Top five banks took €2.5bn-plus in fees
Portugal’s five largest banks — Caixa Geral de Depósitos, BCP, Santander Totta, BPI and Novo Banco — generated combined profits of €5.2 billion in 2025, up 5.9% on 2024, with fee income contributing more than €2.5 billion. The results were supported by financial-margin gains, extraordinary items and record performances at several lenders. Account-holders should check their fees and compare services as banks continue to rely on commissions for revenue.
Caixa Geral de Depósitos is Portugal’s largest state-owned bank and a major retail and corporate lender. In 2025 it posted a 10% profit increase — helped by selling its stake in Águas de Portugal — and will pay a €1.25 billion dividend to the State, which can affect public finances and confidence in the banking sector.
