statement
in the Strategic Report.
Culture and hearing the views of the workforce
at the Board
The Board recognises that culture plays a
fundamental role in delivering our strategic
priorities and ensuring the success of the business,
we are ultimately responsible for ensuring that our
activities reflect the culture we wish to instil
throughout the business to deliver on our values of
simple, personal and fair.
Our Code of Conduct sets out how we and all
employees of Santander UK should act and behave
towards everyone we encounter through our work.
This, alongside our TEAMS behaviours - Think
Customer, Embrace Change, Act Now, Move
Together and Speak Up - contribute to drive our
culture and maintain the standards that underpin it.
All new employees are required to complete
training on the Code of Conduct and annual
refresher training is required for all employees. 
Our employees are central to delivering our
strategy, and the Board ensures continuous
engagement with them to create a culture of
inclusivity and belonging, and a healthy working
environment.
Annual Report 2024
Santander UK plc
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Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Chair’s report on corporate governance continued
Throughout the year, the Board received feedback
from colleagues via a number of mechanisms
including reports from Peakon employee voice
surveys, considering matters such as future ways of
working. Directors also engaged with colleagues
directly, participating in employee listening and
management forums, including workshops with
our eight people networks which each have a Board
sponsor. These activities were led by the
designated workforce NED, Lisa Fretwell, who also
had regular meetings with the Chief People Officer
and Head of Culture and Experience to discuss
results and emerging themes from the employee
voice surveys. These activities help to ensure that
the views of the workforce are made known to the
Board and that workforce policies and practices are
consistent with the Company's values, supporting
its long-term sustainable success.
The right information and support
The Chair, supported by the Company Secretary,
ensures that all Board members receive
appropriate and timely information. All Directors
have access to the advice of the Company Secretary
and the Company provides access, at its expense, to
the services of independent professional advisers
to help the Directors discharge their role.
Board membership & succession planning
Since 1 January 2024, the membership of the Board and
Board Committees of Santander UK Group Holdings plc
and Santander UK plc have been fully aligned.
Through the Board Nomination & Governance
Committee, we make sure there is the right
mix of individuals on the Board, giving an appropriate
balance of knowledge, skills, experience and
perspectives. Our aim to ensure orderly succession for
Board positions is supported by continuous
and proactive processes, taking into account our
strategic priorities and the main trends and factors
affecting the sustainability and success of the business.
We oversee and regularly review the development of a
diverse pipeline for succession.
In 2024, we welcomed David Gledhill and David
Oldfield as INEDs. David Oldfield will succeed Ed
Giera as chair of the Board Risk Committee (BRC) in
March 2025, ahead of Ed's retirement after more
than nine years on the Board. I would like to thank
Ed for his remarkable commitment and exceptional
contributions during his tenure.
We also announced in December 2024 that Enrique
Alvarez Labiano, CEO of Retail and Business
Banking would be appointed as an Executive
Director (ED). His appointment was effective from
12 February 2025.
As announced on 28 January 2025, I will be
stepping down during the course of 2025, once a
thorough appointment process and orderly
handover have been completed.
At 31 December 2024, the Board consisted of the
Chair (independent on appointment), eight INEDs,
two EDs and three GNEDs. Biographies of the
Directors are available at aboutsantander.co.uk,
which does not form part of this Annual Report. The
letters of appointment for INEDs and GNEDs are
available at the Company’s registered office and at
the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
Appointment and retirement of Directors
The Company's Articles of Association require each
Director to retire every year at the AGM and any
Director may offer themselves for re-election by
members. For more, see the Directors’ report.
Monitoring independence
The Board Nomination & Governance Committee
monitors whether there are relationships or
circumstances which may affect a Director's
independence, and have concluded that all INEDs
remain independent in character and judgement.
We acknowledge that Ed Giera has now served as a
Director for more than nine years, with his tenure
being extended to allow for a comprehensive
handover with his successors as both BRC Chair and
SID. We are confident that Ed has the strength of
character and integrity to ensure his independence
has not been affected by the length of his tenure.
I, as Chair, was independent on appointment when
assessed against the circumstances set out in
Provision 10 of the Code. No INEDs have a material
relationship with the Company nor receive
additional remuneration to Directors' fees. In
addition, no INEDs serve as directors of any external
companies or affiliates in which any other Director
is also a director.
Monitoring Director interests, time commitment,
and fees
The Board Nomination & Governance Committee is
responsible for oversight of conflicts of interest.
Each Director has a duty under the Companies Act
2006 to avoid a situation in which they have or may
have, a direct or indirect interest that conflicts, or
may conflict, with the interests of the Company.
This duty is in addition to the existing duty Directors
owe to the Company to disclose to the Board any
interest in a transaction or arrangement under
consideration by the Company.
The Board Nomination & Governance Committee
continued to review the time commitment and
Directors' potential conflicts of interest to ensure
that any such conflicts are managed appropriately,
including compliance with CRD IV and ring-fencing
requirements.
In accordance with Provision 15 of the Code, any
proposed external appointments are disclosed to
the Board, before appointment, with an indication
of the expected time commitment. All Directors
continue to devote sufficient time to their roles at
the Company. No significant external appointments
were undertaken by any Directors. The Board
considers and, if it sees fit, authorises situational
conflicts.
Any authorisations given are recorded by the
Company Secretary and Directors are asked to
certify, on an annual basis, that the information in
the register is correct.
The fees paid to INEDs for Board and Board
Committee chair and membership were unchanged
in 2024. We introduced a fee for members of the
newly formed Board Special Projects
Committee.For more, see the Remuneration
Implementation Report.
Director induction and training
The Company Secretary supports the Chair in
designing individual inductions for NEDs, which
include site visits and cover topics like strategy,
balance sheet and capital, risk and compliance, and
current issues including the legal and regulatory
landscape.
Directors who take on new roles or change roles in
the year (such as becoming a member of a new
Board Committee) attend induction or handover
meetings as appropriate. Committee Chairs, with
support from their Committee secretaries, agree
Committee specific training, as appropriate.
Directors are also given the opportunity to
undertake further training so that they are fully
informed about matters concerning Santander UK
to enable them to discharge their duties and
responsibilities as a Director.
Board meetings in the year
We held 11 Board meetings in 2024. Meetings of
the Company were held concurrently with
Santander UK Group Holdings plc.
Regular updates are provided to the Board by me,
each of the Committee Chairs, the CEO, CFO and
CRO. We have a comprehensive and continuous
agenda setting and escalation process to enable
the Directors to take decisions efficiently and
effectively. As Chair, I lead the process, assisted by
the CEO and Company Secretary, and this ensures
enough time is set aside for strategic discussions
and business critical items. Together with the
Committee Chairs, we ensure Board and
Committee meetings are structured to facilitate
open discussion, debate and challenge. The NEDs
also receive regular updates from management to
give context to current issues, and there is always
time allowed on each Board agenda for discussion
between the NEDs without the EDs present.
Annual Report 2024
Santander UK plc
18
Strategic Report
Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Chair’s report on corporate governance continued
Board activities in the year
I, together with the CEO and Company Secretary, and supported by the Directors and senior management, make sure that the Boards have an appropriate schedule
for the year. This is focused on the opportunities to drive growth and profitability of the business, transformation to support its success, business performance and
risk management, customer experience and outcomes, and remaining apprised of the external operating environment. It includes ensuring the Company is run in a
responsible and sustainable way in the interests of its stakeholders, and ensuring that the Company’s culture is aligned with its purpose, values, and strategy.
The Boards ensure regular contact with management and employees through several means. These include inviting relevant business and function heads to
present to the Board or its Committees on latest developments; supporting senior management development plans by welcoming them as observers; scheduling
regular meetings for Committee Chairs with relevant senior managers; site visits by NEDs; and topical or technical workshops. Senior leaders are also available to
the NEDs for advice and support.
The Boards regularly monitor progress against the strategic priorities and performance targets of the business, and in 2024, once again held a separate Board
Strategy Day. This included a case study on executing large scale transformation in the financial services sector, adapting the retail branch model to reflect changing
customer behaviours and how to engage with our customers better. External presenters gave their thoughts on the competitive landscape and inorganic
opportunities to accelerate our transformation.
Alignment with Banco Santander group strategy is also strengthened by holding one board cycle in Madrid each year, providing the Boards with opportunities to
interact with executives and senior management of Banco Santander SA.
The Board aims to consider the views of all impacted stakeholders, whilst acting in the best interests of the Company and its members as a whole, as set out in the
section 172: Stakeholder Voice statement in the Strategic report. In 2024, the Boards and Board Committees participated in the workshops listed below to consider
important topics in depth and to engage with key stakeholders. To ensure the most effective use of the time at Board meetings, informal discussions between
Board members and senior management took place on a regular basis.
Theme
Action taken by the Board and outcomes
Stakeholders
considered
Business and
Customer
Strategy
As part of the Board Strategy Day, considered how to improve customer proposition, engagement and experience across
all our business segments, as well as drive revenue growth, by transforming the branch network.
Discussed reports on performance against strategy from principal business areas including:
Mortgages
Personal Current Accounts
Business Banking
Payments and Cards
Wealth and Insurance Management
Participated in an externally facilitated session on UK banking market context and competitive landscape.
Considered reports on M&A activity and market trends.
Reviewed, challenged, and approved the 3-year business plan (2025-2027) and the annual budget, including
assumptions underpinning the plan.
Discussed and took learnings from an external report on Santander UK’s reputation.
Considered the strategic workforce plan and strategy to optimise the real estate portfolio.
Customers
Investors
Employees
Transformation
including
leveraging
Banco
Santander
scale
Reviewed initiatives and opportunities to collaborate and leverage resources and capability across the Europe region and
the Banco Santander group, including the Banco Santander group-wide transformation agenda (One Transformation) and
the implications of the Banco Santander group’s new operating model structured across the five global business lines.
Received regular reports on progress with driving operational efficiencies and management’s revised approach to
strategic change management and investment prioritisation.
Received a report on agile working practices and their implementation within the business.
Received a demonstration on Artificial Intelligence capabilities.
Customers
Investors
Employees
People and
Culture
In addition to reports from the Board Responsible Banking Committee (RBC) on delivery of the culture strategy, the Board
participated in several informal activities to assess the culture and sentiment of employee cohorts including our Young
Leaders and Graduates and Apprentices.
Participated in engagement activities throughout the year including listening events, branch and head office visits where
two-way interaction was encouraged and valuable feedback shared, as well as an engagement event with the Santander
Network leads where key inclusive culture priorities were discussed.
Considered employees' ways of working and opportunities to enhance collaboration across teams.
Considered succession planning across all key control, support functions and business functions.
Approved the Diversity and Inclusion Strategy on recommendation from the RBC.
Approved the Group Corporate Culture Policy.
Customers
Employees
Annual Report 2024
Santander UK plc
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Strategic Report
Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Chair’s report on corporate governance continued
Theme
Action taken by the Board and outcomes
Stakeholders
considered
Audit, risk,
compliance and
control
Received regular enterprise-wide risk updates from the CRO, and updates on specific risks, such as third-party
outsourcing, IT, data management, financial crime compliance, fraud, climate change and inflation. The Board closely
monitored overall operational risk given the ongoing extensive transformation agenda.
Considered financial crime remediation, including oversight of programmes to enhance controls and regulatory
engagement, back book remediation, and the progress made to return the Company to Board Risk Appetite on a
sustainable basis. The Board also approved the Anti Money Laundering and Counter Terrorist Policy as part of its annual
review.
Reviewed and approved the implementation of Consumer Duty on recommendation of the RBC, recognizing the valuable
enhancements it had made to customer outcomes and value.
As part of the annual review, approved the Company’s Risk Appetite Statement and the Risk Framework. 
Approved the 2024 Internal Audit Report and received annual reports on whistleblowing.
Received regular reports on recovery and resolution with a full fire drill exercise planned for Q3 2025.
Participated in workshops on the Operational Resilience, Risk Weighted Assets and Regulatory Capital and Model Risks.
Customers
Employees
Regulators
Regulation,
Balance Sheet
and Capital
Reviewed, challenged, and approved the ICAAP, ILAAP, adequacy and effectiveness of stress-testing and capital
management, AT1 payments and ordinary and preference share dividend payments in line with PRA guidance. The Board
followed the methodology set out in the Board-approved Surplus Capital Allocation Framework to determine the
assessment and utilisation of surplus capital.
Approved the Resolvability Self-Assessment related to the 2023 Resolvability Public Disclosure, the 2024 Resolvability
Public Disclosure and the 2024 Recovery Plan for submission to the Bank of England.
Considered the future regulatory landscape and implications, as well as considering regular reports from the General
Counsel on legislative developments and other legal matters.
Participated in workshops on ICAAP and ILAAP which provided an overview of the processes and addressed PRA feedback
on Board engagement and supporting models.
Customers
Investors
Regulators
Governance
and
Responsible
Banking
Participated in an externally facilitated Board evaluation led by Dr Tracy Long at Boardroom Review and monitored the
progress against 2023 action plan from the internally facilitated Board evaluation.
Approved appointments to the Board on the recommendation of the BNC.
Reviewed, challenged, and approved the 2023 Annual Report and the first Santander UK Governance Strategy.
Reviewed and approved the Company’s Social Mobility Strategy, the Modern Slavery report and the Employee Code of
Conduct.
Participated in workshops delivered to the RBC on ESG related strategies, approaches and reporting and the Company’s
compliance with the Consumer Duty.
Communities
Regulators
Climate
Board and Board Committee attendance1
Board
Board Audit
Committee
Board Nomination
& Governance
Committee
Board
Remuneration
Committee
Board Responsible
Banking
Committee
Board Risk
Committee
Scheduled
Ad hoc
Scheduled
Ad hoc
Scheduled
Ad hoc
Scheduled
Ad hoc
Scheduled
Ad hoc
Scheduled
Ad hoc
Chair
William Vereker
10/10
1/1
-
-
5/5
1/1
-
-
-
-
-
-
Independent Non-
Executive Directors
Lisa Fretwell
10/10
1/1
10/10
1/1
-
-
6/6
-
8/8
-
6/6
1/22
Ed Giera
10/10
1/1
7/102
1/1
5/5
1/1
6/6
-
4/62
-
8/8
2/2
Dave Gledhill3
2/2
1/1
3/3
1/1
-
-
2/2
-
2/2
-
-
-
Michelle Hinchliffe
10/10
1/1
10/10
1/1
5/5
1/1
-
-
6/6
-
8/8
2/2
Mark Lewis3
10/10
1/1
7/7
-
4/52
1/1
6/6
-
8/8
-
7/8
2/2
Nicky Morgan 3
10/10
1/1
7/7
-
5/5
1/1
-
-
8/8
-
8/8
2/2
David Oldfield3
1/1
-
1/1
-
-
-
1/1
-
-
-
1/1
-
Jose Maria Roldan
10/10
1/1
-
-
-
-
2/2
-
8/8
-
8/8
2/2
Banco Santander
Group nominated
Non-Executive
Directors
Pedro Castro e Almeida
10/10
1/1
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Dirk Marzluf3
10/10
0/12
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Pamela Walkden
10/10
1/1
-
-
5/5
1/1
-
-
-
-
3/3
1/1
Executive Directors
Mike Regnier
10/10
1/1
Angel Santodomingo3
10/10
1/1
1. With effect from 1 October 2024, Nicky Morgan and Mark Lewis stepped down from the Board Audit Committee, Jose Maria Roldan became a member of the Board Remuneration Committee, Ed Giera and Michelle
Hinchliffe stepped down from the Board Responsible Banking Committee and Lisa Fretwell stepped down from the Board Risk Committee.
2. Meetings missed due to Directors' prior commitments.
3. For dates of Board appointments or resignations in the year, see the timeline on the 'Governance overview' page. Appointments to, or resignations from, the relevant Board Committees were aligned to
these dates unless stated otherwise
Annual Report 2024
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Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Chair’s report on corporate governance continued
Board diversity
The Board values the unique differences that each
Director and Santander employee brings to work
every day. Diverse views, combined with inclusion,
encourages the sharing of a wide range of
perspectives and ideas alongside challenging and
raising concerns for good decision making. The
basis of this premise applies to our Boards and
Board Committees as much as it does to any other
area of our organisation.
We recognise that the Board sets the tone for an
inclusive culture and that our success is integrally
linked to the diverse composition of our people.
With this in mind, the Board fosters an environment
where all our employees feel that they belong in
our business, and for our people to reflect the
customers and communities we serve. It’s the right
thing to do for our business and the communities
we operate in.
As a Board, we approve the Santander UK
Diversity and Inclusion strategy, as required by UK
regulation, and monitor its implementation
through our Board Responsible Banking
Committees. The Committees hold management to
account for promoting inclusion to see positive
outcomes for a healthy culture in diversity, risk
management, good conduct and innovation. Each
of our Independent Non-Executive Board Directors
sponsors a diversity strand to foster the open
exchange of ideas regularly engaging with our
employee networks to support their decision
making. Progress against this can be found in
our Everyday Inclusion and Pay Gap Report, which
does not form part of this Annual Report.
We also have a Board Diversity & Inclusion
(D&I) Policy, as required by UK regulation, which
recognises that an inclusive Board representing a
diversity of experience and backgrounds should
result in a broad strategic perspective and is
available on the Company’s website.
Board appointments are always made on merit by
assessing candidates against measurable, objective
criteria. We want a Board that reflects diversity
in the broadest sense to embrace different
perspectives and dynamics such as gender, race,
age, disability and socio-economic background. 
We believe that such an environment is vital to
achieve our goals as a business.
During the year, we reviewed and updated the
ambitions in our Board D&I Policy, recognising that
we had not achieved the aims we previously set for
ourselves in respect of gender or ethnicity. The
Board and its Committees will continue to focus on
gender and ethnicity as we progress future
appointments with a view to regaining the
appropriate balance.
Our current ambitions are to achieve a gender
balance of at least 40% male and female; at least
one senior Board position (Chair, CEO, CFO or SID)
to be female and at least one member from a non-
white minority ethnic background by 2028.
In accordance with Listing Rule 9.8.6(9), the
statistics on this page outline the diversity metrics
for Board members and executive management as
at 31 December 2024. We have chosen to exclude
Ed Giera from these statistics to avoid duplication
as he will retire from our Board in March 2025 and
will be succeeded as Board Risk Committee Chair
by David Oldfield (who was appointed to the Board
with effect from 1 December 2024).
At 31 December 2024, 31% of the Board were
female. Following the appointment of Enrique
Alvarez on 12 February 2025 this reduced to 29%.
With the appointment of Nicky Morgan as SID, I am
pleased that we have already made positive
progress towards meeting our ambitions.
No Directors were from an ethnic minority
background.
At 31 December 2024, 25% of Executive
Committee members were female, 38% of our
Leadership Group (the level below the Executive
Committee) were female. The Board places high
emphasis on ensuring the development of different
perspectives in the senior management and
through succession planning. 
Annual Report 2024
Santander UK plc
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Strategic Report
Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Chair’s report on corporate governance continued
Board and Committee effectiveness
To ensure that the Board and its Committees' remain effective, we carry out an annual evaluation which includes the performance of individual Directors. In line
with the Corporate Governance Code, this evaluation is typically facilitated externally at least once every three years, allowing for an independent review of the
Boards' performance. I, with the support of the Board Nomination & Governance Committee, lead the Board in considering and responding to the annual evaluation.
The Board approves an action plan to address any areas of improvement identified in the annual evaluations and the Board Nomination & Governance Committee
oversees the progress on these. An update on the findings from the 2023 evaluation is set out below.
Progress against 2023 evaluation findings
Opportunities for improvement
Update on actions
Improving Board-level
information
There has been a marked improvement as a result of training, updated paper templates and advice given by the Corporate
Governance Office in the length of the Board packs and the timeliness in which they are provided to Directors. We believe that
there is always room for improvement and therefore it remains on the 2024 action plan.
Forward leaning strategic topics
for the board agenda
During 2024, we provided updates on strategic topics such as market outlook, competitive environment and external
landscape through Board updates, workshops or sessions with external speakers. We will also continue to review the
Forward-Looking Agendas for the Boards and the Committees to ensure the Board’s time is maximised on matters of strategic
relevance including covering topics such as customer perspective and competitor environment.
Managing Board transition and
roles
Following the appointment of three new Directors in 2024, the Board Nomination & Governance Committee oversaw that
each new Board member was given a thorough and tailored induction to the business to help them settle into their roles
quickly has been acknowledged as a priority. The induction plans included familiarisation with the overall Group-wide
strategy and Group-subsidiary relationship and sessions on specific topics relevant to the Santander UK business. The
induction sessions were led by key members of management, the Corporate Governance Office and Group representatives.
Following the internal reviews completed in the prior two years, Dr Tracy Long of Boardroom Review Limited was chosen to undertake an externally facilitated
review (the Review) in 2024, in line with UK Corporate Governance Code expectations. Dr Long completed the previous external evaluation in 2021, but has no other
connection to the Company or its Directors, and as such it was felt she would be able to independently assess the Board whilst providing valuable insight on the
progress and performance over the last three years. 
2024 External effectiveness review process
Stage 1
Scope of review
The scope for the Review was agreed to ensure a formal and rigorous evaluation of the performance of the Board and its
Committees.
The methodology encouraged candid reflections from each participant on the current strengths and preparation for future
challenges. 
Stage 2
Review activity
Individual interviews were held with each Director, as well as members of senior management. Discussion themes included
board dynamics, culture and contribution; understanding of purpose, values and strategic alignment and executive leadership.
A full cycle of Board and Board Committee meetings was also observed. The Company Secretary provided a suite of
documents to enable a thorough review of Board-related governance materials.
Stage 3
Findings and actions
A comprehensive report evaluating the Board's performance was produced by Boardroom Review and presented by Dr Long at
the December Board meeting. The Board collectively discussed the results and recommendations, before agreeing the key
priorities and a practical action plan (see below).
Annual Report 2024
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Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Chair’s report on corporate governance continued
Outcomes from the 2024 Board evaluation
Overall, the Review concluded that the Board and all Committees continue to operate effectively and are rated highly. The key strengths identified were the Board's
positive ways of working, progress made on transformation and remediation activities, an improvement in the relationship with the regulators since the last review,
improvement on the quality of the Board papers and significant improvements to the Environmental, Social and Governance agenda.
The Review also identified opportunities for improvement for the Board as a whole and for the Board Committees. The key priorities are set out below. The Board
considered all of the recommendations from the Review and agreed on an action plan which will be overseen by the Board Nomination & Governance Committee
throughout 2025.
2024 Review findings
Opportunities for improvement
Commentary and actions
Future board composition
The Board will need greater technology insight as a core skill to meet our longer term strategic goals. Workshops will be scheduled
to ensure the Board remain up to date with, and are forward looking, on technology, including digital functionality for customers, AI
uses and cybersecurity issues and their impact on the Company. In addition, we recognise the importance of a diverse Board, and
the ambitions we have set on gender and ethnicity as set out in our Board D&I Policy.
Cyber risk
To ensure that the Board are as well prepared as possible to respond to a cyber threat, an unscripted simulation exercise will be
performed this year. We will also arrange for an external expert to speak to the Board.
External landscape
There is appetite for the Board to know more about the competitive landscape, with updates covering real-time information on
sector dynamics, clarity of expected results and appreciation of existing and/or emerging barriers to action. These updates will be
scheduled throughout 2025, and we will invite external speakers to Board sessions to provide different perspectives.
Measuring our culture
To continue to promote and oversee the embedding of our desired culture, the Board will continue to evolve how it measures and
evaluates Santander UK's culture, reflect on new ways to monitor and communicate the behaviours we want to promote, sharing
who we were to who we are becoming through our stories of success and lessons learned.
As part of the Review, I also conducted an assessment of each individual Director's performance to identify any areas of development, which we then discussed
privately. The findings, in combination with the individual's skills, time commitment and independence assessments, as overseen by the Board Nomination &
Governance Committee, confirmed that each Director continues to contribute positively.
Ed Giera, as SID at the time, also undertook an assessment of my performance as Chair, seeking feedback from each Director which was then discussed at a meeting
without me present.
Annual Report 2024
Santander UK plc
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Strategic Report
Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Chair’s report on corporate governance continued
Summary of Board Committee activities in 2024
Our Board Committees conduct their business concurrently with the Santander UK Group Holdings plc Board Committees to ensure alignment of practices, policies
and procedures. The following sections describes the governance arrangements, practices and activities of both committees. For more information, see each of the
Board Committee Chair's Reports in the Santander UK Group Holdings plc 2024 Annual Report, which does not form part of this Annual Report.
Board Nomination & Governance Committee
Committee responsibilities
Lead the process for Board and Board Committee
appointments and oversee succession planning
for the Board and senior management positions.
Oversee the evaluation of the performance
and composition of the Board and Board
Committees.
Monitor the governance arrangements
for Santander UK and make appropriate
recommendations to the Board to ensure
that those arrangements remain adequate.
Committee members
William Vereker (Chair)
Ed Giera
Michelle Hinchliffe
Mark Lewis
Nicky Morgan
Pamela Walkden
Key activities in the year
Succession planning
The Committee oversees a formal, rigorous and
transparent process to identify, nominate and
recommend candidates for appointment to the
Board and senior management positions.
As part of ongoing succession planning activity,
the Committee regularly reviews the succession
plans in place for the Board, the CEO and senior
management positions. This includes ensuring that
there is a skills, experience and diversity matrix to
map each Director's attributes against those most
relevant for the Board, reflecting the Company’s
strategic direction and identifying gaps in its
desired collective skills profile as well as
highlighting the skills and experience which could
be lost with a retiring Director. For key senior
management positions, the Committee works with
Banco Santander to ensure there are suitable
candidates identified from across the Banco
Santander group as ‘Ready Now’, ‘Ready in 1-3
years’ and ‘Future Ready’.
While appointments are always based on the merit
of the individual candidates and objective criteria,
we also aim to promote diversity in its broadest
sense. This complements and strengthens the
overall Board and its Committees' skills, knowledge
and experience. Any appointments also take
account of all legal and regulatory requirements.
In anticipation of Ed Giera retiring from the Board
in 2025, following more than nine years of service,
the Committee focused on identifying successors
for the roles of Chair of the Board Risk Committee
(BRC) and Senior Independent Director (SID).
As reported last year, Spencer Stuart, external
search consultants with whom the Company and
individual Directors have no other relationship,
assisted with the search process to identify
candidates who could serve as Chair of the BRC.
The Committee agreed the personal attributes
including cultural fit, and ability to lead and
manage change which were desirable for the role
and the skills and experience needed. A database of
potential candidates was created with our Board
D&I Policy in mind when doing so. Following a
review of a longlist of potential candidates drawn
up by Spencer Stuart, the Committee agreed a
shortlist, each of whom were interviewed by me
and other Board members. After detailed feedback
from these interviews, the Committee selected
which individuals should progress to interviews
with representatives of Banco Santander
management. David Oldfield was identified as the
preferred candidate, and his appointment as an
INED, to succeed Ed Giera as Chair of the BRC on
Ed’s retirement in 2025 was recommended to, and
approved by the Board.
During the above search process it was identified
that David Gledhill would bring valuable and
relevant experience in digital transformation
and broader banking from his 30 years in
financial services. As such, the Committee also
recommended his appointment as an INED to
the Board.
For the role of the SID, we considered candidates
from our existing INEDs and proposed that Nicky
Morgan be appointed to serve as SID following Ed’s
retirement given her familiarity with the business,
understanding of the customer from her role
as Board Responsible Banking Committee Chair
and Consumer Duty Champion, and excellent
relationships with the other NEDs and EDs.
As set out in last years’ report, the Committee
recommended Angel Santodomingo be appointed
as successor to Duke Dayal as CFO. Angel was
appointed to the Board on 5 March 2024.
The Committee also recommended the
appointment of Enrique Alvarez Labiano, CEO of
Retail and Business Banking as an ED upon receipt
of regulatory approval. The appointment promotes
our succession planning and talent development
initiatives and provides greater balance of NEDs
and EDs on the Board.
We also oversaw and approved changes to the
Executive Committee and other senior
management positions in 2024. Tim Hinton, CEO,
Santander CCB retired in September 2024 and was
succeeded by John Baldwin. John Mills, Company
Secretary, also retired and was succeeded by Roz
Rule from 1 January 2025.
In 2025, the Committee will oversee the search for
my successor. This process is being led by Nicky
Morgan as the SID.
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Chair’s report on corporate governance continued
Board Risk Committee
Committee responsibilities
Advise the Board on the Enterprise Wide Risk
profile, Risk Appetite and strategy.
Provide advice, oversight and challenge to
embed and maintain a supportive risk culture.
Review the Risk Framework and recommend it
to the Board for approval.
Review and approve the risk types and risk
activity frameworks in the Risk Framework.
Review the capability in the organisation to
identify and manage new risks and risk types.
Review risks and issues escalated by the CRO,
and their associated action plans.
Oversee and challenge the day-to-day risk
management, oversight and adherence to risk
frameworks and policies.
Committee members
Ed Giera (Chair)
Michelle Hinchliffe
Mark Lewis
Nicky Morgan
Jose Maria Roldan
David Oldfield1
Pamela Walkden2
Lisa Fretwell3
1. Joined on 1 December 2024
2Left 1 April 2024
3.Left 1 October 2024
Key activities in the year
The Committee undertook a thorough assessment
of the Company's top and  emerging, including
financial, operational, and compliance controls. Our
top risks and emerging risks are discussed in the
Risk Review section of this report. The process for
identifying, evaluating, and managing the
Company's emerging and top risks is integrated
into the overall risk governance framework.
Regularly, the Committee reviews and discusses a
consolidated enterprise wide risk report to ensure
that they are satisfied with the overall risk profile,
risk accountabilities, and mitigating measures.
Board Audit Committee
Committee responsibilities
Oversight of the integrity of the financial
statements of the Company and any formal
announcements relating to its financial
performance, including underlying significant
financial reporting judgements and estimates.
Oversight of internal financial control
effectiveness.
Oversight of the relationship with our external
auditors including their independence and
objectivity, audit scope and effectiveness of the
audit process in respect of their statutory audit of
the annual financial statements.
Oversight of the Internal Audit function.
Oversight of Recovery and Resolution planning
Oversight of Whistleblowing arrangements.
Committee members
Michelle Hinchliffe (Chair)
Ed Giera
Lisa Fretwell
David Gledhill1
David Oldfield2
1. Joined on 1 October 2024
2.Joined on 1 December 2024
Key activities in the year
Internal Audit
Considering the 2025 Audit Plan and Internal
Audit’s annual report for recommendation to
the Board.
Monitoring progress against the 2024 Audit Plan.
Financial reporting
Significant financial reporting issues including
judgements and estimates
The use of assumptions or estimates and the
application of management judgement is an
essential part of financial reporting. This is
considered by the Committee on at least a
quarterly basis.
The External Auditors also consider these areas as
part of their audit of the annual financial
statements. More information on the External
Auditors' work is set out in their audit report.
In 2024, we focused on the following significant
reporting matters in relation to financial accounting
and disclosures:
Credit impairment charges
Satisfied ourselves with the robustness of the
process used to arrive at the management
judgements and estimates as well as with the
management judgements and estimates
themselves.
Endorsed the updates to the macroeconomic
scenarios and weights including management’s
judgement to reduce number of macroeconomic
scenarios from five to four.
Endorsed the improvements in the JA framework.
Endorsed management’s approach and key
methodology changes for ECL provisioning
including updated SICR triggers and the new ECL
models implemented during the year.
Provisions and Contingent Liabilities
Agreed with management’s judgement on the
level of customer remediation, litigation and
other regulatory provisions and/or contingent
liability disclosures.
Defined benefit pension schemes
Agreed with management’s approach regarding
the principal assumptions.
Agreed with management's approach to illiquid
assets valuation.
Agreed with management's proposals to update
the mortality projections to reflect the latest
published CMI projections.
Goodwill
Agreed with management that no impairments
to goodwill should be recognised in 2024.
Valuation of intercompany derivatives
Agreed with management's approach to valuing
the Company's level 3 intercompany interest rate
swaps.
Other areas
Agreed with management that the going concern
basis of accounting remained appropriate at 31
December 2024.
Reconfirmed that three years was an appropriate
time horizon for the viability assessment.
Agreed with management that no impairment
should be recognised in relation to climate risk in
2024.
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Oversight of external auditors
External Auditors
PwC were appointed in 2016 and their
independence was considered and monitored
throughout the year. We were satisfied that PwC
continued to meet the independence requirements.
Ian Godsmark has been lead audit engagement
partner since June 2022.
A Banco Santander group wide external audit
tender was undertaken in the first half of 2024 for
the appointment of financial years 2026, 2027 and
2028. The Committee oversaw the process locally
with selected candidate firms and focused on audit
quality and expertise to ensure high quality audit
standards were retained.
A recommendation to reappoint PwC was made as
the preferred firm to Banco Santander based on a
robust review of the selected firms’ proposals.
Based on a formalised assessment, the Committee
satisfied itself as to the rigour and quality of PwC’s
audit process.
Non-audit fees
We have a robust policy on non-audit services
provided by our external auditors. Non-audit
services were under continuous review throughout
2024 to determine that they were permitted
by reference to their nature, assessing potential
threats and safeguards to auditor independence as
well as the overall ratio of audit to non-audit fees.
All assignments require advance approval, either by
the Chair (or in their absence their alternate), under
delegated authority for amounts under £250,000
plus VAT or, if larger, by the Committee. This
process is in addition to the requirement for all
non-audit fees to be approved by the Banco
Santander Audit Committee.
Internal Audit
The Committee has approved the Internal Audit
Charter at its annual review and receives regular
updates on the quality assurance, capabilities and
capacity of the Internal Audit function to ensure
its operational effectiveness and adequate
independence. This is supplemented by regular
interactions between the Chief Internal Auditor and
the Committee Chair. We also receive feedback on
interactions between Internal Audit, management
and our external auditors.
Whistleblowing
The Committee oversees Santander UK's
whistleblowing arrangements including
continuous refinement of our processes to
align with evolving best practice. Santander UK
recognises the importance of creating
an environment where employees feel safe and
able to Speak Up. Speaking Up is a core behaviour
at Santander UK and there are a number of ways
employees can do this, including raising a concern
via Santander UK's Whistleblowing arrangements.
The Disclosure Committee reports on whether the
Annual Report is fair, balanced, and understandable
and whether it provides the information necessary
for readers to assess Santander UK's position and
performance, business model and strategy.
Board Responsible Banking Committee
Committee responsibilities
Support management in shaping, driving and
delivering the responsible banking agenda
of the business across a broad spectrum of
areas including customers, inclusive culture,
conduct, communities and climate change and
the environment (the Board Risk Committee is
responsible for overseeing the risks associated
with climate change).
Committee members
Nicky Morgan (Chair)1
Lisa Fretwell
Ed Giera3
David Gledhill2
Michelle Hinchliffe3
Mark Lewis 4
Jose Maria Roldan
1. Joined as a member and Chair on 1 January 2024
2. Joined on 1 September 2024
3. Left on 1 October 2024
4. Joined on 1 January 2024
Board Remuneration Committee
Committee responsibilities
Overseeing the implementation of the
remuneration policy, including approving
individual remuneration packages and the bonus
framework and outcomes for EDs and other
senior executives.
Approving the framework for identifying Material
Risk Takers (MRTs) and overseeing their
remuneration arrangements.
Reviewing the remuneration arrangements for
all employees.
Committee members
Mark Lewis (Chair)
Lisa Fretwell
Ed Giera
David Gledhill1
Jose Maria Roldan 2
David Oldfield3
1. Joined as a member and Chair on 1 January 2024
2. Joined on 1 September 2024
3. Left on 1 October 2024
4. Joined on 1 January 2024
Details of the structure of our remuneration
arrangements and the activities of the Board
Remuneration Committee in the year are provided
in the Remuneration Policy and Implementation
Reports.
William Vereker
Chair
7 March 2025
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Remuneration policy report
Basis of preparation
This report has been prepared on behalf of the Board
by the Board Remuneration Committee. We comply
with the statutory reporting obligations for large
private companies. We applied the UK Corporate
Governance Code 2018 (the Code) and complied
with the Provisions other than where stated in the
Directors' Report. Several voluntary remuneration
disclosures are also presented in this report.
Remuneration policy for Executive Directors (EDs)
Our remuneration policy, which applies to EDs, is
below. Remuneration has two elements: fixed and
variable pay. Fixed pay is set at market competitive
levels appropriate for the role. Variable pay rewards
the delivery of internal financial targets, key strategic
priorities and individual performance, and is subject
to risk adjustment.
Remuneration policy applicable to Executive Directors in the year
Fixed pay
Principle and description
Policy
Base salary
To attract and retain EDs of sufficient calibre
and with the skills to deliver our strategy,
taking into account the demands and
complexity of the role.
Base salaries are normally reviewed annually. In reviewing base salaries, the
Committee considers a number of factors, including:
the skills required, the role responsibilities and the market value of the
individual and the role;
the requirement for base salaries to be set at a level that avoids
inappropriate risk taking; and
base salary increases for other employees.
Pension arrangements
To provide a discrete element of the package
to contribute towards retirement.
EDs receive a cash allowance in lieu of pension aligned to the wider
workforce average, of 9% of salary, except in exceptional circumstances such
as international mobility.
Other benefits
To offer a competitive package and to
support employee wellbeing.
Including: private medical insurance for EDs and their dependants, life
assurance, health screening, and relocation allowances where relevant.
Access to Santander UK’s share schemes on the same terms as other
employees.
Variable pay
Principle and description
Policy
Variable pay plans
The Variable Pay Plan motivates EDs to
achieve and exceed annual internal targets
within Santander UK’s Risk Appetite and
aligned with our strategy and values.
Multi-year deferral and delivery in Banco
Santander SA shares aligns EDs’ interests to
the long-term interests of Santander UK.
Further long-term performance testing
applies for the CEO.
Part of the award is deferred according to the
requirements of the PRA Rulebook.
The long-term PagoNxt Incentive Plan
recognises the contribution of employees
critical to the success of PagoNxt, one of
Banco Santander's strategic priorities.
Bonus awards under the Variable Pay Plan are discretionary and determined
by performance against a scorecard of financial and non-financial goals, as
well as individual performance.
40% of any bonus awarded is paid upfront after the performance year-
ends, and delivered at least half in shares; and
60% of the bonus awarded is deferred and delivered in equal tranches
over years three to seven, with each tranche delivered at least half in
shares.
For the CEO, the first three of five deferred award tranches are subject to
further performance testing which may reduce or increase the payout.
Awards under the PagoNxt Incentive Plan can be made in restricted share
units and/or premium priced options of PagoNxt, and vest in line with
regulatory requirements.
Shares or share instruments are subject to a minimum one-year retention
period following vesting.
Malus and clawback can be applied to variable pay for up to ten years
following the grant of an award.
The structure of variable pay awards means EDs acquire a meaningful
shareholding in Banco Santander SA which may extend for a significant
period post-employment. In addition, the CEO is subject to a Shareholding
Policy, which aligns long-term interests with Banco Santander shareholders.
The requirement under the policy is set at two times the incumbent’s net
salary on appointment. A formal post-employment shareholding
requirement is therefore not in place.
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Remuneration policy report continued
Our remuneration policy meets regulatory
requirements. Given that Santander UK is part of
Banco Santander Group which remains subject to the
2:1 maximum ratio, Santander UK continues to apply
a 2:1 variable to fixed pay cap. This is in line with
approvals granted to Banco Santander SA by its
shareholders. For control function roles, a lower
ratio of 1:1 is normally applied.
Executive remuneration policies
and principles
Our core values of Simple, Personal and Fair drive
our remuneration policy. We focus on delivering a
framework that is easy to understand, tailored to
individual roles, competitive and fair.
The key drivers of our Remuneration Policy
Alignment to culture
To design policies aligned to our long-term
success, which support the delivery of our strategy
and reinforce our values.
To base variable pay on a balanced scorecard of
quantitative and qualitative metrics across
Customers, Shareholders and Responsible
Banking. This aligns to Santander UK’s strategic
priorities, with a focus on good customer
outcomes, simplification, improved efficiency and
sustainable growth.
Simplicity
To ensure our approach to remuneration is
transparent and easily understood.
To operate clear structures so our employees can
link their contribution to the success of the
organisation.
Risk
A consistent approach to reward for all our
employees upholds our prudent approach to Risk
Appetite set as part of a Santander UK-wide
framework. Risk adjustment takes place at an
individual and collective level.
To provide a package that is balanced between
fixed and variable pay, and short-term and long-
term horizons, which promotes prudent risk
management.
To ensure remuneration complies with applicable
regulations and legislation.
Fairness
To take into account an assessment of the EDs'
performance against goals set at the start of the
year, which cover financial, non-financial,
quantitative and qualitative criteria.
To set robust and stretching targets and reward
exceptional performance.
To attract, retain and motivate employees of the
highest calibre by providing total remuneration
which reflects individual and Company
performance, is competitive, and reflects the
responsibilities of the role.
To consider wider employee pay and conditions
when determining Executive pay.
Clarity
The Committee reviews remuneration reporting
on an annual basis against best practice and
developments in corporate governance, including
the Code. Our reporting is designed to be
transparent, whilst reflective of our structure.
Predictability
The Committee annually reviews variable pay
levels for certain individuals and the basis of the
bonus pool calculation. Due to commercial
sensitivity, bonus opportunities and targets are
not disclosed as per the provisions of the Code.
Directors’ remuneration is within the variable pay
cap as approved by Banco Santander SA
shareholders and set out above.
On recruitment
When appointing a new ED, base salary is set at a
market competitive level appropriate for the role,
taking into consideration a range of factors including
role responsibilities, internal and external peer
groups, and experience.
Unless determined otherwise, new EDs receive a
pension allowance of 9% of salary, aligned to the
wider workforce average. Benefits will typically be
aligned to the wider employee population.
Remuneration will be established in line with the
Remuneration Policy, as set out in the table on the
previous page.
Relocation support and international mobility
benefits may also be given. Relocation support will
normally be a capped amount for a limited time. In
cases of international mobility, the Committee will
have discretion to offer benefits and pension
provisions which reflect home country market
practice and align to relevant legislation.
Buy-out awards
Compensation may be provided to EDs who forfeit
awards on leaving their previous employer. The
Committee retains discretion to make such
compensation as deemed appropriate to secure the
relevant individual’s employment and will ensure
any such payments align with both the long-term
interests of Santander UK and the regulatory
framework.
Such payments will be in line with the awards
foregone on leaving the previous employer taking
into account value, form of awards, vesting dates
and the extent to which performance conditions
applied to the original awards.
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Remuneration policy report continued
Service agreements
The key terms and conditions of employment are set
out in individual contractual agreements. These
agreements include a notice period of six months
from both the ED and the Company.
The agreement reserves a right for the Company to
terminate employment immediately with a payment
in lieu equal to the ED's fixed pay for the notice
period. In the event of termination for gross
misconduct, neither notice nor payment in lieu of
notice is required.
Termination payments
The remuneration impact of an ED leaving the
Company, including treatment of variable pay and/or
any termination payment will reflect the terms of
the service agreement, relevant scheme rules,
regulatory requirements and the Committee’s policy
relevant to the reason for leaving.
Outstanding variable pay awards generally lapse on
termination, other than where an individual is
considered a ‘good leaver’. Where an ED is a good
leaver, eligibility to variable pay awards will
normally subsist until the relevant scheduled
payment dates and will remain subject to
performance where relevant.
The Committee determines whether an ED is a good
leaver. Usual good leaver circumstances include but
are not limited to: injury, ill-health, disability,
redundancy, retirement and death. The Committee
may, at its discretion, determine an ED a good leaver
in any other circumstances.
A framework is in place to guide the Committee to
determine the discretionary circumstances when
good leaver status is appropriate. Other than a
payment in the event of redundancy, there are
generally no payments upon termination of
employment for EDs.
In the event of a change in control, any outstanding
variable pay awards will be treated in line with the
relevant scheme rules, taking into account applicable
regulatory requirements.
Risk and Performance adjustment
We continue to meet the regulatory requirements in
respect of risk and performance adjustment. All
variable remuneration can be adjusted for current
and future risks through our Additional Risk
Adjustment Standard which is linked to our Board
approved Risk Appetite.
The Standard provides a quantitative assessment
against Santander UK’s Risk Appetite and an
additional qualitative risk event assessment that can
reduce the bonus pool or individual awards to nil at
the Committee’s discretion.
Our Individual Remuneration Adjustment Standard
provides a framework for the process, governance
and standards relevant for decisions on individual
performance adjustments following an incident,
including the application of malus and clawback.
Performance adjustments may include, but are not
limited to:
reducing an award for the current year;
reducing the amount of any unvested deferred
variable remuneration;
requiring an award which has not yet been paid to
be forfeited; and
requiring repayment on demand (on a net basis) of
any cash and share awards received at any time for
a period of up to ten years following the date of
award.
The Committee has full discretion to prevent vesting
of all or part of an amount of deferred remuneration
and/or to freeze an award during an ongoing
investigation in a number of circumstances,
including:
employee misbehaviour, misconduct or material
error;
material downturn in the performance of
Santander UK or a relevant business unit; and
Santander UK or a relevant business unit suffering
a material failure of risk management.
When determining variable pay awards for
individuals performing roles across Santander UK plc
and Santander UK Group Holdings plc, the Santander
UK Group Holdings plc Board Remuneration
Committee will apply any necessary discretion based
on factors related to UK group entities outside of
Santander UK plc. This discretion is subject to
validation by the Santander UK plc Board
Remuneration Committee.
The Committee seeks input from the Chair of the
Board, Chair of the Board Risk Committee, Chair of
the Board Audit Committee, CRO, Chief Compliance
Officer, Chief People Officer and Chief Internal
Auditor when determining whether any performance
or risk adjustments are required.
We have an NYSE-compliant policy in place which
enables variable remuneration to be recovered from
Executive Officers in the case of an accounting
restatement that would have impacted that
remuneration.
Policy for all employees
Our performance and reward approach across the
Company supports our business strategy, rewards
strong performance and reinforces our values within
our risk management framework. The general
principles of the Remuneration Policy broadly apply
across all employees where appropriate. They are
designed to attract, retain, motivate and drive
performance.
The structure of remuneration packages for EDs is
typically aligned with the broader employee
population, comprising salary, benefits, pension
provision and discretionary variable pay dependent
on role and responsibility.
The Committee annually approves the operation of
variable reward schemes (as well as share schemes)
for all our employees to ensure they reward
appropriate behaviour and do not incentivise
activities which are outside risk appetite.
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Remuneration implementation report
Introduction
This section of the report outlines how our
Remuneration Policy was implemented for 2024.
Variable Pay Plan
The Committee reviews and approves
remuneration governance and frameworks
annually. This ensures continued compliance with
the relevant regulatory rules, including those for
ring-fencing.
To incentivise and reward EDs for achieving
superior and sustained performance, our Directors
participate in an annual variable incentive plan. A
balance of financial and non-financial performance
metrics are selected annually by the Committee
and are aligned with our strategy as measured over
the financial year. Multi-year deferral and delivery
in Banco Santander SA shares ensure that EDs’
interests are aligned to the long-term interests of
the business. Further long-term performance
testing also applies for the CEO.
Both upfront and deferred awards are made at
least half in shares. The deferred element is
delivered over seven years. For the CEO only, the
first three tranches of deferred awards are subject
to further performance testing against long-term
metrics. Awards delivered in shares are subject to
an additional one-year retention period from the
point of delivery.
The 2024 Variable Pay Plan pool was determined
based on a series of stages as follows:
Quantitative assessment
A quantitative assessment against a balanced
scorecard of financial and non-financial metrics
that are key to our strategy. Performance metrics
are reviewed annually to ensure continued
alignment with strategy and, for 2024 the
scorecard included:
Customers (Net Promoter Score, Active
Customers and Total Customers)
Shareholders (RoTE, Capital Generation and
Costs)
Sustainability and Responsible Banking (Climate
Strategy Transition Plan, Employee Engagement
and Inclusion and ambitions for gender and
ethnicity representation).
A profit underpin applies, requiring Profit after Tax
to remain positive in order to pay any award, with a
reduced pool should profit reduce substantially
from the prior year.
Qualitative assessment
A qualitative assessment adds context to the
quantitative assessment and ensures a balanced
view of performance is taken. Performance is
assessed across compliance, risk management,
network collaboration and responsible banking.
Additionally, a relative performance modifier is
applied.
Banco Santander Group Multiplier
The Committee has the discretion to adjust the pool
upwards or downwards to reflect overall Banco
Santander performance, if appropriate.
Regional Adjustment
A Regional Adjustment reflects the UK's
contribution to performance of the Banco
Santander group's European Region.
Exceptional Adjustment
Exceptional adjustments allow for unexpected
factors or additional internal targets not covered by
the quantitative or qualitative assessments to be
reflected in variable pay outcomes.
UK-focused risk adjustment
This provides both a formula-based assessment
against our Risk Appetite and an additional
qualitative overlay. Consideration is given to risk
appetite breaches including, but not limited to:
customers, conduct, operational, reputational and
financial crime risk. This can result in downward
adjustment of up to 100% of the pool or individual
awards at the discretion of the Committee.
Individual assessment
The allocation of the pool is based on an
individual's performance, taking into account a
range of factors. Performance is assessed against
the delivery of priorities (the 'What'), the
behaviours shown in delivering those priorities (the
'How'), and also Risk.
Deferred long-term awards
Performance testing applies to a portion of the
deferred awards for the CEO. This applies to the
first three deferred tranches of the 2024 award
(36% of the total award) which are payable in
2028, 2029 and 2030. Performance is measured
over a three-year period 2025 to 2027.
The performance measures for 2024 awards are
relative TSR, ROTE and ESG metrics. Following the
performance assessment, the level of awards will
be adjusted accordingly. The assessment could
reduce or increase the overall value of the deferred
awards.
PagoNxt Incentive Plan
The PagoNxt Incentive, a multi-year plan, rewards
those employees across the Banco Santander
Group whose contribution is considered crucial to
the development and success of PagoNxt, one of
the three strategic priorities of the Group. 
Awards are granted in share options and/or
restricted share units (RSUs) in PagoNxt, S.L.. UK-
specific performance conditions apply. Awards will
vest in accordance with regulatory requirements.
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Remuneration implementation report continued
2024 Business Performance and Impact
on Remuneration
During 2024 the progress made against our
strategic priorities was reflected in improved
business performance as the year evolved. For
the benefit of our customers, the bank leveraged
the expertise of Banco Santander facilitating
continued simplification and efficiency. Whilst
the rising costs of customer deposits, and the
impact of the charge for historical motor finance
commission payments impacted profit, active and
prudent price management resulted in a Banking
NIM that improved in the second half of the year
versus the first half. A continued focus on customer
service ensured our NPS, a key measure of
customer experience, improved over the year.
The Committee acknowledged this performance,
against both financial and non-financial metrics, in
an environment which remains challenging. In
determining remuneration outcomes for the 2024
performance year, the Committee ensured due
consideration was given to the experiences of our
customers, employees and communities.
Context for decision making
The Committee ensures that pay policies and
practices for employees across Santander UK are
taken into account when setting policy for
executive remuneration. The Committee reviews
trends across Santander UK group, including the
outcome of any pay negotiations with our
recognised trade unions. It considers the
relationship between executive remuneration and
that of other Santander UK group employees, as
well as remuneration in the wider UK market, when
making decisions on executive pay.
The Committee oversees broader workforce
remuneration policies and practices, the
implementation of remuneration and related
employment policies across Santander UK and the
salary and variable pay awards for all Material Risk
Takers. It also approves the design of any material
performance-related pay plans.
As part of the monitoring of pay, the following is
considered:
Santander UK’s engagement with its recognised
trade unions on pay and benefits matters for all
employees;
Annual pay reviews for the general employee
population;
Santander UK group-wide pension and other
benefit provisions;
The design of and overall spend on variable
incentive arrangements; and
An assessment of conduct across the business.
The Committee is focused on ensuring that
employees are not subject to undue pressures or
inappropriately incentivised. This is monitored
using existing employee engagement indicators
including engagement surveys.
The Committee always considers the broader
stakeholder environment when setting policy or
reaching decisions on executive pay.
Executive Directors' remuneration
Total remuneration of each ED for the year ended 31 December 2024
Mike Regnier
Angel Santodomingo (4)
2024
2023
2024
2023
£000
£000
£000
£000
Salary and fees
1,575
1,500
951
Taxable benefits (1)
12
3
233
Pension
142
135
123
Total fixed pay
1,729
1,638
1,307
Bonus (paid and deferred) (2)
1,432
1,003
1,440
Long-term incentive plan (3)
669
Total variable pay
1,432
1,672
1,440
Total remuneration
3,161
3,310
2,747
(1)
Taxable benefits for the Executive Directors comprise a range of benefits including, but not limited to, private health care and living expenses for expatriates.
(2)
36% of the Chief Executive Officer's Variable Pay Plan award is subject to long-term performance metrics assessed over three years, which can increase the value of this element by
up to 125% or decrease the award to 0%. No other executive will be subject to long-term performance metrics. The value of the current Chief Executive Officer's 2024 Variable Pay
Plan awards not subject to performance conditions, i.e. 64%, is disclosed above. The value subject to further performance conditions, 2024: £805,282 (2023: £563,967) will be
disclosed at the close of the performance period upon vesting.
(3)
The Long Term Incentive Plan value represents the value of awards made under the Transformation Incentive Plan, following the testing of the Plan's performance conditions. The
value of awards made in share-linked instruments has been calculated with reference to Banco Santander’s share price over the final three months of the 2023 year. Nathan
Bostock, former Chief Executive Officer, received an award with a value of £553,545.
(4)
Angel Santodomingo was appointed to the Board as an Executive Director on 5th March 2024 and the figures above reflect remuneration received whilst serving as a Board Director.
The pension and benefit provisions reflect his expatriate status and allow maintenance of home country pension and living arrangements.  All other elements of remuneration align
with UK based colleagues.
Annual Report 2024
Santander UK plc
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Sustainability
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Financial statements
Shareholder information
Remuneration implementation report continued
Stakeholder views
During 2024, Santander UK continued to engage
with key stakeholders on remuneration related
matters including its main regulators, the PRA
and FCA.
Regular engagement takes place with our
shareholder to align remuneration across the
Banco Santander group, while meeting all local
regulatory requirements. The outcome of these
discussions drives our bonus pool construct.
Lisa Fretwell, a member of the Committee, is the
designated NED with responsibility to further
enhance the employee voice in the boardroom on
matters associated with organisational culture.
Frequent employee pulse surveys were conducted
throughout 2024. The 'Your Voice' function has
enabled employees to share thoughts and ideas
frequently and anonymously all year round, giving
an immediate gauge of employee sentiment.
Additionally, we discuss business performance and
reward matters with union representatives during
the annual pay review cycle and on a frequent basis
throughout the year.
CEO pay ratio
Santander UK is committed to delivering fair pay
which attracts, retains and motivates employees of
the highest calibre across all grades. In line with
this commitment, the Committee has oversight of
compensation across the organisation, including
pay ratios, and considers this when determining
reward outcomes. We continue to voluntarily
disclose the ratio of the CEO’s total remuneration to
that of employees.
The CEO's pay mix is weighted more heavily
towards variable pay to incentivise the
achievement of stretching internal targets and
long-term value creation. This can lead to greater
variability in total remuneration. In contrast, the
typical pay mix of our less senior employees places
more emphasis on fixed pay, to offer security and
certainty, and to meet our commitment to
employees' financial wellbeing.
The ratio has decreased from 75:1 in 2023 to 69:1
in 2024. The reduction in pay ratio has been
influenced by an increase in average total
remuneration amongst all employees. In assessing
the pay ratio, the Committee is confident that the
Company's policy on remuneration is fair and
consistent with our all-employee pay policies.
Advice and support provided to the
Committee
As permitted by its Terms of Reference, the
Committee has engaged the advice and support of
Deloitte LLP (Deloitte) as independent
remuneration consultants at the expense of the
Company. Total fees (excluding VAT) for advice and
support provided to the Committee in 2024 were
£74,600 (2023: £121,150). Deloitte was initially
appointed as Adviser to the Committee following a
formal tender process conducted in 2015 and was
reappointed after a further tender process in 2022.
In 2024, Deloitte also provided unrelated tax,
advisory, risk, assurance and consulting services to
Santander UK.
Deloitte's independence and effectiveness as the
Committee adviser is reviewed annually. The
Committee is satisfied that the Deloitte
engagement partner and team that provides
remuneration advice to the Committee do not have
connections with Santander UK that may impair
their independence. Deloitte is a founding member
of the Remuneration Consultants Group and
voluntarily operates under the Code of Conduct in
relation to executive remuneration consulting in
the UK.
By Committee invitation, the Chair, CEO and
designated representatives from business
functions attend meetings as appropriate to
advise on HR, Risk, Legal and Regulatory matters
in support of the Committee's work. Attendees
included the Chief People Officer, Head of
Performance & Reward, CRO and
Company Secretary.
CEO pay ratio
Methodology (1)
25th percentile
Median
75th percentile
2024 CEO pay ratio (5)
Option A
99:1
69:1
40:1
2023 CEO pay ratio (4)
Option A
106:1
75:1
45:1
2022 CEO pay ratio
Option A
119:1
84:1
48:1
2021 CEO pay ratio
Option A
140:1
96:1
54:1
2020 CEO pay ratio
Option A
88:1
64:1
37:1
CEO remuneration (3)
25th percentile (2)
Median (2)
75th percentile (2)
2024 CEO pay ratio
£
£
£
£
Total salary
£1,575,000
£26,359
£36,553
£56,604
Total remuneration
£3,160,709
£32,087
£46,108
£78,352
(1)
Employee pay is calculated based on the 'Option A' methodology. We chose Option A as it gives the most reliable and accurate result by calculating a comparable single figure for each employee.
(2)
Employee pay data is based on full time equivalent pay for Santander UK plc employees. This excludes a small number of employees in the rest of the Santander UK group. Including those employees results in a
ratio consistent with the above. For each employee, total remuneration is calculated based on fixed pay accrued in the 2024 financial year, and variable pay is either based on actual bonuses in respect of the 2024
year (where these are available) or modelled target bonuses where actuals are not yet available.
(3)
The CEO's total remuneration is aligned to that disclosed in the Executive Directors' remuneration table on the previous page.
(4)
The 2023 ratios are re-stated above. These were originally calculated based on fixed pay accrued within the 2023 year, in addition to target bonuses for eligible employees. The 2023 ratios have now been
recalculated using 2023 fixed pay and bonuses paid in 2024 in respect of 2023 for all employees.
(5)
The values used for the CEO's 2024 Variable Pay Plan awards are the same as those stated in the Executive Directors’ remuneration table i.e. the component which is not subject to performance conditions is used
for the CEO pay ratio calculation above. The calculation also includes the vesting value of Transformation Incentive Plan awards made to the CEO, as shown in the Executive Directors' remuneration table.
Relative importance of spend on pay
2024
2023
Change
£m
£m
%
Profit before tax
1,349
2,100
(36)
Total employee costs
1,277
1,241
3
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Santander UK plc
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Remuneration implementation report continued
Chair and Non-Executive Director remuneration
The Chair’s fee is reviewed and approved by the
Committee. The fees paid to NEDs are reviewed
and approved by the CEO and the Chair. Fees are
reviewed annually taking into account the market
rate and time commitment for the role. The Chair is
paid an all-inclusive base fee. NEDs are paid a base
fee, with a supplement for serving on or chairing a
Board Committee, except for the Board Nomination
& Governance Committee.
All NEDs and the Chair serve under letters of
appointment. In respect of the NEDs appointed
prior to 2021, either party can terminate the
appointment by giving three months’ written
notice. From 2021, we increased the notice period
for NEDs to six months to support orderly
succession planning. For the Chair, 12 months’
written notice is required.
Neither the Chair nor the NEDs have the right to
compensation on the early termination of their
appointment beyond payments in lieu of notice at
the discretion of Santander UK. In addition, neither
the Chair nor the NEDs are eligible for pension
scheme membership or to participate in any
variable incentive arrangements.
Chair and Board Committee member fees
2024
2023 (2)
£000
£000
Chair (inclusive of membership fee)
725
725
Board member
100
100
Additional responsibilities
Senior Independent Director
45
45
Chair of Board Risk Committee
70
70
Chair of Board Audit Committee
70
70
Chair of Board Responsible Banking Committee
60
60
Chair of Board Remuneration Committee
60
60
Membership of Board Risk Committee
35
35
Membership of Board Audit Committee
30
30
Membership of Board Responsible Banking Committee
30
30
Membership of Board Remuneration Committee
30
30
Chair of Board Special Projects Committee (1)
30
15
Membership of Board Special Projects Committee (1)
15
-
Consumer Duty Champion
8
8
Designated NED to represent views of the workforce
8
8
(1) With effect from 1 December 2024, the Litigation and Contentious Regulatory Board Sub-Committee was renamed and is now known as the Board Special Projects Committee. In addition, the Chair fee increased from £15,000
to £30,000 and a membership fee of £15,000 was introduced.
(2) Fees shown were with effect from 1 April 2023.
2024
Fees
2023
Fees
2024
Expenses 
(8)
2023
Expenses
2024
Benefits
2023
Benefits
2024
Total
2023
Total
Non-Executive Directors
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
£000
Chair
William Vereker (1)
725
712
2
2
727
714
Independent Non-Executive Directors
Lisa Fretwell
224
204
224
204
Ed Giera
299
299
299
299
David Gledhill (2)
65
65
Michelle Hinchliffe (3)
229
124
229
124
Mark Lewis (9,10)
257
230
257
230
Nicky Morgan (10)
241
233
241
233
David Oldfield (4)
18
18
Jose Maria Roldan (5)
188
97
5
193
97
Banco Santander Group nominated Non-Executive Directors (6)
Pedro Castro e Almeida (7)
Dirk Marzluf (10)
Pamela Walkden
109
132
109
132
(1) William Vereker's taxable benefit relates to private health care.
(2) David Gledhill was appointed on 1 September 2024. Fees are in respect of services from that date.
(3) Michelle Hinchliffe was appointed on 1 June 2023. Fees received are in respect of services from that date.
(4) David Oldfield was appointed on 1 December 2024. Fees received are in respect of services from that date.
(5) José María Roldan was appointed on 1 June 2023. Fees received are in respect of services from that date. Taxable benefits relate to professional tax advice.
(6) With the exception of Pamela Walkden, none of the Banco Santander nominated Non-Executive Directors received any fees or expenses.
(7) Pedro Castro E Ameida was appointed on 1 September 2023. Fees are in respect of services from that date.
(8) Only true business expenses have been incurred in the course of Non-Executive Directors’ duties. In prior years, these expenses were processed via payroll and as such attracted tax and were declared.
(9) Mark Lewis' fees include £10,000 in relation to his services as a Non-Executive Director of Santander Consumer (UK) plc.
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Directors' report
Introduction
The Directors submit their report together with the
financial statements for the year ended 31
December 2024. The information in the Directors’
Report is unaudited, except where indicated.
Corporate structure, Subsidiaries and Branches
The Company (incorporated on 12 September
1988) is a subsidiary of Santander UK Group
Holdings plc whose ultimate parent is Banco
Santander SA, a Spanish retail and commercial
bank with a market share in ten core countries in
Europe and the Americas.
Santander UK was formed from two former
building societies, Abbey National and Alliance &
Leicester, together with the branch network and
savings business of Bradford & Bingley, and has
operated under a single brand since 2010.
All of Santander UK plc's ordinary shares are
unlisted and held by Santander UK Group Holdings
plc, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Banco
Santander SA.
The Company’s preference shares are listed on the
London Stock Exchange and both the Company and
Santander UK Group Holdings plc have other equity
instruments in the form of AT1 securities listed on
various securities exchange markets, including the
London Stock Exchange.
In addition, the Company and Santander UK Group
Holdings plc are subject to US Securities Exchange
Act reporting requirements as they have debt
securities listed on the New York Stock Exchange.
The Santander UK group consists of a parent
company, Santander UK plc, incorporated in
England and Wales, and a number of directly and
indirectly held subsidiaries and associates. The
Company directly or indirectly holds 100% of the
issued ordinary share capital of its principal
subsidiaries. All companies operate principally in
their country of incorporation or registration.
In line with the ring-fencing requirements set out in
the Financial Services (Banking Reform) Act 2013,
Santander UK plc and its subsidiaries consist of only
entities whose business is permitted under the Act
as a ring-fenced bank. For more information, see
Note 18.
Results and dividends
For details of the results for the year, see the
Income Statement in the Consolidated Financial
Statements. For more on dividends, see Note 10.
Details of Santander UK’s activities and business
performance in 2024, together with an indication of
the outlook, are set out in the Strategic report.
Events after the balance sheet date
There have been no material post balance sheet
events, except as set out in Note 41.
Directors
A list of the Directors that served in the year can be
found in the Board and Board Committee
Attendance table in the Chair's report on Corporate
Governance. Details of their emoluments and
interests in shares are set out in the Remuneration
implementation report. For more on changes to the
composition of the Board, see the Chair’s report on
Corporate Governance.
Between 31 December 2024 and 7 March 2025,
the following was noted:
Following regulatory approval, Enrique Labiano
was appointed as an Executive Director on the
Board on 12 February 2025.
On 28 January 2025, William Vereker announced
his intention to step down as Chair of the Board
once a thorough appointment process and
handover has been completed.
Appointment and retirement of Directors
All Directors are appointed and retire in accordance
with the Company’s Articles of Association, the UK
Companies Act 2006 and the UK Group Framework.
The Directors are required to retire each year at the
Annual General Meeting and may offer themselves
for re-election.
Directors’ indemnities
Directors’ and Officers’ liability insurance cover was
in place throughout the year, in addition to a deed
of indemnity to provide cover to the Directors for
liabilities to the maximum extent permitted by law.
These remain in force for the Directors’ period of
office from the date of appointment until such time
as any limitation periods for bringing claims against
the Directors have expired. The Directors, including
former Directors who resigned in the year, benefit
from these deeds of indemnity which constitute
qualifying third party indemnity provisions for the
purposes of the Companies Act 2006. Deeds for
existing Directors are available for inspection at the
Company’s registered office.
The Company has also granted an indemnity which
constitutes ‘qualifying third party indemnity
provisions’ to the Directors of its subsidiary and
affiliated companies, including former Directors
who resigned in the year and since the year-end.
Qualifying pension scheme indemnities were also
granted to the Trustees of the Santander UK
group’s pension schemes.
Employees
We continue to ensure that Santander UK’s
remuneration policies are consistent with its
strategic objectives and are designed with its long-
term success in mind.
Communication
Santander UK aims to involve and inform
employees on matters that affect them. The
intranet is a focal point for communications and the
‘AskHR’ website connects employees to all the
information they need about working for Santander
UK. We also use face-to-face communication, such
as team meetings and roadshows for updates.
Santander UK regularly considers employees’
opinions and asks for their views on a range of
issues through regular engagement and surveys.
For more on colleague engagement and initiatives,
see the Strategic report.
Employee Designated Non-Executive Director
Lisa Fretwell is Santander UK's Employee
Designated NED and represents the views of
employees in the Boardroom. For more
information, see the Section 172: Stakeholder voice
section in the Strategic Report.
Consultation with Employees
Santander UK has a successful history of working in
partnership with its recognised trade unions,
Advance and the Communication Workers Union
(CWU), who collectively negotiate on behalf of
approximately 99.5% of our UK workforce. Both
trade unions are affiliated to the Trades Union
Congress. We consult Advance and the CWU on
significant proposals including those relating to
change across the business at both national and
local levels.
Employee share ownership
Santander UK continues to operate two all-
employee, HMRC approved share schemes: a Save-
As-You-Earn (Sharesave) Scheme and a Share
Incentive Plan (SIP). Those employees who are
designated as Material Risk Takers receive part of
their annual bonus awards in Banco Santander SA
shares/share linked instruments. Details of the
plans and the related costs and obligations can be
found in the Share-based payments and
compensation sections in Notes 1 and 35.
Inclusive culture
Information on our diversity and inclusion policies,
as required by UK regulation, can be found in the
Chair's report on Corporate Governance and the
2024 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion and Pay Gap
Report and ESG Supplement, which do not form
part of this Annual Report.
Disability
Santander UK is committed to equality of
employment, access and quality of service for
disabled people and complies with the UK Equality
Act 2010 throughout its business operations. We
have processes in place to help train, develop,
retain and promote employees with disabilities,
and we are a Disability Confident Employer
achieving the 'Leader' level. We are committed to
giving full and fair consideration to employment
applications by disabled people, having regard to
their particular aptitudes and abilities, and for
continuing the employment of employees who
have become disabled by arranging appropriate
training and making reasonable adjustments in the
workplace.
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Directors' report continued
Engagement with stakeholders and employees
Santander UK recognises the importance of
fostering relationships with its principal
stakeholders and that this is key to the long-term
success of our business. We understand the
importance of acting fairly and responsibly and
actively engage with our stakeholders and
employees. For more, see the Section 172:
Stakeholder voice section in the Strategic Report.
Streamlined Energy & Carbon Reporting (SECR)
For details on our energy use, carbon emissions and
efficiency measures implemented in 2024,
including Scope 1, 2 and 3 data, see the SECR
section in the Sustainability review.
Political contributions
In 2024 and 2023, no contributions were made for
political purposes and no political expenditure was
incurred by the Company.
Share capital
Details about the structure of the Company’s
capital can be found in Note 31.
For details of employee share schemes and how
rights are exercisable, see Note 35.
The powers of the Directors in relation to share
capital are set out in the Company’s Articles of
Association. These are available for inspection on
request.
Financial instruments
The financial risk management objectives and
policies of Santander UK and the policy for hedging,
along with details of Santander UK's exposure to
credit risk, market risk and liquidity risk are set out
in the Risk review.
Research and development
Santander UK has a comprehensive product
approval process and policy. New products,
campaigns and business initiatives are reviewed by
Santander UK’s Proposition Approval Forum.
Supervision and regulation
The Company is authorised by the PRA and
regulated by the FCA and the PRA (dual regulated).
Some of its subsidiaries and joint venture
companies are also authorised by the FCA and the
PRA (dual regulated) or the PRA or the FCA (solo
regulated).
While Santander UK operates primarily in the UK, it
is also subject to the laws and regulations of other
jurisdictions in which it operates or has listed debt
securities such as the US.
Internal controls
Risk management and internal controls
The Board and its Committees are responsible for
reviewing and ensuring the effectiveness of
management’s system of risk management and
internal controls.
We carried out a robust assessment of the principal
and emerging risks facing Santander UK including
those that would threaten its business model,
future performance, solvency or liquidity. Details of
our principal risks, our procedures to identify
emerging risks, and how these are being managed
or mitigated are set out in the Risk review. A
summary of our Top and Emerging Risks is also set
out in the Strategic report.
Management’s report on internal control over
financial reporting
Internal control over financial reporting is a
component of an overall system of internal control.
Santander UK’s internal control over financial
reporting is designed to provide reasonable
assurance regarding the reliability of financial
reporting and the preparation of financial
statements for external purposes in accordance
with UK-adopted international accounting
standards (IAS) and International Financial
Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the
International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).
Santander UK’s internal control over financial
reporting includes:
Policies and procedures that pertain to the
maintenance of records that in reasonable detail
accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and
dispositions of assets.
Controls providing reasonable assurance that
transactions are recorded as necessary to permit
the preparation of financial statements in
accordance with UK-adopted IAS and IFRS, and
that receipts and expenditures are being made
only in accordance with authorisations of
management.
Controls providing reasonable assurance
regarding prevention or timely detection of
unauthorised acquisition, use or disposition of
assets that could have a material effect on the
financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control
over financial reporting may not prevent or detect
misstatements. In addition, projections of any
evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are
subject to the risk that controls may become
inadequate because of changes in conditions, or
because the degree of compliance with policies or
procedures may deteriorate.
Management is responsible for establishing and
maintaining adequate internal control over the
financial reporting of Santander UK. Management
assessed the effectiveness of Santander UK’s
internal control over financial reporting at 31
December 2024 based on the criteria established in
the Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued
by the Committee of Sponsoring Organisations of
the Treadway Commission (COSO) in May 2013.
As a registrant under the US Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, Santander UK's management is
responsible for establishing and maintaining an
adequate system of internal control over financial
reporting in order to ensure the accuracy and
reliability of Santander UK's Financial Statements
and the Form 20-F submitted to the SEC.
In line with COSO and SEC requirements, controls
recognised as Sarbanes-Oxley applicable are
subject to annual testing and certification by
management including an attestation by the CEO
and the CFO that they are operating effectively and
that the internal control over financial reporting can
be relied on.
All Sarbanes-Oxley control weaknesses identified
are captured, assessed and included in the year-
end assessment of the reliability of the Internal
Control environment. They are reported on an
ongoing basis to the Board Audit Committee to
ensure the control environment is continuously
improved.
Based on this assessment, management concluded
that, at 31 December 2024, Santander UK’s internal
control over financial reporting was effective.
Disclosure controls and procedures over financial
reporting
Santander UK’s management has evaluated, with
the participation of its CEO and CFO, the
effectiveness of its disclosure controls at 31
December 2024. There are inherent limitations to
the effectiveness of any system of disclosure
controls and procedures, including the possibility of
human error, and the circumvention or overriding
of the controls and procedures. Accordingly, even
effective disclosure controls and procedures can
only provide reasonable assurance of achieving
their control objectives.
Based upon this evaluation, the CEO and the CFO
concluded that, at 31 December 2024, Santander
UK’s disclosure controls and procedures were
effective to provide reasonable assurance that
information required to be disclosed by Santander
UK in the reports that it files and submits under the
US Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is recorded,
processed, summarised and reported within the
time periods specified in the applicable rules and
forms, and that it is accumulated and
communicated to Santander UK’s management,
including the CEO and CFO, as appropriate, to allow
timely decisions regarding disclosure.
Changes in internal control over financial
reporting
There were no changes to our internal control over
financial reporting during the period covered by this
report that have materially affected, or are
reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal
control over financial reporting.
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Directors' report continued
Statements of Compliance
The UK Corporate Governance Code 2018 (the
Code)
Santander UK complies with the Code (which can
be found at frc.org.uk) wherever applicable in order
to achieve the best standards of corporate
governance. The Code applied to the financial year
ended 31 December 2024 and the Board confirms
that it applied the principles and complied with
those provisions of the Code throughout the year,
except as follows:
Provision 10: For 2024, there were no
circumstances which were likely to impair an
INED's independence. Ed Giera, who has served
on the Board for more than 9 years (appointed
on 19 August 2015) will step down in March
2025, following an orderly hand over to his
successor. We are confident that Ed has the
strength of character and integrity to ensure his
independence has not been affected by the
length of his tenure.
Provision 25: The Board Risk Committee (BRC)
was not composed of only INEDs for the period
between 1 January to 1 April 2024 as Pamela
Walkden, a GNED, was a member. We assessed
the implications and believed that the approach
followed was appropriate given our size and
ownership structure and the experience and
expertise that Pamela brought to the BRC.
Pamela resigned from the BRC on 1 April, and we
have since been fully compliant with this
provision.
Provision 36: Our pension contribution rates for
EDs align with those available to the workforce,
except in exceptional circumstances such as
expatriate arrangements. This is to ensure that
expatriates can continue to maintain home
country pension arrangements.
Provision 36: The Board Remuneration
Committee has not developed a policy for post-
employment shareholding requirements.
However, the structure of variable pay for EDs
and other senior executives ensures that they
acquire a meaningful shareholding in Banco
Santander SA which extends for a significant
period post employment. For details, see the
Remuneration policy report.
Provisions 40 and 41: Due to commercial
sensitivity, we opted not to provide all of the
disclosures required by Provision 41. The details
not provided relate to (1) the extent to which
discretion has been applied to remuneration
outcomes and the reasons why and (2) a
description, with examples, of how the Board
Remuneration Committee has addressed the
factors in Provision 40 (specifically predictability
as we do not provide the range of possible values
of rewards to individual directors). Specific
engagement does not take place with the
workforce to explain how executive
remuneration aligns with wider company pay
policy. However, an explanation is available for
employees in the Directors’ Remuneration report.
Details of the structure of our remuneration
arrangements and key considerations of the
Board Remuneration Committee in the year are
included in the Remuneration policy and
Remuneration implementation reports.
UK Finance Disclosure Code for Financial
Reporting
Santander UK’s financial statements for the year
ended 31 December 2024 have been prepared in
compliance with the principles of the UK Finance
Disclosure Code for Financial Reporting.
Going concern
The going concern of Santander UK is reliant on
preserving a sufficient level of capital and
adequately funding the balance sheet. In making
their going concern assessment in connection with
preparing the financial statements, the Directors
considered a wide range of information similar to
that considered as part of their assessment of
longer-term viability including Santander UK’s
business and strategic plans, top and emerging
risks, including those associated with climate
change, capital position and liquidity and funding
profile, stress scenarios, and contingent liabilities,
and the reasonably possible changes in trading
performance arising from potential economic,
market and product developments. The Directors'
assessment included consideration of the potential
impacts arising from mixed signals about the UK's
recent economic performance.
Having assessed this information and the principal
risks and uncertainties, the Directors are satisfied
that the Santander UK group has adequate
resources to continue operations for a period of at
least 12 months from the date the financial
statements were authorised for issue and therefore
consider it appropriate to adopt the going concern
basis of accounting in preparing the financial
statements.
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Directors' report continued
Viability
In accordance with Provision 31 of the UK Corporate
Governance Code 2018, the Directors must make a
statement in this Annual Report regarding the
viability of Santander UK, including an explanation
of how they assessed the prospects of Santander
UK and the period of time for which they made the
assessment, including why they consider that
period to be appropriate.
