Handelsbanken joins Connect for Intermediaries lending panel

Handelsbanken has joined the lender panel at Connect for Intermediaries, giving advisers access to the bank's relationship-led mortgage offering and its network of locally empowered branches across Great Britain.

The Swedish-founded bank operates a fully decentralised model, with branches running from Truro to Inverness, each embedded within its local economy and authorised to make key banking decisions independently.

That structure means clients deal directly with someone familiar with their individual circumstances and local market conditions, an approach that has driven consistently high customer satisfaction ratings. 

Handelsbanken has also been independently confirmed as Europe's safest commercial bank. Its client base spans individuals and SMEs through to large corporates, giving Connect advisers a broad range of potential placements.

Steve MacDonald, national head of intermediary business at Handelsbanken (pictured), said: "We're absolutely delighted to be on the panel with Connect for Intermediaries.

"We believe we have something different to offer clients who are looking for more thoughtful underwriting and big-picture thinking, all delivered with a truly bespoke service."

For Connect, the addition strengthens the specialist end of its intermediary lending panel. Jane Benjamin, director of mortgages at Connect for Intermediaries, said the bank's philosophy aligned closely with the expectations of the network's adviser base. 

"We are pleased to welcome Handelsbanken to our lender panel. Their relationship-led approach, local decision-making and commitment to understanding individual client needs align well with the values of many of our advisers.

"Adding Handelsbanken further strengthens the breadth of lending solutions available through Connect, giving advisers greater flexibility when supporting clients with more specific requirements and helping them deliver positive customer outcomes."