---
title: UK banking media reputation tracker – September 2026
canonical_url: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09
type: dataset
publisher: Omniscan
sector: UK Retail Banks
period: September 2026
coverage_start: '2026-09-01'
coverage_end: '2026-09-30'
date_published: '2026-10-04'
last_updated: '2026-10-04'
organisations: 10
articles_analysed: 2063
mentions: 2040
data_download: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09/data.json
summary: Lloyds had the highest average monthly share of coverage (19.3%) among 10
  banks in UK earned media from 1 September 2026 to 30 September 2026, ahead of Nationwide
  (13.8%) and NatWest (13.5%).
---

# UK banking media reputation tracker: September 2026 (1 September 2026–30 September 2026)

> Lloyds had the highest average monthly share of coverage (19.3%) among 10 banks in UK earned media from 1 September 2026 to 30 September 2026, ahead of Nationwide (13.8%) and NatWest (13.5%). Starling had the most favourable net tone (+50). Omniscan analysed 2,063 articles containing 2,040 mentions of the banks tracked.

Interactive version: https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09

## UK Retail Banks ranking by share of coverage, September 2026

| Rank | Organisation | Average monthly share of coverage | Mentions | Positive | Neutral | Negative | Net tone |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| 1 | Lloyds | 19.3% | 393 | 28% | 39% | 33% | −6 |
| 2 | Nationwide | 13.8% | 282 | 44% | 39% | 17% | +27 |
| 3 | NatWest | 13.5% | 275 | 46% | 31% | 23% | +23 |
| 4 | Barclays | 13.1% | 267 | 44% | 26% | 30% | +14 |
| 5 | Santander UK | 11.2% | 229 | 35% | 29% | 36% | −1 |
| 5 | Revolut | 11.2% | 228 | 40% | 30% | 30% | +10 |
| 7 | HSBC UK | 9.0% | 184 | 42% | 29% | 29% | +13 |
| 8 | Monzo | 6.7% | 137 | 50% | 47% | 3% | +47 |
| 9 | Starling | 1.1% | 22 | 59% | 32% | 9% | +50 |
| 9 | Chase UK | 1.1% | 23 | 52% | 44% | 4% | +48 |

## Banks in detail

### Lloyds

**Lloyds leads as mortgages and digital overhaul shape September**

Lloyds ranked 1st of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (19.3%) in the UK Retail Banks benchmark for September 2026, with 393 mentions and a net tone of −6.

Lloyds ranked first in September with 393 mentions and a 19.3% share of tracked-company mentions. Mortgages and lending was the largest subject area with 100 mentions, followed by branches, access to cash and customer service with 65, digital banking with 60, and financial performance with 36. Mortgage coverage included Reuters reporting that Lloyds’ house-price index recorded a 0.4% annual fall in August, while Jewish News covered the bank’s rejection of a mortgage application from the mother of a jailed Palestine Action activist and its explanation of its lending criteria. The service agenda centred on plans to close 26 Lloyds and Halifax branches in October and to retire Halifax digital banking services before moving customers to the Lloyds Bank platform. The Financial Times examined the bank’s half-year profit growth, capital returns, Accelerate 2030 strategy and its chief financial officer’s £10.2 million share sale. Other developments included Lloyds’ figures on romance scams, reports that it was a potential bidder for Aldermore, and its new England Rugby sponsorship.

Key messages:

- Lloyds accounted for 19.3% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #1 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Mortgages & Lending and Branches, Access to Cash & Customer Service.
- 393 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- UK house prices fall for first time since November 2023, Lloyds data shows — reuters.com

Leading themes:

- Mortgages & Lending: 25.4% of Lloyds's coverage (theme index 1.02, net tone −40)
- Branches, Access to Cash & Customer Service: 16.5% of Lloyds's coverage (theme index 2.37, net tone −68)
- Digital, Apps & Open Banking: 15.3% of Lloyds's coverage (theme index 0.95, net tone +57)

Notable positive coverage:

- 4 September 2026, ft.com: [Directors’ Deals: Lloyds’ CFO banks £10mn through share sales](https://www.ft.com/content/5fa0b726-e45a-4dbd-86e6-397fdec9d5ca). Lloyds Banking Group's shares have risen strongly, supported by higher rates, capital returns and structural hedges. The article reviews its half-year profit growth, buyback, dividend increase, Accelerate 2030 strategy and the CFO's £10.2m share sale.
- 4 September 2026, investorschronicle.co.uk: [Lloyds Banking & Wizz Air: Big director share deals](https://www.investorschronicle.co.uk/content/9ab7725e-9625-4fe1-bc23-8ce3e1e017b6). Lloyds' shares have risen strongly, following half-year results that included a £1 billion buyback, a higher interim dividend and increased pre-tax profit. Its Accelerate 2030 plan targets £2 billion of gross cost savings and 20% return on tangible equity by 2030.
- 9 September 2026, cityam.com: [England Rugby in first ever back-of-shirt deal with £5m a year Lloyds signing](https://www.cityam.com/england-rugby-in-first-ever-back-of-shirt-deal-with-5m-a-year-lloyds-signing/). Lloyds has agreed a multi-year sponsorship to become England Rugby's first back-of-shirt partner, reportedly worth £5 million annually. The agreement includes brand visibility and community activation rights.

