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Sunday, Feb 22, 2026

Montepaschi's Financial Resurgence: Navigating New Autonomy in Dividend Distribution

Monte dei Paschi di Siena gains ECB approval for unrestricted dividend distribution, signaling a robust return to financial strength.
In a significant affirmation of its restored financial health, Monte dei Paschi di Siena (MPS) has been granted the autonomy to distribute dividends without prior authorization from the European Central Bank (ECB).

This development marks a pivotal moment for the institution, heralding its recovery following a precautionary recapitalization in 2017.

CEO Luigi Lovaglio conveyed optimism as MPS projects a dividend distribution exceeding one billion euros for the 2024 fiscal year, bolstered by an increased payout ratio of 75%.

The ECB's decision reflects positively on MPS’s financial metrics, which as of September 30, show a Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio of 18.4%, significantly surpassing the required 8.78%.

The Total Capital ratio stands at 21.7% against a threshold of 13.37%, indicating a formidable capital buffer.

This is not an isolated endorsement from the ECB.

Several financial stalwarts including Intesa Sanpaolo, UniCredit, Banco BPM, and Banca Popolare di Sondrio, were similarly commended for maintaining capital ratios well above regulatory minimums.

The Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process (SREP) ratings underscore the resilience of Europe’s banking infrastructure amidst economic uncertainties.

For Intesa Sanpaolo, the ECB has set a minimum CET1 ratio requirement of 9.89% from January 2025, with adjustments in countercyclical capital reserves.

UniCredit maintains a Pillar 2 Capital Requirement of 200 basis points, with future capital requisites outlined as 10.27% CET1, 12.14% Tier 1, and 14.64% Total Capital ratios.

Banco BPM and Banca Popolare di Sondrio also exceeded regulatory benchmarks, showcasing strategic financial stewardship amid evolving regulatory landscapes.

Commerzbank of Germany received a similarly positive assessment, reflecting the broader resilience within Europe's banking sector.

This collective affirmation by the ECB not only underpins the robustness of Italian and European financial institutions but also signals confidence in their capacity to support a sustainable economic framework.

For MPS and its counterparts, the removal of dividend distribution constraints points to a promising trajectory whereby prudent governance and strategic foresight harmonize for enhanced shareholder value and long-term stability.
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