John Ciulla, Chairman and CEO of Webster, said: “This is an exciting moment that will allow us to soon bring together our two great organizations to benefit our customers and communities. Santander’s expanded scale, enhanced capabilities and financial strength will help us to deepen local relationships and build upon the trusted partnership that Webster customers have come to expect from us.”
The transaction is expected to strengthen Santander’s U.S. franchise and accelerate the delivery of its financial objectives. Once integrated, Santander expects its U.S. business to achieve a return on tangible equity (RoTE) of around 18% by 2028, while the transaction is expected to generate approximately 7–8% earnings per share accretion and an estimated 15% return on invested capital, all by 2028.
Upon closing, most Webster’s businesses will become part of Santander Bank, N.A., Santander’s banking franchise in the United States. Until the transaction closes, Santander and Webster will continue to operate independently. Customers do not need to take any action at this time, and accounts, products, and services will continue to operate as they do today. Any future changes will be communicated in advance of implementation.