Considerations
In making their assessment, the Directors
considered a wide range of information including
Santander UK's:
Three-year business plan and other longer-term
business and strategic plans
Risk profile and risk management practices,
including the processes by which risks are
identified and mitigated, including updates on
climate change risk and progress towards
embedding them into Santander UK's Risk
Framework
Top and emerging risks, with a focus on those
which the Directors believe could cause
Santander UK’s future financial performance or
financial condition to differ materially from
current expectations or could adversely impact its
ability to meet regulatory requirements
Capital position and liquidity and funding profile,
and projections over the relevant period
Viability under specific internal and regulatory
stress scenarios, as explained further below,
including scenarios which might affect
operational resiliency, and
Contingent liabilities and the reasonably possible
changes in trading performance arising from
potential economic, market and product
developments.
The Directors’ assessment also takes account of the
potential impacts on Santander UK’s performance,
capital position, and liquidity and funding profile,
including those arising from mixed signals about
the UK's recent economic performance.
For capital, liquidity and funding purposes,
Santander UK operates on a standalone basis and is
subject to regular and rigorous monitoring by
external parties. In addition, for capital purposes,
the Company operates as part of the ring‑fenced
bank subgroup Capital Support Deed. For liquidity
and funding purposes, the Company operates as
part of the Domestic Liquidity sub-group.
Assessment
The viability of Santander UK is reliant on
preserving a sufficient level of capital and
adequately funding the balance sheet.
Santander UK’s business activities and financial
position, together with the factors likely to affect its
future development and performance, are set out
in our CFO's review on the year. Santander UK’s
objectives, policies and processes for managing the
financial risks to which it is exposed are described in
the Risk review.
Threats to the achievement of Santander UK’s plans
are controlled and managed in line with Santander
UK’s Risk Framework and within the risk appetite
approved by the Board. The risk profile, including
an assessment of top and emerging risks, is
reported regularly to the Board Risk Committee and
the Board. Risks are selected on the basis of their
ability to impact viability over the time frame of the
assessment but most risks extend beyond this
period.
Stress testing
Santander UK participates in regulatory stress tests
usually carried out annually by the BoE as well as
being part of the biennial stress testing of Banco
Santander carried out by the EBA. Internal stress
testing encompasses a series of extreme but
plausible scenarios covering a wide range of
outcomes, risk factors, time horizons and market
conditions.
We also conduct reverse stress testing, in which we
identify and assess scenarios that could cause
Santander UK's business model to become
unviable.
The Directors review the outputs of stress testing
as part of the approval processes for the ICAAP, the
ILAAP, Risk Appetite and regulatory stress tests. For
more on stress testing and reverse stress testing,
see the Risk review.
Time horizon
While a five-year plan is prepared for regulatory
purposes and our stress testing encompasses
scenarios some of which also extend out to that
time period, using a longer time horizon increases
uncertainty.
After taking account of Santander UK’s current
position and principal risks and uncertainties, the
Directors consider that a period of three years from
the balance sheet date is the most appropriate time
frame from which a reasonable assessment of
viability can be made.
This period is consistent with the period covered by
Santander UK’s three-year business plan and is
representative of the time horizon to consider the
impact of anticipated regulatory changes in the
financial services industry.
Statement
Based on their assessment of longer-term viability,
the Directors have a reasonable expectation that
Santander UK will be able to continue in operation
and meet its liabilities as they fall due over the next
three years.
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Directors' report continued
Code of Conduct
Santander UK is committed to ensuring we hold
ourselves to high ethical standards. This means
adhering to laws, regulations, policies including our
Code of Conduct (which was refreshed in October
2023) and also carrying out business in a
responsible way. High standards of professional
and personal conduct help Santander identify,
manage and respond to risks, create a positive,
collaborative working environment and ensure
positive customer interactions and outcomes.
The Santander Way determines how we deliver on
our purpose, to help people and businesses
prosper. How we deliver that purpose is as
important as the end result. Our conduct and our
culture matters. Our aim is to be the best open
financial services platform by acting responsibly
and earning the lasting loyalty of our colleagues,
customers and communities.
How we do business is intrinsically linked to our
behaviours and values and supports our aim.
Santander UK’s Code of Conduct sets the standards
expected of all colleagues and forms part of the
terms and conditions of employment.
It makes clear our corporate values, our
expectations regarding corporate behaviours and
general principles and standards we expect with
regard to customers, colleagues, conflicts of
interest, data, media and our approach to
sustainability.
There are numerous policies and processes, as well
as support and guidance, that help colleagues meet
these expectations and do the right thing to ensure
Santander UK remains a Simple, Personal and Fair
bank for its colleagues, customers, shareholders
and the communities it serves.
The Code of Conduct applies to all colleagues
including permanent and temporary colleagues as
well as EDs and NEDs. The SEC requires companies
to disclose whether they have a code of ethics that
applies to the CEO and senior financial officers
which promotes honest and ethical conduct, full,
fair, accurate, timely and understandable
disclosures, compliance with applicable
governmental laws, rules and regulations, prompt
internal reporting of violations, and accountability
for adherence to a code of ethics.
Santander UK meets these requirements through
its Code of Conduct and supporting policies,
including but not limited to the Anti-Bribery and
Corruption Policy, the Whistleblowing Policy, the
FCA’s Principles for Businesses, and the FCA’s
Statements of Principle and Code of Practice for
Approved Persons, with which the CEO and senior
financial officers comply. The Company has not
granted any waivers to its principle executives,
financial or accounting officers.
Copies of these documents are available on
application to Santander UK plc, 2 Triton Square,
Regent’s Place, London NW1 3AN The Code of
Conduct can be found on our website at
santander.co.uk.
Statement of Directors’ responsibilities
The Directors are responsible for preparing the
Annual Report and the financial statements in
accordance with applicable laws and regulations.
Company law requires the Directors to prepare
financial statements for each financial year. Under
that law, the Directors have prepared the
Santander UK group and Company financial
statements in accordance with UK-adopted IAS. In
preparing the Santander UK group and Company
financial statements, the Directors have also
elected to comply with IFRSs as issued by the IASB.
Under company law, the Directors must not
approve the financial statements unless they are
satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the
state of affairs of the Company and of the profit and
loss of the Santander UK group for that period.
In preparing the financial statements, the Directors
are required to:
Select suitable accounting policies and then
apply them consistently
State whether applicable UK-adopted IAS and
IFRSs as issued by the IASB have been followed,
subject to any material departures disclosed and
explained in the financial statements
Make judgements and accounting estimates that
are reasonable and prudent, and
Prepare the financial statements on the going
concern basis unless it is inappropriate to
presume that the Santander UK group and the
Company will continue in business.
The Directors are responsible for safeguarding the
assets of the Santander UK group and the Company
and hence for taking reasonable steps for the
prevention and detection of fraud and other
irregularities.
The Directors are also responsible for keeping
adequate accounting records that are sufficient to
show and explain the Santander UK group’s and the
Company’s transactions and disclose with
reasonable accuracy at any time the financial
position of the Santander UK group and the
Company, and enable them to ensure that the
financial statements comply with the Companies
Act 2006.
The Directors are responsible for the maintenance
and integrity of Santander UK’s website. Legislation
in the UK governing the preparation and
dissemination of financial statements may differ
from legislation in other jurisdictions.
The Directors are responsible for presenting and
marking up the consolidated financial statements
in compliance with the requirements set out in the
Delegated Regulation 2019/815 on European
Single Electronic Format.
Having taken into account all the matters
considered by the Board and brought to its
attention during the year, the Directors are satisfied
that the Annual Report taken as a whole is fair,
balanced and understandable, and provides the
information necessary to assess Santander UK’s
position and performance, business model and
strategy.
Directors' confirmations
Each of the Directors confirms that, to the best of
their knowledge:
The Santander UK group and Company financial
statements, which have been prepared in
accordance with UK-adopted IAS and IFRSs as
issued by the IASB, give a true and fair view of the
assets, liabilities and financial position of the
Santander UK group and the Company, and of the
profit of the Santander UK group, and
The management report, which is incorporated
into the Directors’ report, includes a fair review of
the development and performance of the
business and the position of the Santander UK
group and the Company, together with a
description of the principal risks and uncertainties
they face.
Disclosure of information to Auditors
Each of the Directors at the date of approval of this
report confirms that:
So far as the Director is aware, there is no
relevant audit information of which Santander
UK’s auditor is unaware
The Director has taken all steps that they ought
to have taken as a Director to make themselves
aware of any relevant audit information and to
establish that Santander UK’s auditor is aware of
that information.
This confirmation is given and should be
interpreted in accordance with the provisions of
Section 418 of the UK Companies Act 2006.
Auditor
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP will continue in the
office of auditor. A resolution to reappoint them
will be proposed at the Company’s forthcoming
Annual General Meeting.
By Order of the Board
Roz Rule
Company Secretary
7 March 2025
2 Triton Square, Regent’s Place,
London NW1 3AN
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Risk review
In this section
Risk governance
Credit risk
Liquidity risk
Capital risk
Market risk
Pension risk
Strategic and business risk
Reputational risk
Non-Financial Risks:
Operational risk
Financial crime risk
Model risk
Conduct and regulatory risk
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Risk governance
INTRODUCTION
The Risk review consists of unaudited financial information unless otherwise stated. The audited financial information is an integral part of our Consolidated
Financial Statements.
As a financial services provider, managing risk is a core part of our day-to-day activities. To be able to manage our business effectively, it is critical that we
understand and control risk in everything we do. We aim to use a prudent approach, underpinned by advanced risk management techniques to help us deliver
robust financial performance, withstand stresses, and build sustainable value for our stakeholders. We aim to keep a predictable medium-low risk profile,
consistent with our business model. This is key to achieving our strategic objectives.
RISK FRAMEWORK
How we define risk
Risk is any uncertainty about us being able to achieve our business objectives. It covers both financial and non-financial risks (NFRs). NFR is a broad term usually
defined by exclusion, i.e. any risks other than the traditional financial risks of Credit, Liquidity, Capital, Market and Pension, Strategic and business, and Reputational.
Risk can be split into a set of risk types, each of which could affect our results and our financial resources. Enterprise risk is the aggregate view of all the risk types.
Our Risk Framework sets out how we define, manage and control risk.
Top and emerging risks
Several of our risk types also have Top risks associated with them. We regularly review the Top risks that could impact our business, customers and shareholders,
and they are monitored at each meeting of the Executive Risk Control Committee (ERCC) and Board Risk Committee (BRC). The Top risks we actively monitored in
2024 are set out in the relevant section of this Risk review and summarised in the 'Top risks' section of the Risk management overview in the Strategic report.
We made further changes to our Top Risks by replacing Inflationary and Supply Chain Pressures with Margin Compression, given that UK headline inflation fell
and markets implied a peak in the Bank Rate. We introduced three more top risks: Resiliency, Payments Transformation, and AI/Machine Learning. In addition, we
removed Ring-Fencing and People risk from Top risks, although we continued to closely monitor human resource impacts as part of Strategic Transformation.
We also regularly review emerging risks that could impact our business, customers and shareholders, with challenge and discussion at the ERCC and BRC.
The identification of emerging risks is co-ordinated by the Risk Division. A key part of the process is continual scanning of the external environment, focusing on
emerging risk drivers such as: Uncertain Regulatory Agenda, Uncertain Macro-economic and Geopolitical Environment, Markets, Competition and Technology,
and Environmental and Social. The emerging risks we actively monitored in 2024 are set out in the relevant section of this Risk review and summarised in the
‘Emerging risks’ section of the Risk management overview in the Strategic report.
Our risk culture and principles
Risk Culture Statement
Santander UK places good customer outcomes at the heart of our decision-making and our people take personal responsibility for doing the right thing. We are
thoughtful about taking risks, meaning we only take risks that we understand, we balance risk and reward when making decisions and are proportionate in our
approach.
The Board reviews and approves our Risk Culture Statement every year. Senior executives are responsible for promoting our risk culture from the top. They drive
cultural change and increased accountability across the business. We reinforce our Risk Culture Statement and embed our risk culture in all our business units
through our Risk Framework, Risk Certifications and other initiatives. This includes highlighting that:
It is everyone’s personal responsibility to play their part in managing risk
We must Identify, Assess, Manage and Report risk quickly and accurately
We make risk part of how we assess our people’s performance and how we recruit, develop and reward them
Our internal control system is essential to ensure we manage and control risk in line with our principles, standards, Risk Appetite and policies.
As a tangible sign, personal responsibility is such a key part of our risk culture. We use Risk Certifications to confirm how we manage and control risks in line with
our Risk Framework and within our Risk Appetite. As an example, every year, each member of our Executive Committee confirms that they have managed risks
effectively in line with the Risk Framework in the part of the business for which they are responsible. Their certification lists any exceptions and the agreed actions to
be taken to correct them.
Our risk culture programme
We have well established and understood risk management systems and processes, which our people are personally responsible for to identify, assess, manage
and report risk (I AM Risk).
In 2024, as a supplement to our established risk processes, we evolved our approach to risk culture by defining, communicating and ensuring our people are clear
on the Risk behaviours we expect them to adopt. This is defined as RiskPro, which has been adopted across the Santander UK group and aims to support staff in
making risk-based decisions focusing on what is best for our customers and supports our strategy.
We continued to ensure that a mandatory risk objective is part of performance management for everyone. We also ensured that RiskPro and risk behaviours are a
key part of our risk policies, frameworks and processes. In recruitment, we focus on how people behave and think about risk, not just whether they are able to
follow risk processes.
We developed a risk culture maturity self-assessment to support all our people to assess their risk behaviours and to define key solutions where there is a need to
mature. Plans to continue maturing our risk culture will continue into 2025.
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Our risk governance structure
We are committed to the highest standards of corporate governance in every part of our business, including risk management. For details of our governance,
including the Board and its Committees, see the ‘Governance’ section of this Annual Report. The Board delegates certain responsibilities to Board Level Committees
as needed and where appropriate. Our risk governance structure strengthens our ability to identify, assess, manage and report risks, as follows:
Committees: A number of Board and Executive committees are responsible for specific parts of our Risk Framework
Key senior management roles: A number of senior roles have specific responsibilities for risk management
Risk organisational structure: We have the ‘three lines of defence’ model built into the way we run our business.
Committees
The Board and Board Level Committee responsibilities for risk are:
Board Level Committee
Main risk responsibilities
The Board
Has overall responsibility for business execution and for managing risk
Reviews and approves the Risk Framework and Risk Appetite
Board Risk Committee (BRC)
Assesses the Risk Framework and recommends it to the Board for approval
Advises the Board on our overall Risk Appetite, tolerance and strategy
Oversees our exposure to risk and our strategy and advises the Board on both
Reviews the effectiveness of our risk management systems and internal controls
Reviews reports from the Chief Compliance Officer (CCO) on the adequacy and effectiveness of the compliance function
Responsible for oversight of cybersecurity risks and receives regular updates on cybersecurity risk position including cybersecurity
incidents
Receives regular updates on economic crime compliance and risks including money laundering, bribery and corruption and
sanctions compliance, and monitors KPIs in line with approved Board risk appetite
Board Responsible Banking
Committee
Responsible for culture and operational risk from conduct, compliance, competition & legal matters
Ensures that adequate and effective control processes are in place to identify and manage reputational risks
Oversees our Sustainability and Responsible Banking programme and how it impacts on employees, communities, the
environment including sustainability and climate change, reputation, brand and market positioning
Reviews updates on key risk issues, customer, reputational and conduct matters
Board Audit Committee
Monitors and reviews the financial statements integrity, and any formal announcements on financial performance
Reviews the adequacy and effectiveness of the internal financial controls and whistleblowing arrangements
Monitors and reviews the effectiveness of the internal audit function
Receives regular updates from the internal audit function, including on its reviews of cybersecurity risk and controls
Oversees the independence and performance of the external auditors
Board Remuneration Committee
Oversees implementation of remuneration policies, ensuring they promote sound and effective risk management
Board Special Projects Committee
Formed in 2024 and focuses on special projects and transformation matters
Oversees the Financial Crime Remediation Programme
The Executive Level Committee responsibilities for risk are:
Executive Level Committee
Main risk responsibilities
Executive Committee (ExCo)
Reviews business plans in line with our Risk Framework and Risk Appetite before they are sent to the Board to approve
Receives updates on key risk issues managed by CEO-level committees and monitors the actions taken
Senior Management Committee
Focuses on the responsibilities of the Executive Committee Senior Management Function holders and how they are discharged
Reviews updates on key risk issues, customer, reputational and conduct matters
Executive Risk Control Committee
(ERCC)
Reviews Risk Appetite proposals before they are sent to the BRC and the Board to approve
Ensures that we comply with our Risk Framework, Risk Appetite and risk policies
Reviews and monitors our risk exposures and approves any corrective steps we need to take
Asset and Liability Committee
(ALCO)
Reviews liquidity risk appetite (LRA) proposals
Ensures we measure and control structural balance sheet risks, including capital, funding and liquidity, in line with the policies,
strategies and plans set by the Board
Reviews and monitors key asset and liability management activities to ensure we keep our exposures within our Risk Appetite
Capital Committee
Puts in place reporting systems and risk control processes to make sure capital risks are managed within our Risk Framework
Reviews capital adequacy and capital plans, including the ICAAP, before they are sent to the Board to approve
Incident Accountability Committee
Considers, calibrates, challenges and agrees any appropriate individual remuneration adjustments
Presents recommendations to the Board Remuneration Committee
Credit Approval Committee
Approves corporate and wholesale credit transactions which exceed levels delegated to lower level forums or individuals
Economic Crime Committee
Ensures due reporting, consideration, oversight and informed decision making regarding compliance with financial crime laws and
regulations, fraud, and best industry practice aligned to our Risk Appetite
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Key senior management roles
Senior roles with specific responsibilities for risk management are:
Role
Main risk responsibilities
Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
The Board delegates responsibility for our business activities and managing risk on a day-to-day basis to the CEO. The CEO proposes our
strategy and business plan, puts them into practice and manages the risks involved. The CEO must also ensure we have a suitable system
of controls to manage risks and report to the Board on them.
Chief Risk Officer (CRO)
Oversees and challenges risk activities, and ensures that the business activity is conducted within our risk appetite. Responsible for
control and oversight of all risk types with regulatory responsibility to report on these risk types to Executive and Board Committees.
Chief Financial Officer (CFO)
Responsible for developing strategy, leadership and management of the CFO Division. The CFO is responsible for managing interest rate,
liquidity, pension and capital risks. The CFO also aims to maximise the return on Regulatory and Economic Capital.
Chief Internal Auditor (CIA)
Designs and uses an audit system that identifies the main risks and evaluates controls. The CIA also develops an audit plan to assess
existing risks that involve producing audit, assurance and monitoring reports.
Chief Compliance Officer (CCO)
Responsible to the CRO for control and oversight of conduct & regulatory, reputational and economic crime risk, but has direct
responsibility to report on conduct & regulatory and reputational risk to Executive and Board Committees and the regulator.
Money Laundering Reporting
Officer (MLRO)
Responsible to the CCO for control and oversight of economic crime risk but has regulatory responsibility to report on this risk type to
Executive and Board Committees and the regulator.
Risk organisational structure
We use the ‘three lines of defence’ model to manage risk. This model is widely used in the banking industry and has a clear set of principles to put in place a
cohesive operating model across an organisation. It does this by separating risk management, risk control and risk assurance. The reporting lines to the Board with
respect to risk are as follows:
Line 1: Risk management
Business Units and Business Support Units identify, assess and manage the risks which originate and exist in their area, within our Risk Appetite. It is under the
executive responsibility of the CEO.
Line 2: Risk control & oversight
Risk Control Units are independent monitoring, control and functions. They make sure Business Units and Business Support Units manage risks effectively and
within our Risk Appetite. The Risk Control units are: Risk – responsible for credit, liquidity, capital, market, pension, strategic and business, operational, model and
enterprise risks; Economic Crime; and Compliance, responsible for reputational and conduct and regulatory risks. It is under the executive responsibility of the
CEO, but responsible to the CRO for overseeing the first line of defence.
Line 3: Risk assurance
Internal Audit is an independent corporate function. It gives assurance on the design and effectiveness of our risk management and control processes. It is
responsible to the CIA.
Internal control system
Our Risk Framework is an overarching view of our internal control system that helps us manage risk across the business. It sets out at a high level the principles,
standards, roles and responsibilities, and governance for internal control. Our Risk Framework covers the categories below:
Category
Description
Risk Frameworks
Set out how we should manage and control risk across the business, our risk types and our risk activities.
Risk Management Responsibilities
Set out the Line 1 risk management responsibilities for Business Units and Business Support Units.
Strategic Commercial Plans
Plans produced by business areas, at least annually, which describe the forecasted objectives, volumes and risk profile of new
and existing business, within the limits defined in our Risk Appetite.
Risk Appetite
See our Risk Appetite section that follows.
Delegated Authorities/Mandates
Define who can do what under the authority delegated to the CEO by the Board.
Risk Certifications
Business Units, Business Support Units or Risk Control Units set out each year how they managed/controlled risks in line with
our risk frameworks and Risk Appetite, and explain any action to be taken. This helps drive personal accountability.
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RISK APPETITE
How we control the risks we are prepared to take
When our Board sets our strategic objectives, it is important that we are clear about the risks we are prepared to take to achieve them. We express this through our
Risk Appetite Statement, which defines the amount and kind of risk we are willing to take. Our Risk Appetite and strategy are closely linked, and our strategy must
be achievable within the limits set out in our Risk Appetite. Our Risk Appetite Statement establishes principles that we use to set our Risk Appetite and defines our
overall approach to risk management.
How we describe the limits in our Risk Appetite
Our Risk Appetite sets out detailed limits across all types of risk, using metrics and qualitative statements.
Metrics
We use metrics to set limits across most risk types including a set of metrics focused on losses, capital, liquidity and concentration. We set:
Limits for losses for our most important risks, including credit, market, operational and conduct risk
Capital limits, reflecting both the capital that regulators expect us to hold (regulatory capital) and our own internal measure economic capital (EC)
Liquidity limits according to a range of plausible stress scenarios for our business
Concentration limits, to determine the maximum concentration level that we are willing to accept.
These limits apply in normal business conditions, but also when we might be experiencing a far more difficult economic environment. We refer to conditions like
this as being under stress. For more on EC and stress scenarios, see the Stress Testing section that follows.
Qualitative statements
For some types of risk, we also use qualitative statements that describe in words the appetite we want to set. We also use them to prohibit or restrict exposure to
certain sectors, types of customer and activities.
How we set our Risk Appetite, and stay within it
We control our Risk Appetite through our Risk Appetite Framework. Our Board approves and oversees our Risk Appetite Statement every year. This ensures it is
consistent with our strategy and reflects changes in the markets and economic environment in which we operate. Our ERCC is responsible for ensuring that our risk
profile (the level of risk we are prepared to accept) is consistent with our Risk Appetite Statement. To do this, they monitor our performance against our Risk
Appetite , business plans and budgets.
We also use stress testing to review how our business plan performs against our Risk Appetite Statement. This shows us if we would stay within our Risk Appetite
under stress conditions. It also helps us to identify any adverse trends or inconsistencies.
We embed our Risk Appetite by setting more detailed risk limits for each business unit and key portfolios. These are set in a way so that if we stay within each
detailed limit, we will stay within our overall Risk Appetite. When we use qualitative statements to describe our appetite for a risk, we link them to lower-level risk
indicators, so that we can monitor and report our performance against them.
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STRESS TESTING
Stress testing helps us understand how different events and economic conditions could affect our business plan, earnings and risk profile. This helps us plan and
manage our business.
Scenarios for stress testing
To see how we might cope with difficult conditions, we regularly develop challenging scenarios that we might face. We consult a broad range of internal
stakeholders, including Board members, when we design and choose our most important scenarios. The scenarios cover a wide range of outcomes, risk factors,
time horizons and market conditions. They are designed to test:
The impact of shocks affecting the economy as a whole or the markets we operate in
Key potential vulnerabilities of our business model, and the processes and systems which support it
Potential impacts on specific risk types.
We describe each scenario using a narrative setting out how events might unfold, as well as a market and/or economic context. For example, the key economic
factors we reflect in our ICAAP scenarios include house prices, interest rates, unemployment levels, inflation, and the size of the UK economy. We also explore
sensitivities around several macro variables where there may be concerns or levels of uncertainty.
In 2024, we developed the capability to perform long-horizon climate risk assessments through our Climate Internal Scenario Assessment (CISA) programme. Using
these bespoke models, we explored Baseline and Disorderly Transitional scenarios. In addition, the Bank of England (BoE) cancelled the Annual Cyclical Scenario and
ran an internal stress test exercise instead. The purpose of this exercise was to explore a 'tail risk' scenario designed to be severe and broad enough to assess the
resilience of the UK banks to a range of adverse shocks.
Uses of stress testing
We use stress testing to estimate the effect of these scenarios on our business and financial performance, including:
Our business plan, and its assessment against our Risk Appetite
Our capital strength, through our ICAAP
Our liquidity position, through our ILAAP
Our long term impacts of climate change, through regulatory exercises and CISA
Impacts on other risk types.
We use a wide range of models, approaches and assumptions supported by robust governance. These help us interpret the links between factors in markets and
the economy, and our financial performance. For example, one model looks at how changes to key macroeconomic variables like unemployment rates might affect
the number of customers who might fall into arrears on their mortgage or other loans.
Our stress testing models are subject to a formal review, independent validation and approval process. We highlight the key weaknesses and related model
assumptions in the approval process for each stress test. In some cases, we overlay expert judgement onto the results of our models. Where this is material to the
outcome of the stress test, the approving governance committee reviews it. We take a multi-layered approach to stress testing to capture risks at various levels.
This ranges from sensitivity analysis of a single factor to a portfolio, to wider exercises that cover all risks across our entire business. We use stress test outputs to
design business plans that aim to mitigate potential impacts of possible stress scenarios.
We also conduct reverse stress tests. These are tests in which we identify and assess scenarios that are most likely to cause our business model to fail.
Board oversight of stress testing
The ERCC reviews the design of the scenarios in our ICAAP, ILAAP and CISA. The BRC reviews the scenarios and stress test assumptions and approves the stress
testing framework. The Board reviews stress test outputs as part of the approval processes for the ICAAP, ILAAP, Bank Recovery and Resolution Directive (BRRD),
Risk Appetite and regulatory stress tests.
Regulatory stress tests
We take part in a number of external stress testing exercises. These can include stress tests of the UK banking system conducted by the PRA and the BoE. We also
contribute to stress tests of Banco Santander conducted by the European Banking Authority (EBA).
For more on capital and liquidity stress testing, see the ‘Capital risk’ and ‘Liquidity risk’ sections.
HOW RISK IS DISTRIBUTED ACROSS OUR BUSINESS
Economic capital
As well as assessing how much regulatory capital we need to hold, we use an internal EC model to measure our risk. We use EC to get a consistent measure across
different risk types. EC also takes account of how concentrated our portfolios are, and how much diversification there is between our various businesses and risk
types. As a consequence, we can use EC for a range of risk management activities. For example, we can use it to help us compare requirements in our ICAAP or to
get a risk-adjusted comparison of income from different activities.
Regulatory capital – risk-weighted assets
We hold regulatory capital against our credit, market and operational risks. In 2024, over half of our total risk-weighted assets accounted for credit risk in Retail &
Business Banking. This reflects our business strategy and balance sheet.
For more on this, see ‘Risk-weighted assets’ in the ‘Capital risk’ section.
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Credit risk
Overview
Credit risk is the risk of financial loss due to the default or credit quality deterioration of a
customer or counterparty to which we provided credit, or for whom we have assumed a
financial obligation.
In this section, we describe our key credit risks, including our exposures in each of our
business segments, and how we manage credit risk across the credit risk lifecycle. We
discuss our ECL approach and the key inputs to our ECL model. We then analyse our key
metrics, credit performance and forbearance.
Key metrics
Stage 3 ratio of 1.42% ( 2023: 1.51% ).
Loss allowances of £869m (2023 : £992m ).
Balance weighted average LTV of 64% ( 2023: 66% ) on new
mortgage lending.
OUR KEY CREDIT RISKS
Exposures (audited)
Exposures to credit risk arise in our business segments from:
Retail & Business Banking
Consumer Finance
Corporate & Commercial Banking
Corporate Centre
In Mortgages:
Residential mortgages for customers
with good credit quality (prime
lending).
We provide these mostly for owner-
occupiers, with buy-to-let mortgages
for non-professional landlords.
In Everyday Banking:
Unsecured lending to individuals, such
as loans, credit cards and overdrafts.
Unsecured lending to businesses with
annual turnover up to £6.5m and
simpler borrowing needs such as loans,
credit cards and overdrafts.
Financing for cars, vans, motorbikes
and leisure vehicles through Santander
Consumer (UK) plc (SCUK).
Through our joint ventures, Hyundai
Capital UK Ltd and Volvo Car Financial
Services UK Limited, we provide retail
point of sale customer finance and
wholesale finance facilities (stock
finance).
Loans, overdrafts, treasury services,
invoice finance, trade and supplier
finance.
We provide these to SMEs and mid-
sized corporates typically with annual
turnover up to £500m, Commercial
Real Estate and Social Housing
customers.
Asset and liability management of our
balance sheet.
Exposures include financial institutions
(derivatives and other treasury
products), structured products, and
sovereign and supranational assets
chosen for diversification and liquidity.
CREDIT RISK MANAGEMENT
Our approach to credit risk
We manage our portfolios across the credit risk lifecycle, from formulating our risk strategy and planning, through assessment and origination, monitoring, arrears
management and debt recovery. We make sure the actual risk profile of our exposures stays in line with our business plans and within our Risk Appetite. We tailor
the way we manage risk to the type of product and regularly review our approach and refine it when we need to.
1. Risk strategy and planning (audited)
Relevant areas of the business work together to create our business plans. We consider our strategy, goals, and financial and technical resources alongside our Risk
Appetite. This involves focusing on economic and market conditions and forecasts, regulations, conduct matters, profitability, returns and market share.
2. Assessment and origination (audited)
Managing credit risk begins with lending responsibly. That means only lending to customers who are committed to paying us back and can afford to, even if their
circumstances change. We take proportionate steps to assess whether a customer will be able to repay the money borrowed. We do this by a series of initial
affordability and credit risk assessments. When a customer applies, we assess the data they provide, plus data from credit reference agencies (for Retail & Business
Banking and Consumer Finance) and performance on their other Santander UK accounts (if they have any) against our Credit Policy.
Retail & Business Banking
In Mortgages, we assess affordability by reviewing the customer’s income and spending, their other credit commitments, and what would happen if interest
rates went up. Many of our decisions are automated as we use data available to us. We tailor our process and application assessment based on the product.
More complex transactions often need greater manual assessment using our credit underwriters’ skill and experience.
In Everyday Banking and Business Banking, many of our decisions are automated. We assess affordability by reviewing the customer’s income and spending,
including other credit commitments and adjusting for future inflation and expected interest rates.
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Credit risk mitigation
The types of credit risk mitigation, including collateral, across each of our portfolios are:
Portfolio
Description
Residential mortgages
Collateral is in the form of a first legal charge over the property. Before we grant a mortgage, the property is valued either by a surveyor or using
automated valuation methodologies where our confidence in the accuracy of this method is high.
Unsecured lending
There is no collateral or security tied to the loan that can be used to mitigate any potential loss if the customer does not pay us back.
Business banking services
Business banking lending is unsecured. When lending to incorporated businesses, we typically obtain personal guarantees from each
director, but we do not treat these as collateral. We consider the UK Government guarantee under its Coronavirus Loan Schemes as
collateral, covering 100% of losses for the Bounce Back Loan Scheme (BBLS) and 80% for Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme
(CBILS).
Consumer Finance
In Consumer Finance, similar to Retail & Business Banking, many decisions are automated and we tailor the process to the product. Residual value risk is one of our
top risks and these exposures are set using forward looking market data, at the level of vehicle derivative by age and anticipated mileage. This data is obtained from
a third party.
Credit risk mitigation
The type of credit risk mitigation, including collateral, is:
Portfolio
Description
Consumer (auto) finance
Collateral is in the form of legal ownership of the vehicle for most loans, with the customer being the registered keeper. Only a very small
proportion of business is underwritten as a personal loan. In these cases, there is no collateral or security tied to the loan. We use a leading
vehicle valuation company to assess the LTV at the proposal stage to ensure the value of the vehicle is appropriate.
Corporate & Commercial Banking
We assign each customer a credit rating, using our internal rating scale (see ‘Credit quality’ in ‘Santander UK group level – credit risk review’ section). To do this, we
look at the customer’s financial history and trends in the economy, backed up by the expert judgement of a risk analyst. We review our internal ratings on a dynamic
basis and at least once a year for those clients that are rated. We also assess the underlying risk of the transaction, taking account of any mitigating factors (see the
tables below) and how it fits with our risk policies, limits and Risk Appetite.
Responsible lending, including climate change and the transition to a low carbon economy
As part of the Banco Santander group, we comply with the Equator Principles to factor social, ethical and environmental impacts into our risk analysis and decision
making for qualifying financial transactions. We aim to support clients and economies in their transition to a low carbon economy, providing financial products and/
or services to business activities that are environmentally and socially responsible. Our Environmental, Social and Climate Change (ESCC) policy sets out how we
identify, assess, monitor and manage environmental and social risks and other climate change related activities in the Oil and Gas, Power Generation and Mining
and Metals sectors and those arising from businesses engaged in soft commodities. Our ESCC policy prohibits project-related financing for new coal-fired power
plants (CFPP) worldwide and we will only work with new clients with CFPPs to provide specific financing for renewable energy projects. In line with Banco
Santander's aim, by 2030 we will aim to eliminate all exposure to thermal coal mining and stop providing financial services to power generation clients with more
than 10% of revenue from thermal coal.
Credit risk mitigation
The types of credit risk mitigation, including collateral, across each of our portfolios are as follows. In addition, from time to time, at a portfolio level we execute
significant risk transfer transactions, which typically reduce RWAs.
Portfolio
Description
SME and mid corporate
Includes secured and unsecured lending. We can take mortgage debentures or a first charge on commercial property as collateral.
Before agreeing the loan, we obtain an independent professional valuation of the property. Loan agreements typically allow us to obtain
revaluations during the term of the loan. We can also take guarantees, but we do not treat them as collateral unless they are supported by
a tangible asset charged to us. We also lend against assets (like vehicles and equipment) and invoices for some customers. We value assets
before we lend. For invoices, we review the customers' ledgers regularly and lend against debtors who meet agreed criteria.
Commercial Real Estate
(CRE)
We take a first charge on commercial property as collateral. The loan is subject to criteria such as the property condition, age and location,
tenant quality, lease terms and length, and the sponsor’s experience and creditworthiness. Before advancing the loan and where appropriate,
a bank representative visits the property. We also obtain an independent professional valuation which typically includes a site visit. Loan
agreements typically allow us to obtain revaluations during the term of the loan.
Social Housing
We take a first charge on portfolios of residential real estate owned and let by UK Housing Associations as collateral, in most cases. We
revalue this every three to five years (in line with industry practice), using the standard methods for property used for Social Housing.
Corporate Centre
Credit risk mitigation
The types of credit risk mitigation, including collateral, across each of our portfolios are as follows. In addition, from time to time, at a portfolio level we execute
significant risk transfer transactions, which typically reduce RWAs.
Portfolio
Description
Sovereign and Supranational
In line with market practice, there is no collateral against these assets.
Structured Products
These are our High Quality Liquid Assets (HQLA) in our Eligible Liquidity Pool. They are mainly Asset Backed Securities (ABS) and covered
bonds, which hold senior positions in the creditor hierarchy. Their credit rating reflects over-collateralisation in the structure and the assets
that underpin their cash flows.
Financial Institutions
We use standard legal agreements to reduce credit risk via netting and collateralisation on derivatives, repos and reverse repos, and stock
borrowing/lending. We also reduce risk by clearing trades through central counterparties (CCPs) where possible.
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3. Monitoring (audited)
We measure and monitor changes in our credit risk profile on a regular and systematic basis against our budgets, limits and benchmarks.
Credit concentrations
A core part of our monitoring and management is a focus on credit concentrations, such as the proportion of our lending that goes to specific borrowers, groups or
industries. We set and monitor concentration limits in line with our Risk Appetite and review them on a regular basis.
Geographical concentrations: We set exposure limits to countries and geographies, with reference to the country limits set by Banco Santander and our own Risk
Appetite. For more geographical information, see ‘Country risk exposures’.
Industry concentrations: We also set exposure limits by industry sector. We set these limits based on the industry outlook, our strategic aims and desired level of
concentration, and relevant limits set by Banco Santander. We analyse committed exposures in the ‘Credit risk review’ section that follows.
Retail & Business Banking
We use IT systems and data available to us to monitor accounts. The main parts are:
Behavioural scoring: we use statistical models that help predict whether a customer will have problems repaying, based on how they use their accounts
Credit reference agencies: we often use data from agencies on how the borrower is handling credit from other lenders in our behaviour scoring models
Other Santander UK accounts: each month, we also look at how the customer uses their other accounts with us, so we can identify problems early.
Our day-to-day retail credit risk monitoring relies on a mix of performance measures as described above. However, changes in the wider UK economy also impact
our Mortgages and Everyday Banking portfolios. As part of our day-to-day risk monitoring, we use a Retail Risk Playbook tolerance tool that monitors the most
relevant macroeconomic variables to retail portfolio performance against our forecasts. If the economy deviates materially from our forecasts, such as due to the
effects of the cost of living crisis or high inflation, we review our retail risk management policy and strategy.
We also ensure that portfolio quality remains within our Risk Appetite by measuring against trigger values for key risk profile and performance metrics.
For secured lending, our monitoring also takes account of changes in property prices. We estimate the property’s value every three months. In most cases, we use
statistical models based on recent sales prices and valuations in that local area. Use of this model is subject to Model Risk Governance. Where a lack of data means
the model’s valuation is not available, we use the original surveyor valuation with a House Price Index (HPI) adjustment as needed.
For unsecured personal lending like credit cards and overdrafts, monitoring might lead us to raise or lower credit limits. For business banking services, we review
revolving credit facilities each year to ensure they remain appropriate for the customer's financial situation.
Consumer Finance
In Consumer Finance, customer accounts are monitored via IT systems and data. The Retail Risk framework ensures that our portfolio keeps within agreed
thresholds. Residual value risk is regularly checked, enabling us to spot any change in market trends.
Corporate & Commercial Banking and Corporate Centre
We regularly monitor and report our credit risk by portfolio, segment, industry, location and customer. We monitor detailed analyses of our credit exposures and
risk trends each month. We also report our larger exposures and risks to the BRC each month.
Our Watchlist
We also use a Watchlist for exposures subject to annual reviews to help identify potential problem debt early. Just because a customer is on our Watchlist does not
mean they have defaulted. It just means that their probability of default has increased, such as they have breached a covenant or lost a major contract.
We classify Watchlist cases as:
Enhanced monitoring: for less urgent cases. We monitor these cases more often and where appropriate may consider more collateral.
Proactive management: for more urgent or serious cases. We may take steps to restructure debt including extending the term, taking more collateral, agreeing a
lower credit limit, or seeking repayment of the loan through refinancing or other means.
We assess Watchlist cases for impairment as set out in the ‘Significant Increase in Credit Risk (SICR)’ section. When a customer is in enhanced monitoring, we do
not consider it has suffered a SICR for ECL purposes, so it remains in Stage 1 for our loss allowance calculations. When a customer is in proactive management, we
consider it has suffered a SICR, so we transfer it to Stage 2 and apply a lifetime ECL for our loss allowance calculations. We consider any forbearance we offer. This
includes any extra security, guarantees or equity available and the potential to enhance value by asset management.
In Corporate & Commercial Banking, as part of our annual reviews, for loans nearing maturity, we look at the prospect of refinancing the loan on current market
terms and applicable credit policy. If this is unlikely, we put the case on our Watchlist. We manage exposures not subject to annual reviews, mainly high volume and
low value cases, using early warning indicators including credit reference agency data, supported by teams of expert analysts.
In Corporate Centre, we typically monitor the credit quality of our exposures daily. We use internal and third-party data to detect any potential credit deterioration.
4. Arrears management (audited)
Retail & Business Banking and Consumer Finance
We have several strategies to manage arrears that we can use as early as the day after a missed payment. We also reach out to up-to-date customers who may be
at risk of going into arrears where we believe they may benefit from some support. We assess the financial difficulties a customer is having in order to offer them
the right support to manage their agreement whilst in arrears. The strategies we use depend on the risk and the customer’s unique circumstances with tailored
support being provided.
Corporate & Commercial Banking and Corporate Centre
We identify problem debt by close monitoring, supported by our Watchlist process for exposures subject to annual review. We aim to identify warning signs early
by monitoring customers’ financial and trading data, checking to see they do not breach covenants, and having regular dialogue with them. We tailor our strategy
to the type of customer, their circumstances and the level of risk. We try to help our customers find their own way out of financial difficulty and agree on a plan
that works for both of us. We engage our Restructuring & Recoveries team as needed on Watchlist cases and we may hand over more serious cases to them. For
exposures not subject to annual review, we have strategies to manage arrears that we can use as early as the day of the missed payment. If a case becomes more
urgent or needs specialist attention, and if it transfers to Stage 3, we transfer it to our Restructuring & Recoveries team.
For more, see the Forbearance section.
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5. Debt recovery (audited)
Sometimes, even when we have taken all reasonable and responsible steps to manage arrears in our Financial Support area, they are not effective. If this happens,
we may choose to end our agreement with the customer and try to recover the outstanding balance (with recourse to any associated collateral), or as much of it as
we can.
Retail & Business Banking
In Mortgages and Everyday Banking, we may use a debt collection agency, sell the debt, or take the customer to court. For residential mortgages, we may repossess
the property as a last resort or to protect it from damage or third-party claims. We make sure our estimated losses from repossessed properties are realistic by
getting two independent valuations and the estimated selling costs, and using them in our loss allowances calculations. Where we repossess a property, we do not
take ownership. We use agents to realise the value and settle the debt. Any surplus funds are returned to the borrower or dealt with in line with insolvency rules.
Consumer Finance
In Consumer Finance, we usually have an asset by way of a motor vehicle secured to the agreement. We will seek to recover this asset if we are unable to
rehabilitate the customer, or they remain in arrears with no contact. Like Retail & Business Banking, we may also use a debt collection agency or a specialist law firm
to recover any subsequent balance outstanding. We may also consider the sale of debt where all avenues have been explored.
Corporate & Commercial Banking and Corporate Centre
Where we look for an exit, we aim to do this, if we can, by agreeing with the borrower that they will sell some or all their assets on a voluntary basis or agreeing
to give them time to refinance their debt with another lender. Where we cannot reach an agreement, we consider recovery options. This can be through an
insolvency proceeding, enforcing over any collateral or selling debt on the secondary market. We may also consider other legal action to recover what we are
owed. If there is a shortfall, we write it off against our loss allowances. In very rare cases, we may act as mortgagee in possession of assets held as collateral
against non-performing commercial lending. In such cases, we carry the assets on our balance sheet and classify them in line with our accounting policies.
Loan modifications (audited)
We sometimes change the terms of a loan when a customer gets into financial difficulty (this is known as forbearance), or for other commercial reasons.
Forbearance (audited)
We can change the terms of a customer's loan, temporarily or permanently, to help them through temporary periods of difficulty so they can get back on to
sustainable terms. We assess what we offer to make sure the customer can afford it. Forbearance improves our customer relationships and we review our approach
regularly to make sure it is still effective. We try to offer forbearance before a customer defaults and we only foreclose or repossess as a last resort.
The main types of forbearance we offer are:
Action
Description
Term extension
We can extend the loan term, making each monthly payment smaller. We may offer this if the customer is up to date with payments but shows
signs of financial difficulties. We may also offer this if the loan is about to mature and refinancing is not possible on market terms. In selected
instances, we may offer term extensions for interest only loans that are past the point of product maturity. This will typically be where no viable
repayment solution has been identified for the outstanding capital balance, and legal enforcement activity is not deemed to be appropriate to the
customer's circumstances.
Interest-only
Historical interest-only payments due to financial difficulties are classed as forborne.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                     
For corporate customers, interest-only concessions are considered on a case by case basis. Concessions are only granted if the nature of the
financial difficulties is assessed to be temporary. Counterparties are expected to recover in full and resume making full capital and interest
payments once they are in a stronger financial position.
Other payment
rescheduling, including
capitalisation
For retail mortgage customers, we may add the arrears to the mortgage balance (this is known as capitalisation) if they cannot afford to increase
their monthly payment to pay off their arrears in a reasonable time but have been making their monthly payments, usually for at least six
months. We can also capitalise property charges due to a landlord. We pay them for the customer to avoid the lease being forfeited. We may
combine this help with term extensions and, in the past, interest-only concessions. In certain cases, we may offer interest rate concessions. We
may agree an arrangement to pay less than the Contractual Monthly Payment (including zero) for a short period of time where they are
experiencing temporary financial difficulties.
For credit card and bank account customers, we may agree to suspend fees and/or interest for a short period of time where they are experiencing
temporary financial difficulties. A refinance of a personal loan over a longer term to reduce the contractual monthly payment may be agreed,
where a customer is showing signs of financial difficulties. The interest rate remains the same, or the closest lower rate available.
For corporate customers, we may lower or stop their payments until they have time to recover. We may reschedule payments to better match
the customer’s cash flow – for example if the business is seasonal - or provide a temporary increase in facilities to cover peak demand ahead of
their trading improving. We might do this by arrears capitalisation or drawing from an overdraft. We may also offer to provide new facilities,
interest rate concessions and interest roll-up. In rare cases, we agree to forgive or reduce part of the debt.
When we agree forbearance, we consider the account has suffered a SICR, as we explain in the ‘Significant Increase in Credit Risk (SICR)’ section later on, and we
classify it as Stage 2 or 3. A non-performing forborne account is one that has forbearance carried out in Stage 3, and a performing forborne account is one that has
forbearance carried out in Stage 2. If an account is already in Stage 2, we keep it in Stage 2 unless the account is deemed unlikely to pay, involves forgiving fees and
interest or debt, or is being granted multiple forbearances. In these cases, we move it into Stage 3. If an account is already in Stage 3, we keep it in Stage 3. A loan
moves out of forbearance once the exit criteria below are met. We monitor the performance of all forborne loans.
We signed up to the HM Treasury Mortgage Charter published in June 2023, that aims to provide more support for customers who may be struggling to maintain
their mortgage repayments. We made more customer support solutions available from July 2023, allowing customers who are up-to-date with their payments to
make interest-only payments for six months or extend their mortgage term to reduce their monthly payments. Volumes of accounts seeking more support were
just over 1% of active mortgage account stock. Mortgage Charter support solutions are not automatically classed as forbearance, unless other forbearance criteria
are met.
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Exit from forbearance criteria
Exit from
Conditions to be met
Cure
Stage 3 to Stage 2
For an account in Stage 3 to exit non-performing forbearance, all the following conditions must be met:
If the account was classed as Stage 3 due to being more than 90 days past due, then the account should be 90 days or less past due
The customer has no other material default debt with us more than 90 days past due
If the account was classed as Stage 3 due to being unlikely to pay, then the account should no longer be deemed unlikely to pay
Account has exited its forbearance trigger for 12 consecutive months
If all the conditions are met, the account is re-classed as Stage 2 forbearance until the Stage 2 forbearance exit conditions set out
below are also met
Stage 2 to Stage 1
For an account in Stage 2 to exit forbearance, all the following conditions must be met:
The account is no longer in arrears, and the customer has no other material debts with us which are more than 30 days in arrears
The account no longer triggers SICR
The account has been classed as Stage 2 for at least two years since the end of the latest forbearance strategy
If a borrower fails to meet the post forbearance contractual obligations during probation, the loan is classified as Stage 3 and the probation period is reset.
Other forms of debt management and modifications
Retail & Business Banking 
In Mortgages, apart from forbearance, we have sometimes changed the contract terms to keep a good relationship with a customer. In Mortgages and Everyday
Banking, we do not classify insolvency solutions for any unsecured retail customers as forbearance. This is in line with industry guidelines.
Consumer Finance
We do not classify insolvency solutions for any unsecured retail customers as forbearance. This is in line with industry guidelines.
Corporate & Commercial Banking and Corporate Centre
When customers are in financial difficulty, we can also manage debt in other ways, depending on the facts of the specific case:
Action
Description
Waiving or changing
covenants
If a borrower breaks a covenant, we can either waive it or change it, taking their latest and future financial position into account. We may also
add a condition on the use of any surplus cash (after operating costs) to pay down their debt to us.
Asking for more collateral or
guarantees
If a borrower has unencumbered assets, we may accept more collateral in return for revised financing terms. We may also take a guarantee
from companies in the same group and/or major shareholders. We only do this where we believe the guarantor can meet their commitment.
Asking for more equity
Where a borrower can no longer pay the interest on their debt, we may accept fresh equity capital from new or existing investors to change
the capital structure in return for better terms on the existing debt.
Risk measurement and control
We measure and control credit risk at all stages across the credit risk lifecycle. We have a range of tools, processes and approaches.
Retail & Business Banking and Consumer Finance
These businesses involve managing large numbers of accounts, so they produce a significant amount of data. This allows us to take a more analytical and data
intense approach to measuring risk. This is reflected in the wide range of statistical models we use across the credit risk lifecycle. We use:
Risk strategy and planning: econometric models
Assessment and origination: application scorecards, and attrition, pricing, loss allowance and capital models
Monitoring: behavioural scorecards and profitability models
Arrears management: models to estimate the proportion of cases that will result in possession (known as roll rates)
Debt recovery: recovery models.
We assess and review our loss allowances regularly. We look at factors such as the cash flow available to service debt. We also use an agency to value any
collateral – mainly mortgages.
Corporate & Commercial Banking and Corporate Centre
We measure the credit risk on treasury products by adding their potential future exposure to market movements over their lives to their fair value. Then we add it
to any other exposure and measure the total against our credit limits for each client. We assess our loss allowances regularly by looking at factors such as the cash
flow available to service debt and the value of collateral based on third-party professional valuations.
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Key metrics(audited)
We use a number of key metrics to measure and control credit risk, as follows:
Metric
Description
Expected Credit Loss
(ECL)
ECL tells us what credit risk is expected to cost us either over the next 12 months or over the lifetime of the exposure where there is evidence of a SICR since
origination. We explain how we calculate ECL below.
Stages 1, 2 and 3
We assess each facility’s credit risk profile to determine which stage to allocate them to, and we monitor where there is a SICR and transfers between the
Stages including monitoring of coverage ratios for each stage.
Stage 3 ratio
The Stage 3 ratio is the sum of Stage 3 drawn and Stage 3 undrawn assets divided by the sum of total drawn assets and Stage 3 undrawn assets. The Stage
3 ratio is a key indicator used to monitor underlying asset performance.
Expected Loss (EL)
EL is based on the CRD IV regulatory capital rules and gives us another view of credit risk. It is the product of the probability of default, exposure at default
and loss given default, and we include direct and indirect costs. We base it on our risk models and our assessment of each customer’s credit quality. The
rest of the Risk review, impairments, losses and loss allowances refer to calculations in accordance with IFRS, unless we specifically say they relate to CRD
IV. For our IFRS impairment accounting policy, see Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
We also assess risks from other perspectives, such as geography, business area, product and process to identify areas to focus on. We also use stress testing to
establish vulnerabilities to economic deterioration. Our business segments tailor their approach to credit risk to their customers, as we explain later on.
Recognising ECL (audited)
The ECL approach estimates the credit losses arising from defaults in the next 12 months on qualifying exposures, or defaults over the lifetime of the exposure
where there is evidence of a SICR since the origination date. Our ECL approach for portfolio assessments uses models that consider forward-looking data on
economic scenarios, including a range of possible outcomes, which are unbiased and probability-weighted to reflect the risk of a loss being incurred even when it is
unlikely. In some cases, we need to apply Judgemental Adjustments to our model outputs. We use internal credit ratings for corporate borrowers and individually
assess corporate Stage 3 exposures.
Critical judgements and accounting estimates applied in calculating ECL (audited)
The application of the ECL impairment methodology for calculating credit impairment allowances is susceptible to change from period to period. The methodology
requires management to make judgemental assumptions in determining the estimates.
For more on our approach to making critical judgements and accounting estimates applied in calculating ECL see 'Critical judgements and accounting estimates'
Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Multiple economic scenarios and probability weights (audited)
For all our portfolios, we use forward-looking economic scenarios. During 2024, we reduced the forward looking economic scenarios to four by removing the
stubborn inflation scenario as inflation has returned to more normalised levels. They now consist of a central base case, one upside scenario and two downside
scenarios. We use these scenarios to reflect a wide range of possible outcomes for the UK economy.
Our forecasting approach
We derive our scenarios in part by using a set of parameters in GDP fan charts published by the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR). These fan charts reflect the
probability distribution of a deviation from the OBR’s central forecast to show the uncertainty about the outcome of a variable, in this case GDP.
Once we have established the GDP paths for each scenario, we run them through the Oxford Global Economic Model (OGEM) to derive the other macroeconomic
variables, such as unemployment and house prices. These variables are the product of the GDP growth paths we have forecast and the output of the OGEM for
these growth paths. We then review them to ensure consistency with the narrative of each scenario and so changes to the variables may be needed in some cases.
We then impose a Bank Rate profile for each scenario using expert judgement with the base case as the starting point and then adjusting this for each of the other
scenarios based on the narratives. We produce a range of Bank Rate profiles to reflect a range of possible outcomes the Bank of England may follow depending on
how it sees the trade-off between growth and inflation evolving over the forecast period. For example, this might consist of higher rates initially in response to
inflationary concerns followed by lower rates as inflation falls towards target, and that this may be sharper in the event of a deep recession.
We update the baseline in our economic scenarios at least twice a year in line with our annual budgeting and three-year planning processes, or sooner if there is a
material change in current or expected economic conditions. We refresh all our economic scenarios quarterly to reflect the latest data and OBR fan charts if these
changed, which are then reviewed and approved by the Credit Risk Provisions Forum (CRPF). The CRPF also assesses the probability weights at least once a quarter.
We do not use consensus forecasts as inputs to our models, but we do compare the outputs of our models against consensus views for the base case, to make
sure that we understand any significant differences and address them where needed. At 31 December 2024, there were no significant differences between our
base case forecasts and the consensus views.
In 2024, we undertook a further peer benchmarking analysis of the economic scenarios, which for Q424 included the mean weighted analysis for a selection of
economic variables, including GDP, unemployment rate and HPI. This meant that we could compare our weighted scenarios against the average of our peers to
understand what differences there may be. The conclusion of this analysis demonstrated that our economic scenarios were in line with our peers.
In 2024, we also considered any likely impact from climate risk on our forecasting approach and concluded that no adjustment to the multiple economic
scenarios for climate risk was required. This is because climate change effects are generally regarded to be relevant over a longer timeframe than our forecast
period of five years.
Our use of four different scenarios is designed to reflect different possible outcomes to the base case, highlighting the upside and downside risks associated with
the central scenario.
Our forecasting period for GDP is five years and we use the OGEM 25 year model for the outer years, post five year forecast. This is a change to the methodology
from 2023 and it was adopted in Q124. As part of this, we set a floor on the unemployment rate at 4% to ensure that the long-term view is near to the Non-
Accelerating Inflation Rate of Unemployment set out by the Bank of England in its annual supply side review.
Key changes to our forecasting approach in 2024
In 2024, we made two changes to our forecasting approach. We moved from five to four scenarios which saw the removal of the stubborn inflation scenario due to
inflation becoming more stable as it reaches target, negating the need for a specific scenario. We also moved from using mean reversion for the forecasts beyond
five years to using the 25 year OGEM output. This removes the need to make any assumptions regarding the length of time to mean revert.
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Base case
We review the scenarios and associated weights every quarter to ensure they appropriately reflect the current economic circumstances and UK Government policy
which is subject to change.
In summary, the outlook for the UK economy in 2025 shows an economy that is growing with the stimulus from the October 2024 Budget helping to boost GDP.
There is above target inflation due to this stimulus and other government measures, but Bank Rate continues to fall gradually, supporting businesses and
households. However, downside risks to the outlook remain particularly around geopolitical tensions and potential productivity gains.
Base case key macroeconomic assumptions
GDP: The UK economy slowed in Q324 with growth of 0.1% quarter-on-quarter. It was always likely that a slow-down from the above average quarterly growth rates of H124 would
happen, but with weak PMIs as well there is a concern that the economy will stagnate in Q424. However, Q324 GDP did see rising consumer spending and strong gains for business
investment as such we would expect that post-Budget growth will pick up, although some underlying weakness means the economy growing at levels similar to those experienced pre-
pandemic, rather than the stronger growth needed to help repair the UK’s finances. For 2025 we would expect to see stronger growth caused by the increase in government spending
given the measures announced in the October 2024 Budget, although this may crowd out some business investment and with a higher tax burden this may impact both investment and
private consumption. Over the longer term the key issue for growth remains productivity and without a boost to this growth will remain at the average pre-pandemic levels of 1.4%.
Bank Rate: The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) lowered rates twice in 2024 to 4.75%. Our base case assumes a further 100bps of cuts which takes Bank Rate to 3.75% by the end of
2025, with further reductions into the medium term leaving the terminal rate at 3.25% in Q127. This is slightly higher than our previous forecast due to the increased inflation expected
as a result of the October 2024 Budget.
House price growth: House prices grew in 2024, helped in part, by falling mortgage rates. However, the outlook for 2025 is likely to see a slow-down in house price growth due to
higher swap rates which has pushed up mortgage rates in Q424. As always, the key to house price growth is the supply of housing which continues to be weak. This along with the steady
fall in interest rates should ensure steady house price growth over the forecast period. We forecast a c.3% year-on-year growth in house prices by the end of 2025 and remaining at this
growth rate for the rest of the forecast period.
Unemployment rate: Recent data for unemployment indicates that there is a slow loosening of the labour market. However, caution needs to be taken as the unemployment data is still
subject to problems with the ONS Labour Force Survey data. In terms of the forecast the peak in unemployment comes in 2025, with the possibility of more redundancies as firms face
higher employment costs as a result of the National Insurance Contributions (NIC) increase for employers. The rate then drops back to 4.2% (current Bank of England prediction for the
natural rate of unemployment) in 2026. This accords with the better growth outlook, but also reflects the fact that the structure of the UK labour market changed with a large drop in the
number of working age people looking for work, thus reducing supply. Although progress may be made in reducing medical waiting lists over the forecast period to boost supply.
CRE price growth: After falling for seven quarters in a row, CRE prices stabilised in Q224 and rose by 0.3% quarter-on-quarter in Q324 in a sign of the sector turning around after two
years of falling prices. Cuts in Bank Rate boosted prices and this looks set to continue in Q424 following the November 2024 bank rate cut. In addition, with more workers return to the
office this may help boost the flagging office sector. We expect prices to continue to rise throughout the forecast period as Bank Rate is reduced before growth stabilises around the 2%
year-on-year mark.
In the medium-term, the projections assume that current demographic and productivity trends will continue, causing a reduction in the UK’s growth potential. For
instance, it is likely that the reduction in the UK workforce will continue and this will have a knock-on impact for the economy, particularly if there are shortages of
skilled workers in particular sectors. This is reflected in an average annual growth expectation of 1.6%, in line with the OBR’s latest estimate of the UK’s long run
average growth rate.
Key changes to our base case in 2024
For our base case, we no longer expect a short recession given that the economy has been more resilient than previously expected in 2023. For the other macro-
economic variables, the changes made to the base case compared to 2023 included stronger house price inflation for 2024 reflecting the better economic
conditions and slightly lower unemployment for 2024. However, risks to the base case remain with potential for rising geopolitical risks affecting the UK economy.
Our base case scenario incorporates stronger economic growth in 2025, from increased government spending and four Bank Rate cuts of 25bps over the year. It
was updated to reflect the latest market data and to broadly align with the latest consensus estimates. The most notable change was to HPI with expected house
price increases stronger than predicted in 2024.
Other scenarios
Based on this revised base case, we reviewed our suite of scenarios to ensure that they capture the wide range of potential outcomes for the UK economy. These
include; (i) a slower recovery that is more akin to the ‘U’ shape of past recessions; (ii) labour market frictions due to skills mismatches and a shrinking workforce
as some discouraged workers leave altogether (for example longer-term sickness levels remaining above pre-pandemic levels); (iii) fragmentation of the global
economy in particular changes and additional frictions to supply chains; and (iv) the global economy recovering more swiftly from higher inflation.
To reflect these potential outcomes, we use the base case and three additional scenarios, which we consider sufficient to reflect all the above potential outcomes.
As with the base case, the scenarios are forecast over a five-year period with the OEGM 25 year model used to determine the forecasts after this period with a floor
on unemployment set at 4%.
The other scenarios are:
One upside scenario
This scenario has a quicker recovery in growth than the Baseline and is a bull case to the base forecasts. It assumes that inflation falls slightly below target at the
start of the forecast period helped by lower wage growth, however it does rise back to 2% over the period. This allows the Bank of England to cut rates faster than
the base case, bringing them back towards what might be considered the neutral rate earlier. This results in higher consumer and business confidence enabling
higher levels of spending and investment, with savings rates returning to levels consistent with economic growth as real earnings growth returns. In this scenario
GDP remains stronger than the base case along with house price growth. Unemployment falls to 4% slightly below the base case and inflation dips below target in
2026 before ending the forecast period at target.
Two downside scenarios
The downside scenarios capture the impact of weaker investment, the increasing risk from geopolitical events and the ongoing significant mismatch between job
vacancies and skills, as well as a smaller labour force.
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Downside 1 – In this scenario, the economy contracts and although the recession is small and short lived, the recovery is weak and below potential. The measures
announced in the Budget, in particular the increase in NICs for employers means growth is tempered and employment shrinks as businesses restructure to deal
with the extra cost along with increased minimum wage and changes to workers' rights. Consumers opt to save more rather than spend which affects the recovery
path, as consumer confidence is low in part due to concerns about the unstable geopolitical environment and the increase in lay-offs as businesses restructure. The
global economy is affected by a combination of factors, such as commodity prices becoming increasingly volatile due to geopolitical events and the potential impact
of additional tariffs. This affects global inflation which negatively impacts UK trade and hinders a return to growth.
Downside 2 – This scenario shows a marked fall in GDP, with rising unemployment and falling house prices reflecting the ongoing issues of a higher interest rate
environment. There is a longer lagged effect from monetary policy tightening and lower growth and productivity, which feeds across the whole economy. It also
reflects the increase in geopolitical risk which affects market sentiment and causes further fragmentation of the global economy. It also assumes that major risk
events continue to occur, exposing the vulnerability of countries' fiscal positions and the means to respond to such events. Unemployment peaks at 8.5% and,
although, there are some inflationary pressures from changing trade patterns, the sharp fall in demand means inflation falls below target and allows the MPC to
cut rates sharply from Q125 to stabilise demand. With inflation falling below target and lower interest rates this eases some of the pressures on the UK economy
and growth picks up in the medium-term.
Key changes to our alternative scenarios in 2024
In 2024, we removed the Stubborn inflation scenario (Downside 3) from the suite of scenarios we run. This was because inflation fell significantly and the risks of
inflation increasing above 3% and remaining at levels above this was no longer considered to need a separate scenario. The scenario was not replaced as we already
have two downside scenarios reflecting the risks to the UK economy including inflation being above target and with higher interest rates compared to base case.
It was not deemed necessary to have a further upside scenario given the limited upside risk to the UK economy. In addition, the use of four scenarios is in line with
many of our peers.
Despite mixed signals about the UK's recent economic performance, which may impact the path of the Bank Rate, our scenarios continue to capture a broad range
of forecasts.
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Our macroeconomic assumptions and their evolution throughout the forecast period
Our macroeconomic assumptions and their evolution throughout the forecast period for each of the scenarios at 31 December 2024 were:
Upside
Base case
Downside 1
Downside 2
Weighted
%
%
%
%
%
GDP(1)
2023 (actual)
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
0.3
2024
0.9
0.9
0.8
0.4
0.8
2025
2.0
1.4
(0.4)
(3.4)
0.6
2026
2.5
1.6
0.3
(0.9)
1.2
2027
2.5
1.4
0.9
1.3
1.4
2028
2.5
1.4
1.0
2.8
1.6
2029
2.5
1.4
1.1
2.8
1.6
5-year average increase/decrease(2)
2.4
1.5
0.6
0.3
n/a
Start to trough(3)
n/a
n/a
(0.7)
(5.2)
n/a
Bank Rate(1)
2023 (actual)
5.25
5.25
5.25
5.25
5.25
2024
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.75
2025
3.25
3.75
4.50
2.25
3.71
2026
3.00
3.50
3.25
1.50
3.16
2027
3.00
3.25
3.00
2.50
3.08
2028
3.00
3.25
3.00
2.75
3.10
2029
3.00
3.25
3.00
3.00
3.13
5-year end period
3.00
3.25
3.00
3.00
n/a
5-year peak
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.75
4.75
HPI(1)
2023 (actual)
(0.7)
(0.7)
(0.7)
(0.7)
(0.7)
2024
4.8
4.5
2.0
1.3
3.6
2025
4.3
3.0
(5.8)
(20.1)
(1.2)
2026
4.7
3.0
(3.7)
(14.7)
0.3
2027
4.6
3.0
2.9
5.8
3.4
2028
4.5
3.0
4.4
9.6
4.0
2029
4.6
3.0
4.6
7.7
4.0
5-year average increase/decrease(2)
4.7
3.2
(3.7)
n/a
Start to trough(3)
n/a
n/a
(10.1)
(33.0)
(0.8)
Unemployment(1)
2023 (actual)
3.8
3.8
3.8
3.8
3.8
2024
4.4
4.3
4.4
4.4
4.4
2025
4.1
4.4
5.2
8.3
4.9
2026
4.0
4.2
5.5
8.2
4.9
2027
4.0
4.2
5.5
7.6
4.8
2028
4.0
4.2
5.5
7.0
4.8
2029
4.0
4.2
5.5
6.4
4.7
5-year end period
4.0
4.2
5.5
6.4
n/a
5-year peak
4.4
4.4
5.5
8.5
4.9
CRE price growth(1)
2023 (actual)
(5.6)
(5.6)
(5.6)
(5.6)
(5.6)
2024
0.4
(0.1)
(2.3)
(2.7)
(0.9)
2025
5.7
2.5
(5.5)
(14.9)
(0.7)
2026
5.2
2.8
1.7
(8.5)
2.0
2027
2.9
2.5
2.0
4.4
2.6
2028
3.3
2.2
1.8
3.8
2.4
2029
3.0
2.1
2.4
3.4
2.4
5-year average increase/decrease(2)
4.0
2.3
(0.1)
(3.3)
n/a
Start to trough(3)
n/a
n/a
(7.4)
(24.7)
(1.2)
(1) GDP is the calendar year annual growth rate, HPI and CRE price growth rate is Q4 annual growth rate and all other data points are at 31 December in the year indicated.
(2)      This is the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) based on a 5 year period which represents an average annualised growth rate.
(3)      GDP, HPI and CRE start is taken from level at Q324.
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The table below sets out our macroeconomic assumptions and their evolution throughout the forecast period for each of the scenarios at 31 December 2023:
Upside
Base case
Downside 1
Stubborn
Inflation
Downside 2
Weighted
%
%
%
%
%
%
GDP(1)
2022 (actual)
4.3
4.3
4.3
4.3
4.3
4.3
2023
0.6
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.3
0.5
2024
1.0
0.4
(0.1)
(1.8)
(3.3)
(0.4)
2025
2.1
1.3
0.2
(0.9)
(1.4)
0.6
2026
2.4
1.5
0.5
0.4
0.6
1.1
2027
2.4
1.4
0.3
0.7
2.2
1.4
2028
2.4
1.4
0.3
0.8
2.6
1.4
5-year average increase/decrease
2.1
1.2
0.3
(0.2)
0.1
n/a
Peak/(trough) at(2)
(0.2)
(2.8)
(5.1)
(1.1)
Bank Rate(1)
2022 (actual)
3.50
3.50
3.50
3.50
3.50
3.50
2023
5.25
5.25
5.25
5.25
5.25
5.25
2024
4.25
4.50
5.25
6.50
3.75
4.88
2025
3.25
3.50
4.00
5.00
2.00
3.68
2026
2.75
3.25
3.25
3.75
2.00
3.18
2027
2.75
3.00
3.00
3.00
2.50
2.93
2028
2.75
3.00
3.00
3.00
2.50
2.93
5-year end period
2.75
3.00
3.00
3.00
2.50
n/a
Peak/(trough) at
5.25
5.25
5.75
6.50
5.25
5.55
HPI(1)
2022 (actual)
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
5.0
2023
(1.7)
(2.2)
(4.7)
(6.3)
(7.8)
(3.8)
2024
2.0
(1.0)
(11.7)
(18.8)
(25.8)
(7.8)
2025
6.5
2.5
3.4
3.6
3.6
3.3
2026
5.1
3.0
2.1
1.6
1.6
2.7
2027
4.0
3.0
3.0
1.6
1.6
2.7
2028
3.6
3.0
3.1
1.8
1.8
2.7
5-year average increase/decrease
4.3
2.0
(0.8)
(3.3)
(5.4)
n/a
Peak/(trough) at(2)
(3.7)
(6.5)
(17.5)
(25.5)
(33.0)
(13.8)
Unemployment(1)
2022 (actual)
3.7
3.7
3.7
3.7
3.7
3.7
2023
4.3
4.3
4.3
4.3
4.4
4.3
2024
4.3
4.8
4.8
5.6
8.5
5.3
2025
3.7
4.4
4.9
5.9
8.0
5.1
2026
3.4
4.3
5.2
6.2
7.4
5.0
2027
3.0
4.3
5.4
6.1
6.8
4.9
2028
3.0
4.2
5.3
5.8
6.2
4.7
5-year end period
3.0
4.2
5.3
5.8
6.2
n/a
Peak/(trough) at
4.5
4.8
5.5
6.2
8.5
5.5
(1) GDP is the calendar year annual growth rate, HPI is Q4 annual growth rate and all other data points are at 31 December in the year indicated.
(2) GDP peak taken from GDP level at Q2-23 and HPI peak taken from HPI level at Q3-22.
Scenario weights
Each quarter, we review the scenario weights we apply. We consider the weights of the economic scenarios as a whole, while ensuring that the scenarios capture
the non-linear distribution of losses across a reasonable range. To support our initial assessment of the weight of a scenario, we undertake a Monte Carlo analysis
to estimate the likelihood of a five-year average GDP forecast growth rate occurring based on the long-run historically observed average. We then create a standard
distribution bell curve around this long run average. This allows us to estimate the probability of a given GDP scenario occurring based on past experience and
therefore assign a weight to that scenario. We also consider the UK economic and political environment when applying weights.
The scenario weights we applied for 2024 and 2023 were:
Upside
Base case
Downside 1
Stubborn
Inflation
Downside 2
Weighted
Scenario weights
%
%
%
%
%
%
2024
15
50
25
n/a
10
100
2023
10
50
10
20
10
100
2024 compared to 2023
In 2024, we removed the Stubborn Inflation scenario and re-weighted the remaining scenarios as inflation returned to more normalised levels. We remain of the
view that the risks to UK growth are still biased to the downside and include: further geopolitical events creating more challenges for economies both the UK and
abroad; the potential for further upside inflation surprises causing inflation to stay above target for longer, raising the cost of living and so reducing consumer
demand; continuing weak investment reflecting the uncertain nature of the economic environment; and a continuing and significant mismatch between vacancies
and skills along with a smaller labour force, which may bring disruption to any recovery in the latter years of the forecast.
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Definition of default (Credit impaired) (audited)
We define a financial instrument as in default (i.e. credit impaired) for the purpose of calculating ECL if it is more than three months past due, or if we have data that
suggests the customer is unlikely to pay. The data we have on customers varies across our business segments. It typically includes where:
Retail & Business Banking and Consumer Finance
They have been reported bankrupt or insolvent and are in arrears
Their loan term has ended, but they still owe us money more than three months later
They have had forbearance while in default and have failed to perform under the new arrangement terms, or have had multiple forbearance. Performing forborne
accounts while not in default are reported in Stage 2
We have suspended their fees and interest because they are in financial difficulties
We have repossessed the property or the asset.
Corporate & Commercial Banking and Corporate Centre
They have had a winding up notice issued, or something happens that is likely to trigger insolvency – such as another lender calls in a loan
Something happens that makes them less likely to be able to pay us – such as they lose an important client or contract
They have regularly missed or delayed payments, even though they have not gone over the three-month limit for default
Their loan is unlikely to be refinanced or repaid in full on maturity
Their loan has an excessive LTV that is unlikely to be resolved, such as by a change in planning policy, pay-downs, or increase in market value
Loans restructured under financial difficulties, classified as forborne transactions, in last 12 months.
Where we use the advanced internal ratings-based basis for a portfolio in our capital calculations, there are differences with the default definitions for ECL
purposes. The main differences are as follows:
Performing forborne accounts while not in default are in Stage 2 until they cure their forbearance status (measured as 12 consecutive months of successful
payments).
Performing non-forborne accounts, which under our internal rating-based basis are subject to a 3-month cure period. For accounting purposes, we classify them
in Stage 2 until they cure all SICR triggers.
Significant Increase in Credit Risk (SICR) (audited)
Loans which have suffered a SICR since origination are subject to a lifetime ECL assessment which extends to a maximum of the contractual term of the loan, or the
behavioural term for a revolving facility. Loans which have not experienced a SICR are subject to 12-month ECL. We assess the credit risk profile of each facility to
determine which of three stages to allocate them to:
Stage 1: when there has been no SICR since initial recognition. We apply a loss allowance equal to a 12-month ECL i.e. the proportion of lifetime expected losses
that relate to that default event expected in the next 12 months
Stage 2: when there has been a SICR since initial recognition, but the exposure is not considered credit impaired. We apply a loss allowance equal to the lifetime
ECL i.e. the expected loss resulting from all possible defaults throughout the residual life of a facility
Stage 3: when the exposure is considered credit impaired. We apply a loss allowance equal to the lifetime ECL. Objective evidence of credit impairment is
needed. For more, see the section ‘Definition of default (Credit impaired)’ above.
We use quantitative, qualitative and backstop criteria to identify exposures that suffer a SICR. The Credit Risk Provisions Forum (CRPF) reviews and approves our SICR
thresholds periodically. The Board Audit Committee reviews and challenges their appropriateness each year, or more often if we change them.
Key changes in 2024
In 2024, alongside our new ECL models, we updated our SICR criteria to enhance and improve consistency across portfolios. As a result, we now treat the following
accounts as Stage 2:
Quantitative:
Accounts with a 12-month PD between 30bps (0.3%) and 2000bps (20%) where the annualised lifetime PD has doubled from origination.
PD threshold: Accounts where the annualised lifetime PD has increased above 2000bps (20%).
Low Credit Risk Exemption (LCRE): we introduced an LCRE where, if the 12-month PD is less than 30bps, we retain the account in Stage 1, unless the
qualitative or backstop criteria are met.
These changes increased the number of accounts in Stage 2 for Credit Cards and Overdrafts mainly due to the lower absolute PD thresholds, with no material
increase in ECL.
Qualitative:
For mortgages, over-indebted customers and Interest-only accounts 24 months pre-maturity.
For CCB, customers operating in a high-risk sector.
These enhancements enabled us to retire related JAs.
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Quantitative criteria
We use quantitative criteria to identify where an exposure has increased in credit risk. We base our criteria on whether any increase in the lifetime PD since
origination exceeds a threshold in relative and absolute terms. We base the value anticipated at origination on similar assumptions and data to the ones we use at
the reporting date, adjusted to reflect the account surviving to that date. The comparison uses either an annualised lifetime PD, where the lifetime PD is divided by
the forecast period, or the absolute change in lifetime PD since origination. The criteria for 2024 and 2023 were: accounts above the lower absolute PD thresholds
below, where the PD has doubled since origination, are treated as Stage 2. Any account above the upper threshold (i.e. 20%) is also treated as Stage 2:
Retail & Business Banking
Consumer
Finance (2)
Corporate &
Commercial
Banking
Corporate Centre
Mortgages
Everyday Banking(1)
Personal loans
Credit cards
Overdrafts
2024
30bps
30bps
30bps
30bps
300bps
30bps
Internal rating method
2023
30bps
30bps
340bps
260bps
300bps
30bps
Internal rating method
(1) For larger business banking customers, we apply the same criteria as we use for CCB. Credit cards and Overdrafts lower PD thresholds aligned with the rest of Everyday Banking for consistency.
(2) Consumer Finance use the comparison of lifetime PDs to determine Stage allocation, unlike other products which first turn the lifetime PD into an average yearly PD (annualised) and then do the comparison. In
addition, Consumer Finance does not apply the upper absolute PD threshold criteria.
Qualitative criteria
We also use qualitative criteria to identify where an exposure has increased in credit risk, independent of changes in PD. The criteria for 2024 and 2023 were:
Retail & Business Banking
Consumer Finance
Corporate &
Commercial Banking
Corporate Centre
Mortgages
Everyday Banking(1)
Personal loans
Credit cards
Overdrafts
– In forbearance
– Default in last 24m
– 30 Days Past Due (DPD) in
last 12m
– Bankrupt
– £100+ arrears
New in 2024:
– Over-indebted customers
– Interest Only accounts 24m
pre-maturity
– In Collections
– Default in last 12m
– £50+ arrears
– In forbearance
– Default in last 12m
– In Collections
– £100+ arrears
– Behaviour score
indicators
– Fees suspended
– Default in last 12m
– Debit dormant >35
days
– Any excess in month
– In forbearance
– Deceased or
Insolvent
– Court ‘Return of
goods’ order or
Police watchlist
– Agreement
terminated
– Payment holiday
– Cash Collection
– In forbearance
– Default in last 12m
– Watchlist: proactive
management
– Default at proxy
origination
New in 2024:
– Customers in a high-
risk sector
– Watchlist: proactive
management
(1)For larger business banking customers, we apply the same criteria that we use for Corporate & Commercial Banking.
