In 2008, Santander became the third largest bank in the world in terms of profits, and the seventh in stock market capitalisation.

In 2008, the Group earned ordinary attributable profit of €8,876 billion, 9% more than in 2007, excluding extraordinary income.

One of the Group’s defining features is its international scope, reflected in the geographical diversification of its businesses. Santander develops its business in three core areas:

- Continental Europe. The main commercial units are: the Santander Network, Banesto in Spain; Santander Totta in Portugal, and Santander Consumer Finance, which is between the leading entities in consumer finance in: Spain, Germany, Italy, and Nordic countries.

- The United Kingdom. Following the acquisition of Alliance & Leicester and Bradford & Bingley's branch network and retail deposits in 2008, Santander has become the third largest bank in the country in terms of deposits.

- Latin America. Santander is the largest financial franchise in the region, and holds a position of leadership in economies with the highest potential, such as Brazil, Mexico, Chile and Argentina.

In 2008, the Santander Group achieved another important milestone with the acquisition of the US bank Sovereign.

The Bank also has divisions that operate on a global scale: Santander Global Banking & Markets, Santander Asset Management, Santander Insurance, Global Private Banking, and Santander Cards.

Business Model

Santander has built its own business model, which is supported by the following pillars: a strong focus on retail banking through the largest international network of in international banking; geographical diversification; prudence in risk management; cutting-edge technology at the service of commercial efficiency; capital discipline; and the best management team.

The aim of this model is to offer the greatest added value to its 90 million customers, 3 million shareholders and 170,961 employees.