Notable negative coverage:

- 5 September 2026, express.co.uk: [Lloyds to pay £829 compensation to customers](https://www.express.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/2245546/lloyds-pay-compensation-customers). Lloyds Banking Group has dropped plans to challenge the FCA's proposed motor-finance compensation scheme concerning discretionary commission arrangements. The scheme remains subject to legal proceedings, with potential payments expected from 2027 if upheld.
- 29 September 2026, aol.co.uk: [Halifax and Lloyds to close 8 branches next week - full list](https://www.aol.co.uk/articles/halifax-lloyds-close-8-branches-115600000.html). Lloyds Bank and Halifax will close eight branches the following week, as part of 26 closures planned during October. Lloyds Banking Group said changing customer use of digital services had driven changes to its branch network.
- 25 September 2026, uk.finance.yahoo.com: [Romance scam reports have jumped with a surge in Gen Z victims - Lloyds figures](https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/romance-scam-reports-jumped-surge-230100047.html). Lloyds Banking Group reported a 24% annual rise in romance-scam reports, with particularly sharp increases among younger customers. Older victims accounted for most losses, with those aged 75 to 84 losing £9,051 on average.

- [Lloyds deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09?entity=lloyds&view=deep-dive)
- [Lloyds PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09/reports/lloyds.pdf)

### Nationwide

**House-price reporting anchors Nationwide’s second-place September profile**

Nationwide ranked 2nd of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (13.8%) in the UK Retail Banks benchmark for September 2026, with 282 mentions and a net tone of +27.

Nationwide’s September house-price reporting showed average UK prices rising 0.2% in August and 1.6% year on year, while activity remained subdued amid economic uncertainty and higher mortgage rates. Nationwide ranked second with 282 mentions and a 13.8% share of tracked-company mentions. Mortgages and lending was the largest subject area with 110 mentions, followed by savings, current accounts and pricing with 59, digital banking with 32, and leadership, strategy and acquisitions with 20. Product coverage included enhanced FlexDirect benefits worth up to £370 in the first year and Virgin Money’s 6.5% fixed regular saver following its integration into Nationwide. Other developments included a partnership with Equifax to give six million customers free in-app access to credit scores and a commitment to keep 696 Nationwide and Virgin Money branches open until at least 2030. City AM reported that Nationwide and Investec were preparing bids for Aldermore, while Mortgage Strategy covered Richard Walker’s appointment to lead intermediary and new-build sales.

Key messages:

- Nationwide accounted for 13.8% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #2 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Mortgages & Lending and Savings, Current Accounts & Pricing.
- 282 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- UK house prices rise by 0.2% in August, Nationwide says — Reuters

Leading themes:

- Mortgages & Lending: 39.0% of Nationwide's coverage (theme index 1.71, net tone −27)
- Savings, Current Accounts & Pricing: 20.9% of Nationwide's coverage (theme index 1.37, net tone +63)
- Digital, Apps & Open Banking: 11.3% of Nationwide's coverage (theme index 0.68, net tone +63)

Notable positive coverage:

- 2 September 2026, gbnews.com: [Virgin Money announces major update for savers after deal with Nationwide Building Society](https://www.gbnews.com/money/virgin-money-savings-nationwide-building-society). Virgin Money has launched a 6.5% fixed Regular Saver Exclusive for eligible current-account customers following its integration into Nationwide. Nationwide says it will retain Virgin Money branches until at least early 2028 while phasing out the brand over six years.
- 9 September 2026, thisismoney.co.uk: [Nationwide doubles annual cashback perk on FlexDirect current account alongside a £175 switching sweetener](https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/saving/article-16117043/Nationwide-doubles-annual-cashback-perk-FlexDirect-current-account-alongside-175-switching-sweetener.html). Nationwide has doubled FlexDirect's annual cashback potential to £120 and offers a £175 switching bonus for qualifying new customers. The account also pays 5% interest on balances up to £1,500 for 12 months.
- 9 September 2026, gbnews.com: [Nationwide boosts current account deal with customers able to pocket £370](https://www.gbnews.com/money/nationwide-account-savings-interest). Nationwide has increased the first-year value of its FlexDirect current account through a £175 switching incentive, doubled cashback and 5% interest on eligible balances. The building society also highlighted its regular saver and Fairer Share member payment.

Notable negative coverage:

- 15 September 2026, liverpoolecho.co.uk: [Nationwide confirms change from Tuesday in 'bad news' for customers](https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/nationwide-confirms-change-tuesday-bad-34617973). Nationwide raised rates by up to 0.3 percentage points across a range of residential mortgage products amid higher swap rates. The article says HSBC UK, Lloyds-owned Halifax, Santander UK and NatWest have also been raising mortgage pricing, increasing pressure on borrowers.
- 30 September 2026, mirror.co.uk: [Urgent new update for Nationwide customers as 'costs rise again'](https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/urgent-new-update-nationwide-virgin-37717000). Nationwide and Virgin Money are increasing selected mortgage rates by up to 0.21%, amid higher swap rates and lender funding costs. Barclays also raised its two- and five-year fixed mortgage rates earlier in the week.
- 16 September 2026, thisismoney.co.uk: [The extra cash Isa allowance you probably won't have ...](https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/saving/article-16133431/Theres-extra-cash-Isa-allowance-you-wont-heard-save-you-thousands-real-time-need-SYLVIA-MORRIS.html). The article explains the additional ISA allowance available to bereaved spouses and compares providers' eligible accounts. It criticises low rates and restrictive terms offered by several large banks and building societies, including Nationwide.

