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Nationwide Building Society

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FY2019 Annual Report · Nationwide Building Society
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Your Society.
Strong today,
investing for
tomorrow.

Annual Report 
& Accounts 2019

Jade, member since 2013 
Sienna, member since 2016
Jeanette, member since 2013

1  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Welcome

to our Annual Report and Accounts 2019

We were founded 135 years ago with the belief that people are stronger together and that we 
should be run for the benefit of our members. Today we have over 15 million members.

The strength that comes from that membership means we can meet our members’ needs today,  
as well as investing in the future. 

Together, we’re building society, nationwide.

Strategic Report

Governance

Business and Risk Report

Financial Statements

Other Information

An overview of how we’ve done 
this year, our strategy and how 
we measure our performance.

3 

 What have we done to 
build society this year
4  Who we are and what we do
5 
7 

Chairman’s letter
 Chief Executive’s 
review including 
performance updates

26  Risk overview
27  Financial review
33  Non-financial information

How we are governed, what items 
are discussed in our Board and 
Committee meetings and how 
we pay our directors.

36  Board of directors
41  Executive Committee 

43 

biographies 
 Report of the directors 
on corporate governance
 Report of the directors 
on remuneration
94  Directors’ report

81 

Key risks that could affect our 
business performance and what 
we do to manage them.

Introduction
98 
98 
Top and emerging risks
99  Principal risks and uncertainties
103  Managing risk
106  Credit risk
139  Liquidity and funding risk
150  Solvency risk
154  Market risk
159  Pension risk
160  Business risk
161  Model risk
161  Operational risk
163  Conduct and compliance risk

Our audited financial statements, 
related notes and our independent 
auditors’ report.

166 

175 
176 

Independent 
auditors’ report
Income statements
 Statements of 
comprehensive income

177  Balance sheets 
178 

 Statements of movements 
in members’ interests 
and equity

180  Cash flow statements
181  Notes to the financial 

statements

Including our annual 
business statement.

249  Annual business 
statement
252  Underlying profit
252  Forward looking 
statements

252  Glossary
253 

Index

 
 
 
 
 
 
2  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Patty, member since 2016 
and Ian, member since 2003

Strategic
Report

3 

4 

5 

7 

 What have we done 
to build society this year

 Who we are and what we do
 Chairman’s letter
 Chief Executive’s review 
including performance updates

26 

27 

33 

 Risk overview
 Financial review
 Non-financial information

The Strategic Report has been approved by the 
Board of directors and signed on its behalf by:
Joe Garner 
20 May 2019

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3  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

What have we done to build society this year?

No.1 

for customer satisfaction 
amongst our peer group1

1st

UK’s most trusted 

financial brand2

15.9 million 
members

2018: 15.5 million

£788 
million 

underlying profit4 
2018: £977 million

£833 
million 

statutory profit 
2018: £977 million

77,000 

first-time buyers helped 
into their own homes
2018: 76,000

£705 million 

member financial benefit5 
2018: £560 million

Our branch 
promise:

every town and city which has a branch today 
will still have one until at least May 2021

Nationwide 
for Business: 

our commitment to launch an everyday 
current account for small businesses

Banking Brand 
of the Year 2018

More than1 in 5 

current account switchers 
came to us 3

4.9% 
UK leverage ratio

2018: 4.9%

We’re investing an extra 

£1.3 billion 

over five years in technology bringing  
our total strategic investment to £4.1 billion

1 Lead at March 2019: 4.8%, March 2018: 4.6%. © Ipsos MORI 2019, Financial Research Survey (FRS), 12 months ending 31 March 2019 and 12 months ending 31 March 2018, c 60,000 adults surveyed per annum, proportion of extremely/very satisfied customers minus proportion of extremely/very/fairly dissatisfied customers 
summed across main current account, mortgage and savings. Peer group defined as providers with main current account market share >4% (Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, NatWest, Santander and TSB).
2 Lead at March 2019: 2.3%, March 2018: 1.4%. Source: Nationwide Brand and Advertising tracker – compiled by Independent Research Agency, based on all consumer responses, 12 months ending March 2019 and 12 months ending March 2018. Financial brands included Nationwide, Barclays, Co-operative Bank, First Direct, Halifax, HSBC, 
Lloyds Bank, NatWest, TSB and Santander.
3 Pay.UK monthly CASS data. 12 months to March 2019: 21.5%, 12 months to March 2018: 18.9%.
4 2018 comparative has been restated to reflect a change in the components of underlying profit. See page 27 for more information.
5 See page 28 for more information about member financial benefit.

 
4  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Who we are and what we do

Our building society was founded 135 years ago 
to help people save and buy homes of their own. 
We were driven by our social purpose, and our 
focus on building society is as important to us 
today as it was then.

We’re here to help our members achieve their financial goals, whether that’s: 
•   owning a home – this year, we helped one in five first-time buyers 

into a home of their own

•    saving for the future – we look after £1 in every £10 saved in the UK, 

or

•    looking after their day-to-day finances – almost 10% of all current accounts  

in the UK, and 8% of main current accounts are with us1.

We do many of the things that banks do, but we’re owned by, and run for, our  
members: people who have their mortgages, savings or current accounts with us.  
And we measure our success through the things that matter to them: service,  
value and financial strength. 

We need to be profitable to make sure that our Society and our members’ money 
are safe and secure, but – as a building society – we don’t need to pursue profits to  
pay ever higher dividends or put shareholders’ needs above those of our members. 

We consider whether every business decision is the right thing to do from the 
perspective of our current and future members, which means we make different 
decisions from our competitors:
•   we choose to forgo some of our profit to give members better 

long-term rates and service

•   we have a prudent approach to lending
•   we’re investing in our branches, as well as in improving members’ 

digital experiences, and

•   we’ve committed to give 1% of each year’s pre-tax profits to charitable activities.

We’re helping to build society, nationwide.

1 Source: CACI (February 2019) and internal calculations. ‘Main current accounts’ includes main standard and packaged accounts. 

Member-owned
We’re owned by our members 
and run for their benefit.
Our members’ interests shape 
everything we do, and we want them 
to feel part of something special.

A safe home for our 
members’ money
We provide our members with a 
secure home for their money as well 
as everyday banking services.
Around two-thirds of our funding 
comes from our members trusting 
us with their money.

Building society
Our decisions are guided by what is 
important to our members.
We invest to make sure our service is 
amongst the best in the UK; we support 
local communities; and we try to 
make a difference on issues that 
our members care about.

Helping our members 
into a home
We lend money to members so they 
can buy their own homes.
As a building society, at least 75% 
of our lending is secured on 
residential property.

We think about 
profits differently
We manage the difference between 
the interest rates we charge and the 
rates we pay to balance the need to be 
profitable with giving our members good 
long-term value.
Last year, we generated £705m in financial 
benefit for our members through better pricing 
than the market average.

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5  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

A
letter
from David Roberts

Your Society’s Chairman

Dear fellow member,

As a member of our building society you are also 
an owner, so this report is for you – to find out how 
we’ve done in the last year, and how the Board and 
management are leading the Society on your behalf.

From my perspective as your Chairman, I see 
a Society that is thriving. We’re attracting 
record numbers of members and doing more 
for them. Our service continues to be better 
than that of our peer group1.

And the strength of our finances means we can invest for the future, 
whilst maintaining strong capital reserves – the amount we set aside 
to protect ourselves and our members against unexpected events.

This makes our Society a point of stability in an uncertain world, where 
people appear to be more divided along political, social and economic 
lines than in generations. These divisions have been brought into sharp 
focus by Brexit.

While we cannot remove political uncertainties, we’ve worked hard to 
make sure our Society will be able to support members whatever the 
future brings. Our strong capital position and cautious approach to risk 
mean we can continue to deliver for our members – as we have through 
many turbulent times in our 135-year history – supporting more members 
to buy homes, save for the future and manage their finances. 

Today we are also facing transformational changes in technology and 
financial services. The way we communicate, organise ourselves, work 
and play has changed hugely in the last decade. New competitors are 
emerging, and consumers have more choice than ever before over when, 
where and how they manage their money, and who they trust with it. 
While our Society is highly successful today, if we are to remain relevant, 
valued and competitive, we need to reassess how we serve our members. 
This is why last year we undertook a review of the Society’s plans and 
capabilities in light of these trends.

Our strong capital position 
and cautious approach to risk 
mean we can continue to 
deliver for our members

As a result, we have chosen to increase significantly the amount we are 
investing in technology, taking our planned five-year strategic investment 

1  © Ipsos MORI 2019, Financial Research Survey (FRS), 12 months ending 31 March 2019, c.60,000 adults surveyed per annum, proportion of extremely/very satisfied customers minus proportion of extremely/very/fairly dissatisfied customers summed across main current account, mortgage and savings. 
Peer group defined as providers with main current account market share >4% (Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, NatWest, Santander and TSB).

 
6  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chairman’s letter (continued)

to over £4 billion. The additional investment will allow us to develop new 
digital and branch technologies to serve the changing needs of our 
members, however they choose to interact with us, and to remain safe 
and secure. 

This investment has reduced our profits in the short term, but they remain 
sufficiently strong. This was a deliberate decision we were able to make 
as a building society, where profitability is only one measure of success – 
alongside excellent service, long-term value, and financial strength.

The Society must be fit for the future and so must the Board. We evaluate 
the Board’s capabilities and performance annually, and in 2018 this took 
the form of an externally facilitated review. This found the Board to be 
operating effectively, with a strong focus on the interests of our members. 
The review identified some areas for us to prioritise, including preserving 
our culture and mutual values in a time of great change, and spending 
more time on strategic issues, as well as overseeing operational 
performance.

 Our Society is financially 
strong and growing, 
and we look to the future 
with confidence

My fellow board members contribute a huge amount of expertise to the 
Society. We review regularly the balance of the Board’s skills, capabilities 
and independence. During the year we welcomed Albert Hitchcock, who 
brings a wealth of experience in technology transformation, to the Board. 
He has joined the Board’s IT & Resilience and Risk committees and will 
strengthen the Board’s oversight of the Society’s technology strategy. 
After eight years Mitchel Lenson will retire from the Board at our AGM 
in July 2019 and I would like to thank Mitchel on behalf of the Board for 
his valuable contribution over that time. On the management side, Tony 
Prestedge became Deputy Chief Executive Officer and we welcomed 
Patrick Eltridge to the Executive Committee as Chief Operating Officer. 
Our Chief Financial Officer, Mark Rennison, has discussed with the 
Board his intention to retire and the Board is actively considering 
succession planning. 

There is more information about these changes in the Corporate 
governance report on page 43.

Another important part of the Board’s work is to ensure we pay our 
colleagues fairly. We don’t reward anyone for maximising profits. 
We pay the vast majority of our people at or above the market average 
and consciously pay our most senior executives less than most of our 
competitors, balancing this decision with the need to attract the right 
people to lead the Society now, and in the future. I’d encourage you to 
read more about this in our Remuneration report on page 81.

Our Board benefits hugely from hearing the views of members and 
colleagues. We have a valuable dialogue with members through live 
TalkBack events and through our online forum, Member Connect. 
Colleagues are given lots of opportunities to hear from and, as importantly, 
have open conversations with the CEO and his leadership team. For 
example, our ‘People’s Choice’ leaders, who are chosen by their colleagues, 
represent the employee voice and share insights at Board meetings twice 
a year. We have also given non-executive director Mai Fyfield responsibility 
for ensuring the views of our employees are heard by the Board. Member 
and colleague views have a real impact on what we do: one example 
among many is that member feedback prompted us to develop a business 
banking proposition for small businesses.

I’ve talked a lot about change, so I’d like to close by assuring you that some 
things will remain the same. Our values and aspirations are constant, 
allowing us all to thrive together, through thick and thin. In these uncertain 
times, what our Society stands for has become more important, not less: 
bringing people together; delivering for members; doing the right thing; 
supporting our communities. 

Our Society is financially strong and growing, and we look to the future 
with confidence. There is no other member-owned financial business in 
the UK that can match our scale and reach, and we feel a real sense of 
responsibility to provide a service-and values-driven alternative to the 
big banks.

We have the strength, experience and values, as well as the steadfast 
support of our members and colleagues, to continue to succeed. 
Thank you all for your support for our Society.

David Roberts 
Chairman

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7  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

A

review

from Joe Garner

Your Society’s Chief Executive

Dear fellow member,

Nationwide is a building society, which means 
we are owned by you, our members. We have 
a deep and true member focus: we are here 
to serve your needs today and tomorrow.

We are committed to delivering great service, long-term 
value and a financially secure Society, run in the best interests 
of our members.

We have led our peer group on service for seven 
years running1. We are now also comparing our 
service against the best in the UK, not just in 
financial services, tracking our place in the 
all-sector UK Customer Satisfaction Index. We have 
achieved our long-term goal of breaking into the 
top five, being ranked joint fifth in 2019, up from 
joint seventh in 20182. A key part of our service 
proposition is our branch network which is why we 
are investing in our branches and have pledged to 
keep a branch in every town or city we are in today 
until at least 2021.

Building legendary service – see page 18

Being member-owned means we can balance 
giving value to members, investing in our Society 
and maintaining our financial strength. 

This year members benefited from £705 million 
(2018: £560 million) through better rates, fees 
and incentives compared with the market average. 
We kept our commitment to offer competitive 
mortgages and rewarded our loyal savers with 
special rates. Our leading service1 and long-term 
value products have, I believe, helped us to 
another year of record membership as more 
people chose Nationwide for their mortgages, 
savings and current accounts.

Building thriving membership – see page 14

Financially, we are strong. Our key measure of 
financial strength, our UK leverage ratio, is above 
our target at 4.9% (2018: 4.9%). We continue  
to manage our risks very carefully in an uncertain 
environment.

Our Society is in good health today. However, we 
must also look to the future and ensure we are 
best able to serve the needs of our members in a 
world where technology is changing how people 
manage their money. That’s why we announced in 
September an investment of an extra £1.3 billion in 
technology, taking our total strategic investment, 
including investment in our branches, to £4.1 billion 
over five years. Our investment will make us more 
efficient, innovative and responsive, and help us 
address our members’ needs today and in the 
future. In addition, we have committed to launch 
a business current account for small firms. 

As a building society, we were able to increase our 
investment in technology to meet the long-term 
needs of our members, even though this reduces 
profit in the short term. Our underlying profit is in 
line with expectations, reducing to £788 million 
(2018: £977 million) after recognising a charge 
from technology asset write-offs and additional 
technology investment made during the year.

Built to last – see page 16

Our success is thanks to the hard work and 
commitment of our people, and I would like to 
thank them for their care and support for our 
members. I would also like to thank you, our loyal 
and growing membership, for your continued 
support for Nationwide. 

Despite the economic uncertainties in the UK 
today, people still want to buy homes, save and 
manage their money, and we remain determined 
to support and serve our membership better 
every day.

Joe Garner 
Chief Executive Officer

1  © Ipsos MORI 2019, Financial Research Survey (FRS), lead held over seven-year period covering 12 months ending 31 March 2013 to 12 months ending 31 March 2019, c.60,000 adults surveyed per annum, proportion of extremely/very satisfied customers minus proportion of extremely/very/fairly 
dissatisfied customers summed across main current account, mortgage and savings. Peer group defined as providers with main current account market share >4% (Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, NatWest, Santander and TSB). Prior to April 2017, peer group defined as providers with main 
current account market share >6% (Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank (Lloyds TSB prior to 2015), NatWest and Santander).
2  Institute for Customer Service’s UK Customer Satisfaction Index, January 2019 and January 2018.

 
8  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

Your questions answered

We regularly hear from members at our live TalkBack 
events and through our online forum, Member Connect. 
Here are some of the questions our members ask us.

Q

A

Q

A

Why are you launching a business 
current account? Christopher, Andover, Hampshire 

We estimate that up to a million members own a small business and our proposition will meet 
the straightforward needs of businesses, offering a fair value current account with market 
leading service. We have long believed we could bring a mutual alternative of scale to small 
firms, offering everyday great service and value. However, in the past, the costs of setting up 
were high and, at the time, we didn’t believe this was the optimal use of members’ money.

Now technology is making it more economical to enter the market, and we have also secured 
£50 million from the Capability and Innovation Fund to boost competition in business 
banking, which will allow us to develop our business banking proposition faster.

How far can you guarantee that you won’t close 
any branches? Jill, Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire

While we can’t guarantee to keep every branch open, we’ve pledged to keep a branch in 
every town or city that has one today until at least May 2021. We are also adapting them 
to meet members’ changing needs.

Members make it very clear that branches are an important part of what we offer – they 
value the ability to have conversations about important financial decisions with people they 
know, and that comes through very clearly at Member TalkBacks and through our online 
member forum, Member Connect. We will continue to listen to members and adapt to their 
changing needs.

Q

A

Q

A

Q

A

Why aren’t your savings rates higher? 
Brian, Chelmsford, Essex

We’ve kept our average deposit rate more than 50% higher than the market average, meaning 
we’ve provided members with £515 million in extra interest. We can do this because we are 
member-owned and focused on their interests. However, in an environment where 
mortgage rates are low there are limits on how much we can pay to our savings members. 
But we always try our hardest to give great value to our membership as a whole.

What are you spending over £4 billion of the 
Society’s funds on? Sharon, Market Harborough, Leicestershire 

Technology is having a profound effect on every aspect of our lives, including how we 
manage our money. A significant part of our £4.1 billion five-year strategic investment will 
allow us to develop IT systems and infrastructure to enable us to address members’ changing 
needs. We are also investing in our branches. We strongly believe these are investments that 
will benefit our members over the long-term, both in terms of being able to access new 
services and exciting digital technologies, and in maintaining a resilient and secure Society.

How are you protecting your members’ money 
from fraud? Mark, Kings Lynn, Norfolk

Members need to be able to rely on us to keep their money safe. We constantly strengthen our 
fraud defences and invest in new technology. We recognise the impact fraud has on customers 
and are committed to raising awareness of scams, as well as working closely with regulators, 
law enforcement agencies and other providers to combat customer fraud. Our colleagues in 
our branches play an important role in educating members on the risks of fraud and providing 
help when needed. We also place prominent warnings on our mobile app and internet bank to 
encourage members to ‘Stop and Think’ before making a new payment.

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9  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

How we’re building society, nationwide

Our purpose, building society, 
nationwide, describes our aspiration to 
make a positive contribution to society 
by delivering the benefits of mutuality 
to more members, both present 
and future. It is underpinned by five 
strategic cornerstones that describe 
what we’ll do and how we’ll do it.

Building a
National
Treasure

Building

PRIDE

Building
Legendary
Service

Building

Thriving
Membership

Built to

Last

Building thriving 
membership

Built 
to last

is about helping more members 
make more of their money

is about keeping our Society 
and our members’ money safe

because...
the more members we help, whether it’s to 
buy a home of their own, save for the future 
or manage their everyday finances, the bigger 
difference we can make. 

To achieve this, we will...
develop our core and ‘just for members’ 
products and enter new markets where we can 
make a mutual difference for more people.

Which will mean...
more than 4 million members will be using 
at least two of our products by 2022.

Our priorities next year are to...
develop our range of later life mortgage 
products and an everyday current account 
for small businesses.

because...
our members need to know that their money, 
and personal data, are safe and secure and 
that they can access their money wherever 
and whenever they need it. 

To achieve this, we will...
use our members’ money wisely, and 
strike a balance between retaining profits, 
rewarding members and investing in the 
future of our Society.

Which will mean...
our capital levels give confidence that we can 
withstand future challenges and we are profitable, 
resilient and sustainable for the long term.

Our priorities next year are to...
maintain strong capital levels and progress our 
technology investment, which will help us to 
grow, support and protect future generations  
of members (see page 12).

 
10  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

Building 
legendary service

Building 
PRIDE

Building a 
national treasure

is about striving to serve our 
members better every day

is about creating the right culture 
to do the best for our members

is about supporting communities 
and making a difference

because...
our members want the best service, with 
both the convenience of digital and the 
human touch of face-to-face service. 

To achieve this, we will...
transform our service so that things work 
seamlessly for our members whether they 
are online, in a branch or speaking to us 
on the phone.

Which will mean...
we are recognised as one of the best for 
customer service, both amongst our peers  
and in the UK as a whole.

Our priorities next year are to...
continue our £350 million branch  
transformation and extend and improve our 
digital and mobile experiences.

because...
a positive and energising work environment, 
where our colleagues are trusted to make 
the right decisions at the right time, will in 
turn benefit our members. 

To achieve this, we will...
create a distinctive experience for our 
colleagues that supports their performance 
and growth, and recognises their contribution.

Which will mean...
we are recognised as one of the best places 
to work in the UK.

Our priorities next year are to...
attract and develop the digital and data 
talent we need for the future, grow our 
leadership capability, and inspire and enable 
our colleagues to keep learning.

because...
we have a social purpose, to build society, 
nationwide, and believe that everyone deserves 
a place fit to call home. 

To achieve this, we will...
make sure our actions are consistent with our 
values, take a bolder stand on issues affecting 
society, and invest in local communities.

Which will mean...
consumers think of and trust us to meet 
their financial needs, and we make a difference 
on the things our members care about.

Our priorities next year are to...
continue our five-year social investment 
via our Community Boards, our Oakfield 
housing project and our Open Banking 
for Good challenge (see page 23).

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11  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

How we are doing on service, value and strength

Nationwide is not like most organisations and our key performance indicators (KPIs) are not like those used by most organisations.
We track our performance by focusing on the things that matter most to our members: great service, long-term value and financial strength. Our KPIs and targets for 2019/20 are the same as those for 2018/19. We don’t seek to maximise 
profits, so profit is not a KPI. Instead, we’ve developed a Financial Performance Framework that helps us strike the right balance between retaining profits to maintain our financial strength, rewarding members now and investing so that we 
can continue to meet members’ needs in the future. You can find out more about this on page 32.

Service

Value

Giving our members the best service possible.

Helping more members achieve their financial goals, giving them 
better value products and contributing to local communities.

We aim to be the best  
for customer satisfaction  
in our peer group as 
measured by the FRS 
survey, with a lead of  
at least 4% against our 
closest competitor.
Our lead of 4.8%  
exceeded our 2019 
target1.

Core products satisfaction 
lead, %

6.6

6.7

4.6

4.8

4.0

We also want to be among 
the top five organisations 
across all sectors for 
customer service, as 
measured by the Institute 
of Customer Service’s 
UK Satisfaction Index.
We were joint fifth in 
January 2019, in line 
with our 2019 target2.

UK CSI 
rank

5th=

5th

6th

7th=

9th

We’re aiming to have 
10 million engaged members 
by 2022, with 4 million 
committed members who use 
at least two of our products3.
We are on track to achieve  
our 2022 targets.

We aim to deliver at least 
£400 million of value  
each year to our members 
through better pricing  
than the market average4.
We shared £705 million of 
benefit with our members 
during 2018/19.

We’ve committed to 
give at least 1% of 
pre-tax profits to 
charitable activities5. 
We committed £10.6 
million to charitable 
activities during 2018/19 
meaning that we 
continued to meet 
our 1% commitment.

Engaged and committed members 
million

Member financial benefit 
£ million

8.3

8.6

8.9

9.2

10

3.0

3.1

3.2

3.4

4

705

560

505

375

At least 
400

Charitable activities 
£ million
✓ 
✓ 
11.2
10.3

✓ 
10.6

Commitment 
met
✓ 
7.2

Strength

Keeping our members’ 
money safe and secure.

We aim to have a UK leverage 
ratio (a measure of our 
financial strength) of at 
least 4.5%.
Our UK leverage ratio of 4.9% 
exceeded our 2019 target.

UK leverage ratio 
%

4.4

4.4

4.9

4.9

4.5

2017
2016
Old peer group

2018

2019

2019 
target

2016

2017

2018

2019

2019 
target

2016

2017

Engaged

2018 2019 2022 
targets

Committed

2016

2017

2018

2019

2019 
target

2016
2017
Other activities

2018

2019
Nationwide 
Foundation

2016 2017 2018 2019

2019 
target

1   © Ipsos MORI 2019, Financial Research Survey (FRS), 12 months ending 31 March 2016 to 12 months ending 31 March 2019, c.60,000 adults interviewed per annum. Proportion of extremely/very satisfied customers minus proportion of extremely/very/fairly dissatisfied customers 
summed across main current account, mortgage and savings. Peer group defined as providers with main current account market share >4% (Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, NatWest, Santander and TSB). Prior to April 2017, peer group defined as providers with main current 
account market share >6% (Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, NatWest and Santander).

2   Institute of Customer Service’s UK Customer Satisfaction Index as at January in each year.
3   Engaged members have their main personal current account with us, a mortgage with a balance greater than £5,000, or a savings account with a balance greater than £1,000. Committed members have two or more of our products, of which at least one is an engaged membership 

product. Prior to 2018/19, the savings threshold was £5,000; prior year comparatives have been restated using the new £1,000 threshold. Figures are as at 31 March each year.

4   For more information on member financial benefit see page 28.
5   The 1% is calculated based on average pre-tax profits over the past three years. ‘Other activities’ includes, amongst other things, internal costs associated with managing our social investment, but excludes employee volunteering.

 
How we are doing on service, value and strength

Our technology investment

12  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

We’re investing an extra £1.3 billion in technology, bringing our total strategic investment over five years to £4.1 billion. 
This will help make sure we can keep meeting our members’ needs in the future.

This new investment means we can…

Deliver new features and services to our 
members more quickly, especially on our 
digital platforms, by using new tools and 
techniques, and changing how we work.

Keep Nationwide, our members’ money 
and their data safe and secure by using 
state of the art security solutions to make sure 
we’re protected against potential threats.

Be there when our members need us by 
using technologies like cloud computing, and 
improving the way our systems are designed 
so that our services are always available.

Why is this important?

Our Society is growing, and digital technologies 
are changing how our members manage their 
money. For example, last year they made almost 
50% more contactless payments and over 40% 
more logins to our mobile app. Members also 
expect our services to be there whenever and 
wherever they need them.

The world around us is changing too. New digital 
challenger banks are emerging, and we, the 
wider industry and regulators are increasingly 
focused on making sure that firms’ customer data  
is secure and used appropriately.

What will it achieve?

Our technology investment will make us more 
resilient and secure, increase our agility to deliver 
better digital capabilities and improve our use 
of data. It will streamline our technology and 
reduce costs, meaning we can use our members’ 
money more efficiently.

Our technology investment underpins our 
strategy, delivering better member outcomes 
and helping us to build society, nationwide.

Keep improving our 
products and services 
incorporating smarter data 
analysis into our services 
and back office processes.

Give our members 
faster service by using 
automation to support 
our colleagues with 
everyday tasks.

Use our members’ money 
more efficiently by 
streamlining our technology, 
which will reduce how 
much it costs to deliver our 
services to our members.

Make sure our people have 
the right technology skills by 
developing the skills of our existing 
employees and hiring over 1,000 
specialists to our new technology 
hubs in Swindon and London.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Helping more
members
their money

make more of

Jay’s had her current account and savings with Nationwide for over 20 years. 
So, when she came to buy her first home, she turned to us again.

“I’ve been with Nationwide since I was little, 
and I’ve worked here for 15 years, so I didn’t 
think twice about choosing them for my 
mortgage. I took a look at some other providers, 
but Nationwide was the one for me.”

As a first-time buyer that was super helpful 
as I was a bit clueless at the start of it all! 
I also used the calculators to check how much 
I could borrow and which rates were best 
for me.

Jay also used our MyNationwide app to help 
her along the way.

“The app was great – I could ask questions 
any time and get the answers I needed. 

I’ve always trusted them to look after my money, 
so it made perfect sense to trust Nationwide with 
my home. And with the money I saved, I bought 
my beautiful boxer puppy, Olive.”

“It made perfect sense 
to trust Nationwide 
with my home.”

 
14  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

Building thriving membership

We are owned by the 15.9 million 
members who we’re helping into  
a home, to save for the future, or to 
manage their everyday finances.

Our membership grew to its highest level in 2018/19 and we  
are doing more with our members. Our committed membership 
– members who have two or more of our products – grew from  
3.2 million to 3.4 million1.

Members trusted Nationwide with more of their savings and this 
helped us grow deposits strongly by £6.0 billion (2018: £3.5 billion). 
We kept average deposit rates more than 50% above the market 
average, and launched attractive new rates on loyalty accounts. 
However, in an environment where mortgage rates are low, there 
are limits to how much we can pay to our savings members.

Despite economic uncertainties, mortgage volumes remained 
strong and our competitive mortgage pricing meant we lent more 
to homebuyers and landlords on both a gross and net basis. 

We relaunched our home insurance proposition which was well 
received by members who took out 97,000 policies, almost 30% 
more than in 2018, and helped us become the top-placed insurance 
provider in the Institute of Customer Service’s UK Customer 
Satisfaction Index2. 

More people are choosing Nationwide to manage their everyday 
finances; 794,000 new current accounts were opened this year (2018: 
816,000) and our market share of main current accounts has reached 
8% for the first time3. We hope to replicate this success in the small 
business market, with the launch of a business current account.

Membership matters

Managing everyday finances

The number of people choosing Nationwide to look after their daily finances 
continues to grow. More people opened a new current account with 
Nationwide than any other brand4, with 794,000 (2018: 816,000) accounts 
opened this year. This takes our market share of all current accounts to just 
below 10%, and our share of main accounts to 8%5.

More than one in five of all switchers via the current account switching 
service chose Nationwide6 and we’re making it easier for people to open 
accounts with us. For example, you can now open our youth FlexOne 
account in 10 minutes and we will extend this swift account opening process 
to all our adult accounts from the summer of 2019.

Open for business

We are hoping to replicate our success in personal current accounts in the 
small business current account market. We will launch a straightforward 
business account, combining a market-leading digital platform with the 
personal service our colleagues give every day. We were successful in our 
bid for funding from the Banking Competition Remedy Limited’s Capability 
and Innovation Fund and will receive £50 million funding, which will 
accelerate the launch of new products and services for small businesses.

Customers become members when they choose Nationwide to help them 
buy a home, save, or manage their everyday banking, which means that 
mortgages, savings and current accounts are the foundation of our 
relationships with members. We grew our membership to a new high and 
members are doing more with us: the number of ‘committed’ members – 
those with two or more products – grew by 5% to 3.4 million.

Helping more members into homes

Overall, we lent more to help people into a home this year. Gross mortgage 
lending reached an all-time high of £36.4 billion (2018: £33.0 billion) and 
net lending was £8.6 billion (2018: £5.8 billion). 

We’re working hard to expand home loan choices for members whether 
they are just starting their home journey, are established home owners,  
or are empty nesters.

We’ve supported new home buyers since our founding days, and this 
remains at the heart of our purpose. Last year, we helped a record 77,000 
first time buyers, one in five of all first time buyers, into their own home. 

For older members looking to access the value in their properties, our Later 
Life Lending range now offers three ways to borrow against their property  
in retirement, and we have a team of dedicated advisers to advise members 
on the option that suits them best.

We also improved our buy to let range and grew our lending to landlords 
through The Mortgage Works.

Saving for the future

Savers continue to be hard pressed by persistently low interest rates, and 
we continue to give them the best rates we can sustainably afford.

Overall, our members benefited from an extra £515 million in deposit interest 
compared with the market average (2018: £435 million). We launched a 
number of new products to reward loyalty and meet new needs. Our members 
responded enthusiastically, opening more than 470,000 new Single Access 
and Loyalty ISAs. Over 75,000 Future Saver accounts, a straightforward savings 
account for children, were also opened in the year. 

1   Committed members have at least two of our products, at least one of which is their main personal current account, a mortgage with a balance greater than £5,000, or a savings account with a balance greater than £1,000.
2 Source: Institute of Customer Service’s UK Customer Satisfaction Index, January 2019.
3 Source: CACI (February 2019) and internal calculations. ‘Main accounts’ refers to main standard and packaged accounts.
4 Sources: eBenchmarkers (April 2018 - March 2019), CACI (April 2018 - February 2019) and internal calculations.
5 Source: CACI (February 2019) and internal calculations. ‘Main accounts’ refers to main standard and packaged accounts.
6 Source: Pay.UK monthly CASS data, 12 months to March 2019.

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15  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Keeping our Society

and our

members’
money safe  

Mr L visited our Woodley branch and asked to transfer £95,000 
from his bonds to his current account.

When the branch team routinely asked why he 
wanted to move the money, he told them it was 
for personal reasons. 

Our Branch Manager, Andreas (pictured), thought 
something didn’t quite seem right. He took Mr L 
into a private room and asked him if everything 
was ok.

“Mr L’s one of our regulars and we know him well 
here in the branch, so I could tell that he wasn’t his 
normal self. I asked if anyone had told him to take 
out the money. After a bit of hesitation, he told me 
someone claiming to be the police and trading 

standards had told him he needed to pay them 
£95,000 to repair the foundations of his house.” 

The rogue traders had told Mr L if he didn’t pay, 
they’d name and shame him in the newspaper. 
They’d also warned him not to tell anyone what 
he was doing.

“I’m so glad Andreas intervened and was persistent 
in trying to help me, as the alternative would have 
been too scary. I would have had nothing.

Nationwide is, and always has been, looking after 
us. I’m so grateful to Andreas and the team for 
being so vigilant.”

“Nationwide is, 
and always has 
been, looking 
after us.”

 
16  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

Built to last

We are committed to running a financially 
secure Society, providing a safe home 
for our members’ money. As a building 
society, we are able to make decisions in 
the long-term interests of our members.

Our Financial Performance Framework helps the Society achieve the right balance 
between giving value to members, investing in our business and maintaining our 
financial strength.

Our capital – the funds that are a cushion against unexpected economic events 
– is above our own targets and regulatory requirements. At 4.9% our UK 
leverage ratio, a key measure of our financial strength, is also above our target. 
Following the announcement in April 2019 of our intention to redeem our 
Additional Tier 1 capital instrument in full, our UK leverage ratio will reduce but 
will remain above regulatory requirements. 

We are managing our risks conservatively, although slowing house price 
growth resulted in a slightly higher loan to value ratio on total lending of 58% 
(2018: 56%). 

We chose to provide extra value to members by competing in a crowded savings 
and mortgage market. Our competitive rates, fees and incentives meant 
members benefited from £705 million in member financial benefit, well above 
our aim of at least £400 million. 

We also decided to invest an extra £1.3 billion in technology over five years so 
that we can meet members’ changing needs. 

Underlying profit was down to £788 million, largely due to the impact of asset 
write-offs and our additional investment in technology, in line with expectations. 
Statutory profit was £833 million (2018: £977 million). As a building society, we 
were able to make these choices knowing it would impact profitability in the short 
term. We remain committed to our Financial Performance Framework, and our 
current performance is consistent with this framework which enables us to make 
conscious decisions to increase our investment at a time when members’ needs are 
changing rapidly and technology advancement is offering new opportunities.

We have continued to manage costs and have delivered over £100 million in 
sustainable cost savings in each of the last two years.

Financial and operational resilience

We continue to manage our capital ratios in the best interests of our 
members, based on economic and market conditions. Our common 
equity tier 1 capital ratio reached 32.4% (2018: 30.5%) and our UK 
leverage ratio was above our target at 4.9% (2018: 4.9%). Both are 
well above regulatory requirements. Our UK leverage ratio will reduce 
following redemption of our Additional Tier 1 capital in June 2019, but 
will remain above regulatory requirements. 

One of our core values is that we spend our members’ money 
carefully. We have been working hard to become more efficient and 
to achieve sustainable cost savings. Although our business has 
grown, we’ve kept costs broadly flat – excluding the impact of 
technology asset write-offs and expenditure directly related to our 
additional technology investment. We’ve also delivered over £100 
million in sustainable savings in each of the past two years and are 
on track to achieve our increased target of £500 million in 
sustainable cost savings by 2023.

Operational resilience is also a priority for management and the 
Board. We are particularly focused on cyber and fraud defences, 
which we’ve enhanced to protect our members’ money. For 
example, we’ve delivered new measures to detect and prevent 
attacks, including improved authentication on more risky online 
shopping transactions.

Managing our profits in our members’ interests

As a building society, our decisions are driven by what is in the 
long-term interests of our members rather than the need to make 
ever-higher profits. We’ve made two such decisions in the last year, 
consciously choosing to prioritise our members’ interests over 
higher profits.

Firstly, we chose to keep average deposit rates at a level that was 
50% higher than the market average. At the same time, we’ve 
offered competitive rates for new and existing mortgage members. 
As expected, this has continued to put pressure on our margin – the 
difference between the rates we pay on deposits and those we 
charge on mortgages – and had an impact on profits. We expect 
further pressure on margin in 2019/20 and will continue to manage 
our rates in the long-term interest of our members and the Society.

The second decision was to invest in the future of our Society. We 
have announced plans to invest an additional £1.3 billion in technology 
over five years, taking our total strategic investment to £4.1 billion. 
Our investment will mean we can develop a new digital platform, 
improve our service experience across all channels and deliver greater 
cost efficiencies. There’s more about our investment on page 12.

The effects of these decisions can be seen in this year’s underlying 
profits, which were lower at £788 million (2018: £977 million). 
Statutory profits were £833 million (2018: £977 million). The major 
factor in the reduction in profits was a charge related to technology 
asset write-offs and our additional technology investment. Further 
information on our Financial Performance Framework is included 
on page 32.

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17  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Striving to serve our
members better
every day

Emma’s sons told her they wanted to look after their own money. 
That’s why she took Carl and Jacob into their local branch to open 
their very own FlexOne current accounts.

“I chose Nationwide because I wanted an 
organisation that I can trust to look after my 
sons’ interests. The team were so welcoming 
and I knew instantly that I’d made the right 
choice. To me, a building society feels safer 
and more caring than the big banks, and 
that’s what I want for my boys.”

Carl and Jacob had a fab time when they went 
into branch and met Luke, one of our Personal 
Banking Managers.

“We loved opening our accounts. Luke was 

really nice and he told us all about saving our 
money. He even told us we own Nationwide and 
that we’re his boss!”

Emma’s really pleased that she and her family 
have a branch nearby. 

“It means we feel like we have a real relationship 
with Nationwide. It makes us trust them and 
know that we’re part of something. And thank 
you so much to Luke for being so amazing. 
You made my boys feel like they matter. 
That they’re not just a number.”

“You made my boys 
feel like they matter. 
That they’re not 
just a number.”

 
18  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

Building legendary service

We all know what good service 
feels like. When we’re in a hurry, 
it’s quick and efficient. When we’re 
facing a dilemma, it’s unhurried and 
personal. Good service is not ‘one-
size-fits-all’ but combines the best 
of human and digital interaction to 
serve our members well however 
they choose to interact with us.

We start from a strong base. For seven years running, we’ve been 
no.1 for service among our peer group1. We’ve moved up to joint fifth 
in the all-industry UK Customer Satisfaction Index, achieving our 
target of being in the top five2. Our current account satisfaction is also 
ahead of our peer group, with a lead of over 10%3, and we were 
named Which? Banking Brand of the Year for the second year running.

Service expectations continue to grow, and we continue to work hard  
to improve our member experience. We are investing £350 million  
in transforming our branch network, while pledging that every town 
and city with a Nationwide branch will continue to have one until  
at least May 2021. Simultaneously, with mobile users up by 33% last 
year, we are investing in our digital services, bringing new levels  
of speed, convenience and security to our members.

Branches: here today, here tomorrow

Branches are a vital part of our local communities and valued by our 
members. We believe that members still want to talk to someone face to 
face about big financial decisions, which is why we continue to invest in 
our branches. We’ve recently pledged to keep a branch in every town or 
city where we have one today for at least two years. 

However, it’s also true that how our members use our branches is changing. 
That’s why we are evolving the role of branches and transforming our 
network with a £350 million investment over five years. We’re introducing 
new branch styles. Last year, we converted over 100 branches to an open 
plan format combining the latest technology, such as high-definition video 
and iPads, with comfortable seating for coffee and conversation, and 
private spaces for personal consultations. We also merged a handful of 
branches which were near each other and refurbished the remaining branches 
to offer better services and technology. 

Delivering digitally

Alongside our branches, members want to make the most of the speed 
and convenience of digital devices. We now have over 2.7 million members 
who are active mobile users – almost a third more than last year – and they 
are logging in, on average, nearly every day. 

Net satisfaction with our app is over 90%4 but we are not complacent and 
we continue to invest in our digital services to give members more control 
over their money. New mobile functionality means members can now set 
up new payees, report lost or stolen cards, set up standing orders, and change 
their passcode on the move. 

We’ve redesigned some of our processes to make it faster and easier to take 
out a mortgage or open a current account online, and we will be extending 
these improvements to more of our services over the next few months. 

We’re also exploring how we can use Open Banking rules that apply across 
our industry to put members in control of their money. Since last year, 
members have been able to share their financial data with Open Banking 

approved third-parties. We have also trialled an aggregation service in our 
mobile banking app that lets members see their accounts with multiple 
providers in one place. We will roll this out to members this year.

We will be able to go further and faster in developing our digital services 
over the next few years, thanks to our technology investment, and this will 
help the Society meet the changing lifestyles of our members, providing 
them with excellent service however they choose to deal with us.

1   © Ipsos MORI 2019, Financial Research Survey (FRS), lead held over seven-year period covering 12 months ending 31 March 2013 to 12 months ending 31 March 2019, c.60,000 adults surveyed per annum, proportion of extremely/very satisfied customers minus proportion of 

extremely/very/fairly dissatisfied customers summed across main current account, mortgage and savings. Peer group defined as providers with main current account market share >4% (Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, NatWest, Santander and TSB). Prior to April 2017, peer group 
defined as providers with main current account market share >6% (Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank (Lloyds TSB prior to 2015), NatWest and Santander).

2 Institute for Customer Service’s UK Customer Satisfaction Index, January 2019.
3  © Ipsos MORI 2019, Financial Research Survey (FRS), 12 months ending 31 March 2019, c.60,000 adults surveyed per annum, proportion of extremely/very satisfied main current account customers minus proportion of extremely/very/fairly dissatisfied main current account customers. 
Peer group defined as providers with main current account market share >4% (Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, NatWest, Santander and TSB). 
4 Source: Member surveys commissioned by Nationwide, and collated by KPMG Nunwood. 12 months to March 2019. KPMG Nunwood has not independently verified the information provided and accepts no liability for any inaccuracies or omissions.

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19  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Creating the

right culture
to do the best for

our members

We have so many people working here at Nationwide. 
We’re all from different backgrounds with different perspectives.

And we know that those differences make us 
stronger and help us understand our members, 
who are also hugely diverse. Some of our people 
have been with us for over 40 years, some are 
brand new. Some have come from university, 
others have joined us from other organisations. 
And recently, we’ve had more and more 
apprentices coming to work with us. 
Elrich is 21. He went to school in Swindon and 
as the time came to leave, he decided to look into 
an apprenticeship. That’s when he thought of us. 
He joined the Society’s apprenticeship scheme 
back in 2016.

“Since then, I’ve been promoted to IT Disaster 
Recovery Analyst and have been given extra 
time to study for my degree in Business 
Management. I feel like Nationwide has really 
supported me, both in my work and my studies.”

Kate, our Emerging Talent Manager here at 
Nationwide, looks after our apprentices.

“We believe that encouraging our employees 
to build their careers in the way that’s best for 
them means they’re happier at work. And that 
means they’ll be doing their best for our 
members, too.”

“I feel like Nationwide 
has really supported 
me, both in my work 
and my studies.”

 
20  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

Building PRIDE

PRIDE is a statement of the culture, 
values and principles we strive to 
live by. It’s about how we treat our 
members and each other.

We’ve worked hard to create a working environment where people 
are valued, teamwork is celebrated, and everyone can grow and 
develop their careers.

We have a strong culture and committed colleagues. This is evident 
from this year’s employee engagement score, which at 79% (March 
2018: 78%)1, continues to be above the high-performing 
benchmark1 of 77%.

However, our rapidly changing world demands new skills and 
behaviours from our people: we need to be more innovative and able 
to work at pace. To help us achieve this, we developed a new people 
strategy last year. Our goal is to develop leaders at every level of our 
business to inspire and empower our people, and to help them 
learn new skills and capabilities. In the coming year, we will also  
be actively recruiting up to 1,000 technology specialists to support 
our technology investment. We have an approach to reward and 
recognition that recognises every colleague’s contribution based  
on the Society’s overall performance. 

Culture and values underpin our success

Building society, nationwide is our purpose, and achieving that requires all our 
people to understand our strategy and live and breathe our values every day. 

We know from independent surveys that our ethic of care for members and 
each other is strong. The Banking Standards Board culture survey2 showed 
that 92% of our people believe we put our customers at the centre of 
business decisions, a clear indication that our mutual values are shared 
throughout the Society. 

However, we face new challenges in a world being redefined by technology, 
and we need to evolve our culture to meet these. We want to move from 
prescriptive approaches to clear principles and values that genuinely 
empower our people and we are focusing on this in our annual employee 
awards, by encouraging people to compete in new categories such as ‘have  
a go’, ‘growth’, ‘fresh perspectives’ and ‘mutual good’.

Empowering our People

We’ve launched a number of initiatives to support a move towards individuals 
feeling more accountable and empowered, notably the Arthur Webb challenge 
cup. In its second year we have seen over 700 colleagues join cross-community 
teams to work towards producing simple, innovative solutions to improve 
our employee and member experience. We are now focusing on challenging 
structural barriers to change, such as policies, governance and procedures, 
and encouraging colleagues to be more experimental. 

Developing leaders at every level 

Over 1,000 leaders have now taken part in our flagship Leading for Mutual 
Good programmes that we launched last year to develop senior leaders.  
In addition, we’ve introduced Developing My Leadership learning modules 
that put our managers in control of their skills development. So far, the 
modules have a 98.6% recommendation rate from the 1,600 colleagues 
who’ve taken part.

We are also identifying ways in which we can provide roles and experiences 
that will stretch and broaden our leaders, so we can meet future demands. 

Creating a learning organisation

We are expanding our online learning resources so that every colleague can 
develop their skills and knowledge. We’ve launched a new development 
framework that translates our PRIDE values into demonstrable everyday skills 
and behaviours. Over 2,200 colleagues have used this to take part in learning 
relevant to them since April 2018. We’ll continue to develop the platform to 
support lifelong learning and development of our people. 

Investing in the skills to deliver a fully 
digital organisation

Our technology investment to upgrade and develop our digital capabilities 
means we need to attract technology specialists to Nationwide. We’ve 
created a Technology Talent Squad to address this people challenge, 
responsible for both helping existing colleagues develop new skills and 
recruiting up to 1,000 new specialists – from software engineers to agile 
delivery experts – to work in Swindon and London. 

Rewarding and recognising people

Fair pay and reward remain an important part of our ethos. This was the 
second year of Sharing in Success, our reward scheme that recognises 
every colleague’s contribution based on the Society’s overall performance. 
Instead of individual bonuses, all our people receive a variable pay award 
which in 2019 was 8.7% (2018: 9.5%). The award reflects our success in 
achieving things that are important to members – giving you better service 
than our peer group, serving more of our members’ needs, and achieving 
our cost-saving targets.

We also made a significant change in how we celebrate loyalty and long 
service. Following feedback from our people, who told us they valued time 
off to spend with friends and family, we have introduced a paid six-week 
sabbatical for everyone who works for Nationwide for 25 years.

Putting our members and their money first
Rising to the challenge
Inspiring trust
Doing the right thing in the right way
Excelling at relationships

pride

1 

 The comparative for Nationwide’s employee engagement score in 2018 has been restated based on updated information. The high-performing benchmark is based on data from more than 35 companies around the world across a range of industries. It covers more than 450,000 employees.
2   This is an annual survey undertaken by the Banking Standards Board covering 26 firms, including 9 systemically important institutions in the UK (of which Nationwide is one) plus a range of other mid-sized and small banks and building societies. It aims to raise standards across the sector. 

Over 3,000 colleagues at NBS participated in the last assessment.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

Building PRIDE (continued)

Promoting diversity and inclusion

Our diversity and inclusion agenda is about creating a working environment 
where all our people feel valued, and able to combine their unique talents with 
those of other colleagues to make our Society stronger and more successful. 

In 2015 we set ourselves challenging diversity targets to be achieved by the 
end of 2020. We’re pleased to have met our gender target, for women to fill 
between 33-35% of our most senior roles, ahead of schedule; 34.9% of senior 
roles are filled by women. We’re also close to achieving our target of 2.6% of 
roles at all levels being filled by disabled people (currently 2.5%). However, 
despite considerable efforts, achieving our Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic 
(BAME) targets has proved much more challenging than we anticipated. 
We were aiming for 8-15% of senior roles to be filled by BAME employees 
(currently 4.7%). We are creating progressive and sustainable plans to 
address this and stretch our ambition in all areas of diversity and inclusion. 

Each part of the Society is working to address its own priorities, with tailored 
diversity and inclusion action plans. For example, the Finance & Efficiency 
community has begun cultural awareness workshops to prevent potential 
unconscious bias. Each area of the Society has also appointed a senior 
manager to report progress monthly to our new Strategic Diversity and 
Inclusion Action Group. 

As we are planning on recruiting up to 1,000 people to support our 
technology investment, we have also created a distinct people proposition 
and assessment process to help attract quality candidates who share our 
values. This includes making sure we are attractive to candidates who are 
neuro-diverse, such as people on the autism spectrum, widening our 
potential talent pool.

Gender pay gap

We published our second gender pay gap report in November 2018, which 
showed our mean average gender pay gap as at 5 April 2018 was 28% 
(compared with 29% in 2017). This is very much a function of the nature of 
our business and our resulting employee profile. Our overall gender pay gap 
is therefore driven by having far fewer men in our junior roles which reflects 
our long-term success in offering a variety of work patterns which appeal to 
individuals at different stages of their career. We are committed to achieving 
a more balanced gender distribution and are putting new programmes  
in place to help improve opportunities for women at senior levels.

Employee gender split

Employee BAME split

Board 
members 
(inc NEDs)

Female  36%  
Male   64%

Board 
members 
(inc NEDs)

BAME 
7%  
Non-BAME  93%

Senior 
managers

Female  35%  
Male   65%

Senior 
managers

BAME 
5%  
Non-BAME   90%
Undeclared  5%

All 
employees

Female  63%  
Male   37%

All 
employees

BAME 
10%  
Non-BAME  84%
Undeclared  6%

 
22  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Supporting

communities and 

making a

difference

The Rock Trust aims to prevent youth homelessness and support young 
people to build better futures. Last year, they received a £50,000 
Community Grant from Nationwide’s Community Board in Scotland. 

Ally is Head of Services at the Rock Trust.

“When young people leave foster care, they face 
temporary accommodation and uncertain futures. 
Our Housing First project helps them break out of 
that cycle by offering them a permanent place to 
live, and support to stand on their own two feet. 
With Nationwide’s help, we’ve doubled the 
number of young people we can support.”

Hannah is 17 and used to be Scotland’s most 
reported missing person. 

“The Rock Trust stepped in when I most needed it. 
I used to run away all the time and I didn’t feel like 
I could trust anyone. Now I’ve got a place to call 

my own, I’m at college and I don’t drink or do 
drugs anymore. I feel like this is my home. 
And I know I have help no matter what.” 

Adam (pictured) is one of Hannah’s Rock Trust 
project workers who supports her day-to-day.

“The biggest change I’ve seen in Hannah is her 
confidence. She lives on her own, supports herself 
and has made such a positive change to her life. 
And Nationwide’s grant is helping us do that for 
so many others now, too.”

Nationwide Community Grants have been rolled 
out across the whole of the UK.

“With Nationwide’s 
help, we’ve doubled 
the number of 
young people we 
can support.”

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

Building a national treasure

Building a national treasure is perhaps 
our most ambitious cornerstone. It’s 
not about how we see ourselves, but 
about how others see us: how well 
we are trusted, recognised as a brand, 
and seen as a force for good in society.

We’re pleased to be no.1 for trust in our peer group, and joint top 
for brand consideration1 – a measure of how many consumers 
would consider Nationwide for their financial needs. 

As a building society, we are guided by a social rather than a 
commercial purpose and aim to make our communities better 
places to live and work. Last year, we aligned our social investment 
with our goal of helping people into better homes and now direct 
most of our community investment into housing initiatives. In the 
second year of our social investment strategy, built on the idea that 
everyone should have a place fit to call home, we’ve awarded 
Community Grants totalling £3.9 million to more than 100 
housing-related projects. We’re also working with Swindon Borough 
Council to develop a multi-generational community of 239 homes. 

Financial capability is also important to us. We are funding a £3 million 
Open Banking for Good challenge, to motivate technology firms to 
use Open Banking standards to develop apps and services that put 
people in control of their money. 

No.1 for trust 

We’re no.1 for trust in our peer group, with a lead over our nearest 
competitor of 2.3% (March 2018: 1.4%), and we’re joint top for brand 
consideration. Our trust and brand consideration scores were our highest 
year-end scores ever2.

Everyone should have a place fit to call home

Looking out for tenants

Around one fifth of people in the UK live in privately rented homes and we’re 
using our expertise and influence to improve the quality of these homes.  
In 2017, we established a cross-industry Partnership Board made up of 
organisations and charities representing tenants, landlords and agents. This 
is now developing a coherent strategy for the sector. It also backed a Private 
Member’s Bill to let tenants bring claims against landlords for poor quality 
homes and succeeded in widening access to the rogue landlord database.

Unlocking financial capability 

There are around 13 million people in the country who are coping financially, 
but only just keeping their heads above water. We believe Open Banking 
could help transform the lives of these people and launched a £3 million 
Open Banking for Good challenge to the financial technology community to 
develop apps and other services for them. We received over 50 applications 
and have shortlisted seven firms who we are working with closely to 
develop solutions in three areas: helping people understand their income 
and expenditure; smoothing irregular incomes, for example, in the flexible 
‘gig’ economy; and manage their money and debt. Our funding will help 
bring the most successful solutions to market.

We continue to take concrete steps to make our communities better places 
to live and work3. 

In 2007 our members voted to commit at least 1% of pre-tax profit to 
charitable activities each year. In 2018/19, we invested £10.6 million in 
community projects through the Nationwide Foundation (an independent 
charity which we fund), our own social investment strategy and a range  
of local initiatives.

Our social investment is aligned with our founding purpose of helping 
people into better homes. Since launching our strategy, we’ve established 
11 Community Boards covering the whole of the UK, each made up of 
Nationwide members, colleagues and local housing experts. Each Community 
Board has the power to award housing-related Community Grants, and 
local members have the final say over which projects we support. 

In the last year, we have made grants totalling £3.9 million to over 100 
housing-related charities or projects. Our funding has helped older people 
live independently for longer in Scotland, supported homeless young 
people in Gloucestershire to rebuild their lives, and has supported young 
vulnerable people in Wales through funding for a new helpline. 

We have applied for planning permission for our Oakfield development, 
which will transform a brownfield site creating the start of a community  
of 239 new homes, including affordable housing. Through the support of  
a community organiser, local residents have helped shape the plans to foster 
neighbourliness through shared gardens, extensive places to meet and 
play, and a community hub. We intend to share what we learn to encourage 
other responsible businesses to do more as part of our commitment to find 
local solutions to the national housing shortage.

We are also working with two housing and homelessness charities. We have 
supported Shelter since 2001, part-funding its national helpline, donating  
£5 for every new mortgage taken out and supporting its Christmas campaign. 
We’re also working with St Mungo’s, to provide our branch colleagues with 
the tools and knowledge they need to provide a compassionate response  
to rough sleepers locally.

1 

 Source: Nationwide Brand and Advertising tracker compiled by Independent Research Agency, based on all consumer responses, 12 months ended 31 March 2019. Financial brands included Nationwide, Barclays, Co-operative Bank, First Direct, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, NatWest, Santander and TSB. 
Joint top for brand consideration with Halifax.

2   Source: Nationwide Brand and Advertising tracker compiled by Independent Research Agency, based on all consumer responses, 12 months ended 31 March in each year since the surveys began in 2012. Financial brands included Nationwide, Barclays, Co-operative Bank, First Direct, Halifax, HSBC, 

Lloyds Bank, NatWest, Santander and TSB. Joint top for brand consideration with Halifax.

3  Social investment statements on this page have been assured to ISAE 3000 standard by Corporate Citizenship, an external Corporate Responsibility Consultancy. The assurance statement is available on nationwide.co.uk.

 
24  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

The Nationwide Foundation

The Nationwide Foundation is an independent charity set up by the Society in 1997. Each year, we give 0.25% of Nationwide’s 
pre-tax profits to the Foundation – £2.4 million in 2018/19 – as part of the 1% of pre-tax profits we give to good causes. 
The Nationwide Foundation’s vision is that everyone in the UK should have access to a decent, affordable home, and it funds 
three programmes to help achieve this ambition:

1

2

3

Nurturing ideas to change the housing system 
– to protect and create decent affordable homes

The Nationwide Foundation is supporting an organisation in Knowle West, Bristol, to find ways to use 
microsites – such as land in large back gardens, between buildings or grassed verges – to build up to 
350 new homes for local residents. The Foundation is also funding the Affordable Housing Commission, 
to ensure more genuinely affordable homes will be created in England.

Backing community-led housing 
– helping local people take control of their housing

The Nationwide Foundation is helping community-led housing schemes get off the ground by 
funding work that seeks to make public land widely available and accessible to community-led 
housing organisations. It is also supporting work exploring the health and wellbeing benefits 
of living in community-led housing in Wales.

Transforming the private rented sector 
– to provide affordable, decent homes for tenants 

The Nationwide Foundation funded a landmark review of the private rented sector in England, which 
provided robust insights and evidence. Housing experts, politicians and charities welcomed its launch 
in 2018. Academics at the University of York conducted the review, independently analysing private 
rented housing, including how policies have changed the sector over the last ten years.

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25  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Chief Executive’s review (continued)

Outlook

While the UK economy has slowed over the last few years, it has proved more resilient 
than many expected, with continued healthy gains in employment and a gradual rise 
in earnings contributing to solid rates of household spending.

We expect economic activity to continue to rise at a modest pace in the 
near term, which may mean a small rise in the unemployment rate from 
recent 43-year lows, with interest rates remaining close to current levels 
over the next few years. We anticipate that economic activity will then pick 
up once Brexit uncertainties fade and the UK’s trading relationship with 
the EU becomes clearer. 

We expect demand in the housing market to remain fairly subdued, close 
to recent levels, before strengthening once the wider economy gains 
momentum. Deposit growth is likely to rise by around 4% per year, a little 
stronger than that recorded over the past two years. 

In our own business, we will continue to make balanced decisions in the 
long-term interests of members and the Society as a whole. We expect  
our core mortgage and savings markets to remain competitive, with  
a continued narrowing of our net interest margin, and will continue our 
focus on delivering good long-term value for borrowers and savers.  
Our financial strength has enabled us to commit to ongoing investment  
in technology with the confidence that we can continue to support our 
members now and in the future as we have done for the last 135 years.

 
26  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Risk Overview

Nationwide takes a prudent approach to risk management. We keep our members’ money safe and secure by aligning our risk appetite 
with our strategy. To ensure risks are managed consistently, we operate an Enterprise Risk Management Framework, which sets out the 
minimum standards and processes for risk management. Further detail is included on page 103 of the Business and Risk Report. 

Top and Emerging Risks

Whilst the risks that Nationwide runs are broadly stable, the threat posed by the external environment has heightened over the past year. Nationwide has responded to these threats through our strategy as described below. Additional 
information on these and other top and emerging risks, as well as a description of the principal risks and uncertainties we are exposed to through our business model, can be found in the Business and Risk Report on pages 98 to 102.

Political and Economic 
Environment

Competition

Nationwide’s core markets are naturally exposed 
to any downturn in the UK’s economic conditions. 
Economic risks remain heightened due to 
uncertainty surrounding Brexit and the wider 
geopolitical environment. 

Our strategic response:
•   Maintaining strong capital and liquidity 

surpluses over regulatory minimums with 
a CET1 ratio of 32.4%, UK leverage ratio 
of 4.9% and Liquidity Coverage Ratio 
of 150.2%.

•    Undertaking robust internal and regulatory 
stress tests, including the 2018 Bank of 
England stress test in which we maintained 
capital ratios in excess of regulatory 
expectations.

UK withdrawal from the European Union

Competition has intensified as newly ring-fenced 
banks have increased their focus on our core 
markets. Meanwhile new market entrants, 
competing primarily via digital channels, 
are seeking to exploit new technologies to 
revolutionise how customers use and access 
existing products and services. 

Our strategic response:
•   Diversifying our products to better meet 

customer needs through initiatives such as 
Later Life Lending and Nationwide for Business.
•   Committing to maintain our branch presence 
and investing £350 million over five years to 
improve the experience in branch.
•   Partnering with fin-techs to develop 

next-generation technologies.

•   Investing an additional £1.3 billion in 

technology over five years to ensure we 
continue to meet our members’ needs.

Technology 
(incorporates Managing Change and 
Cyber Security)

Our members are increasingly demanding 
always-on and intuitive digital services. 
This increases demand on our systems and 
the volume of data that must be managed 
securely and reliably. 

Our strategic response:
•    Investing an extra £1.3 billion over five years 
into our technology to improve services and 
minimise the risk of disruption to members.

•    Investing in cyber security, evolving our 
controls across both new and existing 
technologies to protect our systems and 
customer data from more complex attacks.

Regulation

The regulatory environment continues to 
evolve with a focus on providing confidence 
in UK financial services and ensuring specific 
markets are operating in the interests of and 
delivering value for customers. 

Our strategic response:
•   As a mutual, our business model focuses on 
building long-term relationships rather than 
generating profits or shareholder dividends.

•   Working with regulators and the industry 
to deliver fair outcomes to our members, 
and meet all regulatory obligations.

In April 2019, the UK Government and the European Union agreed to delay the UK’s departure from the European Union until 31 October 2019 unless a withdrawal agreement is agreed. As Nationwide’s business model is primarily focused in the UK, 
the Society has limited direct exposure to the EU. However, Nationwide is exposed to secondary impacts, particularly volatility in the UK economy and financial markets given the uncertain nature of both the implementation period and the future 
relationship between the UK and the EU. We have responded by considering a range of potential outcomes, including leaving without a deal, through our stress testing programme and preparing for alternative economic outcomes. We continue to 
monitor closely and analyse political, economic and regulatory developments to ensure we remain well positioned to respond to any potential shocks and minimise any disruption for our members and staff.

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27  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Financial
review

Mark Rennison

In summary
An advantage of being a building society is that we can choose how we utilise our resources 
in order to deliver more long-term value and better services to our members. During the year we 
have continued to be guided by our Financial Performance Framework on how we distribute value 
to members, invest in the Society and retain profits. As signalled by our technology investment 
announcement in September 2018, a programme of investment has been initiated which  
will target the simplification of our IT estate, together with enhancement of our digital service 
and data capabilities, over the next five years. During the year we have recognised a charge of 
£227 million from asset write-offs and additional technology investment.

As a mutual we continue to aim to optimise, not maximise, profit and offer good long-term value 
to our members. For the year ended 4 April 2019, we delivered a member financial benefit of 
£705 million (2018: £560 million), demonstrating the competitive products and services that we 
offer our members. In line with expectations, underlying profit reduced by 19% to £788 million 
(2018: £977 million) and statutory profit before tax reduced by 15% to £833 million (2018: 
£977 million), largely due to the impact of asset write-offs and our investment in technology. 
This level of profitability maintained our capital strength, with our UK leverage ratio remaining 
at 4.9% (2018: 4.9%), well in excess of current and anticipated regulatory requirements.

Notwithstanding the continued uncertainty in the external environment and competitive market 
conditions, trading performance for the year has been robust with our strongest ever gross 
lending at £36.4 billion (2018: £33.0 billion), and a growth in member deposits of £6.0 billion 
(2018: £3.5 billion), reflecting the success of our Single Access ISA, Loyalty ISA and an increase 
in current account credit balances.

Achieving sustainable cost savings and embedding efficiencies remains a priority for the Society. 
We continue to make good progress with our efficiency programme, with a further £103 million 
of in-year sustainable saves being delivered during the year. On a cumulative basis, including the 
full year benefit of sustainable saves delivered over the last two years, we have now delivered 
approximately half of our target of £500 million of sustainable saves by 2023. 

On 5 April 2018 we implemented IFRS 9 ‘Financial Instruments’. The total impact on members’ 
interests and equity, net of deferred tax, was a reduction of £162 million. There has been no 
restatement of comparatives following adoption of IFRS 9. Where useful for the interpretation 
of balances or movements, we have highlighted the impact on the Group’s balance sheet and 
members’ interests and equity at 5 April 2018.

“ Nationwide concluded 2018/19 in a 
position of financial strength with 
demonstrable momentum in trading 
performance. This reflects our 
continued commitment and focus on 
offering good value products, and 
better service for our members, 
whilst maintaining capital strength.”

Underlying profit: 

£788m 

(2018: £977m)

UK leverage ratio: 

4.9% 

(2018: 4.9%)

Underlying Cost  
Income Ratio: 

71.1% 

(2018: 64.6%)

Statutory profit: 

£833m 

(2018: £977m)

Net Interest Margin: 

1.22% 

(2018: 1.31% note ii)

Statutory Cost  
Income Ratio: 

70.3% 

(2018: 64.6%)

Income statement
Underlying profit represents management’s view of underlying performance. The components of underlying profit have been changed 
during the year to reflect more appropriately ongoing business performance. As a result, underlying profit now includes the bank levy 
and FSCS management expenses, which were previously excluded. For the year ended 4 April 2019 this decreased underlying profit  
by £45 million (2018: £46 million). Comparatives have been restated. Underlying profit continues to exclude FSCS costs arising from 
institutional failures, and gains or losses from derivatives and hedge accounting.

Underlying and statutory results (note i)

Net interest income (note ii)
Net other income (note ii)
Total underlying income
Underlying administrative expenses
Impairment losses
Underlying provisions for liabilities
Underlying profit before tax
Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) (note iii)
Gains/(losses) from derivatives and hedge accounting (notes iii, iv)
Statutory profit before tax
Taxation
Profit after tax

Year to 4 April 2019
£m
2,915
255
3,170
(2,254)
(113)
(15)
788
9
 36
833
(215)
618

Year to 4 April 2018
£m
3,004
128
3,132
(2,024)
(105)
(26)
977
1
(1)
977
(232)
745

Notes:
i. 

ii. 

 Under IFRS 9, the recognition and measurement of expected credit losses differs from under IAS 39. As prior period amounts have not been restated, 
impairment losses on loans and advances in the comparative period remain in accordance with IAS 39 and are therefore not directly comparable with 
impairment losses recorded for the current period.
 The opportunity has been taken to reclassify certain items previously included within net interest income to reflect better the nature of the 
transactions. As a result, gains and losses recognised on the disposal of investment securities classified as FVOCI (2018: available for sale) are now 
presented within net other income. 

iii.  Within statutory profit:

• FSCS costs arising from institutional failures, are included within provisions for liabilities and charges.
• Gains from derivatives and hedge accounting, are presented separately within total income.

iv.   Although we only use derivatives to hedge market risks, income statement volatility can still arise due to hedge accounting ineffectiveness or because 

hedge accounting is either not applied or is not achievable. This volatility is largely attributable to accounting rules which do not fully reflect the economic 
reality of the hedging strategy.

 
 
 
28  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Total income and margin 

As anticipated, net interest income has decreased, reducing by 3% to 
£2,915 million (2018: £3,004 million) due to lower mortgage income, 
reflecting sustained market competition and ongoing attrition of base 
mortgage rate (BMR) balances. Net interest margin (NIM) has therefore 
reduced to 1.22% (2018: 1.31%). We have continued to make conscious 
choices to deliver value to our borrowing members through attractive 
rates, with the average rate paid by our prime mortgage members 
reducing during the year to 2.34% (2018: 2.45%). The availability of low 
rates on new mortgages has encouraged product switching and refinancing, 
with £26.5 billion of prime mortgage customer balances having switched to 
a new Nationwide product in the year (2018: £24 billion). Our legacy BMR 
balances have continued to run off during the period and as at 4 April 2019 
were £18.1 billion (4 April 2018: £22.7 billion).

The negative impact to NIM from declining mortgage margins has been 
partially offset by low savings rates. We have continued to manage savings 
pricing in line with our commitment to provide good long-term value for 
members. During the year depositors have continued to earn average rates 
more than 50% higher than the market average1. We expect market 
conditions to remain competitive, and product switching and BMR balance 
attrition to continue in line with recent experience. We anticipate therefore 
that our reported NIM will continue to trend lower in the year ahead. 

Net other income has increased to £255 million during the year (2018: 
£128 million), predominantly due to the prior year including a £116 million 
charge in relation to a debt buy back exercise.

Member financial benefit 
As a building society, we seek to maintain our financial strength whilst providing value to our members through pricing, propositions and service. Through our member financial benefit, we measure the additional financial value for 
members from the highly competitive mortgage, savings and banking products that we offer compared to the market. Member financial benefit is calculated by comparing, in aggregate, Nationwide’s average interest rates and incentives 
across mortgages, savings, current accounts, personal loans and credit cards to the market, predominantly using market data provided by the Bank of England and CACI. The value for individual members will depend on their 
circumstances and product choices. We quantify member financial benefit as:

Our interest rate differential + incentives and lower fees

Interest rate differential
We measure how our average interest rates across our member 
balances in total compare against the market over the period.

For our two largest member segments, mortgages and retail 
deposits, we compare the average member interest rate for these 
portfolios against Bank of England and CACI industry data. A market 
benchmark based upon the data from CACI is used for mortgages and 
a Bank of England benchmark is used for retail deposits, both adjusted 
to exclude Nationwide balances. The differentials derived in this way 
are then applied to member balances for mortgages and deposits.

For unsecured lending, a similar comparison is made. We calculate an 
interest rate differential based on available market data from the Bank of 
England and apply this to the total interest bearing balances of credit 
cards and personal loans.

Member incentives and lower fees
Our member financial benefit measure also includes amounts in 
relation to higher incentives and lower fees that Nationwide offers to 
members. Our calculation includes annual amounts for the following: 

• Mortgages: the differential on incentives for members compared 

to the market 

• ‘Recommend a friend’: the amount paid to existing members, when 

they recommend a new current account member to the Society

• FlexPlus account: this current account is considered market leading 
against major banking competitors, with a high level of benefits for 
a relatively smaller fee. The difference between the monthly account 
fee of £13 and the market average of £17 is included in the member 
financial benefit measure.

  For the year ended 4 April 2019, this measure shows we have 
provided our members with a financial benefit of £705 million 
(2018: £560 million). This demonstrates that we continue to offer 
good long-term value products to our members in both the 
mortgage and deposit markets, despite strong levels of competition.

Member financial benefit is derived with reference to available market or industry level data. No adjustment is made to take account of factors such as customer mix, risk appetite and product strategy, due to both 
limitations in the availability of data and to avoid bias from segments in which Nationwide may be under or over-represented. On an ongoing basis we will continue to review our methodology to ensure it captures 
all the key elements of the financial benefits we provide to our members, where data is available.

1   Market average interest rates are based on Bank of England whole of market average interest rates, adjusted to exclude Nationwide’s balances.

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29  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Financial review (continued)

Administrative expenses 

Administrative expenses include the impact of technology asset write-offs 
and incremental expenditure associated with our technology investment 
announced in September 2018. The investment programme incorporates 
£1.3 billion of incremental expenditure to be incurred over five years, 
targeting the enhancement of our digital services and data capabilities, 
together with a simplification of our technology estate. During the year we 
have recognised a charge of £227 million, comprising asset write-offs and 
impairments of £115 million, combined with expenditure which relates 
directly to our technology investment of £112 million. 

Excluding this charge, our cost base is broadly flat. Our continued focus 

on efficiency has allowed us to absorb inflation, volume growth and the 
impact of prior year investment. Beyond our additional technology 
investment programme, we continue to make ongoing investments in 
supporting the long-term interests of our members, including improving 
member service and propositions, both in branch and through digital 
channels, and meeting regulatory requirements.

Achieving sustainable cost savings and embedding efficiencies remain a 
priority for the Society. We have delivered a further £103 million of new 
in-year sustainable saves during the year. On a cumulative basis, including 
the full year benefit of sustainable saves delivered over the last two years, 

we have now delivered approximately half of our target of £500 million 
of sustainable saves by 2023. This has been achieved through a range 
of initiatives that are focused on the development of digital capabilities, 
organisational design, third party savings, process improvements, 
simplification and elimination.

Our underlying cost income ratio has increased to 71.1% (2018: 64.6%) 
largely due to the impact of the asset write-offs and expenditure directly 
related to our technology investment programme.

Impairment losses/(reversals) on loans and advances to customers

Impairment losses have increased by £8 million to £113 million (2018: 
£105 million). Despite this increase in impairments the underlying 
portfolio performance remains strong. 

Retail lending impairment losses remain at historically low levels with the 
£17 million reversal (2018: £11 million charge) for the residential lending 
book resulting from improvements to the modelling of refinance risk on 
interest only loans and updated economic assumptions. The increase in the 
consumer banking impairment charge to £114 million (2018: £97 million) 
includes additional provisions against the credit card portfolio relating to 
borrowers considered to be in persistent debt (explained in the Credit risk 
- Consumer banking section of the Business and Risk Report). 
Notwithstanding this increase, delinquency levels on the consumer 
banking portfolio have remained low during the year. 

During the year commercial loan impairments were £16 million (2018: 
£1 million reversal) due to increased credit risk associated with two 
individual loans, with the overall portfolio performance remaining robust.

Impairment losses/(reversals)

Residential lending

Consumer banking

Retail lending
Commercial and other lending

Impairment losses on loans and advances
Impairment losses on investment securities

Total

Year to 4 April 2019
£m

Year to 4 April 2018
£m

(17)

114

97
16

113

-
113

11

97

108
(1)

107

(2)
105

Note:
Under IFRS 9, the recognition and measurement of expected credit losses differs from under IAS 39. As prior period amounts have not been restated, impairment losses in the 
comparative period are not comparable to impairment losses recorded for the current period.

Provisions for liabilities and charges 

Taxation

We hold provisions for customer redress to cover the costs of remediation 
and redress in relation to past sales of financial products and ongoing 
administration, including non-compliance with consumer credit legislation 
and other regulatory requirements. The net charge of £15 million (2018: 
£26 million) reflects our latest estimate of our customer redress liabilities. 
More information is included in note 27 to the financial statements.

The tax charge for the year of £215 million (2018: £232 million) represents 
an effective tax rate of 25.8% (2018: 23.7%) which is higher than the 
statutory UK corporation tax rate of 19% (2018: 19%). The effective tax rate 
is higher due to the 8% banking surcharge of £37 million (2018: £43 million) 
and the tax effect of disallowable bank levy and customer redress costs. 
More information is included in note 11 to the financial statements.

 
30  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Financial review (continued)

Balance sheet
Total assets have increased 4% year on year to reach £238.3 billion 
(5 April 2018: £228.9 billion) with a robust trading performance driving 
£8.6 billion of net mortgage lending (2018: £5.8 billion). This has been 
supported by strong growth in retail funding flows, with member deposits 
growing by £6.0 billion to £154.0 billion (5 April 2018: £148.0 billion) and 

our market share of UK deposits increasing slightly to 10.1% 
(31 March 2018: 10.0%). Of the growth in member deposits, 
£4.6 billion is attributable to an increase in savings balances 
largely reflecting the success during the year of accounts such 
as our Single Access ISA and Loyalty ISA.

Assets

Residential mortgages (note ii)

Commercial and other lending (note iii)

Consumer banking

Impairment provisions

Loans and advances to customers

Other financial assets

Other non-financial assets

Total assets

Asset quality
Residential mortgages (note ii):

Proportion of residential mortgage accounts more than 3 months in arrears

Average indexed loan to value (by value)

Consumer banking:
Proportion of customer balances with amounts past due more than 
3 months (excluding charged off balances) (note iv)

4 April 2019

5 April 2018 (note i)

4 April 2018

£m

186,012

9,118

4,586

199,716

(665)

199,051

36,709

2,541

238,301

%

0.43

58

1.35

%

93

5

2

£m

177,303

10,640

4,107

%

92

6

2

£m

177,299

10,645

4,107

100

192,050

100

192,051

%

92

6

2

100

(629)

191,421

34,877

2,639

228,937

(458)

191,593

34,912

2,593

229,098

%

0.43

56

1.56

 Balances as at 5 April 2018 reflect the impact of applying IFRS 9 ‘Financial Instruments’.

Notes:
i. 
ii.  Residential mortgages include prime and specialist loans, with the specialist portfolio primarily comprising buy to let lending.
iii.   Commercial and other lending now exclude balances held with counterparties which are institutions similar to banks. These balances are now reported in Loans and advances  
to banks and similar institutions (Other financial assets line), and comparatives have been restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included  
in note 1 to the financial statements.

iv.   Charged off balances relate to accounts which are closed to future transactions and are held on the balance sheet for an extended period (up to 36 months, depending on the 

product) whilst recovery procedures take place. 

Liquidity Coverage Ratio: 

150.2% 

(2018: 130.3%)

Return on Assets: 

0.26% 

(2018: 0.33%)

Residential mortgages 

Despite competitive market conditions, total gross mortgage lending for 
the year was £36.4 billion (2018: £33.0 billion) representing our strongest 
ever year of gross mortgage lending and reflecting the competitively priced 
products and good long-term value that we continue to offer. Our market 
share of prime mortgage gross lending as at March 2019 has grown to 
13.4% (2018: 12.8%). As a result, total net mortgage lending for the year 
increased by £2.8 billion to £8.6 billion (2018: £5.8 billion).

Arrears performance has remained stable during the year, with cases more 
than three months in arrears at 0.43% of the total portfolio (4 April 2018: 
0.43%). The average LTV of the portfolio has increased during the year to 
58% (4 April 2018: 56%), reflecting new lending, offset to a lesser degree 
this year by house price growth across the whole portfolio. Impairment 
provisions have decreased to £206 million (5 April 2018: £235 million) 
largely due to continued run-off of legacy, higher risk portfolios combined 
with refinements to our provisioning methodology.

Commercial and other lending 

During the year commercial balances have decreased by £1.5 billion to 
£9.1 billion (5 April 2018: £10.6 billion). As previously reported, our 
commercial real estate (CRE) portfolio is closed to new business and is 
currently in run-off. As a result, CRE balances have reduced during the year 
by £0.4 billion to £1.4 billion (5 April 2018: £1.8 billion). Impairment 
provisions have increased to £41 million (5 April 2018: £29 million) due 
to increased credit risks associated with two individual loan exposures. 
Notwithstanding this increase in provisions, the overall book performance 
remains strong and our exit from the commercial real estate market 
continues to be carefully managed. 

Given deleveraging activity in previous financial years, the overall portfolio 
is increasingly weighted towards registered social landlords with balances 
of £6.0 billion (5 April 2018: £6.8 billion) and project finance with balances 
of £0.8 billion (5 April 2018: £0.9 billion). The reduction in our registered 
social landlord book largely reflects early redemptions of loans by housing 
associations.

Consumer banking

Consumer banking balances have grown by £0.5 billion to £4.6 billion 
(5 April 2018: £4.1 billion). This balance growth was driven by a record 
£1.8 billion of personal loan lending during the year (2018: £1.3 billion) 
following the reduction in headline rates in March 2018 and changes to 
extend our lowest pricing to more members from January 2019.

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31  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Financial review (continued)

Other financial assets

Members’ interests, equity and liabilities

Other financial assets total £36.7 billion (5 April 2018: £34.8 billion), primarily 
comprising liquidity and investment assets held by our Treasury function of 
£32.7 billion (5 April 2018: £30.8 billion) and derivatives with positive fair 
values of £3.6 billion (5 April 2018: £4.0 billion). Derivatives relate primarily 
to interest rate and foreign exchange contracts which economically hedge 
financial risks inherent in core lending and funding activities.

Our Liquidity Coverage Ratio has increased during the year to 150.2% 
(4 April 2018: 130.3%) largely due to the pre-funding of future wholesale 
funding maturities combined with a reduction in stressed collateral 
requirements. We continue to manage our liquidity in accordance with 
our risk appetite, which is more prudent than regulatory requirements. 
Further details are included in the Liquidity and funding risk section of 
the Business and Risk Report.

Member deposits

Debt securities in issue

Other financial liabilities

Other liabilities

Total liabilities
Members’ interests and equity

Total members’ interests, equity and liabilities

Note:
i.  Balances as at 5 April 2018 reflect the impact of applying IFRS 9.

4 April 2019

5 April 2018 (note i)

4 April 2018

£m

153,969

35,942

33,755

1,466

225,132

13,169

238,301

£m

148,003

34,118

33,173

1,402

216,696

12,241

228,937

£m

148,003

34,118

33,173

1,401

216,695

12,403

229,098

Wholesale funding ratio: 

28.6% 

(2018: 28.2%)

Member deposits

Debt securities in issue and other financial liabilities

Members’ interests and equity

Member deposits have increased by £6.0 billion to £154.0 billion 
(4 April 2018: £148.0 billion) largely reflecting the success of our Single 
Access and Loyalty ISAs, combined with higher current account credit 
balances. In a competitive market, we have slightly increased our market 
share of deposits as at March 2019 to 10.1% (2018: 10.0%). Our market 
share of main standard and packaged current accounts grew to 8.0% 
(2018: 7.9%), with our market share of new current account openings 
increasing during the year to 16.2% (2018: 15.8%).

Debt securities in issue have increased during the year by £1.8 billion to 
£35.9 billion (5 April 2018: £34.1 billion) largely due to wholesale funding 
issued in order to finance our core activities. Other financial liabilities have 
increased by £0.6 billion to £33.8 billion (5 April 2018: £33.2 billion) primarily 
due to issuances of debt during the year in order to meet the minimum 
requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities. Further details are included 
in the Liquidity and funding risk section of the Business and Risk Report.

Members’ interests and equity has increased by £1.0 billion to £13.2 billion 
(5 April 2018: £12.2 billion) largely reflecting additional retained profits and 
an increase in the cash flow hedge reserve.

Statement of comprehensive income
Further information on gross movements in the pension obligation and 
movements in the cash flow hedge reserve are included in notes 30 and 
7 to the financial statements respectively.

Statement of comprehensive income

(note i)

Profit after tax

Net remeasurement of pension obligations

Net movement in cash flow hedge reserve

Net movement in fair value through other comprehensive income reserve

Net movement in available for sale reserve

Other items

Total comprehensive income

Note:
i.  Movements are shown net of related taxation.

Year to 4 April 2019

Year to 4 April 2018

£m

618

153

328

(12)

-

(1)

1,086

£m

745

22

(191)

-

31

1

608

 
32  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Financial review (continued)

Financial Performance Framework
As a mutual, we aim to optimise, rather than maximise, profit and retain 
sufficient earnings to support future growth, sustain a strong capital 
position and allow us to invest in the business to provide the products 
and services that our members demand. We have used the most recent 
guidance from regulators regarding the maximum expected capital 
requirement for Nationwide to develop our Financial Performance 
Framework. This framework provides parameters which will allow us to 
calibrate future performance and help ensure that we achieve the right  
balance between distributing value to members, investing in our business 
and maintaining our financial strength. 

Capital structure
Our capital position has strengthened during the period with our CET1 
ratio increasing to 32.4% (5 April 2018: 30.4%) whilst our UK leverage 
ratio remained stable at 4.9% (5 April 2018: 4.9%). Both remain in excess 
of the regulatory capital requirements of 13.2% and 4.0% respectively, which 
include CRD IV buffers applicable from August 2019.

Capital structure (note i)

Capital resources
Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital

Total Tier 1 capital

Total regulatory capital 

Risk weighted assets (RWAs)

UK leverage exposure

CRR leverage exposure

CRD IV capital ratios:
CET1 ratio

UK leverage ratio (note iii)

CRR leverage ratio (note iv)

One of the most important of these parameters is profit, management of which 
is a key component in maintaining Nationwide’s capital strength. We believe 
that a level of underlying profit of approximately £0.9 billion to £1.3 billion per 
annum over the medium term would meet the Board’s objective for sustainable 
capital strength. This range will vary from time to time, and whether our 
profitability falls within or outside this range in any given financial year or period 
will depend on a number of external and internal factors, including conscious 
decisions to provide value to members or to make investments in the business. 
It should not be construed as a forecast of the likely level of Nationwide’s 
underlying profit for any financial year or period within a financial year.

The CET1 ratio increased to 32.4% (5 April 2018: 30.4%) as a result of an 
increase in CET1 capital resources, with RWAs remaining relatively stable. 
CET1 capital resources have increased by £0.6 billion, primarily due to the 
profit after tax for the year of £0.6 billion. RWAs remained stable with 
increased retail lending and treasury related RWAs offset by run-off in the 
commercial book and the implementation of a new credit card IRB model.

4 April 2019

5 April 2018 (note ii)

4 April 2018

£m

10,517

11,509

14,485

32,506

235,147

247,586

%

32.4

4.9

4.6

£m

9,915

10,907

13,930

32,579

221,982

236,458

%

30.4

4.9

4.6

£m

9,925

10,917

13,936

32,509

221,992

236,468

%

30.5

4.9

4.6

Notes:
i.  Data in the table is reported under CRD IV on an end point basis with IFRS 9 transitional arrangements applied.
ii. 

 Figures have been adjusted to reflect the impact of applying IFRS 9 from 5 April 2018. Further information is provided in note 37 and in our ‘Report on Transition to IFRS 9: 
Financial Instruments’, which can be found at nationwide.co.uk

iii.   The UK leverage ratio (as defined in the PRA rulebook) is calculated using the Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) definition of Tier 1 for the capital amount and the Delegated Act 

definition of the exposure measure, excluding eligible central bank reserves.

iv.   The Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) leverage ratio is calculated using the CRR definition of Tier 1 for the capital amount and the Delegated Act definition of the exposure 

measure and is reported on an end point basis.

We remain committed to our Financial Performance Framework. Our profit 
for the year ended 4 April 2019 reflects conscious decisions to increase 
investment at a time when members needs are changing rapidly and 
technology advancement is offering new opportunities. We are satisfied 
that this performance is in line with the framework.

The UK leverage ratio remained stable at 4.9% (5 April 2018: 4.9%), with 
an increase in Tier 1 capital driven by profit after tax of £0.6 billion offset 
by an increase in UK leverage exposure of £13 billion resulting from an 
increase in net retail lending of £9 billion, an increase in treasury exposures 
(including counterparty credit risk) of £5 billion, and an increase in other 
assets of £1 billion, offset by run-off in the commercial book of £2 billion. 
The CRR leverage ratio is based on the Delegated Act definition and 
therefore exposures include central bank reserves. This also remained 
stable at 4.6% (5 April 2018: 4.6%). On 24 April 2019, Nationwide notified 
investors of its intention to redeem its outstanding Additional Tier 1 capital 
instrument in full, on 20 June 2019. This will reduce Tier 1 capital resources 
by £992 million, resulting in a 0.4 percentage points reduction in the UK 
leverage ratio, to 4.5%, and a 0.4 percentage points reduction in CRR 
leverage ratio to 4.2%, based on the year end balance sheet. 

Nationwide expects to implement new residential mortgage IRB models 
in 2020, incorporating the changes required by the June 2017 update to 
supervisory statement 11/13. This is anticipated to increase RWAs, leading 
to an estimated reduction in the CET1 ratio of approximately one third, 
based on our reported ratio at 4 April 2019. We expect the CET1 ratio 
to be impacted further by the Basel III reforms which come into effect 
progressively between 2022 and 2027. The impact of this legislation will 
supersede the effect of the new IRB models, with an expected reduction 
in the reported CET1 ratio of approximately 45% to 50%, relative to the 
4 April 2019 position; however organic earnings through the transition will 
mitigate this impact and we expect leverage requirements to remain our 
binding constraint based on latest projections.

Further details of the capital position and regulatory developments are 
included in the Solvency risk section of the Business and Risk Report.

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33  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Non-financial information
Non-financial information

Measurement and reporting of non-financial matters is important for us to get a full picture of our performance. 
As a responsible business, we include below our statement on non-financial reporting.

The non-financial reporting requirements contained in sections 414CA and 414CB of the Companies Act 2006 are addressed below. Although Nationwide, as a building society, is not required to follow the Companies Act 2006, 
we seek to apply its requirements where appropriate. 

Non-financial information
Business model
Key performance indicators
Key risks

Our policies

Disclosure
Our business model and information on how we do business differently
Our KPIs set out how we are doing on service, value and strength
Our key risks and their management
Our key policies and statements of intent are in place to ensure consistent governance on environmental matters, 
our employees, social matters, human rights and anti-bribery and corruption

Section
Strategic Report –  Who we are and what we do
Strategic Report – Our KPIs
Strategic Report – Risk overview

Pages
4
11
26

See below

Our policies
Environmental matters

We’re the world’s largest building society, so it’s only natural we play a part in shaping the communities and places we belong to. We know we must do more than meet legal and regulatory requirements; we must reduce the ways we 
affect the environment and always aim to do better. And we’re encouraging everyone – our members, suppliers, contractors and other stakeholders – to do the same. 
Our environmental targets for 2020, which were set in 2011, have already been met or exceeded. Already we’re a zero landfill business with all our waste either recycled or used for energy recovery, and 100% of our electricity is from 
renewable sources - we’re proud to receive over 50% from a Solar Farm Power Purchase Agreement, and we’ve offset our total carbon emissions by funding wind power projects at two sites in India, Andipatti and Thenai. Our ambition 
is to look for better, cleaner ways to run our operations and we’re now turning our attention to the Conference of Parties (COP 21) two-degree target set in Paris.

The impact of climate risks

Whilst we continue to work hard to minimise our direct impact on the environment, we must also assess the impact that global climate change could have on our business in the future. 
Two types of risk may shape our business: physical risks (which arise from weather-related events) and transitional risks (which come from adapting to a low-carbon economy). As a building society we’re not significantly exposed to 
industries adapting to a low-carbon economy. Our core business is to help members buy houses and physical risks mainly arise in our mortgage portfolios. We welcome the recommendations of the Financial Stability Taskforce on 
Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and are assessing how we can best implement the recommendations.

Governance

The Executive Risk Committee and Board Risk Committee are responsible for our climate related risks. We are creating an executive committee for Responsible Business which will be chaired by our Deputy CEO, 
Tony Prestedge. This committee will be charged by the Board with establishing the Society’s responsible business agenda, tracking the Society’s impact right across our business, setting targets for improvement 
and reporting back to the Board.

Strategy

We will continue to assess climate change risks on our business and integrate how we manage these risks into our strategy.

Risk Management Over the longer term, risks could arise from more extreme weather events and we are building capability to improve our understanding of these risks. We have worked with third party organisations with 

geospatial modelling, and geological and hydrological expertise, to model the impacts of climate change on our property portfolios. Today we use this capability to protect members from purchasing uninsurable 
properties and over time this work will allow us to conduct “what if” analysis for different climate change scenarios and enable us to support our members better. To help us manage broader climate change risks, 
we assess the potential effects of climate-related financial risks and consider how we can include them in our stress testing and scenario analysis.

Metrics

We are developing our approach to reporting metrics and targets. A summary of our greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) is included in the Directors’ Report on page 95.

We note the recent publications from the PRA and the FCA relating to the financial risks arising from climate change and will work with the regulators as they further develop their approaches to managing and monitoring these risks.

 
34  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Non-financial information (continued)

Our policies (continued)

Our key policies / statements of intent

Description

Our employees

Board Composition and Succession Policy 
Additional information is included in our Report of the 
directors on corporate governance on page 53.

The Board Composition and Succession Policy ensures the Board comprises persons who are fit and proper to direct the Society’s business, and sets out the approach to diversity in the 
senior leadership population (Board, executive leaders and their direct reports). The Society has committed to increasing female representation to 33-35% by 2020 across the senior 
leadership population. The strategy also includes a target of between 8% to 15% for BAME representation across the senior leadership population. These targets are supported by the 
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Strategy and action plans, which are refreshed annually and against which progress is reported to the Nomination and Governance Committee annually.

Code of Conduct Policy

The Code of Conduct Policy outlines the standards of conduct and behaviour that Nationwide expects from its employees. We want to ensure that Nationwide is a great place to work 
for all our employees and we are committed to promoting a culture of honesty and integrity across Nationwide which enables our people to do the right thing for our customers.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy
Additional information is included in our Building PRIDE 
update on page 21.

Our mutuality and fundamental commitment to valuing everyone defines and differentiates us. We are committed to being a fair employer, treating everyone equally and promoting 
a supportive culture of equality, diversity and inclusion for our employees, customers and third party business partners.

Social matters

Our social purpose and commitment 
to our communities
Additional information is included in our Building  
a national treasure update on pages 23 and 24.

Human rights

Slavery and Human Trafficking 
Additional information is included in our Slavery 
and Human Trafficking Statement available on 
nationwide.co.uk

Anti-Bribery and Anti-Corruption

Anti-Bribery and Corruption
Additional information is included in our  
Anti-Bribery and Corruption policy statement  
available on nationwide.co.uk

It is 135 years since our business was founded - with a social purpose at its heart. This social purpose, helping people into homes of their own, motivates us still today. By helping 
people save, buy homes, and manage their money efficiently, we help people build secure and happy lives and communities. We’ve awarded Community Grants totalling £3.9 million 
to more than 100 housing-related projects and we’re working with Swindon Borough Council to develop a multi-generational community of 239 homes.

Section 54 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 (the Act) requires certain commercial organisations, including Nationwide, to state on their website how they are tackling the risk of slavery 
and human trafficking in their business or supply chains. Each year, Nationwide produces its statement in accordance with the Act which outlines the steps we have taken and the 
policies we have in place to tackle the risk of modern slavery. One of these policies is the Third Party Code of Practice, which we ask all of our 1,200 suppliers to commit to. In addition, 
Nationwide’s Code of Conduct details our employees’, temporary workers’ and contractors’ obligations in relation to tackling modern slavery. Nationwide’s Whistleblowing policy offers 
colleagues a confidential channel to flag concerns.

Bribery and corruption is a risk for organisations across the world, and a collaborative approach across governments, law enforcement agencies and businesses is taken to tackle the issue. 
Nationwide is bound by the laws of the UK, including the Bribery Act 2010 which concerns conduct both at home and abroad. The Board is committed to operating with honesty and 
integrity in all of our business activities and to promoting an anti-bribery and corruption culture across the Group. Nationwide takes a zero tolerance approach to bribery and is committed 
to implementing and enforcing effective systems, and risk-based controls and procedures to counter bribery and corruption. These controls and procedures include a communication 
programme, staff training and awareness, a confidential whistleblowing procedure, and monitoring and review of the Anti-Bribery and Corruption policy and other related policies.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Governance

36  Board of directors 

41  Executive Committee biographies 

43   Report of the directors on corporate governance

• Corporate governance report

• Audit Committee report

• Board Risk Committee report

•  Board IT and Resilience Committee report

•  Nomination and Governance Committee report

81 

 Report of the directors on remuneration

94  Directors’ report

Roshni, member since 2003

 
 
 
 
 
 
36  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Board of directors

Meet your Board of directors 
who were in office at 4 April 2019, 
including Albert Hitchcock, who 
is seeking election as non 
executive director.

Key

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Audit Committee

Executive Committee

Board IT and Resilience Committee

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Nomination and 
Governance Committee

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Remuneration Committee

Board Risk Committee

Indicates chair of a Committee

Baroness Usha Prashar CBE PC
Non executive director since January 2017 (independent)
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Tony Prestedge
Executive director since August 2007
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Skills and experience
Usha is a highly experienced policy advisor, with a singular mix of insight 
across the public, not-for-profit and broadcasting sectors. Her wealth of 
public and voluntary sector expertise helps inform Nationwide’s regulatory 
perspectives and social purpose. Usha shares the Society’s commitment  
to contributing to local communities and voluntary work. 

Current external positions 
Member of House of Lords 
Honorary President, UK Community Foundations
Member, the Home Building Review Panel
Chair, Cumberland Lodge 

Previous positions include
Deputy Chair, the British Council
Member, European Select Committee
Non executive director, ITV 
Non executive director, the Cabinet Office
Non executive director, Channel 4
Non executive director, Ealing, Hounslow and Hammersmith Health Authority
Inaugural Chairman, the Judicial Appointments Commission

Skills and experience
Tony combines deep strategic, transformation, IT and operational 
experience from over two decades in financial services, with a passionate 
focus on delivering exceptional service across every member touch point 
within the Society. Tony is Deputy Chief Executive; his accountabilities 
include developing Nationwide’s strategy and driving digital transformation 
as well as leading the Society’s Relationships and Distribution community. 
This encompasses branches, contact centres, mobile and digital channels, 
mortgage and financial planning distribution, collections and recoveries, 
member services and intermediary sales. Prior to his current role Tony  
was Nationwide’s Chief Operating Officer.

Previous positions include
Managing Director, Home Finance and Retail Support and  
Operations Director, Barclays plc
Director, Woolwich Mortgage Services Limited
Director, Global Home Loans Limited
Director, Opportunity Now 

Roshni, member since 2003

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Board of directors (continued)

Joe Garner 
Chief Executive Officer since April 2016
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Skills and experience
Joe has spent his working life in consumer-focused businesses, starting his 
career with consumer product companies Procter & Gamble and Dixons 
Carphone. He later took on leadership roles first as Head of HSBC’s UK retail 
and commercial businesses and then as CEO at Openreach. Throughout 
his career, Joe has championed the interests of colleagues and customers, 
believing that looking after both is not only the right thing to do, but the key 
to commercial success. Since joining Nationwide, Joe’s mission has been 
to inspire colleagues to remain true to the Society’s social purpose; using 
the power of the collective to improve people’s lives. Joe is passionate about 
Nationwide’s core purpose of ‘building society, nationwide’.

Current external positions
Director, UK Finance 
Member, Financial Conduct Authority Practitioner Panel 
Chairman and trustee, British Triathlon Trust
Member, Economic Crime Strategy Board

Previous positions include
CEO, Openreach
Deputy CEO, HSBC Bank plc
Head, HSBC’s UK Retail and Commercial Business
Non executive director, Financial Ombudsman Service

Lynne Peacock 
Non executive director since July 2011 and senior independent 
director since July 2016
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Skills and experience
Lynne has an exceptional background in financial services, including an 
extensive understanding of the mutual sector. In addition to leading two retail 
banks and holding a directorship within a building society, she has operated 
at Board level for over 20 years, overseeing brand development, mergers 
and acquisitions, change management and business transformation. Lynne 
is a strong advocate of mutuality and is Chair of the trustees of a charity for 
people with learning disabilities. 

Current external positions 
Non executive director, Serco Group plc
Chair of trustees, Westminster Society for People with Learning Disabilities

Previous positions include
CEO of National Australia Bank’s UK business
CEO of Woolwich plc
Non executive director, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group plc
Non executive director, Scottish Water
Non executive director, Standard Life Aberdeen plc

Kevin Parry OBE 
Non executive director since May 2016 (independent)
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Skills and experience
Kevin is a chartered accountant with a distinguished career in financial 
services and professional practice, bringing to the Board expertise in 
audit, regulation, risk management, and finance. As a former Chairman 
of the Homes and Communities Agency, his perspective on housing is a 
valuable asset to the Society. He is Chairman of Royal London, the largest 
mutual insurer in the UK. He is a trustee and former Chairman of the 
Royal National Children’s SpringBoard Foundation, a charity providing life 
transforming opportunities through education to disadvantaged children.

Current external positions 
Chairman, Royal London Group
Chairman, Intermediate Capital Group plc
Non executive director and Chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee, Daily 
Mail and General Trust plc
Trustee, Royal National Children’s SpringBoard Foundation

Previous positions include
Chief Financial Officer, Schroders plc
Chief Executive Officer, Management Consulting Group plc
Managing Partner, Information Communications and Entertainment, 
KPMG LLP
Senior Independent Director, Standard Life Aberdeen plc

 
38  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Board of directors (continued)

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Non executive director since July 2012 (independent)
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Executive director since April 2009
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Skills and experience
As a former CEO and Chair of brand consultancy Interbrand, Rita is an 
acclaimed brand expert. This, and her background in consumer insight, help 
ensure that member interests are central to Board business. Rita has helped 
a wide range of iconic British organisations understand how to use research, 
marketing strategy and communications to build sustainable brand value.  
She is also a committed advocate for environmental and sustainability issues. 

Skills and experience
Chris is a chartered accountant with over 30 years’ experience in retail 
and commercial banking, holding senior leadership roles across finance, 
treasury, operations, retail distribution and risk management. This broad 
background in financial services means he is ideally placed to oversee the 
development of the Society’s product and services to ensure they meet  
the needs of the Society’s 15 million members.

Current external positions 
Non executive director, ASOS plc
Non executive director, Ascential plc (previously known as EMAP plc)
Chairman, BrandCap
Member, Assurance and Advisory Panel, BP’s carbon off-setting programme 
‘Target Neutral’
Trustee, Green Alliance

Previous positions include
London CEO and Chairman, Interbrand
Vice Chairman, Saatchi & Saatchi
Non executive director, Dixons Retail plc
Fellow and Trustee, WWF (Worldwide 
Fund for Nature)

Non executive director, Bupa
Non executive director, Populus Limited
Member, the UK Government’s 
Sustainable Development Commission

Current external positions
Trustee, National Numeracy
Director, Lending Standards Board

Previous positions include
Group Finance Director, Alliance and Leicester Group 
Deputy Managing Director, Girobank
Board Director, Visa Europe

Tim Tookey
Non executive director since June 2015 (independent)
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Skills and experience
Tim is a chartered accountant with over 30 years’ experience in finance, 
across retail and commercial banking, life assurance and pensions, and 
insurance. As a former Chief Financial Officer, Tim has the background and 
expertise to analyse and test the Society’s financial and risk strategies.

Current external positions
Director, Westmoreland Court Management (Beckenham) Ltd

Previous positions include
Chief Financial Officer, Quilter plc (previously known as Old Mutual Wealth 
Management Limited)
Chairman, Alliance Trust Savings Limited
Chief Financial Officer, Friends Life Group Limited 
Group Finance Director, Lloyds Banking Group
Finance Director, Prudential plc’s UK business

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
39  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Board of directors (continued)

Mitchel Lenson
Non executive director since July 2011 (independent)
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March 2019)

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Non executive director since June 2015 (independent)
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Skills and experience
After serving the Society for eight years, Mitchel will step down from the 
Board at the 2019 AGM. During his term of office, Mitchel has brought to the 
Board an exceptional leadership track record in technology, operations and 
programme management. In a 30-year career in financial services he has held 
senior management positions across retail, corporate, investment banking and 
private wealth and asset management. In addition, Mitchel has advised on 
financial services in the private equity sector and has ongoing involvement in 
the fintech space.

Skills and experience
Mai combines her experience as an economist and strategist with considerable 
commercial experience to guide the Board’s strategic thinking and assessment 
of new opportunities and initiatives. She was until last year Chief Strategy and 
Commercial Officer at Sky where she led strategy and commercial partnerships 
across the Sky Group, an organisation she joined in 1999. With a strong 
focus on customer experience and service delivery, Mai previously served as 
economic adviser to major blue-chip companies. She is a champion of diversity 
and helping women succeed in senior management and Board positions.

Current external positions 
Non executive director, The Currency Cloud Group Limited
Advisor to Lombard Odier.

Previous positions include
Group Chief Information Officer, Deutsche Bank AG
Managing Director, Global Head of Operations & Operation IT, UBS Warburg
Director, Group Operations, Credit Suisse First Boston
Partner, Olivant & Co
Non executive director, NYFIX. 

Current external positions 
Director, Roku Inc.

Previous positions include
Director, Jupiter Entertainment
Chief Strategy and Commercial Officer, Sky Group plc.

David Roberts 
Non executive director and Chairman elect from September 2014. 
Chairman since July 2015 (independent upon appointment as Chairman) 
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Skills and experience
David combines a distinctive blend of leadership experience across major 
listed corporations, the mutual movement, and public service, including 
35 years in financial services. He is a passionate champion of Nationwide’s 
social purpose and of the Society’s commitment to help improve the 
financial lives of its members. David also strongly believes in the economic 
value of commerce and the importance of rebuilding trust in big business.

Current external positions 
Chairman, Beazley plc
Vice Chair, NHS England
Associate non executive director, NHS Improvement
Non executive director, Campion Wilcocks Limited
Advisor Board member, The Mentoring Foundation Advisory Council
Member, Strategy Board, Henley Business School, University of Reading.

Previous positions include
Group Deputy Chairman, Lloyds 
Banking Group plc
Executive director, Barclays Bank 
plc and CEO, International and 
Commercial Banking

Chairman and CEO, Bawag PSK AG
Non executive director, BAA plc
Non executive director, Absa Group SA

 
40  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Board of directors (continued)

Mark Rennison
Executive director since February 2007 
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Non executive director since June 2017 (independent)
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(Chair from  
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Albert Hitchcock
Non executive director since December 2018 (independent)
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Skills and experience
Mark is a chartered accountant with over 30 years’ experience in financial 
services. His track record in the sector, including expertise in treasury 
operations, risk management and capital planning, equip him to lead the 
sustained and safe operation of a large financial business like Nationwide.  
As Chief Financial Officer, he is responsible for Finance and Efficiency, 
effectively ensuring Nationwide’s financial strength so that it can continue  
to invest in sustainable services for current and future members. 

Current external positions
Chair, Financial Risk and Policy Committee, UK Finance
Director, Arkose Funding Limited.

Previous positions include
Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Member, Bank of England’s PRA Practitioner Panel. 

Skills and experience
Gunn has a distinguished international career, including senior leadership 
positions in financial services, telecommunications and petrochemicals. 
She brings to the Board vast experience of driving large-scale operational, 
cultural change and digital transformation programmes to improve customer 
experience. She is a strong advocate of the need for strong people cultures 
and creating genuinely diverse organisations.

Current external positions 
Chair, Telenor ASA
Chair, Petoro AS
Member, Fidelity International.

Previous positions include
CEO, Wealth Management Division, CEO of Nordea Bank Norway and 
Executive Vice President at Nordea Bank Group 
CEO, Vital Forsikring and Executive Vice President of DnB
Chair, Ferd and BI 
Non executive director, Statkraft, Statoil.

Skills and experience
Albert is a leader in information technology with a 33-year career in the 
technology industry. His experience is of huge value to the Society as we 
embark upon our ambitious £4.1 billion transformation programme to meet 
the expectations of our members today and in the future.

Current external positions 
Chief Technology and Operations Officer, Pearson plc.

Previous positions include
Technology Adviser to the Board, Royal Bank of Scotland plc
Group Chief Information Officer, Vodafone plc
Global Chief Information Officer, Nortel Networks.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Executive Committee biographies

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As well as sitting on the 
Board of directors, the 
following people are also part 
of the Executive Committee:

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Mark Rennison 

Chris Rhodes

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42  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Executive Committee biographies (continued)

1    Martin Boyle 

Chief Transformation Officer

2    Patrick Eltridge 
Chief Operating Officer

Martin leads the multi-million-pound 
strategic investment and change portfolio 
and is responsible for delivering the 
Society’s transformational programmes, 
balancing modern, digital convenience with 
Nationwide’s human touch. He joined the 
Portman Building Society in 2004 which 
subsequently merged with Nationwide 
Building Society. Before that Martin had over 
20 years’ change experience in consulting 
and retail financial services.

Patrick joined the Society as Chief Operating 
Officer in February 2019. He was previously 
Chief Information Officer at Royal Bank of 
Scotland, where he was responsible for the 
successful delivery of IT and operational 
resilience improvement programmes.  
As COO, Patrick’s focus is on the Society’s 
infrastructure, ensuring that through the 
development of new, innovative technology 
Nationwide continues to deliver real value 
and service for members.

5    Janet Chapman 
Chief Internal Auditor 
(Executive Committee attendee)

7    Mark Chapman 
Chief Legal Officer 
and Society Secretary

Janet joined Nationwide in 2017, following an 
extensive career in financial services in the 
UK and the USA. She leads the Internal Audit 
community and was most recently with 
Citigroup where she was Chief Auditor for the 
institutional businesses. Before that, Janet 
was Chief Auditor for the Americas at The 
Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi. Her early career 
was spent with Accenture as an IT consultant.

