Lloyds Banking Group has unveiled a major financial commitment for the coming year, pledging to make over £35 billion of new finance available in 2026 to companies operating and investing across the United Kingdom.
A Strategic Boost for Business and Infrastructure
The banking giant announced that this substantial capital injection is designed to help businesses thrive and support their growth ambitions. A significant portion, £9.5 billion, has been earmarked specifically for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The group stated that this strategy is crucial for creating opportunities in regions and communities nationwide.
Charlie Nunn, Chief Executive of Lloyds Banking Group, emphasised the bank's role, saying: "Businesses power our economy, and we’re proud to fuel their ambitions to innovate and grow." He added that the £35 billion fund is intended to support jobs, growth, and prosperity for communities.
The bank highlighted its track record over the past five years, having directly lent to or arranged financing for infrastructure projects with a total value exceeding £100 billion. This funding has been channelled into critical areas such as housing, infrastructure, and broader business development.
Consumer Protection: A Surge in Chargeback Claims
Alongside its business lending announcement, Lloyds also released data revealing a notable trend in consumer protection. Between January and September this year, its customers claimed around £2 million through card chargebacks.
The data showed the average disputed transaction value was £35. Common issues prompting these claims included purchases that failed to arrive, items that were poor-quality imitations, and the setting up of unauthorised subscriptions.
A chargeback is a form of card payment protection that can help shoppers recover their money when transactions go wrong. Lloyds reminded its customers that they can request a chargeback directly through the bank’s mobile app. Furthermore, those who pay by credit card may have additional recourse under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act.
Driving Future Growth and Security
This dual focus from Lloyds—on substantial business investment and consumer financial protection—underscores its broad strategy. The £35 billion lending pledge for 2026 represents a direct effort to stimulate the UK's economic engine from the ground up, particularly through SME support.
Simultaneously, the spotlight on chargeback data serves as a timely reminder for consumers to be vigilant with online purchases and to utilise the protections available to them. For businesses and individuals alike, Lloyds' announcements signal a year where access to finance and secure transactions will be prioritised.
