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·17d

UK Government Sells Final Shares in NatWest, Marking End of 17-Year State Ownership

The UK government has sold its last shares in NatWest, concluding a significant chapter in British banking history since the 2008 financial crisis bailout.


Overview

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The UK government has completed the sale of its remaining shares in NatWest Group, ending 17 years of state ownership following a £45 billion bailout during the 2008 financial crisis. The sale, which resulted in a £10 billion loss to taxpayers, symbolizes a return to full private ownership for the bank, formerly known as Royal Bank of Scotland. Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized the importance of the bailout in protecting the economy and savers. The government has now exited all banks it aided during the crisis, raising questions about the current stability of the banking sector.

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Analysis

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The article discusses the UK government selling its last shares in NatWest after a £45bn bailout.

It highlights the mixed feelings about taxpayer losses versus the necessity of preventing a financial crisis.

The tone remains neutral, focusing on the significance of ending state ownership in the bank.

Articles (3)

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LeftCenterRight
The Guardian
Associated Press
BBC News
Government sells final shares in NatWest 17 years after £45bn bailout
The GuardianThe Guardian·17d·
Leans Left
This outlet slightly leans left.

"…The full privatisation of NatWest is a symbolic moment for the banking group – formerly known as Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) – and draws a line under the most tumultuous chapter in its near 300-year history."

Treasury sells final NatWest shares 17 years after bailout
BBC NewsBBC News·17d·
Center
This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.

"…The sale of the final shares marks a symbolic end to a dramatic chapter in British banking history."

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