Mark joined the Society in 2018 as the 
leader of Legal and Secretariat which 
focuses on providing expert advice and 
guidance on legal and regulatory issues, as 
well as a comprehensive secretariat service. 
Immediately before joining Nationwide, 
Mark spent a year volunteering as a teacher 
at a school in a township in the Western 
Cape of South Africa. He previously served 
as General Counsel of Barclays UK for six 
years, and General Counsel at Nomura 
International for over a decade having 
started his career as a litigator at Freshfields.

8    Julia Dunn 
Chief Risk Officer

9    Sara Bennison 
Chief Marketing Officer 

11    Alison Robb  
Chief People Officer

Julia joined Nationwide in 2013 as Chief 
Compliance Officer. She now leads the Risk 
Community, helping to keep the Society, and 
its members, safe and secure. A qualified 
chartered accountant, Julia previously spent 
13 years in supervision and enforcement with 
the Financial Services Authority, and latterly 
the Financial Conduct Authority as Director  
of Retail Banking Supervision.

Sara started her career in advertising 
agencies, working across a variety of major 
brands in the UK and Asia. She joined 
Nationwide in 2016 having spent the 
previous decade at BT and then Barclays. 
She is responsible for all Nationwide’s 
research, marketing, communications and 
social investment.

Alison leads Nationwide’s people matters, 
including recruitment, training, diversity and 
the development of teams to meet our 
members’ needs. A qualified chartered 
accountant, Alison worked for KPMG and  
WH Smith before joining Nationwide in 1996. 
She has worked across the Society, including 
in the finance and strategy functions.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the

directors on
Corporate
Governance

For the year ended 4 April 2019

David Roberts

Dear fellow member,

I am pleased to present the Corporate Governance Report 
for the financial year ended 4 April 2019.

With record numbers of members seeing 
the benefits of mutuality – from service to 
value – Nationwide must be responsive to their 
changing needs to ensure we remain relevant 
and competitive. Our governance framework 
continues to serve us well as we invest in 
new markets and enhanced services, ensuring 
that the long-term decisions we take continue 
to deliver value for members, today and tomorrow. 

The board of directors is responsible for the 
governance of the Society and is committed  

to maintaining the highest standards in the way 
Nationwide is directed, governed and managed. 
We believe that good quality governance 
underpins Nationwide’s ability to provide 
legendary service and reward the loyalty of our 
members. The Board seeks to balance members’ 
needs with protecting the long-term success  
of the Society: an example being our response  
to the increased competition in digital banking 
services with our investment spend in new 
technologies, whilst still investing in branches.

Our Members

As a mutual, Nationwide is owned by and run for the benefit of you, our 
members. Members are at the heart of Nationwide and are central to 
everything we do. We believe that as owners of Nationwide, members 
should have the opportunity to share their views and have their say on 
the direction of the business. I am pleased that our regular member 
TalkBack sessions held at various locations throughout the United 
Kingdom continue to be successful, with 11 sessions held this financial 
year. To build on this success, we will be holding more TalkBack sessions 
in the 2019/20 financial year. More information on these sessions can be 
found on our website nationwide.co.uk

We encourage your participation at our Annual General Meeting (AGM),  
a key event which provides the Board with the opportunity to meet with 
members. All the directors, including the Chairs of Board Committees, 
attend the AGM and will be available at the meeting to answer your 
questions and hear your views. Members can also vote on important 
issues such as re-electing directors to the Board. At this year’s AGM, 
following the audit tender process referenced in last year’s report, members 
will also be asked to vote on the appointment of Ernst and Young LLP as 
the Society’s external auditor. We look forward to meeting as many of 
you as possible at this year’s AGM in Manchester on 18 July 2019.

Our People and Culture

Our culture defines the way we do business and is an integral part of our 
mutuality and our strategy. The Board recognises the importance of its 
role in setting and embedding the “tone from the top” throughout the 
Society. To this end, we pay close attention to culture and seek to shape 
the way we operate to ensure it is in the interests of both the Society and 
its members. The Board’s commitment to the development of the 
Society’s culture was demonstrated at our strategy conference in October 
2018. Culture was a key topic with discussions on how the Society’s 
culture could further evolve to support the organisation’s purpose in a 
rapidly changing environment. Further information on this can be found 
on page 47.

Our Governance

At Nationwide we strive for excellence and transparency in corporate 
governance and have adopted the UK Corporate Governance Code (the 
Code) which sets the governance standards for public listed companies. 
We do so in line with the Building Societies Association Guidance on the 
Code to ensure alignment with good practice and our mutual status. 

 
44  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Further information about our governance structure and application of the 
Code can be found in the Corporate Governance Report on pages 43 to 58.

We have considered the revision to the Code published in July 2018 which  
is relevant to Nationwide from 5 April 2019. Over the past few months, 
we have reviewed our activities and assessed how to further embed  
the revised and updated principles into our governance framework. For 
example, to bring the voice of colleagues directly into the Boardroom, 
one of our non executive directors, Mai Fyfield has assumed specific 
responsibility for ensuring the voice of our employees is heard in the 
Boardroom. We will report on our compliance with the revised Code in our 
2020 Annual Report.

Our Board

The Board collectively is responsible for the long-term success of your 
Society and as Chairman, it is my responsibility to lead the Board and 
promote its effectiveness within a strong and sound governance 
framework. Each year, a formal evaluation of the effectiveness of the 
Board and its committees is conducted. In 2019, the effectiveness review 
was conducted internally. 

We will report fully on the findings and any action plans in next year’s 
annual report. We continue to make good progress on the plans we put 
in place in response to the findings of the 2018 externally facilitated 
Board effectiveness review. More information on the 2018 evaluation 
process and its findings can be found on page 55.

It is vital to the success of Nationwide that the Board has the mix of skills 
and diversity needed to set the strategic direction and apply the 
appropriate level of oversight and challenge for the business. On a 
regular basis, we review the Board’s balance of experience, knowledge 
and skills to enable the discharge of its responsibilities. At the end of 
2018, we were pleased to announce the appointment of Albert Hitchcock 
to the Board as a non executive director. He also became a member of 
both the Board IT & Resilience and Board Risk committees. Albert’s 
wealth of experience in transformation technology will be hugely 
valuable to the Board’s oversight of the Society’s technology strategy.

We also announced that, after eight years of service, Mitchel Lenson will 
retire from the Board as a non executive director at our AGM in July 2019. 
Gunn Waersted replaced Mitchel as Chair of the Board IT & Resilience 
Committee in March 2019. I would like to take the opportunity to thank 
Mitchel on behalf of the Board and Nationwide for his contribution to the 
Board and wish him well for the future.

As part of its remit, the Nomination and Governance Committee 
continues to focus on succession planning and leadership changes at 
executive management level. With effect from June 2018, Tony Prestedge 
was appointed Deputy Chief Executive Officer, a role which includes 

The year ahead

At Nationwide, we have an established and effective governance 
framework and we will continue to embrace the best governance 
practices to enable us to deliver great value products and outstanding 
service to you and our wider stakeholders.

David Roberts
Chairman

accountability for strategic planning. Tony has been an executive director 
with Nationwide since 2007. We are pleased to welcome Patrick Eltridge 
who joined the Executive Committee in February this year as Chief 
Operating Officer. Patrick has deep and relevant experience in technology 
development and operations from his previous role as Group Chief 
Information Officer at Royal Bank of Scotland. He is also a member of the 
Executive Risk Committee. Our Chief Financial Officer, Mark Rennison, 
has discussed with the Board his intention to retire and we are actively 
considering succession planning.

Diversity

The Board is committed to a diverse workforce and continues to focus  
on increasing diversity on our Board and at all levels across the Society. 
We recognise the significant benefits that come with having a diverse 
Board and I am pleased to report how the diversity on our Board 
compares with recent benchmarks set for listed firms. Whilst Nationwide 
is a building society and not a listed company, we have already achieved 
the Hampton-Alexander review 2020 target for a minimum of 33% 
women’s representation on the boards of FTSE 350 companies. We have 
also achieved the Parker review 2021 target of each FTSE 100 company 
having at least one director from an ethnic background. We believe, 
however, that diversity needs to look much wider than gender and 
ethnicity to include variations in experience, skills, background and 
personal attributes. To further promote the Board’s commitment and 
support for diversity initiatives at Nationwide, we have designated 
Baroness Usha Prashar, a non executive director, as the Board’s sponsor 
of the Society’s diversity and inclusion agenda. More information on our 
diversity targets across the Society can be found on page 21.

Governance at Nationwide
The Board has established a set of internal standards and principles by which Nationwide is governed to ensure sound and 
prudent control of the Society, to keep members’ money and interests safe. Everyone in Nationwide has a role in governance: 

The Board
Sets the strategy and tone, and 
promotes ethical leadership, 
culture, values, governance, 
controls and risk management.

Chief Executive Officer
The Chief Executive Officer derives 
their authority from the Board and 
cascades standards and principles 
agreed by the Board to the business.

Nationwide’s People
Everyone at Nationwide is 
responsible for good governance 
and adhering to the standards 
and tone set by the Board.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

UK Corporate Governance Code 
Statement of Compliance

Nationwide is committed to high standards of corporate governance and has continued to adopt the UK Corporate Governance Code 2016 (the Code) which is available at www.frc.org.uk. The Board believes that throughout the year 
ended 4 April 2019 Nationwide has complied with the principles of the Code as it applies to building societies (according to the Building Societies Association guidance of June 2016). Details of the principles, including a reference to where 
you can read more about how Nationwide complied with them, are set out below:

Leadership

Effectiveness

Every company should be headed by an effective board 
which is collectively responsible for the long-term success of 
the company.

Role of the Board – Page 47

There should be a clear division of responsibilities at the head of 
the company between the running of the Board and the executive 
responsibility for the running of the company’s business. No one 
individual should have unfettered powers of decision.

Roles and responsibilities – Pages 47 to 50

The Board and its committees should have the appropriate 
balance of skills, experience, independence and knowledge  
of the company to enable them to discharge their respective 
duties and responsibilities effectively.

Board composition – Page 53 
Nomination and Governance Committee report – Pages 75 to 80

There should be a formal, rigorous and transparent 
procedure for the appointment of new directors to the Board.

The Board should be supplied in a timely manner with 
information in a form and of a quality appropriate to enable 
it to discharge its duties.

Information and advice – Page 54

The Board should undertake a formal and rigorous annual 
evaluation of its own performance and that of its committees 
and individual directors.

Nomination and Governance Committee report – Pages 75 to 80

Board effectiveness review – Page 55

The Chairman is responsible for leadership of the Board and 
ensuring its effectiveness on all aspects of its role.

Roles and responsibilities – Pages 47 to 50

All directors should be able to allocate sufficient time to the 
company to discharge their responsibilities effectively.

All directors should be submitted for re-election at regular 
intervals, subject to continued satisfactory performance.

How the Board operates – Page 50
Time commitment – Page 53

Tenure and independence – Page 53

As part of their role as members of a unitary board, non 
executive directors should constructively challenge and help 
develop proposals on strategy.

Roles and responsibilities – Pages 47 to 50

All directors should receive induction on joining the Board 
and should regularly update and refresh their skills and 
knowledge.

Induction – Page 54  
Nomination and Governance Committee report – Pages 75 to 80

1 The UK Corporate Governance Code uses the terminologies of ‘company’ and ‘shareholder’ but for the purpose of Nationwide and this Corporate Governance report, these terms should be read as ‘Society’ and ‘member’ respectively.

 
46  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

UK Corporate Governance Code Statement of Compliance (continued)

Accountability

Remuneration

Relations with members

The Board should present a fair, balanced and 
understandable assessment of the company’s position 
and prospects.

Audit Committee report – Pages 59 to 66
Directors’ report – Pages 94 to 96

Executive directors’ remuneration should be designed 
to promote the long-term success of the company. 
Performance-related elements should be transparent, 
stretching and rigorously applied.

There should be a dialogue with shareholders based on the 
mutual understanding of objectives. The Board has 
responsibility for ensuring that a satisfactory dialogue with 
shareholders takes place.

Report of the directors on remuneration – Pages 81 to 93

Members help build society, nationwide – Page 58

The Board is responsible for determining the nature and 
extent of the principal risks it is willing to take in achieving 
its strategic objectives. The board should maintain sound 
risk management and internal control systems.

Strategic Report – Pages 2 to 34
Business and Risk Report – Pages 97 to 164 
Board Risk Committee Report – Pages 67 to 70

There should be a formal and transparent procedure for 
developing policy on executive remuneration and for 
fixing the remuneration packages of individual directors. 
No director should be involved in deciding his or her own 
remuneration.

Report of the directors on remuneration – Pages 81 to 93

The Board should use general meetings to communicate with 
investors and to encourage their participation.

Members help build society, nationwide – Page 58

The Board should establish formal and transparent 
arrangements for considering how they should apply the 
corporate reporting and risk management and internal 
control principles and for maintaining an appropriate 
relationship with the company’s auditors.

Audit Committee report – Pages 59 to 66

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Leadership

The role of the Board

The Board is responsible for ensuring that the Society can deliver long-term success for members and is built to last. It determines 
the Society’s strategic objectives within a framework of risk appetite and controls. The Board monitors the Society’s overall financial 
performance and ensures effective governance, controls and risk management. 

When setting the Society’s strategy, the Board considers the impact that  
its decisions might have on various stakeholders such as members, 
employees, suppliers and the community. It is accountable for ensuring 
that as a collective body, it has the appropriate skills, knowledge and 
experience to perform its role effectively. The Board is also responsible  
for providing leadership to the Society on culture, values and ethics. 

The powers of the Board are set out in the Society’s Memorandum and Rules 
which are available on the Society’s website nationwide.co.uk

The Board operates under formal terms of reference which include a 
schedule of matters reserved to the Board for decision, with the day to day 
running of the business delegated to the Chief Executive Officer. The Chief 
Executive Officer derives his authority from the Board and cascades the 
agreed standards to the business. The Board’s terms of reference can be 
found on the Society’s website nationwide.co.uk

Culture

Leading the development of the Society’s culture remains a key focus of the 
Board to support the organisation’s purpose, and the delivery of its strategic 
ambitions. This is set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing competitive 
and technological environment. The Society’s cultural assessment tool, the 
Culture Mosaic, has been in use for the last year providing analysis and 
insights to both the Executive Committee and the Board on the evolution of 
the culture. Using both quantitative and qualitative information including the 
organisation’s employee engagement survey and the Banking Standards 
Board2 report, it helps the Society to develop aspects of the culture to meet 
the changing needs of employees and members in the future.

Culture was a key theme of the Board Strategy Conference in October 2018. 
Led by a variety of inputs and insights provided by the Mosaic and external 
research, the cultural shifts needed to ensure the Society can respond to future 
challenges and opportunities were agreed. It was recognised that Nationwide’s 
culture has many strengths, particularly its member focus, ethic of care and 

commitment to doing the right thing. Whilst maintaining this essence of what 
makes Nationwide special for members and colleagues, the Board identified 
more agility, pace and innovation as necessary to deliver Nationwide’s 
business strategy and core purpose in a world being redefined by technology. 

As a result, several priorities were identified that now form part of the 
Society’s agenda on culture over the next few years. These include 
re-shaping the cultural narrative, empowering colleagues, developing 

leadership potential, creating a learning organisation and evolving the 
Society’s approach to reward and recognition. An essential part of this is  
to create a distinctive Nationwide experience for employees, focusing on  
all aspects of working life that support performance and growth, helping 
people to be at their best for members. This includes stretching ambition  
on matters such as diversity, inclusion and wellbeing. Sponsoring and 
monitoring progress in all these areas will be a priority for the Board.

Leadership structure
An overview of the Board structure and its committees as at 4 April 2019 is set out below.

Board

Board committees

Remuneration 
Committee

Nomination and 
Governance Committee

Audit 
Committee

Board IT and 
Resilience Committee

Board Risk 
Committee

Chief Executive 
Officer

Executive 
Committee

Further information on the role of the Board and its committees can be found on pages 48 to 50 of this report and in the individual committee reports.

2  This is an annual survey undertaken by the Banking Standards Board covering 26 firms, including 9 systemically important institutions in the UK (of which Nationwide is one) plus a range 
of other mid-sized and small banks and building societies. It aims is to raise standards across the sector. Over 3,300 colleagues at NBS participated in the last assessment.

 
48  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Leadership (continued)

Whistleblowing

Nationwide has arrangements in place for employees, contractors and 
temporary workers to raise concerns, in confidence, about possible 
misconduct, wrongdoing and behaviour towards others, including those 
relating to non-financial matters. 

Nationwide’s Chairman, David Roberts, is the Society’s Whistleblowers’ 
Champion. David has the responsibility for ensuring and overseeing the integrity, 
independence and effectiveness of Nationwide’s policies and procedures 
on whistleblowing, including those intended to protect whistleblowers 
from being victimised because they have disclosed reportable concerns. 

Having effective and trusted confidential whistleblowing arrangements is a 
key priority for the Board in supporting the Society’s open and honest culture. 
The Board receives an annual whistleblowing report so that it is aware of 
themes and categories of concerns raised during the year and has reviewed 
the adequacy and effectiveness of the arrangements. 

Nationwide provides employees, contractors and temporary workers with 
annual training which includes information on how they can raise a 
whistleblowing concern directly with the Financial Conduct Authority  
or the Prudential Regulation Authority, without first reporting internally. 

The Board

All directors are subject to conduct rules laid down by the regulators and 
must satisfy requirements relating to their fitness and propriety. In addition, 
the Chairman, the Senior independent director and Chairs of the key Board 
Committees are subject to all aspects of the Senior Managers Regime3.

The Board governs and makes decisions as a collective body. Each role  
on the Board has specific responsibilities. A summary of the responsibilities 
of each role can be found below:

Role

Responsibilities

Role

Responsibilities

Chairman

David Roberts

Senior 
independent 
director

Lynne Peacock

Non executive 
directors

Rita Clifton
Mai Fyfield
Albert Hitchcock
Mitchel Lenson
Kevin Parry
Usha Prashar
Tim Tookey
Gunn Waersted

Leads the Board, ensuring it is effective;
Key in setting the tone from the top both in terms of the Society’s culture – 
fostering open and honest debates, and in setting the strategic direction;
Together with the other members of the Board, promotes the long-term success 
and ensures the accountability of the Society to its members;
Supervises and supports the Chief Executive Officer.

Chief Executive 
Officer

Joe Garner

Responsible for the day to day running of the business and accountable to the 
Board for the Society’s financial and operational performance;

Implements and monitors systems for the apportionment and oversight of 
responsibilities, controls and best practices, policies and processes within the 
Society which maintain its operational efficiency and high standards of 
business conduct.

Provides a sounding board for the Chairman;
Leads the annual review of the Chairman’s performance by the Board;
Available to directors and members when contact through the usual channels 
(Chairman or Chief Executive Officer) may not be appropriate. 
Acts as trusted intermediary for other directors when necessary.

Collectively set the tone from the top, in relation to culture and governance – 
holding management to account for embedding and maintaining the Society’s 
culture and values;
Contribute to the development of the strategy and risk appetite, exercising 
effective oversight over risk management and controls;
Monitor performance and constructively challenge as appropriate using their 
skills and expertise to engage in honest debate; 
Promote the long-term success of the Society for the benefit of members and 
ensure that the Society meets its obligations as a regulated firm.

Executive 
directors

Tony Prestedge
Mark Rennison
Chris Rhodes

As members of the Board, collectively with non executive directors, set the 
strategy, risk appetite and culture and values;

Ensure that the Board is kept informed of all significant matters, escalating issues 
on a timely basis;

Accountable to the Board for the execution of the strategy and the performance 
of the business;

Hold specific management responsibilities in the day to day running  
of the business.

Society 
Secretary

Mark Chapman

Advises the Board through the Chairman on all governance related matters.

Supports the Board and is responsible for ensuring good information flows 
between the Board and the rest of the business to ensure that high quality and 
timely information is provided to the Board. 

3  The Senior Managers Regime allocates specific responsibilities to Senior Managers to enhance individual accountability across the business. It applies to UK banks, building societies, credit 
unions, branches of foreign banks operating in the UK and the largest investment firms regulated by the PRA and the FCA.

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Leadership (continued)

Board Committees

To assist the Board in carrying out its functions and to ensure that there is independent oversight of internal control and risk management, certain governance 
responsibilities have been delegated by the Board to board committees. These board committees comprise independent non executive directors and,  
in some cases, the Chairman. The terms of reference of the Board and its committees can be found on the Society’s website: nationwide.co.uk

Committee

Responsibilities

Executive Committees

There is a clear division of responsibilities between the Chairman, as 
leader of the Board, and the Chief Executive Officer who is responsible for 
the day to day running of the business. To the extent that matters are not 
reserved to the board of directors, responsibility is delegated to the Chief 
Executive Officer, who is assisted by the Executive Committee and the 
Executive Risk Committee.

The Audit Committee provides oversight and advice to the Board in respect of financial reporting, financial crime, internal 
and external audit, and the adequacy and effectiveness of internal controls and risk management systems.

Committee

Responsibilities

Audit 
Committee

Board IT and 
Resilience 
Committee

Board Risk 
Committee

The Committee provides oversight and advice to the Board on the Society’s IT strategy, IT architecture, IT operating 
model effectiveness, delivery performance and resilience controls, including cyber risk, as well as overseeing the Society’s 
data management strategy. 

Executive 
Committee

The role of the Committee is to provide oversight and advice to the Board in relation to current and potential future risk 
exposures and future risk strategy including determination of risk appetite. In addition, the Committee is responsible for 
monitoring compliance oversight, and the effectiveness of the Enterprise Risk Management Framework (ERMF). It also 
advises the Remuneration Committee on any risk adjustments to be made to remuneration. 

Nomination 
and Governance 
Committee

The Nomination and Governance Committee assists the Chairman in keeping the composition of the Board under review, 
making recommendations to the Board on succession planning, executive level appointments and leading the 
appointments process for nominations to the Board. The Committee oversees the implementation of the Society’s 
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy and objectives. It also reviews the Board’s governance arrangements and makes 
recommendations to the Board to ensure that the arrangements are consistent with best practice. 

Executive Risk 
Committee

Remuneration 
Committee

The Remuneration Committee is responsible for determining and agreeing with the Board the framework or broad 
policy for remuneration of the Chairman, the directors and other senior executives of the Society including employees 
who are identified as material risk takers under the PRA Remuneration Code. It determines, within the terms of the 
agreed policy, the specific remuneration packages for these roles. The Committee also reviews the ongoing 
appropriateness and relevance of the remuneration policy across the rest of Nationwide. 

The Executive Committee is Nationwide’s 
key operational committee which oversees 
the day to day operations of the Society’s 
business. This Committee meets once a 
month, reviews matters that are to be 
presented to the board of directors, and is 
composed of the Chief Executive Officer, 
the three other executive directors and the 
seven individuals who form the Society’s 
senior leadership team. More information 
on Nationwide’s senior leadership team 
can be found on page 41.

The Executive Risk Committee, which 
meets monthly, is responsible for ensuring 
a coordinated approach across all risks 
and oversight of the risk committees such 
as the Operational Risk Committee, Assets 
and Liabilities Committee, Credit 
Committee, Conduct and Compliance 
Committee and the Model Risk Oversight 
Committee. The Committee’s membership 
comprises the four executive directors and 
a number of other members of the 
Executive Committee. It is chaired by the 
Society’s Chief Risk Officer. 

 
50  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Leadership (continued)

How the Board operates

The Board meets regularly and holds a strategy meeting annually to review 
strategic options open to the Society in the context of the economic, 
regulatory and competitive environment. The Board also meets when 
necessary to discuss important emerging issues that require consideration 
between scheduled Board meetings. There were ten scheduled Board 
meetings this year including the annual strategy day. The Board meetings 

are structured to ensure that the Board covers a range of items (as detailed 
below) relating to the Society’s business, strategy, culture and performance 
through open debate. The Chairman regularly meets with the non executive 
directors, without executive directors present.

The attendance record for board members during the period is set out below. 
The table shows the actual number of meetings attended with the number  

of meetings for which directors were eligible to attend shown separately. 
Each director attended all the meetings they were eligible to attend in the year.

In addition to the meetings shown below, two joint Board and Audit 
Committee meetings were held during the year to consider the Q1 and Q3 
Interim Management Statements.

Board attendance

Meetings attended / (eligible to attend)

Rita Clifton
10 / (10)

Mai Fyfield
10 / (10)

Joe Garner
10 / (10)

Albert Hitchcock*
2 / (2)

Mitchel Lenson
10 / (10)

Kevin Parry
10 / (10)

Lynne Peacock
10 / (10)

Meetings attended / (eligible to attend)

Usha Prashar
10 / (10)

Tony Prestedge
10 / (10)

Mark Rennison
10 / (10)

Chris Rhodes
10 / (10)

David Roberts
10 / (10)

Tim Tookey
10 / (10)

Gunn Waersted
10 / (10)

* Joined the Board on 2 December 2018

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

What the Board did this year

Throughout the year, the Board reviewed 
all areas of cultural and strategic 
importance, as well as reviewing 
and approving financial information, 
governance and regulatory matters.

The Board regularly received updates on business progress and the issues 
and challenges faced by management. Board activities were structured to 
support the Society’s strategy, focusing on the cornerstones as outlined on 
pages 9 and 10, and an in depth review of the progress of the strategy was 
considered by the Board at its annual strategy day. During the year, focus 
was given to implementation plans for the Society’s technology initiatives, 
including the people recruitment needs and organisational changes 
required for successful delivery of the Society’s technology programme. 
The Society continues to develop and invest in new products and services 
which are developed within the Board’s risk appetite.

In addition to the main items for consideration, the Board received updates 
at each meeting on the work of its principal committees to keep abreast 
of significant issues.

Building a
National
Treasure

Building

PRIDE

Building
Legendary
Service

Building

Thriving
Membership

Built to

Last

The following is a non-exhaustive list of the matters that the Board has considered during the year:

Building thriving membership

Built to last

Building a
National
Treasure

Building

PRIDE

Building
Legendary
Service

Building

Thriving
Membership

Built to

Last

Items discussed
•  Considered how best to meet the needs of small and 

micro businesses, and approved the proposal to launch 
Nationwide for Business and to submit a bid for  
£50 million from the RBS Alternative Remedies Package.

•  Approved the development of a range of initiatives 

designed to broaden the products and services offered 
to Nationwide’s members.

•  Reviewed and discussed proposed enhancements to 

propositions for younger customers and initiatives which 
will continue to deepen relationships with existing 
members. This included consideration of progress made 
in growing the number of committed members.

•  Approved enhancements to Nationwide’s Later Life 

lending range.

Building a
National
Treasure

Building

PRIDE

Building
Legendary
Service

Building

Thriving
Membership

Built to

Last

Items discussed
•  Approved the Society’s investment in technology, part of which would 

enable the Society to deliver increased resilience, making it more secure 
and delivering better member outcomes through improved digital 
capabilities and better use of data, whilst also driving down costs.

•  Reviewed and approved the Society’s 2019-24 five year plan.

•  Regularly assessed financial performance of the Society and its main 

businesses via reports from the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial 
Officer. Approved the Society’s Annual Report and Accounts prior to 
publication with consideration given to the viability of the business over a three- 
year horizon and the preparation of the accounts on a going concern basis.

•  Discussed the output of a Board and Executive Committee Business 
Continuity Exercise under the Society’s Recovery Plan to ensure that 
adequate provisions and processes are in place to protect the Society’s 
business and its members. Approved the overall set of actions within the 
annual recovery planning scenario.

•  Received quarterly updates from the Chief Risk Officer on Nationwide’s risk 
profile highlighting the top risks and key areas for consideration. Approved 
revisions to the Board risk appetite to take into account the additional 
financial risk and a reduction in the longer-term operational risk profile 
of the Society arising from the Society’s investment in technology.

 
52  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

What the Board did this year (continued)

Building legendary service

Building PRIDE

Building a national treasure

Building a
National
Treasure

Building

PRIDE

Building
Legendary
Service

Building

Thriving
Membership

Built to

Last

Items discussed
•  Discussed the Society’s ability to collaborate and work with 
partners across the FinTech community in developing new 
technologies to ensure that the Society is taking a leadership 
position in a world of Open Banking. The Board received an 
overview of the current UK Digital Banking market with a 
focus on the progress made in the banking sector in this area.

•  Received an update on the delivery on the technology investment 
and discussed the initiatives to support the delivery and the 
roadmap for execution of the Society’s technology plans. 
There was a focus on initiatives to develop a platform that will 
support future growth and new services whilst honouring 
current delivery commitments with a view to improving 
member experience across the sales and service journeys.

•  Reviewed progress in the Society’s branch transformation, 
recognising that branches continue to remain an important 
and valued channel for members and the need to ensure 
Nationwide is in the right place with the best services to 
meet members’ needs.

Building a
National
Treasure

Building

PRIDE

Building
Legendary
Service

Building

Thriving
Membership

Built to

Last

Building a
National
Treasure

Building

PRIDE

Building
Legendary
Service

Building

Thriving
Membership

Built to

Last

Items discussed
•  Reviewed the progress made on the development of 

Nationwide’s culture with a review of a Culture Mosaic which 
draws together a number of cultural themes within the 
organisation. This includes inputs from the 2018 ‘Viewpoint’ 
employee engagement survey and the 2018 Banking 
Standards Board survey on culture. The Board reviewed key 
themes and areas for prioritisation.

•  Reviewed the plans for recruitment, training and 

development and retention of employees to support the 
successful execution of our technology strategy.

•  Reviewed the Annual Whistleblowing Report and the 

Society’s whistleblowing arrangements, noting it as a key 
priority for the Board in support of the Society’s open and 
honest culture.

Items discussed
•  In considering what makes a national treasure the Board,  
as part of the Society’s social investment strategy, explored 
opportunities to lead active campaigns and align to the key 
strategies pursued by the Nationwide Foundation.

•  Received regular updates on the delivery of the Society’s 

social investment strategy which focuses on providing decent 
affordable homes for people in need. As part of this, the Board 
approved the establishment of the Oakfield Foundation,  
a charitable foundation to support local initiatives that will 
complement the philosophy and aims of the Society’s 
Oakfield community development project.

•  Received regular updates on reputation and the positioning 
of the Society’s brand, giving the Board the opportunity to 
reflect upon the progress made in re-defining the Society’s 
brand and review the propositions offered to members.

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53  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Effectiveness

Board composition

Member nominations

The Nomination and Governance Committee is responsible for reviewing 
Board composition, considering succession plans for both the Board and 
senior executives, selecting and appointing new directors and considering 
the results of the Board effectiveness review. More information on the work 
of this Committee during the year can be found on pages 75 to 80.

Members of Nationwide have the right to nominate candidates for election  
to the Board, subject to the Society’s Rules and compliance with PRA and 
FCA requirements. No such nominations had been received by 4 April 
2019, this being the deadline for election to the Board at the 2019 Annual 
General Meeting (AGM).

The individual biographies of the directors, which include their relevant 
skills and experience, can be found on pages 36 to 42.

Time commitment

To discharge their responsibilities effectively, non executive directors must 
commit sufficient time to their role. The time the Society’s non executive 
directors are expected to commit to their role at Nationwide is agreed 
individually, as part of the appointment process, and depends upon their 
responsibilities. For example, additional time commitment will often be 
required of the Senior independent director and Chairs of the Board 
Committees to fulfil their responsibilities. Time commitments are reviewed 
annually, or more regularly if needed, as Nationwide recognises the need 
to take account of changes in best practice – for example any revisions to 
the Code recommending different or expanded roles of Board Committees. 
For this year, the Chairman has individually confirmed with each non 
executive director that they have been able to allocate sufficient time to 
fulfilling their duties. The Chairman spends a minimum of an average  
of 2.5 days per week on Nationwide business. Externally, there has been  
no increase in the other significant commitments of the Chairman during 
the year which would impact the time he has to fulfil the role.

Executive directors’ service contracts and the letters of appointment for  
the Chairman and non executive directors are available for inspection at 
the Society’s principal office and will be available at the AGM.

Tenure and independence

The Society’s Memorandum and Rules (Rules) require that board directors 
must be re-elected by the Society’s membership every three years. 
However, in compliance with the UK Corporate Governance Code (the 
Code), all directors of Nationwide are subject to election or re-election by the 
members annually. Before re-election, a non executive director will be subject 
to a review of that director’s continued effectiveness and independence.

The independence of each non executive director is considered by the 
Nomination and Governance Committee annually. The Committee considers 
factors such as length of tenure and relationships or circumstances which 
are likely to affect or appear to affect the director’s judgement in 
determining whether they remain independent. On the recommendation 
of the Committee, all non executive directors have been assessed by the 
Board to be independent as to character and judgement and to be free of 
relationships and other circumstances which could materially affect the 
exercise of their judgement. Following this assessment, all directors 
eligible for re-election (save for Mitchel Lenson who has announced his 
retirement from the Board) will be recommended to members for 
re-election at the AGM in July 2019. The Code requires the Chairman to  
be independent on appointment. Thereafter, the test of independence no 
longer applies to this role. David Roberts, Chairman, was deemed to be 
independent upon his appointment to the role of non executive director 
and Chairman Elect.

Board composition

4

5

10

9

Executive and  
non executive directors
 •    Executive directors
 •    Non executive directors

Gender
 •    Male 
 •    Female

Board diversity

5

3

1

5

Age of board members
 •    45-50        •    51-55 
 •    56-60        •    61+

6

5

3

Directors’ tenure
 •    0-3 years 
 •    3-6 years
 •    6+ years

 
54  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Effectiveness (continued)

Conflicts of interest

Induction

Directors have a legal duty to avoid conflicts of interests. Prior to appointment 
(and on an ongoing basis), potential conflicts of interest are disclosed and 
assessed to ensure that there are no matters which would prevent that person 
from taking on the appointment. 

If any potential conflict arises, the Society’s Rules permit the Board to 
authorise the conflict, subject to such conditions or limitations as the 
Board may determine. The Board has considered the current external 
appointments of all directors which may give rise to a situational conflict 
and has authorised potential conflicts where appropriate.

In addition, at the start of every Board or Committee meeting the Chair 
asks if there are any conflicts (in addition to those already recorded) to be 
declared. In a situation where a potential conflict arises, the director will 
recuse themselves from any meeting or discussion, and all material in 
relation to that matter will be restricted, including Board papers and minutes. 

Details of the Society’s directors’ other directorships can be found in the annual 
business statement on pages 250 to 251.

Information and advice

The Board has full and timely access to all relevant information to enable it 
to perform its duties effectively. The Society Secretary ensures appropriate 
and timely information flows between the Board, its Committees and senior 
management, enabling the Board to exercise its judgement and make fully 
informed decisions when discharging its duties. The Society Secretary 
supports the Chairman in setting the Board agenda. Board papers are 
distributed to all directors in advance of Board meetings via a secure electronic 
system allowing directors to access information in a timely manner. 

All directors have access to the advice and services of the Society Secretary, 
who is responsible to the Board for ensuring that Board procedures are 
followed and compliance with applicable rules and regulations is observed. 
The directors may, if required, take independent professional advice at the 
Society’s expense.

Following appointment, each new director receives a full and formal bespoke 
induction to familiarise them with their duties and the Society’s business 
operations, and risk and governance arrangements. Inductions are tailored 
to each director’s individual experience, background and areas of focus. 
The induction programme includes meetings with members of the 
Executive Committee and senior management in key areas of the business. 
Typical areas covered include an overview of the Society’s business 
strategy and model, the Society’s brand, products and markets, capital 
management and financial controls, and risk and governance responsibilities, 
as well as information on the Society’s people and culture. These meetings 
are supplemented by induction materials such as recent Board papers and 
minutes, industry and regulatory reports and relevant policies.

Training and development

To ensure that the directors have the necessary knowledge and understanding 
of the Society’s business, they are regularly provided with the opportunity for 
ongoing training and professional development. Directors are encouraged to 
continually update their professional skills and knowledge of the business. 
The Chairman has conversations with each non executive director on a 
regular basis during the year and at the end of the year to review performance 
and development needs. The senior independent director is responsible for 
the evaluation of performance and development needs for the Chairman. 
Executive board directors continue to undertake performance and 
development review and planning activity as part of the annual performance 
management cycle. Training opportunities are provided through one-to-one 
meetings, presentations and briefings by senior management as well as 
external advisers. During the year, the directors attended briefing sessions 
on subjects including derivatives and hedge accounting, overview of models 
and cloud computing from a Nationwide perspective.

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55  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Board effectiveness review

2018 Board evaluation

To be effective as a Board, directors must function cohesively as a group. 
Each year, an evaluation of the effectiveness of the Board is conducted, 
providing an opportunity to identify and optimise the Board’s strengths as 
well as highlighting areas for further focus and development. 

The evaluation includes an assessment of the effectiveness of Board 
Committees and an evaluation of the performance of individual directors. The 
approach which has been developed at Nationwide is designed to ensure 
that all directors, both executive and non executive, contribute effectively 
to the good governance of Nationwide. The contribution of individuals is 
one of the factors considered when deciding whether individual directors 
will offer themselves for election or re-election at the Society’s AGM.

The 2018 evaluation process was an external review led by Niall FitzGerald 
KBE. Mr FitzGerald has chaired a wide range of companies and public 
sector bodies, including Unilever, Reuters and the International Business 
Council. The Board was of the view that his broad experience would 
significantly assist the development of the Board. Mr FitzGerald has no 
other connection with the Society.

Form of the review

The review took place between January and March 2018 with the main 
theme being how the Board could be a high performing Board whilst in 
the pursuit of creating a long-term sustainable business. Mr FitzGerald 
attended Board and Board Committee meetings as an observer, reviewed  
a number of Board papers and materials and held a series of one to one 
meetings with Board members. An initial Board discussion and feedback 
session took place in April 2018 with a final report produced for further 
discussion with the Board in May.

Findings

The review endorsed the belief that the Board and its Committees are 
performing and operating effectively. Meetings were found to be professionally 
led with challenge and constructive debate by all encouraged. Mr FitzGerald 
found discussions at meetings to be engaging and insightful. The spirit of 
mutuality was evident in the Board’s discussion with a strong focus on the 
interests of members. Changes to the Board and executive leadership had 
been handled well, resulting in an experienced and professional team. 

As the Society’s strategy evolves and the complexity of the business grows, 
key priorities for the Board are to ensure that the Society’s culture and mutual 
values are preserved and that the immediate and short-term decisions 
necessary to implement the strategy do not compromise long-term success.

The Board adopted the recommendations from the findings and developed 

a plan to implement the actions with oversight by the Nomination and 
Governance Committee.

Following the review, a number of changes to board processes have been 
made to ensure that the Board’s focus remains on strategic, not operational, 
matters. The progress made on the key recommendations is described below.

Key Recommendations

Action Taken

Increased focus on key strategic issues 
and greater board debates on risks and 
risk appetite from a strategic perspective.

The frequency of Board meetings and programme have been revised to ensure that the 
Board devotes its time to the most important issues. This has allowed for enhanced 
discussions and debate of key strategic matters, including macro risks, at Board meetings, 
with the balance of the Board’s attention moving more towards strategy and its execution.

Production of high quality reporting and 
information flows to the Board.

The production of high quality Board papers and management information, including 
KPIs, has continued to enhance the quality of debate at Board meetings and assist the 
Board in making timely and informed decisions.

Continuing to monitor the talent pipeline 
for key Board and senior management 
positions.

To ensure that the Board has visibility of talent in the Society, an annual Board ‘deep dive’ on 
the talent pool led by the CEO has been incorporated into the Board’s forward programme.

2019 Board evaluation

Following the comprehensive external review in 2018, the 2019 Board 
evaluation process was an internal review led by the Society Secretary. 
The review took place in March and April of 2019. 

The process took the form of a questionnaire covering general areas of 
effectiveness as well as actions implemented for the Board and Committees in 
response to 2018 review. It was followed by one to one meetings between 
the Chairman and individual directors to provide feedback and expand on 
particular aspects, for example culture and performance of the Board.

The results of the questionnaire and feedback were presented to the Board for 
discussion in May 2019 and will form the basis of an action plan for completion 
during 2019. A similar process will be followed for Board Committees.

Further information on the outcomes and actions identified will be presented 
in the Annual Report and Accounts 2020.

The evaluation of the performance and contribution of each director was 
conducted by the Chairman. The reviews concluded that each Director 
continues to perform effectively and demonstrate commitment to their role.

Led by Lynne Peacock, the senior independent director, a review of the 
Chairman’s performance was carried out by the Board. Feedback on the 
Chairman’s performance was obtained from all the directors as well as 
selected members of the management team. The results were collated 
and were discussed at a meeting without the Chairman present. The 
review concluded that the Chairman continues to perform effectively and 
demonstrate commitment to his role.

 
56  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Engaging with stakeholders

The Board recognises the impact the Society has on its diverse range of stakeholders and therefore understands the importance  
of engaging with them at all levels. The Board takes into consideration the interests of these stakeholders as part of its discussion and 
decision-making processes. The detail below provides an insight into the Society’s engagement with its principal stakeholders.

Members

Employees

We listen to our members
As a mutual organisation, members are at the heart of the 
Society’s activities and need to be able to share their views 
on the overall direction of the business.

The Member TalkBack Programme is a series of events to facilitate dialogue between 
members, the Society’s Board and senior management. Members can sign up to ‘Nationwide 
Connect’, our online research community which helps provide feedback on a variety of topics 
including products and services, as well as perceptions of how the directors are running 
the Society and directors’ remuneration. Members are also encouraged to attend the Society’s 
AGM to hear first-hand from directors and have their say on the way the Society is run.

More information on how the Society engages with its members can be found on page 58.

We value our colleagues
Employees are critical to the services provided by 
the Society and employee engagement is regularly 
discussed, including presentations to the Board 
on the results of “Viewpoint”, the employee 
engagement survey.

During the year, the General Secretary of the Nationwide Group Staff 
Union attended a Board meeting and a Remuneration Committee 
meeting to discuss the relationship of the Union with Nationwide and 
the alignment of interests between the Union and the Society. 

Nationwide employees can vote their colleagues onto leadership forums 
under the People’s Choice programme, with a view to bringing a different 
perspective to our leadership forums. At least twice a year, a small number 
of the People’s Choice representatives attend one of the Society’s Board or 
Board Committee meetings to share their insight on a topic of their choosing. 

The CEO also engages directly with employees via the Society’s intranet 
on topics of interest and receives comments and views directly back 
from employees across the entire Society. To further promote the link 
and engagement between the Board and colleagues, Mai Fyfield has 
been appointed the non executive director with specific responsibilities 
for employee engagement.

More information on employee engagement metric can be found  
on page 20.

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57  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Communities

Investors

We support our local 
communities
As a building society, Nationwide believes in supporting 
people and their communities.
That includes housing, and Nationwide’s belief is that regenerating local areas, 
working with local people and reinvesting profits will create real communities. 
In line with the member vote in 2007, the Society has continued to invest at 
least 1% of its pre-tax profits to support good causes, focusing on the belief 
that ‘Everyone deserves a place fit to call home’. The Board regularly receives 
updates on progress made.

More information on the Society’s community activities can be found on page 23.

Suppliers

We engage actively with our investors
Nationwide is active in wholesale funding markets, engaging  
in the issuance of instruments.
Wholesale investors contribute towards the Society’s loss absorbing capital, helping to ensure 
that Nationwide is built to last. The Society maintains an active dialogue with the investors in 
its instruments through a thorough investor relations (IR) programme. During a typical year 
the IR team will host around 500 meetings, providing current and potential investors with the 
opportunity to meet senior managers and directors of the Society.

Regulators

We work closely with 
our suppliers
Nationwide has approximately 1,200 
suppliers who are seen as an extension  
of the organisation and therefore key to 
the Society’s ability to develop and deliver 
services to its members.

It is important to Nationwide that all suppliers represent the 
Society in a manner that enhances its reputation and 
relationships with its stakeholders. As a result, the Society 
endeavours to partner with organisations that demonstrate 
a commitment to its mutual values, ethics, policies and 
standards. This is also embedded in the Code of Practice 
that we ask suppliers to commit to. The Nationwide Supplier 
Portal (https://www.nationwide.co.uk/suppliers/suppliers-
home)] is designed to provide any new, potential or existing 
suppliers with all the information they need to know about 
supplying goods and services to Nationwide.

We seek an open 
relationship with 
regulators
Nationwide is committed to complying 
with all legislation and regulatory rules 
applicable to its business.
It aims to foster and maintain an open and transparent 
working relationship with its key regulators, the Prudential 
Regulation Authority and the Financial Conduct Authority. 
In addition to receiving regular updates and reports on the 
views of the Society’s key regulators, directors also meet 
regularly with representatives of these bodies as part of the 
regulators’ supervisory activities.

 
58  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Members help build society, nationwide

As a mutual organisation, members are also the owners of Nationwide, and we want our members to be able 
to share their views on the overall direction of the business. To help them do this, we aim:

 to make it as easy as possible for 
members to talk to us in whichever 
way they prefer

to listen and respond to member 
suggestions and comments, building 
products and services based around 
their needs

 to include members in other activities 
they’d like to join us in, for example 
deciding how our community grants are 
allocated via our Community Boards 
programme (see page 23 for details)

AGM

The AGM is the key event at which members can have their say on the  
way the Society is run and hear first-hand from directors. It is the main 
opportunity to hold the Board to account, as members can vote for or 
against those standing for election and on other key issues.

Last year more members than ever used the online facilities to cast their 
vote, with 41% of the voters choosing to vote online, although overall 
turnout at meetings continues to decline, both at Nationwide’s AGM and 
across the building society sector. As has been the practice for a number 
of years, the meeting is held at a different venue across the UK each year, 
making us more accessible to members across the country. This year, the 
AGM will be held at Manchester Central on Thursday 18 July.

As well as the AGM, we also work throughout the year to speak to our 
members and to encourage feedback on the way we operate. The main 
ways we did this during 2018/19 were: 

Face to face
Our popular Member TalkBack programme continued through 2018/19 
with the delivery of 11 events across the UK. Over 750 members came 
along to these events over the course of the year. TalkBacks give our 
members the chance to meet and speak to the Society’s Board and senior 
management about anything on their mind. 99% of members attending 
felt ‘valued’ or ‘more valued’ as a result of taking part. In 2019/20 we’re 

looking to increase the number of TalkBacks held, visiting more towns 
and cities, and meeting even more members.

submit it here, and they can also see suggestions made by other members. 
In 2018/19 just under 800 suggestions were made.

Our branch teams have also been involved in their communities. They 
attended or held 168 events in 2018/19, ranging from supporting local 
fetes, carnivals and Pride parades, through to offering advice on protecting 
yourself from fraud, educating children on money and helping people to 
understand the world of mortgages. We held over 2,500 conversations at 
these events with existing and prospective members.

Members were also able to engage with Nationwide colleagues at 10 
agricultural shows and festivals across the UK, including the Royal Norfolk, 
Great Yorkshire and the Royal Welsh shows. 

Online
As well as the research Nationwide commissions to find out how members rate 
our service, we have around 9,000 members signed up to our online customer 
research community ‘Nationwide Connect’, which helps provide feedback 
on a variety of topics including executive remuneration. Any member can 
sign up to the Connect panel via our website. This year the panel gave their 
views on topics such as savings bonds, credit card offerings, standard rate 
mortgages and much more, via regular online discussions and polls. 

Nationwide Connect also includes Member Suggestions. Any member who 
wants to suggest a change or improvement to our products or services can 

We also held two live online webcasts in 2018/19. One was a lifestyle show 
exclusively available for members, and the other gave a group of members 
the opportunity to ask questions directly to Chief Executive Joe Garner on 
everything related to savings rates. 

From the live and on-demand views, over 2,100 members have been able to 
interact with this online content. We’ll continue to consider webcasts as a 
channel to reach our members for future engagement as opportunities arise.

Social media
The number of followers on the Society’s main social media channels has 
increased by 11% over the last 12 months with content on these channels 
being seen by over 11 million members and non-members. Content relating 
to local branch stories, social investment and fraud education has generated 
the most engagement and advocacy.

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59  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Audit

Committee
report

Kevin Parry

“ The Audit Committee has continued to 
provide challenge to management and 
oversee the integrity of financial reporting 
and the strength of financial controls.”

Dear fellow member,
I am pleased to be able to report on the Audit 
Committee’s key role in safeguarding the interests 
of Nationwide for the benefit of its members.

The Committee continues to challenge the 
financial reports prepared by management, to 
scrutinise the effectiveness of the Society’s 
internal controls, to review the Society’s 
procedures for fighting financial crime, and to 
oversee the assurance work of our internal and 
external auditors. We monitor external risks to 
ensure that reporting and controls respond to 
developments. This has included both 
uncertainty over future UK economic conditions 
and external security threats.

Our oversight of financial reporting matters has 
focused on assumptions driving loan loss 
provisions following a significant change in 
accounting requirements this year. We have also 
prioritised monitoring development of the control 
environment, including the increasing maturity 

of control ownership across the Society, and 
controls in important business activities such 
as payments and digital services.

To comply with mandatory requirements for 
rotation of the external auditor, we completed  
a rigorous tender process which resulted in the 
selection of Ernst & Young LLP who will be 
auditor for the 2020 year end, subject to 
approval at the Annual General Meeting. This 
year the Committee has overseen preparation 
for the auditor transition and I look forward to 
working with EY.

I should like to thank PwC for the audit service 
they have provided to the Society over the last 
28 years. 

If any member has feedback on this report,  
I should be pleased to receive their comments. 
I will attend the 2019 AGM and be available to 
answer members’ questions.

Kevin Parry 
Chair – Audit Committee

Who sits on the Committee
The Board believes members of the Audit Committee have the financial, risk, control and commercial expertise 
required to provide effective challenge to management. Kevin Parry and Tim Tookey are considered by the Board 
to meet the requirement of the UK Corporate Governance Code to have recent and relevant financial experience.

Committee members
Meetings attended (eligible to attend)

Kevin Parry (Chair)
7 / (7)

Rita Clifton
6 / (7)

Lynne Peacock
7 / (7)

Tim Tookey
7 / (7)

Regular attendees of the Committee include: Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Chief Executive 
Officer, Chief Internal Auditor, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Product and Propositions Officer, Chief Risk Officer, 
Director of Financial Reporting and representatives of PricewaterhouseCoopers and Ernst & Young 

 
60  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

How the Committee works

Report on the year

Preparation of the financial statements and external financial reporting 

The Committee spent significant time in reviewing the half year and full 
year financial statements, and also the interim management statements 
published in August 2018 and February 2019. In particular, the Committee 
discussed and challenged management’s analyses, the external auditor’s 
work and conclusions on the main areas of judgement. 

Internal controls and risk management systems are in place to provide 
assurance over the preparation of the Annual Report and Accounts. 
Financial information submitted for inclusion in the financial statements  
is attested by individuals with appropriate knowledge and experience.  
The Annual Report and Accounts are scrutinised throughout the process  
by relevant senior stakeholders before being submitted to the Audit 
Committee, who provide debate and challenge, before recommending to 
the Board for approval. Key controls in the process are subject to regular 
testing, the results of which are reported to the Audit Committee.

The Audit Committee comprises independent non executive directors who 
bring a diverse range of experience in business, finance, auditing, risk and 
controls, with particular depth of experience in the financial services 
sector. The Committee is therefore able to challenge and scrutinise the 
work of management. The Committee also draws on the expertise of key 
advisors and control functions, including the internal and external auditors.

The Committee provides oversight and advice to the Board on the matters 
listed in its terms of reference (available at nationwide.co.uk) and reports 
to the Board on those matters after each meeting. The Committee is 
authorised by the Board to obtain any information it needs from any 
director or employee of the Society. It is also authorised to seek, at the 
expense of the Society, appropriate professional advice as needed. The 
Committee did not need to take any independent advice during the year.

The Committee works closely with the Board Risk Committee, as some 
matters are relevant to both committees. A joint meeting was held  
in March 2019 to review the 2019/20 assurance plans for Risk and 
Compliance Oversight and Internal Audit.

During the year, the Committee met privately with the Chief Internal 
Auditor, the Society’s external auditors and the Chief Risk Officer, without 
management present.

The Committee reviews its terms of reference and its activities over the previous 
year as part of an annual cycle to confirm that its activities were in line with 
its remit. More detail on the Committee’s duties and responsibilities can be 
found within its terms of reference on the Society’s website: nationwide.co.uk

The Committee’s effectiveness is reviewed annually. In 2018, a number of 
recommendations were made to improve the performance of the Committee. 
In response to the outcome of the review, there are regular presentations 
to the Board by the Chief Internal Auditor, giving an overview of the control 
environment and suggestions for continuous improvement. The 2019 
effectiveness review process is described on page 55.

How the Committee spent its time in the year

32%

32%

16%

7%

5%

8%

•   Financial reporting      •   Internal controls and risk management (including internal audit)      •   External audit  
•   Financial crime      •   Statutory duties      •   Other (including meeting administration) 

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61  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year

The significant judgements, issues and actions taken by the Committee in relation to the Annual Report and Accounts 2019 are outlined below. Each of these matters was discussed with the external auditor during the year and,  
where appropriate, have been addressed as areas of audit focus in the Auditors’ Report.

Area of focus

Committee’s response

Accounting policies, including  
the implementation of IFRS 9 
(accounting for financial instruments) 
and forthcoming implementation  
of IFRS 16 (leases)

The Committee reviewed the Society’s accounting policies and confirmed they were appropriate to be used in the financial statements. It also considered changes to policies 
required by new and forthcoming accounting standards, and the effectiveness of new models and processes introduced as a result.

IFRS 9 was implemented for the 2018/19 financial year and represents a significant change in accounting. The Committee had monitored the Society’s preparations for the 
introduction of IFRS 9 throughout the implementation programme, and in 2018/19 received regular reporting from management on the outputs from models and nature and 
value of any post model adjustments in relation to expected credit loss provisions. The Committee also discussed management’s regular cycle of model monitoring and 
development, which included incorporating into the models a number of items previously recognised as post model adjustments. At the Committee’s request, management 
included changes to models in regular reporting to the Committee.

The Committee received updates from management on preparations for the adoption of IFRS 16, which will also become effective from 2019/20. The Committee discussed 
work carried out to identify leases which will be recognised on the balance sheet and the quantification of adjustments on implementation, including the disclosure of the 
expected impact in the financial statements.

The Committee considered management’s proposal to adopt the hedge accounting provisions of IFRS 9 for individual hedges from 2019/20 and agreed that it was appropriate.

Alternative Performance Measures 
and disclosure of member financial 
benefit

Details on member financial benefit are 
shown on page 28

The Committee continues to consider that certain non-GAAP measures, such as underlying profit, aid an understanding of the Society’s results. However, it is important that 
items are excluded from underlying profit only where they do not relate to ongoing business performance. Following discussion with management, the definition of underlying 
profit was reviewed and updated during the year, resulting in a change to include both the Bank Levy and FSCS management charges in underlying profit.

The other performance disclosure considered carefully by the Committee was the value for member financial benefit included in Nationwide’s financial reporting. This metric 
shows the benefit provided to members in the form of differentiated pricing and incentives, representing Nationwide’s interest rate differential, lower fees and higher member 
incentives compared with market averages and is considered a key performance indicator.

The Committee was pleased that, following improvements made in the prior year, the documentation of, and controls over, the calculation of member financial benefit measure 
have matured. The Committee was satisfied with the calculation.

Going concern and business viability 
statement

See the Directors’ Report (page 95)  
for the business viability and the going 
concern statements

The Committee reviewed the going concern basis of preparation of the financial statements and the statement of business viability for recommendation to the Board for 
approval. As a deposit taking institution, liquidity management and viability are core requirements for the Society and there is substantial oversight by the Board through the 
Risk Committee and the Audit Committee. Information scrutinised by the Committee in drawing conclusions included assessment of levels of capital and availability of funding 
and liquidity, together with output of stress tests and reverse stress tests. It also covered profitability from business activities and any matters likely to affect future development, 
performance and financial position, together with the assessment of principal risks.

The Committee considered whether a longer period than three years should be covered in the viability statement, concluding that, as in the prior year, a period of three years 
was appropriate, particularly when taking into account changes in the economic, technological and regulatory environment.

The Committee concluded that it remained appropriate to prepare the accounts on a going concern basis and recommended the viability statement to the Board for approval.

 
62  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year (continued)

Area of focus

Committee’s response

Fair, balanced and understandable 
report and accounts

The Society’s Annual Report and Accounts, taken as a whole, must be fair, balanced and understandable.
The Committee considered the overall presentation of the financial statements and was satisfied that the reporting, including the disclosures in the notes to the accounts,  
fairly represented the results and business performance for the year ended 4 April 2019.
The Committee considered the Annual Report and Accounts against a number of hallmarks of ‘fair, balanced and understandable’, including whether the overall portrayal of 
Nationwide was open and honest, setting out both successes and challenges, and whether language was used that a person with reasonable knowledge of financial sector 
financial reporting could understand. The Committee also considered whether the reporting was relevant in the context of the Society’s strategy.
The Committee considered a report by management setting out the review processes used to assess the overall presentation of the Annual Report and Accounts. This included 
an independent management review by members of executive management covering a wide range of business responsibilities, which concluded that the reporting was clear, 
consistent, balanced, open and appropriately focused on material items.
The Committee reviewed the draft Corporate governance report and was satisfied that it presented an accurate view of the work of the Board and its Committees.
After consideration of management’s report and the Committee’s own review, the Committee concluded that it could inform the Board that, in its opinion, the Annual Report 
and Accounts were fair, balanced and understandable.

In compiling a set of financial statements, it is necessary to make estimates and judgements about outcomes that are typically dependent on future events. Significant matters are set out below. In addition, the Committee reviewed and was 
satisfied with management’s application of the effective interest rate method, assumptions relating to the calculation of the defined benefit pension deficit, and hedge accounting.

Area of focus

Committee’s response

Impairment provisions for loan 
portfolios and related disclosures

Information on credit risk and assumptions 
relating to expected credit losses are included 
in Note 10 to the financial statements

Given the materiality of Nationwide’s loan portfolios and the significance of changes to provisioning methodology introduced with IFRS 9 from 5 April 2018, understanding  
the Society’s exposure to credit risk and ensuring that impairment provisions are appropriate are key priorities for the Audit Committee. 
The introduction of provisions based on expected credit losses in accordance with IFRS 9 required implementation of a new suite of models, using key assumptions about the 
impact on loan portfolio performance of a range of potential economic scenarios. The Committee challenged management over the scenarios modelled to ensure that they 
adequately reflected uncertainty in the economic outlook and the potential for an economic downturn from the benign environment experienced in recent years. Following 
detailed review and discussion, assumptions and probabilities for central, upside and downside scenarios, as well as a severe economic downturn, were agreed. 
Nationwide published its report on the transition to IFRS 9 in June 2018 and the Committee held an additional meeting to review the report. The Committee scrutinised in 
detail the approach taken to identifying loans which had experienced a significant increase in credit risk, including the assessment of the risk of borrowers failing to repay 
interest only loans at maturity, principally in the buy-to-let portfolio. The Committee also focused on the clarity and transparency of disclosures in the report, and asked 
management to confirm that best practice disclosures were included as far as possible.
At the year end, the Committee challenged management to ensure that all relevant risks had been taken into account in the expected credit risk models, and that post model 
adjustments were recognised for risks which could not be modelled. The Committee discussed economic uncertainty in the UK, particularly in the period before Brexit, 
satisfying itself that these risks had been considered sufficiently in impairment provisions. The Committee requested assurance from management that latest data available 
regarding indications of affordability pressure, and also performance of interest only loans at maturity, had been considered. It also discussed any heightened risk in the 
commercial property lending portfolio arising from exposure to the retail sector. The Committee was satisfied with the overall level of provisioning. Looking forward, the 
Committee encouraged management to continue to develop disclosure, prioritising transparency and clarity of disclosures, as well as supporting the aims of the Prudential 
Regulatory Authority and industry peers to improve consistency.

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63  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year (continued)

Area of focus

Committee’s response

Provisions for customer redress

The Committee received updates on a number of conduct-related matters during the year and considered whether provisions for customer redress were appropriate. 

Information on provisions is included  
in note 27 to the financial statements

Assumptions used in calculating provisions for customer redress are often highly judgemental, including in relation to the volume of cases and amounts of redress required. 
Judgement may also be needed in assessing the likelihood of potential conduct issues crystallising, and evaluating whether a provision, or alternatively disclosure of a 
contingent liability, is required. 

The Committee reviewed judgements and estimates for a number of conduct-related issues, discussing with management matters including administration of customer 
accounts, non-compliance with consumer credit legislation and other issues subject to ongoing remediation, including the sale of Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) and the 
related Plevin legal case in respect of high levels of undisclosed commission. Discussions included the criteria for recognition of new provisions or provision releases, as well  
as the estimation of liabilities.

The Committee reviewed latest data on PPI and Plevin complaint volumes at each reporting period, challenging management to ensure appropriate recognition of the risk  
of an escalation of complaints in the period to the FCA’s August 2019 deadline for complaint submission. Information reviewed included historic complaint rates and uphold 
rates as well as market experience and expectations for further media and claims management company activities. 

Provisions for other conduct matters were reviewed and the basis for assumptions challenged, including the likely potential outcomes for those matters where less historic 
experience is available. 

The Committee concluded that the current provisions held by the Society were appropriate. 

Capitalisation and impairment  
of software

Following the announcement in September 2018 of a significant additional investment in technology, the Committee reviewed the work carried out by management to identify 
any existing assets whose useful life or value was affected by the new investment. The Committee scrutinised carefully the scope and depth of work carried out, and was 
satisfied that the amount written off was appropriate.

The Committee has responsibility for monitoring the adequacy of the control environment, including the prevention of financial crime. Following reporting of control improvements required in areas of IT in the prior year, and also  
an increase in the number of open issues raised by Internal Audit, the Committee increased the time spent this year reviewing internal control matters and ensuring that there was sufficient management focus on improvements.  
The Committee’s review of the operation of internal controls encompassed the following:

Area of focus

Controls

Committee’s response

Control environment
The Committee continued to monitor the overall effectiveness of the Society’s control environment, including work to strengthen and enhance controls. The Committee was 
updated regularly on the status of important work to streamline the approach to control ownership, including management accountability for key controls and declarations of 
control effectiveness. 

Financial controls
The Committee reviewed reporting by management on the effectiveness of the financial controls framework. The Committee also considered analysis by management of the 
principal differences between the current approach and a Sarbanes-Oxley approach to internal financial controls, concluding that the steps proposed by management would 
deliver an appropriately robust and proportionate approach. The Committee also scrutinised reporting on the effectiveness of controls relating to balance sheet substantiation, 
considering the results of management’s control testing as well as the low level of errors and reported control weaknesses in concluding that the control environment is 
adequate and there is appropriate focus on continued improvement.

 
64  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year (continued)

Area of focus

Controls

Committee’s response

Security, IT controls and operational resilience
The Committee monitored closely work focused on strengthening further aspects of security management. Internal Audit also completed several related audits during the year, 
and the Committee discussed with PwC their view on controls over privileged access to IT systems. These reports, together with reporting by management, demonstrated the 
progress made in the year and informed priorities going forward. The Committee will continue to monitor this important aspect of control in the forthcoming year.

Financial crime
Financial crime is a broad term that includes anti-bribery and corruption, anti-money laundering, fraud, theft from customers’ accounts and card related thefts. The Committee 
received a number of reports on each of these areas.

The Committee noted that a comprehensive review of the Society’s Anti-Bribery and Corruption policies and framework had been carried out, and good progress had been 
made. The Committee emphasised the importance of understanding and monitoring this risk in third parties. The Committee also received a report from the Group Anti-Money 
Laundering Officer and noted the improvement in the capabilities of the Society. 

The Committee reviewed a detailed report on anti-fraud controls, which noted the relatively low level of losses but emphasised the continued external threat. The Committee 
also considered the implications of the approach of the Payment Services Regulator and consumer organisations to liability for fraud losses, stressing the importance of industry 
co-ordination. In the context of the Board’s risk appetite, the Committee was satisfied with the steps being taken to reduce losses from financial crime. 

First line controls
During the year the Committee introduced a series of deep dives into key aspects of first line controls, which included anti-fraud controls, payments controls and controls in 
digital services. This enabled the Committee to engage directly with relevant executive management to ensure that risks are fully understood and the effectiveness of controls  
is monitored and improved as necessary. The Committee was satisfied that controls are being developed, enhanced and then embedded in important business areas where 
development is fast paced and it is critically important to ensure that controls keep pace.

The Committee has responsibilities beyond financial reporting disclosures, judgments and estimates and the control environment. Other matters considered during the year were:

Area of focus

Committee’s response

Capital and distributions

The Committee is responsible for advising the Board on the affordability of making distributions to holders of Core Capital Deferred Shares (CCDS) and AT1 securities and 
recommended to the Board that the payments proposed by management be made.

Tax

The Committee reviewed the management of Nationwide’s tax affairs and discussed with the Head of Tax Management the management of tax risk in business activities. 

The Committee also reviewed the updated tax strategy prior to approval by the Board and external publication.

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65  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Internal Audit

Senior statutory auditor 

Audit and non-audit fees

The Committee works closely with the Chief Internal Auditor who reports 
directly to the Chairman of the Audit Committee. Throughout the year, the 
Committee continued to monitor the progress of the internal audit function.

The Audit Committee approved the annual audit plan and all changes to 
the plan during the year, which were reviewed quarterly. The scope of work 
takes account of the function’s own assessment of risks, and the input of 
first and second line management and the Audit Committee itself. The 
Committee also approved the risk-based frequency of audit coverage to be 
used in planning internal audit activities. The annual audit plan and annual 
risk and compliance plans were approved at a joint meeting of the Audit 
and Risk Committees where the Committees reviewed materials setting 
out the co-ordination and combined coverage of these plans.

The Committee received quarterly updates from the Chief Internal Auditor 
on the work of the internal audit function, drawing its attention to the most 
significant audit work which included operational resilience, foundational IT 
and security controls. The Committee continued to focus on the prompt and 
effective resolution of control issues raised by internal audit, where progress 
was made during the year, although this remains an area of focus, particularly 
in respect of complex issues which require extended time to resolve.

The quality of internal audit’s work is monitored by a quality control function 
whose head reports findings directly to the Audit Committee Chairman.  
No major issues were reported although there was continued focus on 
improving the quality of documentation. The effectiveness of the internal 
audit function was also assessed by means of a survey of recipients of 
internal audit work. The findings showed that internal audit continues to 
be effective, independent and objective. Priorities for continued 
improvement included clarification of the relationship between Internal 
Audit and other lines of defence, consistent focus on the more material 
issues and continuing to develop technical expertise in specialist areas.

The Committee reviewed the resourcing of the audit function each quarter 
and was satisfied that the resources were appropriate. The Audit Committee 
Chairman and the Chief Internal Auditor review progress on a monthly basis. 
The Committee also considered the new organisational structure of the 
internal audit function, which recognises the changing focus of its activities 
as business priorities and risks develop, concluding that it was appropriate.

External Audit

PwC acted as the Society’s external audit firm throughout the 2018/19 
financial year. The Audit Committee is responsible for overseeing the 
relationship with the external auditor, and for the effectiveness of the 
audit process.

Hemione Hudson of PwC has been Nationwide’s senior statutory auditor 
for the 2015 year through to 2019 year end. Under regulation Ms Hudson 
would be due for rotation following the 2019 year end audit which 
coincides with the audit rotation date. PwC’s report can be found on pages 
166 to 174.

Audit quality and materiality

The Committee has a responsibility for reviewing the quality and effectiveness 
of the external audit. The Committee approved the scope of the audit plan 
and materiality level in advance of the annual audit. Materiality is the level 
at which the auditor considers that a misstatement would compromise the 
truth or fairness of the financial statements. For 2018/19, overall Group 
audit materiality was set at £42.3 million (2018: £54.5 million).

Auditor independence

The Board has an established policy setting out the non-audit services that can 
be provided by the external auditor. The aim of the policy, which is reviewed 
annually, is to safeguard the independence and objectivity of the external 
auditors and comply with the ethical standards of the Financial Reporting 
Council (FRC). The policy specifies non-audit services provided by the external 
auditor that are either permitted or prohibited. PwC has confirmed that it has 
complied with relevant regulatory and professional requirements and its 
objectivity is not impaired. The Committee is satisfied that PwC remained 
independent throughout the year.

Audit outputs

The Committee reviewed and approved the external auditor’s engagement 
letter and proposed audit fee.

Under the Society’s non-audit fees policy, all non-audit work is approved by  
the Audit Committee where the fee is over £50,000, or by the Audit 
Committee Chairman and the Chief Financial Officer with ratification at the 
next Audit Committee meeting where the fee is below £50,000. During 
the year, the Committee considered a number of proposals from 
management to use the external auditors for non-audit services, ensuring 
that management had considered alternative suppliers and scrutinising 
analysis of any potential threats to auditor independence. The value of 
non-audit fees incurred in the year was reported to the Committee at each 
regular meeting.

A regulatory cap on the annual value of non-audit fees of 70% of the 
average of three years’ audit fee will be mandatory for Nationwide in 
2022/23, being the fourth financial year following the forthcoming change 
of auditor. The Committee monitors the cumulative value of non-audit 
work with the aim of operating within this framework in advance of the 
regulatory requirement.

The fees paid to PwC for the year ended 4 April 2019 totalled £6.8 million 
(2018: £5.5 million), of which £2.8 million (2018: £1.8 million) were  
for non-audit services. Non-audit services represented 67% (2018: 51%)  
of the statutory audit fee. Fees for individual non-audit services where the 
expenditure was more than £100,000 were:

•   Supporting the selection and preparation for implementation  
of a governance, risk and control system; fees of £247,100

•   Half year review; fees of £208,000

During the year the Committee reviewed the following reports:

•   Assurance on work to enhance privileged access management;  

•   PwC’s year end report for the 2017/18 financial year and its statutory 

opinion in respect of the year. The report set out key areas of focus in the 
audit work, namely year end impairment provisions and the judgements 
made in determining opening IFRS 9 provisions for 2018/19, judgements 
in relation to conduct provisions and controls over privileged access. The 
Audit Committee Chairman met with the PwC audit partners in advance 
of Committee meetings during the year and discussed in detail the basis 
of their opinion on the key judgements in the financial statements.

•   PwC’s report on the findings from their review of the Interim Financial 

Statements.

•   PwC’s private reports to the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA), 

which focused on key areas as requested by the PRA, including aspects 
of expected credit loss methodology.

fees of £157,000

•   Assurance over the Society’s technology strategy implementation;  

fees of £1.6 million.

The remaining non-audit services relate to treasury funding issuances and 
programme updates, and cyber security assessment.

The total fees are set out in note 8 to the financial statements on page 198.

Having reviewed both the quantum of the non-audit fees and the nature  
of the work carried out, the Committee is satisfied that the non-audit work 
do not detract from PwC’s audit independence.

 
 
66  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Audit effectiveness

Auditor rotation

The year ahead 

The Committee reviews the effectiveness of the external audit process on an 
annual basis. The Committee received a report on audit effectiveness based on 
a questionnaire to Audit Committee members and those members of 
management who interact with the auditors. It showed that the external 
auditor was performing its duties in an independent and effective manner,  
with some improvement in feedback results compared with the prior year. 
The Committee concluded that the rating given to PwC remained acceptable, 
with strengths including planning, engagement with senior management and 
communication. Some areas for improvement were noted, including providing 
greater insight into industry practice and ensuring challenges to management 
are communicated as early as possible. PwC has responded effectively to 
the findings. Following the review, it was recommended to the Board and 
subsequently to the Annual General Meeting that PwC be reappointed as 
auditor for the 2018/19 financial year.

Following the completion of a competitive tender in 2017, Ernst & Young 
LLP (EY) will be recommended to the members as Nationwide’s auditor for 
2019/20 at the AGM in 2019. During the year, EY commenced planning for 
the audit, including engaging widely with management, shadowing the 
PwC audit, including understanding key areas of audit focus and management 
judgement, and observing Audit Committee meetings. As part of the 
transition, the following reports were presented to the Audit Committee:

•   EY’s transition plan, which set out the audit transition activities 
completed and planned, and confirmed the firm’s independence

•   an Initial Observations report, which set out EY’s views on various aspects 

of governance and control based on their audit planning activities. 

Further information on the competitive tender process is presented in the 
Audit Committee report of the 2018 Annual Report and Accounts.

In 2019/20 the Audit Committee will continue to focus on its oversight of the 
financial reporting and internal controls of Nationwide, including monitoring 
the ongoing maturity of expected credit loss provisions under IFRS 9. 

A key area of focus for the Committee will be the effective transition to the 
incoming audit firm to ensure that audit independence and quality is 
safeguarded. The Committee will also continue to work with the Board Risk 
Committee to ensure that the Internal Audit, Prudential Risk Oversight and 
Compliance Oversight functions have appropriate and co-ordinated plans 
in place and will monitor their progress and implementation.

In the challenging and competitive environment in which Nationwide 
operates, the Audit Committee remains committed to its vital role in 
overseeing the integrity of financial reporting and effectiveness of controls.

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67  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Board Risk
Committee
report

Tim Tookey

“ The Board Risk Committee has 
continued to provide support and 
challenge to management to ensure  
that our members, their money  
and the Society’s safety and security  
are being appropriately protected.”

Dear fellow member,
I am pleased to present the Board Risk Committee’s 
report for the financial year ended 4 April 2019. 
During the year, we have continued to focus on 
maintaining operational resilience to provide the 
service that our members expect. Despite customer 
expectations continuing to increase and other 
challenges remaining in the external environment, 
the Society’s risk profile has stayed broadly stable 
through monitoring and proactively managing risk 
exposures before they have crystallised.

External challenges have included uncertainty in 
the macroeconomic environment relating to Brexit, 
further competition for our core products, as well as 
continued customer affordability pressures. 
Technological change has continued at pace and 
the nature of threats in the IT and cyber 
environments have continued to evolve. Internally, 
the number of operational incidents has reduced 
despite increasing transaction volumes and delivery 
of complex change initiatives. The Committee has 
been focused on challenging management to ensure 
that our systems are built to last, that conduct 

matters are proactively identified and resolved and 
that our members receive the level of service they 
expect from Nationwide. Whilst the Committee 
retains overall responsibility for providing oversight 
and advice to the Board on all risk matters, 
assessment and measurement of IT related risk is 
delegated to the Board IT and Resilience Committee 
(BITRC); regular reporting is provided to the 
Committee from BITRC and further detail can be 
found in that Committee’s report on page 71.

Whilst ensuring robust management of key risks, 
this year has seen the Committee continue to provide 
advice to management, with active support for the 
Society’s strategy. The Committee has continued to 
provide oversight of the important role played by 
the Risk community independent of the Society’s 
operations, has overseen the conscious further 
investment in risk capability through developing its 
people, systems and innovation agenda, and has 
ensured that sufficient priority is given to maintaining 
strong relationships with our regulators.

Tim Tookey 
Chair – Board Risk Committee

Who sits 
on the 
Committee

Committee members

Tim Tookey (Chair)

Albert Hitchcock
(Joined the Committee 
in January 2019)

Mitchel Lenson

Kevin Parry

Lynne Peacock

Meetings attended (eligible to attend)

7 / (7)

1 / (1)

7 / (7)

7 / (7)

7 / (7)

Regular attendees of the Committee include: Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, 
Chief Products and Proposition Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Risk Officer, Chief Credit Officer, 
Chief Internal Auditor and representatives of the auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers.

 
68  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

How the Committee works

The Board Risk Committee comprises independent non executive directors 
whose attendance record is set out on page 67. Albert Hitchcock became  
a member of the Committee in January 2019. Details of the skills and 
experience of the Committee members can be found in their biographies 
on pages 36 to 42. The Committee is scheduled to meet seven times a year 
and additionally as and when required. During the year there was one joint 
Audit and Board Risk Committee meeting to consider matters of common 
interest: the overall assurance plan, the annual oversight plan and the 
annual internal audit plan.

In addition to the regular attendees from management, the Committee 
invites the CEO for his perspectives on the current and emerging risk 
profile of the Society and receives a report from the Chief Risk Officer on 
the same matters at each meeting. Subject matter experts are also invited 
to Committee meetings to present on a variety of topics. Following each 
meeting, updates are provided to the Board, summarising activities 
undertaken, areas where the Committee had challenged management and 
key decisions taken. Updates from the Committee to the Board are 
accompanied by reports from the Chief Risk Officer.

The Committee delegates responsibility for oversight and challenge of the 
day-to-day IT and resilience risk, control and oversight arrangements to the 
Board IT and Resilience Committee. This includes reviewing the effectiveness 
of the relevant aspects of the control environment. The Board IT and 
Resilience Committee formally reports on these matters to the Board Risk 
Committee. The Board Risk Committee also oversees the Executive Risk 
Committee, which is the management committee responsible for ensuring  
a co-ordinated risk management approach across all the Society’s risks. 

The Committee reviews its terms of reference and its activities over the 
previous year as part of an annual cycle to confirm that its activities were  
in line with its remit. More detail on the Committee’s duties and 
responsibilities can be found within its terms of reference on the Society’s 
website: nationwide.co.uk

The Committee’s effectiveness is reviewed annually. In 2018, the review was 
carried out as part of the overall review of the effectiveness of the Board 
and its committees. In response to the outcome of the review, the Committee 
will continue to focus on developing a dynamic framework within which the 
Board continually assesses its appetite for risk. In addition, there will be an 
increased focus on macro risks, cultural, competitive, and environmental 
risks, and reviews of the appropriate balancing of risks and rewards across 
various components of our strategy. The 2019 effectiveness review process 
is described on page 55.

Report on the year

The principal purpose of the Committee is to provide oversight on behalf of, 
and advice to, the Board in relation to risk-related matters. The Committee 
fulfils this role by providing advice, oversight and challenge to enable 
management to promote, embed and maintain a strong risk awareness 
culture throughout the Society. The Society’s approach to the management 
of risk is set out in more detail on pages 103 to 105. 

In addition to considering the Society’s current and emerging risk exposures, 
the Committee also considered longer-term risks to delivering the Society’s 
strategy and emerging issues that could present risks in the future. 

The Board considers the appropriateness of the Society’s strategic plan in the 
context of its risk appetite. During the year, the Committee recommended 
the Society’s Board risk appetite to the Board and monitored performance 
against it by undertaking appropriate reviews on material risk issues against 
the set risk appetite. 

On behalf of the Board, the Committee reviewed and approved the Society’s 
Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP) and Internal Liquidity 
Adequacy Assessment Process (ILAAP) documents. In addition, under a 
delegated mandate from the Board, the Committee approved:

•   The Enterprise Risk Management Framework (ERMF) which defines  

what risk management is and how it works at Nationwide

•  The Society’s risk strategy
•  Pillar 3 disclosures and the updated Pillar 3 Disclosure Policy
•  The Society’s recovery plan.

How the Committee spent its time in the year

39%

23%

19%

9%

10%

•   Prudential risk      •   Operational risk1      •   Conduct and compliance risk      •   Enterprise risk  
•   Other matters (including meeting administration) 

1 It should be noted that the Board IT and Resilience Committee also covers significant areas of operational risk oversight on behalf of the Board Risk Committee.

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69  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year

The Committee balanced its agenda to continue to focus on standing areas of risk management whilst ensuring key risks were escalated for consideration during the course of the year. As part of this, the Committee reviewed the 
Society’s risk profile, facilitated by reporting and analysis from the Chief Risk Officer. An outline of other key matters considered by the Committee in the year is broken down by risk category and set out below:

Area of focus

Prudential Risk

Committee’s response

The Society lends in a responsible, affordable and sustainable way to ensure we safeguard members and the financial strength of the Society through the credit cycle.  
It maintains sufficient capital and liquidity resources to support current business activity, including planned growth, to remain resilient to significant stress.

(includes credit, model, liquidity and funding, 
market, solvency and pension risks)

In this context, the Committee discussed macroeconomic risk matters against a challenging global geopolitical backdrop and the uncertainty around Brexit. These events were 
continually monitored and assessed to manage the impact on the Society’s business.

The Committee discussed and challenged management on the risks associated with potential weaknesses in the design or execution of models used by the Society. During the 
year there was a training session for the Committee members for a better understanding of the key features of the Society’s most important models. Models are used to support 
key decisions including in relation to the amount of capital and liquidity resources required, lending and pricing, resourcing and earnings.

During the year, the Committee reviewed a number of aspects of prudential risk as required by the PRA, including the Society’s capital and liquidity adequacy (as reported  
in the ICAAP and the ILAAP respectively), the Pillar 3 risk disclosures, the recovery plan and associated regulatory reporting. It also reviewed and approved the results of the 
2018 Concurrent Stress Test focusing on new requirements for estimating loan loss provisions on an expected loss basis. 

The Committee held deep dive sessions to discuss controls in place to mitigate mortgage credit risk in different scenarios. This included its approach to managing risk within 
the unsecured lending and buy to let portfolios to ensure they remain within the Board’s approved risk appetite. The Committee also held a deep dive session on the 
performance of the Society’s savings, current account and prime mortgage portfolios. 

The Committee undertook an evaluation of the ability of the Society’s business model to endure stress through a review of the 2018 reverse stress test. The principal scenario 
explored was based on the work carried out on the 2017 reverse stress test and the Bank of England’s Biennial Exploratory Scenario. The Society was challenged to consider 
how it would react to a range of scenarios, including an environment of sustained low interest rates and margin compression. The Committee considered how the Society  
would remain resilient and stable in such instances.

Operational Risk

The Society minimises customer disruption, financial loss and reputational damage through providing sustainable customer services and resilient systems.

In addition to receiving regular reports on IT related risk, resilience issues, IT-related risk decisions taken and other important matters from the Chairman of the Board IT & 
Resilience Committee, the Committee reviewed key areas of operational risk exposure during the year including:

•   the risk management and assurance approach for delivery of the technology investment.

•   the management of outsourcing and third party related risks with a focus on three key areas – procurement and contracts, operational vendor management and the testing 

and assurance of suppliers.

•   how the Society is ensuring compliance with the requirements of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and to enhance members’ data protection and privacy.

•   how the Society supports colleagues in managing specific risks including insider threat and IT privileged access.

•   the contingency plans to mitigate the impact of various potential Brexit scenarios on the business of the Society.

The Committee discussed the findings and learnings identified from the result of a Business Continuity Incident Management exercise which was carried out at the Executive 
Committee level.

 
70  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year (continued)

Area of focus

Committee’s response

Conduct and compliance risk

Enterprise risk

(includes Business risk)

The year ahead 

The Society treats customers fairly, before, during and after the sales process through offering products and services which meet customer needs and expectations, perform as 
represented and provide value for money. 
The Committee has continued to champion the Society’s approach to the ongoing embedding of conduct risk, meaning that the Society’s products and processes are focused on 
delivering good customer outcomes and minimising regulatory non-compliance. 
The Committee discussed residual risks to compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and noted the continued focus by the Society on ensuring compliance 
with the requirements of the regulation.
The Committee also discussed and approved the Society’s approach to managing the emerging risks relating to data ethics and the ways in which the Society uses members’ data.
Management was challenged to ensure a continuous embedding of conduct risk awareness and the need for consideration of conduct risk at the early stages of developing new propositions. 
It should be noted that whilst the conduct risk profile of the Society was considered satisfactory, there will always be focus maintained on further embedding conduct risk awareness. 
On behalf of the Board, the Committee approved the Society’s Complaint Handling Framework and the Society’s Treasury Communications Policy which have been put in place to 
satisfy the requirements of the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive II (MiFID II) regulation with respect to complaints handling and call recording respectively.
The Committee reviewed the progress on the implementation of the BCBS 239 Reporting Principles (principles for effective data aggregation and risk reporting) and approved the 
Society’s Risk Data Aggregation and Risk Reporting Framework.

The Society operates a mutual business model which is sustainable and remains within the constraints of the Building Societies Act in a stress. In this context, the Committee has:

•   On behalf of the Board, endorsed the Board’s risk appetite which clearly sets out the amount and type of risk that the Board is comfortable with the Society taking.  

This is to ensure that it remains sustainable in the long term for all members’ benefit. Within the parameters set by the Board’s risk appetite, the Committee performed  
a regular review of the Society’s risk performance to ensure that appropriate action was being taken and to inform consideration of any potential risk adjustments to 
executive remuneration.

•   Approved the results of the review of the Society’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework (ERMF), an annual review of the adequacy of Nationwide’s system of risk 
management and internal controls. The review concluded that the Society’s system of risk management and internal control was adequate when assessed against the 
Board’s risk appetite.

•   Approved the Society’s risk strategy which had been updated based on changes to the external environment, the Society’s technology strategy and updated Board risk 

appetite. Nationwide’s risk strategy sets out the Society’s approach to managing the emerging risk landscape over the medium to longer term. 

During the year, the Committee received regular updates from the Society’s second line oversight functions. It satisfied itself that the Society’s segregation of duties between 
the first and second lines of defence is sufficiently robust to ensure that the Society’s operational decisions receive appropriate, timely and sufficient challenge. The Committee 
also approved changes to the Terms of Reference of the Executive Risk Committee.
As part of its remit to provide advice to the Remuneration Committee on potential risk adjustments to be applied to performance objectives incorporated in the incentive 
structure for executives, the Committee reviewed a report from the Remuneration Committee on variable pay arrangements across the Society during the year.

The Society has ambitions to broaden and deepen its member relationships 
through its lending, current accounts and savings portfolios in an increasingly 
competitive market, ensure its costs are controlled effectively, and continue 
to invest in IT and operational resilience whilst managing changing regulatory  
requirements. Delivering against these objectives will be challenging but 

these are the right areas to focus on for the benefit of the Society’s members 
– making sure that they are at the heart of everything the Society does.  
To support this ambition, over the next 12 months the Committee will continue 
to focus on the top and emerging risks, to monitor the uncertain 
macroeconomic outlook, and to ensure the Society delivers what is required 

by regulators and other authorities - ensuring the Society is built to last. 
The Committee will continue to support and challenge management in 
addressing these requirements and in overseeing the strengthening of the 
Society’s business operations, particularly with regard to operational resilience 
– ensuring that members’ interests are safeguarded. 

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71  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Board IT
andResilience
Committee
report

Mitchel Lenson

“ It has been my privilege to chair this 
Board Committee over the past 7 years, 
as it oversees the future technology 
roadmap to deliver legendary service  
for current and future members.”

Dear fellow member,
The past year has been a momentous one for 
your Society. 

We are living through times of unprecedented 
change, with technology transforming the way 
we all live our lives. An increasing number of our 
members are accessing our services digitally, and 
Nationwide saw 220 million more mobile log-ins 
than last year and our mobile app now has  
2.7 million active users. Technology is enabling 
new services, propositions and business models; 
this brings new opportunities but also creates  
a new set of challenges we must rise to.

That is why in September 2018 we announced 
plans for additional technology investment of 
£1.3 billion over five years to enhance our existing 
technology programme. Our technology investment 
will deliver increased resilience, make us more 
secure and deliver better member outcomes 
through improved digital capabilities and better 
use of data, whilst also driving down costs.  

This is an exciting, ambitious plan to improve the 
service we offer existing members and to develop 
new capabilities to serve the needs of members 
in the future. I want to reassure members that 
this is not a single ‘big bang’ change. Rather, 
members will see a series of improvements over 
the course of time with each step carefully managed. 
In totality the changes will further improve the 
quality of the service we can offer, all underpinned 
by the security and reliability our members expect, 
and the Society’s ethos of mutuality. 

Gunn Waersted assumed the Chair of this 
Committee in March 2019. I wish her and the 
Committee every success. I am confident that the 
Society is well placed to execute its ambitious 
technology programme.

Mitchel Lenson 
Chair – Board IT and Resilience Committee 
(until March 2019)

Who sits 
on the 
Committee
Committee members

Mitchel Lenson
(Chair until  
March 2019)

Gunn Waersted
(Chair from  
March 2019)

Mai Fyfield

Albert Hitchcock
(Joined the Committee 
in January 2019)

Tim Tookey
(Joined the Committee 
in July 2018)

Meetings attended (eligible to attend)

6 / (6)

6 / (6)

6 / (6)

1 / (1)

4 / (5)

Regular attendees of the Committee include: Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, 
Chief Operating Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Product & Propositions Officer, Chief Risk Officer, Chief Technology Officer, 
Chief Data Officer, Chief Transformation Officer, Chief Internal Auditor; and the Society’s external advisers Conrad Prince and 
Oliver Bussmann. The Society’s other external advisers partner business areas and attend the Committee where their specific 
expertise is relevant and valuable to the Committee. 

 
72  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

How the Committee works

Report on the year

In March 2018, the IT Strategy & Resilience Committee was successfully 
repurposed as the Board IT and Resilience Committee. This year has seen 
the Committee’s remit extended to include oversight of the recently 
approved technology investment, in addition to providing oversight for  
the Society’s IT and cyber-related risks, IT service availability and delivery, 
and monitoring execution of the Society’s respective IT-related plans. 

Additionally, the Committee provides challenge to, and oversight of, the 
Society’s management activities to ensure that the Society’s technology 
continues to deliver the best possible member experience. Concurrently, 
the Committee is focused on ensuring that the Society’s online and mobile 
products are available when members need them and continue to keep 
their data safe. More detail on the Committee’s duties and responsibilities 
can be found within its terms of reference on the Society’s website: 
nationwide.co.uk

The Board IT and Resilience Committee supports the Board and the Board 
Risk Committee. 

The Committee comprises independent non executive directors whose 
attendance record is set out on page 71. Albert Hitchcock became a 
member of the Committee in January 2019, and Gunn Waersted replaced 
Mitchel Lenson as Chair of the Committee in March 2019. The Committee 
is supported by six external experts who help the Society keep up to date 
with digital innovation, the mobile channel, payments, data, security  
and resilience. 

Following each Committee meeting, the Chair of the Committee provides 
verbal updates to the Board and the Board Risk Committee.

The Committee reviews its terms of reference and its activities over the 
previous year as part of an annual cycle to confirm that its activities were  
in line with its remit. More detail on the Committee’s duties and 
responsibilities can be found within its terms of reference on the Society’s 
website: nationwide.co.uk

The Committee’s effectiveness is reviewed annually. In 2018, the review 
was carried out as part of the overall review of the effectiveness of the 
Board and Board Committees. Following the review, the Committee will 
continue to focus on macro issues and develop a dynamic framework  
for decisions linked to the strategic priorities of the business. The 2019 
effectiveness review process is described on page 55.

How the Committee spent its time in the year

18%

35%

9%

3%

5%

12%

18%

•   Service delivery and operational resilience      •   Technology programme and architecture 
•   Cyber risk and security      •   Data and analytics      •   Transformation delivery and operating model  
•   IT risk and controls oversight      •   Other (including meeting administration)  

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73  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year

Area of focus

Committee’s response

Service delivery and  
operational resilience

Technology programme  
and architecture

The Committee reviewed IT service provision throughout the year considering incidents, root causes, solutions and strategic intent.

The Committee challenged management to maintain focus on operational impact, evidenced with the development of metrics to capture operational risk to enable the Society 
to better monitor performance and member impact following IT incidents. A service availability measure has been enhanced to capture the number of minutes of outage, 
rather than percentage, to better assess member impact. Furthermore, the Committee has overseen activity to manage the risk of IT service outages that might impact 
member services and has focused on ensuring that any action taken to mitigate risk considered conduct risk, ensuring that members are fairly treated.

The Society’s Operational Resilience Strategy was approved and delivered in conjunction with the Resilience Programme. Highlights included the development of a framework 
for the target state of operational resilience, demonstrating a good understanding of people, processes and technology.

Technology programme 
The investment in technology has been part of the 2018 Society-wide and was approved by the Board in September 2018. This investment underpins the plans to grow the 
Society and provide better products and services to members. The investment will enable the Society to simplify its technology estate and build new technology platforms to 
enable growth and diversification, and drive forward digital, data and analytics plans. The Committee challenged management to ensure that significant deliverables are 
business-driven and technology led. 

The technology investment will create a technology model to meet future challenges and ensure success. Looking to the future, the Committee challenged management to 
prioritise its activity across strategic workstreams to make sure the Society manages its resources to meet members’ needs efficiently. Mobilisation efforts are now underway 
and include execution of delivery projects, architectural decision making and the creation of an operating model to build future capability. PwC was appointed to provide 
external independent assurance over the delivery of the technology investment to the Committee and Board. PwC’s work, together with that of the Society’s oversight and 
internal audit functions, will form part of a combined assurance approach.

Nationwide for Business 
Nationwide for Business will mark the Society’s entry into the small business banking market. The Committee discussed and challenged management on the core platform 
selection, delivery plans, costs and particularly the risks of the business banking proposition.

Cyber risk and security

Over the last year, the financial services industry has been subject to a concerted campaign of ever increasing and sophisticated attacks against systems worldwide, including 
successful hacks, ransomware and phishing attacks. 

The Committee approved the Nationwide Security Strategy 2018-21 and has received regular updates throughout the course of the year. The Committee has supported 
management during the cyber security strategy refresh. 

The Society, supported by the Committee, continues to sustain focus and provide investment to support and improve its security capability, mitigating against cyber risks and 
taking a proactive approach to help keep members’ money and data safe. The Society works with the wider industry and with the Government’s National Cyber Security Centre 
to share good practice and understanding about new and evolving threats.

 
74  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year (continued)

Area of focus

Data and analytics 

Committee’s response

Since endorsement in July 2017, the Committee has supported management in developing the Society’s data plans. In May 2018, the Society successfully demonstrated 
compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), further improving the Society’s awareness of control and governance of member data. 

The Committee has also helped management to develop its thinking as the Society prepares for the new Basel Committee Banking Supervision (BCBS) 239 Regulation and 
align activities to the reporting principles of timeliness, completeness and accuracy, expecting compliance by June 2019.

Transformation delivery and  
operating model

Transformation
The Committee has continued to review management’s progress against key transformation delivery objectives, some of which are enabled by change activity. The Committee 
regularly received insight on programmes within the Society’s Transformation Portfolio, including:

IT risk and controls oversight

•   The successful transformation of the Society’s high street presence which brings a new branch design to members

•   The Society’s commitment to comply with industry standards on Open Banking, GDPR and most recently BCBS 239

•   Assessing whether critical delivery milestones are met in line with planned timetables. 

Improved ways of working
The Committee has continued to champion the Society’s use of ‘Agile’ working and recognised a shift in the cultural mindset towards agile management and the use of agile 
methodology and skills, with the aim of bringing individuals together from across the Society to create a more efficient and innovative working environment. By streamlining 
decision-making, the Society has made progress towards improving processes and products for members.

Second line, third line and external reviews
The Committee is routinely provided with independent reviews from the Society’s Oversight and Internal Audit functions. This activity complements the Society’s first line risk 
management by business areas and processes have been improved by initiatives to encourage first line risk teams to become more proactive in identifying and managing risk 
across the Society.

During the year the Committee has also received reports from external reviews of the Society’s cyber security and technology plans from PwC, which has enabled the 
Committee to hold management to account against industry standard best practice and to shape future development plans.

The year ahead 

The year ahead presents an exciting opportunity to continue to deliver the 
technology investment which will be transformative for the Society, 
instrumental in safeguarding future resilience and a key enabler to continue 
to meet Nationwide’s core purpose in years to come. The Committee will 

need to strike a balance between the enablement of operational continuity 
(operations, resilience and security), meeting new regulatory requirements 
and providing oversight of strategic initiatives, whilst challenging management 
to ensure that the Society makes the best use of members’ money. 

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75  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

and

 Nomination
Governance
Committee
report

David Roberts

“ The Committee retains its focus on  
the identification and development of 
talent to meet leadership needs at  
Board and management levels in an 
inclusive way that reflects the society  
in which Nationwide operates.”

Dear fellow member,
This year the Nomination and Governance 
Committee has overseen all matters within its 
terms of reference, with increased focus on 
leadership, resourcing, succession and diversity.

The Committee has observed that the Society 
continues to build the strong leadership needed to 
deliver our strategy, supported by our continued 
investment in leadership development. With 
oversight from the Committee, the Society is 
building on this through a ‘leadership pathways’ 
activity to ensure we have the leadership talent 
we need for the future. The Committee has also 
seen the Society strengthen its position on 
emerging talent and on the technical training 
needed to support our technology investment. 

The Committee is committed to diversity and 
inclusion and has endorsed a programme of 
activity to educate and engage leadership teams 
across the Society in driving positive action, 
supported by research and deep insight. This 
includes a focus on enabling difference of all 
kinds to flourish in the interests of our members. 
Baroness Usha Prashar attends Committee 
meetings as the Board’s sponsor of the Society’s 
diversity and inclusion agenda.

We have continued to strengthen the composition of 
the Board with the recent appointment of Albert 
Hitchcock enhancing the skills and experience to 
oversee how we optimise our strategic investment 
plans. We’ve also taken the opportunity to hear 
employee perspectives in the Boardroom this 
year with Mai Fyfield as the designated director 
for employee engagement. 

The Committee’s attention to corporate governance 
includes a review of best practice and participation 
in national policy consultations. Our approach to 
managing regulatory regime requirements on 
matters such as senior manager accountabilities 
and fitness and propriety is now well established. 

The Committee has a busy year ahead with an 
agenda informed by the Board Strategy Conference 
in October, where several people priorities were 
identified that will require the Committee’s 
oversight. Board effectiveness and sound corporate 
governance will continue to be important aspects 
of the Committee’s responsibilities to ensure that 
we are fit to face an exciting future.

David Roberts 
Chair – Nomination and Governance Committee

Who sits 
on the 
Committee

Committee members
Meetings attended (eligible to attend)

David Roberts (Chair)
8 / (8)

Kevin Parry
8 / (8)

Lynne Peacock
8 / (8)

Tim Tookey
8 / (8)

Regular attendees of the Committee include: Chief Executive Officer, Chief People Officer, Baroness Usha Prashar (non 
executive director), Chief Legal Officer and Society Secretary, Director of Secretariat; and Director, Engagement & Leadership

 
76  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

How the Committee works

The Committee is chaired by the Chairman of the Board and the members 
are independent non executive directors; their attendance record is set out 
on page 75. Details of the skills and experience of the Committee members 
can be found in their biographies on pages 36 to 42. The Committee 
meets as and when required and the number of meetings held in the year 
can be found on page 75. Following each meeting, the Chair of the 
Committee provides verbal updates to the Board, summarising activities 
undertaken, and key decisions taken.

The Committee reviewed its terms of reference and its activities over the 
previous year as part of an annual cycle to confirm that its activities were in 
line with its remit. More detail on the Committee’s duties and 
responsibilities can be found within its terms of reference on the Society’s 
website: nationwide.co.uk

The Committee’s effectiveness is reviewed annually. In 2018, the review 
was carried out as part of the overall review of the effectiveness of the 
Board and Board committees. Following the review, the Committee will 
continue to focus on ways in which the Society can accommodate and 
encourage diversity of style without compromise to its values. The 2019 
effectiveness review process is described on page 55.

Report on the year

The Committee continued to focus on strengthening the Society’s 
leadership capability during the year, with the emphasis on building those 
skills and behaviours required to evolve the organisation’s culture and 
renewed strategic ambitions. This was a core theme of the Board Strategy 
Conference in October 2018, and oversight responsibility for this resides 
with the Nomination and Governance Committee.

Board members have been actively involved in the continuation of the 
Society’s flagship leadership programme, Leading for Mutual Good, with 

over 1,000 leaders having participated to date. More information on the work 
of the Committee in this area can be found on page 77. The Committee 
also endorsed the launch of the Developing My Leadership (DML) learning 
curriculum with over 1,600 junior and middle managers participating. 

As an output of the Board Strategy Conference in October, management has 
placed further focus on leadership talent through a ‘leadership pathways’ 
approach, having concluded that leadership is a key lever for future 
organisational culture, performance and growth. Initiated in January 2019, 
this involves a review of the Society’s operating model, redefinition of its 
future capability requirements and creating the right career pathways for 
leaders to develop. The Committee has reviewed the approach and will 
monitor progress at every meeting as part of its forward agenda. Meanwhile, 
the Committee has continued to review the robustness of succession plans 
and scrutinise resourcing activity for senior leadership roles.

An essential part of this work is optimising opportunities to strengthen the 
diversity of the Society’s leadership population. The Committee has 
continued to put priority on the Diversity and Inclusion agenda with the 
sponsorship of non executive director, Baroness Usha Prashar.

Recognising the increasing significance of digital and technology resilience 
expertise, the Committee commenced the search for a new non executive 
director. Ridgeway Partners, an executive search firm which has no other 
connection with the Society, was engaged to assist with the search for a 
suitable candidate. A candidate specification was prepared considering the 
desired skills, knowledge, experience and personal characteristics required 
for the role. From the specification, a list of potential candidates was 
identified, who were approached for initial discussions with the Chairman. 
Following this, a short list of candidates was produced and after a series of 
interviews with executive directors and Committee members, the 
Committee recommended the Board to approve the appointment of Albert 
Hitchcock as a non executive director in December 2018. Bringing senior 
transformational technology leadership experience, his appointment 
supports succession planning and Board composition in the context of the 
Society’s ambitions for technology.

How the Committee spent its time in the year

21%

11%

8%

26%

5%

20%

9%

•   Leadership, talent and succession      •   Executive resourcing and retention      •   Diversity and inclusion  
•   Board composition and effectiveness      •   Individual accountability regimes  
•   Governance and Regulatory Requirements      •   Other (including meeting administration)

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77  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year

Area of focus

Committee’s response

Leadership, talent  
and succession

The Committee reviewed several matters on this subject, with a strong focus on developing leadership capability for the future. The Committee supported the extension of the 
Leading for Mutual Good leadership programme to reach 1000 leaders this year and the set-up of an active alumni to help bring learning to life. In addition, the Committee 
noted the success of the core management curriculum in its first full year of delivery. 

Underpinning the Society’s investment in technology, management has supported an increase in new talent to join the Technology Development Programme and the 
onboarding of a managed service provider to respond to the increasing technical and knowledge-based training required to support the development of services and products 
provided to members. The Committee welcomed the increased focus on technical and knowledge-based learning to support the Society’s technology investment, together with 
increases in the intake of emerging talent in the form of graduates, industrial placements and apprentices. 

Early in the year, the Committee paid attention to retaining individual talent, upon whom the Society had a dependency in terms of particular skills that are scarce in the 
marketplace. Retention plans were put in place with good results. 

Latterly, the Committee provided oversight for the design and implementation of the Society’s ‘leadership pathways’ work through which we are identifying experiential 
opportunities that provide stretch and breadth to develop top talent. This involves a comprehensive review of the skills and motivations of the Society’s leaders to shape the 
right career pathways. The Committee will continue to oversee this substantial activity in the coming year.

Executive resourcing  
and retention

The Committee received updates on leavers, vacancies and appointments in the senior executive population at every meeting and observed that retention levels were relatively  
high and, accordingly, recruitment volumes low. The Committee also started to review headcount changes to ensure the Society is maintaining resourcing levels while 
managing costs. It was noted that the Society continues to be rigorous in selection, using appropriate assessment tools and observing all regulatory requirements.

Ensuring diverse candidate pools continues to be a priority for the Committee, in addition to which, analysis of assessment insights and outcomes has led to a greater 
understanding of how the Society can enable difference to flourish through the way it selects and onboards new talent.

Diversity and inclusion

With the sponsorship of non executive director, Usha Prashar, the Committee endorsed recommendations resulting from research into the experiences of BAME colleagues and 
maternity returners and supported Nationwide’s response to Gender Pay Gap and Women in Finance reporting, with the latest reporting on these published in November 2018.  
This showed a similar position to last year and provided a clear and complete picture of how the Society is actively promoting gender equality. Business area diversity targets and 
action plans are being established to support the Society’s commitments. 

This year, the Society signed up to the BiTC Race at Work charter and played an active membership role in the 30% Club and Mentoring Foundation, demonstrating the Board’s 
ongoing commitment to improve diversity and inclusion at Nationwide and beyond. Nationwide is one of the first business signatories to the Race at Work charter and is also 
involved in the government consultation on the ethnicity pay gap.

More information on the Society’s diversity targets can be found on page 21.

One of the key areas of activity in 2018-19 overseen by the Committee was about strengthening ‘tone from the top’ by engaging and educating senior leadership teams in inclusion 
matters and driving local action planning. In addition, the Society is promoting inclusion through key people processes such as talent management, performance management and 
resourcing as well as developing a programme of sponsorship and mentoring for its diverse talent.

 
78  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year continued

“ By far the best thing  
I’ve ever done in my 
career. I’m so grateful 
for the opportunity.”

Krissy

took part in 
our Leading for 
Mutual Good 
programme

What did you know about leadership before 
Leading for Mutual Good?
I think I was a pretty good leader, but I had nowhere 
near as much confidence as I do now. 

What did you think of it?
The programme was amazing. I learned so much about 
leadership, and I’m still learning now. I met all kinds  
of interesting people, and realised there’s a whole world 
out there that I didn’t even know about.

What have you done since?
All sorts of new experiences have come along.  
I’ve made a video on mental health awareness,  
and I’ve run ‘Best Self’ sessions inspired by the 
programme for several areas of the business.  
I’ve organised nutritional therapy sessions, sleep  
clinics and mindfulness sessions (all with my  
new-found confidence). Helping people be at  
their best for our members is so important. 

Also, I’ve been to Parliament and saw Joe talk about 
Nationwide and putting trust back into financial 
services, attended part of a Board meeting to represent 
the voice of our people and interviewed our senior 
leaders about results on behalf of the Society. Finally, 
I’ve got myself a mentor. She’s in Bournemouth. We’d 
never have met if not for LMG.

How has it changed your life?
LMG gave me a voice and increased my confidence to 
speak up and make positive changes in my own business 
area, knowing I had the support and guidance of my 
LMG peer group. It gave me a fresh perspective to look 
at improving the way we do things that I would have 
overlooked in the past. I have been able to learn from 
others across the organisation and at all levels and share 
my learning to benefit others. It’s definitely changed 
my life for the better – by far the best thing I’ve ever 
done in my career. I’m so grateful for the opportunity.

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79  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year (continued)

Area of focus

Committee’s response

Board composition  
and Effectiveness

The remit of the Nomination and Governance Committee includes ensuring the Society has the right mix of knowledge, skills and behaviours on the Board for it to be effective 
in delivering its responsibilities to provide oversight and governance of the Society and to safeguard the interests of its members. 

Composition and succession have been reinforced by the appointment of Albert Hitchcock, who brings a wealth of technology transformation experience to support the 
strategic investment the Society is making into the innovation of products and services for members.

The Committee has also strengthened the employee voice in the Boardroom by assigning additional responsibilities in this respect to non executive director, Mai Fyfield. She 
has participated in a programme of engagement activity with employees throughout the year and supported several colleagues attending Board meetings to represent the 
views of employees. The General Secretary of the union and various colleagues have attended Board and Committee meetings during the year to provide feedback on their 
experiences of what’s going well and what’s hindering progress across the Society in relation to the strategy and culture of the organisation. This is bringing new perspectives 
to the Board to inform areas of challenge and support decision-making.

The Committee regularly examined the progress of the action plan arising out of the outcome of the 2018 Board effectiveness review and endorsed the approach to be taken  
for the 2019 Board effectiveness review. More information on the effectiveness review can be found on page 55. 

Corporate governance

Throughout the year the Committee has exercised oversight of the Society’s governance arrangements on behalf of the Board. Among other things, it reviewed the corporate 
governance disclosures for the annual report. The Committee received updates on significant corporate governance developments and in particular those emanating from the 
revised UK Corporate Governance Code published in July 2018 with a view to understanding how the revised Code might impact the Society. 

Individual accountability regimes

The Committee continued to focus on regulatory requirements to ascertain fitness and propriety of relevant individuals and ensure senior manager responsibilities were allocated 
appropriately through our now well-established mapping process. 

