At the Euromoney Awards for Excellence 2026 Unicredit confirmed for the second consecutive year best bank in Europea, while in Italy the award goes to Bper, chosen by the jury for its growth path and ability to integrate acquisitions. At a global level, however, the title of best bank in the world was awarded to the Spanish Santander, awarded for its financial results and the technological transformation path undertaken in recent years.
Euromoney Awards 2026: UniCredit Still Tops Europe's Stock Market
The recognition, according to the institute led by Andrea Orcel, confirms "the bank's leadership position in Europe, the excellent financial results achieved in 2025, and its ongoing commitment to creating value for clients and stakeholders in the 14 markets in which it operates."
In addition to the title of Best Bank in Europe, Unicredit has obtained 11 other awards in key European markets, including Best Bank for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Germany and Central and Eastern Europe and Best Retail Bank in Italy. The group also received awards in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Bulgaria, with recognition in the ESG, corporate banking, and investment banking categories.
The jury's opinion was supported above all by the 2025 economic results"2025 was a record year for UniCredit," commented Dominic O'Neil, Europe Editor at Euromoney, noting the achievement of a return on tangible equity of 19,2%, revenues rising to €23,9 billion, a cost-to-income ratio of 38,5%, and a cost of risk that remained at exceptionally low levels. According to Euromoney, the combination of a strong European presence, above-average financial performance, robust capital generation, and a long-term strategic vision has made UniCredit a key player in the transformation and integration of the European banking sector.
“This recognition, obtained for the second consecutive year, is confirmation of the solidity of our pan-European model, of the discipline with which we are implementing our strategy and, above all, of the extraordinary talent and commitment of our people,” declared Orcel"Today we are a leading bank in Europe, able to compete successfully at the highest levels and generate sustainable value for our colleagues, our customers, our communities, and our shareholders. With UniCredit Unlimited, we are ready to take another step forward on our growth path. This award strengthens our confidence that we can continue to innovate, grow, and help define a new standard for the banking industry."
Bper named best Italian bank at the 2026 Euromoney Awards
In Italy the recognition of Italy's Best Bank 2026 is went to BperThe institute led by Gianni Franco Papa was awarded by the Euromoney jury for its growth path, supported by a solid track record in mergers and acquisitions operations (M&A) and the ability to effectively integrate acquired businesses.
Among the factors that contributed to the selection were the investments in technology and innovation envisioned in the medium-term business plan, considered strategic to strengthen the bank's competitiveness and support its growth. The jury also emphasized the institution's commercial momentum, with double-digit growth in new loans to families and businesses.
“Receiving the Italy's Best Bank award is a source of great pride for us,” declared Pope This recognition recognizes the daily work of our people, the trust of our customers, and the validity of a strategy that combines growth, innovation, and proximity to local communities. We will continue to invest in the development of our bank with the aim of offering increasingly effective solutions and supporting the growth of families, businesses, and communities.