- [Nationwide deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09?entity=nationwide&view=deep-dive)
- [Nationwide PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09/reports/nationwide.pdf)

### NatWest

**NatWest backs UK technology, agriculture and affordable housing**

NatWest ranked 3rd of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (13.5%) in the UK Retail Banks benchmark for September 2026, with 275 mentions and a net tone of +23.

NatWest made its first direct investment in independently managed venture-capital funds, backing Phoenix Court’s financing of UK technology companies and scale-ups. The bank ranked third with 275 mentions, representing 13.5% of tracked-company mentions. Mortgages and lending was the largest subject area with 72 mentions, followed by digital, apps and open banking with 49, and savings, current accounts and pricing with 42. Developments included drought-related support for agricultural customers, an audio-visual spending insights trial and a £246m funding package for Housing Plus Group. Product coverage also encompassed a £500 Premier current-account switching incentive and NatWest Boxed’s role in new Sainsbury’s Money lending and savings products. Other reporting scrutinised incorrect ISA-transfer advice and delayed access to children’s trust savings, with NatWest apologising or providing redress in both cases.

Key messages:

- NatWest accounted for 13.5% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #3 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Mortgages & Lending and Digital, Apps & Open Banking.
- 275 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- NatWest’s first venture-capital fund investment through Phoenix Court — City A.M.

Leading themes:

- Mortgages & Lending: 26.2% of NatWest's coverage (theme index 1.05, net tone −25)
- Digital, Apps & Open Banking: 17.8% of NatWest's coverage (theme index 1.14, net tone +76)
- Savings, Current Accounts & Pricing: 15.3% of NatWest's coverage (theme index 0.94, net tone +36)

Notable positive coverage:

- 2 September 2026, decisionmarketing.co.uk: [NatWest brings in chief to boost £1.2bn tech overhaul](https://www.decisionmarketing.co.uk/top-story/natwest-brings-in-chief-to-boost-1-2bn-tech-overhaul). NatWest has appointed Triona O’Keeffe as chief data and analytics officer to support its £1.2bn technology, data and AI transformation. The bank aims to use connected customer data and AI to improve onboarding and everyday banking experiences.
- 11 September 2026, ffnews.com: [NatWest Taps Former IKEA Omnichannel Chief Harsh Agarwal to Lead Digital Customer Experience](https://ffnews.com/news/press-release-natwest-appoints-former-ikea-executive-to-lead-customer-experience-a0b7f187). NatWest has appointed former IKEA executive Harsh Agarwal as managing director of customer experience and engagement in its Retail Banking division. He will lead work on simpler and more personalised digital journeys, including the NatWest app.
- 11 September 2026, finextra.com: [NatWest hires former Ikea exec to lead customer experience and digital engagement](https://www.finextra.com/newsarticle/48387/natwest-hires-former-ikea-exec-to-lead-customer-experience-and-digital-engagement). NatWest has hired former Ikea executive Harsh to lead customer experience and digital engagement within its UK retail operations. He will focus on simpler, more intuitive app, product and digital customer journeys.

Notable negative coverage:

- 29 September 2026, bbc.com: [Bank cash machines ripped out in Peebles in early morning raid](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cw7702j25gyro). A planned raid used stolen vehicles and a telehandler to remove two ATMs from a Royal Bank of Scotland branch in Peebles. Police are seeking witnesses and reviewing CCTV footage.
- 24 September 2026, mirror.co.uk: [Natwest customers set for £12 hit from October 1](https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/savings-banks/natwest-customers-set-20-per-37698677). NatWest and RBS Reward account holders will lose the £1 monthly app-login reward from 1 October, reducing potential annual rewards by £12. Other account changes include removing foreign transaction fees on Reward debit cards.
- 18 September 2026, thisismoney.co.uk: [Why did NatWest wrongly tell me to cash in my Isa and lose ...](https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/saving/article-16140271/Why-did-NatWest-wrongly-tell-cash-Isa-lose-tax-free-wrapper-wanted-transfer-SALLY-SORTS-IT.html). NatWest gave a customer incorrect advice that they would have to close a fixed-rate cash ISA rather than transfer it, potentially losing tax benefits. The bank apologised and waived an early-access penalty after the issue was raised.

- [NatWest deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09?entity=natwest&view=deep-dive)
- [NatWest PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09/reports/natwest.pdf)

### Barclays

**Fast-track remortgages lead Barclays’ September banking coverage**

Barclays ranked 4th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (13.1%) in the UK Retail Banks benchmark for September 2026, with 267 mentions and a net tone of +14.

Barclays’ fast-track remortgage service led its September coverage, offering eligible borrowers a potential mortgage offer within 24 hours and completion in as little as five days. The bank ranked fourth with 267 mentions, representing 13.1% of tracked-company mentions. Mortgages and lending was the largest subject area with 80 mentions, followed by branches, access to cash and customer service with 48, digital banking with 40, and savings, current accounts and pricing with 27. Other developments included phased mobile-app improvements and cashback offers of up to £750 for eligible customers transferring an ISA and taking out life insurance. Workplace policy also featured prominently: staff and Unite opposed a three-day office-attendance requirement, after which Barclays allowed some employees to defer compliance until 2027 while retaining the arrangements. Barclays also announced three new branches and longer opening hours, while separate coverage examined a prolonged Barclaycard account-address error and legal scrutiny over its alleged role in a collapsed £90m scheme.

