Metro Bank Launches Sale Process After Record Profits

Metro Bank Holdings announced on Thursday that it is putting itself up for sale and launching a strategic review to accelerate its next phase of growth. The London-based lender has hired Morgan Stanley to advise on the process, although the company stated it is not currently in active discussions with any potential buyers.

The decision follows a substantial turnaround since 2023. The bank shifted its focus toward underserved markets, reduced its workforce by over 1,000 roles, and cut costs by 7%. As part of these efficiency measures, the lender eliminated its signature seven-day-a-week branch hours.

These efforts resulted in a return to profit in 2025 and the most profitable half-year in the company's history, with pre-tax profits reaching £61 million for the six months ending June 30. The bank is currently majority-owned by Colombian billionaire Jaime Gilinski Bacal, who holds a 53% stake. Metro Bank maintains it will continue executing its standalone strategy if no transaction materializes.