If needed, we apply additional qualitative assessments as part of JAs in response to situations where known or expected risk factors and data are not considered in
the modelling process. See 'Judgemental Adjustments (JAs)' below for more on this.
Backstop criteria
As a backstop, we classify all exposures more than 30 or 90 DPD in at least Stage 2 or in Stage 3, respectively. This means that we do not rebut the backstop
presumptions in IFRS 9 (i.e. credit risk has significantly increased if contractual payments are more than 30 DPD) relating to either a SICR or default.
Improvement in credit risk or cure
We transfer Stage 3 exposures to Stage 2 or Stage 1 when we no longer consider them to be credit impaired. We transfer Stage 2 exposures to Stage 1 when we no
longer consider them to have suffered a SICR. Where we identified a SICR using quantitative criteria, we transfer the exposures to Stage 1 when they no longer meet
the original PD-based transfer criteria. Where we identified a SICR using qualitative criteria, the issues that led to the transfer must be cured before we transfer the
exposure to Stage 1. For a loan to exit forbearance, it must meet the conditions set out in the section ‘Forbearance’ in the 'Credit risk' section of the Risk review.
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Judgemental Adjustments (JAs) (audited)
We use a range of methods to identify whether we need a JA. These include regular reviews of model monitoring tools, changes in the period, trend analysis,
comparisons against forecasts, and inputs from expert teams who manage key portfolio risks. We only recognise a JA if its expected impact is over £1m and keep it
in place until we no longer need it. This is usually when we build it into our core credit model or the conditions that led to raising the JA no longer exist.
Our Risk Provisions & Forecasting team calculate JAs to ensure they are incremental to the core credit model and to ensure the calculation is performed in a
consistent and controlled manner. We apply standard end-user computing controls to JAs expected to be in place for more than six months. The CRPF reviews and
approves all JAs on a quarterly basis.
Retail & Business Banking
Everyday Banking
Consumer
Finance
Corporate &
Commercial
Banking
Corporate
Centre
Total
Mortgages
Credit Cards
Other
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Modelled ECL
127
149
122
69
142
609
Individually assessed
6
162
168
ECL before JAs
133
149
122
69
304
777
JAs (excluding Affordability and Cost of Living JAs)
Unsecured PD adjustments
2
2
Mortgages LGD
27
27
Corporate single large exposure
24
24
Other
1
1
6
8
Total JAs (excluding Affordability and Cost of Living JAs)
28
1
8
24
61
Affordability and Cost of Living JAs
Corporate lending to segments affected by supply chain
pressures
14
14
Mortgage refinancing risk
11
11
SME debt burden
6
6
Total Affordability and Cost of Living JAs
11
6
14
31
Total JAs
39
1
14
38
92
Total ECL
172
150
136
69
342
869
Total JAs as a percentage of Total ECL (%)
11
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Modelled ECL
132
123
123
62
240
680
Individually assessed
4
124
128
ECL before JAs
136
123
123
62
364
808
JAs (excluding Affordability and Cost of Living JAs)
Long-term indeterminate arrears
16
16
12+ months in arrears
14
14
UPL loss floor
6
6
Model underestimation
36
36
Corporate single large exposure
23
23
Other
12
1
3
4
(31)
(11)
Total JAs (excluding Affordability and Cost of Living JAs)
78
1
9
4
(8)
84
Affordability and Cost of Living JAs
Corporate lending to segments affected by supply chain
pressures
24
24
Secured affordability
9
4
13
Unsecured affordability
16
22
38
Mortgage refinancing risk
19
19
SME debt burden
6
6
Total Affordability and Cost of Living JAs
28
16
28
4
24
100
Total JAs
106
17
37
8
16
184
Total ECL
242
140
160
70
380
992
Total JAs as a percentage of Total ECL (%)
19
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JAs (excluding Affordability and Cost of Living JAs)
Unsecured PD Adjustments: In 2024, we replaced the UPL Loss floor JA with the Unsecured PD Adjustments JA to widen the scope of the JA. We use this JA to
address the perceived macroeconomic insensitivity in our Unsecured Personal Loans (UPL) model and the over sensitivity in our Overdrafts model.
UPL – This arises where analysis of historical losses shows a larger correlation to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) unemployment forecast than the
model gives. The JA uplifts the lifetime losses expected in each of the macroeconomic scenarios in the model to align with the expected losses the historical
analysis predicts.
Overdrafts – This arises where the ECL model is overly sensitive to Bank Rate changes, leading it to predict extremely high PDs in the early years. The JA reduces
the lifetime losses expected in each of the macroeconomic scenarios in the model to align with the expected losses the historical analysis predicts.
Mortgages LGD: We introduced this JA in 2024. It uplifts the modelled parameters that capture the risk of failed recovery strategies of stage 3 accounts in
default and stage 1 and stage 2 accounts not in default targeting the LGD underestimation flagged by model monitoring, as well as the lower level of coverage
compared to peers in this segment.
Corporate single large exposure: This JA safeguards against individual large exposures defaulting over a short period. We currently use the JA to safeguard
against two historically observed single name large losses in CCB. This JA was used in 2024 for 2 cases. This JA was also replenished in 2024 as it is still needed
as UK corporate insolvencies rose to a 30-year high. In the current economic environment, the risk of single name defaults, which incur high losses, is considered
greater than before as government support schemes ceased. We continue to assess the risk over the medium term based on actual experience and refine the
estimate based on changes in our portfolio credit quality and loan size mix.
Other: This includes Mortgages and Retail Unsecured and generally consists of small portfolios where the ECL calculation is held outside of the main models.
Affordability and Cost of Living JAs
Corporate lending to segments affected by supply chain pressures: This JA reflects the corporate lending risks to those sectors susceptible to high inflation
and energy prices, higher input costs, potential for lower consumer and business demand and exposure to supply chain pressures. This JA calculates ECL by
stressing PD levels for customers in Stage 2 according to each customer's risk profile.
Mortgage refinancing risk: The JA considers the risk of mortgage customers being unable to afford their new mortgage instalment after re-mortgaging at
higher interest rates. The JA assesses the likely mortgage payment against the stressed interest rate that customers had been assessed against at the point of
application. Customers that are likely to secure rates above their stress levels are considered at risk of not being able to afford their new mortgage. We uplift
their PDs to account for the elevated levels of defaults observed for the most recent cohorts of refinanced mortgages. The JA was designed using some profiling
characteristics of customers that used the Mortgage Charter government scheme as some of those accounts are considered to be at higher risk of arrears.
SME debt burden: This JA takes account of the potential debt burden risk of unsecured lending to our SME customers who also took a BBL. This does not
incorporate the credit risk on BBLs as these are government guaranteed, but considers the possible impact on repayment of other lending with us.
2024 compared to 2023
In 2024, we implemented new impairment models for Mortgages and Corporate & Commercial Banking, which now embed many of the JAs in place at the end of
2023. In response to the improved economic data, specifically inflation, we reassessed the need for cost of living JAs and retired the Secured and Unsecured
Affordability JAs.
In 2024, we introduced a new Mortgage LGD JA which uplifts the modelled parameters that capture the risk of failed recovery strategies, for default and non-
default accounts.
Climate change
In 2024 and 2023, we assessed the risks to asset valuations in the customer loan book from both transitional and physical risks associated with climate change. At
31 December 2024 and 2023, we did not consider it appropriate to recognise a climate risk related JA for the following reasons:
The behavioural life of the loan book is less than five years. Any material transitional risks are generally regarded to be relevant over a longer timeframe than five
years and, as such, the risk predominantly relates to assets yet to be written;
There have been no observed default events or SICRs due to climate change for any part of the loan book;
The absolute exposure to fossil fuel industries is not material. On an individually assessed basis, clients in these industries are highly rated and their markets
remain highly liquid;
The residual value of automotive vehicles might be impacted by diesel obsolescence and the transition to electric vehicles. The residual value risk is already set at
the more cautious end of the acceptable range to capture the inherent risk of diesel obsolescence and measurement uncertainty of electric vehicles; 
ECL calculations are based on multiple forward-looking economic scenarios developed by management covering a period of five years, during which timeframe
climate change risks may crystallise;
The proportion of mortgage loans subject to flood and subsidence risk is not material. The terms of our mortgage lending also require homeowners to have an
active flood protection at any point of the contract. This assessment relies upon availability of risk cover from private insurers and FloodRe, respectively. The
potential risk may increase over time if flooding due to climate change increases and/or insurance market circumstances change. 
Internal credit risk rating for corporate borrowers (audited)
We assign each corporate borrower an internal credit rating based on our internal rating scale. To do this, we look at the customer’s financial history and trends in
the economy backed up by the expert judgement of a risk analyst. We review our internal ratings on a dynamic basis and at least once a year. The internal risk rating
is used to determine the Probability of Default for a client.
Individually assessed corporate Stage 3 exposures (audited)
We assess the ECL requirement for single name corporate exposures on an individual basis when they meet our definition of default and are transferred into Stage
3. This assessment uses the latest specific data about the counterparty's estimated future cash flows, and collateral valuations, to determine a probability weighted
ECL based on a best, worst and mid case outcome. For these individually assessed loans, the ECL allowance was £162m at 31 December 2024 (2023: £124m). Had
management assumed the best or worst outcome for loss estimates, the ECL allowance could have been within a range of £63m to £291m.
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Sensitivity of ECL allowance to economic scenarios and weights (audited)
The ECL allowance is sensitive to the methods, assumptions and estimates underlying its calculation. For example, management could have applied different
probability weights to the economic scenarios. In addition, the ECL allowance for residential mortgages is significantly affected by the HPI assumptions which
determine the valuation of collateral used in the calculations.
Had management used different assumptions on probability weights and HPI, a larger or smaller ECL charge would have resulted that may have had a material
impact on the ECL allowance and profit before tax.
Scenario sensitivity
The tables below show the ECL allowances that would have arisen had management applied a 100% weight to each economic scenario. The allowances were
calculated using a stage allocation appropriate to each scenario and differs from the probability-weighted stage allocation used to determine the ECL allowance
shown above. For exposures subject to individual assessment, the distribution of ECLs which could reasonably be expected has also been considered, assuming no
change in the number of cases subject to individual assessment, and within the context of a potential best to worst case outcome.
Upside
Base case
Downside 1
Downside 2
Weighted
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Exposure
283,860
283,860
283,860
283,860
283,860
Retail & Business Banking
196,732
196,732
196,732
196,732
196,732
Of which:
  – Mortgages
176,026
176,026
176,026
176,026
176,026
Consumer Finance
4,759
4,759
4,759
4,759
4,759
Corporate & Commercial Banking
26,307
26,307
26,307
26,307
26,307
Corporate Centre
56,062
56,062
56,062
56,062
56,062
ECL
741
774
921
1,524
869
Retail & Business Banking
380
403
517
1,051
458
Of which:
  – Mortgages
112
128
218
705
172
Consumer Finance
67
68
69
70
69
Corporate & Commercial Banking
294
303
335
403
342
Corporate Centre
Upside
Base case
Downside 1
Stubborn
Inflation
Downside 2
Weighted
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Exposure
294,877
294,877
294,877
294,877
294,877
294,877
Retail & Business Banking
201,977
201,977
201,977
201,977
201,977
201,977
Of which:
  – Mortgages
181,188
181,188
181,188
181,188
181,188
181,188
Consumer Finance
5,228
5,228
5,228
5,228
5,228
5,228
Corporate & Commercial Banking
27,277
27,277
27,277
27,277
27,277
27,277
Corporate Centre
60,395
60,395
60,395
60,395
60,395
60,395
ECL
833
896
991
1,176
1,410
992
Retail & Business Banking
419
465
536
689
889
542
Of which:
  – Mortgages
141
174
234
363
562
242
Consumer Finance
68
69
70
72
72
70
Corporate & Commercial Banking
346
362
385
415
449
380
Corporate Centre
2024 compared to 2023
ECL reduced by £123m, driven by deleveraging of the balance sheet and the improved economic outlook resulting in ECL model releases. The ECL on Credit Cards
increased in the year due to the updated SICR rules. The value of JAs decreased in 2024 due to the implementation of new impairment models for Mortgages and
Corporate & Commercial Banking, as well as the releases of the affordability JAs in EDB.
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HPI sensitivity
Given the relative size of our residential mortgage portfolio, management considers that changes in HPI assumptions used to calculate the modelled ECL allowance
for residential mortgages would have the most significant impact on the modelled ECL allowance. The table below shows the modelled ECL impact on the profit
before tax of applying an immediate and permanent house price increase/decrease to our unweighted base case scenario, and assumes no changes to the stage
allocation of exposures.
Increase/decrease in house prices
+20%
+10%
-10%
-20%
Increase/(decrease) in profit before tax
£m
£m
£m
£m
2024
34
21
(38)
(112)
2023
70
38
(54)
(155)
2024 compared to 2023
The decrease in modelled ECL sensitivity reflects the new Retail Mortgages impairment model we introduced in 2024, which shows different economic sensitivities,
as well as portfolio deleveraging. The impairment model assumes a similar loss for low LTV accounts, given the distribution of LTV in the portfolio, and increases in
the HPI exhibit shows less impact on modelled ECL than decreases in HPI.
Measuring ECL (audited)
For our mortgages and CCB portfolios, where accounts are not in default at the reporting date, we estimate a quarterly ECL for each exposure and for each quarter
over the forecast period. The lifetime ECL is the sum of the quarterly ECLs over the forecast period, while the 12-month ECL is limited to the first four quarters. We
calculate each quarterly ECL as the discounted value for the relevant forecast month of the product of the following factors:
Factor
Description
Survival rate (SR)
The probability that the exposure has not closed or defaulted since the reporting date.
Probability of default
(PD)
The likelihood of a borrower defaulting in the following quarter, assuming it has not closed or defaulted since the reporting date. For each quarter in
the forecast period, we estimate the quarterly PD from a range of factors. These include key risk drivers for the exposure, as well as the expected
evolution of the account risk with maturity and factors for changing economics. We support this with historical data analysis.
Exposure at default
(EAD)
The amount we expect to be owed if a default, or sale in the case of retail mortgages, event occurs. We determine EAD for each quarter of the
forecast period by the expected payment profile, which varies by product. For amortising products, we base it on the borrower’s contractual
repayments over the forecast period. We adjust this for any expected overpayments on Stage 1 accounts that the borrower may make and for any
arrears we expect if the account was to default. For revolving products, or amortising products with an off-balance sheet element, we determine
EAD using the balance at default and the contractual exposure limit. We vary these assumptions by product and base them on analysis of recent
default data.
Loss given default
(LGD)
Our expected loss if a default event were to occur. We express it as a percentage and calculate it based on factors that we have observed to affect
the likelihood and/or value of any subsequent write-offs, which vary according to whether the product is secured or unsecured. If the product is
secured, we consider collateral values as well as the historical discounts to market/book values due to forced sales type.
We use the original effective interest rate as the discount rate. For accounts in default, we use the EAD as the reporting date balance. We also calculate an LGD to
reflect the default status of the account, considering the current DPD and loan-to-value. PD and SR are not required for accounts in default.
Forecast period
We base the forecast period for amortising facilities on the remaining contract term. For revolving facilities, we base it on the behavioural, rather than contractual,
characteristics of the facility type.
Forward-looking information
Our assessments of a SICR and the calculation of ECL allowances incorporate forward-looking data. We perform historical analysis and identify the key economic
variables that impact credit risk and ECL allowances for each portfolio. These can include house price growth, GDP, unemployment rate and BoE Bank Rate. Where
applicable, we incorporate these economic variables and their associated impacts into our models.
Economic forecasts have the most impact on ECL measurement for residential mortgages and, to a lesser extent, corporate loans. This is due to the long
behavioural lives and large size of these portfolios. Economic forecasts have less impact on ECL for other portfolios due to their shorter lives and smaller size.
Grouping of instruments for losses measured on a collective basis
We measure ECL at the individual financial instrument level. However, where we have used internal capital or similar models as the basis for our ECL models, this
typically results in a large number of relatively small homogenous groups. We typically group instruments where they share risk characteristics using statistical
models and assess them for impairment collectively. We use this approach for all our Retail & Business Banking and Consumer Finance portfolios and SME
customers in Corporate & Commercial Banking.
We calculate separate collective provisions for instruments in Stages 1, 2 and 3 where the instrument is not individually assessed.
For all our portfolios (whether we assess them for impairment individually or collectively) we use four forward-looking economic scenarios.
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Governance around ECL impairment allowances (audited)
Our Risk Methodology team developed our ECL models (except for the external models we use, such as OGEM which we described earlier in ‘Our forecasting
approach’), and our Independent Validations team reviews all material models. As model owners, our Risk Provisioning & Forecasting team run the models to
calculate our ECL each month. The models are sensitive to changes in credit conditions and reflect management judgements that give rise to measurement
uncertainty in our ECL, as set out above. The following committees and forums review the provision drivers and ensure that the ECL remains appropriate:
Model Risk Control Forum (MRCF) reviews and approves new models and model changes. It also reviews the use of OGEM as a reliable model on which to base
our other forecast macroeconomic variables. We use it across all stress testing and planning so it is subject to model risk criteria.
ALCO reviews and approves the base case used in the economic scenarios we use to calculate forward-looking scenarios.
CRPF reviews and approves the economic scenarios and probability weights we use to calculate forward-looking scenarios. It also reviews management
judgements and approves ECL impairment allowances.
Board Audit Committee reviews and challenges the appropriateness of the estimates and judgements made by management.
For more on the governance around specific elements of the ECL impairment allowances, including the frequency of, and thresholds for, reviews, including by these
committees and forums, see the detailed sections above.
How we assess the performance of our ECL estimation process
We assess the reasonableness of our ECL provisions and the results of our Staging analysis using a range of methods. These include:
Benchmarking: we compare our coverage levels with our peers
Stand-back testing: we monitor the level of our coverage against actual write-offs
Back-testing: we compare key drivers periodically as part of model monitoring practices
Monitoring trends: we track ECL and Staged assets over time and against our internal budgets and forecasts, with triggers set accordingly.
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SANTANDER UK GROUP LEVEL – CREDIT RISK REVIEW
The credit risk balances  in these credit risk review sections include interest we have charged to the customer’s account, but not accrued interest that we have not
charged to the account yet, unless otherwise stated.
Our maximum and net exposure to credit risk (audited)
The tables below show the main differences between our maximum and net exposure to credit risk. They show the effects of collateral, netting, and risk transfer to
mitigate our exposure. The tables only show the financial assets that credit risk affects and to which the impairment requirements in IFRS 9 are applied.
For balance sheet assets, the maximum exposure to credit risk is the carrying value after impairment loss allowances. Off-balance sheet exposures are mortgage
offers, guarantees, formal standby facilities, credit lines and other commitments. For off-balance sheet guarantees, the maximum exposure is the maximum
amount that we would have to pay if the guarantees were called on. For formal standby facilities, credit lines and other commitments that are irrevocable over the
life of the facility, the maximum exposure is the total amount of the commitment.
Maximum exposure
Balance sheet asset
Off-balance sheet
Collateral(1)
Gross
amounts
Loss
allowance
Net
amounts
Gross
amounts
Loss
allowance
Net
amounts
Cash
Non-cash
Netting(2)
Net
exposure
2024
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
Cash and balances at central banks
29.9
29.9
29.9
Financial assets at amortised cost:
Loans and advances to customers:(3)
Residential Mortgages(4)
165.2
(0.2)
165.0
10.8
10.8
(168.0)
7.8
Corporate loans
18.6
(0.3)
18.3
7.8
7.8
(14.9)
11.2
Finance leases
4.2
(0.1)
4.1
4.1
Accrued interest and other adjustments
0.8
0.8
0.4
0.4
1.2
Other unsecured loans
6.6
(0.2)
6.4
14.2
(0.1)
14.1
20.5
Amounts due from fellow Banco Santander group
subsidiaries and JVs
4.8
4.8
4.8
Total loans and advances to customers
200.2
(0.8)
199.4
33.2
(0.1)
33.1
(182.9)
49.6
Loans and advances to banks
1.0
1.0
0.5
0.5
1.5
Reverse repurchase agreements – non trading
10.3
10.3
2.0
2.0
(10.3)
(0.1)
1.9
Other financial assets at amortised cost
3.4
3.4
3.4
Total financial assets at amortised cost
214.9
(0.8)
214.1
35.7
(0.1)
35.6
(193.2)
(0.1)
56.4
Financial assets at fair value at FVOCI:
Debt securities
9.0
9.0
9.0
Total financial assets at FVOCI
9.0
9.0
9.0
Total
253.8
(0.8)
253.0
35.7
(0.1)
35.6
(193.2)
(0.1)
95.3
2023
Cash and balances at central banks
38.2
38.2
38.2
Financial assets at amortised cost:
Loans and advances to customers:(3)
Residential Mortgages(4)
172.9
(0.2)
172.7
8.3
8.3
(175.4)
5.6
Corporate loans
18.3
(0.3)
18.0
8.9
8.9
(0.1)
(15.3)
11.5
Finance leases
4.6
(0.1)
4.5
(4.5)
Accrued interest and other adjustments
0.9
0.9
0.9
Other unsecured loans
7.1
(0.3)
6.8
13.8
(0.1)
13.7
20.5
Amounts due from fellow Banco Santander group
subsidiaries and JVs
4.5
4.5
4.5
Total loans and advances to customers
208.3
(0.9)
207.4
31.0
(0.1)
30.9
(0.1)
(195.2)
43.0
Loans and advances to banks
1.1
1.1
0.5
0.5
1.6
Reverse repurchase agreements – non trading
12.5
12.5
(12.4)
(0.1)
Other financial assets at amortised cost
0.2
0.2
0.2
Total financial assets at amortised cost
222.1
(0.9)
221.2
31.5
(0.1)
31.4
(0.1)
(207.6)
(0.1)
44.8
Financial assets at FVOCI:
Debt securities
8.5
8.5
8.5
Total financial assets at FVOCI
8.5
8.5
8.5
Total
268.8
(0.9)
267.9
31.5
(0.1)
31.4
(0.1)
(207.6)
(0.1)
91.5
(1) The forms of collateral we take to reduce credit risk include: residential and commercial property; other physical assets, including motor vehicles; liquid securities, including those transferred under reverse
repurchase agreements; cash, including cash used as collateral for derivative transactions; and receivables. Charges on residential property are most of the collateral we take.
(2) We can reduce credit risk exposures by applying netting. We do this mainly for derivative and repurchase transactions with financial institutions. For derivatives and securities finance transactions, we use standard
master netting agreements. For more on this, see ‘Credit risk mitigation’ in the ‘Credit risk - Credit risk management’ section.
(3) Balances include interest we have charged to the customer’s account and accrued interest that we have not charged to the account yet.
(4) The collateral value shown against advances secured on residential property is limited to the balance of each associated individual loan. It does not include the impact of over–collateralisation (where the collateral
has a higher value than the loan balance) and includes collateral we would receive on draw down of certain off–balance sheet commitments.
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The tables below show the main differences between our maximum and net exposure to credit risk on the financial assets that credit risk affects and to which the
impairment requirements in IFRS 9 are not applied.
Balance
sheet asset
gross
amount
Collateral(1)
Netting(2)
Net
exposure
Cash
Non-cash
2024
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
Financial assets at FVTPL:
Derivative financial instruments
1.2
(0.7)
(0.4)
0.1
Other financial assets at FVTPL
0.1
0.1
Total
1.3
(0.7)
(0.4)
0.2
2023
Financial assets at FVTPL:
Derivative financial instruments
1.4
(0.8)
0.0
(0.5)
0.1
Other financial assets at FVTPL
0.3
0.3
Total
1.7
(0.8)
0.0
(0.5)
0.4
(1) The forms of collateral we take to reduce credit risk include: liquid securities, including those transferred under reverse repurchase agreements; cash, including cash used as collateral for derivative transactions;
and receivables.
(2) We can reduce credit risk exposures by applying netting. We do this mainly for derivative and repurchase transactions with financial institutions. For derivatives and securities finance transactions, we use standard
master netting agreements. They allow us to set off our credit risk exposure to a counterparty against our obligations to the counterparty in relation to transactions under the master netting agreement in the event
of default. This gives us a lower net credit exposure. They may also reduce settlement exposure. For more on this, see ‘Credit risk mitigation’ in the ‘Credit risk – Credit risk management’ section.
Single credit rating scale
In the table below, we have used a single rating scale to ensure we are consistent across all our credit risk portfolios in how we report the risk of default. It has eight
grades for non–defaulted exposures, from 9 (lowest risk) to 2 (highest risk). We define each grade by an upper and lower PD value and we scale the grades so that
the default risk increases by a factor of ten every time the grade number drops by two steps. For example, grade 9 has an average PD of 0.010%, and grade 7 has an
average PD of 0.100%. We give defaulted exposures a grade 1 and a PD value of 100%. In the final column of the table, we show the approximate equivalent credit
rating grade used by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (S&P).
Santander UK risk grade
PD range
Mid
Lower
Upper
S&P
equivalent
%
%
%
9
0.010
0.000
0.021
AAA to AA+
8
0.032
0.021
0.066
AA to AA-
7
0.100
0.066
0.208
A+ to BBB
6
0.316
0.208
0.658
BBB- to BB
5
1.000
0.658
2.081
BB-
4
3.162
2.081
6.581
B+ to B
3
10.000
6.581
20.811
B-
2
31.623
20.811
99.999
CCC to C
1 (Default)
100.000
100.000
100.000
D
The PDs in the table above are based on Economic Capital (EC) PD mappings, calculated based on the average PD over an economic cycle. This is different to the
IFRS 9 PDs which are calculated at a point in time using forward looking economic scenarios. Where possible, the EC PD values are aligned to the regulatory capital
models; however, any regulatory floors are removed and PDs are defined at every possible rating rather than grouped into rating buckets.
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Rating distribution (audited)
The tables below show the credit rating of our financial assets to which the impairment requirements in IFRS 9 apply. Financial assets with low risk concentrations
are not included and are all investment grade. JAs are incorporated in the balances. For more on the credit rating profiles of key portfolios, see the credit risk review
section for each business segment.
Santander UK risk grade
Loss
allowance
Total
9
8
7
6
5
4
3 to 1
Other(1)(2)
2024
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
Exposures - On balance sheet
Financial assets at amortised cost:
–Loans and advances to customers(2)
5.8
31.3
81.8
46.4
15.6
6.8
5.4
7.1
(0.8)
199.4
    –Stage 1
5.7
30.6
78.1
40.5
12.4
2.8
0.6
6.9
(0.1)
177.5
    –Stage 2
0.1
0.7
3.7
5.9
3.2
3.9
2.4
0.1
(0.3)
19.7
    –Stage 3
0.1
2.4
0.1
(0.4)
2.2
Of which mortgages:
5.2
29.8
76.5
40.8
6.5
3.3
3.1
(0.2)
165.0
    –Stage 1
5.1
29.3
72.9
35.0
4.0
0.4
146.7
    –Stage 2
0.1
0.5
3.6
5.8
2.5
2.9
1.3
(0.1)
16.6
    –Stage 3
1.8
(0.1)
1.7
Total off–balance sheet
6.9
8.9
9.0
4.2
1.9
0.8
0.7
3.3
(0.1)
35.6
    –Stage 1
6.9
8.8
8.8
4.0
1.7
0.5
0.4
3.3
34.4
    –Stage 2
0.1
0.2
0.2
0.2
0.3
0.2
(0.1)
1.1
    –Stage 3
0.1
0.1
Santander UK risk grade
Total
Coverage
Ratio
9
8
7
6
5
4
3 to 1
Other(1)(2)
2024
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
%
ECL - On balance sheet
Financial assets at amortised cost:
Loans and advances to customers(2)
0.2
0.1
0.5
0.8
0.4
Stage 1
0.1
0.1
0.1
Stage 2
0.1
0.1
0.1
0.3
1.5
Stage 3
0.4
0.4
18.2
Of which mortgages:
0.1
0.1
0.2
0.1
Stage 1
Stage 2
0.1
0.1
0.6
Stage 3
0.1
0.1
5.9
Total off–balance sheet
0.1
0.1
0.3
Stage 1
Stage 2
0.1
0.1
9.1
Stage 3
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Santander UK risk grade
Loss
allowance
9
8
7
6
5
4
3 to 1
Other(1)(2)
Total
2023
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
Exposures - On balance sheet
Financial assets at amortised cost:
Loans and advances to customers(2)
5.3
34.2
84.4
48.9
14.6
8.3
5.4
7.2
(0.9)
207.4
Stage 1
5.3
33.1
80.4
43.6
10.3
2.8
0.3
6.9
(0.1)
182.6
Stage 2
1.1
4.0
5.3
4.3
5.4
2.4
0.1
(0.4)
22.2
Stage 3
0.1
2.7
0.2
(0.4)
2.6
Of which mortgages:
5.2
32.5
79.9
41.5
6.6
3.7
3.5
(0.2)
172.7
Stage 1
5.2
31.4
75.9
36.3
3.6
0.4
0.2
153.0
Stage 2
1.1
4.0
5.2
3.0
3.2
1.4
(0.1)
17.8
Stage 3
0.1
1.9
(0.1)
1.9
Total off–balance sheet
6.3
7.0
6.8
4.6
1.7
0.4
4.7
(0.1)
31.4
Stage 1
6.3
6.9
6.7
4.4
1.2
0.1
4.7
30.3
Stage 2
0.1
0.1
0.2
0.5
0.2
(0.1)
1.0
Stage 3
0.1
0.1
Santander UK risk grade
Coverage
Ratio
9
8
7
6
5
4
3 to 1
Other(1)(2)
Total
2023
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
%
ECL - On balance sheet
Financial assets at amortised cost:
Loans and advances to customers(2)
0.2
0.2
0.5
0.9
0.4
Stage 1
0.1
0.1
0.1
Stage 2
0.1
0.2
0.1
0.4
1.8
Stage 3
0.4
0.4
13.3
Of which mortgages:
0.1
0.1
0.2
0.1
Stage 1
Stage 2
0.1
0.1
0.6
Stage 3
0.1
0.1
5.0
Total off–balance sheet
0.1
0.1
0.3
Stage 1
Stage 2
0.1
0.1
9.1
Stage 3
(1) Includes Joint Ventures and Business Banking (including BBLs balances) . We use scorecards for these items, rather than rating models. .
(2) Includes interest we have charged to the customer’s account and accrued interest we have not charged to the account yet.
Arrears over 90 days past due
31 December 2024
31 December 2023
%
%
Mortgages
0.80
0.80
Credit Cards
0.56
0.51
UPL
0.88
0.73
Overdrafts
3.05
2.43
Business Banking
3.89
4.15
Consumer Finance
0.53
0.43
Corporate & Commercial Banking
1.04
1.04
2024 compared to 2023
Our underlying asset quality remained good, supported by the sale of low return mortgage assets. The improvement in the economic outlook helped drive the
reduction in Stage 2 and 3 assets. While we saw loans in Stage 2 and 3 decrease, we saw an increase in early arrears in 2024 as they returned to more normalised
levels. The decrease in CCB Stage 2 assets was driven by an overall improvement in asset quality.
For more on the credit performance of our key portfolios by business segment, see the credit risk review section for each business segment.
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Credit quality (audited)
Total on-balance sheet exposures at 31 December 2024 comprised £194.5 bn of customer loans, loans and advances to banks of £1.0bn, £13.7bn of sovereign
assets measured at amortised cost, £9.0bn of assets measured at FVOCI, and £29.9bn of cash and balances at central banks.
Gross Write-offs
Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 3
Total
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Exposures
On-balance sheet
Retail & Business Banking
152,198
17,571
1,955
171,724
Consumer Finance
4,389
334
36
4,759
Corporate & Commercial Banking
15,280
2,098
651
18,029
Corporate Centre
53,699
53,699
Total on-balance sheet
225,566
20,003
2,642
248,211
Off–balance sheet
Retail & Business Banking(1)
24,211
745
52
25,008
Consumer Finance
Corporate & Commercial Banking
7,743
470
65
8,278
Corporate Centre
2,363
2,363
Total off–balance sheet(2)
34,317
1,215
117
35,649
Total exposures
259,883
21,218
2,759
283,860
ECL and Gross write-offs
On-balance sheet
Retail & Business Banking
156
52
223
146
421
Consumer Finance
25
16
27
26
69
Corporate & Commercial Banking
49
55
71
168
294
Corporate Centre
Total on-balance sheet
230
123
321
340
784
Off–balance sheet
Retail & Business Banking
12
24
1
37
Consumer Finance
Corporate & Commercial Banking
18
14
16
48
Corporate Centre
Total off–balance sheet
30
38
17
85
Total ECL
230
153
359
357
869
Coverage ratio(3)
%
%
%
%
On-balance sheet
Retail & Business Banking
1.3
7.5
0.2
Consumer Finance
0.4
8.2
71.2
1.4
Corporate & Commercial Banking
0.4
3.4
25.9
1.6
Corporate Centre
Total on-balance sheet
0.1
1.6
12.9
0.3
Off–balance sheet
Retail & Business Banking
3.2
2.6
0.1
Consumer Finance
Corporate & Commercial Banking
0.2
3.0
24.2
0.6
Corporate Centre
Total off-balance sheet
0.1
3.1
14.6
0.2
Total coverage
0.1
1.7
13.0
0.3
(1) Off-balance sheet exposures include £6.1bn of residential mortgage offers in the pipeline.
(2) Off-balance sheet amounts consist of contingent liabilities and commitments. For more, see Note 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(3) ECL as a percentage of the related exposure.
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Total on-balance sheet exposures at 31 December 2023 comprised £203.1bn of customer loans, loans and advances to banks of £1.1bn, £12.6bn of sovereign
assets measured at amortised cost, £8.5bn of assets measured at FVOCI, and £38.2bn of cash and balances at central banks.
Gross Write-offs
Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 3
Total
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Exposures
On-balance sheet
Retail & Business Banking
158,782
18,866
2,239
179,887
Consumer Finance
4,870
330
28
5,228
Corporate & Commercial Banking
13,822
3,418
699
17,939
Corporate Centre
60,395
60,395
Total on-balance sheet
237,869
22,614
2,966
263,449
Off–balance sheet
Retail & Business Banking(1)
21,597
434
59
22,090
Consumer Finance
0
Corporate & Commercial Banking
8,745
547
46
9,338
Corporate Centre
Total off–balance sheet(2)
30,342
981
105
31,428
Total exposures
268,211
23,595
3,071
294,877
ECL and Gross write-offs
On-balance sheet
Retail & Business Banking
141
57
273
169
499
Consumer Finance
23
21
30
19
70
Corporate & Commercial Banking
68
64
118
163
345
Corporate Centre
Total on-balance sheet
232
142
421
351
914
Off–balance sheet
Retail & Business Banking
16
26
1
43
Consumer Finance
Corporate & Commercial Banking
12
14
9
35
Total off–balance sheet
28
40
10
78
Total ECL
232
170
461
361
992
Coverage ratio(3)
%
%
%
%
On-balance sheet
Retail & Business Banking
1.4
7.5
0.3
Consumer Finance
0.4
9.0
68.5
1.3
Corporate & Commercial Banking
0.5
3.5
23.4
1.9
Corporate Centre
Total on-balance sheet
0.1
1.9
11.8
0.3
Off–balance sheet
Retail & Business Banking
0.1
6.0
2.8
0.2
Consumer Finance
Corporate & Commercial Banking
0.1
2.5
20.2
0.4
Total off-balance sheet
0.1
4.1
10.4
0.2
Total coverage
0.1
2.0
11.8
0.3
(1) Off-balance sheet exposures include £3.3bn of residential mortgage offers in the pipeline.
(2) Off-balance sheet amounts consist of contingent liabilities and commitments. For more, see Note 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(3) ECL as a percentage of the related exposure.
2024 compared to 2023
The ECL provision at 31 December 2024 decreased by £123m to £869m (2023: £992m) with a change in our economic assumptions and weights, including the
removal of our Stubborn Inflation scenario and the re-weighting of the remaining scenarios in 2024. Following the fall in inflation in 2024, we also released
judgemental adjustments which were originally made to reflect cost of living pressures on customers.
Gross write-off utilisation of £230m (2023: £232m) largely driven by unsecured retail.
Key movements in exposures and ECL allowance in the year by Stage were:
Stage 1 exposures reduced, mainly due to lower Mortgage new business. Stage 1 ECL allowance also reduced due to a reduction in Mortgage assets, as well as
the economic assumption and weights updates.
Stage 2 exposures reduced, driven by Corporate and Commercial Banking assets moving from Stage 1 to Stage 2 following the implementation of new
impairment models and in Mortgages due to the unwinding of the refinance JAs moving customers back into Stage 1. Stage 2 ECL allowance reduced mainly due
to the economic assumption and weights updates in the year.
Stage 3 exposures and ECL allowance reduced in 2024 mainly in Mortgages due to the improved economic outlook and sale of low return mortgage assets in
Q424.
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Stage 2 analysis (audited)
The following table analyses our Stage 2 exposures and ECL allowance by the reason the exposure is classified as Stage 2.
2024
Backstop
Quantitative
Qualitative
JAs
Total
30 DPD
PD deterioration
PD threshold
Forbearance(1)
Other(2)
Mortgage
Refinancing
Retail & Business
Banking
Exposure £m
592
9,434
478
308
4,955
1,804
17,571
ECL £m
20
133
29
5
25
11
223
Of which
-Mortgages
Exposure £m
504
8,834
350
298
4,898
1,804
16,688
ECL £m
7
48
3
3
12
11
84
Consumer Finance
Exposure £m
30
155
149
334
ECL £m
10
11
6
27
Corporate &
Commercial Banking
Exposure £m
54
930
61
57
996
2,098
ECL £m
1
38
7
1
24
71
Corporate Centre
Exposure £m
ECL £m
Total Drawn
Exposure £m
676
10,519
539
365
6,100
1,804
20,003
ECL £m
31
182
36
6
55
11
321
Undrawn
ECL £m
1
23
6
2
6
38
Total Reported
Exposure £m
701
11,180
605
434
6,494
1,804
21,218
ECL £m
32
205
42
8
61
11
359
2023
Backstop
Quantitative
Qualitative
JAs
Total
30 DPD
PD
deterioration
Forbearance(1)
Other
Secured
affordability
Unsecured
affordability
Mortgage
Refinancing
High risk
corporate
Retail & Business
Banking
Exposure £m
738
6,421
516
301
2,889
232
7,769
18,866
ECL £m
33
164
2
11
9
35
19
273
Of which
-Mortgages
Exposure £m
560
5,877
516
265
2,889
7,769
17,876
ECL £m
11
65
2
3
9
19
109
Consumer Finance
Exposure £m
25
115
126
64
330
ECL £m
11
10
5
4
30
Corporate &
Commercial Banking
Exposure £m
93
1,809
85
533
898
3,418
ECL £m
2
75
2
17
22
118
Corporate Centre
Exposure £m
ECL £m
Total Drawn
Exposure £m
856
8,345
601
960
2,953
232
7,769
898
22,614
ECL £m
46
249
4
33
13
35
19
22
421
Undrawn
ECL £m
3
28
4
3
2
40
Total Reported
Exposure £m
893
9,160
601
1,152
2,889
233
7,769
898
23,595
ECL £m
49
277
4
37
13
38
19
24
461
(1) Where the values of ECL and/or exposures are not £nil, but round to £nil when presented in £millions, the coverage ratio is still presented in the table.
(2) Mainly consists of Qualitative triggers for Mortgages, over-indebted customers c£2.5bn and Interest-only accounts 24 months pre-maturity c£1.3bn, and for CCB customers operating in a high-risk sector.
Where balances satisfy more than one of the criteria above for determining a SICR, we have assigned the corresponding gross carrying amount and ECL allowance in
order of the categories presented.
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Financial statements
Shareholder information
Reconciliation of exposures, loss allowance and net carrying amounts (audited)
The table below shows the relationships between disclosures in this Credit risk review section which refer to drawn exposures and the associated ECL allowance ,
and the total assets as presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. The Credit risk review disclosures exclude Joint ventures, as they carry low credit risk and
therefore have an immaterial ECL, and Other items, mainly accrued interest that we have not yet charged to the customer's account, and cash collateral.
On-balance sheet
Off-balance sheet
Exposures
Loss
allowance
Net carrying
amount
Exposures
Loss
allowance
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Retail & Business Banking(1)
171,724
421
171,303
25,008
37
Consumer Finance
4,759
69
4,690
Corporate & Commercial Banking
18,029
294
17,735
8,278
48
Corporate Centre
53,699
53,699
2,363
Total exposures presented in Credit Quality tables
248,211
784
247,427
35,649
85
Joint ventures
4,832
Other items
848
Adjusted net carrying amount
253,107
Assets classified at FVTPL
1,340
Non-financial assets
5,497
Total assets per the Consolidated Balance Sheet
259,944
2023
Retail & Business Banking(1)
179,887
499
179,388
22,090
43
Consumer Finance
5,228
70
5,158
Corporate & Commercial Banking
17,939
345
17,594
9,338
35
Corporate Centre
60,395
60,395
Total exposures presented in Credit Quality tables
263,449
914
262,535
31,428
78
Joint ventures
4,544
Other items
751
Adjusted net carrying amount
267,830
Assets classified at FVTPL
1,694
Non-financial assets
5,924
Total assets per the Consolidated Balance Sheet
275,448
(1) Off-balance sheet exposures include offers in the pipeline, undrawn flexible mortgage products and credit cards.
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Movement in total exposures and the corresponding ECL (audited)
The following table shows changes in total on and off-balance sheet exposures, subject to ECL assessment, and the corresponding ECL, in the period. The table
presents total gross carrying amounts and ECLs at a Santander UK group level. We present segmental views in the sections below.
Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 3
Total
Exposures(1)
ECL
Exposures(1)
ECL
Exposures(1)
ECL
Exposures(1)
ECL
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
268,211
170
23,595
461
3,071
361
294,877
992
Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2(3)
(11,911)
(11)
11,911
11
Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1(3)
9,395
118
(9,395)
(118)
Transfers to Stage 3(3)
(434)
(2)
(845)
(34)
1,279
36
Transfers from Stage 3(3)
35
2
417
34
(452)
(36)
Transfers of financial instruments
(2,915)
107
2,088
(107)
827
Net ECL remeasurement on stage transfer(4)
(107)
96
122
111
Change in economic scenarios(2)
(20)
(44)
(64)
Change to ECL models
(2,287)
(5)
2,361
37
(74)
(26)
6
New lending and assets purchased(5)
33,894
43
1,170
58
164
40
35,228
141
Redemptions, repayments and assets sold(7)
(38,081)
(44)
(4,663)
(69)
(1,242)
(79)
(43,986)
(192)
Changes in risk parameters and other movements(6)
1,061
9
(3,333)
(73)
355
169
(1,917)
105
Assets written off(7)
(342)
(230)
(342)
(230)
At 31 December 2024
259,883
153
21,218
359
2,759
357
283,860
869
Net movement in the period
(8,328)
(17)
(2,377)
(102)
(312)
(4)
(11,017)
(123)
ECL (release)/charge to the Income Statement
(17)
(102)
226
107
Less: Discount unwind
(24)
(24)
Less: Recoveries net of collection costs
(12)
(12)
Total ECL (release)/charge to the Income Statement
(17)
(102)
190
71
At 1 January 2023
284,428
170
19,127
516
2,729
319
306,284
1,005
Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2(3)
(12,945)
(9)
12,945
9
Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1(3)
5,913
111
(5,913)
(111)
Transfers to Stage 3(3)
(598)
(6)
(920)
(38)
1,518
44
Transfers from Stage 3(3)
28
1
304
15
(332)
(16)
Transfers of financial instruments
(7,602)
97
6,416
(125)
1,186
28
Net ECL remeasurement on stage transfer(4)
(111)
145
130
164
Change in economic scenarios(2)
29
(33)
9
5
Change to ECL models
New lending and assets purchased(5)
25,409
28
562
45
59
20
26,030
93
Redemptions, repayments and assets sold(7)
(33,805)
(35)
(3,017)
(53)
(886)
(46)
(37,708)
(134)
Changes in risk parameters and other movements(6)
(219)
(8)
507
(34)
395
133
683
91
Assets written off(7)
(412)
(232)
(412)
(232)
At 31 December 2023
268,211
170
23,595
461
3,071
361
294,877
992
Net movement in the period
(16,217)
4,468
(55)
342
42
(11,407)
(13)
ECL (release)/charge to the Income Statement
(55)
274
219
Less: Discount unwind
(21)
(21)
Less: Recoveries net of collection costs
7
7
Total ECL (release)/charge to the Income Statement
(55)
260
205
(1) Exposures that have attracted an ECL, and as reported in the Credit Quality table above.
(2) Changes to assumptions in the period. Isolates the impact on ECL from changes to the economic variables for each scenario, the scenarios themselves, and the probability weights from all other movements. Also
includes the impact of quarterly revaluation of collateral. The impact of changes in economics on exposure Stage allocations are shown in Transfers of financial instruments.
(3) Total impact of facilities that moved Stage(s) in the period. This means, for example, that where risk parameter changes (model inputs) or model changes (methodology) result in a facility moving Stage, the full
impact is reflected here (rather than in Other). Stage flow analysis only applies to facilities that existed at both the start and end of the period. Transfers between Stages are based on opening balances and ECL at
the start of the period.
(4) Relates to the revaluation of ECL following the transfer of an exposure from one Stage to another.
(5) Exposures and ECL of facilities that did not exist at the start of the period but did at the end. Amounts in Stage 2 and 3 represent assets which deteriorated in the period after origination in Stage 1.
(6) Residual movements on existing facilities that did not change Stage in the period, and which were not acquired in the period. Includes the net increase or decrease in the period of the mortgage pipeline, cash at
central banks, the impact of changes in risk parameters in the period, unwind of discount rates and increases in ECL requirements of accounts which ultimately were written off in the period.
(7) Exposures and ECL for facilities that existed at the start of the period but not at the end.
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COUNTRY RISK EXPOSURES (audited)
We manage our country risk exposure under our global limits framework. We set our Risk Appetite for each country, considering factors that may affect its risk
profile. These can include political events, macroeconomics and the nature of the risk. We actively manage exposures if we need to.
The tables below show our total exposures, which are the total of balance sheet and off–balance sheet values. We calculate balance sheet values in line with IFRS
(i.e. after netting allowed under IAS 32) except for credit provisions which we add back. Off–balance sheet values are undrawn facilities and letters of credit. We
classify location by country of risk – the country where each client has its main business or assets. That is unless there is a full risk transfer guarantee in place. If so,
we use the guarantor’s country of domicile. If a client has operations in many countries, we use their country of incorporation. The table below excludes balances
with other Banco Santander group members. We show them separately in the section that immediately follows.
2024
2023
Financial
institutions
Financial
institutions
Governments
Banks(1)
Other
Retail
Corporate
Total(2)
Governments
Banks(1)
Other
Retail
Corporate
Total(2)
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
Eurozone
Ireland
3.3
3.3
3.1
0.1
3.2
Spain
France
0.1
1.5
2.1
3.7
0.1
1.7
0.8
2.6
Belgium
0.2
0.3
0.5
0.2
0.3
0.5
Germany
0.2
0.2
0.2
0.3
0.5
Luxembourg
2.3
0.1
2.4
0.5
0.1
0.6
Other
0.1
0.4
0.5
0.3
2.0
7.7
0.1
10.1
0.4
2.6
4.7
0.2
7.9
Other countries
UK
34.0
1.5
6.3
200.8
24.3
266.9
38.5
1.7
6.5
206.0
25.0
277.7
Jersey
0.1
0.3
0.4
0.1
0.2
0.3
US
0.9
0.9
0.7
0.7
Canada
0.6
0.9
1.5
0.1
0.8
0.9
Japan
2.8
0.1
2.9
2.0
0.9
2.9
Switzerland
0.4
0.4
2.1
2.1
Other(3)
0.6
0.1
0.2
0.4
1.3
0.4
0.1
0.1
0.5
1.1
37.8
4.0
6.5
201.0
25.0
274.3
42.7
4.5
6.7
206.1
25.7
285.7
Total
38.1
6.0
14.2
201.0
25.1
284.4
43.1
7.1
11.4
206.1
25.9
293.6
(1) Excludes balances with central banks.
(2) Excludes cash at hand, interests in other entities, intangible assets, property, plant and equipment, tax assets, retirement benefit assets and other assets.
(3)Mainly includes Australia £0.3bn (2023: £0.3bn), Other OECD £0.2bn (2023: £0.2bn), Bermuda £0.1bn (2023: £0.1bn), China £0.1bn (2023: £0.1bn), Guernsey £0.1bn (2023:£0.2bn), Singapore £0.1bn (2023:
£0.0bn), and Norway £0.1bn (2023: £0.1bn).
Balances with other Banco Santander group members (audited)
We deal with other Banco Santander group members in the ordinary course of business. We do this where we have a particular business advantage or expertise and
where they can offer us commercial opportunities. These transactions also arise where we support the activities of, or with, larger multinational corporate clients
and financial institutions which may deal with other Banco Santander group members. We conduct these activities on the same terms as for similar transactions
with third parties, and in a way that manages the credit risk within limits acceptable to the Board and the PRA.
At 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023 , we had gross balances with other Banco Santander group members as follows:
2024
2023
Financial institutions
Financial institutions
Banks
Other
Corporate
Total
Banks
Other
Corporate
Total
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
Assets
Spain
0.6
0.6
0.8
0.8
UK
4.9
4.9
4.6
4.6
0.6
4.9
5.5
0.8
4.6
5.4
Liabilities
Spain
0.9
0.1
1.0
1.1
0.1
1.2
UK
14.2
14.2
14.3
14.3
0.9
14.3
15.2
1.1
14.4
15.5
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RETAIL & BUSINESS BANKING – CREDIT RISK REVIEW
We provide detailed credit risk analysis for Retail & Business Banking in separate sections below for Mortgages, our largest portfolio, and our Everyday Banking portfolio.
Retail & Business Banking: Mortgages - Credit Risk Review
We offer mortgages to people who want to buy a property and offer additional borrowing (known as further advances) to existing mortgage customers. The
property must be in the UK.
Borrower profile (audited)
Stock
New business
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
%
£m
%
£m
%
£m
%
Home movers(1)
69,354
42
71,931
42
6,736
45
5,009
41
Remortgagers(2)
45,226
27
48,475
28
4,353
29
3,901
32
First-time buyers
35,702
22
36,868
21
3,262
22
3,015
25
Buy-to-let
14,931
9
15,585
9
567
4
239
2
165,213
100
172,859
100
14,918
100
12,164
100
2024
2023
Internal remortgages (£bn)(3)
32.2
31.2
Further advances and flexi drawdowns (£bn)
0.8
0.7
First-time buyers - gross lending (£bn )
3.3
3.0
% of customers retained with a maturing mortgage (unaudited)(4)
77
77
(1) 'Home movers’ include both existing customers moving house and taking out a new mortgage with us, and customers who switch their mortgage to us when they move house.
(2) Remortgagers’ are new customers who are taking a new mortgage with us.
(3) Internal remortgages are where we moved our customers with maturing mortgages onto new ones.
(4) Applied to mortgages three months post maturity, and is calculated as a 12-month average of retention rates to September 2024 and December 2023 respectively.
2024 compared to 2023
In 2024, mortgage asset stock decreased across all sectors, with the stock borrower profile unchanged. Although our new business increased year-on-year in all
sectors, a decision to optimise the balance sheet in a competitively priced market has resulted in us not fully replacing the asset balances lost through repayments
and redemptions.
Interest rate profile (audited)
The interest rate profile of our maturing mortgage asset stock was:
2024
2023
£m
%
£m
%
Fixed rate
148,495
90
153,207
89
Of which maturing:
< 12 months
37,656
23
37,630
22
Later than 1 year but no later than 3 years
84,704
51
65,502
38
Later than 3 years but no later than 4 years
11,122
7
34,725
20
Later than 4 years but no later than 5 years
11,645
7
10,977
6
Later than 5 years
3,368
2
4,373
3
Variable rate
12,105
7
13,761
8
Standard Variable Rate (SVR)
3,007
2
3,915
2
Follow on Rate (FoR)
1,606
1
1,976
1
165,213
100
172,859
100
2024 compared to 2023
We continued to see customers refinance from reversion to fixed rate products in 2024, influenced by high interest rates. Demand for fixed rate products increased,
particularly with shorter fixed rate terms. 25% of mortgages due to reach the end of their incentive period in the next 12 months (2023: 22%).
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Geographical distribution (audited)
The geographical distribution of our mortgage asset stock and new business was:
Stock
New business
2024
2023
2024
2023
Region
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
London
42.7
44.0
4.1
2.9
Midlands and East Anglia
23.1
24.2
2.0
1.8
North
21.7
22.9
1.9
1.7
Northern Ireland
2.3
2.6
0.1
0.1
Scotland
6.0
6.4
0.6
0.6
South East excluding London
52.3
54.8
4.6
3.8
South West, Wales and other
17.1
18.0
1.6
1.3
165.2
172.9
14.9
12.2
2024 compared to 2023
The portfolio's geographical distribution continued to represent a broad footprint across the UK, with a concentration around London and the South East. The loan-
to-income multiple of mortgage lending in the year, based on average earnings of new business at inception was 2.93 (2023: 2.98).
Mortgage loan size (audited)
The split of our mortgage asset by size was:
Mortgage loan size
2024
2023
>£1.0m
2%
2%
£0.5m to £1.0m
10%
10%
£0.25m to £0.5m
31%
31%
<£0.25m
57%
57%
Average loan size (stock) (1)
£193k
£187k
Average loan size (new business)
£246k
£228k
(1) Average initial advance of existing stock.
Loan-to-value analysis (audited)
This table shows the LTV distribution for the gross carrying amount and the related ECL of our total mortgage portfolio and Stage 3 mortgages, and new business.
We also show the collateral value and average LTV. We use our estimate of the property value at the balance sheet date and include fees that have been added to
the loan. For flexible products, we only include the drawn amount, not undrawn limits.
2024
2023
Stock
Stage 3
New
Stock
Stage 3
New
Total
ECL
Total
ECL
Business
Total
ECL
Total
ECL
Business
LTV
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Up to 50%
76,122
33
880
13
3,407
78,673
31
1,106
12
2,616
>50-60%
33,067
21
317
8
2,394
32,837
24
347
10
1,604
>60-70%
29,171
27
254
10
2,311
30,874
40
246
16
1,977
>70-80%
17,132
27
150
12
3,458
18,721
48
138
19
2,736
>80-90%
7,989
19
72
8
2,445
8,893
35
67
15
2,318
>90-100%
1,452
12
38
7
888
2,416
20
39
11
900
>100%
280
33
56
20
15
445
44
65
25
13
165,213
172
1,767
78
14,918
172,859
242
2,008
108
12,164
Collateral value (1)
165,176
 
1,756
 
14,918
172,803
1,997
12,164
%
%
%
%
%
%
Average LTV - Balance weighted(2)
51
51
64
51
49
66
(1) Collateral value is limited to the balance of each loan and excludes the impact of any over-collateralisation. Includes collateral against loans in negative equity of £244m (2023: £389m).
(2) Balance weighted LTV = (Loan 1 balance x (Loan 1 Balance/Loan 1 latest property valuation) + (Loan 2 balance x (loan 2 balance/Loan 2 latest property valuation) +  ...) /(Loan 1 balance + Loan 2 balance+...).
The balance weighted average LTV of new business in the period in London was 64% (2023: 65%).
2024 compared to 2023
There were no significant changes in collateral quality in 2024. Balanced weighted average LTVs of stock were broadly flat, with a reduction in new business due to
elevated price competition in the market at higher LTVs. We monitor the profile of new lending and act as needed to ensure the LTV mix of completions is in line
with our risk appetite.
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Credit performance (audited)
2024
2023
£m
£m
Mortgage loans and advances to customers
165,213
172,859
of which:
Stage 1
146,758
152,975
Stage 2
16,688
17,876
Stage 3
1,767
2,008
Loss allowances(1)
172
242
%
%
Stage 1 ratio(2)
88.8
88.5
Stage 2 ratio(2)
10.1
10.3
Stage 3 ratio
1.08
1.17
(1) The ECL allowance is for both on and off–balance sheet exposures.
(2) Stage 1/Stage 2 exposures as a percentage of customer loans.
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Movement in total exposures and the corresponding ECL (audited)
The following tables show changes in total on and off-balance sheet exposures and ECL in the period. The footnotes to the Santander UK group level table on page
69 also apply to these tables.
Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 3
Total
Exposures(1)
ECL
Exposures(1)
ECL
Exposures(1)
ECL
Exposures(1)
ECL
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
161,163
24
17,997
110
2,028
108
181,188
242
Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2(3)
(9,873)
(1)
9,873
1
Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1(3)
7,899
20
(7,899)
(20)
Transfers to Stage 3(3)
(230)
(524)
(7)
754
7
Transfers from Stage 3(3)
3
268
9
(271)
(9)
Transfers of financial instruments
(2,201)
19
1,718
(17)
483
(2)
Net ECL remeasurement on stage transfer(4)
(19)
31
15
27
Change in economic scenarios(2)
(15)
(29)
1
(43)
Change to ECL models
(1,859)
(3)
1,869
21
(10)
(37)
(19)
New lending and assets purchased(5)
21,758
4
315
3
33
1
22,106
8
Redemptions, repayments and assets sold(7)
(21,925)
(1)
(3,162)
(14)
(762)
(27)
(25,849)
(42)
Changes in risk parameters and other movements(6)
332
1
(1,764)
(21)
46
28
(1,386)
8
Assets written off(7)
(33)
(9)
(33)
(9)
At 31 December 2024
157,268
10
16,973
84
1,785
78
176,026
172
Net movement in the period
(3,895)
(14)
(1,024)
(26)
(243)
(30)
(5,162)
(70)
ECL (release)/charge to the Income Statement
(14)
(26)
(21)
(61)
Less: Discount unwind
(3)
(3)
Less: Recoveries net of collection costs
36
36
Total ECL (release)/charge to the Income Statement
(14)
(26)
12
(28)
At 1 January 2023
176,965
25
13,533
131
1,848
95
192,346
251
Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2(3)
(10,791)
(3)
10,791
3
Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1(3)
4,778
30
(4,778)
(30)
Transfers to Stage 3(3)
(335)
(3)
(566)
(15)
901
18
Transfers from Stage 3(3)
14
277
9
(291)
(9)
Transfers of financial instruments
(6,334)
24
5,724
(33)
610
9
Net ECL remeasurement on stage transfer(4)
(28)
40
22
34
Change in economic scenarios(2)
(2)
3
1
Change to ECL models
New lending and assets purchased(5)
12,947
4
154
3
5
1
13,106
8
Redemptions, repayments and assets sold(7)
(23,081)
(6)
(1,752)
(12)
(417)
(14)
(25,250)
(32)
Changes in risk parameters and other movements(6)
666
5
338
(17)
36
3
1,040
(9)
Assets written off(7)
(54)
(11)
(54)
(11)
At 31 December 2023
161,163
24
17,997
110
2,028
108
181,188
242
Net movement in the period
(15,802)
(1)
4,464
(21)
180
13
(11,158)
(9)
ECL (release)/charge to the Income Statement
(1)
(21)
24
2
Less: Discount unwind
(3)
(3)
Less: Recoveries net of collection costs
28
28
Total ECL (release)/charge to the Income Statement
(1)
(21)
49
27
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Loan modifications (audited)
Forbearance(1)
The following table sets out the financial assets that were forborne while they had a loss allowance measured at lifetime ECL.
2024
2023
£m
£m
Financial assets modified in the period:
Amortised cost before modification
555
346
–Net modification loss
2
5
Financial assets modified since initial recognition:
Gross carrying amount of financial assets for which the loss allowance changed to 12 months ECL in the period
260
79
The balances at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023, analysed by their staging and the forbearance we applied, were:
Capitalisation
Term
extension
Interest-only
Concessionary
interest rate
Reduced
repayment
plan
Total
Loss
allowances
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Stage 2
231
186
201
23
145
786
6
Stage 3
203
141
53
104
156
657
27
434
327
254
127
301
1,443
33
Proportion of portfolio
0.3%
0.2%
0.2%
0.1%
0.2%
0.9%
2023
Stage 2
325
386
211
11
n/a
933
7
Stage 3
284
150
64
171
n/a
669
30
609
536
275
182
n/a
1,602
37
Proportion of portfolio
0.3%
0.3%
0.2%
0.1%
n/a
0.9%
(1) We base forbearance type on the first forbearance on the accounts.
At 31 December 2024, the proportion of the mortgage portfolio in forbearance was at 0.9% (2023: 0.9%) and the proportion of accounts in forbearance for more
than six months that had made their last six months’ contractual payments was 83% (2023: 81%). The weighted average LTV of all accounts in forbearance was
45% (2023: 44%) compared to the weighted average portfolio LTV of 51% (2023: 51%).
At 31 December 2024, the carrying value of mortgages classified as multiple forbearance was £9m (2023: £121m).
2024 compared to 2023
In 2024, the proportion of the mortgage portfolio in forbearance remained flat. We enhanced our definition of forbearance to include reduced repayment plans, but
this was more than offset by reductions in the balances in other categories of forbearance.
Other loan modifications
Santander UK supports the Mortgage Charter which was published in July 2023. There were no modification gains or losses arising from the Charter.
We have made additional customer support solutions available since then, allowing customers who are up-to-date with their payments to make interest-only
payments for six months or extend their mortgage term to reduce their monthly payments. The following table provides information on such loan modifications.
2024
2023
Term Extension
Interest-only
Term Extension
Interest-only
£m
£m
£m
£m
Stage 1
115
1,257
120
1,166
Stage 2
21
461
30
500
Stage 3
1
22
2
18
137
1,740
152
1,684
There were no other loan modifications made in 2024 and 2023.
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Portfolios of particular interest - Mortgages
Introduction
We are mainly a residential prime lender and we do not originate sub-prime or second charge mortgages. Despite that, some types of mortgages have higher risks
and others stand out for different reasons. These are:
Product
Description
Interest-only loans
With an interest-only mortgage, the customer pays interest every month, but the principal is only repaid at the end of the mortgage
term. Some mortgages have a part that is interest-only, with the rest being a normal repayment mortgage.   
We mitigate the risk from new interest-only mortgages by having lower maximum LTVs. For most applicants, the maximum LTV is
50%. For high net worth customers, it can be up to 75%. When a customer plans to repay their mortgage by selling the property,
we require a minimum equity buffer of £300k. We also remind customers that they have to arrange to repay the principal at the end
of the mortgage. We send them messages with their annual mortgage statements, and we contact them throughout the mortgage
term to encourage them to tell us how they plan to repay. We increase the frequency of contact as the loan approaches maturity. If
customers know they will not be able to repay their mortgage when it ends, or if their mortgage has already passed the date when
it should have ended, we talk to them. If we think it is in their interests and they can afford it, we look at other ways to manage it,
such as turning the mortgage into a repayment one and extending it. If the customer is waiting for their way to repay it, such as an
investment plan, to mature, we may permit an extension.
Part interest-only, part
repayment loans
Customers with part interest-only, part repayment mortgages still have to pay back a lump sum at the end of their mortgage for
the interest-only part. This means these loans have a higher credit risk as we depend on the customers to pay back a lump sum.
We design new account LTV maximums to mitigate this risk. We also make sure the customer has a plausible repayment plan
before we lend to them and stays on track for the loan term. 
We mitigate the risk from these loans in similar ways to those we use for interest-only mortgages. The maximum LTV for new
loans is 85%. For most applicants, up to 50% of that can be interest-only. For high net worth customers, it can be up to 75%. When
a customer plans to repay the interest-only element of their mortgage by selling the property, we require a minimum equity buffer
of £300k. We manage communications and extension options in similar ways to those we use for interest-only mortgages.
Flexible loans
Flexible mortgages allow customers to pay more or less than their usual amount each month, or even to take ‘payment holidays’
when they pay nothing at all. There are conditions on when and how much customers can draw down, and they do not have to take
or draw down the whole loan all at once. A customer can ask us to raise their credit limit, but that means we will go through our full
credit approval process. We can also lower a customer’s credit limit at any time, so it never goes above 90% of the property’s
current market value. We no longer offer flexible loans for new mortgages. This is an area of interest if any customers might be
using these facilities to self-forbear, such as regularly drawing down small amounts. We reflect signs that the credit risk has
significantly increased in our ECL calculations.
Loans with an LTV >100%
In some cases, property prices have fallen, so mortgages we gave in the past with lower LTVs now have LTVs greater than 100%.
Where the mortgage balance is more than the property is now worth, we cannot recover the full value of the loan by repossessing
and selling the property. This means there is a higher credit risk on these loans, so we monitor them as part of our assessment of
ongoing portfolio performance. We design new account LTV maximums to mitigate an increase in accounts with an LTV >100%.
Buy-to-Let (BTL) loans
We have specific policies for BTL and focus on non-professional landlords. We have prudent lending criteria and the maximum LTV
is 75%. The first applicant must earn a minimum of £25,000 per year, and we require proof of income in all cases. We also use a BTL
affordability rate as part of our lending assessment. This means that the rental income must cover the monthly mortgage interest
payments by a prescribed amount when calculated using a stressed interest rate. We regularly review the prescribed amount and
adjust it as needed.
Climate change
The value of property collateral for mortgages might be affected by physical risks, such as flood and subsidence risk, as well as transitional risks including evolving
energy performance standards. In 2024, we introduced a new in-house CISA capability to assess these risks, incorporating a range of factors to deliver granular
insights. Our analysis indicated that while climate related risks have the potential to intensify other risk factors, we remain resilient within the context of the
scenarios examined, supported by our stable average LTV ratio and the flood reinsurance scheme.
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Credit performance (audited)
Of which: Portfolio of particular interest(1)
Total
Interest-only
Part interest-
only, part
repayment (2)
Flexible
LTV >100%
Buy-to-let
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Mortgage portfolio
165,213
36,188
11,873
4,333
280
14,931
Stage 1
146,758
29,802
10,112
3,190
75
13,672
Stage 2
16,688
5,572
1,542
933
149
1,204
Stage 3
1,767
814
219
210
56
55
Stage 3 ratio
1.08%
2.27%
1.85%
5.25%
20.15%
0.37%
Properties in possession
46
23
8
8
10
2
Balance weighted LTV (indexed)
51%
48%
52%
38%
117%
59%
2023
Mortgage portfolio
172,859
38,825
12,584
5,418
445
15,585
Stage 1
152,975
32,012
10,896
4,420
276
13,887
Stage 2
17,876
5,829
1,449
744
104
1,647
Stage 3
2,008
984
239
254
65
51
Stage 3 ratio
1.17%
2.55%
1.90%
5.01%
14.57%
0.33%
Properties in possession
23
12
3
2
5
1
Balance weighted LTV (indexed)
51%
48%
51%
37%
116%
60%
(1) Where a loan falls into more than one category, we include it in all the categories that apply.
(2) Mortgage balance includes both the interest-only part of £9,046m ( 2023: £9,531m) and the non-interest-only part of the loan.
2024 compared to 2023
In 2024, the combined total proportion of interest-only loans, part interest-only, part repayment loans and flexible loans decreased to 31.7% (2023: 32.9%).
BTL mortgage balances decreased by £0.7bn to £14.9bn (2023: £15.6bn) driven by our strategy to deleverage our mortgage portfolio and changes in the market
dynamic. In 2024, the balance weighted average LTV of mortgage total new BTL lending was 59% (2023: 58%).
Forbearance(1) (audited)
The balances at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023 were:
Interest-only(2)
Flexible
LTV >100%
Buy-to-Let
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
Total
272
56
9
18
Stage 2
115
19
2
8
Stage 3
157
37
7
10
2023
Total
365
74
12
23
Stage 2
216
55
3
16
Stage 3
149
19
9
7
(1) Where a loan falls into more than one category, we have included it in all the categories that apply.
(2) Comprises full interest-only loans and part interest-only, part repayment loans.
2024 compared to 2023
New mortgage forbearance stock reduced, mainly due to portfolio sales, lower interest-only maturities and the improvement of our risk profile.
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Retail & Business Banking: Everyday Banking - Credit Risk Review
Credit performance (audited)
Business
banking
Other unsecured
Personal
loans
Credit
cards
Overdrafts
Total other
unsecured
Total
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Loans and advances to customers
1,212
2,089
2,774
436
5,299
6,511
of which:
Stage 1
1,042
1,892
2,271
235
4,398
5,440
Stage 2
85
172
454
172
798
883
Stage 3
85
25
49
29
103
188
Loss allowances(1)
16
63
150
57
270
286
Stage 3 undrawn exposures
2
28
4
32
34
Stage 3 ratio
7.10%
1.20%
2.75%
7.40%
2.52%
3.37%
Gross write-offs (12 months)
10
60
51
26
137
147
2023
Loans and advances to customers
1,819
2,064
2,674
471
5,209
7,028
of which:
Stage 1
1,574
1,743
2,283
207
4,233
5,807
Stage 2
115
294
345
236
875
990
Stage 3
130
27
46
28
101
231
Loss allowances(1)
16
66
140
78
284
300
Stage 3 undrawn exposures
2
33
4
37
39
Stage 3 ratio
7.25%
1.32%
2.95%
6.73%
2.65%
3.83%
Gross write-offs (12 months)
11
48
46
25
119
130
(1) The ECL allowance is for both on and off–balance sheet exposures.
2024
2023
% of credit card customers that repay balance in full each month (unaudited)
56%
55%
UPL average customer balance (£)
6,000
6,000
2024 compared to 2023
Business Banking loans continued to reduce due to the pay down of the BBL portfolio. Other unsecured Stage 2 loans reduced driven by Personal loans and
Overdrafts, due to the release of the cost of living JAs. Credit card balances increased due to the impact of our SICR updates in the year. Other unsecured Stage 3
assets remained stable in 2024. Gross write-offs increased in the year, primarily driven by Personal loans, reflecting the current economic environment.
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Loan modifications (audited)
Forbearance
The following table sets out the financial assets that were forborne while they had a loss allowance measured at lifetime ECL.
Credit cards
Overdrafts
Total
2024
£m
£m
£m
Financial assets modified in the period:
Amortised cost before modification
14
9
23
Net modification loss
18
6
24
Financial assets modified since initial recognition:
Gross carrying amount of financial assets for which the loss allowance changed to 12m ECL in the period
2
1
3
2023
Financial assets modified in the period:
Amortised cost before modification
13
8
21
Net modification loss
14
6
20
Financial assets modified since initial recognition:
Gross carrying amount of financial assets for which the loss allowance changed to 12m ECL in the period
2
1
3
The balances at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023 were:
Other unsecured
Business
banking
Personal loans
Credit cards
Overdrafts
Total other
unsecured
Total
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Total
3
2
57
22
81
84
Stage 2
1
11
5
17
17
Stage 3
3
1
46
17
64
67
2023
Total
3
1
47
19
67
70
Stage 2
1
5
2
8
8
Stage 3
3
42
17
59
62
Other loan modifications
There were no other loan modifications made in 2024 and 2023.
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CONSUMER FINANCE – CREDIT RISK REVIEW
Credit performance (audited)
2024
2023
£m
£m
Loans and advances to customers
4,759
5,228
of which:
Stage 1
4,389
4,870
Stage 2
334
330
Stage 3
36
28
Loss allowances(1)
69
70
Stage 3 ratio
0.77%
0.53%
Gross write-offs
25
23
(1) The ECL allowance is for both on and off–balance sheet exposures.
2024
2023
Consumer (auto) finance new business gross lending (£m)
1,593
2,055
Wholesale loans (stock finance) to car dealerships as approximate % of the Consumer loan book
9.7%
9.9%
% of lending collateralised on the vehicle
95%
87%
Average Consumer (auto) finance loan size (£)
16,045
17,308
2024 compared to 2023
In 2024, we maintained our prudent Consumer (auto) finance underwriting criteria. The product mix was broadly unchanged, with wholesale balances
decreasing slightly.
The risk profile was stable in terms of our credit scoring acceptance policies. The overall risk performance was good with the vast majority of customers paying.
Loan modifications (audited)
Forbearance
At 31 December 2024 the amount of forborne assets net of deferred income was £5.4m (2023: £nil).
Other loan modifications
There were no other loan modifications made in 2024.
The gross carrying amount of financial assets for which the ECL allowance changed to a 12-month measurement at 31 December 2024 was £6m (2023: £30m).
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CORPORATE & COMMERCIAL BANKING – CREDIT RISK REVIEW
Movement in total exposures and the corresponding ECL (audited)
The following tables show changes in total on and off-balance sheet exposures and ECL in the period. The footnotes to the Santander UK group level table on page
69 also apply to these tables.
Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 3
Total
Exposures(1)
ECL
Exposures(1)
ECL
Exposures(1)
ECL
Exposures(1)
ECL
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
22,567
76
3,965
132
745
172
27,277
380
Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2(3)
(1,101)
(3)
1,101
3
Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1(3)
781
13
(781)
(13)
Transfers to Stage 3(3)
(84)
(1)
(230)
(12)
314
13
Transfers from Stage 3(3)
24
1
121
18
(145)
(19)
Transfers of financial instruments
(380)
10
211
(4)
169
(6)
Net ECL remeasurement on stage transfer(4)
(9)
(4)
54
41
Change in economic scenarios(2)
(3)
(7)
(1)
(11)
Change to ECL models
(222)
(2)
286
(11)
(64)
12
(1)
New lending and assets purchased(5)
8,485
20
552
21
118
29
9,155
70
Redemptions, repayments and assets sold(7)
(5,203)
(24)
(1,149)
(29)
(254)
(42)
(6,606)
(95)
Changes in risk parameters and other movements(6)
(2,224)
5
(1,297)
(13)
82
15
(3,439)
7
Assets written off (7)
(80)
(49)
(80)
(49)
At 31 December 2024
23,023
73
2,568
85
716
184
26,307
342
Net movement in the period
456
(3)
(1,397)
(47)
(29)
12
(970)
(38)
ECL (release)/charge to the Income Statement
(3)
(47)
61
11
Less: Discount unwind
(12)
(12)
Less: Recoveries net of collection costs
5
5
Total ECL (release)/charge to the Income Statement
(3)
(47)
54
4
Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 3
Total
Exposures(1)
ECL
Exposures(1)
ECL
Exposures(1)
ECL
Exposures(1)
ECL
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2023
23,838
83
3,888
166
572
145
28,298
394
Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2(3)
(1,376)
(1)
1,376
1
Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1(3)
512
10
(512)
(10)
Transfers to Stage 3(3)
(118)
(3)
(258)
(8)
376
11
Transfers from Stage 3(3)
1
9
1
(10)
(1)
Transfers of financial instruments
(981)
6
615
(16)
366
10
Net ECL remeasurement on stage transfer(4)
(16)
29
64
77
Change in economic scenarios(2)
30
(30)
6
6
New lending and assets purchased(5)
7,257
5
132
6
38
10
7,427
21
Redemptions, repayments and assets sold(7)
(6,713)
(13)
(869)
(10)
(193)
(23)
(7,775)
(46)
Changes in risk parameters and other movements(6)
(834)
(19)
199
(13)
137
28
(498)
(4)
Assets written off (7)
(175)
(68)
(175)
(68)
At 31 December 2023
22,567
76
3,965
132
745
172
27,277
380
Net movement in the period
(1,271)
(7)
77
(34)
173
27
(1,021)
(14)
ECL (release)/charge to the Income Statement
(7)
(34)
95
54
Less: Discount unwind
(9)
(9)
Less: Recoveries net of collection costs
(5)
(5)
Total ECL (release)/charge to the Income Statement
(7)
(34)
81
40
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Committed exposures
Credit risk arises on both on- and off–balance sheet transactions, e.g. guarantees. Therefore, committed exposures are typically higher than asset balances.
Rating distribution (audited)
These tables show our credit risk exposure according to our internal rating scale (see the ‘Santander UK group level – credit risk review’ section) for each portfolio.
On this scale, the higher the rating, the better the quality of the counterparty.
Santander UK risk grade
9
8
7
6
5
4
3 to 1
Other
Total(1)
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
SME and mid corporate
253
723
3,170
4,295
3,013
1,589
82
13,125
Commercial Real Estate
567
1,913
2,460
620
309
5,869
Social Housing
13
1,983
5,868
7,864
13
2,236
7,158
5,083
6,755
3,633
1,898
82
26,858
Of which:
Stage 1
13
2,236
7,115
4,991
6,159
2,597
382
82
23,575
Stage 2
43
92
596
1,036
800
2,567
Stage 3
716
716
2023
SME and mid corporate
166
911
2,970
3,497
3,575
1,439
118
12,676
Commercial Real Estate
360
1,684
2,132
972
209
1
5,358
Social Housing
43
3,032
4,881
7,956
43
3,198
6,152
4,654
5,629
4,547
1,648
119
25,990
Of which:
Stage 1
43
3,130
6,152
4,618
4,715
2,363
141
118
21,280
Stage 2
68
36
914
2,184
762
1
3,965
Stage 3
745
745
(1) Credit risk exposures include derivatives exposures. For invoice finance the credit risk exposures represent the full facility limit present on the credit agreement papers, a total limit before consideration of
underlying collaterals and application of prepayment caps for any given point.
Geographical distribution (audited)
We typically classify geographical location according to the counterparty’s country of domicile unless a full risk transfer guarantee is in place, in which case we use
the guarantor’s country of domicile instead. At 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023 this is mainly focused in the UK.