As part of its oversight role, the Committee noted the rigour with which Nationwide continued to respond to the regimes and agreed that the interventions and processes  
put in place for the Senior Manager Regime were working well. The annual certification process, capturing 1,200 employees, was completed. All individuals were deemed as ‘fit’  
to continue in their certified roles. The Committee was also satisfied that Conduct Rules were embedded and that employee relations policies and processes were sufficiently 
robust to handle any breaches.

The year ahead 

Through the Board Strategy Conference this year, a set of priorities were 
identified that includes areas for the Committee’s ongoing scrutiny and 
oversight. These priorities were defined in relation to Nationwide’s strategy 
and culture ambitions.

The first of these is the work on ‘leadership pathways’ and the gestation of 
stretching roles and experiences for leaders to grow their capability for the 
future and strengthen succession. The Committee will also be keen to see 
opportunities generated to recruit and onboard new and diverse leadership 
talent that can stimulate progress and innovation in line with the Society’s 
strategic ambitions. Refreshed diversity targets will be set for 2025.

Further priorities were identified in relation to the Society’s people 
proposition which will require the Committee’s attention. 

This involves the need to focus on aspects that support performance and 
growth such as inclusion, wellbeing and learning. 

As well as the areas brought into focus through the Strategy Conference, 
the Committee will continue to ensure that Board effectiveness, corporate 
governance and processes to support the regulatory regimes remain fit for 
purpose, reinforce positive member outcomes and support the strategic 
direction of the Society. 

 
80  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on corporate governance (continued)

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year continued

Albert joined the Board  

in December 2018 and shares his 
experiences so far

What are your first impressions  
of Nationwide? 
My experience so far leads me to believe that 
Nationwide is a purpose driven organisation, 
with great integrity and a sincere and deep 
commitment to the members. People are really 
open, honest and engaging. I also see an 
organisation that may find change challenging 
and I know leaders are aware of the need for 
greater pace, innovation and agility.

How is your induction going?
It’s going really well. I’ve had meetings with a 
range of people from across the Society and they 
have been very generous with their time.  
I’m learning a lot and the challenges and 
opportunities I hear about are certainly similar  
to those I experience elsewhere. I spent some 
time on the Leading for Mutual Good Programme 
last week and really enjoyed being in the 
company of such enthusiastic people and 
hearing the quality of their thinking and ideas 
about shaping the future of the Society.

What do you see as the main opportunities 
and challenges for Nationwide? 
There’s a real opportunity for Nationwide to 
envision the future and consider the art of the 
possible. We need to be pre-emptive and prepare 
for a digital future. At the same time,  
we need to preserve the things that make 
Nationwide special and distinctive such as its 
ethos and values. 

What do you think you can bring to the 
Society and its members?
I believe I can bring differing perspectives and 
experiences to the Board, which can form the 
basis for constructive challenge and support.  
My background means I can help the Society  
use technology to enable business success 
and enhance member experience.

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“  There’s a real opportunity 
for Nationwide to envision 
the future and consider the 
art of the possible.”

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
81  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the

directors on 
remuneration
For the year ended 4 April 2019

Lynne Peacock

“ We believe it is vital that all of our 
employees share in the collective success 
of the Society, which is why our culture 
is supported by a common set of goals 
directly linked to members’ interests”

Dear fellow member,
I am pleased to present the Remuneration Committee’s report, including details of our directors’ pay for the year to 
4 April 2019. This report includes a summary of our remuneration policy, together with the key decisions made in the year.

How we decide how much to pay our people
Our approach to pay takes into account our mutual status and our 
commitment to create a remuneration policy that is aligned with 
our members’ interests. We want to be fair to our members who 
rightly expect us to use their money wisely and fair to our people 
who work hard to deliver for our members.

Across the Society in addition to salary, what people earn takes 
into account how well we perform for our members each year. 
We do not reward people for maximising profit, instead we focus 
on sharing in success in our reward scheme whereby all employees, 
including executive directors, are rewarded on delivering what we 
know matters most to members, delivering the highest quality 
service, attracting more business from members and sustainable 
cost savings. Moreover, the Board will only pay any variable award 
if it is sure that the Society is financially secure.

The targets we set ourselves are challenging. For example, we 
have to be at least first for customer service against our peer 
group for any part of the ‘building legendary service’ element 
of the variable award to pay out.

For our directors, a significant proportion of pay is performance-
related and is based on the same assessment of the Society’s 
performance, together with team and personal goals. The way we 
manage performance pay for our most senior people has to be 
different because there are regulations in place that mean that  
a significant part of their pay has to be held back for up to seven 
years, and may not be paid in part or at all if misconduct 
is found. A substantial proportion therefore remains ‘money at 
risk’ which may be reduced or cancelled at the Committee’s 
discretion, taking into account the Society’s and the individual’s 
performance over the seven-year period.

Who sits on the Committee
The members of the Remuneration Committee are all independent non executive directors of the Society and include a member 
of the Board Risk Committee and two members of the Audit Committee.

Committee members

Lynne Peacock (Chair)

David Roberts

Rita Clifton

Mai Fyfield

Usha Prashar

Meetings attended (eligible to attend)

9 / (9)

9 / (9)

9 / (9)

6 / (6)

9 / (9)

Regular attendees of the Committee include: the Chief Executive, the Leader of People and Culture and the Director of Reward and 
Pensions. In no case is any person present when their own remuneration is discussed. In addition, Deloitte LLP, our independent 
external consultants, who were appointed by the Committee following a tender process, also attend. Deloitte also provided tax, financial 
advisory, risk, internal audit and consulting services to the Society during the year. The Committee is satisfied that the advice received 
is objective and independent, and reviews annually all other services provided by Deloitte to ensure this continues to be the case. 
Their fees for advice provided to the Committee during 2018/19 were £217,450, typically charged based on a time-and-material basis.
The Remuneration Committee is supported by the Board Risk Committee on risk related matters including performance pay plan 
design, the assessment of specific performance measures, and wider issues relating to risk and controls. The Remuneration Committee  
is also supported by and receives input from the Audit Committee.

 
82  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on remuneration (continued)

Our people join the Society for a number of reasons beyond the financial, and 
in overall terms we pay less than the market for our executive team, relative 
to their peers in large financial services businesses and other organisations of 
similar scale and complexity. We are also not out of step with the building 
society sector when you consider the size and scale of the organisation. 
However, we must accept that we operate in a competitive market. It is in the 
interest of the Society and members to recruit the most competent people 
which means that we have to be able to compete for talent. We do that by 
looking at a pay package which reflects these market realities.
We voluntarily disclose details of our executive pay arrangements to the 
extent it is appropriate for us to do so as a mutual.

Activities during the year
During the year, the revised UK Corporate Governance Code was published 
which sets out a number of changes in the way in which remuneration 
committees are expected to operate and approach the structure of executive 
remuneration. Nationwide has, to date, applied the principles of the UK 
Corporate Governance Code and will continue to do so, whenever practicable.
The revised Code applies to accounting periods beginning on or after 
1 January 2019 and I am pleased to say that we are already well placed 
in a number of areas from a remuneration perspective. For example, 
the Committee is already responsible for determining the pay of senior 
management roles below the Board and has oversight of the pay policies 
and practices for the broader workforce. The Committee also has wide 
discretionary powers to adjust variable remuneration outcomes to take 
account of broader performance considerations.
As with our entire workforce, our directors receive pension contributions. 
Over the next two to three years, we will reduce these contributions from 
33% to 16% of salary in line with the contributions we make for employees 
in the Nationwide Group Personal Pension. As a first step, the pension 
allowance for executive directors will reduce from 33% to 24% of salary 
with effect from 1 April 2019. The Committee undertook a review of our 
remuneration policies and approaches across the Society during the year.

The Committee concluded that no other material changes be made to the 
structure of pay for our directors in 2019/20.

Broader context
The Committee pays close attention to the relationship between pay policies 
and practices for executive directors and all other employees. The Board and 
Committee directly engages with the Nationwide Group Staff Union and one 
member of the Committee has accountability for the ‘Voice of the Employee’ to 
ensure that the Board considers this broader perspective in its decision making.

This year, the Society has decided to publish the ratio of the Chief Executive’s 
pay to the wider employee population, ahead of the formal disclosure 
requirement coming into force next year. This ratio reflects the nature of our 
business with a high proportion of our employees working in branches and 
contact centres.

How the directors have performed
Our results for the year to 4 April 2019 demonstrate that the Society has 
continued to deliver strong performance against our purpose of building society, 
nationwide, and the strategic cornerstones that underpin it. We have retained 
our position of first amongst our peer group on customer satisfaction1 and have 
increased our committed members to 3.4 million. We have also achieved 
sustainable cost savings of £103 million and passed all performance gateway 
measures based on statutory profit, leverage ratio and conduct matters.

The impact on directors’ performance pay
In considering directors’ pay for the year, the Committee took into account 
the Society’s results together with an assessment of the underlying 
performance of the Society with input from the Board Risk and Audit 
committees. Based on this assessment, payments have been awarded under 
the Directors’ Performance Award (DPA) in respect of the year. Details of 
these payments, including the measures set and factors considered, are set 
out in this report. The Committee believes that our directors have continued 
to deliver real benefits for the Society and all our members.

Report on the year

How the Committee spent its time in the year

28%

28%

18%

13%

13%

•   Performance award outcomes     •   Pay strategy and approach for the year  
•   Oversight of remuneration across the Society      •   Regulatory reporting     •   Procedural issues

The year ahead
Our remuneration policy was approved by our members in 2017 and sets the 
framework for our directors’ remuneration. A summary of the remuneration 
policy is set out in this report and this will continue to apply in 2019/20. 
We will be presenting a new policy for approval at the 2020 AGM and 
accordingly during the forthcoming year the Committee will continue to 
review the Society’s approach to executive remuneration taking into account 
the Society’s strategy, together with developments in the external 
environment and feedback from members.

On behalf of the Remuneration Committee, I recommend that you support 
our Annual Report on Remuneration.

Lynne Peacock 
Chair – Remuneration Committee

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1  © Ipsos MORI 2019, Financial Research Survey (FRS), 12 months ending 31 March 2019 and 12 months ending 31 March 2018, c60,000 adults surveyed per annum, proportion of extremely/very satisfied customers minus proportion of extremely/very/fairly dissatisfied customers 
summed across main current account, mortgage and savings. Peer group defined as providers with main current account market share >4% (Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, NatWest, Santander and TSB).

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
83  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on remuneration (continued)

How the Committee works

Key areas/matters considered by the Committee during the year

The Remuneration Committee is responsible for determining and agreeing 
with the Board the remuneration strategy, policy and the specific remuneration 
packages for the Chairman, the executive directors and other members of 
the Executive Committee of the Society as well as any other employees who 
are deemed to fall within scope of the PRA/FCA Remuneration Codes. This 
includes reviewing the year-end pay outcomes for the Society’s Material Risk 
Taker population as well as the outcome for the Society-wide element of our 
variable pay. The Committee approves the design of, and determines the 
performance targets for, the discretionary performance pay plan operated by 
the Society for the benefit of employees within the Committee’s remit and 
approving the total annual payments under such plan.

The Committee also oversees the remuneration policy throughout the 
Society, with a specific focus on the risks posed by remuneration policies and 
practices. As part of its oversight role, the Committee receives an update on 
the pay policies for the wider workforce at least annually. In addition, this 
year the Committee has received direct feedback from both the Nationwide 
Group Staff Union and also from members.

The Committee reviews its terms of reference and its activities over the 
previous year as part of an annual update to confirm that they were in line 
with its remit. More detail on the Committee’s duties and responsibilities 
can be found within its terms of reference at nationwide.co.uk

Area of focus

Committee’s response

Remuneration Review

Performance Targets

Outcome of DPA

Base Pay Review

Evolving Regulation

The Committee undertook a strategic review of remuneration during the year and agreed that 
no material changes were required to the structure of pay for directors prior to the full policy 
review in 2020

The Committee agreed the performance targets for awards to be made under the Directors’ 
Performance Award (DPA) taking into account the Society’s plan

Taking into account input from the Board Risk and Audit committees, the Committee reviewed 
and approved the outcome of the DPA to be paid in respect of the year

Agreed base salary increases for executive directors as outlined in the year ahead section

Ongoing work in relation to the PRA/FCA Remuneration Codes and other corporate governance 
matters, including the updated UK Corporate Governance Code, and how they apply to 
Nationwide as a mutual

Directors’ Remuneration Report

Approved the Directors’ Remuneration Report including the implementation of the remuneration 
policy for 2019/20

Material Risk Taker (MRT) Identification

Reviewed and approved the identification approach and list of employees who fall within the scope 
of the PRA/FCA Remuneration Codes

Broader Context

The Committee reviewed information on the pay policies and practices across the Society and 
met with the Nationwide Staff Group Union

Annual Report on Remuneration – Directors’ Performance Award (DPA)

A significant proportion of the overall remuneration for executive directors 
is dependent on the performance achieved in the year against a number 
of key measures. The DPA was the only performance award in which 
executive directors participated in 2018/19. The DPA is aligned to the 
key objectives for the Society and the measures reflect three of the five 
strategic cornerstones, which help us to deliver value to members.

The maximum potential award level for 2018/19 was 152% of salary for the 
Chief Executive and 112% of salary for other executive directors, which is 
unchanged from 2017/18.

The all-employee element of the performance pay plan rewards the attainment 
of challenging strategic and financial metrics drawn from the Society’s 
plan. The senior element also incorporates an amount based on individual 
performance and behaviours. The Society measures fall within the following 
broad areas and ensure focus on delivering benefits for our members.

Society measures – Three strategic cornerstones

Individual performance

Building thriving membership – Number of committed members

Building legendary service – Customer service satisfaction rating

Built to last – Sustainable cost savings

Objectives reflecting each individual’s contribution 
towards the delivery of the Society’s plan as well as 
individual conduct and behaviours

For the Chief Executive, 28% of the maximum award is based on individual performance. For the other executive directors, this is 27% of the maximum award.

Payments under the plan are made at the discretion of the Remuneration Committee and delivered in instalments over the next seven years. Payments due over 
the next seven years remain ‘at risk’ and may be reduced or cancelled if the Committee believes that the plan outcomes are not representative of the overall 
performance of the Society, the individual or by reference to wider circumstances as appropriate. The Society also has the ability to claw back performance pay 
awards for up to ten years after they were awarded in certain circumstances.

 
84  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on remuneration (continued)

The table shows that for awards in respect of 2018/19, 20% of the award  
is payable in June 2019 with 20% retained until June 2020. The remaining 
60% is deferred, payable between years three and seven following the  
date of award. 50% of the upfront portion and 60% of the deferred portion  
is linked to the performance of the Society’s core capital deferred shares 
(CCDS). These CCDS linked elements are payable in cash subject to a 12 month 
retention period.

Illustration of the years when performance pay is paid to our executive directors

Performance year

Award determined 
based on value 
delivered for 
members in the year

2019



2020



2021



2022



2023



2024



2025



2026



20% of award 20% of award

60% of award

At least 50% of awards are linked to the value of the Society’s core capital deferred shares (CCDS) and subject 
to a 12 month retention period

Payments remain ‘at risk’ and may be reduced or cancelled during the seven year deferral period 
(clawback provisions may apply for up to ten years in certain circumstances) 

Outcomes for DPA 2018/19
Audited information 

Cornerstone/Measure

Performance  
target range:  
threshold – maximum

Performance 
relative  
to targets

Outcome

Three ‘gateways’ must be passed before any payment is made under the 
plan, based on measures of statutory profit, leverage ratio and conduct 
risk. These gateways were achieved in 2018/19. The Board must also be 
satisfied that there are no significant conduct, risk, reputational, financial, 
operational or other reasons why awards should not be made, taking into 
account input from the Board Risk and Audit committees. In reviewing 
performance under the DPA during 2018/19, the Committee then assessed 
the Society’s performance against three equally weighted measures.

Building thriving membership –
Number of committed members

Building legendary service –
Customer service satisfaction
rating (note i)

Built to last – Sustainable 
cost savings (note ii)

3.23 million – 3.57 million

Above target

1st – 1st + 6%

Above target

3.4 million committed
members 

1st in our peer group
with a 4.8% lead

£80 million – £140 million

Above target

£103 million

Total performance pay achieved based on Society performance

Individual performance element (see further detail below)

Total performance pay achieved based on Society and individual performance

Out of a maximum opportunity (as a % of salary) of:

Performance pay achieved 
(% of salary)

Chief  
Executive

Executive 
directors

24.6

28.9

24.6

78.1

36

114.1

152

19.6

22.3

19.6

61.5

19 – 27

80.5 – 88.5

112

Notes:
i.  © Ipsos MORI 2019, Financial Research Survey (FRS), 12 months ending 31 March 2019, c60,000 adults surveyed per annum, proportion of extremely/very satisfied customers minus 
proportion of extremely/very/fairly dissatisfied customers summed across main current account, mortgage and savings. Peer group defined as providers with main current account 
market share >4% (Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, NatWest, Santander and TSB).

ii.  Subject to remaining within an adjusted cost position of £2,198 million after excluding costs of incremental investment relating to our efficiency programme.

For the element based on individual performance, performance has been assessed against both the delivery of the Society performance scorecard as well as 
individual goals, conduct and behaviours.

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85  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on remuneration (continued)

The table below provides an overview of the individual performance 2018/19 achieved by each executive director based on their objectives. 

Executive  
director

J D Garner

Performance pay achieved  
(% of salary) / maximum available

Comments

36/42

The Society delivered strong performance under Joe’s leadership, together with good progress across a range of objectives, including: 
•  Maintenance of customer service with continued leading position amongst our peer group 1. 
•  Extremely strong and improved brand metrics and strengthened external relationships. 
•  Successful progress in key strategic opportunities including technology investment and Nationwide for Business.
•  Strong trading performance, capital ratios and delivery of cost plan. 
•  Sustained strong employee engagement in period of change and mobilised changes to people strategy.
•  Good risk and compliance management in context of Board risk appetite. Improved operational resilience with further planned enhancements.
•  Strong cultural leadership.

T P Prestedge

27/30

• 

• 

 A very strong year where Tony resumed accountability for technology and operations plus leading strategy, and undertook additional responsibilities  
in his role of Deputy Chief Executive.
 Significant elements of above target performance contributed to significant improvement in operational resilience evidenced by reduced unplanned outages,  
with further enhancements being planned. 

•  Strong contribution to delivery of agreed technology strategy plus building capabilities in cyber security.
•  Contributed to development of strategy including venturing and partnering opportunities.
•  Strong focus on people strategy including building talent pipeline.

M M Rennison 

19/30

• 

 Notwithstanding the continued uncertainty in the external environment, and competitive market conditions, a good year with predominantly on target  
outcomes and good focus on risk and conduct management. 

•  Strong focus on efficiency agenda with second year of £100 million sustainable savings delivered. 
•  Good contribution to development of technology strategy, specifically in relation to financial outcomes.
•  Successful completion of stress testing, including IFRS 9 outcomes for the first time, with further improvements now being planned. 
•  Led Society activity in Operational Continuity in Resolution (OCR) work, with further evolution planned. 
•  Has overseen good contribution from Society’s Treasury function including successful MREL issuance. 
•  Has overseen procurement team with significant focus on third party management and work in relation to outsourcing. 

C S Rhodes

23/30

•  Notwithstanding the continued uncertainty in the external environment, and competitive market conditions, a good year with predominantly on target outcomes.
• 

 Good progress made on growing broader and deeper member relationships evidenced by number of committed members without any evidence  
of increased conduct risk. 
 Led the Society’s development of new propositions including launch of Later Life proposition with learning through initial pilot activity with further  
planned enhancements. 

• 

•  Achieved objectives in terms of member journeys, simplification of savings range. 
•  Strong contribution to leadership team through approach to balancing complexities of member benefits, profitability and conduct priorities.

1  © Ipsos MORI 2019, Financial Research Survey (FRS), 12 months ending 31 March 2019 and 12 months ending 31 March 2018, c60,000 adults surveyed per annum, proportion of extremely/very satisfied customers minus proportion of extremely/very/fairly dissatisfied 
customers summed across main current account, mortgage and savings. Peer group defined as providers with main current account market share >4% (Barclays, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, NatWest, Santander and TSB).

 
86  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on remuneration (continued)

Executive directors’ remuneration 

Single total figure of remuneration for each executive director (£’000) (Audited)

Where indicated, the tables in the following sections have been audited by 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

These disclosures are included in compliance with the Building Societies 
Act 1986 and other mandatory reporting regulations, as well as the Large 
and Medium-Sized Companies and Groups (Accounts and Reports) 
(Amendment) Regulations 2013, which the Society has voluntarily adopted. 
The table shows the total remuneration for each executive director for the 
years ended 4 April 2019 and 4 April 2018.

Our directors receive a number of benefits and, where appropriate, we pay 
tax associated with those benefits. In the single figure table, ‘taxable benefits’ 
includes certain essential travel costs met by the Society, including any tax 
due under HMRC regulations, provided to enable the executive directors to 
work whilst travelling and undertake their responsibilities most effectively. 
Other benefits include medical insurance, car allowance and security.

Fixed remuneration

Variable remuneration

Taxable benefits

Total pay package

Executive directors 
2019

Salary 
(note i)

Pension 
allowance

Directors’ Performance 
Award (note ii)

Travel and other taxable 
benefits (note iii)

J D Garner 

T P Prestedge 

M M Rennison 

C S Rhodes

Total

Executive directors 
2018

J D Garner 

T P Prestedge 

M M Rennison 

C S Rhodes

Total

885

590

635

590

2,700

292

195

210

195

892

1,010

522

511

499

2,542

185

141

141

67

534

2,372

1,448

1,497

1,351

6,668

Fixed remuneration

Variable remuneration

Taxable benefits

Total pay package

Salary 

855

580

625

580

2,640

Pension 
allowance

Directors’ Performance 
Award (note ii)

Travel and other taxable 
benefits (note iii)

342

191

206

191

930

903

493

511

480

2,387

217

146

189

68

620

2,317

1,410

1,531

1,319

6,577

Notes:
i. 

 As disclosed in last year’s report, salaries were increased with effect from 1 April 2018. J D Garner received an increase of 3.5%, T P Prestedge 1.7%, M M Rennison 
1.6% and C S Rhodes 1.7%.

ii.   Variable remuneration consists of the awards under the DPA. A substantial proportion of this award is subject to deferral with payments spread over the following seven 

years. Details of this plan and associated performance measures are set out earlier in this report. 

iii.  This value is included as fixed remuneration for the calculation of the bonus cap in meeting our regulatory requirements. A full description of the taxable benefits  

is set out above. 

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87  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on remuneration (continued)

Executive directors’ pensions 

M M Rennison is a deferred member of the Society’s defined benefit scheme. 
He did not accrue any additional pension entitlement during the year. The 
change in accrued pension shown in the table is as a result of inflationary 
increases that are required by legislation. For his benefit accrued prior to  
1 April 2011, the Normal Retirement Age is 60 and for his benefit accrued 
between 1 April 2011 and 30 June 2011, his Normal Retirement Age is 65.

Table of the value of pension benefits for executive directors (£’000) (Audited)

Executive 
directors 

Accrued 
pension at 
4 April 2019 
(a)

Accrued 
pension at 
4 April 2018 
(b)

Transfer 
value at 
4 April 2019 
(c)

Transfer 
value at 
4 April 2018 
 (d)

Change in 
transfer 
value
(note i) 
(c)-(d)

Additional 
pensions 
earned in 
year 
(e)

Transfer 
value of the 
increase

Directors’ 
contributions 
in year

M M Rennison 

62

60

1,965

1,764

201

-

-

- 

Notes:
i. 

 The transfer value basis is set by the Nationwide Pension Fund Trustee and is based on financial market conditions at the calculation date. The increases in transfer values 
over the year reflect these financial market changes (which have increased the transfer value for all members of the Fund including executive directors) in addition to the fact 
that the executive directors are one year older and thus one year closer to normal retirement age.

Explanations:
(a) and (b) show deferred pension entitlement at 4 April 2019 and 2018 respectively.
(c) is the transfer value of the deferred pension in (a) calculated at 4 April 2019. 
(d) is the transfer value of the deferred pension in (b) calculated at 4 April 2018.
(e) is the increase in pension built up during the year. A zero figure means that, after allowing for inflation, no additional pension was built up.

Chairman and non executive directors 

Fee Policy

The fees for the Chairman and non executive directors were last reviewed in 
March 2019. Inflationary increases have been made to both the Chairman’s 
fee of 2.5% and the basic fee for non executive directors of 2.2%.

M Fyfield was appointed the director with specific responsibility for the ‘Voice 
of the Employee’ during 2018 as an extension of her Board responsibilities. 
This role provides a two-way process to enhance existing employee 
engagement mechanisms for employees across the Society, to ensure that 
a broad range of views are reflected in Board discussions. On creation of the 
role, in recognition of the additional time commitment required, an annual 
fee of £10,000 was set, payable from 1 September 2018 which is equivalent 
to the fees for membership of the IT, Strategy and Resilience Committee. 

Additional fees may be paid for other committee responsibilities during  
the year.

Chairman 

Basic fee (note i)

Senior Independent Director (note ii)

Chairman of the Audit, Board Risk or Remuneration Committee 

Member of the Audit, Board Risk or Remuneration Committee 

Member of the Nomination and Governance Committee

Chairman of the IT Strategy and Resilience Committee

Member of the IT Strategy and Resilience Committee

Voice of the Employee (note iii)

Annual fees for 2019/20

Annual fees for 2018/19

(£’000)

405

(£’000)

395

69

40

35

15

6

25

10

10

67

40

35

15

6

25

10

10

Notes: 
i.  The actual basic fee for 2019/20 is £68,500.
ii.  The Senior Independent Director fee is inclusive of committee membership fees. Committee Chairmen fees will continue to be paid. 
iii. New role from 1 September 2018.

 
 
 
88  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on remuneration (continued)

Single total figure of remuneration for non executive directors 

The total fees paid to each non executive director are shown below.

Single total figure of remuneration for each non executive director (£’000) (Audited)

D L Roberts (Chairman)

R Clifton

M Fyfield 

A Hitchcock (note i)

M A Lenson

K A H Parry 

L M Peacock (Senior Independent Director) 

U K Prashar

T Tookey 

G Waersted (note ii)

Total

Pension payments to past non executive directors (note iii)

Society and Group  
fees 

2019 

Travel and other 
taxable benefits  
(note iv) 

Total fees and  
taxable benefits 

Society and Group  
fees 

2018

Travel and other  
taxable benefits  
(note iv)

Total fees and  
taxable benefits 

395

97

92

28

106

123

142

82

131

78

1,274

2

8

9

5

4

6

4

11

6

10

65

397

105

101

33

110

129

146

93

137

88

1,339

243

389

96

76

-

106

121

141

81

125

63

1,198

2

15

7

-

3

10

6

13

7

8

71

391

111

83

-

109

131

147

94

132

71

1,269

251

Notes: 
i.  A Hitchcock joined the Board on 2 December 2018.
ii.  G Waersted joined the Board on 1 June 2017.
iii. The Society stopped granting pension rights to non executive directors who joined the Board after January 1990. 
iv.   Taxable benefits for non executive directors relate to expenses incurred in connection with travel and attendance at Board meetings. HMRC deem these expenses to be taxable where the meetings take place at the Society’s main offices and the Society settles the tax  

on behalf of the non executive directors.

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89  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on remuneration (continued)

Additional Disclosures 

Chief Executive remuneration for the past ten years 

Financial year

The table shows details of the Chief Executive’s remuneration for the 
previous ten years.

Total remuneration
(£’000)

Annual performance pay earned  
as % of maximum available

Medium term performance pay earned  
as % of maximum available 

2018/19

2017/18

2016/17

2015/16

2014/15

2013/14

2012/13

2011/12

2010/11

2009/10

2,372

2,317

3,386 (note ii)

3,413 (note iii)

3,397 (note iii)

2,571

2,258

2,251

1,961

1,539

75.1 

69.5

71.9

75.8

74.4

83.3

60.6

60.6

75.4

33.8

- (note i)

- (note i)

- (note i)

80.8

84.5

74.9

41.7

40.7

76.9

61.7

Notes: 
i.  Medium term performance pay ceased at the end of 2015/16.
ii.   Joe Garner commenced his role as Chief Executive on 5 April 2016. His total remuneration for 2016/17 included the value of buy-out awards on joining (2017: £1,070,752).  

These awards do not form part of ongoing remuneration. If this amount is excluded, the figure for 2016/17 would be £2,315,047.

iii.  The Chief Executive in 2015/16 and all previous financial years shown in the table above was Graham Beale. His total remuneration for 2015/16 and 2014/15 includes awards 

under the DPA as well as legacy payouts under the directors’ previous medium term pay plan as a result of the transition period between plans.

Change in remuneration of Chief Executive 

The change in remuneration (base salary, benefits (including pension) and 
annual performance pay only) for the Chief Executive from 2017/18 to 2018/19 
compared to the average for all other employees is shown in the table. 

Chief Executive

Average employee

Salary

3.51%

2.73%

Benefits

Annual performance pay

-14.65%

7.22%

11.80%

-8.93% 

Note: 
i. 

 The difference in annual performance pay for the CEO compared with the average employee is due to a number of contributing factors. Society performance for 2018/19, 
whilst still above target, is lower than in 2017/18 for all employees. In addition, 2017/18 performance pay for the CEO was reduced by 7.5% to the total value of his 
performance pay achieved. Both of these factors contribute to the year on year changes. Finally, in 2018/19 the CEO has also received a higher individual performance rating 
compared with 2017/18.

 
90  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on remuneration (continued)

Relative importance of spend on pay

Total remuneration bandings

The chart below illustrates the amount spent on remuneration paid to all 
employees of Nationwide Building Society, compared with retained earnings.

Total remuneration includes base salary, performance awards for 2018/19, pension and benefits/allowances. The total number is based on employees  
of the Society as at 4 April 2019 and 4 April 2018.

Relative importance of spend on pay (£ million)
■ 2018/19  ■ 2017/18

826

824

613

460

900

800

700

600

500

400

300

200

100

0

All employee remuneration

Retained earnings

Payroll costs represent 36.65% (2018: 40.71%) of total administrative 
expenses. Nationwide’s profit after tax for the year was £618 million,  
of which £158 million was paid as distributions and the remaining  
£460 million is held as retained earnings.

Total remuneration bandings

Total employees 2018/19 

Total employees 2017/18

£0 - £50,000

£50,001 - £100,000

£100,001 - £250,000

£250,001 - £500,000

£500,001 - £1,000,000

Over £1,000,000

13,693

3,806

586

65

11

6

13,966

3,592

517

57

12

4

Other directorships

Gender pay gap reporting

Executive directors and members of senior management may be invited 
to become non executive directors of other companies, subject to the 
agreement of the Society. These appointments provide an opportunity to 
gain broader experience outside Nationwide and therefore benefit the 
Society, providing that appointments are not likely to lead to a conflict of 
interest. Any fees earned may be retained by the executive director 
concerned. No executive director earned any fees during the year. With 
effect from 1 July 2014, the number of external appointments that 
executive and non executive directors can hold is limited as required 
under CRD IV. 

The Society is fully committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive 
workplace. The gender pay gap measures the difference in earnings 
between women and men across all roles. We published our second 
gender pay gap report in November 2018, which can be found at 
nationwide.co.uk, together with an update of progress on our Women in 
Finance charter commitments. Our mean average gender pay gap, as at 5 
April 2018, was 28%, compared with 29% in 2017.

Gender pay is not the same as equal pay and our regular audits show that 
our pay policies operate fairly. Equal pay measures the pay of men and 
women who are carrying out the same or equivalent roles.

Payments for loss of office

No payments for loss of office were made during the year.

Payments to past directors

No payments were made to former directors in the year in excess of the 
minimum threshold for disclosure of £20,000.

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91  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on remuneration (continued)

CEO pay ratio reporting 

Voting at AGM 

The Society has decided to publish the ratio of the Chief Executive’s pay to the wider employee population, ahead of the formal disclosure requirement 
coming into force next year. This ratio will build annually to cover a rolling ten year period. The ratio compares the total remuneration of the Chief Executive 
against the total remuneration of the median employee and those who sit at the 25th and 75th percentiles (lower and upper quartiles). 

A resolution to approve the 2017/18 ‘Report of the directors on remuneration’ 
was passed at the 2018 AGM. The Remuneration Policy was last approved 
by members at the 2017 AGM. In each case votes were cast as follows:

Year

2018/19

Method

Option A

25th percentile pay ratio

Median pay ratio

75th percentile pay ratio

99:1

77:1

48:1

The total remuneration and salary values for the 25th, median and 75th percentile employees for 2018/19 are:

Total remuneration

Salary

25th percentile

£23,969

£19,059

Median

£30,939

£24,773

75th percentile

£49,466

£35,968

Notes: 
i.  The calculation is based on Option A as set out in the regulations which is considered to be the most statistically accurate methodology.
ii.   Employee data includes full time equivalent total remuneration for all UK employees as at 1 March 2019. For each employee, remuneration was calculated based on all 

components of pay including base pay, performance pay for 2018/19, core benefits and pension payments. 

iii.  Whilst the majority of employees participate in a defined contribution scheme with a fixed maximum employer contribution, there are other pension arrangements in place for 
some employees including a defined benefit pension scheme which has been closed to new participants since 2007. Although it would be possible to recognise a higher value 
under the defined benefit scheme, in order to ensure accurate year on year comparative data going forward, a fixed value equal to the maximum employer contribution available 
to the defined contribution scheme members is included for all defined benefit scheme members. 

iv.   The Committee has considered the pay data for the three individuals identified for 2018/19 and confirms that the ratios reasonably represent the Society’s approach to pay and 

reward for employees taken as a whole.

Report of the 
directors on 
remuneration

Remuneration  
Policy

Votes in favour

Votes against

Votes withheld 

534,342 (90.75%)

550,109 (92.04%)

54,448 (9.25%)

47,552 (7.96%)

9,743

10,261

The year ahead 

A summary of the remuneration policy approved by our members in 2017  
is set out below together with an overview of how it will be applied in 
2019/20. In applying this policy, the Committee is guided by the need to 
ensure executives are appropriately motivated and rewarded to deliver 
demonstrable value for our members. This summary does not replace or 
override the full approved policy, which is available at nationwide.co.uk

The Committee will continue to focus on ensuring that our remuneration 
structure supports the right culture and behaviours as well as our values as 
a mutual. Key priorities for 2019/20 include preparation of a new policy for 
approval at the 2020 AGM and accordingly during the forthcoming year 
the Committee will continue to review the Society’s approach to executive 
remuneration taking into account the Society’s strategy, together with 
developments in the external environment.

The Committee agreed base salary increases with effect from 1 April 2019,  
in line with the all-employee pay settlement. The exception is T P Prestedge 
where the increase reflects his additional responsibilities in his role of 
Deputy Chief Executive. In addition, with effect from 1 April 2019, the 
pension allowance for all executive directors has been reduced from 33% 
to 24% of base salary as part of a wider three-year strategy to align 
contributions to those made for employees in the Nationwide Group 
Personal Pension.

 
92  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on remuneration (continued)

Remuneration policy

Operation

Implementation in 2019/20 for executive directors

Base salary

Benefits

Pension

Our performance pay plan, the Directors’ 
Performance Award (DPA), comprises two 
elements: 
(i) an all-employee element; and
(ii) an element in which the most senior team 
participate subject to deferral provisions

•   Reviewed annually, taking into account market levels of pay, individual 

skills, performance and experience, and the approach to salaries 
throughout Nationwide.

An overall aggregate increase of 4.1% applies across the executive directors which is in line 
with the pay review for the wider employee population except for T P Prestedge where the 
increase also reflects his additional responsibilities as Deputy Chief Executive:
•  J D Garner £916,000 (3.50%) 
•  T P Prestedge £635,000 (7.63%)
•  M M Rennison £654,000 (2.99%)
•  C S Rhodes £605,000 (2.54%) 

•  Include car benefits, healthcare and insurance benefits.

No change for 2019/20.

•  Executive directors receive a cash allowance in lieu of pension 
•  Maximum allowance is 40% of salary.

From 2019/20 executive directors will receive a pension allowance of 24% of salary (reduced 
from 33%).
The maximum pension allowance for new appointments is capped at 25% of salary. This limit 
will be reviewed as part of the wider policy review during the year. In practice for 2019/20,  
in the event of new appointments at this level, it is not anticipated that any pension allowance 
would be above that for the current executive directors.

•   Rewards annual performance against stretching Society, team and 

individual measures and objectives 

•   Performance measures reflect the priorities of the Society and are drawn 

No change in maximum award opportunity for 2019/20:
•  152% of base salary for the Chief Executive 
•  112% of base salary for other executive directors

from the Society’s plan 

•   Deferral periods are such that no more than 40% of total performance 

pay is paid after the performance period and 60% is deferred for 
between three and seven years 

•   At least 50% of awards are linked to the value of the Society’s core capital 

deferred shares (CCDS) and subject to a 12 month retention period

•  Awards are subject to clawback for up to ten years
•  The all-employee element operates on the same basis for all employees.

Performance measures:
•  Gateway measures based on statutory profit, leverage ratio and conduct matters
•   Society performance, subject to minimum performance thresholds, assessed against the 

following cornerstones:

  – Building thriving membership – Number of committed members
  – Building legendary service – Customer service satisfaction rating
  – Built to last – Sustainable cost savings.

For the CEO, 28% of the maximum award assessed is based on individual contribution and 
behaviours including in relation to conduct matters. For the other executive directors, this is 
36% of the maximum award.

As set out in this report, inflationary increases of 2.5% have been made to the Chairman and 
2.2% to the non executive director basic fee for 2019/20. 

Chairman and non executive director fees 

•   Chairman fees normally reviewed and approved by the Remuneration 

Committee on an annual basis

•   Non executive director fees normally reviewed and approved by the 

executive directors and the Chairman on an annual basis

•   Non executive directors receive a basic fee and an additional supplement 

is paid for serving on or chairing a Board Committee

•   The Chairman and non executive directors do not participate in any 
performance pay plans or pension arrangements. Benefits may be 
provided if considered appropriate.

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93  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Report of the directors on remuneration (continued)

What our executive directors could earn in 2019/20 based on performance 

The table below illustrates the amounts that executive directors would be paid under three different scenarios.

Breakdown of total remuneration for 2019/20 (£’000)

Fixed Pay 

Salary

Pension as a % of salary

Performance pay

Target as a % of salary

Maximum as a % of salary

Total remuneration

Fixed pay – base salary, pension and benefits (note i)

Target – assuming we deliver target levels of performance against the measures set out in the DPA

Maximum – assuming DPA arrangements pay out in full. This would only occur where performance  
has been truly exceptional across all the measures set

Note: 
i.   Includes benefits based on 2018/19 actuals.

J D Garner

T P Prestedge

M M Rennison

C S Rhodes

916

24%

98%

152%

1,321

2,219

2,713

635

24%

78%

112%

928

1,424

1,640

654

24%

78%

112%

952

1,462

1,684

605

24%

78%

112%

817

1,289

1,495

 
94  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Directors’ report For the year ended 4 April 2019

Information for the ‘Content’ items listed in the table below can be found in the section of the accounts as listed against them. These items are required to be shown in the Directors’ report by the Building Societies Act 1986 and are incorporated 
into the Directors’ report by this cross referencing.

Content

Business objectives and future plans

Section

Strategic Report

Nationwide results and key performance indicators

Strategic Report – Chief Executive’s review including performance updates

Charitable donations

Strategic Report – How we are doing on service, value and strength

Employee engagement, development, equality, diversity and inclusion

Strategic Report – Building PRIDE

Directors’ remuneration

Mortgage arrears

Risk management 

Principal, top and emerging risks

Directors’ share options

CRD IV country-by-country reporting

Distributions on CCDS instruments

Governance – Report of the directors on remuneration 

Business and Risk Report

Business and Risk Report

Strategic Report – Risk overview

Annual business statement

Published online – www.nationwide.co.uk/about/corporate-information/results-and-accounts

Financial Statements – Note 31

Pages

2 to 34

7 to 24

11

20 to 21

81 to 93

122

103 to 105

26

251

-

235

Board of directors 

Political donations 

Participation in the unclaimed assets scheme

The names of the directors of the Society who were in office at the date of 
signing the financial statements, along with their biographies, are set out on 
pages 36 to 42. 

The only change in the year and up to the date of signing the financial 
statements was the appointment of Albert Hitchcock (non-executive 
director), in December 2018.

Mitchel Lenson will be retiring at the AGM on 18 July 2019.

None of the directors have any beneficial interest in equity shares in, or 
debentures of, any connected undertaking of the Society.

The Board has agreed that in accordance with the UK Corporate Governance 
Code, all the directors will stand for election or re-election on an annual basis. 

Nationwide engages with a range of policymakers across the political 
spectrum on issues which matter to our members such as housing. 
Nationwide did not give any money for political purposes during the year. 
(2017/18: None)

The Society participates in the Government-backed unclaimed assets 
scheme, whereby savings accounts that have been inactive for 15 years, and 
where the account holder cannot be traced, are eligible to be transferred into 
a central reclaim fund. The central reclaim fund has the responsibility for 
retaining sufficient monies to meet the costs of future reclaims for any 
previously transferred dormant account balances, and to transfer any surplus 
to the Big Lottery Fund for the benefit of good causes which have a social or 
environmental purpose. On 14 December 2018 Nationwide made a transfer 
of £12,143,551 to the Reclaim Fund Limited, the administrators of the 
unclaimed assets scheme. This follows the previous transfer the Society 
made in April 2017 (£4,996,120). The total contributions from inception to 
that date are £69,642,551.

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95  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Directors’ report (continued)

Creditor Payment Policy 

The Society’s policy is to agree the terms of payment with suppliers at the 
start of trading, to ensure that suppliers are aware of the terms of payment, 
and pay in accordance with contractual and other legal obligations. It is the 
Society’s policy to settle the supplier’s invoice for the complete provision of 
goods and services (unless there is an express provision for stage payments) 
within the agreed payment terms, subject to the full conformity with the 
terms and conditions of the purchase. The Society’s creditor days were 9 days 
at 4 April 2019 (2018: 11 days). 

Environment 

The Society reports its greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) on the right,  
as set out by the Companies Act 2006. For more information on the Society’s 
environmental sustainability performance, see page 33.

A summary of our performance is as follows:

Year to 4 April 2019

Year to 4 April 2018

Baseline year 4 April 2011

Carbon dioxide (CO2e) in tonnes (notes i and ii)  
Scope 1 emissions  
Energy  
Travel  
Scope 2 emissions  
Electricity 

Total Scope 1 and 2 emissions (note iii) 

PPA carbon reduction (note iv)

Absolute carbon outturn 

Total carbon dioxide in tonnes per FTE 
Water use (cubic metres)  
Water use (cubic metres) per FTE 
Waste generated in tonnes 
Percentage of waste recycled 

3,721 
2,190 

23,446

29,357

(22,187)

7,170

0.39 
195,854 
10.56 
2,581 
63%

4,374 
1,624 

29,268

35,266

(19,972)

15,294

0.87 
209,207 
11.87 
2,516 
68%

4,890 
2,448 

50,802

58,140

-

58,140

3.46 
259,718 
15.45 
4,554 
43%

Notes:
i.  CO2e is an abbreviation of ‘carbon dioxide equivalent’ and is the internationally recognised measure of greenhouse gas emissions.
ii.  When calculating our carbon emissions we have used the DEFRA 2015 conversion factors.
iii. Scope 1 covers direct combustion of fuels and company owned vehicles and Scope 2 covers emissions from electricity.
iv.  Represents the contribution of a solar power purchase agreement, producing emissions-free energy backed by renewable obligations certificates.

Directors’ responsibilities in respect of the preparation of the Annual Report and Accounts

The following statement, which should be read in conjunction with the 
Independent auditor’s report on pages 166 to 174, is made by the directors  
to explain their responsibilities in relation to the preparation of the Annual 
Report and Accounts, the directors’ emoluments disclosures within the 
Report of the directors on remuneration, the Annual business statement 
and the Directors’ report.

The Annual Report and Accounts have been prepared in accordance with 
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRSs) as adopted by the EU.

A copy of the Annual Report and Accounts can be found on Nationwide 
Building Society’s website at nationwide.co.uk (Results and accounts 
section). The directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of 
statutory and audited information on the website. Information published on the 
internet is accessible in many countries with different legal requirements. 
Legislation in the United Kingdom governing the preparation and dissemination 
of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions.

Building Societies Act 1986 (the Act)
As required by regulations made under the Act, the directors have prepared 
an Annual Report and Accounts which gives a true and fair view of the income 
and expenditure of the Society and the Group for the financial year and of the 

state of the affairs of the Society and the Group as at the end of the financial 
year, and which provides details of directors’ emoluments in accordance 
with Part VIII of the Act and regulations made under it. The Act states that 
the requirements under international accounting standards achieve a fair 
presentation. In preparing the Annual Report and Accounts, the directors have:

•  selected appropriate accounting policies and applied them consistently

•  made judgements and estimates that are reasonable

•   stated whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject 
to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements

•  prepared the financial statements on the going concern basis.

British Bankers’ Association Code for Financial Reporting Disclosure 
(the BBA Code)
The Group has continued to adopt the BBA Code in preparing the Annual 
Report and Accounts in compliance with the code.

Going concern
The Group’s business activities, along with its financial position, capital structure, 
risk management approach and factors likely to affect its future performance 
are described in the Strategic Report and the Business and Risk Report.

The Group’s forecasts and projections, taking account of possible changes in 
trading performance and funding retention, and including stress testing and 
scenario analysis, show that the Group will be able to operate at adequate 
levels of both liquidity and capital for the next 12 months. Furthermore, the 
Group’s capital ratios and its total capital resources are comfortably in excess 
of PRA requirements.

After making enquiries the directors are satisfied that the Group has adequate 
resources to continue in business for the foreseeable future and that, 
therefore, it is appropriate to adopt the going concern basis in preparing the 
financial statements.

Business viability statement
In addition to the going concern statement above, the directors have an 
obligation in accordance with provision C.2.2 of the UK Corporate Governance 
Code to confirm that they believe that both the Society and the Group will  
be able to continue in operation, and to meet their liabilities as they fall due. 
This assessment is made over a time period considered appropriate by 
reference to the Society’s financial plan. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
96  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Directors’ report (continued)

Assessment of prospects
In making this viability assessment, the directors have used a wide range  
of sources including: the principal and emerging risks which could impact 
the performance of the Group; the outcome of the Bank of England’s 2018 
Concurrent Stress Test; and, the Group’s financial plan. This plan includes 
forecasts of detailed financial, capital, funding and customer information 
over the next five years, together with an assessment of the relevant risks.

The Group’s financial plan is produced and reviewed at least annually by  
the directors. The process for creating the financial plan takes into account 
the Group’s strategic objectives, the risks involved in meeting those objectives 
and the risk appetite limits in place to ensure that the Group remains safe 
and secure for its members. The Group’s annual planning process involves 
the following key steps:

1.   The Board reviews the Group’s strategic objectives in the context of the 

market environment.

2.   Economic and market assumptions for the next five years are prepared. 
These are then used to develop financial, propositional pricing, funding 
and capital projections.

3.   In addition to our core projections, a range of alternate economic scenarios 
are prepared to ensure that the Group would continue to remain profitable if 
the assumptions included in our financial plan were different. The scenarios 
are derived using external data and statistical methodologies, together with 
management judgement, to determine scenarios which span an 
appropriately wide range of plausible economic conditions. This enables 
the Group to develop actions to mitigate these scenarios, should they occur. 

4.  The Board also obtains independent assurance from the Group’s Risk 

Oversight function that the financial plan aligns with the Group’s strategic 
ambitions and risk appetite. This assessment also identifies the key risks 
to delivery of the financial plan, and any relevant adjustments are made  
to ensure that we remain within our risk appetite.

5.  These projections, including the plausible downside scenarios, are then 
reviewed and challenged by the Board to confirm that they fully reflect 
Nationwide’s strategic ambitions, whilst ensuring that they are based  
on plausible assumptions and remain within the Group’s risk appetite. 
Once approved by the Board, they form the basis of the Group’s targets 
for the following year. 

Assessment of viability
Whilst the financial plan represents the best estimate of Nationwide’s future 
prospects, the directors have also considered the financial impact of the 
alternative scenarios described above and the results of the Bank of England’s 
2018 Concurrent Stress Test, which outlines the impact on the Group’s 
business model of a severe economic downturn. Due to the Group’s strong 
capital position and robust business model, it would be able to withstand 
both plausible and severe economic and competitive downturns. 

The Group has also developed policies and processes for monitoring and 
managing its top and emerging risks. Further details on this are described  
in the ‘Business and Risk Report’ (pages 98 and 99).

•   The financial statements, prepared in accordance with IFRSs as adopted 
by the EU, give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial 
position and profit of the Group and Society.

Assessment period used for reviewing Nationwide’s viability
Based on the above, the directors have a reasonable expectation that the 
Society and Group will be able to continue to operate and meet liabilities as 
they fall due, over the next three years to 4 April 2022. The directors have 
specifically assessed the prospects of the Society and Group over the first 
three years of the financial plan because: 

•   The uncertain economic environment caused by the UK’s vote to leave the 
EU, and the pace of regulatory and technological change, mean that the 
assumptions underpinning the fourth and fifth years of the financial plan 
may be less reliable. Notwithstanding this, there is no information contained 
within the outer years of the financial plan which would cause the directors 
to conclude that the Group would not remain viable in the longer term.

•   It is within the period covered by the Group’s future projections of profitability, 
cashflows, capital requirements and capital resources. It is also within 
the period covered by both the Bank of England’s Concurrent Stress Tests 
and our own internal alternative downside scenarios.

Fair, balanced and understandable
The directors are satisfied that the Annual Report and Accounts, taken as a 
whole, are fair, balanced and understandable, and provide the information 
necessary for members and other stakeholders to assess the Group’s position 
and performance, business model and strategy.

Details of the governance procedures that have been embedded to support 
this can be found in the Audit Committee report. 

Enhanced Disclosure Task Force (EDTF)
The EDTF established by the Financial Stability Board, published its report 
‘Enhancing the Risk Disclosures of Banks’ in October 2012. All EDTF 
recommendations are reflected in the Annual Report and Accounts and Pillar 
3 Disclosure.

Directors’ statement pursuant to the disclosure and 
transparency rules 

As required by the Disclosure and Transparency Rules of the Financial Conduct 
Authority, the directors have included a fair review of the business and a 
description of the principle risks and uncertainties facing the Group. The 
directors confirm that, to the best of each director’s knowledge and belief:

•   The Chief Executive’s review and the Financial review contained in the 

Strategic Report include a fair review of the development and 
performance of the business and the position of the Group and Society. 
In addition, the Strategic Report contains a description of the principal 
risks and uncertainties.

•   In addition to the Annual Report and Accounts, as required by the Act, the 
directors have prepared an Annual business statement and a Directors’ 
report, each containing prescribed information relating to the business of 
the Society and its connected undertakings.

Directors’ responsibilities in respect of accounting 
records and internal control 

The directors are responsible for ensuring that the Society and its connected 
undertakings:

•   keep accounting records which disclose with reasonable accuracy the 

financial position of the Society and the Group and which enable them to 
ensure that the Annual Report and Accounts comply with the Building 
Societies Act

•   take reasonable care to establish, maintain, document and review such 

systems and controls as are appropriate to the Society.

The directors have general responsibility for safeguarding the assets of the 
Group and for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of 
fraud and other irregularities.

The directors who held office at the date of approval of this report confirm 
that, so far as they are each aware, there is no relevant audit information of 
which the Group’s auditors are unaware, and each director has taken all the 
steps that they ought to have taken as a director to make themselves aware 
of any relevant audit information and to establish that the Group’s auditors 
are aware of that information.

The auditors 

Due to audit firm rotation regulations PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP is due to 
resign as the Society’s audit firm effective from the date of the Annual 
General Meeting. Following a successful tender, as reported in the Audit 
Committee report of the Annual Report and Accounts 2018, a resolution will 
be proposed at the Annual General Meeting to appoint Ernst & Young LLP 
(EY) as external audit firm for the year ending 4 April 2020.

David Roberts
Chairman

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97  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and 
Risk Report

Introduction

98  
98   Top and emerging risks
99   Principal risks and uncertainties
103   Managing risk
106   Credit risk
• Overview 
• Residential mortgages 
• Consumer banking
• Commercial and other lending
• Treasury assets
139   Liquidity and funding risk
150   Solvency risk
154   Market risk
159  Pension risk
160   Business risk
161   Model risk
161   Operational risk
163   Conduct and compliance risk

Melissa, member since 2013

 
 
 
 
 
 
98  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report 

Introduction 

Risk management is at the heart of our business and has an important part to play in delivering our shared purpose of building society, nationwide by making sure 
we are safe and secure for the future. 

Whilst it is accepted that all business activities involve some degree of risk, Nationwide seeks to protect its members by appropriately managing the risks that arise from its activities. Nationwide’s risk management processes ensure 
the Society is built to last by: 
•
•
•
• maintaining an appropriate balance between delivering member value and remaining a prudent and responsible lender. 

identification of risks through a robust assessment of principal risks and uncertainties facing the Society, including those that would threaten its business model, future performance, solvency or liquidity 
contributing to better decision making, ensuring we take the right risks, in a way that is considered and supports the strategy 
ensuring the risks we do take are appropriately understood, controlled and managed 

Top and emerging risks 

Top and emerging risks are identified through the process outlined in the ‘Managing Risk’ section of this report and are closely tracked throughout the governance structure. They are specific instances of one or more of our principal 
risks which are particularly relevant in the current environment and which the Society will keep under close observation through risk reporting. The top and emerging risks to Nationwide’s strategy are detailed below.  

Political and Economic Environment      

Competition      

Technology     ➔ 

Nationwide is inherently exposed to a downturn in macro-economic 
conditions which can impact customer affordability, credit losses and 
the availability and cost of financial resources. Numerous factors are 
expected to impact the external political and economic environment 
over the coming year, including uncertainty surrounding the UK’s exit 
from the European Union, trade wars, and ongoing geopolitical 
tensions.  

We maintain strong capital and liquidity surpluses over regulatory 
minimums, operate strong credit controls, and conduct regular stress 
tests to identify and manage our exposure to economic shocks.  

The competitive environment continues to evolve as rapid 
technological advancement and societal change revolutionise how 
members use and access existing products and services. These trends 
are also changing the kinds of products and services required by 
members. 

We continue to identify new and innovative products, technology and 
service propositions to better meet customer needs. We are investing 
in our technology and branches, as well as diversifying our product 
offerings.  

Increasingly our members demand an always-on, constantly evolving 
and improving digital service. This means systems need to be 
managed to avoid disruption to member services whilst also 
delivering technological change to match demand and improve our 
services. In addition, ever increasing volumes of data must be 
managed securely and reliably. 

We continue to invest in the resilience of systems, implementing 
robust controls to minimise disruption. 

Key principal risks impacted 

•
•
•

Business Risk 
Credit Risk 
Solvency Risk 

Liquidity and Funding Risk 

•
• Market Risk 
•
Pension Risk 

Key principal risks impacted 

•
•
•

Business Risk 
Operational Risk 
Conduct and Compliance Risk 

  Key principal risks impacted 

•
•

Operational Risk 
Conduct and Compliance Risk 

Key (level of risk to Nationwide) 
 Increasing level of risk   ➔ Stable level of risk  

 Decreasing level of risk 

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99  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Top and emerging risks (continued) 

Regulation      ➔ 

  Managing Change      

Cyber Security      ➔ 

The regulatory environment is evolving as regulators continue to drive 
an agenda committed to maintaining trust and confidence in UK 
financial services and a number of complex regulatory changes 
continue to be embedded. 

The Society’s investment in technology has increased the scale of  
the Society’s change agenda. Whilst this will lower risk over the long-
term, it increases the immediate risk to service provision and costs  
as change is delivered. 

The threat of disruption to customer services or a loss of customer  
data as a result of cyber crime remains heightened as cyber attacks 
become ever more sophisticated and as Nationwide and our  
members become more connected and embrace new technology. 

We continue to work closely both with regulators and the industry  
to deliver fair outcomes to our members, and ensure we meet all 
regulatory obligations. 

We continue to manage the change agenda to minimise the risk of 
service disruption and maximise return on investment for our 
members. 

Key principal risks impacted 

•
•
•

Conduct and Compliance Risk 
Business Risk 
Operational Risk 

Key principal risk impacted 

•
•
•

Business Risk 
Operational Risk 
Conduct and Compliance Risk 

Key (level of risk to Nationwide) 
 Increasing level of risk   ➔ Stable level of risk  

 Decreasing level of risk 

Principal risks and uncertainties 

We continue to invest in cyber security, evolving our controls across 
both new and existing technologies to protect our systems and 
customer data from more complex attacks whilst collaborating with 
industry bodies and law enforcement agencies to respond to 
emerging cyber threats. 

  Key principal risk impacted 

•

Operational Risk 

The principal risks described below represent the most significant risks to successful delivery of our strategic objectives. These risks remain largely unchanged from last year and are managed through the Society’s Enterprise Risk 
Management Framework as described on page 103. 

Credit risk 
The risk of loss as a result of a member,  
customer or counterparty failing to meet their 
financial obligations. 

•

Find out more on page 106. 

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

Borrowers may be unable to repay loans for a number of reasons, such as 
changes to the economic and market environment or in their individual 
circumstances. This may lead to: 
•

Financial difficulty or other detriment to borrowers who are unable to afford 
repayments on existing products and services, either with Nationwide or 
other providers. 
Credit losses which adversely impact the Society’s profitability, ability to 
generate sufficient capital or sustainability. 

Nationwide seeks to minimise unaffordable lending and credit losses through: 
•

Stringent affordability checks and controls, ensuring lending is responsible 
and will not cause financial difficulty for members and customers. 
Prudent lending policies, operated across specific market segments, which 
ensure lending remains within the Board’s risk appetite. 
Continuous monitoring of credit portfolios to identify potential risks, through 
stress testing, modelling and ongoing reporting to senior management and 
the Board.    

•

•

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Top and emerging risks (continued) 

100  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Principal risks and uncertainties (continued) 

Regulation      ➔ 

  Managing Change      

Cyber Security      ➔ 

The regulatory environment is evolving as regulators continue to drive 

The Society’s investment in technology has increased the scale of  

an agenda committed to maintaining trust and confidence in UK 

financial services and a number of complex regulatory changes 

the Society’s change agenda. Whilst this will lower risk over the long-

term, it increases the immediate risk to service provision and costs  

continue to be embedded. 

as change is delivered. 

The threat of disruption to customer services or a loss of customer  

data as a result of cyber crime remains heightened as cyber attacks 

become ever more sophisticated and as Nationwide and our  

members become more connected and embrace new technology. 

We continue to work closely both with regulators and the industry  

to deliver fair outcomes to our members, and ensure we meet all 

regulatory obligations. 

members. 

We continue to manage the change agenda to minimise the risk of 

We continue to invest in cyber security, evolving our controls across 

service disruption and maximise return on investment for our 

both new and existing technologies to protect our systems and 

customer data from more complex attacks whilst collaborating with 

industry bodies and law enforcement agencies to respond to 

emerging cyber threats. 

  Key principal risk impacted 

•

Operational Risk 

Key principal risks impacted 

Conduct and Compliance Risk 

•

•

•

Business Risk 

Operational Risk 

Key principal risk impacted 

Business Risk 

Operational Risk 

•

•

•

Conduct and Compliance Risk 

Key (level of risk to Nationwide) 

 Increasing level of risk   ➔ Stable level of risk  

 Decreasing level of risk 

Principal risks and uncertainties 

Management Framework as described on page 103. 

Credit risk 

The principal risks described below represent the most significant risks to successful delivery of our strategic objectives. These risks remain largely unchanged from last year and are managed through the Society’s Enterprise Risk 

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

The risk of loss as a result of a member,  

Borrowers may be unable to repay loans for a number of reasons, such as 

Nationwide seeks to minimise unaffordable lending and credit losses through: 

customer or counterparty failing to meet their 

changes to the economic and market environment or in their individual 

financial obligations. 

circumstances. This may lead to: 

•

•

Financial difficulty or other detriment to borrowers who are unable to afford 

repayments on existing products and services, either with Nationwide or 

other providers. 

Credit losses which adversely impact the Society’s profitability, ability to 

generate sufficient capital or sustainability. 

the Board.    

•

•

•

Stringent affordability checks and controls, ensuring lending is responsible 

and will not cause financial difficulty for members and customers. 

Prudent lending policies, operated across specific market segments, which 

ensure lending remains within the Board’s risk appetite. 

Continuous monitoring of credit portfolios to identify potential risks, through 

stress testing, modelling and ongoing reporting to senior management and 

Find out more on page 106. 

Solvency risk 
The risk that Nationwide fails to maintain 
sufficient capital to absorb losses throughout  
a full economic cycle and to maintain the 
confidence of current and prospective members, 
investors, the Board and regulators. 

Find out more on page 150. 

Market risk 
The risk that the net value of, or net income 
arising from, the Society’s assets and liabilities is 
impacted as a result of market price or rate 
changes. As Nationwide does not have a trading 
book, market risk only arises in the banking book. 

Find out more on page 154. 

Business risk 
The risk that volumes decline or margins shrink 
relative to the cost base, affecting the 
sustainability of the business and the ability to 
deliver the strategy due to macro-economic, 
geopolitical, industry, regulatory or other external 
events. 

Find out more on page 160. 

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

A sudden stress or series of unexpected losses may result in Nationwide’s capital 
reserves being depleted. This may lead to: 
•

Threats to the ongoing viability of the Society should capital resources  
be exhausted. 
An inability to offer new products to members as capital is not available  
to support these offerings. 
Reputational damage to the Society as members, regulators, investors  
and counterparties lose trust in Nationwide’s ability to operate. 

•

•

Nationwide ensures it maintains sufficient capital resources through: 
•

Defining a minimum level of capital, including leverage, which the Society  
is willing to accept through Board risk appetite, which is maintained and 
monitored by the Board and other risk committees. 
Structuring capital to meet key regulatory minimums, stakeholder 
expectations and the requirements of the strategy. 

•

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

Nationwide’s income or the value of its assets may be altered by changes in 
interest rates, currency rates and equity prices. This may lead to: 
•

Lower than expected income, adversely affecting the Society’s profitability 
and ability to generate capital. 
Assets and investments which are worth less than expected, impacting the 
Society’s ability to meet its financial commitments and its ongoing viability. 

•

Nationwide seeks to minimise its exposure to fluctuations in market prices and 
rates through: 
•

Fully hedging market risks where possible and appropriate and taking 
market risks only when these are essential to core business activities, or are 
designed to provide stability of earnings.  
Continuous monitoring through a variety of techniques including sensitivity 
analysis, earnings sensitivity, Value at Risk and stress analysis. 

•

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

Nationwide may fail to respond appropriately to changes in the external 
environment including new technology, consumer behaviour, regulation or 
market conditions. This may lead to:  
•

Products and services which fail to meet members’ needs, adversely 
affecting both the Society’s relationship with members and the ability to 
generate income. 
A weakening of our relationships with members as they increasingly conduct 
their business through third parties. 
Degradation of profitability through increased costs or decreased income. 

•

•

Whilst changes in Nationwide’s operating environment pose risks, they also 
present opportunities to provide new, innovative products and services to 
members. Nationwide ensures it is able to adapt to new conditions and continues 
to meet members’ needs whilst remaining safe and secure for the future through: 
•

Considering the potential for disruption to the market and operating 
environment from a range of factors, including technology and consumer 
trends, through regular Board and senior management reporting. 
Continuing to develop new products and services based on member 
engagement, emerging trends, and technological innovation. 
Identifying and monitoring potential risks to its business model through 
dedicated horizon scanning processes. 

•

•

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101  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Principal risks and uncertainties (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk 
Liquidity risk is the risk that Nationwide is unable 
to meet its liabilities as they fall due and maintain 
member and other stakeholder confidence. 
Funding risk is the risk that Nationwide is unable 
to maintain diverse funding sources in wholesale 
and retail markets and manage retail funding risk 
that can arise from excessive concentrations of 
higher risk deposits. 

Find out more on page 139. 

Pension risk 
The risk that the value of the pension schemes’ 
assets will be insufficient to meet the estimated 
liabilities, creating a pension deficit. 

Find out more on page 159. 

Model risk 
The risk of weaknesses or failures in models  
used to support key decisions including in relation 
to the amount of capital and liquidity resources 
required, lending and pricing, resourcing and 
earnings. 

Find out more on page 161. 

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

In the event of a downturn in the macroeconomic environment, sudden 
withdrawals of member deposits or other potential shocks, Nationwide could have 
insufficient financial resources to meet its commitments. This may lead to: 
• Members being unable to access their money or other products and services. 
•
•

Disruption to other organisations or the market. 
Damage to the Society’s reputation, decreased member and stakeholder 
confidence and increased funding costs. 

Nationwide ensures it is able to meet its liabilities as they fall due and maintain 
appropriate funding through: 
•

Operating a comprehensive suite of policies, limits, stress testing, monitoring 
and robust governance controls to ensure a stable and diverse funding base 
and sufficient holdings of high quality liquid assets. 
Continuously monitoring liabilities against internal and regulatory 
requirements, and management of liquidity resources to meet these as they 
fall due. 

•

• Maintaining a contingency funding plan which details the actions available to 

the Society in a stress situation.  

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

Nationwide has funding obligations to defined benefit pension schemes. The value 
of the schemes’ assets could become insufficient to meet estimated liabilities as a 
result of volatility in the value of schemes’ assets and liabilities, driven by market 
interest rates, inflation and longevity. This may lead to: 
•
Insecurity of employee pension arrangements. 
•
A requirement to increase cash funding into these schemes. 
•
An adverse impact on Nationwide’s capital position. 

The assets of Nationwide’s defined benefit schemes are held in legally separate 
trusts, each administered by a board of trustees, in accordance with UK 
legislation. Nationwide minimises the impact of pension risk on both the Society 
and pension scheme members through: 
• Maintaining effective engagement with trustees to ensure that the 

investment strategy balances risk, return, and employee considerations 
appropriately. 

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

Model outputs could be inaccurate as a result of inappropriate design or 
operation, leading to: 
• Members being inappropriately offered or refused access to products and 

services. 
Financial loss or insufficient financial resources. 
Regulatory censure. 

•
•

Models  play  an ever more  important part  in  supporting  the strategy  as decision 
making becomes more sophisticated. This risk is mitigated through:  
•

A well governed model development process, operated by expert modelling 
teams and independently validated by specialists in the second line. 
Regular monitoring of model performance and maintenance, supported by 
independent review. 

•

 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Principal risks and uncertainties (continued) 

102  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Principal risks and uncertainties (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk 

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

Liquidity risk is the risk that Nationwide is unable 

In the event of a downturn in the macroeconomic environment, sudden 

Nationwide ensures it is able to meet its liabilities as they fall due and maintain 

to meet its liabilities as they fall due and maintain 

withdrawals of member deposits or other potential shocks, Nationwide could have 

appropriate funding through: 

member and other stakeholder confidence. 

insufficient financial resources to meet its commitments. This may lead to: 

Operational risk 
The risk of loss resulting from inadequate  
or failed internal processes, people and systems, 
or from external events. 

Find out more on page 161. 

Conduct and Compliance risk 
The risk that Nationwide exercises inappropriate 
judgement or makes errors in the execution of its 
business activities, leading to:  
• non-compliance with regulation or legislation, 
• market integrity being undermined, or 
• an unfair outcome being created for customers. 

Find out more on page 163. 

Funding risk is the risk that Nationwide is unable 

to maintain diverse funding sources in wholesale 

and retail markets and manage retail funding risk 

that can arise from excessive concentrations of 

higher risk deposits. 

• Members being unable to access their money or other products and services. 

Disruption to other organisations or the market. 

Damage to the Society’s reputation, decreased member and stakeholder 

confidence and increased funding costs. 

•

•

Operating a comprehensive suite of policies, limits, stress testing, monitoring 

and robust governance controls to ensure a stable and diverse funding base 

and sufficient holdings of high quality liquid assets. 

Continuously monitoring liabilities against internal and regulatory 

requirements, and management of liquidity resources to meet these as they 

fall due. 

• Maintaining a contingency funding plan which details the actions available to 

the Society in a stress situation.  

Find out more on page 139. 

Pension risk 

Find out more on page 159. 

Model risk 

Find out more on page 161. 

The risk that the value of the pension schemes’ 

assets will be insufficient to meet the estimated 

liabilities, creating a pension deficit. 

Nationwide has funding obligations to defined benefit pension schemes. The value 

The assets of Nationwide’s defined benefit schemes are held in legally separate 

of the schemes’ assets could become insufficient to meet estimated liabilities as a 

trusts, each administered by a board of trustees, in accordance with UK 

result of volatility in the value of schemes’ assets and liabilities, driven by market 

legislation. Nationwide minimises the impact of pension risk on both the Society 

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

interest rates, inflation and longevity. This may lead to: 

Insecurity of employee pension arrangements. 

A requirement to increase cash funding into these schemes. 

An adverse impact on Nationwide’s capital position. 

and pension scheme members through: 

• Maintaining effective engagement with trustees to ensure that the 

investment strategy balances risk, return, and employee considerations 

appropriately. 

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

The risk of weaknesses or failures in models  

Model outputs could be inaccurate as a result of inappropriate design or 

Models  play  an ever more  important part  in  supporting  the strategy  as decision 

used to support key decisions including in relation 

operation, leading to: 

to the amount of capital and liquidity resources 

required, lending and pricing, resourcing and 

services. 

earnings. 

Financial loss or insufficient financial resources. 

Regulatory censure. 

making becomes more sophisticated. This risk is mitigated through:  

•

•

teams and independently validated by specialists in the second line. 

Regular monitoring of model performance and maintenance, supported by 

independent review. 

• Members being inappropriately offered or refused access to products and 

A well governed model development process, operated by expert modelling 

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

Process, people or system failures or external events could lead to: 
•

Disruption either to the services provided to members or to internal 
processes, resulting in unfair customer outcomes. 
The loss of customer data, assets, or other form of detriment due to external 
parties (e.g. cyber-attack, fraud) or poor internal controls. 
Financial loss, through a loss of income, increase in costs, or direct loss. 

•

•

Nationwide seeks to minimise detriment and loss to members, customers and the 
Society through: 
•

Regularly identifying and assessing the key operational risks to its strategy, 
ensuring appropriate controls are in place to mitigate these risks. 
Considering and planning for extreme but plausible events which could affect 
the Society. 
Continuing to invest in enhanced controls in key areas including cyber, 
resilience and data. 

•

•

Why this risk is important for Nationwide 

How Nationwide manages this risk on behalf of members 

In an evolving regulatory and consumer environment, Nationwide could provide 
products and services which are misaligned to the needs of customers or market 
conditions due to the pace of change in customer behaviour, regulation, or the 
external environment. This may lead to: 
•

Unfair customer outcomes, with customers being sold products which are 
not wanted or needed. 
Non-compliance with the letter or spirit of legislation or regulation. 
Disruption to the market. 
Regulatory censure.  

•
•
•

Nationwide seeks to minimise its conduct and compliance exposure through: 
•
Rigorous testing of products and services both before and after providing 
them to members to ensure they are designed and performing appropriately. 
Continually assessing new and existing risks in the conduct and compliance 
environment (e.g. technology, cyber-crime, changes in consumer or market 
behaviour and regulatory changes) and ensuring that risk exposures are 
appropriately managed.  

•

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103  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Managing risk 

How we manage our risks 

Like any business, Nationwide is exposed to risks as part of its normal activities. Nationwide aims to protect our members by limiting the risks we take, and, when we do take risks ensuring that we manage them appropriately  
and proportionately to ensure that we continue to meet our obligations to our members to remain safe and secure and to operate effectively and efficiently. 

This is done through an enterprise-wide risk management framework, which describes the approach to risk management at Nationwide by setting out the minimum standards, and associated processes, for successful risk 
management, connecting the Society’s strategy with day-to-day risk management activities.  

Enterprise risk management framework (ERMF) 

Whilst Nationwide has continued to evolve the ERMF in response to best practice and the risk landscape, our approach to risk management remains fundamentally unchanged from last year as set out below. 

Together these activities and structures provide a framework which ensures that risks are managed through robust and consistent processes, supported by appropriate tools and guidance, enabling better business decisions  
for delivery of Nationwide’s strategy for the benefit of our members. 

The Board monitors the Society’s risk management and internal control systems and carries out an annual review of their effectiveness. During the year, the Society’s risk management and internal control systems have been 
reviewed and, on the basis of this review, the Board is satisfied that Nationwide has an adequate system of risk management and internal control. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Managing risk 

How we manage our risks 

104  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Managing risk (continued) 

Risk appetite 

Like any business, Nationwide is exposed to risks as part of its normal activities. Nationwide aims to protect our members by limiting the risks we take, and, when we do take risks ensuring that we manage them appropriately  

and proportionately to ensure that we continue to meet our obligations to our members to remain safe and secure and to operate effectively and efficiently. 

Board risk appetite articulates how much risk the Board is willing to accept on behalf of its members in the delivery of the strategy. The following statements articulate Nationwide’s approach to taking risk responsibly in the interests 
of our members. The Society’s ambitions are to: 

This is done through an enterprise-wide risk management framework, which describes the approach to risk management at Nationwide by setting out the minimum standards, and associated processes, for successful risk 

management, connecting the Society’s strategy with day-to-day risk management activities.  

Enterprise risk management framework (ERMF) 

Whilst Nationwide has continued to evolve the ERMF in response to best practice and the risk landscape, our approach to risk management remains fundamentally unchanged from last year as set out below. 

Together these activities and structures provide a framework which ensures that risks are managed through robust and consistent processes, supported by appropriate tools and guidance, enabling better business decisions  

for delivery of Nationwide’s strategy for the benefit of our members. 

The Board monitors the Society’s risk management and internal control systems and carries out an annual review of their effectiveness. During the year, the Society’s risk management and internal control systems have been 

reviewed and, on the basis of this review, the Board is satisfied that Nationwide has an adequate system of risk management and internal control. 

Lend in a responsible, affordable and sustainable way to ensure we safeguard members and the financial strength of the Society throughout the credit cycle 

•
• Maintain sufficient capital and liquidity resources to support current business activity and planned growth and to remain resilient to significant stress 
• Minimise customer disruption, financial loss, reputational damage and regulatory non-compliance, especially those caused by failures of people, processes and systems 
•
•
•
•
•

Provide sustainable customer services over resilient systems 
Treat customers fairly before, during and after the sales process 
Offer products and services which meet customer needs and expectations, perform as represented and provide value for money 
Operate a mutual business model which is sustainable and remains within the requirements of the Building Societies Act  
Only incur market risks that are required for operational efficiency, stability of earnings or cost minimisation in supporting core business activities. 

The Board is satisfied that the Group has stayed within its risk appetite during the year. 

Three lines of defence 

Nationwide operates a three lines of defence model, ensuring clear separation between risk and control ownership (first line), oversight, support and challenge (second line), and audit assurance (third line). Accountabilities within 
the three lines of defence model are outlined below: 

First line 
Risk and control ownership 

Specific accountabilities include: 

Setting business objectives 

Defining management risk appetite 

Identifying, owning and managing risks 

Defining, operating and testing controls 

Implementing and maintaining regulatory compliance 

Adhering to the minimum standards set out in the risk 
management framework and associated policies 

Identifying future threats and risks 

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Second line 
Oversight, support and challenge 

Specific accountabilities include: 

Third line 
Assurance 

Specific accountabilities include: 

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Providing expert advice on business initiatives 

Advising the Board on setting risk appetite 

Reporting aggregate enterprise level risks to the Board 

Conducting independent and risk-based oversight and 
challenge 

Interpreting material regulatory change 

Setting the risk management framework and 
associated policies 

Identifying future threats and risks 

•

•

•

Performing independent audits of the effectiveness of 
first line risk and control and second line risk 
oversight, support and challenge 

Taking a risk-based approach to the programme of 
audit work 

Preparing an annual opinion on the risk management 
and controls framework to present to the Audit 
Committee 

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105  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Managing risk (continued)

Risk Committee structure 

The Board Risk Committee and Audit Committee provide oversight and advice to the Board.  
The Executive Risk Committee ensures a co-ordinated management approach across all risk categories.  
The risk committee structure is represented in the following diagram. 

 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Managing risk (continued)

Risk Committee structure 

The Board Risk Committee and Audit Committee provide oversight and advice to the Board.  

The Executive Risk Committee ensures a co-ordinated management approach across all risk categories.  

The risk committee structure is represented in the following diagram. 

106  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Overview 

Credit risk is the risk of loss as a result of a member, customer or counterparty failing to meet their financial obligations. Credit risk encompasses:  

•
•
•
•

borrower/counterparty risk – the risk of loss arising from a borrower or counterparty failing to pay, or becoming increasingly likely not to pay the interest or principal on a loan, financial product, or service on time; 
security/collateral risk – the risk of loss arising from deteriorating security/collateral quality; 
concentration risk – the risk of loss arising from insufficient diversification; 
refinance risk – the risk of loss arising when a repayment of a loan or other financial product occurs later than originally anticipated.  

Nationwide manages credit risk for the following portfolios: 

Portfolio 
Residential mortgages 
Consumer banking 
Commercial and other lending 

Treasury 

Definition 
Loans secured on residential property 
Unsecured lending comprising current account overdrafts, personal loans and credit cards 
Loans  to  registered  social  landlords,  loans  made  under  the  Private  Finance  Initiative,  commercial  real  estate  lending  
and other balances due from counterparties not covered by other categories 
Treasury liquidity, derivatives and discretionary investment portfolios 

Management of credit risk  

At Nationwide, we lend in a responsible, affordable and sustainable way to ensure we safeguard members and the financial strength of the Society throughout the credit cycle. To this end, the Board Risk Committee sets the level of 
risk appetite it is willing to take in pursuit of the Society’s strategy, which is articulated as Board risk appetite statements and underlying principles: 

We safeguard our members by lending responsibly 

• We will only lend to members, customers or counterparties who demonstrate that they can afford to borrow. 
• We will support members and customers buying houses of wide-ranging types and qualities. 
• We will work with members, customers and counterparties to recover their financial position should there be a delay, or risk of delay, in meeting their financial obligations. 

We safeguard the Society’s financial performance, strength and reputation 

• We will manage asset quality so that losses through an economic cycle will not undermine profitability, financial strength and our standing with internal/external stakeholders. 
• We will ensure that no material segment of our lending exposes the Society to excessive loss. 
• We will proactively manage credit risk and comply with regulation. 

We operate with a commitment to responsible lending and a focus on championing good conduct and fair outcomes. In this respect, we formulate appropriate credit criteria and policies which are aimed at mitigating risk against 
individual transactions and ensuring that the Society’s credit risk exposure remains within risk appetite. The Board Risk Committee and, under a governed delegated mandate structure, the Credit Committee, the Executive 
Sanctioning Committee and Material Risk Takers make credit decisions, based on a thorough credit risk assessment, to ensure that customers are able to meet their obligations. 

At a portfolio level, we measure and manage our risk profile and the performance of our credit portfolios on an ongoing basis, through a formal governance structure. Compliance with Board risk appetite is measured against 
absolute limits and risk metrics and is reported to the Society’s Credit Committee monthly, with adverse trends being investigated and corrective action taken to mitigate the risk and bring performance back on track. 

Nationwide is committed to helping customers who may anticipate or find themselves experiencing a period of financial difficulty, offering a range of forbearance options tailored to their individual circumstances. This is the case for 
residential mortgages, consumer banking and commercial lending. Accounts in financial difficulty/arrears are managed by specialist teams within Nationwide to ensure an optimal outcome for our members, customers and the 
Society. 

Forbearance  

Forbearance occurs when concessions are made to the contractual terms of a loan when the customer is facing or about to face difficulties in meeting their financial commitments. A concession is where the customer receives 
assistance, which could be a modification to the previous terms and conditions of a facility or a total or partial refinancing of debt, either mid-term or at maturity. Requests for concessions are principally attributable to: 

•
•
•

temporary cash flow problems; 
breaches of financial covenants; or 
an inability to repay at contractual maturity. 

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107  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Overview (continued) 

Consistent with the European Banking Authority reporting definitions, loans that meet the regulatory forbearance exit criteria are not reported as forborne. The concession events used to classify balances subject to forbearance for 
residential mortgages, consumer banking and commercial lending are described in the relevant sections of this report. 

IFRS 9 Transition 

With effect from 5 April 2018 Nationwide adopted IFRS 9 ‘Financial Instruments’, which replaces IAS 39 ‘Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement’. Under IFRS 9, impairment provisions on financial assets are calculated 
on an expected credit loss (ECL) basis for assets held at amortised cost and at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI). ECL impairment provisions are based on an assessment of the probability of default (PD), 
exposure at default and loss given default, discounted to give a net present value. The Credit risk section of this report summarises for the individual portfolios: 

•
•
•
•

the maximum exposure to credit risk; 
the stage distribution of loans and provisions (explained below);  
credit quality; 
other risk factors and concentrations, including loan to value ratios, regional exposures, arrears and forbearance. 

Further information on the impact of implementing IFRS 9 is provided in note 37 to the financial statements and in our ‘Report on Transition to IFRS 9: Financial Instruments’, which can be found at nationwide.co.uk 

In accordance with IFRS 9, in the consolidated financial statements there has been no restatement of comparative information for the year ended 4 April 2018, which is reported on an IAS 39 basis. However, to support the 
understanding of the current year IFRS 9 disclosures, certain comparative balances within the Credit risk section of this Business and Risk Report are shown as at 5 April 2018 (the effective date of the adoption of IFRS 9). These 5 
April 2018 comparatives include financial asset balance sheet carrying values that have changed as a result of adopting IFRS 9, and the stage distribution of gross lending and ECL provisions.  

The table below shows the classification of assets on the Group’s balance sheet following the adoption of IFRS 9: 

Classification and measurement 

(Audited) 
Cash – Amortised cost 
Loans and advances to customers – Amortised cost (notes i and ii) 
Loans and advances to customers – FVTPL 
Investment securities – FVOCI 
Investment securities – Amortised cost (note i) 
Investment securities – FVTPL 
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 

4 April 2019 
(IFRS 9 basis) 
£m 
12,493 
198,922 
129 
14,500 
1,656 
78 
411 

5 April 2018 
(IFRS 9 basis) 
£m 
14,361 
191,174 
247 
11,881 
1,120 
45 
(144) 

4 April 2018  
(IAS 39 basis) 
£m 
14,361 
191,593 
- 
11,926 
1,120 
- 
(109) 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

Balances are stated net of impairment provisions. 
Loans and advances to customers exclude balances held with counterparties which are institutions similar to banks. These balances are now reported in loans and advances to banks and similar institutions, and comparatives for the prior period have been 
restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements.  

The stage distribution of gross lending and provisions for loans and advances to customers is presented for assets held at amortised cost. Certain tables below exclude loans and advances to customers classified as fair value through 
profit or loss (FVTPL), since these are not subject to the impairment requirements of IFRS 9. 

Stage distribution 

Impairment provisions are calculated using a three stage approach depending on changes in credit risk since original recognition of the assets: 

•

an asset which is not credit impaired on initial recognition and has not subsequently experienced a significant increase in credit risk is categorised as being within stage 1, with a provision equal to a 12 month ECL (losses arising 
on default events expected to occur within 12 months);  

• where a loan’s credit risk increases significantly, it is moved to stage 2. The provision recognised is equal to the lifetime ECL (losses on default events expected to occur at any point during the life of the asset);  
•

if a loan meets the definition of credit impaired, it is moved to stage 3 with a provision equal to its lifetime ECL. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Consistent with the European Banking Authority reporting definitions, loans that meet the regulatory forbearance exit criteria are not reported as forborne. The concession events used to classify balances subject to forbearance for 

residential mortgages, consumer banking and commercial lending are described in the relevant sections of this report. 

For loans and advances held at amortised cost, the stage distribution and the provision coverage ratios are shown in this report for each individual portfolio. The provision coverage ratio is calculated by dividing the provisions by the 
gross balances for each main lending portfolio. Loans remain on the balance sheet, net of associated provisions, until they are deemed no longer recoverable, when such loans are written off. The definition, assumptions and timing 
for write-off of loans have not changed with the adoption of IFRS 9. 

108  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Overview (continued) 

Maximum exposure to credit risk  

Nationwide’s maximum exposure to credit risk has risen to £249 billion (5 April 2018: £240 billion), principally reflecting the growth in residential mortgages. 

Credit risk largely arises from exposure to loans and advances to customers, which account for 85% (5 April 2018: 85%) of Nationwide’s total credit risk exposure. Within this, the exposure relates primarily to residential mortgages, 
which account for 93% (5 April 2018: 93%) of total loans and advances to customers and which comprise high quality assets with low occurrences of arrears and possessions.  

In addition to loans and advances to customers, Nationwide is exposed to credit risk on all other financial assets. For all financial assets recognised on the balance sheet, the maximum exposure to credit risk represents the balance 
sheet carrying value after allowance for impairment plus off-balance sheet commitments. For off-balance sheet commitments, the maximum exposure is the maximum amount that Nationwide would have to pay if the commitments 
were to be called upon. For loan commitments and other credit related commitments that are irrevocable over the life of the respective facilities, the maximum exposure is the full amount of the committed facilities. 

Maximum exposure to risk  
4 April 2019 

(Audited) 
Amortised cost loans and advances to customers: 
Residential mortgages 
Consumer banking 
Commercial and other lending (note ii) 
Fair value adjustment for micro hedged risk (note iii)  

FVTPL loans and advances to customers: 
Residential mortgages (note iv) 
Commercial and other lending 

Other items: 
Cash 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note ii) 
Investment securities – FVOCI 
Investment securities – Amortised cost 
Investment securities – FVTPL 
Derivative financial instruments 
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk (note iii) 

Total 

Gross  
balances 

£m 

185,940 
4,586 
8,178 
883 
199,587 

72 
57 
129 

12,493 
4,009 
14,500 
1,656 
78 
3,562 
411 
36,709 
236,425 

Less: 
impairment 
provisions 
£m 

Carrying  
value 

Commitments 
(note i) 

£m 

£m 

Maximum  
credit risk 
exposure 
£m 

% of total  
credit risk 
exposure 
% 

(206) 
(418) 
(41) 
- 
(665) 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
(665) 

185,734 
4,168 
8,137 
883 
198,922 

72 
57 
129 

12,493 
4,009 
14,500 
1,656 
78 
3,562 
411 
36,709 
235,760 

12,051 
33 
872 
- 
12,956 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
12,956 

197,785 
4,201 
9,009 
883 
211,878 

72 
57 
129 

12,493 
4,009 
14,500 
1,656 
78 
3,562 
411 
36,709 
248,716 

79 
2 
4 
- 
85 

- 
- 
- 

5 
2 
6 
1 
- 
1 
- 
15 
100 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Overview (continued) 

IFRS 9 Transition 

With effect from 5 April 2018 Nationwide adopted IFRS 9 ‘Financial Instruments’, which replaces IAS 39 ‘Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement’. Under IFRS 9, impairment provisions on financial assets are calculated 

on an expected credit loss (ECL) basis for assets held at amortised cost and at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI). ECL impairment provisions are based on an assessment of the probability of default (PD), 

exposure at default and loss given default, discounted to give a net present value. The Credit risk section of this report summarises for the individual portfolios: 

the maximum exposure to credit risk; 

the stage distribution of loans and provisions (explained below);  

credit quality; 

other risk factors and concentrations, including loan to value ratios, regional exposures, arrears and forbearance. 

Further information on the impact of implementing IFRS 9 is provided in note 37 to the financial statements and in our ‘Report on Transition to IFRS 9: Financial Instruments’, which can be found at nationwide.co.uk 

In accordance with IFRS 9, in the consolidated financial statements there has been no restatement of comparative information for the year ended 4 April 2018, which is reported on an IAS 39 basis. However, to support the 

understanding of the current year IFRS 9 disclosures, certain comparative balances within the Credit risk section of this Business and Risk Report are shown as at 5 April 2018 (the effective date of the adoption of IFRS 9). These 5 

April 2018 comparatives include financial asset balance sheet carrying values that have changed as a result of adopting IFRS 9, and the stage distribution of gross lending and ECL provisions.  

The table below shows the classification of assets on the Group’s balance sheet following the adoption of IFRS 9: 

Classification and measurement 

(Audited) 

Cash – Amortised cost 

Loans and advances to customers – Amortised cost (notes i and ii) 

Loans and advances to customers – FVTPL 

Investment securities – FVOCI 

Investment securities – Amortised cost (note i) 

Investment securities – FVTPL 

Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 

Notes: 

i.

ii.

Balances are stated net of impairment provisions. 

4 April 2019 

(IFRS 9 basis) 

5 April 2018 

(IFRS 9 basis) 

4 April 2018  

(IAS 39 basis) 

£m 

12,493 

198,922 

129 

14,500 

1,656 

78 

411 

£m 

14,361 

191,174 

247 

11,881 

1,120 

45 

(144) 

£m 

14,361 

191,593 

11,926 

1,120 

- 

- 

(109) 

Loans and advances to customers exclude balances held with counterparties which are institutions similar to banks. These balances are now reported in loans and advances to banks and similar institutions, and comparatives for the prior period have been 

restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements.  

The stage distribution of gross lending and provisions for loans and advances to customers is presented for assets held at amortised cost. Certain tables below exclude loans and advances to customers classified as fair value through 

profit or loss (FVTPL), since these are not subject to the impairment requirements of IFRS 9. 

Stage distribution 

Impairment provisions are calculated using a three stage approach depending on changes in credit risk since original recognition of the assets: 

an asset which is not credit impaired on initial recognition and has not subsequently experienced a significant increase in credit risk is categorised as being within stage 1, with a provision equal to a 12 month ECL (losses arising 

on default events expected to occur within 12 months);  

• where a loan’s credit risk increases significantly, it is moved to stage 2. The provision recognised is equal to the lifetime ECL (losses on default events expected to occur at any point during the life of the asset);  

if a loan meets the definition of credit impaired, it is moved to stage 3 with a provision equal to its lifetime ECL. 

•

•

•

•

•

•

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109  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Overview (continued) 

Maximum exposure to credit risk 
5 April 2018 

(Audited) 
Amortised cost loans and advances to customers: 
Residential mortgages 
Consumer banking 
Commercial and other lending (note ii) 
Fair value adjustment for micro hedged risk (note iii)  

FVTPL loans and advances to customers: 
Residential mortgages (note iv) 
Commercial and other lending 

Other items: 
Cash 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note ii) 
Investment securities – FVOCI 
Investment securities – Amortised cost 
Investment securities – FVTPL 
Derivative financial instruments 
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk (note iii) 

Total 

Gross 
 balances 

£m 

177,114 
4,107 
9,540 
1,042 
191,803 

189 
58 
247 

14,361 
3,493 
11,881 
1,120 
45 
4,121 
(144) 
34,877 
226,927 

Less: 
impairment 
provisions 
£m 

(235) 
(365) 
(29) 
- 
(629) 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
(629) 

Carrying 
 value 

Commitments 
(note i) 

£m 

176,879 
3,742 
9,511 
1,042 
191,174 

189 
58 
247 

14,361 
3,493 
11,881 
1,120 
45 
4,121 
(144) 
34,877 
226,298 

£m 

12,205 
42 
943 
- 
13,190 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 
- 
700 
- 
- 
- 
700 
13,890 

Maximum  
credit risk 
exposure 
£m 

189,084 
3,784 
10,454 
1,042 
204,364 

189 
58 
247 

14,361 
3,493 
11,881 
1,820 
45 
4,121 
(144) 
35,577 
240,188 

% of total  
credit risk 
exposure 
% 

79 
2 
4 
- 
85 

- 
- 
- 

6 
1 
5 
1 
- 
2 
- 
15 
100 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Overview (continued) 

Maximum exposure to credit risk 

5 April 2018 

Amortised cost loans and advances to customers: 

(Audited) 

Residential mortgages 

Consumer banking 

Commercial and other lending (note ii) 

Fair value adjustment for micro hedged risk (note iii)  

FVTPL loans and advances to customers: 

Residential mortgages (note iv) 

Commercial and other lending 

Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note ii) 

Investment securities – FVOCI 

Investment securities – Amortised cost 

Investment securities – FVTPL 

Derivative financial instruments 

Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk (note iii) 

Other items: 

Cash 

Total 

Carrying 

 value 

Commitments 

(note i) 

% of total  

credit risk 

exposure 

Gross 

 balances 

£m 

177,114 

4,107 

9,540 

1,042 

191,803 

189 

58 

247 

14,361 

3,493 

11,881 

1,120 

45 

4,121 

(144) 

34,877 

226,927 

Less: 

impairment 

provisions 

£m 

(235) 

(365) 

(29) 

(629) 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

176,879 

3,742 

9,511 

1,042 

191,174 

189 

58 

247 

14,361 

3,493 

11,881 

1,120 

45 

4,121 

(144) 

£m 

12,205 

42 

943 

13,190 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

700 

(629) 

34,877 

226,298 

700 

13,890 

Maximum  

credit risk 

exposure 

£m 

189,084 

3,784 

10,454 

1,042 

204,364 

189 

58 

247 

14,361 

3,493 

11,881 

1,820 

45 

4,121 

(144) 

35,577 

240,188 

% 

79 

2 

4 

- 

85 

- 

- 

- 

6 

1 

5 

1 

- 

2 

- 

15 

100 

110  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Overview (continued) 

Maximum exposure to credit risk 
4 April 2018 

(Audited) 
Cash 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note ii) 
Investment securities – Available for sale 
Investment securities – Held to maturity 
Derivative financial instruments  
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk (note iii) 

Loans and advances to customers: 
Residential mortgages 
Consumer banking 
Commercial and other lending (notes ii and iii) 

Total 

Gross 
 balances 

£m 
14,361 
3,493 
11,926 
1,120 
4,121 
(109) 
34,912 

177,299 
4,107 
10,645 
192,051 

226,963 

Less: 
impairment 
provisions 
£m 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

(145) 
(298) 
(15) 
(458) 

(458) 

Carrying 
 value 

Commitments 
(note i) 

£m 
14,361 
3,493 
11,926 
1,120 
4,121 
(109) 
34,912 

177,154 
3,809 
10,630 
191,593 

£m 
- 
101 
- 
700 
- 
- 
801 

12,204 
42 
842 
13,088 

Maximum  
credit risk 
exposure 
£m 
14,361 
3,594 
11,926 
1,820 
4,121 
(109) 
35,713 

189,358 
3,851 
11,472 
204,681 

226,505 

13,889 

240,394 

% of total  
credit risk 
exposure 
% 
6 
1 
5 
1 
2 
- 
15 

79 
1 
5 
85 

100 

Notes: 
i.

In addition to the amounts shown above, Nationwide has, as part of its retail operations, revocable commitments of £9,475 million (4 and 5 April 2018: £9,517 million) in respect of credit card and overdraft facilities. These commitments represent agreements 
to lend in the future, subject to certain considerations. Such commitments are cancellable by Nationwide, subject to notice requirements, and given their nature are not expected to be drawn down to the full level of exposure. 
Commercial and other lending excludes balances held with counterparties which are institutions similar to banks. These balances are now reported in loans and advances to banks and similar institutions, and comparatives for the prior period have been 
restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements. 
The fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk and the fair value adjustment for micro hedged risk (which relates to the commercial lending portfolio) represent hedge accounting adjustments. They are indirectly exposed to credit risk through the 
relationship with the underlying loans covered by Nationwide’s hedging programmes. 
FVTPL residential mortgages include equity release loans, the balance of which has reduced following a disposal during the year. 

ii.

iii.

iv.

Commitments 

Irrevocable undrawn commitments to lend are within the scope of IFRS 9 provision requirements. The commitments in the table above consist of overpayment reserves and separately identifiable irrevocable commitments for the 
pipeline of residential mortgages, personal loans, commercial loans and investment securities. These commitments are not recognised on the balance sheet, and the total associated provision of £0.4 million (5 April 2018: £0.6 
million) is included within provisions for liabilities and charges.  

Revocable commitments relating to overdrafts and credit cards are included in ECL-based provisions, with the allowance for future drawdowns made as part of the exposure at default element of the ECL calculation. 

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111  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages 

Summary 

Nationwide’s residential mortgages comprise both prime and specialist loans. Prime residential mortgages are mainly Nationwide-branded advances made through the branch network and intermediary channels. Specialist lending 
consists principally of buy to let (BTL) mortgages originated under The Mortgage Works (UK) plc (TMW) brand, together with smaller legacy portfolios in run-off. Over the year, as we continued to grow our lending in line with 
established credit criteria, the credit performance of our residential mortgages has remained stable and credit quality continues to be strong. 

Residential mortgage gross balances 

(Audited) 
Prime 

Specialist: 

Buy to let 
Other (note i) 

4 April 2019 

£m 
151,445 

32,012 
2,483 
34,495 

% 
82 

17 
1 
18 

5 April 2018 

£m 
143,869 

30,439 
2,806 
33,245 

% 
81 

17 
2 
19 

4 April 2018 

£m 
144,049 

30,438 
2,812 
33,250 

% 
81 

17 
2 
19 

Amortised cost loans and advances to customers  

185,940 

100 

177,114 

100 

177,299 

100 

FVTPL loans and advances to customers (note ii) 
Total residential mortgages 

72 
186,012 

189 
177,303 

177,299 

Notes:  
i.
ii.

Other includes self-certified, near prime and sub prime lending, all of which were discontinued in 2009. 
As a result of their contractual cash flow characteristics, certain residential mortgages (including equity release loans) were reclassified from amortised cost to FVTPL on transition to IFRS 9 on 5 April 2018 and remeasured at fair value as disclosed in the 
above table.  

Total balances across the residential mortgage portfolios have grown by 5% during the year to £186 billion (4 April 2018: £177 billion) as we continue to help people buy a home of their own and support the BTL sector. The reduction 
in FVTPL balances reflects a disposal of equity release loans. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Residential mortgages 

Summary 

Residential mortgage gross balances 

(Audited) 

Prime 

Specialist: 

Buy to let 

Other (note i) 

Notes:  

i.

ii.

above table.  

FVTPL loans and advances to customers (note ii) 

Total residential mortgages 

Nationwide’s residential mortgages comprise both prime and specialist loans. Prime residential mortgages are mainly Nationwide-branded advances made through the branch network and intermediary channels. Specialist lending 

consists principally of buy to let (BTL) mortgages originated under The Mortgage Works (UK) plc (TMW) brand, together with smaller legacy portfolios in run-off. Over the year, as we continued to grow our lending in line with 

established credit criteria, the credit performance of our residential mortgages has remained stable and credit quality continues to be strong. 

4 April 2019 

£m 

151,445 

5 April 2018 

£m 

143,869 

4 April 2018 

£m 

144,049 

% 

82 

17 

1 

18 

30,439 

2,806 

33,245 

189 

177,303 

% 

81 

17 

2 

19 

30,438 

2,812 

33,250 

177,299 

32,012 

2,483 

34,495 

72 

186,012 

% 

81 

17 

2 

19 

Other includes self-certified, near prime and sub prime lending, all of which were discontinued in 2009. 

As a result of their contractual cash flow characteristics, certain residential mortgages (including equity release loans) were reclassified from amortised cost to FVTPL on transition to IFRS 9 on 5 April 2018 and remeasured at fair value as disclosed in the 

Total balances across the residential mortgage portfolios have grown by 5% during the year to £186 billion (4 April 2018: £177 billion) as we continue to help people buy a home of their own and support the BTL sector. The reduction 

in FVTPL balances reflects a disposal of equity release loans. 

112  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Impairment losses for the year 

Impairment (reversals)/losses for the year 

(Audited) 
Prime 
Specialist 
Total 

2019 
(IFRS 9 basis) 
£m 
(1) 
(16) 
(17) 

2018 
(IAS 39 basis) 
£m 
3 
8 
11 

Note:  
Impairment losses/(reversals) represent the net amount charged/(credited) through the profit and loss account, rather than amounts written off during the year.  

Amortised cost loans and advances to customers  

185,940 

100 

177,114 

100 

177,299 

100 

The following table shows residential mortgage lending balances carried at amortised cost, the stage allocation of the loans, impairment provisions and the resulting provision coverage ratios: 

Due to the high quality of residential mortgage portfolios and continued low levels of arrears, impairment losses remain low. The provision reversals above are principally attributable to improvements in the modelling of refinance risk 
on interest only loans and updated economic assumptions used in calculating ECLs. As impairment provisions are calculated on a different basis under IFRS 9 from IAS 39, the losses shown above are not comparable between 2018 
and 2019. 

Residential mortgages staging analysis 
4 April 2019 

(Audited) 
Gross balances 
Prime  
Specialist 
Total  
Provisions 
Prime 
Specialist 
Total  

Provisions as a % of total balance 

Prime 
Specialist 
Total 

Stage 1 

£m 

148,639 
27,384 
176,023 

22 
15 
37 

% 
0.01 
0.06 
0.02 

Stage 2 
 total 

£m 

2,048 
6,431 
8,479 

12 
115 
127 

% 
0.57 
1.80 
1.50 

Stage 2  
<30 DPD  
(note i) 
£m 

Stage 2  
>30 DPD 
(note i) 
£m 

1,781 
6,218 
7,999 

9 
101 
110 

% 
0.48 
1.63 
1.37 

267 
213 
480 

3 
14 
17 

% 
1.19 
6.78 
3.65 

Stage 3 

POCI 
(note ii) 

£m 

758 
513 
1,271 

10 
32 
42 

% 
1.38 
6.15 
3.31 

£m 

- 
167 
167 

- 
- 
- 

% 
- 
- 
- 

Total 

£m 

151,445 
34,495 
185,940 

44 
162 
206 

% 
0.03 
0.47 
0.11 

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113  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Residential mortgages staging analysis 
5 April 2018 

(Audited) 
Gross balances 
Prime  
Specialist 
Total  
Provisions 
Prime 
Specialist 
Total  

Provisions as a % of total balance 

Prime 
Specialist 
Total 

Stage 1 

£m 

134,864 
21,783 
156,647 

6 
11 
17 

% 
0.00 
0.05 
0.01 

Stage 2 
 total 

£m 

8,289 
10,783 
19,072 

29 
142 
171 

% 
0.35 
1.32 
0.90 

Stage 2  
<30 DPD  
(note i) 
£m 

8,035 
10,574 
18,609 

25 
131 
156 

% 
0.31 
1.24 
0.84 

Stage 2  
>30 DPD 
 (note i) 
£m 

254 
209 
463 

4 
11 
15 

% 
1.53 
5.33 
3.25 

Stage 3 

POCI 
(note ii) 

£m 

716 
499 
1,215 

12 
35 
47 

% 
1.67 
7.01 
3.84 

£m 

- 
180 
180 

- 
- 
- 

% 
- 
- 
- 

Total 

£m 

143,869 
33,245 
177,114 

47 
188 
235 

% 
0.03 
0.57 
0.13 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

Days past due, a measure of arrears status. 
POCI loans are those which were credit-impaired on purchase or acquisition. The POCI loans shown in the table above were recognised on the balance sheet when the Derbyshire Building Society was acquired in December 2008. These balances, which are 
mainly interest-only, were 90 days or more in arrears when they were acquired and so have been classified as credit-impaired on acquisition. The gross balance for POCI is net of the lifetime ECL of £6 million (£7 million at 5 April 2018). 

At 4 April 2019, 95% (5 April 2018: 88%) of the residential mortgage portfolio is in stage 1, reflecting the portfolio’s strong credit quality. In addition to new mortgages originated during the year, the stage 1 balances have increased 
as a result of transfers from stage 2. Explanations of the transfer of assets between stages are provided on page 114. 

Stage 3 loans in the residential mortgage portfolio equate to 1% (5 April 2018: 1%) of the total residential mortgage exposure. Of the total £1,271 million (5 April 2018: £1,215 million) stage 3 loans, £705 million (5 April 2018: £686 
million) is in respect of balances which are more than 90 days past due, with the remainder being impaired due to other indicators of unlikeness to pay such as distressed restructures or the bankruptcy of the borrower. 

 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Residential mortgages staging analysis 

5 April 2018 

(Audited) 

Gross balances 

Provisions 

Prime  

Specialist 

Total  

Prime 

Specialist 

Total  

Prime 

Specialist 

Total 

Notes: 

i.

ii.

Provisions as a % of total balance 

Stage 2  

>30 DPD 

 (note i) 

Stage 3 

POCI 

(note ii) 

Stage 1 

£m 

134,864 

21,783 

156,647 

6 

11 

17 

% 

0.00 

0.05 

0.01 

Stage 2 

 total 

£m 

8,289 

10,783 

19,072 

29 

142 

171 

% 

0.35 

1.32 

0.90 

Stage 2  

<30 DPD  

(note i) 

£m 

8,035 

10,574 

18,609 

25 

131 

156 

% 

0.31 

1.24 

0.84 

£m 

254 

209 

463 

4 

11 

15 

% 

1.53 

5.33 

3.25 

£m 

716 

499 

1,215 

12 

35 

47 

% 

1.67 

7.01 

3.84 

Total 

£m 

143,869 

33,245 

177,114 

47 

188 

235 

% 

0.03 

0.57 

0.13 

£m 

- 

180 

180 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

% 

Days past due, a measure of arrears status. 

POCI loans are those which were credit-impaired on purchase or acquisition. The POCI loans shown in the table above were recognised on the balance sheet when the Derbyshire Building Society was acquired in December 2008. These balances, which are 

mainly interest-only, were 90 days or more in arrears when they were acquired and so have been classified as credit-impaired on acquisition. The gross balance for POCI is net of the lifetime ECL of £6 million (£7 million at 5 April 2018). 

At 4 April 2019, 95% (5 April 2018: 88%) of the residential mortgage portfolio is in stage 1, reflecting the portfolio’s strong credit quality. In addition to new mortgages originated during the year, the stage 1 balances have increased 

as a result of transfers from stage 2. Explanations of the transfer of assets between stages are provided on page 114. 

Stage 3 loans in the residential mortgage portfolio equate to 1% (5 April 2018: 1%) of the total residential mortgage exposure. Of the total £1,271 million (5 April 2018: £1,215 million) stage 3 loans, £705 million (5 April 2018: £686 

million) is in respect of balances which are more than 90 days past due, with the remainder being impaired due to other indicators of unlikeness to pay such as distressed restructures or the bankruptcy of the borrower. 

114  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

The table below summarises the movements in the Group’s residential mortgages held at amortised cost, including the impact of ECL impairment provisions. The movements within the table are an aggregation of monthly 
movements over the year. 

Reconciliation of movements in gross residential mortgage balances and impairment provisions 

(Audited) 
At 5 April 2018 

Stage transfers: 
Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2 
Transfers to Stage 3 
Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1 
Transfers from Stage 3 
Net remeasurement of ECL arising from transfer of stage 
Net movement arising from transfer of stage 

New assets originated or purchased 
Repayments and changes in risk parameters   
Other items impacting income statement charge/(reversal) (including recoveries) 
Redemptions 
Income statement charge for the year 
Decrease due to write-offs 
Other provision movements 
4 April 2019 
Net carrying amount 

Non-credit impaired 

Subject to 12 month ECL 
Stage 1 

Subject to lifetime ECL 
Stage 2 

Credit impaired (note i) 
Subject to lifetime ECL 
Stage 3 and POCI 

Total 

  Gross balances 
£m 
156,647 

Provisions  Gross balances 
£m 
19,072 

£m 
17 

Provisions  Gross balances 
£m 
1,395 

£m 
171 

Provisions  Gross balances 
£m 
177,114 

£m 
47 

Provisions 
£m 
235 

(27,661) 
(294) 
35,956 
185 

8,186 

35,279 
(7,459) 
1 
(16,631) 

- 
- 
176,023 

(8) 
- 
141 
1 
(131) 
3 

6 
13 
- 
(2) 

- 
- 
37 
175,986 

27,661 
(837) 
(35,956) 
547 

(8,585) 

- 
(293) 
- 
(1,715) 

- 
- 
8,479 

8 
(30) 
(141) 
13 
120 
(30) 

- 
- 
- 
(14) 

- 
- 
127 
8,352 

- 
1,131 
- 
(732) 

399 

- 
(43) 
1 
(273) 

(41) 
- 
1,438 

- 
30 
- 
(14) 
(8) 
8 

- 
4 
(4) 
(1) 

(16) 
4 
42 
1,396 

- 
- 
- 
- 

- 

35,279 
(7,795) 
2 
(18,619) 

(41) 
- 
185,940 

- 
- 
- 
- 
(19) 
(19) 

6 
17 
(4) 
(17) 
(17) 
(16) 
4 
206 
185,734 

Note: 
i.

