Response to the Covid-19 crisis
In order to support the global effort being made to combat covid-19, Grupo Santander is implementing various measures to protect our stakeholders.
COVID-19
At the peak of the pandemic, we redefined our way of working, reaching more than 110,000 employees working from home. We continued to gradually return to the usual workplaces in some countries, always following the recommendations of local governments and based on three pillars: development and implementation of health and safety protocols, prioritisation and monitoring the health status of our employees, and tracking and tracing (through health apps).
We have supported more than 6 million customers, providing liquidity and credit facilities for businesses facing hardship as well as facilitating payment deferrals and payment holidays in many of our markets. In addition, we adapted the branch network to each situation, ensuring continuity of service. Currently, over 90% of our branches are open.
Santander All. Together. Now. is the motto that brings together the Group's collective efforts around the world to stand beside the people who need it the most at this time. We have implemented actions and mobilized more than EUR 105 million in resources dedicated to solidarity initiatives together with governments and institutions.
We believe that the best way to support our shareholders is to prioritize the health and safety of our employees, to help customers and society and to ensure profitable business continuity. We kept all channels open to increase the confidence of our shareholders and investors, which was reflected in an increase of more than 30,000 new shareholders since December 2019.
It is also worth highlighting the Euromoney awards won this year: Excellence in Leadership in Europe, due to the covid-19 management, and world’s best bank for SMEs. We were also named best bank in the Americas, Argentina, Brazil and Spain by The Banker.