Swedbank and SpareBank 1 to launch Nordic investment bank SB1 Markets

Swedbank and SpareBank 1 are expanding their partnership to establish SB1 Markets, a Nordic investment bank aimed at strengthening financial services across the region. The new venture will enhance Swedbank’s equity research and sales capabilities, deepen sector expertise, and provide a stronger platform to serve corporate clients in Sweden, Norway, and beyond.

Swedbank’s president and CEO, Jens Henriksson, highlighted that the collaboration will broaden opportunities for corporate clients by combining the distribution and expertise of both institutions. Swedbank will hold a 20 percent stake in SB1 Markets, with the remaining ownership controlled by SpareBank 1.

SB1 Markets will employ approximately 240 professionals across Norway, Sweden, and the United States. The Stockholm office will initially have 35 employees from Swedbank’s Corporate Finance and Debt Capital Markets (DCM) High Yield teams, with plans to expand equity research capabilities over time. Bo Bengtsson, head of Corporates and Institutions at Swedbank, noted that clients will benefit from enhanced cross-border services, expanded research, and greater market access through the banks’ networks and the Savings Banks alliances.

Stein Husby, CEO of SpareBank 1 Markets, described the agreement as a key milestone in strengthening the banks’ presence in the Nordic investment sector. The combined expertise will create a competitive financial institution positioned to serve a broader client base with specialized investment banking services.

The Swedish Financial Supervisory Authority (FSA) has been informed, and the transaction remains subject to approval from the Norwegian FSA. The partnership is expected to be fully operational by 1 January 2026.

Photo: Swedbank’s president and CEO, Jens Henriksson