Gross balances of credit impaired loans include £167 million (5 April 2018: £180 million) of purchased or originated credit impaired (POCI) loans, which are presented net of lifetime ECL impairment provisions of £6 million (5 April 2018: £7 million). 

Gross balances increased by £8,826 million over the year as a result of positive net lending. The stage 2 balance reduced by £10,593 million, primarily due to net transfers from stage 2 to stage 1 for both prime and specialist 
residential mortgages. As the stage of individual loans is assessed monthly, the gross movements between stages 1 and 2 include transfers caused by relatively small changes in PD leading to their breaching the threshold for 
transferring assets to stage 2 and vice versa.  

During the year there has been a net decrease of £8,585 million of residential mortgage balances in stage 2, the majority of which moved to stage 1. The reasons for this movement are:  

•

•

Prime mortgages - ECL models are subject to ongoing review to ensure they continue to reflect actual experience as it evolves. Consequential model updates during the year reduced PDs, resulting in a shift in loans from 
stage 2 to stage 1. This movement was partly offset by a decision to change one of our staging criteria from a multiple of 8 times origination PD to a multiple of 4, thus making the models more sensitive to relative PD 
changes over time. There was no significant impact on provisions given the strong quality of the loans affected. 
Specialist mortgages - Staging movements during the year were affected by the same updates and criterion change described above for prime mortgages. In addition, we have changed assumptions for income growth on 
BTL loans to be correlated to wage growth, rather than CPI, to align more closely with other aspects of our risk assessment on these loans. This change reduced the number of stage 2 loans with a consequent reduction in 
provisions of £11 million. 

Total impairment provisions decreased by £29 million. The main drivers of this reduction are the movement of assets from stage 2 to stage 1, combined with the run-off of legacy portfolios which represent the majority of write-offs.  

Further information on movements in total gross loans and advances to customers and impairment provisions, including the methodology applied in preparing the table, is included in note 14 to the financial statements. 

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115  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Reason for residential mortgages being included in stage 2 
4 April 2019 

Quantitative criteria: 

Payment status (greater than 30 DPD) (note i) 
Increase in PD since origination (less than 30 DPD) 

Qualitative criteria: 

Forbearance (less than 30 DPD) 
Interest only – significant risk of inability to refinance at 
maturity (less than 30 DPD) 
Other qualitative criteria 

Prime 
£m 

267 
1,613 

148 
- 

20 

% 

13 
79 

7 
- 

1 

Specialist 
£m 

213 
2,186 

7 
4,018 

7 

% 

3 
34 

- 
63 

- 

Total Stage 2 gross balances 

2,048 

100 

6,431 

100 

Note: 
i.

This category includes all loans greater than 30 DPD, including those where the original reason for being classified as stage 2 was not arrears over 30 DPD.  

Total 

£m 

480 
3,799 

155 
4,018 

27 

8,479 

% 

6 
45 

2 
47 

- 

100 

Loans which are reported within stage 2 are those which have experienced a significant increase in credit risk since origination. The significant increase is determined through both quantitative and qualitative indicators. Of the 
£8,479 million stage 2 balances, only 6% are in arrears by 30 days or more.  

The primary quantitative indicators are the outputs of internal credit risk assessments. For retail exposures, PDs are derived using modelled scorecards, which use external information such as that from credit reference agencies, as 
well as internal information such as known instances of arrears or other financial difficulty. While different approaches are used within each portfolio, current and historical data relating to the exposure are combined with forward-
looking macroeconomic information to determine the likelihood of default. 

The credit risk of each loan is evaluated at each reporting date by calculating the residual lifetime PD of each loan. For retail loans, the main indicators of a significant increase in credit risk are either of the following: 

•
•

the residual lifetime probability of default (PD) exceeds a benchmark determined by reference to the maximum credit risk that would have been accepted at origination 
the residual lifetime PD has increased by both at least 75bps and a 4x multiple of the original lifetime PD (5 April 2018: 8x multiple). 

Qualitative indicators are also used to complement the above. These indicators include the increased risk associated with interest only loans which may not be able to refinance at maturity. Also included are forbearance events where 
full repayment of principal and interest is still anticipated, on a discounted basis. In addition, loans will be moved to stage 2 when certain “backstop” events occur, including arrears of greater than 30 days past due.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Reason for residential mortgages being included in stage 2 

4 April 2019 

Quantitative criteria: 

Payment status (greater than 30 DPD) (note i) 

Increase in PD since origination (less than 30 DPD) 

Qualitative criteria: 

Forbearance (less than 30 DPD) 

Interest only – significant risk of inability to refinance at 

maturity (less than 30 DPD) 

Other qualitative criteria 

Prime 

£m 

267 

1,613 

148 

- 

20 

% 

13 

79 

7 

- 

1 

213 

2,186 

4,018 

7 

7 

Specialist 

£m 

Total 

£m 

% 

3 

34 

- 

63 

- 

480 

3,799 

155 

4,018 

27 

8,479 

% 

6 

45 

2 

47 

- 

100 

Total Stage 2 gross balances 

2,048 

100 

6,431 

100 

Note: 

i.

This category includes all loans greater than 30 DPD, including those where the original reason for being classified as stage 2 was not arrears over 30 DPD.  

Loans which are reported within stage 2 are those which have experienced a significant increase in credit risk since origination. The significant increase is determined through both quantitative and qualitative indicators. Of the 

£8,479 million stage 2 balances, only 6% are in arrears by 30 days or more.  

The primary quantitative indicators are the outputs of internal credit risk assessments. For retail exposures, PDs are derived using modelled scorecards, which use external information such as that from credit reference agencies, as 

well as internal information such as known instances of arrears or other financial difficulty. While different approaches are used within each portfolio, current and historical data relating to the exposure are combined with forward-

looking macroeconomic information to determine the likelihood of default. 

The credit risk of each loan is evaluated at each reporting date by calculating the residual lifetime PD of each loan. For retail loans, the main indicators of a significant increase in credit risk are either of the following: 

•

•

the residual lifetime probability of default (PD) exceeds a benchmark determined by reference to the maximum credit risk that would have been accepted at origination 

the residual lifetime PD has increased by both at least 75bps and a 4x multiple of the original lifetime PD (5 April 2018: 8x multiple). 

Qualitative indicators are also used to complement the above. These indicators include the increased risk associated with interest only loans which may not be able to refinance at maturity. Also included are forbearance events where 

full repayment of principal and interest is still anticipated, on a discounted basis. In addition, loans will be moved to stage 2 when certain “backstop” events occur, including arrears of greater than 30 days past due.  

116  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Credit quality 

The residential mortgages portfolio comprises many relatively small loans which are broadly homogenous, have low volatility of credit risk outcomes and are geographically diversified. The table below shows the loan balances and 
provisions for residential mortgages held at amortised cost, by PD range. The PD distributions shown are based on a 12 month PD under IFRS 9 at the reporting date. 

Loan balance and provisions by PD (note i) 
4 April 2019 
(Audited) 

Gross balances 

Provisions 

Stage 1 

Stage 2 

PD Range 
0.00 to < 0.15% 
0.15 to < 0.25% 
0.25 to < 0.50% 
0.50 to < 0.75% 
0.75 to < 2.50% 
2.50 to < 10.00% 
10.00 to < 100% 
100% (default) 
Total 

Loan balance and provisions by PD (note i)  
5 April 2018  
(Audited) 

PD Range 
0.00 to < 0.15% 
0.15 to < 0.25% 
0.25 to < 0.50% 
0.50 to < 0.75% 
0.75 to < 2.50% 
2.50 to < 10.00% 
10.00 to < 100% 
100% (default) 
Total 

£m 
 165,949  
 4,631  
 2,471  
 1,689  
 1,157  
 126  
 -    
 -    

176,023 

Stage 1 

£m 
147,728 
4,969 
2,317 
1,014 
619 
- 
- 
- 
156,647 

Note: 
i.

Includes POCI loans of £167 million (5 April 2018: £180 million). 

Stage 3  
and POCI 
£m 
 88  
 23  
 34  
 16  
 57  
 129  
 189  
 902  
1,438 

Total 

Stage 1 

Stage 2 

£m 
170,315 
5,385 
2,995 
1,975 
2,093 
1,312 
963 
902 
185,940 

£m 
 30  
 3  
 2  
 1  
 1  
 -    
 -    
 -    
37 

£m 
 43  
 9  
 8  
 5  
 18  
 18  
 26  
 -    

127 

£m 
 4,278  
 731  
 490  
 270  
 879  
 1,057  
 774  
 -    

8,479 

Gross balances 

Provisions 

Stage 2 

£m 
10,781 
1,733 
1,461 
1,205 
1,719 
1,332 
841 
- 
19,072 

Stage 3 
 and POCI 
£m 
81 
22 
38 
16 
57 
125 
166 
890 
1,395 

Total 

Stage 1 

Stage 2 

£m 
158,590 
6,724 
3,816 
2,235 
2,395 
1,457 
1,007 
890 
177,114 

£m 
13 
2 
1 
- 
1 
- 
- 
- 
17 

£m 
63 
14 
11 
9 
21 
26 
27 
- 
171 

Stage 3 
 and POCI 
£m 

 -    
 -    
 -    
 -    
 -    
 1  
 3  
 38  
42 

Stage 3 
 and POCI 
£m 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
1 
2 
44 
47 

Provision 
coverage 

% 
0.04 
0.23 
0.33 
0.29 
0.93 
1.45 
3.00 
4.18 
0.11 

Provision 
coverage 

% 

0.05 
0.24 
0.31 
0.43 
0.90 
1.82 
2.87 
4.93 
0.13 

Total 

£m 
73 
12 
10 
6 
19 
19 
29 
38 
206 

Total 

£m 
76 
16 
12 
9 
22 
27 
29 
44 
235 

Over the year, the PD distribution has remained broadly stable, reflecting the high quality of the residential mortgage portfolios and benign economic conditions. At year end, 98% of the portfolio had a PD of less than 2.5% (5 April 
2018: 98%). The provisions allocated to the lowest PD range primarily reflect the fact that the majority of loans are in this range. Changes in provision coverage for loans in different PD ranges are principally due to the continued run-
off of balances in specialist legacy lending portfolios, together with the impact of updating economic assumptions.  

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117  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Distribution of new business by borrower type (by value) 

Distribution of new business by borrower type (by value)  
(note i) 

Prime: 

First time buyers 
Home movers 
Remortgagers 
Other 
Total prime 

Specialist: 

Buy to let new purchases 
Buy to let remortgagers 

Total specialist 

Total new business 

2019 
% 

2018 
% 

35 
25 
25 
1 
86 

3 
11 
14 

38 
29 
21 
1 
89 

2 
9 
11 

100 

100 

Note:  
i.

All new business measures exclude further advances and product switches.  

New business by borrower type remains diversified. During the year there has been a shift in the distribution of new business from prime to specialist lending, reflecting an increase in buy to let low LTV remortgage business and, 
following a successful pilot, the embedding of our lending to limited companies, recognising that landlords are increasingly using these as a vehicle for their investment. 

In October 2014, the Financial Policy Committee (FPC) introduced a 15% limit on the proportion of new lending for residential mortgages, excluding buy to let, that may be written at income multiples of 4.5 and above. The 
proportion of new lending at income multiples of 4.5 or higher was 7.7% in the year (2018: 8.3%). This is closely monitored and controlled to remain within risk appetite and FPC limits.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Distribution of new business by borrower type (by value) 

Distribution of new business by borrower type (by value)  

(note i) 

Prime: 

First time buyers 

Home movers 

Remortgagers 

Other 

Total prime 

Specialist: 

Buy to let new purchases 

Buy to let remortgagers 

Total specialist 

Total new business 

Note:  

2019 

% 

2018 

% 

35 

25 

25 

1 

86 

3 

11 

14 

38 

29 

21 

1 

89 

2 

9 

11 

100 

100 

i.

All new business measures exclude further advances and product switches.  

New business by borrower type remains diversified. During the year there has been a shift in the distribution of new business from prime to specialist lending, reflecting an increase in buy to let low LTV remortgage business and, 

following a successful pilot, the embedding of our lending to limited companies, recognising that landlords are increasingly using these as a vehicle for their investment. 

In October 2014, the Financial Policy Committee (FPC) introduced a 15% limit on the proportion of new lending for residential mortgages, excluding buy to let, that may be written at income multiples of 4.5 and above. The 

proportion of new lending at income multiples of 4.5 or higher was 7.7% in the year (2018: 8.3%). This is closely monitored and controlled to remain within risk appetite and FPC limits.  

118  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

LTV and credit risk concentration 

Loan to value (LTV) is calculated by weighting the borrower level LTV by the individual loan balance to arrive at an average LTV. This approach is considered to reflect most appropriately the exposure at risk.

LTV distribution of new business 

0% to 60% 
60% to 75% 
75% to 80%  
80% to 85% 
85% to 90% 
90% to 95% 
Over 95% 
Total 

2019 
% 
25 
33 
7 
10 
22 
3 
- 
100 

2018 
% 
26 
30 
9 
14 
18 
3 
- 
100 

Average LTV of new business  
(note i) 

Prime 
Specialist (buy to let) 
Group 

Average LTV of loan stock  
(note ii) 

Prime 
Specialist 
Group 

2019 
% 
73 
60 
71 

2018 
% 
72 
61 
71 

4 April 2019 
% 
57 
58 
58 

4 April 2018 
% 
55 
58 
56 

Notes:  
i.
ii.

The LTV of new business excludes further advances and product switches. 
The average LTV of loan stock includes both amortised cost and FVTPL balances. There have been no new FVTPL 
advances during the year.  

The maximum LTV for new prime residential borrowers remains at 95%. Nationwide continues to support first time buyers. All of this lending meets Nationwide underwriting criteria and our risk appetite for lending. The proportion 
of new business with an LTV above 80% remained stable at 35% (4 April 2018: 35%). The average LTV of loan stock has increased to 58% (4 April 2018: 56%), with the increase reflecting our new lending; in the prior year this was 
offset to a greater degree by house price growth impacting the whole portfolio. Whilst there are no signs of deterioration in the residential mortgage portfolio, with the immediate outlook for the UK and the HPI being less certain, the 
expectation is for a gradual rise in LTV from current low levels. 

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119  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Residential mortgage balances by LTV and region 

Geographical concentration by stage 

The following table shows residential mortgages, excluding FVTPL balances, by LTV and region across stages 1 and 2 (non-credit impaired) and stage 3 (credit impaired):  

Residential mortgage gross balances by LTV and region 
4 April 2019  

(Audited) 
Stage 1 and 2 loans 
Fully collateralised 
LTV ratio: 

Up to 50% 
50% to 60% 
60% to 70% 
70% to 80% 
80% to 90% 
90% to 100% 

Not fully collateralised 
Over 100% LTV  
Collateral value  
Negative equity  

Total stage 1 and 2 loans 

Stage 3 and POCI loans 
Fully collateralised 
LTV ratio: 

Up to 50% 
50% to 60% 
60% to 70% 
70% to 80% 
80% to 90% 
90% to 100% 

Not fully collateralised 
Over 100% LTV  
Collateral value  
Negative equity  

Total stage 3 and POCI loans 

Total residential mortgages 

Greater  
London 
£m 

Central  
England 
£m 

Northern 
England 
£m 

South East 
England 
£m 

South West 
England 
£m 

Scotland 

Wales 

£m 

£m 

Northern  
Ireland 
£m 

Total 

£m 

% 

24,171 
11,296 
10,060 
8,078 
5,876 
2,645 
62,126 

5 
4 
1 

10,927 
6,122 
6,743 
5,498 
3,331 
705 
33,326 

3 
3 
- 

7,408 
4,382 
6,434 
5,682 
3,679 
543 
28,128 

17 
14 
3 

8,286 
4,221 
3,928 
3,480 
2,595 
916 
23,426 

1 
1 
- 

5,833 
3,143 
3,385 
2,757 
2,019 
517 
17,654 

2 
1 
1 

3,104 
1,714 
2,458 
2,516 
1,488 
208 
11,488 

6 
6 
- 

1,439 
814 
1,285 
1,172 
744 
167 
5,621 

2 
1 
1 

970 
382 
413 
428 
282 
84 
2,559 

138 
118 
20 

62,138 
32,074 
34,706 
29,611 
20,014 
5,785 
184,328 

174 
148 
26 

99.1 

0.1 

62,131 

33,329 

28,145 

23,427 

17,656 

11,494 

5,623 

2,697 

184,502 

99.2 

233 
115 
54 
15 
9 
3 
429 

- 
- 
- 

83 
50 
58 
48 
14 
1 
254 

1 
1 
- 

61 
39 
56 
57 
50 
22 
285 

6 
5 
1 

61 
35 
31 
17 
4 
1 
149 

- 
- 
- 

39 
25 
25 
21 
3 
1 
114 

- 
- 
- 

429 

255 

291 

149 

114 

23 
15 
20 
17 
13 
3 
91 

1 
1 
- 

92 

11 
9 
9 
11 
10 
3 
53 

1 
1 
- 

54 

11 
5 
5 
4 
4 
5 
34 

20 
17 
3 

54 

522 
293 
258 
190 
107 
39 
1,409 

29 
25 
4 

1,438 

62,560 

33,584 

28,436 

23,576 

17,770 

11,586 

5,677 

2,751 

185,940 

0.8 

-  

0.8 

100 

Total geographical concentrations 

34% 

18% 

15% 

13% 

10% 

6% 

3% 

1% 

100% 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Residential mortgage balances by LTV and region 

Geographical concentration by stage 

Residential mortgage gross balances by LTV and region 

The following table shows residential mortgages, excluding FVTPL balances, by LTV and region across stages 1 and 2 (non-credit impaired) and stage 3 (credit impaired):  

Greater  

London 

£m 

Central  

England 

£m 

Northern 

England 

£m 

South East 

England 

£m 

South West 

England 

£m 

Scotland 

Wales 

£m 

£m 

Northern  

Ireland 

£m 

4 April 2019  

(Audited) 

Stage 1 and 2 loans 

Fully collateralised 

LTV ratio: 

Up to 50% 

50% to 60% 

60% to 70% 

70% to 80% 

80% to 90% 

90% to 100% 

Not fully collateralised 

Over 100% LTV  

Collateral value  

Negative equity  

Total stage 1 and 2 loans 

Stage 3 and POCI loans 

Fully collateralised 

LTV ratio: 

Up to 50% 

50% to 60% 

60% to 70% 

70% to 80% 

80% to 90% 

90% to 100% 

Not fully collateralised 

Over 100% LTV  

Collateral value  

Negative equity  

Total stage 3 and POCI loans 

Total residential mortgages 

62,131 

33,329 

28,145 

23,427 

17,656 

11,494 

5,623 

2,697 

184,502 

99.2 

24,171 

11,296 

10,060 

8,078 

5,876 

2,645 

62,126 

5 

4 

1 

233 

115 

54 

15 

9 

3 

429 

- 

- 

- 

10,927 

6,122 

6,743 

5,498 

3,331 

705 

33,326 

3 

3 

- 

83 

50 

58 

48 

14 

1 

254 

1 

1 

- 

7,408 

4,382 

6,434 

5,682 

3,679 

543 

28,128 

17 

14 

3 

61 

39 

56 

57 

50 

22 

285 

6 

5 

1 

8,286 

4,221 

3,928 

3,480 

2,595 

916 

23,426 

1 

1 

- 

61 

35 

31 

17 

4 

1 

149 

- 

- 

- 

5,833 

3,143 

3,385 

2,757 

2,019 

517 

17,654 

2 

1 

1 

39 

25 

25 

21 

3 

1 

114 

- 

- 

- 

3,104 

1,714 

2,458 

2,516 

1,488 

208 

11,488 

6 

6 

- 

23 

15 

20 

17 

13 

3 

91 

1 

1 

- 

92 

1,439 

814 

1,285 

1,172 

744 

167 

5,621 

2 

1 

1 

11 

9 

9 

11 

10 

3 

53 

1 

1 

- 

54 

Total 

£m 

62,138 

32,074 

34,706 

29,611 

20,014 

5,785 

174 

148 

26 

522 

293 

258 

190 

107 

39 

1,409 

29 

25 

4 

1,438 

970 

382 

413 

428 

282 

84 

138 

118 

20 

11 

5 

5 

4 

4 

5 

34 

20 

17 

3 

54 

% 

99.1 

0.1 

0.8 

-  

0.8 

100 

120  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Residential mortgage gross balances by LTV and region 
5 April 2018 (note i) 

(Audited) 
Stage 1 and 2 loans 
Fully collateralised 
LTV ratio: 

Up to 50% 
50% to 60% 
60% to 70% 
70% to 80% 
80% to 90% 
90% to 100% 

Not fully collateralised 
Over 100% LTV  
Collateral value  
Negative equity  

Greater  
London 
£m 

Central  
England 
£m 

Northern 
England 
£m 

South East 
England 
£m 

South West 
England 
£m 

Scotland 

£m 

27,017 
11,577 
9,030 
6,453 
4,989 
508 
59,574 

4 
3 
1 

10,490 
5,968 
6,848 
4,974 
2,824 
318 
31,422 

4 
3 
1 

6,962 
4,133 
6,182 
5,604 
3,411 
458 
26,750 

24 
20 
4 

8,789 
4,527 
3,698 
2,820 
1,977 
308 
22,119 

2 
2 
- 

5,846 
3,250 
3,326 
2,423 
1,594 
172 
16,611 

2 
2 
- 

2,911 
1,624 
2,388 
2,511 
1,461 
286 
11,181 

12 
11 
1 

Wales 

£m 

1,396 
803 
1,279 
1,105 
679 
67 
5,329 

1 
1 
- 

Northern  
Ireland 
£m 

943 
393 
397 
409 
276 
87 
2,505 

179 
153 
26 

Total 

£m 

64,354 
32,275 
33,148 
26,299 
17,211 
2,204 
175,491 

228 
195 
33 

% 

99.1 

0.1 

2,559 

184,328 

Total stage 1 and 2 loans 

59,578 

31,426 

26,774 

22,121 

16,613 

11,193 

5,330 

2,684 

175,719 

99.2 

Stage 3 and POCI loans 
Fully collateralised 
LTV ratio: 

Up to 50% 
50% to 60% 
60% to 70% 
70% to 80% 
80% to 90% 
90% to 100% 

Not fully collateralised 
Over 100% LTV  
Collateral value  
Negative equity  

Total stage 3 and POCI loans 

Total residential mortgages 

257 
98 
39 
7 
4 
1 
406 

- 
- 
- 

76 
47 
55 
41 
20 
2 
241 

1 
1 
- 

59 
36 
55 
53 
53 
28 
284 

5 
5 
- 

65 
36 
33 
11 
2 
- 
147 

- 
- 
- 

38 
25 
23 
18 
2 
1 
107 

- 
- 
- 

406 

242 

289 

147 

107 

17 
15 
20 
19 
10 
5 
86 

1 
1 
- 

87 

11 
9 
11 
10 
10 
4 
55 

1 
1 
- 

56 

12 
6 
5 
4 
6 
4 
37 

24 
19 
5 

61 

535 
272 
241 
163 
107 
45 
1,363 

32 
27 
5 

1,395 

59,984 

31,668 

27,063 

22,268 

16,720 

11,280 

5,386 

2,745 

177,114 

0.8 

- 

0.8 

100 

429 

255 

291 

149 

114 

62,560 

33,584 

28,436 

23,576 

17,770 

11,586 

5,677 

2,751 

185,940 

Note: 
i.

The distribution of the portfolio by geography and LTV ratios at 4 April 2018 is the same as that disclosed for 5 April 2018.  

Over the year, the geographical distribution of residential mortgages across the UK has remained stable, with the highest concentration continuing to be in Greater London, at 34% of the total.  

Total geographical concentrations 

34% 

18% 

15% 

13% 

9% 

6% 

3% 

2% 

100% 

Total geographical concentrations 

34% 

18% 

15% 

13% 

10% 

6% 

3% 

1% 

100% 

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121  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

In addition to balances held at amortised cost shown in the table above, there are £72 million (5 April 2018: £189 million) of residential mortgages held at FVTPL which have an average LTV of 40% (5 April 2018: 40%). The largest 
geographical concentration within the FVTPL balances is in Greater London, at 44% (5 April 2018: 33%). 

Arrears and possessions 

Residential mortgage lending continues to have a low risk profile as demonstrated by the low level of arrears compared to the industry average:

Number of cases more than 3 months in arrears as % of total book 

Number of properties in possession as % of total book 

Prime 
Specialist 
Total 

4 April 2019 
% 
0.35 
0.82 
0.43 

4 April 2018 
% 
0.34 
0.83 
0.43 

UK Finance (UKF) industry average 

0.78 

0.81 

Note: The methodology for calculating mortgage arrears is based on the UKF definition of arrears, where months in arrears is 
determined by dividing the arrears balance outstanding by the latest contractual payment. 

Prime 
Specialist 
Total 

UKF industry average 

4 April 2019 

4 April 2018 

Number of 
properties 
78 
153 
231 

Number of 
properties 
108 
150 
258 

% 

0.01 
0.05 
0.01 

0.02 

% 

0.01 
0.05 
0.02 

0.03 

Whilst there are no signs of deterioration in the portfolio, with the immediate outlook for the UK being less certain and the buy to let market facing increased costs and potentially less investor demand, a gradual rise in arrears from 
current low levels is expected over the medium term. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

geographical concentration within the FVTPL balances is in Greater London, at 44% (5 April 2018: 33%). 

Arrears and possessions 

Residential mortgage lending continues to have a low risk profile as demonstrated by the low level of arrears compared to the industry average:

Number of cases more than 3 months in arrears as % of total book 

Number of properties in possession as % of total book 

Prime 

Specialist 

Total 

UK Finance (UKF) industry average 

4 April 2019 

4 April 2018 

% 

0.35 

0.82 

0.43 

0.78 

% 

0.34 

0.83 

0.43 

0.81 

Prime 

Specialist 

Total 

UKF industry average 

Note: The methodology for calculating mortgage arrears is based on the UKF definition of arrears, where months in arrears is 

determined by dividing the arrears balance outstanding by the latest contractual payment. 

Whilst there are no signs of deterioration in the portfolio, with the immediate outlook for the UK being less certain and the buy to let market facing increased costs and potentially less investor demand, a gradual rise in arrears from 

current low levels is expected over the medium term. 

In addition to balances held at amortised cost shown in the table above, there are £72 million (5 April 2018: £189 million) of residential mortgages held at FVTPL which have an average LTV of 40% (5 April 2018: 40%). The largest 

Residential mortgages by payment status  

122  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

The following table shows the payment status of all residential mortgages. 

Residential mortgages gross balances by payment status 

4 April 2019 

4 April 2018 

Number of 

properties 

78 

153 

231 

Number of 

properties 

108 

150 

258 

% 

0.01 

0.05 

0.01 

0.02 

% 

0.01 

0.05 

0.02 

0.03 

(Audited) 
Not past due 
Past due up to 3 months  
Past due 3 to 6 months 
Past due 6 to 12 months 
Past due over 12 months 
Possessions 
Total residential mortgages 

4 April 2019 

4 April 2018 

Prime 
£m 
149,771 
1,356 
177 
122 
84 
7 
151,517 

Specialist  
£m 
33,468 
657 
159 
121 
69 
21 
34,495 

Total 
£m 
183,239 
2,013 
336 
243 
153 
28 
186,012 

% 
98.5 
1.1 
0.2 
0.1 
0.1 
- 
100 

Prime 
£m 
142,383 
1,294 
162 
113 
89 
8 
144,049 

Specialist  
£m 
32,197 
685 
159 
110 
76 
23 
33,250 

Total 
£m 
174,580 
1,979 
321 
223 
165 
31 
177,299 

% 
98.5 
1.1 
0.2 
0.1 
0.1 
- 
100 

The proportion of loans in arrears has remained stable at 1.5% (4 April 2018: 1.5%) and arrears levels remain low across prime and specialist lending, reflecting the favourable economic conditions and low interest rate environment, 
supported by robust credit assessment and affordability controls at the point of lending. In total, £370 million (4 April 2018: £368 million) of specialist lending balances were more than 3 months past due or in possession. Of these, 
£233 million or 63.0% (4 April 2018: £252 million; 68.5%) related to legacy portfolios in run-off.  

As at 4 April 2019, the mortgage portfolios included 1,491 mortgage accounts (4 April 2018: 1,634), including those in possession, where payments were more than 12 months in arrears. The total principal outstanding in these cases 
was £165 million (4 April 2018: £182 million), and the total value of arrears was £20 million (4 April 2018: £22 million) or 0.01% (4 April 2018: 0.01%) of total mortgage balances.  

Interest only mortgages  

Interest only balances for prime residential mortgages relate primarily to historical balances which were originally advanced as interest only mortgages or where a subsequent change in terms to an interest only basis was agreed. 
Maturities on interest only mortgages are managed closely, engaging regularly with borrowers to ensure the loan is redeemed or to agree a strategy for repayment. The majority of the specialist lending portfolio comprises buy to let 
loans, with 89% of the portfolio relating to interest only balances (4 April 2018: 89%). 

Interest only mortgages (gross balance) – term to maturity  
(note i) 

Term expired 
(still open) 

Due within one year 

4 April 2019 
Prime 
Specialist 
Total 

4 April 2018 
Prime 
Specialist 
Total 

£m 
69 
133 
202 

£m 
54 
126 
180 

£m 
278 
166 
444 

£m 
331 
173 
504 

Due after one year 
and before two 
years 
£m 
329 
272 
601 

Due after two 
years and before 
five years 
£m 
1,532 
1,281 
2,813 

£m 
366 
213 
579 

£m 
1,577 
1,305 
2,882 

Due after more than 
five years 

£m 
9,288 
28,785 
38,073 

£m 
11,271 
27,795 
39,066 

Total 

£m 
11,496 
30,637 
42,133 

£m 
13,599 
29,612 
43,211 

% of 
book 

% 

7.6 
88.8 
22.7 

% 
9.4 
89.1 
24.4 

Note: 
i.

Balances subject to forbearance with agreed term extensions are presented based on the latest agreed contractual term. 

Interest only loans that are term expired (still open) are not considered to be past due where contractual interest payments continue to be met, pending renegotiation of the facility. However, under IFRS 9 these are now treated as 
credit impaired and form part of the stage 3 balance from three months after the maturity date. Previously, term expired (still open) loans were not categorised as impaired unless in litigation or more than 3 months in arrears on the 
contractual interest payments. 

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123  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Forbearance 

Capitalisation 

Nationwide is committed to supporting borrowers facing financial difficulty by working with them to find  
a solution through proactive arrears management and forbearance.  

The following concession events are included within the forbearance reporting for residential mortgages: 

Past term interest only concessions 

Nationwide works with borrowers who are unable to repay the capital at term expiry of their interest only 
mortgage. Where a borrower is unable to renegotiate the facility within six months of maturity but no legal 
enforcement is pursued, the account is considered forborne. Should another concession event such as a term 
extension occur within the six month period, this is also classed as forbearance.  

Interest only concessions 

Where a temporary interest only concession is granted the loans do not accrue arrears for the period of the 
concession and are not categorised as impaired, unless already impaired, provided the revised interest only 
repayment amount is maintained.  

When a borrower emerges from financial difficulty and provided they have made at least six full monthly 
instalments, they are offered the option to capitalise arrears. This results in the account being repaired and 
the loans are categorised as not impaired provided contractual repayments are maintained.  

Term extensions (within term) 

Customers in financial difficulty may be allowed to extend the term of their mortgage. On a capital repayment 
mortgage this will reduce their monthly commitment; interest only borrowers will benefit by having a longer 
period to repay the capital at maturity.  

Permanent interest only conversions 

In the past, some borrowers in financial difficulty were granted a permanent interest only conversion, normally 
reducing their monthly commitment. This facility was withdrawn in March 2012.  

The table below provides details of residential mortgages held at amortised cost subject to forbearance, which 
are all assessed as in either stage 2 or stage 3:  

Gross balances subject to forbearance  
(note i) 

Past term interest only (note ii) 
Interest only concessions 
Capitalisation  
Term extensions (within term) 
Permanent interest only conversions (note iii) 
Total forbearance 

Impairment provisions on forborne loans 

4 April 2019 

5 April 2018 

Prime 
£m 
122 
525 
42 
35 
3 
727 

5 

Specialist 
£m 
134 
59 
51 
13 
33 
290 

11 

Total 
£m 
256 
584 
93 
48 
36 
1,017 

16 

Prime 
£m 
130 
511 
45 
35 
5 
 726  

 5  

Specialist 
£m 
136 
66 
59 
14 
24 
 299  

 11  

Total 
£m 
266 
577 
104 
49 
29 
 1,025  

 16  

Notes: 
i. Where more than one concession event has occurred, balances are reported under the latest event. 
ii.

Includes interest only mortgages where a customer is unable to renegotiate the facility within six months of maturity and no legal enforcement is pursued. Should a concession event such as a term extension occur within the six-month period, this will also be 
classed as forbearance.  
The increase from 2018 represents loans which were part interest only and part capital repayment, where the capital repayment element has been repaid and the loan categorised as an interest only conversion.  

iii.

Over the year, total balances subject to forbearance have remained stable at £1,017 million (5 April 2018: £1,025 million) and, as the portfolio has grown, the forborne balances as a percentage of total residential mortgage lending 
have reduced to 0.55% (5 April 2018: 0.58%). 

In addition to the amortised cost balances above, there are £72 million FVTPL balances (5 April 2018: £189 million), of which £4 million (5 April 2018: £19 million) are forborne. 

The total value of balances subject to forbearance at 4 April 2018 was £1,043 million, with an associated impairment provision of £17 million. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
124  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Consumer banking  

Summary 

The consumer banking portfolio comprises balances on unsecured retail banking products: overdrawn current accounts, personal loans and credit cards. Over the year, total balances across these portfolios have grown by £479 
million to £4,586 million (4 April 2018: £4,107 million), equating to 12% growth, and credit quality has remained stable. 

Consumer banking gross balances 

(Audited) 
Overdrawn current accounts 
Personal loans 
Credit cards 
Total consumer banking 

4 April 2019 

4 and 5 April 2018 

£m 
324 
2,449 
1,813 
4,586 

% 
7 
53 
40 
100 

£m 
277 
2,031 
1,799 
4,107 

% 
7 
49 
44 
100 

Interest only concessions 

In the past, some borrowers in financial difficulty were granted a permanent interest only conversion, normally 

reducing their monthly commitment. This facility was withdrawn in March 2012.  

Following the transition to IFRS 9, all consumer banking loans continue to be classified and measured at amortised cost. 

Where a temporary interest only concession is granted the loans do not accrue arrears for the period of the 

concession and are not categorised as impaired, unless already impaired, provided the revised interest only 

repayment amount is maintained.  

are all assessed as in either stage 2 or stage 3:  

The table below provides details of residential mortgages held at amortised cost subject to forbearance, which 

Impairment losses for the year 

(Audited) 
Overdrawn current accounts 
Personal loans 
Credit cards  
Total  

2019  
(IFRS 9 basis)  
£m 
9 
38 
67 
114 

2018  
(IAS 39 basis)  
£m 
15 
36 
46 
97 

Note: 
Impairment losses represent the net amount charged through the profit and loss account, rather than amounts written off during the year.  

Impairment losses for the year reflect updates to the economic assumptions applied to provision calculations, which have led to a £23 million increase in provisions. The losses also include £13 million in recognition of the risk related 
to borrowers in persistent debt1 in the credit card portfolio. As impairment provisions are calculated on a different basis under IFRS 9 from IAS 39, the losses shown above are not comparable between 2018 and 2019. 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Residential mortgages (continued) 

Forbearance 

Capitalisation 

Nationwide is committed to supporting borrowers facing financial difficulty by working with them to find  

a solution through proactive arrears management and forbearance.  

The following concession events are included within the forbearance reporting for residential mortgages: 

Past term interest only concessions 

When a borrower emerges from financial difficulty and provided they have made at least six full monthly 

instalments, they are offered the option to capitalise arrears. This results in the account being repaired and 

the loans are categorised as not impaired provided contractual repayments are maintained.  

Term extensions (within term) 

Customers in financial difficulty may be allowed to extend the term of their mortgage. On a capital repayment 

mortgage this will reduce their monthly commitment; interest only borrowers will benefit by having a longer 

Nationwide works with borrowers who are unable to repay the capital at term expiry of their interest only 

mortgage. Where a borrower is unable to renegotiate the facility within six months of maturity but no legal 

enforcement is pursued, the account is considered forborne. Should another concession event such as a term 

extension occur within the six month period, this is also classed as forbearance.  

period to repay the capital at maturity.  

Permanent interest only conversions 

4 April 2019 

Prime 

Specialist 

5 April 2018 

Prime 

Specialist 

£m 

122 

525 

42 

35 

3 

727 

5 

£m 

134 

59 

51 

13 

33 

290 

11 

Total 

£m 

256 

584 

93 

48 

36 

1,017 

16 

£m 

130 

511 

45 

35 

5 

 726  

 5  

£m 

136 

66 

59 

14 

24 

 299  

 11  

Total 

£m 

266 

577 

104 

49 

29 

 1,025  

 16  

Gross balances subject to forbearance  

(note i) 

Past term interest only (note ii) 

Interest only concessions 

Capitalisation  

Term extensions (within term) 

Permanent interest only conversions (note iii) 

Total forbearance 

Impairment provisions on forborne loans 

Notes: 

classed as forbearance.  

have reduced to 0.55% (5 April 2018: 0.58%). 

i. Where more than one concession event has occurred, balances are reported under the latest event. 

ii.

Includes interest only mortgages where a customer is unable to renegotiate the facility within six months of maturity and no legal enforcement is pursued. Should a concession event such as a term extension occur within the six-month period, this will also be 

iii.

The increase from 2018 represents loans which were part interest only and part capital repayment, where the capital repayment element has been repaid and the loan categorised as an interest only conversion.  

Over the year, total balances subject to forbearance have remained stable at £1,017 million (5 April 2018: £1,025 million) and, as the portfolio has grown, the forborne balances as a percentage of total residential mortgage lending 

In addition to the amortised cost balances above, there are £72 million FVTPL balances (5 April 2018: £189 million), of which £4 million (5 April 2018: £19 million) are forborne. 

The total value of balances subject to forbearance at 4 April 2018 was £1,043 million, with an associated impairment provision of £17 million. 

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1 Borrowers are classified as being in persistent debt when they have paid more interest, fees and charges than capital over an 18-month period. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                                                      
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
125  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Consumer banking (continued) 

The following table shows consumer banking balances by stage, with the corresponding impairment provisions and resulting provision coverage ratios: 

Consumer banking product and staging analysis  

(Audited) 
Gross balances 

Overdrawn current accounts 
Personal loans 
Credit cards 
Total  
Provisions 

Overdrawn current accounts 
Personal loans 
Credit cards 
Total  

Provisions as a % of total balance 
Overdrawn current accounts 
Personal loans 
Credit cards 
Total 

Stage 1 
£m 

187 
2,140 
1,211 
3,538 

2 
11 
14 
27 

% 
1.30 
0.53 
1.12 
0.77 

4 April 2019 

Stage 2 
£m 

Stage 3 
£m 

100 
186 
475 
761 

18 
22 
92 
132 

% 
17.42 
12.11 
19.33 
17.32 

37 
123 
127 
287 

33 
107 
119 
259 

% 
89.92 
86.58 
93.61 
90.12 

Total 
£m 

324 
2,449 
1,813 
4,586 

53 
140 
225 
418 

% 
16.37 
5.74 
12.38 
9.11 

Stage 1 
£m 

149 
1,803 
1,312 
3,264 

2 
10 
13 
25 

% 
1.34 
0.57 
1.03 
0.78 

5 April 2018 

Stage 2 
£m 

Stage 3 
£m 

94 
116 
365 
575 

23 
18 
62 
103 

% 
24.19 
15.16 
17.09 
17.86 

34 
112 
122 
268 

30 
96 
111 
237 

% 
90.52 
86.31 
90.64 
88.45 

Total 
£m 

277 
2,031 
1,799 
4,107 

55 
124 
186 
365 

% 
19.97 
6.11 
10.36 
8.90 

As at 4 April 2019, 77% (5 April 2018: 79%) of the consumer banking portfolio is in stage 1. Over the year, consumer banking balances in stages 2 and 3 have increased, principally as a result of updating personal loan and credit card 
risk models for latest performance expectations and the recognition of the risks associated with persistent debt in the credit card portfolio, which resulted in balances moving from stage 1 to stage 2. In addition, changes in 
assumptions regarding the economic outlook have led to increased provisions, and therefore provision coverage, in the credit card portfolio. Further information is included in note 10 to the financial statements. 

Consumer banking stage 3 gross balances and provisions include charged off balances. These are accounts which are closed to future transactions and are held on the balance sheet for an extended period (up to 36 months) whilst 
recovery activities take place. Excluding these charged off balances and related provisions, the provision coverage ratio for the total portfolio is 5.0% (5 April 2018: 4.8%).  

 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Consumer banking (continued) 

Consumer banking product and staging analysis  

The following table shows consumer banking balances by stage, with the corresponding impairment provisions and resulting provision coverage ratios: 

Overdrawn current accounts 

Overdrawn current accounts 

(Audited) 

Gross balances 

Personal loans 

Credit cards 

Total  

Provisions 

Personal loans 

Credit cards 

Total  

Provisions as a % of total balance 

Overdrawn current accounts 

Personal loans 

Credit cards 

Total 

4 April 2019 

Stage 2 

£m 

Stage 3 

£m 

5 April 2018 

Stage 2 

£m 

Stage 3 

£m 

Stage 1 

£m 

187 

2,140 

1,211 

3,538 

2 

11 

14 

27 

% 

1.30 

0.53 

1.12 

0.77 

100 

186 

475 

761 

18 

22 

92 

132 

% 

17.42 

12.11 

19.33 

17.32 

37 

123 

127 

287 

33 

107 

119 

259 

% 

89.92 

86.58 

93.61 

90.12 

Total 

£m 

324 

2,449 

1,813 

4,586 

53 

140 

225 

418 

% 

16.37 

5.74 

12.38 

9.11 

Stage 1 

£m 

149 

1,803 

1,312 

3,264 

2 

10 

13 

25 

% 

1.34 

0.57 

1.03 

0.78 

94 

116 

365 

575 

23 

18 

62 

103 

% 

24.19 

15.16 

17.09 

17.86 

34 

112 

122 

268 

30 

96 

111 

237 

% 

90.52 

86.31 

90.64 

88.45 

Total 

£m 

277 

2,031 

1,799 

4,107 

55 

124 

186 

365 

% 

19.97 

6.11 

10.36 

8.90 

As at 4 April 2019, 77% (5 April 2018: 79%) of the consumer banking portfolio is in stage 1. Over the year, consumer banking balances in stages 2 and 3 have increased, principally as a result of updating personal loan and credit card 

risk models for latest performance expectations and the recognition of the risks associated with persistent debt in the credit card portfolio, which resulted in balances moving from stage 1 to stage 2. In addition, changes in 

assumptions regarding the economic outlook have led to increased provisions, and therefore provision coverage, in the credit card portfolio. Further information is included in note 10 to the financial statements. 

Consumer banking stage 3 gross balances and provisions include charged off balances. These are accounts which are closed to future transactions and are held on the balance sheet for an extended period (up to 36 months) whilst 

recovery activities take place. Excluding these charged off balances and related provisions, the provision coverage ratio for the total portfolio is 5.0% (5 April 2018: 4.8%).  

126  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Consumer banking (continued) 

Reason for consumer banking balances being included in stage 2 
4 April 2019 

Quantitative criteria: 

Payment status (greater than 30 DPD) (note i) 
Increase in PD since origination (less than 30 DPD) 

Qualitative criteria: 

Forbearance (less than 30 DPD) (note ii) 
Other qualitative criteria (less than 30 DPD) 

Total Stage 2 gross balances 

Overdrawn current accounts 

Personal loans 

Credit cards 

£m 

3 
84 

2 
11 

100 

% 

3 
84 

2 
11 

100 

£m 

9 
172 

- 
5 

186 

% 

5 
92 

- 
3 

100 

£m 

6 
414 

- 
55 

475 

% 

1 
87 

- 
12 

100 

Total 

£m 

18 
670 

2 
71 

761 

% 

2 
88 

- 
10 

100 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

This category includes all loans greater than 30 DPD, including those whose original reason for being classified as stage 2 was not arrears over 30 DPD. 
Stage 2 forbearance relates to cases where full repayment of principal and interest is still anticipated, on a discounted basis. 

Of the £761 million stage 2 balances, only 2% are in arrears by 30 days or more. Balances reported within stage 2 are those which have experienced a significant increase in credit risk since origination. The significant increase is 
determined through both quantitative and qualitative indicators. The majority of credit card balances included in stage 2 due to qualitative factors relate to exposures where there is increased risk as a result of persistent debt, 
reflecting emerging regulatory requirements.  

The primary quantitative indicators are the outputs of internal credit risk assessments. For retail exposures, PDs are derived using modelled scorecards, which use external information such as that from credit reference agencies as 
well as internal information such as known instances of arrears or other financial difficulty. While different approaches are used within each portfolio, current and historic data relating to the exposure are combined with forward-
looking macroeconomic information to determine the likelihood of default. 

The credit risk of each loan is evaluated at each reporting date by calculating its residual lifetime PD. For retail loans, the main indicators of a significant increase in credit risk are either of the following: 

•
•

the residual lifetime probability of default (PD) exceeds a benchmark determined by reference to the maximum credit risk that would have been accepted at origination 
the residual lifetime PD has increased by both at least 75bps and a 4x multiple of the original lifetime PD 

Qualitative criteria include both forbearance events and, within the credit card portfolio, recognition of the risk related to borrowers in persistent debt. In addition, loans are moved to stage 2 when certain “backstop” events occur, 
including arrears of greater than 30 days past due.  

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127  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Consumer banking (continued) 

Credit quality 

Nationwide adopts robust credit management policies and processes designed to recognise and manage the risks arising from the portfolio. 

The following table shows gross balances and provisions for consumer banking balances held at amortised cost, by PD range. The PD distributions shown are based on a 12 month probability of default under IFRS 9 at the reporting 
date: 

Consumer banking gross balances and provisions by PD 
4 April 2019 
(Audited) 

Gross balances 

PD range 
0.00 to <0.15% 
0.15 to < 0.25% 
0.25 to < 0.50% 
0.50 to < 0.75% 
0.75 to < 2.50% 
2.50 to < 10.00% 
10.00 to < 100% 
100% (default) 
Total 

Consumer banking gross balances and provisions by PD 
5 April 2018  
(Audited) 

PD range 
0.00 to <0.15% 
0.15 to < 0.25% 
0.25 to < 0.50% 
0.50 to < 0.75% 
0.75 to < 2.50% 
2.50 to < 10.00% 
10.00 to < 100% 
100% (default) 
Total 

Stage 1 
£m 
 1,016  
 364  
 542  
 332  
 911  
 366  
 7  
 -    

3,538 

Stage 1 
£m 
998 
314 
465 
292 
838 
347 
10 
- 
3,264 

Stage 2 
£m 
 5  
 9  
 24  
 26  
 190  
 349  
 158  
 -    

761 

Gross balances 

Stage 2 
£m 
3 
5 
17 
17 
116 
282 
135 
- 
575 

Stage 3 
£m 

 -    
 -    
 -    
 -    
 -    
 1  
 4  
 282  
287 

Stage 3 
£m 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
1 
5 
262 
268 

Total 
£m 
1,021 
373 
566 
358 
1,101 
716 
169 
282 
4,586 

Total 
£m 
1,001 
319 
482 
309 
954 
630 
150 
262 
4,107 

Stage 1 
£m 
 3  
 1  
 2  
 2  
 9  
 9  
 1  
 -    
27 

Stage 1 
£m 
1 
1 
2 
2 
9 
9 
1 
- 
25 

Provisions 

Stage 2 
£m 

Stage 3 
£m 

 -    
 1  
 2  
 2  
 21  
 53  
 53  
 -    

132 

Provisions 

Stage 2 
£m 
- 
- 
1 
1 
9 
41 
51 
- 
103 

 -    
 -    
 -    
 -    
 -    
 -    
 2  
 257  
259 

Stage 3 
£m 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
3 
234 
237 

Provision 
coverage 

% 
0.29 
0.48 
0.74 
1.19 
2.71 
8.74 
33.19 
90.98 
9.11 

Provision 
coverage 

% 
0.15 
0.32 
0.58 
0.90 
1.93 
7.86 
36.92 
89.26 
8.90 

Total 
£m 
3 
2 
4 
4 
30 
62 
56 
257 
418 

Total 
£m 
1 
1 
3 
3 
18 
50 
55 
234 
365 

The credit quality of the consumer banking portfolio has remained broadly stable, benefiting from the continued low interest rate environment, with 90% of the portfolio (5 April 2018: 90%) considered good quality with a PD of less 
than 10%. Changes in provision coverage for loans in different PD ranges are principally due to changes in the mix of products.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nationwide adopts robust credit management policies and processes designed to recognise and manage the risks arising from the portfolio. 

Credit risk in the consumer banking portfolios is primarily monitored and reported based on arrears status which is set out below: 

128  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Consumer banking (continued) 

Consumer banking balances by payment due status 

The following table shows gross balances and provisions for consumer banking balances held at amortised cost, by PD range. The PD distributions shown are based on a 12 month probability of default under IFRS 9 at the reporting 

Consumer banking gross balances by payment due status 
(Audited) 

Not past due 
Past due up to 3 months 
Past due 3 to 6 months 
Past due 6 to 12 months 
Past due over 12 months 
Charged off (note i) 
Total  

Overdrawn 
current 
accounts 
£m 
279 
12 
3 
3 
3 
24 
324 

Personal 
 loans 

4 April 2019 
Credit 
cards 

£m 
2,282 
48 
8 
15 
14 
82 
2,449 

£m 
1,667 
30 
11 
2 
- 
103 
1,813 

Total 

£m 
4,228 
90 
22 
20 
17 
209 
4,586 

Overdrawn 
current  
accounts 
£m 
235 
12 
4 
3 
3 
20 
277 

% 
92.2 
1.9 
0.5 
0.4 
0.4 
4.6 
100 

Personal 
 loans 

4 April 2018 
Credit 
cards 

£m 
1,882 
43 
13 
12 
13 
68 
2,031 

£m 
1,656 
33 
11 
2 
- 
97 
1,799 

Total 

£m 
3,773 
88 
28 
17 
16 
185 
4,107 

% 
91.9 
2.1 
0.7 
0.4 
0.4 
4.5 
100 

Note: 
i.

Charged off balances relate to accounts which are closed to future transactions and are held on the balance sheet for an extended period (up to 36 months, depending on the product) whilst recovery procedures take place. 

Total balances subject to arrears, excluding charged off balances, have remained stable at £149 million (4 April 2018: £149 million). Excluding charged off balances, balances on accounts in arrears have reduced to 3.2% (4 April 
2018: 3.6%) of the total portfolio as a result of overall portfolio growth. 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Consumer banking (continued) 

Credit quality 

date: 

4 April 2019 

(Audited) 

PD range 

0.00 to <0.15% 

0.15 to < 0.25% 

0.25 to < 0.50% 

0.50 to < 0.75% 

0.75 to < 2.50% 

2.50 to < 10.00% 

10.00 to < 100% 

100% (default) 

Total 

5 April 2018  

(Audited) 

PD range 

0.00 to <0.15% 

0.15 to < 0.25% 

0.25 to < 0.50% 

0.50 to < 0.75% 

0.75 to < 2.50% 

2.50 to < 10.00% 

10.00 to < 100% 

100% (default) 

Total 

Consumer banking gross balances and provisions by PD 

Gross balances 

Stage 2 

Stage 3 

£m 

Provisions 

Stage 2 

Stage 1 

£m 

Consumer banking gross balances and provisions by PD 

Gross balances 

Stage 2 

£m 

Stage 3 

£m 

Provisions 

Stage 1 

£m 

Stage 2 

£m 

Stage 3 

£m 

Stage 1 

£m 

 1,016  

 364  

 542  

 332  

 911  

 366  

 7  

 -    

3,538 

Stage 1 

£m 

998 

314 

465 

292 

838 

347 

10 

- 

3,264 

£m 

 5  

 9  

 24  

 26  

 190  

 349  

 158  

 -    

761 

3 

5 

17 

17 

116 

282 

135 

- 

575 

Total 

£m 

1,021 

373 

566 

358 

1,101 

716 

169 

282 

4,586 

Total 

£m 

1,001 

319 

482 

309 

954 

630 

150 

262 

4,107 

 -    

 -    

 -    

 -    

 -    

 1  

 4  

 282  

287 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

1 

5 

262 

268 

£m 

 -    

 1  

 2  

 2  

 21  

 53  

 53  

 -    

132 

- 

- 

1 

1 

9 

41 

51 

- 

103 

Stage 3 

£m 

 -    

 -    

 -    

 -    

 -    

 -    

 2  

 257  

259 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

3 

234 

237 

 3  

 1  

 2  

 2  

 9  

 9  

 1  

 -    

27 

1 

1 

2 

2 

9 

9 

1 

- 

25 

Provision 

coverage 

% 

0.29 

0.48 

0.74 

1.19 

2.71 

8.74 

33.19 

90.98 

9.11 

Provision 

coverage 

% 

0.15 

0.32 

0.58 

0.90 

1.93 

7.86 

36.92 

89.26 

8.90 

Total 

£m 

3 

2 

4 

4 

30 

62 

56 

257 

418 

Total 

£m 

1 

1 

3 

3 

18 

50 

55 

234 

365 

The credit quality of the consumer banking portfolio has remained broadly stable, benefiting from the continued low interest rate environment, with 90% of the portfolio (5 April 2018: 90%) considered good quality with a PD of less 

than 10%. Changes in provision coverage for loans in different PD ranges are principally due to changes in the mix of products.  

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129  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Consumer banking (continued) 

Forbearance 

Nationwide is committed to supporting customers facing financial difficulty by working with them to find a solution through proactive arrears management and forbearance.  

The following concession events are included within the forbearance reporting for consumer banking: 

Payment concession 

This concession consists of reduced monthly payments over an agreed period and may be offered to customers with an overdraft or credit card. For credit cards subject to such a concession, arrears do not increase provided the 
payments are made. 

Interest suppressed payment arrangement 

This temporary interest payment concession results in reduced monthly payments and may be offered to customers with an overdraft, credit card or personal loan. Interest payments and fees are suppressed during the period of the 
concession and arrears do not increase.  Cases subject to this concession are classified as impaired. 

Balances re-aged/re-written 

As customers repay their debt in line with the terms of their arrangement and begin to emerge from financial difficulty we will repair their accounts, bringing them into an up-to-date and performing position. For personal loans we 
will re-write their account over a longer term, to maintain a reduced monthly payment. For credit cards we re-age the account and set the payment status to ‘up-to-date’, at which point the customer is treated in the same way as any 
other performing account. 

The table below provides details of consumer banking balances subject to forbearance. These are all assessed as either stage 2, or stage 3 (credit-impaired) where full repayment of principal and interest is no longer anticipated. 

Gross balances subject to forbearance  
(note i) 

Payment concession 
Interest suppressed payment concession 
Balance re-aged/re-written 
Total forbearance  

Impairment provisions on forborne loans 

Overdrawn 
current 
accounts 
£m 
16 
6 
- 
22 

12 

4 April 2019 

Personal  
loans 

Credit 
cards 

£m 
- 
34 
1 
35 

29 

£m 
2 
15 
3 
20 

14 

Total 

£m 
18 
55 
4 
77 

55 

Overdrawn 
current 
 accounts 
£m 
18 
6 
- 
24 

13 

5 April 2018 

Personal 
 loans 

Credit 
cards 

£m 
- 
32 
- 
32 

27 

£m 
2 
16 
4 
22 

16 

Total 

£m 
20 
54 
4 
78 

56 

Note: 
i. Where more than one concession event has occurred, balances are reported under the latest event. 

Over the year, the volume of balances subject to forbearance has remained stable at £77 million (5 April 2018: £78 million), with forborne balances as a percentage of the total consumer banking lending improving to 1.7% (5 April 
2018: 1.9%), largely as a result of book growth. 

The total value of balances subject to forbearance at 4 April 2018 was £78 million with an associated impairment provision of £43 million. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Consumer banking (continued) 

Forbearance 

Payment concession 

payments are made. 

Interest suppressed payment arrangement 

Balances re-aged/re-written 

other performing account. 

Gross balances subject to forbearance  

(note i) 

Payment concession 

Interest suppressed payment concession 

Balance re-aged/re-written 

Total forbearance  

Impairment provisions on forborne loans 

Nationwide is committed to supporting customers facing financial difficulty by working with them to find a solution through proactive arrears management and forbearance.  

The following concession events are included within the forbearance reporting for consumer banking: 

This concession consists of reduced monthly payments over an agreed period and may be offered to customers with an overdraft or credit card. For credit cards subject to such a concession, arrears do not increase provided the 

This temporary interest payment concession results in reduced monthly payments and may be offered to customers with an overdraft, credit card or personal loan. Interest payments and fees are suppressed during the period of the 

concession and arrears do not increase.  Cases subject to this concession are classified as impaired. 

As customers repay their debt in line with the terms of their arrangement and begin to emerge from financial difficulty we will repair their accounts, bringing them into an up-to-date and performing position. For personal loans we 

will re-write their account over a longer term, to maintain a reduced monthly payment. For credit cards we re-age the account and set the payment status to ‘up-to-date’, at which point the customer is treated in the same way as any 

The table below provides details of consumer banking balances subject to forbearance. These are all assessed as either stage 2, or stage 3 (credit-impaired) where full repayment of principal and interest is no longer anticipated. 

Overdrawn 

current 

accounts 

£m 

16 

6 

- 

22 

12 

4 April 2019 

Personal  

loans 

Credit 

cards 

£m 

- 

34 

1 

35 

29 

£m 

2 

15 

3 

20 

14 

Total 

£m 

18 

55 

4 

77 

55 

Overdrawn 

current 

 accounts 

£m 

18 

6 

- 

24 

13 

5 April 2018 

Personal 

 loans 

Credit 

cards 

£m 

32 

- 

- 

32 

27 

£m 

2 

16 

4 

22 

16 

Total 

£m 

20 

54 

4 

78 

56 

Note: 

i. Where more than one concession event has occurred, balances are reported under the latest event. 

Over the year, the volume of balances subject to forbearance has remained stable at £77 million (5 April 2018: £78 million), with forborne balances as a percentage of the total consumer banking lending improving to 1.7% (5 April 

2018: 1.9%), largely as a result of book growth. 

The total value of balances subject to forbearance at 4 April 2018 was £78 million with an associated impairment provision of £43 million. 

130  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Commercial and other lending  

Summary 

The commercial portfolio comprises loans which have been provided to meet the funding requirements of registered social landlords, commercial real estate investors and project finance initiatives. Whilst the project finance and 
commercial real estate portfolios are closed to new business, the registered social landlord portfolio was re-opened in September 2018.  

Commercial and other lending gross balances 

Registered social landlords (note i)  
Commercial real estate (CRE) 
Project finance (note ii) 
Other lending (note iii) 
Commercial and other lending balances at amortised cost 
Fair value adjustment for micro hedged risk (note iv) 
Commercial lending balances – FVTPL (note v) 
Total 

4 April 2019 
£m 
5,980 
1,383 
807 
8 
8,178 
883 
57 
9,118 

5 April 2018 
£m 
6,816 
1,810 
906 
8 
9,540  
1,042 
58 
10,640 

4 April 2018  
£m 
6,820 
1,868 
906 
8 
9,602 
1,043 
- 
10,645 

Notes: 
i.
ii.
iii. Other lending previously included balances held with counterparties which are institutions similar to banks. These are now reported in loans and advances to banks and similar institutions, and comparatives for the prior period have been restated to disclose 

Loans to registered social landlords are secured on residential property. 
Loans advanced in relation to project finance are secured on cash flows from government or local authority backed contracts under the Private Finance Initiative. 

information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements.  

iv. Micro hedged risk relates to loans hedged on an individual basis.  
v.

As a result of their contractual cash flow characteristics, certain commercial loans were reclassified from amortised cost to FVTPL on transition to IFRS 9 on 5 April 2018 and remeasured at fair value. 

Over the year, total balances across the commercial portfolios have reduced, reflecting run-off of the closed CRE and project finance books, with borrowers repaying loans at or before loan maturity. In the registered social landlord 
portfolio, reductions are due to early repayments and a managed reduction in the concentration risk to loans above £200 million. As the portfolio balances have reduced the quality and performance of the portfolios has remained 
stable. 

Impairment losses /(reversals) for the year for commercial and other lending  

Total 

2019 
(IFRS 9 basis) 
£m 
16 

2018 
(IAS 39 basis) 
£m 
(1) 

Note:  
Impairment losses represent the net amount charged through the profit and loss account, rather than amounts written off during the year.  

The £16 million impairment loss for the year relates to two loans which are not representative of risks in the wider portfolio. As impairment provisions are calculated on a different basis under IFRS 9 from IAS 39, the losses shown 
above are not comparable between 2018 and 2019. 

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131  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Commercial and other lending (continued) 

The following table shows commercial and other lending balances carried at amortised cost on the balance sheet, with the stage allocation of the exposures, impairment provisions and resulting provision coverage ratios: 

Commercial and other lending product and staging analysis 

Gross balances  

Registered social landlords  
CRE 
Project finance  
Other lending 
Total  
Provisions 

Registered social landlords 
CRE 
Project finance 
Other lending 
Total  

Provisions as a % of total balance 
Registered social landlords 
CRE 
Project finance 
Other lending 
Total 

Stage 1 
£m 

5,923 
1,122 
754 
8 
7,807 

1 
2 
1 
- 
4 

% 
0.02 
0.19 
0.15 
- 
0.05 

4 April 2019 

Stage 2 
£m 

Stage 3 
£m 

57 
213 
29 
- 
299 

- 
2 
- 
- 
2 

% 
0.18 
0.96 
0.97 
- 
0.81 

- 
48 
24 
- 
72 

- 
18 
17 
- 
35 

% 
- 
37.11 
71.54 
- 
48.74 

Total 
£m 

5,980 
1,383 
807 
8 
8,178 

1 
22 
18 
- 
41 

% 
0.02 
1.58 
2.20 
- 
0.50 

Stage 1 
£m 

6,725 
1,587 
818 
8 
9,138 

1 
5 
- 
- 
6 

% 
0.01 
0.32 
0.02 
1.25 
0.07 

5 April 2018 

Stage 2 
£m 

Stage 3 
£m 

91 
186 
88 
- 
365 

- 
3 
7 
- 
10 

% 
0.15 
1.19 
8.37 
- 
2.74 

- 
37 
- 
- 
37 

- 
13 
- 
- 
13 

% 
- 
36.99 
- 
- 
35.55 

Total 
£m 

6,816 
1,810 
906 
8 
9,540 

1 
21 
7 
- 
29 

% 
0.01 
1.15 
0.83 
1.25 
0.30 

Over the year, the performance of the commercial and other lending portfolios has remained stable, with 95% (5 April 2018: 96%) of balances remaining in stage 1. Of the £299 million stage 2 loans (5 April 2018: £365 million), £1 
million (5 April 2018: £2 million) is in arrears by 30 days or more, with the remainder in stage 2 due to non-arrears factors such as a deterioration in risk rating or placement on a watchlist. 

The increase in CRE stage 2 and 3 balances is in respect of a small number of loans that are subject to increased loan maturity risk, with stage 3 (credit-impaired) loans, at £48 million (5 April 2018: £37 million), equating to 3% (5 
April 2018: 2%) of the total CRE exposure.  

Within the registered social landlord portfolio, there are no stage 3 assets, and only 1% (5 April 2018: 1%) of the exposure is in stage 2. Against a backdrop of a long history of zero defaults, the risk profile of this portfolio remains low.  

Loans in the project finance portfolio benefit from long-term cash flows, which typically emanate from the provision of assets such as schools, hospitals, police stations, government buildings and roads, procured under the Private 
Finance Initiative. 97% of balances are in respect of fully developed assets.  

There is no significant exposure to credit risk on the other lending balances.  

 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table shows commercial and other lending balances carried at amortised cost on the balance sheet, with the stage allocation of the exposures, impairment provisions and resulting provision coverage ratios: 

Credit quality 

132  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Commercial and other lending (continued) 

Over the year, the performance of the commercial and other lending portfolios has remained stable, with 95% (5 April 2018: 96%) of balances remaining in stage 1. Of the £299 million stage 2 loans (5 April 2018: £365 million), £1 

In addition to the above, £57 million (5 April 2018: £58 million) of commercial lending balances are classified as FVTPL, of which £53 million (5 April 2018: £53 million) relates to CRE loans with a risk grade of satisfactory. 

Nationwide adopts robust credit management policies and processes designed to recognise and manage the risks arising from the portfolio. 

The following table shows the CRE portfolio by risk grade and the provision coverage for each category. The table includes balances held at amortised cost only. 

CRE gross balances by risk grade and provision coverage 

Strong 
Good 
Satisfactory  
Weak 
Impaired 
Total  

Stage 1 

Stage 2 

Stage 3 

4 April 2019 

£m 
676 
381 
65 
- 
- 
1,122 

£m 
57 
76 
8 
72 
- 
213 

£m 
- 
- 
- 
- 
48 
48 

Total 

£m 
733 
457 
73 
72 
48 
1,383 

Provision 
coverage 
% 
0.3 
0.1 
0.4 
1.4 
37.1 
1.6 

Stage 1 

Stage 2 

Stage 3 

5 April 2018 

£m 
912 
614 
61 
- 
- 
1,587 

£m 
20 
79 
32 
55 
- 
186 

£m 
- 
- 
- 
- 
37 
37 

Total 

£m 
932 
693 
93 
55 
37 
1,810 

Provision 
coverage 
% 
0.5 
0.1 
1.2 
2.0 
36.0 
1.1 

The risk grades in the table above are based upon supervisory slotting criteria, under which exposures are classified into categories depending on the underlying credit risk, with the assessment based upon financial strength, asset 
characteristics, the strength of the sponsor and the security. As CRE balances reduce, the credit quality of the portfolio remains strong, with 91% (5 April 2018: 95%) of the portfolio continuing to be rated as satisfactory or better.  

Risk grades for the project finance portfolio are also based upon supervisory slotting criteria, with 97% of the exposure rated strong or good. 

The registered social landlord portfolio is risk rated using an internal PD rating model with the major drivers being financial strength, independent viability assessment ratings provided by the Regulator of Social Housing, and the type 
and size of the registered social landlord. The distribution of exposures is weighted towards the stronger risk ratings and against a backdrop of zero defaults, the credit quality remains high, with an average 12 month PD of 0.05% 
across the portfolio. 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Commercial and other lending (continued) 

Commercial and other lending product and staging analysis 

Gross balances  

Registered social landlords  

Registered social landlords 

CRE 

Project finance  

Other lending 

Total  

Provisions 

CRE 

Project finance 

Other lending 

Total  

CRE 

Project finance 

Other lending 

Total 

Provisions as a % of total balance 

Registered social landlords 

4 April 2019 

Stage 2 

£m 

Stage 3 

£m 

5 April 2018 

Stage 2 

£m 

Stage 3 

£m 

Stage 1 

£m 

5,923 

1,122 

754 

8 

7,807 

1 

2 

1 

- 

4 

% 

0.02 

0.19 

0.15 

- 

0.05 

57 

213 

29 

- 

299 

- 

2 

- 

- 

2 

% 

0.18 

0.96 

0.97 

- 

0.81 

- 

48 

24 

- 

72 

- 

18 

17 

- 

35 

% 

- 

37.11 

71.54 

- 

48.74 

Total 

£m 

5,980 

1,383 

807 

8 

8,178 

1 

22 

18 

- 

41 

% 

0.02 

1.58 

2.20 

- 

0.50 

Stage 1 

£m 

6,725 

1,587 

818 

8 

9,138 

1 

5 

- 

- 

6 

% 

0.01 

0.32 

0.02 

1.25 

0.07 

91 

186 

88 

- 

365 

- 

3 

7 

- 

10 

% 

0.15 

1.19 

8.37 

- 

2.74 

37 

- 

- 

- 

37 

- 

13 

- 

- 

13 

% 

- 

- 

- 

36.99 

35.55 

Total 

£m 

6,816 

1,810 

906 

8 

9,540 

1 

21 

7 

- 

29 

% 

0.01 

1.15 

0.83 

1.25 

0.30 

million (5 April 2018: £2 million) is in arrears by 30 days or more, with the remainder in stage 2 due to non-arrears factors such as a deterioration in risk rating or placement on a watchlist. 

The increase in CRE stage 2 and 3 balances is in respect of a small number of loans that are subject to increased loan maturity risk, with stage 3 (credit-impaired) loans, at £48 million (5 April 2018: £37 million), equating to 3% (5 

April 2018: 2%) of the total CRE exposure.  

Within the registered social landlord portfolio, there are no stage 3 assets, and only 1% (5 April 2018: 1%) of the exposure is in stage 2. Against a backdrop of a long history of zero defaults, the risk profile of this portfolio remains low.  

Loans in the project finance portfolio benefit from long-term cash flows, which typically emanate from the provision of assets such as schools, hospitals, police stations, government buildings and roads, procured under the Private 

Finance Initiative. 97% of balances are in respect of fully developed assets.  

There is no significant exposure to credit risk on the other lending balances.  

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133  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Commercial and other lending (continued) 

CRE balances by LTV and region 

The following table includes both amortised cost and FVTPL CRE balances. 

CRE lending gross balances by LTV and region  
(note i) 

Fully collateralised 
LTV ratio (note ii): 
Less than 25% 
25% to 50% 
51% to 75% 
76% to 90% 
91% to 100% 

Not fully collateralised: 
Over 100% LTV  
Collateral value  
Negative equity  

Total CRE loans 

Geographical concentration 

4 April 2019 

London 
£m 

Rest of UK 
£m 

89 
559 
181 
1 
1 
831 

- 
- 
- 

831 

58% 

70 
298 
175 
20 
6 
569 

36 
19 
17 

605 

42% 

Total 
£m 

159 
857 
356 
21 
7 
1,400 

36 
19 
17 

1,436 

100% 

London 
£m 

5 April 2018 

Rest of UK 
£m 

189 
569 
241 
4 
1 
1,004 

- 
- 
- 

1,004 

54% 

124 
374 
291 
51 
4 
844 

16 
7 
9 

860 

46% 

Total 
£m 

313 
943 
532 
55 
5 
1,848 

16 
7 
9 

1,864 

100% 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

A CRE loan may be secured on assets located in different regions. The calculation for regional allocation has been changed in the year to reflect a more refined approach, with comparatives presented on a consistent basis.   
The LTV ratio is calculated using the on-balance sheet carrying amount of the loan divided by the indexed value of the most recent independent external collateral valuation. The Investment Property (IPD) monthly index is used. 

Changes to the regional distribution of the CRE portfolio reflect the managed reduction of the portfolio, with 58% (5 April 2018: 54%) of the CRE exposure now being secured against assets located in London. Over the year, the LTV 
distribution of the CRE portfolio remained stable, with 96% (5 April 2018: 96%) of the portfolio having an LTV of 75% or less, and 71% (5 April 2018: 67%) of the portfolio having an LTV of 50% or less.  

The distribution of the CRE balances by geography and LTV ratios at 4 April 2018 is the same as that disclosed above as at 5 April 2018. 

Credit risk concentration by industry sector 

Credit risk exposure by industry sector is unchanged from the prior year, continuing to be spread across the retail, office, residential investment, industrial and leisure sectors. Where a CRE loan is secured on assets crossing different 
sectors, the sector allocation is based upon the value of the underlying assets in each sector. For CRE exposures, including FVTPL balances, the highest concentration is to the residential investment sector at 44% (5 April 2018: 
44%). Over the year, our exposure to retail assets has reduced from £367 million to £286 million.  

CRE balances by payment due status  

Of the £1,436 million (5 April 2018: £1,864 million) CRE exposure, including FVTPL balances, £24 million (5 April 2018: £52 million) relates to balances with arrears, of which £2 million (5 April 2018: £24 million) have arrears greater 
than 3 months.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Commercial and other lending (continued) 

CRE balances by LTV and region 

The following table includes both amortised cost and FVTPL CRE balances. 

CRE lending gross balances by LTV and region  

(note i) 

Fully collateralised 

LTV ratio (note ii): 

Less than 25% 

25% to 50% 

51% to 75% 

76% to 90% 

91% to 100% 

Not fully collateralised: 

Over 100% LTV  

Collateral value  

Negative equity  

Total CRE loans 

Geographical concentration 

Notes: 

i.

ii.

4 April 2019 

London 

£m 

Rest of UK 

£m 

London 

£m 

5 April 2018 

Rest of UK 

£m 

Total 

£m 

159 

857 

356 

21 

7 

1,400 

36 

19 

17 

1,436 

100% 

89 

559 

181 

1 

1 

831 

- 

- 

- 

831 

58% 

70 

298 

175 

20 

6 

569 

36 

19 

17 

605 

42% 

Total 

£m 

313 

943 

532 

55 

5 

1,848 

16 

7 

9 

1,864 

100% 

189 

569 

241 

4 

1 

1,004 

- 

- 

- 

1,004 

54% 

124 

374 

291 

51 

4 

844 

16 

7 

9 

860 

46% 

A CRE loan may be secured on assets located in different regions. The calculation for regional allocation has been changed in the year to reflect a more refined approach, with comparatives presented on a consistent basis.   

The LTV ratio is calculated using the on-balance sheet carrying amount of the loan divided by the indexed value of the most recent independent external collateral valuation. The Investment Property (IPD) monthly index is used. 

Changes to the regional distribution of the CRE portfolio reflect the managed reduction of the portfolio, with 58% (5 April 2018: 54%) of the CRE exposure now being secured against assets located in London. Over the year, the LTV 

distribution of the CRE portfolio remained stable, with 96% (5 April 2018: 96%) of the portfolio having an LTV of 75% or less, and 71% (5 April 2018: 67%) of the portfolio having an LTV of 50% or less.  

The distribution of the CRE balances by geography and LTV ratios at 4 April 2018 is the same as that disclosed above as at 5 April 2018. 

Credit risk concentration by industry sector 

44%). Over the year, our exposure to retail assets has reduced from £367 million to £286 million.  

CRE balances by payment due status  

than 3 months.  

Of the £1,436 million (5 April 2018: £1,864 million) CRE exposure, including FVTPL balances, £24 million (5 April 2018: £52 million) relates to balances with arrears, of which £2 million (5 April 2018: £24 million) have arrears greater 

134  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Commercial and other lending (continued) 

Forbearance 

Security amendment 

Forbearance is recorded and reported at borrower level and applies to all commercial lending, including 
impaired exposures and borrowers subject to enforcement and recovery action.  

Where a customer seeks the release of assets charged to Nationwide as security for their commercial loan, 
this will be treated as forbearance where Nationwide’s position is weakened in terms of either the loan to 
value of the remaining exposure or the level of interest cover available. 

For commercial customers in financial difficulty, the following concession events are included within 
forbearance reporting: 

Extension at maturity 

Refinance 

Customers who are unable to repay the loan at term expiry may be given short term maturity extensions to 
allow them time to negotiate the repayment of facilities in full either via asset sales or external refinance. 

Debt restructuring, either mid-term or at maturity, will be considered where asset sales or external refinance 
cannot be secured to repay facilities in full and where a restructure is considered to provide the best debt 
recovery outcome for both the customer and Nationwide. 

Breach of covenant 

Interest concession 

Where a customer is unable to comply with either financial or non-financial covenants, as specified in their 
loan agreement, a temporary waiver or amendment to the covenants will be considered, as appropriate  

The temporary postponement of interest or a reduction to the interest rate charged, during which period the 
loans do not accrue arrears, may be considered where the customer is experiencing payment difficulties. 

The table below provides details of commercial loans that are currently subject to forbearance. 

Capital concession 

Capital  concessions  consist  of  temporary  suspensions  to  capital  repayments  to  allow  the  customer  time  to 
overcome payment difficulties, the full or partial consolidation of previous payment arrears or the partial write-
off of debt. 

Credit risk exposure by industry sector is unchanged from the prior year, continuing to be spread across the retail, office, residential investment, industrial and leisure sectors. Where a CRE loan is secured on assets crossing different 

sectors, the sector allocation is based upon the value of the underlying assets in each sector. For CRE exposures, including FVTPL balances, the highest concentration is to the residential investment sector at 44% (5 April 2018: 

Total impairment provision on forborne loans 

Gross balances subject to forbearance  
(note i) 

Refinance 
Modifications: 
Capital concession 
Security amendment 
Extension at maturity 
Breach of covenant 
Total  

4 April 2019 
£m 
44 

5 April 2018 
£m 
78 

2 
6 
12 
122 
186 

23 

8 
9 
42 
139 
276 

19 

Note: 
i.

Loans where more than one concession event has occurred are reported under the latest event. 

Amortised cost balances subject to forbearance have reduced, reflecting the managed run-off of the CRE portfolio. 

In addition to the amortised cost balances included in the table above, there are £57 million (5 April 2018: £58 million) of FVTPL commercial lending balances, none (5 April 2018: £42 million) of which are forborne. 

The total value of balances subject to forbearance at 4 April 2018 was £318 million with an associated impairment provision of £10 million. 

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135  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Treasury assets  

Summary 

The treasury portfolio is held primarily for liquidity management and, in the case of derivatives, for market risk management. As at 4 April 2019 treasury assets represented 15.2% (2018: 15.3%) of total assets.  

Investment activity, in line with the Board’s risk appetite, remains restricted to high quality liquid securities. The size of the portfolio has increased, predominantly due to higher US Treasury balances held as a strategic response to 
potential market volatility during ongoing negotiations for the UK’s departure from the EU. In addition, the Society invests in highly rated liquid assets that are eligible for accessing central bank funding operations. Derivatives are 
used to reduce exposure to market risks but are not used for trading or speculative purposes. There are no exposures to emerging markets, hedge funds or credit default swaps.  

The table below shows the classification of treasury asset balances following the adoption of IFRS 9. 

Treasury asset balances 

(Audited) 
Cash  
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note i) 
Investment securities  
Investment securities  
Investment securities  
Liquidity and investment portfolio 
Derivative instruments (note ii) 
Treasury assets 

IFRS 9 
classification 

4 April 2019 

Amortised cost 
Amortised cost 
FVOCI 
FVTPL 
Amortised cost 

FVTPL 

£m 
12,493 
4,009 
14,500 
78 
1,656 
32,736 
3,562 
36,298 

5 April 2018 
(IFRS 9) 
£m 
14,361 
3,493 
11,881 
45 
1,120 
30,900 
4,121 
35,021 

4 April 2018 
(IAS 39)  
£m 
14,361 
3,493 
11,926 
- 
1,120 
30,900 
4,121 
35,021 

Notes:  
i.

Loans and advances to banks has been renamed to loans and advances to banks and similar institutions and now includes balances held with counterparties that are institutions similar to banks. These balances were previously reported in loans and advances 
to customers. Comparatives have been restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements. 
Derivatives are classified as assets where their fair value is positive and liabilities where their fair value is negative. At 4 April 2019, derivative liabilities were £1,593 million (4 April 2018: £2,337 million). 

ii.

Managing treasury credit risks 

Credit risk within the treasury portfolio arises primarily from the instruments held and transacted by the Treasury function for operational, liquidity and investment purposes. In addition, counterparty credit risk arises from the use of 
derivatives to reduce exposure to market risks; these are only transacted with highly rated organisations and are collateralised under market standard documentation. The Treasury Credit Risk function manages all aspects  
of credit risk in accordance with the Society’s risk governance frameworks, under the supervision of the Credit Committee.  

A monthly review is undertaken of the current and expected future performance of treasury assets. An established governance structure identifies and reviews under-performing assets to assess the likelihood of future losses. There 
were no impairment losses for the year ended 4 April 2019, or the prior year. For financial assets classified as FVTPL, no provisions are calculated as credit risk is reflected in the carrying value of the asset; no additional provision 
information is therefore disclosed in respect of these assets. For financial assets held at amortised cost or at FVOCI, the stage distribution is described below. 

Impairment provisions on treasury assets 

(Audited) 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note i) 
Investment securities – FVOCI 
Investment securities – Amortised cost 

4 April 2019 

5 April 2018 

Gross balances 
£m 
4,009 
14,500 
1,656 

Provisions 
£m 
- 
- 
- 

Gross balances 
£m 
3,493 
11,881 
1,120 

Provisions 
£m 
- 
- 
- 

Note:  
i.

Loans and advances to banks has been renamed to loans and advances to banks and similar institutions and now includes balances held with counterparties that are institutions similar to banks. These balances were previously reported in loans and advances 
to customers. Comparatives have been restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The treasury portfolio is held primarily for liquidity management and, in the case of derivatives, for market risk management. As at 4 April 2019 treasury assets represented 15.2% (2018: 15.3%) of total assets.  

Investment activity, in line with the Board’s risk appetite, remains restricted to high quality liquid securities. The size of the portfolio has increased, predominantly due to higher US Treasury balances held as a strategic response to 

potential market volatility during ongoing negotiations for the UK’s departure from the EU. In addition, the Society invests in highly rated liquid assets that are eligible for accessing central bank funding operations. Derivatives are 

used to reduce exposure to market risks but are not used for trading or speculative purposes. There are no exposures to emerging markets, hedge funds or credit default swaps.  

The table below shows the classification of treasury asset balances following the adoption of IFRS 9. 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Treasury assets  

Summary 

Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note i) 

Treasury asset balances 

(Audited) 

Cash  

Investment securities  

Investment securities  

Investment securities  

Liquidity and investment portfolio 

Derivative instruments (note ii) 

Treasury assets 

Notes:  

i.

ii.

Managing treasury credit risks 

IFRS 9 

classification 

Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 

FVOCI 

FVTPL 

FVTPL 

4 April 2019 

5 April 2018 

4 April 2018 

(IFRS 9) 

(IAS 39)  

£m 

12,493 

4,009 

14,500 

78 

1,656 

32,736 

3,562 

36,298 

£m 

14,361 

3,493 

11,881 

45 

1,120 

30,900 

4,121 

35,021 

£m 

14,361 

3,493 

11,926 

- 

1,120 

30,900 

4,121 

35,021 

Loans and advances to banks has been renamed to loans and advances to banks and similar institutions and now includes balances held with counterparties that are institutions similar to banks. These balances were previously reported in loans and advances 

to customers. Comparatives have been restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements. 

Derivatives are classified as assets where their fair value is positive and liabilities where their fair value is negative. At 4 April 2019, derivative liabilities were £1,593 million (4 April 2018: £2,337 million). 

Credit risk within the treasury portfolio arises primarily from the instruments held and transacted by the Treasury function for operational, liquidity and investment purposes. In addition, counterparty credit risk arises from the use of 

derivatives to reduce exposure to market risks; these are only transacted with highly rated organisations and are collateralised under market standard documentation. The Treasury Credit Risk function manages all aspects  

of credit risk in accordance with the Society’s risk governance frameworks, under the supervision of the Credit Committee.  

A monthly review is undertaken of the current and expected future performance of treasury assets. An established governance structure identifies and reviews under-performing assets to assess the likelihood of future losses. There 

were no impairment losses for the year ended 4 April 2019, or the prior year. For financial assets classified as FVTPL, no provisions are calculated as credit risk is reflected in the carrying value of the asset; no additional provision 

information is therefore disclosed in respect of these assets. For financial assets held at amortised cost or at FVOCI, the stage distribution is described below. 

Impairment provisions on treasury assets 

Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note i) 

Investment securities – FVOCI 

Investment securities – Amortised cost 

(Audited) 

Note:  

4 April 2019 

5 April 2018 

Gross balances 

Provisions 

Gross balances 

Provisions 

£m 

4,009 

14,500 

1,656 

£m 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

3,493 

11,881 

1,120 

£m 

- 

- 

- 

i.

Loans and advances to banks has been renamed to loans and advances to banks and similar institutions and now includes balances held with counterparties that are institutions similar to banks. These balances were previously reported in loans and advances 

to customers. Comparatives have been restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements.  

136  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Treasury assets (continued) 

The credit quality of treasury financial assets continues to be low risk and stable with all exposures within the table on the previous page classified as stage 1, except for £1.5 million of FVOCI investment securities in stage 2. If there is 
objective evidence that an instrument measured at amortised cost or FVOCI is credit-impaired, the financial asset will be transferred into stage 3. There are no assets in stage 3.  

£m 

AAA 
% 

Liquidity and investment portfolio 
The liquidity and investment portfolio of £32,736 million (4 April 2018: £30,900 million) comprises liquid assets and other securities. An analysis of the on-balance sheet portfolios is set out below. 
Liquidity and investment portfolio by credit rating (note i) 
4 April 2019 
(Audited) 
Liquid assets: 
Cash and reserves at central banks 
Government bonds 
Supranational bonds 
Covered bonds 
Residential mortgage backed securities (RMBS)  
Asset backed securities (other) 
Liquid assets total 
Other securities (note ii): 
RMBS FVOCI 
RMBS amortised cost 
Other investments (note iii) 
Other securities total 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note iv) 
Total 

12,493 
11,581 
725 
1,202 
556 
258 
26,815 

142 
1,656 
114 
1,912 
4,009 
32,736 

100  
71  
-    
4  
-    
-    
77  

- 
-    
-    
36  
-    
-    
2  

- 
29  
100  
60  
100  
100  
21  

100 
63 
- 
59 
54 
49 
78 

- 
-    
-    
-    
-    
-    
-  

- 
23 
- 
- 
- 
- 
10 

35  
84  
-    
75  
-    
22  

-    
2  
19  
3  
-  
-  

100 
100 
19 
95 
86 
80 

45  
8  
52  
13  
49 
8  

20  
6  
29  
9  
51  
70  

- 
- 
52 
3 
7 
9 

Other 
% 

AA 
% 

UK 
% 

US 
% 

A 
% 

Liquidity and investment portfolio by credit rating (note i) 
4 April 2018 
(Audited) 
Liquid assets: 
Cash and reserves at central banks 
Government bonds 
Supranational bonds 
Covered bonds 
Residential mortgage backed securities (RMBS)  
Asset backed securities (other) 
Liquid assets total 
Other securities (note ii): 
RMBS available for sale  
RMBS held to maturity 
Other investments (note iii) 
Other securities total 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note iv) 
Total 
Notes: 
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.

£m 

14,361 
8,937 
655 
1,007 
738 
302 
26,000 

188 
1,120 
99 
1,407 
3,493 
30,900 

AAA 
% 

- 
15 
96 
100 
100 
100 
16 

21 
85 
- 
71 
- 
16 

AA 
% 

100 
85 
4 
- 
- 
- 
84 

19 
5 
36 
9 
47 
77 

A 
% 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

60 
7 
42 
16 
50 
6 

Other 
% 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

- 
3 
22 
4 
3 
1 

UK 
% 

100 
80 
- 
51 
64 
56 
87 

100 
100 
22 
95 
84 
87 

US 
% 

- 
5 
- 
- 
- 
- 
2 

- 
- 
42 
3 
6 
2 

Ratings used are obtained from Standard & Poor’s (S&P), and from Moody’s or Fitch if no S&P rating is available. For loans and advances to banks and similar institutions, internal ratings are used.  
Includes RMBS (UK Buy to let and UK Non-conforming) not eligible for the Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR).   
Includes investment securities held at FVTPL of £78 million (2018 IAS 39 basis: £nil). 
Loans and advances to banks has been renamed to loans and advances to banks and similar institutions and now includes balances held with counterparties that are institutions similar to banks. These balances were previously reported in loans and advances 
to customers. Comparatives have been restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements.  

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% 

Other 
% 

- 
14 
- 
18 
46 
51 
8 

- 
- 
29 
2 
6 
8 

- 
- 
100 
23 
- 
- 
4 

- 
- 
- 
- 
1 
3 

Europe 
% 

Other 
% 

- 
15 
- 
27 
36 
44 
8 

- 
- 
36 
2 
8 
8 

- 
- 
100 
22 
- 
- 
3 

- 
- 
- 
- 
2 
3 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
    
    
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
137  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Treasury assets (continued) 

Country exposures 

The following table summarises the exposure (shown at the balance sheet carrying value) to institutions outside the UK. None of the exposures detailed in the table were in stage 2 or 3 at 4 April 2019.  

Country exposures 
4 April 2019 

(Audited) 
Belgium 
Finland 
France 
Germany 
Netherlands 
Spain 
Total Eurozone 
USA 
Rest of world (note i) 
Total 

Country exposures 
4 April 2018 

(Audited) 
Austria 
Belgium 
Finland 
France 
Germany 
Ireland 
Netherlands 
Total Eurozone 
USA 
Rest of world (note i) 
Total 

Government 
bonds 

£m 
208  
244  
185 
673  
178 
- 
1,488 
2,642  
140  
4,270 

Government 
bonds 

£m 
66 
44 
267 
- 
627 
- 
335 
1,339 
441 
- 
1,780 

Mortgage 
backed 
securities 
£m 

-    
-    
- 
-    

255 
- 
255 

-    
-    

255 

Mortgage 
backed 
securities 
£m 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
263 
263 
- 
- 
263 

Note: 
i.

Rest of world exposure is to Australia, Canada, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland.  

Covered bonds  Supra-national 
bonds 

Loans and advances 
to banks and 
similar institutions 
£m 
- 
- 
                      24  
                   190  
- 
                      18  
232 
                   265  
60  
557 

£m 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
-  
725    
725 

£m 

-    
24  
- 
15 
- 
- 
39 

-    
455  
494 

Covered bonds 

Supra-national 
bonds 

£m 
- 
- 
24 
- 
- 
- 
- 
24 
- 
472 
496 

£m 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
656 
656 

Loans and advances 
to banks and  
similar institutions 
£m 
- 
- 
- 
156 
119 
1 
- 
276 
215 
63 
554 

Other 
assets 

£m 
- 
- 
33  
132 
- 
- 
165 
59 

-    

224 

Other 
 assets 

£m 
- 
- 
- 
36 
132 
- 
- 
168 
41 
- 
209 

Total 

£m 
208  
268  
242  
1,010  
433 
18  
2,179 
2,966  
1,380  
6,525 

Total 

£m 
66 
44 
291 
192 
878 
1 
598 
2,070 
697 
1,191 
3,958 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Credit risk – Treasury assets (continued) 

The following table summarises the exposure (shown at the balance sheet carrying value) to institutions outside the UK. None of the exposures detailed in the table were in stage 2 or 3 at 4 April 2019.  

Country exposures 

Country exposures 

4 April 2019 

(Audited) 

Belgium 

Finland 

France 

Germany 

Netherlands 

Spain 

Total Eurozone 

Rest of world (note i) 

USA 

Total 

Country exposures 

4 April 2018 

(Audited) 

Austria 

Belgium 

Finland 

France 

Germany 

Ireland 

Netherlands 

Total Eurozone 

Rest of world (note i) 

USA 

Total 

Note: 

i.

Rest of world exposure is to Australia, Canada, Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland.  

Government 

bonds 

Mortgage 

backed 

securities 

£m 

Covered bonds  Supra-national 

Loans and advances 

to banks and 

similar institutions 

bonds 

£m 

£m 

£m 

Other 

assets 

- 

- 

- 

                      24  

                   190  

                      18  

                   265  

232 

60  

557 

-  

725    

725 

£m 

208  

244  

185 

673  

178 

- 

1,488 

2,642  

140  

4,270 

£m 

66 

44 

267 

627 

- 

- 

- 

335 

1,339 

441 

1,780 

-    

-    

- 

-    

255 

- 

255 

-    

-    

255 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

263 

263 

263 

£m 

-    

24  

15 

- 

- 

- 

39 

-    

455  

494 

£m 

24 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

24 

472 

496 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

656 

656 

Total 

£m 

208  

268  

242  

1,010  

433 

18  

2,179 

2,966  

1,380  

6,525 

Total 

£m 

66 

44 

291 

192 

878 

1 

598 

2,070 

697 

1,191 

3,958 

33  

132 

- 

- 

- 

- 

165 

59 

224 

-    

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

36 

132 

168 

41 

- 

209 

- 

- 

- 

1 

- 

156 

119 

276 

215 

63 

554 

Government 

bonds 

Mortgage 

backed 

securities 

£m 

Covered bonds 

Supra-national 

Loans and advances 

bonds 

£m 

to banks and  

similar institutions 

£m 

£m 

Other 

 assets 

138  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Credit risk – Treasury assets (continued) 

Derivative financial instruments  

Derivatives are used to reduce exposure to market risks, although the application of accounting rules can create volatility in the income statement in a financial year. The fair value of derivative assets at 4 April 2019 was £3.6 billion 
(4 April 2018: £4.1 billion) and the fair value of derivative liabilities was £1.6 billion (4 April 2018: £2.3 billion).  

To comply with EU regulatory requirements, Nationwide, as a direct member of a central counterparty (CCP), has central clearing capability which it uses to clear standardised derivatives. Where derivatives are not cleared at a CCP 
they are transacted under the International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) Master Agreement. A Credit Support Annex (CSA) is always executed in conjunction with the ISDA Master Agreement. Under the terms of a CSA, 
collateral is passed between parties to mitigate the market-contingent counterparty risk inherent in the outstanding positions. CSAs are two-way agreements where both parties post collateral dependent on the exposure of the 
derivative. Collateral is paid or received on a regular basis (typically daily) to mitigate the mark to market exposures. 

Nationwide’s CSA legal documentation for derivatives grants legal rights of set off for transactions with the same counterparty. Accordingly, the credit risk associated with such positions is reduced to the extent that negative mark to 
market values offset positive mark to market values in the calculation of credit risk within each netting agreement.  

Under the terms of CSA netting agreements, outstanding transactions with the same counterparty can be offset and settled on a net basis following a default, or another predetermined event. Under these arrangements, netting 
benefits of £1.4 billion (4 April 2018: £2.0 billion) were available and £2.1 billion of collateral (4 April 2018: £2.2 billion) was held. Only cash is held as collateral. 

The following table shows the exposure to counterparty credit risk for derivative contracts after netting benefits and collateral. 

Derivative credit exposure  

Counterparty credit quality 
(Audited) 
Gross positive fair value of contracts as reported on the balance sheet 
Netting benefits 
Net current credit exposure 
Collateral (cash) 
Net derivative credit exposure 

AA 
£m 
 1,096  
(350) 
746 
(732) 
14 

A 
£m 
 2,460  
(1,007) 
1,453 
(1,398) 
55 

BBB 
£m 
 6  
(6) 
- 
- 
- 

Total 
£m 
 3,562  
(1,363) 
2,199 
(2,130) 
69 

AA 
£m 
1,584 
(532) 
1,052 
(1,051) 
1 

A 
£m 
2,266 
(1,156) 
1,110 
(1,106) 
4 

BBB 
£m 
271 
(271) 
- 
- 
- 

Total 
£m 
4,121 
(1,959) 
2,162 
(2,157) 
5 

4 April 2019 

4 April 2018 

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139  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued)
Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk 

Summary 

Liquidity risk is the risk that Nationwide is unable to meet its liabilities as they fall due and maintain member and other stakeholder confidence. Funding risk is the risk that Nationwide is unable to maintain diverse funding sources  
in wholesale and retail markets and manage retail funding risk that can arise from excessive concentrations of higher risk deposits. 

Nationwide manages liquidity and funding risks within a comprehensive risk framework which includes policies, strategy, limit setting and monitoring, stress testing and robust governance controls. This framework ensures that 
Nationwide maintains stable and diverse funding sources and sufficient holdings of high quality liquid assets so that there is no significant risk that liabilities cannot be met as they fall due.  

Liquidity and funding levels continued to be within Board risk appetite and regulatory requirements throughout the year. This includes the Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR), which ensures that sufficient high quality liquid assets are 
held to survive a short term severe but plausible liquidity stress. Nationwide’s LCR at 4 April 2019 was 150.2% (4 April 2018: 130.3%), above the regulatory minimum of 100%. Nationwide continues to manage its liquidity against its 
internal risk appetite, which is more prudent than regulatory requirements.  

Nationwide also monitors its position against the longer term funding metric, the Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR). Based on current interpretations of expected European regulatory requirements and guidance, the NSFR at 4 April 
2019 was 130.5% (4 April 2018: 131.0%) which exceeds the expected 100% minimum future requirement. 

Funding risk 

Funding strategy 

Nationwide’s funding strategy is to remain predominantly retail funded, as set out below. 

Funding profile 
Assets 
(note i) 

Retail mortgages  
Treasury assets (including liquidity portfolio) (note iii)  
Commercial lending (note iii) 
Consumer lending 
Other assets  

4 April 2019 

£bn 
185.8 
32.7 
9.1 
4.2 
6.5 
238.3 

5 April 2018 
(note ii) 
£bn 
177.1 
30.9 
10.6 
3.7 
6.6 
228.9 

4 April 2018  Liabilities 

4 April 2019 

£bn 
177.2  Retail funding 
30.9  Wholesale funding 
10.6  Other liabilities 
3.8  Capital and reserves 
6.6 
229.1 

£bn 
154.0 
61.2 
3.0 
20.1 

238.3 

5 April 2018 
(note ii) 
£bn 
148.4 
58.8 
3.7 
18.0 

228.9 

4 April 2018 

£bn 
148.4 
58.8 
3.7 
18.2 

229.1 

Notes:  
i.
ii.
iii.

The figures in the above table are stated net of impairment provisions where applicable.  
Balances as at 5 April 2018 reflect the impact of applying IFRS 9 ’Financial Instruments’. 
Treasury assets now include balances held with counterparties that are institutions similar to banks. These balances were previously reported in commercial lending balances. Comparatives have been restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further 
details are included in note 1 to the financial statements.  

At 4 April 2019, Nationwide’s loan to deposit ratio, which represents loans and advances to customers divided by the total of shares and other deposits, was 125.2% (4 April 2018: 125.5%).  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk 

Summary 

Liquidity risk is the risk that Nationwide is unable to meet its liabilities as they fall due and maintain member and other stakeholder confidence. Funding risk is the risk that Nationwide is unable to maintain diverse funding sources  

in wholesale and retail markets and manage retail funding risk that can arise from excessive concentrations of higher risk deposits. 

Nationwide manages liquidity and funding risks within a comprehensive risk framework which includes policies, strategy, limit setting and monitoring, stress testing and robust governance controls. This framework ensures that 

Nationwide maintains stable and diverse funding sources and sufficient holdings of high quality liquid assets so that there is no significant risk that liabilities cannot be met as they fall due.  

Liquidity and funding levels continued to be within Board risk appetite and regulatory requirements throughout the year. This includes the Liquidity Coverage Ratio (LCR), which ensures that sufficient high quality liquid assets are 

held to survive a short term severe but plausible liquidity stress. Nationwide’s LCR at 4 April 2019 was 150.2% (4 April 2018: 130.3%), above the regulatory minimum of 100%. Nationwide continues to manage its liquidity against its 

internal risk appetite, which is more prudent than regulatory requirements.  

Nationwide also monitors its position against the longer term funding metric, the Net Stable Funding Ratio (NSFR). Based on current interpretations of expected European regulatory requirements and guidance, the NSFR at 4 April 

2019 was 130.5% (4 April 2018: 131.0%) which exceeds the expected 100% minimum future requirement. 

Funding risk 

Funding strategy 

Funding profile 

Assets 

(note i) 

Retail mortgages  

Nationwide’s funding strategy is to remain predominantly retail funded, as set out below. 

4 April 2019 

4 April 2018  Liabilities 

5 April 2018 

(note ii) 

4 April 2019 

5 April 2018 

(note ii) 

4 April 2018 

Treasury assets (including liquidity portfolio) (note iii)  

Commercial lending (note iii) 

Consumer lending 

Other assets  

£bn 

185.8 

32.7 

9.1 

4.2 

6.5 

238.3 

£bn 

177.1 

30.9 

10.6 

3.7 

6.6 

228.9 

177.2  Retail funding 

30.9  Wholesale funding 

10.6  Other liabilities 

3.8  Capital and reserves 

£bn 

6.6 

229.1 

£bn 

154.0 

61.2 

3.0 

20.1 

238.3 

£bn 

148.4 

58.8 

3.7 

18.0 

228.9 

£bn 

148.4 

58.8 

3.7 

18.2 

229.1 

Notes:  

i.

ii.

iii.

The figures in the above table are stated net of impairment provisions where applicable.  

Balances as at 5 April 2018 reflect the impact of applying IFRS 9 ’Financial Instruments’. 

details are included in note 1 to the financial statements.  

Treasury assets now include balances held with counterparties that are institutions similar to banks. These balances were previously reported in commercial lending balances. Comparatives have been restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further 

At 4 April 2019, Nationwide’s loan to deposit ratio, which represents loans and advances to customers divided by the total of shares and other deposits, was 125.2% (4 April 2018: 125.5%).  

140  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued)
Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Wholesale funding 

The wholesale funding portfolio is made up of a range of secured and unsecured instruments to ensure Nationwide has a stable and diversified funding base across a range of instruments, currencies, maturities and investor types. 
Part of Nationwide’s wholesale funding strategy is to remain active in core markets and currencies. A funding risk limit framework also ensures that a prudent funding mix and maturity concentration profile is maintained, and limits 
the level of encumbrance to ensure sufficient contingent funding capacity is retained in the event of a stress. 

Wholesale funding has increased by £2.4 billion to £61.2 billion during the year primarily in liabilities with maturities of less than one year. This additional funding is reflected in Nationwide’s wholesale funding ratio (on-balance sheet 
wholesale funding as a proportion of total funding liabilities) which was 28.6% at 4 April 2019 (4 April 2018: 28.2%). 

The table below sets out Nationwide’s wholesale funding by currency. 

Wholesale funding by currency 

Repos 
Deposits  
Certificates of deposit 
Commercial paper 
Covered bonds 
Medium term notes 
Securitisations 
TFS 
Other 
Total 

GBP 
£bn 
0.4 
6.0 
3.2 
- 
3.8 
2.0 
0.7 
17.0 
0.2 
33.3 

EUR 
£bn 
0.3 
1.2 
1.1 
0.3 
12.9 
3.0 
1.1 
- 
0.6 
20.5 

4 April 2019 
USD 
£bn 
0.1 
0.1 
0.5 
2.9 
- 
1.9 
1.2 
- 
- 
6.7 

Other 
£bn 
- 
- 
- 
- 
0.1 
0.6 
- 
- 
- 
0.7 

Total  % of total  

£bn 
0.8 
7.3 
4.8 
3.2 
16.8 
7.5 
3.0 
17.0 
0.8 
61.2 

1 
12 
8 
5 
28 
12 
5 
28 
1 
100 

GBP 
£bn 
0.7 
5.4 
4.0 
- 
2.5 
2.0 
1.1 
17.0 
0.2 
32.9 

EUR 
£bn 
0.2 
1.4 
0.1 
- 
12.6 
4.6 
1.3 
- 
0.6 
20.8 

4 April 2018 
USD 
£bn 
- 
- 
0.2 
1.0 
- 
1.8 
1.3 
- 
- 
4.3 

Other 
£bn 
- 
- 
- 
- 
0.2 
0.6 
- 
- 
- 
0.8 

Total 
£bn 
0.9 
6.8 
4.3 
1.0 
15.3 
9.0 
3.7 
17.0 
0.8 
58.8 

% of total 

2 
12 
7 
2 
26 
15 
6 
29 
1 
100 

The residual maturity of the wholesale funding book, on a contractual maturity basis, is set out below. 

Wholesale funding – residual maturity 
4 April 2019 

Not more than 
one month 

Repos 
Deposits  
Certificates of deposit 
Commercial paper 
Covered bonds 
Medium term notes 
Securitisations 
TFS 
Other 
Total 
Of which secured 
Of which unsecured 
% of total 

£bn 
0.8 
4.5 
- 
- 
0.8 
- 
0.4 
- 
- 
6.5 
2.0 
4.5 
10.6 

Over one  
month but not 
more than  
three months 
£bn 
- 
0.6 
2.3 
2.0 
0.9 
0.6 
- 
- 
- 
6.4 
0.9 
5.5 
10.5 

Over three 
months but not 
more than  
six months 
£bn 
- 
2.2 
2.3 
1.2 
- 
0.4 
0.1 
- 
- 
6.2 
0.1 
6.1 
10.1 

Over six  
months but not 
more than  
one year 
£bn 
- 
- 
0.2 
- 
- 
0.9 
0.3 
- 
- 
1.4 
0.3 
1.1 
2.3 

Subtotal less 
than one year 

Over one year 
but not more 
than two years 

Over two years 

Total 

£bn 
0.8 
7.3 
4.8 
3.2 
1.7 
1.9 
0.8 
- 
- 
20.5 
3.3 
17.2 
33.5 

£bn 
- 
- 
- 
- 
3.3 
0.1 
1.0 
6.0 
0.2 
10.6 
10.5 
0.1 
17.3 

£bn 
- 
- 
- 
- 
11.8 
5.5 
1.2 
11.0 
0.6 
30.1 
24.6 
5.5 
49.2 

£bn 
0.8 
7.3 
4.8 
3.2 
16.8 
7.5 
3.0 
17.0 
0.8 
61.2 
38.4 
22.8 
100.0 

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141  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued)
Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Wholesale funding – residual maturity 
4 April 2018 

Repos 
Deposits  
Certificates of deposit 
Commercial paper 
Covered bonds 
Medium term notes 
Securitisations 
TFS 
Other 
Total 
Of which secured 
Of which unsecured 
% of total 

Not more than 
one month 

£bn 
0.9 
4.5 
- 
0.1 
0.8 
0.1 
0.1 
- 
- 
6.5 
1.8 
4.7 
11.1 

Over one  
month but not 
more than  
three months 
£bn 
- 
0.5 
3.6 
0.9 
0.1 
0.1 
- 
- 
- 
5.2 
0.1 
5.1 
8.8 

Over three 
months but not 
more than  
six months 
£bn 
- 
1.4 
0.5 
- 
- 
0.1 
0.3 
- 
- 
2.3 
0.3 
2.0 
3.9 

Over six  
months but not 
more than  
one year 
£bn 
- 
0.4 
0.2 
- 
- 
1.4 
0.4 
- 
- 
2.4 
0.4 
2.0 
4.1 

Subtotal less 
than one year 

Over one year 
but not more 
than two years 

Over two years 

Total 

£bn 
0.9 
6.8 
4.3 
1.0 
0.9 
1.7 
0.8 
- 
- 
16.4 
2.6 
13.8 
27.9 

£bn 
- 
- 
- 
- 
1.6 
1.8 
0.9 
- 
- 
4.3 
2.5 
1.8 
7.3 

£bn 
- 
- 
- 
- 
12.8 
5.5 
2.0 
17.0 
0.8 
38.1 
32.6 
5.5 
64.8 

£bn 
0.9 
6.8 
4.3 
1.0 
15.3 
9.0 
3.7 
17.0 
0.8 
58.8 
37.7 
21.1 
100.0 

At 4 April 2019, cash, government bonds and supranational bonds included in the liquid asset buffer represented 120% of wholesale funding maturing in less than one year, assuming no rollovers (4 April 2018: 142%). 

