The president of BBVA, Carlos Torres Villa, has expressed optimism about the bank’s profitability in 2025, projecting levels comparable to those anticipated for 2024, despite challenges such as interest rate cuts and geopolitical tensions. In a recent employee conversation, he highlighted strong credit growth in Spain and Mexico, alongside improving conditions in Turkey and Argentina. A key focus remains BBVA’s contentious bid to acquire Banco Sabadell, which faces meaningful opposition, especially in Catalonia. Torres reiterated the benefits of the merger for all stakeholders, emphasizing the need for larger, more robust European banks to compete globally. As BBVA prepares for future growth, it aims to navigate a complex economic landscape while addressing regulatory concerns regarding the Sabadell acquisition.
Q&A with Carlos Torres Villa: Optimism and Strategy at BBVA for 2025
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Carlos. You recently shared your positive outlook for BBVA’s profitability in 2025,even amidst potential challenges like interest rate cuts and geopolitical tensions. What gives you this confidence?
Carlos Torres Villa: Thank you for having me. My optimism stems from our robust credit growth in key markets, particularly in Spain and Mexico. We have seen demand for loans increase, which bodes well for our profitability. Moreover, improving economic conditions in countries like Turkey and Argentina also contribute to our positive outlook.
Time.news Editor: It’s great to hear about the growth in those regions. How do you plan to address the challenges presented by interest rate cuts and geopolitical tensions?
Carlos Torres Villa: While we cannot ignore the potential impacts of interest rate cuts and global uncertainties, we are focused on maintaining a diversified portfolio and strengthening our core operations. Our strategy involves enhancing customer relationships and expanding our digital offerings to ensure we are well-positioned to adapt to changing conditions.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of strategic moves, the bid to acquire Banco Sabadell has drawn some opposition, particularly in Catalonia. Can you elaborate on the benefits you see from this merger?
Carlos Torres Villa: The merger with Banco Sabadell is crucial for the future of BBVA and the broader European banking landscape. A stronger, larger entity will allow us to compete more effectively on a global scale, providing better services and financial products to our customers. We believe all stakeholders stand to benefit from this merger, even though it is indeed essential we engage with and address the concerns raised by the communities involved.
Time.news Editor: That’s an important consideration. What steps is BBVA taking to navigate regulatory challenges related to the Sabadell acquisition?
Carlos Torres Villa: We are maintaining open communication with regulatory bodies to ensure compliance and address any concerns effectively. Openness and stakeholder engagement are key. We want to demonstrate how this merger can enhance competition and innovation in the banking sector,ultimately benefiting consumers and businesses alike.
Time.news Editor: With the financial landscape continually evolving, what advice woudl you offer to consumers and small businesses navigating this habitat?
Carlos Torres Villa: I would encourage consumers and small businesses to stay informed about their financial institutions and the services they offer. Understanding the implications of interest rates and economic conditions can definitely help in making informed financial decisions. Additionally,leveraging digital banking solutions can provide greater versatility and convenience in managing finances.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insights, Carlos. As we look ahead to 2025, what are your main priorities for BBVA?
Carlos Torres Villa: Our primary focus will be on sustainable growth, customer-centric innovation, and responsible banking practices. We also aim to further our commitment to digital transformation, enabling us to provide enhanced services while addressing the evolving needs of our clients across different markets.
Time.news Editor: It sounds like BBVA is poised for an exciting few years ahead. Thank you for sharing your vision with us, Carlos.
Carlos Torres Villa: Thank you for having me. I look forward to what the future holds for BBVA and the banking industry as a whole.