Credit risk mitigation (audited)
Gross exposure
Collateral
Net exposure
Stage 3
Stage 3
Stage 3
2024
£m
£m
£m
SME and mid corporate
639
209
430
Commercial Real Estate
77
71
6
716
280
436
2023
SME and mid corporate
627
190
437
Commercial Real Estate
118
28
90
745
218
527
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Credit performance (audited)
We monitor exposures that show potentially higher risk characteristics using our Watchlist process. The table below shows the exposures we monitor, and those
we classify as Stage 3 by portfolio at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023.
Committed exposure
Watchlist
Fully
performing
Enhanced
monitoring
Proactive
management
Stage 3
Total(1)
Loss
allowances
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
SME and mid corporate
10,851
570
1,065
639
13,125
315
Commercial Real Estate
5,440
51
301
77
5,869
26
Social Housing
7,440
424
7,864
1
23,731
621
1,790
716
26,858
342
2023
SME and mid corporate
10,140
462
1,447
627
12,676
341
Commercial Real Estate
4,734
10
496
118
5,358
39
Social Housing
7,752
204
7,956
22,626
472
2,147
745
25,990
380
(1) Includes committed facilities and derivatives.
2024 compared to 2023
The watchlist exposures decreased by 7.9%, with a reduction in Proactive management of 16.6%, and an increase in Enhanced Monitoring of 31.6%. The increase in
Enhanced Monitoring was due to a small number of large exposures moving from Proactive management.
Loan modifications (audited)
Forbearance
The following table sets out the financial assets that were forborne while they had a loss allowance measured at lifetime ECL.
2024
2023
£m
£m
Financial assets modified in the period:
Amortised cost before modification
232
189
Net modification loss
5
10
Financial assets modified since initial recognition:
Gross carrying amount of financial assets for which the loss allowance changed to 12-month ECL in the period
15
27
We only make forbearance arrangements for lending to customers. The balances at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023, analysed by their staging and the
forbearance we applied, were:
2024
2023
£m
£m
Stock(1)
Term extension
102
113
Interest-only
229
215
Other payment rescheduling
373
264
704
592
Of which:
Stage 1
40
2
Stage 2
228
159
Stage 3
436
431
704
592
Proportion of portfolio
2.6%
2.3%
(1) We base forbearance type on the first forbearance we applied. Tables only show accounts open at the period-end. Amounts are drawn balances and include off balance sheet balances.
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CORPORATE CENTRE – CREDIT RISK REVIEW
Committed exposures
Rating distribution (audited)
Corporate Centre committed exposures mainly comprise Sovereign exposures and Structured Products (High Quality Liquid Assets, mainly Asset Backed Securities
and covered bonds) managed as part of our Eligible Liquidity Pool. These are low risk, high quality, investment grade exposures with a credit rating of 8 or 9
according to our internal rating scale (see the ‘Santander UK group level – credit risk review’ section).
Geographical distribution (audited)
We typically classify geographical location according to the counterparty’s country of domicile unless a full risk transfer guarantee is in place, in which case we use
the guarantor’s country of domicile instead. At 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023 this was mainly focused in the UK.
Credit performance (audited)
We monitor exposures that show potentially higher risk characteristics using our Watchlist process. In Corporate Centre, committed exposures were all fully
performing at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023.
Loan modifications (audited)
There were no loan modifications made in 2024 and 2023.
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Liquidity risk
Overview
Liquidity risk is the risk that we do not have sufficient liquid financial resources available to
meet our obligations when they fall due, or we can only secure such resources at excessive
cost.
In this section, we describe our key liquidity risks, including our sources and uses of
liquidity, and how we manage liquidity risk. We also analyse our key liquidity metrics,
including our LCRs and our eligible liquidity pools.
We then explain our funding strategy and structure and we analyse our wholesale funding.
Finally, we analyse how we have encumbered some of our assets to support our funding
activities.
Key metrics
LCR of 154% (2023: 159%)
RFB DoLSub NSFR of 135% (2023: 136%)
RFB DoLSub LCR of 151% (2023: 157%)
Wholesale funding with maturity <1 year £19.6bn (2023:
£11.9bn)
RFB DoLSub LCR eligible liquidity pool of £44.4bn (2023:
£48.3bn)
OUR KEY LIQUIDITY RISKS (audited)
Through our Liquidity Risk Appetite (LRA) framework, we manage our market liquidity risks, funding or structural liquidity risk, contingent liquidity risk, wherever
they arise. This can be in retail and corporate deposit outflows, outflows in wholesale secured and unsecured funding and off-balance sheet activities. Other risks
our framework covers include funding concentrations, intra-day cash flows, intra-group commitments and support, franchise retention and cross currency risk.
Our main sources of liquidity
Customer deposits finance most of our customer lending. Although these funds are mostly callable, in practice they give us a stable and predictable core of funding.
This is due to the nature of retail accounts and the breadth of our retail customer relationships.
We have a strong wholesale funding investor base, diversified across product types and geographies. Through the wholesale markets, we have active relationships
in many sectors including banks, other financial institutions, corporates, pensions and investment funds. We access the wholesale funding markets through the
issuance of capital, senior unsecured debt, covered bonds, structured notes and short-term funding. We also access these markets through securitisations of certain
assets of Santander UK plc and our operating subsidiaries. For more on our programmes, see Notes 14, 25 and 29 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
We generate funding on the strength of our own balance sheet, our own profitability and our own network of investors. In addition, we have access to UK
Government funding schemes. We comply with rules set by the PRA, other regulators, and Banco Santander standards. While we consolidate, manage and monitor
liquidity risk centrally, we also manage and monitor it in the business area it comes from.
Our main uses of liquidity
Our main uses of liquidity are to fund our lending, to pay interest and dividends, and to repay debt. Our ability to pay dividends depends on various factors. These
include our regulatory capital needs, the level of our distributable reserves, and our financial performance.
LIQUIDITY RISK MANAGEMENT
We manage liquidity risk on a consolidated basis in our CFO division, which is our centralised function for managing funding, liquidity and capital. We created our
governance, oversight and control frameworks, and our LRA, on the same consolidated basis.
Under the PRA’s liquidity rules, Santander UK plc and its subsidiary Cater Allen Limited form the RFB Domestic Liquidity Sub-group (the RFB DoLSub), which allows
them to collectively meet regulatory requirements to manage liquidity risk. Each member of the RFB DoLSub will support the other by transferring surplus liquidity
in times of stress.
Risk appetite
Our LRA is based on the principles of liquidity management we use to manage our balance sheet. It also supports our need to meet or exceed regulatory rules. In
line with our liquidity management principles, we avoid an over-reliance on funding from a single product, customer or counterparty. We also maintain enough
unencumbered customer assets to support current and future funding and collateral requirements and maintain enough capacity to monetise liquid assets and
other counterbalancing capacity on a timely basis.
Our LRA is proposed to the Risk division and the Board, which is then approved under advice from the Board Risk Committee. Our LRA, in the context of our overall
Risk Appetite, is reviewed and approved by the Board each year, or more often if needed.
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Risk measurement
We use a number of metrics to manage liquidity risk. These include market and internal Early Warning Indicators (EWIs) that include both qualitative and
quantitative measures including outflows in retail and corporate deposits, funding concentration metrics, LCR and LRA metrics. They also include structural metrics,
such as our level of encumbered assets and our Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR).
Ongoing business management
Within our framework of prudent funding and liquidity management, we manage our activities to our LRA. We have clear responsibilities for short-term funding,
medium-term funding, encumbrance, collateral and liquid asset management. This ensures we manage liquidity risks as part of our daily operations, strategy and
planning.
Our liquidity management framework is split between short-term and strategic activities. Our short-term activities focus on intra-day collateral management and
maintaining liquid assets to cover unexpected demands on cash in a stress, such as large and unexpected deposit withdrawals by customers and loss of wholesale
funding. Our strategic activities focus on ensuring we are not over reliant on any one source for funding and that we avoid excessive concentrations in the maturity
of our funding.
We regularly test the liquidity of our eligible liquidity pool, in line with PRA rules and Basel guidelines. We do this by realising some of the assets by repurchase or
outright sale to the market. We make sure that over any 12-month period we realise a significant part of our eligible liquidity pool. As well as our eligible liquidity
pool, we always hold a portfolio of unencumbered liquid assets. Our LRA and PRA requirements determine the size and composition of this portfolio. These assets
give us a source of contingent liquidity, as we can realise some of them in a stress to create liquidity by repurchase or outright sale to the market.
Stress testing
Our liquidity stress testing framework is central to our LRA measurement and monitoring. To fit with our Risk Appetite, the liquidity outflows that come from these
stress tests must be fully covered with high-quality liquid assets, other liquid assets and appropriate management actions.
Our Risk division runs a range of stress tests. Our LRA stress test consists of three tests that cover idiosyncratic, market-wide and combined scenarios.
Our other tests consider scenarios such as a global economic slowdown that results in reduced confidence in banks, a slowdown in a major economy or a decline
in access to liquidity. We consider the scenarios on both an acute and protracted basis. We also run severe combined stress tests which look at both a deep and
prolonged UK recession that results in a reduction in wholesale funding availability and an idiosyncratic shock that would lead to retail and commercial outflows.
We also run climate change stresses. These include severe physical risks which result in a reduction in retail deposits, increased use of corporate lending facilities
and an increase in mortgage defaults and a scenario where there is disorderly transition to net zero, resulting in supply shocks and data transparency concerns. We
also run a technological stress, in which disruptions to the traditional banking system due to digital innovations and adverse social media coverage could lead to a
banking crisis leading to outflows of retail and corporate deposits.
We also conduct sensitivity analysis and reverse stress testing for instant liquidity shocks by each key liquidity risk. We do this to understand the impacts they would
have on our LRA and our regulatory liquidity metrics. As part of this, we monitor our LCR and our NSFR to ensure we continue to meet the requirements in the event
of a liquidity stress.
Risk mitigation (audited)
The Board aims to make our balance sheet resilient at all times and for it to be perceived as such by stakeholders. This preserves our short and long-term viability.
The Board recognises that as we are involved in maturity transformation, we cannot hold enough liquidity to cover all possible stress scenarios. The Board requires
us to hold enough liquidity to make sure we will survive three plausible but severe stress scenarios (our LRA stress test, described above). We do this by maintaining
a prudent balance sheet structure and approved liquid resources.
Recovery and Resolution framework
The CFO is the accountable SMF for recovery and resolution and the related work is managed by the CFO division. The work is overseen by the Board Audit
Committee and the Board. We review and refresh our recovery plan each year. It sets out the risks, the indicators we use to monitor those risks, and the actions that
are available to mitigate a capital, liquidity or combined stress event. We are confident that we have sufficient credible and executable options to respond to a wide
range of stresses, be they market-wide or idiosyncratic, in a timely and effective manner. Recovery indicators are both qualitative and quantitative and we have
embedded them into our risk frameworks. We monitor our recovery capacity, headroom to recovery triggers and recovery indicators regularly. If needed, we would
invoke recovery early to mitigate the effects of a stress and restore our financial position and balance sheet strength.
Our resolution capabilities are underpinned by comprehensive governance, testing and assurance arrangements, which seek to ensure that we maintain and
enhance our resolution readiness on an ongoing basis.
Risk monitoring and reporting (audited)
We monitor liquidity risk daily, weekly and monthly. We do this through different committees and levels of management, including ALCO and the BRC.
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LIQUIDITY RISK REVIEW
Liquidity Coverage Ratio
This table shows our LCR at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023.
2024
2023
RFB DoLSub LCR(2)
£bn
£bn
Eligible liquidity pool (liquidity value)(1)
43.7
47.8
Net stress outflows
(28.9)
(30.4)
Surplus
14.8
17.4
Eligible liquidity pool as a percentage of anticipated net cash flows
151%
157%
(1) The liquidity value is calculated by applying an applicable haircut to the carrying value.
(2) The RFB LCR was 154% (2023: 159%).
LCR eligible liquidity pool
This table shows the carrying value of our eligible liquidity pool assets at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023 . It also shows the weighted average carrying
value in the year.
RFB DoLSub
Carrying value
Weighted average
carrying
value in the year
2024
2023
2024
2023
Level 1
Level 2
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Total
Total
Total
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
Cash and balances at central banks
29.0
29.0
36.1
36.1
30.8
38.6
Government bonds
10.2
0.9
11.1
8.7
0.3
9.0
13.7
6.8
Supranational bonds and multilateral development banks
0.4
0.4
0.3
0.3
0.2
0.1
Covered bonds
1.4
1.7
3.1
1.2
1.0
2.2
2.9
1.7
Asset-backed securities
0.8
0.8
0.7
0.7
0.7
0.4
41.0
3.4
44.4
46.3
2.0
48.3
48.3
47.6
We hedge term duration in the LCR eligible liquidity pool with swaps. We use swaps to offset mark to market movements due to interest rate changes.
Currency analysis
This table shows the carrying value of our eligible liquidity pool by major currencies at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023. The composition of the pool is
consistent with the currency profile of our net liquidity outflows.
RFB DoLSub
US Dollar
Euro
Sterling
Other
Total
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
2024
1.2
1.2
40.8
1.2
44.4
2023
2.4
1.1
44.0
0.8
48.3
RFB DoLSub Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR)
2024
2023
%
%
RFB DoLSub NSFR
135
136
2024 compared to 2023
We remain in a strong liquidity position. We hold sufficient liquid resources and have adequate governance and controls in place to manage the liquidity risks arising
from our business and strategy. At 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023, the LCR and NSFR significantly exceeded regulatory requirements. RFB DoLSub LCR
reduced following TFSME repayments.
In 2024, Santander UK purchased UK Gilts on a 'Hold-To-Collect-Cash-flows' basis. The notional value at 31 December 2024 was £3.0bn (2023: £nil). This means
that there is an increased allocation of liquid assets to longer-dated UK sovereign bonds to support ongoing HQLA requirements in our LCR eligible liquidity pool.
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FUNDING RISK MANAGEMENT
Funding strategy
Our funding strategy continues to be based on maintaining a conservatively structured balance sheet and diverse sources of funding to meet the needs of our
business strategy and plans. The CFO Division maintains a funding plan that complies with the LRA and regulatory liquidity and capital requirements.
Most of our funding comes from customer deposits. We source the rest from a mix of secured and unsecured funding in the wholesale markets. Overall, this means
that we do not rely too heavily on wholesale funds. We manage funding requirements by targeting a specific Liquidity Coverage Ratio, we ensure maturities are
prefunded and capital/Minimum Requirements for Eligible Liabilities (MREL) requirements for Santander UK Group Holdings plc and internal MREL for Santander UK
plc are prioritised. We also have controls to limit our asset encumbrance from our secured funding operations.
As part of maintaining a diverse funding base, we raise funding in a number of currencies, including EUR and USD, and convert it into sterling through currency
swaps to fund our commercial assets which are largely sterling denominated.
Our base of stable retail and corporate deposits is a key funding source for us. We leverage our large and diverse customer base to offer products that give us a
long-term sustainable source of funding. We do this by focusing on building long-term relationships. At 31 December 2024, 86% of our total core retail customer
liabilities were covered by the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (the FSCS).
Behavioural maturities
The contractual maturity of our balance sheet assets and liabilities highlights the maturity transformation that underpins the role of banks to lend long term, but to
fund themselves mainly with shorter-term liabilities, like customer deposits. We do this by diversifying our funding operations across a wide customer base, both
in numbers and by type of depositor. In practice, the behavioural profiles of many liabilities show more stability and longer maturity than their contractual maturity.
This is especially true of many retail and corporate deposits that, while they may be repayable on demand or at short notice, have shown good stability even in
times of stress. We model behaviour profiles using our experience of customer behaviour. We use this data to determine the funds transfer pricing rates at which
we reward and charge our business units for sources and uses of funds. We apply this rate until a customer changes to a different product or service offered by us or
by one of our competitors.
We continue to maintain the quality of our retail, commercial and wholesale deposits. We aim to deepen our customer relationships across all customer segments.
We do this to lengthen the contractual and behavioural profile of our liability base.
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FUNDING RISK REVIEW
Our funding strategy continues to be based on maintaining a conservatively structured balance sheet and diverse sources of funding to meet the needs of our
business strategy and plans. The CFO Division maintains a funding plan that complies with our LRA and regulatory liquidity and capital requirements.
Wholesale funding
Reconciliation of wholesale funding to the balance sheet (audited)
This table reconciles our wholesale funding to our balance sheet at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023.
Balance sheet line item
Funding
analysis
Deposits
by banks (1)
Deposits
by customers (2)
Repurchase
agreements
- non
trading
Financial
liabilities
designated
at fair value
Debt
securities
in issue
Subordinated
liabilities
Other equity
instruments (3)
2024
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
Deposits by banks
1.4
1.4
Certificates of deposit and commercial paper
4.5
4.5
Senior unsecured – public benchmark
11.1
1.7
9.4
privately placed
1.1
0.1
0.4
0.6
Covered bonds
17.4
17.4
Securitisation and structured issuance(4)
5.1
5.1
TFSME
11.0
11.0
Subordinated liabilities and equity
4.1
2.2
1.9
Total wholesale funding
55.7
12.4
1.8
0.4
37.0
2.2
1.9
Repos
8.6
8.6
Foreign exchange and hedge accounting
(0.4)
(0.6)
0.2
Other
1.6
1.6
0.7
(0.7)
Balance sheet total
65.5
14.0
1.8
8.6
1.1
35.7
2.4
1.9
2023
Deposits by banks
1.1
1.1
Certificates of deposit and commercial paper
4.3
4.3
Senior unsecured – public benchmark
12.7
1.6
11.1
privately placed
0.8
0.1
0.6
0.1
Covered bonds
14.8
14.8
Securitisation and structured issuance(4)
2.7
2.7
TFSME
17.0
17.0
Subordinated liabilities and equity
4.2
2.2
2.0
Total wholesale funding
57.6
18.1
1.7
0.6
33.0
2.2
2.0
Repos
8.4
8.4
Foreign exchange and hedge accounting
1.1
0.9
0.2
Other
2.5
2.2
0.3
Balance sheet total
69.6
20.3
1.7
8.4
0.9
33.9
2.4
2.0
(1)Consists of Perpetual Capital Securities. See Note 32 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(2)This is included in our balance sheet total of£180,967m (2023:£190,850m).
(3)Other consists of items in the course of transmission and other deposits. See Note 21 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
(4)Includes Residential Mortgage-Backed Securities (RMBS) and Asset-Backed Securities (ABS) of £3.9bn (2023: £2.8bn).
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Maturity profile of wholesale funding (audited)
This table shows our main sources of wholesale funding. It does not include securities finance agreements. The table is based on exchange rates at issue and
scheduled repayments and call dates. It does not reflect the final contractual maturity of the funding.
For details of the maturities of financial liabilities and off-balance sheet commitments, see Note 38 to the Consolidated Financial Statements .
≤ 1
month
>1 and ≤ 3
months
>3 and ≤ 6
months
>6 and ≤ 9
months
>9 and ≤
12 months
Sub-total
≤ 1 year
>1 and
≤ 2 years
>2 and
≤ 5 years
>5 years
Total
2024
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
Downstreamed from Santander UK Group Holdings plc to Santander UK plc(1)
Senior unsecured – public benchmark
0.4
0.7
1.3
2.4
2.0
5.6
0.4
10.4
          –privately placed
0.1
0.1
Subordinated liabilities and equity (incl. AT1)
0.5
0.3
0.8
0.2
1.4
1.0
3.4
0.5
0.4
1.0
1.3
3.2
2.2
7.1
1.4
13.9
Other Santander UK plc
Deposits by banks
0.8
0.6
1.4
1.4
Certificates of deposit and commercial paper
1.6
2.8
0.1
4.5
4.5
Senior unsecured – public benchmark
0.4
0.4
0.3
0.7
            –privately placed
0.3
0.7
1.0
Covered bonds
0.9
0.2
0.1
1.2
4.0
11.1
1.1
17.4
Securitisation & structured issuance(2)
0.5
0.8
1.3
0.3
3.0
4.6
TFSME
7.1
7.1
2.5
1.4
11.0
Subordinated liabilities
0.2
0.5
0.7
3.3
4.3
0.9
0.2
7.2
15.9
6.8
14.9
3.7
41.3
Other group entities
Securitisation & structured issuance(3)
0.5
0.5
0.5
Total at 31 December 2024
3.3
4.8
1.8
1.2
8.5
19.6
9.0
22.0
5.1
55.7
Of which:
– Secured
0.9
0.5
1.3
0.2
7.2
10.1
6.8
14.1
2.5
33.5
– Unsecured
2.4
4.3
0.5
1.0
1.3
9.5
2.2
7.9
2.6
22.2
Total at 31 December 2023
1.4
7.3
1.6
0.5
1.1
11.9
22.3
19.7
3.7
57.6
Of which:
– Secured
0.1
1.0
0.9
0.4
1.1
3.5
18.6
11.3
1.1
34.5
– Unsecured
1.3
6.3
0.7
0.1
8.4
3.7
8.4
2.6
23.1
(1) 95% of senior unsecured debt issued from Santander UK Group Holdings plc has been downstreamed to Santander UK plc as ‘secondary non-preferential debt’ in line with the guidelines from the Bank of England
for Internal MREL.
(2) Includes funding from mortgage-backed securitisation vehicles where Santander UK plc is the asset originator.
(3) Includes funding from asset-backed securitisation vehicles where entities other than Santander UK plc are the asset originator.
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Currency composition of wholesale funds (audited)
This table shows our wholesale funding by major currency at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023.
2024
2023
Sterling
US Dollar
Euro
Other
Sterling
US Dollar
Euro
Other
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
%
Downstreamed from Santander UK Group Holdings plc to Santander UK plc
Senior unsecured – public benchmark
25
62
12
1
23
60
17
privately placed
100
100
Subordinated liabilities and equity (incl. AT1)
89
11
87
13
42
48
9
1
38
48
13
1
Other Santander UK plc
Deposits by banks
1
97
2
1
97
2
Certificates of deposit and commercial paper
24
67
8
1
29
70
1
Senior unsecured – public benchmark
48
52
21
56
23
privately placed
100
98
2
Covered bonds
48
9
40
3
54
5
39
2
Securitisation & structured issuance
100
100
TFSME
100
100
Subordinated liabilities
76
24
76
24
65
15
19
1
71
14
15
Other group entities
Securitisation & structured issuance
100
100
Total
59
23
16
2
63
23
14
Term issuance (audited)
In 2024, our external term issuance (sterling equivalent) was:
Sterling
US Dollar
Euro
Other
Total 2024
Total 2023
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
£bn
Downstreamed from Santander UK Group Holdings plc to Santander UK plc
Senior unsecured – public benchmark
0.8
0.8
1.5
Subordinated debt and equity (inc. AT1)
0.4
0.4
1.1
0.4
0.8
1.2
2.6
Other Santander UK plc
Securitisations and other secured funding
1.2
1.2
1.5
Covered bonds
2.2
0.8
2.6
0.3
5.9
1.8
Senior unsecured – privately placed
0.5
0.5
0.3
3.9
0.8
2.6
0.3
7.6
3.6
Other group entities
Securitisations
0.5
Total gross issuances
4.3
1.6
2.6
0.3
8.8
6.7
2024 compared to 2023
Together with our immediate parent, Santander UK Group Holdings plc, our overall funding strategy remains to develop and sustain a diversified funding base. We
also need to fulfil regulatory requirements as well as support our credit ratings. We have stable and diversified wholesale funding programmes.
In 2024 we issued £8.4bn Sterling equivalent medium-term funding, including Covered bond, Senior unsecured and RMBS issuances. We repaid £6.0bn of TFSME
in 2024 as planned, with an outstanding balance of £11.0bn at 31 December 2024. £7.1bn is due for repayment in October 2025, £2.5bn in 2027, and the
remaining £1.4bn. in 2031. We expect to issue £10-£12bn of medium-term funding in 2025, including £3.7bn equivalent already issued.
At 31 December 2024, 65% (2023: 79%) of wholesale funding had a maturity of greater than one year, with an overall residual duration of 37 months (2023: 35
months).
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Encumbrance
We encumber an asset if we pledge or transfer it as collateral against a liability. This means it is no longer available to secure funding, meet our collateral needs or
be sold to reduce funding needs. Being able to pledge or transfer assets as collateral is a key part of a bank’s operations. The main ways we encumber assets are
that we: enter into securitisation, covered bonds, and repurchase agreements to access medium and long-term funding; enter into short-term funding transactions
(including repurchase agreements and stock borrowing) as part of our liquidity management; pledge collateral as part of participating in payment and settlement
systems; and post collateral as part of derivatives activity. We control levels of encumbrance by setting a minimum level of unencumbered assets after we factor in
our funding plans, whether we can use our assets for our future collateral needs, the impact of a stress and our current encumbrance level.
Assets classified as readily available for encumbrance include cash and securities in our eligible liquidity pool. All other loans and advances are classified as not
readily available for encumbrance, however, they may still be suitable for use in secured funding structures.
Encumbrance of customer loans and advances
We issued securitised products to a diverse investor base through our prime mortgage-backed and other asset-backed funding programmes. We raised funding
with mortgage-backed notes, both issued to third parties and retained – the latter being central bank eligible collateral for funding purposes in other Bank of
England facilities. We also have a covered bond programme, under which we issue securities to investors secured by a pool of residential mortgages. For more on
these programmes, see Notes 14 and 25 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
On-balance sheet encumbered assets (audited)
Encumbered with counterparties other than central banks
Assets
positioned
at central
banks(3)
Covered
bonds
Securitis-
ations
Other
Total
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Cash and balances at central banks(1)(2)
1,580
1,580
Loans and advances to customers
25,695
7,026
68
32,789
49,888
Loans and advances to banks
139
139
Repurchase agreements – non trading
Other financial assets at amortised cost
1,529
1,529
Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income
3,920
3,920
584
Total assets
25,695
7,026
7,236
39,957
50,472
2023
Cash and balances at central banks(1)(2)
1,480
1,480
831
Loans and advances to customers
21,880
5,208
59
27,147
58,489
Loans and advances to banks
254
254
Repurchase agreements – non trading
Other financial assets at amortised cost
14
14
Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income
5,183
5,183
Total assets
21,880
5,208
6,990
34,078
59,320
(1) Encumbered cash and balances at central banks include minimum cash balances we have to hold at central banks for regulatory purposes.
(2) Readily realisable cash and balances at central banks are amounts held at central banks as part of our liquidity management activities.
(3) Comprises pre-positioned assets and encumbered assets.
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Capital risk
Overview
Capital risk is the risk that we do not have an adequate amount or quality of capital to
meet our business objectives, regulatory requirements and market expectations.
In this section, we set out how we are regulated. We explain how we manage capital on
a standalone basis as a subsidiary in the Banco Santander group. We then analyse our
capital resources and key capital ratios including our RWAs.
Key metrics
CET1 capital ratio of 14.9% (2023: 15.4%)
Total qualifying regulatory capital of £13.7bn (2023: £14.6bn)
Regulatory supervision
For capital purposes, we are subject to prudential supervision by the PRA, as a UK banking group, and by the European Central Bank (ECB) as part of the Banco
Santander group. The ECB supervises Banco Santander as part of the Single Supervisory Mechanism (SSM). Although we are part of the Banco Santander group, we
do not have a guarantee from Banco Santander SA and we operate as a standalone subsidiary. As we are part of the UK sub-group regulated by the PRA, we have to
meet the PRA capital requirements on a standalone basis. We also have to show the PRA that we can withstand capital stresses without the support of our ultimate
parent, Banco Santander SA. Reinforcing our corporate governance framework, the PRA exercises oversight through its rules and regulations on the Board and
senior management appointments.
Santander UK Group Holdings plc is the holding company of Santander UK plc and is the head of the Santander UK group for regulatory capital and leverage
purposes. Santander UK plc is the head of the ring-fenced bank sub-group and is subject to regulatory capital and leverage rules in relation to that sub-group. Our
basis of consolidation for our capital disclosures is substantially the same as for our Consolidated Financial Statements.
CAPITAL RISK MANAGEMENT
Risk appetite
The Board is responsible for capital management strategy and policy and ensuring that we monitor and control our capital within regulatory and internal limits. We
manage our funding and maintain capital adequacy on a standalone basis. We operate within the capital risk framework and appetite approved by our Board. This
reflects the environment we operate in, our strategy for each material risk and the potential impact of adverse scenarios or stresses on our capital.
Management of capital requirements (audited)
Our capital risk appetite aims to maintain capital levels appropriate to the level of stress applied, and the expected regulatory response. In:
An adverse economic stress, which we expect once in 20 years, we should remain profitable and exceed all regulatory capital minimums at all times.
A very severe economic stress, which we expect once in 100 years, and which has been designed to test any specific weaknesses of our business model, we
should meet all regulatory capital minimums at all times. This is subject to using regulatory buffers designed to absorb losses in such a stress.
Risk measurement
We apply Banco Santander’s approach to capital measurement and risk management for CRD IV. Santander UK plc is classified as a large subsidiary of Banco
Santander SA. For more on the CRD IV risk measurement of our exposures, see Banco Santander’s Pillar 3 report. For more on our capital, see our Additional Capital
and Risk Management Disclosures on our website: aboutsantander.co.uk.
Management of capital resources (audited)
We use a mix of regulatory and EC ratios and limits, internal buffers and restrictions to manage our capital resources. We also take account of the costs of differing
capital instruments and capital management techniques. We also use these to shape the best structure for our capital needs. We decide how to allocate our capital
resources as part of our strategic planning process. We base this in part on the relative returns on capital using both EC and regulatory capital measures. We plan
for severe stresses and we set out what action we would take if an extremely severe stress threatened our viability and solvency. This could include not paying
dividends, selling assets, reducing our business and issuing more capital.
Key metrics
The main metrics we use to measure capital risk are CET1 capital ratio, total capital ratio and UK leverage ratio. We continue to be in excess of overall capital
requirements, minimum leverage requirements and minimum requirements for own funds and eligible liabilities (Internal MREL).
Stress testing
Each year we create a capital plan, as part of our ICAAP. We share our ICAAP with the PRA. The PRA then tells us how much capital (Pillar 2A), and of what quality,
it thinks we should hold on top of our Pillar 1 requirements and buffer levels. We also develop a series of economic scenarios to stress test our capital needs and
confirm that we have enough regulatory capital to meet our projected and stressed capital needs and to meet our obligations as they fall due.
Our CISA was developed to understand the impact of climate change on our business. We invested in a strategic solution which delivers the capability to run long-
term horizon multi-scenario assessments which reflect a range of climate outcomes. These outcomes cover shorter and longer-term horizons and reflect physical
and transition risks. The CISA outputs are used in our future ICAAP exercises for climate risk and will help us prioritise our actions for the next five years.
We augment our regulatory minimum capital with internal buffers. We hold buffers to ensure we have enough time to act against unexpected changes.
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Risk mitigation
We designed our capital risk framework, policies and procedures to ensure that we operate within our Risk Appetite. We manage capital transferability between our
subsidiaries in line with our business strategy, risk and capital management policies, and UK laws and regulations. There are no legal restrictions on us moving
capital resources promptly, or repaying liabilities, between the Company and its subsidiaries except for loans and distributions between Santander UK entities in the
ring-fenced bank sub-group and Santander UK entities that are not members of the ring-fenced bank sub-group, where the PRA is required to assess the impact of
proposed distribution prior to payment. For details on our Recovery framework in the event of a capital stress, see 'risk mitigation' in the ‘Liquidity risk’ section.
Capital support arrangements
At 31 December 2024, Santander UK plc, Cater Allen Limited, Santander ISA Managers Limited and certain other non-regulated subsidiaries of Santander UK plc
were party to a capital support deed dated 3 December 2024 which was effective from 3 December 2024 (the RFB Sub-Group Capital Support Deed). These parties
were permitted by the PRA to form a core UK group as defined in the PRA Rulebook, a permission which expires on 3 December 2027. Exposures of each of the
regulated entities to other members of the core UK group are exempt from large exposure limits that would otherwise apply and these exposures are risk-weighted
at 0%. Where applicable this permission also provides for intra-group exposures to be excluded from the leverage exposure measure. The purpose of the RFB Sub-
Group Capital Support Deed is to facilitate the prompt transfer of available capital resources from, or repayment of liabilities by, the non-regulated entities to any of
the regulated entities in the event that one of the regulated entities breached or was at risk of breaching its capital resources or risk concentrations requirements.
Risk monitoring and reporting
We monitor and report regularly against our capital plan. We do this to identify any change in our business performance that might affect our capital. Each month,
we also review the economic assumptions we use to create and stress test our capital plan. We do this to identify any potential reduction in our capital.
CAPITAL RISK REVIEW
Meeting evolving capital requirements
We target a CET1 management buffer of sufficient size to absorb volatility in CET1 deductions, capital supply and capital demand whilst remaining above the
current and expected future regulatory CET1 requirement. Distribution restrictions would be expected to be applied if we were unable to meet both our minimum
requirement, which consists of the Pillar 1 minimum plus Pillar 2A, the CRD IV buffers consisting of the Capital Conservation Buffer (CCB), the Countercyclical Capital
Buffer (CCyB), and the Other Systemically Important Institutions Buffer (O-SII).
Impact of IFRS 9 on regulatory capital
Our ECL methodology takes account of forward-looking data and covers a range of possible economic outcomes, and so provision movements may result in
increased pro-cyclicality of risk-based capital and leverage ratios. However, the impact is currently mitigated by our surplus of IRB model regulatory expected losses
over provisions for exposures using the IRB approach. For such exposures (which include residential mortgages) the adverse impact on CET1 capital of provision
increases from reserve movements is offset by the related reduction of the negative CET1 capital adjustment for regulatory expected loss amounts. Also, the UK
CRR transitional rules for the capital impact of IFRS 9 meant that adverse CET1 effects from increases in ECL-based provisions from the level of such provisions at
1 January 2018 were partly reduced until the end of 2024.
We reflect projections of ECL provisions in our capital position forecasting under base case and stress scenarios for ICAAP and capital management purposes. We
also consider the dynamics of ECL in how we assess and manage capital risk. A period of economic instability, such as that seen in early 2020 due to the impacts of
the Covid-19 pandemic, could significantly impact our results and our financial assets. It could also impact the amount of capital we have to hold. We consider the
volatility of ECL in our capital planning strategy.
Key capital ratios
2024
2023
%
%
CET1 capital ratio
14.9
15.4
AT1
2.8
2.9
Tier 2
3.3
3.2
Total capital ratio
21.0
21.5
Total subordination available to Santander UK plc senior unsecured bondholders as a % of RWAs
21.0
21.5
Return on assets - profit after tax divided by average total assets
0.36
0.55
Regulatory capital resources (audited)
This table shows our qualifying regulatory capital:
2024
2023
£m
£m
CET1 capital
9,791
10,443
AT1 capital
1,860
1,956
Tier 1 capital
11,651
12,399
Tier 2 capital
2,093
2,172
Total capital(1)
13,744
14,571
(1)Capital resources include a transitional IFRS 9 benefit at 31 December 2024 of £12.2m (2023: £43.0m).
Risk-weighted assets
Total RWAs at 31 December 2024 were £65.5bn (2023: £67.8bn) which are consistent with our regulatory filings.
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Market risk
Overview
Market risk comprises non-traded market risk and traded market risk.
Non-traded market risk is the risk of loss of income, economic or market value due to
changes to interest rates in the non-trading book or to changes in other market risk
factors (e.g. credit spread and inflation risk), where such changes would affect our net
worth through an adjustment to revenues, assets, liabilities, and off-balance sheet
exposures in the non-trading book.
Traded market risk is the risk of changes in market factors that affect the value of the
positions in the trading book. We have no significant traded market risk exposure.
In this section, we set out which of our assets and liabilities are exposed to non-traded
and traded market risk. Then we explain how we manage these risks and discuss our key
market risk metrics.
Key metrics
Net Interest Income (NII) sensitivity to +100bps was £167m
and to ‑100bps was £(201)m (2023: £220m and £(220)m).
Economic Value of Equity (EVE) sensitivity to +100bps was
£(496)m and to ‑100bps was £425m (2023: £(299)m and
£265m).
Balance sheet allocation by market risk classification(audited)
We classify all our assets and liabilities exposed to market risk as non-traded market risk, except for certain portfolios that we must classify as trading books for
regulatory purposes (such as selling derivatives or derivative-based products to clients), of which we must fair value for accounting reasons (such as assets in the
eligible liquidity pool). For accounting purposes, we classify all derivatives as held for trading unless they are designated as being in a hedging relationship. For
more, see Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
NON-TRADED MARKET RISK
OUR KEY NON-TRADED MARKET RISKS (audited)
Non-traded market risk mainly comes from providing banking products and services to our customers, as well as our structural balance sheet exposures. It arises in
all our business segments. In Retail & Business Banking, Consumer Finance and Corporate & Commercial Banking, it is a by-product of us writing customer business
and we transfer most of these risks to Corporate Centre to manage. The only types of non-traded market risk that we keep in Retail & Business Banking, Consumer
Finance and Corporate & Commercial Banking are short-term mismatches due to forecasting variances in prepayment and launch risk. This is where customers
repay their loans earlier than their expected maturity date or do not take the expected volume of new products. Corporate Centre also manages our structural
balance sheet exposures, such as foreign exchange and Income Statement volatility risk.
Our non-traded market risk categories are:
Category
Description
Interest rate risk
Interest rate risk mainly consists of yield curve risk, which comes from timing mismatches in repricing fixed and variable rate
assets, liabilities and off-balance sheet instruments. It also comes from investing non-rate sensitive liabilities in interest-earning
assets.
Spread risk
Spread risk arises when the value of assets or liabilities which are accounted for at fair value (either through Other Comprehensive Income
or through profit and loss) are affected by changes in the credit spread. We measure these spreads as the difference between the discount
rate we use to value the asset or liability, and an underlying interest rate curve.
Foreign exchange risk
Our banking businesses operate mainly in sterling markets, so we do not create significant foreign exchange exposures. The only exception
to this is money we raise in foreign currencies. For more on this, see ‘Wholesale funding’ in the ‘Liquidity risk’ section.
Income statement
volatility risk
We measure most of the assets and liabilities in our banking book balance sheet at amortised cost. We sometimes manage their risk profile
by using derivatives. As all derivatives are accounted for at fair value, the mismatch in their accounting treatment can lead to volatility in our
Income Statement. This happens even if the derivative is an economic hedge of the asset or liability.
NON-TRADED MARKET RISK MANAGEMENT
Risk appetite
Our Structural and Market Risk framework sets out our high-level arrangements and standards to manage, control and oversee non-traded market risk (also known
as structural risk), and is part of our overall Risk Framework. Our Risk Appetite sets the controls, risk limits and key risk metrics for non-traded market risk. We show
risk appetite by the income and value sensitivity limits we set in our Risk Appetite, at both Santander UK and Banco Santander group levels.
Risk measurement 
We mainly measure our exposures with NII and EVE sensitivity analysis. We support this with VaR risk measures and stress testing. We also monitor our interest
rate repricing gap. We regularly review our risk models and metrics including underlying model assumptions to ensure they continue to reflect the risks inherent in
the current rate environment and regulatory expectations.
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NII and EVE sensitivities (audited)
The calculations for NII and EVE sensitivities to interest rate moves involve many assumptions, including expected customer behaviour (such as early repayment of
loans) and the projected evolution and repricing of our balance sheet. These assumptions are a key part of our overall control framework, so we update and review
them regularly. Our NII and EVE sensitivities include the interest rate risk from all our banking book positions. Our banking book positions generate almost all our
reported net interest income.
Net Interest Income (NII) sensitivity
NII sensitivity is an income-based measure we use to forecast the changes to interest income and interest expense in different scenarios. It gives us a combined impact on
net interest income over a given period – usually 12 or 36 months.
We calculate NII sensitivity as the change in NII for a defined set of instantaneous parallel and non-parallel shifts in the yield curve.
EVE sensitivity
We calculate EVE sensitivity as the change in the net present value of all the interest rate sensitive items in the banking book balance sheet for a defined set of
instantaneous parallel and non-parallel shifts in the yield curve.
The limitations of sensitivities
We use sensitivities to measure the impact of standard, instantaneous, parallel shifts in relevant yield curves. The advantage of using standard parallel shifts is they
generally give us a constant measure of the size of our market risk exposure, with a simple and consistent stress. We also run non-parallel stress tests, to calculate
the impact of some plausible non-parallel scenarios, and over various time periods for income stresses, usually one or three years.
Value at Risk (VaR) (audited)
VaR
VaR indicates possible losses from market changes in non-stressed conditions.
We run a historical simulation. We use two years of historical daily price moves. We report a 99% confidence level.
The limitations of VaR
VaR is a standard risk measure. It has limitations including:
It assumes the past is a reliable guide to the possible future.
It uses end of day positions. It would miss higher risk run only during the day.
It does not predict the loss on the 1% largest-loss days (outside the 99% confidence interval).
We use a history of one day price moves. This is reasonable for our business but VaR does not cover positions we could not sell or hedge quickly, or products
whose prices cannot be observed.
Back-testing – comparing VaR estimates with actual profit and loss
To check that our VaR is reasonable, we compare it against our observed profits and losses for the same area. This confirms the VaR model is working. If we found it
were not, we would investigate, and correct it if required.
Stress testing
Stress testing is an essential part of our risk management. It helps us to measure and evaluate the potential impact on portfolio values of more extreme, although
plausible, events or market moves. Limits reflect our risk appetite and are expressed relative to the loss given a stress event, thereby restricting how much risk we
take.
Stress testing scenarios
Simple stress tests (like parallel shifts in relevant curves) give us clear measures of risk and a consistent starting point for setting limits. More complex, multi-factor
and multi-time period stress tests give us information about specific potential events. They can also test outcomes that we might not capture through parallel
stresses or VaR-type measures. We use stress tests to estimate losses in extreme market events beyond the confidence level used in VaR models.
We can adapt our stress tests to reflect concerns such as climate change risk, other macroeconomic and geopolitical events or changing market conditions. We run
individual business area stresses and Santander UK-wide scenarios.
Other ways of measuring risk
As well as using sensitivities and stress tests, we can measure non-traded market risk using net notional positions. This can give us a simple view of our exposure,
although we generally need to combine it with other risk measures to cover all aspects of a risk profile, such as projected changes over time. Other metrics we can
use include Earnings at Risk (EaR). EaR is like VaR but captures changes in income rather than value.
Risk mitigation (audited)
We typically hedge the interest rate risk of the securities we hold for liquidity and investment purposes with interest rate swaps. We retain spread exposures,
and these are the key drivers of the VaR and stress tests we use to assess the risk of the portfolio. We mitigate Income Statement volatility mainly through hedge
accounting. We monitor any hedge accounting ineffectiveness that might lead to Income Statement volatility with a VaR measure and trigger, reported monthly. For
our accounting policies for derivatives and hedge accounting, see Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
We hedge our foreign currency funding positions back to sterling, so our foreign exchange positions tend to be residual exposures that remain after hedging. These
exposures could be, for example, to ‘spot’ foreign exchange rates or to cross currency basis. We monitor foreign exchange risk against absolute net exposures and
VaR-based limits and triggers.
For more on this, see ‘Funding strategy‘ and ‘Term issuance’ in the ‘Liquidity risk’ section.
Risk monitoring and reporting (audited)
We monitor our non-traded market risks using NII and EVE sensitivities, VaR and stress tests. We report them against limits and triggers to senior management
daily and to ALCO and ERCC each month. The VaR we report captures all key sources of volatility (including interest rate and spread risks) to fully reflect
potential volatility.
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NON-TRADED MARKET RISK REVIEW
Interest rate risk
Yield curve risk
The table below shows how our net interest income would be affected by a 100bps parallel shift (both up and down) applied instantaneously to the yield curve at
31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023. Sensitivity to parallel shifts represents the amount of risk in a way that we think is both simple and scalable.
2024
2023
+100bps
-100bps
+100bps
-100bps
£m
£m
£m
£m
NII sensitivity (audited)(1)
167
(201)
220
(220)
EVE sensitivity
(496)
425
(299)
265
(1)Based on modelling assumptions of repricing behaviour.
NII Sensitivity is adversely exposed to down-shock scenarios driven by margin compression of core liabilities, partly offset by the structural position. EVE sensitivity is
adversely exposed to rising interest rate scenarios.
EVE sensitivity reflects the potential impact on economic value due to the structural mismatch of assets and liabilities (excluding equity) over the longer term.
The EVE metric excludes equity as a source of non-rate sensitive funding, as equity is invested into the structural position the metric typically reflects an adverse
exposure to rising rate scenarios.
Interest rate repricing gap
The table below shows the interest rate repricing gap of our balance sheet by repricing buckets.
3 months
1 year
3 years
5 years
>5years
Not sensitive
Total
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Assets
93,430
51,502
93,136
21,899
8,357
15,118
283,442
Liabilities
110,187
51,152
52,767
43,930
2,081
24,157
284,274
Off-balance sheet
4,673
2,414
(20,185)
15,835
(1,905)
832
Net gap
(12,084)
2,764
20,184
(6,196)
4,371
(9,039)
2023
Assets
104,985
48,416
79,635
40,553
5,650
14,640
293,879
Liabilities
117,154
49,904
54,127
46,107
2,558
24,908
294,758
Off-balance sheet
12,345
1,429
(14,771)
(278)
2,154
879
Net gap
176
(59)
10,737
(5,832)
5,246
(10,268)
Spread risk
The table below shows the risk metrics covering the portfolios of securities we hold for liquidity and investment purposes.
2024
2023
£m
£m
VaR
5
5
Worst three month stressed loss
110
86
We regularly review our risk models and metrics including the scenarios and underlying modelling assumptions we use, to ensure they continue to reflect the risks
in the current economic environment, and incorporate regulatory expectations.
2024 compared to 2023
In 2024 NII sensitivity decreased, and EVE sensitivity increased, mainly reflecting the overall increase in the structural hedge position relative to non-rate
sensitive liabilities.
TRADED MARKET RISK
We have no significant traded market risk exposure. The risk we do have is from providing permitted financial services to permitted customers.Traded market risk
can reduce our net income. Movements in interest rates, credit spreads, and foreign exchange rates affect the value of products we have.
We have two trading desks. The Link Desk transacts derivatives with our corporate clients. The Structured Products Group (SPG) sells investments to retail investors,
through our UK branches and other channels. Banking Reform legislation requires us to have immaterial market risk. We hedge risks from customer trades, mostly
with Banco Santander SA. We calculate market risk capital using standard rules.
The Internal VaR for exposure to traded market risk at 31 December 2024 was less than £1m (2023: less than £1m).
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Pension risk
Overview
Pension risk is the risk caused by our statutory contractual or other liabilities with
respect to a pension scheme (whether set up for our employees or those of a related
company or otherwise). It also refers to the risk that we will need to make payments or
other contributions with respect to a pension scheme due to some other reason.
In this section, we explain how we manage pension risk, including our investment and
hedging strategies. We also discuss our key metrics and developments in the year.
Key metrics
Funding Deficit at Risk was £830m (2023: £980m)
Funded defined benefit pension scheme accounting surplus
was £439m (2023: £723m)
OUR KEY PENSION RISKS
Pension risk is one of our key financial risks. Santander UK plc is the sponsor of the Santander (UK) Group Pension Scheme (the Scheme), a defined benefit scheme.
Our risk is that, over the long-term, the Scheme’s assets are not enough to meet its liabilities as they fall due. If this happens, we could have to (or choose to) make
extra contributions. We might also need to hold more capital to reflect this risk.
The Scheme, risk metrics and regulatory capital can be sensitive to changes in the assumptions of the risk categories shown below.
Categories
Description
Interest rate risk
The risk that a decrease in (long-term) interest rates causes an increase in the value of the Scheme’s liabilities that are not matched by an
increase in the value of its assets.
Inflation risk
Annual pension increases are directly linked to RPI or CPI. The risk is that an increase in inflation causes an increase in the value of the Scheme’s
liabilities that are not matched by an increase in the value of its assets.
Longevity risk
The Scheme’s liabilities are in respect of current and past employees and are expected to stretch beyond 2080 due to the long-term nature of
the obligation. Therefore, the Scheme’s liabilities are also impacted by changes to the life expectancy of Scheme members over time.
Investment risk
The risk that the return on the Scheme’s assets is insufficient to meet the liabilities.
For more on our defined benefit schemes, including sensitivity analysis of our key actuarial assumptions, see Note 28 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Defined contribution schemes
We also have defined contribution schemes for some of our employees. These schemes carry far less market risk for us, although we are still exposed to
operational and reputational risks. For more on our defined contribution schemes, see Note 28 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
The impact of our defined benefit schemes on capital
We take account of the impact of pension risk on our capital as part of our planning and stress testing process, considering measures such as the impact on CET1
and Pillar 2A, and also where relevant the impact on the related measures such as the leverage ratio.
Our defined benefit pension schemes affect capital in two ways:
We treat an IAS 19 deficit as a liability on our balance sheet. We recognise deficit movements in Other Comprehensive Income, so this reduces shareholders’
equity and CET1 capital. We treat an IAS 19 surplus as an asset. This increases shareholders’ equity, but it is deducted in determining CET1 capital. An IAS 19
surplus/deficit is partially offset by a deferred tax liability/asset. These may be recognised for calculating CET1 capital depending on our overall tax position.
The PRA takes pension risk into account in the Pillar 2A capital assessment in the annual ICAAP exercise. Pillar 2A is part of our overall regulatory requirement for
CET1 capital, Tier 1 capital and total capital. For more on our regulatory requirements, see the ‘Capital risk’ section.
PENSION RISK MANAGEMENT
For details of how the Scheme is governed and operates, see Note 28 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Risk appetite
Our Risk Appetite is a key consideration in all decisions and risk management activities related to the Scheme. Our pension risk appetite is reviewed by our Pension
Forum at least once a year. It is then sent to the Board for approval. We measure pension risk on both a technical provisions (funding) basis and an accounting
(IAS 19) basis. We manage pension risk on both the accounting and the funding basis. Both bases are inputs into our capital calculations.
Risk measurement
Our key risk metrics include:
Key risk metrics
Description
Funding Deficit at Risk
We use a VaR and a forward-looking stress testing framework to model the Scheme’s assets and liabilities to show the potential deterioration
in the funding position.
Sponsor Contributions
We use a VaR and a forward-looking stress testing framework to model the potential contribution that could be payable to the Scheme by a
pre-defined fixed date in the future.
Pensions Volatility
We use a VaR and a forward-looking stress testing framework to model the volatility in the pension-related capital deduction.
In addition to investing in liquid debt markets, the Scheme invests in certain assets whose values are not based on market observable data, such as investments in
private equity funds and property. For more on this, see Note 28 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. The risks of these assets are included in the metrics
described above.
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We perform stress tests for regulators, including for ICAAPs and PRA stress tests. For more on our stress testing, see the 'Risk governance' section.
Climate change scenario testing gives us the capacity to simulate risk exposures over an extended time horizon. The Trustee has an ambition to achieve net zero by
2050, which it factors into its decision making.
Risk mitigation
The key tools we use to maintain the above key risk metrics within appetite are:
Key tools
Description
Investment strategies
The Trustee developed the following investment objectives to reflect their main duty to act in the best interests of Scheme beneficiaries:
To maintain a diversified portfolio of assets of appropriate quality, security, liquidity and profitability to generate income and capital growth
to meet, with new contributions from members and employers, the cost of current and future benefits that the Scheme provides
To limit the risk that the assets fail to meet the liabilities
To invest in a manner appropriate to the nature and duration of the expected future retirement benefit payments under the Scheme
To minimise the Scheme's long-term costs by maximising asset returns net of fees and expenses whilst reflecting the objectives above.
The investment strategy is regularly reviewed, and its impact on Funding Deficit at Risk is considered.
Hedging strategies
The Trustee employs asset-liability matching arrangements including the use of liability driven investment strategies, and has a hedging
strategy to reduce key market risks, mainly interest rate and inflation risk, but also currency and longevity risk. We monitor available collateral
and liquidity with the objective of ensuring we have sufficient collateral and/or liquidity available to meet any margin calls.
Environmental, social and
governance (ESG)
The Trustee has established a Sustainability Committee which is responsible for overseeing the Scheme’s policies, regulatory obligations and
priorities in respect of climate change and wider ESG related matters.
We look at the impact on our risk metrics when determining the appropriateness of the investment and hedging strategies.
Risk monitoring and reporting
We monitor pension risk each month and report on it at the Pension Forum, ERCC and, where thresholds are exceeded (or likely to be), to the Board Risk
Committee and the Board in line with our pension risk appetite. This also includes quarterly monitoring of corporate credit exposures to assess any concentrations
of risk. We discuss any remedial action with the Trustee. In addition, we monitor the performance of third parties who support the valuation of the Scheme’s assets
and liabilities.
PENSION RISK REVIEW
2024 compared to 2023
We made further refinements in 2024 as part of the CISA exercise.
The underlying level of risk in the Scheme reduced in 2024. This was mainly driven by increased interest and inflation hedging in the first half of the year and the
continuing disposals of illiquid assets, including the sale of some private equity assets.
Our main focus is to ensure the Scheme achieves the right balance between risk and reward whilst minimising the impact on our capital and financial position. At 31
December 2024, the Funding Deficit at Risk decreased to £830m (2023: £980m), mainly due to the hedging noted above with the interest rate hedge ratio at 98%
(2023: 89%) and the inflation hedge ratio at 99% (2023: 82%) on a funding basis.
The Scheme's collateral and liquidity position continued to be monitored closely in light of the increase in long term gilt yields seen over the second half of 2024.
We also monitor the potential impact from variations in the IAS 19 position of CET1 capital. There was a moderate impact on CET1 capital caused by movements in
the IAS 19 position in the year. For more on the impact of our defined benefit schemes on capital, see the 'Capital Risk' section.
In 2024, we adopted a new version of the model that we use to set the IAS19 discount rate. The updated model is based on an expanded data set which is expected
to improve its stability. We also updated the mortality improvement assumption we use to value the floating leg of the longevity swap following a mortality basis
review carried out by the insurer and the Trustee. We also updated the mortality improvement assumption underlying the liability valuation to reflect latest data
available.
The accounting position deteriorated in 2024. For the section in deficit, this deterioration was more than offset by the deficit contributions paid. The Scheme
sections in surplus had an aggregate surplus of £439m at 31 December 2024 (2023: £723m) while there were no sections which had a deficit at 31 December
2024 (2023: one). The overall funded position was a £439m surplus (2023: £682m surplus). There were also unfunded liabilities of £23m at 31 December 2024
(2023: £25m). The overall deterioration was mainly due to a rise in gilt yields which caused assets to decrease by more than the liabilities, and decreases in the
value of certain illiquid assets. There remains considerable market uncertainty and our position could change materially over a short period.
For more on our pension schemes, including the asset allocation and our accounting assumptions, see Note 28 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Strategic and business risk
Overview
Strategic and business risk is the risk of significant loss or underperformance against planned objectives; damage arising from strategic decisions or their
poor implementation; an inability to adapt to external developments that impact the long-term interests of our key stakeholders.
In this section, we describe our key strategic and business risks and explain how we manage them. We also describe developments in the year.
OUR KEY STRATEGIC AND BUSINESS RISKS
Strategic and business risk could impact our long-term success if it caused our business model to become ineffective, out of date, or inconsistent with our goals.
This could happen if we are unable to identify threats arising from the economy, competitors, regulations, and/or changes in technology and customer expectations.
We could be exposed to this risk if we misjudge our capabilities, or the ability to implement our strategy, or pursue initiatives that do not fit with our business model
or miss opportunities we could benefit from.
STRATEGIC AND BUSINESS RISK MANAGEMENT
Risk management
Description
Risk appetite
We have a low to moderate appetite for strategic and business risk. This limits the risks we are prepared to take to achieve our strategic
objectives and is aligned to our balanced, customer-centric business model.
Risk measurement
Our Board and senior management regularly review potential risks in our operations and plans to ensure we stay within risk appetite.
Risk mitigation
We manage strategic and business risk by having a clear and consistent strategy that takes account of external factors and our own capabilities.
We have an effective planning process which ensures we adapt our strategy to reflect changes in risks and opportunities.
Risk monitoring and
reporting
We closely track our business environment, including long-term trends that might affect us in the future. As part of this, we report a
range of indicators.
STRATEGIC AND BUSINESS RISK REVIEW
2024 compared to 2023
In 2024, we continued to transform ourselves and made changes to serve our customers better by offering them the best products at the best value and with
a frictionless digital experience. To deliver this we focused our transformation on three core pillars:
Commercial Transformation: creating better propositions,
Operational Transformation: creating better capabilities, and
Cultural Transformation: creating an organisation with an even greater focus on high performance and customer focus.
We successfully delivered phase 2 of the Consumer Duty mandate which delivered a sustainable customer-focused operating model, and shifted us to a more
customer outcome-focused culture. We continue to face a demanding regulatory agenda and have multiple ongoing projects to ensure regulatory compliance. We
will continue to work through these requirements in 2025, while keeping good customer outcomes at the heart of everything we do. Regulatory mandates we
delivered include the Payment Systems Regulator's requirement on Confirmation of Payee for all Payment Service Providers and an Authorised Push Payment
mandatory reimbursement regulation, both of which became effective from 7 October 2024.
Our ambition is to be net zero by 2050 and we are supporting our customers to help them to make the green transition in a fair way. In 2024, we identified ways to
help our customers in their journey to transition to a low carbon economy whilst continuing to assess the underlying risks they face. We launched new Green
Finance products as well as strategic partnerships with energy companies such as Octopus Energy and Scottish Power. Our Green Finance taskforce continued to
consolidate ongoing and future Green Finance initiatives enabling us to ensure we deliver on our green finance public ambition.
Competitive pressures continued in 2024 with overall market volumes for assets and deposits resuming growth. The recent consolidation drive by our peers
is creating larger and more diversified competitors, while digital banks continue to build their customer base and expand their product offerings. In 2024, we
protected our core business franchise by deleveraging mortgages and optimising our balance sheet. We launched several new propositions for our customers,
including OneApp, our new business banking app, Edge Home, Edge credit card and our Self Invested Pension Plan. In Corporate and Commercial Banking,
we signed a commercial agreement with Dentsu to expand the Santander Navigator proposition. Santander Navigator is a SaaS platform designed to support
international trade by providing market-leading insights and connecting businesses across the globe. We believe our customer-focused business model and
strategy, and our adaptable and innovative approach, will support our continued success.
We remain focused on supporting customer needs, improving efficiency, and building a responsible and sustainable business, while continuing to progress with our
agenda to tackle climate change. This will enable us to meet the changing needs of our customers and deliver improved returns over the long-term.
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Reputational risk
Overview
Reputational risk is the risk of damage to the way our reputation and brand are perceived by the public, clients, government, colleagues, investors, or any
other interested party.
In this section, we describe our key reputational risks and explain how we manage them. We also describe developments in the year.
OUR KEY REPUTATIONAL RISKS
Reputational risks can arise from internal and external factors. We seek to manage our reputation proactively, underpinned by our aim to be a responsible bank, and
through our reputational risk framework. Reputational risk is not static; today’s decisions may be judged by different standards tomorrow. We build this into our risk
culture, evaluation and sanction procedures.
REPUTATIONAL RISK MANAGEMENT
Risk management
Description
Risk appetite
We have a low appetite for reputational risk, which is agreed by the Board at least each year.
Risk measurement
We assess our exposure to reputational risk daily. We base this on expert judgement and analysis of social, print, and broadcast media, and
the views of political and market commentators. We also commission independent third parties to analyse our activities and those of our UK
peers to identify reputational events, a decline in our reputation, and sector or thematic issues that impact our business. We also measure
the perception of Santander UK by key stakeholders through regular interactions and review staff sentiment each year.
Risk mitigation
Our business units consider reputational risk as part of their operational risk and control assessments. We also consider it as part of our new
product reviews. Our Corporate Communications and Responsible Banking, Legal and Compliance and Marketing teams help business units
to mitigate the risk and agree action plans as needed, as part of their role to protect our brand and reputation.
Risk monitoring and
reporting
We monitor and report reputational risks and issues on a timely basis. Our Reputational Risk Forum reviews and escalates key issues to ERCC,
RBC and the Board. We also report regularly to ExCo on Sustainability and Public Affairs policies.
Our Reputational and ESCC risk policies define how we create long-term value while managing those risks. Our ESCC policy covers Oil & Gas, Power Generation &
Transmission, Mining & Metals and Soft Commodities. For example, financing is prohibited for project-related financing for new CFPP projects worldwide and we
will only work with new clients with CFPPs to provide specific financing for renewable energy projects.
REPUTATIONAL RISK REVIEW
2024 compared to 2023
In 2024, key reputational risks related to the uncertain economic environment and continued pressures from increases in the cost of living. Increased mortgage
payments remained a significant issue for our customers. We continued to support the government's Mortgage Charter, and proactively contacted customers to
offer support and help. There was criticism that banks were failing to pass on increases in the Bank of England Bank Rate to savers. To address this, we ran
campaigns and issued direct communications to customers to advise them of our products and rates, several of which were market leading.
In May 2024, we faced significant reputational risks arising from the Banco Santander global data breach, even though the breach had no material effect on
Santander UK. To manage this, we worked closely with colleagues across the Banco Santander group to develop communications for both external and internal
audiences to mitigate risks. In February 2024, we also faced significant reputational risks arising from allegations that companies linked to Iran were using accounts
held with Santander UK to evade US sanctions.
We also monitored developments in relation to historical motor finance commission payments and its potential impact on Reputational risk. For more details, see
Notes 27 and 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Operational risk
Overview
Operational risk is the risk of loss or adverse impact due to inadequate or failed internal processes, people and systems, or external events. Operational
resilience is the ability to prevent disruption occurring to the extent practicable; adapt systems and processes to continue to provide services and functions in
the event of an incident; return to normal running promptly when a disruption is over; and learn and evolve from both incidents and near misses. Operational
Resilience is the outcome of executing sound Operational Risk practices.
In this section, we describe our key operational risks and explain how we manage them, with a focus on our top operational risks. We also describe our
operational risk event losses and developments in the year.
OUR KEY OPERATIONAL RISKS
Operational risk is inherent in our business. As a result, we aim to manage it down to as low a level as possible, in line with our Risk Appetite, rather than eliminate it
entirely. Operational risk events can have a financial impact and can also affect our business objectives, customer service and regulatory obligations. These events
can include product misselling, fraud, process failures, system downtime and damage to assets or external events.
Our key operational risks are divided into 11 categories:
Category
Description
Business
disruption
Business Disruption risk is the risk that we are unable to maintain and/or recover our normal day-to-day operation and secure our tangible
assets, to support continued delivery of good customer outcomes.
In addition, we must ensure that we meet our operational resilience obligations to recover our important business services within our agreed
Impact Tolerances in the event of severe operational disruptions to mitigate harm to our customers and wider financial sector.
Cybersecurity
and
information
security
Information Security risk is the potential for unauthorised access, use, disclosure, alteration, destruction, or disruption of information. This
covers all types of data whether stored digitally or non-digitally including client data, employee data and organisational proprietary data.
Cybersecurity risk is one aspect of Information Security risk and is the risk of a malicious cyber-attack that may result in unauthorised access to
(or theft of) sensitive data, loss of data integrity and/or disruption of services. Information Security and Cybersecurity risks may result in material
impacts to our customers, business disruption, financial loss, reputational damage, and regulatory censure.
Data
Data risk is the risk that we do not collect, store, organise, maintain, protect, process, use and/or dispose of data effectively and efficiently.
Effective data management supports our goals by giving timely, accurate and relevant data for decision making and business operations.
Financial
reporting and
Tax
Financial Reporting and Tax risk is the risk associated with producing internal and external financial statements, financial regulatory reporting
(including liquidity and capital) and tax reporting.
Fraud
Fraud can be committed by first parties (our customers), second parties (people known to our customers or us), third parties (people unknown
to our customers or us), and internally by our staff. We are committed to protecting ourselves and our customers from fraud and to mitigating
our fraud risk in an ever-evolving external fraud environment.
IT
IT risk is the risk of adverse impact to the availability, continuity and performance of technology systems including hardware, software,
networks and data centres. This risk may give rise to poor customer outcomes or experience and business disruption, financial loss, legal claims,
reputational damage, regulatory fines or censure.
Legal
Legal risk is the risk of legal deficiencies in contracts and failures in protecting assets, managing legal disputes, interpretation and compliance
with existing laws and regulations or implementation and compliance with new ones. Failure to manage legal risk may expose Santander UK to
financial loss, litigation costs, fines, higher capital or liquidity requirements, criminal sanctions, regulatory action or censure, customer
complaints, and/or reputational damage.
Outsourcing
and Third party
Third Party risk is the risk to our operations due to the use of Third Party entities supplying goods or services. The risk can arise from outsourcing
and non-outsourcing arrangements.
People
People risk is the risk of loss or adverse impact due to undesired employee behaviours; gaps in employee knowledge and capability; insufficient
resources or lack of capacity; inadequate management of occupational health and workplace safety risks; and failure to comply with
employment legislation and regulations. This risk may result in poor customer outcomes, failure to deliver our strategy and key business
objectives and regulatory, reputational, and financial impacts and personal injury.
Transaction
and payments
processing
Transaction and Payments Processing risk is the risk that we do not process payment instructions effectively and efficiently. This includes
inbound and outbound electronic payments, clearing of cheques and other instruments, deposits/withdrawals of cash and authorisation/
settlement of credit/debit card payments.
Transformation
and Change
Transformation and Change risk relates to any activity that transforms our business strategy, organisation, products, services, systems and
processes. These activities differ from our normal day-to-day activities as they aim to achieve specific outcomes and benefits, with a clear scope,
schedule, and budget. The risk covers the strategic and business risks of not investing in the right things, failing to manage an appropriate and
complete change portfolio, failing to execute change effectively, and failing to manage risk of change to the business, causing potential adverse
consequences.
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OPERATIONAL RISK MANAGEMENT
We manage our operational risks (and other Non-Financial risks (NFRs)) in line with our NFR framework, as follows:
Non-Financial Risk Management
Our NFR framework (formerly known as the Operational Risk and Resilience framework) sets out our high-level arrangements and standards to manage operational
risks, and is part of our overall Risk Framework. Our Risk Appetite sets the risk limits and key risk metrics for non-financial risks.
Risk appetite
We maintain NFR appetite across Santander UK through Board approved Risk Appetite Statements. These are in place for all principal risks and describe the extent
and type of activities that can be undertaken. The Risk Appetite statements consist of qualitative statements of appetite supported by risk limits and triggers which
operate as a defence against excessive risk taking. Risk measures and their associated limits are an integral part of embedding risk appetite in day-to-day risk
management decisions.
We set a clear tolerance in line with business activities, and we also set lower level triggers, parameters and quantitative thresholds across our business areas. We
monitor our risk profile and performance against the risk appetite, and we have processes to identify, assess, manage, and report risks and events. We incorporate
Banco Santander group principles and standards, regulatory requirements, and best practice, where applicable. Coverage across the seven CRD IV loss event types is
comprehensive and aligns to the principal risks approved by ERCC.
Our policies directly support the qualitative aspects of Risk Appetite. They define expectations, guidance and standards and support consistency of permissible risk
taking across the business.
Risk measurement
The key components of the operational risk toolset we use to measure risks under our NFR framework are:
NFR risk toolset
Description
Operational risk and
control assessments
Our business units identify and assess their operational risks to ensure they manage and control them within our operational risk appetite, and
prioritise actions needed. Every area must identify and record their material risks, assess their controls for adequacy and then accept the risk
or plan to address any deficiencies. We perform independent testing of our most important controls to ensure enhanced rigour and challenge
of how effectively they are mitigating our largest risks. We also use operational risk assessments and risk rating tools as key parts of change
risk management.
Risk scenario analysis
We perform this across business units. It involves a top down assessment of our key operational risks. We update our scenarios each year. The
analysis gives us insight into rare but high impact events and allows us to understand potential impacts and address issues.
Our Operational risk scenario analysis covers major Operational risks that are extreme but plausible and requires participants across the
business to consider and assess the financial and qualitative impacts on Santander UK, in the event these exposures were to materialise. We
complete the scenario analysis for risk management and regulatory purposes. We also use it as a business tool for their own stress testing to
help understand the largest exposures and agree key actions required to prevent, control or mitigate risks. We review and update our scenarios
each year to ensure they still represent our key operational risk exposures.
Key indicators (metrics)
Key indicators and their tolerance levels give us an objective view of risk exposure or the strength of a control at any point in time. They also
show trends and give us early warning of potential increasing risk exposures. Our business-wide risk appetite indicators are of primary
importance which show adherence to our Risk Appetite statements.
Operational risk event
and loss management
Operational risk events occur when our controls do not operate as we planned and this leads to customer impact, financial loss, regulatory
impacts and/or damage to our reputation. We use data from these processes to identify and correct any control weaknesses. We also use root
cause analysis to identify emerging themes, to prevent or reduce the impacts of recurrence and to support risk and control assessments,
scenario analysis and risk reporting. Our operational risk loss appetite sets the level of total operational risk loss (expected and unexpected) in
any given year (on a 12-month rolling basis) that we consider to be acceptable. We track actual losses against our appetite, and we escalate as
needed.
Risk mitigation
Mitigation Is a critical aspect of ensuring that our risk profile remains within our Risk Appetite. Risk mitigation strategies are discussed and agreed at various Risk
committees within Santander.
When we consider strategies, cost and benefits, we also consider residual risks (those retained) and secondary risks (which may be consequential). Monitoring and
review processes are in place to evaluate results. Early identification and effective management are critical to successful mitigation. We assess the effects of
changes for materiality impact and those assessed as high or medium high impact are managed closely.
Mitigation tools
Description
Training and
competence
We train our staff and require them to maintain a suitable level of competence to ensure customers can achieve appropriate outcomes. We
invest in all our people to ensure that we achieve our mandatory risk objectives and that everyone acknowledges their personal responsibility to
manage risk. We focus on ensuring we train our colleagues to recognise and support customers who may be vulnerable, or who may be
experiencing financial stress, financial difficulty or financial abuse. We also have a dedicated Specialist Support Team that offers guidance to
colleagues helping customers who may need more tailored solutions.
Action management
Where risk exposures are outside our Risk Appetite, our business units identify, assess, manage and monitor material actions to reduce the
exposure back to within appetite.
Event root cause
analysis
Where new material and significant events are reported, steps are taken to identify the root cause of the event. This enables a read across and
the sharing of lessons learned with appropriate mitigating actions taken to address the root cause and successfully resolve the event, and
enhancements made to the control environment to prevent re-occurrence.
Emerging risk
monitoring
We monitor key threats, developments, and risks, including consideration of which risk types or Business areas may be impacted or stressed by
them.
Risk based insurance
Where appropriate, we use insurance to complement other risk mitigation measures.
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We manage our operational risks in line with our NFR framework, as outlined earlier. In addition, to mitigate specific cybersecurity risks, we have the following
tailored approach:
Category
Risk mitigation
Cybersecurity
Protecting our customers, systems and data remains a top priority for us. We operate a layered information and cybersecurity defence which is aligned
to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).
We constantly look to adapt our capabilities to the evolving threats. We do this by gathering intelligence on threat actors, motives, and their attack
techniques. We protect our most critical people, assets, and data with preventative controls in line with the identified threats. We also assume that
breaches will happen in any case, and so we seek to mitigate these by ensuring their timely detection and that appropriate response and recovery
activities are in place. We do this by leveraging industry standard threat analysis, identifying specific real-life scenarios, developing detailed response
playbooks, and testing them regularly using bank-wide simulation exercises involving up to the CEO. Cybersecurity controls are also thoroughly
captured in policies, standards, guidelines and procedures available to all staff.
Third parties are vital for the functioning and resilience of our business. As such, we operate a dedicated risk and control assessment prior to, and
during, the lifecycle of engagements. This ensures the controls operated by the third party are in line with our policies and integrated with our
processes as needed. These include, amongst others, business continuity, incident reporting and regulatory compliance.
We regularly assess the state of our environment by reviewing the maturity of our controls in line with our internal risk management framework. We engage
with regulatory authorities through regular oversight meetings and we participate in the CBEST programme. The CBEST programme aims to evaluate the
resilience of firms and financial market infrastructures through testing performed by accredited and independent specialist firms. We also have a team of
penetration testers in our Internal Audit function, that reviews our cybersecurity risks and controls, and reports the results to the BAC. We participate in industry
recognised intelligence sharing groups with other banks (e.g. Cyber Defence Alliance), and we speak regularly to government agencies.
We campaign to raise awareness and give customers the knowledge they need to avoid becoming victims of cybersecurity incidents. As part of this, we
run customer education campaigns and offer advice through our online security operations centre. We also have a cybersecurity insurance policy to give
us comprehensive cover to respond to and recover losses and damages from security breaches.
Our Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is responsible for the day-to-day running of security operations and the immediate response to
information and cybersecurity incidents. The CISO relies on a comprehensive specialist team, supported by cybersecurity controls and capabilities
available from the Banco Santander group CISO team in Spain.
The CISO and most staff who manage cybersecurity risk across all lines of defence are industry specialists with substantial experience in leadership and
technical aspects. This experience is gained via previous cybersecurity related roles in top global financial organisations, global multinationals, UK
government security agencies, UK regulators, such as the PRA, industry leading cybersecurity risk management suppliers, and relevant university
education. Many hold specialist security certifications that are kept relevant by attending dedicated training and specialist conferences.
The CISO is responsible for cybersecurity risk operations and risk management and falls under the COO SMF accountability framework. The CRO is
responsible for overseeing and challenging the risk management activities enacted by the CISO and the COO to ensure they remain within appetite.
The CISO and the COO report regularly and frequently to the Board, ExCo, BRC and ERCC. They provide detailed commentaries on the threat
environment, key incidents across the industry, geopolitical considerations, the overall residual risk, progress on key projects, the control environment
position, and appetite going forward. In addition, BRC and ERCC receive monthly cybersecurity updates as part of the standard risk reporting suite.
The CISO and the COO escalate material cybersecurity incidents affecting us and our suppliers via our internal incident escalation and management
procedure with direct notifications to the CRO and other executive management.
The Board and BRC include members who have substantial experience of technology risk, including Non-Executive Directors and the Chief Operating
and Technology Officer. We also provide targeted training for Board members, senior management and other employees to enhance their knowledge
per the evolving and emerging threat landscape.
Risk monitoring and reporting
Regulators continue to emphasise the importance of effective risk culture, personal accountability and the adoption and enforcement of risk-based requirements
and adequate internal reporting processes and procedures. Monitoring and Reporting is a key part of how we manage risk. We can identify exposures through our
Non-Financial Risk and control assessments, risk scenario analysis, key indicators, change risk assessments and incidents and events.
Subject matter experts across the business engage across risk management and monitoring activities and support effective communication of policy changes. We
report exposures for each business unit through regular risk and control forums. These include details of the risks, level of exposure and how we plan to mitigate
them. We prioritise and highlight events that have a material impact on our customers, reputation or finance by reporting them to key executives and committees.
We use The Standardised Approach (TSA) to calculate our Pillar 1 operational risk capital. We use an internal model aligned to the CRD IV advanced measurement
approach to validate our Pillar 2 capital needs.
Our crisis management framework covers all levels of the business. It sets out possible triggers and how we will manage a crisis, and we test it at least annually. If
an event occurs, our business continuity plans help us recover as quickly as possible and we undertake post incident reviews to identify learnings.
We closely monitor emerging threats that could affect future operations and performance. We act to mitigate potential risks as and when required. We also carry
out further in depth analysis, including stress testing of exposures.
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OPERATIONAL RISK REVIEW
2024 compared to 2023
Operational risk event losses by Basel category
The table below shows our operational risk losses in 2024 and 2023 for reportable events with an impact over £10,000, by CRD IV loss event types. The data is
presented in line with the Basel 2.5 requirement to aggregate and recognise losses in the year of the first point of recognition, rather than in any subsequent year(s)
in which further costs are recognised under IFRS. Due to the nature of risk events that keep evolving, prior year losses are updated:
2024
2023
Value %
Volume %
Value %
Volume %
Internal fraud
1
External fraud
74
87
12
93
Employment practices and workplace safety
1
1
1
Clients, products and business practices
11
3
87
1
Damage to physical assets
1
1
Business disruption and systems failures
2
Execution, delivery, and process management
10
8
1
5
100
100
100
100
Business disruption
We continued to mature our frameworks and capabilities to support meeting the Operational Resilience requirements by the March 2025 regulatory deadline, with
regular updates provided to our Executive and Board Risk committees throughout the year. We assessed the resilience of our important business services using a
broad range of severe but plausible disruption scenarios. We ran successful cyberattack and loss of third party scenarios, to ensure that our contingency and
recovery strategies were effective in minimising harm to our customers, risk to the safety and soundness of Santander UK, and risk to the orderly functioning or
stability to the UK market. We continued to invest in strategic programmes that will further strengthen our resilience position, in particular across our IT estate.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity remains a key focus. In 2024, Banco Santander experienced a reportable data breach that impacted, amongst other group entities, Santander UK. The
impact was limited to Santander UK staff personal information. We also responded to third party incidents affecting our suppliers. We continued to enhance our
threat prevention controls and test our business area recovery plans against a range of scenarios. We continued to see increasing ransomware attacks across all
sectors, driven by compromises in supply chain tools, and we expect this trend to remain. We also invested in skills and resources to manage cybersecurity risks,
and monitor cybersecurity threats, including from the geopolitical environment. Our business strategy and financial results were not significantly affected by either
cybersecurity threats or incidents. However, we cannot give assurance that they will not be significantly affected by such risks and incidents in the future.
Data
We continued to manage the risk with enhanced governance and investments, focusing on our critical data and processes. We continued to develop, implement,
and enhance new and existing data controls through various initiatives. These initiatives included establishing appropriate processes, prioritising the resolution of
gaps in data controls and data lineage testing, and ensuring that remediation plans are in place as part of our Data Management Programme to further enhance
data quality and data privacy and protection.