The increase in the proportion of wholesale funding with a residual maturity of less than one year is principally driven by the pre-funding of upcoming maturities as we manage funding in the uncertain economic environment. 

Liquidity risk 

Liquidity strategy 

Nationwide ensures it has sufficient liquid assets, both in terms of amount and quality, to meet daily cash flow needs as well as simulated stressed requirements driven by the Society’s risk appetite and regulatory assessments. This 
includes ensuring the currency composition of the liquid asset buffer is consistent with the currency profile of stressed outflows. 

Nationwide’s liquid assets are held and managed centrally by its Treasury function. Nationwide maintains a high quality liquidity portfolio, predominantly comprising reserves held at central banks and highly rated debt securities 
issued by a restricted range of governments, central banks and supranationals. 

The size and mix of the liquid asset buffer is defined by the Society’s risk appetite as set by the Board, which is translated into a set of liquidity risk limits; it is also influenced by other relevant considerations such as stress testing and 
regulatory requirements. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Wholesale funding – residual maturity 

4 April 2018 

Repos 

Deposits  

Certificates of deposit 

Commercial paper 

Covered bonds 

Medium term notes 

Securitisations 

TFS 

Other 

Total 

Of which secured 

Of which unsecured 

% of total 

Liquidity risk 

Liquidity strategy 

Not more than 

Over one  

Over three 

Over six  

one month 

month but not 

months but not 

months but not 

Subtotal less 

than one year 

Over two years 

Total 

Over one year 

but not more 

than two years 

more than  

three months 

more than  

six months 

more than  

one year 

£bn 

0.9 

4.5 

- 

0.1 

0.8 

0.1 

0.1 

- 

- 

6.5 

1.8 

4.7 

11.1 

£bn 

- 

0.5 

3.6 

0.9 

0.1 

0.1 

- 

- 

- 

5.2 

0.1 

5.1 

8.8 

£bn 

- 

1.4 

0.5 

0.1 

0.3 

- 

- 

- 

- 

2.3 

0.3 

2.0 

3.9 

£bn 

- 

0.4 

0.2 

1.4 

0.4 

- 

- 

- 

- 

2.4 

0.4 

2.0 

4.1 

£bn 

0.9 

6.8 

4.3 

1.0 

0.9 

1.7 

0.8 

- 

- 

16.4 

2.6 

13.8 

27.9 

£bn 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

1.6 

1.8 

0.9 

4.3 

2.5 

1.8 

7.3 

£bn 

- 

- 

- 

- 

12.8 

5.5 

2.0 

17.0 

0.8 

38.1 

32.6 

5.5 

64.8 

£bn 

0.9 

6.8 

4.3 

1.0 

15.3 

9.0 

3.7 

17.0 

0.8 

58.8 

37.7 

21.1 

100.0 

At 4 April 2019, cash, government bonds and supranational bonds included in the liquid asset buffer represented 120% of wholesale funding maturing in less than one year, assuming no rollovers (4 April 2018: 142%). 

The increase in the proportion of wholesale funding with a residual maturity of less than one year is principally driven by the pre-funding of upcoming maturities as we manage funding in the uncertain economic environment. 

142  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued)
Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Liquid assets 

The table below sets out the sterling equivalent fair value of the liquidity portfolio, by issuing currency. It includes off-balance sheet liquidity, such as bonds received through reverse repurchase (repo) agreements, and excludes bonds 
encumbered through repo agreements. 

Liquid assets  

Cash and reserves at central banks 
Government bonds 
Supranational bonds 
Covered bonds 
Residential mortgage backed securities (RMBS) (note i) 
Asset-backed securities and other securities 
Total 

GBP 
£bn 
12.4 
     7.8  
     0.5  
     0.4  
    0.6  
      0.1  
    21.8  

4 April 2019 
EUR 
£bn 
       0.1  
       0.7  
        -    
       0.7  
       0.3  
       0.1  
       1.9  

USD 
£bn 
       -    
      2.8  
     0.2  
       -    
      0.1  
      0.1  
      3.2  

Total 
£bn 
   12.5  
   11.3  
    0.7  
     1.1  
    1.0  
    0.3  
  26.9  

GBP 
£bn 
14.4 
6.8 
0.4 
0.6 
1.7 
0.2 
24.1 

4 April 2018 
EUR 
£bn 
- 
0.8 
- 
0.6 
0.3 
0.1 
1.8 

USD 
£bn 
- 
0.6 
0.3 
- 
- 
- 
0.9 

Total 
£bn 
14.4 
8.2 
0.7 
1.2 
2.0 
0.3 
26.8 

Note: 
i.

Balances include all RMBS held by the Society which can be monetised through sale or repo. 

The average combined month end balance during the year of cash and reserves at central banks, and government and supranational bonds, was £27.8 billion (2018: £27.2 billion).  

Nationwide also holds a portfolio of high quality, central bank eligible covered bonds, RMBS and asset-backed securities. Other securities are held that are not eligible for central bank operations but can be monetised through 
repurchase agreements with third parties or through sale. 

Nationwide undertakes securities financing transactions in the form of repurchase agreements. This demonstrates the liquid nature of the assets held in its liquid asset buffer and also satisfies regulatory requirements. Cash is 
borrowed in return for pledging assets as collateral and because settlement is on a simultaneous ‘delivery versus payment’ basis, the main credit risk arises from intra-day changes in the value of the collateral. This is largely mitigated 
by Nationwide’s collateral management processes.  

Nationwide ensures it has sufficient liquid assets, both in terms of amount and quality, to meet daily cash flow needs as well as simulated stressed requirements driven by the Society’s risk appetite and regulatory assessments. This 

includes ensuring the currency composition of the liquid asset buffer is consistent with the currency profile of stressed outflows. 

Repo market capacity is assessed and tested regularly to ensure there is sufficient capacity to monetise the liquid asset buffer rapidly in a stress.  

For contingent purposes, Nationwide pre-positions unencumbered mortgage assets at the Bank of England which can be used in the Bank of England’s liquidity operations if market liquidity is severely disrupted. 

Nationwide’s liquid assets are held and managed centrally by its Treasury function. Nationwide maintains a high quality liquidity portfolio, predominantly comprising reserves held at central banks and highly rated debt securities 

issued by a restricted range of governments, central banks and supranationals. 

The size and mix of the liquid asset buffer is defined by the Society’s risk appetite as set by the Board, which is translated into a set of liquidity risk limits; it is also influenced by other relevant considerations such as stress testing and 

regulatory requirements. 

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143  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued)
Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Residual maturity of financial assets and liabilities 

The table below segments the carrying value of financial assets and financial liabilities into relevant maturity groupings based on the final contractual maturity date (residual maturity): 

Residual maturity  
(note i) 

4 April 2019 
Financial assets 
Cash 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note iii) 
Investment securities  
Derivative financial instruments 
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk  
Loans and advances to customers  
Total financial assets 

Financial liabilities 
Shares 
Deposits from banks and similar institutions  
Of which repo 
Of which TFS 
Other deposits  
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 
Secured funding – ABS and covered bonds 
Senior unsecured funding 
Derivative financial instruments 
Subordinated liabilities  
Subscribed capital (note iv)  
Total financial liabilities 
Off-balance sheet commitments (note v) 
Net liquidity difference 
Cumulative liquidity difference 

Due less than 
one month  
(note ii) 
£m 

Due between 
one and  
three months 
£m 

Due between 
three and  
six months 
£m 

Due between  
six and  
nine months 
£m 

Due between 
nine and  
twelve months 
£m 

Due between 
one and  
two years 
£m 

Due between 
two and  
five years 
£m 

 Due after  
more than  
five years 
£m 

12,493 
3,363 
16 
18 
(2) 
3,024 
18,912 

131,451 
3,026 
849 
- 
2,295 
- 
1,183 
43 
36 
18 
1 
138,053 
12,956 
(132,097) 
(132,097) 

- 
- 
20 
127 
4 
1,393 
1,544 

3,039 
1 
- 
1 
625 
(1) 
887 
4,890 
118 
- 
1 
9,560 
- 
(8,016) 
(140,113) 

- 
- 
114 
29 
11 
1,982 
2,136 

4,070 
122 
- 
- 
2,094 
(1) 
132 
3,979 
21 
54 
1 
10,472 
- 
(8,336) 
(148,449) 

- 
- 
284 
33 
26 
2,003 
2,346 

1,482 
- 
- 
- 
25 
- 
141 
512 
10 
3 
- 
2,173 
- 
173 
(148,276) 

- 
- 
78 
70 
26 
1,974 
2,148 

1,475 
- 
- 
- 
19 
(1) 
148 
466 
12 
- 
- 
2,119 
- 
29 
(148,247) 

- 
- 
971 
535 
132 
8,303 
9,941 

3,926 
6,000 
- 
6,000 
4 
(2) 
4,367 
99 
127 
662 
- 
15,183 
- 
(5,242) 
(153,489) 

- 
- 
5,558 
1,183 
71 
23,549 
30,361 

7,386 
11,000 
- 
11,000 
12 
(12) 
7,754 
2,297 
69 
756 
- 
29,262 
- 
1,099 
(152,390) 

- 
646 
9,193 
1,567 
143 
156,823 
168,372 

1,140 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
5,777 
3,267 
1,200 
5,213 
247 
16,844 
- 
151,528 
(862) 

Total 

£m 

12,493 
4,009 
16,234 
3,562 
411 
199,051 
235,760 

153,969 
20,149 
849 
17,001 
5,074 
(17) 
20,389 
15,553 
1,593 
6,706 
250 
223,666 
12,956 
(862) 
- 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The table below segments the carrying value of financial assets and financial liabilities into relevant maturity groupings based on the final contractual maturity date (residual maturity): 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Residual maturity of financial assets and liabilities 

Residual maturity  

(note i) 

4 April 2019 

Financial assets 

Cash 

Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note iii) 

Investment securities  

Derivative financial instruments 

Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk  

Loans and advances to customers  

Total financial assets 

Deposits from banks and similar institutions  

Financial liabilities 

Shares 

Of which repo 

Of which TFS 

Other deposits  

Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 

Secured funding – ABS and covered bonds 

Senior unsecured funding 

Derivative financial instruments 

Subordinated liabilities  

Subscribed capital (note iv)  

Total financial liabilities 

Off-balance sheet commitments (note v) 

Net liquidity difference 

Cumulative liquidity difference 

Due less than 

one month  

Due between 

Due between 

Due between  

Due between 

Due between 

Due between 

(note ii) 

three months 

one and  

three and  

six months 

six and  

nine and  

nine months 

twelve months 

one and  

two years 

two and  

five years 

£m 

 Due after  

more than  

five years 

£m 

£m 

12,493 

3,363 

16 

18 

(2) 

3,024 

18,912 

131,451 

3,026 

849 

- 

- 

2,295 

1,183 

43 

36 

18 

1 

138,053 

12,956 

(132,097) 

(132,097) 

£m 

- 

- 

20 

127 

4 

1,393 

1,544 

3,039 

625 

(1) 

887 

4,890 

118 

1 

- 

1 

- 

1 

- 

£m 

- 

- 

114 

29 

11 

1,982 

2,136 

4,070 

122 

- 

- 

2,094 

(1) 

132 

3,979 

21 

54 

1 

- 

£m 

- 

- 

284 

33 

26 

2,003 

2,346 

- 

- 

- 

- 

25 

141 

512 

10 

3 

- 

2,173 

- 

173 

£m 

- 

- 

78 

70 

26 

1,974 

2,148 

19 

(1) 

148 

466 

12 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

- 

- 

971 

535 

132 

8,303 

9,941 

3,926 

6,000 

- 

6,000 

4 

(2) 

4,367 

99 

127 

662 

- 

- 

1,482 

1,475 

9,560 

10,472 

2,119 

15,183 

29,262 

(8,016) 

(140,113) 

(8,336) 

(148,449) 

(148,276) 

(148,247) 

29 

(5,242) 

(153,489) 

1,099 

(152,390) 

- 

- 

5,558 

1,183 

71 

23,549 

30,361 

7,386 

11,000 

- 

11,000 

12 

(12) 

7,754 

2,297 

69 

756 

- 

- 

- 

646 

9,193 

1,567 

143 

156,823 

168,372 

1,140 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

5,777 

3,267 

1,200 

5,213 

247 

16,844 

- 

151,528 

(862) 

Total 

£m 

12,493 

4,009 

16,234 

3,562 

411 

199,051 

235,760 

153,969 

20,149 

849 

17,001 

5,074 

(17) 

20,389 

15,553 

1,593 

6,706 

250 

223,666 

12,956 

(862) 

- 

144  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued)
Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Residual maturity  
(note i) 

4 April 2018 
Financial assets 
Cash 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note iii) 
Investment securities  
Derivative financial instruments 
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk  
Loans and advances to customers (note iii) 
Total financial assets 

Financial liabilities 
Shares 
Deposits from banks and similar institutions (note iii) 
Of which repo 
Of which TFS 
Other deposits (note iii) 
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 
Secured funding – ABS and covered bonds 
Senior unsecured funding 
Derivative financial instruments 
Subordinated liabilities  
Subscribed capital (note iv)  
Total financial liabilities 
Off-balance sheet commitments (note v) 
Net liquidity difference 
Cumulative liquidity difference 

Due less than 
one month  
(note ii) 
£m 

Due between 
one and  
three months 
£m 

Due between 
three and  
six months 
£m 

Due between  
six and  
nine months 
£m 

Due between 
nine and  
twelve months 
£m 

Due between 
one and  
two years 
£m 

Due between 
two and  
five years 
£m 

 Due after  
more than  
five years 
£m 

14,361 
3,149 
76 
12 
- 
2,970 
20,568 

120,617 
3,375 
946 
- 
2,493 
- 
872 
229 
39 
17 
1 
127,643 
13,890 
(120,965) 
(120,965) 

- 
- 
64 
17 
(16) 
1,318 
1,383 

2,892 
9 
- 
1 
481 
(6) 
65 
4,644 
25 
- 
1 
8,111 
- 
(6,728) 
(127,693) 

- 
- 
17 
6 
(30) 
1,925 
1,918 

4,403 
47 
- 
- 
1,343 
(6) 
273 
595 
11 
49 
1 
6,716 
- 
(4,798) 
(132,491) 

- 
- 
141 
231 
(19) 
1,886 
2,239 

4,430 
5 
- 
- 
315 
(4) 
211 
980 
6 
- 
- 
5,943 
- 
(3,704) 
(136,195) 

- 
- 
89 
52 
(30) 
1,908 
2,019 

3,248 
- 
- 
- 
50 
(4) 
224 
553 
11 
- 
- 
4,082 
- 
(2,063) 
(138,258) 

- 
- 
387 
381 
(90) 
7,564 
8,242 

6,593 
- 
- 
- 
11 
(8) 
2,491 
1,845 
64 
- 
- 
10,996 
- 
(2,754) 
(141,012) 

- 
- 
2,498 
1,966 
(53) 
22,961 
27,372 

4,499 
17,000 
- 
17,000 
- 
(25) 
9,266 
1,589 
305 
690 
- 
33,324 
- 
(5,952) 
(146,964) 

- 
344 
9,774 
1,456 
129 
151,061 
162,764 

1,321 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
6,288 
3,993 
1,876 
4,741 
260 
18,479 
- 
144,285 
(2,679) 

Total 

£m 

14,361 
3,493 
13,046 
4,121 
(109) 
191,593 
226,505 

148,003 
20,436 
946 
17,001 
4,693 
(53) 
19,690 
14,428 
2,337 
5,497 
263 
215,294 
13,890 
(2,679) 
- 

Notes: 
i.

The analysis excludes certain non-financial assets (including property, plant and equipment, intangible assets, other assets, deferred tax assets and accrued income and expenses prepaid) and non-financial liabilities (including provisions for liabilities and 
charges, accruals and deferred income, current tax liabilities, other liabilities and retirement benefit obligations). 
Due less than one month includes amounts repayable on demand. 
Loans and advances to banks and deposits from banks have been renamed to loans and advances to banks and similar institutions and deposits from banks and similar institutions and now include balances held with counterparties that are institutions similar 
to banks. These balances were previously reported in loans and advances to customers and other deposits respectively. In addition, balances reported previously as due to customers are now reported in other deposits. Comparatives for the prior period have 
been restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements.  
The principal amount for undated subscribed capital is included within the due after more than five years column.  
Off-balance sheet commitments include amounts payable on demand for unrecognised loan commitments, customer overpayments on residential mortgages where the borrower is able to draw down the amount overpaid and commitments to acquire 
financial assets. 

ii.
iii.

iv.
v.

In practice, customer behaviours mean that liabilities are often retained for longer than their contractual maturities and assets are repaid faster. This gives rise to funding mismatches on Nationwide’s balance sheet. The balance 
sheet structure and risks are managed and monitored by Nationwide’s Assets and Liabilities Committee (ALCO). Nationwide uses judgement and past behavioural performance of each asset and liability class to forecast likely cash 
flow requirements. 

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145  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued)
Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Financial liabilities – gross undiscounted contractual cash flows 

The tables below provide an analysis of gross contractual cash flows. The totals differ from the analysis of residual maturity as they include estimated future interest payments, calculated using balances outstanding at the balance 
sheet date, contractual maturities and appropriate forward looking interest rates.  

Amounts are allocated to the relevant maturity band based on the timing of individual contractual cash flows. 

Gross contractual cash flows 
4 April 2019 

(Audited) 
Shares 
Deposits from banks and similar institutions (note ii) 
Other deposits 
Secured funding – ABS and covered bonds 
Senior unsecured funding 
Subordinated liabilities  
Subscribed capital (note iii)  
Total non-derivative financial liabilities 

Derivative financial liabilities: 

Gross settled derivative outflows 
Gross settled derivative inflows 
Gross settled derivatives – net flows 
Net settled derivative liabilities 
Total derivative financial liabilities 
Total financial liabilities 

Off-balance sheet commitments (note iv) 
Total financial liabilities including off-balance sheet 
commitments 

Due less than 
one month  
(note i) 
£m 
131,451  
3,026  
2,295  
         1,199  
43 
20 
1 
138,035 

Due between 
one and  
three months 
£m 
3,098  
32  
630  
            835  
4,670 
- 
1 
9,266 

Due between 
three and  
six months 
£m 
4,121  
153  
2,096 
            172  
4,270 
123 
4 
10,939 

Due between  
six and  
nine months 
£m 
1,525  
31  
25  
            185  
518 
28 
3 
2,315 

Due between 
nine and  
twelve months 
£m 
1,514  
31 
19 
            186  
524 
75 
4 
2,353 

Due between 
one and  
two years 
£m 
4,063  
6,102 
4  
         4,313  
252 
888 
13 
15,635 

Due between 
two and  
five years 
£m 
7,605  
11,119  
12  
        7,493  
2,656 
607 
68 
29,560 

Due after  
more than  
five years 
£m 
1,141  
-   
-   
         5,901  
3,486 
6,412 
217 
17,157 

(439) 
427 
(12) 
(28) 
(40) 
137,995 

12,956 

150,951 

(2,565) 
2,485 
(80) 
(125) 
(205) 
9,061 

- 

9,061 

(1,243) 
1,185 
(58) 
(101) 
(159) 
10,780 

- 

10,780 

(76) 
58 
(18) 
(130) 
(148) 
2,167 

- 

2,167 

(71) 
45 
(26) 
(119) 
(145) 
2,208 

- 

2,208 

(1,951) 
1,783 
(168) 
(368) 
(536) 
15,099 

(2,840) 
2,595 
(245) 
(579) 
(824) 
28,736 

(5,349) 
5,086 
(263) 
(916) 
(1,179) 
15,978 

- 

- 

- 

12,956 

15,099 

28,736 

15,978 

234,980 

Total 

£m 
154,518  
20,494  
5,081 
20,284 
16,419 
8,153 
311 
225,260 

(14,534) 
13,664 
(870) 
(2,366) 
(3,236) 
222,024 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Financial liabilities – gross undiscounted contractual cash flows 

The tables below provide an analysis of gross contractual cash flows. The totals differ from the analysis of residual maturity as they include estimated future interest payments, calculated using balances outstanding at the balance 

sheet date, contractual maturities and appropriate forward looking interest rates.  

Amounts are allocated to the relevant maturity band based on the timing of individual contractual cash flows. 

Secured funding – ABS and covered bonds 

         1,199  

            835  

            172  

            185  

            186  

         4,313  

        7,493  

         5,901  

Gross contractual cash flows 

4 April 2019 

(Audited) 

Shares 

Other deposits 

Senior unsecured funding 

Subordinated liabilities  

Subscribed capital (note iii)  

Deposits from banks and similar institutions (note ii) 

Derivative financial liabilities: 

Gross settled derivative outflows 

Gross settled derivative inflows 

Gross settled derivatives – net flows 

Net settled derivative liabilities 

Total derivative financial liabilities 

Total financial liabilities 

Off-balance sheet commitments (note iv) 

Total financial liabilities including off-balance sheet 

commitments 

Due less than 

one month  

Due between 

Due between 

Due between  

Due between 

Due between 

Due between 

(note i) 

three months 

one and  

three and  

six months 

six and  

nine and  

nine months 

twelve months 

one and  

two years 

two and  

five years 

Due after  

more than  

five years 

£m 

131,451  

3,026  

2,295  

43 

20 

1 

(439) 

427 

(12) 

(28) 

(40) 

137,995 

12,956 

150,951 

£m 

3,098  

32  

630  

4,670 

- 

1 

(2,565) 

2,485 

(80) 

(125) 

(205) 

9,061 

- 

9,061 

£m 

4,121  

153  

2,096 

4,270 

123 

4 

10,939 

(1,243) 

1,185 

(58) 

(101) 

(159) 

10,780 

- 

10,780 

£m 

1,525  

31  

25  

518 

28 

3 

2,315 

(76) 

58 

(18) 

(130) 

(148) 

2,167 

- 

2,167 

£m 

1,514  

31 

19 

524 

75 

4 

2,353 

(71) 

45 

(26) 

(119) 

(145) 

2,208 

- 

2,208 

£m 

4,063  

6,102 

4  

252 

888 

13 

15,635 

(1,951) 

1,783 

(168) 

(368) 

(536) 

15,099 

£m 

7,605  

11,119  

12  

2,656 

607 

68 

29,560 

(2,840) 

2,595 

(245) 

(579) 

(824) 

28,736 

£m 

1,141  

-   

-   

3,486 

6,412 

217 

17,157 

(5,349) 

5,086 

(263) 

(916) 

(1,179) 

15,978 

Total 

£m 

154,518  

20,494  

5,081 

20,284 

16,419 

8,153 

311 

225,260 

(14,534) 

13,664 

(870) 

(2,366) 

(3,236) 

222,024 

- 

- 

- 

12,956 

15,099 

28,736 

15,978 

234,980 

Total non-derivative financial liabilities 

138,035 

9,266 

146  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued)
Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Gross contractual cash flows 
4 April 2018 

(Audited) 
Shares 
Deposits from banks and similar institutions (note ii) 
Other deposits (note ii) 
Secured funding – ABS and covered bonds 
Senior unsecured funding 
Subordinated liabilities  
Subscribed capital (note iii)  
Total non-derivative financial liabilities 

Derivative financial liabilities: 

Gross settled derivative outflows 
Gross settled derivative inflows 
Gross settled derivatives – net flows 
Net settled derivative liabilities 
Total derivative financial liabilities 
Total financial liabilities 

Off-balance sheet commitments (note iv) 
Total financial liabilities including off-balance sheet commitments 

Due less than 
one month  
(note i) 
£m 
120,617  
3,402  
2,493 
880  
162  
18  
1  
127,573 

Due between 
one and  
three months 
£m 
2,959  
8  
486 
76  
4,712  
-    
1  
8,242 

Due between 
three and  
six months 
£m 
4,462  
48  
1,345 
297  
638  
104  
4  
6,898 

Due between  
six and  
nine months 
£m 
4,479  
64  
315 
193  
990  
18  
3  
6,062 

Due between 
nine and  
twelve months 
£m 
3,288  
75  
50 
367  
629  
56  
14  
4,479 

Due between 
one and  
two years 
£m 
6,708  
182  
11 
2,739  
1,992  
197  
13  
11,842 

Due between 
two and  
five years 
£m 
4,690  
17,271  
-   
8,006  
1,049  
1,004  
60  
32,080 

(13) 
14 
1 
(23) 
(22) 
127,551 

13,890 
141,441 

(67) 
59 
(8) 
(63) 
(71) 
8,171 

- 
8,171 

(39) 
41 
2 
(59) 
(57) 
6,841 

- 
6,841 

(237) 
222 
(15) 
(105) 
(120) 
5,942 

- 
5,942 

(103) 
105 
2 
(46) 
(44) 
4,435 

- 
4,435 

(522) 
521 
(1) 
(265) 
(266) 
11,576 

- 
11,576 

(2,522) 
2,479 
(43) 
(608) 
(651) 
31,429 

- 
31,429 

Due after  
more than  
five years 
£m 
1,524  
-  
-   
8,625  
5,274  
5,400  
244  
21,067 

(5,692) 
5,596 
(96) 
(1,190) 
(1,286) 
19,781 

- 
19,781 

Total 

£m 
148,727  
21,050 
4,700 
21,183 
15,446  
6,797  
340  
218,243 

(9,195) 
9,037 
(158) 
(2,359) 
(2,517) 
215,726 

13,890 
229,616 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

Due less than one month includes amounts repayable on demand. 
Deposits from banks has been renamed to deposits from banks and similar institutions and now includes balances held with counterparties that are institutions similar to banks. These balances were previously reported in other deposits. In addition, balances 
reported previously as due to customers are now reported in other deposits. Comparatives have been restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements.  
The principal amount for undated subscribed capital is included within the due more than five years column. 

iii.
iv. Off-balance sheet commitments include amounts payable on demand for unrecognised loan commitments, customer overpayments on residential mortgages where the borrower is able to draw down the amount overpaid and commitments to acquire 

financial assets. 

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147  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued)
Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Asset encumbrance 

Encumbrance arises where assets are pledged as collateral against secured funding and other collateralised obligations and therefore cannot be used for other purposes. The majority of asset encumbrance arises from the use of 
prime mortgage pools to collateralise the Covered Bond and Silverstone secured funding programmes (further information is included in note 14) and from participation in the Bank of England’s Term Funding Scheme (TFS). 

Certain unencumbered assets are readily available to secure funding or meet collateral requirements. These include prime mortgages and cash and securities held in the liquid asset buffer. Other unencumbered assets, such as non-
prime mortgages, are capable of being encumbered with a degree of further management action. Assets which do not fall into either of these categories are classified as not being capable of being encumbered. 

An analysis of Nationwide’s encumbered and unencumbered on-balance sheet assets is set out below. This disclosure is not intended to identify assets that would be available in the event of a resolution or bankruptcy. 

Asset encumbrance 
4 April 2019 

Assets encumbered as a result of transactions with counterparties 
other than central banks 

Cash 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 
Investment securities 
Derivative financial instruments 
Loans and advances to customers  
Non-financial assets 
Other financial assets 

Total 

4 April 2018 
Cash 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note i) 
Investment securities 
Derivative financial instruments 
Loans and advances to customers (note i) 
Non-financial assets 
Other financial assets 
Total 

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£m 
      590  
- 
 - 
 - 
    22,656  
 - 
 - 
    23,246  

£m 
381 
- 
- 
- 
21,000 
- 
- 
21,381 

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      660 
- 
- 
 - 
   6,936  
 - 
 - 
      7,596  

£m 
376 
- 
- 
- 
8,712 
- 
- 
9,088 

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£m 
- 
1,352  
      1,694  
 - 
- 
 - 
 - 
3,046  

£m 
- 
1,220 
944 
- 
- 
- 
- 
2,164 

Other assets (comprising assets encumbered at the  
central bank and unencumbered assets) 
Assets not positioned 
at the central bank 

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£m 
      1,250  
         1,352  
      1,694  
            -    
    29,592  
            -    
            -    
    33,888  

£m 
140 
1,276 
30 
 - 
          39,558  
 - 
- 
          41,004  

£m 
          10,859  
- 
          13,043  
 - 
          82,561  
 - 
 - 
        106,463  

£m 
 - 
 - 
 - 
 - 
          47,340  
 - 
 - 
          47,340  

£m 
               244  
            1,381  
1,467 
            3,562  
- 
            2,541  
411 
            9,606  

£m 
757 
1,220 
944 
- 
29,712 
- 
- 
32,633 

£m 
- 
1,124 
30 
- 
37,732 
- 
- 
38,886 

£m 
13,389 
- 
12,027 
- 
76,791 
- 
- 
102,207 

£m 
- 
- 
- 
- 
47,358 
- 
- 
47,358 

£m 
 215  
1,149 
45 
4,121 
- 
2,593 
(109) 
8,014 

Total 

£m 
12,493  
4,009  
16,234  
3,562  
199,051  
2,541  
411 
238,301  

£m 
14,361 
3,493 
13,046 
4,121 
191,593 
2,593 
(109) 
229,098 

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£m 
    11,243  
      2,657  
    14,540  
      3,562  
  169,459  
      2,541  
411  
  204,413 

£m 
13,604 
2,273 
12,102 
4,121 
161,881 
2,593 
(109) 
196,465 

Note: 
i.

Loans and advances to banks has been renamed to loans and advances to banks and similar institutions now includes balances held with counterparties that are institutions similar to banks. These balances were previously reported in loans and advances to 
customers. Comparatives have been restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements.   

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
148  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued)
Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Managing liquidity and funding risk 

Encumbrance arises where assets are pledged as collateral against secured funding and other collateralised obligations and therefore cannot be used for other purposes. The majority of asset encumbrance arises from the use of 

prime mortgage pools to collateralise the Covered Bond and Silverstone secured funding programmes (further information is included in note 14) and from participation in the Bank of England’s Term Funding Scheme (TFS). 

Nationwide’s management of liquidity and funding risks aims to ensure that at all times there are sufficient liquid assets, both as to amount and quality, to: 

Certain unencumbered assets are readily available to secure funding or meet collateral requirements. These include prime mortgages and cash and securities held in the liquid asset buffer. Other unencumbered assets, such as non-

prime mortgages, are capable of being encumbered with a degree of further management action. Assets which do not fall into either of these categories are classified as not being capable of being encumbered. 

An analysis of Nationwide’s encumbered and unencumbered on-balance sheet assets is set out below. This disclosure is not intended to identify assets that would be available in the event of a resolution or bankruptcy. 

cover cash flow mismatches and fluctuations in funding 
retain public confidence  

•
•
• meet financial obligations as they fall due, even during episodes of stress. 

This is achieved through the management and stress testing of business cash flows, and through the translation of Board risk appetite into appropriate risk limits. This ensures a prudent funding mix and maturity profile, sufficient 
levels of high quality liquid assets and appropriate encumbrance levels are maintained.  

Assets encumbered as a result of transactions with counterparties 

other than central banks 

Other assets (comprising assets encumbered at the  

central bank and unencumbered assets) 

Total 

The liquidity and funding risk framework is reviewed by the Board as part of the annual Internal Liquidity Adequacy Assessment Process (ILAAP). ALCO is responsible for managing the balance sheet structure, including the Funding 
Plan, and its risks. This includes setting and monitoring more granular limits within Board limits. A consolidated cash flow forecast is maintained and reviewed weekly to support ALCO in monitoring key risk metrics. 

A Liquidity Contingency Plan (LCP) is maintained which describes early warning triggers for indicating an emerging liquidity or funding stress as well as escalation procedures and a range of actions that could be taken in response to 
ensure sufficient liquidity is maintained. The LCP is tested annually to ensure it remains robust. Nationwide also has a Recovery Plan which describes potential actions that could be utilised in a more extreme stress. 

Liquidity stress testing 

To mitigate liquidity and funding risks generated by its business activities, Nationwide aims to maintain a liquid asset buffer of at least 100% of the anticipated outflows seen under internal stress test scenarios and the regulatory-
prescribed LCR.  

Potential contractual and behavioural stress outflows are assessed across a range of liquidity risk drivers over 30 calendar days, with the key assumptions shown below. A three month assessment is also performed against which LCP 
capacity is assessed. Internal stress assumptions are reviewed regularly with changes approved by ALCO, and approved annually by the Board as part of the ILAAP.  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

Asset encumbrance 

Asset encumbrance 

4 April 2019 

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- 

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- 

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944 

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      1,250  

         1,352  

      1,694  

            -    

            -    

            -    

£m 

757 

1,220 

944 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

381 

£m 

376 

£m 

140 

1,276 

30 

 - 

£m 

1,124 

30 

 - 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

          10,859  

          13,043  

- 

 - 

 - 

 - 

£m 

13,389 

12,027 

76,791 

- 

- 

- 

- 

21,000 

8,712 

29,712 

37,732 

47,358 

    22,656  

   6,936  

    29,592  

          39,558  

          82,561  

          47,340  

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            1,381  

1,467 

            3,562  

            2,541  

- 

411 

£m 

 215  

1,149 

45 

4,121 

- 

2,593 

(109) 

8,014 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

 - 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

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    11,243  

      2,657  

    14,540  

      3,562  

  169,459  

      2,541  

411  

£m 

13,604 

2,273 

12,102 

4,121 

161,881 

2,593 

(109) 

£m 

12,493  

4,009  

16,234  

3,562  

199,051  

2,541  

411 

238,301  

£m 

14,361 

3,493 

13,046 

4,121 

191,593 

2,593 

(109) 

    23,246  

      7,596  

3,046  

    33,888  

          41,004  

        106,463  

          47,340  

            9,606  

  204,413 

Cash 

Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 

      590  

      660 

Investment securities 

Derivative financial instruments 

Loans and advances to customers  

Non-financial assets 

Other financial assets 

Total 

4 April 2018 

Cash 

Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note i) 

Investment securities 

Derivative financial instruments 

Loans and advances to customers (note i) 

Non-financial assets 

Other financial assets 

Total 

Note: 

i.

Loans and advances to banks has been renamed to loans and advances to banks and similar institutions now includes balances held with counterparties that are institutions similar to banks. These balances were previously reported in loans and advances to 

customers. Comparatives have been restated to disclose information on the same basis. Further details are included in note 1 to the financial statements.   

At 4 April 2019, under the most severe internal 30 calendar day stress test (a combined market-wide and Nationwide-specific stress scenario), modelled stressed net outflows equated to £21.5 billion (4 April 2018: £20.5 billion). The 
liquid asset buffer as a percentage of stressed net outflows equated to 119% (4 April 2018: 120%).  

21,381 

9,088 

2,164 

32,633 

38,886 

102,207 

47,358 

196,465 

229,098 

Intra-day 

Liquid assets 

Liquidity is needed to pre-fund outgoing payments. 

Asset values are reduced in recognition of the stressed conditions assumed. 

Contractual outflows occur in relation to secured funding programmes due to credit rating downgrades. 
Lending commitments continue to be met. 
Collateral outflows arise due to adverse movements in market rates. 
Inflows from mortgages or retail and commercial loans are assessed on a contractual basis. 

zero roll-over of maturing long-term wholesale funding; 
zero roll-over of maturing short-term funding received from financial counterparties and partial roll-
over from non-financial counterparties; 
no new wholesale funding received. 

Liquidity risk driver 

Retail funding 

Wholesale funding 

Off-balance sheet  

Modelling assumptions used 

Significant unexpected outflows are experienced with no new deposits received. 

Following a credit rating downgrade: 
•
•

•

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149  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued)
Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

External credit ratings 

The Group’s long-term and short-term credit ratings are shown in the table below. The long-term rating for both Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s is the senior preferred rating. The long-term rating for Fitch is the senior  
non-preferred rating. 

Credit ratings 

Standard & Poor’s 
Moody’s 
Fitch 

Senior  
preferred 

Short-term 

Senior  
non-preferred 

A 
Aa3 
A+ 

A-1 
P-1 
F1 

BBB+ 
Baa1 
A 

Tier 2 

BBB 
Baa1 
A- 

Outlook 

Date of last rating 
action / 
confirmation 
November 2018 
February 2019 

Positive 
Negative 
March 2019  Ratings Watch Negative 

In November 2018 Standard & Poor’s reaffirmed their positive outlook reflecting their expectation that Nationwide’s buffer of bail-in instruments could exceed their threshold for two notches of Additional Loss Absorbing Capacity 
(ALAC) uplift over their 18-24 month forecast horizon.  

In October 2018, Moody’s affirmed Nationwide’s Aa3/P-1 long and short term ratings, but changed its outlook to negative from stable. The change in outlook reflected uncertainties embedded in Moody’s forward looking view on the 
loss given failure of the Society’s senior debt. This was reaffirmed in February 2019.  

In March 2019, Fitch placed the Long Term Issuer Default Rating of Nationwide, along with eighteen other UK banking groups, on Ratings Watch Negative. The Ratings Watch Negative reflects the heightened uncertainty over the 
ultimate outcome of the Brexit process and the increased risk that a disruptive ‘no-deal’ Brexit could result in negative action on the UK banks, with the likelihood that negative outlooks will be assigned.  

Whilst there have been changes to outlook as referred to above, Nationwide’s credit ratings remain unchanged since April 2018.  

The table below sets out the amount of additional collateral Nationwide would need to provide in the event of a one and two notch downgrade by external credit rating agencies.  

4 April 2019 
4 April 2018 

Cumulative adjustment for  
a one notch downgrade 
£bn 
3.0 
3.1 

Cumulative adjustment for  
a two notch downgrade 
£bn 
3.4 
3.3 

The contractually required cash outflow would not necessarily match the actual cash outflow as a result of management actions that could be taken to reduce the impact of the downgrades. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Liquidity and funding risk (continued) 

External credit ratings 

non-preferred rating. 

Credit ratings 

Standard & Poor’s 

Moody’s 

Fitch 

The Group’s long-term and short-term credit ratings are shown in the table below. The long-term rating for both Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s is the senior preferred rating. The long-term rating for Fitch is the senior  

Senior  

preferred 

A 

Aa3 

A+ 

Short-term 

Senior  

Tier 2 

Date of last rating 

Outlook 

non-preferred 

A-1 

P-1 

F1 

BBB+ 

Baa1 

A 

action / 

confirmation 

November 2018 

February 2019 

BBB 

Baa1 

A- 

March 2019  Ratings Watch Negative 

Positive 

Negative 

In November 2018 Standard & Poor’s reaffirmed their positive outlook reflecting their expectation that Nationwide’s buffer of bail-in instruments could exceed their threshold for two notches of Additional Loss Absorbing Capacity 

(ALAC) uplift over their 18-24 month forecast horizon.  

In October 2018, Moody’s affirmed Nationwide’s Aa3/P-1 long and short term ratings, but changed its outlook to negative from stable. The change in outlook reflected uncertainties embedded in Moody’s forward looking view on the 

loss given failure of the Society’s senior debt. This was reaffirmed in February 2019.  

In March 2019, Fitch placed the Long Term Issuer Default Rating of Nationwide, along with eighteen other UK banking groups, on Ratings Watch Negative. The Ratings Watch Negative reflects the heightened uncertainty over the 

ultimate outcome of the Brexit process and the increased risk that a disruptive ‘no-deal’ Brexit could result in negative action on the UK banks, with the likelihood that negative outlooks will be assigned.  

Whilst there have been changes to outlook as referred to above, Nationwide’s credit ratings remain unchanged since April 2018.  

The table below sets out the amount of additional collateral Nationwide would need to provide in the event of a one and two notch downgrade by external credit rating agencies.  

4 April 2019 

4 April 2018 

Cumulative adjustment for  

a one notch downgrade 

Cumulative adjustment for  

a two notch downgrade 

£bn 

3.0 

3.1 

£bn 

3.4 

3.3 

The contractually required cash outflow would not necessarily match the actual cash outflow as a result of management actions that could be taken to reduce the impact of the downgrades. 

150  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued)
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Solvency risk 

Solvency risk is the risk that Nationwide fails to maintain sufficient capital to absorb losses throughout a full 
economic cycle and sufficient to maintain the confidence of current and prospective investors, members, the 
Board and regulators. Capital is held to protect members, cover inherent risks, provide a buffer for stress 
events and support the business strategy. In assessing the adequacy of capital resources, risk appetite is 
considered in the context of the material risks to which Nationwide is exposed and the appropriate strategies 
required to manage those risks. 

Managing solvency risk 

A number of tools are employed to support the management of solvency risk. The Board is responsible for 
setting risk appetite with respect to solvency risk, which is articulated through its risk appetite statements, 
and it defines minimum levels of capital, including leverage, that it is willing to operate with. These are 
translated into specific risk metrics, which are monitored by the Board Risk Committee (BRC), Assets and 
Liabilities Committee (ALCO) and other internal management reviews. 

The capital structure is managed to ensure that Nationwide continues to meet minimum regulatory 
requirements, as well as meeting the expectations of other key stakeholders. As part of the risk appetite 
framework, strong capital ratios are targeted relative to both regulatory requirements and major banking 
peers. Any planned changes to the balance sheet, potential regulatory developments and other factors (such 
as trading outlook, movements in the fair value through other comprehensive income reserve and defined 
benefit pension deficit) are all considered. 

The capital strategy is to manage capital ratios through retained earnings, supplemented by external capital 
where appropriate. With general reserves forming the majority of capital resources, profitability is an 
important factor when considering the ability to meet capital requirements. A return on capital framework is 
in place, based upon an allocation of overall capital requirements, which forms part of the Society’s Board risk 
appetite metrics as well as forming part of the performance monitoring activity for individual product 
segments. In recent years, Nationwide’s ability to supplement retained earnings through the issuance of 
Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1), Additional Tier 1 and Tier 2 capital instruments has been demonstrated, and its 
non-core commercial lending portfolios have been significantly deleveraged. 

Capital is held to meet Pillar 1 requirements for credit, operational and market risks. In addition, the PRA 
requires firms to hold capital to meet Pillar 2A requirements, which form an Individual Capital Requirement 
(ICR). This is a point in time estimate, set by the PRA on an annual basis based on the submission of the 
results of our annual Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process (ICAAP). This process confirms the 
amount of capital required to be held to meet risks partly covered by Pillar 1 such as credit concentration and 
operational risk, and risks not covered by Pillar 1 such as pension and interest rate risk. The combination of 
Pillar 1 and Pillar 2A requirements form Nationwide’s Total Capital Requirement (TCR). The ICR and TCR 
replace the former Individual Capital Guidance (ICG). 

Nationwide’s latest Pillar 2A ICR and TCR were received in September 2018. The ICR equates to circa £2.4 
billion, of which at least circa £1.4 billion (56%) must be met by CET1 capital. The ICR was equivalent to 7.4% 
of risk weighted assets (RWAs) as at 4 April 2019 (4 April 2018: 7.1%), largely reflecting the low average risk 

weight, given that approximately 78% (4 April 2018: 78%) of total assets are in the form of secured residential 
mortgages. 

To protect against the risk of consuming Pillar 1 and Pillar 2A requirements (thereby breaching TCR), firms are 
subject to regulatory capital buffers which are set out in CRD IV. The ICAAP process also considers a capital 
buffer to ensure that the impact of a severe but plausible stress can be absorbed. The PRA may also set an 
additional firm-specific buffer based upon supervisory judgement informed by the impact of stress scenarios 
on a firm’s capital requirements and resources, and taking into account other factors including leverage, 
systemic importance and any weaknesses in firms’ risk management and governance procedures. 

Regular stress tests are undertaken, covering Nationwide and its subsidiaries, to enhance the understanding 
of potential vulnerabilities and how management actions might be deployed in the event of stressed 
conditions developing. These stress tests project capital resources and requirements over a multi-year period, 
during severe but plausible scenarios that cover a range of macro-economic or market-wide stresses, and 
idiosyncratic scenarios that test particular risks to Nationwide’s business model. Stress test results are 
reported to the Board Risk Committee. 

Nationwide aims to be in a position where it would maintain strong capital and leverage ratios in the event of 
a severe but plausible economic or idiosyncratic stress. Embedded in the risk appetite framework is an 
expectation to maintain the CET1 and leverage ratios in excess of regulatory minima under stressed 
conditions.  

A set of management actions is maintained that would be available in the event of a breach of one or more of 
the risk metrics, to support the capital position. In a more severe stress, Nationwide would consider the 
implementation of its Recovery Plan, maintained under UK regulatory rules implementing the European Bank 
Recovery and Resolution Directive (BRRD), which documents a broad range of management actions. In 
addition, reverse stress testing is carried out using extreme, highly improbable scenarios to further test the 
viability of Nationwide’s business model. 

During 2018, the major UK banks and building societies, including Nationwide, took part in the PRA’s annual 
concurrent stress test (CST), which included two scenarios. The main scenario, the Annual Cyclical Scenario 
(ACS), assessed firms’ resilience to a severe economic downturn, characterised by an increase in the Bank of 
England base rate to 4%, a 33% fall in UK house prices and a 4.7% fall in UK GDP. The stress featured the 
same global and domestic economic downturn used for the 2017 exercise but with the expected credit losses 
(ECLs) modelled under the new IFRS 9 accounting standard. The Financial Policy Committee (FPC) will use 
these results to understand more fully the impact of IFRS 9 on capital ratios, and to consider changes to the 
way in which it monitors firms’ capital position. 

Despite the severity of the ACS, the results illustrate the strength and resilience of Nationwide, with low point 
CET1 and UK leverage ratios of 14.1% and 5.1% respectively after the application of management actions. 
While the UK leverage ratio remained relatively stable, risk weighted assets increased significantly causing a 
reduction in the CET1 ratio, largely due to the use of Point in Time (PiT) modelling approaches for secured 
portfolios.

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151  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Solvency risk (continued) 

Nationwide, along with the major UK banks, is currently taking part in the 2019 CST. This year’s ACS features a similar global and domestic economic downturn to that used for the 2018 exercise, reflecting the FPC’s assessment of 
underlying vulnerabilities being broadly unchanged year on year. 

Capital position 

Capital ratios 

Solvency  
Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio 
Total Tier 1 ratio 
Total regulatory capital ratio 
Leverage  
UK leverage exposure (note ii) 
CRR leverage exposure (note iii) 
Tier 1 capital  

UK leverage ratio  
CRR leverage ratio  

4 April 2019 
% 
 32.4  
 35.4   
 44.6  
£m 
  235,147  
 247,586  
 11,509  
% 
 4.9  
 4.6  

5 April 2018 (note i) 
% 
30.4 
33.5 
 42.8  
£m 
221,982 
236,458 
10,907 
% 
4.9 
4.6 

4 April 2018 
% 
30.5 
33.6 
42.9 
£m 
221,992 
236,468 
10,917 
% 
4.9 
4.6 

Figures have been adjusted to reflect the impact of applying IFRS 9 Financial Instruments from 5 April 2018. Further information is provided in our Report on Transition to IFRS 9: Financial Instruments, which can be found on nationwide.co.uk.  

Notes: 
i.
ii. The UK leverage ratio is calculated using the Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) definition of Tier 1 for the capital amount and the Delegated Act definition of the exposure measure, excluding eligible central bank reserves. 
iii. The Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) leverage ratio is calculated using the CRR definition of Tier 1 for the capital amount and the Delegated Act definition of the exposure measure. 

The capital disclosures included in this report are on a Capital Requirements Directive IV (CRD IV) end point 
basis. This assumes that all CRD IV requirements are in force during the period, with no transitional provisions 
permitted. In addition, the disclosures are on a consolidated Group basis, including all subsidiary entities, 
unless otherwise stated. 

The CET1 ratio increased to 32.4% (5 April 2018: 30.4%) as a result of an increase in CET1 capital resources, 
with risk weighted assets (RWAs) remaining relatively stable. CET1 capital resources have increased by £0.6 
billion, primarily due to the profit after tax for the year of £0.6 billion. RWAs remained stable with increased 
retail lending and treasury related RWAs offset by run-off in the commercial book and the implementation of a 
new credit card internal ratings based (IRB) model. 

Risk-based ratios remain in-excess of regulatory requirements with the CET1 ratio of 32.4% (5 April 2018: 
30.4%) above Nationwide’s capital requirement of 13.2%. This includes a minimum CET1 capital requirement 
of 8.7% (Pillar 1 and Pillar 2A) and CRD IV combined buffer requirements of 4.5% (allowing for the announced 
1% systemic risk buffer). The CET1 ratio is expected to be impacted by future regulatory developments, with 
Nationwide expecting to implement the PRA's revised expectations for residential mortgage IRB models in 
2020. The implementation of the new IRB models is expected to cause an increase in RWAs leading to an 
estimated reduction in the CET1 ratio of approximately one third. We also expect the CET1 ratio to be impacted 
further through the Basel III reforms, expected to come into effect between 2022 and 2027 (see regulatory 
developments section for further details). 

CRD IV requires firms to calculate a non-risk based leverage ratio, to supplement risk-based capital 
requirements. The UK leverage ratio of 4.9% (5 April 2018: 4.9%) remains in excess of Nationwide’s capital 

requirement of 4.0% from August 2019, which comprises of a minimum Tier 1 capital requirement of 3.25% 
and buffer requirements of 0.75% (allowing for the 0.35% additional leverage buffer).  

The UK leverage ratio remained stable at 4.9% (5 April 2018: 4.9%), with an increase in Tier 1 capital driven 
by profits after tax of £0.6 billion offset by an increase in UK leverage exposure of £13 billion resulting from an 
increase in net retail lending of £9 billion, an increase in treasury exposures (including counterparty credit 
risk) of £5 billion, and an increase in other assets of £1 billion, offset by run-off in the commercial book of £2 
billion. The CRR leverage ratio is based on the Delegated Act definition and therefore exposures include 
central bank reserves. This also remained stable at 4.6% (5 April 2018: 4.6%). On 24 April 2019, Nationwide 
notified investors of its intention to redeem its outstanding Additional Tier 1 capital instrument in full, on 20 
June 2019. This will reduce Tier 1 capital resources by £992 million, resulting in a 0.4 percentage points 
reduction in the UK leverage ratio, to 4.5%, and a 0.4 percentage points reduction in CRR leverage ratio to 
4.2%, based on the year-end balance sheet.  

Leverage requirements continue to be Nationwide’s binding capital constraint, as they are in excess of risk-
based requirements, and it is expected that will continue despite the impact of IRB model changes and Basel 
III reforms on risk-based capital requirements. The expected impact of the Basel III reforms on Nationwide’s 
UK leverage ratio is negligible. The risk of excessive leverage is managed through regular monitoring and 
reporting of the UK leverage ratio, which forms part of risk appetite. 

Further details on the leverage exposure can be found in the Group’s annual Pillar 3 Disclosure 2019 at 
nationwide.co.uk  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nationwide, along with the major UK banks, is currently taking part in the 2019 CST. This year’s ACS features a similar global and domestic economic downturn to that used for the 2018 exercise, reflecting the FPC’s assessment of 

The table below reconciles the general reserves to total regulatory capital on an end-point basis and so does not include non-qualifying instruments. 

152  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Solvency risk (continued) 

Total regulatory capital 

(Audited) 
General reserve  
Core capital deferred shares (CCDS) 
Revaluation reserve  
FVOCI reserve 
Available for sale reserve 
Regulatory adjustments and deductions: 
Foreseeable distributions (note i) 
Prudent valuation adjustment (note ii) 
Own credit and debit valuation adjustments (note iii) 
Intangible assets (note iv) 
Goodwill (note iv) 
Excess of regulatory expected losses over impairment provisions (note v) 
IFRS 9 transitional arrangements (note vi) 
Total regulatory adjustments and deductions 
Common Equity Tier 1 capital 
Additional Tier 1 capital securities (AT1) (note vii) 
Total Tier 1 capital 

Dated subordinated debt (notes viii)  
Excess of impairment provisions over regulatory expected losses (note v) 
IFRS9 transitional arrangements (note vi)     
Tier 2 capital  

2019 
£m 
 10,418   
 1,325   
 64   
 50   
 -    

(68)  
(50)  
 -    
(1,274)  
(12)  
(2)  
 66   
(1,340)  
 10,517   
 992   
 11,509   

 2,976   
 46   
(46)  
 2,976   

2018 
£m 
9,951 
1,325 
68 
- 
75 

(68) 
(32) 
(1) 
(1,286) 
(12) 
(95) 
- 
(1,494) 
9,925 
992 
10,917 

3,019 
- 
- 
3,019   

Total regulatory capital  

 14,485   

13,936 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Solvency risk (continued) 

underlying vulnerabilities being broadly unchanged year on year. 

Capital position 

Capital ratios 

Solvency  

Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio 

Total Tier 1 ratio 

Total regulatory capital ratio 

Leverage  

UK leverage exposure (note ii) 

CRR leverage exposure (note iii) 

Tier 1 capital  

UK leverage ratio  

CRR leverage ratio  

Notes: 

4 April 2019 

5 April 2018 (note i) 

4 April 2018 

% 

 32.4  

 35.4   

 44.6  

£m 

  235,147  

 247,586  

 11,509  

% 

 4.9  

 4.6  

% 

30.4 

33.5 

 42.8  

£m 

221,982 

236,458 

10,907 

% 

4.9 

4.6 

% 

30.5 

33.6 

42.9 

£m 

221,992 

236,468 

10,917 

% 

4.9 

4.6 

i.

Figures have been adjusted to reflect the impact of applying IFRS 9 Financial Instruments from 5 April 2018. Further information is provided in our Report on Transition to IFRS 9: Financial Instruments, which can be found on nationwide.co.uk.  

ii. The UK leverage ratio is calculated using the Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) definition of Tier 1 for the capital amount and the Delegated Act definition of the exposure measure, excluding eligible central bank reserves. 

iii. The Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) leverage ratio is calculated using the CRR definition of Tier 1 for the capital amount and the Delegated Act definition of the exposure measure. 

The capital disclosures included in this report are on a Capital Requirements Directive IV (CRD IV) end point 

requirement of 4.0% from August 2019, which comprises of a minimum Tier 1 capital requirement of 3.25% 

basis. This assumes that all CRD IV requirements are in force during the period, with no transitional provisions 

and buffer requirements of 0.75% (allowing for the 0.35% additional leverage buffer).  

retail lending and treasury related RWAs offset by run-off in the commercial book and the implementation of a 

central bank reserves. This also remained stable at 4.6% (5 April 2018: 4.6%). On 24 April 2019, Nationwide 

permitted. In addition, the disclosures are on a consolidated Group basis, including all subsidiary entities, 

unless otherwise stated. 

The CET1 ratio increased to 32.4% (5 April 2018: 30.4%) as a result of an increase in CET1 capital resources, 

with risk weighted assets (RWAs) remaining relatively stable. CET1 capital resources have increased by £0.6 

billion, primarily due to the profit after tax for the year of £0.6 billion. RWAs remained stable with increased 

new credit card internal ratings based (IRB) model. 

Risk-based ratios remain in-excess of regulatory requirements with the CET1 ratio of 32.4% (5 April 2018: 

30.4%) above Nationwide’s capital requirement of 13.2%. This includes a minimum CET1 capital requirement 

of 8.7% (Pillar 1 and Pillar 2A) and CRD IV combined buffer requirements of 4.5% (allowing for the announced 

1% systemic risk buffer). The CET1 ratio is expected to be impacted by future regulatory developments, with 

Nationwide expecting to implement the PRA's revised expectations for residential mortgage IRB models in 

2020. The implementation of the new IRB models is expected to cause an increase in RWAs leading to an 

The UK leverage ratio remained stable at 4.9% (5 April 2018: 4.9%), with an increase in Tier 1 capital driven 

by profits after tax of £0.6 billion offset by an increase in UK leverage exposure of £13 billion resulting from an 

increase in net retail lending of £9 billion, an increase in treasury exposures (including counterparty credit 

risk) of £5 billion, and an increase in other assets of £1 billion, offset by run-off in the commercial book of £2 

billion. The CRR leverage ratio is based on the Delegated Act definition and therefore exposures include 

notified investors of its intention to redeem its outstanding Additional Tier 1 capital instrument in full, on 20 

June 2019. This will reduce Tier 1 capital resources by £992 million, resulting in a 0.4 percentage points 

reduction in the UK leverage ratio, to 4.5%, and a 0.4 percentage points reduction in CRR leverage ratio to 

4.2%, based on the year-end balance sheet.  

Leverage requirements continue to be Nationwide’s binding capital constraint, as they are in excess of risk-

based requirements, and it is expected that will continue despite the impact of IRB model changes and Basel 

III reforms on risk-based capital requirements. The expected impact of the Basel III reforms on Nationwide’s 

estimated reduction in the CET1 ratio of approximately one third. We also expect the CET1 ratio to be impacted 

UK leverage ratio is negligible. The risk of excessive leverage is managed through regular monitoring and 

further through the Basel III reforms, expected to come into effect between 2022 and 2027 (see regulatory 

reporting of the UK leverage ratio, which forms part of risk appetite. 

developments section for further details). 

Further details on the leverage exposure can be found in the Group’s annual Pillar 3 Disclosure 2019 at 

CRD IV requires firms to calculate a non-risk based leverage ratio, to supplement risk-based capital 

requirements. The UK leverage ratio of 4.9% (5 April 2018: 4.9%) remains in excess of Nationwide’s capital 

nationwide.co.uk  

Foreseeable distributions in respect of CCDS and AT1 securities are deducted from CET1 capital under CRD IV. 

Notes: 
i.
ii. A prudent valuation adjustment (PVA) is applied in respect of fair valued instruments as required under regulatory capital rules. 
iii. Own credit and debit valuation adjustments are applied to remove balance sheet gains or losses of fair valued liabilities and derivatives that result from changes in Nationwide’s own credit standing and risk, in accordance with CRD IV rules. 
iv.
v. Where capital expected loss exceeds accounting impairment provisions, the excess balance is removed from CET1 capital, gross of tax. In contrast, where impairment provisions exceed capital expected loss, the excess balance is added back to Tier 2 capital, 

Intangible assets and goodwill are deducted from capital resources after netting associated deferred tax liabilities.  

gross of tax. This calculation is not performed for equity exposures, in line with Article 159 of CRR. The expected loss amounts for equity exposures are deducted from CET1 capital, gross of tax. 

vi. The transitional adjustments to capital resources apply scaled relief for the impact of IFRS 9, over a 5-year transition period. Further detail regarding these adjustments is provided in the Interim Pillar 3 disclosures at nationwide.co.uk 
vii. On 24 April 2019 Nationwide announced the redemption of the AT1 instrument in full at the first call date of 20 June 2019, therefore making it ineligible as regulatory capital from the date of this announcement. 
viii. Subordinated debt includes fair value adjustments related to changes in market interest rates, adjustments for unamortised premiums and discounts that are included in the consolidated balance sheet, and any amortisation of the capital value of Tier 2 

instruments required by regulatory rules for instruments with fewer than five years to maturity. 

As part of the Bank Recovery and Resolution Directive (BRRD), the Bank of England, in its capacity as the UK resolution authority, has published its policy for setting the minimum requirement for own funds and eligible liabilities 
(MREL) and provided firms with indicative MREL. From 1 January 2020, it is anticipated that Nationwide will be subject to a requirement to hold twice the minimum capital requirements (6.5% of UK leverage exposure), plus the 
applicable capital requirement buffers, which are currently expected to amount to 0.75% of UK leverage exposure. In order to meet this pending requirement, Nationwide issued a further £1 billion of senior non-preferred notes in the 
financial year which are MREL eligible. 

At 4 April 2019, total MREL resources were equal to 7.9% of UK leverage ratio exposure (4 April 2018: 7.5%), above the anticipated 2020 requirement of 7.25% described above. 

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153  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Solvency risk (continued) 

Risk weighted assets 

The table below shows the breakdown of risk weighted assets (RWAs) by risk type and business activity. Market risk has been set to zero as permitted by the CRR, as the exposure is below the threshold of 2% of own funds. 

Risk weighted assets 

Retail mortgages 
Retail unsecured lending 
Commercial loans 
Treasury 
Counterparty credit risk (note iii) 
Other (note iv) 
Total  

Credit Risk 
(note i) 
£m 
14,072 
5,581 
3,604 
779 
1,532 
2,095 
27,663 

2019 
Operational  
Risk (note ii) 
£m 
3,393 
778 
176 
152 

-    

344 
4,843 

Total Risk 
Weighted Assets 
£m 
17,465 
6,359 
3,780 
931 
1,532 
2,439 
32,506 

Credit Risk 
(note i) 
£m 
13,764 
5,805 
4,634 
540 
1,184 
1,681 
27,608 

2018 
Operational  
Risk (note ii) 
£m 
3,564 
725 
210 
87 
- 
315 
4,901 

Total Risk 
Weighted Assets 
£m 
17,328 
6,530 
4,844 
627 
1,184 
1,996 
32,509 

This column includes credit risk exposures, counterparty credit risk exposures and exposures below the thresholds for deduction that are subject to a 250% risk weight. 
RWAs have been allocated according to the business lines within the standardised approach to operational risk, as per article 317 of CRR. 

Notes: 
i.
ii.
iii. Counterparty credit risk relates to derivative financial instruments and repurchase agreements. 
iv. Other relates to equity, fixed and other assets. 

RWAs remained stable at £32.5 billion (4 April 2018: £32.5 billion) primarily due to an increase in retail lending and treasury related RWAs offset by run-off in commercial loans and the implementation of a new credit card IRB model 
impacting retail unsecured lending RWAs. 

The increase in counterparty credit risk RWAs is driven by changes in interest rates and foreign exchange rates, impacting the regulatory value of derivative exposures. The increase in Other RWAs is driven by higher equity balances 
and a change in the treatment of ‘items in the course of collection’, which is now risk weighted at 100% (2018: 20%). 

More detailed analysis of RWAs is included in the Group’s annual Pillar 3 Disclosure 2019 at nationwide.co.uk 

IRB model risk  

The performance and accuracy of IRB models is critical to the calculation of credit risk capital requirements. The effectiveness of the models is achieved through clear allocation of roles and responsibilities covering model ownership, 
approval and governance, ongoing model monitoring, review and independent validation. Further information can be found in the ‘model risk management of IRB risk ratings systems’ section of the Group’s annual Pillar 3 Disclosure 
2019 at nationwide.co.uk 

Regulatory developments  

Highlighted below are a number of areas where regulatory requirements are yet to be finalised. Nationwide will remain engaged in the development of the regulatory approach to ensure it is prepared for any change. 

Nationwide is currently required to maintain a minimum UK leverage ratio of 3.25% following the recalibration to adjust for the impact of excluding central bank holdings from the exposure measure. Following the Financial Policy 
Committee’s (FPC) announcement on the countercyclical buffer (November 2018: 1%), the equivalent countercyclical leverage ratio buffer (CCLB) was set at 0.4%. There is also an additional leverage ratio buffer (ALRB) due to be 
implemented in August 2019, linked to the individual systemic risk buffer (SRB) requirement, which will be set at 0.35%. Therefore, Nationwide’s UK leverage ratio requirement is expected to be 4% from August 2019. Nationwide’s 
UK leverage ratio of 4.9% at 4 April 2019 exceeds the requirement and will continue to meet requirements after redemption of the outstanding Additional Tier 1 capital instrument, which will result in a UK leverage ratio of 4.5% on a 
proforma year end basis. 

Nationwide has submitted its new hybrid IRB mortgage models to the PRA for approval with the expectations that these will be implemented during 2020, in line with the deadline set out in PS13/17. Our current estimate is that the 
impact of these models will be to reduce our reported CET1 ratio by approximately one third given the material increase in risk weighted assets; however we expect UK leverage requirements to continue to be the binding capital 
constraint. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Solvency risk (continued) 

Risk weighted assets 

Risk weighted assets 

Retail mortgages 

Retail unsecured lending 

Commercial loans 

Treasury 

Counterparty credit risk (note iii) 

Other (note iv) 

Total  

Notes: 

i.

ii.

IRB model risk  

2019 at nationwide.co.uk 

Regulatory developments  

proforma year end basis. 

constraint. 

The table below shows the breakdown of risk weighted assets (RWAs) by risk type and business activity. Market risk has been set to zero as permitted by the CRR, as the exposure is below the threshold of 2% of own funds. 

2019 

2018 

Credit Risk 

(note i) 

Operational  

Total Risk 

Risk (note ii) 

Weighted Assets 

Credit Risk 

(note i) 

Operational  

Total Risk 

Risk (note ii) 

Weighted Assets 

£m 

14,072 

5,581 

3,604 

779 

1,532 

2,095 

27,663 

£m 

3,393 

778 

176 

152 

344 

4,843 

-    

£m 

17,465 

6,359 

3,780 

931 

1,532 

2,439 

32,506 

£m 

13,764 

5,805 

4,634 

540 

1,184 

1,681 

27,608 

£m 

3,564 

725 

210 

87 

- 

315 

4,901 

£m 

17,328 

6,530 

4,844 

627 

1,184 

1,996 

32,509 

This column includes credit risk exposures, counterparty credit risk exposures and exposures below the thresholds for deduction that are subject to a 250% risk weight. 

RWAs have been allocated according to the business lines within the standardised approach to operational risk, as per article 317 of CRR. 

iii. Counterparty credit risk relates to derivative financial instruments and repurchase agreements. 

iv. Other relates to equity, fixed and other assets. 

RWAs remained stable at £32.5 billion (4 April 2018: £32.5 billion) primarily due to an increase in retail lending and treasury related RWAs offset by run-off in commercial loans and the implementation of a new credit card IRB model 

impacting retail unsecured lending RWAs. 

The increase in counterparty credit risk RWAs is driven by changes in interest rates and foreign exchange rates, impacting the regulatory value of derivative exposures. The increase in Other RWAs is driven by higher equity balances 

and a change in the treatment of ‘items in the course of collection’, which is now risk weighted at 100% (2018: 20%). 

More detailed analysis of RWAs is included in the Group’s annual Pillar 3 Disclosure 2019 at nationwide.co.uk 

The performance and accuracy of IRB models is critical to the calculation of credit risk capital requirements. The effectiveness of the models is achieved through clear allocation of roles and responsibilities covering model ownership, 

approval and governance, ongoing model monitoring, review and independent validation. Further information can be found in the ‘model risk management of IRB risk ratings systems’ section of the Group’s annual Pillar 3 Disclosure 

Highlighted below are a number of areas where regulatory requirements are yet to be finalised. Nationwide will remain engaged in the development of the regulatory approach to ensure it is prepared for any change. 

Nationwide is currently required to maintain a minimum UK leverage ratio of 3.25% following the recalibration to adjust for the impact of excluding central bank holdings from the exposure measure. Following the Financial Policy 

Committee’s (FPC) announcement on the countercyclical buffer (November 2018: 1%), the equivalent countercyclical leverage ratio buffer (CCLB) was set at 0.4%. There is also an additional leverage ratio buffer (ALRB) due to be 

implemented in August 2019, linked to the individual systemic risk buffer (SRB) requirement, which will be set at 0.35%. Therefore, Nationwide’s UK leverage ratio requirement is expected to be 4% from August 2019. Nationwide’s 

UK leverage ratio of 4.9% at 4 April 2019 exceeds the requirement and will continue to meet requirements after redemption of the outstanding Additional Tier 1 capital instrument, which will result in a UK leverage ratio of 4.5% on a 

Nationwide has submitted its new hybrid IRB mortgage models to the PRA for approval with the expectations that these will be implemented during 2020, in line with the deadline set out in PS13/17. Our current estimate is that the 

impact of these models will be to reduce our reported CET1 ratio by approximately one third given the material increase in risk weighted assets; however we expect UK leverage requirements to continue to be the binding capital 

154  

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Solvency risk (continued) 

The Basel Committee published their final reforms to the Basel III framework in December 2017. The amendments include changes to the standardised approaches for credit and operational risks and the introduction of a new RWA 
output floor. The rules are subject to a lengthy transitional period from 2022 to 2027. These reforms will lead to a significant increase in the Group’s risk weights over time, Nationwide currently expects the consequential impact on 
the reported CET1 ratio to ultimately be a reduction of approximately a half relative to the current position. The change relates to the application of standardised floors which override IRB model outputs and should therefore not be 
aggregated with the impact of new hybrid IRB models noted above. Organic earnings through the transition will mitigate this impact such that the reported CET1 ratio will in practice remain well in excess of the proforma levels 
implied by this change, and leverage requirements will remain the binding constraint based on latest projections. These reforms represent a re-calibration of regulatory requirements with no underlying change in the capital 
resources held or the risk profile of assets. Final impacts are subject to uncertainty for future balance sheet size and mix, and because the final detail of some elements of the regulatory changes remain at the PRA’s discretion. 

Market risk 

Summary 

Market risk is the risk that the net value of, or net income arising from, assets and liabilities is impacted as a result of changes in market prices or rates, specifically interest rates, currency rates or equity prices. Nationwide has limited 
appetite for market risk and does not have a trading book. Market risk is closely monitored and managed to ensure the level of risk remains within appetite. Market risks are not taken unless they are essential to core business 
activities and they provide stability of earnings, minimise costs or enable operational efficiency.  

The principal market risks, linked to Nationwide’s balance sheet assets and liabilities, are listed in the table below, irrespective of materiality. 

Market risk linkage to the balance sheet  

Assets  
Cash 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 
Investment securities 
Derivative financial instruments 
Loans and advances to customers 
Other assets 
Total assets 

Liabilities  
Shares (customer deposits) 
Deposits from banks and similar institutions 
Other deposits 
Debt securities in issue 
Derivative financial instruments  
Subordinated liabilities 
Other liabilities (note i) 
Total liabilities 

2019 
£bn 

12.5 
4.0 
16.2 
3.6 
199.1 
2.9 
238.3 

154.0 
20.1 
5.1 
35.9 
1.6 
6.7 
1.7 
225.1 

Interest rate risk 

Basis risk 

Market risk 
Swap spread risk 

Currency risk  Product option risk 

● 
● 
● 
● 
● 
● 

● 
● 
● 
● 
● 
● 
● 

● 
● 
● 
● 
● 

● 
● 
● 
● 
● 
● 
● 

● 
● 

● 

● 

● 
● 
● 
● 
● 

● 
● 
● 
● 
● 
● 

● 
● 

● 

● 

● 

Note: 
i.

Other liabilities include the difference between the assets and liabilities of the Nationwide Pension Fund (a defined benefit pension scheme). Nationwide’s obligations to the Nationwide Pension Fund result in Pension risk, which includes exposure to market 
risk factors such as interest rate risk, inflation risk, and equity risk (share prices). Pension risk is managed separately from the market risk arising from Nationwide’s core business. For further details, see the ‘Pension risk’ section of this report. 

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155  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Market risk (continued) 

Global market conditions 

During the year, general market conditions have been dominated by the political uncertainty primarily caused 
by Brexit, despite the optimism at the start of the year that caused rates to rise and sterling to strengthen. At 
4 April 2019, sterling was 9% below its 2018 peak in April. Swap rates fluctuated within a relatively tight 
band, despite some significant one-day falls. The Bank of England (BoE) raised the bank rate by 0.25% in 
August following positive economic data in the first half of the year. Globally, economies struggled to maintain 
the momentum they achieved in 2017 with growth slowing in many countries, including in the Eurozone. 
While stock markets traded at record highs in the first few months of the year, in October concerns about 
growth, both globally and in the US, together with fears about the impact of a US/China trade war caused 
indices around the world to fall. The US Federal Reserve has increased interest rates three times since April 
2018.  

Regulation 

a prescribed series of standardised interest rate shocks that firms must use to assess sensitivities on their 
Economic Value of Equity (EVE) and Net Interest Income (NII). Whilst the final guidelines become effective 
from June 2019, Nationwide already monitors its exposures against these prescribed shocks, as well as against 
internally generated shock scenarios. Final standardised market disclosures for IRRBB are expected to be 
implemented through ongoing revisions to the CRD and CRR. 

Market risk appetite 

Nationwide’s market risk only arises in the banking book as it does not have a trading book. Most of the 
exposure to market risk arises from fixed rate mortgages or savings and changes in the market value of the 
liquidity portfolio. There is a limited amount of net currency risk on non-sterling financial assets and liabilities 
held.  

The UK regulators have reiterated their intention to transition from LIBOR to alternative benchmark rates by 
the end of 2021. Nationwide is directly impacted through exposure to LIBOR linked assets, liabilities and 
derivative transactions. Nationwide is closely engaged with the Bank of England’s Working Group on Sterling 
Risk-Free Reference Rates and other industry bodies, and planning is underway to progress and manage the 
impacts of this transition. 

The Board is responsible for setting market risk appetite and ALCO is responsible for managing Nationwide’s 
market risk profile within this defined risk appetite. Market risk is managed within a comprehensive risk 
framework which includes policies, limit setting and monitoring, stress testing and robust governance 
controls. Internal risk limits remain low to restrict the potential exposure to market risk arising from the daily 
management of residual positions, with relevant market risk metrics reported monthly to ALCO. 

The European Banking Authority (EBA) published final guidelines on Interest Rate Risk in the Banking Book 
(IRRBB) in July 2018, which largely endorse the consultation paper published in 2017. These guidelines specify  

Market risk management 

The principal market risks that affect Nationwide are listed below together with the types of risk reporting 
measures used: 

Market risk exposure 

Definition 

Interest rate risk 

Basis risk 

Swap spread risk 

Currency risk 

Product option risk 

The impact of market movements in interest rates, which affects the interest rate margin realised from lending and borrowing activities. Volatility in 
short term interest rates can also impact the net income contribution from rate insensitive liabilities. 

The impact on earnings of relative changes in short term interest rate benchmarks, for example between Bank Base Rate and LIBOR  

Earnings sensitivity 

The impact on the market value of treasury investments arising from changes in the spread between bond yields and swap rates  

Value at Risk 

The impact on earnings due to changes in exchange rates  

Value sensitivity / Value at Risk 

The impact from changes to hedging which may be required when customer behaviour deviates from expectations, principally resulting from early 
repayment of fixed rate loans 

Value at Risk 

Reporting measure 

Value sensitivity / Value at Risk / Earnings sensitivity 

Nationwide has a capital requirement for each of the above market risks. In addition, stress analysis is used to 
evaluate the impact of more extreme, but plausible events. These analytical techniques are described below 
with a review of the exposures during the year. 

Value and earning sensitivities 

Sensitivity analysis is used to assess the change in value of the net exposure to defined parallel and non-
parallel shifts in interest rates. For example, a one basis point (0.01%) shift is measured using PV01. This 
analysis is performed daily by currency. Earning sensitivity metrics are used to measure and quantify exposure 
to interest rate risks, including basis risk. These techniques assess the impact on earnings when rate shocks 
are applied to the rates paid on liabilities and to the rates earned on assets based on a static balance sheet 
position.  

Nationwide also measures interest rate risk through NII and EVE measures, under a range of shock scenarios 
which include behavioural assumptions for retail products as interest rates change. These measures are 

assessed based on the standard shocks prescribed in the EBA final guidelines published in July 2018, as well 
as against internally generated shock scenarios.  

•

•

NII sensitivities assess the impact to earnings in different interest rate shocks over a one year period. 
Sensitivities are calculated based on a static balance sheet, where all assets and liabilities maturing within 
the year are reinvested in like for like products. The sensitivity also includes the impact arising from off-
balance sheet exposures. 
EVE sensitivities measure the change in value of interest rate sensitive items, both on and off-balance 
sheet, under a range of interest rate shocks. Sensitivities are calculated on a run-off balance sheet basis. 

Both NII and EVE sensitivities are measured monthly, with risk limits set against the various shocks. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Market risk (continued) 

Global market conditions 

During the year, general market conditions have been dominated by the political uncertainty primarily caused 

by Brexit, despite the optimism at the start of the year that caused rates to rise and sterling to strengthen. At 

4 April 2019, sterling was 9% below its 2018 peak in April. Swap rates fluctuated within a relatively tight 

band, despite some significant one-day falls. The Bank of England (BoE) raised the bank rate by 0.25% in 

a prescribed series of standardised interest rate shocks that firms must use to assess sensitivities on their 

Economic Value of Equity (EVE) and Net Interest Income (NII). Whilst the final guidelines become effective 

from June 2019, Nationwide already monitors its exposures against these prescribed shocks, as well as against 

internally generated shock scenarios. Final standardised market disclosures for IRRBB are expected to be 

August following positive economic data in the first half of the year. Globally, economies struggled to maintain 

implemented through ongoing revisions to the CRD and CRR. 

the momentum they achieved in 2017 with growth slowing in many countries, including in the Eurozone. 

While stock markets traded at record highs in the first few months of the year, in October concerns about 

growth, both globally and in the US, together with fears about the impact of a US/China trade war caused 

indices around the world to fall. The US Federal Reserve has increased interest rates three times since April 

Market risk appetite 

Nationwide’s market risk only arises in the banking book as it does not have a trading book. Most of the 

exposure to market risk arises from fixed rate mortgages or savings and changes in the market value of the 

liquidity portfolio. There is a limited amount of net currency risk on non-sterling financial assets and liabilities 

held.  

2018.  

Regulation 

The UK regulators have reiterated their intention to transition from LIBOR to alternative benchmark rates by 

the end of 2021. Nationwide is directly impacted through exposure to LIBOR linked assets, liabilities and 

derivative transactions. Nationwide is closely engaged with the Bank of England’s Working Group on Sterling 

Risk-Free Reference Rates and other industry bodies, and planning is underway to progress and manage the 

impacts of this transition. 

The Board is responsible for setting market risk appetite and ALCO is responsible for managing Nationwide’s 

market risk profile within this defined risk appetite. Market risk is managed within a comprehensive risk 

framework which includes policies, limit setting and monitoring, stress testing and robust governance 

controls. Internal risk limits remain low to restrict the potential exposure to market risk arising from the daily 

management of residual positions, with relevant market risk metrics reported monthly to ALCO. 

The European Banking Authority (EBA) published final guidelines on Interest Rate Risk in the Banking Book 

(IRRBB) in July 2018, which largely endorse the consultation paper published in 2017. These guidelines specify  

Market risk management 

The principal market risks that affect Nationwide are listed below together with the types of risk reporting 

measures used: 

Market risk exposure 

Definition 

Reporting measure 

Interest rate risk 

The impact of market movements in interest rates, which affects the interest rate margin realised from lending and borrowing activities. Volatility in 

Value sensitivity / Value at Risk / Earnings sensitivity 

short term interest rates can also impact the net income contribution from rate insensitive liabilities. 

Basis risk 

Swap spread risk 

Currency risk 

Product option risk 

The impact on earnings of relative changes in short term interest rate benchmarks, for example between Bank Base Rate and LIBOR  

Earnings sensitivity 

The impact on the market value of treasury investments arising from changes in the spread between bond yields and swap rates  

Value at Risk 

The impact on earnings due to changes in exchange rates  

Value sensitivity / Value at Risk 

The impact from changes to hedging which may be required when customer behaviour deviates from expectations, principally resulting from early 

Value at Risk 

repayment of fixed rate loans 

Nationwide has a capital requirement for each of the above market risks. In addition, stress analysis is used to 

assessed based on the standard shocks prescribed in the EBA final guidelines published in July 2018, as well 

evaluate the impact of more extreme, but plausible events. These analytical techniques are described below 

as against internally generated shock scenarios.  

with a review of the exposures during the year. 

Value and earning sensitivities 

Sensitivity analysis is used to assess the change in value of the net exposure to defined parallel and non-

parallel shifts in interest rates. For example, a one basis point (0.01%) shift is measured using PV01. This 

analysis is performed daily by currency. Earning sensitivity metrics are used to measure and quantify exposure 

to interest rate risks, including basis risk. These techniques assess the impact on earnings when rate shocks 

are applied to the rates paid on liabilities and to the rates earned on assets based on a static balance sheet 

position.  

Nationwide also measures interest rate risk through NII and EVE measures, under a range of shock scenarios 

which include behavioural assumptions for retail products as interest rates change. These measures are 

•

•

NII sensitivities assess the impact to earnings in different interest rate shocks over a one year period. 

Sensitivities are calculated based on a static balance sheet, where all assets and liabilities maturing within 

the year are reinvested in like for like products. The sensitivity also includes the impact arising from off-

balance sheet exposures. 

EVE sensitivities measure the change in value of interest rate sensitive items, both on and off-balance 

sheet, under a range of interest rate shocks. Sensitivities are calculated on a run-off balance sheet basis. 

Both NII and EVE sensitivities are measured monthly, with risk limits set against the various shocks. 

156  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Market risk (continued)

Value at Risk (VaR) 

VaR is a technique that estimates the potential losses that could occur from risk positions because of future 
movements in market rates and prices, over a specified time horizon, to a given level of statistical confidence. 
VaR is based on historic market behaviour and uses a series of recorded market rates and prices to derive 
plausible future scenarios. This considers inter-relationships between different markets and rates.  

The VaR model incorporates risk factors based on historic interest rate and currency movements. A 10-day 
horizon and a 99% confidence level is typically used in day to day VaR monitoring. VaR is used to monitor 
interest rate, swap spread, currency and product option risks and is not used to model income. Exposures 
against limits are reviewed daily by management. Actual outcomes are monitored on an ongoing basis by 
management to test the validity of the assumptions and factors used in the VaR calculation. The values 
reported below are on the same basis as those used internally. 

Although VaR is a valuable risk measure, it needs to be viewed in the context of the following limitations which 
may mean that exposures could be higher than modelled: 

•

•

•

•

The use of a 99% confidence level, by definition, does not take account of changes in value that might 
occur beyond this level of confidence; 
VaR models often under-predict the likelihood of extreme events and over-predict the benefits of 
offsetting positions in those extreme events; 
The VaR model uses historical data to predict future events. Extreme market moves outside of those used 
to calibrate the model will deliver exceptions. In periods where volatility is increasing, the model is likely 
to under-predict market risks and in periods where volatility is decreasing it is likely to over-predict 
market risks; 
Historical data may not adequately predict circumstances arising from government interventions and 
stimulus packages, which increase the difficulty of evaluating risks. 

To seek to mitigate these limitations, backtesting of the VaR model is undertaken regularly to ensure that the 
model is appropriate. This process compares actual performance against the estimated VaR numbers. An 
exception is created when a loss is greater than the daily VaR on any given day. The chart below shows the 
results of this backtesting. The three loss exceptions were due to significant movements in market rates on 
each of those days. In 2018/19, the backtesting and broader model governance did not highlight any model 
deficiencies.  

VaR backtesting 99%/1-day 
£m
2.00

Key: 

 Actual return
 99% 1-day VaR
Backtesting loss exception

1.50

1.00

0.50

0.00

-0.50

-1.00

-1.50

-2.00

Apr-18

Jul-18

Oct-18

Jan-19

The model will continue to be subject to an annual review process to ensure it remains appropriate for risk 
reporting. The types of risks not captured in VaR include: 

•

• Market liquidity risk – this has a limited impact because, whilst Nationwide requires an appropriate level 
of market liquidity to manage market risk, it does not have a high ongoing dependency on liquidity for 
market risk purposes as it does not operate a trading book; 
Level 3 asset valuation uncertainty – only a very small portfolio of these assets is held so the impact is 
limited. Any valuation uncertainty is included within the Prudent Valuation Adjustment reflected in capital 
resources; and 
Interest rate movements that can impact credit/debit valuation adjustments (CVA/DVA). These are not 
captured in the VaR or sensitivity analysis but are negligible. 

•

Stress analysis 

To evaluate the potential impact of more extreme but plausible events or movements in a set of financial 
variables, the standard VaR metric is supported with sensitivity and stress analysis. For example, for interest 
rate risk exposures, the standard PV01 sensitivity analysis is supplemented by the production of stressed 
sensitivity measures. A more severe 200 basis point (2.0%) parallel shift in interest rates is calculated in a 
similar manner to PV01; this sensitivity analysis is known as PV200. PV200 numbers are generated and 
monitored daily. In addition, stressed VaR is used to estimate the potential loss arising from unfavourable 
market movements in a stressed environment. It is calculated in the same way as standard VaR, calibrated 
over a two-year period and on a 99% 10-day basis, but uses market data from a period of significant financial 
stress. 

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157  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Market risk (continued) 

Interest rate risk  

Nationwide’s main market risk is interest rate risk. Market movements in interest rates affect the interest rate margin realised from lending and borrowing activities. To reduce the impact of such movements, hedging activities are 
undertaken by Nationwide’s Treasury function. For example, interest rate risks generated by lending to and receiving deposits from customers are offset against each other internally where possible. The remaining net exposure is 
managed using derivatives, within parameters set by ALCO. In addition to our primary lending and borrowing activities, income volatility arising from certain rate insensitive products (including reserves and CCDS) are structurally 
hedged. Nationwide’s interest rate risk is measured using a combination of value-based assessments and earnings sensitivity assessments. 

The table below highlights Nationwide’s limited exposure to interest rate risk, shown against a range of value-based assessments. The risk exposure is calculated each day and summarised over the financial year: 

Interest rate risk  

VaR (99%/10-day) (audited) 
Sensitivity analysis (PV01) (audited) 
Stress testing (PV200: all currencies) 

Average 
£m 
1.1 
0.0 
6.1 

2019 

High 
£m 
3.1 
0.1 
21.4 

Low 
£m 
0.4 
(0.1) 
(23.4) 

Average 
£m 
0.9 
0.0 
4.2 

2018 

High 
£m 
5.4 
0.2 
39.1 

Low 
£m 
0.1 
(0.2) 
(32.6) 

The interest rate sensitivities in the table above do not include retail product behavioural changes, which are captured by other measures. 

Earnings sensitivity assessments measure the risk that income is adversely affected by changes in interest rates. The sensitivity of earnings to changes in interest rates is measured monthly using a forecasting model and potential 
interest rate scenarios.  

The table below sets out the sensitivity of pre-tax future earnings over a one year period to instantaneous parallel rises and falls in interest rates. 

Potential favourable/(adverse) impact on annual earnings  

(Audited) 
+200 basis points shift 
+100 basis points shift 
-25 basis points shift 

The following should be noted in respect of the table above: 

2019 
£m 
132 
64 
(26) 

2018 
£m 
121 
56 
(10) 

•
•

•
•
•

the interest rate sensitivities set out above are illustrative only and are based on a static balance sheet; all assets and liabilities maturing within the year are assumed to reinvest in like for like products; 
the reported sensitivities will vary over time due to several factors, such as the timing of maturing assets and liabilities, market conditions, product rate flooring assumptions, customer behaviour assumptions and strategic 
changes to the balance sheet mix, and should not therefore be considered a guide to future performance;  
the sensitivity analysis includes all financial assets and liabilities held; 
the model does not take account of any management actions; and 
the impact on equity would be equivalent to the change in net interest income after tax. 

The absolute levels of interest rates can influence the flexibility to manage earnings. Illustratively, if rates were to fall then margins may be constrained because it is unlikely that the benefit to borrowers could be fully offset through 
current account or savings product rate changes.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Market risk (continued) 

Interest rate risk  

Nationwide’s main market risk is interest rate risk. Market movements in interest rates affect the interest rate margin realised from lending and borrowing activities. To reduce the impact of such movements, hedging activities are 

undertaken by Nationwide’s Treasury function. For example, interest rate risks generated by lending to and receiving deposits from customers are offset against each other internally where possible. The remaining net exposure is 

managed using derivatives, within parameters set by ALCO. In addition to our primary lending and borrowing activities, income volatility arising from certain rate insensitive products (including reserves and CCDS) are structurally 

hedged. Nationwide’s interest rate risk is measured using a combination of value-based assessments and earnings sensitivity assessments. 

The table below highlights Nationwide’s limited exposure to interest rate risk, shown against a range of value-based assessments. The risk exposure is calculated each day and summarised over the financial year: 

Earnings sensitivity assessments measure the risk that income is adversely affected by changes in interest rates. The sensitivity of earnings to changes in interest rates is measured monthly using a forecasting model and potential 

Interest rate risk  

VaR (99%/10-day) (audited) 

Sensitivity analysis (PV01) (audited) 

Stress testing (PV200: all currencies) 

Average 

£m 

1.1 

0.0 

6.1 

2019 

High 

£m 

3.1 

0.1 

21.4 

Low 

£m 

0.4 

(0.1) 

(23.4) 

Average 

£m 

0.9 

0.0 

4.2 

2018 

High 

£m 

5.4 

0.2 

39.1 

Low 

£m 

0.1 

(0.2) 

(32.6) 

The interest rate sensitivities in the table above do not include retail product behavioural changes, which are captured by other measures. 

The table below sets out the sensitivity of pre-tax future earnings over a one year period to instantaneous parallel rises and falls in interest rates. 

Potential favourable/(adverse) impact on annual earnings  

interest rate scenarios.  

(Audited) 

+200 basis points shift 

+100 basis points shift 

-25 basis points shift 

•

•

•

•

•

2019 

£m 

132 

64 

(26) 

2018 

£m 

121 

56 

(10) 

The following should be noted in respect of the table above: 

changes to the balance sheet mix, and should not therefore be considered a guide to future performance;  

the sensitivity analysis includes all financial assets and liabilities held; 

the model does not take account of any management actions; and 

the impact on equity would be equivalent to the change in net interest income after tax. 

158  

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Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Market risk (continued) 

Basis risk 

Basis risk arises where variable rate assets and liabilities re-price with reference to differing short term interest rate benchmarks. The primary interest rates that Nationwide is exposed to are the Bank of England base rate, Sterling 
Overnight Index Average (SONIA) and three-month sterling LIBOR. If the difference between these interest rates changes over time, this may impact earnings. 

Assets and liabilities are offset when their reference rate, or ‘basis’ type, is matched. Exposure to the net mismatch is mitigated, where required, by transacting basis swaps to ensure Nationwide remains within internally agreed risk 
limits. 

Swap spread risk 

A liquidity portfolio is held to manage Nationwide’s liquidity risk. These assets are predominantly fixed rate sovereign debt securities. Interest rate swaps are used to hedge the interest rate risk associated with these assets. However, 
there remains a residual risk associated with the possible movement in the spread between sovereign debt yields and swap rates. This ‘swap spread risk’ reflects the fact that the market value of the liquidity portfolio assets can 
change due to movements in bond yields and the swaps due to movements in swap rates. In economic terms, this risk is only realised if a bond is sold and the swap is cancelled ahead of maturity.  

Swap spread risk is monitored using a historical VaR metric and the risk is controlled via internal limits linked to capital requirements. Exposures are monitored daily and are reported monthly to ALCO. 

Currency risk 

Currency exposure is managed through natural offsetting on the balance sheet, with derivatives used to maintain the net exposures within limits. ALCO sets and monitors limits on the net currency exposure. The table below sets out 
the limited extent of the residual exposure to currency risk: 

Currency risk   

(Audited) 
VaR (99%/10-day)  

Product option risk 

Average 
£m 
0.1 

2019 

High 
£m 
2.4 

Low 
£m 
0.0 

Average 
£m 
0.1 

2018 

High 
£m 
2.2 

Low 
£m 
0.0 

Market risk also arises when customers exercise options contained within fixed rate products which can require changes to hedging. The key product risks are prepayment risk (early redemption or under- or over-payment of fixed 
rate mortgages), access risk (early withdrawal of fixed rate savings), and take-up risk (higher or lower completions of fixed rate mortgages than expected). These risk exposures are quantified under a range of stress scenarios using 
models that predict customer behaviour in response to changes in interest rates. The potential impacts are then closely monitored. These stressed risk measures are subject to a set of limits and are reported to ALCO, along with 
proposed management actions where necessary to bring the exposures within limits. This approach is also used to assess internal capital requirements for product option risks. 

the interest rate sensitivities set out above are illustrative only and are based on a static balance sheet; all assets and liabilities maturing within the year are assumed to reinvest in like for like products; 

the reported sensitivities will vary over time due to several factors, such as the timing of maturing assets and liabilities, market conditions, product rate flooring assumptions, customer behaviour assumptions and strategic 

Model risk 

The absolute levels of interest rates can influence the flexibility to manage earnings. Illustratively, if rates were to fall then margins may be constrained because it is unlikely that the benefit to borrowers could be fully offset through 

current account or savings product rate changes.

Managing market risk effectively is highly dependent on effective models. The models are designed as representations of business systems and markets to help describe the impact of various scenarios and to optimise decisions taken 
as a result. 

The risk associated with market risk models is controlled and managed through Nationwide’s Model Risk Policy. This requires all significant models to be validated by an independent oversight team prior to use. The validation 
process identifies model strengths and weaknesses, assesses the potential impact of these and suggests appropriate mitigating actions. After implementation, model performance is assessed regularly via back testing and sensitivity 
analysis. All models are also subject to a more thorough periodic review, at least annually, to ensure they remain fit for purpose. The results of the model performance assessment are used to inform future model development. 

Calculations to determine the Pillar 2 capital requirements for market risks are made using the same models as those used for monitoring them day to day. 

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159  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Pension risk

Summary 

Nationwide has funding obligations to several defined benefit pension schemes. Pension risk is defined as the 
risk that the value of the pension schemes’ assets will be insufficient to meet the estimated liabilities, creating 
a pension deficit. Pension risk can negatively impact Nationwide’s capital position and may result in increased 
cash funding obligations to the pension schemes. 

The largest pension scheme is the Nationwide Pension Fund (the Fund), which has approximately 29,500 
Fund members, the majority of whom are deferred members (former employee members, not yet retired). 
The Fund is closed to new employees, although some employees continue to accrue benefits. 

In accordance with UK legislation, the assets of the Fund are held in a legally separate trust from Nationwide’s 
assets and are administered by a board of trustees (the Trustee) who have fiduciary responsibilities to Fund 
members.  

Nationwide has a responsibility to ensure that Fund members are paid the pension they have been promised. 
To support this aim, Nationwide has a dedicated pension team which ensures that pension risk is 
appropriately monitored and managed, whilst helping to educate and engage Fund members about their 
pension benefits. 

Risk factors 

Volatility in investment returns from and the value of the assets and liabilities both cause volatility in the 
Fund’s deficit. The key risk factors which impact the deficit are set out below. These factors can have a positive 
or negative effect on the deficit. 

Asset performance: The Fund’s liabilities are calculated using a discount rate set with reference to high 
quality bond yields. This creates a risk that the Fund’s assets perform worse than those bond yields, resulting 
in the Fund’s deficit being volatile or increasing. 

The Fund holds a significant proportion of return-seeking assets including equities and credit investments. 
Return-seeking assets are expected to outperform liabilities in the long-term, but they are risky and volatile in 
the short to medium-term. Investments in return-seeking assets are monitored by both the Trustee and 
Nationwide to ensure they remain appropriate given the Fund’s long-term objectives. Further details are set 
out in note 30 to the accounts. 

Liabilities: There is a risk that the Fund’s liabilities increase to a level which is not supported by asset 
performance, whether through discount rate changes, increases in long-term inflation expectations, or 
increases in the life expectancy (longevity) of Fund members. 

Actuarial assumptions: There is a risk that a change in the methodology used to derive key actuarial 
assumptions (for example, the discount rate or longevity assumptions) results in a step change in the 
assessment of the liabilities and therefore deficit (impacting Nationwide's capital and/or deficit funding 
requirements). The ultimate cost of providing pension benefits over the life of the Fund will depend on actual 
future events, rather than assumptions made.  

Changes in the year 

During the year, £61 million of employer deficit contributions were paid. These deficit contributions are 
included in employer contributions in the table below, together with employer contributions in respect of 
employee benefit accrual during the period. Following the 31 March 2016 Triennial Valuation, which was 
completed in 2017, annual employer deficit contributions of £61 million are payable over the years 2019 to 
2021, in line with an agreed Deficit Recovery Plan, and employer contributions in respect of employee benefit 
accrual will be paid in line with an agreed Schedule of Contributions. Nationwide can cease paying deficit 
contributions in certain circumstances, such as the Fund reaching a funding surplus. The effective date of the 
next Triennial Valuation of the Fund is 31 March 2019, from which point the Society and Trustee have 15 
months to negotiate, among other things, a new Schedule of Contributions and Deficit Recovery Plan. 

The retirement benefit obligation that appears within liabilities on the balance sheet has decreased from £345 
million to £105 million, as set out below: 

Changes in the present value of net defined benefit liability  

At 5 April 
Pension charge 
Net interest cost 
Benefits paid directly by the Group 
Actuarial remeasurement 
Employer contributions (including deficit contributions) 
At 4 April 

2019 
£m 
(345) 
(98) 
(6) 
3 
210 
131 
(105) 

2018 
£m 
(423) 
(95) 
(8) 
- 
29 
152 
(345) 

The pension charge (recognised in the income statement) increased to £98 million (2018: £95 million), 
mainly due to a decrease in corporate bond yields between April 2017 and April 2018. 

Benefits paid directly by the Group relate to a settlement of a retirement benefit obligation for an unfunded 
legacy pension obligation. 

The actuarial remeasurement quantifies the impact on the deficit from updating financial assumptions (e.g. 
discount rate and long-term inflation) and demographic assumptions (e.g. longevity). Further details are 
included in note 30 to the financial statements. 

Outlook 

Regular analysis, insight and monitoring supports pension risk management and helps Nationwide to 
anticipate any management actions that may be required. This includes risk appetite articulation and regular 
reporting to governance committees. In addition, pension risk is embedded into Nationwide’s Enterprise Risk 
Management Framework and stress testing processes. Nationwide monitors all pension regulation and 
legislation change which may impact Nationwide’s obligations to the Fund. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nationwide has a responsibility to ensure that Fund members are paid the pension they have been promised. 

To support this aim, Nationwide has a dedicated pension team which ensures that pension risk is 

appropriately monitored and managed, whilst helping to educate and engage Fund members about their 

Changes in the present value of net defined benefit liability  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Pension risk

Summary 

Nationwide has funding obligations to several defined benefit pension schemes. Pension risk is defined as the 

risk that the value of the pension schemes’ assets will be insufficient to meet the estimated liabilities, creating 

a pension deficit. Pension risk can negatively impact Nationwide’s capital position and may result in increased 

cash funding obligations to the pension schemes. 

The largest pension scheme is the Nationwide Pension Fund (the Fund), which has approximately 29,500 

Fund members, the majority of whom are deferred members (former employee members, not yet retired). 

The Fund is closed to new employees, although some employees continue to accrue benefits. 

In accordance with UK legislation, the assets of the Fund are held in a legally separate trust from Nationwide’s 

assets and are administered by a board of trustees (the Trustee) who have fiduciary responsibilities to Fund 

members.  

pension benefits. 

Risk factors 

Volatility in investment returns from and the value of the assets and liabilities both cause volatility in the 

Fund’s deficit. The key risk factors which impact the deficit are set out below. These factors can have a positive 

or negative effect on the deficit. 

Asset performance: The Fund’s liabilities are calculated using a discount rate set with reference to high 

quality bond yields. This creates a risk that the Fund’s assets perform worse than those bond yields, resulting 

in the Fund’s deficit being volatile or increasing. 

The Fund holds a significant proportion of return-seeking assets including equities and credit investments. 

Return-seeking assets are expected to outperform liabilities in the long-term, but they are risky and volatile in 

the short to medium-term. Investments in return-seeking assets are monitored by both the Trustee and 

Nationwide to ensure they remain appropriate given the Fund’s long-term objectives. Further details are set 

out in note 30 to the accounts. 

Liabilities: There is a risk that the Fund’s liabilities increase to a level which is not supported by asset 

performance, whether through discount rate changes, increases in long-term inflation expectations, or 

increases in the life expectancy (longevity) of Fund members. 

Actuarial assumptions: There is a risk that a change in the methodology used to derive key actuarial 

assumptions (for example, the discount rate or longevity assumptions) results in a step change in the 

assessment of the liabilities and therefore deficit (impacting Nationwide's capital and/or deficit funding 

requirements). The ultimate cost of providing pension benefits over the life of the Fund will depend on actual 

future events, rather than assumptions made.  

Changes in the year 

During the year, £61 million of employer deficit contributions were paid. These deficit contributions are 

included in employer contributions in the table below, together with employer contributions in respect of 

employee benefit accrual during the period. Following the 31 March 2016 Triennial Valuation, which was 

completed in 2017, annual employer deficit contributions of £61 million are payable over the years 2019 to 

2021, in line with an agreed Deficit Recovery Plan, and employer contributions in respect of employee benefit 

accrual will be paid in line with an agreed Schedule of Contributions. Nationwide can cease paying deficit 

contributions in certain circumstances, such as the Fund reaching a funding surplus. The effective date of the 

next Triennial Valuation of the Fund is 31 March 2019, from which point the Society and Trustee have 15 

months to negotiate, among other things, a new Schedule of Contributions and Deficit Recovery Plan. 

The retirement benefit obligation that appears within liabilities on the balance sheet has decreased from £345 

million to £105 million, as set out below: 

At 5 April 

Pension charge 

Net interest cost 

Benefits paid directly by the Group 

Actuarial remeasurement 

Employer contributions (including deficit contributions) 

At 4 April 

2019 

£m 

(345) 

(98) 

(6) 

3 

210 

131 

(105) 

2018 

£m 

(423) 

(95) 

(8) 

- 

29 

152 

(345) 

The pension charge (recognised in the income statement) increased to £98 million (2018: £95 million), 

mainly due to a decrease in corporate bond yields between April 2017 and April 2018. 

Benefits paid directly by the Group relate to a settlement of a retirement benefit obligation for an unfunded 

legacy pension obligation. 

The actuarial remeasurement quantifies the impact on the deficit from updating financial assumptions (e.g. 

discount rate and long-term inflation) and demographic assumptions (e.g. longevity). Further details are 

included in note 30 to the financial statements. 

Regular analysis, insight and monitoring supports pension risk management and helps Nationwide to 

anticipate any management actions that may be required. This includes risk appetite articulation and regular 

reporting to governance committees. In addition, pension risk is embedded into Nationwide’s Enterprise Risk 

Management Framework and stress testing processes. Nationwide monitors all pension regulation and 

legislation change which may impact Nationwide’s obligations to the Fund. 

160  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Pension risk (continued)

Over the long term, the Trustee intends to further reduce the Fund’s risk, and Nationwide actively engages 
with the Trustee to ensure broad alignment on investment objectives and implementation. This is supported 
by permanent representation by Nationwide at the Trustee’s Investment & Funding Committee and 
investment working groups, and the sharing of management information between Nationwide and the 
Trustee in order to consider specific risk management initiatives. 

plan. This activity is complemented by ongoing financial forecasting and monitoring as well as a range of 
stress testing activity to consider unlikely but plausible events or longer-term risks to the Society. Ongoing 
strategy development ensures that the strategy and associated plans continue to evolve to address risks to the 
business model by considering changes in the external environment, including new technology, consumer 
behaviour, regulation or market conditions. 

Potential risk management initiatives include, but are not limited to, adjusting the asset allocation (for 
example reducing the allocation to equities and increasing the allocation to bonds), implementing derivative 
hedging strategies, adjusting contribution levels and adjusting the level of benefits that employee Fund 
members accrue in the future.  

On 26 October 2018 a verdict from the High Court relating to the Lloyds Banking Group pension schemes 
confirmed that Guaranteed Minimum Pensions (GMPs) must be equalised between male and female 
members, and arrears paid. The verdict will be applicable to all defined benefit pension schemes (including 
the Nationwide Pension Fund) that contracted out of the state second pension between 1978 and 1997, 
substituting members’ state second pensions for GMP. Nationwide has recognised an increase of £9 million in 
pension liabilities. Further details are included in note 30 to the financial statements. 

The Government’s white paper, ‘Protecting defined benefit pension schemes’, published in March 2018, set 
out a package of measures to improve trustees’ focus on long-term strategic thinking, and detailed The 
Pension Regulator’s (TPR) intention to review and consult on updating its Defined Benefit funding code of 
practice. In March 2019, TPR released their 2019 annual funding statement confirming their intentions, with 
particular emphasis on how schemes conduct their Triennial Valuations. TPR confirmed that in summer 2019, 
it will be consulting on various options for a revised funding framework and funding code of practice. 
Nationwide will monitor closely any developments that may impact its obligations to the Fund.  

Business risk 

Summary 

Nationwide defines business risk as the risk that volumes decline or margins shrink relative to the cost base, 
affecting the sustainability of the business and the ability to deliver the strategy, due to external or internal 
factors. We actively manage this risk so that we continue to benefit our current or future members, with a 
focus on long-term sustainability rather than short-term performance metrics. Nationwide ensures that it can 
generate sustainable profits by focusing on recurrent sources of income that provide value which is 
commensurate with risk appetite. The Society monitors this risk as part of ongoing business performance 
reporting to senior management and the Board. 

Outlook 

Managing business risk 

Business risks are identified as part of the Society’s strategy and financial planning processes. These risks 
inform potential areas of strategy development and are assessed using a range of sensitivities to the financial  

These risks are assessed against Board risk appetite, and aligned to the Financial Performance Framework, 
which ensures the right balance between distributing value to members, investing in the business and 
maintaining financial strength. 

Business risk is managed and mitigated through a range of measures such as: 

•

Financial forecasting 
As part of the financial planning process Nationwide forecasts income and costs over a five year period 
with an updated forecast reviewed by management regularly, taking into consideration the key risks and 
sensitivities. 

• Monitoring of financial and business performance 

The various components of financial performance are monitored monthly against internal forecasts, limits 
and triggers across a variety of committees and forums, which consider potential risks and possible 
mitigating actions. In addition, business areas monitor the demand for products and services to ensure 
we continue to provide propositions that our members want and need. 

•

Stress testing and sensitivity analysis 
Business risk is regularly stress tested as part of internal management reporting such as the financial plan 
downside and upside scenarios, Internal Capital Adequacy Assessment Process and reverse stress tests. 
In addition, the PRA’s Concurrent Stress Test scenarios provide a test of the business model and the risks 
it is exposed to. 

As an output from these activities the Society identifies potential actions that can be taken if risks crystallise. 
To effectively manage more extreme events the Society maintains a Recovery Plan, in line with regulatory 
guidance, that contains a range of strategic options that could be taken if necessary to protect the Society 
from severe stresses and ensure it remains sustainable over the long term. 

Outlook 

Business risks are closely related to the top and emerging risks outlined on page 98. The current competitive 
environment is expected to continue and further increases in competition would increase the level of business 
risk for Nationwide, potentially putting pressure on the Society’s financial performance. In addition, 
uncertainty in the economic outlook caused by the political environment and the length of the current 
economic and/or credit cycle represents potential risks in the short-term, although stress testing results 
demonstrate that Nationwide is resilient to significant short-term economic shocks. 

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161  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Model risk

Summary 

Outlook 

Models are widely used throughout Nationwide to support decision making. Whilst they provide significant 
benefit, using models also carries risk.  

The impact of upcoming changes in regulation continues to be a significant factor driving model development 
activity.  

Nationwide defines model risk as risk of an adverse outcome that occurs as a direct result of weaknesses or 
failures in the development, implementation or use of a model. The adverse consequences include financial 
loss, poor business or strategic decision making, or damage to Nationwide’s reputation. 

Model risk is established in Nationwide’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework and is managed at a Group 
level using limits and triggers set according to Board Risk Appetite, governed and supported by policies,  
standards and guidelines. 

Current environment 

The effectiveness of all models and management of inherent model risk are achieved through clear allocation 
of roles and responsibilities covering ownership for each of the core activities relating to the control of model 
risk. Each model is required to have a model owner in the first line of defence, who is responsible for the 
development, implementation and maintenance of the model. Key models are also subject to regular 
monitoring, which is reported to the relevant risk committee or accountable individual, with a detailed review 
required at least annually. The model owner is also responsible for ensuring the model has been through the 
appropriate model governance. Ultimate responsibility for approving the use of Nationwide’s key models 
resides with the first line of defence risk committees (for example Assets & Liabilities Committee, Credit 
Committee) who ensure that model risk is managed within appetite.  

Nationwide’s risk appetite for models is articulated to ensure they are developed, governed and maintained to 
a high quality to meet internal standards. Metrics, with limits and triggers, are designed to indicate when 
there is a systemic issue with model development capability or model management so that senior committees 
can take appropriate action. The approval process brings together directors, senior managers of business 
areas and technical staff to provide challenge and identify issues that would prevent a model being fit for 
purpose. 

