Banco Santander AGM: Record €14.1B Profit, Bigger Dividend, New 2026-28 Plan Approved

What: Banco Santander reported a record €14.1B profit for 2025.
Why: The bank's improved profitability was driven by strong loan growth and a decrease in bad debt provisions.
Signal: The bank's new 2026-28 plan aims to increase its digital banking presence and expand into new markets.
Target: Santander aims to increase its dividend payout by **50%** to €0.35 per share.
Risk: The bank's increased exposure to emerging markets may pose a risk to its future profitability.