Fraud
Authorised Push Payment fraud remains our largest fraud type. We continued to make progress in mitigating operational risk losses from fraud. This included
implementing new detection controls and coordinated customer awareness campaigns that led to a significant reduction in specific frauds risks for our customers,
especially in terms of onboarding and payment card fraud. We maintained a leading, collaborative role in fraud management with industry partners, through CIFAS,
UK Finance and Stop Scams UK.
IT
We made significant progress in addressing key IT risks through a programme of remediation activities, including continued improvement in reducing IT related
incidents and the ongoing management of technology obsolescence. As a result of the progress made, the FCA recognised our improvement in IT resilience.
Legal
Our legal risk profile remained heightened in 2024. The Court of Appeal judgment in October 2024 in relation to motor finance commission cases involving other
lenders represented a deterioration in our legal risk position and led to a £295m provision. The decision is subject to an appeal to the Supreme Court. The outcome
of that appeal and the appeal to the Court of Appeal of the High Court’s judicial review of a final decision by the Financial Ombudsman against another lender are
expected to influence our legal risk in relation to litigation and complaints relating to historical motor finance commission arrangements and the outcome of the
FCA review. We continued to evaluate and react to the evolving legal and regulatory environment, including the Consumer Duty, the Financial Services and Markets
Act 2023, the Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Act 2023, the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act 2024 and reforms to the ring-fencing
regime. We materially completed the alignment of material third party contracts to PRA Supervisory Statement 2/21, and in relation to international data transfers,
to the Schrems II judgment. The in-flow litigated PPI claims reduced and an appeal by a PPI complainant to the Court of Appeal to re-open a settlement agreement
was unsuccessful. However, on-going large scale complex PPI related litigation brought by AXA, and a German criminal and tax investigation relating to historical
dividend tax arbitrage transactions remain. We continue to manage our legal risk in relation to thematic Court actions and FOS complaints related to fraud,
irresponsible lending, mortgages and commissions. For more, see Note 30 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Outsourcing & Third Party Supplier
We rely extensively on third parties for a range of goods and services, provided by both Banco Santander and external suppliers. We reviewed our suppliers against
a revised set of controls and implemented new metrics to monitor and manage our risk exposure. We continue to manage risk to our Third Party Supplier estate.
People
We saw improvements in 2024 with reduced levels of attrition and of aged vacancies. We continue to be alert and respond to any risks that could arise from our
ongoing transformation, including providing ongoing support to enable colleagues to attend the office regularly.
Transformation and change
We continue our transformation to simplify the bank, digitise processes, build smarter solutions, and strengthen our foundations whilst reducing costs, extending
internal capabilities and ensuring a resilient operating model. This includes delivery against a diverse change agenda with a focus on modernising our operations
and building fit for the future technology, transforming customer interactions, growth and productivity. Ensuring change does not result in unacceptable impacts on
our customers and risk profile underpins our strategic decisions and is robustly managed.
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Financial crime risk
Overview
Financial crime risk is the risk that we are used to further financial crime, including money laundering, sanctions evasion, terrorist financing, facilitation of tax
evasion, bribery and corruption. We recognise that financial crime and associated illegal activity poses a threat to the UK's national security, economy and its
institutions and causes serious harm to the customers and communities we serve.
In this section, we describe our key financial crime risks and explain how we manage them. We also describe developments in the year.
OUR KEY FINANCIAL CRIME RISKS
Financial crime is a high priority risk for us, and addressing it is a key priority for senior management. We remain committed to countering it by maintaining robust
systems and controls, and conducting business in line with regulatory and legal requirements. We adopt a risk-based approach in line with UK and international
laws and standards.
Our main financial crime risk categories are:
Category
Description
Money laundering
We are used by criminals to transform the proceeds of crime into seemingly legitimate money or other assets.
Terrorist financing
We are used by terrorists to deposit, distribute or collect funds that are used to fund their activity.
Sanctions
We do not identify payments, customers or entities that are subject to economic or financial sanctions.
Bribery and corruption
We fail to put in place effective controls to prevent or detect bribery and corruption.
Facilitation of tax evasion
We fail to put in place effective systems and controls to prevent the facilitation of tax evasion.
FINANCIAL CRIME RISK MANAGEMENT
We manage our financial crime risks in line with our NFR framework, as outlined earlier. In addition, we have financial crime policies tailored to the key risks and we
maintain a control framework in line with a standalone economic crime risk framework. We continue to partner with public authorities, the Home Office and the
wider financial services industry to pool expertise and data to mitigate specific financial crime risks. We are also involved in partnerships such as the Joint Money
Laundering Intelligence Taskforce (JMLIT) which supports public-private collaboration to tackle financial crime.
FINANCIAL CRIME RISK REVIEW
2024 compared to 2023
We understand the importance of protecting the communities we serve from the social and economic impacts of financial crime. We recognise that the financial
crime landscape is constantly evolving, influenced by regulatory changes, legal requirements, geopolitical factors and changing criminal methods. As a result, we
continue to prioritise and remain vigilant in addressing financial crime risks and actively partner with industry, law enforcement and government to deter, detect
and disrupt financial crime and terrorist financing. In 2024, we:
Continued to invest in our financial crime systems and controls with a focus on reducing the residual risk and returning to Board Risk Appetite, adequacy of
resources and key deliverables across the remediation plan. 
Adapted our financial crime policies to reflect the latest external requirements, best practice and Banco Santander policy requirements.
Maintained our focus on providing colleagues with the appropriate skills, knowledge and qualifications to support our efforts to fight financial crime through
enhanced and targeted training. Our Economic Crime Academy provides training modules on high risk Financial Crime areas in line with industry standards, and
these modules are endorsed by the International Compliance Association (ICA).
Played an active role externally on policy and related strategies and maintained extensive involvement in UK public private partnerships. As part of this, we
worked closely with government, trade bodies, industry, law enforcement and regulators on issues that many impact our Financial Crime Compliance
capabilities.
Remained a committed member of the JMLIT and other public-private information sharing initiatives with law enforcement and industry, to exchange and
analyse data on high-end money laundering and wider economic threats.
Following changes to the Governance framework in Q424, we transferred oversight for the Financial Crime Remediation Programme to the Special Projects
Committee.
Financial crime risk management remains one of our top risks and a key focus area for senior management and the Board. We continue to enhance our risk
management capabilities with key activity planned in 2025 including:
Accelerating risk mitigation responses and controls to new or evolving financial crime risk threats.
Continuing to enhance our sanctions systems and controls in response to internal and external lessons learned from the external sanctions developments in
2024, notably the continued impacts of the Russia sanctions and increased use of OFSI powers.
Maturing our financial crime operations, including continuing to improve our customer data records to help increase the effectiveness and sustainability of our
efforts to manage financial crime risks.
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Model risk
Overview
Model risk is the risk that the predictions from models may be inaccurate, causing sub-optimal decisions to be made; or that a model may be used
inappropriately. These potential adverse consequences can lead to reputational damage, regulatory non-compliance, a deterioration in our prudential
position, or financial losses.
In this section, we describe our key model risks and explain how we manage them. We also describe developments in the year.
OUR KEY MODEL RISKS
A model is a quantitative repeatable method or system that relies on assumptions to process input data into estimates of uncertain outcomes. Our key model risks
arise from inadequate or flawed design leading to weaknesses and limitations in our models, implementation errors or poor deployment of the models, or the
incorrect or inappropriate use of a model. The most material models we use help us calculate our regulatory capital and credit losses, and perform stress tests. We
are seeing increasing interest in using Artificial Intelligence (AI) which creates new model risks such as explainability - the ability to understand why an algorithm
made a particular prediction.
MODEL RISK MANAGEMENT
We manage our Model risks in line with our NFR framework, as outlined earlier. In addition, to mitigate specific model risks, we have the following tailored policies:
Model Risk Policy – sets out the action, outcome or standard of behaviour expected to manage and control model risk and remain within risk appetite
Tiering and Materiality Policy – ensures the consistent methodology in determining the significance of models used across the business
Change Classification Policy – explains how model changes are managed and controlled
Changes to IRB Rating Systems Policy – sets the criteria for assessing the materiality of extensions and changes to IRB models
Validation Policy – sets out the general criteria for internal validation activities, with the aim to provide an objective, unbiased and critical opinion on the adequacy
of models we use.
In line with our risk organisational structure, our first line of defence drives effective management of the risk and fully embeds the framework. In the second line,
the oversight team sets a clear framework, related policies, risk appetite and provides oversight and governance. The independent valuation function reviews new
developments for all models, particularly for capital adequacy, provisions and stress testing, which all have regulatory focus. The third line of defence assesses
periodically the robustness of the model risk management framework, compliance with policies and regulatory requirements, and material changes taking place.
MODEL RISK REVIEW
2024 compared to 2023
In 2024, Model risk remained a significant focus, as we continued to work on the regulatory agenda, focusing on models to reflect the most accurate and recent
data. The PRA’s Model Risk Supervisory Statement (SS1/23) policy has been in effect since May 2024 and we have aligned our framework, policies and procedures
to the new regulation. We are embedding enhancements across our business as a result. We will maintain a strong focus on aligning with supervisory expectations
as we address remediation efforts in the next two years. We continued to recognise model risk as a key risk and maintained a strong management and oversight
framework that is embedded across all three lines of defence.
In 2024, we continued to redevelop key regulatory capital models, and the enhancements to our most material provision models went live. In line with SS1/23 we
embedded a robust post-model adjustment framework, including independent review of adjustments made to the ECL to mitigate against weaknesses and
limitations. We continued to focus on our new climate change stress test models to consider the effects of climate change risk on our portfolios.
We delivered several new machine learning and generative AI solutions in 2024, including Agent Assist, which have helped improve productivity.
We expect industry use of AI to continue to grow and we plan to expand our use of it, allowing our colleagues to focus on the more complex customer cases. We
will continue to build on the progress made in 2024 and will focus on ensuring our models remain accurate and reliable given the momentum of change.
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Conduct and regulatory risk
Overview
Conduct risk is the risk where our decisions and behaviours could lead to detriment or
poor outcomes for our customers. It also refers to the risk that we fail to maintain high
standards of market behaviour and integrity.
Regulatory risk is the risk of financial or reputational loss, or imposition of our conditions
on regulatory permission, due to failing to comply with applicable codes, regulator’s
rules, guidance and regulatory expectations.
In this section, we describe where our key conduct and regulatory risks can originate from
and set out how we manage them. We also describe developments in the year.
Key metrics
Customer remediation provision was £348m (2023:
£106m)
Litigation and other regulatory provision was £112m
(2023: £132m)
OUR KEY CONDUCT AND REGULATORY RISKS
We are committed to ensuring Conduct and Regulatory Risk strategy is embedded within our business, as good outcomes for our customers are at the heart
of what we do. Conduct and Regulatory Risk can stem from errors in our product design, sales practices, post-sale servicing, operational processes, complaint
handling, and the failure to supervise, monitor or control the activities of our employees. All of these may result in the risk that we do not deliver better outcomes
for our customers, align to the expectations of our regulators or observe required standards of market behaviour. Understanding the drivers of Conduct and
Regulatory risk enables us to update and ensure our frameworks are robust to mitigate against the risk of causing consumer harm on an on-going basis.
CONDUCT AND REGULATORY RISK MANAGEMENT
We manage our Conduct and regulatory risks in line with our NFR framework, as outlined earlier. In addition, to mitigate specific Conduct and Regulatory risks, we
have the following tailored policies:
Policies
Description
Fair Value policy for regulated
products (Retail customers)
Our fair value policy details our approach to assessing whether a regulated product provides fair value to our retail customers, considering
all stages of value during the product design phase, and on a regular basis.
Fair treatment of vulnerable
customers
Some customers may be impacted financially or personally as a result of their circumstances. Our Vulnerable Customer Policy gives
business units a clear and consistent view of what vulnerability can mean and situations when customers may need more support. Our
guidelines focus on identifying characteristics of vulnerability, understanding customer needs and the support and flexibility we can give
to help.
In addition to mandatory training, we train our customer-facing staff using real customer scenarios to enable our people to deal with
a wide range of sensitive issues. Our online Vulnerable Customer Support Tool gives our people more guidance and support, and our
Specialist Support Team gives guidance for the most complex situations. We also consider vulnerability in every initiative and adapt our
technology to the needs of customers with vulnerability characteristics in our design and testing stages. We work with charities,
authorities, trade associations and other specialists to develop our understanding of vulnerability.
Conduct & Regulatory
risk policy for regulated
products (Retail customers)
Our policy sets out the actions that we must take and the standards of behaviour we comply with to deliver good outcomes
for retail customers, to comply with applicable regulatory requirements and expectations, and to deliver a strong conduct and
compliance culture.
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CONDUCT AND REGULATORY RISK REVIEW
2024 compared to 2023
In 2024, the Conduct and Regulatory environment saw a demanding agenda, and we expect this to continue. To fully consider customer and conduct impacts across
our business, our customers remain at the centre of our culture and purpose. We monitor and regularly review our customers' experiences and act to address
outcomes. As part of this, we:
Continued to proactively contact customers who may be at risk of experiencing early signs of financial stress, to support them and try to help avoid longer term
financial difficulty. We referred them to internal and external sources of support alongside ongoing customer engagement and support plans.
Evolved our Financial Support team and SME support, with more investment in people and IT to ensure we continue to drive good outcomes for customers,
including those in pre-arrears, and can provide tailored support relevant to a customer's individual circumstances and needs.
Continued to review our products and services to ensure our customers receive communications they understand, products and services that meet their needs
and that offer fair value, and the support they need, when they need it, to deliver good customer outcomes.
Continued to actively participate in schemes to ensure the long-term future of access to cash, including supporting the setup of shared banking hubs and wider
engagement with LINK and industry partners.
Assessed ongoing and new policy areas in the FCA's 2023/24 Business Plan. Our key focus continued to be on reducing and preventing serious consumer harm,
setting and testing higher standards, and promoting competition and positive change. We continued to address these in our controls, product and service
processes and frameworks, and we continued to adapt in line with the evolution of a digital economy.
Payments services continue to be particularly active, with the recently published National Payments Vision setting out key ways to ensure that the UK's payment
systems deliver for consumers and contribute to growth. This includes the continued development of account-to-account payments, such as Open Banking and
Open Finance, exploration of a Central Bank Digital Currency and the future structure of the payments ecosystem.
We will continue to monitor the regulatory landscape and contribute to debates on regulatory issues. We expect the key areas of regulatory focus in 2025 to include
the ongoing supervision of the FCA’s Consumer Duty (with a focus on customer outcomes), the FCA’s implementation for the Advice Guidance Boundary review, the
outcome of the FCA's review into discretionary commission arrangements for motor finance, and a review of the role of the Financial Ombudsman Service. We also
expect continued focus from the FCA on how firms protect customers from financial crime. We expect the PRA and FCA to work jointly on issues such as operational
resilience and outsourcing, non-financial misconduct, and remuneration reform. We also expect an increased focus on funding and liquidity management as the
Bank of England continues to unwind its balance sheet, and further expectations on managing climate risk. We are waiting for more information on the review of
Pillar 2 capital requirements, following the delayed implementation of Basel 3.1.
Overall, we expect to see an increased focus from UK regulators and the UK Government on policies that will enhance the international competitiveness of the
sector, and contribute to economic growth.
The outlook for the economic environment remains challenging and so conduct risks are likely to rise, as banks deal with households that continue to face pressures
from increases in the cost of living and higher interest rates.
We will maintain a strong focus on robust oversight and control of the customer journey across all our products. We will also ensure our strategy, leadership,
governance arrangements, and approach to managing and rewarding staff do not lead to a detrimental impact on customers, competition, or to market integrity.
For key movements in our financial crime risk profile, see the 'Financial crime risk review' section.
For more on our provisions, see Note 27 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. For more on our contingent liabilities, see Note 30 to the Consolidated Financial
Statements.
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Financial statements
In this section
Audit report
Primary financial statements
Consolidated Income Statement
Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
Consolidated Balance Sheet
Consolidated Cash Flow Statement
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
Company Balance Sheet
Company Cash Flow Statement
Company Statement of Changes in Equity
Notes to the financial statements
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Independent auditors’ report to the members of Santander UK plc
Report on the audit of the financial statements
Opinion
In our opinion, Santander UK plc’s group financial statements and company financial statements (the “financial statements”):
give a true and fair view of the state of the group’s and of the company’s affairs as at 31 December 2024 and of the group’s profit and the group’s and company’s
cash flows for the year then ended;
have been properly prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards as applied in accordance with the provisions of the Companies
Act 2006; and
have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.
We have audited the financial statements, included within the Annual Report, which comprise: the Consolidated and Company Balance Sheets as at 31 December
2024; the Consolidated Income Statement, the Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income, the Consolidated and Company Cash Flow Statements and the
Consolidated and Company Statements of Changes in Equity for the year then ended; and the notes to the financial statements, which include a description of the
significant accounting policies.
Our opinion is consistent with our reporting to the Board Audit Committee.
Separate opinion in relation to IFRSs as issued by the IASB
As explained in note 1 to the financial statements, the group and company, in addition to applying UK-adopted international accounting standards, have also applied
international financial reporting standards (IFRSs) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB).
In our opinion, the group and company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance with IFRSs as issued by the IASB.
Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (“ISAs (UK)”) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under ISAs (UK) are further
described in the Auditors’ responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements section of our report. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is
sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
Independence
We remained independent of the group in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, which
includes the FRC’s Ethical Standard, as applicable to listed public interest entities, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these
requirements.
To the best of our knowledge and belief, we declare that non-audit services prohibited by the FRC’s Ethical Standard were not provided.
Other than those disclosed in note 7, we have provided no non-audit services to the group and company or their controlled undertakings in the period under audit.
Our audit approach
Overview
Audit scope
The scope of our audit and the nature, timing and extent of audit procedures performed were determined by our risk assessment, the significance of components
due to risk or size and other qualitative factors (including history of misstatement through fraud and error).
We performed audit procedures over components considered to be significant due to risk or size in the context of the group (full scope audit) or in the context of
individual primary statement account balances (audit of one or more account balances).
Our audit plan was discussed with the Board Audit Committee in June 2024 and updates were provided at later stages of the audit. We executed the planned
approach and concluded based on the results of our testing, ensuring that sufficient audit evidence had been obtained to support our opinion. We discussed our
approach and the results of our audit with the Board Audit Committee. We also discussed the key audit matters at the conclusion of the audit.
Key audit matters
Expected credit loss allowance for loans and advances to customers (group and company)
Valuation of defined benefit pension surplus (group and company)
Impairment assessment of goodwill (group and company)
Specific legal and regulatory matters (group and company)
Valuation of intercompany derivatives measured using significant unobservable inputs (company only).
Materiality
Overall group materiality: £80 million (2023: £100 million) based on approximately 5% of adjusted profit before tax (2023: 5% of adjusted profit before tax).
Overall company materiality: £76 million (2023: £95 million) based on 5% of adjusted profit before tax (2023: 5% of adjusted profit before tax), capped at the
level which is used for the audit of the company as a component of the overall group.
Performance materiality: £60 million (2023: £75 million) (group) and £57 million (2023: £71 million) (company).
The scope of our audit
As part of designing our audit, we determined materiality and assessed the risks of material misstatement in the financial statements.
Key audit matters
Key audit matters are those matters that, in the auditors’ professional judgement, were of most significance in the audit of the financial statements of the current
period and include the most significant assessed risks of material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) identified by the auditors, including those which had
the greatest effect on: the overall audit strategy; the allocation of resources in the audit; and directing the efforts of the engagement team. These matters, and any
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comments we make on the results of our procedures thereon, were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our
opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.
This is not a complete list of all risks identified by our audit.
Valuation of intercompany derivatives measured using significant unobservable inputs (company only) is a new key audit matter this year. Otherwise, the key audit
matters below are consistent with last year.
Key audit matter
How our audit addressed the key audit matter
Expected credit loss allowance for loans and advances to customers
(group and company)
Refer to the Board Audit Committee Chair’s report, credit risk section of the risk review,
note 1 (Accounting Policies), note 13 (Loans and Advances to customers) and note 27
(Provisions).
Credit Impairment allowances represent management’s best estimate of the expected
credit loss (ECL) within each portfolio at the balance sheet date. The identification and
the determination of allowances is inherently judgemental. Management uses a number
of models and judgemental adjustments (JAs) to achieve compliance with the
requirements of IFRS 9. Determination of ECL is complex and a number of significant
judgements are involved in the estimation process.
The assumptions made to determine the forward looking economic scenarios and the
probability weightings, taking into account a range of plausible economic recovery paths,
have a significant impact on ECL provisions. As a result, we consider the judgements and
assumptions used in the determination of forward looking macroeconomic scenarios and
the probability weights in relation to the residential mortgage and corporate and
commercial bank (CCB) loan portfolios to represent a key audit matter.
During the year, new models have been introduced for the residential mortgage and CCB
loan portfolios. Whilst these models have a number of enhancements they include
complex and judgemental assumptions. We consider the appropriateness of key
assumptions used in the Loss Given Default (LGD) models for residential mortgages and
the CCB portfolio to represent a key audit matter, specifically key assumptions related to
the future write-off rates and the CCB model methodology includes key judgemental
assumptions over future write off rates and loss severity.
In the CCB loan portfolios, individual impairment assessments are performed for certain
credit impaired loans and advances which are categorised as Stage 3. Assumptions are
required to be made in determining the level of any allowance and we consider the key
audit matter to relate to key judgements involved in determining the estimated loss for
the individually assessed cases, such as collateral valuations for loans secured by
property.
Testing of key controls
We understood and evaluated the design of key controls over the determination of the
ECL and tested their operating effectiveness. These controls included:
Model performance monitoring controls, including testing model estimates against
actual outcomes;
The Asset and Liability Committee’s review and approval of the base case economic
assumptions;
Review and approval of the appropriateness of the individually assessed provision and
the key assumptions used; and
The Credit Risk Provisions Forum's review and approval of the outer economic
scenarios and weightings, significant judgements & estimates and the overall
assessment of ECL outputs.
In addition, we performed the procedures described below.
Forward looking economic scenarios and scenario probability weightings (CCB and
residential mortgages)
We used economics experts and credit risk modelling specialists to critically assess the
reasonableness of the multiple economic scenarios and scenario probability
weightings adopted by management;
We considered external economic data and consensus forecasts to assess whether
management’s forecasts appropriately reflect the different possible paths that the
economy could take; and
We compared the base scenario assumptions to other external consensus forecasts,
and we considered the inferred GDP ‘time to recovery’ for each scenario based on
historical distributions and made a comparison to other external consensus forecasts.
Key assumptions used in the LGD models (CCB and residential mortgages)
We evaluated the assumptions used in the LGD models, with the support of our credit
risk specialists, which included the following procedures:
A conceptual review of the mortgage LGD assumptions;
Inspected model monitoring results and performed independent stability testing to
assess any changes in the portfolios' composition;
Independently replicated management's methodology for a sample of accounts in the
residential mortgage portfolio and all accounts in CCB to evaluate the appropriate
implementation of the LGD models and assumptions;
Assessed the reasonableness of management's JA to the key LGD assumptions for the
residential mortgage portfolio; and
Compared CCB LGDs to industry data.
Individually assessed corporate Stage 3 cases (CCB)
For a sample of credit impaired loans:
We evaluated the specific circumstances of the borrower and determined whether key
judgements were appropriate;
We tested the valuation of collateral held, and challenged management on subjective
estimates and assumptions;
Where applicable, we engaged real estate, valuations and business restructuring
experts to critically assess certain assumptions in the impairment calculations
including, but not limited to, the valuation of collateral; and
We re-performed management’s impairment calculations and tested key inputs.
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Key audit matter
How our audit addressed the key audit matter
Valuation of defined benefit pension surplus (group and company)
Refer to note 1 (Accounting Policies) and note 28 (Retirement Benefit Plans). The group
operates a number of defined benefit pension schemes, which in aggregate are in a net
asset position of £416m as at 31 December 2024. The main scheme is the Santander
(UK) Group Pension Scheme (the scheme). 
Defined benefit obligation (DBO):
The valuation of the DBO of the scheme is dependent on a number of forward looking
assumptions, the most significant of which are the discount rate, inflation and life
expectancy. These assumptions are unobservable and complex to estimate due to the
long duration of the pension obligation. Significant judgement is required in their
determination and small changes in these assumptions can have a material impact on
the valuation of the DBO.
Management updates the valuation of the DBO, including assumptions incorporated
within, each year with the assistance of external experts.
The valuation of the defined benefit obligation is complex and judgemental and
therefore represents a key audit matter.
Retirement benefit assets:
The scheme holds investments in certain illiquid assets, including commercial real estate
and private equity funds, with underlying investments including unquoted equities,
unquoted corporate bonds and other assets not quoted in active markets. The valuation
of these assets are derived from inputs or data that are unobservable.
The commercial real estate is valued using bespoke and subjective valuation methods
taking both the nature of the properties and the tenancy schedules as inputs to derive
their fair value. The valuation of the investments in private equity funds is performed by
the respective investment managers and is typically subject to a lag.
These valuations are performed on either a Bid or Net Asset Value (NAV) basis, and are
complex due to the subjectivity required in valuing underlying unquoted investments,
including the selection of unobservable inputs used in the valuation. Where necessary,
these valuations are adjusted for any known cash movements and other movements in
fair value arising during the period between the valuation date and the balance sheet
date.
The lack of observable inputs, subjectivity required in their valuation and in the case of
private equity investments, the lag in valuation, gives rise to a high level of estimation
uncertainty and therefore represents a key audit matter.
Testing of key controls
We understood and evaluated the design and tested the operating effectiveness of key
controls relevant to the determination of the significant assumptions used in calculating
the valuation of the DBO, and the valuation of the illiquid retirement benefit assets.
These controls included:
Reviewing on a quarterly and annual basis the reasonableness and appropriateness of
assumptions incorporated in the measurement of the DBO;
Reviewing on a quarterly basis the reasonableness and appropriateness of movements
in the DBO and fair value of illiquid retirement benefit assets;
Assessing on an annual basis the reliability of investment manager valuations by
comparing the previous unaudited valuations received from investment managers
against subsequently received audited financial statements prepared as at the
equivalent date;
Assessing the reasonableness of the property valuations obtained from the custodian,
by comparing them on a quarterly basis against the valuation obtained from
management’s property valuer expert. Differences are analysed and investigated; and
Assessing on an annual basis the appropriateness of lagged valuations and potential
fair value movements since the last valuation date with reference to relevant market
information, such as industry indices.
In addition, we performed the procedures described below:
Defined benefit obligation
We used sensitivity analysis to determine the impact of alternative assumptions;
We used actuarial experts to evaluate the reasonableness and appropriateness of
significant assumptions in the measurement of the DBO, including benchmarking
against independently determined ranges of acceptable assumptions and
consideration of external market data;
We considered the objectivity and competence of management’s actuarial expert. We
reviewed the expert’s IAS 19 report and discussed with the expert the methods
adopted to determine the valuation of the DBO as at the balance sheet date, including
assumptions incorporated within; and
We evaluated the appropriateness of related financial statement disclosures.
Retirement benefit assets
For commercial real estate, we:
Obtained the valuation report prepared by management's expert;
For a sample of properties, and with the support of our own expert, assessed the
reasonableness of the valuation methodology adopted and key assumptions used by
the valuer, in order to conclude on the reasonableness and appropriateness of the
valuation recorded as at the balance sheet date; and
We considered the objectivity and competence of management’s property valuation
expert.
For investments in private equity funds, we:
Obtained third-party confirmations directly from the respective investment managers
and compared these against management’s reported valuations;
Where necessary, we recalculated management’s valuation and compared it to the
third-party confirmations;
We understood and tested material adjustments recorded, including those recognised
to account for capital changes in the period between the valuation and the balance
sheet date, where there was a time lag;
Assessed whether there was evidence which corroborated or contradicted the
valuation recorded. For example; we compared previous unaudited valuations received
from investment managers against audited financial statements prepared as at the
equivalent date (where available) and analysed potential fair value movements since
the last valuation date with reference to relevant market information, such as quoted
indices and recent transactions; and
Where available, reviewed controls reports for the relevant investment managers.
F
the
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Key audit matter
How our audit addressed the key audit matter
Impairment assessment of goodwill (group and company)
Refer to the Board Audit Committee Chair’s report, note 1 (Accounting Policies) and note
19 (Intangible Assets).
The goodwill balance was £1.2bn at 31 December 2024, of which c.98% relates to the
Personal Financial Services CGU within the Retail & Business Banking segment of
Santander UK plc.
The carrying value of goodwill is contingent on the estimates of future cash flows and
profitability which are forecasted using assumptions that require significant
management judgement. These assumptions and judgements are inherently uncertain
and are impacted by the wider economic environment, including developments in the UK
economy and the banking market as interest rates start to fall, and uncertainty around
the timing and quantum of future base rate decreases.
Management's impairment assessment used a value in use (VIU) methodology,
concluding that no impairment existed as at 31 December 2024. The calculation of the
VIU is complex and involves subjective assumptions, specifically, the determination of
forecast cash flows and discount rate.
Due to the magnitude of this balance and the judgements, this impairment assessment
represents a key audit matter.
Testing of key controls
We understood and evaluated the design and implementation of the key controls over
the goodwill impairment assessment and the significant assumptions used in calculating
the value in use. In addition, we performed the procedures described below:
We engaged experts to assist in evaluating the appropriateness of the methodology
used and the reasonableness of key assumptions over determination of the carrying
value and VIU of the Personal Financial Services CGU, including:
determining an independent range for the discount rate using external data sources
and peer bank data, and comparing it to the rate used by management; and
assessing the appropriateness of the methodology and adjustments for estimating
the regulatory capital requirements and the apportionment made for capital
retained in the business.
We agreed the cash flow forecasts to the Board approved three-year plan, and tested
the reasonableness of adjustments to the plan included in the VIU model;
We evaluated the reasonableness of the forecasted cash flows, including comparing
performance in recent years to the budgets and three-year plans for the equivalent
periods to assess the historical accuracy of the budgeting and forecasting process; and
We assessed the reasonableness of the assumptions used in the forecasted cash
flows. Using our economics experts to assess the economic assumptions in the plan,
comparing key market assumptions against external data points and our
understanding of the business’ strategy.
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Key audit matter
How our audit addressed the key audit matter
Specific legal and regulatory matters (group and company)
Refer to the Board Audit Committee Chair’s report, note 1 (Accounting Policies), note 27
(Provisions), note 30 (Contingent Liabilities and Commitments).
Included within Provisions is the group’s best estimate of the cost of present obligations
related to past events, including the impact of legal actions and regulatory
investigations. Significant judgement may be required when accounting for provisions,
including in determining whether a present obligation exists, and in estimating the
probability and amount of any outflows. These judgements are based on the specific
facts available and often require specialist professional advice. There can be a wide range
of possible outcomes and uncertainties, particularly in relation to legal actions and
regulatory investigations. As a result it is sometimes not possible to make reliable
estimates of the likelihood and amount of any potential outflows or not practicable to
disclose an estimate of the financial effect of a contingent liability.
The key matters are a dispute with a third party in relation to liability for PPI redress in
respect of a specific portfolio of complaints, an investigation by German authorities into
tax arbitrage transactions and an investigation and claims in relation to historical
commission arrangements in respect of motor financing. The potential cost to the group
of each of these matters is material and the assessment of present obligations involves
judgement.
The provisions and disclosures in respect of these exposures represents a key audit
matter.
Testing of key controls
We understood and evaluated the design and implementation of the key controls over
the assessment of the specific legal and regulatory matters against the requirements of
IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets. These controls included:
Management’s assessment of the cases against the requirements of IAS 37; and
The Non-Financial Risk Provisions Review Forum’s review, challenge and approval of
the current assessment of the legal and regulatory provisions.
In addition, we performed the procedures described below:
Specific legal and regulatory matters
Evaluated and challenged the provisioning methodologies and underlying assumptions
used by management. Where no provision was made, we challenged management’s
conclusion in the context of the requirements of IAS 37.                                                                                                                                                   
Our work included the following:
We understood the risks facing the group, the status of the investigations and the
legal matters;
We evaluated management’s assessment of the potential outcomes and associated
probabilities;
We evaluated the advice received from management's external legal experts. We held
discussions with these experts to confirm our understanding of their views on certain
judgements applied by management and obtained a written confirmation of the key
facts and status of each case;
Specifically, for the motor finance commissions provision, we tested the data inputs
and mathematical accuracy of the model and assessed the reasonableness of
assumptions used in calculating the estimate; and
We reviewed reports provided to governance committees and we discussed the status
of the key matters with the Board Audit Committee.
Given the uncertainty associated with the calculation of the provisions and the
contingent liabilities, we evaluated the disclosures made in the financial statements. We
considered the completeness of information disclosed, in particular where management
concluded that it was not practicable to estimate and disclose the potential financial
effect, or that it was seriously prejudicial to disclose certain information.
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Key audit matter
How our audit addressed the key audit matter
Valuation of intercompany derivatives measured using significant
unobservable inputs (company only)
Refer to Note 1 (Accounting policies) and Note 38 (Financial instruments).
The company recognises on its balance sheet derivative financial instruments transacted
with subsidiary undertakings as part of its covered bond programme. These instruments
are measured at fair value.
As explained in Note 39 to the financial statements, some of these derivative financial
instruments are measured using valuation techniques that incorporate assumptions that
are not evidenced by prices from observable current market transactions in the same
instrument and are not based on observable market data. As such, the valuation requires
the application of a significant degree of judgement. The significant unobservable inputs
used in valuing these instruments are the weighted average rate expected to be paid on
the mortgage portfolio over time, including assumptions regarding the prepayment and
replenishment of mortgages in the portfolio, and the forecasted rates payable on these
mortgages. As of 31 December 2024, the value of instruments which are sensitive to
such inputs comprised derivative financial liabilities of £1.8bn.
We determined that the measurement of the fair value for these derivatives represents a
key audit matter given (i) the degree of judgement in applying the relevant valuation
technique and (ii) the fact that changing one or more of the assumptions in the valuation
models to reasonably possible alternative assumptions would change the fair values
significantly.
Testing of key controls
We understood and evaluated the design and implementation of the key controls over
the determination of the fair value of the derivative financial instruments.
In addition, we performed the procedures described below:
Engaged our experts to assist us in evaluating the appropriateness of the methodology
used and the reasonableness of key assumptions over the determination of the fair
value of the instruments, including determining an independent range of values for
the weighted average interest rate used to adjust the projected rates associated with
certain mortgages.
How we tailored the audit scope
We tailored the scope of our audit to ensure that we performed enough work to be able to give an opinion on the financial statements as a whole, taking into
account the structure of the group and the company, the accounting processes and controls, and the industry in which they operate.
The group comprises the company and a number of subsidiaries which predominantly operate within the UK. The company is the largest operating subsidiary within
the group. We considered which entities (“components”) required a full scope audit either due to being individually significant due to size or due to their risk
characteristics, including a consideration of the history of misstatements due to fraud or error, in the context of the group’s consolidated financial statements. We
identified the significant audit risks and key audit matters which all relate to either the company or Santander Consumer (UK) plc. Ultimately, we determined that
we would perform a full scope audit of the company and Santander Consumer (UK) plc. For these components the work is largely performed by PwC UK
engagement teams, led by the group audit partner and Santander Consumer (UK) plc partner, with the teams structured in line with the Group’s operating
segments.
We then considered the non-significant components in the group that had either financially significant or unusual account balances and therefore were required to
be included in our scope. Where this was the case, we performed an audit over these specific financial statement line items. We adopted this approach for Cater
Allen Limited.
Certain processes and controls supporting the group’s operations are performed as part of Banco Santander S.A.’s wider processes and controls in Spain, including
the hosting and monitoring of certain IT systems. In such instances, we instructed PwC Spain to perform certain audit procedures over these group operations.
As part of the planning and execution of the audit, we worked closely with PwC Spain and the PwC UK component auditors throughout the year to ensure that the
procedures performed on our behalf were sufficient for our purposes. We reviewed the results of their work and held meetings with the auditors to discuss their
findings.
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The impact of climate risk on our audit
The group, in alignment with its ultimate parent company, Banco Santander S.A., has set out ambitions to be a net zero bank across all activities by 2050. Further
information on this ambition is provided in the Sustainability section, which starts on page 12.
In planning and executing our audit, we considered the group’s governance framework and preliminary risk assessment processes. This, together with our
discussions with our own climate change experts, provided us with an understanding of the potential impacts of climate change on the financial statements. We
specifically considered the potential impact on the mortgage lending, corporate lending and consumer finance portfolios. We determined that the key financial
statement line items and estimates which were most likely to be impacted by climate risks were those associated with expected credit losses and related future
cash flows. In the current reporting period, the group concluded that there is no material impact on the financial statements and that the more notable impacts of
climate change on the business are expected to arise in the medium to long term based on their scenarios analysis.
Whilst the group is targeting net zero carbon emissions across all its activities by 2050, they are continuing to refine their plans to achieve this. The group has
started to quantify some impacts that may arise, however, the future financial impacts are uncertain given the medium to long term time horizon. We discussed
with management and the Board Audit Committee that the estimated financial impacts of climate change will need to be frequently reassessed and our expectation
is that climate change disclosures will continue to evolve as greater understanding of the actual and potential impacts on the group’s future operations is obtained.
We read the disclosures in relation to climate risk made in the other information within the Annual Report to ascertain whether the disclosures are materially
consistent with the financial statements and our knowledge from our audit.
Materiality
The scope of our audit was influenced by our application of materiality. We set certain quantitative thresholds for materiality. These, together with qualitative
considerations, helped us to determine the scope of our audit and the nature, timing and extent of our audit procedures on the individual financial statement line
items and disclosures and in evaluating the effect of misstatements, both individually and in aggregate on the financial statements as a whole.
Based on our professional judgement, we determined materiality for the financial statements as a whole as follows:
Financial statements - group
Financial statements - company
Overall
materiality
£80 million (2023: £100 million).
£76 million (2023: £95 million).
How we
determined it
Approximately 5% of adjusted profit before tax (2023: 5% of adjusted profit before
tax).
5% of adjusted profit before tax (2023: 5% of adjusted profit before tax), capped at
the level which is used for the audit of the company as a component of the overall
group.
Rationale for
benchmark
applied
We set materiality using a benchmark of profit before tax (PBT), adjusted for certain
non-recurring items, as these items do not reflect the underlying business
performance and are not expected to recur.
Adjusted PBT is a generally accepted benchmark for determining audit materiality.
We set materiality using a benchmark of profit before tax (PBT), adjusted for certain
items including losses recognised by the company on certain intercompany
derivative positions held with certain subsidiary undertakings. Adjusted PBT is a
generally accepted benchmark for determining audit materiality.
For each component in the scope of our group audit, we allocated a materiality that is less than our overall group materiality. The range of materiality allocated
across components was between £8 million and £76 million. Certain components were audited to a local statutory audit materiality that was also less than our
overall group materiality.
We use performance materiality to reduce to an appropriately low level the probability that the aggregate of uncorrected and undetected misstatements exceeds
overall materiality. Specifically, we use performance materiality in determining the scope of our audit and the nature and extent of our testing of account balances,
classes of transactions and disclosures, for example in determining sample sizes. Our performance materiality was 75% (2023: 75%) of overall materiality,
amounting to £60 million (2023: £75 million) for the group financial statements and £57 million (2023: £71 million) for the company financial statements.
In determining the performance materiality, we considered a number of factors - the history of misstatements, risk assessment and aggregation risk and the
effectiveness of controls - and concluded that an amount at the upper end of our normal range was appropriate.
We agreed with the Board Audit Committee that we would report to them misstatements identified during our audit above £4 million (group audit) (2023: £5
million) and £4 million (company audit) (2023: £5 million) as well as misstatements below those amounts that, in our view, warranted reporting for qualitative
reasons.
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Conclusions relating to going concern
Our evaluation of the directors’ assessment of the group's and the company’s ability to continue to adopt the going concern basis of accounting included:
A risk assessment to identify factors that could impact the going concern basis of accounting, including the current and forecast financial performance, regulatory
metrics and the sector in which the group operates;
Understanding and evaluation of the group's strategic plan and the group’s stress testing of liquidity and regulatory capital performed by management;
Enquiries of regulators and review of regulatory correspondence and reports provided to governance forums, and testing of the total capital resources and
liquidity financing facilities;
Consideration of credit rating agency ratings; and
Reviewing the appropriateness of the disclosures made in the Annual report in relation to going concern.
Based on the work we have performed, we have not identified any material uncertainties relating to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast
significant doubt on the group's and the company’s ability to continue as a going concern for a period of at least twelve months from when the financial statements
are authorised for issue.
In auditing the financial statements, we have concluded that the directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting in the preparation of the financial
statements is appropriate.
However, because not all future events or conditions can be predicted, this conclusion is not a guarantee as to the group's and the company's ability to continue as a
going concern.
In relation to the directors’ reporting on how they have applied the UK Corporate Governance Code, we have nothing material to add or draw attention to in relation
to the directors’ statement in the financial statements about whether the directors considered it appropriate to adopt the going concern basis of accounting.
Our responsibilities and the responsibilities of the directors with respect to going concern are described in the relevant sections of this report.
Reporting on other information
The other information comprises all of the information in the Annual Report other than the financial statements and our auditors’ report thereon. The directors are
responsible for the other information. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit
opinion or, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in this report, any form of assurance thereon.
In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information
is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify an
apparent material inconsistency or material misstatement, we are required to perform procedures to conclude whether there is a material misstatement of the
financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material
misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report based on these responsibilities.
With respect to the Strategic report and Directors' report, we also considered whether the disclosures required by the UK Companies Act 2006 have been included.
Based on our work undertaken in the course of the audit, the Companies Act 2006 requires us also to report certain opinions and matters as described below.
Strategic report and Directors' report
In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit, the information given in the Strategic report and Directors' report for the year ended 31
December 2024 is consistent with the financial statements and has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.
In light of the knowledge and understanding of the group and company and their environment obtained in the course of the audit, we did not identify any material
misstatements in the Strategic report and Directors' report.
Corporate governance statement
ISAs (UK) require us to review the directors’ statements in relation to going concern, longer-term viability and that part of the corporate governance statement
relating to the company’s compliance with the provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code, which the Listing Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority specify
for review by the auditor. Our additional responsibilities with respect to the corporate governance statement as other information are described in the Reporting on
other information section of this report.
Based on the work undertaken as part of our audit, we have concluded that each of the following elements of the corporate governance statement, included within
the Directors' report is materially consistent with the financial statements and our knowledge obtained during the audit, and we have nothing material to add or
draw attention to in relation to:
The directors’ confirmation that they have carried out a robust assessment of the emerging and principal risks;
The disclosures in the Annual Report that describe those principal risks, what procedures are in place to identify emerging risks and an explanation of how these
are being managed or mitigated;
The directors’ statement in the financial statements about whether they considered it appropriate to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing
them, and their identification of any material uncertainties to the group’s and company’s ability to continue to do so over a period of at least twelve months from
the date of approval of the financial statements;
The directors’ explanation as to their assessment of the group's and company’s prospects, the period this assessment covers and why the period is appropriate;
and
The directors’ statement as to whether they have a reasonable expectation that the company will be able to continue in operation and meet its liabilities as they
fall due over the period of its assessment, including any related disclosures drawing attention to any necessary qualifications or assumptions.
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Shareholder information
Our review of the directors’ statement regarding the longer-term viability of the group and company was substantially less in scope than an audit and only
consisted of making inquiries and considering the directors’ process supporting their statement; checking that the statement is in alignment with the relevant
provisions of the UK Corporate Governance Code; and considering whether the statement is consistent with the financial statements and our knowledge and
understanding of the group and company and their environment obtained in the course of the audit.
In addition, based on the work undertaken as part of our audit, we have concluded that each of the following elements of the corporate governance statement is
materially consistent with the financial statements and our knowledge obtained during the audit:
The directors’ statement that they consider the Annual Report, taken as a whole, is fair, balanced and understandable, and provides the information necessary for
the members to assess the group’s and company's position, performance, business model and strategy;
The section of the Annual Report that describes the review of effectiveness of risk management and internal control systems; and
The section of the Annual Report describing the work of the Board Audit Committee.
We have nothing to report in respect of our responsibility to report when the directors’ statement relating to the company’s compliance with the Code does not
properly disclose a departure from a relevant provision of the Code specified under the Listing Rules for review by the auditors.
Responsibilities for the financial statements and the audit
Responsibilities of the directors for the financial statements
As explained more fully in the Statement of Directors' responsibilities, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance
with the applicable framework and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. The directors are also responsible for such internal control as they
determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the group’s and the company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as
applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the group or the
company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditors’ responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or
error, and to issue an auditors’ report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in
accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if,
individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
Irregularities, including fraud, are instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations. We design procedures in line with our responsibilities, outlined above, to
detect material misstatements in respect of irregularities, including fraud. The extent to which our procedures are capable of detecting irregularities, including
fraud, is detailed below.
Based on our understanding of the group and industry, we identified that the principal risks of non-compliance with laws and regulations related to breaches of
banking laws and regulations, including regulatory reporting requirements and conduct of business, and we considered the extent to which non-compliance might
have a material effect on the financial statements. We also considered those laws and regulations that have a direct impact on the financial statements such as the
Companies Act 2006 and relevant tax legislation. We evaluated management’s incentives and opportunities for fraudulent manipulation of the financial statements
(including the risk of override of controls), and determined that the principal risks were related to posting inappropriate journal entries, and management bias in
significant accounting estimates. The group engagement team shared this risk assessment with the component auditors so that they could include appropriate
audit procedures in response to such risks in their work. Audit procedures performed by the group engagement team and/or component auditors included:
Discussions with management, including the Chief Financial Officer, Internal Audit, those charged with governance, and with management's legal counsel, in
relation to known or suspected instances of non-compliance with laws and regulation and fraud;
Evaluation of the completeness of matters identified by management which might impact financial reporting, including but not restricted to, the procedures
below:
Evaluation and testing of the operating effectiveness of certain of management’s entity level controls designed to prevent and detect irregularities in
financial reporting, in particular their code of conduct and whistleblowing helpline;
Assessment of matters reported on the group’s whistleblowing helpline and the results of management’s investigation of such matters;
Observing the effectiveness of key governance forums, reviewing management information presented and reviewing minutes of executive
management meetings; and
Reviewing key correspondence with the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority and meeting with and making enquiries of
these regulators during the year.
Challenging and assessing for bias in significant accounting estimates, in particular in relation to the expected credit loss allowance for loans and advances to
customers, legal and regulatory matters, the valuation of the defined benefit pension surplus, the valuation of intercompany derivatives measured using
significant unobservable inputs and the impairment assessment of goodwill (see related key audit matters above);
Identifying and testing journal entries based on a defined risk criteria set, this included journals posted using unusual account combinations, unusual words
describing the journal posted, and unexpected users posting journals; and
Incorporating unpredictability into the nature, timing and/or extent of our testing.
There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above. We are less likely to become aware of instances of non-compliance with laws and
regulations that are not closely related to events and transactions reflected in the financial statements. Also, the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due
to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery or intentional
misrepresentations, or through collusion.
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Shareholder information
Our audit testing might include testing complete populations of certain transactions and balances, possibly using data auditing techniques. However, it typically
involves selecting a limited number of items for testing, rather than testing complete populations. We will often seek to target particular items for testing based on
their size or risk characteristics. In other cases, we will use audit sampling to enable us to draw a conclusion about the population from which the sample is
selected.
A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the FRC’s website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This
description forms part of our auditors’ report.
Use of this report
This report, including the opinions, has been prepared for and only for the company’s members as a body in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies
Act 2006 and for no other purpose. We do not, in giving these opinions, accept or assume responsibility for any other purpose or to any other person to whom this
report is shown or into whose hands it may come save where expressly agreed by our prior consent in writing.
Other required reporting
Companies Act 2006 exception reporting
Under the Companies Act 2006 we are required to report to you if, in our opinion:
we have not obtained all the information and explanations we require for our audit; or
adequate accounting records have not been kept by the company, or returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or
certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are not made; or
the company financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns.
We have no exceptions to report arising from this responsibility.
Appointment
Following the recommendation of the Board Audit Committee, we were appointed by the members on 31 March 2016 to audit the financial statements for the year
ended 31 December 2016 and subsequent financial periods. The period of total uninterrupted engagement is 9 years, covering the years ended 31 December 2016
to 31 December 2024.
Other matter
The company is required by the Financial Conduct Authority Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules to include these financial statements in an annual financial
report prepared under the structured digital format required by DTR 4.1.15R - 4.1.18R and filed on the National Storage Mechanism of the Financial Conduct
Authority. This auditors’ report provides no assurance over whether the structured digital format annual financial report has been prepared in accordance with those
requirements.
Ian Godsmark (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors
London
7 March 2025
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Consolidated Income Statement
For the year ended 31 December
2024
2023
2022
Notes
£m
£m
£m
Interest and similar income
3
12,439
11,617
6,708
Interest expense and similar charges
3
(8,127)
(6,959)
(2,283)
Net interest income
4,312
4,658
4,425
Fee and commission income
4
733
804
839
Fee and commission expense
4
(481)
(501)
(509)
Net fee and commission income
252
303
330
Other operating income
5
93
135
201
Total operating income
4,657
5,096
4,956
Operating expenses before credit impairment charges, provisions and charges
6
(2,548)
(2,456)
(2,343)
Credit impairment charges
8
(71)
(205)
(320)
Provisions for other liabilities and charges
8
(689)
(335)
(419)
Total credit impairment charges, provisions and charges
(760)
(540)
(739)
Profit before tax
1,349
2,100
1,874
Tax on profit
9
(378)
(559)
(480)
Profit after tax
971
1,541
1,394
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent
971
1,541
1,394
Profit after tax
971
1,541
1,394
The accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements form an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income
For the year ended 31 December
2024
2023
2022
Notes
£m
£m
£m
Profit after tax
971
1,541
1,394
Other comprehensive (expense)/income that may be reclassified to profit or loss subsequently:
Movement in fair value reserve (debt instruments):
- Change in fair value
(20)
89
(278)
- Income statement transfers
5
(105)
247
- Taxation
9
4
5
11
(11)
(11)
(20)
Cash flow hedges:
- Effective portion of changes in fair value
11
(457)
(169)
425
- Income statement transfers
11
500
1,248
(2,129)
- Taxation
(12)
(299)
469
31
780
(1,235)
Net other comprehensive income/(expense) that may be reclassified to profit or loss subsequently
20
769
(1,255)
Other comprehensive (expense)/income that will not be reclassified to profit or loss subsequently:
Pension remeasurement:
- Change in fair value
28
(402)
(598)
(722)
- Taxation
9
113
167
267
(289)
(431)
(455)
Own credit adjustment:
- Change in fair value
(17)
(15)
29
- Taxation
9
5
4
(9)
(12)
(11)
20
Net other comprehensive (expense) that will not be reclassified to profit or loss subsequently
(301)
(442)
(435)
Total other comprehensive (expense)/income net of tax
(281)
327
(1,690)
Total comprehensive income/(expense)
690
1,868
(296)
Attributable to:
Equity holders of the parent
690
1,868
(296)
Total comprehensive income/(expense)
690
1,868
(296)
The accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements form an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Consolidated Balance Sheet
At 31 December 2024
2024
2023
Notes
£m
£m
Assets
Cash and balances at central banks
29,881
38,214
Derivative financial instruments
11
1,204
1,432
Other financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
12
136
262
Loans and advances to banks
1,032
1,080
Loans and advances to customers
13
199,408
207,435
Reverse repurchase agreements - non-trading
16
10,338
12,468
Other financial assets at amortised cost
17
3,408
152
Macro hedge of interest rate risk
(738)
(632)
Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income
9,040
8,481
Interests in other entities
18
289
245
Intangible assets
19
1,539
1,548
Property, plant and equipment
20
1,563
1,494
Current tax assets
9
506
490
Retirement benefit assets
28
439
723
Other assets
1,887
2,043
Assets held for sale
40
12
13
Total assets
259,944
275,448
Liabilities
Deposits by banks
21
13,993
20,332
Deposits by customers
22
180,967
190,850
Repurchase agreements - non-trading
23
8,617
8,411
Derivative financial instruments
11
702
818
Other financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
24
1,055
899
Debt securities in issue
25
35,673
33,910
Macro hedge of interest rate risk
47
86
Other liabilities
26
1,852
2,479
Provisions
27
611
402
Deferred tax liabilities
9
246
186
Retirement benefit obligations
28
23
66
Subordinated liabilities
29
2,385
2,386
Total liabilities
246,171
260,825
Equity
Share capital
31
3,105
3,105
Share premium
31
5,620
5,620
Other equity instruments
32
1,860
1,956
Other reserves
(333)
(353)
Retained earnings
3,521
4,295
Total equity
13,773
14,623
Total liabilities and equity
259,944
275,448
The accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements form an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
The Financial Statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Board on 7 March 2025 and signed on its behalf by:
Mike Regnier
Angel Santodomingo
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Financial Officer
Company Registered Number: 02294747
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Consolidated Cash Flow Statement
For the year ended 31 December
2024
2023
2022
Notes
£m
£m
£m
Cash flows from operating activities
Profit before tax
1,349
2,100
1,874
Adjustments for:
Non-cash items included in profit
– Depreciation and amortisation
6
300
290
296
– Loss from disposal of mortgage portfolio
31
– Provisions for other liabilities and charges
689
335
419
– Impairment losses
94
195
284
– Other non-cash items
65
(749)
1,497
– Pension charge for defined benefit pension schemes
13
13
28
1,192
84
2,524
Net change in operating assets and liabilities:
– Cash and balances at central banks
731
(88)
275
– Derivative assets
228
975
(726)
– Other financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
130
40
877
– Loans and advances to banks and customers
8,065
12,112
(9,966)
– Reverse repurchase agreements - non-trading
2,130
(5,120)
5,335
– Other assets
118
(141)
(574)
– Deposits by banks and customers
(16,059)
(13,504)
(3,128)
– Repurchase agreements - non-trading
206
429
(3,684)
– Derivative liabilities
(116)
(133)
174
– Other financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
179
102
(973)
– Debt securities in issue
212
962
3,120
– Other liabilities
(1,403)
(67)
(98)
(5,579)
(4,433)
(9,368)
Corporation taxes paid
9
(240)
(537)
(405)
Effects of exchange rate differences
(53)
(518)
1,383
Net cash flows from operating activities
(3,331)
(3,304)
(3,992)
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets
(528)
(385)
(496)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets
148
175
159
Purchase of financial assets at amortised cost and financial assets at FVOCI
(10,343)
(10,899)
(2,884)
Proceeds from sale and redemption of financial assets at amortised cost and financial assets at FVOCI
6,183
8,362
3,023
Net cash flows from investing activities
(4,540)
(2,747)
(198)
Cash flows from financing activities
Issue of other equity instruments
33
400
750
Issue of debt securities and subordinated notes
8,425
5,276
4,794
Issuance costs of debt securities and subordinated notes
(28)
(18)
(16)
Repayment of debt securities and subordinated notes
(6,539)
(3,539)
(3,076)
Repurchase of other equity instruments
33
(500)
(985)
Dividends paid on ordinary shares
10
(1,311)
(1,530)
(1,014)
Dividends paid on preference shares and other equity instruments
(129)
(123)
(150)
Principal elements of lease payments
33
(33)
(47)
(26)
Net cash flows from financing activities
285
19
277
Change in cash and cash equivalents
(7,586)
(6,032)
(3,913)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year
36,781
42,871
46,715
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
(14)
(58)
69
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
29,181
36,781
42,871
Cash and cash equivalents consist of:
Cash and balances at central banks
29,881
38,214
44,190
Less: restricted balances
(1,580)
(2,311)
(2,223)
28,301
35,903
41,967
Other cash equivalents: Loans and advances to banks - Non-trading
880
878
904
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
29,181
36,781
42,871
The accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements form an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
Other reserves
Non-
controlling
interests
Share
capital
Share
premium
Other equity
instruments
Fair value
Cash flow
hedging
Currency
translation
Retained
earnings
Total
Total
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
3,105
5,620
1,956
(6)
(348)
1
4,295
14,623
14,623
Profit after tax
971
971
971
Other comprehensive (expense)/income, net of tax:
- Fair value reserve (debt instruments)
(11)
(11)
(11)
- Cash flow hedges
31
31
31
- Pension remeasurement
(289)
(289)
(289)
- Own credit adjustment
(12)
(12)
(12)
Total other comprehensive (expense)/income
(11)
31
(301)
(281)
(281)
Total comprehensive (expense)/income
(11)
31
670
690
690
Issue of other equity instruments
400
400
400
Repurchase of other equity instruments
(496)
(4)
(500)
(500)
Dividends on ordinary shares
(1,311)
(1,311)
(1,311)
Dividends on preference shares and other equity
instruments
(129)
(129)
(129)
At 31 December 2024
3,105
5,620
1,860
(17)
(317)
1
3,521
13,773
13,773
At 1 January 2023
3,105
5,620
1,956
5
(1,128)
1
4,848
14,407
14,407
Profit after tax
1,541
1,541
1,541
Other comprehensive (expense)/income, net of tax:
- Fair value reserve (debt instruments)
(11)
(11)
(11)
- Cash flow hedges
780
780
780
- Pension remeasurement
(431)
(431)
(431)
- Own credit adjustment
(11)
(11)
(11)
Total other comprehensive (expense)/income
(11)
780
(442)
327
327
Total comprehensive (expense)/income
(11)
780
1,099
1,868
1,868
Other
1
1
1
Dividends on ordinary shares
(1,530)
(1,530)
(1,530)
Dividends on preference shares and other equity
instruments
(123)
(123)
(123)
At 31 December 2023
3,105
5,620
1,956
(6)
(348)
1
4,295
14,623
14,623
At 1 January 2022
3,105
5,620
2,191
25
107
1
5,053
16,102
16,102
Profit after tax
1,394
1,394
1,394
Other comprehensive (expense)/income, net of tax:
- Fair value reserve (debt instruments)
(20)
(20)
(20)
- Cash flow hedges
(1,235)
(1,235)
(1,235)
- Pension remeasurement
(455)
(455)
(455)
- Own credit adjustment
20
20
20
Total other comprehensive expense
(20)
(1,235)
(435)
(1,690)
(1,690)
Total comprehensive (expense)/income
(20)
(1,235)
959
(296)
(296)
Issue of other equity instruments
750
750
750
Repurchase of other equity instruments
(985)
(985)
(985)
Dividends on ordinary shares
(1,014)
(1,014)
(1,014)
Dividends on preference shares and other equity
instruments
(150)
(150)
(150)
At 31 December 2022
3,105
5,620
1,956
5
(1,128)
1
4,848
14,407
14,407
The accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements form an integral part of these Consolidated Financial Statements.
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Company Balance Sheet
At 31 December 2024
2024
2023
Notes
£m
£m
Assets
Cash and balances at central banks
29,881
38,214
Derivative financial instruments
11
1,482
1,695
Other financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
12
100
214
Loans and advances to banks
926
1,052
Loans and advances to customers
13
217,780
223,511
Reverse repurchase agreements – non-trading
16
10,338
12,468
Other financial assets at amortised cost
17
5,206
1,833
Macro hedge of interest rate risk
(910)
(848)
Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income
9,040
8,481
Interests in other entities
18
1,257
1,220
Intangible assets
19
1,498
1,525
Property, plant and equipment
20
973
988
Current tax assets
9
528
568
Retirement benefit assets
28
439
723
Other assets
1,803
1,946
Assets held for sale
40
12
13
Total assets
280,353
293,603
Liabilities
Deposits by banks
21
19,521
25,699
Deposits by customers
22
201,215
207,516
Repurchase agreements non-trading
23
8,617
8,411
Derivative financial instruments
11
2,607
1,974
Other financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
24
1,055
899
Debt securities in issue
25
31,833
31,228
Macro hedge of interest rate risk
(9)
10
Other liabilities
26
1,789
2,371
Provisions
27
313
395
Deferred tax liabilities
9
130
141
Retirement benefit obligations
28
23
66
Subordinated liabilities
29
2,386
2,387
Total liabilities
269,480
281,097
Equity
Share capital
31
3,105
3,105
Share premium
31
5,620
5,620
Other equity instruments
32
1,860
1,956
Other reserves
(306)
(197)
Retained earnings
594
2,022
Total shareholders’ equity
10,873
12,506
Total liabilities and equity
280,353
293,603
The accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements form an integral part of these Financial Statements.
The profit after tax of the Company attributable to shareholders was £313m (2023: £1,568m). As permitted by Section 408 of the UK Companies Act 2006, the
Company’s Income Statement has not been presented.
The Financial Statements were approved and authorised for issue by the Board on 7 March 2025 and signed on its behalf by:
Mike Regnier
Angel Santodomingo
Chief Executive Officer
Chief Financial Officer
Company Registered Number: 02294747
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Company Cash Flow Statement
For the year ended 31 December
2024
2023
Notes
£m
£m
Cash flows from operating activities
Profit before tax
659
2,165
Adjustments for:
Non-cash items included in profit
– Depreciation and amortisation
6
238
220
– Loss from disposal of mortgage portfolio
31
– Provisions for other liabilities and charges
356
334
– Impairment losses
164
193
– Other non-cash items
(282)
(1,101)
– Pension charge for defined benefit pension schemes
13
12
520
(342)
Net change in operating assets and liabilities:
– Cash and balances at central banks
731
(88)
– Derivative assets
213
898
– Other financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
116
21
– Loans and advances to banks and customers
5,947
11,452
– Reverse repurchase agreements – non-trading
2,130
(5,120)
– Other assets
64
(174)
– Deposits by banks and customers
(12,320)
(10,638)
– Repurchase agreements – non-trading
206
429
– Derivative liabilities
633
(50)
– Other financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
179
102
– Debt securities in issue
218
968
– Other liabilities
(1,377)
(83)
(3,260)
(2,283)
Corporation taxes paid
9
(172)
(442)
Effects of exchange rate differences
(53)
(518)
Net cash flows from operating activities
(2,306)
(1,420)
Cash flows from investing activities
Purchase of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets
(221)
(294)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets
5
64
Purchase of financial assets at amortised cost and financial assets at FVOCI
(11,325)
(10,899)
Proceeds from sale and redemption of financial assets at amortised cost and financial assets at FVOCI
7,048
8,232
Net cash flows from investing activities
(4,493)
(2,897)
Cash flows from financing activities
Issue of other equity instruments
33
400
Issue of debt securities and subordinated notes
7,175
3,214
Issuance costs of debt securities and subordinated notes
(28)
(6)
Repayment of debt securities and subordinated notes
(6,439)
(3,253)
Repurchase of other equity instruments
33
(500)
Dividends paid on ordinary shares
10
(1,311)
(1,530)
Dividends paid on preference shares and other equity instruments
(129)
(123)
Principal elements of lease payments
33
(31)
(45)
Net cash flow from financing activities
(863)
(1,743)
Change in cash and cash equivalents
(7,662)
(6,060)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year
36,753
42,871
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
(14)
(58)
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
29,077
36,753
Cash and cash equivalents consist of:
Cash and balances at central banks
29,881
38,214
Less: regulatory minimum cash balances
(1,580)
(2,311)
28,301
35,903
Other cash equivalents: Loans and advances to banks - Non-trading
776
850
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
29,077
36,753
The accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements form an integral part of these Financial Statements.
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Company Statement of Changes in Equity
For the year ended 31 December
Other reserves
Share
capital
Share
premium
Other
equity
instruments
Fair value
Cash flow
hedging
Retained
earnings
Total
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
3,105
5,620
1,956
(6)
(191)
2,022
12,506
Profit after tax
313
313
Other comprehensive (expense) net of tax:
- Fair value reserve (debt instruments)
(10)
(10)
- Cash flow hedges
(99)
(99)
- Pension remeasurement
(289)
(289)
- Own credit adjustment
(12)
(12)
Total other comprehensive expense
(10)
(99)
(301)
(410)
Total comprehensive (expense)/income
(10)
(99)
12
(97)
Issue of other equity instruments
400
400
Repurchase of other equity instruments
(496)
(4)
(500)
Other
4
4
Dividends on ordinary shares
(1,311)
(1,311)
Dividends on preference shares and other equity instruments
(129)
(129)
At 31 December 2024
3,105
5,620
1,860
(16)
(290)
594
10,873
At 1 January 2023
3,105
5,620
1,956
5
(795)
2,552
12,443
Profit after tax
1,568
1,568
Other comprehensive (expense)/income, net of tax:
- Fair value reserve (debt instruments)
(11)
(11)
- Cash flow hedges
604
604
- Pension remeasurement
(431)
(431)
- Own credit adjustment
(11)
(11)
Total other comprehensive (expense)/income
(11)
604
(442)
151
Total comprehensive income
(11)
604
1,126
1,719
Other
(3)
(3)
Dividends on ordinary shares
(1,530)
(1,530)
Dividends on preference shares and other equity instruments
(123)
(123)
At 31 December 2023
3,105
5,620
1,956
(6)
(191)
2,022
12,506
The accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements form an integral part of these Financial Statements.
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1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES
These financial statements are prepared for Santander UK plc (the Company) and the Santander UK plc group (the Santander UK group) under the UK Companies Act
2006. The principal activity of the Santander UK group is the provision of a wide range of banking and financial services to personal, business and corporate
customers. Santander UK plc is a public company, limited by shares and incorporated and registered in England and Wales having a registered office at 2 Triton
Square, Regent’s Place, London, NW1 3AN. It is an operating company undertaking banking and financial services transactions.
Basis of preparation
These financial statements incorporate the financial statements of the Company and entities it controls (its subsidiaries) made up to 31 December each year. The
consolidated financial statements have been prepared on the going concern basis using the historical cost convention, except for financial assets and liabilities that
have been measured at fair value. An assessment of the appropriateness of the adoption of the going concern basis of accounting is disclosed in the statement of
going concern in the Directors’ report.
Compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)
The consolidated financial statements of the Santander UK group and the separate financial statements of the Company comply with UK-adopted International
Accounting Standards (IAS). The financial statements are also prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB),
including interpretations issued by the IFRS Interpretations Committee, as there are no applicable differences from IFRS as issued by the IASB for the periods
presented.
Disclosures required by IFRS 7 ‘Financial Instruments: Disclosure’ relating to the nature and extent of risks arising from financial instruments, and IAS 1
‘Presentation of Financial Statements’ relating to objectives, policies and processes for managing capital, have been included in the Risk review section of this
Annual Report. This information forms an integral part of these financial statements by this cross reference, is marked as audited, and is covered by the Independent
auditors' report.
Climate change
Santander UK continues to develop its assessment of the potential impacts that climate change and the transition to a low carbon economy may have on the assets
and liabilities recognised and presented in its financial statements.
Santander UK is mindful of its responsibilities as a responsible lender and is focused on aligning with the objectives of the Paris Agreement on climate change and to
support the UK’s transition to a climate-resilient, net zero economy.
Santander UK's current climate change strategy focuses on three main areas to achieve Banco Santander's ambition to reach net zero emissions by 2050:
1. Managing climate risks by integrating climate considerations into risk management frameworks, screening and stress testing our portfolio for climate related
financial risks, and setting risk appetites to help steer our portfolio in line with the Paris Agreement,
2. Supporting our customers’ transition by developing products and services that promote a reduction in CO2 emissions, and
3. Reducing emissions in our operations and supply chain by focusing on continuous improvement in our operations, and environmental and energy management
systems in accordance with ISO14001 and 15001, promoting responsible procurement practices and employee engagement.
Santander UK's current climate change strategy and its view of the risks associated with climate change and the transition to a low carbon economy are reflected in
its critical judgements and accounting estimates, although climate change risk did not require any material adjustments at 31 December 2024 and 2023, consistent
with management's assessment that climate change and the transition to a low carbon economy are not currently expected to have a meaningful impact on the
viability of the Santander UK group in the medium term.
At31 December 2024 and 2023, management specifically considered the potential impact of climate change and the transition to a low carbon economy on:
Loans and advances to customers (see Note 13 and the credit risk section of the Risk review). Some climate change risks arise due to the requirements of IFRS 9
and others relate to specific portfolios and sectors: 
ECL calculations are based on multiple forward-looking economic scenarios developed by management covering a period of five years, during which
timeframe climate change risks may crystallise;
For mortgages in Retail & Business Banking and commercial real estate lending in Corporate & Commercial Banking, the value of property collateral might be
affected by physical impacts related to the frequency and scale of extreme weather events, such as flood and subsidence risk, or changing environmental
performance standards for property.
For automotive loans in Consumer Finance, the residual value of automotive vehicles might be impacted by diesel obsolescence and the transition to electric
vehicles.
For corporate lending in Corporate & Commercial Banking, certain sectors give rise to fossil fuel exposures, such as Oil & Gas, Mining & Extraction and Power
Generation.
Goodwill impairment assessment (see Note 19). Estimates underpinning the determination of whether or not goodwill balances are impaired are partly based on
forecast business performance beyond the time horizon for management's detailed plans.
Unity Place our new corporate headquarters in Milton Keynes has been built with sustainability at its core. All property assets are evaluated annually for potential
flood damage and are currently considered low risk.
Future changes to Santander UK's climate change strategy may impact Santander UK's critical judgements and accounting estimates and result in material changes
to financial results and the carrying values of certain assets and liabilities in future reporting periods.
Change in accounting policy
In 2024, Santander UK voluntarily changed its accounting policy to remove reverse repurchase agreements (reverse repos) from being treated as cash equivalents
under IAS 7 for the purposes of the cashflow statement. This change provides reliable and more relevant information to users of the financial statements where the
bank is using reverse repos as an investment instrument to manage net interest income and operational liquidity rather than as cash equivalents. The change in
accounting policy has no effect on any other primary financial statements, income statement metrics, key indicators, liquidity ratios, or maturity and offsetting
disclosures. This change aligns Santander UK's accounting policy on the treatment of reverse repos under IAS 7 with the policy applied by its ultimate parent, Banco
Santander, SA. The impact of the change on prior periods is set out below:
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For the year ended 31 December
Group
Company
Balance before
change
(Decrease)/
increase
Balance after
change
Balance before
change
(Decrease)/
increase
Balance after
change
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year
46,484
(3,613)
42,871
46,484
(3,613)
42,871
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
42,502
(5,721)
36,781
42,474
(5,721)
36,753
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
(121)
63
(58)
(121)
63
(58)
Net change in operating assets and liabilities:
– Reverse repurchase agreements – non trading
(3,224)
(1,896)
(5,120)
(3,224)
(1,896)
(5,120)
– Repurchase agreements – non trading
704
(275)
429
703
(274)
429
– Other liabilities
(82)
(1)
(83)
Net cash flows from operating activities
(1,133)
(2,171)
(3,304)
751
(2,171)
(1,420)
2022
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the year
49,254
(2,539)
46,715
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year
46,484
(3,613)
42,871
Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
121
(52)
69
Net change in operating assets and liabilities:
– Reverse repurchase agreements – non trading
6,818
(1,483)
5,335
– Repurchase agreements – non trading
(4,145)
461
(3,684)
Net cash flows from operating activities
(2,970)
(1,022)
(3,992)
The value of reverse repo transactions at 31 December 2024 no longer included as cash and cash equivalents was £6,193m.
Future accounting developments
The IASB issued the following new/amended accounting standards which are not yet effective and have not been endorsed for use in the UK:
Effective 1 January 2026: ‘Amendments to the Classification and Measurement of Financial Instruments’ (Amendments to IFRS 9 ‘Financial Instruments’ and IFRS
7 ‘Financial Instruments: Disclosures’) - the amendments set out changes to settling financial liabilities using an electronic payment system, assessing contractual
cash flow characteristics of financial assets including those with environmental, social and governance (ESG)-linked features and requiring additional disclosures
for certain financial instruments.
Effective 1 January 2027: IFRS 18 ‘Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements’ – the new standard will replace IAS 1 ‘Presentation of Financial
Statements’ and introduces changes to the categories for classifying income and expenses and subtotals presented in the income statement and new or amended
disclosures in respect of management-defined performance measures and specified expenses by nature.
The Santander UK group is assessing these new/amended accounting standards to determine the potential impacts on the financial statements when they become
effective or if they are otherwise earlier adopted when available.
Comparative information
As required by US public company reporting requirements, these financial statements include two years of comparative information for the consolidated income
statement, consolidated statement of comprehensive income, consolidated statement of changes in equity, consolidated statement of cash flows and related notes.
Material accounting policy information
The following material accounting policies have been applied in preparing these financial statements. For material accounting policies which involve the application
of judgements or accounting estimates that are determined to be critical to the preparation of these financial statements see 'Critical judgements and accounting
estimates'.
Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the financial statements of the Company and entities (including structured entities) controlled by it and its
subsidiaries. The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries which meet the definition of a business.
Business combinations between entities under common control (i.e. fellow subsidiaries of Banco Santander SA, the ultimate parent) are outside the scope of IFRS 3
– ‘Business Combinations’, and there is no other guidance for such transactions under IFRS. The Santander UK group elects to account for business combinations
between entities under common control at their book values in the acquired entity by including the acquired entity’s results from the date of the business
combination and not restating comparatives. Reorganisations of entities within the Santander UK group are also accounted for at their book values.
Credit protection entities established as part of significant risk transfer (SRT) transactions are not consolidated by the Santander UK group in cases where third party
investors have the exposure, or rights, to all of the variability of returns from the performance of the entities.
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Revenue recognition
a) Interest income and expense
Interest and similar income and expense are recognised in the income statement using the effective interest rate method for: all financial instruments measured at
amortised cost; debt instruments measured at FVOCI; and the effective part of any related accounting hedging instruments.
Interest income is calculated by applying the effective interest rate to the gross carrying amount of financial assets, except for financial assets that have
subsequently become credit-impaired (i.e. Stage 3), for which interest revenue is calculated by applying the effective interest rate to their amortised cost (i.e. net of
the ECL provision). For more information on stage allocations of credit risk exposures, see ‘Significant increase in credit risk’ in the ‘Santander UK group level – credit
risk management’ section of the Risk review.
b) Fee and commission income and expense
Fees and commissions that are not an integral part of the effective interest rate are recognised when the service is performed. Most fee and commission income is
recognised at a point in time. Certain commitment, upfront and management fees are recognised over time but are not material. For retail and corporate products,
fee and commission income consists principally of collection services fees, commission on foreign currencies, commission and other fees received from retailers for
processing credit card transactions, fees received from other credit card issuers for providing cash advances for their customers through the Santander UK group’s
branch and ATM networks, annual fees payable by credit card holders and fees for non-banking financial products.
For insurance products, fee and commission income consists principally of commissions and profit share arising from the sale of building and contents insurance
and life protection insurance. Commissions arising from the sale of buildings and contents insurance are recognised over the period of insurance cover, adjusted to
take account of cancelled policies. Profit share income from the sale of buildings and contents insurance which is not subject to any adjustment is recognised when
the profit share income is earned. Commissions and profit share arising from the sale of life protection insurance is subject to adjustment for cancellations of
policies within 3 years from inception.
Fee and commission income which forms an integral part of the effective interest rate of a financial instrument (for example certain loan commitment fees) is
recognised as an adjustment to the effective interest rate and recorded in ‘Interest income’.
c) Other operating income
Other operating income includes all gains and losses from changes in the fair value of financial assets and liabilities held at fair value through profit or loss
(comprising financial assets and liabilities held for trading, trading derivatives and other financial assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss), together
with related interest income, expense, dividends, and changes in fair value of any derivatives managed in conjunction with these assets and liabilities. Other
operating income also includes hedge ineffectiveness arising from fair value and cash flow hedging, income from operating lease assets, and profits and losses
arising on the sales of property, plant and equipment and subsidiary undertakings.
Defined benefit pension schemes (see 'Critical judgements and accounting estimates')
A defined benefit scheme is a pension scheme that guarantees an amount of pension benefit to be provided, usually as a function of one or more factors such as
age, years of service or compensation. Pension costs are charged to ‘Administration expenses’, within the line item ‘Operating expenses before impairment losses,
provisions and charges’ with the net interest on the defined benefit asset or liability included within ‘Net interest income’ in the income statement. The asset or
liability recognised in respect of defined benefit pension schemes is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date, less the fair value
of scheme assets. The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit method. The assets of the schemes
are measured at their fair values at the balance sheet date.
The present value of the defined benefit obligation is estimated by projecting forward the growth in current accrued pension benefits to reflect inflation and salary
growth to the date of pension payment, then discounted to present value using the yield applicable to high-quality AA rated corporate bonds of the same currency
and which have terms to maturity closest to the terms of the scheme liabilities, adjusted where necessary to match those terms. In determining the value of
scheme liabilities, demographic and financial assumptions are made by management about life expectancy, inflation, discount rates, pension increases and
earnings growth, based on past experience and future expectations. Financial assumptions are based on market conditions at the balance sheet date and can
generally be derived objectively.
Demographic assumptions require a greater degree of estimation and judgement to be applied to externally derived data. Any surplus or deficit of scheme assets
over liabilities is recognised in the balance sheet as an asset (surplus) or liability (deficit). An asset is only recognised to the extent that the surplus can be recovered
through reduced contributions in the future or through refunds from the scheme.
Share-based payments
The Santander UK group engages in cash-settled and equity-settled share-based payment transactions in respect of services received from certain of its employees.
Shares of the Santander UK group’s parent, Banco Santander SA are purchased in the open market by the Santander UK group (for the Employee Sharesave scheme)
or are purchased by Banco Santander SA or another Banco Santander subsidiary (including awards granted under the Long-Term Incentive Plan and the Deferred
Shares Bonus Plan) to satisfy share options or awards as they vest.