Independent oversight and challenge of the models is conducted by a team which sits within the Risk function. 
Nationwide monitors the risk and materiality of its models on an individual basis, these are aggregated to 
create a single profile across all models to manage the Society’s overall risk. Internal Audit provides 
independent assurance over both the control and oversight of the models. 

Internal Ratings Based (IRB) models, used in credit risk capital calculations, are undergoing significant 
regulatory reform with a view to bringing more consistency to IRB approaches across financial services firms. 
Nationwide is well advanced through the programme of work designed to redevelop all the IRB models to 
ensure the models comply with the new regulations when they come into force in 2021. 

Another key area of significant reliance on models is in the annual Concurrent Stress Testing (CST) exercise, 
an assessment by the regulator of the broader banking system’s resilience to adverse economic scenarios. The 
models used to support this exercise will continue to be developed in the coming year to ensure they meet 
internal and regulatory requirements. In addition, an area of focus for this year will be to further enhance 
model risk reporting to support the Board in providing challenge of key model assumptions that underpin the 
stress testing results. 

Operational risk 

Summary 

Operational Risk is the risk of loss resulting from failures of internal processes, people and systems, or from 
external events. Nationwide manages operational risk across a number of sub-categories, which include cyber, 
IT resilience and security, business continuity, payments and fraud.  

Nationwide operates a three lines of defence model to manage its operational risk. Details on this approach 
are set out in the Managing risk section on page 103. The operational risk profile is informed by risk 
assessments from across the business, and by review and challenge by both management and the Risk 
Oversight function which operates as a second line of defence. Risk Oversight supports management in 
managing the risks it faces in its normal day-to-day activities and when implementing change programmes. 
Nationwide continues to enhance and embed its operational risk framework, expanding the use of techniques 
such as scenario analysis to support the understanding of current and future risks and to optimise risk-based 
decision making across the Society. 

Nationwide also monitors and reports on the operational risk events that have occurred, to understand better 
those exposures and drive sustainable mitigation to prevent recurrence. For the purposes of this report, 
operational risk events include only those where a financial loss arises from an operational risk incident. 
Nationwide records operational risk events against causal categories, as well as reporting them against the 
operational risk categories defined by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision in Basel II. This allows 
comparison of operational risk experience with its peer group. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Models are widely used throughout Nationwide to support decision making. Whilst they provide significant 

The impact of upcoming changes in regulation continues to be a significant factor driving model development 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Model risk

Summary 

benefit, using models also carries risk.  

Nationwide defines model risk as risk of an adverse outcome that occurs as a direct result of weaknesses or 

failures in the development, implementation or use of a model. The adverse consequences include financial 

loss, poor business or strategic decision making, or damage to Nationwide’s reputation. 

Model risk is established in Nationwide’s Enterprise Risk Management Framework and is managed at a Group 

level using limits and triggers set according to Board Risk Appetite, governed and supported by policies,  

standards and guidelines. 

Current environment 

The effectiveness of all models and management of inherent model risk are achieved through clear allocation 

of roles and responsibilities covering ownership for each of the core activities relating to the control of model 

risk. Each model is required to have a model owner in the first line of defence, who is responsible for the 

development, implementation and maintenance of the model. Key models are also subject to regular 

monitoring, which is reported to the relevant risk committee or accountable individual, with a detailed review 

required at least annually. The model owner is also responsible for ensuring the model has been through the 

appropriate model governance. Ultimate responsibility for approving the use of Nationwide’s key models 

resides with the first line of defence risk committees (for example Assets & Liabilities Committee, Credit 

Committee) who ensure that model risk is managed within appetite.  

Nationwide’s risk appetite for models is articulated to ensure they are developed, governed and maintained to 

a high quality to meet internal standards. Metrics, with limits and triggers, are designed to indicate when 

there is a systemic issue with model development capability or model management so that senior committees 

can take appropriate action. The approval process brings together directors, senior managers of business 

areas and technical staff to provide challenge and identify issues that would prevent a model being fit for 

purpose. 

Independent oversight and challenge of the models is conducted by a team which sits within the Risk function. 

Nationwide monitors the risk and materiality of its models on an individual basis, these are aggregated to 

create a single profile across all models to manage the Society’s overall risk. Internal Audit provides 

independent assurance over both the control and oversight of the models. 

Internal Ratings Based (IRB) models, used in credit risk capital calculations, are undergoing significant 

regulatory reform with a view to bringing more consistency to IRB approaches across financial services firms. 

Nationwide is well advanced through the programme of work designed to redevelop all the IRB models to 

ensure the models comply with the new regulations when they come into force in 2021. 

Another key area of significant reliance on models is in the annual Concurrent Stress Testing (CST) exercise, 

an assessment by the regulator of the broader banking system’s resilience to adverse economic scenarios. The 

models used to support this exercise will continue to be developed in the coming year to ensure they meet 

internal and regulatory requirements. In addition, an area of focus for this year will be to further enhance 

model risk reporting to support the Board in providing challenge of key model assumptions that underpin the 

Outlook 

activity.  

stress testing results. 

Operational risk 

Summary 

Operational Risk is the risk of loss resulting from failures of internal processes, people and systems, or from 

external events. Nationwide manages operational risk across a number of sub-categories, which include cyber, 

IT resilience and security, business continuity, payments and fraud.  

Nationwide operates a three lines of defence model to manage its operational risk. Details on this approach 

are set out in the Managing risk section on page 103. The operational risk profile is informed by risk 

assessments from across the business, and by review and challenge by both management and the Risk 

Oversight function which operates as a second line of defence. Risk Oversight supports management in 

managing the risks it faces in its normal day-to-day activities and when implementing change programmes. 

Nationwide continues to enhance and embed its operational risk framework, expanding the use of techniques 

such as scenario analysis to support the understanding of current and future risks and to optimise risk-based 

decision making across the Society. 

Nationwide also monitors and reports on the operational risk events that have occurred, to understand better 

those exposures and drive sustainable mitigation to prevent recurrence. For the purposes of this report, 

operational risk events include only those where a financial loss arises from an operational risk incident. 

Nationwide records operational risk events against causal categories, as well as reporting them against the 

operational risk categories defined by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision in Basel II. This allows 

comparison of operational risk experience with its peer group. 

162  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Operational risk (continued) 

Operational risk experience  

A significant proportion of Nationwide’s operational risk events have been recorded against three of the Basel categories: ‘Clients, Products & Business Practices’, ‘External Fraud’ and ‘Execution, Delivery and Process Management’. 
These categories account for 99.2% by value, and 98.4% by number, of Nationwide’s operational risk events (2018: 99.3% by value and 96.8% by number). 

Whilst the highest losses are against the Clients, Products and Business Practices (C,P&BP) category, this is where we record the cost of administration and customer redress for payment protection insurance (PPI) claims, however 
due to treating these losses as a single event, this does not represent a high volume of reported instances. Nationwide continues to experience a high volume of events with relatively low individual loss amounts in the External Fraud 
category.  This is in line with other financial institutions and predominantly relates to Card Not Present fraud.  

0perational risk events by Basel risk category, % of total events by value (note i) 

Clients, products and business practices (note iii) 
External fraud 
Execution, delivery and process management 
Internal fraud 
Business disruption and system failure 
Damage to physical assets 
Employment practices and workplace safety 
Total 

2019 
% 
79.1 
10.6 
9.5 
0.1 
0.3 
0.0 
0.4 
100.0 

2018 (note ii) 
% 
69.7 
5.9 
23.7 
0.3 
- 
0.2 
0.2 
100.0 

Operational risk events by Basel risk category, % of total events by number (note i) 
2019 
% 
3.0 
86.0 
9.4 
0.5 
0.4 
0.0 
0.7 
100.0 

Clients, products and business practices (note iii) 
External fraud 
Execution, delivery and process management 
Internal fraud 
Business disruption and system failure 
Damage to physical assets 
Employment practices and workplace safety 
Total 

2018 (note ii) 
% 
4.5 
84.4 
7.9 
0.5 
0.6 
0.9 
1.2 
100.0 

Notes: 
i.
ii.
iii.

Risk events with losses over £5,000; multiple losses relating to the same event are only counted once. 
Comparatives have been restated to include additional historic data where more information has been received. 
Includes the costs of administration and customer redress in relation to ongoing payment protection insurance claims. 

Current environment 

Over the course of the year, the overall profile of operational risks has remained relatively stable, with the main 
risks continuing to relate to IT resilience and cyber security. Nationwide continues to meet the high standards 
expected by our customers with regards to management of key inherent risks such as cyber-security and IT 
resilience. Nationwide’s focus is on being safe, secure and dependable in order to ensure that service 
availability and customer data are protected. 

Cyber security 

Nationwide recognises the direct impact a successful cyber attack may have on customers and their ability to 
carry out transactions on a day-to-day basis. The constant threat posed by a cyber attack also directly impacts 
the risks associated with external fraud, data loss, data integrity and data accessibility, and makes the threat 
of a cyber attack the single biggest risk for Nationwide. 

There continues to be an increase in the maturity, intensity and sophistication of organised cyber crime; 
attacks continue to raise the profile and increase the public awareness of cyber threats such as Ransomware 
and Distributed Denial of Service (DDOS). 

Over the last year there have been significant improvements in the prevention and detection environment to 
keep pace with the threat posed by cyber-crime. Nationwide continues to put significant effort into 

discharging its cyber risk management responsibilities effectively, with ongoing investment in appropriate 
technology and processes to effectively manage this risk. This includes exercising our responses to a simulated 
successful cyber attack, which allows us to safely test, maintain and build our performance in this area. 

Nationwide maintains strong links with government bodies and continues to work with the wider industry to 
identify vulnerabilities and share best practice to help combat cyber crime. Cyber security remains a high 
priority and Nationwide will continue to focus on improving the awareness of its customers and employees, as 
well as continuing to build its understanding of the developing threats, its defences and its resilience to cyber 
attacks.  

IT and operational resilience 

Nationwide’s members quite rightly expect IT systems to be stable and available when they want to use them. 
In September 2018 Nationwide announced that it would invest an additional £1.3 billion in technology over the 
next five years. This technology investment will ensure that Nationwide remains resilient and secure, increase 
agility and deliver new features and services to our members more quickly. More information on this 
investment can be found on page 12. 

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163  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Operational risk (continued)

People risk  

Nationwide relies on the talent and dedication of its people to deliver its strategy, provide first class service, 
and to operate a strong risk and control framework. Attracting, retaining and developing the right people 
remains a key focus for the Society, particularly in specialist areas, such as technology, where the appropriate 
skill sets are scarce or in high demand. Nationwide continues to monitor and closely mange the impact on its 
people requirements as it delivers the products, services and experience that members want, to ensure that 
the required levels of skill, knowledge and engagement are maintained. 

Pace of change 

Nationwide is committed to responding to the varied and evolving needs of its customers, making it easier for 
them to transact through a range of channels. However, the scale and pace of change can create delivery 
challenges. Such challenges have the potential to disrupt Nationwide’s operating environment and negatively 
impact the service experienced by customers. These operational risks are managed through a strong focus on 
service management, transformation governance and programme management disciplines. There is also a 
high volume of change driven by regulation; this is explored further in the Conduct and compliance risk 
section below.  

Data  

The continued expansion of data used in digital services increases the complexity and cost of managing data 
securely and effectively. Nationwide is committed to protecting customer data from accidental loss, or from 
nefarious activities. There is a steady flow of regulation that will have an impact on how data is managed; 
Nationwide will monitor these developments, continue to be agile and react to the evolving requirements.  

External fraud 

Debit and credit card fraud remains the largest driver of fraud losses, driven by increasing transaction volumes 
as a result of business growth and customer behaviour. Nationwide continues to develop its fraud detection 
and prevention capabilities. Losses incurred through the digital channels remain low; however, in common 
with the industry Nationwide continues to see increasingly sophisticated attacks. Nationwide is dedicated to 
keeping pace with the increases in digital capability and sophistication of attacks by investing in its fraud 
defences. 

Nationwide recognises the impact fraud has on its customers and is committed to raising awareness of fraud 
scams, as well as working closely with the Payments Service Regulator and UK Finance to combat customer 
losses. Nationwide welcome the increased authentication requirements being introduced with the EU 
Payments Services Directive (PSD2), which should help protect our customers from Card Not Present fraud.   

Use of third parties 

Nationwide needs to ensure customer outcomes and service experiences are maintained regardless of 
whether services are delivered in house or through third parties. Relationships with third parties are managed 
closely to ensure the service they offer is in line with acceptable standards and Nationwide’s customer ethos. 

The use of cloud based solutions is a key strategic enabler for the Society and provides the potential to reduce 
aspects of the operational risk profile. Significant progress has been made in the year in addressing the 
associated risks in this area; this includes the operation of a specific cloud surgery and governance board to 
bring a higher level of scrutiny and governance.      

Outlook 

Nationwide’s operational risk outlook is impacted by the environment in which it operates and its strategy. 
The drivers of operational risk are expected to remain broadly consistent, with the main themes being:  
•

the scale and pace of change, particularly in a digital environment and with the enablement of Open 
Banking 
the impact on fraud of PSD2 and delivering help to the victims of Authorised Push Payment scams.
IT resilience and the continued increase in the sophistication of cyber security threats 
the continued reliance on strategic third-party partners, including increased adoption of cloud based 
solutions. 

•
•
•

Nationwide continues to invest in all these areas to maintain and develop appropriate controls to ensure 
residual risk exposures are managed within appetite. 

Conduct and Compliance risk 

Summary 

Conduct and compliance risk is the risk that Nationwide exercises inappropriate judgement or makes errors in 
the execution of its business activities, leading to non-compliance with regulation or legislation, market 
integrity being undermined, or an unfair outcome being created for our customers. 

Current environment 

Nationwide believes in delivering fair outcomes to its customers, through the embedding of effective conduct 
risk management, improving frameworks and guidance, and interpreting and implementing regulatory 
obligations.  

Our strategy recognises that our members’ needs are changing. Increasingly our members demand an 
always-on, constantly evolving and improving digital service. Member impact and the potential for member 
harm is considered as a matter of course throughout the Society as we deliver our strategy. This gives us the 
confidence that our strategy will be successfully delivered, with the mitigation of risk and especially risks with 
the potential to harm members at the core of our activity. 

The regulatory environment remains challenging, with a variety of complex regulatory changes having to be 
embedded, as regulators continue to drive an agenda committed to rebuilding trust and confidence in the UK 
financial services market. In addition to this, regulators have been putting in place the necessary 
arrangements to continue to meet their statutory objectives in the event of a no-deal Brexit, and seeking 
feedback from the industry. As Nationwide is a UK-domiciled and UK-focused building society, the proposals 
put forward by the regulators are not expected to have material implications for our business model, financial 

 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 

Operational risk (continued)

People risk  

Nationwide relies on the talent and dedication of its people to deliver its strategy, provide first class service, 

and to operate a strong risk and control framework. Attracting, retaining and developing the right people 

remains a key focus for the Society, particularly in specialist areas, such as technology, where the appropriate 

skill sets are scarce or in high demand. Nationwide continues to monitor and closely mange the impact on its 

people requirements as it delivers the products, services and experience that members want, to ensure that 

the required levels of skill, knowledge and engagement are maintained. 

Nationwide is committed to responding to the varied and evolving needs of its customers, making it easier for 

them to transact through a range of channels. However, the scale and pace of change can create delivery 

challenges. Such challenges have the potential to disrupt Nationwide’s operating environment and negatively 

impact the service experienced by customers. These operational risks are managed through a strong focus on 

service management, transformation governance and programme management disciplines. There is also a 

high volume of change driven by regulation; this is explored further in the Conduct and compliance risk 

Pace of change 

section below.  

Data  

External fraud 

The continued expansion of data used in digital services increases the complexity and cost of managing data 

securely and effectively. Nationwide is committed to protecting customer data from accidental loss, or from 

nefarious activities. There is a steady flow of regulation that will have an impact on how data is managed; 

Nationwide will monitor these developments, continue to be agile and react to the evolving requirements.  

Summary 

Debit and credit card fraud remains the largest driver of fraud losses, driven by increasing transaction volumes 

as a result of business growth and customer behaviour. Nationwide continues to develop its fraud detection 

and prevention capabilities. Losses incurred through the digital channels remain low; however, in common 

with the industry Nationwide continues to see increasingly sophisticated attacks. Nationwide is dedicated to 

keeping pace with the increases in digital capability and sophistication of attacks by investing in its fraud 

defences. 

Current environment 

obligations.  

Nationwide recognises the impact fraud has on its customers and is committed to raising awareness of fraud 

scams, as well as working closely with the Payments Service Regulator and UK Finance to combat customer 

losses. Nationwide welcome the increased authentication requirements being introduced with the EU 

Payments Services Directive (PSD2), which should help protect our customers from Card Not Present fraud.   

Use of third parties 

Nationwide needs to ensure customer outcomes and service experiences are maintained regardless of 

whether services are delivered in house or through third parties. Relationships with third parties are managed 

closely to ensure the service they offer is in line with acceptable standards and Nationwide’s customer ethos. 

The use of cloud based solutions is a key strategic enabler for the Society and provides the potential to reduce 

aspects of the operational risk profile. Significant progress has been made in the year in addressing the 

associated risks in this area; this includes the operation of a specific cloud surgery and governance board to 

bring a higher level of scrutiny and governance.      

Outlook 

•

•

•

•

Banking 

solutions. 

Nationwide’s operational risk outlook is impacted by the environment in which it operates and its strategy. 

The drivers of operational risk are expected to remain broadly consistent, with the main themes being:  

the scale and pace of change, particularly in a digital environment and with the enablement of Open 

the impact on fraud of PSD2 and delivering help to the victims of Authorised Push Payment scams.

IT resilience and the continued increase in the sophistication of cyber security threats 

the continued reliance on strategic third-party partners, including increased adoption of cloud based 

Nationwide continues to invest in all these areas to maintain and develop appropriate controls to ensure 

residual risk exposures are managed within appetite. 

Conduct and Compliance risk 

Conduct and compliance risk is the risk that Nationwide exercises inappropriate judgement or makes errors in 

the execution of its business activities, leading to non-compliance with regulation or legislation, market 

integrity being undermined, or an unfair outcome being created for our customers. 

Nationwide believes in delivering fair outcomes to its customers, through the embedding of effective conduct 

risk management, improving frameworks and guidance, and interpreting and implementing regulatory 

Our strategy recognises that our members’ needs are changing. Increasingly our members demand an 

always-on, constantly evolving and improving digital service. Member impact and the potential for member 

harm is considered as a matter of course throughout the Society as we deliver our strategy. This gives us the 

confidence that our strategy will be successfully delivered, with the mitigation of risk and especially risks with 

the potential to harm members at the core of our activity. 

The regulatory environment remains challenging, with a variety of complex regulatory changes having to be 

embedded, as regulators continue to drive an agenda committed to rebuilding trust and confidence in the UK 

financial services market. In addition to this, regulators have been putting in place the necessary 

arrangements to continue to meet their statutory objectives in the event of a no-deal Brexit, and seeking 

feedback from the industry. As Nationwide is a UK-domiciled and UK-focused building society, the proposals 

put forward by the regulators are not expected to have material implications for our business model, financial 

164  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Business and Risk Report (continued) 
Business and Risk Report (continued)

Conduct and Compliance risk (continued)

soundness, or ability to continue to provide service to our members. Nevertheless, we continue to monitor 
both political and regulatory developments in this space to ensure we continue to provide reliable services to 
our members.  

Nationwide remains committed to financial crime compliance and continues to develop its capability to limit 
financial crime by preventing, deterring and detecting money laundering and terrorist financing, making 
ongoing improvements to internal policies and procedures to support this agenda. 

In 2017, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) announced the final deadline for making new Payment 
Protection Insurance (PPI) complaints as 29 August 2019. As the deadline approaches, it is expected that the 
number of both customer complaints and Claims Management Company (CMC) managed PPI complaints will 
increase. Nationwide continues to monitor the volume of complaints received and to ensure appropriate 
resources are in place to handle peak volumes. Nationwide will continue to monitor CMC activities to identify 
emerging patterns in newly targeted areas of focus as the PPI industry-wide complaints process comes to an 
end and the CMCs fall under the FCA’s remit from April 2019. 

As noted, there continues to be a significant volume of complex regulatory change impacting the financial 
services industry; some of the key items relevant to Nationwide are listed below:  

Data 

The Basel Committee and Banking Standards (BCBS) 239 principles are aimed at strengthening banks’ and 
building societies’ risk data aggregation capabilities and internal risk reporting practices, in support of risk 
management and decision-making processes. Nationwide is in the process of enhancing its reporting 
capabilities in line with the BCBS 239 principles and timescales agreed with the regulators.  

Open banking  

The introduction of Open Banking creates both opportunities and risks for Nationwide. Nationwide views the 
change as a positive opportunity to deepen relationships with its members. Open Banking also has the 
potential to drive changes in customer behaviour and how customers interact with their financial services 
providers. Nationwide continues to develop its Open Banking strategy and capability and from September 
2019 will facilitate both Account Information Services and Payment Information Services to Third Party 
Providers (TPPs). This will enable Open Banking subscribers to authorise TPPs to obtain and aggregate their 
Nationwide current account and credit card account information, manage their accounts and make payments 
from those products outside of the Nationwide Online Bank. 

Financial crime compliance 

Nationwide is continuing to invest in processes and systems to achieve compliance with the European Union’s 
Money Laundering Directives, enhancing defences to combat money laundering and terrorist financing and 
protect the integrity of the financial markets. 

Industry reviews 

The Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) published the final report on its Mortgage Market Study in March 
2019 with an overall assessment that the market works well in many respects, that engagement is high, and 
consumers are getting mortgages that are suitable and affordable. Working with UK Finance, we have already 
committed to the voluntary code for ‘mortgage prisoners’ and will consider any further findings against our 
existing mortgage proposition, with enhancements made where appropriate.  

This year, the FCA published its final report on the Strategic Review of Retail Banking Business Models, 
designed to better understand the competitive forces shaping the banking sector, and the potential impact on 
customers. This has highlighted a regulatory focus on ‘back book’ pricing and customer inertia, which is  
considered further in the recent Discussion Paper on ‘Fair Pricing in Financial Services’. We will continue to 
engage in and monitor this discussion. 

Following the FCA’s High-Cost Credit Review, firms are required to introduce a series of measures with the 
aim of encouraging competition by increasing customer awareness of how they use their overdraft and how 
an overdraft works. The FCA is proposing reforms to the way firms charge for overdrafts, including 
unarranged overdrafts. Nationwide will continue to engage with and support the regulator in reviewing 
overdrafts and implementing any additional requirements. 

Both the FCA and PRA have recognised the potential impact that climate change and the transition to a low 
carbon economy could have on the UK’s economy and financial services, and how this transition relates to 
their respective statutory objectives. Both regulators are working to understand how firms are currently 
identifying, monitoring and mitigating the risks of climate change, and how they intend to disclose these. The 
FCA is also focusing on how firms intend to provide suitable consumer protection, while ensuring regulation 
does not stifle positive innovation in green financial services. We expect further developments in this area over 
the coming year.  

Following the FCA’s Occasional Paper on consumer vulnerability in 2015, firms’ approaches to vulnerable 
customers have been a focal point for the regulator. At a high level, the FCA expects firms to proactively 
identify vulnerable customers and ensure that policies are in place to protect those at a greater risk of harm. 
The Society has made significant progress since 2015 in its approach to vulnerable customers and continues 
to develop the Society-wide strategic approach ahead of the FCA guidance to published in early 2019. 

Nationwide will actively engage with the regulators to respond to these complex regulatory changes, and will 
continue to provide a secure and dependable variety of products and services which are designed to meet the 
needs of members and customers. 

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165  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Financial

statements

166 
175 
176 

Independent auditors’ report
Income statements
 Statements of  
comprehensive income

177  Balance sheets
178  

 Statements of movements in 
members’ interests and equity

180  Cash flow statements
 Notes to the financial 
181 
statements

Note 1  
Statement of accounting policies 
Note 2 
Judgements in applying accounting 
policies and critical accounting 
estimates

Performance/return
Note 3  
Interest receivable and similar income 
Note 4  
Interest expense and similar charges 
Note 5  
Fee and commission income and 
expense
Note 6  
Other operating income/expense

Note 7  
Gains/losses from derivatives 
and hedge accounting
Note 8  
Administrative expenses
Note 9  
Employees
Note 10  
Impairment losses and provisions on 
loans and advances to customers
Note 11  
Taxation

Financial assets and liabilities
Note 12  
Classification and measurement
Note 13  
Investment securities
Note 14  
Loans and advances to customers 
Note 15  
Derivative financial instruments
Note 16  
Deposits from banks and similar 
institutions
Note 17  
Other deposits
Note 18  
Debt securities in issue

Note 19  
Subordinated liabilities
Note 20  
Subscribed capital
Note 21  
Fair value hierarchy of financial assets 
and liabilities held at fair value
Note 22  
Fair value of financial assets and 
liabilities held at fair value – Level 3 
portfolio
Note 23  
Fair value of financial assets and 
liabilities measured at amortised cost
Note 24  
Offsetting financial assets 
and financial liabilities

Other assets and investments
Note 25  
Intangible assets
Note 26  
Property, plant and equipment

Accruals, provisions, contingent 
liabilities and other legal 
proceedings
Note 27  
Provisions for liabilities and charges
Note 28  
Capital and leasing commitments

Note 29  
Contingent liabilities

Employee benefits
Note 30  
Retirement benefit obligations

Capital and equity instruments
Note 31  
Core capital deferred shares (CCDS)
Note 32  
Other equity instruments

Scope of consolidation
Note 33  
Investments in Group undertakings
Note 34 
Structured entities

Other disclosure matters
Note 35  
Related party transactions
Note 36  
Notes to the cash flow statements
Note 37  
Adoption of IFRS 9
Note 38  
Capital management
Note 39  
Registered office

Victoria, member since 2003

 
166  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report 

Independent auditors’ report to the members of Nationwide Building Society 

Report on the audit of the financial statements 

Opinion 

In our opinion, Nationwide Building Society’s Group financial statements and Society financial statements (the “financial statements”): 

● give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s and of the Society’s affairs as at 4 April 2019 and of the Group’s and the Society’s profit and cash flows for the year then ended; 
● have been properly prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”) as adopted by the European Union; and 
● have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Building Societies Act 1986 and, as regards the Group financial statements, Article 4 of the IAS Regulation. 

We have audited the financial statements, included within the Annual Report and Accounts 2019 (the “Annual Report”), which comprise: the Group and Society balance sheets as at 4 April 2019; the Group and Society income 
statements and the statements of comprehensive income, the Group and Society cash flow statements, and the Group and Society statements of movements in members’ interests and equity for the year then ended; and the notes to 
the financial statements, which include a description of the significant accounting policies. 

Our opinion is consistent with our reporting to the Audit Committee. 

Basis for opinion 

We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (UK) (“ISAs (UK)”) and applicable law. Our responsibilities under ISAs (UK) are further described in the Auditors’ responsibilities for the audit of the 
financial statements section of our report. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. 

Independence 

We remained independent of the Group in accordance with the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the financial statements in the UK, which includes the FRC’s Ethical Standard, as applicable to listed public interest 
entities, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. 

To the best of our knowledge and belief, we declare that non-audit services prohibited by the FRC’s Ethical Standard were not provided to the Group or the Society. 

Other than those disclosed in note 8 to the financial statements, we have provided no non-audit services to the Group or the Society in the period from 5 April 2018 to 4 April 2019. 

Our audit approach 

Overview 

● Overall Group materiality: £42.3 million (2018: £54.5 million), based on 5% of profit before tax. 
● Overall Society materiality: £18.0 million (2018: £28.0 million), based on 5% of profit before tax. 

The key audit matters for our Group and Society audits were: 

● The judgements applied to allowances made in addition to the core models, multiple economic scenarios and staging as they relate to loan loss provisioning; 
● The judgements applied to the material provisions for customer redress; 
● Valuation of IT intangible assets; and 
● Privileged access to IT systems. 

The scope of our audit 

As part of designing our audit, we determined materiality and assessed the risks of material misstatement in the financial statements. In particular, we looked at where the directors made subjective judgements, for example in 
respect of significant accounting estimates that involved making assumptions and considering future events that are inherently uncertain.

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167  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report (continued) 
Independent auditors’ report (continued)

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued) 

Capability of the audit in detecting irregularities, including fraud 

Based on our understanding of the Group and industry, we identified that the principal risks of non-compliance with laws and regulations related to breaches of banking laws and regulations such as, but not limited to, regulations 
relating to consumer credit and unethical and prohibited business practices, and we considered the extent to which non-compliance might have a material effect on the financial statements. We also considered those laws and 
regulations that have a direct impact on the preparation of the financial statements such as the Building Societies Act 1986 and the Consumer Credit Act 1974. We evaluated management’s incentives and opportunities for fraudulent 
manipulation of the financial statements (including the risk of override of controls), and determined that the principal risks were related to the posting of manual journal entries to manipulate financial performance, management bias 
through judgements and assumptions in significant accounting estimates and significant one-off or unusual transactions. The Group engagement team shared this risk assessment with the component auditors so that they could 
include appropriate audit procedures in response to such risks in their work. Audit procedures performed by the Group engagement team and/or component auditors included: 

● Discussions with management and those charged with governance including consideration of known or suspected instances of non-compliance with laws and regulation and fraud;  
● Incorporation of unpredictability into the nature, timing and/or extent of our testing;  
● Reading key correspondence with the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority;  
● Challenging assumptions and judgements made by management in their significant accounting estimates, in particular in relation to allowances made in addition to the core models, multiple economic scenarios and staging; 

provisions for customer redress; and valuation of IT intangible assets (see related key audit matters below);  

● Testing of period end adjustments; and 
● Identifying and testing journal entries, in particular any journal entries posted by senior management including the directors or infrequent users, posted on unusual days, posted with descriptions indicating a higher level of risk, 

posted to unusual account combinations, or duplicate journal entries and material late adjustments.  

There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above and the further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely we 
would become aware of it. Also, the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery or 
intentional misrepresentations, or through collusion. 

How we tailored the audit scope 

We tailored the scope of our audit to ensure that we performed enough work to be able to give an opinion on the financial statements as a whole, taking into account the structure of the Group and the Society, the accounting 
processes and controls, and the industry in which they operate. 

We primarily focused our work in these areas by assessing the directors’ judgements against available evidence, forming our own judgements and evaluating the disclosures in the financial statements. 

We tested and examined information using sampling and other auditing techniques, to the extent we considered necessary to provide a reasonable basis for us to form our own judgements. We obtained audit evidence by testing the 
effectiveness of controls, substantive procedures or a combination of both. 

Within the financial statements, the Group has been recognised as one operating segment. However for the purposes of our audit, we scoped the Group at a component level, defined by product or service function, for example 
treasury or prime mortgages, to ensure appropriate granularity of our testing approach.  

Individually financially significant components, in the context of the Group’s financial statements, are identified as those that have greater than 15% of absolute total income of the Group. We performed a full scope audit of the 
financial information of these individually financially significant components. Subsequently, we identified components that are related to significant risks and performed audit procedures over the relevant account balances to address 
the significant audit risks. All residual components were considered to be non-significant components; however, we assessed these non-significant components for large or unusual balances. Where large or unusual balances were 
identified, we performed audit procedures to obtain sufficient audit evidence over those balances.  

At the Society level, we performed scoping to ensure that the untested balances within each balance were below our materiality.  

In addition, we attended all Audit Committee meetings and also held meetings with senior management. We also met privately with the non-executive directors and other key stakeholders, including the regulators of the Group and 
Society. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report (continued) 

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued) 

Capability of the audit in detecting irregularities, including fraud 

168  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report (continued) 
Independent auditors’ report (continued)

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued) 

Materiality 

Based on our understanding of the Group and industry, we identified that the principal risks of non-compliance with laws and regulations related to breaches of banking laws and regulations such as, but not limited to, regulations 

relating to consumer credit and unethical and prohibited business practices, and we considered the extent to which non-compliance might have a material effect on the financial statements. We also considered those laws and 

regulations that have a direct impact on the preparation of the financial statements such as the Building Societies Act 1986 and the Consumer Credit Act 1974. We evaluated management’s incentives and opportunities for fraudulent 

manipulation of the financial statements (including the risk of override of controls), and determined that the principal risks were related to the posting of manual journal entries to manipulate financial performance, management bias 

through judgements and assumptions in significant accounting estimates and significant one-off or unusual transactions. The Group engagement team shared this risk assessment with the component auditors so that they could 

include appropriate audit procedures in response to such risks in their work. Audit procedures performed by the Group engagement team and/or component auditors included: 

● Discussions with management and those charged with governance including consideration of known or suspected instances of non-compliance with laws and regulation and fraud;  

● Incorporation of unpredictability into the nature, timing and/or extent of our testing;  

● Reading key correspondence with the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority;  

provisions for customer redress; and valuation of IT intangible assets (see related key audit matters below);  

● Testing of period end adjustments; and 

● Challenging assumptions and judgements made by management in their significant accounting estimates, in particular in relation to allowances made in addition to the core models, multiple economic scenarios and staging; 

The scope of our audit was influenced by our application of materiality. We set certain quantitative thresholds for materiality. These, together with qualitative considerations, helped us to determine the scope of our audit and the 
nature, timing and extent of our audit procedures on the individual financial statement line items and disclosures and in evaluating the effect of misstatements, both individually and in aggregate on the financial statements as a 
whole.  

Based on our professional judgement, we determined materiality for the financial statements as a whole as follows: 

Overall materiality 

How we determined it 

Rationale for benchmark applied 

Group financial statements 

Society financial statements 

£42.3 million (2018: £54.5 million). 

£18.0 million (2018: £28.0 million). 

5% of profit before tax. 
Profit before tax is one of the principal considerations when assessing the Group’s and Society’s performance, 
and is a generally accepted auditing benchmark. 

5% of profit before tax. 

● Identifying and testing journal entries, in particular any journal entries posted by senior management including the directors or infrequent users, posted on unusual days, posted with descriptions indicating a higher level of risk, 

posted to unusual account combinations, or duplicate journal entries and material late adjustments.  

For each component in the scope of our Group audit, we allocated a materiality that is less than our overall Group materiality. The range of materiality allocated across components was between £2.0 million and £15.0 million. 

There are inherent limitations in the audit procedures described above and the further removed non-compliance with laws and regulations is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely we 

would become aware of it. Also, the risk of not detecting a material misstatement due to fraud is higher than the risk of not detecting one resulting from error, as fraud may involve deliberate concealment by, for example, forgery or 

We agreed with the Audit Committee that we would report to them misstatements identified during our audit above £2.1 million (Group audit) (2018: £2.7 million) and £0.9 million (Society audit) (2018: £1.4 million) as well as 
misstatements below those amounts that, in our view, warranted reporting for qualitative reasons. 

Key audit matters 

Based on our understanding of the business, changes in the economic environment and our discussions with the Audit Committee, we performed a risk assessment to determine the higher risk areas. We presented those identified 
higher audit risk areas during the Audit Committee meeting in October 2018. Throughout the year our plan was refreshed and revised to address changes in the external and internal environment and we presented a final, updated 
risk assessment in the May 2019 Audit Committee meeting. 

Key audit matters are those matters that, in the auditors’ professional judgement, were of most significance in the audit of the financial statements of the current period and include the most significant assessed risks of material 
misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) identified by the auditors, including those which had the greatest effect on: the overall audit strategy; the allocation of resources in the audit; and directing the efforts of the engagement 
team. These matters, and any comments we make on the results of our procedures thereon, were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not 
provide a separate opinion on these matters. This is not a complete list of all risks identified by our audit. 

intentional misrepresentations, or through collusion. 

How we tailored the audit scope 

processes and controls, and the industry in which they operate. 

We tailored the scope of our audit to ensure that we performed enough work to be able to give an opinion on the financial statements as a whole, taking into account the structure of the Group and the Society, the accounting 

We primarily focused our work in these areas by assessing the directors’ judgements against available evidence, forming our own judgements and evaluating the disclosures in the financial statements. 

We tested and examined information using sampling and other auditing techniques, to the extent we considered necessary to provide a reasonable basis for us to form our own judgements. We obtained audit evidence by testing the 

effectiveness of controls, substantive procedures or a combination of both. 

Within the financial statements, the Group has been recognised as one operating segment. However for the purposes of our audit, we scoped the Group at a component level, defined by product or service function, for example 

treasury or prime mortgages, to ensure appropriate granularity of our testing approach.  

Individually financially significant components, in the context of the Group’s financial statements, are identified as those that have greater than 15% of absolute total income of the Group. We performed a full scope audit of the 

financial information of these individually financially significant components. Subsequently, we identified components that are related to significant risks and performed audit procedures over the relevant account balances to address 

the significant audit risks. All residual components were considered to be non-significant components; however, we assessed these non-significant components for large or unusual balances. Where large or unusual balances were 

identified, we performed audit procedures to obtain sufficient audit evidence over those balances.  

At the Society level, we performed scoping to ensure that the untested balances within each balance were below our materiality.  

In addition, we attended all Audit Committee meetings and also held meetings with senior management. We also met privately with the non-executive directors and other key stakeholders, including the regulators of the Group and 

Society. 

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169  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report (continued) 
Independent auditors’ report (continued)

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued) 

Key audit matter 

How our audit addressed the key audit matter 

The judgements applied to allowances made in addition to the core models, multiple economic scenarios and 
staging as they relate to loan loss provisioning 

Group and Society 

We understood and critically assessed the methodology applied in the impairment models, using modelling 
specialists to confirm that the implemented methodology was compliant with IFRS 9. We tested key assumptions 
and judgements used in the calculation of provisions and tested the accuracy of critical data inputs used by the 
impairment models on a sample basis to supporting documentation. 

Refer to page 59 (Audit Committee Report), page 181 (Accounting Policies) and page 200 (Note 10 and Critical 
Accounting Estimates and Judgements). 

We tested the key assumptions in material additional allowances made by management and considered the 
completeness of adjustments to core models using our audit and wider industry knowledge to take account of 
latent risks and known model limitations. 

The determination of expected credit losses (‘ECL’) is highly subjective and judgemental. The introduction of IFRS 
9 in the current year meant that significant changes have been incorporated into the measurement of loan loss 
provisioning, including the development of new impairment models where losses are recognised on an expected, 
forward-looking basis, reflecting the Group's view of potential future economic events. As a result, a new 
methodology encompassing new estimates and judgements is now required to calculate impairment provisions 
and disclose them.  

In 2018, we audited the opening balances under IFRS 9. This work provided a foundation for our testing in 2019. 
Management built and implemented a number of models to achieve compliance with the requirements of IFRS 
9. The determination of ECL is a complex process and a number of judgements are involved in the estimation of 
ECL. We focused our audit work on the areas of the methodology that we identified as most judgemental. 

The three areas we focused on were: 

1.

2.
3.

The assessment of allowances made in addition to the core impairment models, which management 
has made to take account of latent risks and known core model limitations. We focused our work on 
the key assumptions in material additional allowances made by management. Management has 
implemented models to take account of risks associated with maturing interest only mortgages as 
well as risks associated with a severe economic downturn. We therefore focused our work on testing 
these additional allowances and updates to assumptions. 
The application of forward-looking economic assumptions used in the models; and 
The appropriateness of the ‘staging’ thresholds selected by management to determine whether a 
significant increase in credit risk had arisen, and hence whether a 12 month or lifetime loss provision 
is recorded. 

We compared the forward-looking economic assumptions to independent consensus forecasts when testing the 
impact of the multiple economic scenarios used. We also considered the reasonableness of management’s 
downside and severe downside assumptions and their assigned weightings to take account of risks from an 
economic downturn. We found that the assumptions adopted and assigned weightings were reasonable. 

We re-performed key aspects of management’s validation activities to test the ‘staging' thresholds. This included 
independently re-performing a retrospective review of the staging outcomes for a sample of portfolios to confirm 
that the criteria selected by management were reasonable.  

We tested management’s monitoring controls including the sufficiency of the model validation activities 
undertaken in the current year and re-performed a number of monitoring tests independently. 

We reviewed the credit risk disclosures made by management to ensure compliance with IFRS requirements and 
agreed the disclosures to supporting evidence without any material exceptions. 

From the evidence obtained we found the judgements applied to allowances made in addition to the core 
models, multiple economic scenarios and staging as they relate to loan loss provisioning to be appropriate and 
supportable. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report (continued) 

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued) 

Key audit matter 

Group and Society 

staging as they relate to loan loss provisioning 

specialists to confirm that the implemented methodology was compliant with IFRS 9. We tested key assumptions 

and judgements used in the calculation of provisions and tested the accuracy of critical data inputs used by the 

impairment models on a sample basis to supporting documentation. 

Refer to page 59 (Audit Committee Report), page 181 (Accounting Policies) and page 200 (Note 10 and Critical 

We tested the key assumptions in material additional allowances made by management and considered the 

Accounting Estimates and Judgements). 

completeness of adjustments to core models using our audit and wider industry knowledge to take account of 

The determination of expected credit losses (‘ECL’) is highly subjective and judgemental. The introduction of IFRS 

9 in the current year meant that significant changes have been incorporated into the measurement of loan loss 

We compared the forward-looking economic assumptions to independent consensus forecasts when testing the 

provisioning, including the development of new impairment models where losses are recognised on an expected, 

impact of the multiple economic scenarios used. We also considered the reasonableness of management’s 

forward-looking basis, reflecting the Group's view of potential future economic events. As a result, a new 

downside and severe downside assumptions and their assigned weightings to take account of risks from an 

methodology encompassing new estimates and judgements is now required to calculate impairment provisions 

economic downturn. We found that the assumptions adopted and assigned weightings were reasonable. 

latent risks and known model limitations. 

and disclose them.  

In 2018, we audited the opening balances under IFRS 9. This work provided a foundation for our testing in 2019. 

independently re-performing a retrospective review of the staging outcomes for a sample of portfolios to confirm 

Management built and implemented a number of models to achieve compliance with the requirements of IFRS 

that the criteria selected by management were reasonable.  

9. The determination of ECL is a complex process and a number of judgements are involved in the estimation of 

ECL. We focused our audit work on the areas of the methodology that we identified as most judgemental. 

We tested management’s monitoring controls including the sufficiency of the model validation activities 

We re-performed key aspects of management’s validation activities to test the ‘staging' thresholds. This included 

The three areas we focused on were: 

1.

The assessment of allowances made in addition to the core impairment models, which management 

agreed the disclosures to supporting evidence without any material exceptions. 

undertaken in the current year and re-performed a number of monitoring tests independently. 

We reviewed the credit risk disclosures made by management to ensure compliance with IFRS requirements and 

From the evidence obtained we found the judgements applied to allowances made in addition to the core 

models, multiple economic scenarios and staging as they relate to loan loss provisioning to be appropriate and 

has made to take account of latent risks and known core model limitations. We focused our work on 

the key assumptions in material additional allowances made by management. Management has 

implemented models to take account of risks associated with maturing interest only mortgages as 

well as risks associated with a severe economic downturn. We therefore focused our work on testing 

supportable. 

these additional allowances and updates to assumptions. 

2.

3.

The application of forward-looking economic assumptions used in the models; and 

The appropriateness of the ‘staging’ thresholds selected by management to determine whether a 

significant increase in credit risk had arisen, and hence whether a 12 month or lifetime loss provision 

is recorded. 

The judgements applied to allowances made in addition to the core models, multiple economic scenarios and 

We understood and critically assessed the methodology applied in the impairment models, using modelling 

The judgements applied to the material provisions for customer redress 

For significant customer redress provisions, we tested the completeness and accuracy of the data used and re-
performed the calculations. We found no material differences in these tests. 

How our audit addressed the key audit matter 

Key audit matter 

How our audit addressed the key audit matter 

170  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report (continued) 
Independent auditors’ report (continued)

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued) 

Group and Society 

Refer to page 59 (Audit Committee Report), page 181 (Accounting Policies) and page 227 (Note 27 and Critical 
Accounting Estimates and Judgements). 

We assessed the assumptions used in the provisions for reasonableness based on the evidence available and our 
broader industry knowledge. We traced the actual claims experience and costs to date to historical data without 
exception. 

There is inherent uncertainty in assessing and measuring the potential obligations resulting from ongoing 
regulatory matters and past sales practices, including mis-selling of Payment Protection Insurance (‘PPI’), issues 
related to administration of customer accounts and non-compliance with consumer credit legislation. 

We tested a sample of customer complaints by reviewing the related correspondence with the customers to 
understand whether there were indicators of inconsistency with the outcome recorded. This testing did not 
identify any exceptions. 

In relation to PPI, there continues to be uncertainty about the volume of future complaints. As we near the 
timebar set by the Financial Conduct Authority (29 August 2019), some of this uncertainty will start to dissipate, 
however, it remains difficult to predict future complaints given the unprecedented nature of this event. 

Specifically, for PPI provisioning, we challenged the forecasted complaint volumes and consider them to be 
acceptable based on our understanding of the Society and the industry. 

Valuation of IT intangible assets 

Group and Society 

Given the inherent uncertainty in the calculation of customer redress provisions and their judgemental nature, 
we considered whether the disclosures relating to the provisions adequately reflected the uncertainties 
associated with customer redress and determined that they did. 

No additional material customer redress issues that would require either provision or disclosure in the financial 
statements were identified as a result of the audit work performed. 

From the evidence obtained we found the judgements applied to calculate the material provisions for customer 
redress to be appropriate and supportable. 
We tested the design and operating effectiveness of the controls surrounding the impairment assessment for 
intangible assets. 

We understood and critically assessed management’s impairment process for intangible assets. 

Refer to page 59 (Audit Committee Report), page 181 (Accounting Policies) and page 225 (Note 25 and Critical 
Accounting Estimates and Judgements). 

In September 2018, the Group announced a technology investment to simplify the existing IT estate and enhance 
digital services and data capabilities over the next five years.  

The Group’s investment in new technologies has lowered the realisable value of certain existing intangible assets 
that are becoming obsolete or redundant. Consequently, the technology strategy has impacted the planned 
usage, and therefore, recoverability of certain assets. Management have evaluated the impact of the technology 
strategy and assessed assets for impairment indicators. This impairment assessment and determination of future 
recoverability is judgemental. It entails considering the specific nature of each asset and the planned future use. 
Given the complexity and degree of management judgement, we determined that there was a higher level of 
audit risk. 

We tested a sample of assets to assess whether there were any indicators of impairment. We obtained 
management’s impairment assessment and tested this for reasonableness. We reconciled the data to underlying 
accounting records and challenged assumptions made with regard to the specific nature of the asset, the impact 
of the technology strategy and planned future use. Where indicators of impairment were identified, we obtained 
further corroborating evidence to support the recoverability of the asset. 

We recalculated the impairment charge for those assets that were considered to be impaired. We challenged the 
rationale for the impairment and ensured the judgements made were appropriate. We reconciled the 
impairment charges back to underlying accounting records, noting no exceptions. 

Based on the procedures performed, management’s conclusions over impairment were supported by the 
evidence obtained. 

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171  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report (continued) 
Independent auditors’ report (continued)

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued) 

Key audit matter 

Privileged access to IT systems 

Group and Society 

Refer to page 59 (Audit Committee report). 

In previous years, we identified and reported that privileged access management (PAM) controls to applications, 
operating systems and data in the financial reporting process required improvements. These controls are critical 
to mitigate the risk that users can change IT system functionality and data intentionally or through error. 

Management have made significant progress in addressing the control findings, including onboarding most 
systems to a suite of enhanced PAM controls.  

However, the privileged access remediation achieved in the year occurred in the latter half and further 
improvements are required for remediation to be fully complete. A number of accounts are yet to be on boarded 
onto PAM controls. As a result, we tested mitigating controls and performed substantive testing procedures in 
line with the prior year approach. 

How our audit addressed the key audit matter 

We understood and tested the design and operating effectiveness of the privileged access control environment. 

We identified the inventory of privileged generic accounts and tested if they were controlled appropriately on 
CyberArk (third party privileged access management tool). For any accounts that were not, we tested whether 
there were effective compensating controls and inspected login date stamps to verify whether they were logged 
into during the year. 

In response to the weaknesses identified, we performed additional testing of systems that were not on CyberArk 
and did not have appropriate mitigating controls. For operating systems, we identified the automated controls 
we used in our audit procedures and inspected timestamps and code comparisons to test that system 
functionality had not been amended during the year. No inappropriate changes to system functionality were 
identified through our testing. 

For databases, additional substantive testing was performed on those areas where we identified a higher risk of 
fraud or error in relation to privileged access, including the following: 

●
●
●
●
●

A higher extent of testing on key reconciliations; 
Increased sample testing of administrative expenses; 
A specific test over the validity of payments; 
Additional risk based manual journal testing; 
Additional payroll testing to mitigate the risk of inappropriate amendments to standing data. 

In our procedures performed above, no inappropriate changes to system data were identified through our 
testing. 

Conclusions relating to going concern  

In accordance with ISAs (UK), we are required to report if we have anything material to add or draw attention to in respect of the directors’ statement in the financial statements about whether the directors considered it appropriate 
to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements and the directors’ identification of any material uncertainties to the Group’s and the Society’s ability to continue as a going concern over a period of 
at least twelve months from the date of approval of the financial statements. 

We have nothing material to add or to draw attention to. 

However, because not all future events or conditions can be predicted, this statement is not a guarantee as to the Group’s and Society’s ability to continue as a going concern. For example, the terms on which the United Kingdom 
may withdraw from the European Union are not clear, and it is difficult to evaluate all of the potential implications on the Group’s and Society’s business, customers, suppliers and the wider economy.   

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report (continued) 

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued) 

Key audit matter 

Privileged access to IT systems 

Group and Society 

Refer to page 59 (Audit Committee report). 

How our audit addressed the key audit matter 

We understood and tested the design and operating effectiveness of the privileged access control environment. 

We identified the inventory of privileged generic accounts and tested if they were controlled appropriately on 

CyberArk (third party privileged access management tool). For any accounts that were not, we tested whether 

there were effective compensating controls and inspected login date stamps to verify whether they were logged 

into during the year. 

In previous years, we identified and reported that privileged access management (PAM) controls to applications, 

operating systems and data in the financial reporting process required improvements. These controls are critical 

In response to the weaknesses identified, we performed additional testing of systems that were not on CyberArk 

to mitigate the risk that users can change IT system functionality and data intentionally or through error. 

and did not have appropriate mitigating controls. For operating systems, we identified the automated controls 

Management have made significant progress in addressing the control findings, including onboarding most 

functionality had not been amended during the year. No inappropriate changes to system functionality were 

systems to a suite of enhanced PAM controls.  

identified through our testing. 

we used in our audit procedures and inspected timestamps and code comparisons to test that system 

However, the privileged access remediation achieved in the year occurred in the latter half and further 

For databases, additional substantive testing was performed on those areas where we identified a higher risk of 

improvements are required for remediation to be fully complete. A number of accounts are yet to be on boarded 

fraud or error in relation to privileged access, including the following: 

onto PAM controls. As a result, we tested mitigating controls and performed substantive testing procedures in 

line with the prior year approach. 

A higher extent of testing on key reconciliations; 

Increased sample testing of administrative expenses; 

A specific test over the validity of payments; 

Additional risk based manual journal testing; 

Additional payroll testing to mitigate the risk of inappropriate amendments to standing data. 

●

●

●

●

●

testing. 

172  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report (continued) 
Independent auditors’ report (continued)

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued) 

Reporting on other information  

The other information comprises all of the information in the Annual Report other than the financial statements and our auditors’ report thereon. The directors are responsible for the other information. Our opinion on the financial 
statements does not cover the other information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or, except to the extent otherwise explicitly stated in this report, any form of assurance thereon.  

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our 
knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If we identify an apparent material inconsistency or material misstatement, we are required to perform procedures to conclude whether there is a 
material misstatement of the financial statements or a material misstatement of the other information. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are 
required to report that fact. We have nothing to report based on these responsibilities. 

With respect to the Annual business statement and Directors’ report we also considered whether the disclosures required by the Building Societies Act 1986 have been included. 

Based on the responsibilities described above and our work undertaken in the course of the audit, the Building Societies Act 1986 and ISAs (UK) require us also to report certain opinions and matters as described below (required by 
ISAs (UK) unless otherwise stated). 

Building Societies Act 1986 – Opinion on Annual business statement and Directors’ report 

In our opinion, based on our work undertaken in the course of the audit: 

● the Annual business statement and the Directors’ report have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Building Societies Act 1986; 
● the information given in the Directors’ report for the year ended 4 April 2019 is consistent with the accounting records and the financial statements; and 
● the information given in the Annual business statement (other than the information upon which we are not required to report) gives a true representation of the matters in respect of which it is given. 

In our procedures performed above, no inappropriate changes to system data were identified through our 

In the light of the knowledge and understanding of the Group and Society and their environment, we have not identified any material misstatements in the directors’ report. 

In accordance with ISAs (UK), we are required to report if we have anything material to add or draw attention to in respect of the directors’ statement in the financial statements about whether the directors considered it appropriate 

to adopt the going concern basis of accounting in preparing the financial statements and the directors’ identification of any material uncertainties to the Group’s and the Society’s ability to continue as a going concern over a period of 

Conclusions relating to going concern  

at least twelve months from the date of approval of the financial statements. 

We have nothing material to add or to draw attention to. 

However, because not all future events or conditions can be predicted, this statement is not a guarantee as to the Group’s and Society’s ability to continue as a going concern. For example, the terms on which the United Kingdom 

may withdraw from the European Union are not clear, and it is difficult to evaluate all of the potential implications on the Group’s and Society’s business, customers, suppliers and the wider economy.   

The directors’ assessment of the prospects of the Group and of the principal risks that would threaten the solvency or liquidity of the Group 

As a result of the directors’ voluntary reporting on how they have applied the UK Corporate Governance Code (the “Code”), we are required to report to you if we have anything material to add or draw attention to regarding:  

● the directors’ confirmation on page 96 of the Annual Report that they have carried out a robust assessment of the principal risks facing the Group, including those that would threaten its business model, future performance, 

solvency or liquidity. 

● the disclosures in the Annual Report that describe those risks and explain how they are being managed or mitigated. 
● the directors’ explanation on page 95 of the Annual Report as to how they have assessed the prospects of the Group, over what period they have done so and why they consider that period to be appropriate, and their statement 
as to whether they have a reasonable expectation that the Group will be able to continue in operation and meet its liabilities as they fall due over the period of their assessment, including any related disclosures drawing attention 
to any necessary qualifications or assumptions. 

We have nothing to report in respect of this responsibility. 

Other Code provisions 

As a result of the directors’ voluntary reporting on how they have applied the Code, we are required to report to you if, in our opinion:  

● the statement given by the directors, on page 96, that they consider the Annual Report taken as a whole to be fair, balanced and understandable, and provides the information necessary for the members to assess the Group’s 

and Society’s position and performance, business model and strategy is materially inconsistent with our knowledge of the Group and Society obtained in the course of performing our audit. 

● the section of the Annual Report on page 59 describing the work of the Audit Committee does not appropriately address matters communicated by us to the Audit Committee. 

We have nothing to report in respect of this responsibility.

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173  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report (continued) 
Independent auditors’ report (continued)

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued) 

Responsibilities for the financial statements and the audit 

Responsibilities of the directors for the financial statements 

As explained more fully in the Directors’ responsibilities in respect of the preparation of the Annual Report set out on page 95, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the 
applicable framework and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. The directors are also responsible for such internal control as they determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free 
from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. 

In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the Group’s and the Society’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going 
concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the Group or the Society or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. 

Auditors’ responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements 

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditors’ report that includes our opinion. 
Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error 
and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.  

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the FRC’s website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditors’ report. 

Use of this report 

This report, including the opinions, has been prepared for and only for the Society’s members as a body in accordance with Section 78 of the Building Societies Act 1986 and for no other purpose. We do not, in giving these opinions, 
accept or assume responsibility for any other purpose or to any other person to whom this report is shown or into whose hands it may come save where expressly agreed by our prior consent in writing. 

Other required reporting 

Building Societies Act 1986 exception reporting 

Under the Building Societies Act 1986 we are required to report to you if, in our opinion: 

● adequate accounting records have not been kept by the Society; or 
● the Society financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records; or 
● we have not received all the information and explanations and access to documents we require for our audit. 

We have no exceptions to report arising from this responsibility. 

Appointment 

Following the recommendation of the Audit Committee, we were appointed by the directors on 26 July 1991 to audit the financial statements for the year ended 4 April 1992 and subsequent financial periods. The period of total 
uninterrupted engagement is 28 years, covering the years ended 4 April 1992 to 4 April 2019. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report (continued) 

Report on the audit of the financial statements (continued) 

Responsibilities for the financial statements and the audit 

Responsibilities of the directors for the financial statements 

174  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Independent auditors’ report (continued) 
Independent auditors’ report (continued)

Other voluntary reporting  

Corporate Governance Statement 

As explained more fully in the Directors’ responsibilities in respect of the preparation of the Annual Report set out on page 95, the directors are responsible for the preparation of the financial statements in accordance with the 

applicable framework and for being satisfied that they give a true and fair view. The directors are also responsible for such internal control as they determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free 

from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. 

The Group prepares a Corporate governance report in accordance with the Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules sourcebook of the Financial Conduct Authority (“DTR”) and has chosen to voluntarily comply with the UK 
Corporate Governance Code (the ‘Code’). The directors have requested that we review the parts of the Corporate governance report relating to the Society’s compliance with the provisions of the DTR and the Code, specified for 
auditor reporting by the Companies Act 2006, or for review by the Listing Rules of the Financial Conduct Authority, as if the Society were a premium listed company. 

We have nothing to report arising from our responsibility to report if a Corporate Governance Statement has not been prepared by the Society. 

In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the Group’s and the Society’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going 

concern basis of accounting unless the directors either intend to liquidate the Group or the Society or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so. 

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit, the information given in the Corporate Governance Statement (on pages 43 to 58) about internal controls and risk management systems in relation to financial 
reporting processes in compliance with rules 7.2.5 and 7.2.6 of the DTR is consistent with the financial statements and has been prepared in accordance with applicable legal requirements.  

Auditors’ responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements 

In light of our knowledge and understanding of the Group and the Society and their environment obtained in the course of the audit, we did not identify any material misstatements in this information.  

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditors’ report that includes our opinion. 

Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error 

and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.  

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements is located on the FRC’s website at: www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities. This description forms part of our auditors’ report. 

This report, including the opinions, has been prepared for and only for the Society’s members as a body in accordance with Section 78 of the Building Societies Act 1986 and for no other purpose. We do not, in giving these opinions, 

accept or assume responsibility for any other purpose or to any other person to whom this report is shown or into whose hands it may come save where expressly agreed by our prior consent in writing. 

Use of this report 

Other required reporting 

Building Societies Act 1986 exception reporting 

Under the Building Societies Act 1986 we are required to report to you if, in our opinion: 

● adequate accounting records have not been kept by the Society; or 

● the Society financial statements are not in agreement with the accounting records; or 

● we have not received all the information and explanations and access to documents we require for our audit. 

We have no exceptions to report arising from this responsibility. 

Appointment 

Following the recommendation of the Audit Committee, we were appointed by the directors on 26 July 1991 to audit the financial statements for the year ended 4 April 1992 and subsequent financial periods. The period of total 

uninterrupted engagement is 28 years, covering the years ended 4 April 1992 to 4 April 2019. 

In our opinion, based on the work undertaken in the course of the audit, the information given in the Corporate Governance Statement (on pages 43 to 58) with respect to the Society’s corporate governance code and practices and 
about its administrative, management and supervisory bodies and their committees complies with rules 7.2.2, 7.2.3 and 7.2.7 of the DTR.  

Going concern 

The directors have requested that we review the statement on page 95 in relation to going concern as if the Society were a premium listed company. We have nothing to report having performed our review. 

The directors’ assessment of the prospects of the Group and of the principal risks that would threaten the solvency or liquidity of the Group 

The directors have requested that we perform a review of the directors’ statements on pages 95 and 96 that they have carried out a robust assessment of the principal risks facing the Group and in relation to the longer-term viability 
of the Group, as if the Society were a premium listed company. Our review was substantially less in scope than an audit and only consisted of making inquiries and considering the directors’ process supporting their statements; 
checking that the statements are in alignment with the relevant provisions of the Code; and considering whether the statements are consistent with the knowledge and understanding of the Group and Society and their environment 
obtained in the course of the audit. We have nothing to report having performed this review. 

Other Code provisions 

The directors have prepared a Corporate Governance Statement and requested that we review it as though the Society were a premium listed company. We have nothing to report in respect of the requirement for the auditors of 
premium listed companies to report when the directors’ statement relating to the Society’s compliance with the Code does not properly disclose a departure from a relevant provision of the Code specified, under the Listing Rules, for 
review by the auditors. 

Directors’ Remuneration 

The Society voluntarily prepares a Report of the directors on remuneration in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006. The directors have requested that we audit the part of the Report of the directors on 
remuneration specified by the Companies Act 2006 to be audited, as if the Society were a quoted company. 

In our opinion, the part of the Report of the directors on remuneration to be audited has been properly prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006. 

Hemione Hudson (Senior Statutory Auditor) 
for and on behalf of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP 
Chartered Accountants and Statutory Auditors 
London 
20 May 2019 

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175  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Income statements 

For the year ended 4 April 2019 

Interest receivable and similar income/(expense): 

Calculated using the effective interest rate method 
Other 

Total interest receivable and similar income/(expense) 
Interest expense and similar charges 
Net interest income 
Fee and commission income 
Fee and commission expense 
Other operating income/(expense) 
Gains/(losses) from derivatives and hedge accounting 
Total income 
Administrative expenses 
Impairment losses on loans and advances to customers 
Impairment recoveries on investment securities 
Provisions for liabilities and charges 
Profit before tax 
Taxation  
Profit after tax 

*Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. 

The notes on pages 181 to 247 form part of these financial statements. 

Notes 

Group 

2019 
£m 

3 
3 
3 
4 

5 
5 
6 
7 

8 
10 

27 

11 

5,141 
(23) 
5,118 
(2,203) 
2,915 
449 
(248) 
54 
36 
3,206 
(2,254) 
(113) 
- 
(6) 
833 
(215) 
618 

2018* 
£m 

4,862 
(51) 
4,811 
(1,807) 
3,004 
449 
(244) 
(77) 
(1) 
3,131 
(2,024) 
(107) 
2 
(25) 
977 
(232) 
745 

Society 

2019 
£m 

4,827 
(31) 
4,796 
(2,313) 
2,483 
446 
(248) 
52 
(7) 
2,726 
(2,223) 
(129) 
- 
(6) 
368 
(114) 
254 

2018* 
£m 

4,501 
(72) 
4,429 
(1,964) 
2,465 
445 
(244) 
(78) 
(26) 
2,562 
(1,995) 
(97) 
2 
(20) 
452 
(115) 
337 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Income statements 

For the year ended 4 April 2019 

Interest receivable and similar income/(expense): 

Calculated using the effective interest rate method 

Other 

Total interest receivable and similar income/(expense) 

Interest expense and similar charges 

Net interest income 

Fee and commission income 

Fee and commission expense 

Other operating income/(expense) 

Gains/(losses) from derivatives and hedge accounting 

Total income 

Administrative expenses 

Impairment losses on loans and advances to customers 

Impairment recoveries on investment securities 

Provisions for liabilities and charges 

Profit before tax 

Taxation  

Profit after tax 

*Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. 

The notes on pages 181 to 247 form part of these financial statements. 

Notes 

Group 

2019 

£m 

Society 

2019 

£m 

3 

3 

3 

4 

5 

5 

6 

7 

8 

10 

27 

11 

5,141 

(23) 

5,118 

(2,203) 

2,915 

449 

(248) 

54 

36 

3,206 

(2,254) 

(113) 

- 

(6) 

833 

(215) 

618 

2018* 

£m 

4,862 

(51) 

4,811 

(1,807) 

3,004 

449 

(244) 

(77) 

(1) 

3,131 

(2,024) 

(107) 

2 

(25) 

977 

(232) 

745 

4,827 

(31) 

4,796 

(2,313) 

2,483 

446 

(248) 

52 

(7) 

2,726 

(2,223) 

(129) 

- 

(6) 

368 

(114) 

254 

2018* 

£m 

4,501 

(72) 

4,429 

(1,964) 

2,465 

445 

(244) 

(78) 

(26) 

2,562 

(1,995) 

(97) 

2 

(20) 

452 

(115) 

337 

176  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Statements of comprehensive income 

For the year ended 4 April 2019 

Profit after tax 

Other comprehensive income/(expense) 

Items that will not be reclassified to the income statement 
Remeasurements of retirement benefit obligations: 
Retirement benefit remeasurements before tax  
Taxation 

Revaluation of property: 

Revaluation before tax 
Taxation 

Items that may subsequently be reclassified to the income statement 
Cash flow hedge reserve: 

Fair value movements taken to members’ interests and equity 
Amount transferred to income statement 
Taxation 

Fair value through other comprehensive income reserve: 

Fair value movements taken to members’ interests and equity  
Amount transferred to income statement 
Taxation  

Available for sale reserve: 

Fair value movements taken to members’ interests and equity 
Amount transferred to income statement 
Taxation 

Other comprehensive income/(expense) 

Total comprehensive income 

Notes 

Group 

2019 
£m 
618 

2018* 
£m 
745 

Society 

2019 
£m 
254 

2018* 
£m 
337 

30 
11 

26 
11 

11 

11 

11 

210 
(57) 
153 

(2) 
1 
(1) 

152 

540 
(100) 
(112) 
328 

12 
(28) 
4 
(12) 

468 

1,086 

29 
(7) 
22 

2 
(1) 
1 

23 

(2,316) 
2,057 
68 
(191) 

50 
(8) 
(11) 
31 

(137) 

608 

210 
(57) 
153 

(2) 
1 
(1) 

152 

434 
(249) 
(47) 
138 

13 
(27) 
3 
(11) 

279 

533 

26 
(8) 
18 

2 
(1) 
1 

19 

(418) 
342 
19 
(57) 

50 
(8) 
(11) 
31 

(7) 

330 

*The year to 4 April 2019 is prepared on an IFRS 9 basis; comparatives are prepared on an IAS 39 basis. On implementation of IFRS 9 the available for sale reserve was replaced by the fair value through other comprehensive income reserve. 

The notes on pages 181 to 247 form part of these financial statements.

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177  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Balance sheets 

At 4 April 2019 

  Notes 

4 April 2019 
£m 

Group 

5 April 2018* 
£m 

4 April 2018* 
£m 

4 April 2019 
£m 

Society 
5 April 2018* 
£m 

4 April 2018* 
£m 

Assets 
Cash  
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 
Investment securities 
Derivative financial instruments 
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 
Loans and advances to customers 
Investments in Group undertakings  
Intangible assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Accrued income and expenses prepaid 
Deferred tax 
Current tax assets 
Other assets 
Total assets 
Liabilities 
Shares 
Deposits from banks and similar institutions 
Other deposits 
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 
Debt securities in issue 
Derivative financial instruments  
Other liabilities 
Provisions for liabilities and charges 
Accruals and deferred income 
Subordinated liabilities 
Subscribed capital 
Deferred tax  
Current tax liabilities 
Retirement benefit obligations 
Total liabilities 
Members’ interests and equity 
Core capital deferred shares 
Other equity instruments 
General reserve 
Revaluation reserve 
Cash flow hedge reserve 
Fair value through other comprehensive income reserve 
Available for sale reserve 
Total members’ interests and equity 
Total members’ interests, equity and liabilities 

13 
15 

14 
33 
25 
26 

11 

16 
17 

18 
15 

27 

19 
20 
11 

30 

31 
32 

12,493 
4,009 
16,234 
3,562 
411 
199,051 
- 
1,324 
889 
184 
53 
- 
91 
238,301 

153,969 
20,149 
5,074 
(17) 
35,942 
1,593 
583 
199 
346 
6,706 
250 
144 
89 
105 
225,132 

1,325 
992 
10,418 
64 
320 
50 

 14,361  
 3,493  
 13,046  
 4,121  
(144) 
 191,421  
 -  
 1,342  
 887  
 164  
144  
- 
 102  
 228,937  

 148,003  
20,436 
4,693 
(53) 
 34,118  
 2,337  
 345  
 274  
 336  
 5,497  
 263  
 49  
 53  
345  
 216,696  

 1,325  
 992  
 9,802  
 68  
(8) 
62 

13,169 
238,301 

 12,241  
228,937 

14,361 
3,493 
13,046 
4,121 
(109) 
191,593 
- 
1,342 
887 
164 
98 
- 
102 
229,098 

148,003 
20,436 
4,693 
(53) 
34,118 
2,337 
345 
273 
336 
5,497 
263 
49 
53 
345 
216,695 

1,325 
992 
9,951 
68 
(8) 

75 
12,403 
229,098 

12,493 
3,994 
16,232 
2,614 
411 
164,447 
32,220 
1,312 
887 
1,299 
39 
- 
87 
236,035 

153,969 
19,091 
6,619 
(17) 
32,354 
2,959 
2,857 
198 
346 
6,706 
250 
33 
49 
103 
225,517 

1,325 
992 
8,056 
64 
25 
56 

10,518 
236,035 

14,361 
3,477 
13,046 
3,108 
(144) 
 158,087  
 31,296  
1,330 
885 
1,535 
 127  
4 
100 
227,212 

148,003 
19,248 
6,110 
(53) 
29,734 
3,746 
3,549 
272  
335 
5,497 
263 
23 
- 
342 
217,069 

1,325 
992 
7,804  
68 
(113) 
67 

10,143 
227,212 

 14,361    
 3,477    
 13,046    
 3,108    
(109) 
 158,175    
 31,296    
 1,330    
 885    
 1,535    
 95    
4 
 100    
 227,303    

 148,003    
 19,248    
6,110 
(53) 
 29,734    
 3,746    
 3,549    
 271    
335    
 5,497    
 263    
 23    
- 
 342    

217,068 

 1,325    
 992    
 7,883    
 68    
(113) 

 80    
 10,235    
227,303 

*Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. Balances at 5 April 2018 have been prepared under IFRS 9 as detailed in note 37. 

The notes on pages 181 to 247 form part of these financial statements.

Approved by the Board of directors on 20 May 2019.  

D L Roberts Chairman 
J D Garner Chief Executive Officer 
M M Rennison Chief Financial Officer 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Balance sheets 

At 4 April 2019 

Assets 

Cash  

Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 

Investment securities 

Derivative financial instruments 

Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 

Loans and advances to customers 

Investments in Group undertakings  

Intangible assets 

Property, plant and equipment 

Accrued income and expenses prepaid 

Deferred tax 

Current tax assets 

Other assets 

Total assets 

Liabilities 

Shares 

Other deposits 

Deposits from banks and similar institutions 

Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 

Debt securities in issue 

Derivative financial instruments  

Other liabilities 

Provisions for liabilities and charges 

Accruals and deferred income 

Subordinated liabilities 

Subscribed capital 

Deferred tax  

Current tax liabilities 

Retirement benefit obligations 

Total liabilities 

Members’ interests and equity 

Core capital deferred shares 

Other equity instruments 

General reserve 

Revaluation reserve 

Cash flow hedge reserve 

13 

15 

14 

33 

25 

26 

11 

16 

17 

18 

15 

27 

19 

20 

11 

30 

31 

32 

4 April 2019 

5 April 2018* 

4 April 2018* 

4 April 2019 

5 April 2018* 

4 April 2018* 

Group 

Society 

  Notes 

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

238,301 

 228,937  

229,098 

236,035 

227,212 

 227,303    

12,493 

4,009 

16,234 

3,562 

411 

199,051 

- 

1,324 

889 

184 

53 

- 

91 

153,969 

20,149 

5,074 

(17) 

35,942 

1,593 

6,706 

583 

199 

346 

250 

144 

89 

105 

1,325 

992 

10,418 

64 

320 

50 

 14,361  

 3,493  

 13,046  

 4,121  

(144) 

 191,421  

 -  

 1,342  

 887  

 164  

144  

- 

 102  

 148,003  

20,436 

4,693 

(53) 

 34,118  

 2,337  

 345  

 274  

 336  

 5,497  

 263  

 49  

 53  

345  

 1,325  

 992  

 9,802  

 68  

(8) 

62 

14,361 

3,493 

13,046 

4,121 

(109) 

191,593 

- 

1,342 

887 

164 

98 

- 

102 

148,003 

20,436 

4,693 

(53) 

34,118 

2,337 

345 

273 

336 

5,497 

263 

49 

53 

345 

1,325 

992 

9,951 

68 

(8) 

75 

12,493 

3,994 

16,232 

2,614 

411 

164,447 

32,220 

1,312 

887 

1,299 

39 

- 

87 

153,969 

19,091 

6,619 

(17) 

32,354 

2,959 

2,857 

198 

346 

6,706 

250 

33 

49 

103 

1,325 

992 

8,056 

64 

25 

56 

£m 

14,361 

3,477 

13,046 

3,108 

(144) 

 158,087  

 31,296  

1,330 

885 

1,535 

 127  

4 

100 

148,003 

19,248 

6,110 

(53) 

29,734 

3,746 

3,549 

272  

335 

5,497 

263 

23 

- 

342 

1,325 

992 

7,804  

68 

(113) 

67 

10,143 

227,212 

£m 

 14,361    

 3,477    

 13,046    

 3,108    

(109) 

 158,175    

 31,296    

 1,330    

 885    

 1,535    

 95    

4 

 100    

 148,003    

 19,248    

6,110 

(53) 

 29,734    

 3,746    

 3,549    

 271    

335    

 5,497    

 263    

 23    

- 

 342    

 1,325    

 992    

 7,883    

 68    

(113) 

 80    

 10,235    

227,303 

225,132 

 216,696  

216,695 

225,517 

217,069 

217,068 

Fair value through other comprehensive income reserve 

Available for sale reserve 

Total members’ interests and equity 

Total members’ interests, equity and liabilities 

13,169 

238,301 

 12,241  

228,937 

12,403 

229,098 

10,518 

236,035 

*Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. Balances at 5 April 2018 have been prepared under IFRS 9 as detailed in note 37. 

The notes on pages 181 to 247 form part of these financial statements.

178  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Group statement of movements in members’ interests and equity 

For the year ended 4 April 2019 

At 4 April 2018 
IFRS 9 transition (note i) 
At 5 April 2018  
Profit for the year 
Net remeasurements of retirement benefit obligations  
Net revaluation of property 
Reserve transfer 
Net movement in cash flow hedge reserve 
Net movement in FVOCI reserve 
Total comprehensive income 
Distribution to the holders of core capital deferred shares 
Distribution to the holders of Additional Tier 1 capital (note ii) 
At 4 April 2019 

For the year ended 4 April 2018 

At 5 April 2017 
Profit for the year 
Net remeasurements of retirement benefit obligations 
Net revaluation of property 
Net movement in cash flow hedge reserve 
Net movement in available for sale reserve 
Total comprehensive income 
Issue of core capital deferred shares  
Distribution to the holders of core capital deferred shares 
Distribution to the holders of Additional Tier 1 capital (note ii) 
At 4 April 2018 

Total  

£m 
12,403 
(162) 
12,241 
618 
153 
(1) 
- 
328 
(12) 
1,086 
(108) 
(50) 
13,169 

Core capital 
deferred shares 
£m 
1,325 
- 
1,325 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
1,325 

Core capital 
deferred shares 
£m 
531 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
794 
- 
- 
1,325 

Other equity 
instruments 
£m 
992 
- 
992 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
992 

Other equity 
instruments 
£m 
992 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
992 

Available for  
sale reserve  
£m 
75 
(75) 

General reserve 

£m 
9,951 
(149) 
9,802 
618 
153 
- 
3 
- 
- 
774 
(108) 
(50) 
10,418 

Revaluation 
reserve 
£m 
68 
- 
68 
- 
- 
(1) 
(3) 
- 
- 
(4) 
- 
- 
64 

Cash flow 
hedge reserve  
£m 
(8) 
- 
(8) 
- 
- 
- 
- 
328 
- 
328 
- 
- 
320 

General reserve 

£m 
9,316 
745 
22 
- 
- 
- 
767 
- 
(82) 
(50) 
9,951 

Revaluation 
reserve 
£m 
67 
- 
- 
1 
- 
- 
1 
- 
- 
- 
68 

Cash flow  
hedge reserve  
£m 
183 
- 
- 
- 
(191) 
- 
(191) 
- 
- 
- 
(8) 

Available for  
sale reserve  
£m 
44 
- 
- 
- 
- 
31 
31 
- 
- 
- 
75 

FVOCI 
reserve 
£m 

62 
62 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
(12) 
(12) 
- 
- 
50 

Total  

£m 
11,133 
745 
22 
1 
(191) 
31 
608 
794 
(82) 
(50) 
12,403 

Approved by the Board of directors on 20 May 2019.  

D L Roberts Chairman 

J D Garner Chief Executive Officer 

M M Rennison Chief Financial Officer 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

Adjustments on implementation of IFRS 9 as detailed in note 37. 
The distribution to the holders of Additional Tier 1 capital is shown net of an associated tax credit of £18 million (2018: £18 million).  

The notes on pages 181 to 247 form part of these financial statements.  

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179  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Society statement of movement in members’ interests and equity 

For the year ended 4 April 2019 

At 4 April 2018 
IFRS 9 transition (note i) 
At 5 April 2018  
Profit for the year 
Net remeasurements of retirement benefit obligations  
Net revaluation of property 
Reserve transfer 
Net movement in cash flow hedge reserve 
Net movement in FVOCI reserve 
Total comprehensive income 
Distribution to the holders of core capital deferred shares 
Distribution to the holders of Additional Tier 1 capital (note ii) 
At 4 April 2019 

For the year ended 4 April 2018 

At 5 April 2017 
Profit for the year 
Net remeasurements of retirement benefit obligations 
Net revaluation of property 
Net movement in cash flow hedge reserve 
Net movement in available for sale reserve 
Total comprehensive income 
Issue of core capital deferred shares  
Distribution to the holders of core capital deferred shares 
Distribution to the holders of Additional Tier 1 capital (note ii) 
At 4 April 2018 

Total  

£m 
10,235 
(92) 
10,143 
254 
153 
(1) 
- 
138 
(11) 
533 
(108) 
(50) 
10,518 

Core capital 
deferred shares 
£m 
1,325 
- 
1,325 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
1,325 

Core capital 
deferred shares 
£m 
531 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
794 
- 
- 
1,325 

Other equity 
instruments 
£m 
992 
- 
992 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
992 

Other equity 
instruments 
£m 
992 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
992 

Available for  
sale reserve  
£m 
80 
(80) 

General reserve 

£m 
7,883 
(79) 
7,804 
254 
153 
- 
3 
- 
- 
410 
(108) 
(50) 
8,056 

Revaluation 
reserve 
£m 
68 
- 
68 
- 
- 
(1) 
(3) 
- 
- 
(4) 
- 
- 
64 

Cash flow 
hedge reserve  
£m 
(113) 
- 
(113) 
- 
- 
- 
- 
138 
- 
138 
- 
- 
25 

General reserve 

£m 
7,660 
337 
18 
- 
- 
- 
355 
- 
(82) 
(50) 
7,883 

Revaluation 
reserve 
£m 
67 
- 
- 
1 
- 
- 
1 
- 
- 
- 
68 

Cash flow  
hedge reserve  
£m 
(56) 
- 
- 
- 
(57) 
- 
(57) 
- 
- 
- 
(113) 

Available for  
sale reserve  
£m 
49 
- 
- 
- 
- 
31 
31 
- 
- 
- 
80 

FVOCI 
reserve 
£m 

67 
67 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
(11) 
(11) 
- 
- 
56 

Total  

£m 
9,243 
337 
18 
1 
(57) 
31 
330 
794 
(82) 
(50) 
10,235 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

Adjustments on implementation of IFRS 9 as detailed in note 37. 
The distribution to the holders of Additional Tier 1 capital is shown net of an associated tax credit of £18 million (2018: £18 million).  

The notes on pages 181 to 247 form part of these financial statements. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

180  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Society statement of movement in members’ interests and equity 

For the year ended 4 April 2019 

At 4 April 2018 

IFRS 9 transition (note i) 

At 5 April 2018  

Profit for the year 

Net remeasurements of retirement benefit obligations  

Net revaluation of property 

Reserve transfer 

Net movement in cash flow hedge reserve 

Net movement in FVOCI reserve 

Total comprehensive income 

Distribution to the holders of core capital deferred shares 

Distribution to the holders of Additional Tier 1 capital (note ii) 

At 4 April 2019 

For the year ended 4 April 2018 

At 5 April 2017 

Profit for the year 

Net remeasurements of retirement benefit obligations 

Net revaluation of property 

Net movement in cash flow hedge reserve 

Net movement in available for sale reserve 

Total comprehensive income 

Issue of core capital deferred shares  

Distribution to the holders of core capital deferred shares 

Distribution to the holders of Additional Tier 1 capital (note ii) 

At 4 April 2018 

Notes: 

i.

ii.

Core capital 

Other equity 

General reserve 

Revaluation 

Cash flow 

deferred shares 

instruments 

reserve 

hedge reserve  

Available for  

sale reserve  

£m 

1,325 

1,325 

£m 

992 

992 

1,325 

992 

£m 

531 

£m 

992 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

794 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

7,883 

(79) 

7,804 

254 

153 

- 

3 

- 

- 

410 

(108) 

(50) 

8,056 

£m 

7,660 

337 

18 

- 

- 

- 

- 

355 

(82) 

(50) 

7,883 

£m 

68 

68 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

(1) 

(3) 

(4) 

64 

£m 

67 

- 

- 

1 

- 

- 

1 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

(113) 

(113) 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

138 

138 

25 

£m 

(56) 

(57) 

(57) 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

1,325 

992 

68 

(113) 

Total  

£m 

10,235 

(92) 

10,143 

254 

153 

(1) 

- 

138 

(11) 

533 

(108) 

(50) 

10,518 

FVOCI 

reserve 

£m 

67 

67 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

(11) 

(11) 

56 

Total  

£m 

9,243 

337 

18 

1 

(57) 

31 

330 

794 

(82) 

(50) 

10,235 

£m 

80 

(80) 

£m 

49 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

31 

31 

80 

Core capital 

deferred shares 

Other equity 

instruments 

General reserve 

Revaluation 

Cash flow  

reserve 

hedge reserve  

Available for  

sale reserve  

Adjustments on implementation of IFRS 9 as detailed in note 37. 

The distribution to the holders of Additional Tier 1 capital is shown net of an associated tax credit of £18 million (2018: £18 million).  

The notes on pages 181 to 247 form part of these financial statements. 

Cash flow statements 

For the year ended 4 April 2019 

Cash flows (used in)/generated from operating activities 
Profit before tax  
Adjustments for: 
Non-cash items included in profit before tax 
Changes in operating assets and liabilities 
Taxation 
Net cash flows (used in)/generated from operating activities 

Notes 

36 
36 

Cash flows used in investing activities 
Purchase of investment securities 
Sale and maturity of investment securities 
Purchase of property, plant and equipment  
Sale of property, plant and equipment 
Purchase of intangible assets 
Net cash flows used in investing activities 

Cash flows generated from/(used in) financing activities 
Distributions paid to the holders of core capital deferred shares 
Distributions paid to the holders of Additional Tier 1 capital 
Issue of core capital deferred shares 
Issue of debt securities  
Redemption of debt securities in issue 
Interest paid on debt securities in issue 
Issue of subordinated liabilities 
Redemption of subordinated liabilities 
Interest paid on subordinated liabilities  
Redemption of subscribed capital 
Interest paid on subscribed capital  
Net cash flows generated from/(used in) financing activities 

Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents 
Cash and cash equivalents at start of year 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 

36 

*Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. 

The notes on pages 181 to 247 form part of these financial statements.

Group 

Society 

2019 
£m 

833 

1,401 
(2,514) 
(135) 
(415) 

(9,020) 
6,298 
(156) 
12 
(371) 
(3,237) 

(108) 
(68) 
- 
27,956 
(25,970) 
(592) 
1,029 
- 
(222) 
(13) 
(14) 
1,998 

(1,654) 
17,510 
15,856 

2018* 
£m 

977 

1,202 
7,255 
(236) 
9,198 

(7,090) 
3,553 
(159) 
10 
(365) 
(4,051) 

(82) 
(68) 
794 
22,298 
(27,737) 
(679) 
3,995 
(1,251) 
(141) 
- 
(14) 
(2,885) 

2,262 
15,248 
17,510 

2019 
£m 

368 

1,409 
(2,874) 
(41) 
(1,138) 

(9,018) 
6,298 
(156) 
12 
(371) 
(3,235) 

(108) 
(68) 
- 
27,956 
(25,288) 
(552) 
1,029 
- 
(222) 
(13) 
(14) 
2,720 

(1,653) 
17,494 
15,841 

2018* 
£m 

452 

1,184 
7,812 
(140) 
9,308 

(7,090) 
3,553 
(159) 
10 
(365) 
(4,051) 

(82) 
(68) 
794 
21,389 
(26,970) 
(643) 
3,995 
(1,251) 
(141) 
- 
(14) 
(2,991) 

2,266 
15,228 
17,494 

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181  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements 

1. Statement of accounting policies 

Basis of preparation 

IFRS 9 ‘Financial Instruments’ 

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting 
Standards (IFRS) as published by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and interpretations 
issued by the IFRS Interpretations Committee of the IASB as adopted by the European Union. These financial 
statements have also been prepared in accordance with those parts of the Building Societies (Accounts and 
Related Provisions) Regulations 1998 (as amended) applicable to organisations reporting under IFRS. 

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention as modified by the 
revaluation of investment properties, branches and non-specialised buildings, financial assets measured  
at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI), and derivatives and certain other financial assets  
and liabilities measured at fair value through profit and loss (FVTPL). As stated in the Directors’ report,  
the directors consider that it is appropriate to continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing  
the accounts. 

A summary of the Group’s accounting policies is set out below. The accounting policies have been consistently 
applied, except for changes arising from adoption of new and revised IFRSs and certain voluntary changes in 
accounting policy, as described below. 

The Group has adopted the requirements of IFRS 9 from 5 April 2018. The classification and measurement 
and impairment requirements have been applied retrospectively by adjusting the opening balance sheet at the 
date of initial application, with no restatement of comparatives. The impacts on the Group’s and Society’s 
balance sheet and members’ interests and equity at 5 April 2018 are included in note 37. Additional 
information on the transition to IFRS 9 can be found in Nationwide’s ‘Report on Transition to IFRS 9: Financial 
Instruments’, available on the Society’s website at nationwide.co.uk  

IFRS 9 also includes an accounting policy choice to continue applying IAS 39 hedge accounting, which the 
Group has exercised within these financial statements. The revised accounting policies following the adoption 
of IFRS 9 are set out in the sections below. 

Consequential amendments to IAS 1 ‘Presentation of Financial Statements,’ arising from IFRS 9, introduced a 
requirement to present separately interest revenue calculated using the effective interest rate method. The 
Group has therefore disaggregated the previous line item for interest receivable and similar income into two 
separate components for amounts: 

Further information about judgements in applying accounting policies and critical accounting estimates is 
provided in note 2. 

•
•

calculated using the effective interest rate method, and  
other.  

Adoption of new and revised IFRSs 

Comparative amounts have been restated. 

The Group has adopted the following standards with effect from 5 April 2018: 

IFRS 15 ‘Revenue from Contracts with Customers’ 

•
•

IFRS 9 ‘Financial Instruments’ 
IFRS 15 ‘Revenue from Contracts with Customers’.  

Further information on the impacts of adopting these new standards is set out below. 

In addition, a number of amendments and improvements to accounting standards have been issued by the 
International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) with an effective date of 1 January 2018. Those relevant to these 
financial statements, being minor amendments to IFRS 2 ‘Classification and Measurement of Share-based 
Payment Transactions’ and IAS 40 ‘Transfers of Investment Property’, were adopted with no significant impact for 
the Group or Society. 

The Group has applied IFRS 15 ‘Revenue from Contracts with Customers’ from 5 April 2018. The standard 
applies to all contracts with customers but does not apply to financial instruments, lease contracts or non-
monetary exchanges. IFRS 15 has introduced a principles-based approach for revenue recognition, with 
revenue being recognised as the related obligations are satisfied. 

The Group has assessed revenue streams within the scope of IFRS 15 and concluded that the timing of revenue 
recognition is unchanged under the new standard. There is therefore no transitional impact from adopting 
this standard. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements 

1. Statement of accounting policies 

Basis of preparation 

IFRS 9 ‘Financial Instruments’ 

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting 

Standards (IFRS) as published by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and interpretations 

issued by the IFRS Interpretations Committee of the IASB as adopted by the European Union. These financial 

statements have also been prepared in accordance with those parts of the Building Societies (Accounts and 

Related Provisions) Regulations 1998 (as amended) applicable to organisations reporting under IFRS. 

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention as modified by the 

revaluation of investment properties, branches and non-specialised buildings, financial assets measured  

at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI), and derivatives and certain other financial assets  

and liabilities measured at fair value through profit and loss (FVTPL). As stated in the Directors’ report,  

the directors consider that it is appropriate to continue to adopt the going concern basis in preparing  

the accounts. 

A summary of the Group’s accounting policies is set out below. The accounting policies have been consistently 

applied, except for changes arising from adoption of new and revised IFRSs and certain voluntary changes in 

accounting policy, as described below. 

Further information about judgements in applying accounting policies and critical accounting estimates is 

provided in note 2. 

Adoption of new and revised IFRSs 

The Group has adopted the requirements of IFRS 9 from 5 April 2018. The classification and measurement 

and impairment requirements have been applied retrospectively by adjusting the opening balance sheet at the 

date of initial application, with no restatement of comparatives. The impacts on the Group’s and Society’s 

balance sheet and members’ interests and equity at 5 April 2018 are included in note 37. Additional 

information on the transition to IFRS 9 can be found in Nationwide’s ‘Report on Transition to IFRS 9: Financial 

Instruments’, available on the Society’s website at nationwide.co.uk  

IFRS 9 also includes an accounting policy choice to continue applying IAS 39 hedge accounting, which the 

Group has exercised within these financial statements. The revised accounting policies following the adoption 

of IFRS 9 are set out in the sections below. 

Consequential amendments to IAS 1 ‘Presentation of Financial Statements,’ arising from IFRS 9, introduced a 

requirement to present separately interest revenue calculated using the effective interest rate method. The 

Group has therefore disaggregated the previous line item for interest receivable and similar income into two 

separate components for amounts: 

calculated using the effective interest rate method, and  

•

•

other.  

Comparative amounts have been restated. 

The Group has adopted the following standards with effect from 5 April 2018: 

IFRS 15 ‘Revenue from Contracts with Customers’ 

•

•

IFRS 9 ‘Financial Instruments’ 

IFRS 15 ‘Revenue from Contracts with Customers’.  

Further information on the impacts of adopting these new standards is set out below. 

In addition, a number of amendments and improvements to accounting standards have been issued by the 

International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) with an effective date of 1 January 2018. Those relevant to these 

financial statements, being minor amendments to IFRS 2 ‘Classification and Measurement of Share-based 

Payment Transactions’ and IAS 40 ‘Transfers of Investment Property’, were adopted with no significant impact for 

this standard. 

the Group or Society. 

The Group has applied IFRS 15 ‘Revenue from Contracts with Customers’ from 5 April 2018. The standard 

applies to all contracts with customers but does not apply to financial instruments, lease contracts or non-

monetary exchanges. IFRS 15 has introduced a principles-based approach for revenue recognition, with 

revenue being recognised as the related obligations are satisfied. 

The Group has assessed revenue streams within the scope of IFRS 15 and concluded that the timing of revenue 

recognition is unchanged under the new standard. There is therefore no transitional impact from adopting 

182  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued) 

Other changes in accounting policy 

Income statement presentation 

While not necessarily required by the adoption of IFRS 9 as described above, voluntary changes in accounting 
policy have also been made in relation to the presentation of certain income and expense relating to financial 
instruments. In particular, the opportunity has been taken to reclassify certain items previously included in 
interest receivable and similar income/(expense) to reflect better the nature of the transactions, with gains 
and losses recognised on the disposal of investment securities classified as FVOCI (2018: available for sale) 
now presented in other operating income. Comparatives have been restated as shown below: 

Income statement extract for the year ended 4 April 2018 

Group  
Interest receivable and similar income 
Other operating income/(expense) 
Society 
Interest receivable and similar income 
Other operating income/(expense) 

Previously 
published 
£m 

4,818 
(84) 

4,437 
(86) 

Adjustment 

Restated 

£m 

(7) 
7 

(8) 
8 

£m 

4,811 
(77) 

4,429 
(78) 

This reclassification has no impact on the Group’s or Society’s net assets or members’ interests and equity at 4 
April 2018 and no impact on the Group’s or Society’s net cash flows generated from operating activities or 
cash and cash equivalents for the year ended 4 April 2018. 

Balance sheet presentation  

To provide a more meaningful presentation of the Group’s collateral, repurchase agreement and reverse 
repurchase agreement balances, amounts held with counterparties which are non-banking financial 
institutions and central clearing houses are now presented with similar balances held with banking 
counterparties within newly named categories of ‘loans and advances to banks and similar institutions’ and 
‘deposits from banks and similar institutions.’ Previously, balances with non-banking and central clearing 
house counterparties were presented separately within ‘loans and advances to customers’ and ‘other 
deposits,’ and similar balances with banking counterparties were included within ‘loans and advances to 
banks’ and ‘deposits from banks’.  

Additionally, following the closure of the Group’s Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland operations in the year 
ended 4 April 2018, the remaining balances within ‘due to customers’ have been combined with ‘other 
deposits’. 

Comparatives have been restated to reflect these reclassifications as shown below: 

Balance sheet extract at 4 April 2018 

Group 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note i) 
Loans and advances to customers 
Deposits from banks and similar institutions (note ii) 
Other deposits 
Due to customers 
Society 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions (note i) 
Loans and advances to customers 
Deposits from banks and similar institutions (note ii) 
Other deposits 
Due to customers 

Notes:  
i.
ii.

Previously ‘Loans and advances to banks’. 
Previously ‘Deposits from banks’. 

Previously 
published 
£m 

3,422 
191,664 
19,404 
5,323 
402 

3,406 
158,246 
18,216 
6,740 
402 

Adjustment 

Restated 

£m 

71 
(71) 
1,032 
(630) 
(402) 

71 
(71) 
1,032 
(630) 
(402) 

£m 

3,493 
191,593 
20,436 
4,693 
- 

3,477 
158,175 
19,248 
6,110 
- 

These reclassifications have no impact on the Group’s or Society’s net assets or members’ interests and equity 
at 4 April 2018. ‘Net cash flows generated from operating activities’ have increased by £66 million for the year 
ended 4 April 2018, and ‘cash and cash equivalents’ as at 4 April 2018 and 5 April 2017 have increased by 
£71 million and £5 million, respectively, as collateral held with non-banking counterparties is now included in 
cash equivalents, consistent with collateral held with banking counterparties. 

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183  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued) 

Future accounting developments 

The following pronouncements, relevant to the Group, have been adopted by the EU but are either not effective at 4 April 2019 or are voluntary and have therefore not been applied in preparing these financial statements: 

Pronouncement 

IFRS 16 Leases 

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments – Hedge 
Accounting 

Nature of change 

For lessee accounting there will no longer be a distinction between operating and finance leases. Lessees will 
capitalise leases through the recognition of assets representing the contractual rights of use. The present value of 
contractual payments will be recognised as lease liabilities. Lessees will recognise interest expense on the lease 
liability and a depreciation charge on the right-of-use asset. IFRS 16 will not result in a significant change to lessor 
accounting. 

The Group will adopt IFRS 16 on a modified retrospective basis. This is expected to result in the recognition of 
right-of-use assets of approximately £180 million and a lease liability of approximately £190 million in respect of 
leased branch and office properties previously classified as operating leases, with no expected impact to members’ 
interest and equity. As permitted by the transition option, comparative figures for the prior year will not be 
restated. The Group intends to take advantage of certain exemptions within IFRS 16, including the election not to 
recognise a lease liability and right-of-use asset for leases with a term not exceeding 12 months or for which the 
underlying asset is of low value. 

The transition requirements of IFRS 9 include an option to continue to apply the existing hedge accounting 
requirements of IAS 39 until the development of a separate standard on accounting for dynamic risk management 
(macro hedge accounting). The Group continued to apply this option in its financial statements for the year ended 
4 April 2019. The Group intends to voluntarily adopt the hedge accounting provisions of IFRS 9 with effect from 5 
April 2019, but will continue to apply the scope exception to apply IAS 39 for fair value hedge accounting for a 
portfolio hedge of interest rate risk. 

The adoption of IFRS 9 hedge accounting provisions will allow the Group to make use of the improvements the 
standard has made available for micro hedge accounting. This includes the ability to choose to exclude currency 
basis spreads from hedge designation and instead report this element of fair valuation directly in a hedge reserve 
within equity. Adoption will be on a prospective basis, and is not expected to have a significant impact for the 
Group. 

Effective date 

Accounting periods beginning on or after  
1 January 2019 

Voluntary adoption for accounting periods 
beginning on or after 1 January 2018 

Prepayment Features with Negative 
Compensation (Amendments to IFRS 9) 

These amendments allow financial assets with a prepayment option that could result in the option’s holder 
receiving compensation for early termination to meet the ‘solely payments of principal and interest’ (SPPI) 
condition if specified criteria are met. 

Accounting periods beginning on or after  
1 January 2019 

These amendments are not expected to have a significant impact for the Group. 

IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax 
Treatments 

This interpretation clarifies the accounting for uncertainties in income tax treatments. 

Accounting periods beginning on or after  
1 January 2019 

The interpretation is not expected to have a significant impact for the Group. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued) 

Future accounting developments 

The following pronouncements, relevant to the Group, have been adopted by the EU but are either not effective at 4 April 2019 or are voluntary and have therefore not been applied in preparing these financial statements: 

Pronouncement 

IFRS 16 Leases 

Nature of change 

Effective date 

For lessee accounting there will no longer be a distinction between operating and finance leases. Lessees will 

Accounting periods beginning on or after  

capitalise leases through the recognition of assets representing the contractual rights of use. The present value of 

1 January 2019 

contractual payments will be recognised as lease liabilities. Lessees will recognise interest expense on the lease 

liability and a depreciation charge on the right-of-use asset. IFRS 16 will not result in a significant change to lessor 

accounting. 

IFRS 9 Financial Instruments – Hedge 

The transition requirements of IFRS 9 include an option to continue to apply the existing hedge accounting 

Voluntary adoption for accounting periods 

Accounting 

requirements of IAS 39 until the development of a separate standard on accounting for dynamic risk management 

beginning on or after 1 January 2018 

The Group will adopt IFRS 16 on a modified retrospective basis. This is expected to result in the recognition of 

right-of-use assets of approximately £180 million and a lease liability of approximately £190 million in respect of 

leased branch and office properties previously classified as operating leases, with no expected impact to members’ 

interest and equity. As permitted by the transition option, comparative figures for the prior year will not be 

restated. The Group intends to take advantage of certain exemptions within IFRS 16, including the election not to 

recognise a lease liability and right-of-use asset for leases with a term not exceeding 12 months or for which the 

underlying asset is of low value. 

(macro hedge accounting). The Group continued to apply this option in its financial statements for the year ended 

4 April 2019. The Group intends to voluntarily adopt the hedge accounting provisions of IFRS 9 with effect from 5 

April 2019, but will continue to apply the scope exception to apply IAS 39 for fair value hedge accounting for a 

portfolio hedge of interest rate risk. 

The adoption of IFRS 9 hedge accounting provisions will allow the Group to make use of the improvements the 

standard has made available for micro hedge accounting. This includes the ability to choose to exclude currency 

basis spreads from hedge designation and instead report this element of fair valuation directly in a hedge reserve 

within equity. Adoption will be on a prospective basis, and is not expected to have a significant impact for the 

Group. 

Prepayment Features with Negative 

These amendments allow financial assets with a prepayment option that could result in the option’s holder 

Accounting periods beginning on or after  

Compensation (Amendments to IFRS 9) 

receiving compensation for early termination to meet the ‘solely payments of principal and interest’ (SPPI) 

1 January 2019 

condition if specified criteria are met. 

These amendments are not expected to have a significant impact for the Group. 

IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax 

This interpretation clarifies the accounting for uncertainties in income tax treatments. 

Accounting periods beginning on or after  

Treatments 

1 January 2019 

The interpretation is not expected to have a significant impact for the Group. 

184  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued) 

Future accounting developments (continued) 

Pronouncement 

Nature of change 

Annual Improvements to IFRS Standards 
2015 – 2017 Cycle  

Amendments have been made to four standards: 

•
•
•
•

IFRS 3 ‘Business Combinations’ 
IFRS 11 ‘Joint Arrangements’ 
IAS 12 ‘Income Taxes’  
IAS 23 ‘Borrowing Costs’. 

Effective date 

Accounting periods beginning on or after  
1 January 2019 

The amendment to IAS 12 clarifies that an entity should recognise the tax consequences of dividends where the 
transactions or events that generated the distributable profits are recognised. As a result of its application, the 
income tax consequences of distributions on Additional Tier 1 instruments will be presented in profit or loss rather 
than directly in members’ interests and equity. Comparative information will be restated. 

If the amendment had been applied in the year ended 4 April 2019, the impact would have been a £18 million 
increase in profit after tax with no effect on members’ interests and equity. 

The amendments to other accounting standards are not expected to have a significant impact for the Group. 

Plan Amendment, Curtailment or Settlement 
(Amendments to IAS 19) 

The amendments require an entity to use updated assumptions to determine current service cost and net interest 
for the remainder of the period after a plan amendment, curtailment or settlement and clarifies the effect of such 
activities on the requirements regarding an asset ceiling. 

Accounting periods beginning on or after  
1 January 2019 

The Group will apply the amendments to any pension plan amendments, curtailments or settlements which occur 
prospectively from the effective date. 

The following pronouncement which may be relevant to the Group but is neither adopted by the EU nor effective at 4 April 2019 has not been applied in preparing these financial statements. 

Pronouncement 

Nature of change 

Effective date 

IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts 

IFRS 17 establishes the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of insurance 
contracts within the scope of the standard. 

Accounting periods beginning on or after  
1 January 2021 

The requirements of IFRS 17 are currently being assessed; however, it is not expected that the new standard will 
have a significant impact for the Group. 

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185  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued) 

Basis of consolidation  

Interest receivable and interest expense 

The assets, liabilities and results of the Society and its undertakings, which include subsidiaries and structured 
entities, are included in the financial statements on the basis of accounts made up to the reporting date. 

The Group consolidates an entity from the date on which the Group: (i) has power over the entity; (ii) is 
exposed to, or has rights to variable returns from its involvement with the entity; and (iii) has the ability to 
affect those returns through the exercise of its power. The assessment of control is based on all facts and 
circumstances. The Group reassesses whether it controls an entity if facts and circumstances indicate that 
there are changes to one or more of the three elements of control. The Group deconsolidates subsidiaries  
from the date that control ceases. 

A structured entity is an entity in which voting or similar rights are not the dominant factor in deciding 
control. Structured entities are consolidated when the substance of the relationship indicates control.  
The Group considers factors such as the purpose and design of the entity, size and exposure to variability  
of returns and nature of the relationship. 

Upon consolidation, all intra-Group assets and liabilities, equity, income, expenses and cash flows relating  
to transactions between members of the Group are eliminated. 

Investments in subsidiary undertakings are stated in the Society accounts at cost less provisions for any 
impairment in value. The directors consider it appropriate for administrative and commercial reasons that 
subsidiary undertakings have financial years ending on 31 March. Adjustment is made for individually 
significant transactions arising between 31 March and the Society’s year end. 

Securitisation transactions  

The Group has securitised certain mortgage loans by the transfer of the loans to structured entities controlled 
by the Group. The securitisation enables a subsequent issuance of debt, either by the Society or the structured 
entities, to investors who gain the security of the underlying assets as collateral. Those structured entities are 
fully consolidated into the Group accounts. 

The transfers of the mortgage loans to the structured entities are not treated as sales by the Society. The 
Society continues to recognise the mortgage loans on its own balance sheet after the transfer because it 
retains their risks and rewards through the receipt of substantially all of the profits or losses of the structured 
entities. In the accounts of the Society, the proceeds received from the transfer are accounted for as a deemed 
loan repayable to the structured entities. 

As explained in note 14, the Group has also entered into self issuances of debt to be used as collateral for 
repurchase (‘repo’) and similar transactions. Investments in self issued debt and the related obligation, 
together with the related income, expenditure and cash flows, are not recognised in the Society’s or Group’s 
financial statements. This avoids the ‘grossing-up’ of the financial statements that would otherwise arise. 

To manage interest rate risk, the Society enters into derivative transactions with the structured entities, 
receiving a rate of interest based on the securitised mortgages and paying a rate inherent in the debt 
issuances. These internal derivatives are treated as part of the deemed loan and not separately fair valued 
because the relevant mortgage loans are not derecognised. All other derivatives relating to securitisations are 
treated as explained in the derivatives and hedge accounting policy below. 

For instruments measured at amortised cost the effective interest rate (EIR) method is used to measure the 
carrying value of a financial asset or liability and to allocate associated interest income or expense over the 
relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments  
or receipts over the expected life of the financial instrument or, when appropriate, a shorter period, to the net 
carrying amount of the financial asset or financial liability. 

In calculating the effective interest rate, the Group estimates cash flows considering all contractual terms of 
the financial instrument (for example early redemption penalty charges) and anticipated customer behaviour 
but does not consider future credit losses. The calculation includes all fees received and paid and costs borne 
that are an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs, and all other premiums or discounts 
above or below market rates.  

Interest income is calculated by applying the EIR to the gross carrying amount of non-credit impaired financial 
assets. For credit-impaired financial assets the interest income is calculated by applying the EIR to the 
amortised cost of the credit-impaired financial assets (i.e. net of the allowance for expected credit losses 
(ECLs)). Where loans are credit impaired on origination, or when purchased from third parties, the carrying 
amount at initial recognition is net of the lifetime ECL at that date. For these assets the EIR reflects the ECLs in 
determining the future cash flows expected to be received from the financial asset. 

Interest receivable and similar income/(expense) calculated using the effective interest rate method also 
includes interest on financial assets classified as fair value through other comprehensive income, and on 
derivatives in qualifying hedge relationships.  

Interest income not calculated using the effective interest rate method, including interest on financial assets 
classified as fair value through profit or loss and derivatives not in qualifying hedge relationships, is presented 
as other interest receivable and similar income/(expense).  

Fees and commissions 

Fees and commission income and expense includes fees other than those that are an integral part of EIR. Fees 
and commissions relating to current accounts, mortgages and credit cards are either: 

•

•

transaction-based and therefore recognised when the performance obligation related to the transaction is 
fulfilled, or 
related to the provision of services over a period of time and therefore recognised on a systematic basis 
over the life of the agreement as services are provided.  

The transaction prices and provision of services are defined within the product terms and conditions. 

Trail commission relating to investments under administration, general insurance and protection products 
sold on behalf of third parties may include variable consideration. Where this is the case the trail commission 
is recognised either on the accruals basis or, if the uncertainties are more significant, once the uncertainties 
are resolved.  

Fee and commission income is generally earned from short-term contracts with payment terms that do not 
include a significant financing component. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued) 

The assets, liabilities and results of the Society and its undertakings, which include subsidiaries and structured 

entities, are included in the financial statements on the basis of accounts made up to the reporting date. 

The Group consolidates an entity from the date on which the Group: (i) has power over the entity; (ii) is 

exposed to, or has rights to variable returns from its involvement with the entity; and (iii) has the ability to 

affect those returns through the exercise of its power. The assessment of control is based on all facts and 

circumstances. The Group reassesses whether it controls an entity if facts and circumstances indicate that 

there are changes to one or more of the three elements of control. The Group deconsolidates subsidiaries  

from the date that control ceases. 