Key messages:

- Barclays accounted for 13.1% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #4 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Mortgages & Lending and Branches, Access to Cash & Customer Service.
- 267 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- Fast-track remortgage service launch — IFA Magazine

Leading themes:

- Mortgages & Lending: 30.0% of Barclays's coverage (theme index 1.23, net tone −15)
- Branches, Access to Cash & Customer Service: 18.0% of Barclays's coverage (theme index 2.41, net tone +33)
- Digital, Apps & Open Banking: 15.0% of Barclays's coverage (theme index 0.93, net tone +73)

Notable positive coverage:

- 2 September 2026, uk.finance.yahoo.com: [Barclays will give some borrowers remortgage offer within 24 hours under scheme](https://uk.finance.yahoo.com/news/barclays-borrowers-remortgage-offer-within-151402435.html). Barclays will launch a fast-track remortgage service that could provide eligible borrowers with an offer within 24 hours and completion in as little as five days. The service is available to qualifying new and existing customers subject to affordability, fraud and valuation checks.
- 2 September 2026, mortgagesoup.co.uk: [Barclays to launch 24-hour fast-track remortgage service](https://mortgagesoup.co.uk/barclays-to-launch-24-hour-fast-track-remortgage-service/). Barclays will launch a Fast-Track Remortgage service on 7 September 2026, offering eligible borrowers a mortgage offer within 24 hours and completion in as little as five days. The service is intended to reduce friction for customers switching lenders.
- 2 September 2026, financialreporter.co.uk: [Barclays launches new Fast-Track remortgage](https://www.financialreporter.co.uk/barclays-launches-new-fast-track-remortgage.html). Barclays has launched a Fast-Track remortgage service for eligible customers, with offers possible within 24 hours and completion within five days. It aims to simplify switching to Barclays from another mortgage provider.

Notable negative coverage:

- 28 September 2026, mirror.co.uk: [Barclays makes change for customers 'from Tuesday' as costs increase](https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/barclays-makes-change-customers-from-37710856). Barclays is withdrawing and repricing market-leading fixed-rate mortgages, taking its 4.75% two-year deal to 5.05% and its 4.93% five-year deal to 5.03%. Brokers warn the move could prompt other lenders, including NatWest and Nationwide, to raise rates.
- 17 September 2026, thesun.co.uk: [Major high street bank axes 132 cash machines- see the full list of locations](https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/40407698/bank-axes-cash-machines-uk/). Barclays will close 132 cash machines across the UK following a review of its ATM network. The bank says alternative cash services are available nearby and closures are assessed under the UK Access to Cash framework.
- 17 September 2026, telegraph.co.uk: [Barclays staff demand travel costs to cover work commute](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/business/2026/09/17/barclays-staff-demand-travel-costs-to-cover-work-commute/). Barclays staff and Unite sought travel-cost compensation and exemptions after a three-day office mandate. Barclays explained its requirements; the report also describes a separate Santander and TSB workplace dispute.

- [Barclays deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09?entity=barclays&view=deep-dive)
- [Barclays PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09/reports/barclays.pdf)

### Santander UK

**Switching offer and outage shape Santander UK’s September coverage**

Santander UK ranked 5th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (11.2%) in the UK Retail Banks benchmark for September 2026, with 229 mentions and a net tone of −1.

Santander UK’s £240 current-account switching incentive, linked to an 8% variable-rate Regular Saver, led coverage in MoneyWeek and This is Money, alongside affiliate-supported reporting in Moneyfactscompare. The bank also pursued BMW in the High Court over vehicles allegedly subject to duplicated sales and refinancing arrangements, as reported by City A.M. A major outage affecting app, online, telephone and chat banking generated further coverage after Santander apologised and worked to restore services. Customer-support developments included a partnership with Sibstar for vulnerable customers and a £17 million programme to refurbish 31 branches. Coverage of TSB’s integration included plans to begin transferring some staff to Santander UK in October. Overall, Santander UK ranked joint fifth with Revolut, with 229 mentions and an 11.2% share of tracked-company mentions, with mortgages and lending accounting for 76 mentions, savings, current accounts and pricing for 73, digital banking for 32, and branches and customer service for 22.

Key messages:

- Santander UK accounted for 11.2% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #5 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Mortgages & Lending and Savings, Current Accounts & Pricing.
- 229 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- £240 current-account switching offer — MoneyWeek

Leading themes:

- Mortgages & Lending: 33.2% of Santander UK's coverage (theme index 1.38, net tone −61)
- Savings, Current Accounts & Pricing: 31.9% of Santander UK's coverage (theme index 2.26, net tone +55)
- Digital, Apps & Open Banking: 14.0% of Santander UK's coverage (theme index 0.86, net tone +13)

Notable positive coverage:

