European Central Bank Vice-President Luis de Guindos reflected on market dynamics when asked about BBVA’s public acquisition offer for Sabadell, which the Spanish government has conditioned to prevent a merger of the two entities for three years, with a possible extension to five.
The former Economy Minister refrained from commenting specifically on this transaction, which competition authorities and the ECB have deemed solvent.
De Guindos emphasized the European Union’s broad support for capital market integration, insisting that capital flows must remain unimpeded.
“Beyond a specific case, it is essential to assess whether such interventions clash with the message being promoted and consider potential investor reactions,” stated Guindos.
He further noted that “if the discourse on capital market integration does not align with specific actions, credibility is impacted.”
De Guindos spoke at a summer course organized by the Association of Economic Information Journalists (APIE) at the Menéndez Pelayo International University (UIMP) in Santander. His remarks coincided with the government’s announcement concerning the conditions imposed on BBVA’s offer for Sabadell.
His term ends in May, and De Guindos has already indicated that he has no plans to pursue a political career after stepping down, as he told journalists.