A structured entity is an entity in which voting or similar rights are not the dominant factor in deciding 

control. Structured entities are consolidated when the substance of the relationship indicates control.  

The Group considers factors such as the purpose and design of the entity, size and exposure to variability  

of returns and nature of the relationship. 

Upon consolidation, all intra-Group assets and liabilities, equity, income, expenses and cash flows relating  

to transactions between members of the Group are eliminated. 

Investments in subsidiary undertakings are stated in the Society accounts at cost less provisions for any 

impairment in value. The directors consider it appropriate for administrative and commercial reasons that 

subsidiary undertakings have financial years ending on 31 March. Adjustment is made for individually 

significant transactions arising between 31 March and the Society’s year end. 

Securitisation transactions  

Basis of consolidation  

Interest receivable and interest expense 

Segmental reporting 

186  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued)

For instruments measured at amortised cost the effective interest rate (EIR) method is used to measure the 

carrying value of a financial asset or liability and to allocate associated interest income or expense over the 

relevant period. The effective interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash payments  

or receipts over the expected life of the financial instrument or, when appropriate, a shorter period, to the net 

carrying amount of the financial asset or financial liability. 

In calculating the effective interest rate, the Group estimates cash flows considering all contractual terms of 

the financial instrument (for example early redemption penalty charges) and anticipated customer behaviour 

but does not consider future credit losses. The calculation includes all fees received and paid and costs borne 

that are an integral part of the effective interest rate, transaction costs, and all other premiums or discounts 

above or below market rates.  

Interest income is calculated by applying the EIR to the gross carrying amount of non-credit impaired financial 

assets. For credit-impaired financial assets the interest income is calculated by applying the EIR to the 

amortised cost of the credit-impaired financial assets (i.e. net of the allowance for expected credit losses 

(ECLs)). Where loans are credit impaired on origination, or when purchased from third parties, the carrying 

amount at initial recognition is net of the lifetime ECL at that date. For these assets the EIR reflects the ECLs in 

determining the future cash flows expected to be received from the financial asset. 

Interest receivable and similar income/(expense) calculated using the effective interest rate method also 

includes interest on financial assets classified as fair value through other comprehensive income, and on 

derivatives in qualifying hedge relationships.  

Interest income not calculated using the effective interest rate method, including interest on financial assets 

classified as fair value through profit or loss and derivatives not in qualifying hedge relationships, is presented 

as other interest receivable and similar income/(expense).  

Fees and commission income and expense includes fees other than those that are an integral part of EIR. Fees 

and commissions relating to current accounts, mortgages and credit cards are either: 

The Group’s Executive Committee is responsible for allocating resources and assessing the performance  
of the business and is therefore identified as the chief operating decision maker. 

The Group has determined that it has one reportable segment as the Executive Committee reviews 
performance and makes decisions based on the Group as whole. No segmental analysis is required on 
geographical lines as substantially all of the Group’s activities are in the United Kingdom. As a result,  
no segmental disclosure is provided. 

Intangible assets 

Intangible assets held by the Group consist primarily of externally acquired and internally developed computer 
software which is held at cost less accumulated amortisation and impairment. In accordance with IAS 38 
‘Intangible Assets’, software development costs are capitalised if it is probable that the asset created will 
generate future economic benefits. Costs incurred to establish technological feasibility or to maintain existing 
levels of performance are recognised as an expense. 

Web development costs are capitalised where the expenditure is incurred on developing an income 
generating website. 

Where applicable, directly attributable borrowing costs incurred in the construction of qualifying assets are 
capitalised. 

Computer software intangible assets are amortised using the straight line method over their estimated useful 
lives of between 3 and 10 years. Amortisation commences when the assets are ready for their intended use. 
Estimated useful lives are reviewed annually and adjusted, if appropriate, in the light of technological 
developments, usage and other relevant factors. 

Computer software is reviewed for indicators of impairment at each reporting date and whenever events or 
changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Where the carrying 
amount is not recoverable the asset is written down immediately to the estimated recoverable amount, based 
on value in use calculations. 

transaction-based and therefore recognised when the performance obligation related to the transaction is 

Property, plant and equipment 

Freehold and long leasehold properties comprise mainly branches and office buildings. 

Branches and non-specialised buildings are stated at revalued amounts, being the fair value, determined by 
market-based evidence at the date of the valuation, less any subsequent accumulated depreciation and 
subsequent impairment. Valuations are completed annually, as at 4 April, by external, independent and 
qualified surveyors who have recent experience in the location and type of properties. Valuations are 
performed in accordance with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Appraisal and Valuation Standards 
and are performed on a vacant possession basis, using a comparative method of valuation with reference to 
sales prices and observable market rents for similar properties in similar locations.  

Increases in the valuations of branches and non-specialised buildings are credited to other comprehensive 
income except where they reverse decreases for the same asset previously recognised in the income 
statement, in which case the increase in the valuation is recognised in the income statement. Decreases in 
valuations are recognised in the income statement except where they reverse amounts previously credited to 

The Group has securitised certain mortgage loans by the transfer of the loans to structured entities controlled 

by the Group. The securitisation enables a subsequent issuance of debt, either by the Society or the structured 

entities, to investors who gain the security of the underlying assets as collateral. Those structured entities are 

fully consolidated into the Group accounts. 

Fees and commissions 

The transfers of the mortgage loans to the structured entities are not treated as sales by the Society. The 

Society continues to recognise the mortgage loans on its own balance sheet after the transfer because it 

retains their risks and rewards through the receipt of substantially all of the profits or losses of the structured 

entities. In the accounts of the Society, the proceeds received from the transfer are accounted for as a deemed 

loan repayable to the structured entities. 

•

•

fulfilled, or 

As explained in note 14, the Group has also entered into self issuances of debt to be used as collateral for 

repurchase (‘repo’) and similar transactions. Investments in self issued debt and the related obligation, 

together with the related income, expenditure and cash flows, are not recognised in the Society’s or Group’s 

financial statements. This avoids the ‘grossing-up’ of the financial statements that would otherwise arise. 

To manage interest rate risk, the Society enters into derivative transactions with the structured entities, 

receiving a rate of interest based on the securitised mortgages and paying a rate inherent in the debt 

issuances. These internal derivatives are treated as part of the deemed loan and not separately fair valued 

because the relevant mortgage loans are not derecognised. All other derivatives relating to securitisations are 

treated as explained in the derivatives and hedge accounting policy below. 

related to the provision of services over a period of time and therefore recognised on a systematic basis 

over the life of the agreement as services are provided.  

The transaction prices and provision of services are defined within the product terms and conditions. 

Trail commission relating to investments under administration, general insurance and protection products 

sold on behalf of third parties may include variable consideration. Where this is the case the trail commission 

is recognised either on the accruals basis or, if the uncertainties are more significant, once the uncertainties 

are resolved.  

Fee and commission income is generally earned from short-term contracts with payment terms that do not 

include a significant financing component. 

other comprehensive income for the same asset, in which case the decrease in valuation is recognised in 
other comprehensive income.  

The Group holds a small number of investment properties comprising properties held for rental. These are 
stated at fair value, determined by market-based evidence at the date of the valuation. Valuations are 
completed annually, as at 4 April, by independent surveyors. Changes in fair value are included in the income 
statement. Depreciation is not charged on investment properties. 

Other property, plant and equipment, including specialised administration buildings, are included at historical 
cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment. Historical cost includes expenditure that is directly 
attributable to the acquisition of the items, major alterations and refurbishments.  

Where applicable, directly attributable borrowing costs incurred in the construction of qualifying assets are 
capitalised. 

Land is not depreciated. The depreciation of other assets commences when the assets are ready for their 
intended use and is calculated using the straight line method to allocate their cost or valuation over the 
following estimated useful lives: 

Branches and non-specialised buildings 
Specialised administration buildings 
Plant and machinery 
Equipment, fixtures, fittings and vehicles 

60 years 
up to 60 years 
5 to 15 years 
3 to 10 years 

Estimated useful lives and residual values are reviewed annually and adjusted, if appropriate, in the light of 
technological developments, usage and other relevant factors. 

Assets are reviewed for indicators of impairment at each reporting date and whenever events or changes in 
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. Where the carrying amount is not 
recoverable the asset is written down immediately to the estimated recoverable amount. 

Gains and losses on disposals are included in other operating income/(expense) in the income statement. 

Leases  

Operating leases are leases that do not transfer substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership 
to the lessee. Operating lease payments and receipts are charged or credited to the income statement on a 
straight line basis over the life of the lease.  

Taxation including deferred tax 

Current tax payable on profits, based on the applicable tax law in each jurisdiction, is recognised as an 
expense in the period in which profits arise.  

Deferred tax is provided in full, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax 
bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the financial statements. Deferred tax is 
determined using tax rates and laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the balance sheet 
date and are expected to apply when the related deferred tax asset is realised or the deferred tax liability is 
settled. 

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187  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued)

Deferred tax assets are recognised where it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against 
which the temporary differences can be utilised. Deferred tax is provided on temporary differences arising 
from investments in subsidiaries, except where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference is 
controlled by the Group and it is probable that the difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future. The tax 
effects of tax losses available for carry forward are recognised as a deferred tax asset when it is probable that 
future taxable profits will be available against which these losses can be utilised. 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset where there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax 
assets against current tax liabilities and where the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to income taxes 
levied by the same taxation authority on either the same taxable entity or different taxable entities where 
there is an intention to settle on a net basis.  

Tax related to the fair value remeasurement of financial assets measured at FVOCI, which is charged or 
credited to other comprehensive income and accumulated in the FVOCI reserve, is also credited or charged to 
other comprehensive income and is subsequently reclassified from other comprehensive income to the 
income statement together with the associated deferred loss or gain. 

Tax related to movements in the fair value of derivatives that are subject to cash flow hedge accounting, which 
are charged or credited to other comprehensive income and accumulated in the cash flow hedge reserve, is 
also credited or charged to other comprehensive income and is subsequently reclassified from other 
comprehensive income to the income statement together with the associated deferred loss or gain from cash 
flow hedge accounting. 

Tax related to movements in the valuation of property, which are charged or credited to other comprehensive 
income and accumulated in the revaluation reserve, is also credited or charged to other comprehensive 
income and accumulated in the revaluation reserve. 

Tax related to remeasurements of retirement benefit obligations, which are charged or credited to other 
comprehensive income and accumulated in the general reserve, is also credited or charged to other 
comprehensive income.

Employee benefits 

(a)  Pensions 

The Group operates a number of defined benefit and defined contribution pension arrangements.  

Defined benefit pension arrangements 

Actuarial remeasurements arise from experience adjustments (the effects of differences between previous 
actuarial assumptions and what has actually occurred) and changes in forward looking actuarial assumptions. 
Actuarial remeasurements are recognised in full, in the year they occur, in other comprehensive income. 
Past service costs are recognised immediately in the income statement. 

Defined contribution pension arrangements 

A defined contribution arrangement is one into which the Group and the employee pay fixed contributions, 
without any further obligation to pay additional contributions. Payments to defined contribution schemes are 
charged to the income statement as they fall due. 

(b)  Other post retirement obligations 

The Group provides post retirement healthcare to a small number of former employees. The Group recognises 
this obligation and the actuarial remeasurement in a similar manner to the defined benefit pension plans. 

(c)  Other long term employee benefits 

The cost of bonuses payable 12 months or more after the end of the year in which they are earned is accrued 
over the period from the start of the performance year until all relevant criteria have been met. 

(d)  Short term employee benefits 

The cost of short term employee benefits, including wages and salaries, social security costs and healthcare 
for current employees, is recognised in the year of service. 

Provisions 

A provision is recognised where there is a present obligation as a result of a past event, it is probable that the 
obligation will be settled and it can be reliably estimated. This includes management’s best estimate of 
amounts payable for customer redress. 

The Group has an obligation to contribute to the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) to enable 
the FSCS to meet compensation claims from, in particular, retail depositors of failed banks. A provision is 
recognised, to the extent that it can be reliably estimated, when the Group has an obligation in accordance 
with IAS 37 ‘Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets’ and the levy is legally enforceable, in line 
with IFRIC 21 ‘Levies’. The amount provided is based on information received from the FSCS and the Group’s 
historic share of industry protected deposits. 

A defined benefit plan is one that defines the benefit an employee will receive on retirement, depending on 
such factors as age, length of service and salary. 

Financial assets 

The liability recognised on the balance sheet in respect of the defined benefit pension plans is the present 
value of the defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date less the fair value of plan assets. The defined 
benefit obligation is calculated by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit method and 
assumptions agreed with the Group. The present value of the defined benefit obligation is determined by 
discounting the estimated future cash flows derived from yields of high quality corporate bonds that have 
terms to maturity approximating to the terms of the related pension liability. 

Financial assets comprise cash, loans and advances to banks and similar institutions, investment securities, 
derivative financial instruments and loans and advances to customers. 

Recognition and derecognition 

All financial assets are recognised initially at fair value. Purchases and sales of financial assets are accounted 
for at trade date. Financial assets acquired through a business combination or portfolio acquisition are 
recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive 
cash flows have expired or where the assets have been transferred and substantially all the risks and rewards 
of ownership have been transferred.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
188  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued)

The fair value of a financial instrument on initial recognition is normally the transaction price (plus directly 
attributable transaction costs for financial assets which are not subsequently measured at fair value through 
profit or loss). On initial recognition, it is presumed that the transaction price is the fair value unless there is 
observable information available in an active market to the contrary. Any difference between the fair value at 
initial recognition and the transaction price is recognised immediately as a gain or loss in the income 
statement where the fair value is based on a quoted price in an active market or a valuation using only 
observable market data. In all other cases, any gain or loss is deferred and recognised over the life of the 
transaction, or until valuation inputs become observable. 

Modification of contractual terms 

An instrument that is renegotiated is derecognised if the existing agreement is cancelled and a new 
agreement is made on substantially different terms (such as renegotiations of commercial loans). Residential 
mortgages reaching the end of a fixed interest deal period are deemed repricing events, rather than a 
modification of contractual terms, as the change in interest rate at the end of the fixed rate period was 
envisaged in the original mortgage contract.  

Where an instrument is renegotiated and not derecognised (for example forbearance), the change is 
considered a modification of contractual terms. Where this arises, the gross carrying amount of the loan is 
recalculated as the present value of the renegotiated or modified contractual cash flows, discounted at the 
loan’s original effective interest rate. Any gain or loss on recalculation is recognised immediately in the income 
statement. 

Tax related to movements in the valuation of property, which are charged or credited to other comprehensive 

The cost of short term employee benefits, including wages and salaries, social security costs and healthcare 

Classification and measurement 

The classification and subsequent measurement of financial assets is based on an assessment of the Group’s 
business models for managing the assets and their contractual cash flow characteristics. Financial assets are 
classified into the following three categories: 

(a) Amortised cost 

Financial assets held to collect contractual cash flows and where contractual terms comprise solely payments 
of principal and interest (SPPI) are classified as amortised cost. This category of financial assets includes cash, 
loans and advances to banks and similar institutions, the majority of the Group’s residential and commercial 
mortgage loans, all unsecured lending, and certain investment securities within a ‘hold to collect’ business 
model.  

Financial assets within this category are recognised on either the receipt of cash or deposit of funds into one 
of the Group’s bank accounts (for cash and loans and advances to banks and similar institutions), when the 
funds are advanced to borrowers (for residential, commercial and unsecured lending) or on the trade date for 
purchases of investment securities. After initial recognition, the assets are measured at amortised cost using 
the effective interest rate method, less provisions for expected credit losses. 

(b) Fair value through other comprehensive income  

Debt instruments held in a business model whose objective is achieved by both collecting contractual cash 
flows and selling financial assets, and where contractual terms comprise solely payments of principal and 
interest, are classified and measured at FVOCI. This category of financial assets includes most of the Group’s 
investment securities which are held to manage liquidity requirements.  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued)

Deferred tax assets are recognised where it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against 

which the temporary differences can be utilised. Deferred tax is provided on temporary differences arising 

from investments in subsidiaries, except where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference is 

controlled by the Group and it is probable that the difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future. The tax 

effects of tax losses available for carry forward are recognised as a deferred tax asset when it is probable that 

future taxable profits will be available against which these losses can be utilised. 

Actuarial remeasurements arise from experience adjustments (the effects of differences between previous 

actuarial assumptions and what has actually occurred) and changes in forward looking actuarial assumptions. 

Actuarial remeasurements are recognised in full, in the year they occur, in other comprehensive income. 

Past service costs are recognised immediately in the income statement. 

Defined contribution pension arrangements 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset where there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax 

assets against current tax liabilities and where the deferred tax assets and liabilities relate to income taxes 

levied by the same taxation authority on either the same taxable entity or different taxable entities where 

A defined contribution arrangement is one into which the Group and the employee pay fixed contributions, 

without any further obligation to pay additional contributions. Payments to defined contribution schemes are 

charged to the income statement as they fall due. 

there is an intention to settle on a net basis.  

Tax related to the fair value remeasurement of financial assets measured at FVOCI, which is charged or 

credited to other comprehensive income and accumulated in the FVOCI reserve, is also credited or charged to 

The Group provides post retirement healthcare to a small number of former employees. The Group recognises 

other comprehensive income and is subsequently reclassified from other comprehensive income to the 

this obligation and the actuarial remeasurement in a similar manner to the defined benefit pension plans. 

income statement together with the associated deferred loss or gain. 

Tax related to movements in the fair value of derivatives that are subject to cash flow hedge accounting, which 

are charged or credited to other comprehensive income and accumulated in the cash flow hedge reserve, is 

also credited or charged to other comprehensive income and is subsequently reclassified from other 

comprehensive income to the income statement together with the associated deferred loss or gain from cash 

flow hedge accounting. 

The cost of bonuses payable 12 months or more after the end of the year in which they are earned is accrued 

over the period from the start of the performance year until all relevant criteria have been met. 

(b)  Other post retirement obligations 

(c)  Other long term employee benefits 

(d)  Short term employee benefits 

Provisions 

income and accumulated in the revaluation reserve, is also credited or charged to other comprehensive 

for current employees, is recognised in the year of service. 

income and accumulated in the revaluation reserve. 

Tax related to remeasurements of retirement benefit obligations, which are charged or credited to other 

comprehensive income and accumulated in the general reserve, is also credited or charged to other 

comprehensive income.

Employee benefits 

(a)  Pensions 

The Group operates a number of defined benefit and defined contribution pension arrangements.  

Defined benefit pension arrangements 

A defined benefit plan is one that defines the benefit an employee will receive on retirement, depending on 

Financial assets 

such factors as age, length of service and salary. 

The liability recognised on the balance sheet in respect of the defined benefit pension plans is the present 

value of the defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date less the fair value of plan assets. The defined 

benefit obligation is calculated by independent actuaries using the projected unit credit method and 

assumptions agreed with the Group. The present value of the defined benefit obligation is determined by 

discounting the estimated future cash flows derived from yields of high quality corporate bonds that have 

terms to maturity approximating to the terms of the related pension liability. 

A provision is recognised where there is a present obligation as a result of a past event, it is probable that the 

obligation will be settled and it can be reliably estimated. This includes management’s best estimate of 

amounts payable for customer redress. 

The Group has an obligation to contribute to the Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) to enable 

the FSCS to meet compensation claims from, in particular, retail depositors of failed banks. A provision is 

recognised, to the extent that it can be reliably estimated, when the Group has an obligation in accordance 

with IAS 37 ‘Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets’ and the levy is legally enforceable, in line 

with IFRIC 21 ‘Levies’. The amount provided is based on information received from the FSCS and the Group’s 

historic share of industry protected deposits. 

Financial assets comprise cash, loans and advances to banks and similar institutions, investment securities, 

derivative financial instruments and loans and advances to customers. 

Recognition and derecognition 

All financial assets are recognised initially at fair value. Purchases and sales of financial assets are accounted 

for at trade date. Financial assets acquired through a business combination or portfolio acquisition are 

recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive 

cash flows have expired or where the assets have been transferred and substantially all the risks and rewards 

of ownership have been transferred.

Financial assets within this category are recognised on trade date. The assets are measured at fair value using, 
in the majority of cases, market prices or, where there is no active market, prices obtained from market 
participants. In sourcing valuations, the Group makes use of a consensus pricing service, in line with standard 
industry practice. In cases where market prices or prices from market participants are not available, 
discounted cash flow models are used 

Interest on FVOCI assets is recognised in interest receivable and similar income in the income statement, 
using the effective interest rate method. 

Unrealised gains and losses arising from changes in value are recognised in other comprehensive income. 
Provisions for expected credit losses and foreign exchange gains or losses are recognised in the income 
statement.  

Cumulative gains or losses arising on sale are recognised in the income statement, net of any credit or foreign 
exchange gains or losses already recognised. 

(c) Fair value through profit or loss  

All other financial assets are measured at FVTPL. Financial assets within this category include derivative 
instruments and a small number of residential and commercial loans and investment securities with 
contractual cash flow characteristics which do not meet the SPPI criteria. The contractual terms for these cash 
flows include contingent or leverage features, or returns based on movements in underlying collateral values 
such as house prices.  

Fair values are based on observable market data, valuations obtained by third parties or, where these are not 
available, internal models. Gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of these instruments and on 
disposal are recognised in the income statement within other operating income/(expense).  

Hedge accounting is not applied to assets classified as FVTPL; however, hedging may be applied for economic 
purposes. Gains or losses arising from changes in the fair value of derivatives economically hedging FVTPL 
financial assets is also included within other operating income/(expense). 

Impairment of financial assets 

Financial assets within the scope of IFRS 9 expected credit loss (ECL) requirements comprise all financial debt 
instruments measured at either amortised cost or FVOCI. These include cash, loans and advances to banks 
and similar institutions, and the majority of investment securities and loans and advances to customers. Also 
within scope are irrevocable undrawn commitments to lend and intra-group lending (the latter being 
eliminated on consolidation in the Group accounts).  

The ECL represents the present value of expected cash shortfalls following the default of a financial instrument 
or undrawn commitment. A cash shortfall is the difference between the cash flows that are due in accordance 
with the contractual terms of the instrument and the cash flows that the Group expects to receive.  

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189  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued)

The allowance for ECLs is based on an assessment of the probability of default, exposure at default and loss 
given default, discounted at the effective interest rate to give a net present value. The estimation of ECLs is 
unbiased and probability weighted, taking into account all reasonable and supportable information, including 
forward looking economic assumptions and a range of possible outcomes. ECLs are typically calculated from 
initial recognition of the financial asset for the maximum contractual period that the Group is exposed to the 
credit risk. However, for revolving credit loans such as credit cards and overdrafts, the Group’s credit risk is 
not limited to their contractual period and therefore the expected life of the loan and associated undrawn 
commitment is calculated based on the behavioural life of the loan.  

For financial assets recognised in the balance sheet at amortised cost, the allowance for ECLs is offset against 
the gross carrying value so that the amount presented in the balance sheet is net of impairment provisions. 
For financial assets classified as FVOCI, any credit losses recognised are offset against cumulative fair value 
movements within the other comprehensive income reserve. For separately identifiable irrevocable loan 
commitments, where the related financial asset has not yet been advanced, the provision is presented in 
provisions for liabilities and charges in the balance sheet. 

Forward looking economic inputs 

ECLs are calculated by reference to information on past events, current conditions and forecasts of future 
economic conditions. Multiple economic scenarios are incorporated into ECL calculation models. These 
scenarios are based on external sources where available and appropriate, and internally generated 
assumptions in all other cases. To capture any non-linear relationship between economic assumptions and 
credit losses, a minimum of three scenarios is used. This includes a central scenario which reflects the Group’s 
view of the most likely future economic conditions, together with an upside and a downside scenario 
representing alternative plausible views of economic conditions, weighted based on management’s view of 
their probability. 

Credit risk categorisation 

Qualitative factors that may indicate a significant change in credit risk include concession events where full 
repayment of principal and interest is envisaged, on a discounted basis. 

Further information about the identification of significant increases in credit risk is provided in note 10. 

Stage 3: credit impaired (or defaulted) loans  

Financial assets are transferred into stage 3 when there is objective evidence that an instrument is credit 
impaired. Provisions for stage 3 assets are made on the basis of credit default events expected to occur over 
the lifetime of the instrument. Assets are considered credit impaired when: 

•
•

•

contractual payments of either principal or interest are past due by more than 90 days;  
there are other indications that the borrower is unlikely to pay such as signs of financial difficulty, 
probable bankruptcy, breaches of contract and concession events which have a detrimental impact on the 
present value of future cashflows; or  
the loan is otherwise considered to be in default. 

Interest income on stage 3 credit impaired loans is recognised in the income statement on the loan balance 
net of the ECL provision. The balance sheet value of stage 3 loans reflects the contractual terms of the assets, 
and continues to increase over time with the contractually accrued interest. 

Purchased or originated credit impaired loans  

Where loans are credit impaired on origination, or when purchased from third parties, the carrying amount at 
initial recognition is net of the lifetime ECL at that date. Thereafter, any subsequent change (favourable or 
unfavourable) in the lifetime ECL is recognised in the income statement. POCI loans are separately disclosed 
as credit impaired loans and cannot be transferred out of the POCI designation, even if there is a significant 
improvement in credit quality.  

For the purpose of calculating ECLs, assets are categorised into three 'stages' as follows: 

Transfers between stages 

Stage 1: no significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition  

On initial recognition, and for financial assets where there has not been a significant increase in credit risk 
since the date of advance, provision is made for losses from credit default events expected to occur within the 
next 12 months. Expected credit losses for these stage 1 assets continue to be recognised on this basis unless 
there is a significant increase in the credit risk of the asset. 

Stage 2: significant increase in credit risk  

Financial assets are categorised as being within stage 2 where an instrument has experienced a significant 
increase in credit risk since initial recognition. For these assets, provision is made for losses from credit default 
events expected to occur over the lifetime of the instrument. 

Whether a significant increase in credit risk has occurred is ascertained by comparing the probability of 
default at the reporting date to the probability of default at origination, based on quantitative and qualitative 
factors. Quantitative considerations take into account changes in the residual lifetime probability of default 
(PD) of the asset. As a backstop, all assets with an arrears status of more than 30 days past due on contractual 
payments are considered to be in stage 2. 

Transfers from stage 1 to 2 occur when there has been a significant increase in credit risk and from stage 2 to 
3 when credit impairment is indicated as described above.  

For assets in stage 2 or 3, loans can transfer back to stage 1 or 2 once the criteria for a significant increase in 
credit risk or impairment are no longer met. For loans subject to concession events such as forbearance, 
accounts are transferred back to stage 1 or 2 only after being up to date for a period of 12 months. 

Write-off  

Loans remain on the balance sheet, net of associated provisions, until they are deemed to have no reasonable 
expectation of recovery. Loans are generally written off after realisation of any proceeds from collateral and 
upon conclusion of the collections process, including consideration of whether an account has reached a point 
where continuing attempts to recover are no longer likely to be successful. Where a loan is not recoverable, it 
is written off against the related provision for loan impairment once all the necessary procedures have been 
completed and the amount of the loss has been determined. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously 
written off decrease the value of impairment losses recorded in the income statement. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
For financial assets recognised in the balance sheet at amortised cost, the allowance for ECLs is offset against 

the lifetime of the instrument. Assets are considered credit impaired when: 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued)

The allowance for ECLs is based on an assessment of the probability of default, exposure at default and loss 

given default, discounted at the effective interest rate to give a net present value. The estimation of ECLs is 

unbiased and probability weighted, taking into account all reasonable and supportable information, including 

forward looking economic assumptions and a range of possible outcomes. ECLs are typically calculated from 

initial recognition of the financial asset for the maximum contractual period that the Group is exposed to the 

credit risk. However, for revolving credit loans such as credit cards and overdrafts, the Group’s credit risk is 

not limited to their contractual period and therefore the expected life of the loan and associated undrawn 

commitment is calculated based on the behavioural life of the loan.  

the gross carrying value so that the amount presented in the balance sheet is net of impairment provisions. 

For financial assets classified as FVOCI, any credit losses recognised are offset against cumulative fair value 

movements within the other comprehensive income reserve. For separately identifiable irrevocable loan 

commitments, where the related financial asset has not yet been advanced, the provision is presented in 

provisions for liabilities and charges in the balance sheet. 

Forward looking economic inputs 

ECLs are calculated by reference to information on past events, current conditions and forecasts of future 

economic conditions. Multiple economic scenarios are incorporated into ECL calculation models. These 

scenarios are based on external sources where available and appropriate, and internally generated 

assumptions in all other cases. To capture any non-linear relationship between economic assumptions and 

credit losses, a minimum of three scenarios is used. This includes a central scenario which reflects the Group’s 

view of the most likely future economic conditions, together with an upside and a downside scenario 

representing alternative plausible views of economic conditions, weighted based on management’s view of 

their probability. 

Credit risk categorisation 

For the purpose of calculating ECLs, assets are categorised into three 'stages' as follows: 

Stage 1: no significant increase in credit risk since initial recognition  

On initial recognition, and for financial assets where there has not been a significant increase in credit risk 

since the date of advance, provision is made for losses from credit default events expected to occur within the 

next 12 months. Expected credit losses for these stage 1 assets continue to be recognised on this basis unless 

there is a significant increase in the credit risk of the asset. 

Stage 2: significant increase in credit risk  

Financial assets are categorised as being within stage 2 where an instrument has experienced a significant 

increase in credit risk since initial recognition. For these assets, provision is made for losses from credit default 

events expected to occur over the lifetime of the instrument. 

Whether a significant increase in credit risk has occurred is ascertained by comparing the probability of 

default at the reporting date to the probability of default at origination, based on quantitative and qualitative 

factors. Quantitative considerations take into account changes in the residual lifetime probability of default 

(PD) of the asset. As a backstop, all assets with an arrears status of more than 30 days past due on contractual 

payments are considered to be in stage 2. 

repayment of principal and interest is envisaged, on a discounted basis. 

Further information about the identification of significant increases in credit risk is provided in note 10. 

Stage 3: credit impaired (or defaulted) loans  

Financial assets are transferred into stage 3 when there is objective evidence that an instrument is credit 

impaired. Provisions for stage 3 assets are made on the basis of credit default events expected to occur over 

•

•

•

contractual payments of either principal or interest are past due by more than 90 days;  

there are other indications that the borrower is unlikely to pay such as signs of financial difficulty, 

probable bankruptcy, breaches of contract and concession events which have a detrimental impact on the 

present value of future cashflows; or  

the loan is otherwise considered to be in default. 

Interest income on stage 3 credit impaired loans is recognised in the income statement on the loan balance 

net of the ECL provision. The balance sheet value of stage 3 loans reflects the contractual terms of the assets, 

and continues to increase over time with the contractually accrued interest. 

Purchased or originated credit impaired loans  

Where loans are credit impaired on origination, or when purchased from third parties, the carrying amount at 

initial recognition is net of the lifetime ECL at that date. Thereafter, any subsequent change (favourable or 

unfavourable) in the lifetime ECL is recognised in the income statement. POCI loans are separately disclosed 

as credit impaired loans and cannot be transferred out of the POCI designation, even if there is a significant 

improvement in credit quality.  

Transfers between stages 

For assets in stage 2 or 3, loans can transfer back to stage 1 or 2 once the criteria for a significant increase in 

credit risk or impairment are no longer met. For loans subject to concession events such as forbearance, 

accounts are transferred back to stage 1 or 2 only after being up to date for a period of 12 months. 

Write-off  

Loans remain on the balance sheet, net of associated provisions, until they are deemed to have no reasonable 

expectation of recovery. Loans are generally written off after realisation of any proceeds from collateral and 

upon conclusion of the collections process, including consideration of whether an account has reached a point 

where continuing attempts to recover are no longer likely to be successful. Where a loan is not recoverable, it 

is written off against the related provision for loan impairment once all the necessary procedures have been 

completed and the amount of the loss has been determined. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously 

written off decrease the value of impairment losses recorded in the income statement. 

Qualitative factors that may indicate a significant change in credit risk include concession events where full 

Financial liabilities 

Level 3 – Valuation technique using significant unobservable inputs 

190  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued)

Borrowings, including shares, deposits, debt securities in issue, subordinated liabilities and permanent 
interest bearing shares (subscribed capital) are recognised initially at fair value, being the issue proceeds net 
of premiums, discounts and transaction costs incurred. 

All borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method. 
Amortised cost is adjusted for the amortisation of any premiums, discounts and transaction costs. The 
amortisation is recognised in interest expense and similar charges using the effective interest rate method. 

The Group previously included within other deposits amounts relating to the sale of protected equity bonds 
(PEBs) on behalf of Legal & General. These deposits were designated at fair value upon initial recognition, with 
changes in fair value recognised in gains/(losses) from derivatives and hedge accounting, along with fair value 
movements in the associated equity-linked derivatives which were used to economically hedge the 
instruments. These deposits matured during the year ended 4 April 2018. 

Derivative financial liabilities are measured at FVTPL. Borrowings that are designated as hedged items are 
subject to measurement under the hedge accounting requirements described in the derivatives and hedge 
accounting policy below. 

Financial liabilities are derecognised when the obligation is discharged, cancelled or has expired. The financial 
liabilities of dormant shares and deposit accounts are extinguished when balances have been transferred to 
the Government-backed unclaimed asset scheme under the terms of the Dormant Accounts and Building 
Society Accounts Act 2008 with no impact on the income statement. 

Fair value of assets and liabilities 

IFRS 13 ‘Fair Value Measurement’ requires an entity to classify assets and liabilities held at fair value, and 
those not measured at fair value but for which the fair value is disclosed, according to a hierarchy that reflects 
the significance of observable market inputs in calculating those fair values. The three levels of the fair value 
hierarchy are defined below: 

Transfers from stage 1 to 2 occur when there has been a significant increase in credit risk and from stage 2 to 

3 when credit impairment is indicated as described above.  

Level 1 – Valuation using quoted market prices 

Assets and liabilities are classified as Level 1 if their value is observable in an active market. Such instruments 
are valued by reference to unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets or liabilities in active markets where 
the quoted price is readily available, and the price reflects actual and regularly occurring market transactions 
on an arm’s length basis. An active market is one in which transactions occur with sufficient volume and 
frequency to provide pricing information on an ongoing basis. 

Level 2 – Valuation technique using observable inputs 

Assets and liabilities classified as Level 2 have been valued using models whose inputs are observable in an 
active market. Valuations based on observable inputs include derivative financial instruments such as swaps 
and forward rate agreements which are valued using market standard pricing techniques, and options that 
are commonly traded in markets where all the inputs to the market standard pricing models are observable. 
They also include investment securities valued using consensus pricing or other observable market prices. 

Assets and liabilities are classified as Level 3 if their valuation incorporates significant inputs that are not 
based on observable market data (‘unobservable inputs’). A valuation input is considered observable if it can 
be directly observed from transactions in an active market, or if there is compelling external evidence 
demonstrating an executable exit price. An input is deemed significant if it is shown to contribute more than 
10% to the valuation of a financial instrument. Unobservable input levels are generally determined based on 
observable inputs of a similar nature, historical observations or other analytical techniques. 

Derivatives and hedge accounting 

Derivatives are entered into to reduce exposures to fluctuations in interest rates, exchange rates, market 
indices and credit risk, and are not used for speculative purposes. 

(a)  Derivative financial instruments 

Derivatives are carried at fair value with movements in fair values recorded in the income statement. 
Derivative financial instruments are principally valued by discounted cash flow models using yield curves that 
are based on observable market data or are based on valuations obtained from third parties. For collateralised 
positions the Group uses discount curves based on overnight indexed swap rates such as Sonia, and for non-
collateralised positions the Group uses discount curves based on term Libor rates. 

In the first instance fair values are calculated using mid prices. An adjustment is then made to derivative 
assets and liabilities to value them on a bid and offer basis respectively. The bid-offer adjustment is calculated 
on a portfolio basis and reflects the costs that would be incurred if substantially all residual net portfolio 
market risks were closed out using available hedging instruments or by disposing of or unwinding actual 
positions. The methodology for determining the bid-offer adjustments involves netting between long and short 
positions and the grouping of risk by type, in accordance with hedging strategy. Bid-offer spreads are derived 
from market sources such as broker data and are reviewed periodically. In measuring fair value, separate 
credit valuation and debit valuation adjustments are made for counterparty or own credit risk to the extent not 
already included in the valuation. 

All derivatives are classified as assets where their fair value is positive and liabilities where their fair value is 
negative. Where there is the legal right and intention to settle net, then the derivative is classified as a net 
asset or liability, as appropriate. 

Where cash collateral is received, to mitigate the risk inherent in amounts due to the Group, it is included as a 
liability within deposits from banks and similar institutions. Similarly, where cash collateral is given, to 
mitigate the risk inherent in amounts due from the Group, it is included as an asset in loans and advances to 
banks and similar institutions. Where securities collateral is received the securities are not recognised in the 
accounts as the Group does not obtain the risks and rewards of the securities. Where securities collateral is 
given, the securities have not been derecognised as the Group has retained substantially all the risks and 
rewards of ownership. 

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191  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued)

(b)  Embedded derivatives 

The Group discontinues hedge accounting when: 

Some complex contracts may be hybrid in nature, in that a derivative element is included within a non-
derivative host contract, in which case the derivative is termed an embedded derivative. If the host contract is 
an asset, it falls under the scope of IFRS9 and the entire contract has its accounting classification assessed 
under IFRS9. If the host contract is a liability it does not fall under the scope of IFRS9 and the embedded 
derivative is then separated and treated as a standalone derivative instrument if: 

•
•
•

its economic characteristics are not closely related to the host, 
a separate instrument with the same terms would meet the definition of a derivative, and 
the hybrid contract is not already being fair valued through the income statement. 

(c)  Hedge accounting 

The Group applies IAS 39 for all of its hedge accounting requirements. When transactions meet the criteria 
specified in IAS 39, the Group can apply two types of hedge accounting: either hedges of the changes in fair 
value of the financial asset or liability (fair value hedge accounting) or hedges of the variability in cash flows of 
the financial asset or liability (cash flow hedge accounting). The Group does not have hedges of net 
investments. The financial statement note for derivative financial instruments sets out the split of the 
derivative portfolio between fair value, cash flow and no hedge accounting at the balance sheet date. 

At inception each hedge relationship is formally documented, including a description of the hedged item (a 
financial asset or liability which is being economically hedged) and the hedging instrument (a derivative), as 
well as the methods which will be used to assess the effectiveness of the hedge. Hedges are required to be 
highly effective (i.e. the fair value offset between hedged item and hedging instrument is in the 80-125% 
range) on both a retrospective and a prospective basis.  

Fair value and cash flow hedges may have residual hedge ineffectiveness. This is the degree to which the 
change in fair value of the hedging instrument does not offset the change in fair value of the hedged item. This 
ineffectiveness is recognised in the income statement and typically arises from: 

i)

ii)
iii)

iv)

differences in the magnitude or timing of future expected cashflows in the hedged item and hedging 
instrument;  
differences in the market curves used to value the hedged item and hedging instrument; 
unexpected adjustments to either the hedged item or hedging instrument, due to early repayments or 
disposals; 
the ongoing amortisation of any existing balance sheet mismatch between the fair value of the hedged 
item and hedging instrument. 

i)
ii)
iii)

it is evident from testing that a hedging instrument is not, or has ceased to be, highly effective as a hedge; 
the hedging instrument expires, or is sold, terminated or exercised; 
the hedged item matures or is sold or repaid or, in the case of a forecasted item, is no longer deemed to 
be highly probable to occur.  

The Group may also decide to cease hedge accounting even though the hedge relationship continues to be 
highly effective by ceasing to designate the financial instrument as a hedge. 

Fair value hedge accounting 

Fair value hedge accounting results in the carrying value of the hedged item being adjusted to reflect changes 
in fair value attributable to the risk being hedged. This creates an offset to the fair value movements of the 
hedging instrument. Changes in the fair value of the hedged items and hedging instruments are recorded in 
the income statement. 

For larger and distinctively identifiable assets and liabilities, such as investment securities and debt securities 
in issue, a single or small number of hedging instruments may be used. This is referred to as a micro fair value 
hedge. If the hedge is highly effective, the Group adjusts the carrying value of that specific asset or liability to 
reflect changes in its fair value due to movements in the designated benchmark rate, such as Libor or Sonia. 
This creates an offset to the fair value movement of the hedging instruments.  

For hedged items which are classified as FVOCI, such as investment securities, there is no further need to 
adjust their carrying value as they are already held at fair value. Instead, hedge accounting results in an 
amount being removed from the FVOCI reserve and instead reported in the income statement, to create an 
offset to the change in fair value of the hedging instrument.  

For balances within homogeneous portfolios, such as mortgages, savings and commercial loans, derivatives 
may be used to hedge risks on a portfolio basis. The Group creates separate portfolio (macro) hedges for 
assets and liabilities. The Group determines the hedged item by identifying portfolios of similar assets or 
liabilities and scheduling the expected future cash flows from these items into repricing time buckets, based 
on expected rather than actual repricing dates. A portion of the total cashflow from each time bucket is then 
included in the hedged item. The size of this portion is set so that it is expected to create a highly effective fair 
value offset to the equivalent future cashflows from the hedging instruments. If the hedge is highly effective 
the Group records an adjustment in the fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk category on the balance 
sheet. Macro hedges are frequently rebalanced to include new business.  

In fair value hedge accounting relationships, if the hedging instrument no longer meets the criteria for hedge 
accounting, the cumulative fair value hedge adjustment is amortised over the period to maturity of the 
previously designated hedge relationship. If the hedged item is sold or repaid, the unamortised fair value 
adjustment is immediately recognised in the income statement.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued)

192  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

1. Statement of accounting policies (continued)

(b)  Embedded derivatives 

The Group discontinues hedge accounting when: 

Cash flow hedge accounting 

Equity instruments 

Some complex contracts may be hybrid in nature, in that a derivative element is included within a non-

derivative host contract, in which case the derivative is termed an embedded derivative. If the host contract is 

an asset, it falls under the scope of IFRS9 and the entire contract has its accounting classification assessed 

under IFRS9. If the host contract is a liability it does not fall under the scope of IFRS9 and the embedded 

derivative is then separated and treated as a standalone derivative instrument if: 

i)

ii)

iii)

it is evident from testing that a hedging instrument is not, or has ceased to be, highly effective as a hedge; 

the hedging instrument expires, or is sold, terminated or exercised; 

the hedged item matures or is sold or repaid or, in the case of a forecasted item, is no longer deemed to 

be highly probable to occur.  

The Group may also decide to cease hedge accounting even though the hedge relationship continues to be 

highly effective by ceasing to designate the financial instrument as a hedge. 

•

•

•

its economic characteristics are not closely related to the host, 

a separate instrument with the same terms would meet the definition of a derivative, and 

the hybrid contract is not already being fair valued through the income statement. 

Fair value hedge accounting 

(c)  Hedge accounting 

The Group applies IAS 39 for all of its hedge accounting requirements. When transactions meet the criteria 

specified in IAS 39, the Group can apply two types of hedge accounting: either hedges of the changes in fair 

value of the financial asset or liability (fair value hedge accounting) or hedges of the variability in cash flows of 

the financial asset or liability (cash flow hedge accounting). The Group does not have hedges of net 

investments. The financial statement note for derivative financial instruments sets out the split of the 

derivative portfolio between fair value, cash flow and no hedge accounting at the balance sheet date. 

At inception each hedge relationship is formally documented, including a description of the hedged item (a 

financial asset or liability which is being economically hedged) and the hedging instrument (a derivative), as 

well as the methods which will be used to assess the effectiveness of the hedge. Hedges are required to be 

highly effective (i.e. the fair value offset between hedged item and hedging instrument is in the 80-125% 

range) on both a retrospective and a prospective basis.  

Fair value and cash flow hedges may have residual hedge ineffectiveness. This is the degree to which the 

change in fair value of the hedging instrument does not offset the change in fair value of the hedged item. This 

ineffectiveness is recognised in the income statement and typically arises from: 

i)

ii)

iii)

iv)

instrument;  

disposals; 

differences in the magnitude or timing of future expected cashflows in the hedged item and hedging 

differences in the market curves used to value the hedged item and hedging instrument; 

unexpected adjustments to either the hedged item or hedging instrument, due to early repayments or 

the ongoing amortisation of any existing balance sheet mismatch between the fair value of the hedged 

item and hedging instrument. 

Fair value hedge accounting results in the carrying value of the hedged item being adjusted to reflect changes 

in fair value attributable to the risk being hedged. This creates an offset to the fair value movements of the 

hedging instrument. Changes in the fair value of the hedged items and hedging instruments are recorded in 

the income statement. 

For larger and distinctively identifiable assets and liabilities, such as investment securities and debt securities 

in issue, a single or small number of hedging instruments may be used. This is referred to as a micro fair value 

hedge. If the hedge is highly effective, the Group adjusts the carrying value of that specific asset or liability to 

reflect changes in its fair value due to movements in the designated benchmark rate, such as Libor or Sonia. 

This creates an offset to the fair value movement of the hedging instruments.  

For hedged items which are classified as FVOCI, such as investment securities, there is no further need to 

adjust their carrying value as they are already held at fair value. Instead, hedge accounting results in an 

amount being removed from the FVOCI reserve and instead reported in the income statement, to create an 

offset to the change in fair value of the hedging instrument.  

For balances within homogeneous portfolios, such as mortgages, savings and commercial loans, derivatives 

may be used to hedge risks on a portfolio basis. The Group creates separate portfolio (macro) hedges for 

assets and liabilities. The Group determines the hedged item by identifying portfolios of similar assets or 

liabilities and scheduling the expected future cash flows from these items into repricing time buckets, based 

on expected rather than actual repricing dates. A portion of the total cashflow from each time bucket is then 

included in the hedged item. The size of this portion is set so that it is expected to create a highly effective fair 

value offset to the equivalent future cashflows from the hedging instruments. If the hedge is highly effective 

the Group records an adjustment in the fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk category on the balance 

sheet. Macro hedges are frequently rebalanced to include new business.  

In fair value hedge accounting relationships, if the hedging instrument no longer meets the criteria for hedge 

accounting, the cumulative fair value hedge adjustment is amortised over the period to maturity of the 

previously designated hedge relationship. If the hedged item is sold or repaid, the unamortised fair value 

adjustment is immediately recognised in the income statement.

In a cash flow hedge accounting relationship, the portion of the hedging instrument’s fair value movement 
that is deemed to be an effective hedge is deferred to the cash flow hedge reserve, instead of being 
immediately recognised in the income statement. The ineffective portion of the derivative fair value movement 
is recognised immediately in the income statement.  

Issued financial instruments are classified as equity instruments where the contractual arrangement with the 
holder does not result in the Group having a present obligation to deliver cash, another financial asset or a 
variable number of equity instruments. Where the Group does have a present obligation, the instrument is 
classified as a financial liability.  

Amounts deferred to the cash flow hedge reserve are subsequently recycled to the income statement. This 
recycling occurs when the underlying asset or liability being hedged impacts the income statement, for 
example when interest payments are recognised. In cash flow hedge accounting relationships, if the derivative 
no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, the cumulative gain or loss from the effective portion of the 
movement in the fair value of the derivative remains in other comprehensive income until the cash flows from 
the underlying hedged item are recognised in the income statement. If the hedged item is sold or repaid, the 
cumulative gain or loss in other comprehensive income is immediately recognised in the income statement. 

Offsetting financial instruments 

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount reported on the balance sheet if, and only if, there 
is a currently enforceable legal right to set off the recognised amounts and there is an intention to settle on a 
net basis, or to realise an asset and settle the liability simultaneously. 

Sale and repurchase agreements (including securities borrowing and lending) and collateralised total 
return swaps 

Investment and other securities may be lent or sold subject to a commitment to repurchase them at a pre-
determined price (a repo) or a right to continue to receive all future cash flows and changes in capital value on 
collateral pledged (a total return swap). Such securities are retained on the balance sheet when substantially 
all the risks and rewards of ownership (typically, the interest rate risk and credit risk on the asset) remain 
within the Group, and the counterparty liability is included separately on the balance sheet within deposits 
from banks and similar institutions as appropriate. 

Similarly, where the Group borrows or purchases securities subject to a commitment to resell them (a reverse 
repo) or settle all future cash flows and changes in capital value to a third party on collateral held (a reverse 
total return swap) but does not acquire the risks and rewards of ownership, the transactions are treated as 
collateralised loans within loans and advances to banks and similar institutions, and the securities are not 
included on the balance sheet. 

The difference between sale and repurchase price is accrued over the life of the agreements using the 
effective interest rate method. 

The proceeds of the issuance of equity instruments are included in equity. Costs incurred that are incremental 
and directly attributable to the issuance are deducted from the proceeds (net of applicable tax). 

Distributions to holders of equity instruments are recognised when they become irrevocable and are 
deducted, net of tax where applicable, from the general reserve.  

Foreign currency translation 

The consolidated financial statements are presented in sterling, which is the functional currency of the Society. 
Items included in the financial statements of each of the Group’s entities are measured using sterling which is 
also the functional currency of each entity. Foreign currency transactions are translated into sterling using the 
exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions.  

Monetary items denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rate prevailing at the balance sheet 
date. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the retranslation and settlement of these items are 
recognised in the income statement as disclosed in note 7. 

Cash flow hedge accounting is applied to derivatives which are used to economically hedge foreign currency 
items. 

Cash and cash equivalents 

For the purposes of the cash flow statement, cash and cash equivalents comprise balances with less than 
three months maturity from the date of acquisition, included within cash and loans and advances to banks 
and similar institutions on the balance sheet. 

Contingent liabilities  

Contingent liabilities are possible obligations whose existence is dependent on the outcome of uncertain 
future events, or those where the outflow of resources is uncertain or cannot be measured reliably.  

During the ordinary course of business the Group is subject to threatened or actual legal proceedings. All such 
material cases are periodically reassessed, with the assistance of external professional advisers where 
appropriate, to determine the likelihood of incurring a liability. The Group does not disclose amounts in 
relation to contingent liabilities associated with such claims where the likelihood of any payment is remote or 
where such disclosure could be seriously prejudicial to the conduct of the claims. 

IFRS disclosures 

The audited sections in the Business and Risk Report and the Report of the directors on remuneration form an 
integral part of these financial statements. These disclosures (where marked as ‘audited’) are covered by the 
Independent auditors’ report for this Annual Report and Accounts.

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193  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

2. Judgements in applying accounting policies and critical accounting estimates 

The preparation of the Group’s financial statements in accordance with IFRS involves management making judgements and estimates when applying those accounting policies that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, 
income and expense. Actual results may differ from those on which management’s estimates are based. Estimates and assumptions are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including 
expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable. 

The most significant sources of estimation uncertainty made by management in applying the Group’s accounting policies, which are deemed critical to the Group’s results and financial position, are disclosed in the following notes. 
These accounting estimates include areas of significant judgement. 

Area with significant judgements or estimates 
Impairment losses and provisions on loans and advances to customers 
Provisions for customer redress 
Retirement benefit obligations (pensions) 

Note 
10 
27 
30 

3. Interest receivable and similar income 

On financial assets measured at amortised cost: 

Residential mortgages 
Connected undertakings 
Other loans 
Other liquid assets 
Investment securities 

On investment securities measured at FVOCI (2018: available for sale) 
On financial instruments hedging assets in a qualifying hedge accounting relationship 
Total interest receivable and similar income calculated using the effective interest 
rate method 
Other interest and similar income/(expense) (note ii) 
Total 

Group 

Society 

2019 

£m 

4,469 
-  
656 
137 
27 
167 
(315) 

5,141 

(23) 
5,118 

2018 
(note i) 
£m 

4,532 
- 
677 
67 
14 
115 
(543) 

4,862 

(51) 
4,811 

2019 

£m 

3,377 
783 
644 
137 
27 
166 
(307) 

4,827 

(31) 
4,796 

2018 
(note i) 
£m 

3,409 
756 
664 
67 
14 
114 
(523) 

4,501 

(72) 
4,429 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

Comparative balances have been restated to present separately interest receivable and similar income calculated using the effective interest rate method as detailed in note 1. 
Includes interest on financial instruments hedging assets that are not in a qualifying hedge accounting relationship. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

2. Judgements in applying accounting policies and critical accounting estimates 

The preparation of the Group’s financial statements in accordance with IFRS involves management making judgements and estimates when applying those accounting policies that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, 

income and expense. Actual results may differ from those on which management’s estimates are based. Estimates and assumptions are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including 

expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable. 

The most significant sources of estimation uncertainty made by management in applying the Group’s accounting policies, which are deemed critical to the Group’s results and financial position, are disclosed in the following notes. 

These accounting estimates include areas of significant judgement. 

Area with significant judgements or estimates 

Impairment losses and provisions on loans and advances to customers 

Provisions for customer redress 

Retirement benefit obligations (pensions) 

Note 

10 

27 

30 

3. Interest receivable and similar income 

On financial assets measured at amortised cost: 

Residential mortgages 

Connected undertakings 

Other loans 

Other liquid assets 

Investment securities 

On investment securities measured at FVOCI (2018: available for sale) 

On financial instruments hedging assets in a qualifying hedge accounting relationship 

Total interest receivable and similar income calculated using the effective interest 

rate method 

Other interest and similar income/(expense) (note ii) 

Total 

Notes: 

i.

ii.

Group 

2019 

£m 

2018 

(note i) 

£m 

Society 

2019 

£m 

2018 

(note i) 

£m 

4,469 

4,532 

3,377 

3,409 

-  

656 

137 

27 

167 

(315) 

5,141 

(23) 

5,118 

- 

677 

67 

14 

115 

(543) 

4,862 

(51) 

4,811 

783 

644 

137 

27 

166 

(307) 

4,827 

(31) 

4,796 

756 

664 

67 

14 

114 

(523) 

4,501 

(72) 

4,429 

Comparative balances have been restated to present separately interest receivable and similar income calculated using the effective interest rate method as detailed in note 1. 

Includes interest on financial instruments hedging assets that are not in a qualifying hedge accounting relationship. 

194  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

4. Interest expense and similar charges 

On shares held by individuals 
On subscribed capital 
On deposits and other borrowings: 

Subordinated liabilities 
Connected undertakings 
Other 

On debt securities in issue 
Net income on financial instruments hedging liabilities 
Interest on net defined benefit pension liability (note 30) 
Total 

Group 

Society 

2019 
£m 
1,335 
14 

238 
-  
207 
673 
(270) 
6 
2,203 

2018 
£m 
1,140 
15 

175 
- 
320 
712 
(563) 
8 
1,807 

2019 
£m 
1,335 
14 

238 
48 
210 
612 
(150) 
6 
2,313  

2018 
£m 
1,140 
15 

175 
34 
320 
669 
(397) 
8 
1,964 

In the year to 4 April 2018 interest on deposits and other borrowings included an expense of £210 million in relation to the maturity and redemption of Protected Equity Bond (PEB) deposits which had returns linked to the 
performance of specified stock market indices. The PEBs, all of which had matured at 4 April 2018, were economically hedged using equity-linked derivatives. Net income on financial instruments hedging liabilities in the year to 4 
April 2018 included income of £206 million in relation to the associated derivatives. Further details are included in note 22. 

5. Fees and commission income and expense 

Group 
Current account and savings  
General insurance  
Protection and investments  
Mortgage 
Credit card 
Other fees and commissions  
Fee and commission 

Income 
£m 
261 
65 
63 
13 
43 
4 
449 

2019 
Expense 
£m 
(202) 
- 
- 
(1) 
(39) 
(6) 
(248) 

Net 
£m 
59 
65 
63 
12 
4 
(2) 
201 

Income 
£m 
246 
76 
65 
16 
42 
4 
449 

2018 
Expense 
£m 
(187) 
- 
- 
(2) 
(45) 
(10) 
(244) 

Net 
£m 
59 
76 
65 
14 
(3) 
(6) 
205 

The Society’s fee and commission income and expense is as shown above for the Group, except that it excludes £3 million (2018: £4 million) of mortgage income. 

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195  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

6. Other operating income/expense 

Gains on financial assets measured at FVTPL 
Gains on FVOCI investment securities (2018: available for sale investment securities) 
Other income/(expense) 
Total 

Note: 
i.

Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. 

Group 

2019 

£m 
23 
27 
4 
54 

2018 
(note i) 
£m 
- 
33 
(110) 
(77) 

Society 

2019 

£m 
22 
27 
3 
52 

2018 
(note i) 
£m 
- 
34 
(112) 
(78) 

Other income/(expense) includes the net amount of rental income, profits or losses on the sale of property, plant and equipment and increases or decreases in the valuations of branches and non-specialised buildings which are not 
recognised in other comprehensive income. There were no gains or losses on disposal of financial assets measured at amortised cost in the year ended 4 April 2019 (2018: £nil). In the year ended 4 April 2018, other 
income/(expense) included a £116 million loss from a debt buy-back exercise. 

7. Gains/losses from derivatives and hedge accounting 

As a part of its risk management strategy, the Group uses derivatives to economically hedge financial assets and liabilities. More information on how the Group manages market risk can be found in the Business and Risk Report. 
Hedge accounting is employed by the Group to minimise the accounting volatility associated with the change in fair value of derivative financial instruments. This volatility does not reflect the economic reality of the Group’s hedging 
strategy. The Group only uses derivatives for the hedging of risks; however, income statement volatility can still arise due to hedge accounting ineffectiveness or because hedge accounting is either not applied or is not currently 
achievable. The overall impact of derivatives will remain volatile from period to period as new derivative transactions replace those which mature to ensure that interest rate and other market risks are continually managed. 

Note 1 describes how fair value and cash flow hedge accounting affect the financial statements and the main sources of the residual hedge ineffectiveness remaining in the income statement. Further information on the current 
derivative portfolio and the allocation to hedge accounting types is included in note 15. 

Gains/(losses) from fair value hedge accounting 
Gains/(losses) from cash flow hedge accounting 
Net gain from mortgage pipeline (note i) 
Fair value (losses)/gains from other derivatives (note ii) 
Foreign exchange retranslation (note iii)  
Total 

Group 

Society 

2019 
£m 
24 
23 
- 
(18) 
7 
36 

2018 
£m 
(86) 
17 
50 
5 
13 
(1) 

2019 
£m 
8 
(34) 
- 
8 
11 
(7) 

2018 
£m 
7 
(33) 
50 
(39) 
(11) 
(26) 

Notes: 
i.

Includes the fair value movement of both interest rate swaps, which are used to economically hedge expected new mortgage business, and firm mortgage commitments, where the Group has elected to fair value those commitments to reduce the accounting 
mismatch. The Group has not applied this fair value option for new mortgage business in the year ended 4 April 2019; therefore, the fair value movements of the interest rate swaps have been reported in ‘fair value (losses)/gains from other derivatives’. 
Other derivatives are those used for economic hedging purposes, but which are not currently in a hedge accounting relationship.  

ii.
iii. Gains or losses arise from the retranslation of foreign currency monetary items not subject to effective hedge accounting. 

Gains of £24 million (2018: losses of £86 million) from fair value hedge accounting include losses of £9 million (2018: losses of £42 million) from macro hedges, due to hedge ineffectiveness and the amortisation of existing balance 
sheet amounts, and gains of £33 million relating to micro hedges (2018: losses of £44 million) which arise due to a combination of hedge ineffectiveness, disposals and restructuring, and the amortisation of existing balance sheet 
amounts. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

6. Other operating income/expense 

Gains on financial assets measured at FVTPL 

Gains on FVOCI investment securities (2018: available for sale investment securities) 

Other income/(expense) 

Total 

Note: 

i.

Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. 

Group 

2019 

£m 

23 

27 

4 

54 

2018 

(note i) 

£m 

- 

33 

(110) 

(77) 

Society 

2019 

£m 

22 

27 

3 

52 

2018 

(note i) 

£m 

- 

34 

(112) 

(78) 

Other income/(expense) includes the net amount of rental income, profits or losses on the sale of property, plant and equipment and increases or decreases in the valuations of branches and non-specialised buildings which are not 

recognised in other comprehensive income. There were no gains or losses on disposal of financial assets measured at amortised cost in the year ended 4 April 2019 (2018: £nil). In the year ended 4 April 2018, other 

income/(expense) included a £116 million loss from a debt buy-back exercise. 

7. Gains/losses from derivatives and hedge accounting 

As a part of its risk management strategy, the Group uses derivatives to economically hedge financial assets and liabilities. More information on how the Group manages market risk can be found in the Business and Risk Report. 

Hedge accounting is employed by the Group to minimise the accounting volatility associated with the change in fair value of derivative financial instruments. This volatility does not reflect the economic reality of the Group’s hedging 

strategy. The Group only uses derivatives for the hedging of risks; however, income statement volatility can still arise due to hedge accounting ineffectiveness or because hedge accounting is either not applied or is not currently 

achievable. The overall impact of derivatives will remain volatile from period to period as new derivative transactions replace those which mature to ensure that interest rate and other market risks are continually managed. 

Note 1 describes how fair value and cash flow hedge accounting affect the financial statements and the main sources of the residual hedge ineffectiveness remaining in the income statement. Further information on the current 

derivative portfolio and the allocation to hedge accounting types is included in note 15. 

196  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

7. Gains/losses from derivatives and hedge accounting (continued) 

Fair value hedge accounting 

The Group’s risk management approach is to use interest rate derivatives to economically hedge the fair value of fixed rate assets and liabilities. The market risk from fixed rate assets and liabilities may be netted down before deciding 
to use derivatives. The derivatives used are predominantly interest rate swaps, which convert fixed rate cashflows to a benchmark floating rate such as Libor or Sonia. In addition, bond forwards are used to reduce swap spread risk 
within the investment securities portfolio and inflation swaps are used to economically hedge contractual inflation risk within investment securities. The table below provides further information on the Group’s fair value hedges. 

Fair value hedge accounting 
2019 

Hedged item balance sheet 
classification  

Assets: 
Loans and advances to customers (note ii) 
Investment securities 
Investment securities 
Total assets 
Liabilities: 
Shares (note iii) 
Debt securities in issue 
Subordinated liabilities 
Subscribed capital 
Total liabilities 

Total fair value hedges 

Hedging instrument 

Risk category 

Hedged item 

Instrument 

Change in fair value used for 
determining hedge 
ineffectiveness 

Interest rate swaps 
Interest rate swaps, bond forwards 
Inflation swaps 

Interest rate 
Interest rate 
Interest rate and inflation 

Interest rate swaps 
Interest rate swaps 
Interest rate swaps 
Interest rate swaps 

Interest rate 
Interest rate 
Interest rate 
Interest rate 

£m 

396 
230 
16 
642 

(37) 
(31) 
(3) 
- 
(71) 

571 

£m 

(406) 
(193) 
(15) 
(614) 

38 
28 
4 
(3) 
67 

(547) 

Hedge 
ineffectiveness 
recognised in 
the income 
statement 
£m 

(10) 
37 
1 
28 

1 
(3) 
1 
(3) 
(4) 

24 

Carrying 
amount  
of the  
hedged item 

£m 

94,635 
13,292 
1,439 
109,366 

4,131 
4,662 
2,407 
240 
11,440 

Of which:  
accumulated 
fair value 
adjustment 
(note i) 
£m 

1,294 
323 
19 
1,636 

(17) 
642 
37 
40 
702 

Group 

Society 

2019 

£m 

24 

23 

- 

(18) 

7 

36 

2018 

£m 

(86) 

17 

50 

5 

13 

(1) 

2019 

£m 

(34) 

8 

- 

8 

11 

(7) 

2018 

£m 

7 

(33) 

50 

(39) 

(11) 

(26) 

ii.

iii.

Gains/(losses) from fair value hedge accounting 

Gains/(losses) from cash flow hedge accounting 

Net gain from mortgage pipeline (note i) 

Fair value (losses)/gains from other derivatives (note ii) 

Foreign exchange retranslation (note iii)  

Total 

Notes: 

i.

ii.

amounts. 

Includes the fair value movement of both interest rate swaps, which are used to economically hedge expected new mortgage business, and firm mortgage commitments, where the Group has elected to fair value those commitments to reduce the accounting 

mismatch. The Group has not applied this fair value option for new mortgage business in the year ended 4 April 2019; therefore, the fair value movements of the interest rate swaps have been reported in ‘fair value (losses)/gains from other derivatives’. 

Other derivatives are those used for economic hedging purposes, but which are not currently in a hedge accounting relationship.  

iii. Gains or losses arise from the retranslation of foreign currency monetary items not subject to effective hedge accounting. 

Gains of £24 million (2018: losses of £86 million) from fair value hedge accounting include losses of £9 million (2018: losses of £42 million) from macro hedges, due to hedge ineffectiveness and the amortisation of existing balance 

sheet amounts, and gains of £33 million relating to micro hedges (2018: losses of £44 million) which arise due to a combination of hedge ineffectiveness, disposals and restructuring, and the amortisation of existing balance sheet 

Notes:  
i.

Debt securities in issue and subordinated liabilities include £440 million and £23 million respectively of accumulated fair value adjustments relating to hedged items no longer in a hedge accounting relationship. This is mainly due to the migration of fair value 
hedges to cash flow hedges, which results in the hedged item no longer being adjusted for fair value gains and losses. Where hedges have been migrated, the ongoing amortisation of the closing accumulated fair value adjustment is presented in the cash 
flow hedge accounting table below within the change in fair value of the instrument as it offsets the ongoing amortisation of derivative fair value.  
Some of the Group’s loans and advances to customers have been included as hedged items in macro fair value hedges of interest rate risk. £411 million of the accumulated fair value hedge adjustment is recognised in the separate balance sheet asset ‘Fair 
value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk.’ The remaining amount relates to the fair value adjustment to commercial loans in a micro fair value hedge accounting relationship and is included in the carrying value of these loans as shown in note 14.    
Some of the Group’s shares have been included as hedged items in macro fair value hedges of interest rate risk. All of the accumulated fair value hedge adjustment has been recognised in the separate balance sheet liability for ‘Fair value adjustment for 
portfolio hedged risk.’ 

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197  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

7. Gains/losses from derivatives and hedge accounting (continued) 

Cash flow hedge accounting 

The Group’s risk management approach may be to create future cash flow certainty. The Group uses a combination of foreign currency interest rate swaps and cross currency interest rate swaps to hedge non-sterling debt securities 
in issue and subordinated liabilities. The hedging instruments remove the uncertainty caused by interest and foreign exchange rate movements on coupon and principal payments. In addition, inflation swaps are used to hedge RPI-
linked debt securities in issue. The Group also uses sterling interest rate swaps to hedge some of its re-pricing lag risk. In this instance the hedging instruments result in the Group receiving a fixed rate of interest and so are 
designated as hedges of variable rate loans and advances to customers. The table below provides further information on the Group’s cash flow hedges. 

Cash flow hedge accounting 
2019 

Hedged item balance sheet 
classification 

Assets: 
Loans and advances to customers 
Total assets 
Liabilities: 
Debt securities in issue 

Debt securities in issue 

Subordinated liabilities 

Total liabilities 
Total cash flow hedges 

Hedging instrument 

Risk category 

Hedged item 

Instrument 

Change in fair value used for 
determining hedge 
ineffectiveness 

Interest rate swaps 

Interest rate 

Inflation swaps 
Interest rate swaps, cross currency 
interest rate swaps 
Interest rate swaps, cross currency 
interest rate swaps 

Interest rate and inflation 
Interest rate and foreign 
exchange 
Interest rate and foreign 
exchange 

£m 

(2) 
(2) 

(10) 

(49) 

(308) 

(367) 
(369) 

£m 

2 
2 

10 

85 

335 

430 
432 

Changes in instrument fair value reported as 

Hedge 
ineffectiveness 
recognised in  
the income 
statement 
£m 

Foreign exchange 
retranslation 
recycled to the 
income statement 
(note i) 
£m 

Net amounts  
deferred to 
other 
comprehensive 
income 
£m 

- 
- 

- 

10 

13 

23 
23 

- 
- 

- 

(190) 

159 

(31) 
(31) 

2 
2 

10 

265 

163 

438 
440 

Amounts accumulated  
in the cash flow hedge reserve  
(excluding deferred taxation) 

Continuing hedges  Discontinued hedges 

£m 

2 
2 

6 

357 

44 

407 
409 

£m 

- 
- 

- 

19 

- 

19 
19 

Note:  
i.

The foreign exchange retranslation recycled to the income statement offsets foreign exchange retranslation on the hedged item. 

The deferral of fair value movements to the cash flow hedge reserve, and the transfer of amounts from the cash flow hedge reserve to the income statement, are shown in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. The 
net deferral to other comprehensive income of gains before tax of £440 million (2018: £259 million losses) is driven by changes in derivative valuations caused by movements in interest rates and foreign exchange rates. These gains 
amount to £328 million (2018: £191 million losses) after tax. All forecast transactions included as hedged items in cash flow hedges are still expected to occur. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

7. Gains/losses from derivatives and hedge accounting (continued) 

198  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

8. Administrative expenses 

The Group’s risk management approach may be to create future cash flow certainty. The Group uses a combination of foreign currency interest rate swaps and cross currency interest rate swaps to hedge non-sterling debt securities 

in issue and subordinated liabilities. The hedging instruments remove the uncertainty caused by interest and foreign exchange rate movements on coupon and principal payments. In addition, inflation swaps are used to hedge RPI-

linked debt securities in issue. The Group also uses sterling interest rate swaps to hedge some of its re-pricing lag risk. In this instance the hedging instruments result in the Group receiving a fixed rate of interest and so are 

designated as hedges of variable rate loans and advances to customers. The table below provides further information on the Group’s cash flow hedges. 

Hedged item balance sheet 

Hedging instrument 

Risk category 

Hedged item 

Instrument 

Continuing hedges  Discontinued hedges 

Loans and advances to customers 

Interest rate swaps 

Interest rate 

Debt securities in issue 

Inflation swaps 

Interest rate and inflation 

Interest rate swaps, cross currency 

Interest rate and foreign 

interest rate swaps 

interest rate swaps 

exchange 

exchange 

Interest rate swaps, cross currency 

Interest rate and foreign 

Change in fair value used for 

Changes in instrument fair value reported as 

determining hedge 

ineffectiveness 

Amounts accumulated  

in the cash flow hedge reserve  

(excluding deferred taxation) 

Hedge 

Foreign exchange 

ineffectiveness 

recognised in  

retranslation 

recycled to the 

Net amounts  

deferred to 

other 

income statement 

comprehensive 

(note i) 

£m 

income 

£m 

the income 

statement 

£m 

£m 

(2) 

(2) 

(10) 

(49) 

(308) 

(367) 

(369) 

£m 

2 

2 

10 

85 

335 

430 

432 

- 

- 

- 

10 

13 

23 

23 

- 

- 

- 

(190) 

159 

(31) 

(31) 

2 

2 

10 

265 

163 

438 

440 

£m 

2 

2 

6 

357 

44 

407 

409 

£m 

- 

- 

- 

19 

- 

19 

19 

Cash flow hedge accounting 

Cash flow hedge accounting 

2019 

classification 

Assets: 

Total assets 

Liabilities: 

Debt securities in issue 

Subordinated liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Total cash flow hedges 

Note:  

Employee costs: 

Wages and salaries 
Bonuses 
Social security costs 
Pension costs 

Other administrative expenses (note i): 

Other staff related costs 
Property operating lease rental 
Other property running costs 
Printing, postage and stationery 
IT and communications 
Marketing and advertising 
Product operating costs 
Legal, professional and consultancy 
Other operating costs 

Bank levy 
Depreciation, amortisation and impairment 
Total 

Notes 

30 

27 

Group 

2019 
£m 

525 
55 
65 
181 
826 

129 
31 
91 
32 
264 
63 
58 
108 
60 
836 

43 
549 
2,254 

2018 
£m 

524 
61 
66 
173 
824 

101 
30 
94 
34 
225 
74 
54 
85 
61 
758 

45 
397 
2,024 

Society 

2019 
£m 

520 
55 
65 
179 
819 

127 
31 
91 
32 
264 
63 
57 
108 
39 
812 

43 
549 
2,223 

2018 
£m 

518 
61 
65 
171 
815 

100 
30 
94 
34 
225 
74 
54 
84 
43 
738 

45 
397 
1,995 

i.

The foreign exchange retranslation recycled to the income statement offsets foreign exchange retranslation on the hedged item. 

The deferral of fair value movements to the cash flow hedge reserve, and the transfer of amounts from the cash flow hedge reserve to the income statement, are shown in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income. The 

net deferral to other comprehensive income of gains before tax of £440 million (2018: £259 million losses) is driven by changes in derivative valuations caused by movements in interest rates and foreign exchange rates. These gains 

amount to £328 million (2018: £191 million losses) after tax. All forecast transactions included as hedged items in cash flow hedges are still expected to occur. 

Note:  
i.

Categories have been updated to better align with how the Group manages and monitors expenses. Comparatives have been restated to align with the current year presentation.  

The bonus expense within employee costs in the above table includes £6 million (2018: £6 million) of long-term bonuses which will be paid more than one year from the balance sheet date. 

Executive directors and certain senior executives are entitled to bonus payments under the Directors’ Performance Award (DPA) scheme. Under this scheme, awards are based on current year results but are paid over a period of up 
to seven years, with part of the awards linked to the value of Nationwide’s core capital deferred shares (CCDS). The payment of deferred elements remains subject to further discretion by the Remuneration Committee. These bonuses 
are recognised in the income statement over the period from the start of the performance year until all relevant criteria have been met. 

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199  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

8. Administrative expenses (continued) 

The table below shows actual and expected charges to the income statement in respect of all DPA bonuses for each relevant scheme year: 

Income statement charge for long-term bonuses 

Directors Performance Award: 
2016/17 and previous years  
2017/18 
2018/19 
Income statement charge for long-term bonuses 

Actual  
2017/18 

£m 

6.8 
8.8 
- 
15.6 

Group and Society 

Actual  
2018/19 
(note i) 

Expected 
2019/20 
(note ii) 

£m 

3.0 
3.1 
8.8 
14.9 

£m 

1.6 
1.3 
3.4 
6.3 

Expected 
2020/21 and 
beyond  
(note ii) 
£m 

2.1 
2.1 
4.3 
8.5 

Notes:  
i.

ii.

In the year ended 4 April 2019, £5 million (2018: £6 million) was recognised in the income statement in relation to awards linked to share based payments, being amounts dependent on the performance of the Group’s CCDS. This payment is deferred and 
therefore included in accruals and deferred income on the balance sheet. 
The amount expected is an estimate based on past performance together with current assumptions of future leaver rates and future CCDS performance. From 2016/17 the period over which bonuses are recognised in the income statement was extended 
based on a change to the bonus deferral period from five to seven years. 

Directors’ emoluments, including details of the bonus scheme, are shown in the Report of the directors on remuneration in accordance with Schedule 10A, paragraphs 1 to 9 of the Building Societies Act 1986. 

The remuneration of the external auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, is set out below: 

External auditors’ remuneration 

Audit fees for the Group and Society statutory audit 
Fees payable for other services: 
Audit of Group subsidiaries  
Audit-related assurance services 

Total audit and audit-related assurance services 
Other non-audit services 
Total 

Group 

Society 

2019 
£m 
3.6 

0.4 
0.7 
4.7 
2.1 
6.8 

2018 
£m 
3.3 

0.4 
0.7 
4.4 
1.1 
5.5 

2019 
£m 
3.6 

- 
0.7 
4.3 
2.1 
6.4 

2018 
£m 
3.3 

- 
0.7 
4.0 
1.1 
5.1 

Audit fees for the year ended 4 April 2019 include amounts related to the transition of auditors. 

The Group’s policy in relation to the use of its auditors on non-audit engagements sets out the types of services they are generally precluded from performing. All non-audit services are subject to pre-approval by the Audit Committee. 

Fees for ‘other non-audit services’ for the year ended 4 April 2019 are primarily for assurance work undertaken in relation to delivery of the Group’s incremental technology investment. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
The table below shows actual and expected charges to the income statement in respect of all DPA bonuses for each relevant scheme year: 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

8. Administrative expenses (continued) 

Income statement charge for long-term bonuses 

Directors Performance Award: 

2016/17 and previous years  

Income statement charge for long-term bonuses 

2017/18 

2018/19 

Notes:  

i.

ii.

therefore included in accruals and deferred income on the balance sheet. 

based on a change to the bonus deferral period from five to seven years. 

Audit fees for the Group and Society statutory audit 

Fees payable for other services: 

Audit of Group subsidiaries  

Audit-related assurance services 

Total audit and audit-related assurance services 

Other non-audit services 

Total 

Group and Society 

Actual  

2018/19 

(note i) 

Expected 

2019/20 

(note ii) 

Expected 

2020/21 and 

beyond  

(note ii) 

£m 

2.1 

2.1 

4.3 

8.5 

£m 

1.6 

1.3 

3.4 

6.3 

Actual  

2017/18 

£m 

6.8 

8.8 

- 

15.6 

2019 

£m 

3.6 

0.4 

0.7 

4.7 

2.1 

6.8 

£m 

3.0 

3.1 

8.8 

14.9 

2018 

£m 

3.3 

0.4 

0.7 

4.4 

1.1 

5.5 

2019 

£m 

3.6 

- 

0.7 

4.3 

2.1 

6.4 

2018 

£m 

3.3 

- 

0.7 

4.0 

1.1 

5.1 

The remuneration of the external auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, is set out below: 

External auditors’ remuneration 

Group 

Society 

Audit fees for the year ended 4 April 2019 include amounts related to the transition of auditors. 

The Group’s policy in relation to the use of its auditors on non-audit engagements sets out the types of services they are generally precluded from performing. All non-audit services are subject to pre-approval by the Audit Committee. 

Fees for ‘other non-audit services’ for the year ended 4 April 2019 are primarily for assurance work undertaken in relation to delivery of the Group’s incremental technology investment. 

200  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

9. Employees 

The average number of persons employed during the year was:  

Full time 
Part time 

Total 
Society: 

Central administration 
Branches 
Subsidiaries 
Total 

Group 

2019 
£m 

13,841 
4,444 
18,285 

11,296 
6,982 
7 
18,285 

2018 
£m 

14,247 
4,240 
18,487 

11,098 
7,348 
41 
18,487 

Society 

2019 
£m 

13,834 
4,444 
18,278 

11,296 
6,982 
- 
18,278 

2018 
£m 

14,211 
4,235 
18,446 

11,098 
7,348 
- 
18,446 

In the year ended 4 April 2019, £5 million (2018: £6 million) was recognised in the income statement in relation to awards linked to share based payments, being amounts dependent on the performance of the Group’s CCDS. This payment is deferred and 

The amount expected is an estimate based on past performance together with current assumptions of future leaver rates and future CCDS performance. From 2016/17 the period over which bonuses are recognised in the income statement was extended 

Central administration employee numbers include employees engaged in direct customer facing operations in administrative centres. 

10. Impairment losses and provisions on loans and advances to customers 

Directors’ emoluments, including details of the bonus scheme, are shown in the Report of the directors on remuneration in accordance with Schedule 10A, paragraphs 1 to 9 of the Building Societies Act 1986. 

The following tables set out impairment losses and reversals during the year and the closing provision balances which are deducted from the relevant asset values in the balance sheet: 

Impairment losses/(reversals) 

Prime residential 
Specialist residential 
Consumer banking 
Commercial and other lending 
Total 

Impairment provisions  

Prime residential 
Specialist residential 
Consumer banking 
Commercial and other lending 
Total 

Group 

2019 

£m 
(1) 
(16) 
114 
16 
113 

4 April  
2019 

£m 
44 
162 
418 
41 
665 

2018  
(note i) 
£m 
3 
8 
97 
(1) 
107 

Group 

5 April  
2018 
(note i) 
£m 
47 
188 
365 
29 
629 

Society 

2019 

£m 
(1) 
- 
114 
16 
129 

4 April  
2018 
(note i) 
£m 
36 
109 
298 
15 
458 

2018  
(note i) 
£m 
3 
- 
97 
(1) 
99 

4 April  
2019 

£m 
44 
3 
418 
41 
506 

Society 

5 April  
2018 
(note i) 
£m 
47 
4 
365 
29 
445 

4 April  
2018 
(note i) 
£m 
36 
- 
298 
15 
349 

Note: 
i.

5 April 2018 balances are prepared under IFRS 9. Comparatives for the year ended and as at 4 April 2018 are prepared under IAS 39.

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201  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

10. Impairment losses and provisions on loans and advances to customers (continued) 

Critical accounting estimates and judgements 

Impairment is measured as the impact of credit risk on the present value of management’s estimate of future cash flows. In determining the required level of impairment provisions, the Group uses outputs from statistical models, 
incorporating a number of estimates and judgements to determine the Probability of Default (PD), the Exposure at Default, and the Loss Given Default for each loan. The most significant areas of estimation uncertainty are: 

•
•
•

the use of forward-looking information  
the performance of interest only mortgages at maturity 
the level of future recoveries for consumer banking. 

The most significant area of judgement is: 

•

the approach to identifying significant increases in credit risk and impairment. 

The Group’s approach to each of these estimates and judgements is described in more detail below. 

Use of forward-looking economic information  

Forward-looking economic information is incorporated into the measurement of provisions in two ways: as an input to the calculation of ECL and as a factor in determining the staging of an asset. Management exercises judgement in 
estimating future economic conditions which are incorporated through modelling of multiple economic scenarios (MES).  

The use of MES ensures that the calculation of ECL captures a range of possible outcomes. It addresses the risk of non-linearity in the relationship between credit losses and economic conditions, with provisions increasing more in 
unfavourable conditions (particularly severe conditions) than they reduce in favourable conditions. The IFRS 9 ECL provision recognised is therefore the probability-weighted sum of the provisions calculated under a range of economic 
scenarios. For the retail and commercial portfolios, the Group has adopted the use of three main economic scenarios (referred to as the central, upside and downside scenarios). The scenarios and the weightings are derived using 
external data and statistical methodologies, together with management judgement, to determine scenarios which span an appropriately wide range of plausible economic conditions.  

The central scenario represents the most likely economic forecast and is aligned with the central scenario used in the Group’s financial planning processes. This scenario reflects moderate economic growth and low house price inflation 
over the projection period of 2019-23, after which the economic variables are assumed to revert gradually to long run average rates by 2028. At 5 April 2018 and 4 April 2019 this scenario is assigned a 50% probability weighting. The 
upside and downside economic scenarios are judged less likely and have been given 20% and 30% weightings respectively at 4 April 2019 (5 April 2018: 30% and 20% respectively). The downside scenario reflects a period of recession 
in 2019 and 2020, accompanied by a fall in house prices during this period, followed by gradual recovery in subsequent years and reversion to a lower long-term growth rate by 2028. The upside scenario reflects stable economic growth 
over the projection period, accompanied by house price inflation in excess of 4% per year, and reversion to higher long-term growth rates by 2028. 

In addition to the three economic scenarios described above, additional provision has been made to reflect the risks associated with a low probability, severe downside scenario. In management’s judgement, this additional provision is 
required to fully reflect the non-linearity in the relationship between expected losses and economic conditions. The adjustment is calculated as the difference between a 10% probability for this scenario, and a reduction of 10% in the 
downside scenario; this probability has increased from 5% at 5 April 2018 due to increased economic uncertainty. At 4 April 2019, this additional provision represents £97 million (5 April 2018: £85 million) of the total £133 million  
(5 April 2018: £110 million) MES impact. In this severe downside scenario, real GDP growth over a five year period is slightly negative. In the first two years unemployment rises sharply by 4.8%, and house prices fall by 33% from peak to 
trough, before gradual recovery from year 3 onwards. Due to the way in which the additional provision has been calculated, the results of this scenario have not been used in determining the reported stage allocation of loans, although in 
this scenario an increased proportion of loans are assumed to migrate to stage 2 and stage 3 over the projection period.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

10. Impairment losses and provisions on loans and advances to customers (continued) 

202  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)
10. Impairment losses and provisions on loans and advances to customers (continued)  

Critical accounting estimates and judgements 

Critical accounting estimates and judgements (continued) 

Impairment is measured as the impact of credit risk on the present value of management’s estimate of future cash flows. In determining the required level of impairment provisions, the Group uses outputs from statistical models, 

incorporating a number of estimates and judgements to determine the Probability of Default (PD), the Exposure at Default, and the Loss Given Default for each loan. The most significant areas of estimation uncertainty are: 

The table below provides a summary of the simple average values of the key UK economic variables used within the economic scenarios, including the severe downside scenario, over the period from May 2019 to April 2024. 

the use of forward-looking information  

the performance of interest only mortgages at maturity 

the level of future recoveries for consumer banking. 

The most significant area of judgement is: 

•

•

•

•

the approach to identifying significant increases in credit risk and impairment. 

The Group’s approach to each of these estimates and judgements is described in more detail below. 

Use of forward-looking economic information  

Forward-looking economic information is incorporated into the measurement of provisions in two ways: as an input to the calculation of ECL and as a factor in determining the staging of an asset. Management exercises judgement in 

estimating future economic conditions which are incorporated through modelling of multiple economic scenarios (MES).  

The use of MES ensures that the calculation of ECL captures a range of possible outcomes. It addresses the risk of non-linearity in the relationship between credit losses and economic conditions, with provisions increasing more in 

unfavourable conditions (particularly severe conditions) than they reduce in favourable conditions. The IFRS 9 ECL provision recognised is therefore the probability-weighted sum of the provisions calculated under a range of economic 

scenarios. For the retail and commercial portfolios, the Group has adopted the use of three main economic scenarios (referred to as the central, upside and downside scenarios). The scenarios and the weightings are derived using 

external data and statistical methodologies, together with management judgement, to determine scenarios which span an appropriately wide range of plausible economic conditions.  

The central scenario represents the most likely economic forecast and is aligned with the central scenario used in the Group’s financial planning processes. This scenario reflects moderate economic growth and low house price inflation 

over the projection period of 2019-23, after which the economic variables are assumed to revert gradually to long run average rates by 2028. At 5 April 2018 and 4 April 2019 this scenario is assigned a 50% probability weighting. The 

upside and downside economic scenarios are judged less likely and have been given 20% and 30% weightings respectively at 4 April 2019 (5 April 2018: 30% and 20% respectively). The downside scenario reflects a period of recession 

in 2019 and 2020, accompanied by a fall in house prices during this period, followed by gradual recovery in subsequent years and reversion to a lower long-term growth rate by 2028. The upside scenario reflects stable economic growth 

over the projection period, accompanied by house price inflation in excess of 4% per year, and reversion to higher long-term growth rates by 2028. 

In addition to the three economic scenarios described above, additional provision has been made to reflect the risks associated with a low probability, severe downside scenario. In management’s judgement, this additional provision is 

required to fully reflect the non-linearity in the relationship between expected losses and economic conditions. The adjustment is calculated as the difference between a 10% probability for this scenario, and a reduction of 10% in the 

downside scenario; this probability has increased from 5% at 5 April 2018 due to increased economic uncertainty. At 4 April 2019, this additional provision represents £97 million (5 April 2018: £85 million) of the total £133 million  

(5 April 2018: £110 million) MES impact. In this severe downside scenario, real GDP growth over a five year period is slightly negative. In the first two years unemployment rises sharply by 4.8%, and house prices fall by 33% from peak to 

trough, before gradual recovery from year 3 onwards. Due to the way in which the additional provision has been calculated, the results of this scenario have not been used in determining the reported stage allocation of loans, although in 

this scenario an increased proportion of loans are assumed to migrate to stage 2 and stage 3 over the projection period.  

Economic variables (average %) 

Central scenario 

Upside scenario 

Downside scenario 

GDP growth 
Unemployment 
HPI 
BoE base rate 

1.8 
4.3 
2.4 
1.1 

2.3 
3.8 
5.0 
2.2 

1.0 
5.5 
(2.4) 
0.1 

Severe  
downside scenario  
(used for additional 
provision) 
(0.1) 
8.3 
(5.2) 
3.5 

To give an indication of the sensitivity of ECLs to different economic scenarios, the table below shows the ECL if 100% weighting is applied to the upside, central and downside scenarios. 

Sensitivity analysis impact of multiple economic scenarios 

Upside scenario ECL 

Central scenario ECL 

Downside scenario ECL 

4 April 2019 
Residential mortgages 
Consumer banking 
Commercial and other lending 
Total 

5 April 2018 
Residential mortgages 
Consumer banking 
Commercial and other lending 
Total 

£m 
99 
381 
37 
517 

£m 
112 
383 
37 
532 

£m 
128                   
350                     

24 
502  

£m 
143                      
352  
24 
519  

£m 
242 
400 
37 
679 

£m 
279  
374  
24 
677  

The ECL for each scenario multiplied by the scenario probability will not reconcile to the final probability weighted ECL, since the stage allocation of loans varies in each scenario. In the probability weighted ECL, each loan is allocated to a 
discrete stage based on the weighted average PD under the economic scenarios. The impact of the severe downside scenario on impairment provisions is explained above.  

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203  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

10. Impairment losses and provisions on loans and advances to customers (continued) 

Critical accounting estimates and judgements (continued) 

For prime and specialist residential mortgages, the estimate of future house price index (HPI) movements is a key assumption in estimating the eventual loss. The table below shows the sensitivity of provisions, in the central scenario 
only, to a decrease/increase in Loss Given Default as a result of an immediate decrease/increase in house prices, with no change to subsequent house price inflation or to other assumptions: 

Residential mortgages – impact of change in HPI 

4 April 2019 
10% decrease in HPI 
10% increase in HPI 

Increase/(decrease)  
in provision 
£m 
29 
(16) 

Performance of interest only mortgages at maturity  

An additional key area of management estimation is the allowance for the risk that a proportion of interest only mortgages will not be redeemed at their contractual maturity date, because a borrower does not have a means of capital 
repayment or has been unable to refinance the loan. Buy to let mortgages are typically advanced on an interest only basis. Interest only balances for prime residential mortgages relate primarily to historical balances which were originally 
advanced as interest only mortgages or where a change in terms to an interest only basis has been agreed. The impact of the allowance for unredeemed interest only mortgages at contractual maturity in the central scenario amounts to 
£47 million (5 April 2018: £58 million), and has also been calculated for the other modelled scenarios, with an additional impact of £24 million (5 April 2018: £16 million) included in the impact of forward looking economic information 
above. Interest only loans which are judged to have a significantly increased risk of inability to refinance at maturity are transferred to stage 2. 

Consumer banking future recoveries 

For consumer banking, the estimate of future recoveries is a key source of estimation uncertainty. The Group uses a combination of both historical data and management judgement in estimating the level and timing of future recoveries. 
A 10% absolute change in expected future recoveries would result in an estimated £43 million change in the provision.  

Identifying significant increases in credit risk (stage 2) 

Loans are allocated to stage 1 or stage 2 according to whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk. The Group has used judgement to select both quantitative and qualitative criteria which are used to determine whether a 
significant increase in credit risk has taken place. The primary quantitative indicators are the outputs of internal credit risk assessments. While different approaches are used within each portfolio, the intention is to combine current and 
historical data relating to the exposure with forward-looking macroeconomic information to determine the probability of default (PD) at each reporting date. For retail loans, the main indicators of a significant increase in credit risk are 
either of the following: 

•
•

the residual lifetime PD exceeds a benchmark determined by reference to the maximum credit risk that would have been accepted at origination 
the residual lifetime PD has increased by at least 75bps and a 4x multiple of the original lifetime PD (5 April 2018: 8x for residential mortgages, 4x for consumer banking). During the year the multiple has been reduced  
from 8x to 4x for residential mortgages, following a review of staging criteria effectiveness. The impact on ECL of this change was immaterial. 

These complementary criteria have been reviewed through detailed back-testing, using management performance indicators and actual default experience, and found to be effective in capturing events which would constitute  
a significant increase in credit risk. The sensitivity of ECLs to stage allocation is such that a transfer of 1% of current stage 1 balances from stage 1 to stage 2 would increase provisions by £11 million for residential mortgages, and £5 
million for consumer banking. 

Identifying credit impaired loans (stage 3) 

The identification of credit impaired loans is an important judgement within the IFRS 9 staging approach. A loan is credit impaired where it has an arrears status of more than 90 days past due,  
is considered to be in default or it is considered unlikely that the borrower will repay the outstanding balance in full, without recourse to actions such as realising security. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
204  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

11. Taxation 

Tax charge in the income statement 

Current tax: 

UK corporation tax  
Adjustments in respect of prior years 

Total current tax 

Deferred tax: 

Current year charge/(credit) 
Adjustments in respect of prior years 

Effect of deferred tax provided at different tax rates 
Total deferred taxation 
Tax charge 

Group 

Society 

2019 
£m 

209 
(12) 
197 

6 
9 
3 
18 
215 

2018 
£m 

246 
(12) 
234 

(7) 
9 
(4) 
(2) 
232 

2019 
£m 

131 
(12) 
119 

(9) 
9 
(5) 
(5) 
114 

The actual tax charge differs from the theoretical amount that would arise using the standard rate of corporation tax in the UK as follows: 

Reconciliation of tax charge 

Profit before tax: 
Tax calculated at a tax rate of 19% 
Adjustments in respect of prior years 
Banking surcharge 
Expenses not deductible for tax purposes/(income not taxable): 

Depreciation on non-qualifying assets 
Bank levy 
Effect of results of LLP structured entity (note i) 
Customer redress 
Other 

Effect of deferred tax provided at different tax rates 
Tax charge 

Group 

Society 

2019 
£m 
833 
158 
(3) 
37 

3 
8 
- 
8 
1 
3 
215 

2018 
£m 
977 
186 
(3) 
43 

1 
8 
- 
- 
1 
(4) 
232 

2019 
£m 
368 
70 
(3) 
37 

3 
8 
(6) 
8 
- 
(3) 
114 

2018 
£m 

151 
(32) 
119 

(11) 
10 
(3) 
(4) 
115 

2018 
£m 
452 
86 
(22) 
43 

1 
8 
2 
- 
- 
(3) 
115 

These complementary criteria have been reviewed through detailed back-testing, using management performance indicators and actual default experience, and found to be effective in capturing events which would constitute  

a significant increase in credit risk. The sensitivity of ECLs to stage allocation is such that a transfer of 1% of current stage 1 balances from stage 1 to stage 2 would increase provisions by £11 million for residential mortgages, and £5 

Note: 
i.

The Society is liable for tax on the results of Nationwide Covered Bonds LLP, the profit or loss of which is reported within that entity.  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

10. Impairment losses and provisions on loans and advances to customers (continued) 

Critical accounting estimates and judgements (continued) 

Residential mortgages – impact of change in HPI 

4 April 2019 

10% decrease in HPI 

10% increase in HPI 

Performance of interest only mortgages at maturity  

Increase/(decrease)  

in provision 

£m 

29 

(16) 

For prime and specialist residential mortgages, the estimate of future house price index (HPI) movements is a key assumption in estimating the eventual loss. The table below shows the sensitivity of provisions, in the central scenario 

only, to a decrease/increase in Loss Given Default as a result of an immediate decrease/increase in house prices, with no change to subsequent house price inflation or to other assumptions: 

An additional key area of management estimation is the allowance for the risk that a proportion of interest only mortgages will not be redeemed at their contractual maturity date, because a borrower does not have a means of capital 

repayment or has been unable to refinance the loan. Buy to let mortgages are typically advanced on an interest only basis. Interest only balances for prime residential mortgages relate primarily to historical balances which were originally 

advanced as interest only mortgages or where a change in terms to an interest only basis has been agreed. The impact of the allowance for unredeemed interest only mortgages at contractual maturity in the central scenario amounts to 

£47 million (5 April 2018: £58 million), and has also been calculated for the other modelled scenarios, with an additional impact of £24 million (5 April 2018: £16 million) included in the impact of forward looking economic information 

above. Interest only loans which are judged to have a significantly increased risk of inability to refinance at maturity are transferred to stage 2. 

For consumer banking, the estimate of future recoveries is a key source of estimation uncertainty. The Group uses a combination of both historical data and management judgement in estimating the level and timing of future recoveries. 

A 10% absolute change in expected future recoveries would result in an estimated £43 million change in the provision.  

Loans are allocated to stage 1 or stage 2 according to whether there has been a significant increase in credit risk. The Group has used judgement to select both quantitative and qualitative criteria which are used to determine whether a 

significant increase in credit risk has taken place. The primary quantitative indicators are the outputs of internal credit risk assessments. While different approaches are used within each portfolio, the intention is to combine current and 

historical data relating to the exposure with forward-looking macroeconomic information to determine the probability of default (PD) at each reporting date. For retail loans, the main indicators of a significant increase in credit risk are 

the residual lifetime PD exceeds a benchmark determined by reference to the maximum credit risk that would have been accepted at origination 

the residual lifetime PD has increased by at least 75bps and a 4x multiple of the original lifetime PD (5 April 2018: 8x for residential mortgages, 4x for consumer banking). During the year the multiple has been reduced  

from 8x to 4x for residential mortgages, following a review of staging criteria effectiveness. The impact on ECL of this change was immaterial. 

Consumer banking future recoveries 

Identifying significant increases in credit risk (stage 2) 

either of the following: 

•

•

million for consumer banking. 

Identifying credit impaired loans (stage 3) 

The identification of credit impaired loans is an important judgement within the IFRS 9 staging approach. A loan is credit impaired where it has an arrears status of more than 90 days past due,  

is considered to be in default or it is considered unlikely that the borrower will repay the outstanding balance in full, without recourse to actions such as realising security. 

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205  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

11. Taxation (continued) 

The tax on items through other comprehensive income is as follows: 

Tax charge/(credit) on items through other comprehensive income 

Relating to: 

FVOCI investment securities (2018: available for sale investment securities) 
Cash flow hedges 
Property revaluation 
Retirement benefit obligations 

Total 

Group 

2019 

£m 

(4) 
112 
(1) 
57 
164 

2018 
(note i) 
£m 

11 
(68) 
1 
7 
(49) 

Society 

2019 

£m 

(3) 
47 
(1) 
57 
100 

2018 
(note i) 
£m 

11 
(19) 
1 
8 
1 

Note: 
i.

2019 balances are prepared under IFRS 9; 2018 prepared under IAS 39. Adjustments made on transition to IFRS 9 are detailed in note 37. 

The Group tax credit through the fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI) reserve  of £4 million (2018: charge through the available for sale reserve of £11 million) is made up of a charge of £4 million  
(2018: charge of £8 million) through current tax and a credit of £8 million (2018: charge of £3 million) through deferred tax. 

Reconciliation of tax charge to tax paid 

The table below reconciles the corporation tax charge in the income statement to the taxation paid in the  
consolidated cash flow statement: 

Income statement tax charge 
Deferred tax and prior year adjustments 
Current tax liability  
Prior year payments 
Current year tax payments due after the end of the year 
Tax paid per consolidated cash flow statement 

Group 

2019 
£m 
215 
(6) 
209 
43 
(117) 
135 

2018 
£m 
232 
14 
246 
107 
(117) 
236 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Group 

2019 

£m 

(4) 

112 

(1) 

57 

164 

2018 

(note i) 

£m 

11 

(68) 

1 

7 

(49) 

Society 

2019 

£m 

(3) 

47 

(1) 

57 

100 

2018 

(note i) 

£m 

11 

(19) 

1 

8 

1 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

11. Taxation (continued) 

The tax on items through other comprehensive income is as follows: 

Tax charge/(credit) on items through other comprehensive income 

FVOCI investment securities (2018: available for sale investment securities) 

Relating to: 

Cash flow hedges 

Property revaluation 

Retirement benefit obligations 

Total 

Note: 

Reconciliation of tax charge to tax paid 

The table below reconciles the corporation tax charge in the income statement to the taxation paid in the  

consolidated cash flow statement: 

Income statement tax charge 

Deferred tax and prior year adjustments 

Current tax liability  

Prior year payments 

Current year tax payments due after the end of the year 

Tax paid per consolidated cash flow statement 

Group 

2019 

£m 

215 

(6) 

209 

43 

(117) 

135 

2018 

£m 

232 

14 

246 

107 

(117) 

236 

i.

2019 balances are prepared under IFRS 9; 2018 prepared under IAS 39. Adjustments made on transition to IFRS 9 are detailed in note 37. 

The Group tax credit through the fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI) reserve  of £4 million (2018: charge through the available for sale reserve of £11 million) is made up of a charge of £4 million  

(2018: charge of £8 million) through current tax and a credit of £8 million (2018: charge of £3 million) through deferred tax. 

206  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

11. Taxation (continued) 

Deferred tax 

Deferred tax is determined using tax rates and laws that are expected to apply in the period when the deferred tax asset is realised or deferred tax liability is settled based on rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance 
sheet date, including the banking surcharge where applicable. The Finance Act 2016 was enacted on 15 September 2016 and reduces the corporation tax rate from 19% to 17% from 1 April 2020. 

The movements on the deferred tax account are as follows: 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are attributable to the following items: 

Movements in deferred taxation 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities 

Group 

Society 

At 4 April  
IFRS 9 transition (note i) 
At 5 April 
Deferred tax (charge)/credit in the income statement: 

Accelerated capital allowances 
Effect of deferred tax provided at different tax rates 
Other items 

Taxation on items through the income statement 

Deferred tax (charge)/credit in other comprehensive 
income: 

FVOCI investment securities (2018: available for sale 
investment securities) 
Cash flow hedges 
Property revaluation 
Retirement benefit obligations 
Effect of deferred tax provided at different tax rates 
Taxation on items through other comprehensive income 
At 4 April 

Note: 
i.

Adjustment on implementation of IFRS 9 as detailed in note 37. 

2019 
£m 
49 
46 
95 

4 
(3) 
(19) 
(18) 

6 

(85) 
1 
(45) 
(45) 
(168) 
(91) 

2018 
£m 

3 

- 
4 
(2) 
2 

(2) 

48 
1 
(15) 
12 
44 
49 

2019 
£m 
72 
32 
104 

4 
5 
(4) 
5 

6 

(35) 
1 
(45) 
(30) 
(103) 
6 

2018 
£m 

72 

1 
3 
- 
4 

(2) 

13 
1 
(15) 
(1) 
(4) 
72 

Deferred tax assets 
Accelerated capital allowances 
Property revaluation 
Available for sale investment securities 
Fair value through other comprehensive income assets 
Cash flow hedges 
Retirement benefit obligations 
Provisions for loan impairment 
Other provisions 

Deferred tax liabilities 
Property revaluation 
Cash flow hedges 
Other provisions 

Net deferred tax (liability)/asset 

Group 

2019 
£m 

(2) 
1 
- 
(22) 
- 
28 
- 
48 
53 

(10) 
(108) 
(26) 
(144) 
(91) 

2018 
£m 

(16) 
1 
(30) 

39 
92 
1 
11 
98 

(12) 
(34) 
(3) 
(49) 
49 

Society 

2019 
£m 

(5) 
- 
- 
(22) 
- 
27 
- 
39 
39 

(10) 
(9) 
(14) 
(33) 
6 

2018 
£m 

(16) 
- 
(30) 

39 
92 
- 
10 
95 

(12) 
- 
(11) 
(23) 
72 

The majority of deferred tax assets are anticipated to be recoverable after one year. The Group considers that 
there will be sufficient future trading profits in excess of profits arising from the reversal of existing taxable 
temporary differences to utilise the deferred tax assets. 

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207  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

12. Classification and measurement 

As the majority of the Group’s assets and liabilities are held within the Society, the disclosures in this note and notes 21 to 24 are on a consolidated basis. The following table summarises the classification of carrying amounts  
of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities. 

Classification of financial assets and liabilities 

4 April 2019 

Group 
Financial assets 
Cash  
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 
Investment securities 
Derivative financial instruments 
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 
Loans and advances to customers 
Total financial assets 
Other non-financial assets 
Total assets 

Financial liabilities 
Shares 
Deposits from banks and similar institutions 
Other deposits 
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 
Debt securities in issue 
Derivative financial instruments 
Subordinated liabilities 
Subscribed capital 
Total financial liabilities 
Other non-financial liabilities 
Total liabilities 

Amortised cost 

£m 

12,493 
4,009 
1,656 
- 
411 
198,922 
217,491 

153,969 
20,149 
5,074 
(17) 
35,942 
- 
6,706 
250 
222,073 

Fair value 
through other 
comprehensive 
income 
£m 

- 
- 
14,500 
- 
- 
- 
14,500 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

Fair value 
through profit 
or loss 

£m 

- 
- 
78 
3,562 
- 
129 
3,769 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
1,593 
- 
- 
1,593 

Total 

Amortised cost 

£m 

£m 

14,361 
3,493 
1,120 
- 
(144) 
191,174 
210,004 

148,003 
20,436 
4,693 
(53) 
34,118 
- 
5,497 
263 
212,957 

12,493 
4,009 
16,234 
3,562 
411 
199,051 
235,760 
2,541 
238,301 

153,969 
20,149 
5,074 
(17) 
35,942 
1,593 
6,706 
250 
223,666 
1,466 
225,132 

5 April 2018 (note i) 
Fair value 
through other 
comprehensive 
income 
£m 

Fair value 
through profit  
or loss 

£m 

- 
- 
45 
4,121 
- 
247 
4,413 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
2,337 
- 
- 
2,337 

- 
- 
11,881 
- 
- 
- 
11,881 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

Total 

£m 

14,361 
3,493 
13,046 
4,121 
(144) 
191,421 
226,298 
2,639 
228,937 

148,003 
20,436 
4,693 
(53) 
34,118 
2,337 
5,497 
263 
215,294 
1,402 
216,696 

Note: 
i.

5 April 2018 balances are presented under IFRS 9. Balances have been restated as detailed in note 1 and adjustments made on transition to IFRS 9 are detailed in note 37. 

As at 4 April 2019, the Group had no financial assets or liabilities (2018: none) for which it had taken the option to designate at FVTPL. Further details on the transition to IFRS 9 are included in note 37 and information on the fair 
value of financial assets and liabilities is included in notes 21 to 23. 

 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
As the majority of the Group’s assets and liabilities are held within the Society, the disclosures in this note and notes 21 to 24 are on a consolidated basis. The following table summarises the classification of carrying amounts  

Amortised cost 

Total 

Amortised cost 

4 April 2019 

Fair value 

through other 

comprehensive 

Fair value 

through profit 

or loss 

5 April 2018 (note i) 

Fair value 

through other 

comprehensive 

Fair value 

through profit  

or loss 

Government and supranational investment securities 
Other debt investment securities 
Investments in equity shares 
Total 

Group and Society 

2019 
£m 
12,306 
3,909 
19 
16,234 

2018 
£m 
9,592 
3,450 
4 
13,046 

208  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

13. Investment securities 

The Group may use its investment securities as collateral. Investment securities of £30 million (2018: £30 million) have been pledged as collateral for UK payment schemes. Investment securities with a fair value of £1,694 million 
(2018: £945 million) have been used as collateral in short term repurchase agreements. The Group also holds £1,333 million (2018: £403 million) of investment securities as collateral under reverse repurchase agreements which are 
not recognised in the table above. 

Further information on investment securities is included in the ‘Treasury assets’ section of the Business and Risk Report. 

14. Loans and advances to customers 

4 April 2019 

5 April 2018 (note i) 

4 April 2018 (note i) 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

12. Classification and measurement 

of the Group’s financial assets and liabilities. 