- 1 September 2026, thisismoney.co.uk: [Santander offers customers £240 if they switch current account and open a savings pot at 8% interest](https://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/saving/article-16095485/santander-paying-240-switch-bank-account.html). Santander is offering £240 to eligible customers who switch to its Everyday Current Account and fund a regular saver paying 8% variable interest. The article also compares competing switch incentives from other UK banks.
- 1 September 2026, moneyfactscompare.co.uk: [Santander Launches New Switching Offer Worth £240](https://moneyfactscompare.co.uk/news/banking/santander-switching-deal/). Santander UK has launched a £240 incentive for eligible customers switching to its Everyday Current Account and opening a Regular Saver. The article compares the offer with current switching incentives from HSBC UK, NatWest and Nationwide.
- 1 September 2026, mirror.co.uk: [New Santander account deal 'pays customers £240' and has no fees](https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/new-santander-account-deal-pays-37613373). Santander UK is offering a £240 switching incentive on its Everyday Current Account, subject to funding, direct-debit and Regular Saver requirements. The article compares the deal with switching offers from HSBC UK, NatWest and Nationwide.

Notable negative coverage:

- 25 September 2026, independent.co.uk: [Santander online banking outage leaves customers unable to log on](https://www.independent.co.uk/tech/santander-uk-santander-tsb-spanish-lloyds-banking-group-b3056498.html). Santander UK confirmed an outage affecting internet banking and mobile-app access, leaving thousands of customers unable to log in. The bank said it was working to restore services.
- 25 September 2026, aol.ca: [Santander confirms £830 cash payments to customers](https://www.aol.ca/articles/santander-confirms-830-cash-payments-142800000.html). Santander has opted into the FCA's motor-finance redress scheme and affected customers may receive average compensation of about £830. The scheme concerns historic discretionary commission arrangements and payments are expected from 2027 following legal delays.
- 25 September 2026, thesun.co.uk: [Major UK banking app goes DOWN for thousands of users who 'can't log on'](https://www.thesun.co.uk/money/40493245/banking-app-down-users-cant-log-on-pay/). Santander customers reported being unable to access online and mobile banking, call centres and online chat. Santander said card payments remained unaffected and it was working to restore services.

- [Santander UK deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09?entity=santanderuk&view=deep-dive)
- [Santander UK PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09/reports/santanderuk.pdf)

### Revolut

**US banking approval led Revolut’s broad September agenda**

Revolut ranked 5th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (11.2%) in the UK Retail Banks benchmark for September 2026, with 228 mentions and a net tone of +10.

Revolut secured conditional US regulatory approval for a national bank charter, supporting plans to launch a US bank in 2027. It ranked joint fifth with Santander UK, with 228 mentions and an 11.2% share of tracked-company mentions. Leadership, strategy and M&A dominated the subject mix, spanning its global banking ambitions, a Swiss licence application backed by more than CHF150 million of planned investment, and consideration of a London-New York dual listing. Fraud, scams and financial crime formed the second-largest subject area, including disclosure of customer data following fraudulent government requests and a separate breach at trading provider DriveWealth. Digital coverage included an opt-in facial-recognition checkout pilot at selected London cafés. Regulation and policy coverage included Revolut joining other challenger banks in seeking a higher bank-surcharge profit threshold.

Key messages:

- Revolut accounted for 11.2% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #5 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Leadership, Strategy & M&A and Fraud, Scams & Financial Crime.
- 228 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- Conditional US banking licence approval — Financial Times

Leading themes:

- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 45.6% of Revolut's coverage (theme index 5.07, net tone +55)
- Fraud, Scams & Financial Crime: 28.5% of Revolut's coverage (theme index 6.71, net tone −92)
- Digital, Apps & Open Banking: 18.0% of Revolut's coverage (theme index 1.15, net tone +61)

Notable positive coverage:

- 3 September 2026, france24.com: [UK fintech Revolut gains conditional US banking licence](https://www.france24.com/en/live-news/20260903-uk-fintech-revolut-gains-conditional-us-banking-licence). UK fintech Revolut won conditional approval for a US banking licence, bringing it closer to directly providing loans, cards and insured deposits in the US. The article also notes Revolut's recently obtained full UK banking licence and past criticism of its fraud and anti-money-laundering compliance.
- 3 September 2026, ft.com: [Revolut wins provisional US banking licence](https://www.ft.com/content/d6c24b34-1520-4dc4-8996-83eab8e81941). Revolut has received conditional approval from the US OCC for a national bank charter, supporting its planned expansion into US banking. The London-based fintech's UK banking licence is referenced as part of its wider regulatory progress.
- 3 September 2026, cityam.com: [Revolut takes step closer to US bank launch after clearing key regulatory hurdle](https://www.cityam.com/revolut-takes-step-closer-to-us-bank-launch-after-clearing-key-regulatory-hurdle/). Revolut has received conditional OCC approval for a US national bank charter, advancing its plans to launch a US bank. It still requires approvals from the Federal Reserve and FDIC.

