Catalonia third largest bank to MOVE to Valencia in independence referendum backlash

Catalonia-based CaixaBank confirmed in a statement it had taken the decision “in light of the current political and social situation in Catalonia.”

Catalan leaders have indicated they could declare a split from Spain as early as Monday. 

The bank currently has its registered offices in Barcelona, Catalonia’s biggest city.  

The Financial Times has reported people close to CaixaBank as saying executives were concerned independence would lead to a “crackdown by the Spanish government, destabilising the region and its capital, Barcelona”.

The FT reports that the bank would likely keep its headquarters in the Catalan capital, but move its legally registered offices “to protect the interest of depositors”. 

The bank has more than 6,600 branches across Spain, and serves 13.2million customers. 

More to follow…