Lloyds Banking Group is finally reaping the rewards of its transformation over the past five years as the lender reported a near doubling of pre-tax profits over the third quarter to £2.3bn.
Morningstar DBRS has said the Chancellor’s decision to double the bank surcharge to 6% will be “manageable” for the sector, though UK-focused lenders will feel the greatest impact.
Sandy Begbie has blasted Chancellor John Healey over the temporary increase in the bank surcharge announced in his maiden Budget, warning it prioritised short-term politics over the UK’s long-term economic health.