Notable negative coverage:

- 17 September 2026, euronews.com: [Revolut hack: criminals steal data of 700 European clients, demand $3m ransom](https://www.euronews.com/business/2026/09/17/revolut-hack-criminals-steal-data-of-700-european-clients-demand-3m-ransom). Hackers allegedly obtained sensitive data relating to about 680 Revolut customers through fraudulent requests sent from a compromised Italian government email account. The group demanded a $3 million ransom, while Revolut said customer funds were unaffected.
- 24 September 2026, en.ilsole24ore.com: [Revolut: Hackers threaten: ‘We’re selling customer data’. At least 15 Italians affected](https://en.ilsole24ore.com/art/revolut-hackers-threaten-to-sell-customer-data-at-least-15-italians-affected-AJ8sRHNB). Hackers who allegedly obtained data on around 680 Revolut high-net-worth customers are threatening to sell it after an extortion attempt failed. The reported data includes identity documents, customer details and transaction histories, exposing victims to fraud and phishing risks.
- 24 September 2026, rte.ie: [Irish Revolut customers impacted by data breach](https://www.rte.ie/news/business/2026/0924/1592820-revolut-data/). Some Irish Revolut customers were affected by a data breach at US brokerage partner DriveWealth involving historical personal data. Revolut said its own systems were not compromised and customer funds, passwords and payment details were safe.

- [Revolut deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09?entity=revolut&view=deep-dive)
- [Revolut PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09/reports/revolut.pdf)

### HSBC UK

**Mortgage repricing led HSBC UK’s September media profile**

HSBC UK ranked 7th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (9.0%) in the UK Retail Banks benchmark for September 2026, with 184 mentions and a net tone of +13.

Independent reporting led with HSBC UK’s mortgage repricing, including selected rate cuts early in September followed by increases across residential and buy-to-let products. HSBC UK recorded 184 mentions and a 9.0% share of tracked-company mentions, ranking seventh among the cohort. Mortgages and lending dominated the subject mix with 70 mentions, ahead of savings, current accounts and pricing with 46, digital banking with 34 and regulation and policy with 13. Other material developments included higher rates on selected savings accounts and the launch of the app-integrated Premier Lifestyle loyalty service. The bank also announced 1,000 entry-level roles for 2026 and 2027, alongside 500 work-experience placements, with most opportunities outside London. Its wider business agenda included an £18.7 million funding package for NRG Gyms and the return of its Strategies for Success small-business programme as a 10-city tour.

Key messages:

- HSBC UK accounted for 9% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #7 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Mortgages & Lending and Savings, Current Accounts & Pricing.
- 184 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- HSBC targets younger workers with entry-level hiring drive — The Independent

Leading themes:

- Mortgages & Lending: 38.0% of HSBC UK's coverage (theme index 1.6, net tone −49)
- Savings, Current Accounts & Pricing: 25.0% of HSBC UK's coverage (theme index 1.65, net tone +41)
- Digital, Apps & Open Banking: 18.5% of HSBC UK's coverage (theme index 1.18, net tone +85)

Notable positive coverage:

- 2 September 2026, lse.co.uk: [IN BRIEF: Ten Technologies launches customer loyalty platform for HSBC](https://www.lse.co.uk/news/in-brief-ten-technologies-launches-customer-loyalty-platform-for-hsbc-yg46copx24yj6gb.html). HSBC UK has launched its Premier Lifestyle loyalty service through Ten Technologies' digital platform. The service is integrated into the HSBC UK mobile banking app and offers Premier customers access to travel, dining and entertainment experiences.
- 3 September 2026, mirror.co.uk: [HSBC UK 'pleased' to tell customers of change 'from today'](https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/hsbc-uk-pleased-tell-customers-37623662.amp). HSBC UK has increased rates on selected savings products, including one- and two-year fixed-rate savers and its Flexible Rate Cash ISA. The one-year fixed saver rate rises to 4.50%, while the two-year product rises to 4.80%.
- 7 September 2026, insidermedia.com: [Unlocking corporate growth opportunities with HSBC UK](https://www.insidermedia.com/blogs/south-west/unlocking-corporate-growth-opportunities-with-hsbc-uk-sw). HSBC UK promotes its support for mid-sized UK businesses through regional events, research and a £5 billion AI and productivity financing initiative. The bank argues that regional sector strengths and AI adoption can support corporate growth.

Notable negative coverage:

- 23 September 2026, mirror.co.uk: [HSBC confirms change for customers 'from today' with new costs](https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/hsbc-confirms-change-customers-from-37694057). HSBC has increased rates on selected residential and buy-to-let mortgages, taking its cheapest two- and five-year fixed deals above 5%. Brokers say higher funding costs and short-notice repricing are pressuring borrowers to act quickly.
- 22 September 2026, mortgagestrategy.co.uk: [HSBC and Clydesdale to hike prices](https://www.mortgagestrategy.co.uk/news/hsbc-and-clydesdale-to-hike-prices/). HSBC is expected to raise mortgage prices across residential, buy-to-let, purchase and remortgage products, with brokers anticipating the withdrawal of some sub-5% fixed deals. The changes follow rate rises announced by other major lenders.
- 11 September 2026, aol.com: [HSBC refuses to refund mother who paid a psychic for ‘emergency prayers’](https://www.aol.com/articles/hsbc-refuses-refund-mother-paid-070000000.html). HSBC refused to refund a customer who paid a psychic for purported emergency prayers, with the Financial Ombudsman finding the case was a civil dispute rather than proven fraud. The article also reports a separate Ombudsman-backed Lloyds case involving an online-psychic scam.

- [HSBC UK deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09?entity=hsbcuk&view=deep-dive)
- [HSBC UK PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09/reports/hsbcuk.pdf)

### Monzo

**Sale speculation dominated Monzo’s September coverage**

Monzo ranked 8th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (6.7%) in the UK Retail Banks benchmark for September 2026, with 137 mentions and a net tone of +47.

