Santander Clears Final Hurdle for Webster Acquisition

Santander Bank has received final approval from the Federal Reserve to acquire Webster Financial Corporation. This deal will significantly expand Santander's U.S. commercial banking franchise and is expected to close on August 20, 2026.

The acquisition marks a major step in Santander's effort to scale its U.S. banking platform by combining its existing retail and commercial banking operations with Webster's diversified commercial banking franchise. Upon closing, most of Webster Financial's operations will be integrated into Santander Bank, N.A., strengthening Santander's presence in one of its most strategically important international markets.

Webster Bank serves businesses, consumers, and healthcare clients across the Northeastern United States and brings more than $80 billion in total assets to the combined organization. The transaction is expected to accelerate the growth of Santander's U.S. business while enhancing profitability through greater operating scale and broader product capabilities.