From Yahoo Finance: 2025-06-16 08:41:00

Metro Bank shares surge to two-year high after private equity firm, Pollen Street Capital, approaches for takeover. Speculation arises of potential merger with Shawbrook. Uncertainty looms for customers and staff amidst cost-cutting measures and previous job losses. Share price soars by 15% to 130p, sparking mixed reactions.

Potential takeover and merger could impact Metro Bank’s 3,000 employees, following previous cost-cutting measures resulting in 1,000 job losses. Concerns arise about service quality for three million customers, notably in branches with reduced hours. Shareholders may benefit from sale, but details of offer remain undisclosed.

Metro Bank’s history dates back to its launch in 2010 by US billionaire Vernon Hill, offering unique services like dog-friendly branches. However, the bank faced struggles, including a near-collapse in 2023, leading to a rescue deal. Share price plummeted due to accounting errors and regulatory challenges, leading to current uncertainty.

Colombian billionaire Jaime Gilinski Bacal now holds majority stake in Metro Bank after £925m rescue deal in 2023. Previous setbacks and challenges have reshaped the bank’s ownership structure. Metro Bank, Pollen Capital, and Shawbrook have refrained from commenting on current speculations and potential merger.

Read more: Metro Bank shares surge on talk of private equity takeover