The ranking is an aggregation of all Prospera’s surveys throughout 2011, amounting to 3,622 interviews with CEOs, CFOs, treasurers and senior executives among large companies and financial institutions throughout the Nordics.
21 business areas in all four countries were covered along with seven specialist services – everything from back office support and foreign exchange to asset management and loan structures.
Banks were ranked in each category; 55 points for a number one position, 44 for second, 33 for third, 22 for fourth and 11 for fifth. The scores were then added to give the overall result.
Country rankings were also given with SEB first in both Sweden and Finland overall and for Tier 1 clients; second in Norway in both client segments; and third in Denmark.
Annika Falkengren says: “I am really proud of this achievement. It shows that our strategy is right; that by focusing on our clients’ needs and building relationships we will continue to grow our franchise as the leading bank for Nordic large corporate clients and financial institutions.
“I am particularly impressed with what we have achieved in Finland – rising to number one ahead of some very well entrenched universal banks.”
Magnus Carlsson, head of the Merchant Banking division, says: “The main reasons for our progress are our increased market share and perceived quality outside Sweden, and the fact that in Sweden we have maintained and in some product areas even improved our strong position even further.
“Since our growth initiative started two years ago we have steadily built our client base. Over 220 clients have joined us from the Nordic countries and Germany, and the window of opportunity to grow even further is still open.
“Our investment in new senior professionals and increased focus on long-term customer relationships are proving very effective.”