NatWest controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
2008
Financial-crisis bailout of parent group
The mismanagement and financial distress of the parent RBS group led to a major UK government recapitalisation. Public ownership eventually reached 84%, and the rescue shaped NatWest's strategy and ownership for the following 17 years.
1999
Failed Legal & General merger
A proposed combination with Legal & General was poorly received by financial markets and was abandoned. The episode contributed to pressure on senior management and made NatWest vulnerable to a takeover attempt.
1997
NatWest Markets loss and controls controversy
A loss at NatWest Markets was first reported at £50 million and later revised to approximately £90.5 million. Subsequent scrutiny found serious weaknesses in internal controls and risk management, particularly concerning complex derivatives and the bank's investment-banking expansion.
1997
NatWest Markets losses and control failures
NatWest Markets disclosed losses that were later increased after further investigation. Subsequent scrutiny criticised internal controls, risk management and the bank’s handling of complex derivative-related activities.
1987
Blue Arrow affair and management criticism
NatWest was criticized in connection with the collapse of Blue Arrow after the 1987 stock-market crash. A Department of Trade and Industry investigation criticized aspects of management, and several directors resigned.
1987
Blue Arrow and stock-market-crash controversy
NatWest was affected by the 1987 market crash and controversy surrounding the collapse of Blue Arrow. A Department of Trade and Industry report criticised management, and several directors resigned.