Sabadell CEO Warns of Clamor Against BBVA's Takeover Bid Over Monopolistic Conditions and SME Credit Concerns

César González-Bueno, CEO of Banco Sabadell, has expressed significant concerns regarding BBVA's takeover bid, emphasizing that there is a 'clamor' against the operation due to its potential negative impact on credit availability for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He warned that leaving the market to 'free will' could lead to monopolistic conditions. The situation has prompted the Confederación de Consumidores y Usuarios (CECU) to call on the Comisión Nacional de los Mercados y la Competencia (CNMC) to assess the risks associated with the merger. Additionally, Ibercaja has noted 'unease' among businesses regarding BBVA's bid for Sabadell. In response, both banks are reportedly engaging with business leaders to sway opinions ahead of the CNMC's analysis of the merger, while the Alicante Chamber of Commerce has also decided to participate in the proceedings concerning the takeover.