Options granted under the Employee Sharesave scheme and awards granted under the Transformation Incentive Plan are accounted for as cash-settled share-
based payment transactions. Awards granted under the Long-Term Incentive Plan and Deferred Shares Bonus Plan are accounted for as equity-settled share-based
payment transactions.
The fair value of the options granted under the Employee Sharesave scheme is determined using an option pricing model, which takes into account the exercise
price of the option, the current share price, the risk-free interest rate, the expected volatility of the Banco Santander SA share price over the life of the option and the
dividend growth rate. The fair value of the awards granted for the Long-Term Incentive Plan was determined at the grant date using an option pricing model, which
takes into account the share price at grant date, the risk-free interest rate, the expected volatility of the Banco Santander SA share price over the life of the award
and the dividend growth rate.
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Goodwill and other intangible assets (for goodwill see 'Critical judgements and accounting estimates')
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition, as well as the fair value of any interest previously held, over the fair value of the share of the
identifiable net assets of the acquired subsidiary, or business at the date of acquisition. Goodwill on the acquisition of subsidiaries and businesses is included
in intangible assets. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually, or more frequently when events or changes in circumstances dictate and carried at cost less
accumulated impairment losses. Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity or business include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity or
business sold.
Other intangible assets are recognised if they arise from contractual or other legal rights or if they are capable of being separated or divided from Santander UK and
sold, transferred, licensed, rented or exchanged. The value of such intangible assets, where they are available for use, is amortised on a straight-line basis generally
over a three year useful economic life and the assets are reviewed annually for impairment indicators and tested for impairment where indicators are present.
Other intangible assets that are not yet available for use are tested for impairment annually or more frequently when events or changes in circumstances dictate.
Software development costs are capitalised when they are direct costs associated with identifiable and unique software products that are expected to provide
future economic benefits, and the cost of those products can be measured reliably. These costs include payroll, materials, services and directly attributable
overheads. Internally developed software meeting these criteria and externally purchased software are classified in intangible assets on the balance sheet and
amortised on a straight-line basis generally over a three year useful life unless the software is an integral part of the related computer hardware, in which case
it is treated as property, plant and equipment as described below. Capitalisation of costs ceases when the software is capable of operating as intended. Costs of
maintaining software are expensed as incurred.
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment include owner-occupied properties (including leasehold properties), office fixtures and equipment and computer software. Property,
plant and equipment also includes operating leases where the Santander UK group is the lessor and right-of-use assets where the Santander UK group is the lessee.
Internally developed software meeting the criteria set out in ‘Goodwill and other intangible assets’ above and externally purchased software are classified in
property, plant and equipment where the software is an integral part of the related computer hardware (for example, the operating system of a computer). Classes
of property, plant and equipment are depreciated on a straight-line basis over their useful life, as follows:
Owner-occupied properties
Not exceeding 50 years
Office fixtures and equipment
3 to 35 years
Computer software
Generally 3 years
Right-of-use assets
Shorter of the lease term or the useful life of the underlying asset
Operating lease assets - vehicles
1 to 4 years
Depreciation is not charged on freehold land. Depreciation of operating lease assets where the Santander UK group is the lessor is described in 'Leases' below.
In 2024, the range of useful lives for Office fixtures and equipment expanded to 35 years due to the addition of fixtures and equipment in Unity Place.
Financial instruments (for impairment of debt instrument financial assets see 'Critical judgements and accounting estimates: Credit impairment losses')
a) Initial recognition and measurement
Financial assets and liabilities are initially recognised when the Santander UK group becomes a party to the contractual terms of the instrument. The Santander UK
group determines the classification of its financial assets and liabilities at initial recognition and measures a financial asset or financial liability at its fair value plus or
minus, in the case of a financial asset or financial liability not at FVTPL, transaction costs that are incremental and directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of
the financial asset or financial liability. Transaction costs of financial assets and financial liabilities carried at FVTPL are expensed in profit or loss. Immediately after
initial recognition, an expected credit loss (ECL) allowance is recognised for financial assets measured at amortised cost and investments in debt instruments
measured at FVOCI.
A regular way purchase or sale is a purchase or sale of a financial asset under a contract whose terms require delivery of the asset within the timeframe established
generally by regulation or convention in the marketplace concerned. Regular way purchases and sales of financial assets measured at amortised cost are recognised
on settlement date; all other regular way purchases and sales of financial assets are recognised on trade date.
b) Financial assets and liabilities
i) Classification and subsequent measurement
The Santander UK group classifies its financial assets in the measurement categories of amortised cost, FVOCI and FVTPL.
Financial assets and financial liabilities are classified as FVTPL where there is a requirement to do so or where they are otherwise designated at FVTPL on initial
recognition. Financial assets and financial liabilities which are required to be held at FVTPL include:
Financial assets and financial liabilities held for trading.
Debt instruments that do not have solely payments of principal and interest (SPPI) characteristics. Otherwise, such instruments are measured at amortised cost
or FVOCI, and
Equity instruments that have not been designated as held at FVOCI.
Financial assets and financial liabilities are classified as held for trading if they are derivatives or if they are acquired or incurred principally for the purpose of
selling or repurchasing in the near-term, or form part of a portfolio of financial instruments that are managed together and for which there is evidence of short-
term profit taking.
In certain circumstances, other financial assets and financial liabilities are designated at FVTPL where this results in more relevant information. This may arise
because it significantly reduces a measurement inconsistency that would otherwise arise from measuring assets or liabilities or recognising the gains or losses on
them on a different basis, where the assets and liabilities are managed and their performance evaluated on a fair value basis or, in the case of financial liabilities,
where it contains one or more embedded derivatives which are not closely related to the host contract.
The classification and measurement requirements for financial asset debt and equity instruments and financial liabilities are set out below.
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Financial assets: debt instruments
Debt instruments are those instruments that meet the definition of a financial liability from the issuer’s perspective, such as loans and debt securities which consist
mainly of government bonds and covered bonds. Classification and subsequent measurement of debt instruments depend on the Santander UK group’s business
model for managing the asset, and the cash flow characteristics of the asset.
Business model
The business model reflects how the Santander UK group manages the assets in order to generate cash flows and, specifically, whether the Santander UK group’s
objective is solely to collect the contractual cash flows from the assets or is to collect both the contractual cash flows and cash flows arising from the sale of the
assets. If neither of these is applicable, such as where the financial assets are held for trading purposes, then the financial assets are classified as part of an ‘other’
business model and measured at FVTPL. Factors considered in determining the business model for a group of assets include past experience on how the cash flows
for these assets were collected, how the assets’ performance is evaluated and reported to key management personnel, and how risks are assessed and managed.
SPPI
Where the business model is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flows or to collect contractual cash flows and sell, the Santander UK group assesses whether
the assets’ cash flows represent SPPI. In making this assessment, the Santander UK group considers whether the contractual cash flows are consistent with a basic
lending arrangement (i.e. interest includes only consideration for the time value of money, credit risk, other basic lending risks and a profit margin that is consistent
with a basic lending arrangement). Where the contractual terms introduce exposure to risk or volatility that is inconsistent with a basic lending arrangement, the
related asset is classified and measured at FVTPL.
Financial assets with embedded derivatives are considered in their entirety when determining whether their cash flows are SPPI.
Based on these factors, the Santander UK group classifies its debt instruments into one of the following measurement categories:
Amortised cost – Financial assets that are held for collection of contractual cash flows where those cash flows represent SPPI, and that are not designated at
FVTPL, are measured at amortised cost. The carrying amount of these assets is adjusted by any ECL recognised and measured as presented in Note 13. Interest
income from these financial assets is included in ‘Interest and similar income’ using the effective interest rate method. When estimates of future cash flows are
revised, the carrying amount of the respective financial assets is adjusted to reflect the new estimate discounted using the original effective interest rate. Any
changes are recognised in the income statement.
FVOCI – Financial assets that are held for collection of contractual cash flows and for selling the assets, where the assets’ cash flows represent SPPI, and that are
not designated at FVTPL, are measured at FVOCI. Movements in the carrying amount are recognised in OCI, except for the recognition of impairment gains or
losses, interest revenue and foreign exchange gains and losses which are recognised in profit or loss. When the financial asset is derecognised, the cumulative
gain or loss previously recognised in OCI is reclassified from equity to profit or loss and recognised in ‘Other operating income’. Interest income from these
financial assets is included in ‘Interest and similar income’ using the effective interest rate method.
FVTPL – Financial assets that do not meet the criteria for amortised cost or FVOCI are measured at FVTPL. A gain or loss on a debt instrument that is subsequently
measured at FVTPL, including any debt instruments designated at fair value, is recognised in profit or loss and presented in the income statement in ‘Other
operating income’ in the period in which it arises.
The Santander UK group reclassifies financial assets when and only when its business model for managing those assets changes. The reclassification takes place
from the start of the first reporting period following the change. Such changes are expected to be very infrequent.
Financial assets: equity instruments
Equity instruments are instruments that meet the definition of equity from the issuer’s perspective, being instruments that do not contain a contractual obligation to
pay cash and that evidence a residual interest in the issuer’s net assets. All equity investments are subsequently measured at FVTPL; management may elect, at
initial recognition, to irrevocably designate an equity investment at FVOCI but has not currently done so. When this election is used, fair value gains and losses are
recognised in OCI and are not subsequently reclassified to profit or loss, including on disposal. ECLs (and reversal of ECLs) are not reported separately from other
changes in fair value. Dividends, when representing a return on such investments, continue to be recognised in profit or loss as other income when the right to
receive payments is established. Gains and losses on equity investments at FVTPL are included in ‘Other operating income’ in the income statement.
Financial liabilities
Financial liabilities, which include deposits by banks, deposits by customers, debt securities in issue and subordinated liabilities, are classified as subsequently
measured at amortised cost, except for:
Financial liabilities at FVTPL (see Note 24): this classification is applied to derivatives and other financial liabilities designated as such at initial recognition. Gains or
losses on financial liabilities designated at FVTPL are presented partially in other comprehensive income (the amount of change in the fair value of the financial
liability that is attributable to changes in the credit risk of that liability) and partially in profit or loss (the remaining amount of change in the fair value of the
liability)
Financial liabilities arising from the transfer of financial assets which did not qualify for derecognition, whereby a financial liability is recognised for the
consideration received for the transfer. In subsequent periods, the Santander UK group recognises any expense incurred on the financial liability, and
Financial guarantee contracts and loan commitments.
Preference shares which carry a contractual obligation to transfer economic benefits are classified as financial liabilities and are presented in subordinated liabilities.
The coupon on these preference shares is recognised in the income statement as interest expense on an amortised cost basis using the effective interest method.
Contracts involving the receipt of cash on which customers receive an index-linked return are accounted for as equity index-linked deposits. The principal products
are Capital Guaranteed/Protected Products, which give the customers a limited participation in the upside growth of an equity index. In the event the index falls in
price, a cash principal element is guaranteed/protected. The equity index-linked deposits contain embedded derivatives. These embedded derivatives, in
combination with the principal cash deposit element, are designed to replicate the investment performance profile tailored to the return agreed in the contracts
with customers. The cash principal element is accounted for as deposits by customers at amortised cost. The embedded derivatives are separated from the host
instrument and are separately accounted for as derivatives.
Sale and repurchase agreements (including stock borrowing and lending)
Securities sold subject to a commitment to repurchase them at a predetermined price (repos) under which substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership
are retained by the Santander UK group remain on the balance sheet and a liability is recorded in respect of the consideration received. Securities purchased
under commitments to resell (reverse repos) are not recognised on the balance sheet and the consideration paid is recorded as an asset. The difference between
the sale and repurchase price is treated as trading income in the income statement, except where the repo is not treated as part of the trading book, in which case
the difference is recorded in interest income or expense.
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Securities lending and borrowing transactions are generally secured, with collateral in the form of securities or cash advanced or received. Securities borrowed
are not reflected on the balance sheet. Collateral in the form of cash received or advanced is recorded as a deposit or a loan. Collateral in the form of securities is
not recognised.
Day One profit adjustments
The fair value of a financial instrument on initial recognition is generally its transaction price (that is, the fair value of the consideration given or received). However,
sometimes the fair value will be based on other observable current market transactions in the same instrument, without modification or repackaging, or on a
valuation technique whose variables include only data from observable markets, such as interest rate yield curves, option volatilities and currency rates. When such
evidence exists, the Santander UK group recognises a trading gain or loss at inception (Day One gain or loss), being the difference between the transaction price and
the fair value. When significant unobservable parameters are used, the entire Day One gain or loss is deferred and is recognised in the income statement over the
life of the transaction until the transaction matures, is closed out, the valuation inputs become observable, or an offsetting transaction is entered into.
ii) Impairment of debt instrument financial assets
The Santander UK group assesses on a forward-looking basis the ECL associated with its debt instrument assets carried at amortised cost and FVOCI and with the
exposure arising from financial guarantee contracts and loan commitments. The Santander UK group recognises a loss allowance for such losses at each reporting
date. The measurement of ECL reflects:
An unbiased and probability-weighted amount that is determined by evaluating a range of possible outcomes.
The time value of money, and
Reasonable and supportable information that is available without undue cost or effort at the reporting date about past events, current conditions and forecasts of
future economic conditions.
Grouping of instruments for losses measured on a collective basis
We typically group instruments and assess them for impairment collectively where they share risk characteristics (as described in the Credit risk section of the Risk
review) using one or more statistical models. Where we have used internal capital or similar models as the basis for our ECL models, this typically results in a large
number of relatively small homogenous groups which are determined by the permutations of the underlying characteristics in the statistical models. We calculate
separate collective provisions for instruments in Stages 1, 2 and 3 where the instrument is not individually assessed, as described below.
Individually assessed impairments (IAIs)
We assess significant Stage 3 cases individually. We do this for Corporate & Commercial Banking cases, but not for Business Banking cases in Retail & Business
Banking which we assess collectively. To calculate the estimated loss, we estimate the future cash flows under several scenarios each of which uses case-specific
factors and circumstances. We then probability-weight the net present value of the cash flows under each scenario to arrive at a weighted average provision
requirement. We update our assessment process every quarter and more frequently if there are changes in circumstances that might affect the scenarios, cash
flows or probabilities we apply.
For more on how ECL is calculated, see the Credit risk section of the Risk review.
Write-off
For secured loans, a write-off is only made when all collection procedures have been exhausted and the security has been sold and/or a claim made on any
mortgage indemnity guarantee or other insurance. In the corporate loan portfolio, there may be occasions where a write-off occurs for other reasons, such as
following a consensual restructure or refinancing of the debt or where the debt is sold for strategic reasons into the secondary market at a value lower than its
face value.
There is no threshold based on past due status beyond which all secured loans are written off as there can be significant variations in the time needed to enforce
possession and sale of the security, especially due to the different legal frameworks that apply in different regions of the UK. For unsecured loans, a write-off is only
made when all internal avenues of collecting the debt have been exhausted. Where appropriate the debt is passed over to external collection agencies. A past due
threshold is applied to unsecured debt where accounts that are 180 days past due are written off unless there is a dispute awaiting resolution. Contact is made with
customers with the aim to achieve a realistic and sustainable repayment arrangement. Litigation and/or enforcement of security is usually carried out only when the
steps described above have been undertaken without success.
All write-offs are assessed / made on a case-by-case basis, taking account of the exposure at the date of write-off, after accounting for the value from any
collateral or insurance held against the loan. The exception to this is in cases where fraud has occurred, where the exposure is written off once investigations
have been completed and the probability of recovery is minimal. The time span between discovery and write-off will be short and may not result in an
impairment loss allowance being raised. The write-off policy is regularly reviewed. Write-offs are charged against previously established loss allowances.
Recoveries
Recoveries of credit impairment charges are not included in the impairment loss allowance but are taken to income and offset against credit impairment
charges. Recoveries of credit impairment charges are classified in the income statement as ‘Credit impairment charges’.
iii) Modifications of financial assets
The treatment of a renegotiation or modification of the contractual cash flows of a financial asset normally depends upon whether the renegotiation or modification
is due to financial difficulties of the borrower or for other commercial reasons.
Contractual modifications due to financial difficulties of the borrower: where the Santander UK group modifies the contractual conditions to enable the
borrower to fulfil their payment obligations, the asset is not derecognised. The gross carrying amount of the financial asset is recalculated as the present value of
the renegotiated/modified contractual cash flows that are discounted at the financial asset’s original EIR and any gain or loss arising from the modification is
recognised in the income statement. 
Contractual modifications for other commercial reasons: an assessment is performed to determine whether the terms of the new agreement are substantially
different from the terms of the existing agreement, after considering changes in the cash flows arising from the modified terms and the overall instrument risk
profile. Where terms are substantially different, such modifications are treated as a new transaction resulting in derecognition of the original financial asset, and
the recognition of a ‘new’ financial asset with any difference between the carrying amount of the derecognised asset and the fair value of the new asset is
recognised in the income statement as a gain or loss on derecognition. Where terms are not substantially different, the carrying value of the financial asset is
adjusted to reflect the present value of modified cash flows discounted at the original EIR with any gain or loss arising from modification recognised immediately
in the income statement.
Any other contractual modifications, such as where a regulatory authority imposes a change in certain contractual terms or due to legal reasons, are assessed on a
case-by-case basis to establish whether or not the financial asset should be derecognised. 
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iv) Derecognition other than on a modification
Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows have expired or the Santander UK group has transferred its contractual right to receive the
cash flows from the assets and either: (1) substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership have been transferred; or (2) the Santander UK group has neither
retained nor transferred substantially all of the risks and rewards but has transferred control.
Financial liabilities are derecognised when extinguished, cancelled or expired.
c) Financial guarantee contracts and loan commitments
Financial guarantee contracts are contracts that require the issuer to make specified payments to reimburse the holder for a loss it incurs because a specified debtor
fails to make payments when due, in accordance with the terms of a debt instrument. Such financial guarantees are given to banks, financial institutions and others
on behalf of customers to secure loans, overdrafts and other banking facilities.
Financial guarantee contracts are initially measured at fair value and subsequently measured at the higher of the amount of the loss allowance, and the premium
received on initial recognition less income recognised in accordance with the principles of IFRS 15. Loan commitments are measured as the amount of the loss
allowance (determined in accordance with IFRS 9 as described in Credit risk section of the Risk review). The Santander UK group has not provided any commitment
to provide loans at a below-market interest rate, or that can be settled net in cash or by delivering or issuing another financial instrument.
For financial guarantee contracts and loan commitments, the loss allowance is recognised as a provision and charged to credit impairment charges in the income
statement. The loss allowance in respect of revolving facilities is classified in loans and advances to customers to the extent of any drawn balances. The loss
allowance in respect of undrawn amounts is classified in provisions. When amounts are drawn, any related loss allowance is transferred from provisions to loans
and advances to customers.
Derivative financial instruments (derivatives)
Derivatives are contracts or agreements whose value is derived from one or more underlying indices or asset values inherent in the contract or agreement, which
require no or little initial net investment and are settled at a future date. Transactions are undertaken in interest rate, cross currency, equity, residential property and
other index-related swaps, forwards, caps, floors, swaptions, as well as credit default and total return swaps, equity index contracts and exchange traded interest
rate futures, and equity index options.
Derivatives are held for risk management purposes. Derivatives are classified as held for trading unless they are designated as being in a hedge accounting
relationship. The Santander UK group chooses to designate certain derivatives as in a hedging relationship if they meet specific criteria, as further described in
‘Hedge accounting’ below.
Derivatives are recognised initially (on the date on which a derivative contract is entered into), and are subsequently remeasured, at their fair value. Fair values
of exchange-traded derivatives are obtained from quoted market prices. Fair values of over-the-counter derivatives are estimated using valuation techniques,
including discounted cash flow and option pricing models.
Certain derivatives may be embedded in hybrid contracts. If the hybrid contract contains a host that is a financial asset, then the Santander UK group assesses the
entire contract as described in the financial asset section above for classification and measurement purposes. Otherwise, embedded derivatives are treated as
separate derivatives when their economic characteristics and risks are not closely related to those of the host contract; the terms of the embedded derivative would
meet the definition of a stand-alone derivative if they were contained in a separate contract; and the combined contract is not held for trading or designated at fair
value. These embedded derivatives are measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognised in the income statement. Contracts containing embedded
derivatives are not subsequently reassessed for separation unless either there has been a change in the terms of the contract which significantly modifies the cash
flows (in which case the contract is reassessed at the time of modification) or the contract has been reclassified (in which case the contract is reassessed at the time
of reclassification).
All derivatives are carried as assets when their fair value is positive and as liabilities when their fair value is negative, except where netting is permitted. The method
of recognising fair value gains and losses depends on whether derivatives are held for trading or are designated as hedging instruments and, if the latter, the nature
of the risks being hedged. Gains and losses from changes in the fair value of derivatives held for trading are recognised in the income statement and included in
Other operating income.
Offsetting financial assets and liabilities
Financial assets and liabilities including derivatives are offset and the net amount reported in the balance sheet when there is a legally enforceable right to set off
the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a net basis or realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. The Santander UK group is party
to a number of arrangements, including master netting arrangements under industry standard agreements which facilitate netting of transactions in jurisdictions
where netting agreements are recognised and have legal force. These netting arrangements do not generally result in an offset of balance sheet assets and
liabilities for accounting purposes, as transactions are usually settled on a gross basis.
Hedge accounting
The Santander UK group applies hedge accounting to represent, to the maximum possible extent permitted under accounting standards, the economic effects of its
risk management strategies. Derivatives are used to hedge exposures to interest rates, inflation and exchange rates.
At the time a financial instrument is designated as a hedge (i.e. at the inception of the hedge), the Santander UK group formally documents the relationship between
the hedging instrument(s) and hedged item(s), its risk management objective and strategy for undertaking the hedge. The documentation includes the identification
of each hedging instrument and respective hedged item, the nature of the risk being hedged (including the benchmark interest rate being hedged in a hedge of
interest rate risk) and how the hedging instrument’s effectiveness in offsetting the exposure to changes in the hedged item’s fair value attributable to the hedged
risk is to be assessed. Accordingly, the Santander UK group formally assesses, both at the inception of the hedge and on an ongoing basis, whether the hedging
derivatives have been and will be highly effective in offsetting changes in the fair value attributable to the hedged risk during the period that the hedge is
designated. A hedge is normally regarded as highly effective if, at inception and throughout its life, the Santander UK group can expect, and actual results indicate
that changes in the fair value or cash flow of the hedged items are effectively offset by changes in the fair value or cash flow of the hedging instrument. If at any
point it is concluded that it is no longer highly effective in achieving its documented objective, hedge accounting is discontinued.
Where derivatives are held for risk management purposes, and when transactions meet the required criteria for documentation and hedge effectiveness, the
derivatives may be designated as either: (i) hedges of the change in fair value of recognised assets or liabilities or firm commitments (fair value hedges); (ii) hedges
of the variability in highly probable future cash flows attributable to a recognised asset or liability, or a forecast transaction (cash flow hedges); or (iii) a hedge of a
net investment in a foreign operation (net investment hedges). The Santander UK group applies fair value and cash flow hedge accounting but not hedging of a net
investment in a foreign operation.
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a) Fair value hedge accounting
Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are designated and qualify as fair value hedges are recorded in the income statement, together with the changes in the
fair value of the hedged asset or liability that are attributable to the hedged risk. Where the hedged item is measured at amortised cost, the fair value changes due
to the hedged risk adjust the carrying amount of the hedged asset or liability. Changes in the fair value of portfolio hedged items are presented separately in the
consolidated balance sheet in macro hedge of interest rate risk and recognised in the income statement. If the hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge
accounting, changes in the fair value of the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are no longer recognised in the income statement. For fair value hedges of
interest rate risk, the cumulative adjustment that has been made to the carrying amount of the hedged item is amortised to the income statement using the
effective interest method over the period to maturity. For portfolio hedged items, the cumulative adjustment is amortised to the income statement using the
straight-line method over the period to maturity.
b) Cash flow hedge accounting
The effective portion of changes in the fair value of qualifying cash flow hedges is recognised in other comprehensive income in the cash flow hedging reserve.
The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognised immediately in the income statement. Amounts accumulated in equity are reclassified to the
income statement in the periods in which the hedged item affects profit or loss. When a hedging instrument expires or is sold, or when a hedge no longer meets
the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative gain or loss existing in equity at that time remains in equity and is recognised in the income statement when the
forecast transaction is ultimately recognised in the income statement. When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss that
was reported in equity is immediately transferred to the income statement. The Santander UK group is exposed to variability in future cash flows attributable
to i) interest rate and inflation risks on its GBP floating rate assets and liabilities ii) foreign currency risk on debt issuances denominated in foreign currency and
iii) equity price risk from operating the Employee Sharesave scheme. Cash flow hedging is used to hedge the variability in cash flows arising from these risks.
Securitisation transactions
The Santander UK group has entered into arrangements where undertakings have issued mortgage-backed and other asset-backed securities or have entered
into funding arrangements with lenders in order to finance specific loans and advances to customers. The Santander UK group has also entered into synthetic
securitisation arrangements, as part of significant risk transfer (SRT) transactions to reduce its risk-weighted assets, where undertakings have issued credit-linked
notes, and in some cases deposited the funds raised as collateral, for credit protection in respect of specific loans and advances to customers. As the Santander UK
group has retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the underlying assets, such financial instruments continue to be recognised on the balance sheet, and a
liability recognised for the proceeds of the funding transaction, or in the case of SRT transactions, collateral deposited.
Impairment of non-financial assets
At each balance sheet date, or more frequently when events or changes in circumstances dictate, property plant and equipment (including operating lease assets)
and intangible assets (including goodwill) are assessed for indicators of impairment. If indications are present, these assets are subject to an impairment review.
The impairment review comprises a comparison of the carrying value of the asset or cash generating unit with its recoverable amount: the higher of the asset’s or
cash-generating unit’s fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. The cash-generating unit represents the lowest level at which non-financial assets, including
goodwill, are monitored for internal management purposes and is not larger than an operating segment.
The fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the
measurement date. Value in use is calculated by discounting management’s expected future cash flows obtainable as a result of the asset’s continued use (after
making allowance for increases in regulatory capital requirements), including those resulting from its ultimate disposal, at a market-based discount rate on a pre-
tax basis. The recoverable amounts of goodwill have been based on value in use calculations.
For conducting goodwill impairment reviews, cash generating units are the lowest level at which management monitors the return on investment on assets.
Leases (as lessor)
Operating lease assets are recorded at cost and the difference between cost and residual value (RV) is depreciated over the life of the asset. Operating lease rental
income and depreciation is recognised on a straight-line basis over the life of the asset. After initial recognition, residual values are reviewed regularly, and any
changes are recognised prospectively through remaining depreciation charges.
Amounts due from lessees under finance leases and hire purchase contracts are recorded as receivables at the amount of the Santander UK group’s net investment
in the leases. Finance lease income is allocated to accounting periods to reflect a constant periodic rate of return on the Santander UK group’s net investment
outstanding in respect of the leases and hire purchase contracts. A provision is recognised to reflect a reduction in any anticipated unguaranteed RV. A provision is
also recognised for voluntary termination of the contract by the customer, where appropriate.
Income taxes, including deferred taxes
The tax expense represents the sum of the income tax currently payable and deferred income tax.
A current tax liability for the current or prior period is measured at the amount expected to be paid to the tax authorities. Where the amount of the final tax liability is
uncertain or where a position is challenged by a taxation authority, the liability recognised is the most likely outcome. Where a most likely outcome cannot be
determined, a weighted average basis is applied.
Deferred tax is calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the period when the liability is settled, or the asset is realised based on rates enacted or
substantively enacted at the balance sheet date. Deferred tax is charged or credited in the income statement, except when it relates to items recognised in other
comprehensive income or directly in equity, in which case the deferred tax is also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity.
Deferred and current tax assets and liabilities are only offset when they arise in the same tax reporting group and where there is both the legal right and the
intention to settle on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.
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Cash and cash equivalents
For the purposes of the cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents comprise balances with not more than three months maturity from the date of acquisition,
including cash and non-restricted balances with central banks and loans and advances to banks. Balances with central banks represent amounts held at the Bank of
England as part of the Santander UK group’s liquidity management activities. It includes reserves collateralised accounts in respect of Santander UK’s participation in
certain payments schemes which are required to be maintained with the Bank of England and are restricted balances.
Provisions and contingent liabilities (see 'Critical judgements and accounting estimates')
Provisions are recognised for present obligations arising as consequences of past events where it is more likely than not that a transfer of economic benefits will be
necessary to settle the obligation, and it can be reliably estimated.
Customer remediation provisions are made for the estimated cost of making redress payments with respect to the past sales of products, using conclusions such
as the number of claims, the number of those that will be upheld, the estimated average settlement per case and other related costs. Provision is made for the
anticipated cost of restructuring, including redundancy costs, when an obligation exists. An obligation exists when the Santander UK group has a detailed formal
plan for restructuring a business, has raised valid expectations in those affected by the restructuring, and has started to implement the plan or announce its
main features.
When a leasehold property ceases to be used in the business, provision is made where the unavoidable costs of the future obligations relating to the lease are
expected to exceed anticipated rental income. The net costs are discounted using market rates of interest to reflect the long-term nature of the cash flows.
Loan commitments are measured as the amount of the loss allowance, determined in line with IFRS 9 as set out in the Credit risk section of the Risk review.
Contingent liabilities are possible obligations whose existence will be confirmed only by certain future events or present obligations where the transfer of economic
benefit is uncertain or cannot be reliably measured. Contingent liabilities are not recognised but are disclosed unless they are remote.
Critical judgements and accounting estimates
The preparation of Santander UK's consolidated financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires management to make judgements and assumptions in
applying the accounting policies that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Due to the inherent uncertainty in making estimates,
actual results reported in future periods may be based on amounts which differ from those estimates. Estimates, judgements and assumptions are continually
evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the
circumstances. Management has considered the impact of developments in principal risks and uncertainties, as set out in the Risk review, on critical judgements and
accounting estimates.
The significant judgements, apart from those involving estimation, made by management in applying Santander UK's accounting policies in these financial
statements (key judgements) and the key sources of estimation uncertainty that may have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying
amount of assets and liabilities within the next financial year (key estimates), which together are considered critical to Santander UK's results and financial position,
are as follows:
a) Credit impairment allowance
The application of the ECL impairment methodology for calculating credit impairment allowances is highly susceptible to change from period to period. The
methodology requires management to make judgmental assumptions in determining the estimates. Any significant difference between the estimated amounts and
actual amounts could have a material impact on the future financial results and financial condition. The impact of the cost of living crisis has increased the
uncertainty around ECL impairment calculations and has required management to make additional judgements and accounting estimates that affect the amount of
assets and liabilities at the reporting date and the amount of income and expenses in the reporting period. The key additional judgements due to the impact of the
cost of living crisis mainly reflect the increased uncertainty around forward-looking economic data and the need for additional judgemental adjustments.
Key judgements
Establishing the criteria for a significant increase in credit risk (SICR) and, for corporate borrowers, internal credit risk rating
Determining the need for any judgemental adjustments
Determining an appropriate definition of default
Establishing low credit risk exemption (LCRE) criteria to determine that the credit risk did not increase significantly since initial recognition
Determining the need to assess corporate Stage 3 exposures individually
Key estimates
Forward-looking multiple economic scenario assumptions
Probability weights assigned to multiple economic scenarios
For more on each of these key judgements and estimates, see 'Critical Judgements and accounting estimates applied in calculating ECL' in the ‘Credit risk – credit
risk management’ section of the Risk review.
Sensitivity of ECL allowance
For detailed disclosures, see 'Sensitivity of ECL allowance' in the ‘Credit risk – credit risk management’ section of the Risk review.
b) Provisions and contingent liabilities
Key judgements
Determining whether a present obligation exists
Determining the likely outcome of future legal decisions
Key estimates
Probability, timing, nature and amount of any outflows that may arise from past events
Included in Litigation and other regulatory provisions in Note 27 are amounts in respect of management’s best estimates of liability relating to a legal dispute
regarding allocation of responsibility for a specific PPI portfolio of complaints, and Plevin related litigation. Note 30 provides disclosure relating to ongoing factual
issues and reviews that could impact the timing and amount of any outflows. It includes disclosure relating to an investigation in relation to the historical
involvement of Santander UK plc, Santander Financial Services plc and Cater Allen International Limited (all subsidiaries of Santander UK Group Holdings plc) in
German dividend tax arbitrage transactions. It also includes disclosure relating to the historical use of discretionary commission arrangements by Santander
Consumer (UK) plc.
These judgements are based on the specific facts available and often require specialist professional advice. There can be a wide range of possible outcomes and
uncertainties, particularly in relation to legal actions, and regulatory and consumer credit matters. As a result, it is often not possible to make reliable estimates of
the likelihood and amount of any potential outflows, or to calculate any resulting sensitivities. For more on each of these key judgements and estimates, see Notes
27 and 30.
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c) Retirement benefit plans
The Santander UK group operates a number of defined benefit pension schemes as described in Note 28 and estimates their position as described in the accounting
policy ‘Pensions and other post retirement benefits’.
Key judgements
Setting the criteria for constructing the corporate bond yield curve used to determine the discount rate
Determining the methodology for setting the inflation assumption
Key estimates
Discount rate applied to future cash flows
Rate of price inflation
Expected lifetime of the schemes' members
Valuation of pension fund assets whose values are not based on market observable data
For more on each of these key judgements and estimates, see Note 28 .
Sensitivity of defined benefit pension scheme estimates
For detailed disclosures, see ‘Actuarial assumption sensitivities’ in Note 28 . The Scheme is invested in certain assets whose values are not based on market
observable data, such as investments in private equity funds and property. Due diligence has been conducted to support the values obtained in respect of these
assets represent fair value. Given the nature of these investments, we are unable to prepare sensitivities on how their values could vary as market conditions or
other variables change.
d) Goodwill
The carrying amount of goodwill is based on the application of judgements including the basis of goodwill impairment calculation assumptions. Santander UK
undertakes an annual assessment to evaluate whether the carrying amount of goodwill is impaired, carrying out this assessment more frequently if reviews identify
indicators of impairment or when events or changes in circumstances dictate.
Key judgement:
Determining the basis of goodwill impairment testing methodology, including the need for planning assumptions and internal capital allocations
Key estimates:
Forecast cash flows for cash generating units
Discount rates which factor in risk-free rates and applicable risk premiums
All of these variables are subject to fluctuations in external market rates and economic conditions beyond management’s control
Santander UK group undertakes an annual assessment to evaluate whether the carrying amount of goodwill is impaired, carrying out this assessment more
frequently if reviews identify indicators of impairment or when events or changes in circumstances dictate.
The estimation of future cash flows and the level to which they are discounted is inherently uncertain and requires significant judgement and is subject to potential
change over time.
For more on each of these key judgements and estimates, see Note 19 .
Sensitivity of goodwill
For detailed disclosures, see ‘Sensitivities of key assumptions in calculating 'VIU’ in Note 19.
e) Valuation of intercompany derivatives (Company)
The application of the methodology for estimating the fair value of covered bond pool and securitisation funding swaps is highly susceptible to change from period
to period. The methodology requires management to make judgemental assumptions in determining the estimates. Any significant difference between the
estimated amounts and actual amounts could have a material impact on the future financial results and financial condition.
Key judgements:
Identifying significant unobservable inputs
Determining appropriate valuation techniques
Key estimate:
Weighted average mortgage rate payable
For more on each of these key judgements and estimates, see Note 38.
Sensitivity of level 3 intercompany derivative valuation estimates
For detailed disclosures, see ‘Effect of changes in significant unobservable assumptions to reasonably possible alternatives’ in Note 38.
As discussed above, the fair value of financial instruments are, in certain circumstances, measured using valuation techniques that incorporate assumptions that are
not evidenced by prices from observable current market transactions in the same instrument and are not based on observable market data and, as such require the
application of a degree of judgement. Changing one or more of the inputs to the valuation models to reasonably possible alternative assumptions would change the
fair values significantly.
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2. SEGMENTS
Santander UK’s principal activity is financial services, mainly in the UK. The business is managed and reported on the basis of four segments, which are strategic
business units that offer different products and services, have different customers and require different technology and marketing strategies. Geographical
information is not provided, as substantially all of Santander UK’s activities are in the UK.
Retail & Business Banking consists of two business units, Mortgages and Everyday Banking. Mortgages provides prime UK mortgage lending to owner occupiers
and buy-to-let landlords with small portfolios. Everyday Banking provides banking services and unsecured lending to individuals and small businesses as well as
wealth management for high-net-worth clients.
Consumer Finance provides prime auto consumer financing for individuals, businesses, and automotive distribution networks.
Corporate & Commercial Banking provides banking products and services to SMEs, mid-sized and larger corporates, typically with annual turnovers of between
£2m and £500m as well as to Local Authorities and Housing Associations.
Corporate Centre provides treasury services for asset and liability management of our balance sheet.
Retail & Business Banking delivers products through our omni-channel presence comprising branches, ATMs, telephony, digital and intermediary channels.
Consumer Finance business is primarily introduced by car dealerships acting as our intermediary along with a small amount of new business introduced via digital
channels. Corporate and Commercial Banking expertise is provided by relationship managers, product specialists and through digital and telephony channels, and
covers clients' needs both in the UK and overseas.
The segmental data is prepared on a statutory basis of accounting, in line with the accounting policies set out in Note 1. Transactions between segments are on
normal commercial terms and conditions. Internal charges and internal UK transfer pricing adjustments are reflected in the results of each segment and eliminate
on consolidation. Revenue sharing agreements are used to allocate external customer revenues to a segment on a reasonable basis. Funds are ordinarily
reallocated between segments, resulting in funding cost transfers disclosed in operating income. Interest charged for these funds is based on Santander UK’s cost
of wholesale funding. Interest income and interest expense have not been reported separately. The majority of segment revenues are interest income in nature and
net interest income is relied on primarily to assess segment performance and to make decisions on the allocation of segment resources.
Results by segment
For the year ended 31 December
Retail &
Business
Banking
Consumer
Finance
Corporate &
Commercial
Banking
Corporate
Centre
Total
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Net interest income
3,426
144
694
48
4,312
Non-interest income/(expense)
121
182
128
(86)
345
Total operating income/(expense)
3,547
326
822
(38)
4,657
Operating expenses before credit impairment charges, provisions and charges
(1,976)
(152)
(417)
(3)
(2,548)
Credit impairment charges
(50)
(17)
(4)
(71)
Provisions for other liabilities and charges
(297)
(332)
(50)
(10)
(689)
Total credit impairment charges, provisions and charges
(347)
(349)
(54)
(10)
(760)
Profit/(loss) before tax
1,224
(175)
351
(51)
1,349
Revenue/(expense) from external customers
3,711
754
562
(370)
4,657
Inter-segment (expense)/revenue
(164)
(428)
260
332
Total operating income/(expense)
3,547
326
822
(38)
4,657
Revenue/(expense) from external customers includes the following fee and commission income:(1)
Current account and debit card fees
424
50
474
Insurance, protection and investments
48
48
Credit cards
92
92
Non-banking and other fees(2)
3
28
73
15
119
Total fee and commission income
567
28
123
15
733
Fee and commission expense
(442)
(7)
(10)
(22)
(481)
Net fee and commission income/(expense)
125
21
113
(7)
252
Customer loans
171,724
4,759
18,029
194,512
Customer deposits
151,815
22,137
2,781
176,733
Average number of full-time equivalent staff
15,993
773
2,494
19,260
(1) The disaggregation of fees and commission income as shown above is not included in reports provided to the chief operating decision maker but is provided to show the split by reportable segments.
(2) Non-banking and other fees include mortgages (except mortgage account fees), consumer finance, commitment commission, asset finance, invoice finance and trade finance.
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Retail &
Business
Banking
Consumer
Finance
Corporate &
Commercial
Banking
Corporate
Centre
Total
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Net interest income/(expense)
3,716
156
841
(55)
4,658
Non-interest income/(expense)
182
192
135
(71)
438
Total operating income/(expense)
3,898
348
976
(126)
5,096
Operating expenses before credit impairment charges, provisions and charges
(1,813)
(141)
(351)
(151)
(2,456)
Credit impairment charges
(149)
(15)
(40)
(1)
(205)
Provisions for other liabilities and charges
(233)
(18)
(15)
(69)
(335)
Total credit impairment charges, provisions and charges
(382)
(33)
(55)
(70)
(540)
Profit/(loss) before tax
1,703
174
570
(347)
2,100
Revenue from external customers
3,597
663
712
124
5,096
Inter-segment revenue/(expense)
301
(315)
264
(250)
Total operating income/(expense)
3,898
348
976
(126)
5,096
Revenue from external customers includes the following fee and commission income:(1)
Current account and debit card fees
493
49
542
Insurance, protection and investments
47
47
Credit cards
94
94
Non-banking and other fees(2)
3
25
79
14
121
Total fee and commission income
637
25
128
14
804
Fee and commission expense
(458)
(6)
(11)
(26)
(501)
Net fee and commission income/(expense)
179
19
117
(12)
303
Customer loans
179,887
5,228
17,939
203,054
Customer deposits
158,329
24,066
5,050
187,445
Average number of full-time equivalent staff
16,330
816
2,376
24
19,546
Retail &
Business
Banking
Consumer
Finance
Corporate &
Commercial
Banking
Corporate
Centre
Total
2022
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Net interest income/(expense)
3,671
180
580
(6)
4,425
Non-interest income/(expense)
209
195
146
(19)
531
Total operating income/(expense)
3,880
375
726
(25)
4,956
Operating expenses before credit impairment charges, provisions and charges
(1,682)
(144)
(342)
(175)
(2,343)
Credit impairment charges
(262)
(27)
(31)
(320)
Provisions for other liabilities and charges
(394)
(6)
(8)
(11)
(419)
Total credit impairment charges, provisions and charges
(656)
(33)
(39)
(11)
(739)
Profit/(loss) before tax
1,542
198
345
(211)
1,874
Revenue/(expense) from external customers
4,109
513
732
(398)
4,956
Inter-segment (expense)/revenue
(229)
(138)
(6)
373
Total operating income/(expense)
3,880
375
726
(25)
4,956
Revenue from external customers includes the following fee and commission income:(1)
Current account and debit card fees
502
60
562
Insurance, protection and investments
78
78
Credit card fees
95
95
Non-banking and other fees(2)
2
20
77
5
104
Total fee and commission income
677
20
137
5
839
Fee and commission expense
(478)
(5)
(18)
(8)
(509)
Net fee and commission income/(expense)
199
15
119
(3)
330
Customer loans
191,836
5,384
18,518
215,738
Customer deposits
161,748
24,798
3,365
189,911
Average number of full-time equivalent staff
15,212
531
2,336
44
18,123
(1) The disaggregation of fees and commission income as shown above is not included in reports provided to the chief operating decision maker but is provided to show the split by reportable segments.
(2) Non-banking and other fees include mortgages (except mortgage account fees), consumer finance, commitment commission, asset finance, invoice finance and trade finance.
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The table below shows the relationship between Customer assets and Loans and advances to customers as presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet. Customer
assets exclude intercompany balances (including joint ventures), as they carry low credit risk and therefore have an immaterial ECL, Accrued interest that we have
not yet charged to the customer's account, and Other items, consisting mainly of cash collateral. It also shows the relationship between Customer deposits (see
above) and Deposits by customers as presented in the Consolidated Balance Sheet.
Assets
Liabilities
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Customer balances (gross)
194,512
203,054
176,733
187,445
Loan loss allowance
(784)
(914)
Customer balances (net)
193,728
202,140
176,733
187,445
Intercompany balances (including joint ventures)
4,832
4,544
3,632
2,825
Accrued interest
714
739
854
830
Other items
134
12
(252)
(250)
Loans and advances to customers / Deposits by customers
199,408
207,435
180,967
190,850
3. NET INTEREST INCOME
For the year ended 31 December
Group
2024
2023
2022
£m
£m
£m
Interest and similar income:
Loans and advances to customers
9,290
8,767
5,774
Loans and advances to banks
1,523
1,751
618
Reverse repurchase agreements – non-trading
987
626
149
Other
639
473
167
Total interest and similar income(1)
12,439
11,617
6,708
Interest expense and similar charges:
Deposits by customers
(4,276)
(3,230)
(905)
Deposits by banks
(839)
(1,165)
(496)
Repurchase agreements – non-trading
(644)
(538)
(120)
Debt securities in issue
(2,171)
(1,852)
(650)
Subordinated liabilities
(193)
(169)
(108)
Other
(4)
(5)
(4)
Total interest expense and similar charges(2)
(8,127)
(6,959)
(2,283)
Net interest income
4,312
4,658
4,425
(1) Includes £296m (2023: £230m , 2022: £87m) of interest income on financial assets at FVOCI.
(2) Includes £762m (2023: £706m, 2022: £6m) of interest expense on the effective part of derivatives hedging debt issuances and £3m (2023: £3m, 2022: £3m) of interest expense on lease liabilities.
4. NET FEE AND COMMISSION INCOME
For the year ended 31 December
Group
2024
2023
2022
£m
£m
£m
Fee and commission income:
Current account and debit card fees
474
542
562
Insurance, protection and investments
48
47
78
Credit cards
92
94
95
Non-banking and other fees(1)
119
121
104
Total fee and commission income
733
804
839
Total fee and commission expense
(481)
(501)
(509)
Net fee and commission income
252
303
330
(1)    Non-banking and other fees include mortgages (except mortgage account fees), consumer finance, commitment commission, asset finance, invoice finance and trade finance.
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5. OTHER OPERATING INCOME
For the year ended 31 December
Group
2024
2023
2022
£m
£m
£m
Net (losses)/gains on financial instruments designated at fair value through profit or loss(1)
(38)
(57)
62
Net (losses) on financial instruments mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss(2)
(12)
(11)
(75)
Hedge ineffectiveness
22
19
29
Income from operating lease assets
113
117
129
Other
8
67
56
93
135
201
(1) Net (losses) /gains on financial instruments designated at fair value through profit or loss includes losses of £16m on deposits (2023: £24m losses, 2022 £35m gains), losses of £22m on debt securities 2023:
£32m losses, 2022: £31m gains).
(2) Net losses on financial instruments mandatorily at fair value through profit or loss include gains of £7m on debt securities (2023: £5m gains, 2022: £13m gains).
Net gains on financial instruments mandatorily at FVTPL includes fair value losses of £21m (2023: losses of £12m, 2022: gains of £14m) on embedded derivatives
bifurcated from certain equity index-linked deposits, as described in the derivatives accounting policy in Note 1. The embedded derivatives are economically hedged,
the results of which are also included in this line item and amounted to gains of £21m (2023: gains of £12m, 2022: losses of £14m). As a result, the net fair value
movements recognised on the equity index-linked deposits and the related economic hedges were net gains of £nil (2023: £nil, 2022: £nil).
Group
2024
2023
2022
£m
£m
£m
Exchange rate differences in the consolidated income statement on items not at fair value through profit and loss
495
1,288
(2,163)
These are principally offset by related releases from the cash flow hedge reserve
(500)
(1,248)
2,129
In 2024, no subordinated liabilities were repurchased as part of ongoing liability management exercises (2023: profit of £4m).
In 2024, Other includes £8m of losses on the sale of property as part of our transformation (2023: £nil; 2022: £7m).
6. OPERATING EXPENSES BEFORE CREDIT IMPAIRMENT CHARGES, PROVISIONS AND CHARGES
For the year ended 31 December
Group
Company
2024
2023
2022
2024
2023
2022
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Staff costs:
Wages and salaries
866
839
745
813
787
683
Performance-related payments
164
162
170
159
156
160
Social security costs
122
115
112
116
109
102
Pensions costs: – defined contribution plans
79
71
60
74
67
54
defined benefit plans
13
13
28
13
12
25
Other personnel costs
33
41
44
32
40
42
1,277
1,241
1,159
1,207
1,171
1,066
Other administration expenses
971
925
888
937
890
882
Depreciation, amortisation and impairment
300
290
296
238
220
219
2,548
2,456
2,343
2,382
2,281
2,167
Staff costs
Performance-related payments include bonuses paid in cash and share awards granted under the arrangements described in Note 35. Included in this are equity-
settled share-based payments, none of which related to option-based schemes. These are disclosed in the table below as ‘Shares awards’. Performance-related
payments above include amounts related to deferred performance awards as follows:
Costs recognised in 2024
Costs expected to be recognised in 2025 or later
Arising from
awards in
current year
Arising from
awards in prior
year
Total
Arising from
awards in
current year
Arising from
awards in prior
year
Total
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Cash
3
5
8
7
7
14
Shares
2
5
7
6
7
13
5
10
15
13
14
27
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The following table shows the amount of bonus awarded to employees for the performance year 2024. In the case of deferred cash and shares awards, the final
amount paid to an employee is influenced by forfeiture provisions and any performance conditions to which the awards are subject. The deferred shares award
amount is based on the fair value of the awards at the date of grant.
Expenses charged in the year
Expenses deferred to future periods
Total
2024
2023
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Cash award – not deferred
140
140
140
140
deferred
8
7
14
12
22
19
Shares award – not deferred
9
8
9
8
deferred
7
7
13
11
20
18
Total discretionary bonus
164
162
27
23
191
185
Other share-based payments consist of options granted under the Employee Sharesave scheme which comprise the Santander UK group’s cash-settled share-based
payments. For more, see Note 35.
The average number of full-time equivalent staff in the year is set out in Note 2. For the Company, the average number of full-time equivalent staff was 18,378
(2023: 18,631, 2022: 16,830).
Depreciation, amortisation and impairment
In 2024, depreciation, amortisation and impairment included depreciation of £75m (2023: £64m, 2022: £73m) on operating lease assets (where the Santander UK
group is the lessor) with a carrying amount of £574m at 31 December 2024 (2023: £488m, 2022: £577m). It also included depreciation of £18m (2023: £30m,
2022: £19m) on right-of-use assets with a carrying amount of £79m at 31 December 2024 (2023: £90m, 2022: £112m).
Other administration expenses includes £18m (2023: £19m, 2022: £21m) related to short-term leases.
In 2024, depreciation, amortisation and impairment included an impairment charge of £nil (2023: £25m, 2022: £10m) associated with branch and head office site
closures as part of our transformation. For more, see Note 20.
For the Company, in 2024 impairment associated with branch and head office site closures as part of our transformation was £nil  (2023: £25m, 2022: £10m).
7. AUDIT AND OTHER SERVICES
For the year ended 31 December
Group
2024
2023
2022
£m
£m
£m
Audit fees:
Fees payable to the Company’s auditor and its associates for the audit of the Santander UK group’s annual financial
statements
13.8
13.9
11.8
Fees payable to the Company’s auditor and its associates for other services to the Santander UK group:
Audit of the Santander UK group's subsidiaries
0.6
0.6
0.7
Total audit fees(1)
14.4
14.5
12.5
Non-audit fees:
Audit-related assurance services
0.6
0.7
0.6
Other assurance services
1.0
0.5
0.3
Other non-audit services
0.6
0.1
Total non-audit fees
2.2
1.3
0.9
(1) 2024 audit fees included £0.1m (2023: £0.7m , 2022: £0.6m) which related to the prior year.
Audit fees payable for the statutory audit of Santander UK plc were £12.9m (2023: £12.7m, 2022: £10.9m).
Audit-related assurance services mainly comprised services performed in connection with review of the financial information of the Company and reporting to the
Company's UK regulators.
Other non-audit services mainly comprised services performed in support of various debt issuance programmes.
Of the total non-audit fees, £0.2m (2023: £0.3m, 2022: £0.2m) accords with the definition of 'Audit Fees' per US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)
guidance, £2.0m (2023: £1.0m, 2022: £0.7m) accords with the definition of 'Audit related fees' per that guidance and £48,300 (2023: £12,550, 2022: £nil) accords
with the definition of 'All other fees' per that guidance.
In 2024 , the Company's auditors earned £1.8m ( 2023 : £1.6m , 2022 : £1.6m ), in relation to incremental work undertaken in support of the audit of Banco Santander SA.
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8. CREDIT IMPAIRMENT CHARGES AND PROVISIONS
For the year ended 31 December
Group
2024
2023
2022
£m
£m
£m
Credit impairment charges:
Loans and advances to customers
87
191
248
(Recoveries)/charges of loans and advances, net of collection costs
(23)
10
36
Off-balance sheet credit exposures (See Note 27)
7
4
36
71
205
320
Provisions for other liabilities and charges (excluding off-balance sheet credit exposures) (See Note 27)
687
334
422
Charge/(release) for residual value and voluntary termination
2
1
(3)
689
335
419
760
540
739
In 2024, 2023 and 2022 there were no material credit impairment charges on Loans and advances to banks, Non-trading reverse repurchase agreements, Other
financial assets at amortised cost and Financial assets at FVOCI.
9. TAXATION
For the year ended 31 December
Group
2024
2023
2022
£m
£m
£m
Current tax:
UK corporation tax on profit for the year
205
475
526
Adjustments in respect of prior years
(47)
(15)
(81)
Total current tax
158
460
445
Deferred tax:
Charge/(credit) for the year
187
106
(29)
Adjustments in respect of prior years
33
(7)
64
Total deferred tax
220
99
35
Tax on profit from continuing operations
378
559
480
The standard rate of UK corporation tax was 28% for banking entities and 25% for non-banking entities (2023: 27.75%) for banking entities and 23.50% for non-
banking entities; 2022: 27% for banking entities and 19% for non-banking entities) following the introduction of a surcharge on banking companies in 2016.
Taxation for other jurisdictions is calculated at the rates prevailing in the relevant jurisdictions.
The Santander UK group’s effective tax rate for 2024 was 28.0% (2023: 26.6%, 2022: 25.6%). Tax on profit differs from that calculated at the statutory rate as
follows:
For the year ended 31 December
Group
2024
2023
2022
£m
£m
£m
Profit before tax
1,349
2,100
1,874
Tax calculated at the statutory rate of 25% (2023: 23.5%, 2022: 19%)
337
494
356
Bank surcharge on profits
41
85
121
Non-deductible preference dividends paid
9
9
9
Non-deductible UK Bank Levy
12
10
13
Non-deductible conduct remediation, fines and penalties
3
13
48
Other non-deductible costs and non-taxable income
26
2
29
Effect of change in tax rate on deferred tax provision
2
(29)
Tax relief on dividends in respect of other equity instruments
(36)
(34)
(40)
Adjustment to prior year provisions
(14)
(22)
(27)
Tax on profit
378
559
480
It is not anticipated that the OECD Pillar Two rules which became effective from 1 January 2024 will impact the Santander UK group.
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Current tax assets
Movements in current tax assets during the year were as follows:
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Assets
490
478
568
557
At 1 January
490
478
568
557
Income statement charge (including discontinued operations)
(158)
(460)
(198)
(436)
Other comprehensive income charge
(47)
(70)
Corporate income tax paid
240
537
172
442
Other movements
(19)
5
(14)
5
506
490
528
568
Assets
506
490
528
568
At 31 December
506
490
528
568
The amount of corporation income tax paid differs from the tax charge for the period as a result of the timing of payments due to the tax authorities, the effects of
movements in deferred tax, adjustments to prior period current tax provisions and current tax recognised directly in other comprehensive income.
Santander UK group engages in discussion, and co-operates, with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) in their oversight of the Santander UK group's tax matters. The
accounting policy for recognising provisions for any tax risks identified is described in Note 1. It is not expected that there will be any material movement in such
provisions within the next 12 months.
The Santander UK group consistently applies the UK’s Code of Practice on Taxation for Banks. For more information, see our Taxation Strategy on our website
aboutsantander.co.uk.
Deferred tax
The table below shows the deferred tax balances including the movement in the deferred tax account during the year. Deferred tax balances are presented in the
balance sheet after offsetting assets and liabilities where the Santander UK group and Company has the legal right to offset and intends to settle on a net basis.
Group
Fair value of
financial
instruments
Pension
remeasurement
Cash flow
hedges
Fair value
reserve
Accelerated
tax
depreciation
Other
temporary
differences
Total
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
(8)
(186)
73
3
18
(86)
(186)
Income statement charge
(144)
(44)
(24)
(8)
(220)
Transfers/reclassifications
2
1
3
Credited to other comprehensive income
113
35
4
5
157
At 31 December 2024
(152)
(117)
110
8
(6)
(89)
(246)
At 1 January 2023
27
(290)
305
(1)
35
(111)
(35)
Income statement (charge)/credit
(35)
(63)
(18)
17
(99)
Transfers/reclassifications
(3)
(1)
1
4
1
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income
167
(229)
5
4
(53)
At 31 December 2023
(8)
(186)
73
3
18
(86)
(186)
Company
Fair value of
financial
instruments
Pension
remeasurement
Cash flow
hedges
Fair value
reserve
Accelerated
tax
depreciation
Other
temporary
differences
Total
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
(11)
(186)
74
4
13
(35)
(141)
Income statement charge
(63)
(44)
(21)
(20)
(148)
Transfers/reclassifications
(1)
(1)
Credited to other comprehensive income
113
38
4
5
160
At 31 December 2024
(74)
(117)
112
8
(8)
(51)
(130)
At 1 January 2023
63
(290)
308
(1)
30
(34)
76
Income statement (charge)/credit
(74)
(63)
(17)
(7)
(161)
Transfers/reclassifications
1
2
3
Credited/(charged) to other comprehensive income
167
(235)
5
4
(59)
At 31 December 2023
(11)
(186)
74
4
13
(35)
(141)
The deferred tax assets and liabilities above have been recognised in both the Company and the Santander UK group on the basis that sufficient future taxable
profits are forecast within the foreseeable future, in excess of the profits arising from the reversal of existing taxable temporary differences, to allow for the
utilisation of the assets as they reverse. Based on the conditions at the balance sheet date, management determined that a reasonably possible change in any of the
key assumptions underlying the estimated future taxable profits in the Santander UK group’s three-year plan (described in Note 19) would not cause a reduction in
the deferred tax assets recognised. In 2024, there were £nil unrecognised deferred tax assets on capital losses carried forward (2023: £nil).
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10. DIVIDENDS ON ORDINARY SHARES
Dividends on ordinary shares declared and paid in the year were as follows:
For the year ended 31 December
Group and Company
Group and Company
2024
2023
2022
2024
2023
2022
Pence per
share
Pence per
share
Pence per
share
£m
£m
£m
In respect of current year – first interim
1.78
1.32
1.25
554
410
389
– second interim
2.44
3.61
2.01
757
1,120
625
4.22
4.93
3.26
1,311
1,530
1,014
In 2024, an interim dividend of £1,311m (2023: £1,530m, 2022: £1,014m) was paid on the Company's ordinary shares in issue. In 2024, £804m (2023: £750m,
2022: £300m) of the dividends were special dividends. These were paid following review and approval by the Board in line with our dividend policy.
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11. DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
a) Use of derivatives
Santander UK undertakes derivative activities primarily to provide customers with risk management solutions and to manage and hedge its own risks. These
derivative activities do not give rise to significant open positions in portfolios of derivatives. Any residual position is managed to ensure that it remains within
acceptable risk levels, with matching transactions used to achieve this where necessary. When entering into derivatives, Santander UK employs the same credit risk
management procedures to assess and approve potential credit exposures that are used for traditional lending.
b) Analysis of derivatives
The table below includes the notional amounts of transactions outstanding at the balance sheet date; they do not represent actual exposures.
Group
2024
2023
Fair value
Fair value
Notional
amount
Assets
Liabilities
Notional
amount
Assets
Liabilities
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Derivatives held for trading:
Exchange rate contracts
13,755
238
156
12,927
92
217
Interest rate contracts
29,296
294
489
28,351
389
583
Equity and credit contracts
681
124
21
765
133
20
Total derivatives held for trading
43,732
656
666
42,043
614
820
Derivatives held for hedging
Designated as fair value hedges:
Exchange rate contracts
1,712
42
8
1,145
29
2
Interest rate contracts
146,172
1,055
477
107,540
1,275
839
147,884
1,097
485
108,685
1,304
841
Designated as cash flow hedges:
Exchange rate contracts
21,535
698
266
21,618
1,008
289
Interest rate contracts
54,267
326
928
50,896
553
915
Inflation rate contracts
1,794
70
77,596
1,094
1,194
72,514
1,561
1,204
Total derivatives held for hedging
225,480
2,191
1,679
181,199
2,865
2,045
Derivative netting(1)
(1,643)
(1,643)
(2,047)
(2,047)
Total derivatives
269,212
1,204
702
223,242
1,432
818
(1) Derivative netting excludes the effect of cash collateral, which is offset against the gross derivative position. The amount of cash collateral received that had been offset against the gross derivative assets was
£489m (2023: £472m) and the amount of cash collateral paid that had been offset against the gross derivative liabilities was £32m (2023: £12m).
At 31 December 2024, the fair value of derivative assets included amounts due from Banco Santander group entities of £544m (2023: £762m) and the fair value of
derivative liabilities included amounts due to Banco Santander group entities of £244m (2023: £230m).
Company
2024
2023
Fair value
Fair value
Notional
amount
Assets
Liabilities
Notional
amount
Assets
Liabilities
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Derivatives held for trading:
Exchange rate contracts
31,646
553
300
25,861
397
322
Interest rate contracts
69,248
358
2,589
62,005
560
1,918
Equity and credit contracts
681
124
21
765
133
20
Total derivatives held for trading
101,575
1,035
2,910
88,631
1,090
2,260
Derivatives held for hedging
Designated as fair value hedges:
Exchange rate contracts
1,524
41
4
948
23
2
Interest rate contracts
144,346
1,013
464
105,678
1,226
836
145,870
1,054
468
106,626
1,249
838
Designated as cash flow hedges:
Exchange rate contracts
12,931
649
152
14,910
869
256
Interest rate contracts
46,549
317
720
45,490
534
667
Inflation rate contracts
1,794
70
61,274
1,036
872
60,400
1,403
923
Total derivatives held for hedging
207,144
2,090
1,340
167,026
2,652
1,761
Derivative netting(1)
(1,643)
(1,643)
(2,047)
(2,047)
Total derivatives
308,719
1,482
2,607
255,657
1,695
1,974
(1) Derivative netting excludes the effect of cash collateral, which is offset against the gross derivative position. The amount of cash collateral received that had been offset against the gross derivative assets was
£489m (2023: £472m) and the amount of cash collateral paid that had been offset against the gross derivative liabilities was £32m (2023: £12m).
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At 31 December 2024, for the Company, the fair value of derivative assets included amounts due from Banco Santander group entities of £544m (2023: £762m)
and the fair value of derivative liabilities included amounts due to Banco Santander group entities of £244m (2023: £230m).
For information about the impact of netting arrangements on derivative assets and liabilities in the table above, see Note 39.
The table below analyses the notional and fair values of derivatives by trading and settlement method.
Notional
Traded over the counter
Asset
Liability
Settled by
central
counterparties
Not settled by
central
counterparties
Total
Traded over
the counter
Traded over
the counter
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Exchange rate contracts
37,002
37,002
978
430
Interest rate contracts
217,159
12,576
229,735
32
251
Inflation rate contracts
1,794
1,794
70
Equity and credit contracts
681
681
124
21
218,953
50,259
269,212
1,204
702
2023
Exchange rate contracts
35,690
35,690
1,129
508
Interest rate contracts
174,460
12,327
186,787
170
290
Equity and credit contracts
765
765
133
20
174,460
48,782
223,242
1,432
818
c) Analysis of derivatives designated as hedges
Santander UK applies hedge accounting on both a fair value and cash flow basis depending on the nature of the underlying exposure. We establish the hedge ratio
by matching the notional of the derivative with the underlying position being hedged. Only the designated risk is hedged and therefore other risks, such as credit risk
are managed but not hedged. For interest rate hedges, the designated hedged risk is determined with reference to the underlying benchmark rate.
Fair value hedges
Portfolio hedges of interest rate risk
Santander UK holds portfolios of fixed rate assets and liabilities which expose it to changes in fair value due to movements in market interest rates. We manage
these exposures by entering into interest rate swaps. Each portfolio contains assets or liabilities that are similar in nature and share the risk exposure that is
designated as being hedged.
The interest rate risk component is the change in fair value of fixed rate instruments for changes in the designated benchmark rate. Such changes are usually the
largest component of the overall change in fair value. Separate hedges are maintained for each underlying currency. Effectiveness is assessed by comparing
changes in the fair value of the hedged item attributable to changes in the designated benchmark interest rate, with changes in the fair value of the interest rate
swaps.
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Micro hedges of interest rate risk and foreign currency risk
Santander UK accesses international markets to obtain funding, to issue fixed rate debt or to invest in fixed rate debt of other issuers as part of maintaining a
portfolio of HQLA (High Quality Liquid Assets) in its functional currency and other currencies. We are therefore exposed to changes in fair value due to changes in
market interest rates and/or foreign exchange rates, principally in USD and EUR, which we mitigate through the use of receive fixed/pay floating rate interest rate
swaps and/or receive fixed/pay floating rate cross currency swaps. 
The interest rate risk component is the change in fair value of the fixed rate debt due to changes in the benchmark rate. The foreign exchange component is the
change in the fair value of the fixed rate debt issuance due to changes in foreign exchange rates prevailing from the time of execution. Effectiveness is assessed by
using linear regression techniques to compare changes in the fair value of the debt caused by changes in the benchmark interest rate and foreign exchange rates,
with changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps and/or cross currency swaps.
Cash flow hedges
Hedges of interest rate risk
Santander UK manages its exposure to the variability in cash flows of floating rate assets and liabilities attributable to movements in market interest rates by
entering into interest rate swaps. The interest rate risk component is determined with reference to the underlying benchmark rate attributable to the floating rates
asset or liability. Designated benchmark rates referenced are currently SONIA or BoE base rate. Effectiveness is assessed by comparing changes in the fair value of
the interest rate swap with changes in the fair value of the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk, applying a hypothetical derivative method using linear
regression techniques.
Hedges of inflation risk
Santander UK has exposure to inflation risk arising on UK inflation-linked gilts, that is hedged by entering into inflation swaps. Cash flow hedging is applied whereby
the inflation swap is hedging variability in cash flows of the inflation-linked gilt due to changes in GBP RPI. Effectiveness is assessed by comparing changes in the
fair value of the inflation swap with changes in the fair value of the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk, applying a hypothetical derivative method using
linear regression techniques.
Hedges of foreign currency risk
As Santander UK obtains funding in international markets, we assume significant foreign currency risk exposure, mainly in USD and EUR. In addition, Santander UK
also holds debt securities for liquidity purposes which assumes foreign currency exposure, principally in JPY and CHF.
Santander UK manages the exposures to the variability in cash flows of foreign currency denominated assets and liabilities to movements in foreign exchange rates
by entering into either foreign exchange contracts (spot, forward and swaps) or cross-currency swaps. These instruments are entered into to match the cash flow
profile and maturity of the estimated interest and principal repayments of the hedged item.
The foreign currency risk component is the change in cash flows of the foreign currency debt arising from changes in the relevant foreign currency forward
exchange rate. Such changes constitute a significant component of the overall changes in cash flows of the instrument. Effectiveness is assessed by comparing
changes in the fair value of the foreign exchange contracts (spot, forward and swaps) or cross currency swaps with changes in the fair value of the hedged debt
attributable to the hedged risk applying a hypothetical derivative method using linear regression techniques.
Possible sources of hedge ineffectiveness
For both fair value and cash flow hedges, hedge ineffectiveness can arise from hedging derivatives with a non-zero fair value at the date of initial designation. In
addition, for:
Fair value hedges
Hedge ineffectiveness can also arise due to differences in discounting between the hedged item and the hedging instrument as cash collateralised swaps discount
using Overnight Indexed Swaps discount curves not applied to the hedged item; and where counterparty credit risk impacts the fair value of the derivative but not
the hedged item. For portfolio hedges of interest rate risk, it can also arise due to differences in the expected and actual volume of prepayments.
Cash flow hedges
Hedge ineffectiveness can also arise due to differences in the timing of cash flows between the hedged item and the hedging instrument. For micro hedges of
interest rate risk, it can also arise due to differences in the basis of cash flows between the hedged item and the hedging instrument.
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Maturity profile and average price/rate of hedging instruments
The following table sets out the maturity profile and average price/rate of the hedging instruments used in the Santander UK group’s hedging strategies:
Group
2024
Hedging Instruments
≤1 month
>1 and ≤3
months
>3 and ≤12
months
>1 and ≤5
years
>5 years
Total
Fair value hedges:
Interest rate risk
Interest rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
4,174
6,301
53,531
77,233
3,409
144,648
Average fixed interest rate - GBP
3.75%
4.29%
4.50%
3.87%
3.65%
Average fixed interest rate - EUR
0.20%
(0.35)%
(0.45)%
0.58%
4.37%
Average fixed interest rate - USD
1.68%
1.53%
1.53%
5.76%
0.45%
Interest rate/FX risk
Exchange rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
88
128
1,018
478
1,712
Interest rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
88
86
872
478
1,524
Average GBP - EUR exchange rate
1.14
1.16
1.16
1.18
Average GBP - USD exchange rate
1.32
1.28
Average fixed interest rate - EUR
1.35%
3.30%
2.94%
Average fixed interest rate - USD
4.83%
4.38%
Cash flow hedges:
Interest rate risk
Interest rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
4,300
3,366
11,598
28,336
3,587
51,187
Average fixed interest rate - GBP
4.59%
4.05%
4.76%
3.70%
4.35%
FX risk
Exchange rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
258
792
4,927
10,976
1,306
18,259
Interest rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
958
958
Average GBP - JPY exchange rate
178.37
179.99
187.64
Average GBP - CHF exchange rate
1.09
1.11
Average GBP - CAD exchange rate
1.76
Average GBP - EUR exchange rate
1.20
1.19
1.18
1.16
Average GBP - USD exchange rate
1.24
1.30
1.39
Interest rate/FX risk
Exchange rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
826
394
534
1,104
418
3,276
Interest rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
826
327
799
170
2,122
Average GBP - EUR exchange rate
1.12
1.37
1.16
1.21
1.18
Average GBP - USD exchange rate
1.54
1.32
1.54
Average fixed interest rate - GBP
1.48%
2.76%
2.65%
2.74%
4.81%
Inflation risk
Inflation derivative contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
1,794
1,794
Average fixed interest rate - GBP
4.98%
2023
Fair value hedges:
Interest rate risk
Interest rate contracts- Nominal amount (£m)
3,612
7,141
32,241
60,590
3,008
106,592
Average fixed interest rate - GBP
2.38%
3.19%
3.42%
3.90%
3.99%
Average fixed interest rate - EUR
1.14%
0.18%
0.45%
0.21%
3.92%
Average fixed interest rate - USD
2.60%
2.46%
4.23%
1.36%
4.91%
Interest rate/FX risk
Exchange rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
18
1,041
86
1,145
Interest rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
18
844
86
948
Average GBP - EUR exchange rate
1.11
1.16
1.15
Average GBP - USD exchange rate
1.32
Average fixed interest rate - EUR
2.77%
3.48%
Average fixed interest rate - USD
4.83%
Cash flow hedges:
Interest rate risk
Interest rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
911
2,993
12,770
27,721
1,219
45,614
Average fixed interest rate - GBP
5.06%
2.98%
5.39%
3.83%
3.45%
FX risk
Exchange rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
927
3,238
2,692
9,447
588
16,892
Interest rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
2,199
942
3,141
Average GBP - JPY exchange rate
154.14
153.95
167.85
Average GBP - CHF exchange rate
1.09
1.09
1.09
1.12
1.12
Average GBP - EUR exchange rate
1.20
1.17
1.18
Average GBP - USD exchange rate
1.39
1.28
1.39
Interest rate/FX risk
Exchange rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
87
785
500
2,896
458
4,726
Interest rate contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
1,975
166
2,141
Average GBP - EUR exchange rate
1.18
1.25
1.20
1.19
Average GBP - USD exchange rate
1.66
1.38
1.54
Average fixed interest rate - GBP
2.57%
2.54%
2.96%
2.31%
4.74%
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Company
2024
Hedging Instruments
≤1 month
>1 month
and ≤3
months
>3 and ≤12
months
>1 and ≤5
years
>5 years
Total
Fair value hedges:
Interest rate risk
Interest rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
4,172
6,296
53,514
75,503
3,337
142,822
Average fixed interest rate – GBP
3.75%
4.29%
4.50%
3.83%
3.65%
Average fixed interest rate – EUR
0.20%
(0.35)%
(0.45)%
0.58%
%
Average fixed interest rate – USD
1.68%
1.53%
1.53%
5.76%
0.45%
Interest rate/FX risk
Exchange rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
88
86
872
478
1,524
Interest rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
88
86
872
478
1,524
Average GBP - EUR exchange rate
1.14
1.16
1.16
1.18
Average GBP - USD exchange rate
1.32
1.28
Average fixed interest rate – EUR
0.80
3.06%
2.94%
Average fixed interest rate – USD
4.83%
4.38
Cash flow hedges:
Interest rate risk
Interest rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
4,300
3,366
11,598
22,305
2,727
44,296
Average fixed interest rate - GBP
4.59%
4.06%
4.76%
3.83%
4.33%
FX risk
Exchange rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
258
792
4,927
4,634
479
11,090
Interest rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
958
958
Average GBP - JPY exchange rate
179.37
179.99
187.64
Average GBP - CAD exchange rate
1.76
Average GBP - CHF exchange rate
1.09
Average GBP - EUR exchange rate
1.20
1.19
1.18
Average GBP - USD exchange rate
1.29
1.32
1.39
Interest rate/FX risk
Exchange rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
394
327
895
225
1,841
Interest rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
327
799
169
1,295
Average GBP - EUR exchange rate
1.37
Average GBP - USD exchange rate
1.54
1.32
1.54
Average fixed interest rate – GBP
2.22%
3.34%
2.62%
4.59%
Inflation risk
Inflation derivative contracts - Nominal amount (£m)
1,794
1,794
Average fixed interest rate - GBP
%
%
%
%
4.98%
2023
Fair value hedges:
Interest rate risk
Interest rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
3,609
7,135
32,217
59,562
2,207
104,730
Average fixed interest rate – GBP
2.38%
3.19%
3.42%
3.87%
3.52%
Average fixed interest rate – EUR
1.14%
0.18%
0.45%
0.21%
0.58%
Average fixed interest rate – USD
2.60%
2.46%
4.23%
1.36%
4.91%
Interest rate/FX risk
Exchange rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
18
844
86
948
Interest rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
18
844
86
948
Average GBP - EUR exchange rate
1.11
1.15
1.15
Average GBP - USD exchange rate
1.32
Average fixed interest rate - EUR
2.39%
3.48%
Average fixed interest rate - USD
4.83%
Cash flow hedges:
Interest rate risk
Interest rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
911
2,993
11,913
24,152
1,107
41,076
Average fixed interest rate - GBP
5.06%
2.98%
5.66%
4.05%
3.24%
FX risk
Exchange rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
927
3,238
1,825
5,816
471
12,277
Interest rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
2,199
942
3,141
Average GBP - JPY exchange rate
154.14
153.95
167.85
Average GBP - CHF exchange rate
1.09
1.09
1.09
Average GBP - EUR exchange rate
1.20
1.18
Average GBP - USD exchange rate
1.39
1.28
1.39
Interest rate/FX risk
Exchange rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
785
1,627
221
2,633
Interest rate contracts – Nominal amount (£m)
1,107
166
1,273
Average GBP - EUR exchange rate
1.37
Average GBP - USD exchange rate
1.66
1.38
1.54
Average fixed interest rate – GBP
2.54%
2.65%
4.59%
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Net gains or losses arising from fair value and cash flow hedges included in other operating income
Group
Company
2024
2023
2022
2024
2023
2022
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Fair value hedging:
Gains/(Losses) on hedging instruments
193
(1,879)
2,381
220
(1,920)
2,685
(Losses)/Gains on hedged items attributable to hedged risks
(168)
1,896
(2,316)
(201)
1,927
(2,626)
Fair value hedging ineffectiveness
25
17
65
19
7
59
Cash flow hedging ineffectiveness
(3)
2
(36)
(4)
(34)
22
19
29
15
7
25
Hedge ineffectiveness can be analysed by risk category as follows:
Group
2024
2023
2022
Change in FV
of hedging
instruments
Change in FV
of hedged
items
Recognised in
income
statement
Change in FV
of hedging
instruments
Change in FV
of hedged
items
Recognised in
income
statement
Change in FV
of hedging
instruments
Change in FV
of hedged
items
Recognised in
income
statement
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Fair value hedges:
Interest rate risk
167
(151)
16
(1,865)
1,877
12
2,392
(2,333)
59
Interest rate/FX risk
26
(17)
9
(14)
19
5
(11)
17
6
193
(168)
25
(1,879)
1,896
17
2,381
(2,316)
65
Group
Hedging Instruments
Recognised in
Income
Statement
Reclassified
from reserves
to income
Income statement line item affected by reclassification
Change in FV
Recognised in
OCI
£m
£m
£m
£m
Cash flow hedges:
2024
Interest rate risk
Net interest income
(764)
761
(3)
(488)
FX risk
Net interest income/other operating income
414
(405)
9
216
Interest rate/FX risk
Net interest income/other operating income
(181)
172
(9)
(231)
Inflation Risk
Net Interest Income
71
(71)
3
(460)
457
(3)
(500)
2023
Interest rate risk
Net interest income
466
(445)
21
(469)
FX risk
Net interest income/other operating income
(396)
377
(19)
(392)
Interest rate/FX risk
Net interest income/other operating income
(237)
237
(387)
(167)
169
2
(1,248)
2022
Interest rate risk
Net interest income
(1,161)
1,160
(1)
(96)
FX risk
Net interest income/other operating income
1,604
(1,604)
1,692
Interest rate/FX risk
Net interest income/other operating income
(54)
19
(35)
533
389
(425)
(36)
2,129
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Company
2024
2023
2022
Change in FV
of hedging
instruments
Change in FV
of hedged
items
Recognised in
income
statement
Change in FV
of hedging
instruments
Change in FV
of hedged
items
Recognised in
income
statement
Change in FV
of hedging
instruments
Change in FV
of hedged
items
Recognised in
income
statement
Fair value hedges:
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Interest rate risk
186
(171)
15
(1,907)
1,916
9
2,676
(2,622)
54
Interest rate/FX risk
34
(30)
4
(13)
11
(2)
9
(4)
5
220
(201)
19
(1,920)
1,927
7
2,685
(2,626)
59
Company
Hedging Instruments
Recognised in
Income
Statement
Reclassified
from reserves
to income
Income statement line item affected by reclassification
Change in FV
Recognised in
OCI
£m
£m
£m
£m
Cash flow hedges:
2024
Interest rate risk
Net interest income
(616)
614
(2)
(333)
FX risk
Net interest income/other operating income
587
(582)
5
523
Interest rate/FX risk
Net interest income/other operating income
(54)
47
(7)
(64)
Inflation Risk
Net Interest Income
71
(71)
3
(12)
8
(4)
129
2023
Interest rate risk
Net interest income
418
(416)
2
(312)
FX risk
Net interest income/other operating income
(204)
200
(4)
(205)
Interest rate/FX risk
Net interest income/other operating income
(168)
170
2
(277)
46
(46)
(794)
2022
Interest rate risk
Net interest income
(782)
782
(77)
FX risk
Net interest income/other operating income
1,295
(1,299)
(4)
1,366
Interest rate/FX risk
Net interest income/other operating income
67
(97)
(30)
442
580
(614)
(34)
1,731
In 2024, cash flow hedge accounting of £nil (2023: £nil) had to cease due to the hedged cash flows no longer being expected to occur.