Reports that Monzo was considering a sale to Nubank, a private-equity stake sale or fresh fundraising led the month’s coverage, before Nubank said it was not pursuing a transaction. Monzo recorded 137 mentions, representing 6.7% of tracked-company mentions and placing it eighth among the cohort. Leadership, strategy and M&A was the largest subject area with 65 mentions, ahead of digital banking with 29 and savings, current accounts and pricing with 19. MoneyWeek examined the launch of the £15-a-month Aura credit card, which allows customers to invest cashback automatically in selected funds. FinTech Magazine reported that Monzo Business had surpassed one million UK business customers, while the Irish Examiner covered European chief executive Michael Carney’s departure five months after the Irish launch. Full Fact also reported Monzo’s response to fraudulent adverts falsely claiming that the bank had launched an online casino.

Key messages:

- Monzo accounted for 6.7% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #8 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Leadership, Strategy & M&A and Digital, Apps & Open Banking.
- 137 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- Financial Times: Monzo was reported to be considering a Nubank sale, private-equity stake sale or fundraising round.

Leading themes:

- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 47.4% of Monzo's coverage (theme index 4.47, net tone +32)
- Digital, Apps & Open Banking: 21.2% of Monzo's coverage (theme index 1.36, net tone +83)
- Savings, Current Accounts & Pricing: 13.9% of Monzo's coverage (theme index 0.85, net tone +53)

Notable positive coverage:

- 3 September 2026, independent.co.uk: [Monzo Home Insurance - everything you need to know](https://www.independent.co.uk/money/monzo-home-insurance-everything-you-need-to-know-b3018064.html). Monzo is promoting its app-based home-insurance product, available to customers who hold a Monzo current account. The policy combines buildings and contents cover and is underwritten by Chubb.
- 8 September 2026, ffnews.com: [Monzo Accelerates European Expansion with Adclear AI to Cut Compliance Approval Times by 82%](https://ffnews.com/news/monzo-expands-adclear-across-the-uk-ireland-and-spain-after-cutting-approval-tim-f261f61c). Monzo is expanding its use of Adclear's AI marketing-compliance platform from the UK to Ireland and Spain. The bank says the UK deployment cut approval times by 82% and increased first-time approval rates threefold.
- 14 September 2026, businesspost.ie: [Monzo pumps €25m into its Irish operation](https://www.businesspost.ie/banking/monzo-pumps-e25m-into-its-irish-operation/). Monzo invested €25 million in its Dublin-headquartered European operation, taking investment in the entity to almost €100 million over two years. The neobank is expanding in Ireland and pursuing growth in Spain following its Irish banking licence.

- [Monzo deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09?entity=monzo&view=deep-dive)
- [Monzo PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09/reports/monzo.pdf)

### Starling

**AI tools and embedded lending define Starling’s September profile**

Starling ranked 9th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (1.1%) in the UK Retail Banks benchmark for September 2026, with 22 mentions and a net tone of +50.

Independent reporting led with Starling’s deployment of AI-based scam intelligence, staff tools and customer money-management features, alongside its integration of iwoca lending into business banking. Starling recorded 22 mentions and ranked joint ninth with Chase UK, with a 1.1% share of tracked-company mentions. Digital banking, apps and open banking was the largest subject area with seven mentions, followed by savings, current accounts and pricing with six and leadership, strategy and M&A with four. Further independent reporting examined Starling’s customer-trust and fraud-prevention strategy, including protections serving 6.2 million platform accounts. Press-release copy also announced a digital student account offering an interest-free overdraft, budgeting tools and incentives, and Engine by Starling’s appointment of Build Circle as an implementation partner. Context: wider sector articles placed Starling among UK digital-bank success stories, compared its switching offer with rival incentives and noted its opposition to proposals for digital challengers to fund high-street banking hubs.

Key messages:

- Starling accounted for 1.1% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #9 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Digital, Apps & Open Banking and Savings, Current Accounts & Pricing.
- 22 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- AI deployment and governance interview — Computer Weekly

Leading themes:

- Digital, Apps & Open Banking: 31.8% of Starling's coverage (theme index 2.02, net tone +100)
- Savings, Current Accounts & Pricing: 27.3% of Starling's coverage (theme index 1.71, net tone +50)
- Leadership, Strategy & M&A: 18.2% of Starling's coverage (theme index 1.4, net tone 0)

Notable positive coverage:

- 4 September 2026, fintechmagazine.com: [iwoca Brings £1m SME Loans to Starling Bank Users](https://fintechmagazine.com/news/iwoca-brings-1m-sme-loans-to-starling-bank-users). Starling Bank has integrated iwoca SME lending into its mobile and online banking services through an API partnership. Business customers can apply in-app for loans from £1,000 to £1m, with automated eligibility and underwriting.
- 4 September 2026, computerweekly.com: [CIO interview: Frédéric Laurent, deputy CIO, Starling Bank](https://www.computerweekly.com/news/366649486/CIO-interview-Frederic-Laurent-deputy-CIO-Starling-Bank). Starling Bank deputy CIO Frédéric Laurent discussed the bank's use of AI, including controls around AI-generated code and its use in staff research. Starling has introduced AI-based scam intelligence, an assistant and customer-facing smart tools intended to help customers manage money.
- 7 September 2026, ffnews.com: [Starling Bank Partners with iwoca to Offer Business Loans Up to £1M](https://ffnews.com/news/starling-iwoca-d11412a4). Starling Bank has integrated iwoca's lending platform into its business banking service for UK limited companies. Eligible firms can apply for unsecured loans of £1,000 to £1 million through Starling's app or online banking.

