Spanish firms expand global footprint through major acquisitions

Major Spanish corporations are pursuing significant international expansions. Banco Santander is set to finalize its $12.2 billion acquisition of Webster Financial Corporation on August 20, 2026. This move, which has received regulatory approval in both the United States and Europe, will position Santander among the ten largest retail and commercial banks in the U.S. The deal involves a mix of cash and shares, aiming to increase Santander's scale and reduce its dependence on other markets.

In the food sector, Dcoop is coordinating the acquisition of a 57% stake in Deoleo from CVC Capital Partners. If completed in September, the deal would create a Spanish olive oil giant with annual revenues exceeding €2.2 billion and a domestic market share of nearly 15%. To comply with competition regulations in the United States, Dcoop may need to divest Italian brands Bertolli and Carapelli. This acquisition comes as the olive oil market stabilizes following recent price volatility.