Metro Bank opens formal review that includes possible sale

Metro Bank has begun a formal strategic review that includes a possible sale, inviting interested parties to contact adviser Morgan Stanley while saying it is not in active discussions with potential buyers.

The UK lender said its board unanimously believes assessing interest in the bank alongside its standalone plan could maximise value-creation opportunities for shareholders and benefit other stakeholders. The process does not guarantee a sale. Metro Bank said it would continue with its existing strategy and guidance if no transaction results.

The bank, which has 78 branches across the UK, said the review is intended to identify options for its next phase of growth after a multiyear transformation. It has shifted its focus away from mainstream lending towards underserved markets, including corporate and specialist lending, and has reduced costs. Reports on the transformation said the bank cut more than 1,000 roles and ended seven-day branch opening hours.

Metro Bank reported pretax profit of £61 million for the six months to June 30, up 41% from a year earlier. Its annual results showed an £87.2 million profit in 2025, compared with a £212.1 million loss in 2024. The bank said...