- [Starling deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09?entity=starling&view=deep-dive)
- [Starling PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09/reports/starling.pdf)

### Chase UK

**Chase launches 6.5% saver alongside travel and coaching initiatives**

Chase UK ranked 9th of 10 by average monthly share of coverage (1.1%) in the UK Retail Banks benchmark for September 2026, with 23 mentions and a net tone of +48.

Independent Mirror coverage led with Chase UK’s launch of a 12-month Regular Saver paying 6.5% interest on deposits of up to £300 a month, with penalty-free withdrawals. Chase ranked joint ninth with 23 mentions, representing 1.1% of tracked-company mentions. Savings, current accounts and pricing dominated the subject mix with 18 mentions, while regulation and policy accounted for two; customer access and digital banking each accounted for one. Separate Mirror reporting covered Chase’s football coaching programme, which the bank said had funded more than 7,000 qualifications since 2024. FF News carried press-release/contributed copy on the Regular Saver and on Chase’s £100,000 Transport for London prize draw, which offered 31 customers a year of free London travel and promoted 2% cashback on public-transport spending. As context, wider independent coverage placed Chase in comparisons of savings rates, referral incentives, credit searches, crypto-payment restrictions and proposals for digital banks to fund community banking hubs.

Key messages:

- Chase UK accounted for 1.1% of tracked-company mentions and ranked #9 among 10 in September 2026.
- Coverage concentrated on Savings, Current Accounts & Pricing and Regulation & Policy.
- 23 captured company mentions were recorded in September 2026.
- Regular Saver launch offering 6.5% interest and penalty-free withdrawals — Mirror

Leading themes:

- Savings, Current Accounts & Pricing: 78.3% of Chase UK's coverage (theme index 5.09, net tone +61)
- Regulation & Policy: 8.7% of Chase UK's coverage (theme index 1.49, net tone 0)
- Branches, Access to Cash & Customer Service: 4.3% of Chase UK's coverage (theme index 0.49, net tone −100)

Notable positive coverage:

- 14 September 2026, ffnews.com: [Chase UK and TfL Launch £100k Giveaway: How to Win a Year of Free London Travel](https://ffnews.com/news/chase-uk-gives-away-a-year-of-free-travel-across-tfl-in-london-worth-100k-2a496c6b). Chase UK and Transport for London launched a £100,000 prize draw offering 31 customers a year of free London travel. The campaign also highlights Chase UK's 2% cashback on public-transport spending.
- 28 September 2026, ffnews.com: [Chase UK Debuts 6.5% Regular Saver Account with £300 Monthly Deposit Limit](https://ffnews.com/news/for-immediate-release-chase-launches-regular-savings-account-customers-will-earn-8306ea17). Chase UK has launched a 12-month Regular Saver paying 6.5% AER, with deposits capped at £300 a month and no withdrawal penalty. The account is available to eligible UK Chase current-account customers.
- 28 September 2026, mirror.co.uk: [New UK bank account pays 6.5% interest 'with no withdrawal penalties'](https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/new-uk-bank-account-pays-37709558). Chase UK has launched a 12-month Regular Saver paying 6.5% interest on deposits of up to £300 a month, with penalty-free withdrawals. The account requires a Chase current account and is available to eligible UK residents aged 18 and over.

- [Chase UK deep dive](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09?entity=chaseuk&view=deep-dive)
- [Chase UK PDF report](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09/reports/chaseuk.pdf)

## Methodology

- **Share of coverage**: an organisation's mentions divided by all mentions of the organisations tracked in the same sector that month, in UK earned media. It is the central measure of media visibility in Omniscan benchmarks. "Average monthly share" is the mean of the monthly shares across the reporting period.
- **Mention**: one article that covers an organisation, classified as positive, neutral or negative in tone. Articles are deduplicated, and an organisation's own websites and passing sponsorship name-checks are excluded, so only earned media counts.
- **Net tone**: positive mentions minus negative mentions, as a percentage of all mentions (range −100 to +100).
- **Themes**: every article is assigned to one of the sector's editorial themes. A theme index above 1 means the organisation is covered on that theme more than its peers are; below 1 means less.
- **Calculation**: every figure is computed directly from the classified articles; narrative summaries are checked against those figures.
- **Sources**: UK national and international, trade and specialist, regional and local, and aggregator and syndication earned media.

## Other UK Retail Banks editions

- [UK banking media reputation tracker – 2026 year to date](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-ytd.md)
- [UK banking media reputation tracker – H1 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-h1.md)
- [UK banking media reputation tracker – July 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-07.md)
- [UK banking media reputation tracker – August 2026](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-08.md)
- [All Omniscan media benchmarks](https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks.md)

## How to cite

Omniscan, "UK banking media reputation tracker", September 2026 (1 September 2026–30 September 2026), published 4 October 2026. https://www.omniscan.ai/benchmarks/uk-banking-2026-09