The following table provides a reconciliation by risk category of components of equity and analysis of OCI items (before tax) resulting from hedge accounting.
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Balance at 1 January
(496)
(1,575)
(262)
(1,102)
Effective portion of changes in fair value:
– Interest rate risk
(761)
445
(614)
416
– Foreign currency risk
405
(377)
582
(200)
– Interest rate/foreign currency risk
(172)
(237)
(47)
(170)
– Inflation risk
71
71
(457)
(169)
(8)
46
Income statement transfers:
– Interest rate risk
488
469
333
312
– Foreign currency risk
(216)
392
(523)
205
– Interest rate/foreign currency risk
231
387
64
277
– Inflation risk
(3)
(3)
500
1,248
(129)
794
Balance at 31 December
(453)
(496)
(399)
(262)
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Hedged exposures
Santander UK hedges its exposures to various risks, including interest rate risk and foreign currency risk, as set out in the following table.
Group
2024
2023
Accumulated amount of FV hedge
adjustments
Change in
value to
calculate
hedge
ineffective
ness
Accumulated amount of FV hedge
adjustments
Change in
value to
calculate
hedge
ineffective
ness
Carrying
value
Hedged
item
Portfolio
hedge of
interest
rate risks
Of which
Discontinued
hedges
Carrying
value
Hedged
item
Portfolio
hedge of
interest
rate risks
Of which
Discontinued
hedges
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Fair value hedges
Interest rate risk:
Loans and advances to customers
62,773
(731)
(290)
(154)
73,194
(625)
(435)
1,968
Other financial assets at amortised cost
1,667
(45)
(7)
(7)
(44)
152
1
(8)
(8)
5
Reverse repurchase agreements – non
trading
6,423
(1)
(1)
6,186
4
Other financial assets at FVOCI
2,100
(131)
(95)
(18)
2,013
(113)
(131)
82
Deposits by customers
(21,726)
18
9
1
(1)
(15,892)
38
(10)
(53)
Debt securities in issue
(3,811)
150
(54)
(77)
52
(4,091)
118
(75)
(114)
(128)
Subordinated liabilities
(511)
(12)
(1)
(36)
15
(522)
(27)
(1)
(42)
(1)
Interest rate/FX risk:
Other financial assets at FVOCI
1,503
16
(30)
989
4
12
Debt securities in issue
(200)
(9)
(14)
13
(214)
(14)
(24)
8
Subordinated liabilities
(1)
48,218
(13)
(785)
(518)
(168)
61,815
7
(719)
(754)
1,896
Group
2024
2023
Change in value to
calculate hedge
ineffectiveness
Cash flow hedge
reserve
Balances on cash
flow hedge
reserve for
discontinued
hedges
Change in value to
calculate hedge
ineffectiveness
Cash flow hedge
reserve
Balances on cash
flow hedge reserve
for discontinued
hedges
Hedged item balance sheet line item
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Cash flow hedges:
Interest rate risk:
Loans and advances to customers
361
(497)
2
(163)
(462)
1
Cash and balances at central banks
464
(192)
(50)
(281)
99
(76)
Deposits by banks
(4)
(1)
(1)
Repurchase agreements - non trading
(60)
52
FX risk:
Other financial assets at FVOCI
(487)
1
(253)
1
Not applicable – highly probable forecast
transactions
4
88
1
Deposits by customers
(33)
Debt securities in issue
78
181
617
(9)
Repurchase agreements - non trading
(42)
Interest rate/FX risk:
Debt securities in issue/loans and advances to
customers
148
(12)
99
(75)
Deposits by customers
21
(37)
94
(39)
Subordinated liabilities/loans and advances to
customers
3
(16)
51
44
(11)
52
Inflation risk:
Other financial assets at amortised cost
(70)
66
Other financial assets at FVOCI
(1)
1
457
(453)
3
169
(496)
(23)
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Financial statements
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Company
2024
2023
Accumulated amount of FV hedge
adjustments
Change in
value to
calculate
hedge
ineffective
ness
Accumulated amount of FV hedge
adjustments
Change in
value to
calculate
hedge
ineffective
ness
Carrying
value
Hedged
item
Portfolio
hedge of
interest
rate risks
Of which
Discontinued
hedges
Carrying
value
Hedged
item
Portfolio
hedge of
interest
rate risks
Of which
Discontinued
hedges
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Fair value hedges
Interest rate risk:
Loans and advances to customers
62,694
(903)
(461)
(153)
73,117
(839)
(649)
1,967
Other financial assets at amortised cost
1,667
(45)
(7)
(7)
(44)
152
1
(8)
(8)
5
Reverse repurchase agreements – non
trading
6,423
(1)
(1)
6,186
4
Other financial assets at FVOCI
2,100
(131)
(95)
(18)
2,013
(113)
(131)
82
Deposits by customers
(21,726)
18
10
1
(1)
(16,031)
38
(10)
(53)
Debt securities in issue
(2,035)
64
32
(2,312)
35
(88)
Subordinated liabilities
(512)
(13)
(35)
14
(524)
(28)
(42)
(1)
Interest rate/FX risk:
Other financial assets at FVOCI
1,503
17
(30)
989
4
12
Subordinated liabilities
(1)
50,114
(90)
(901)
(597)
(201)
63,590
(63)
(857)
(830)
1,927
Company
2024
2023
Change in value to
calculate hedge
ineffectiveness
Cash flow
hedge reserve
Balances on cash
flow hedge
reserve for
discontinued
hedges
Change in value to
calculate hedge
ineffectiveness
Cash flow
hedge reserve
Balances on cash
flow hedge reserve
for discontinued
hedges
Hedged item balance sheet line item
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Cash flow hedges:
Interest rate risk:
Loans and advances to customers
214
(312)
2
(133)
(268)
1
Cash and balances at central banks
464
(191)
(50)
(281)
99
(76)
Deposits by banks
(4)
(1)
(1)
Repurchase agreements - non trading
(60)
52
FX risk:
Other financial assets at FVOCI
(487)
1
(253)
1
Not applicable – highly probable forecast
transactions
4
88
1
Deposits by customers
(33)
Debt securities in issue
(99)
48
440
(13)
Repurchase agreements - non trading
(42)
Interest rate/FX risk:
Debt securities in issue/loans and advances to
customers
23
(2)
35
(21)
(2)
Deposits by customers
21
(38)
(1)
94
(41)
(2)
Subordinated liabilities/loans and advances to
customers
3
(23)
43
41
(19)
44
Inflation risk:
Other financial assets at amortised cost
(70)
65
Other financial assets at FVOCI
(1)
1
8
(399)
(6)
(45)
(262)
(35)
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12. OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS AT FAIR VALUE THROUGH PROFIT OR LOSS
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Loans and advances to customers:
Loans to housing associations
4
8
4
8
Other loans
40
38
40
38
44
46
44
46
Debt securities
56
167
56
168
Other debt instruments
36
49
136
262
100
214
For the Santander UK group, other financial assets at FVTPL comprised £60m (2023: £8m) of financial assets designated at FVTPL and £76m (2023: £254m) of
financial assets mandatorily held at FVTPL. For the Company, other financial assets at FVTPL comprised £60m (2023: £8m) of financial assets designated at FVTPL
and £40m (2023: £206m) of financial assets mandatorily held at FVTPL.
Loans and advances to customers principally represent other loans, being a portfolio of roll-up mortgages. These are managed, and have their performance
evaluated, on a fair value basis in accordance with a documented investment strategy, and information about them is provided on that basis to management.
The net loss in the year attributable to changes in credit risk for loans and advances at FVTPL was £nil (2023: £nil, 2022: £1m). The cumulative net loss attributable
to changes in credit risk for loans and advances at FVTPL at 31 December 2024 was £3m (2023: £3m,2022: £3m).
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13. LOANS AND ADVANCES TO CUSTOMERS
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Loans secured on residential properties
165,214
172,854
165,214
172,854
Corporate loans
18,550
18,267
17,778
17,794
Finance leases
4,222
4,530
Other unsecured loans
6,601
7,232
6,521
7,065
Accrued interest and other adjustments
796
943
961
882
Amounts due from fellow Banco Santander subsidiaries and joint ventures
4,814
4,489
3
4
Amounts due from Santander UK Group Holdings plc
18
55
18
55
Amounts due from subsidiaries
27,999
25,903
Loans and advances to customers
200,215
208,370
218,494
224,557
Credit impairment loss allowances on loans and advances to customers
(784)
(914)
(714)
(1,046)
Residual value and voluntary termination provisions on finance leases
(23)
(21)
Net loans and advances to customers
199,408
207,435
217,780
223,511
For movements in expected credit losses, see the 'Movement in total exposures and the corresponding ECL' table in the Santander UK group level – Credit risk
review section of the Risk review.
Finance lease and hire purchase contract receivables may be analysed as follows:
Group
2024
2023
Gross
investment
Unearned
finance
income
Net
investment
Gross
investment
Unearned
finance income
Net
investment
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
No later than one year
1,400
(208)
1,192
1,502
(216)
1,286
Later than one year and not later than two years
1,423
(215)
1,208
1,426
(208)
1,218
Later than two years and not later than three years
1,220
(184)
1,036
1,331
(194)
1,137
Later than three years and not later than four years
721
(109)
612
882
(129)
753
Later than four years and not later than five years
115
(17)
98
99
(14)
85
Later than five years
90
(14)
76
60
(9)
51
4,969
(747)
4,222
5,300
(770)
4,530
At 31 December 2024 and 2023, the Company had no finance lease and hire purchase contract receivables.
The Santander UK group enters into finance leasing arrangements primarily for the financing of motor vehicles and a range of assets for its corporate customers.
Included in the carrying value of net investment in finance leases and hire purchase contracts is £1,748m (2023: £1,830m) of unguaranteed RV at the end of the
current lease terms, which is expected to be recovered through re-payment, re-financing or sale. Contingent rent income of £nil (2023: £nil, 2022: £nil) was earned
in the year, which was classified in ‘Interest and similar income’. Finance income on the net investment in finance leases was £308m (2023: £266m, 2022: £230m).
Finance lease receivable balances are secured over the asset leased. The Santander UK group is not permitted to sell or repledge the asset in the absence of default
by the lessee. The Directors consider that the carrying amount of the finance lease receivables approximates to their fair value.
Included within loans and advances to customers are advances assigned to bankruptcy remote structured entities and Abbey Covered Bonds LLP. These loans
provide security to issues of covered bonds and mortgage-backed or other asset-backed securities issued by the Santander UK group. For more, see Note 14.
At 31 December 2024 and 2023, the Santander UK group had contracted with lessees for the following future undiscounted minimum lease payments receivable
under operating leases.
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
No later than one year
27
28
25
27
Later than one year and not later than two years
21
26
20
24
Later than two years and not later than three years
17
18
16
17
Later than three years and not later than four years
7
14
7
13
Later than four years and not later than five years
5
7
4
6
Later than five years
11
18
7
13
88
111
79
100
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14. SECURITISATIONS AND COVERED BONDS
The information in this Note relates to securitisations and covered bonds for consolidated structured entities, used to obtain funding or collateral. It excludes
structured entities relating to credit protection transactions.
The Santander UK group uses structured entities to securitise some of the mortgage and other loans to customers that it originates. The Santander UK group also
issues covered bonds, which are guaranteed by, and secured against, a pool of the Santander UK group’s mortgage loans transferred to Abbey Covered Bonds LLP.
The Santander UK group issues mortgage-backed securities, other asset-backed securities and covered bonds mainly in order to obtain diverse, low-cost funding,
but also to use as collateral for raising funds via third party bilateral secured funding transactions or for liquidity purposes in the future. The Santander UK group has
successfully used bilateral secured transactions as an additional form of medium-term funding; this has allowed the Santander UK group to further diversify its
medium-term funding investor base.
Loans and advances to customers include portfolios of residential mortgage loans, and receivables derived from credit agreements with retail customers for the
purchases of financed vehicles, which are subject to non-recourse finance arrangements. These loans and receivables have been purchased by, or assigned to,
structured entities or Abbey Covered Bonds LLP, and have been funded primarily through the issue of mortgage-backed securities, other asset-backed securities or
covered bonds. No gain or loss has been recognised as a result of these sales. The structured entities and Abbey Covered Bonds LLP are consolidated as subsidiary
undertakings. The Company and its subsidiaries do not own directly, or indirectly, any of the share capital of any of the structured entities.
a) Securitisations
i) Master trust structures
The Santander UK group makes use of master trust structures, whereby a pool of residential mortgage loans is assigned to a trust company by the asset originator.
A funding entity acquires a beneficial interest in the pool of assets held by the trust company with funds borrowed from qualifying structured entities, which at the
same time issue asset-backed securities to third-party investors or the Santander UK group.
Santander UK plc and its subsidiaries receive payments from the securitisation companies in respect of fees for administering the loans, and payment of deferred
consideration for the sale of the loans. Santander UK plc and its subsidiaries have no right or obligation to repurchase any securitised loan, except if certain
representations and warranties given by Santander UK plc or its subsidiaries at the time of transfer are breached and, in certain cases, if there is a product switch or
further advance, if a securitised loan is in arrears for over two months or if a securitised loan does not comply with regulatory requirements.
ii) Other securitisation structures
The Santander UK group also makes use of auto loan securitisations, whereby a pool of auto loans originated by a member of the Santander UK group is sold to a
special purpose vehicle by the asset originator. The special purpose vehicle funds the purchase of the auto loans by issuing asset-backed securities to third-party
investors. A proportion of the securities are also retained by members of the Santander UK group. Members of the Santander UK group also receive payments from
the special purpose vehicle in respect of fees for administering the auto loans, and payment of deferred consideration for the sale of the auto loans. The seller has
no right or obligation to repurchase any securitised loan, except if certain representations and warranties given by the seller at the time of transfer are breached
and, in certain cases, if there has been a subsequent variation in the terms of the underlying auto loan not permitted under the sale agreement.
b) Covered bonds
Santander UK plc also issues covered bonds, which are its direct, unsecured and unconditional obligation. The covered bonds benefit from a guarantee from Abbey
Covered Bonds LLP. Santander UK plc makes a term advance to Abbey Covered Bonds LLP equal to the sterling proceeds of each issue of covered bonds. Abbey
Covered Bonds LLP uses the proceeds of the term advance to purchase portfolios of residential mortgage loans and their security from Santander UK plc. Under the
terms of the guarantee, Abbey Covered Bonds LLP has agreed to pay an amount equal to the guaranteed amounts when the same shall become due for payment,
but which would otherwise be unpaid by Santander UK plc.
c) Analysis of securitisations and covered bonds
The Santander UK group’s principal securitisation programmes and covered bond programme, together with the balances of the advances subject to securitisation
(or for the covered bond programme assigned) and the carrying value of the notes in issue at 31 December 2024 and 2023 are listed below. The gross assets in the
Group table below were transferred from the Company to the securitisations and covered bond programme vehicles but do not qualify for derecognition from the
Company.
Group
Gross assets
External notes in issue
Notes held within the Group
2024
2023
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Mortgage-backed master trust structures:
Holmes
5,109
3,242
3,379
2,119
389
300
Fosse
2,383
2,048
100
1,408
1,382
7,492
5,290
3,379
2,219
1,797
1,682
Other asset-backed securitisation structures:
Repton
718
757
550
550
Total securitisation programmes
8,210
6,047
3,929
2,769
1,797
1,682
Covered bond programme:
Euro 35bn Global Covered Bond Programme
25,695
21,880
17,211
15,000
1,224
Total securitisation and covered bond programmes
33,905
27,927
21,140
17,769
3,021
1,682
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Company
Gross assets
External notes in issue
Notes held within the Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Covered bond programme:
Euro 35bn Global Covered Bond Programme
25,695
21,880
17,300
15,087
1,224
Total securitisation and covered bond programmes
25,695
21,880
17,300
15,087
1,224
The following table sets out the internal and external issuances and redemptions in 2024 and 2023 for each securitisation and covered bond programme.
Group
Internal issuances
External issuances
Internal redemptions
External redemptions
2024
2023
2024
2023
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Mortgage-backed master trust structures:
Holmes
106
241
1,250
1,500
17
121
186
Fosse
894
865
100
Other asset-backed securitisation structures:
Motor
7
Repton
550
Covered bond programme:
Euro 35bn Global Covered Bond Programme
5,890
41
3,359
1,000
241
7,140
2,050
923
121
3,459
193
Company
Internal issuances
External issuances
Internal redemptions
External redemptions
2024
2023
2024
2023
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Covered bond programme:
Euro 35bn Global Covered Bond Programme
1,100
5,890
1,844
41
16
3,359
1,897
1,100
5,890
1,844
41
16
3,359
1,897
Holmes Funding Ltd has a beneficial interest of £3,735m (2023: £2,396m) in the residential mortgage loans held by Holmes Trustees Ltd. The remaining share of
the beneficial interest in residential mortgage loans held by Holmes Trustees Ltd belongs to Santander UK plc.
Fosse Funding (No.1) Ltd has a beneficial interest of £1,394m (2023: £1,393m) in the residential mortgage loans held by Fosse Trustee (UK) Ltd. The remaining
share of the beneficial interest in residential mortgage loans held by Fosse Trustee (UK) Ltd belongs to Santander UK plc.
The Holmes securitisation companies have cash deposits of £126m (2023: £80m), which have been accumulated to finance the redemption of a number of
securities issued by the Holmes securitisation companies. The share of Holmes Funding Ltd in the trust assets is therefore reduced by this amount.
The Fosse securitisation companies have cash deposits of £48m (2023: £108m), which have been accumulated to finance the redemption of a number of securities
issued by the Fosse securitisation companies. The share of Fosse Funding (No.1) Ltd’s beneficial interest in the assets held by Fosse Trustee (UK) Ltd is therefore
reduced by this amount.
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15. TRANSFERS OF FINANCIAL ASSETS NOT QUALIFYING FOR DERECOGNITION
The Santander UK group enters into transactions in the normal course of business by which it transfers recognised financial assets directly to third parties or to
structured entities. These transfers may give rise to the full or partial derecognition of those financial assets. Transferred financial assets that do not qualify for
derecognition consist of (i) securities held by counterparties as collateral under repurchase agreements, (ii) securities lent under securities lending agreements, and
(iii) loans that have been transferred under securitisation or covered bond arrangements by which the Santander UK group retains a continuing involvement in such
transferred assets.
As a result of these sale and repurchase and securities lending transactions, the Santander UK group is unable to use, sell or pledge the transferred assets for the
duration of the transaction. The Santander UK group remains exposed to interest rate risk and credit risk on these pledged instruments. The counterparty’s recourse
is not limited to the transferred assets.
The Santander UK group securitisation and covered bond transfers do not qualify for derecognition. The Santander UK group remains exposed to credit risks arising
from the mortgage loans or credit agreements and has retained control of the transferred assets. Circumstances in which the Santander UK group has continuing
involvement in the transferred assets may include retention of servicing rights over the transferred assets (the servicing fee in respect of which is dependent on the
amount or timing of the cash flows collected from, or the non-performance of, the transferred assets), entering into a derivative transaction with the securitisation
or covered bond vehicle, retaining an interest in the securitisation or covered bond vehicle or providing a cash reserve fund. Where the Santander UK group has
continuing involvement, it continues to recognise the transferred assets to the extent of its continuing involvement and recognises an associated liability. The net
carrying amount of the transferred assets and associated liabilities reflects the rights and obligations that the Santander UK group has retained.
The carrying amount of the assets transferred under securitisation and covered bond arrangements and associated financial liabilities is set out in Note 14 c). The
following table analyses the carrying amount of other financial assets that did not qualify for derecognition and their associated financial liabilities:
Group
2024
2023
Assets
Liabilities
Assets
Liabilities
Nature of transaction
£m
£m
£m
£m
Sale and repurchase agreements
1,346
(1,372)
14
(15)
Securities lending agreements
3,304
(2,807)
3,136
(2,735)
Company
2024
2023
Assets
Liabilities
Assets
Liabilities
Nature of transaction
£m
£m
£m
£m
Sale and repurchase agreements
1,346
(1,372)
14
(14)
Securities lending agreements
2,358
(2,307)
2,228
(2,735)
16. REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – NON-TRADING
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Agreements with banks
1,363
2,397
1,363
2,397
Agreements with customers
8,975
10,071
8,975
10,071
10,338
12,468
10,338
12,468
17. OTHER FINANCIAL ASSETS AT AMORTISED COST
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Asset backed securities
1,798
1,681
Debt securities
3,408
152
3,408
152
0
3,408
152
5,206
1,833
A significant portion of the debt securities are held in our eligible liquidity pool and consist mainly of government bonds and covered bonds. In 2024, Santander UK
increased the allocation of liquid assets to longer-dated, duration-hedged UK Gilts to support ongoing HQLA requirements. Detailed disclosures can be found in the
'Liquidity risk' section of the Risk review.
The Company’s asset backed securities include investments in debt securities issued by Santander UK structured entities.
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18. INTERESTS IN OTHER ENTITIES
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Subsidiaries
1,257
1,220
Joint Ventures
289
245
0
289
245
1,257
1,220
The Santander UK group consists of a parent company, Santander UK plc, incorporated and domiciled in the UK and a number of subsidiaries and joint ventures held
directly and indirectly by it.
Details of subsidiaries and joint ventures are set out in the Shareholder Information section and form an integral part of these financial statements.
Details of subsidiaries benefitting from an audit exemption according to section 479A of the Companies Act 2006 are also set out in the Shareholder Information
section and form an integral part of these financial statements.
a) Interests in subsidiaries
The Company holds directly or indirectly 100% of the issued ordinary share capital of its principal subsidiaries. All companies operate principally in their country of
incorporation or registration.
The movement in the Company’s interests in subsidiaries was as follows:
Company
Cost
Impairment
Carrying amount
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
1,220
1,220
Capital contribution
37
37
At 31 December 2024
1,257
1,257
At 1 January 2023
1,234
(2)
1,232
Reversal
(14)
2
(12)
At 31 December 2023
1,220
1,220
Interests in consolidated structured entities
Structured entities are formed by Santander UK to accomplish specific and well-defined objectives. Santander UK consolidated these structured entities when the
substance of the relationship indicates control, as described in Note 1. In addition to the structured entities disclosed in Note 14 which are used for securitisation
and covered bond programmes, the only other structured entities consolidated by Santander UK are described below. All the external assets and liabilities in these
entities are included in the financial statements and in relevant Notes. Other than as set out below, no significant judgements were required with respect to control
or significant influence.
Motor Securities 2018-1 Designated Activity Company (Motor 2018)
Motor 2018 is a credit protection entity, and a Designated Activity Company limited by shares, incorporated in Ireland. It issued a series of credit linked notes varying
in seniority which referenced a portfolio of Santander UK group auto loans. Concurrently, this entity sold credit protection to SCUK in respect of the referenced loans
and, in return for a fee, was liable to make protection payments to SCUK upon the occurrence of a credit event in relation to any of the referenced loans. Motor 2018
is consolidated as Santander UK held a variable interest by retaining the junior tranche of notes issued by the entity. The outstanding notes were redeemed and the
transaction terminated in 2023.
b) Interests in joint ventures
Santander UK does not have any individually material interests in joint ventures. In 2024, Santander UK’s share in the profit after tax of its joint ventures was £45m
(2023: £43m) before elimination of transactions between Santander UK and the joint ventures. At 31 December 2024, the carrying amount of Santander UK’s
interest was £289m (2023: £245m). At 31 December 2024 and 2023, the joint ventures had no commitments and contingent liabilities.
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c) Interests in unconsolidated structured entities
Structured entities sponsored by the Santander UK group
Santander UK has interests in structured entities which it sponsors but does not control. Santander UK considers itself a sponsor of a structured entity when it
facilitates the establishment of the structured entity. Other than as set out below, no significant judgements were required with respect to control or significant
influence. The structured entities sponsored but not consolidated by Santander UK are as follows:
i) Santander (UK) Common Investment Fund (the Fund)
The Fund is a common investment fund that was established to hold the assets of the Santander (UK) Group Pension Scheme. The Fund is not consolidated by
Santander UK, but its assets of £7,591m (2023: £8,551m) are accounted for as part of the defined benefit assets and obligations recognised on Santander UK’s
balance sheet. For more on the Fund, see Note 28. As the Fund holds the assets of the pension scheme, it is outside the scope of IFRS 10. Santander UK’s maximum
exposure to loss is the carrying amount of the assets held.
ii) Credit protection entities
Santander UK has established five (2023: four) unconsolidated credit protection entities, which are Designated Activity Companies limited by shares, incorporated in
Ireland. Each entity has issued a series of credit linked notes varying in seniority which reference portfolios of Santander UK group loans. Concurrently, these entities
sell credit protection to Santander UK in respect of the referenced loans and, in return for a fee, are liable to make protection payments to Santander UK upon the
occurrence of a credit event in relation to any of the referenced loans.
Credit linked notes, which amounted to £226m (2023: £185m), are all held by third party investors. Funds raised by the sale of the credit linked notes are deposited
with Santander UK as collateral for the credit protection.
Deposits and associated guarantees in respect of the credit linked notes are included in ‘Deposits by customers’ (see Note 22).
The entities are not consolidated by Santander UK because the third-party investors have the exposure, or rights, to all of the variability of returns from the
performance of the entities. No assets are transferred to, or income received from, these entities. Since the credit linked notes are fully cash collateralised,
Santander UK’s maximum exposure to loss is equal to any unamortised fees paid to the entities in connection with the credit protection outlined above.
Structured entities not sponsored by the Santander UK group
Santander UK also has interests in structured entities which it does not sponsor or control. These consist of holdings of mortgage and other asset backed securities
issued by entities that were established and/or sponsored by other unrelated financial institutions. These securities comprise the asset backed securities held by the
Company included in Note 17. Management has concluded that the Santander UK group has no control or significant influence over these entities and that the
carrying value of the interests held in these entities represents the maximum exposure to loss.
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19. INTANGIBLE ASSETS
a) Goodwill
Group
Company
Cost
Accumulated
impairment
Carrying
amount
Cost
Accumulated
impairment
Carrying
amount
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
1,269
(70)
1,199
1,194
(4)
1,190
Movement in the period
(21)
(21)
At 31 December 2024
1,269
(70)
1,199
1,194
(25)
1,169
Impairment of goodwill
In 2024 and 2023 for the Santander UK group, no impairment of goodwill was recognised. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually, or more frequently, if
reviews identify an impairment indicator or when events or changes in circumstances dictate. Goodwill is tested for impairment annually at 31 December, with a
review for impairment indicators at 30 June.
For the Company, an impairment of £21m was recognised in 2024.
The annual review identified that the uncertain macroeconomic and geopolitical environment increases the risk around the UK economic trajectory, and its potential
impact on the carrying value of goodwill as impairment indicators for all cash-generating units (CGUs). As a result, management updated the impairment test at 31
December 2024 for all CGUs.
Basis of the recoverable amount
The recoverable amount of all CGUs was determined based on its value in use (VIU) methodology at each testing date. For each CGU, the VIU is calculated by
discounting management’s cash flow projections for the CGU. The cash flow projections also take account of increased internal capital allocations needed to achieve
internal and regulatory capital targets including the leverage ratio. The key assumptions used in the VIU calculation for each CGU are set out below. The Retail &
Business Banking segment consists of the Private Banking CGU and the rest of Retail & Business Banking, known as the Personal Financial Services CGU.
Carrying amount of Goodwill by CGU and key assumptions in the VIU calculation
Goodwill
Discount rate
Growth rate beyond initial cash
flow projections
2024
2023
2024
2023
2024
2023
CGU
£m
£m
%
%
%
%
Personal Financial Services
1,169
1,169
12.1
12.2
1.5
1.6
Private Banking
30
30
10.0
9.8
1.5
1.6
1,199
1,199
The CGUs do not carry on their balance sheets any other intangible assets with indefinite useful lives.
Management’s judgement in estimating the cash flows of a CGU
The cash flow projections for the purpose of impairment testing for each CGU are derived from the latest 3-year plan presented to the Board. The Board challenges
and endorses management’s planning assumptions in light of internal capital allocations needed to support Santander UK’s strategy, current market conditions
and the macroeconomic outlook. For the goodwill impairment tests conducted at 31 December 2024, the determination of the carrying amount of the Personal
Financial Services CGU was based on an allocation of regulatory capital and management’s cash flow projections until the end of 2027. The assumptions included
in the cash flow projections reflect an allocation to the cost of capital to support future growth, as well as the expected impact of recent events in the UK economic
environment on the financial outlook within which the CGUs operate. The cash flow projections are supported by Santander UK’s base case economic scenario. For
more on the base case economic scenario, including our forecasting approach and the assumptions in place at 31 December 2024, see the Credit risk – Santander
UK group level section of the Risk review. The cash flow projections take into account the likely impact of recent changes to the BoE Bank Rate, inflation and also
consider the impact of future climate change.
Cash flow projections for the purpose of impairment testing do not take account of any adverse outcomes arising from contingent liabilities (see Note 30), whose
existence will be confirmed by uncertain future events or where any obligation is not probable or otherwise cannot be measured reliably, nor do they take account
of the benefits arising from Santander UK’s transformation plans that had not yet been implemented or committed at 31 December 2024.
Discount rate
The rate used to discount the cash flows is based on the cost of equity assigned to each CGU, which is derived using a capital asset pricing model (CAPM) and
calculated on a post-tax basis. The CAPM depends on a number of inputs reflecting financial and economic variables, including the risk-free rate and a premium
to reflect the inherent risk of the business being evaluated. These variables are based on the market’s assessment of the economic variables and management’s
judgement. The inputs to the CAPM are observable on a post-tax basis. In determining the discount rate, management has identified the cost of equity associated
with market participants that closely resemble our CGUs and adjusted them for tax to arrive at the pre-tax equivalent rate. The pre-tax equivalent rate applicable to
the Personal Financial Services CGU was 16.5% (2023: 16.7%) and Private Banking CGU was 15.1% (2023: 14.6%). The Private Banking CGU has a different discount
rate compared to the Personal Financial Services CGU because different market participants closely resemble each CGU. 
Growth rate beyond initial cash flow projections
The growth rate for periods beyond the initial cash flow projections is used to extrapolate the cash flows in perpetuity because of the long-term perspective of
CGUs. In line with the accounting requirements, management uses the UK Government’s official estimate of UK long-term average GDP growth rate, as this is lower
than management's estimate of the long-term average growth rate of the business. The estimated UK long-term average GDP growth rate has regard to the long-
term impact of inherent uncertainties, such as elevated wage growth, weak productivity, large government debt burden and fragile business and consumer
confidence.
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Goodwill arising on the acquisition of Personal Financial Services and Private Banking
The VIU of each CGU remains higher than the carrying value of the related goodwill. The VIU review at 31 December 2024 did not indicate the need for an
impairment in the Company’s goodwill balances. Management considered the level of headroom and the uncertainty relating to the respective estimates of the VIU
for those CGUs but determined that there was a sufficient basis to conclude that no impairment was required.
Sensitivities of key assumptions in calculating the value in use
At 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023, the VIU of the Personal Financial Services CGU was sensitive to reasonably possible changes in the key assumptions
supporting the recoverable amount.
The table below presents a summary of the key assumptions underlying the most sensitive inputs to the model for the Personal Financial Services CGU, the main
risks associated with each and details of a reasonably possible change in assumptions, such as a decrease in mortgage new business. The sensitivity analysis
presented below has been prepared on the basis that a change in each key assumption would not have a consequential impact on other assumptions used in the
impairment review. However, due to the interrelationships between some of the assumptions, a change in one of the assumptions might impact one or more of the
other assumptions and could result in a larger or smaller overall impact.
Reasonably possible changes in key assumptions
CGU
Input
Key assumptions
Associated risks
Reasonably possible change
Personal Financial
Services
Cash flow projections
BoE Bank Rate
UK house price growth
UK mortgage loan market growth
UK unemployment rate
Position in the market
Regulatory capital levels.
Uncertain market outlook
Higher interest rate environment impact
on customer affordability
Customer remediation and regulatory
action outcomes
Uncertain regulatory capital requirements.
Cash flow projections
decrease by 10% ( 2023 :
10% ) .
Discount rate
Discount rate used is a reasonable
estimate of a suitable market rate
for the profile of the business.
Market rates of interest rise.
Discount rate increases by
100 basis points ( 2023 :
increased by 100 basis
points ) .
At 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023, a reasonably possible change in the key assumptions in relation to the VIU calculation for the goodwill balance in the
Personal Financial Services CGU would have resulted in a decrease/increase in headroom as follows. 
Decrease in headroom
2024
2023
CGU
Reasonably possible change
£m
£m
Personal Financial Services
Cash flow projections decrease by 10% ( 2023 : 10% )
764
818
Discount rate increases by 100 basis points ( 2023 : increased by 100 basis points )
622
663
Sensitivity of Value in use changes to current assumptions to achieve £nil headroom
Although there was no impairment of goodwill relating to the Personal Financial Services CGU or the Private Banking CGU at 31 December 2024, the test for the
Personal Financial Services CGU remains sensitive to some of the assumptions used, as described above. In addition, the changes in assumptions detailed below for
the discount rate and cash flow projections would eliminate the current headroom. As a result, there is a risk of impairment in the future should business
performance or economic factors diverge from forecasts.
In 2024, there was a decrease in headroom arising from a decline in cash flow forecasts, partially offset by a decrease to RWAs which led to a reduction in the
required CET1 capital requirement.
The sensitivity analysis presented below has been prepared on the basis that a change in each key assumption would not have a consequential impact on other
assumptions used in the impairment review. However, due to the interrelationships between some of the assumptions, a change in one of the assumptions might
impact one or more of the other assumptions and could result in a larger or smaller overall impact.
2024
Carrying value
Value in use
Headroom
Increase in
discount rate
Decrease in
cash flows
CGU
£m
£m
£m
bps
%
Personal Financial Services
7,294
7,639
345
53
5
2023
Personal Financial Services
7,513
8,178
665
101
8
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b) Other intangibles
Group
Company
Cost
Accumulated
amortisation /
impairment
Carrying
amount
Cost
Accumulated
amortisation /
impairment
Carrying
amount
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
1,339
(990)
349
1,382
(1,047)
335
Additions
120
120
116
116
Disposals
(703)
700
(3)
(703)
700
(3)
Charge
(126)
(126)
(119)
(119)
At 31 December 2024
756
(416)
340
795
(466)
329
At 1 January 2023
1,261
(910)
351
1,309
(970)
339
Additions
114
114
109
109
Disposals
(36)
36
(36)
36
Charge
(116)
(116)
(113)
(113)
At 31 December 2023
1,339
(990)
349
1,382
(1,047)
335
Other intangibles which consist of computer software, include computer software under development of £99m (2023: £157m), of which £20m is internally
generated (2023: £35m). For the Company, £19m of computer software under development is internally generated (2023: £26m).
The impairment charge of £5m (2023: £nil) relates to computer software no longer expected to yield future economic benefits. For the Company, the impairment
charge of £3m (2023: £nil) relates to computer software no longer expected to yield future economic benefits.
20. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
Group
Property
Office fixtures and
equipment
Computer software
Operating lease
assets
Right-of-use assets
Total(1)
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Cost:
At 1 January 2024
918
877
67
635
263
2,760
Additions
35
47
304
21
407
Disposals
(20)
(41)
(60)
(223)
(14)
(358)
Other
8
9
17
At 31 December 2024
941
892
7
716
270
2,826
Accumulated depreciation:
At 1 January 2024
226
653
67
147
173
1,266
Charge for the year
21
60
75
18
174
Impairment during the year
(5)
(3)
(8)
Disposals
(11)
(33)
(60)
(80)
(184)
Other
7
8
15
At 31 December 2024
238
685
7
142
191
1,263
Carrying amount
703
207
574
79
1,563
Cost:
At 1 January 2023
889
823
72
722
267
2,773
Additions
87
83
85
31
286
Reclassification from assets held for sale
8
8
Disposals
(66)
(29)
(5)
(172)
(35)
(307)
At 31 December 2023
918
877
67
635
263
2,760
Accumulated depreciation:
At 1 January 2023
270
618
72
145
155
1,260
Charge for the year
17
62
64
30
173
Impairment during the year
(11)
(11)
Disposals
(61)
(27)
(5)
(62)
(1)
(156)
At 31 December 2023
226
653
67
147
173
1,266
Carrying amount
692
224
488
90
1,494
(1) Property, plant and equipment includes investment properties of £16m (2023: £17m).
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Company
Property
Office fixtures and
equipment
Computer software
Right-of-use assets
Total(1)
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Cost:
At 1 January 2024
913
854
61
247
2,075
Additions
35
47
20
102
Disposals
(20)
(41)
(60)
(13)
(134)
Other
3
9
12
At 31 December 2024
931
869
1
254
2,055
Accumulated depreciation:
At 1 January 2024
228
630
61
168
1,087
Charge for the year
21
60
17
98
Impairment during the year
(5)
(3)
(8)
Disposals
(11)
(33)
(60)
(104)
Other
1
8
9
At 31 December 2024
234
662
1
185
1,082
Carrying amount
697
207
69
973
Cost:
At 1 January 2023
834
800
61
252
1,947
Additions
87
83
29
199
Reclassification from assets held for sale
8
8
Disposals
(16)
(29)
(34)
(79)
At 31 December 2023
913
854
61
247
2,075
Accumulated depreciation:
At 1 January 2023
223
594
61
151
1,029
Charge for the year
17
62
28
107
Impairment during the year
(11)
(11)
Disposals
(12)
(26)
(38)
At 31 December 2023
228
630
61
168
1,087
Carrying amount
685
224
79
988
(1) Property includes investment properties of £16m (2023: £17m).
In 2023, right-of-use assets were impaired as part of our transformation. The impairment relates to leasehold properties within the scope of our branch network
restructuring programme and head office sites which are either closing or consolidating.
21. DEPOSITS BY BANKS
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Items in the course of transmission
523
732
517
719
Deposits held as collateral
682
860
682
860
Other deposits(1)
12,787
18,737
12,781
18,733
Amounts due to Santander UK subsidiaries
1
3
5,541
5,387
13,993
20,332
19,521
25,699
(1) Includes balance drawn from the TFSME of £11bn (2023: £17bn).
22. DEPOSITS BY CUSTOMERS
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Demand and time deposits(1)
177,335
188,004
172,222
183,010
Amounts due to other Santander UK Group Holdings plc subsidiaries
122
114
26,933
22,524
Amounts due to Santander UK Group Holdings plc(2)
1,793
1,772
1,793
1,772
Amounts due to fellow Banco Santander subsidiaries and joint ventures
1,717
960
267
210
180,967
190,850
201,215
207,516
(1) Includes capital amount guaranteed / protected equity index-linked deposits of £173m (2023: £304m ).
(2) Includes downstreamed funding from our immediate parent company Santander UK Group Holdings plc.
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23. REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS – NON-TRADING
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Agreements with banks
2,336
551
2,336
551
Agreements with customers
6,281
7,860
6,281
7,860
8,617
8,411
8,617
8,411
     
24. OTHER FINANCIAL LIABILITIES AT FAIR VALUE THROUGH PROFIT OR LOSS
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Structured Notes Programmes
355
369
355
369
Structured deposits
605
426
605
426
Zero Amortising Guaranteed Notes
95
104
95
104
1,055
899
1,055
899
For the Santander UK group and the Company, all (2023: all) of the other financial liabilities at FVTPL were designated as such.
Gains and losses arising from changes in the credit spread of securities issued by the Santander UK group reverse over the contractual life of the debt, provided that
the debt is not repaid at a premium or a discount. The net loss during the year attributable to changes in the Santander UK group’s own credit risk on the above
securities was £17m (2023: £21m loss, 2022: £25m gain). The cumulative net loss attributable to changes in the Santander UK group’s own credit risk on the above
securities at 31 December 2024 was £4m (2023: £6m loss, 2022: £15m gain).
At 31 December 2024, the amount that would be required to be contractually paid at maturity of the securities above was £76m (2023: £97m) higher than the
carrying value.
25. DEBT SECURITIES IN ISSUE
         
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Medium-term notes:
– US $30bn Euro Medium Term Note Programme
696
744
696
744
– Euro €30bn Euro Medium Term Note Programme
2,997
3,784
2,997
3,784
- US SEC-registered Debt Programme - Santander UK plc
5,929
7,128
5,929
7,128
0
9,622
11,656
9,622
11,656
Euro €35bn Global Covered Bond Programme
17,211
15,000
17,300
15,087
US$20bn Commercial Paper Programmes
3,274
2,761
3,274
2,761
Certificates of deposit
1,196
1,530
1,196
1,530
Credit linked notes
441
194
441
194
Securitisation programmes
3,929
2,769
35,673
33,910
31,833
31,228
                                                                                                     
26. OTHER LIABILITIES
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Lease liabilities
88
111
79
100
Other
1,764
2,368
1,710
2,271
1,852
2,479
1,789
2,371
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27. PROVISIONS
Group
Customer
remediation
Litigation
and other
regulatory
Regulatory
levies and
fees
Bank Levy
Property
ECL on
undrawn
facilities and
guarantees
Restructuring
Other
Total
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
106
132
47
78
32
7
402
Additional provisions (See Note 8)
306
29
44
41
2
7
87
185
701
Provisions released (See Note 8)
(4)
(1)
(5)
Utilisation and other
(64)
(45)
(42)
(58)
(20)
(101)
(178)
(508)
Recharge (1)
15
15
Reclassification from provisions to other assets
6
6
At 31 December 2024
348
112
2
4
28
85
18
14
611
(1) Recharge in respect of the UK Bank Levy paid on behalf of other UK entities in the Banco Santander group
Provisions expected to be settled within no more than 12 months after 31 December 2024 were £208m (2023: £217m).
Company
Customer
remediation
Litigation
and other
regulatory
Regulatory
levies and
fees
Bank Levy
Property
ECL on
undrawn
facilities and
guarantees
Restructuring
Other
Total
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
106
125
47
78
32
7
395
Additional provisions
13
18
44
37
2
7
84
163
368
Provisions released
(4)
(1)
(5)
Utilisation and other
(64)
(28)
(42)
(58)
(20)
(98)
(156)
(466)
Recharge (1)
15
15
Reclassification from provisions to other assets
6
6
At 31 December 2024
55
111
2
28
85
18
14
313
(1) Recharge in respect of the UK Bank Levy paid on behalf of other UK entities in the Banco Santander group
Provisions expected to be settled by the Company within no more than 12 months after 31 December 2024 were £203m (2023: £209m).
a) Customer remediation
SCUK - Motor Finance Broker Commissions
Following the FCA’s Motor Market review in 2019 which resulted in a change in rules in January 2021, Santander Consumer (UK) plc (SCUK) has received a number
of county court claims and complaints in respect of its historical use of discretionary commission arrangements (DCAs) prior to the 2021 rule changes. During 2024
the FCA commenced a review of the use of DCAs between lenders and credit brokers (FCA review) which, following an extension, it stated it anticipated to conclude
by May 2025. Pending the conclusion of its review, the FCA first paused DCA related complaints and then extended this to motor finance commission related
complaints which are now paused until 4 December 2025. A claim against SCUK, Santander UK plc and others in the Competition Appeal Tribunal, which alleges
that SCUK’s historical DCAs in respect of used car financing operated in breach of the Competition Act 1998 is currently paused until the end of July 2025 pending
the outcome of the FCA’s review.
The outcome of the FCA’s review may be informed by an appeal to the Supreme Court to be heard in April 2025 of the Court of Appeal’s judgment of October 2024
relating to the use of DCAs by two other lenders, and by an appeal to the Court of Appeal of the High Court’s judicial review of the Financial Ombudsman Service’s
final decision relating to a complaint about the use of a DCA by another lender.
In light of the Court of Appeal’s judgment of October 2024, the Santander UK group recognised a provision of £295m in its financial results for 2024. This includes
estimates for operational and legal costs and potential awards, based on various scenarios using a range of assumptions, including the outcomes of the appeals
above. There continue to be significant uncertainties as to the extent of any misconduct, if any, as well as the perimeter of commission models, and the nature,
extent and timing of any remediation action if required. As such, the ultimate financial impact could be materially higher or lower than the amount provided and it is
not practicable to quantify the extent of any remaining contingent liability.
The table below shows the sensitivity of the provision to changes in the claim rate.
Increase / (decrease) in
provision
2024
Assumption
Change in assumption
£m
Claim rate
5% increase
47
Claim rate
5% decrease
(47)
The claim rate represents the proportion of customers who make a request for reimbursement and is a critical accounting estimate that could materially change the
ultimate financial impact.
Our best estimate of liability is based on similar experience to PPI claim rates which peaked at up to 50% over the lifetime of the redress programme.
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Mortgages
Provisions were also recognised in 2024 for customer remediation relating to our mortgage book. These provisions remain subject to change as additional data
becomes available and remediation boundaries are finalised.
b) Litigation and other regulatory
Litigation and other regulatory provisions principally comprised of amounts in respect of litigation and other regulatory charges, operational loss and operational
risk provisions, and related expenses. A number of uncertainties exist with respect to these provisions given the uncertainties inherent in litigation and other
regulatory matters, that affect the amount and timing of any potential outflows with respect to which provisions have been established. These provisions are
reviewed at least quarterly.
In 2024 there were net charges of £39m for legal provisions.
The balance also includes an amount in respect of our best estimate of liability relating to a legal dispute regarding allocation of responsibility for a specific PPI
portfolio of complaints, further described in Note 30. No further information on the best estimate is provided on the basis that it would be seriously prejudicial.
c) Regulatory levies and fees
Regulatory levies and fees are payable to regulatory bodies such as the FCA, PRA and Bank of England in the ordinary course of business. In 2024 there were charges
of £42m relating to the new Bank of England levy.
d) Bank Levy
In 2024, a rate of 0.05% (2023: 0.05%) was charged on long term chargeable equity and liabilities and 0.10% on short-term chargeable liabilities (2023: 0.10%).
e) Property
Property provisions include leasehold vacant property provisions, dilapidation provisions for leased properties within the scope of IFRS 16 and decommissioning and
disposal costs relating to vacant freehold properties. Leasehold vacant property provisions are made by reference to an estimate of any expected sub-let income,
compared to the head rent, and the possibility of disposing of Santander UK’s interest in the lease, taking into account conditions in the property market.
Property provisions include a release of £2m relating to transformation activity in 2024 (2023: charge of £4m ). In 2024, these charges consisted of costs relating to
leasehold head office closures, along with decommissioning costs relating to freehold head office sites which are either closing or consolidating.
f) ECL on undrawn facilities and guarantees
Provisions include expected credit losses relating to guarantees given to third parties and undrawn loan commitments.
g) Restructuring
Restructuring provisions relate to severance costs associated with transformation and organisational changes. The provision includes a charge of £82m as part of
our transformation to improve future returns, focused on simplifying, digitising and automating the bank.
h) Other
Other provisions include provisions that do not fit into any of the other categories, such as fraud losses and some categories of operational losses. In 2024, Other
provisions included charges for operational risk provisions of £161m, including fraud losses of £122m.
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28. RETIREMENT BENEFIT PLANS
The amounts recognised in the balance sheet were as follows:
Group and Company
2024
2023
£m
£m
Assets/(liabilities)
Funded defined benefit pension scheme - surplus
439
723
Funded defined benefit pension scheme - deficit
(41)
Unfunded pension and post-retirement medical benefits
(23)
(25)
Total net assets
416
657
a) Defined contribution pension plans
The majority of employees are members of a defined contribution Master Trust, LifeSight. This is the plan into which eligible employees are enrolled automatically.
The assets of LifeSight are held in separate trustee-administered funds. Funds arising from Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs) are largely held within the
main defined benefit scheme operated by the Santander UK group.
An expense of £79m (2023: £71m) was recognised for defined contribution plans in the year and is included in staff costs within operating expenses (see Note 6).
b) Defined benefit pension schemes
The Santander UK group operates a number of defined benefit pension schemes. The main scheme is the Santander (UK) Group Pension Scheme (the Scheme). It
comprises seven legally segregated sections. The Scheme covers 6% (2023: 7%) of the Santander UK group’s current employees and is a funded defined benefit
scheme which is closed to new members. Members accrue final salary benefits for each year of service in the Scheme, according to a salary definition which varies
across the sections.
The corporate trustee of the Scheme is Santander (UK) Group Pension Scheme Trustees Limited (the Trustee), a private limited company incorporated in 1996 and a
wholly owned subsidiary of Santander UK Group Holdings plc. The principal duty of the Trustee is to act in the best interests of the members of the Scheme. The
Trustee board comprises six (2023: six) Directors selected by Santander UK Group Holdings plc, plus four (2023: four) member-nominated Directors selected from
eligible members who apply for the role.
The assets of the Scheme are held independently of the Santander UK group’s assets in separate trustee administered funds. Investment strategy across the
sections of the Scheme remains under regular review. Responsibility for investment decisions, policy and strategy rests with the Trustee of the Scheme who is
required under the Pensions Act 2004 to prepare a statement of investment principles. The defined benefit pension schemes expose the Santander UK group to
risks such as investment risk, interest rate risk, longevity risk and inflation risk. The Santander UK group does not hold any insurance policies over the defined benefit
pension schemes and has not entered into any significant transactions with them.
For IAS 19, an accounting valuation of the assets and liabilities of the defined benefits schemes is prepared at each balance sheet date. For funding purposes,
formal actuarial valuations are carried out on at least a triennial basis. Both valuations are carried out by independent professionally qualified actuaries. The Scheme
Trustee is responsible for the funding actuarial valuations and in doing so considers, or relies in part on, a report of a third-party expert. The latest triennial funding
valuation for the Scheme at 31 March 2022 was finalised in November 2022, with an overall scheme deficit of £183m. The next scheduled triennial funding
valuation will be at 31 March 2025. Any funding surpluses can be recovered by Santander UK plc from the Scheme through refunds as the Scheme is run off over
time or could be used to pay for the cost of benefits which are accruing.
The main differences between the assumptions used for assessing the defined benefit liabilities for the funding valuation and those used for IAS 19 are that the
financial and demographic assumptions used for the funding valuation are generally more prudent than those used for the IAS 19 valuation.
The total amount (credited) / charged to the income statement was as follows:
Group
2024
2023
2022
£m
£m
£m
Net interest income
(34)
(54)
(30)
Current service cost
13
13
30
Past service and GMP costs
1
Administration costs
9
7
9
(12)
(33)
9
The amounts recognised in other comprehensive income were as follows:
Group
2024
2023
2022
£m
£m
£m
Return on plan assets (excluding amounts included in net interest expense)
1,217
352
5,527
Actuarial gains arising from changes in demographic assumptions
(113)
(51)
(122)
Actuarial losses arising from experience adjustments
84
91
481
Actuarial (gains)/losses arising from changes in financial assumptions
(786)
206
(5,164)
402
598
722
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Sustainability
Governance
Risk review
Financial statements
Shareholder information
Movements in the present value of defined benefit scheme obligations were as follows:
Group and Company
2024
2023
£m
£m
At 1 January
(8,201)
(7,933)
Current service cost paid by Santander UK plc
(13)
(13)
Interest cost
(371)
(379)
Employer salary sacrifice contributions
(4)
(1)
Past service cost
(1)
Remeasurement due to actuarial movements arising from:
Changes in demographic assumptions
113
51
– Experience adjustments
(84)
(91)
Changes in financial assumptions
786
(206)
Benefits paid
394
372
At 31 December
(7,380)
(8,201)
Movements in the fair value of the schemes’ assets were as follows:
Group and Company
2024
2023
£m
£m
At 1 January
8,858
8,958
Interest income
405
433
Contributions paid by employer and scheme members
153
198
Administration costs paid
(9)
(7)
Return on plan assets (excluding amounts included in net interest expense)
(1,217)
(352)
Benefits paid
(394)
(372)
At 31 December
7,796
8,858
The composition and fair value of the schemes’ assets by category was:
Group and Company
Quoted prices in active markets
Prices not quoted in active markets
Total
Valuation
2024
£m
%
£m
%
£m
%
technique
Overseas equities
776
10
776
10
A,C
Corporate bonds
2,511
33
186
2
2,697
35
A,C
Government fixed interest bonds
1,348
17
1,348
17
A
Government index-linked bonds
4,444
58
4,444
58
A
Property
1,073
14
1,073
14
B
Derivatives
(18)
(18)
A
Cash
341
4
341
4
A
Repurchase agreements(1)
(3,328)
(43)
(3,328)
(43)
A
Infrastructure
112
1
112
1
B,C
Annuities
267
3
267
3
D
Longevity swap
(83)
(1)
(83)
(1)
D
Other
167
2
167
2
C
8,303
108
(507)
(8)
7,796
100
2023
Overseas equities
980
11
980
11
A,C
Corporate bonds
2,284
26
242
3
2,526
29
A,C
Government fixed interest bonds
1,618
18
1,618
18
A
Government index-linked bonds
4,422
50
4,422
50
A
Property
1,080
12
1,080
12
B
Derivatives
(2)
(2)
A
Cash
586
7
586
7
A
Repurchase agreements(1)
(3,062)
(35)
(3,062)
(35)
A
Infrastructure
408
5
408
5
B,C
Annuities
293
3
293
3
D
Longevity swap
(16)
(16)
D
Other
25
25
C
8,324
94
534
6
8,858
100
(1) Sale and repurchase agreements net of purchase and resale agreements.
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Valuation techniques
The main methods for measuring the fair value of the Scheme’s assets at 31 December 2024 and 2023 are set out below.
A. The asset valuation is provided by the asset manager. The valuation is based on observable market data, and where relevant is typically based on bid price values,
or the single price if only one price is available.
B. The underlying asset valuations are prepared by an independent expert, adjusted for any cash movements where necessary since the latest valuation.
C. Assets are valued by reference to the latest manager statements provided by the managers, adjusted for any cash movements since the latest valuation.
D. Assets relating to insured liabilities are valued by the actuaries based on our year-end accounting assumptions.
The 'Other' category includes cash receivables in 2025 from secondary market sales in 2024.
A number of insurance transactions have been entered into that have been included in the asset valuation under annuities and Longevity swap. The transactions
were as follows:
In May 2020 a pensioner buy-in was entered into by the Trustee. This transaction insured 100% of the SMA section pensioner liabilities and 50% of the SPI
section pensioner liabilities based on membership in the Scheme at 31 December 2018.
In March 2021, the Trustee entered into a longevity swap. Approximately 85%of pensioner liabilities were covered by the longevity swap at inception, excluding
pensioners in the SMA and SPI sections.
In 2022, a pensioner buy-in was entered into by the Trustee covering pensioners in the SMA and SPI sections who were uninsured at 30 June 2021.
In July 2022, the Trustee entered into a second longevity swap, extending the insurance over uninsured pensioners in the same membership groups covered by
the first swap transacted in March 2021, based on membership in the Scheme at 31 December 2021.
At 31 December 2024 and 2023, as highlighted above, the Scheme was invested in certain assets whose values are not based on market observable data, such as
the investments in unquoted equities and bonds, as well as property and infrastructure. The valuation of these assets relies on unobservable data as these assets do
not have a readily available quoted price in an active market. A large proportion of the property is directly held and valued using a bespoke valuation method taking
both the nature of the properties and the tenancy schedules as inputs to derive the fair value. Where there is a time lag between the net asset value and the balance
sheet date, management adjusts the value of the assets for any cash movements. Due diligence has been conducted to ensure the values obtained in respect of
these assets are appropriate and represent fair value. Given the nature of these investments, we are unable to prepare sensitivities on how their values could vary
as market conditions or other variables change.
A strategy is in place to manage interest rate and inflation risk relating to the liabilities. The Scheme also hedges a proportion of its foreign exchange exposure to
manage currency risk. At 31 December 2024 the currency forwards had a notional value of £709m (2023: £859m). In 2024, we increased our allocation to
corporate bonds and reduced our investments in infrastructure and private equity.
The Santander UK group’s pension schemes did not directly hold any equity securities of the Company or any of its related parties at 31 December 2024 and 2023.
The Santander UK group’s pension scheme assets do not include any property or other assets that are occupied or used by the Santander UK group.
Funding
In November 2022, in compliance with the Pensions Act 2004, the Trustee and the Santander UK group agreed to a new recovery plan in respect of the Scheme and
a schedule of contributions following the finalisation of the 31 March 2022 actuarial valuation. The funding target for this actuarial valuation is for the Scheme to
have sufficient assets to make payments to members in respect of the accrued benefits as and when they fall due. In accordance with the terms of the Trustee
agreement in place at the time, the Santander UK group contributed £150m in 2024 (2023: £195m) to the Scheme, of which £119m (2023: £164m) was in respect
of agreed deficit repair contributions. The agreed schedule of the Santander UK group’s contributions to the Scheme covers the period up to 31 March 2026, and
comprises contingent contributions which become due if the funding position of any section falls behind the agreed plan. The Santander UK group also meets
Scheme administration expenses. The funding valuation is used to judge the amount of cash contributions the Santander UK group needs to put into the pension
scheme. It will always be different to the IAS 19 accounting position, which is an accounting rule concerning employee benefits and shown on the balance sheet of
our financial statements.
Actuarial assumptions
The principal actuarial assumptions used for the Scheme were:
Group and Company
2024
2023
2022
%
%
%
To determine benefit obligations(1) :
Discount rate for scheme liabilities
5.5
4.6
4.9
General price inflation
3.1
3.0
3.1
General salary increase
1.0
1.0
1.0
Expected rate of pension increase
3.0
3.0
3.0
Years
Years
Years
Longevity at 60 for current pensioners, on the valuation date:
Males
26.9
27.0
27.4
Females
29.8
29.8
30.1
Longevity at 60 for future pensioners currently aged 40, on the valuation date:
Males
28.5
28.6
28.9
Females
31.3
31.3
31.6
(1) The discount rate and inflation related assumptions set out in the table above reflect the assumptions calculated based on the Scheme’s duration and cash flow profile as a whole. The actual assumptions used
were determined for each section independently based on each section’s duration and cash flow profile.
The majority of the liability movement in 2024 was due to increased fixed interest gilt yields.
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Discount rate for scheme liabilities
The rate used to discount the retirement benefit obligation for accounting purposes is based on the annual yield at the balance sheet date of high-quality corporate
bonds on that date. There are only a limited number of higher quality Sterling-denominated corporate bonds, particularly those that are longer-dated. Therefore, in
order to set a suitable discount rate, we need to construct a corporate bond yield curve. The model which we use to construct the curve uses corporate bond data
but excludes convertible bonds, asset-backed bonds and government related bonds. The curve is then constructed from this data by extrapolating the spot rates
from 30 years to 50 years by holding the spread above nominal gilt spot rates constant. From 50 years onwards, it is assumed that spot rates remain constant.
When considering an appropriate assumption, we project forward the expected cash flows of each section of the Scheme and adopt a single equivalent cash flow
weighted discount rate for each section, subject to management judgement.
In 2024, we adopted a new version of the model that we currently use to set the discount rate. The updated model is based on an expanded data set which
improves the stability of the model.
General price inflation
Consistent with our discount rate methodology, we set the inflation assumption using the expected cash flows for each section of the Scheme, fitting them to an
inflation curve to give a weighted average inflation assumption. We then deduct an inflation risk premium to reflect the compensation holders of fixed rate
instruments expect to receive for taking on the inflation risk. This premium is subject to a cap, to better reflect management’s view of inflation expectations.
General salary increase
From 1 March 2015, a cap on pensionable pay increases of 1% each year was applied to staff in the Scheme.
Expected rate of pension increase
The pension increase assumption methodology uses a stochastic model, which is calibrated to consider both the observed historical volatility term structure and
derivative pricing. The model allows for the likelihood that high or low inflation in one year, feeds into inflation remaining high or low in the next year.
Mortality assumptions
The mortality assumptions are based on an independent analysis of the Scheme’s actual mortality experience, carried out as part of the triennial actuarial valuation,
together with recent evidence from the Continuous Mortality Investigation. An allowance is then made for expected future improvements to life expectancy based
on the Continuous Mortality Investigation Tables. Following this review the S3 Medium all pensioner mortality table was adopted with appropriate adjustments to
reflect the actual mortality experience. At 31 December 2024 the assumption for future improvements was updated and the CMI 2023 projection model adopted,
with an initial addition to improvements of 0.25% per annum, and a long-term rate of future improvements to life expectancy of 1.25% for male and female
members.
In 2022, the methodology for setting the demographic assumptions was changed to better represent current expectations, following a review carried out by the
Trustee as part of the 2022 triennial valuation. This review resulted in changes in the assumptions for family statistics, early retirement and the withdrawal
assumption, which were retained at 31 December 2024.
Actuarial assumption sensitivities
The sensitivity analyses below have been determined based on reasonably possible changes of the respective assumptions occurring at the end of the reporting
period, while holding all other assumptions constant.
Group and Company
(Decrease)/increase
2024
2023
Assumption
Change in pension obligation at period end from
£m
£m
Discount rate
50bps increase
(413)
(507)
General price inflation
50bps increase
316
385
Mortality
Each additional year of longevity assumed
190
223
The 50bps sensitivity to the inflation assumption includes the corresponding impact of changes in future pension increase assumptions before and after retirement.
The sensitivity analysis presented above may not be representative of the actual change in the defined benefit obligation as it is unlikely that the changes in
assumptions would occur in isolation of one another as some of the assumptions may be correlated. Furthermore, in presenting the sensitivity analysis, the present
value of the defined benefit obligation has been calculated using the projected unit credit method at the end of the reporting period, which is the same method used
to calculate the defined benefit obligation recognised in the balance sheet. There were no changes in the methods and assumptions used in preparing the sensitivity
analyses from prior years.
The benefits expected to be paid in each of the next five years, and in the aggregate for the five years thereafter are:
Year ending 31 December
£m
2025
478
2026
405
2027
424
2028
444
2029
463
Five years ending 2034
2,438
The average duration of the defined benefit obligation at 31 December 2024 was 12.7 years (2023: 13.8 years).
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Emerging risks
In 2024, we focused on the risks arising from the Scheme’s private market assets, rising interest rates and cybersecurity risk. The Santander UK group collaborated
with the Trustee to identify and monitor such risks to ensure they are adequately managed. The Trustee has an independent cybersecurity advisor to review the
cybersecurity arrangements of its most critical suppliers and provide recommendations on potential improvements.
The Trustee Sustainability Committee is responsible for overseeing the Scheme’s policies, regulatory obligations and priorities in respect of climate change and
wider Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) related matters. This includes the monitoring of climate related risks and opportunities, scenario analysis and
monitoring of investments from an ESG perspective.
The Santander UK group's employee pension funds recognise the magnitude of the challenges that climate and energy transition pose to governments, companies
and civil society. They are also aware of their impact on the ability to comply with their fiduciary duty providing long-term risk-adjusted returns to their members.
They have an ambition to achieve net zero by 2050, showing their full support for Banco Santander's vision and ambition to be a responsible and sustainable bank.
29. SUBORDINATED LIABILITIES
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£325m Sterling preference shares
343
343
343
343
Undated subordinated liabilities
205
205
205
205
Dated subordinated liabilities
1,837
1,838
1,838
1,839
2,385
2,386
2,386
2,387
In 2024, no subordinated liabilities were repurchased as part of ongoing liability management exercises (2023: profit of £4m).
The above securities will, in the event of the winding up of the issuer, be subordinated to the claims of depositors and all other creditors of the issuer, other than
creditors whose claims rank equally with, or are junior to, the claims of the holders of the subordinated liabilities. The subordination amongst each of the
subordinated liabilities upon a winding up of the issuer is specified in their respective terms and conditions.
In 2024 and 2023, the Santander UK group had no defaults of principal, interest or other breaches with respect to its subordinated liabilities. No repayment or
purchase by the issuer of the subordinated liabilities may be made prior to their stated maturity without the consent of the PRA.
Undated subordinated liabilities
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
First call date
£m
£m
£m
£m
10.0625% Exchangeable capital securities
n/a
205
205
205
205
205
205
205
205
In common with other debt securities issued by Santander UK group companies and notwithstanding the issuer’s first call dates in the table above, in the event of
certain tax changes affecting the treatment of payments of interest on subordinated liabilities in the UK, the 10.0625% Exchangeable capital securities are
redeemable on any interest payment date – each in whole at the option of Santander UK, at their principal amount together with any accrued interest.
The 10.0625% Exchangeable capital securities are exchangeable into fully paid 10.375% non-cumulative non-redeemable sterling preference shares of £1 each, at
the option of Santander UK, on the business day immediately following any interest payment date.
Dated subordinated liabilities
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
Maturity
£m
£m
£m
£m
4.75% Subordinated notes
2025
332
326
332
326
7.95% Subordinated notes
2029
189
193
189
193
6.50% Subordinated notes
2030
1
1
1
1
5.875% Subordinated notes
2031
7
7
8
8
5.625%Subordinated notes
2045
226
222
226
222
7.869% Subordinated notes
2033
314
321
314
321
8.296% Subordinated notes
2033
768
768
768
768
1,837
1,838
1,838
1,839
The dated subordinated liabilities are redeemable in whole at the option of Santander UK in the event of certain tax changes affecting the treatment of payments of
interest on the subordinated liabilities in the UK, at their principal amount together with any accrued interest.
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30. CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND COMMITMENTS
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
Guarantees given to subsidiaries
5,185
5,052
Guarantees given to third parties
493
452
493
452
Formal standby facilities, credit lines and other commitments
35,156
30,976
35,155
30,954
35,649
31,428
40,833
36,458
At 31 December 2024, the Santander UK group had credit impairment loss provisions relating to guarantees given to third parties and undrawn loan commitments.
See Note 27 for more details.
Where the items set out below can be reliably estimated, they are disclosed in the table above.
Guarantees given to subsidiaries
Santander UK plc has guaranteed the payment of any liabilities to Cater Allen Limited’s account holders. This guarantee expires on 31 December 2025, although
customer deposit balances on or before 31 December 2025 will remain guaranteed after the expiry date.
Santander UK plc has also undertaken, for the purposes of section 479C of the Companies Act 2006 (the Act), the guarantee of the payment of all outstanding
liabilities to which certain direct or indirect subsidiaries were subject at 31 December 2024, until they are satisfied in full, in order to allow those subsidiaries to
benefit from the audit exemption provided for by Section 479A of the Act for the year ended 31 December 2024. The subsidiaries benefiting from this guarantee are
listed in the Shareholder information section of this Annual Report.
Guarantees given to third parties
Guarantees given to third parties consist primarily of letters of credit, bonds and guarantees granted as part of normal product facilities which are offered to
customers.
Formal standby facilities, credit lines and other commitments
Standby facilities, credit lines and other commitments are also granted as part of normal product facilities which are offered to customers. Retail facilities comprise
undrawn facilities granted on flexible mortgages, bank overdrafts and credit cards. On flexible mortgages, the credit limit is set at the point of granting the loan
through property value and affordability assessments.
Ongoing assessments are made to ensure that credit limits remain appropriate considering any change in the security value or the customer’s financial
circumstances. For unsecured overdraft facilities and credit cards, the facilities are granted based on new business risk assessment and are reviewed more
frequently based on internal, as well as external data. Corporate facilities can comprise standby and revolving facilities which are subject to ongoing compliance
with covenants and may require the provision of agreed security.
FSCS
The FSCS is the UK’s independent statutory compensation fund for customers of authorised financial services firms and pays compensation if a firm is unable to pay
certain claims against it. The FSCS is funded by levies on the industry and recoveries and borrowings where appropriate.
Loan representations and warranties
In connection with the securitisations and covered bond transactions described in Note 14, the Santander UK group entities selling the relevant loans into the
applicable securitisation or covered bond portfolios make representations and warranties with respect to such loans, as of the date of the sale of the loans into the
applicable portfolio. These representations and warranties cover, among other things, the relevant Santander UK group entity's ownership of the loan, the absence
of a material breach or default by the relevant borrower, the loan’s compliance with applicable laws, and absence of material disputes with respect to the relevant
borrower, asset or loan. The specific representations and warranties made by Santander UK group companies which act as sellers of loans in these securitisations
and covered bond transactions depend in each case on the nature of the transaction and the requirements of the transaction structure.
In the event that there is a material breach of the representations and warranties given by Santander UK plc as seller of loans under the residential mortgage-
backed securitisations or the covered bond programme included in Note 14, or if such representations and warranties prove to be materially untrue at the date
when they were given, Santander UK plc may be required to repurchase the affected mortgage loans (generally) at their outstanding principal balance plus accrued
interest). These securitisations and covered bond programme are collateralised by prime residential mortgage loans. Santander UK plc is principally a retail prime
lender and has no appetite or product offering for any type of sub-prime business.
Similarly, under the auto loan securitisations in Note 14, in the event that there is a breach or inaccuracy in respect of a representation or warranty relating to the
loans, the relevant Santander UK group entity who sold the auto loans into the securitisation portfolio will be required to repurchase such loans from the structure
(also at their outstanding principal balance plus accrued interest). In addition to breaches of representation and warranties, under the auto loan securitisations, the
seller may also have a repurchase obligation if certain portfolio limits are breached (which include, amongst other things, limits as to the size of a loan given to an
individual customer, LTV ratio, average term to maturity and average seasoning).
In the case of a repurchase of a loan from the relevant securitisation or covered bond programmes, the Santander UK group may bear any subsequent credit loss on
such loan. The Santander UK group manages and monitors its securitisation and covered bond activities closely to minimise potential claims.
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Other legal, regulatory or tax matters
Santander UK engages in discussion, and co-operates, with the FCA, PRA, CMA and other regulators and government agencies in various jurisdictions in their
supervision and review of Santander UK including reviews exercised under statutory powers, regarding its interaction with past and present customers, both as part
of general thematic work and in relation to specific products, services and activities. During the ordinary course of business, Santander UK is also subject to
complaints and threatened legal proceedings brought by or on behalf of current or former employees, customers, investors or other third parties. In addition,
Santander UK is subject to audits, reviews, challenges and tax, regulatory or law enforcement investigations or proceedings by relevant regulators or government
agencies in various jurisdictions. All such matters are assessed periodically to determine the likelihood of Santander UK incurring a liability.
In those instances where it is concluded that it is not yet probable that a quantifiable payment will be made, for example because the facts are unclear or further
time is required to fully assess the merits of the case or to reasonably quantify the expected payment, no provision is made. In addition, where it is not currently
practicable to estimate the possible financial effect of these matters, no provision is made.
Payment Protection Insurance
AXA France IARD and AXA France Vie (former GE Capital Corporation Group entities (GE Capital), known as Financial Insurance Company Ltd (FICL) and Financial
Assurance Company Ltd (FACL), acquired by AXA SA in 2015) (together, AXA France) have brought a claim for £552m (plus interest) against (i) Santander Cards UK
Limited (former GE Capital entity known as GE Capital Bank Limited (GECB), which was acquired by Banco Santander SA in 2008 and subsequently transferred to
Santander UK plc); and (ii) Santander Insurance Services UK Limited (a Banco Santander SA subsidiary) (together the Santander Entities). The claim relates to the
allocation of liability for compensation and associated costs in respect of a large number of PPI policies distributed by GECB pre-2005, which were underwritten by
FICL and FACL. AXA France reduced their claim from £670m (plus interest) to £552m (plus interest) in their Re-Re-Amended Particulars of Claim dated 29 June
2023. The Santander Entities strongly refute the claim. Trial has been fixed for six weeks, beginning on 11 March 2025.
There are ongoing factual issues to be resolved which may have legal consequences including in relation to liability. These issues create uncertainties which mean
that it is difficult to reliably predict the outcome or the timing of the resolution of the matter. The litigation and other regulatory provision in Note 27 includes our
best estimate of the Santander Entities’ liability to the specific portfolio. Further information has not been provided on the basis that it would be seriously prejudicial
to the Santander Entities’ interests in connection with the dispute.
In addition, and in relation to PPI more generally, the PPI provision includes an amount relating to legal claims challenging the FCA’s industry guidance on the
treatment of Plevin / recurring non-disclosure assessments. This provision is based on current stock levels, future projected claims, and average redress. There
remains a risk that volumes received in future may be higher than forecast. The provision in Note 27 includes our best estimate of Santander UK’s liability for the
specific issue. The actual cost of customer compensation could differ from the amount provided. It is not currently practicable to provide an estimate of the risk and
amount of any further financial impact.
German dividend tax arbitrage transactions
In June 2018 the Cologne Criminal Prosecution Office and the German Federal Tax Office commenced an investigation in relation to the historical involvement of
Santander UK plc, Santander Financial Services plc and Cater Allen International Limited (all subsidiaries of Santander UK Group Holdings plc) in German dividend tax
arbitrage transactions (known as cum/ex transactions). These transactions allegedly exploited a loophole of a specific German settlement mechanism through
short-selling and complex derivative structuring which resulted in the German government either refunding withholding tax where such tax had not been paid or
refunding it more than once. The German authorities are investigating numerous institutions and individuals in connection with alleged transactions and practices
which may be found to be illegal under German law.
During 2024 we continued to cooperate with the German authorities and, with the assistance of external experts, to progress an internal investigation into the
matters in question. From Santander UK plc’s perspective, the investigation is focused principally on the period 2009-2011 and remains on-going. There remain
factual issues to be resolved which may have legal consequences including potentially material financial penalties. These issues create uncertainties which mean
that it is difficult to predict the resolution of the matter including timing or the significance of the possible impact. These uncertainties mean it is not currently
practicable to make a reliable assessment of the size of any related potential liability.
SCUK - Motor Finance Broker Commissions
As set out in Note 27, Santander UK has recognised a provision for historical motor finance commission payments. There continue to be significant uncertainties as
to the extent of any misconduct, if any, as well as the perimeter of commission models, and the nature, extent and timing of any remediation action if required. As
such, the ultimate financial impact could be materially higher or lower than the amount provided and it is not practicable to quantify the extent of any remaining
contingent liability.
Other
In 2016, Visa Europe Ltd was sold to Visa Inc. As a member and shareholder of Visa Europe Ltd, Santander UK received upfront consideration made up of cash and
convertible preferred stock. The convertible preferred stock is now held by Santander Equity Investments Limited (SEIL), outside the ring-fenced bank. Conversion of
the preferred stock into Class A Common Stock of Visa Inc. depends on the outcome of litigation against Visa involving UK & Ireland multilateral interchange fees
(UK&I MIFs).
In addition, Santander UK and certain other UK&I banks have agreed to indemnify Visa Inc. in the event that the preferred stock is insufficient to meet the costs of
this litigation. Visa Inc. has recourse to this indemnity once more than €1bn of losses relating to UK&I MIFs have arisen or once the total value of the preferred stock
issued on closing has been reduced to nil. Santander UK's liability under this indemnity is capped at €40m. At this stage, it is unclear whether the litigation will give
rise to more than €1bn of losses relating to UK&I MIFs, which means it is difficult to predict whether the indemnity would be called upon, or the timing or
significance of any potential impact.
As part of the sale of subsidiaries, businesses and other entities, and as is normal in such circumstances, Santander UK plc (and/or, where relevant, its subsidiaries)
has given warranties and/or indemnities to the purchasers.
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Obligations under stock borrowing and lending agreements
Obligations under stock borrowing and lending agreements represent contractual commitments to return stock borrowed. These obligations are offset by a
contractual right to receive stock under other contractual agreements. See Note 34.
Other off-balance sheet commitments
The Santander UK group has commitments to lend at fixed interest rates which expose us to interest rate risk. For further information, see the Risk review.
Capital support arrangements
At 31 December 2024, Santander UK plc, Cater Allen Limited, Santander ISA Managers Limited and certain other non-regulated subsidiaries of Santander UK plc
were party to a capital support deed dated 3 December 2024 which was effective from 3 December 2024 (the RFB Sub-Group Capital Support Deed). These parties
were permitted by the PRA to form a core UK group as defined in the PRA Rulebook, a permission which expires on 3 December 2027. Exposures of each of the
regulated entities to other members of the core UK group are exempt from large exposure limits that would otherwise apply and these exposures are risk-weighted
at 0%. Where applicable this permission also provides for intra-group exposures to be excluded from the leverage exposure measure. The purpose of the RFB Sub-
Group Capital Support Deed is to facilitate the prompt transfer of available capital resources from, or repayment of liabilities by, the non-regulated entities to any of
the regulated entities in the event that one of the regulated entities breached or was at risk of breaching its capital resources or risk concentrations requirements.
Liquidity support arrangement
Under the PRA’s liquidity rules, Santander UK plc and its subsidiary Cater Allen Limited form the RFB Domestic Liquidity Sub-group (the RFB DoLSub), which allows
them to collectively meet regulatory requirements to manage liquidity risk. Each member of the RFB DoLSub will support the other by transferring surplus liquidity
in times of stress.
31. SHARE CAPITAL
Group and Company
Ordinary shares of £0.10 each
Total
Issued and fully paid share capital
No.
£m
£m
At 31 December 2023, 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2024
31,051,768,866
3,105
3,105
Group and Company
2024
2023
Share premium
£m
£m
At 1 January and 31 December
5,620
5,620
The Company has one class of ordinary shares which carries no right to fixed income. The Company’s £325m sterling preference shares are classified as
Subordinated Liabilities as described in Note 29.
32. OTHER EQUITY INSTRUMENTS
Group and Company
Interest rate
2024
2023
%
Next call date
£m
£m
AT1 securities:
- £500m Perpetual Capital Securities
6.75
June 2024
496
- £500m Perpetual Capital Securities
6.30
March 2025
500
500
- £210m Perpetual Capital Securities
4.25
March 2026
210
210
- £750m Perpetual Capital Securities
6.50
June 2027
750
750
- £400m Perpetual Capital Securities
8.75
Sept 2029
400
1,860
1,956
AT1 securities
The AT1 securities issued by the Company were subscribed for by its immediate parent company, Santander UK Group Holdings plc. The AT1 securities are perpetual
and pay a quarterly distribution. At each distribution payment date, the Company can decide whether to pay the distribution, which is non-cumulative, in whole or in
part. The distribution rate resets every five years. The securities will be automatically written down and the investors will lose their entire investment in the
securities should the CET1 capital ratio of the Santander UK prudential consolidation group, or the Company (calculated on a solo basis), fall below 7%.
All AT1 securities are redeemable at the option of the Company, and only with the consent of the PRA.
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33. NOTES TO CASH FLOWS
Changes in liabilities and equity arising from financing activities
The table below shows the changes in liabilities arising from financing activities. The changes in equity arising from financing activities are set out in the
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity.
Group
Balance sheet line item
Debt securities in
issue
Subordinated
liabilities
Other equity
instruments
Lease liabilities
Dividends paid
Total
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January
33,910
2,386
1,956
111
38,363
Proceeds from issue of debt securities
8,397
8,397
Repayment of debt securities
(6,539)
(6,539)
Issue of other equity instruments
400
400
Repurchase of other equity instruments
(500)
(500)
Principal elements of lease payments
(33)
(33)
Dividends paid
(1,440)
(1,440)
Liability-related other changes
283
1
10
294
Non-cash changes:
– Unrealised foreign exchange
(395)
3
(392)
– Other changes
17
(5)
4
16
At 31 December
35,673
2,385
1,860
88
(1,440)
38,566
2023
At 1 January
31,531
2,332
1,956
125
35,944
Proceeds from issue of debt securities
4,208
4,208
Repayment of debt securities
(2,568)
(2,568)
Proceeds from issue of subordinated liabilities
1,050
1,050
Repayment of subordinated liabilities
(971)
(971)
Principal elements of lease payments
(47)
(47)
Dividends paid
(1,653)
(1,653)
Liability-related other changes
1,004
25
33
1,062
Non-cash changes:
– Unrealised foreign exchange
(651)
(22)
(673)
– Other changes
386
(28)
1,653
2,011
At 31 December
33,910
2,386
1,956
111
38,363
2022
At 1 January
25,520
2,228
2,191
132
30,071
Proceeds from issue of debt securities
4,778
4,778
Repayment of debt securities
(3,036)
(3,036)
Repayment of subordinated liabilities
(40)
(40)
Issue of other equity instruments
750
750
Repurchase of other equity instruments
(985)
(985)
Principal elements of lease payments
(26)
(26)
Dividends paid
(1,164)
(1,164)
Liability-related other changes
3,155
2
19
3,176
Non-cash changes:
– Unrealised foreign exchange
1,554
87
1,641
– Other changes
(440)
55
1,164
779
At 31 December
31,531
2,332
1,956
125
35,944
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Company
Balance sheet line item
Debt securities in
issue
Subordinated
liabilities
Other equity
instruments
Lease liabilities
Dividends paid
Total
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January
31,228
2,387
1,956
100
35,671
Proceeds from issue of debt securities
7,147
7,147
Repayment of debt securities
(6,439)
(6,439)
Issue of other equity instruments
400
400
Repurchase of other equity instruments
(500)
(500)
Principal elements of lease payments
(31)
(31)
Dividends paid
(1,440)
(1,440)
Liability-related other changes
276
1
10
287
Non-cash changes:
– Unrealised foreign exchange
(395)
3
(392)
– Other changes
16
(5)
4
15
At 31 December
31,833
2,386
1,860
79
(1,440)
34,718
2023
At 1 January
30,721
2,336
1,956
115
35,128
Proceeds from issue of debt securities
2,158
2,158
Repayment of debt securities
(2,282)
(2,282)
Proceeds from issue of subordinated liabilities
1,050
1,050
Repayment of subordinated liabilities
(971)
(971)
Principal elements of lease payments
(45)
(45)
Dividends paid
(1,653)
(1,653)
Liability-related other changes
990
25
30
1,045
Non-cash changes:
– Unrealised foreign exchange
(651)
(22)
(673)
– Other changes
292
(31)
1,653
1,914
At 31 December
31,228
2,387
1,956
100
35,671
2022
At 1 January
24,554
2,233
2,191
122
29,100
Proceeds from issue of debt securities
4,178
4,178
Repayment of debt securities
(2,596)
(2,596)
Repayment of subordinated liabilities
(40)
(40)
Issue of other equity instruments
750
750
Repurchase of other equity instruments
(985)
(985)
Principal elements of lease payments
(24)
(24)
Dividends paid
(1,164)
(1,164)
Liability-related other changes
3,155
2
17
3,174
Non-cash changes:
– Unrealised foreign exchange
1,577
87
1,664
– Other changes
(147)
54
1,164
1,071
At 31 December
30,721
2,336
1,956
115
35,128
Footnotes to the consolidated cash flow statement
Net cash flows from operating activities includes interest received of £12,370m (2023: £11,395m, 2022: £6,508m), interest paid of £8,033m (2023: £6,326m,
2022: £2,089m) and dividends received of £nil (2023: £nil, 2022: £nil).
Total cash outflow for leases was £36m (2023: £50m, 2022: £28m).
Footnotes to the Company cash flow statement
Net cash flows from operating activities includes interest received of £12,975m (2023: £11,828m, 2022: £6,605m), interest paid of £7,931m (2023: £6,327m,
2022: £2,301m) and dividends received of £240m (2023: £420m, 2022: £548m).
Total cash outflow for leases was £34m (2023: £47m, 2022: £26m).
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34. ASSETS CHARGED AS SECURITY FOR LIABILITIES AND COLLATERAL ACCEPTED AS
SECURITY FOR ASSETS
The following transactions are conducted under terms that are usual and customary to collateralised transactions including, where relevant, standard securities
lending and repurchase agreements.
a) Assets charged as security for liabilities
The financial assets below are analysed between those assets accounted for on-balance sheet and off-balance sheet.
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
On-balance sheet:
Cash and balances at central banks
1,580
1,480
1,580
1,480
Loans and advances to banks
139
191
139
189
Loans and advances to customers - securitisations and covered bonds (See Note 14)
32,721
27,088
Loans and advances to customers - other
14,846
20,699
14,846
20,699
Other financial assets at amortised cost
1,529
14
1,529
14
Financial assets at fair value through other comprehensive income
4,504
5,183
4,504
5,183
Total on-balance sheet
55,319
54,655
22,598
27,565
Total off-balance sheet
9,564
10,185
9,564
10,185
Santander UK provides assets as collateral in the following areas of the business.
Sale and repurchase agreements
Santander UK also enters into sale and repurchase agreements and similar transactions of debt securities. Upon entering into such transactions, Santander UK
provides collateral in excess of the borrowed amount. The carrying amount of assets that were so provided at 31 December 2024 was £16,987m (2023:
£13,291m), of which £2,472m (2023: £909m) was classified in ‘Loans and advances to customers – securitisations and covered bonds’ in the table above.
Securitisations and covered bonds
As described in Note 14, Santander UK plc and certain of its subsidiaries issue securitisations and covered bonds through or involving structured entities. At 31
December 2024, there were £33,905m (2023: £27,927m) of gross assets in these secured programmes and £1,184m (2023: £839m) of these related to internally
retained issuances that were available for use as collateral for liquidity purposes in the future.
At 31 December 2024, £3,003m (2023: £2,928m) of notes issued under securitisation and covered bond programmes had been retained internally, a proportion of
which had been used as collateral via third party bilateral secured funding transactions, which totalled £1,500m at 31 December 2024 (2023: £1,500m), or for use
as collateral for liquidity purposes in the future.
Stock borrowing and lending agreements
Asset balances under stock borrowing and lending agreements represent stock lent by Santander UK. These balances amounted to £15,860m at 31 December
2024 (2023: £23,644m) and are offset by contractual commitments to return stock borrowed or cash received.
Derivatives and other business
In addition to the arrangements described above, collateral is also provided in the normal course of derivative business to counterparties. At 31 December 2024,
£1,787m (2023: £1,726m) of such collateral in the form of cash had been provided by Santander UK and is included in the table.
b) Collateral accepted as security for assets
The collateral held as security for assets, analysed between those liabilities accounted for on balance sheet and off-balance sheet, was:
Group
Company
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
On-balance sheet:
Deposits by banks
682
860
682
860
Total on-balance sheet
682
860
682
860
Total off-balance sheet
14,392
14,992
14,392
14,992
Purchase and resale agreements
Santander UK also enters into purchase and resale agreements and similar transactions of debt securities. Upon entering into such transactions, Santander UK
receives collateral in excess of the loan amount. The level of collateral held is monitored daily and if required, further calls are made to ensure the market values of
collateral remains at least equal to the loan balance. The subsidiaries are permitted to sell or repledge the collateral held in the absence of default. At 31 December
2024, the fair value of such collateral received was £13,221m (2023: £12,982m). Of the collateral received, almost all was sold or repledged. The subsidiaries have
an obligation to return collateral that they have sold or pledged.
Stock borrowing and lending agreements
Obligations representing contractual commitments to return stock borrowed by the Santander UK group amounted to £1,171m at 31 December 2024 (2023:
£2,010m) and are offset by a contractual right to receive stock lent.
Derivatives business
In addition to the arrangements described, collateral is also received from counterparties in the normal course of derivative business. At 31 December 2024, £682m
(2023: £860m) of such collateral in the form of cash had been received by Santander UK and is included in the table.
Lending activities
In addition to the collateral held as security for assets, the Santander UK group may obtain a charge over a customer’s property in connection with its lending
activities. Details of these arrangements are set out in the ‘Credit risk’ section of the Risk review.
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35. SHARE-BASED COMPENSATION
The Santander UK group operates share schemes and arrangements for eligible employees. The main current schemes are the Sharesave Schemes, the Deferred
Shares Bonus Plan, the Partnership Shares scheme and the Transformation Incentive Plan. All the share options and awards relate to shares in Banco Santander SA.
The amount charged to the income statement in respect of share-based payment transactions is set out in Note 6.
At 31 December 2024, the carrying amount of liabilities arising from share-based payment transactions, excluding any cash element was £24m (2023: £15m), of
which £1m had vested at 31 December 2024 (2023: £1m).
a) Sharesave Schemes
The Santander UK group launched its sixteenth HM Revenue & Customs approved Sharesave invitation under Banco Santander SA sponsorship in September 2024.
Sharesave invitations have been offered since 2008 under broadly similar terms. Under the Sharesave Scheme’s HMRC-approved savings limits, eligible employees
may enter into contracts to save between £5 and £500 per month. For all schemes, at the end of a fixed term of three or five years after the grant date, the
employees can use these savings to buy shares in Banco Santander SA at a discount, calculated in accordance with the rules of the scheme. The option price is
calculated as the average middle market quoted price of Banco Santander SA shares over the first three dealing days prior to invitation and, for schemes up to and
including 2023, discounted by up to 20%. This year, a 10% discount was applied. The vesting of awards under the scheme depends on continued employment with
the Banco Santander group. Participants in the scheme have six months from the date of vesting to exercise the option.
The table below summarises movements in the number of options, and changes in weighted average exercise price over the same period.
2024
2023
Number of options
Weighted average
exercise price
Number of options
Weighted average
exercise price
‘000
£
‘000
£
Outstanding at 1 January
27,139
2.19
29,988
2.00
Granted
4,991
3.36
7,175
2.78
Exercised
(4,004)
2.29
(5,980)
1.70
Forfeited/expired
(2,437)
2.37
(4,044)
2.53
Outstanding at 31 December
25,689
2.39
27,139
2.19
Exercisable at 31 December
1,115
2.36
868
1.84
The weighted average share price at the date the options were exercised was £3.64 (2023: £3.22).
The following table summarises the range of exercise prices and weighted average remaining contractual life of the options at 31 December 2024 and 2023.
2024
2023
Range of exercise prices
Weighted average
remaining
contractual life
Weighted average
exercise price
Weighted average
remaining
contractual life
Weighted average
exercise price
Years
£
Years
£
£1 to £2
2
1.85
3
1.84
£2 to £3
2
2.71
3
2.65
£3 to £4
4
3.36
0
3.46
£4 to £5
0
0
The fair value of each option at the date of grant is estimated using an analytical model that also reflects the correlation between EUR and GBP. This model uses
assumptions on the share price, the EUR/GBP FX rate, the EUR/GBP risk-free interest rate, dividend yields, the expected volatilities of both the underlying shares and
EUR/GBP for the expected lives of options granted. The weighted average grant-date fair value of options granted during the year was £0.23 (2023: £0.33).
b) Deferred shares bonus plan
Deferred bonus awards are designed to align employee performance with shareholder value and encourage increased retention of senior employees. Those
employees who are designated as Material Risk Takers receive part of their annual bonus as a deferred award comprising 50% in shares and 50% in cash. Either
40% (for any variable pay award of less than £500,000) or 60% (for any variable pay award greater than £500,000) is deferred over a four-, five- or seven- year
period from the anniversary of the initial award. Deferred bonus awards in shares or share options are subject to an additional one-year retention period from the
point of delivery. Any deferred awards are dependent on continued employment and subject to Santander UK's discretion, and the vesting of deferred bonus awards
is subject to potential performance adjustment.
c) Partnership Shares scheme
A Partnership Shares scheme is operated for eligible employees under the Share Incentive Plan (SIP) umbrella. Participants can choose to invest up to £1,800 per tax
year (or no more than 10% of an employee’s salary for the tax year) from pre-tax salary to buy Banco Santander SA shares. Shares are held in trust for the
participants. There are no vesting conditions attached to these shares, and no restrictions as to when the shares can be removed from the trust. However, if a
participant chooses to sell the shares before the end of five years, they will be liable for the taxable benefit received when the shares are taken out of the trust. The
shares can be released from trust after five years free of income tax and national insurance contributions. At 31 December 2024, 3,662,718 shares were
outstanding (2023: 3,937,473 shares).
d) Transformation Incentive Plan
Awards under this one-off long-term incentive plan were granted in 2021, 2022 and 2023 with performance assessed over the period 1 January 2021 to 31
December 2023.  Awards for Material Risk Takers were granted half in cash and half in share based awards (linked to the Banco Santander SA share price), and will
vest in accordance with regulatory requirements. The liability arising from share-based payment transactions, excluding any cash element was £5.2m (2023:
£3.8m).
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36. TRANSACTIONS WITH DIRECTORS AND OTHER KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL
a) Remuneration of Directors and Other Key Management Personnel
The remuneration of the Directors and Other Key Management Personnel (KMP) of the Santander UK group is set out in aggregate below.
2024
2023
2022
Directors’ remuneration
£
£
£
Salaries and fees
4,879,413
4,733,761
4,696,699
Performance-related payments
2,871,476
1,002,607
3,701,569
Other fixed remuneration (pension and other allowances & non-cash benefits)(2)
516,442
222,538
906,201
Expenses
27,715
Total remuneration
8,267,331
5,958,906
9,332,184
Compensation for loss of office(1)
172,856
2024
2023
2022
Directors' and Other Key Management Personnel compensation
£
£
£
Short-term employee benefits
21,742,485
18,449,360
22,627,595
Post-employment benefits
868,368
858,437
1,026,848
Compensation for loss of office(1)
1,713,256
Total compensation
22,610,853
19,307,797
25,367,699
(1) During 2024 and 2023, no compensation for loss of office was paid to Directors or Other KMPs (2022: two Directors, £172,856 and three Other KMPs, £1,540,400).
(2) Included in Other fixed remuneration is an employer pension contribution to a defined contribution scheme of £122,915 (2023: £nil).
In 2024, the remuneration, excluding pension contributions, of the highest paid Director, was £3,160,709 (2023: £2,640,491, 2022: £3,510,441) of which
£1,431,612 (2023: £1,002,607, 2022: £1,900,506) was performance related. In 2024, the accrued defined benefit pension relating to the highest paid director was
£nil (2023: £nil, 2022: £nil for a different individual) per annum.
b) Retirement benefits
Defined benefit pension schemes are provided to certain employees. See Note 28 for details of the schemes and the related costs and obligations. No director
has a deferred pension benefit accruing under a defined benefit scheme. Ex-gratia pensions paid to former Directors of Santander UK plc in 2024, which have been
provided for previously, amounted to £430,904 (2023: £327,462; 2022: £379,945). Since the Company became part of the Banco Santander group, the Board has
not awarded any new ex-gratia pensions.
c) Transactions with Directors, Other Key Management Personnel and each of their connected persons
Directors, Other KMP (defined as the Executive Committee of Santander UK plc who served during the year) and their connected persons have undertaken the
following transactions with the Santander UK group in the ordinary course of business.
2024
2023
No.
£000
No.
£000
Secured loans, unsecured loans and overdrafts
At 1 January
8
1,075
10
871
Net movements
2
(79)
(2)
204
At 31 December
10
996
8
1,075
Deposit, bank and instant access accounts and investments
At 1 January
17
1,702
23
4,133
Net movements
2
78
(6)
(2,431)
At 31 December
19
1,780
17
1,702
In 2024 and 2023, no Director held any interest in the shares of any company in the Santander UK group and no Director exercised or was granted any rights to
subscribe for shares in any company in the Santander UK group. In addition, in 2024 and 2023, no Directors exercised share options over shares in Banco Santander
SA, the ultimate parent company of the Company.
Secured loans, unsecured loans and overdrafts are made to Directors, Other KMP and their connected persons, in the ordinary course of business, with terms
prevailing for comparable transactions and on the same terms and conditions as applicable to other employees in the Santander UK group. Such loans do not
involve more than the normal risk of collectability or present any unfavourable features. Amounts deposited by Directors, Other KMP and their connected persons
earn interest at the same rates as those offered to the market or on the same terms and conditions applicable to other employees in the Santander UK group.
Deposits, bank and instant access accounts and investments are entered into by Directors, Other KMP and their connected persons on normal market terms and
conditions, or on the same terms and conditions as applicable to other employees in Santander UK group.
In 2024 two Directors had loans (2023: two Directors), with a principal amount of £180,000 outstanding at 31 December 2024 (2023: £495,281). In 2024, two
Other KMPs had loans (2023: six), with a principal amount of £781,285 outstanding at 31 December 2024 (2023: £579,383).
In 2024 and 2023, there were no other transactions, arrangements or agreements with Santander UK in which Directors, Other KMP or their connected persons had
a material interest. In addition, in 2024 and 2023, no Director had a material interest in any contract of significance with Santander UK other than a service contract
or appointment letter, as appropriate.
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37. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES
a) Parent undertaking and controlling party
The Company’s immediate parent is Santander UK Group Holdings plc, a company incorporated in England and Wales. Its ultimate parent and controlling party is
Banco Santander SA, a company incorporated in Spain. The smallest and largest groups into which the Santander UK group’s results are included are the group
accounts of Santander UK Group Holdings plc and Banco Santander SA respectively, copies of which may be obtained from Shareholder Relations, 2 Triton Square,
Regent’s Place, London NW1 3AN, on the corporate website (aboutsantander.co.uk) or on the Banco Santander corporate website (santander.com).
b) Transactions with related parties
Transactions with related parties during the year and balances outstanding at the year-end:
Group
Interest, fees and
other income received
Interest, fees and
other expenses paid
Amounts owed by
related parties
Amounts owed to
related parties
2024
2023
2022
2024
2023
2022
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Ultimate parent
(23)
(8)
(710)
138
414
47
587
800
(944)
(1,062)
Immediate parent
(7)
(7)
(6)
526
504
308
(12,392)
(13,279)
Fellow subsidiaries
(42)
(38)
(69)
228
203
177
68
101
(346)
(370)
Joint ventures
(258)
(183)
(76)
84
55
17
4,812
4,486
(1,567)
(781)
(330)
(236)
(861)
976
1,176
549
5,467
5,387
(15,249)
(15,492)
Company
Interest, fees and
other income received
Interest, fees and
other expenses paid
Amounts owed by
related parties
Amounts owed to
related parties
2024
2023
2022
2024
2023
2022
2024
2023
2024
2023
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Ultimate parent
(12)
(8)
(689)
127
414
28
587
800
(944)
(1,062)
Immediate parent
(7)
(7)
(6)
526
504
308
(12,392)
(13,279)
Subsidiaries
(1,311)
(1,014)
(514)
2,535
1,359
782
30,090
27,686
(34,274)
(28,968)
Fellow subsidiaries
(37)
(33)
(67)
221
197
172
60
101
(345)
(369)
Joint ventures
1
1
1
1
(117)
(31)
(1,367)
(1,062)
(1,276)
3,410
2,475
1,290
30,738
28,588
(48,072)
(43,709)
For more on this, see ‘Balances with other Banco Santander group members’ in the Risk review, Note 13. Loans and advances to customers, Note 22. Deposits by
customers and Note 32. Other Equity Instruments. In addition, transactions with pension schemes operated by the Santander UK group are described in Note 28.
The above transactions were made in the ordinary course of business, on substantially the same terms as for comparable transactions with third party
counterparties, and within limits acceptable to the PRA. Such transactions do not involve more than the normal risk of collectability or present any unfavourable
features.
In November 2022, Santander (UK) Group Pension Scheme Trustees Limited entered into an unsecured committed liquidity facility with Santander UK plc for
£600m for a two year period. On expiry, a new liquidity facility agreement was entered into for £300m with a maturity date of 4 November 2026. This facility
provides an alternate source of short-term liquidity for day-to-day operational needs. At the balance sheet date, no drawings had been made from this facility and
the entire facility remained undrawn.
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38. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
a) Fair value measurement and hierarchy
(i) Fair value measurement
The fair value of financial instruments is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market
participants at the measurement date in the principal, or in its absence, the most advantageous market to which Santander UK has access at that date. The fair value
of a liability reflects its non-performance risk.
Financial instruments valued using observable market prices
If a quoted market price in an active market is available for an instrument, the fair value is calculated as the current exit price multiplied by the number of units of
the instrument held.
Financial instruments valued using a valuation technique
In the absence of a quoted market price in an active market, management uses internal models to make its best estimate of the price that the market would set
for that financial instrument. In order to make these estimations, various techniques are employed, including extrapolation from observable market data and
observation of similar financial instruments with similar characteristics. Wherever possible, valuation parameters for each product are based on prices directly
observable in active markets or that can be derived from directly observable market prices. Chosen valuation techniques incorporate all the factors that market
participants would take into account in pricing transactions.
Santander UK manages certain groups of financial assets and liabilities on the basis of its net exposure to either market risks or credit risk. As a result, it has elected
to use the exception under IFRS 13 which permits the fair value measurement of a group of financial assets and financial liabilities on the basis of the price that
would be received to sell a net long position for a particular risk exposure or paid to transfer a net short position for a particular risk exposure in an orderly
transaction between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions.
(ii) Fair value hierarchy
Santander UK applies the following fair value hierarchy that prioritises the inputs to valuation techniques used in measuring fair value. The hierarchy establishes
three categories for valuing financial instruments, giving the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and the
lowest priority to unobservable inputs. The three categories are: quoted prices in active markets (Level 1), internal models based on observable market data (Level
2) and internal models based on other than observable market data (Level 3). If the inputs used to measure an asset or a liability fall to different levels within the
hierarchy, the classification of the entire asset or liability will be based on the lowest level input that is significant to the overall fair value measurement of the asset
or liability.
Santander UK categorises assets and liabilities measured at fair value within the fair value hierarchy based on the inputs to the valuation techniques as follows:
Level 1Unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in an active market that Santander UK can access at the measurement date. Active markets
are assessed by reference to average daily trading volumes in absolute terms and, where applicable, by reference to market capitalisation for the
instrument.
Level 2Quoted prices in inactive markets, quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities, recent market transactions, inputs other than quoted market prices for
the asset or liability that are observable either directly or indirectly for substantially the full term, and inputs to valuation techniques that are derived
principally from or corroborated by observable market data through correlation or other statistical means for substantially the full term of the asset or
liability.
Level 3Significant inputs to the pricing or valuation techniques are unobservable. These unobservable inputs reflect the assumptions that market participants
would use when pricing assets or liabilities and are considered significant to the overall valuation.
Changes in the observability of significant valuation inputs during the reporting period may result in a transfer of assets and liabilities within the fair value hierarchy.
The Santander UK group recognises transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy when there is a significant change in either its principal market or the level
of observability of the inputs to the valuation techniques at the end of the reporting period.
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b) Valuation techniques
The main valuation techniques employed in internal models to measure the fair value of the financial instruments at 31 December 2024 and 2023 are set out
below. In substantially all cases, the principal inputs into these models are derived from observable market data. Santander UK did not make any material changes
to the valuation techniques and internal models it used in 2024, 2023 and 2022.
A. In the valuation of financial instruments requiring static hedging (for example interest rate, currency derivatives and property derivatives) and in the valuation
of loans and advances and deposits, the ‘present value’ method is used. Expected future cash flows are discounted using the interest rate curves of the
applicable currencies or forward house price index levels, as well as credit spreads. The interest rate curves are generally observable market data and
reference yield curves derived from quoted interest rates in appropriate time bandings, which match the timings of the cash flows and maturities of the
instruments.
B. In the valuation of equity financial instruments requiring dynamic hedging (principally equity securities, options and other structured instruments), proprietary
local volatility and stochastic volatility models are used. These types of models are widely accepted in the financial services industry. Observable market inputs
used in these models include the bid-offer spread, foreign currency exchange rates, volatility and correlation between indices. In limited circumstances, other
inputs may be used in these models that are based on unobservable market data, such as the Halifax’s UK HPI volatility, HPI forward growth, HPI spot rate,
mortality and mean reversion.
C. In the valuation of financial instruments exposed to interest rate risk that require either static or dynamic hedging (such as interest rate swaps, caps and
floors), the present value method (swaps), and Black’s model (caps/floors) are used. These types of models are widely accepted in the financial services
industry. The significant inputs used in these models are observable market data, including appropriate interest rate curves, volatilities, correlations and
exchange rates. In limited circumstances, other inputs may be used in these models that are based on unobservable market data, such as HPI volatility, HPI
forward growth, HPI spot rate and mortality.
D. In the valuation of linear instruments such as credit risk and fixed-income derivatives, credit risk is measured using dynamic models similar to those used in
the measurement of interest rate risk. In the case of non-linear instruments, if the portfolio is exposed to credit risk such as credit derivatives, the probability
of default is determined using the credit default spread market. The main inputs used to determine the underlying cost of credit of credit derivatives are
quoted credit risk premiums and the correlation between the quoted credit derivatives of various issuers.
The fair values of the financial instruments arising from Santander UK’s internal models take into account, among other things, contract terms and observable
market data, which include such factors as bid-offer spread, interest rates, credit risk, exchange rates, the quoted market price of equity securities, and volatility.
In all cases, when it is not possible to derive a valuation for a particular feature of an instrument, management uses judgement to determine the fair value of
the particular feature. In exercising this judgement, a variety of tools are used including proxy observable data, historical data and extrapolation techniques.
Extrapolation techniques take into account behavioural characteristics of equity markets that have been observed over time, and for which there is a strong case to
support an expectation of a continuing trend in the future. Estimates are calibrated to observable market prices when they become available.
Santander UK believes its valuation methods are appropriate and consistent with other market participants. Nevertheless, the use of different valuation methods or
assumptions, including imprecision in estimating unobservable market inputs, to determine the fair value of certain financial instruments could result in different
estimates of fair value at the reporting date and the amount of gain or loss recorded for a particular instrument. Most of the valuation models are not significantly
subjective, because they can be tested and, if necessary, recalibrated by the internal calculation of and subsequent comparison to market prices of actively traded
securities, where available.
c) Control framework
Fair values are subject to a control framework designed to ensure that they are either determined or validated by a function independent of the risk-taker. To this
end, ultimate responsibility for the determination of fair values lies with the Risk Department. For all financial instruments where fair values are determined by
reference to externally quoted prices or observable pricing inputs to models, independent price determination or verification is utilised. In inactive markets, direct
observation of a traded price may not be possible. In these circumstances, Santander UK will source alternative market information to validate the financial
instrument’s fair value, with greater weight given to information that is considered to be more relevant and reliable.
The factors that are considered in this regard include:
The extent to which prices may be expected to represent genuine traded or tradeable prices
The degree of similarity between financial instruments
The degree of consistency between different sources
The process followed by the pricing provider to derive the data
The elapsed time between the date to which the market data relates and the balance sheet date
The manner in which the data was sourced.
The source of pricing data is considered as part of the process that determines the classification of the level of a financial instrument. Consideration is given to the
quality of the information available that provides the current mark-to-model valuation and estimates of how different these valuations could be on an actual trade,
taking into consideration how active the market is. For spot assets that cannot be sold due to illiquidity, forward estimates are discounted to estimate a realisable
value over time. Adjustments for illiquid positions are regularly reviewed to reflect changing market conditions.
For fair values determined using a valuation model, the control framework may include as applicable, independent development and / or validation of: (i) the logic
within the models; (ii) the inputs to those models; and (iii) any adjustments required outside the models. Internal valuation models are validated independently
within the Risk Department. A validation report is produced for each model-derived valuation that assesses the mathematical assumptions behind the model, the
implementation of the model and its integration within the trading system.
d) Fair values of financial instruments carried at amortised cost
The following tables analyse the fair value of the financial instruments carried at amortised cost at 31 December 2024 and 2023, including their levels in the fair
value hierarchy - Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3. Cash and balances at central banks, which consist of demand deposits with the Bank of England, together with cash in
tills and ATMs, have been excluded from the table as the carrying amount is deemed an appropriate approximation of fair value.
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Group
2024
2023
Fair value
Fair
Carrying
Fair value
Fair
Carrying
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
value
value
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
value
value
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Assets
Loans and advances to customers
198,376
198,376
199,408
205,917
205,917
207,435
Loans and advances to banks
1,032
1,032
1,032
1,080
1,080
1,080
Reverse repurchase agreements - non-
trading
10,342
10,342
10,338
12,470
12,470
12,468
Other financial assets at amortised cost
3,190
3,190
3,408
144
144
152
3,190
11,374
198,376
212,940
214,186
144
13,550
205,917
219,611
221,135
Liabilities
Deposits by customers
185
180,282
180,467
180,967
71
190,561
190,632
190,850
Deposits by banks
13,934
39
13,973
13,993
20,342
40
20,382
20,332
Repurchase agreements - non-trading
8,622
8,622
8,617
8,413
8,413
8,411
Debt securities in issue
21,173
12,910
1,771
35,854
35,673
1,689
30,743
1,189
33,621
33,910
Subordinated liabilities
1,129
10
1,622
2,761
2,385
2,591
209
2,800
2,386
22,302
35,661
183,714
241,677
241,635
1,689
62,160
191,999
255,848
255,889
Company
2024
2023
Fair value
Carrying
Fair value
Carrying
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Fair value
value
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Fair value
value
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Assets
Loans and advances to customers
216,851
216,851
217,780
222,208
222,208
223,511
Loans and advances to banks
926
926
926
1,052
1,052
1,052
Reverse repurchase agreements - non-trading
10,342
10,342
10,338
12,470
12,470
12,468
Other financial assets at amortised cost
3,190
1,977
5,167
5,206
144
1,681
1,825
1,833
3,190
13,245
216,851
233,286
234,250
144
15,203
222,208
237,555
238,864
Liabilities
Deposits by customers
185
200,530
200,715
201,215
71
207,216
207,287
207,516
Deposits by banks
13,922
5,579
19,501
19,521
20,326
5,424
25,750
25,699
Repurchase agreements - non-trading
8,621
8,621
8,617
8,413
8,413
8,411
Debt securities in issue
17,870
12,846
1,379
32,095
31,833
999
29,181
841
31,021
31,228
Subordinated liabilities
1,129
10
1,598
2,737
2,386
2,592
209
2,801
2,387
18,999
35,584
209,086
263,669
263,572
999
60,583
213,690
275,272
275,241
The carrying value above of any financial assets and liabilities that are designated as hedged items in a portfolio (or macro) fair value hedge relationship excludes
gains and losses attributable to the hedged risk, as this is included as a separate line item on the balance sheet.
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Valuation methodology for financial instruments carried at amortised cost
The valuation approach to specific categories of financial instruments is described below.
Assets:
Loans and advances to customers
The approach to estimating the fair value of loans and advances to customers has been determined by discounting expected cash flows to reflect either current
market rates or credit spreads relevant to the specific industry of the borrower. The determination of their fair values is an area of considerable estimation and
uncertainty as there is no observable market and values are significantly affected by customer behaviour.
i) Advances secured on residential property
The fair value of the mortgage portfolio is calculated by discounting contractual cash flows by different spreads for each LTV Band, after taking account of expected
customer prepayment rates. The spread is based on new business interest rates derived from publicly available competitor market information.
ii) Corporate loans
The determination of the fair values of performing loans is calculated by discounting the contractual cash flows and also deducting other costs relating to expected
credit losses, cost of capital, credit risk capital, operational risk capital, cost of funding and operating costs.
iii) Other loans
These consist of unsecured personal loans, credit cards, overdrafts and consumer (auto) finance. The weighted average lives of these portfolios are typically short
and relate to relatively new business. For unsecured personal loans and consumer (auto) finance loans, a small surplus or deficit has been recognised based on the
differential between existing portfolio margins and the current contractual interest rates.
Loans and advances to banks
These comprise secured loans, short-term placements with banks including collateral and unsettled financial transactions. The secured loans have been valued
based on a discounted spread for the term of the loans using valuation technique A as described above. The carrying amount of the other items is deemed a
reasonable approximation of their fair value, as the transactions are very short-term in duration.
Reverse repurchase agreements - non-trading
The fair value of the reverse repurchase agreements - non trading has been estimated using valuation technique A as described above, using a spread appropriate to
the underlying collateral.
Other financial assets at amortised cost
These consist of asset backed securities and debt securities. The asset backed securities can be complex products and in some instances are valued with the
assistance of an independent, specialist valuation firm. These fair values are determined using industry-standard valuation techniques, including discounted
cash flow models. The inputs to these models used in these valuation techniques include quotes from market makers, prices of similar assets, adjustments for
differences in credit spreads, and additional quantitative and qualitative research. The debt security investments consist of a portfolio of government debt securities.
The fair value of this portfolio has been determined using quoted market prices.
Liabilities:
Deposits by customers
The majority of deposit liabilities are payable on demand and therefore can be deemed short-term in nature with the fair value equal to the carrying value. Certain
of the deposit liabilities are at a fixed rate until maturity. The deficit/surplus of fair value over carrying value of these liabilities has been estimated by reference to
the market rates available at the balance sheet date for similar deposit liabilities of similar maturities. The fair value of such deposit liabilities has been estimated
using valuation technique A as described above.
Deposits by banks
The fair value of deposits by banks, including repos, has been estimated using valuation technique A as described above, discounted at the appropriate credit spread.
Repurchase agreements - non-trading
The fair value of the repurchase agreements - non trading has been estimated using valuation technique A as described above, discounted at a spread appropriate
to the underlying collateral.
Debt securities in issue and subordinated liabilities
Where reliable prices are available, the fair value of debt securities in issue and subordinated liabilities has been calculated using quoted market prices. Where
reliable prices are not available, internal models have been used to determine fair values, which take into account, among other things, contract terms and
observable market data, which include such factors as interest rates, credit risk and exchange rates. In all cases, when it is not possible to derive a valuation for a
particular feature of an instrument, management uses judgement to determine the fair value of the particular feature. In exercising this judgement, a variety of
tools are used including proxy observable data.
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e) Fair values of financial instruments measured at fair value
The following tables summarise the fair values of the financial assets and liabilities accounted for at fair value at 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023,
analysed by their levels in the fair value hierarchy - Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3.
Group
2024
2023
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
Valuation
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
technique
Assets
Derivative financial instruments
Exchange rate contracts
978
978
1,129
1,129
A
Interest rate contracts
1,675
1,675
2,216
1
2,217
A & C
Inflation rate contracts
70
70
A
Equity and credit contracts
89
35
124
98
35
133
B & D
Netting
(1,643)
(1,643)
(2,047)
(2,047)
1,169
35
1,204
1,396
36
1,432
Other financial assets at FVTPL
Loans and advances to customers
44
44
46
46
A
Debt securities
56
36
92
167
49
216
A, B & D
56
80
136
167
95
262
Financial assets at FVOCI
Debt securities
8,805
201
34
9,040
8,293
188
8,481
D
8,805
201
34
9,040
8,293
188
8,481
Total assets at fair value
8,805
1,426
149
10,380
8,293
1,751
131
10,175
Liabilities
Derivative financial instruments
Exchange rate contracts
430
430
508
508
A
Interest rate contracts
1,894
1,894
2,336
1
2,337
A & C
Equity and credit contracts
7
14
21
11
9
20
B & D
Netting
(1,643)
(1,643)
(2,047)
(2,047)
688
14
702
808
10
818
Other financial liabilities at FVTPL
Debt securities in issue
355
355
369
369
A
Structured deposits
605
605
426
426
A
Zero Amortising Guaranteed Notes
95
95
104
104
D
1,055
1,055
899
899
Total liabilities at fair value
1,743
14
1,757
1,707
10
1,717
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Company
2024
2023
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
Valuation
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
technique
Assets
Derivative financial instruments
Exchange rate contracts
1,243
1,243
1,289
1,289
A
Interest rate contracts
1,685
3
1,688
2,187
133
2,320
A & C
Inflation rate contracts
70
70
A
Equity and credit contracts
89
35
124
98
35
133
B & D
Netting
(1,643)
(1,643)
(2,047)
(2,047)
1,444
38
1,482
1,527
168
1,695
Other financial assets at FVTPL
Loans and advances to customers
44
44
46
46
A
Debt securities and other debt
instruments
56
56
168
168
C
56
44
100
168
46
214
Financial assets at FVOCI
Debt securities
8,805
201
34
9,040
8,293
188
8,481
D
8,805
201
34
9,040
8,293
188
8,481
Total assets at fair value
8,805
1,701
116
10,622
8,293
1,883
214
10,390
Liabilities
Derivative financial instruments
Exchange rate contracts
456
456
580
580
A
Interest rate contracts
1,933
1,840
3,773
2,350
1,071
3,421
A & C
Equity and credit contracts
7
14
21
11
9
20
B
Netting
(1,643)
(1,643)
(2,047)
(2,047)
753
1,854
2,607
894
1,080
1,974
Other financial liabilities at FVTPL
Debt securities in issue
355
355
369
369
A
Structured deposits
605
605
426
426
A
Zero Amortising Guaranteed Notes
95
95
104
104
D
1,055
1,055
899
899
Total liabilities at fair value
1,808
1,854
3,662
1,793
1,080
2,873
Transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy
In 2024 there were no significant (2023: £22m) transfers of financial instruments between levels of the fair value hierarchy.
f) Fair value adjustments
The internal models incorporate assumptions that Santander UK believes would be made by a market participant to establish fair value. Fair value adjustments
are adopted when Santander UK considers that there are additional factors that would be considered by a market participant that are not incorporated in the
valuation model.
Santander UK classifies fair value adjustments as either ‘risk-related’ or ‘model-related’. The fair value adjustments form part of the portfolio fair value and are
included in the balance sheet values of the product types to which they have been applied.
The fair value adjustments are set out in the following table:
Group
2024
2023
£m
£m
Risk-related:
- Bid-offer and trade specific adjustments
6
(6)
- Uncertainty
4
6
- Credit risk adjustment
1
1
- Funding fair value adjustment
1
11
2
Day One profit
1
11
3
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£m
£m
Risk-related:
- Bid-offer and trade specific adjustments
8
(6)
- Uncertainty
4
6
- Credit risk adjustment
1
1
- Funding fair value adjustment
1
13
2
Day One profit
1
13
3
Risk-related adjustments
Risk-related adjustments are driven, in part, by the magnitude of Santander UK’s market or credit risk exposure, and by external market factors, such as the size of
market spreads.
(i) Bid-offer and trade specific adjustments
Portfolios are marked at bid or offer, as appropriate. Valuation models will typically generate mid-market values. The bid-offer adjustment reflects the cost
that would be incurred if substantially all residual net portfolio market risks were closed using available hedging instruments or by disposing of or unwinding
the position. For debt securities, the bid-offer spread is based on a market price at an individual security level. For other products, the major risk types are identified.
For each risk type, the net portfolio risks are first classified into buckets, and then a bid-offer spread is applied to each risk bucket based upon the market bid-offer
spread for the relevant hedging instrument.
(ii) Uncertainty
Certain model inputs may be less readily determinable from market data, and/or the choice of model itself may be more subjective. In these circumstances, a
range of possible values exists that the financial instrument or market parameter may assume, and an adjustment may be needed to reflect the likelihood that
in estimating the fair value of the financial instrument, market participants would adopt more conservative values for uncertain parameters and/or model
assumptions than those used in the valuation model.
(iii) Credit risk adjustment
Credit risk adjustments comprise credit and debit valuation adjustments. The credit valuation adjustment (CVA) is an adjustment to the valuation of OTC derivative
contracts to reflect within fair value the possibility that the counterparty may default, and Santander UK may not receive the full market value of the transactions.
The debit valuation adjustment (DVA) is an adjustment to the valuation of the OTC derivative contracts to reflect within the fair value the possibility that Santander
UK may default, and that Santander UK may not pay full market value of the transactions.
Santander UK calculates a separate CVA and DVA for each Santander UK legal entity, and within each entity for each counterparty to which the entity has exposure.
Santander UK calculates the CVA by applying the probability of default of the counterparty to the expected positive exposure to the counterparty, and multiplying
the result by the loss expected in the event of default i.e. LGD. Conversely, Santander UK calculates the DVA by applying the PD of the Santander UK group, to the
expected positive exposure of the counterparty to Santander UK and multiplying the result by the LGD. Both calculations are performed over the life of the potential
exposure.
For most products Santander UK uses a simulation methodology to calculate the expected positive exposure to a counterparty. This incorporates a range of
potential exposures across the portfolio of transactions with the counterparty over the life of the portfolio. The simulation methodology includes credit mitigants
such as counterparty netting agreements and collateral agreements with the counterparty.
(iv) Funding fair value adjustment (FFVA)
The FFVA is an adjustment to the valuation of OTC derivative positions to include the net cost of funding uncollateralised derivative positions. This is calculated by
applying a suitable funding cost to the expected future funding exposure of any uncollateralised component of the OTC derivative portfolio.
Day One profit adjustments
Day One profit adjustments are adopted where the fair value estimated by a valuation model is based on one or more significant unobservable inputs. Day One
profit adjustments are calculated and reported on a portfolio basis.
The timing of recognition of deferred Day One profit and loss is determined individually. It is deferred until either the instrument’s fair value can be determined
using market observable inputs or is realised through settlement. The financial instrument is subsequently measured at fair value, adjusted for the deferred Day
One profit and loss. Subsequent changes in fair value are recognised immediately in the Income Statement without immediate reversal of deferred Day One profits
and losses.
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g) Internal models based on information other than market data (Level 3)
The table below provides an analysis of financial instruments valued using internal models based on information other than market data together with further
details on the valuation techniques used for each type of instrument. Each instrument is initially valued at transaction price:
Group
Balance sheet value
Fair value movements recognised
in profit/(loss)
2024
2023
2024
2023
2022
Balance sheet line item
Category
Financial instrument product type
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
1. Derivative assets
Equity and credit contracts
Reversionary property interests
35
35
6
12
(8)
2. FVTPL assets
Loans and advances to customers
Roll-up mortgage portfolio
22
24
(1)
(2)
(18)
3. FVTPL assets
Loans and advances to customers
Other loans
22
22
4
(4)
4. FVTPL assets
Debt securities
Reversionary property securities
36
49
2
(3)
5. FVOCI assets
Debt Instruments
Other securities
34
149
130
7
11
(30)
Other Level 3 assets
1
(1)
10
Other Level 3 liabilities
(14)
(10)
(5)
(2)
3
Total net assets
135
121
Total income/(expense)
2
8
(17)
Valuation techniques (Group)
1. Derivative assets – Equity and credit contracts
These are valued using a probability weighted set of HPI forward prices, which are assumed to be a reasonable representation of the increase in value of the
Santander UK group’s reversionary interest portfolio underlying the derivatives. The probability used reflects the likelihood of the homeowner vacating the property
and is calculated from mortality rates and acceleration rates which are a function of age and gender, obtained from the relevant mortality tables. Indexing is felt
to be appropriate due to the size and geographical dispersion of the reversionary interest portfolio. These are determined using HPI Spot Rates adjusted to reflect
estimated forward growth. Non-seasonally adjusted (NSA) national and regional HPI are used in the valuation model to avoid any subjective judgement in the
adjustment process, which is made by Markit, which publishes the Halifax House Price Index.
The inputs used to determine the value of the reversionary property derivatives are HPI spot, HPI forward growth and mortality rates. The principal pricing
parameter is HPI forward growth.
2. FVTPL assets – Loans and advances to customers – roll-up mortgage portfolio
These represent roll-up mortgages (sometimes referred to as lifetime mortgages), which are an equity release scheme under which a property owner takes out a
loan secured against their home. The owner does not have to make any interest payments during their lifetime in which case the fixed interest payments are rolled
up into the mortgage. The loan or mortgage (capital and rolled-up interest) is repaid upon the owner’s vacation of the property and the value of the loan is only
repaid from the value of the property. This is known as a ‘no negative equity guarantee’. Santander UK suffers a loss if the sale proceeds from the property are
insufficient to repay the loan, as it is unable to pursue the homeowner’s estate or beneficiaries for the shortfall.
The value of the mortgage ‘rolls up’ or accretes until the owner vacates the property. In order to value the roll-up mortgages, Santander UK uses a probability-
weighted set of European option prices (puts) determined using the Black-Scholes model, in which the ‘no negative equity guarantee’ are valued as short put
options. The probability weighting applied is calculated from mortality rates and acceleration rates as a function of age and gender, taken from mortality tables.
The inputs used to determine the value of these instruments are HPI spot, HPI forward growth, HPI volatility, mortality rates and repayment rates. The principal
pricing parameter is HPI forward growth. The HPI forward growth rate used is unobservable and is the same as used in the valuation of Instrument 1 above. The
other parameters do not have a significant effect on the value of the instruments.
3. FVTPL assets – Loans and advances to customers – other loans
These relate to loans to transport and education companies. The fair value of these loans is estimated using the ‘present value’ model based on a credit curve
derived from current market spreads. Loan specific credit data is unobservable, so a proxy population is applied based on industry sector and credit rating.
4. FVTPL assets – Debt securities
These consist of reversionary property securities and are an equity release scheme, where the property owner receives an upfront lump sum in return for paying a
fixed percentage of the sales proceeds of the property when the owner vacates the property. These reversionary property securities are valued using a probability-
weighted set of HPI forward prices which are assumed to be a reasonable representation of the increase in value of Santander UK’s reversionary interest portfolio
underlying the derivatives. The probability weighting used reflects the probability of the homeowner vacating the property through death or moving into care and is
calculated from mortality rates and acceleration factors which are a function of age and gender, obtained from the relevant mortality table.
The inputs used to determine the value of these instruments are HPI spot, HPI forward growth and mortality rates. The principal pricing parameter is HPI forward
growth. Discussion of the HPI spot rate, HPI forward growth rate and mortality rates for this financial instrument is the same as Instrument 1 above. An adjustment
is also made to reflect the specific property risk. Specific property risk is from the difference between the specific properties in the portfolio, and the average price as
expressed in the regionally weighted house price index.
5. FVOCI assets – Debt instruments
These consist of asset-back securities where third-party prices are not available or reliable. The fair value is estimated using market standard cash flow models with
input parameter assumptions which include prepayment speeds, default rates, discount margins derived from comparable securities with similar vintage, collateral
type, and credit ratings.
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Company
Balance sheet value
Fair value movements recognised
in profit/(loss)
2024
2023
2024
2023
2022
Balance sheet line item
Category
Financial instrument product type
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
1. Derivative assets
Interest rate contracts
Securitisation swaps
3
132
(131)
131
2. Derivative asset
Equity and credit contracts
Reversionary property interests
35
35
6
12
(8)
3. FVTPL Assets
Loans and advances to customers
Roll-up mortgage portfolio
22
24
(1)
(2)
(18)
4. FVTPL Assets
Loans and advances to customers
Other loans
22
22
4
(4)
5. FVOCI Assets
Debt securities
Other securities
34
6. Derivative liabilities
Interest rate contracts
Securitisation swaps
(1,840)
(1,070)
(749)
(61)
(1,143)
(1,724)
(857)
(875)
84
(1,173)
Other Level 3 assets
1
4
10
Other Level 3 liabilities
(14)
(10)
(5)
(6)
5
Total net assets
(1,738)
(866)
Total (expense)/income
(880)
82
(1,158)
Valuation techniques (Company)
1 & 6 . Derivative assets / liabilities - Interest rate contracts
For covered pool swap and securitisation funding swap models, the valuation is created using internal prepayment speeds and rate projections to estimate future
mortgage flows which are subsequently discounted using net present value techniques based upon current market levels.
2. Derivative assets – Equity and credit contracts
See Group valuation technique 1.
3. FVTPL assets – Loans and advances to customers – roll-up mortgage portfolio
See Group valuation technique 2.
4. FVTPL assets – Loans and advances to customers – other loans
See Group valuation technique 3.
Reconciliation of fair value measurement in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy
The following table sets out the movements in Level 3 financial instruments in 2024 and 2023:
Group
Assets
Liabilities
Derivatives
Other
financial
assets at
FVTPL
Financial
assets at
FVOCI
Total
Derivatives
Other
financial
liabilities
at FVTPL
Total
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
36
95
131
(10)
(10)
Total gains/(losses) recognised:
Fair value movements(1)
6
1
7
(5)
(5)
Purchases
34
34
Settlements
(7)
(16)
(23)
1
1
At 31 December 2024
35
80
34
149
(14)
(14)
Gains/(losses) recognised in profit or loss/other comprehensive income relating to assets and
liabilities held at the end of the year(1)
6
1
7
(5)
(5)
At 1 January 2023
37
117
154
(12)
(3)
(15)
Total gains/(losses) recognised:
Fair value movements(1)
10
10
(2)
(2)
Purchases
1
1
Netting(2)
(3)
(3)
Settlements
(11)
(20)
(31)
4
3
7
At 31 December 2023
36
95
131
(10)
(10)
(Losses)/gains recognised in profit or loss/other comprehensive income relating to assets
and liabilities held at the end of the year (1)
10
10
(2)
(2)
(1) This relates to the effect of netting on the fair value of the credit linked notes due to a legal right of set-off between the principal amounts of the senior notes and the associated cash deposits. For more, see
‘ii) Credit protection entities’ in Note 18.
(2) Fair value movements relating to derivatives and other financial assets at FVTPL are recognised in other operating income in the income statement.
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Company
Assets
Liabilities
Derivatives
Other
financial
assets at
FVTPL
Financial
assets at
FVOCI
Assets
held for
sale
Total
Derivatives
Other
financial
liabilities
at FVTPL
Liabilities
held for
sale
Total
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
At 1 January 2024
168
46
214
(1,080)
(1,080)
Total gains/(losses) recognised:
Fair value movements(1)
(125)
(1)
(126)
(754)
(754)
Purchases
2
34
36
(22)
(22)
Settlements
(7)
(1)
(8)
2
2
At 31 December 2024
38
44
34
116
(1,854)
(1,854)
0
Gains/(losses) recognised in profit or loss/other
comprehensive income relating to assets and liabilities
held at the end of the year(1)
(125)
(1)
(126)
(754)
(754)
At 1 January 2023
33
47
80
(995)
(3)
(998)
Total gains/(losses) recognised:
Fair value movements(1)
146
3
149
(67)
(67)
Purchases
1
1
(27)
(27)
Netting(2)
(3)
(3)
Settlements
(11)
(2)
(13)
9
3
12
At 31 December 2023
168
46
214
(1,080)
(1,080)
0
Gains/(losses) recognised in profit or loss/other
comprehensive income relating to assets and liabilities held
at the end of the year(1)
146
3
149
(67)
(67)
(1) This relates to the effect of netting on the fair value of the credit linked notes due to a legal right of set-off between the principal amounts of the senior notes and the associated cash deposits. For more, see ‘ii)
Credit protection entities’ in Note 18.
(2) Fair value movements relating to derivatives and other financial assets at FVTPL are recognised in other operating income in the income statement. Fair value movements relating to financial assets at FVOCI are
recognised in the movement in fair value reserve (debt instruments).
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Effect of changes in significant unobservable assumptions to reasonably possible alternatives (Level 3)
As discussed above, the fair value of financial instruments are, in certain circumstances, measured using valuation techniques that incorporate assumptions that are
not evidenced by prices from observable current market transactions in the same instrument and are not based on observable market data and, as such require the
application of a degree of judgement. Changing one or more of the inputs to the valuation models to reasonably possible alternative assumptions would change the
fair values significantly. The following table shows the sensitivity of these fair values to reasonably possible alternative assumptions.
Favourable and unfavourable changes are determined on the basis of changes in the value of the instrument as a result of varying the levels of the unobservable
input as described in the table below. The potential effects do not take into effect any hedged positions.
Company
Significant unobservable input
Sensitivity
Assumption value
Favourable
changes
Unfavourable
changes
Fair value
Weighted
average
2024
£m
Assumption description
Range (1)
Shift
£m
£m
1. Derivative assets – Interest rate contracts:
3
Weighted Average
Mortgage Rate Payable
5% - 6%
5%
0.5%
20
(20)
– Securitisation swaps
2. Derivative liabilities - Interest rate contracts:
(1,840)
Weighted Average
Mortgage Rate Payable
2% - 7%
4%
0.5%
384
(384)
– Securitisation swaps
2023
1. Derivative assets – Interest rate contracts:
132
Weighted Average
Mortgage Rate Payable
3% - 8%
7%
0.5%
29
(29)
– Securitisation swaps
2. Derivative liabilities - Interest rate contracts:
(1,070)
Weighted Average
Mortgage Rate Payable
1% - 8%
3.76%
0.5%
279
(279)
– Securitisation swaps
(1) The range of actual assumption values used to calculate the weighted average disclosure.
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h) Maturities of financial liabilities and off-balance sheet commitments
The table below analyses the maturities of the undiscounted cash flows relating to financial liabilities and off-balance sheet commitments of Santander UK based
on the remaining period to the contractual maturity date at the balance sheet date. Deposits by customers largely consist of retail deposits. This table is not
intended to show the liquidity of Santander UK.
Group
On demand
Not later than
3 months
Later than 3
months and
not later than
1 year
Later than 1
year and not
later than 5
years
Later than 5
years
Total
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Financial liabilities
Derivative financial instruments
165
136
317
173
791
Other financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
10
3
135
556
524
1,228
Deposits by customers
169,285
3,487
4,004
4,451
355
181,582
Deposits by banks
1,352
1,561
7,618
4,459
14,990
Repurchase agreements – non trading
7,894
762
8,656
Debt securities in issue
5,907
1,959
26,332
7,761
41,959
Subordinated liabilities
27
628
332
1,895
2,882
Lease liabilities
28
58
17
103
Total financial liabilities
170,647
19,044
15,270
36,505
10,725
252,191
Off-balance sheet commitments given
4,007
19,088
916
8,391
3,247
35,649
2023
Financial liabilities
Derivative financial instruments
1
192
52
478
183
906
Other financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
8
7
538
520
1,073
Deposits by customers
179,732
3,217
3,447
4,690
288
191,374
Deposits by banks
1,454
1,749
573
18,084
21,860
Repurchase agreements – non trading
8,418
8
8,426
Debt securities in issue
6,380
4,908
17,029
12,216
40,533
Subordinated liabilities
27
83
876
2,470
3,456
Lease liabilities
29
70
23
122
Total financial liabilities
181,187
19,991
9,107
41,765
15,700
267,750
Off-balance sheet commitments given
3,795
15,205
1,408
7,399
3,621
31,428
Company
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Financial liabilities
Derivative financial instruments
159
135
387
2,577
3,258
Other financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
10
3
135
556
524
1,228
Deposits by customers
188,933
3,780
4,173
4,089
910
201,885
Deposits by banks
6,880
1,561
7,618
4,459
20,518
Repurchase agreements – non trading
7,894
762
8,656
Debt securities in issue
5,865
1,535
25,575
3,548
36,523
Subordinated liabilities
27
628
332
1,895
2,882
Lease liabilities
27
56
12
95
Total financial liabilities
195,823
19,289
15,013
35,454
9,466
275,045
Off-balance sheet commitments given
8,730
19,104
916
8,837
3,246
40,833
2023
Financial liabilities
Derivative financial instruments
23
175
58
555
1,558
2,369
Other financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
8
7
538
520
1,073
Deposits by customers
195,901
3,479
3,440
4,288
1,060
208,168
Deposits by banks
1,395
1,824
742
24,114
28,075
Repurchase agreements – non trading
8,418
8
8,426
Debt securities in issue
6,354
4,801
16,078
9,630
36,863
Subordinated liabilities
27
83
875
2,470
3,455
Lease liabilities
28
67
17
112
Total financial liabilities
197,319
20,285
9,167
46,515
15,255
288,541
Off-balance sheet commitments given
8,271
15,214
1,408
7,945
3,620
36,458
As the above table is based on contractual maturities, no account is taken of call features related to subordinated liabilities. In addition, the repayment terms of debt
securities may be accelerated in line with relevant covenants. Further, no account is taken of the possible early repayment of Santander UK’s mortgage-backed non-
recourse finance which is redeemed by Santander UK as funds become available from redemptions of the residential mortgages. Santander UK has no control over
the timing and amount of redemptions of residential mortgages.
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39. OFFSETTING FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
The following table shows the impact of netting arrangements on:
All financial assets and liabilities that are reported net on the balance sheet
All derivative financial instruments and repurchase agreements and other similar secured lending and borrowing agreements that are subject to enforceable
master netting arrangements or similar agreements, but do not qualify for balance sheet netting.
The table identifies the amounts that have been offset in the balance sheet and those amounts that are covered by enforceable netting arrangements (offsetting
arrangements and financial collateral) but do not qualify for netting under the requirements described above.
For derivative contracts, the ‘Financial instruments’ column identifies financial assets and liabilities that are subject to set off under netting agreements, such as
the ISDA Master Agreement or derivative exchange or clearing counterparty agreements, whereby all outstanding transactions with the same counterparty can
be offset and close-out netting applied across all outstanding transactions covered by the agreements if an event of default or other predetermined events occur.
Financial collateral refers to cash and non-cash collateral obtained, typically daily or weekly, to cover the net exposure between counterparties by enabling the
collateral to be realised in an event of default or if other predetermined events occur. For repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements and other similar secured
lending and borrowing, the ‘Financial instruments’ column identifies financial assets and liabilities that are subject to set off under netting agreements, such as
global master repurchase agreements and global master securities lending agreements, whereby all outstanding transactions with the same counterparty can
be offset and close-out netting applied across all outstanding transactions covered by the agreements if an event of default or other predetermined events occur.
Financial collateral typically comprises highly liquid securities which are legally transferred and can be liquidated if a counterparty defaults.
Santander UK engages in a variety of counterparty credit mitigation strategies in addition to netting and collateral arrangements. Therefore, the net amounts
presented in the tables below do not represent Santander UK’s total credit exposure.
Group
Amounts subject to enforceable netting arrangements
Assets not
subject to
enforceable
netting
arrangements(2)
Effects of offsetting on balance sheet
Related amounts not offset
Gross
amounts
Amounts
offset
Net amounts
on balance
sheet
Financial
instruments
Financial
collateral (1)
Net
amount
Balance
sheet
total (3)
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Assets
Derivative financial assets
2,799
(1,643)
1,156
(407)
(711)
38
48
1,204
Reverse repurchase, securities borrowing & similar
agreements:
Amortised cost
16,175
(5,837)
10,338
(63)
(10,275)
10,338
Loans and advances to customers and banks⁽⁴⁾
5,421
(635)
4,786
4,786
195,654
200,440
24,395
(8,115)
16,280
(470)
(10,986)
4,824
195,702
211,982
Liabilities
Derivative financial liabilities
2,325
(1,643)
682
(407)
(127)
148
20
702
Repurchase, securities lending & similar agreements:
Amortised cost
14,454
(5,837)
8,617
(63)
(8,554)
8,617
Deposits by customers and banks⁽⁴⁾
635
(635)
194,960
194,960
17,414
(8,115)
9,299
(470)
(8,681)
148
194,980
204,279
2023
Assets
Derivative financial assets
3,429
(2,047)
1,382
(471)
(823)
88
50
1,432
Reverse repurchase, securities borrowing & similar
agreements:
Amortised cost
15,625
(3,157)
12,468
(118)
(12,350)
12,468
Loans and advances to customers and banks⁽⁴⁾
5,363
(790)
4,573
4,573
203,942
208,515
24,417
(5,994)
18,423
(589)
(13,173)
4,661
203,992
222,415
Liabilities
Derivative financial liabilities
2,838
(2,047)
791
(471)
(161)
159
27
818
Repurchase, securities lending & similar agreements:
Amortised cost
11,568
(3,157)
8,411
(118)
(8,293)
8,411
Deposits by customers and banks⁽⁴⁾
4,218
(790)
3,428
3,428
207,754
211,182
18,624
(5,994)
12,630
(589)
(8,454)
3,587
207,781
220,411
(1) Financial collateral is reflected at its fair value but has been limited to the net balance sheet exposure so as not to include any over-collateralisation.
(2) This column includes contractual rights of set-off that are subject to uncertainty under the laws of the relevant jurisdiction.
(3) The balance sheet total is the sum of ‘Net amounts reported on the balance sheet’ that are subject to enforceable netting arrangements and ‘Amounts not subject to enforceable netting arrangements’.
(4) The amounts offset within loans and advances to customers/banks or deposits by customers/banks relate to offset mortgages which are classified as either and that are subject to netting.
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Company
Amounts subject to enforceable netting arrangements
Assets not
subject to
enforceable
netting
arrangements(2)
Effects of offsetting on balance sheet
Related amounts not offset
Gross
amounts
Amounts
offset
Net amounts
on balance
sheet
Financial
instruments
Financial
collateral (1)
Net
amount
Balance
sheet
total (3)
2024
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
£m
Assets
Derivative financial assets
3,078
(1,643)
1,435
(686)
(711)
38
47
1,482
Reverse repurchase, securities borrowing & similar
agreements:
Amortised cost
16,175
(5,837)
10,338
(63)
(10,275)
10,338
Loans and advances to customers and banks (4)
5,421
(635)
4,786
4,786
213,920
218,706
24,674
(8,115)
16,559
(749)
(10,986)
4,824
213,967
230,526
Liabilities
Derivative financial liabilities
4,230
(1,643)
2,587
(686)
(127)
1,774
20
2,607
Repurchase, securities lending & similar agreements:
Amortised cost
14,454
(5,837)
8,617
(63)
(8,554)
8,617
Deposits by customers and banks (4)
635
(635)
220,736
220,736
19,319
(8,115)
11,204
(749)
(8,681)
1,774
220,756
231,960
2023
Assets
Derivative financial assets
3,695
(2,047)
1,648
(734)
(823)
91
47
1,695
Reverse repurchase, securities borrowing & similar
agreements:
Amortised cost
15,625
(3,157)
12,468
(118)
(12,350)
12,468
Loans and advances to customers and banks(4)
26,986
(790)
26,196
26,196
198,367
224,563
46,306
(5,994)
40,312
(852)
(13,173)
26,287
198,414
238,726
Liabilities
Derivative financial liabilities
3,994
(2,047)
1,947
(734)
(161)
1,052
27
1,974
Repurchase, securities lending & similar agreements:
Amortised cost
11,568
(3,157)
8,411
(118)
(8,293)
8,411
Deposits by customers and banks (4)
31,262
(790)
30,472
30,472
202,743
233,215
46,824
(5,994)
40,830
(852)
(8,454)
31,524
202,770
243,600
(1) Financial collateral is reflected at its fair value but has been limited to the net balance sheet exposure so as not to include any over-collateralisation.
(2) This column includes contractual rights of set-off that are subject to uncertainty under the laws of the relevant jurisdiction.
(3) The balance sheet total is the sum of ‘Net amounts reported on the balance sheet’ that are subject to enforceable netting arrangements and ‘Amounts not subject to enforceable netting arrangements’.
(4) The amounts offset within loans and advances to customers/banks or deposits by customers/banks relate to offset mortgages which are classified as either and that are subject to netting.
40. ASSETS HELD FOR SALE
Sale of property
Buckingham House, Bletchley, was sold in 2024 with a gain of £1m. The sale of Santander House, Milton Keynes is expected to complete in 2025. As such, the
Santander UK group classified Santander House, which is included in the Corporate Centre segment and carried at the sales price, as held for sale.
At 31 December 2024 and 31 December 2023, assets held for sale comprised:
2024
2023
£m
£m
Assets
Property, plant and equipment
12
13
0
12
13
41. EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE
There have been no significant events between 31 December 2024 and the date of approval of these financial statements which would require a change to or
additional disclosure in the financial statements.
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Shareholder information
In this section
Subsidiaries and related undertakings
Forward-looking statements
Alternative Performance Measures (APMs)
Glossary
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Subsidiaries and related undertakings (audited)
In accordance with Section 409 of the Companies Act 2006, details of the Company’s subsidiaries and related undertakings at 31 December 2024 are set out below.
This section forms an integral part of the financial statements.
Subsidiaries
All subsidiaries are owned 100% and consolidated by Santander UK.
Incorporated and registered in England and Wales:
Registered
office(1)
Direct/Indirect
ownership
Share class through
which ownership is
held
Proportion of
ownership
interest
Name of subsidiary
%
2 & 3 Triton Limited
A
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
A & L CF June (3) Limited (In Liquidation)
E
Indirect
Ordinary £1
A & L CF September (4) Limited (In Liquidation)
E
Indirect
Ordinary £1
Abbey National Nominees Limited
A
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
Abbey National Property Investments
A
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
Alliance & Leicester Personal Finance Limited
A
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
Cater Allen Limited
A
Indirect
Ordinary £1
First National Tricity Finance Limited
A
Indirect
Ordinary £1
Santander Asset Finance (December) Limited
A
Indirect
Ordinary £1
Santander Asset Finance plc
A
Direct
Ordinary £0.10
100
Santander Cards Limited
A
Indirect
Ordinary £1
Santander Cards UK Limited
A
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
Santander Consumer (UK) plc
B
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
Santander Consumer Credit Services Limited
A
Indirect
Ordinary £1
Santander Estates Limited
F
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
Santander Global Consumer Finance Limited
A
Indirect
Ordinary £0.0001
Santander Guarantee Company
A
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
Santander Lending Limited
A
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
Santander Private Banking UK Limited
A
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
Santander UK Operations Limited
A
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
Santander UK (Structured Solutions) Limited
A
Direct
Ordinary £0.01
100
Preference £0.01
100
Santander UK Technology Limited
A
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
The Alliance & Leicester Corporation Limited (In Liquidation)
E
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
Time Retail Finance Limited (In Liquidation)
E
Indirect
Ordinary £1
Ordinary £0.0001
(1) Refer to the key at the end of this section for the registered office address.
Incorporated and registered outside England and Wales:
Registered
office(1)
Share class through
which ownership is
held
Proportion of
ownership
interest
Name of subsidiary
Santander Cards Ireland Limited
H
Indirect
Ordinary €1
100
Ordinary €1.27
100
Santander ISA Managers Limited
G
Direct
Ordinary £1
100
(1) Refer to the key at the end of this section for the registered office address, including the country.
Subsidiaries benefitting from an audit exemption according to section 479A of the Companies Act 2006
Name of subsidiary
Company number
2 & 3 Triton Limited
06024916
Santander Asset Finance (December) Limited
01562865
Santander Estates Limited
02304569
Santander Global Consumer Finance Limited
00048468
Santander UK Operations Limited
04137550
Santander UK Technology Limited
05212726
Santander Private Banking UK Limited
02582000
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Other subsidiary undertakings
All entities are registered in England and Wales except for Motor Securities 2018-1 Designated Activity Company which is registered in Ireland.
The Company and its subsidiaries do not own directly, or indirectly, any of the share capital of any of the entities, however they are consolidated by the Santander
UK group because the substance of the relationship indicates control, as described in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Registered
Registered
Name of entity
office(1)
Name of entity
office(1)
Abbey Covered Bonds (Holdings) Limited
D
Holmes Master Issuer plc
A
Abbey Covered Bonds (LM) Limited
D
Holmes Trustees Limited
A
Abbey Covered Bonds LLP
A
MAC No.1 Limited
A
Fosse (Master Issuer) Holdings Limited
C
Motor 2016-1 Holdings Limited
C
Fosse Funding (No.1) Limited
C
Motor Securities 2018-1 Designated Activity Company (in liquidation)
J
Fosse Master Issuer plc
C
Repton 2023-1 Limited
C
Fosse Trustee (UK) Limited
A
Holmes Funding Limited
A
Holmes Holdings Limited
A
(1) Refer to the key at the end of this section for the registered office address.
Related undertakings
All of these entities, which are registered in England and Wales, are accounted for by the equity method of accounting, with 50% ownership being held.
Registered
office(1)
Direct/
Indirect
ownership
Share class
through
which
ownership
is held
Proportion
of
ownership
interest
Name of entity
%
Hyundai Capital UK Limited
I
Indirect
Ordinary £1
Volvo Car Financial Services UK Limited
K
Indirect
Ordinary £1
(1) Refer to the key at the end of this section for the registered office address.
Overseas branches
The Company has no overseas branches.
Key of registered office addresses
A
2 Triton Square, Regent’s Place, London NW1 3AN
B
Santander House, 86 Station Road, Redhill RH1 1SR
C
1 Bartholomew Lane, London EC2V 2AX
D
Wilmington Trust SP Services (London) Limited, 1 Kings Arms Yard, London EC2R 7AF
E
Griffins Tavistock House North, Tavistock Square, London, WC1H 9HR
F
Carlton Park, Narborough, Leicester LE19 0AL
G
287 St. Vincent Street, Glasgow, Scotland G2 5NB
H
3 Dublin Landings, North Wall Quay, Dublin 1, Ireland
I
London Court, 39 London Road, Reigate RH2 9AQ
J
Trinity House, Charleston Road, Ranelagh, Dublin 6, Dublin, Ireland
K
Scandinavia House, Norreys Drive, Maidenhead, Berkshire SL6 4FL
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Forward-looking statements
The Company and its subsidiaries (together Santander UK) may from time to time make written or oral forward-looking statements. The Company makes written
forward-looking statements in this Annual Report and may also make forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the SEC on Forms 20-F and 6-K, in its
offering circulars and prospectuses, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties.
Examples of such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to:
projections or expectations of revenues, costs, profit or (loss), earnings or (loss) per share, dividends, capital structure or other financial items or ratios
statements of plans, objectives or goals of Santander UK or its management, including those related to products or services
statements of future economic performance, and
statements of assumptions underlying such statements
Words such as ‘believes’, ‘anticipates’, ‘expects’, ‘intends’, ‘aims’, ‘plans’, ‘targets’ and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, but
are not the exclusive means of identifying such statements.
By their very nature, forward-looking statements are not statements of historical or current facts; they cannot be objectively verified, are speculative and involve
inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that the predictions, forecasts, projections and other forward-looking statements will not
be achieved. Santander UK cautions readers that a number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the plans, objectives,
expectations, estimates and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements made by Santander UK or on its behalf. Some of these factors, which could
affect Santander UK’s business, financial condition and/or results of operations, are considered in detail in the Risk review, and include:
the effects of geopolitical tensions, regional conflicts and wars
the effects of UK economic conditions and disruptions in the global economy and global financial markets
the effects of the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union
the effects of climate change
the effects of competition from other financial institutions, including new entrants into the financial services sector
Santander UK’s ability to maintain its competitive position depending, in part, on competition from new entrants and other financial institutions in the sector, the
success of new products and services Santander UK offers its customers and its ability to continue offering products and services from third parties
the extent to which Santander UK’s loan portfolio is subject to risk of prepayment
the risk of damage to Santander UK's reputation
the risk that Santander UK is unable to manage the growth of its operations
the extent to which regulatory capital, liquidity and leverage requirements, and any changes to these requirements may affect Santander UK
liquidity constraints and Santander UK’s ability to access funding on acceptable financial terms
the effects of an adverse movement in external credit ratings assigned to Santander UK or any of its debt securities
the effects of any changes in the pension liabilities and obligations of Santander UK
the effects of fluctuations in interest rates and other market risks
the extent to which Santander UK may be required to record negative changes in positions recorded at fair value for its financial assets due to changes in market
conditions
Santander UK’s ability to control the level of non-performing or poor credit quality loans and whether Santander UK’s loan loss reserves are sufficient to cover
loan losses
the risk that the value of the collateral, including real estate, securing Santander UK’s loans may not be sufficient and that Santander UK may be unable to realise
the full value of the collateral securing its loan portfolio
the effects of the financial services laws, regulations, government oversight, administrative actions and policies and any changes thereto in each location or
market in which Santander UK operates
the risk that Santander UK may become subject to the provisions of the Banking Act 2009, including the bail-in and write-down powers thereunder
the effects of any failure to comply with laws and regulations relating to anti-money laundering, anti-terrorism, anti-bribery and corruption, sanctions and
preventing the facilitation of tax evasion, or the risk of any failure to prevent, detect or deter any illegal or improper activities
the effects of taxation (and any changes to tax) in each location in which Santander UK operates
Santander UK’s exposure to any risk of loss and damage from civil litigation and/or criminal legal and regulatory proceedings
the risk of failing to successfully apply or to improve Santander UK’s credit risk management systems
the risk that Santander UK’s data management policies and procedures are not sufficiently robust
the effect of cybersecurity on Santander UK’s business
the risks related to the developing fields of artificial intelligence and machine learning
the risks arising from any non-compliance with Santander UK’s regulations, policies, from any employee misconduct, human error, negligence and deliberate acts
of harm or dishonesty, including fraud
the risk of failing to effectively manage changes in Santander UK’s information technology infrastructure and management information systems in a timely
manner
Santander UK’s exposure to unidentified or unanticipated risks despite its risk management policies, procedures and methods and Santander UK’s exposure to
risks related to errors in its risk modelling
the risks arising from Santander UK’s reliance on third parties for important infrastructure support, products and services
the ability of Santander UK to recruit, retain and develop appropriate senior management and skilled personnel
the effects of any inaccuracy within the judgements and accounting estimates which underpin aspects of the financial statements, and the consequent risk of any
material misstatement of Santander UK’s financial results
the effect of any change in accounting standards
Please refer to our latest filings with the SEC (including, without limitation, the Risk Factors section in this Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31
December 2024) for a discussion of certain risk factors and forward-looking statements. Undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements when
making decisions with respect to any Santander UK member and/or its securities. Investors and others should take into account the inherent risks and uncertainties
of forward-looking statements and should carefully consider the foregoing non-exhaustive list of important factors. Forward-looking statements speak only as of
the date on which they are made and are based on the knowledge, information available and views taken on the date on which they are made; such knowledge,
information and views may change at any time. Santander UK does not undertake any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a
result of new information, future events or otherwise.
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Alternative Performance Measures (APMs)
In addition to the financial information prepared under IFRS, this Annual Report contains non-IFRS financial measures that constitute APMs, as defined in European
Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA) guidelines. The financial measures contained in this Annual Report that qualify as APMs have been calculated using the
financial information of the Santander UK group but are not defined or detailed in the applicable financial information framework or under IFRS.
A description of the Santander UK group’s APMs and their calculation, is set out below.
APM
Description and calculation
Non-interest income
Net fee and commission income plus other operating income.
Stage 1 ratio
Sum of Stage 1 drawn assets divided by the sum of total drawn assets.
Stage 2 ratio
Sum of Stage 2 drawn assets divided by the sum of total drawn assets.
Stage 3 ratio
Sum of Stage 3 drawn and undrawn assets divided by the sum of total drawn assets and Stage 3 undrawn assets.
Wholesale funding
Deposits by customers reported in Corporate Centre, debt securities in issue, subordinated debt, AT1 issuance and Central Bank
facilities, TFSME and indexed-long term repos used for funding.
Glossary
Our glossary of industry and other main terms is available on our website: santander.co.uk/uk/about-santander-uk/investor-relations-glossary.