Classification of financial assets and liabilities 

Group 

Cash  

Financial assets 

Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 

Investment securities 

Derivative financial instruments 

Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 

Loans and advances to customers 

Total financial assets 

Other non-financial assets 

Total assets 

Financial liabilities 

Shares 

Other deposits 

Deposits from banks and similar institutions 

Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 

Debt securities in issue 

Derivative financial instruments 

Subordinated liabilities 

Subscribed capital 

Total financial liabilities 

Other non-financial liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Note: 

£m 

12,493 

4,009 

1,656 

- 

411 

198,922 

217,491 

153,969 

20,149 

5,074 

(17) 

35,942 

- 

6,706 

250 

222,073 

income 

£m 

14,500 

14,500 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

- 

- 

- 

78 

3,562 

129 

3,769 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

1,593 

1,593 

£m 

£m 

14,361 

3,493 

1,120 

- 

(144) 

191,174 

210,004 

148,003 

20,436 

4,693 

(53) 

34,118 

- 

5,497 

263 

212,957 

12,493 

4,009 

16,234 

3,562 

411 

199,051 

235,760 

2,541 

238,301 

153,969 

20,149 

5,074 

(17) 

35,942 

1,593 

6,706 

250 

223,666 

1,466 

225,132 

income 

£m 

11,881 

11,881 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

- 

- 

- 

45 

4,121 

247 

4,413 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

2,337 

2,337 

Total 

£m 

14,361 

3,493 

13,046 

4,121 

(144) 

191,421 

226,298 

2,639 

228,937 

148,003 

20,436 

4,693 

(53) 

34,118 

2,337 

5,497 

263 

215,294 

1,402 

216,696 

Loans held at amortised cost 

Gross  Provisions 

Group 
Prime residential mortgages 
Specialist residential mortgages 
Consumer banking  
Commercial and other lending 
Total 

£m 
151,445  
34,495  
4,586  
8,178  
198,704  

£m 
(44)  
(162)  
(418)  
(41)  
(665)  

Other 
(note ii) 
£m 
- 
- 
- 
883  
883  

£m 
151,401  
34,333  
4,168  
9,020  
198,922  

£m 
72  
-    
-    
57  
129  

£m 
 151,473  
 34,333  
 4,168  
 9,077  
 199,051  

£m 
143,869 
33,245 
4,107 
9,540 
190,761 

£m 
(47) 
(188) 
(365) 
(29) 
(629) 

£m 
189 
- 
- 
58 
247 

£m 
144,011 
33,057 
3,742 
10,611 
191,421 

£m 
144,049 
33,250 
4,107 
9,602 
191,008 

£m 
(36) 
(109) 
(298) 
(15) 
(458) 

Loans held 
at FVTPL 

Total 

Total 

Loans held at amortised cost 

Gross  Provisions 

Other 

Total 

Loans held 
at FVTPL 

Other 
(note ii) 
£m 
- 
- 
- 
1,042 
1,042 

Total 

£m 
143,822 
33,057 
3,742 
10,553 
191,174 

4 April 2019 

5 April 2018 (note i) 

4 April 2018 (note i) 

i.

5 April 2018 balances are presented under IFRS 9. Balances have been restated as detailed in note 1 and adjustments made on transition to IFRS 9 are detailed in note 37. 

As at 4 April 2019, the Group had no financial assets or liabilities (2018: none) for which it had taken the option to designate at FVTPL. Further details on the transition to IFRS 9 are included in note 37 and information on the fair 

value of financial assets and liabilities is included in notes 21 to 23. 

Loans held at amortised cost 

Gross  Provisions 

Society 
Prime residential mortgages 
Specialist residential mortgages 
Consumer banking  
Commercial and other lending 
Total 

£m 
 151,073  
 590  
 4,586  
 7,703  
 163,952  

£m 
(44)  
(3)  
(418)  
(41)  
(506)  

Other 
(note ii) 
£m 

-    
-    
-    
883  
883  

£m 
151,029  
587  
4,168  
8,545  
164,329  

£m 
72  
-    
-    
46  
118  

£m 
151,101  
587  
4,168  
8,591  
164,447  

£m 
143,425 
663 
4,107 
9,059 
157,254 

£m 
(47) 
(4) 
(365) 
(29) 
(445) 

£m 
- 
- 
- 
1,042 
1,042 

£m 
143,378 
659 
3,742 
10,072 
157,851 

£m 
189 
- 
- 
47 
236 

£m 
143,567 
659 
3,742 
10,119 
158,087 

£m 
143,603 
663 
4,107 
9,108 
157,481 

£m 
(36) 
- 
(298) 
(15) 
(349) 

Other 
(note ii) 
£m 
- 
- 
- 
1,043 
1,043 

Loans held at amortised cost 
Gross  Provisions 

Total 

Loans held at amortised cost 

Loans held 
at FVTPL 

Total 

Loans held 
at FVTPL 

Total 

Gross  Provisions 

Gross  Provisions 

Other 
(note ii) 
£m 
- 
- 
- 
1,043 
1,043 

£m 
143,567 
663 
3,809 
10,136 
158,175 

Total 

£m 
144,013 
33,141 
3,809 
10,630 
191,593 

Total 

Loans held at amortised cost 

Total 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

5 April 2018 balances are presented under IFRS 9. Balances have been restated as detailed in note 1 and adjustments made on transition to IFRS 9 are detailed in note 37. 
Loans held at amortised cost include a fair value adjustment for micro hedged risk for commercial loans hedged on an individual basis. 

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209  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

14. Loans and advances to customers (continued) 

The tables below summarise the movements in gross loans and advances to customers held at amortised cost, including the impact of ECL impairment provisions and excluding the fair value adjustment for micro hedged risk. The 
lines within the tables are an aggregation of monthly movements over the year. Residential mortgages represent the majority of the Group’s loans and advances to customers. An additional table that summarises the movements for 
the Group’s residential mortgages, is presented in the Credit risk section of the Business and Risk Report. 

Reconciliation of movements in gross balances and impairment provisions 

Group 
At 5 April 2018 

Stage transfers: 
Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2 
Transfers to Stage 3 
Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1 
Transfers from Stage 3 
Net remeasurement of ECL arising from transfer of stage 
Net movement arising from transfer of stage (note ii) 

New assets originated or purchased (note iii) 
Repayments and changes in risk parameters (note iv)  
Other items impacting income statement charge/(reversal) including recoveries 
Redemptions (note v) 
Income statement charge for the year 
Decrease due to write-offs 
Other provision movements 
4 April 2019 
Net carrying amount 

The reasons for key movements shown in the table above are as follows: 

Non-credit impaired 

Subject to 12 month ECL 
Stage 1 

Subject to lifetime ECL 
Stage 2 

Credit impaired (note i) 
Subject to lifetime ECL 
Stage 3 and POCI 

Total 

  Gross balances 
£m 
169,049 

Provisions  Gross balances 
£m 
20,012 

£m 
48 

Provisions  Gross balances 
£m 
1,700 

£m 
284 

Provisions  Gross balances 
£m 
190,761 

£m 
297 

Provisions 
£m 
629 

(29,278) 
(305) 
37,282 
187 

7,886 

38,717 
(8,835) 
2 
(19,451) 

- 
- 
187,368 

(30) 
(1) 
266 
3 
(237) 
1 

30 
(9) 
- 
(2) 

- 
- 
68 
187,300 

29,278 
(1,022) 
(37,282) 
573 

(8,453) 

- 
(199) 
- 
(1,821) 

- 
- 
9,539 

30 
(113) 
(266) 
24 
287 
(38) 

- 
32 
- 
(17) 

- 
- 
261 
9,278 

- 
1,327 
- 
(760) 

567 

- 
(63) 
(1) 
(285) 

(121) 
- 
1,797 

- 
114 
- 
(27) 
20 
107 

- 
29 
(19) 
(1) 

(96) 
19 
336 
1,461 

- 
- 
- 
- 

- 

38,717 
(9,097) 
1 
(21,557) 

(121) 
- 
198,704 

- 
- 
- 
- 
70 
70 

30 
52 
(19) 
(20) 
113 
(96) 
19 
665 
198,039 

•

•
•

•

The movement in gross balances is principally a result of £38,717 million of new lending, offset by a reduction of £30,654 million as a result of repayments and redemptions. The majority of these movements relate to 
residential mortgages. 
Of the £121 million of write-offs, £74 million relates to unsecured lending, £41 million to residential mortgages and £6 million to commercial and other lending.  
Impairment provisions increased by £36 million in the period to £665 million. As shown in note 10, unsecured and commercial provisions increased in the period; however, these increases were offset by a reduction in 
residential mortgages provisions.  
The net £52 million increase in impairment provisions from ‘Repayments and changes in risk parameters’, includes the majority of the £23 million impact of changes made to the economic scenarios applied during the 
period.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
210  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

14. Loans and advances to customers (continued) 

Reconciliation of movements in gross balances and impairment provisions 

Society 
At 5 April 2018 

Stage transfers: 
Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2 
Transfers to Stage 3 
Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1 
Transfers from Stage 3 
Net remeasurement of ECL arising from transfer of stage 
Net movement arising from transfer of stage (note ii) 

New assets originated or purchased (note iii) 
Repayments and changes in risk parameters (note iv)  
Other items impacting income statement charge/(reversal) including recoveries 
Redemptions (note v) 
Income statement charge for the year 
Decrease due to write-offs 
Other provision movements 
4 April 2019 
Net carrying amount 

Non-credit impaired 

Subject to 12 month ECL 
Stage 1 

Subject to lifetime ECL 
Stage 2 

Credit impaired 
Subject to lifetime ECL 
Stage 3 

Total 

  Gross balances 
£m 
146,762 

Provisions  Gross balances 
£m 
9,471 

£m 
37 

Provisions  Gross balances 
£m 
1,021 

£m 
146 

Provisions  Gross balances 
£m 
157,254 

£m 
262 

Provisions 
£m 
445 

(19,307) 
(207) 
24,327 
105 

4,918 

33,751 
(8,570) 
1 
(17,270) 

- 
- 
159,592 

(24) 
- 
189 
2 
(168) 
(1) 

28 
(9) 
- 
(1) 

- 
- 
54 
159,538 

19,307 
(600) 
(24,327) 
297 

(5,323) 

- 
(167) 
- 
(738) 

- 
- 
3,243 

24 
(88) 
(189) 
14 
218 
(21) 

- 
28 
- 
(5) 

- 
- 
148 
3,095 

- 
807 
- 
(402) 

405 

- 
(48) 
(1) 
(164) 

(96) 
- 
1,117 

- 
88 
- 
(16) 
27 
99 

- 
26 
(14) 
(1) 

(82) 
14 
304 
813 

- 
- 
- 
- 

- 

33,751 
(8,785) 
- 
(18,172) 

(96) 
- 
163,952 

- 
- 
- 
- 
77 
77 

28 
45 
(14) 
(7) 
129 
(82) 
14 
506 
163,446 

The movement in gross balances is principally a result of £38,717 million of new lending, offset by a reduction of £30,654 million as a result of repayments and redemptions. The majority of these movements relate to 

v.

Of the £121 million of write-offs, £74 million relates to unsecured lending, £41 million to residential mortgages and £6 million to commercial and other lending.  

Impairment provisions increased by £36 million in the period to £665 million. As shown in note 10, unsecured and commercial provisions increased in the period; however, these increases were offset by a reduction in 

The net £52 million increase in impairment provisions from ‘Repayments and changes in risk parameters’, includes the majority of the £23 million impact of changes made to the economic scenarios applied during the 

Notes: 
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.

Group gross balances of credit impaired loans include £167 million (5 April 2018: £180 million) of purchased or originated credit impaired (POCI) loans, which are presented net of lifetime ECL impairment provisions of £6 million (5 April 2018: £7 million). 
The remeasurement of provisions arising from a change in stage is reported within the stage to which the assets are transferred.  
If a new asset is generated in the month, the value included is the closing gross balance and provision for the month. All new business written is included in Stage 1. 
This line comprises capital repayments where the asset is not derecognised, changes in risk parameters, and changes to modelling inputs and methodology. The repayment value for gross balances is calculated as the closing gross balance for the month less 
the opening gross balance for the month. The repayment value for provisions is calculated as the change in exposure at default (EAD) multiplied by opening provision coverage for the month. The provision movement for the change in risk parameters is 
calculated for assets that do not move stage in the month. 
For any asset that is derecognised in the month, the value disclosed is the provision at the start of that month. 

The tables below summarise the movements in gross loans and advances to customers held at amortised cost, including the impact of ECL impairment provisions and excluding the fair value adjustment for micro hedged risk. The 

lines within the tables are an aggregation of monthly movements over the year. Residential mortgages represent the majority of the Group’s loans and advances to customers. An additional table that summarises the movements for 

the Group’s residential mortgages, is presented in the Credit risk section of the Business and Risk Report. 

Non-credit impaired 

Subject to 12 month ECL 

Subject to lifetime ECL 

Stage 1 

Stage 2 

Credit impaired (note i) 

Subject to lifetime ECL 

Stage 3 and POCI 

  Gross balances 

Provisions  Gross balances 

Provisions  Gross balances 

Provisions  Gross balances 

Provisions 

£m 

169,049 

(29,278) 

(305) 

37,282 

187 

7,886 

38,717 

(8,835) 

(19,451) 

2 

- 

- 

187,368 

£m 

48 

(30) 

(1) 

266 

(237) 

3 

1 

30 

(9) 

- 

(2) 

- 

- 

68 

187,300 

£m 

20,012 

29,278 

(1,022) 

(37,282) 

573 

(8,453) 

(199) 

(1,821) 

- 

- 

- 

- 

9,539 

£m 

284 

30 

(113) 

(266) 

24 

287 

(38) 

32 

- 

- 

(17) 

- 

- 

261 

9,278 

£m 

1,700 

- 

- 

1,327 

(760) 

567 

- 

(63) 

(1) 

(285) 

(121) 

- 

1,797 

Total 

£m 

190,761 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

1 

38,717 

(9,097) 

(21,557) 

(121) 

- 

198,704 

£m 

629 

- 

- 

- 

- 

70 

70 

30 

52 

(19) 

(20) 

113 

(96) 

19 

665 

198,039 

£m 

297 

114 

- 

- 

(27) 

20 

107 

- 

29 

(19) 

(1) 

(96) 

19 

336 

1,461 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

14. Loans and advances to customers (continued) 

Reconciliation of movements in gross balances and impairment provisions 

Group 

At 5 April 2018 

Stage transfers: 

Transfers from Stage 1 to Stage 2 

Transfers to Stage 3 

Transfers from Stage 2 to Stage 1 

Transfers from Stage 3 

Net remeasurement of ECL arising from transfer of stage 

Net movement arising from transfer of stage (note ii) 

New assets originated or purchased (note iii) 

Repayments and changes in risk parameters (note iv)  

Other items impacting income statement charge/(reversal) including recoveries 

The reasons for key movements shown in the table above are as follows: 

Redemptions (note v) 

Income statement charge for the year 

Decrease due to write-offs 

Other provision movements 

4 April 2019 

Net carrying amount 

•

•

•

•

residential mortgages. 

residential mortgages provisions.  

period.  

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211  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

14. Loans and advances to customers (continued) 

Maturity analysis 

The following table shows the residual maturity of loans and advances to customers, based on their contractual maturity: 

Residual maturity of loans and advances to customers 

Repayable: 

On demand 
In not more than three months 
In more than three months but not more than one year  
In more than one year but not more than five years 
In more than five years 

Impairment provision on loans and advances 
Fair value adjustment for micro hedged risk 
Total 

4 April 2019 

£m 

2,146  
2,285  
5,976  
31,919  
156,507  
198,833  

(665)  
883 
199,051  

Group 
5 April 2018 
(note i) 
£m 

4 April 2018 
(note i) 
£m 

2,087 
2,211 
5,729 
30,546 
150,435 
191,008 

(629) 
1,042 
191,421 

2,087 
2,211 
5,729 
30,545 
150,436 
191,008 

(458) 
1,043 
191,593 

4 April 2019 

£m 

 2,146  
 2,099  
 5,836  
 30,234  
 123,755  
 164,070  

(506)  
883 
 164,447  

Society 
5 April 2018 
(note i) 
£m 

4 April 2018 
(note i) 
£m 

2,087 
2,038 
5,585 
28,934 
118,846 
157,490 

(445) 
1,042 
158,087 

2,087 
2,038 
5,585 
28,932 
118,839 
157,481 

(349) 
1,043 
158,175 

Note: 
i.

5 April 2018 balances are presented under IFRS 9. Balances have been restated as detailed in note 1 and adjustments made on transition to IFRS 9 are detailed in note 37. 

The maturity analysis is produced on the basis that where a loan is repayable by instalments, each such instalment is treated as a separate repayment. The analysis is based on contractual maturity rather than actual redemption 
levels experienced, which are likely to be materially different. Arrears are spread across the remaining term of the loan. 

Asset backed funding 

Certain prime residential mortgages have been pledged to the Group’s asset backed funding programmes or utilised as whole mortgage loan pools for the Bank of England’s (BoE) Term Funding Scheme (TFS). The programmes have 
enabled the Group to obtain secured funding. Mortgages pledged and the carrying values of the notes in issue are as follows: 

Mortgages pledged to asset backed funding programmes 

Group 
Covered bond programme 
Securitisation programme 
Whole mortgage loan pools 
Total 

Mortgages 
pledged 
(note ii) 
£m 
22,656 
6,936 
24,117 
53,709 

Held by  
third parties 
(note iii) 
£m 
17,339 
3,051 
- 
20,390 

2019 

Notes in issue 
Held by the Group 

Drawn 
(note iv) 
£m 
- 
- 
17,001 
17,001 

Undrawn 
(note v) 
£m 
- 
339 
- 
339 

Total notes  
in issue 
£m 
17,339 
3,390 
17,001 
37,730 

Mortgages 
pledged 
(note ii) 
£m 
21,000 
8,711 
22,831 
52,542 

Held by  
third parties 
(note iii) 
£m 
16,035 
3,655 
- 
19,690 

2018 
Notes in issue (note i) 
Held by the Group 

Drawn 
(note iv) 
£m 
- 
- 
17,001 
17,001 

Undrawn 
(note v) 
£m 
- 
338 
- 
338 

Total notes  
in issue 
£m 
16,035 
3,993 
17,001 
37,029 

Prior year comparatives have been restated to present balances on a consistent basis with the current period. 

Notes: 
i.
ii. Mortgages pledged include £5.4 billion (2018: £8.7 billion) in the covered bond and securitisation programmes that are in excess of the amount contractually required to support notes in issue.  
iii. Notes in issue which are held by third parties are included within debt securities in issue (note 18). 
iv. Notes in issue, held by the Group and drawn are whole mortgage loan pools securing amounts drawn under the TFS. At 4 April 2019 the Group had outstanding TFS drawings of £17.0 billion (2018: £17.0 billion). 
v.

Notes in issue, held by the Group and undrawn, are debt securities issued by the programmes to the Society and mortgage loan pools that have been pledged to the BoE but not utilised.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

14. Loans and advances to customers (continued) 

Maturity analysis 

The following table shows the residual maturity of loans and advances to customers, based on their contractual maturity: 

Residual maturity of loans and advances to customers 

4 April 2019 

4 April 2018 

4 April 2019 

Group 

5 April 2018 

(note i) 

£m 

2,087 

2,211 

5,729 

30,546 

150,435 

191,008 

(629) 

1,042 

191,421 

£m 

2,146  

2,285  

5,976  

31,919  

156,507  

198,833  

(665)  

883 

199,051  

(note i) 

£m 

2,087 

2,211 

5,729 

30,545 

150,436 

191,008 

(458) 

1,043 

191,593 

Society 

5 April 2018 

(note i) 

£m 

4 April 2018 

(note i) 

£m 

2,087 

2,038 

5,585 

28,934 

118,846 

157,490 

(445) 

1,042 

158,087 

2,087 

2,038 

5,585 

28,932 

118,839 

157,481 

(349) 

1,043 

158,175 

£m 

 2,146  

 2,099  

 5,836  

 30,234  

 123,755  

 164,070  

(506)  

883 

 164,447  

212  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

14. Loans and advances to customers (continued) 

The Society established the Nationwide Covered Bond programme in November 2005. Mortgages pledged under the Nationwide Covered Bond programme provide security for issues of covered bonds made by the Society. During  
the year ended 4 April 2019, £2.5 billion (sterling equivalent) of notes were issued, and £0.8 billion (sterling equivalent) of notes matured. 

The Society established the Silverstone Master Trust securitisation programme in July 2008. The securitisation programme notes are issued by Silverstone Master Issuer plc and the issuance proceeds are used to purchase, for the 
benefit of note holders, a share of the beneficial interest in the mortgages pledged by the Society and are consolidated into the accounts of the Group. The remaining beneficial interest in the pledged mortgages of £3.9 billion  
(2018: £5.2 billion) stays with the Society and includes its required minimum seller share in accordance with the rules of the programme. The Group is under no obligation to support losses incurred by the programme or holders  
of the notes and does not intend to provide such further support. The entitlement of note holders is restricted to payment of principal and interest to the extent that the resources of the programme are sufficient to support such 
payment and the holders of the notes have agreed not to seek recourse in any other form. During the year ended 4 April 2019 a total of £0.7 billion (sterling equivalent) of notes matured, with no issuances in the period.  

The securitisation programme notes are issued by Silverstone Master Issuer plc and are not included in the accounts of the Society. Silverstone Master Issuer plc is fully consolidated into the accounts of the Group.  

The whole mortgage loan pools are pledged at the BoE under the TFS. Notes are not issued when pledging the mortgage loan pools at the BoE. Instead, the whole loan pool is pledged to the BoE and drawings are made  
directly against the eligible collateral, subject to a haircut. At 4 April 2019, £24.1 billion (2018: £22.8 billion) of pledged collateral supported £17.0 billion (2018: £17.0 billion) of TFS drawdowns. There were no further drawdowns 
during the year following the closure of the TFS drawdown window in February 2018. 

In accordance with accounting standards, notes in issue and held by the Group are not recognised in the Group’s or Society’s balance sheets. Mortgages pledged are not derecognised from the Group or Society balance sheets as the 
Group has retained substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership. The Group and Society continue to be exposed to the liquidity risk, interest rate risk and credit risk of the mortgages. No gain or loss has been recognised on 
pledging the mortgages to the programmes. 

The following table sets out the carrying value and fair value of the transferred assets and liabilities for the Silverstone Master Trust: 

i.

5 April 2018 balances are presented under IFRS 9. Balances have been restated as detailed in note 1 and adjustments made on transition to IFRS 9 are detailed in note 37. 

The maturity analysis is produced on the basis that where a loan is repayable by instalments, each such instalment is treated as a separate repayment. The analysis is based on contractual maturity rather than actual redemption 

levels experienced, which are likely to be materially different. Arrears are spread across the remaining term of the loan. 

At 4 April 2019 
At 4 April 2018 (note i) 

Transferred 
assets 
£m 
6,936 
8,711 

Carrying value 
Associated 
liabilities 
£m 
(3,390) 
(3,993) 

Total 

£m 
3,546 
4,718 

Transferred 
assets 
£m 
6,743 
8,428 

Fair value 

Associated 
liabilities 
£m 
(3,418) 
(4,030) 

Total 

£m 
3,325 
4,398 

Certain prime residential mortgages have been pledged to the Group’s asset backed funding programmes or utilised as whole mortgage loan pools for the Bank of England’s (BoE) Term Funding Scheme (TFS). The programmes have 

enabled the Group to obtain secured funding. Mortgages pledged and the carrying values of the notes in issue are as follows: 

Note: 
i.

Prior year comparatives have been restated to present balances on a consistent basis with the current period. 

The Society holds cash deposited by the Nationwide Covered Bond programme of £0.6 billion (2018: £0.4 billion) and by the Silverstone programme of £0.7 billion (2018: £0.4 billion). 

Repayable: 

On demand 

In not more than three months 

In more than three months but not more than one year  

In more than one year but not more than five years 

In more than five years 

Impairment provision on loans and advances 

Fair value adjustment for micro hedged risk 

Total 

Note: 

Asset backed funding 

Mortgages pledged to asset backed funding programmes 

Group 

Covered bond programme 

Securitisation programme 

Whole mortgage loan pools 

Total 

Notes: 

2019 

Notes in issue 

Held by the Group 

Mortgages 

pledged 

(note ii) 

Held by  

third parties 

(note iii) 

£m 

22,656 

6,936 

24,117 

53,709 

£m 

17,339 

3,051 

- 

20,390 

Drawn 

(note iv) 

£m 

- 

- 

17,001 

17,001 

Undrawn 

(note v) 

Total notes  

in issue 

Mortgages 

pledged 

(note ii) 

Held by  

third parties 

(note iii) 

£m 

339 

- 

- 

339 

£m 

17,339 

3,390 

17,001 

37,730 

£m 

21,000 

8,711 

22,831 

52,542 

£m 

16,035 

3,655 

- 

19,690 

2018 

Notes in issue (note i) 

Held by the Group 

Drawn 

(note iv) 

£m 

- 

- 

17,001 

17,001 

Undrawn 

(note v) 

Total notes  

in issue 

£m 

338 

- 

- 

338 

£m 

16,035 

3,993 

17,001 

37,029 

i.

Prior year comparatives have been restated to present balances on a consistent basis with the current period. 

ii. Mortgages pledged include £5.4 billion (2018: £8.7 billion) in the covered bond and securitisation programmes that are in excess of the amount contractually required to support notes in issue.  

iii. Notes in issue which are held by third parties are included within debt securities in issue (note 18). 

iv. Notes in issue, held by the Group and drawn are whole mortgage loan pools securing amounts drawn under the TFS. At 4 April 2019 the Group had outstanding TFS drawings of £17.0 billion (2018: £17.0 billion). 

v.

Notes in issue, held by the Group and undrawn, are debt securities issued by the programmes to the Society and mortgage loan pools that have been pledged to the BoE but not utilised.

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213  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

15. Derivative financial instruments 

All of the Group’s derivative financial instruments are used to manage economic risk, although not all of the derivatives are subject to hedge accounting. Note 7 sets out the link between economic risk management and the hedge 
accounting applied by the Group. The table below provides an analysis of the notional amount and fair value of derivatives by both hedge accounting type and instrument type. The amount of ineffectiveness recognised for each hedge 
type is shown in note 7. Contract/notional amount is the amount on which payment flows are derived and does not represent amounts at risk. 

Derivatives by instrument and hedge type 

Micro fair value hedges: 
Interest rate swaps 
Bond forwards 
Inflation swaps 

Macro fair value hedges: 
Interest rate swaps 

Cash flow hedges: 

Interest rate swaps 
Cross currency interest rate swaps 
Inflation swaps 

Not subject to hedge accounting: 

Interest rate swaps 
Cross currency interest rate swaps 
Foreign exchange swaps 
Other derivatives 

2019 

Group 

Fair value 

Assets 

Liabilities 

£m 

68 
- 
1 
69 

2 
2 

1,129 
2,023 
34 
3,186 

72 
215 
15 
3 
305 

£m 

178 
58 
14 
250 

882 
882 

26 
232 
- 
258 

21 
91 
80 
11 
203 

Contract/ 
notional 
amount 
£m 

17,054 
2,625 
1,403 
21,082 

128,704 
128,704 

23,031 
7,413 
280 
30,724 

85,526 
26,232 
6,037 
4,301 
122,096 

Society 

Fair value 

Assets 

Liabilities 

£m 

171 
- 
1 
172 

2 
2 

51 
139 
34 
224 

724 
1,474 
15 
3 
2,216 

£m 

181 
58 
14 
253 

882 
882 

2 
113 
- 
115 

731 
891 
80 
7 
1,709 

Contract/ 
notional 
amount 
£m 

13,347 
-  
-  
13,347 

101,741 
101,741 

32,099 
23,551 
280 
55,930 

54,595 
1,870 
1,635 
1,717 
59,817 

2018 

Group 

Fair value 

Assets 

Liabilities 

£m 

452 
- 
- 
452 

266 
266 

873 
2,363 
24 
3,260 

62 
79 
2 
- 
143 

£m 

297 
- 
- 
297 

1,344 
1,344 

287 
254 
- 
541 

77 
39 
27 
12 
155 

Contract/ 
notional 
amount 
£m 

17,152 
- 
- 
17,152 

101,741 
101,741 

7,162 
6,016 
280 
13,458 

77,795 
23,039 
1,635 
1,717 
104,186 

Society 

Fair value 

Assets 

Liabilities 

£m 

374 
- 
- 
374 

266 
266 

39 
16 
24 
79 

711 
1,676 
2 
- 
2,389 

£m 

501 
- 
- 
501 

1,344 
1,344 

180 
199 
- 
379 

574 
909 
27 
12 
1,522 

Contract/ 
notional 
amount 
£m 

12,673 
2,625 
1,403 
16,701 

128,704 
128,704 

47,472 
23,860 
280 
71,612 

63,827 
6,866 
6,037 
4,301 
81,031 

Total 

298,048 

3,562 

1,593 

302,606 

2,614 

2,959 

230,835 

4,121 

2,337 

236,537 

3,108 

3,746 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

15. Derivative financial instruments 

214  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

15. Derivative financial instruments (continued) 

All of the Group’s derivative financial instruments are used to manage economic risk, although not all of the derivatives are subject to hedge accounting. Note 7 sets out the link between economic risk management and the hedge 

accounting applied by the Group. The table below provides an analysis of the notional amount and fair value of derivatives by both hedge accounting type and instrument type. The amount of ineffectiveness recognised for each hedge 

The contractual maturity of derivatives used as hedging instruments in micro fair value and cash flow hedges is provided in the table below. As described in note 1, macro fair value hedges are frequently rebalanced to include new 
business. As a result, these hedges have not been included in the analysis below. 

type is shown in note 7. Contract/notional amount is the amount on which payment flows are derived and does not represent amounts at risk. 

Derivatives by instrument and hedge type 

2019 

Group 

Fair value 

Society 

Fair value 

2018 

Group 

Fair value 

Society 

Fair value 

Assets 

Liabilities 

Assets 

Liabilities 

Assets 

Liabilities 

Assets 

Liabilities 

Contract/ 

notional 

amount 

£m 

12,673 

2,625 

1,403 

16,701 

128,704 

128,704 

47,472 

23,860 

280 

71,612 

63,827 

6,866 

6,037 

4,301 

81,031 

£m 

68 

- 

1 

69 

2 

2 

1,129 

2,023 

34 

3,186 

72 

215 

15 

3 

305 

Contract/ 

notional 

amount 

£m 

17,054 

2,625 

1,403 

21,082 

128,704 

128,704 

23,031 

7,413 

280 

30,724 

85,526 

26,232 

6,037 

4,301 

122,096 

£m 

178 

58 

14 

250 

882 

882 

26 

232 

- 

258 

21 

91 

80 

11 

203 

£m 

171 

172 

- 

1 

2 

2 

51 

139 

34 

224 

724 

1,474 

15 

3 

2,216 

Contract/ 

notional 

amount 

£m 

13,347 

-  

-  

13,347 

101,741 

101,741 

32,099 

23,551 

280 

55,930 

54,595 

1,870 

1,635 

1,717 

59,817 

£m 

181 

58 

14 

253 

882 

882 

2 

113 

- 

115 

731 

891 

80 

7 

1,709 

£m 

452 

- 

- 

452 

266 

266 

873 

2,363 

24 

3,260 

62 

79 

2 

- 

143 

Contract/ 

notional 

amount 

£m 

17,152 

- 

- 

17,152 

101,741 

101,741 

7,162 

6,016 

280 

13,458 

77,795 

23,039 

1,635 

1,717 

104,186 

£m 

297 

- 

- 

297 

1,344 

1,344 

287 

254 

- 

541 

77 

39 

27 

12 

155 

£m 

374 

- 

- 

374 

266 

266 

39 

16 

24 

79 

711 

1,676 

2 

- 

2,389 

£m 

501 

- 

- 

501 

1,344 

1,344 

180 

199 

- 

379 

574 

909 

27 

12 

1,522 

Micro fair value hedges: 

Interest rate swaps 

Bond forwards 

Inflation swaps 

Macro fair value hedges: 

Interest rate swaps 

Cash flow hedges: 

Interest rate swaps 

Cross currency interest rate swaps 

Inflation swaps 

Not subject to hedge accounting: 

Interest rate swaps 

Cross currency interest rate swaps 

Foreign exchange swaps 

Other derivatives 

Total 

298,048 

3,562 

1,593 

302,606 

2,614 

2,959 

230,835 

4,121 

2,337 

236,537 

3,108 

3,746 

Contractual maturity of hedging instruments (contract/notional amount) 
2019 

Group 

Micro fair value hedges 
Interest rate swaps 
Bond forwards 
Inflation swaps 

Cash flow hedges 

Interest rate swaps 
Cross currency interest rate swaps 
Inflation swaps 

Less than  
one year 
£m 

Between one 
and five years 
£m 

More than 
 five years 
£m 

358 
2,625 
233 
3,216 

19,155 
2,017 
- 
21,172 

5,722 
- 
367 
6,089 

16,615 
11,474 
280 
28,369 

6,593 
- 
803 
7,396 

11,702 
10,369 
- 
22,071 

Contractual maturity of hedging instruments (contract/notional amount) 
2018 

Group 

Micro fair value hedges 
Interest rate swaps 

Cash flow hedges 

Interest rate swaps 
Cross currency interest rate swaps 
Inflation swaps 

Less than  
one year 
£m 

Between one 
and five years 
£m 

More than  
five years 
£m 

183 
183 

2,387 
1,831 
- 
4,218 

4,007 
4,007 

17,915 
10,566 
160 
28,641 

9,157 
9,157 

11,797 
11,154 
120 
23,071 

Total 

£m 

12,673 
2,625 
1,403 
16,701 

47,472 
23,860 
280 
71,612 

Total 

£m 

13,347 
13,347 

32,099 
23,551 
280 
55,930 

Society 

Less than  
one year 
£m 

Between one 
and five years 
£m 

More than  
five years 
£m 

1,866 
2,625 
233 
4,724 

14,180 
191 
- 
14,371 

6,276 
- 
367 
6,643 

4,560 
2,985 
280 
7,825 

8,912 
- 
803 
9,715 

4,291 
4,237 
- 
8,528 

Society 

Less than  
one year 
£m 

Between one 
and five years 
£m 

More than five 
years 
£m 

883 
883 

- 
- 
- 
- 

5,715 
5,715 

2,354 
1,260 
160 
3,774 

10,554 
10,554 

4,808 
4,756 
120 
9,684 

Total 

£m 

17,054 
2,625 
1,403 
21,082 

23,031 
7,413 
280 
30,724 

Total 

£m 

17,152 
17,152 

7,162 
6,016 
280 
13,458 

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215  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

15. Derivative financial instruments (continued) 

The weighted average rates of cash flow hedging instruments which achieve fixed rates are summarised in the table below. Fair value and cash flow hedging instruments which do not achieve a fixed rate have not been included in this 
analysis.   

Average rates achieved 
2019 

Cross currency interest rate swaps 
Average EUR/GBP rate 
Average USD/GBP rate 
Average JPY/GBP rate 
Average NOK/GBP rate 
Average HKD/GBP rate 

Interest rate swaps 
Average fixed interest rate (GBP %) 

Inflation swaps 
Average fixed interest rate (GBP %) 
Average inflation rate (RPI index) 

Group 

Society 

Less than  
one year 

Between one 
and five years 

More than  
five years 

Total 

Less than  
one year 

Between one 
and five years 

More than  
five years 

1.24 
1.50 
- 
- 
- 

0.76 

- 
- 

1.29 
1.35 
147.50 
9.19 
11.89 

- 

3.55 
256.07 

1.22 
1.38 
145.41 
11.05 
11.85 

- 

- 
- 

1.26 
1.38 
145.83 
10.59 
11.85 

1.15 
- 
- 
- 
- 

1.15 
1.34 
147.50 
- 
- 

0.76 

0.76 

- 

3.55 
256.07 

- 
- 

3.55 
256.07 

1.12 
1.34 
145.41 
10.88 
- 

- 

- 
- 

Total 

1.14 
1.33 
145.83 
10.88 
- 

0.76 

3.55 
256.07 

16. Deposits from banks and similar institutions 

Deposits from banks and similar institutions are repayable from the balance sheet date in the ordinary course of business as follows: 

Accrued interest 
Repayable: 

On demand 
In not more than three months 
In more than three months but not more than one year 
In more than one year but not more than five years 

Total 

Note: 
i.

Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. 

Group 

2019 

£m 
3 

2,176 
848 
122 
17,000 
20,149 

2018 
(note i) 
£m 
2 

2,430 
952 
52 
17,000 
20,436 

Society 

2019 

£m 
3 

1,118 
848 
122 
17,000 
19,091 

2018 
(note i) 
£m 
2 

1,242 
952 
52 
17,000 
19,248 

For the Group and Society, deposits from banks and similar institutions include £17.0 billion (2018: £17.0 billion) drawn down against the Bank of England Term Funding Scheme (TFS) which is repayable within more than one year 
but not more than five years. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

15. Derivative financial instruments (continued) 

analysis.   

Average rates achieved 

2019 

Cross currency interest rate swaps 

Average EUR/GBP rate 

Average USD/GBP rate 

Average JPY/GBP rate 

Average NOK/GBP rate 

Average HKD/GBP rate 

Interest rate swaps 

Average fixed interest rate (GBP %) 

Inflation swaps 

Average fixed interest rate (GBP %) 

Average inflation rate (RPI index) 

Group 

Society 

Less than  

one year 

Between one 

and five years 

More than  

five years 

Total 

Less than  

one year 

Between one 

and five years 

More than  

five years 

1.24 

1.50 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

1.29 

1.35 

147.50 

9.19 

11.89 

3.55 

256.07 

1.26 

1.38 

145.83 

10.59 

11.85 

3.55 

256.07 

1.15 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

1.15 

1.34 

147.50 

- 

- 

- 

3.55 

256.07 

1.12 

1.34 

145.41 

10.88 

- 

- 

- 

- 

0.76 

- 

0.76 

0.76 

Total 

1.14 

1.33 

145.83 

10.88 

- 

0.76 

3.55 

256.07 

16. Deposits from banks and similar institutions 

Deposits from banks and similar institutions are repayable from the balance sheet date in the ordinary course of business as follows: 

Group 

2019 

£m 

3 

2,176 

848 

122 

17,000 

20,149 

Society 

2019 

£m 

3 

1,118 

848 

122 

17,000 

19,091 

2018 

(note i) 

£m 

2 

1,242 

952 

52 

17,000 

19,248 

Accrued interest 

Repayable: 

On demand 

Total 

Note: 

In not more than three months 

In more than three months but not more than one year 

In more than one year but not more than five years 

i.

Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. 

but not more than five years. 

For the Group and Society, deposits from banks and similar institutions include £17.0 billion (2018: £17.0 billion) drawn down against the Bank of England Term Funding Scheme (TFS) which is repayable within more than one year 

1.22 

1.38 

145.41 

11.05 

11.85 

- 

- 

- 

2018 

(note i) 

£m 

2 

2,430 

952 

52 

17,000 

20,436 

The weighted average rates of cash flow hedging instruments which achieve fixed rates are summarised in the table below. Fair value and cash flow hedging instruments which do not achieve a fixed rate have not been included in this 

Other deposits are repayable from the balance sheet date in the ordinary course of business as follows: 

216  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

17. Other deposits 

Accrued interest 
Repayable: 

On demand 
In not more than three months 
In more than three months but not more than one year 
In more than one year but not more than five years 

Total 

Note: 
i.

Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. 

Group 

2019 

£m 
1 

2,141 
778 
2,138 
16 
5,074 

2018 
(note i) 
£m 
2 

2,344 
628 
1,708 
11 
4,693 

Society 

2019 

£m 
1 

3,686 
778 
2,138 
16 
6,619 

2018 
(note i) 
£m 
2 

3,761 
628 
1,708 
11 
6,110 

Other deposits comprise wholesale and commercial deposits. The Society’s other deposits as at 4 April 2019 include £1,545 million (2018: £1,417 million) of deposits from subsidiary undertakings. 

18. Debt securities in issue 

Certificates of deposit and commercial paper  
Fixed and floating rate notes  
Other debt securities 

Fair value adjustment for micro hedged risk 
Total 

Debt securities in issue are repayable from the balance sheet  
date in the ordinary course of business as follows: 
Accrued interest  
Residual maturity repayable: 
In not more than one year 
In more than one year 

Fair value adjustment for micro hedged risk  
Total 

Group 

Society 

2019 
£m 
7,975 
23,962 
3,363 
35,300 
642 
35,942 

2018 
£m 
5,413 
23,969 
3,959 
33,341 
777 
34,118 

2019 
£m 
7,975 
23,970 
310 
32,255 
99 
32,354 

2018 
£m 
5,413 
23,980 
301 
29,694 
40 
29,734 

167 

157 

156 

148 

12,205 
22,928 
35,300 
642 
35,942 

8,489 
24,695 
33,341 
777 
34,118 

11,424 
20,675 
32,255 
99 
32,354 

7,712 
21,834 
29,694 
40 
29,734 

Debt securities in issue in the Group include £20,390 million (2018: £19,690 million), and in the Society include £16,746 million (2018: £15,312 million), secured on certain loans and advances to customers. Further information is 
given in note 14. 

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217  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

19. Subordinated liabilities 

Senior non-preferred 
3.766% senior non-preferred notes (US Dollar 1 billion)  
1.5% senior non-preferred notes (Euro 1 billion) 
4.302% senior non-preferred notes (US Dollar 0.75 billion)  
4.363% senior non-preferred notes (US Dollar 1 billion) 
3.4675% senior non-preferred notes (Norwegian Kroner 1 billion) 
0.805% senior non-preferred notes (Japanese Yen 1 billion) 
0.9925% senior non-preferred notes (Japanese Yen 4 billion) 
3.875% senior non-preferred notes (Norwegian Kroner 0.3 billion) 
3.9% senior non-preferred notes (Norwegian Kroner 1 billion) 
1.2775% senior non-preferred notes (Japanese Yen 3 billion) 

Tier 2 Eligible 
6.75% subordinated notes (Euro 0.75 billion) 
4% subordinated notes (US Dollar 1.25 billion) 
2% subordinated notes (Euro 1 billion) 
4.125% subordinated notes (US Dollar 1.25 billion) 

Fair value hedge accounting adjustments 
Unamortised premiums and issue costs 
Total 

Issuance date 

Next call date 

Maturity date 

8 March 2018 
8 March 2018 
8 March 2018 
1 August 2018 
5 October 2018 
24 October 2018 
30 October 2018 
13 November 2018 
13 November 2018 
14 November 2018 

22 July 2010 
14 September 2016 
25 July 2017 
18 October 2017 

8 March 2023 
8 March 2025 
8 March 2028 
1 August 2023 

24 October 2023 
30 October 2025 

14 November 2028 

25 July 2024 
18 October 2027 

8 March 2024 
8 March 2026 
8 March 2029 
1 August 2024 
5 October 2026 
24 October 2024 
30 October 2026 
13 November 2028 
13 November 2028 
14 November 2029 

22 July 2020 
14 September 2026 
25 July 2029 
18 October 2032 

Group and Society 

2019 
£m 

766 
858 
575 
769 
90 
7 
27 
27 
90 
21 

673 
957 
867 
973 
6,700 
37 
(31) 
6,706 

2018 
£m 

713 
875 
534 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

686 
886 
889 
904 
5,487 
42 
(32) 
5,497 

Senior non-preferred notes are a class of subordinated liability which rank equally with each other and behind the claims against the Society of all depositors, creditors and investing members other than holders of Tier 2 eligible 
subordinated notes, permanent interest-bearing shares (PIBS), Additional Tier 1 (AT1) instruments and CCDS. The Tier 2 eligible subordinated notes rank equally with each other and ahead of claims against the Society of holders of 
PIBS, AT1 instruments and CCDS. 

During the year the Group issued US Dollar 1 billion, Norwegian Kroner 2.3 billion and Japanese Yen 8 billion of senior non-preferred notes as detailed above. The issuance of senior non-preferred notes will contribute to meeting 
forthcoming minimum requirements for own funds and eligible liabilities (MREL). 

The interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk arising from the issuance of fixed rate and foreign currency subordinated liabilities have been mitigated through the use of derivatives. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

19. Subordinated liabilities 

Senior non-preferred 

3.766% senior non-preferred notes (US Dollar 1 billion)  

1.5% senior non-preferred notes (Euro 1 billion) 

4.302% senior non-preferred notes (US Dollar 0.75 billion)  

4.363% senior non-preferred notes (US Dollar 1 billion) 

3.4675% senior non-preferred notes (Norwegian Kroner 1 billion) 

0.805% senior non-preferred notes (Japanese Yen 1 billion) 

0.9925% senior non-preferred notes (Japanese Yen 4 billion) 

3.875% senior non-preferred notes (Norwegian Kroner 0.3 billion) 

3.9% senior non-preferred notes (Norwegian Kroner 1 billion) 

1.2775% senior non-preferred notes (Japanese Yen 3 billion) 

Tier 2 Eligible 

6.75% subordinated notes (Euro 0.75 billion) 

4% subordinated notes (US Dollar 1.25 billion) 

2% subordinated notes (Euro 1 billion) 

4.125% subordinated notes (US Dollar 1.25 billion) 

Fair value hedge accounting adjustments 

Unamortised premiums and issue costs 

Total 

PIBS, AT1 instruments and CCDS. 

Issuance date 

Next call date 

Maturity date 

8 March 2018 

8 March 2018 

8 March 2018 

1 August 2018 

5 October 2018 

24 October 2018 

30 October 2018 

13 November 2018 

13 November 2018 

14 November 2018 

22 July 2010 

14 September 2016 

25 July 2017 

18 October 2017 

8 March 2023 

8 March 2025 

8 March 2028 

1 August 2023 

24 October 2023 

30 October 2025 

14 November 2028 

25 July 2024 

18 October 2027 

8 March 2024 

8 March 2026 

8 March 2029 

1 August 2024 

5 October 2026 

24 October 2024 

30 October 2026 

13 November 2028 

13 November 2028 

14 November 2029 

22 July 2020 

14 September 2026 

25 July 2029 

18 October 2032 

Group and Society 

2019 

£m 

766 

858 

575 

769 

90 

7 

27 

27 

90 

21 

673 

957 

867 

973 

6,700 

37 

(31) 

6,706 

2018 

£m 

713 

875 

534 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

686 

886 

889 

904 

5,487 

42 

(32) 

5,497 

218  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

20. Subscribed capital 

7.25% permanent interest-bearing shares 
6.25% permanent interest-bearing shares 
5.769% permanent interest-bearing shares 
7.859% permanent interest-bearing shares 
Floating rate (6-month Libor + 2.4%) permanent interest-bearing shares 
6.875% permanent interest-bearing shares 
Floating rate (3-month Libor + 1.5%) permanent interest-bearing shares 

Fair value hedge accounting adjustments 
Unamortised premiums and issue costs 
Total 

Notes 
i 
i 
i 
i 
ii 

Next call date 
5 December 2021 
22 October 2024 
6 February 2026 
13 March 2030 

Group and Society 

2019 
£m 
34 
45 
84 
39 
10 
- 
- 
212 
40 
(2) 
250 

2018 
£m 
34 
45 
84 
39 
10 
10 
3 
225 
40 
(2) 
263 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

Repayable, at the option of the Society, in whole on the initial call date or every fifth anniversary thereafter. If not repaid on a call date, then the interest rate is reset at a margin to the yield on the then prevailing five-year benchmark gilt rate. 
Only repayable in the event of winding up the Society. 

During the year, there were two redemptions of subscribed capital at par. On 6 May 2018 the Group redeemed the £3 million floating rate (3-month Libor + 1.5%) PIBS and on 10 January 2019 the Group redeemed the £10 million 
6.875% PIBS. 

All PIBS are denominated in sterling and only repayable with the prior consent of the PRA. 

PIBS rank equally with each other and the Group’s AT1 instruments. They are deferred shares of the Society and rank behind the claims against the Society of all noteholders, depositors, creditors and investing members of the 
Society, other than the holders of CCDS. 

Senior non-preferred notes are a class of subordinated liability which rank equally with each other and behind the claims against the Society of all depositors, creditors and investing members other than holders of Tier 2 eligible 

subordinated notes, permanent interest-bearing shares (PIBS), Additional Tier 1 (AT1) instruments and CCDS. The Tier 2 eligible subordinated notes rank equally with each other and ahead of claims against the Society of holders of 

The interest rate risk arising from the issuance of fixed rate PIBS has been mitigated through the use of interest rate swaps. 

During the year the Group issued US Dollar 1 billion, Norwegian Kroner 2.3 billion and Japanese Yen 8 billion of senior non-preferred notes as detailed above. The issuance of senior non-preferred notes will contribute to meeting 

forthcoming minimum requirements for own funds and eligible liabilities (MREL). 

The interest rate risk and foreign exchange risk arising from the issuance of fixed rate and foreign currency subordinated liabilities have been mitigated through the use of derivatives. 

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219  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

21. Fair value hierarchy of financial assets and liabilities held at fair value 

As the majority of the Group’s assets and liabilities are held within the Society, the disclosures in notes 21 to 23 are on a consolidated basis. The following tables show the Group’s financial assets and liabilities that are held at fair value 
by fair value hierarchy, balance sheet classification and product type: 

2019 

Fair values based on 

2018 

Fair values based on 

Financial assets 

Government and supranational investments  
Other debt investment securities  
Investments in equity shares  
Total investment securities (note i) 
Interest rate swaps 
Cross currency interest rate swaps 
Foreign exchange swaps 
Inflation swaps 
Swaptions  
Total derivative financial instruments 
Loans and advances to customers (note ii) 

Total financial assets 

Financial liabilities 
Interest rate swaps 
Cross currency interest rate swaps 
Foreign exchange swaps 
Bond forwards 
Swaptions 
Inflation swaps 
Total derivative financial instruments 

Total financial liabilities 

Level 1 
£m 

12,306 
1,202 
- 
13,508 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
13,508 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

Level 2 
£m 

Level 3 
£m 

- 
989 
- 
989 
1,271 
2,238 
15 
35 
3 
3,562 
- 
4,551 

(1,107) 
(324) 
(80) 
(58) 
(3) 
(21) 
(1,593) 
(1,593) 

- 
62 
19 
81 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
129 
210 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

Total 
£m 

12,306 
2,253 
19 
14,578 
1,271 
2,238 
15 
35 
3 
3,562 
129 
18,269 

(1,107) 
(324) 
(80) 
(58) 
(3) 
(21) 
(1,593) 
(1,593) 

Financial assets 

Government and supranational investments  
Other debt investment securities 
Investments in equity shares 
Total investment securities (note i) 
Interest rate swaps 
Cross currency interest rate swaps 
Foreign exchange swaps 
Inflation swaps  
Equity index swaps 
Total derivative financial instruments 

Total financial assets 

Financial liabilities 

Interest rate swaps 
Cross currency interest rate swaps 
Foreign exchange swaps 
Bond forwards 
Swaptions 
Inflation swaps 
Total derivative financial instruments 

Total financial liabilities 

Level 2 
£m 

Level 3 
£m 

Level 1 
£m 

9,592 
1,007 
- 
10,599 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

- 
1,282 
- 
1,282 
1,654 
2,441 
2 
24 
- 
4,121 

10,599 

5,403 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

(2,002) 
(293) 
(27) 
(1) 
(3) 
(7) 
(2,333) 
(2,333) 

Total 
£m 

9,592 
2,330 
3 
11,925 
1,654 
2,441 
2 
24 
- 
4,121 

16,046 

(2,006) 
(293) 
(27) 
(1) 
(3) 
(7) 
(2,337) 
(2,337) 

- 
41 
3 
44 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

44 

(4) 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
(4) 
(4) 

Notes: 
i.
ii. On transition to IFRS 9, certain loans and advances to customers have been classified as FVTPL. Further information is included in note 37. 

Investment securities exclude £1,656 million of investment securities held at amortised cost (2018: £1,120 million of held to maturity investment securities and £1 million of available for sale investments in equity shares). 

The Group’s Level 1 portfolio comprises liquid securities for which traded prices are readily available. 

Asset valuations for Level 2 investment securities are sourced from consensus pricing or other observable market prices. None of the Level 2 investment securities are valued using models. Level 2 derivative assets and liabilities are valued 
from discounted cash flow models using yield curves based on observable market data.  

More detail on the Level 3 portfolio is provided in note 22. 

Transfers between fair value hierarchies 

Instruments move between fair value hierarchies primarily due to increases or decreases in market activity or changes to the significance of unobservable inputs to valuation. There were no transfers between the Level 1 and Level 2 
portfolios during the year. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

220  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

21. Fair value hierarchy of financial assets and liabilities held at fair value 

22. Fair value of financial assets and liabilities held at fair value – Level 3 portfolio  

As the majority of the Group’s assets and liabilities are held within the Society, the disclosures in notes 21 to 23 are on a consolidated basis. The following tables show the Group’s financial assets and liabilities that are held at fair value 

The main constituents of the Level 3 portfolio are as follows: 

by fair value hierarchy, balance sheet classification and product type: 

Investment securities  

2019 

Financial assets 

Government and supranational investments  

Other debt investment securities  

Investments in equity shares  

Total investment securities (note i) 

Interest rate swaps 

Cross currency interest rate swaps 

Foreign exchange swaps 

Inflation swaps 

Swaptions  

Total derivative financial instruments 

Loans and advances to customers (note ii) 

Total financial assets 

Financial liabilities 

Interest rate swaps 

Cross currency interest rate swaps 

Foreign exchange swaps 

Bond forwards 

Swaptions 

Inflation swaps 

Total derivative financial instruments 

Total financial liabilities 

Notes: 

Fair values based on 

Level 2 

£m 

Level 3 

£m 

2018 

Fair values based on 

Level 2 

£m 

Level 3 

£m 

Level 1 

£m 

12,306 

1,202 

13,508 

13,508 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

989 

- 

- 

989 

1,271 

2,238 

15 

35 

3 

3,562 

- 

4,551 

(1,107) 

(324) 

(80) 

(58) 

(3) 

(21) 

(1,593) 

(1,593) 

Total 

£m 

12,306 

2,253 

19 

14,578 

1,271 

2,238 

15 

35 

3 

3,562 

129 

18,269 

(1,107) 

(324) 

(80) 

(58) 

(3) 

(21) 

(1,593) 

(1,593) 

- 

62 

19 

81 

129 

210 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

Financial assets 

Government and supranational investments  

Other debt investment securities 

Investments in equity shares 

Total investment securities (note i) 

Interest rate swaps 

Cross currency interest rate swaps 

Foreign exchange swaps 

Inflation swaps  

Equity index swaps 

Total derivative financial instruments 

Total financial assets 

Financial liabilities 

Interest rate swaps 

Cross currency interest rate swaps 

Foreign exchange swaps 

Bond forwards 

Swaptions 

Inflation swaps 

Total derivative financial instruments 

Total financial liabilities 

Level 1 

£m 

9,592 

1,007 

10,599 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

1,282 

1,282 

1,654 

2,441 

2 

24 

- 

4,121 

(2,002) 

(293) 

(27) 

(1) 

(3) 

(7) 

(2,333) 

(2,333) 

Total 

£m 

9,592 

2,330 

3 

11,925 

1,654 

2,441 

2 

24 

- 

4,121 

(2,006) 

(293) 

(27) 

(1) 

(3) 

(7) 

- 

41 

3 

44 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

(4) 

(4) 

(4) 

(2,337) 

(2,337) 

10,599 

5,403 

44 

16,046 

i.

Investment securities exclude £1,656 million of investment securities held at amortised cost (2018: £1,120 million of held to maturity investment securities and £1 million of available for sale investments in equity shares). 

ii. On transition to IFRS 9, certain loans and advances to customers have been classified as FVTPL. Further information is included in note 37. 

The Group’s Level 1 portfolio comprises liquid securities for which traded prices are readily available. 

Asset valuations for Level 2 investment securities are sourced from consensus pricing or other observable market prices. None of the Level 2 investment securities are valued using models. Level 2 derivative assets and liabilities are valued 

from discounted cash flow models using yield curves based on observable market data.  

More detail on the Level 3 portfolio is provided in note 22. 

Transfers between fair value hierarchies 

portfolios during the year. 

Instruments move between fair value hierarchies primarily due to increases or decreases in market activity or changes to the significance of unobservable inputs to valuation. There were no transfers between the Level 1 and Level 2 

The Level 3 items in this category primarily include £62 million (2018: £44 million) of investments in industry-wide banking and credit card service operations and £18 million of new investments made in Fintech companies during 
the year. 

Derivative financial instruments 

During the year, derivatives economically hedging a small closed portfolio of equity release mortgages were settled upon sale of the associated loans. 

Loans and advances to customers 

On transition to IFRS 9, certain loans and advances to customers have been classified as FVTPL. Level 3 assets in this category include a closed portfolio of residential mortgages and a small number of commercial loans.  

During the year, a portfolio of residential mortgages was transferred from Level 3 to Level 2 after a market price was obtained. These assets were subsequently sold.   

The tables below set out movements in the Level 3 portfolio, including transfers in and out of Level 3. 

Movements in Level 3 portfolio 

Movements in Level 3 portfolio 

Investment 
securities 

Derivative 
financial 
instruments 

Loans and 
advances to 
customers 

£m 
44 
1 
45 

- 
4 
15 
18 
(1) 
- 
81 

£m 
(4) 
- 
(4) 

- 
- 
2 
- 
2 
- 
- 

£m 

247 
247 

8 
- 
6 
- 
(21) 
(111) 
129 

At 5 April 2017 
Gains/(losses) recognised in the income statement, within: 

Net interest income/(expense) 
(Losses)/gains from derivatives and hedge accounting 
Other operating income 

(Losses)/gains recognised in other comprehensive income: 

Fair value movement taken to members’ interests and equity 

Settlements 
Disposals 
At 4 April 2018 

Investment 
securities 

£m 
66 

- 
- 
26 

(18) 
- 
(30) 
44 

Derivative 
financial 
instruments 
£m 
228 

Other deposits 
– PEBs  
(note iii) 
£m 
(810) 

206 
(232) 
- 

- 
(206) 
- 
(4) 

(210) 
233 
- 

- 
787 
- 
- 

At 4 April 2018 
IFRS 9 transition (note i) 
At 5 April 2018 
Gains/(losses)recognised in the income statement, within: 

Net interest income 
Gains from derivatives and hedge accounting (note ii) 
Other operating income 

Additions 
Settlements/repayments  
Transfers out of Level 3 portfolio 
At 4 April 2019 

Notes: 
i.
ii.
iii.

Adjustment on implementation of IFRS 9 as detailed in note 37.  
Includes foreign exchange revaluation gains/losses. 
The PEBs matured in full during the year ended 4 April 2018.  

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221  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

22. Fair value of financial assets and liabilities held at fair value – Level 3 portfolio (continued) 

Level 3 portfolio sensitivity analysis of valuations using unobservable inputs 

The fair value of financial instruments is, in certain circumstances, measured using valuation techniques based on market prices that are not observable in an active market or significant unobservable market inputs. Reasonable 
alternative assumptions can be applied for sensitivity analysis, taking account of the nature of valuation techniques used, as well as the availability and reliability of observable proxy and historic data. The following table shows the 
sensitivity of the Level 3 fair values to reasonable alternative assumptions (as set out in the table of significant unobservable inputs below) and the resultant impact of such changes in fair value on the income statement or members’ 
interests and equity:

Sensitivity of Level 3 fair values 
2019 

Investment securities (note i) 
Loans and advances to customers 
Total 

Income statement 

Other comprehensive income 

Favourable 
changes 
£m 
36 
4 
40 

Unfavourable 
changes 
£m 
(39) 
(5) 
(44) 

Favourable 
changes 
£m 
- 
- 
- 

Unfavourable 
changes 
£m 
- 
- 
- 

Fair value 
£m 
81 
129 
210 

Sensitivity of Level 3 fair values 
2018 

Investment securities (note i) 
Derivative financial instruments 
Total 

Income statement 

Favourable 
changes 
£m 
- 
- 
- 

Unfavourable 
changes 
£m 
- 
- 
- 

Other comprehensive income 
Unfavourable 
changes 
£m 
(35) 
- 
(35) 

Favourable 
changes 
£m 
25 
- 
25 

Fair value 
£m 
44 
(4) 
40 

Note: 
i.

On adoption of IFRS 9 the Level 3 investment securities were classified as FVTPL. The sensitivity analysis on fair values in the table above therefore impacts the income statement in the current period. At 4 April 2018 Level 3 investment securities were 
available for sale assets, with fair value movements recognised in other comprehensive income. 

Alternative assumptions are considered for each product and varied according to the quality of the data and variability of the underlying market. The following table discloses the significant unobservable inputs underlying the above 
alternative assumptions for assets and liabilities recognised at fair value and classified as Level 3, along with the range of values for those significant unobservable inputs. Where sensitivities are described the inverse relationship will 
also generally apply. Some of the significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement are interdependent. Where this is the case, a description of those interrelationships is included below. 

Significant unobservable inputs 

Significant unobservable inputs 

2019 

Total  
assets 

Valuation  
technique 

Significant 
unobservable  
inputs 

Range 
(note i) 

Weighted 
average  
(note ii) 

Units 

2018 

Total  
assets 

Valuation  
technique 

Significant 
unobservable 
inputs 

Range 
(note i) 

Units 

Weighted 
average  
(note ii) 

Investment securities  

Loans and advances 
to customers 

£m 

81 

129 

Discounted  
cash flows 

Discount rate 
Share conversion 

10.00 

12.00 
-  100.00 

11.00 
65.85 

Discounted  
cash flows 

Discount rate 

2.34 

9.00 

4.12 

% 
% 

% 

Investment securities  

£m 

44 

Discounted  
cash flows 

Discount rate 
Share conversion 

10.00 
- 

12.00 
100.00 

11.00 
66.45 

% 
% 

Notes: 
i.
ii. Weighted average represents the input values used in calculating the fair values for the above financial instruments. 

The range represents the values of the highest and lowest levels used in the calculation of favourable and unfavourable changes as presented in the table of sensitivities above. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

222  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

22. Fair value of financial assets and liabilities held at fair value – Level 3 portfolio (continued) 

22. Fair value of financial assets and liabilities held at fair value – Level 3 portfolio (continued) 

Level 3 portfolio sensitivity analysis of valuations using unobservable inputs 

Discount rate 

The fair value of financial instruments is, in certain circumstances, measured using valuation techniques based on market prices that are not observable in an active market or significant unobservable market inputs. Reasonable 

alternative assumptions can be applied for sensitivity analysis, taking account of the nature of valuation techniques used, as well as the availability and reliability of observable proxy and historic data. The following table shows the 

sensitivity of the Level 3 fair values to reasonable alternative assumptions (as set out in the table of significant unobservable inputs below) and the resultant impact of such changes in fair value on the income statement or members’ 

The discount rate is used to determine the present value of future cash flows. The level of the discount rate takes into account the time value of money, but also the risk or uncertainty of future cash flows. Typically, the greater the 
uncertainty, the higher the discount rate. A higher discount rate leads to a lower valuation and vice versa. 

Share conversion 

Sensitivity of Level 3 fair values 

Where the fair value of a security is affected by potential conversion into another instrument, share conversion is factored into the fair value. The higher the share conversion, the higher the valuation and vice versa.  

23. Fair value of financial assets and liabilities measured at amortised cost 

The following table summarises the carrying value and fair value of financial assets and liabilities measured at amortised cost on the Group’s balance sheet: 

Fair value of financial assets and liabilities (note i) 

Financial assets 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 
Investment securities (note iii) 
Loans and advances to customers: 

Residential mortgages 
Consumer banking 
Commercial and other lending 

Total 

Financial liabilities  
Shares 
Deposits from banks and similar institutions 
Other deposits 
Debt securities in issue 
Subordinated liabilities 
Subscribed capital 
Total 

Carrying  
value 
£m 

4,009 
1,656 

185,734 
4,168 
9,020 
204,587 

153,969 
20,149 
5,074 
35,942 
6,706 
250 
222,090 

2019 
Fair values based on 

Level 1 
£m 

Level 2 
£m 

Level 3 
£m 

Total fair 
value 
£m 

- 
- 

- 
- 
- 
- 

4,009 
1,651 

- 
- 
- 
5,660 

- 
- 

4,009 
1,651 

186,151 
4,104 
8,973 
199,228 

186,151 
4,104 
8,973 
204,888 

- 
- 
- 
16,566 
- 
- 
16,566 

153,989 
20,149 
5,074 
20,154 
6,681 
235 
206,282 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

153,989 
20,149 
5,074 
36,720 
6,681 
235 
222,848 

Carrying 
value 
£m 

3,493 
1,120 

177,154 
3,809 
10,630 
196,206 

148,003 
20,436 
4,693 
34,118 
5,497 
263 
213,010 

2018 (note ii) 
Fair values based on 

Level 1 
£m 

Level 2 
£m 

Level 3 
£m 

- 
- 

- 
- 
- 
- 

- 
- 
- 
15,124 
- 
- 
15,124 

3,493 
1,128 

- 
- 
- 
4,621 

147,901 
20,436 
4,693 
19,683 
5,521 
258 
198,492 

- 
- 

176,479 
3,666 
9,570 
189,715 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

Total fair 
value 
£m 

3,493 
1,128 

176,479 
3,666 
9,570 
194,336 

147,901 
20,436 
4,693 
34,807 
5,521 
258 
213,616 

Notes: 
i.
ii.
iii.

The tables above exclude cash for which fair value approximates to carrying value. 
Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. 
The Group holds residential mortgage backed securities under a programme to securitise Bradford & Bingley plc residential mortgage assets. These financial assets are classified as amortised cost in the current period under IFRS 9; at 4 April 2018 they were 
classified as held to maturity investment securities under IAS 39.  

interests and equity:

Sensitivity of Level 3 fair values 

2019 

Investment securities (note i) 

Loans and advances to customers 

Total 

Note: 

Significant unobservable inputs 

2019 

Investment securities  

Loans and advances 

to customers 

Notes: 

Income statement 

Other comprehensive income 

2018 

Income statement 

Other comprehensive income 

Fair value 

Favourable 

Unfavourable 

Favourable 

Unfavourable 

changes 

changes 

changes 

changes 

£m 

81 

129 

210 

£m 

36 

4 

40 

£m 

(39) 

(5) 

(44) 

£m 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

- 

- 

- 

Investment securities (note i) 

Derivative financial instruments 

Total 

Fair value 

Favourable 

changes 

Unfavourable 

changes 

Favourable 

changes 

Unfavourable 

changes 

£m 

44 

(4) 

40 

£m 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

25 

- 

25 

£m 

(35) 

- 

(35) 

i.

On adoption of IFRS 9 the Level 3 investment securities were classified as FVTPL. The sensitivity analysis on fair values in the table above therefore impacts the income statement in the current period. At 4 April 2018 Level 3 investment securities were 

available for sale assets, with fair value movements recognised in other comprehensive income. 

Alternative assumptions are considered for each product and varied according to the quality of the data and variability of the underlying market. The following table discloses the significant unobservable inputs underlying the above 

alternative assumptions for assets and liabilities recognised at fair value and classified as Level 3, along with the range of values for those significant unobservable inputs. Where sensitivities are described the inverse relationship will 

also generally apply. Some of the significant unobservable inputs used in fair value measurement are interdependent. Where this is the case, a description of those interrelationships is included below. 

Total  

assets 

Valuation  

technique 

Significant 

unobservable  

inputs 

Range 

(note i) 

average  

(note ii) 

Weighted 

Units 

2018 

Total  

assets 

Valuation  

technique 

Significant 

unobservable 

inputs 

Range 

(note i) 

Weighted 

Units 

average  

(note ii) 

Significant unobservable inputs 

£m 

81 

129 

Discounted  

cash flows 

Discounted  

cash flows 

Discount rate 

10.00 

12.00 

Share conversion 

-  100.00 

11.00 

65.85 

Discount rate 

2.34 

9.00 

4.12 

% 

% 

% 

Investment securities  

£m 

44 

Discounted  

cash flows 

Discount rate 

10.00 

12.00 

Share conversion 

- 

100.00 

11.00 

66.45 

% 

% 

i.

The range represents the values of the highest and lowest levels used in the calculation of favourable and unfavourable changes as presented in the table of sensitivities above. 

ii. Weighted average represents the input values used in calculating the fair values for the above financial instruments. 

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223  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

23. Fair value of financial assets and liabilities measured at amortised cost (continued) 

The fair values of loans and advances to customers are further analysed, between those impaired and those not impaired, as follows: 

Fair value of loans and advances to customers 

Residential mortgages 
Consumer banking 
Commercial and other lending 
Total 

Non-credit impaired 
(Stages 1 and 2) 

2019 
Credit-impaired 
(Stage 3 and POCI)  
(note ii) 

Total 

Not impaired 

Impaired 

Total 

2018 (note i) 

Carrying 
value 
£m 
184,338 
4,140 
8,983 
197,461 

Fair  
value 
£m 
184,752 
4,076 
8,933 
197,761 

Carrying 
value 
£m 
1,396 
28 
37 
1,461 

Fair  
value 
£m 
1,399 
28 
40 
1,467 

Carrying 
value 
£m 
185,734 
4,168 
9,020 
198,922 

Fair  
value 
£m 
186,151 
4,104 
8,973 
199,228 

Carrying 
value 
£m 
176,459 
3,772 
10,613 
190,844 

Fair  
value 
£m 
175,813 
3,642 
9,556 
189,011 

Carrying 
value 
£m 
695 
37 
17 
749 

Fair 
 value 
£m 
666 
24 
14 
704 

Carrying 
value 
£m 
177,154 
3,809 
10,630 
191,593 

Fair  
value 
£m 
176,479 
3,666 
9,570 
189,715 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

Comparative balances are prepared under IAS 39, and have been restated as detailed in note 1. 
POCI loans are those which were credit-impaired when purchased or originated. 

Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 

Shares, deposits and amounts due to customers 

The fair value of loans and advances to banks and similar institutions is estimated by discounting expected 
cash flows at a market discount rate.  

Investment securities 

The fair value of investment securities is sourced from consensus pricing or other observable market prices. 

Loans and advances to customers 

The fair value of loans and advances to customers is estimated by discounting expected cash flows at rates 
that reflect current rates for similar lending. 

Consistent modelling techniques are used across the different loan books. The estimates take into account 
expected future cash flows and future lifetime expected losses, based on historic trends and discount rates 
appropriate to the loans, to reflect a hypothetical exit price value on an asset by asset basis. Variable rate loans 
are modelled on estimated future cash flows, discounted at current market interest rates. Variable rate retail 
mortgages are discounted at the currently available market standard variable interest rate (SVR) which, for 
example, in the case of the Group’s residential base mortgage rate (BMR) mortgage book, generates a fair 
value lower than the amortised cost value as those mortgages are priced below the SVR. 

For fixed rate loans, discount rates have been based on the expected funding and capital cost applicable to the 
book. When calculating fair values on fixed rate loans, no adjustment has been made to reflect interest rate 
risk management through internal natural hedges or external hedging via derivatives. 

The estimated fair value of shares, deposits and amounts due to customers with no stated maturity, including 
non-interest-bearing deposits, is the amount repayable on demand. For items without quoted market prices 
the estimated fair value represents the discounted amount of estimated future cash flows based on 
expectations of future interest rates, customer withdrawals and interest capitalisation. For variable interest 
rate items, estimated future cash flows are discounted using current market interest rates for new debt with 
similar remaining maturity. For fixed rate items, the estimated future cash flows are discounted based on 
market offer rates currently available for equivalent deposits. 

Debt securities in issue 

The estimated fair values of longer dated liabilities are calculated based on quoted market prices where 
available or using similar instruments as a proxy for those liabilities that are not of sufficient size or liquidity to 
have an active market quote. For those notes for which quoted market prices are not available, a discounted 
cash flow model is used based on a current yield curve appropriate for the remaining term to maturity. 

Subordinated liabilities and subscribed capital 

The fair value of subordinated liabilities and subscribed capital is determined by reference to quoted market 
prices of similar instruments. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

23. Fair value of financial assets and liabilities measured at amortised cost (continued) 

The fair values of loans and advances to customers are further analysed, between those impaired and those not impaired, as follows: 

Fair value of loans and advances to customers 

2019 

Credit-impaired 

(Stage 3 and POCI)  

(note ii) 

Non-credit impaired 

(Stages 1 and 2) 

Carrying 

value 

£m 

Fair  

value 

£m 

184,338 

184,752 

4,140 

8,983 

4,076 

8,933 

197,461 

197,761 

Total 

Not impaired 

Impaired 

Total 

Carrying 

value 

£m 

1,396 

28 

37 

1,461 

Fair  

value 

£m 

Carrying 

value 

£m 

28 

40 

4,168 

9,020 

Fair  

value 

£m 

4,104 

8,973 

Carrying 

value 

£m 

176,459 

3,772 

10,613 

1,399 

185,734 

186,151 

1,467 

198,922 

199,228 

190,844 

Fair  

value 

£m 

175,813 

3,642 

9,556 

189,011 

Carrying 

value 

£m 

695 

37 

17 

749 

Fair 

 value 

£m 

666 

24 

14 

704 

Carrying 

value 

£m 

177,154 

3,809 

10,630 

191,593 

Fair  

value 

£m 

176,479 

3,666 

9,570 

189,715 

Comparative balances are prepared under IAS 39, and have been restated as detailed in note 1. 

POCI loans are those which were credit-impaired when purchased or originated. 

Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 

Shares, deposits and amounts due to customers 

The fair value of loans and advances to banks and similar institutions is estimated by discounting expected 

Residential mortgages 

Consumer banking 

Commercial and other lending 

Total 

Notes: 

i.

ii.

cash flows at a market discount rate.  

Investment securities 

Loans and advances to customers 

The fair value of investment securities is sourced from consensus pricing or other observable market prices. 

The fair value of loans and advances to customers is estimated by discounting expected cash flows at rates 

that reflect current rates for similar lending. 

Consistent modelling techniques are used across the different loan books. The estimates take into account 

expected future cash flows and future lifetime expected losses, based on historic trends and discount rates 

appropriate to the loans, to reflect a hypothetical exit price value on an asset by asset basis. Variable rate loans 

are modelled on estimated future cash flows, discounted at current market interest rates. Variable rate retail 

mortgages are discounted at the currently available market standard variable interest rate (SVR) which, for 

example, in the case of the Group’s residential base mortgage rate (BMR) mortgage book, generates a fair 

value lower than the amortised cost value as those mortgages are priced below the SVR. 

For fixed rate loans, discount rates have been based on the expected funding and capital cost applicable to the 

book. When calculating fair values on fixed rate loans, no adjustment has been made to reflect interest rate 

risk management through internal natural hedges or external hedging via derivatives. 

The estimated fair value of shares, deposits and amounts due to customers with no stated maturity, including 

non-interest-bearing deposits, is the amount repayable on demand. For items without quoted market prices 

the estimated fair value represents the discounted amount of estimated future cash flows based on 

expectations of future interest rates, customer withdrawals and interest capitalisation. For variable interest 

rate items, estimated future cash flows are discounted using current market interest rates for new debt with 

similar remaining maturity. For fixed rate items, the estimated future cash flows are discounted based on 

market offer rates currently available for equivalent deposits. 

Debt securities in issue 

The estimated fair values of longer dated liabilities are calculated based on quoted market prices where 

available or using similar instruments as a proxy for those liabilities that are not of sufficient size or liquidity to 

have an active market quote. For those notes for which quoted market prices are not available, a discounted 

cash flow model is used based on a current yield curve appropriate for the remaining term to maturity. 

Subordinated liabilities and subscribed capital 

The fair value of subordinated liabilities and subscribed capital is determined by reference to quoted market 

prices of similar instruments. 

224  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

24. Offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities 

2018 (note i) 

In accordance with IFRS 7 ‘Financial Instruments: Disclosures’ the following table shows the impact on financial assets and financial liabilities relating to transactions where: 

The Group has financial assets and liabilities for which there is a legally enforceable right to set off the recognised amounts, and there is an intention to settle on a net basis, or realise the asset and liability simultaneously.  
In accordance with IAS 32 ‘Financial Instruments: Presentation,’ where the right to set off is not unconditional in all circumstances this does not result in an offset of balance sheet assets and liabilities. 

•
•
•

there is an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement in place, an unconditional right to offset is in place and there is an intention to settle net (‘amounts offset’), 
there is an enforceable master netting arrangement or similar agreement in place but the offset criteria are otherwise not satisfied (‘master netting arrangements’), and 
financial collateral is paid and received (‘financial collateral’). 

Offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities 

2019 

Gross 
amounts 
recognised 

Amounts 
offset 
(note i)  

£m 

£m 

Net amounts 
reported on 
the balance 
sheet 
£m 

Master  
netting 
arrangements 

Financial 
collateral 
(note ii) 

£m 

£m 

3,973 
1,320 
5,293 

2,649 
1,680 
4,329 

(411) 
(826) 
(1,237) 

(1,056) 
(826) 
(1,882) 

3,562 
494 
4,056 

1,593 
854 
2,447 

(1,363) 
- 
(1,363) 

(1,363) 
- 
(1,363) 

(2,130) 
(492) 
(2,622) 

(198) 
(853) 
(1,051) 

Net amounts   Gross amounts 
recognised 

Amounts offset  
(note i) 

£m 

69 
2 
71 

32 
1 
33 

£m 

4,288 
403 
4,691 

2,506 
945 
3,451 

£m 

(167) 
- 
(167) 

(169) 
- 
(169) 

2018 

Net amounts 
reported on 
the balance 
sheet 
£m 

Master  
netting 
arrangements 

Financial 
collateral 

Net amounts  

£m 

£m 

£m 

4,121 
403 
4,524 

2,337 
945 
3,282 

(1,959) 
- 
(1,959) 

(1,959) 
- 
(1,959) 

(2,157) 
(403) 
(2,560) 

(333) 
(945) 
(1,278) 

5 
- 
5 

45 
- 
45 

Financial assets 
Derivative financial assets 
Reverse repurchase agreements  
Total financial assets 

Financial liabilities 
Derivative financial liabilities 
Repurchase agreements  
Total financial liabilities 

Notes: 
i.

ii.

Amounts offset for derivative financial assets of £411 million (2018: £167 million) include cash collateral netted of £85 million (2018: £3 million). Amounts offset for derivative financial liabilities of £1,056 million (2018: £169 million) include cash collateral 
netted of £730 million (2018: £5 million). 
The balances presented for financial collateral on reverse repurchase agreements and repurchase agreements are less than the financial collateral balances reported in note 13, as the amounts disclosed above are limited to the net amounts reported on the 
balance sheet after amounts offset as shown in the table. 

Master netting arrangements consist of agreements such as an ISDA Master Agreement, global master repurchase agreements and global master securities lending agreements, whereby outstanding transactions with the same 
counterparty can be offset and settled net, either unconditionally or following a default or other predetermined event. 

Financial collateral on derivative financial instruments consists of cash settled, typically daily or weekly, to mitigate the credit risk on the fair value of derivative contracts. Financial collateral on repurchase agreements typically 
comprises highly liquid securities which are legally transferred and can be liquidated in the event of counterparty default. 

The net amounts after offsetting under IFRS 7 presented above show the exposure to counterparty credit risk for derivative contracts after netting benefits and collateral, and are not intended to represent the Group’s actual exposure 
to credit risk. This is due to a variety of credit mitigation strategies which are employed in addition to netting and collateral arrangements. 

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225  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

25. Intangible assets 

Group 

2019 
Cost  
At 5 April 2018 
Additions 
Disposals 
At 4 April 2019 

Accumulated amortisation and impairment 
At 5 April 2018 
Amortisation charge 
Impairment in the year 
Disposals 
At 4 April 2019 

Net book value 
At 4 April 2019 

Group 

2018 
Cost  
At 5 April 2017 
Additions 
Disposals 
At 4 April 2018 

Accumulated amortisation and impairment 
At 5 April 2017 
Amortisation charge 
Impairment in the year 
Disposals 
At 4 April 2018 

Net book value 
At 4 April 2018 

Computer software 

Total computer software 

Other intangible assets 

Goodwill 

Externally acquired 
£m 

Internally developed 
£m 

759 
39 
(23) 
775 

189 
55 
1 
(23) 
222 

553 

1,521 
340 
(185) 
1,676 

761 
232 
109 
(185) 
917 

759 

£m 

2,280 
379 
(208) 
2,451 

950 
287 
110 
(208) 
1,139 

1,312 

£m 

- 
- 
- 
- 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

- 

£m 

12 
- 
- 
12 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

12 

Computer software 

Total computer software 

Other intangible assets 

Goodwill 

Externally acquired 
£m 

Internally developed 
£m 

591 
187 
(19) 
759 

155 
53 
- 
(19) 
189 

570 

1,371 
181 
(31) 
1,521 

590 
189 
13 
(31) 
761 

760 

£m 

1,962 
368 
(50) 
2,280 

745 
242 
13 
(50) 
950 

1,330 

£m 

40 
- 
(40) 
- 

39 
1 
- 
(40) 
- 

- 

£m 

12 
- 
- 
12 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

12 

Total 

£m 

2,292 
379 
(208) 
2,463 

950 
287 
110 
(208) 
1,139 

1,324 

Total 

£m 

2,014 
368 
(90) 
2,292 

784 
243 
13 
(90) 
950 

1,342 

Computer software capitalised during the year primarily relates to the Group’s investment in infrastructure, new applications and software costs to meet the future strategic and regulatory needs of the business. The total cost  
at 4 April 2019 includes £305 million (2018: £281 million) of assets in the course of construction which, to the extent that they are not yet ready for use by the business, have no amortisation charged against them. For all other 
computer software capitalised the estimated useful life of individual assets is predominantly 5 years. 

An impairment loss of £110 million (2018: loss of £13 million) was recognised in the year primarily in respect of assets impacted by the Group’s new technology investment.  

The Society’s intangible assets are as shown above for the Group, except that they exclude the £12 million (2018: £12 million) of goodwill which relates to the acquisition of The Mortgage Works (UK) plc, and which is only recognised 
at Group level. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

25. Intangible assets 

Accumulated amortisation and impairment 

Group 

2019 

Cost  

At 5 April 2018 

Additions 

Disposals 

At 4 April 2019 

At 5 April 2018 

Amortisation charge 

Impairment in the year 

Disposals 

At 4 April 2019 

Net book value 

At 4 April 2019 

Group 

2018 

Cost  

At 5 April 2017 

Additions 

Disposals 

At 4 April 2018 

At 5 April 2017 

Amortisation charge 

Impairment in the year 

Disposals 

At 4 April 2018 

Net book value 

At 4 April 2018 

Accumulated amortisation and impairment 

Computer software 

Total computer software 

Other intangible assets 

Goodwill 

Externally acquired 

Internally developed 

£m 

759 

39 

(23) 

775 

189 

55 

1 

(23) 

222 

553 

£m 

591 

187 

(19) 

759 

155 

53 

- 

(19) 

189 

570 

£m 

1,521 

340 

(185) 

1,676 

761 

232 

109 

(185) 

917 

759 

£m 

1,371 

181 

(31) 

1,521 

590 

189 

13 

(31) 

761 

760 

£m 

2,280 

379 

(208) 

2,451 

950 

287 

110 

(208) 

1,139 

1,312 

£m 

1,962 

368 

(50) 

2,280 

745 

242 

13 

(50) 

950 

1,330 

£m 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

40 

(40) 

39 

(40) 

- 

- 

1 

- 

- 

- 

£m 

12 

- 

- 

12 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

12 

£m 

12 

- 

- 

12 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

12 

Total 

£m 

2,292 

379 

(208) 

2,463 

950 

287 

110 

(208) 

1,139 

1,324 

Total 

£m 

2,014 

368 

(90) 

2,292 

784 

243 

13 

(90) 

950 

1,342 

Computer software 

Total computer software 

Other intangible assets 

Goodwill 

Externally acquired 

Internally developed 

226  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

26. Property, plant and equipment 

Group 
2019 

Cost or valuation 
At 5 April 2018 
Additions 
Transfers (note i) 
Revaluation 
Disposals 
At 4 April 2019 

Accumulated depreciation and impairment  
At 5 April 2018 
Depreciation charge  
Impairment 
Disposals 
At 4 April 2019 

Net book value 
At 4 April 2019 

Group 
2018 

Cost or valuation 
At 5 April 2017 
Additions 
Revaluation 
Disposals 
At 4 April 2018 

Accumulated depreciation and impairment  
At 5 April 2017 
Depreciation charge  
Disposals 
At 4 April 2018 

Net book value 
At 4 April 2018 

Branches and non-
specialised buildings 
£m 

Specialised 
administration buildings 
£m 

220 
9 
6 
(7) 
(6) 
222 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

222 

182 
- 
(6) 
- 
- 
176 

83 
3 
- 
- 
86 

90 

Investment properties 

Plant and machinery 

£m 

9 
- 
- 
- 
- 
9 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

9 

£m 

252 
26 
- 
- 
- 
278 

153 
23 
- 
- 
176 

102 

Branches and non-
specialised buildings 
£m 

Specialised 
administration buildings 
£m 

219 
- 
2 
(1) 
220 

- 
- 
- 
- 

220 

182 
- 
- 
- 
182 

81 
2 
- 
83 

99 

Investment properties 

Plant and machinery 

£m 

8 
- 
1 
- 
9 

- 
- 
- 
- 

9 

£m 

222 
30 
- 
- 
252 

132 
21 
- 
153 

99 

Equipment, fixtures, 
fittings and vehicles 
£m 

948 
136 
- 
- 
(74) 
1,010 

488 
115 
11 
(70) 
544 

466 

Equipment, fixtures, 
fittings and vehicles 
£m 

887 
145 
- 
(84) 
948 

446 
118 
(76) 
488 

460 

Total 

£m 

1,611 
171 
- 
(7) 
(80) 
1,695 

724 
141 
11 
(70) 
806 

889 

Total 

£m 

1,518 
175 
3 
(85) 
1,611 

659 
141 
(76) 
724 

887 

Computer software capitalised during the year primarily relates to the Group’s investment in infrastructure, new applications and software costs to meet the future strategic and regulatory needs of the business. The total cost  

at 4 April 2019 includes £305 million (2018: £281 million) of assets in the course of construction which, to the extent that they are not yet ready for use by the business, have no amortisation charged against them. For all other 

computer software capitalised the estimated useful life of individual assets is predominantly 5 years. 

An impairment loss of £110 million (2018: loss of £13 million) was recognised in the year primarily in respect of assets impacted by the Group’s new technology investment.  

The Society’s intangible assets are as shown above for the Group, except that they exclude the £12 million (2018: £12 million) of goodwill which relates to the acquisition of The Mortgage Works (UK) plc, and which is only recognised 

at Group level. 

Note: 
i.

In the year ended 4 April 2019, a section of land adjacent to a specialised administration building was transferred to branches and non-specialised buildings following the decision to separate and market for sale. 

Group property, plant and equipment at 4 April 2019 includes £2 million (2018: £2 million) of specialised administration buildings held by subsidiary undertakings.  

Property, plant and equipment includes £95 million (2018: £78 million) of assets in the course of construction. 

As at 4 April 2019, branches and non-specialised building includes £15 million of properties which are classified as held for sale (2018: £7 million) 

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227  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

26. Property, plant and equipment (continued) 

Branches and non-specialised buildings are valued annually by independent surveyors. The current use of all branches and non-specialised buildings equates to highest and best use, and there have been no changes to the valuation 
technique during the year.  

IFRS 13 requires that all assets held at fair value are classified according to a hierarchy that reflects the significance of observable market inputs in calculating those fair values. Branches and non-specialised buildings valuations are 
classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. 

27. Provisions for liabilities and charges 

Group 

At 4 April 2018 
Transition to IFRS 9 (note i) 
At 5 April 2018 
Provisions utilised 
Charge for the year 
Release for the year 
Net income statement charge (note ii) 
At 4 April 2019 

At 5 April 2017 
Provisions utilised 
Charge for the year 
Release for the year 
Net income statement charge (note ii) 
At 4 April 2018 

Bank levy 

FSCS 

£m 
24 
- 
24 
(46) 
43 
- 
43 
21 

16 
(37) 
45 
- 
45 
24 

£m 
15 
- 
15 
(6) 
1 
(10) 
(9) 
- 

42 
(26) 
- 
(1) 
(1) 
15 

Customer 
redress 
£m 
221 
- 
221 
(77) 
79 
(64) 
15 
159 

305 
(110) 
34 
(8) 
26 
221 

Other 
provisions 
£m 
13 
1 
14 
(17) 
26 
(4) 
22 
19 

24 
(14) 
6 
(3) 
3 
13 

Total 

£m 
273 
1 
274 
(146) 
149 
(78) 
71 
199 

387 
(187) 
85 
(12) 
73 
273 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

On transition to IFRS 9, an expected credit loss provision of £1 million was recognised in respect of separately identifiable irrevocable loan commitments. 
Of the net income statement charge of £71 million (2018: £73 million), a net charge of £6 million (2018: £25 million) relating to FSCS and customer redress is included in provisions for liabilities and charges, and a net charge of £65 million (2018: £48 million) 
relating to bank levy and other provisions is included in administrative expenses. 

The Group provisions for liabilities and charges include £1 million (2018: £2 million) of customer redress and expected credit loss (ECL) provisions relating to irrevocable loan commitments within its subsidiaries; all other amounts 
relate to the Society. 

Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) 

The FSCS, the UK’s independent statutory compensation fund for customers of authorised financial services firms, pays compensation if a firm is unable to pay claims against it. Following the default of a number of deposit takers, the 
FSCS borrowed funds of approximately £15.6 billion from HM Treasury, the interest on which was charged to firms through the FSCS levy. During the year, UK Asset Resolution (UKAR) sold portfolios relating to Bradford and Bingley 
plc, and repaid the outstanding loan from HM Treasury. There are therefore no further amounts due in respect of this interest levy at 4 April 2019. In common with other financial institutions subject to the FSCS, the Group continues 
to have a potential exposure to future levies resulting from any future failure of other financial institutions and consequential claims which arise against the FSCS as a result of any such failure.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
IFRS 13 requires that all assets held at fair value are classified according to a hierarchy that reflects the significance of observable market inputs in calculating those fair values. Branches and non-specialised buildings valuations are 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

26. Property, plant and equipment (continued) 

technique during the year.  

classified within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. 

27. Provisions for liabilities and charges 

Group 

At 4 April 2018 

Transition to IFRS 9 (note i) 

At 5 April 2018 

Provisions utilised 

Charge for the year 

Release for the year 

Net income statement charge (note ii) 

At 4 April 2019 

At 5 April 2017 

Provisions utilised 

Charge for the year 

Release for the year 

Net income statement charge (note ii) 

At 4 April 2018 

Notes: 

i.

ii.

relate to the Society. 

Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) 

Bank levy 

FSCS 

Customer 

redress 

Other 

provisions 

(46) 

£m 

24 

- 

24 

43 

- 

43 

21 

16 

(37) 

45 

- 

45 

24 

£m 

15 

- 

15 

(6) 

1 

(10) 

(9) 

- 

42 

(26) 

- 

(1) 

(1) 

15 

£m 

221 

- 

221 

(77) 

79 

(64) 

15 

159 

305 

(110) 

34 

(8) 

26 

221 

£m 

13 

1 

14 

(17) 

26 

(4) 

22 

19 

24 

(14) 

6 

(3) 

3 

13 

Total 

£m 

273 

1 

274 

(146) 

149 

(78) 

71 

199 

387 

(187) 

85 

(12) 

73 

273 

Branches and non-specialised buildings are valued annually by independent surveyors. The current use of all branches and non-specialised buildings equates to highest and best use, and there have been no changes to the valuation 

Customer redress  

228  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

27. Provisions for liabilities and charges (continued) 

During the course of its business, the Group receives complaints from customers in relation to past sales or ongoing administration. The Group is also subject to enquiries from and discussions with its regulators, governmental and 
other public bodies, including the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS), on a range of matters. Customer redress provisions are recognised where the Group considers it is probable that payments will be made as a result of such 
complaints and other matters. 

The Group holds provisions of £159 million (2018: £221 million) in respect of the potential costs of remediation and redress in relation to past sales of PPI, issues relating to administration of customer accounts, non-compliance with 
consumer credit legislation and other regulatory matters. 

Other provisions 

Other provisions include amounts for severance costs, a number of property related provisions and ECLs on irrevocable personal loan and mortgage lending commitments. 

Critical accounting estimates and judgements 

Customer redress provisions  

There is significant estimation uncertainty in estimating the probability, timing and amount of any cash outflows associated with customer redress provisions.  

Provision for PPI 

The amount of the provision relating to past sales of PPI is calculated based upon management’s best estimate of complaint volumes, average redress payments, referral rates to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS), uphold 
rates internally and with the FOS, complaint handling costs and response rates from customer contact activity relating to previous sales. The amount provided at 4 April 2019 therefore reflects the compensation and 
administrative costs associated with cases that the Group expects to uphold and the cost of processing invalid claims which the Group expects to receive up to the FCA’s deadline of August 2019.  

At 4 April 2019, the Group held a PPI provision of £80 million (4 April 2018: £159 million). This represents management’s best estimate of future costs, including the expected impact of Plevin v Paragon Personal Finance 
Limited. The principal uncertainty in this calculation is the impact of the ongoing FCA media campaign on complaints volumes in advance of the August 2019 complaints deadline. 

On transition to IFRS 9, an expected credit loss provision of £1 million was recognised in respect of separately identifiable irrevocable loan commitments. 

Of the net income statement charge of £71 million (2018: £73 million), a net charge of £6 million (2018: £25 million) relating to FSCS and customer redress is included in provisions for liabilities and charges, and a net charge of £65 million (2018: £48 million) 

relating to bank levy and other provisions is included in administrative expenses. 

The Group provisions for liabilities and charges include £1 million (2018: £2 million) of customer redress and expected credit loss (ECL) provisions relating to irrevocable loan commitments within its subsidiaries; all other amounts 

Claims (‘000s of policies) (note i) 
Average uphold rate (note ii) 
Average redress per claim (note iii) 

Cumulative to  
31 March 2019 
434 
45% 
£1,070 

Future  
expected  
71 
39% 
£936 

Sensitivity 

10 = £9m 
5% = £5m 
£100 = £4m 

The FSCS, the UK’s independent statutory compensation fund for customers of authorised financial services firms, pays compensation if a firm is unable to pay claims against it. Following the default of a number of deposit takers, the 

FSCS borrowed funds of approximately £15.6 billion from HM Treasury, the interest on which was charged to firms through the FSCS levy. During the year, UK Asset Resolution (UKAR) sold portfolios relating to Bradford and Bingley 

plc, and repaid the outstanding loan from HM Treasury. There are therefore no further amounts due in respect of this interest levy at 4 April 2019. In common with other financial institutions subject to the FSCS, the Group continues 

to have a potential exposure to future levies resulting from any future failure of other financial institutions and consequential claims which arise against the FSCS as a result of any such failure.

Claims include responses to proactive mailing. 

Notes: 
i.
ii. The cumulative average uphold rate of claims includes responses to past proactive mailings. As a result, future expected average uphold rates are forecast to decline as no further proactive mailing activity is anticipated. 
iii. Future expected average redress reflects the expected mix of future claims upheld.  

Other provisions for customer redress 

Provisions for other matters are in respect of issues relating to administration of customer accounts, non-compliance with consumer credit legislation and other regulatory matters, where an outflow is probable. Amounts 
provided are based on management’s best estimate of the number of customers impacted and anticipated remediation. As any new matters emerge, an estimate is made of the outcome, although in some cases uncertainties 
remain as to the eventual costs given the inherent difficulties in determining the number of impacted customers and the amount of any redress applicable. In the case of provisions relating to the administration of customer 
accounts, if the number of impacted customers changed by 10%, the current provision would change by £7 million. Provisions will be adjusted in future periods as further information becomes available. 

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229  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

28. Capital and leasing commitments 

Capital expenditure contracted for but not accrued is as follows: 

Capital commitments at 4 April 

Capital expenditure relating to: 

Intangibles 
Property, plant and equipment 

Total 

Group and Society 

2019 
£m 

51 
58 
109 

2018 
£m 

44 
44 
88 

The Group leases various offices, branches and other premises under non-cancellable operating lease arrangements. The leases have various terms, rent escalation clauses, renewal rights, and in some cases contingent rent payable. 
Future minimum payments under operating leases relating to land and buildings were as follows: 

Leasing commitments at 4 April 

Amounts falling due: 
Within one year 
Between one and five years  
After five years 

Total 

Group and Society 

2019 

£m 

31 
101 
98 
230 

2018 
(note i) 
£m 

30 
96 
96 
222 

Note: 
i.

The prior year values for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable leases have been restated to be consistent with the current year presentation. At 4 April 2018, the reported total future minimum lease payments was £248 million. 

At the balance sheet date, future minimum lease payments receivable under non-cancellable operating leases were as follows: 

Leasing amounts receivable as lessor at 4 April 

Amounts falling due: 
Within one year 
Between one and five years  
After five years  

Total 

Amounts receivable under non-cancellable subleases  

29. Contingent liabilities 

Group and Society 

2019 
£m 

4 
7 
10 
21 

4 

2018 
£m 

3 
7 
3 
13 

4 

The Group does not expect the ultimate resolution of any current complaints, threatened or actual legal proceedings, regulatory or other matters to have a material adverse impact on its financial position. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

28. Capital and leasing commitments 

Capital expenditure contracted for but not accrued is as follows: 

Capital commitments at 4 April 

Capital expenditure relating to: 

Intangibles 

Property, plant and equipment 

Total 

Leasing commitments at 4 April 

Amounts falling due: 

Within one year 

Between one and five years  

After five years 

Total 

Note: 

Amounts falling due: 

Within one year 

Between one and five years  

After five years  

Total 

Amounts receivable under non-cancellable subleases  

29. Contingent liabilities 

Group and Society 

Group and Society 

2019 

£m 

51 

58 

109 

2019 

£m 

31 

101 

98 

230 

2019 

£m 

4 

7 

10 

21 

4 

2018 

£m 

44 

44 

88 

2018 

(note i) 

£m 

30 

96 

96 

222 

2018 

£m 

3 

7 

3 

13 

4 

The Group leases various offices, branches and other premises under non-cancellable operating lease arrangements. The leases have various terms, rent escalation clauses, renewal rights, and in some cases contingent rent payable. 

Future minimum payments under operating leases relating to land and buildings were as follows: 

i.

The prior year values for future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable leases have been restated to be consistent with the current year presentation. At 4 April 2018, the reported total future minimum lease payments was £248 million. 

At the balance sheet date, future minimum lease payments receivable under non-cancellable operating leases were as follows: 

Leasing amounts receivable as lessor at 4 April 

Group and Society 

The Group does not expect the ultimate resolution of any current complaints, threatened or actual legal proceedings, regulatory or other matters to have a material adverse impact on its financial position. 

230  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

30. Retirement benefit obligations 

The Group operates two defined contribution pension schemes in the UK – the Nationwide Group Personal Pension Plan (GPP) and the Nationwide Temporary Workers Pension Scheme. New employees are automatically enrolled into 
one of these schemes, with both schemes being administered by Aviva. Outside of the UK, there are defined contribution pension schemes for a small number of employees in the Isle of Man and Ireland. 

The Group also has funding obligations to several defined benefit pension schemes, which are administered by boards of trustees. Pension trustees are required by law to act in the interests of all relevant beneficiaries and are 
responsible for the investment policy of fund assets, as well as the day to day administration. The Group’s largest pension scheme is the Nationwide Pension Fund (the Fund). This is a contributory defined benefit pension scheme, 
with both final salary and career average revalued earnings (CARE) sections. The Fund was closed to new entrants in 2007 and since that date employees have been able to join the GPP. Further information on the Group’s 
obligations to defined benefit pension schemes are set out below. 

Defined benefit pension schemes 

Retirement benefit obligations on the balance sheet 

Present value of funded obligations 
Present value of unfunded obligations 

Fair value of fund assets 
Deficit at 4 April 

Group 

2019 
£m 
6,375 
8 
6,383 
(6,278) 
105 

2018 
£m 
6,108 
12 
6,120 
(5,775) 
345 

Most members of the Fund can draw their pension when they reach the Fund’s retirement age of 65. The level of pension benefits accrued before 1 April 2011 vary in methodology; however, most are based on 1/54th of final salary 
for each year of service. Pension benefits accrued after 1 April 2011 are usually based on 1/60th of average earnings, revalued to age of retirement, for each year of service (also called CARE). 

On the death of a Fund member, benefits may be payable in the form of a spouse/dependant’s pension, lump sum (paid within 5 years of a Fund member beginning to take their pension), or refund of Fund member contributions. 
Fund members are able to place redundancy severance into their pension. 

Approximately 31% of the Fund’s pension obligations have been accrued by current employees (active Fund members), 37% by former employees (deferred Fund members) and 32% by current pensioners and dependants. The 
average duration of the Fund’s pension obligation is approximately 22 years, reflecting the obligation between current employees (27 years), deferred Fund members (24 years) and current pensioners (15 years). 

The Group’s retirement benefit obligations include £2 million (2018: £2 million) recognised in a subsidiary company, Nationwide (Isle of Man) Limited. This obligation relates to a defined benefit scheme providing benefits based on 
both final salary and CARE, which was closed to new entrants in 2009. 

The Group’s retirement benefit obligations also include £8 million (2018: £12 million) in respect of unfunded legacy defined benefit arrangements. 

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231  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

30. Retirement benefit obligations (continued) 

The amounts recognised in the income statement are as follows: 

Retirement benefit obligations recognised in the income statement 

Defined contribution cost  
Defined benefit schemes 
Current service cost 
Past service cost 
Curtailment gains 
Administrative expenses 

Included in employee costs (note 8)  
Interest on net defined benefit liability (note 4) 
Total 

Group 

2019 
£m 
83 

89 
12 
(7) 
4 
181 
6 
187 

Changes in the present value of the net defined benefit liability (including unfunded obligations) are as follows: 

Movements in net defined benefit liability 

Deficit at 5 April  
Current service cost 
Past service cost  
Curtailment gains 
Benefits paid directly by the Group 
Interest on net defined benefit liability 
Return on assets (greater)/less than discount rate 
Contributions by employer 
Administrative expenses 
Actuarial losses/(gains) on defined benefit obligations 
Deficit at 4 April  

Group 

2019 
£m 
345 
89 
12 
(7) 
(3) 
6 
(370) 
(131) 
4 
160 
105 

2018 
£m 
78 

95 
5 
(9) 
4 
173 
8 
181 

2018 
£m 
423 
95 
5 
(9) 
- 
8 
1 
(152) 
4 
(30) 
345 

Current service cost represents the increase in liabilities resulting from employees accruing service over the year. This includes salary sacrifice employee contributions. 

Past service cost represents the increase in liabilities of the Fund arising from Fund members choosing to pay additional contributions (AVCs or pension credits) to boost their pension benefits. Included in the £12 million past service 
cost in the table above is £9 million representing the Fund’s estimated Guaranteed Minimum Pensions (GMPs) equalisation obligation, following the High Court verdict on 26 October 2018 on GMP equalisation for men and women. 

Curtailment gains are in respect of Fund members made redundant during the year. As an active member pension benefits are linked to the Retail Prices Index (RPI). When a member becomes a deferred member their pension 
benefits are linked from that point to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which reduces the liability. 

Benefits paid directly by the Group relate to a settlement of a retirement benefit obligation for an unfunded legacy pension obligation paid directly by the Group. 

The interest on net defined benefit liability represents the expected interest accruing on the liabilities over the year, offset by the expected interest income on assets. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

30. Retirement benefit obligations (continued) 

The amounts recognised in the income statement are as follows: 

Retirement benefit obligations recognised in the income statement 

Defined contribution cost  

Defined benefit schemes 

Current service cost 

Past service cost 

Curtailment gains 

Administrative expenses 

Included in employee costs (note 8)  

Interest on net defined benefit liability (note 4) 

Total 

Movements in net defined benefit liability 

Deficit at 5 April  

Current service cost 

Past service cost  

Curtailment gains 

Benefits paid directly by the Group 

Interest on net defined benefit liability 

Return on assets (greater)/less than discount rate 

Contributions by employer 

Administrative expenses 

Deficit at 4 April  

Actuarial losses/(gains) on defined benefit obligations 

Group 

2019 

£m 

83 

Group 

89 

12 

(7) 

4 

181 

6 

187 

2019 

£m 

345 

89 

12 

(7) 

(3) 

6 

(370) 

(131) 

4 

160 

105 

2018 

£m 

78 

95 

5 

(9) 

4 

173 

8 

181 

2018 

£m 

423 

95 

5 

(9) 

- 

8 

1 

4 

(152) 

(30) 

345 

Changes in the present value of the net defined benefit liability (including unfunded obligations) are as follows: 

Current service cost represents the increase in liabilities resulting from employees accruing service over the year. This includes salary sacrifice employee contributions. 

Past service cost represents the increase in liabilities of the Fund arising from Fund members choosing to pay additional contributions (AVCs or pension credits) to boost their pension benefits. Included in the £12 million past service 

cost in the table above is £9 million representing the Fund’s estimated Guaranteed Minimum Pensions (GMPs) equalisation obligation, following the High Court verdict on 26 October 2018 on GMP equalisation for men and women. 

Curtailment gains are in respect of Fund members made redundant during the year. As an active member pension benefits are linked to the Retail Prices Index (RPI). When a member becomes a deferred member their pension 

benefits are linked from that point to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which reduces the liability. 

Benefits paid directly by the Group relate to a settlement of a retirement benefit obligation for an unfunded legacy pension obligation paid directly by the Group. 

The interest on net defined benefit liability represents the expected interest accruing on the liabilities over the year, offset by the expected interest income on assets. 

232  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

30. Retirement benefit obligations (continued) 

The £370 million gain relating to the return on assets greater than the discount rate (2018: £1 million loss from returns less than the discount rate) is driven by positive equity returns, positive increases in the value of government bond 
holdings due to falling bond yields and an increase in long term inflation expectations.  

The £131 million of employer contributions includes deficit contributions of £61 million (2018: £152 million), with the remainder relating to employer contributions in respect of future benefit accrual. The Group estimates that its 
contributions to the defined benefit pension schemes (including deficit contributions under the current deficit recovery plan) during the year ending 4 April 2020 will be £126 million.  

The £160 million actuarial loss on defined benefit obligations (2018: £30 million actuarial gain on defined benefit obligations) shown above is due to: 

•

•
•

A £206 million loss (2018: £153 million gain) from changes in financial assumptions, including a 0.05% decrease in the discount rate and a 0.15% increase in assumed Retail Prices Index inflation, both of which increase the 
value of the liabilities. 
A £58 million gain (2018: £97 million loss) due to updating to the latest industry standard actuarial model for projecting future longevity improvements. 
An experience loss of £12 million (2018: £26 million loss) reflecting the difference between previous estimates of long-term inflation assumptions and actual experience. 

Changes in the present value of defined benefit obligations (including unfunded obligations) are as follows: 

Movements in defined benefit obligations 

At 5 April  
Current service cost 
Past service cost  
Curtailment gains 
Interest expense on retirement obligation 
Experience losses on plan assumptions 
Changes in demographic assumptions 
Changes in financial assumptions 
Benefits paid (note i) 
At 4 April  

Note: 
i.

Includes £3 million benefit paid directly by the Group (2018: £nil). 

Changes in the fair value of plan assets for the pension schemes are as follows: 

Movements in plan assets 

At 5 April  
Interest income on assets 
Return on assets (less)/greater than discount rate 
Administrative expenses 
Contributions by employer 
Benefits paid 
At 4 April  

Group 

2019 
£m 
6,120 
89 
12 
(7) 
148 
12 
(58) 
206 
(139) 
6,383 

Group 

2019 
£m 
5,775 
142 
370 
(4) 
131 
(136) 
6,278 

2018 
£m 
6,051 
95 
5 
(9) 
144 
26 
97 
(153) 
(136) 
6,120 

2018 
£m 
5,628 
136 
(1) 
(4) 
152 
(136) 
5,775 

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233  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

30. Retirement benefit obligations (continued) 

The Group offers a salary sacrifice arrangement whereby employee contributions are deducted from pay before their salary is paid each month. Therefore, no employee contributions are reported in the table above; instead all 
employee contributions are reflected in contributions by employer. In line with UK pensions legislation, a formal actuarial valuation (‘Triennial Valuation’) of the assets and liabilities of the Fund is carried out at least every three years 
by independent actuaries. The effective date of the next Triennial Valuation of the Fund is 31 March 2019, from which point the Society and Trustee has 15 months to negotiate, among other things, a new Schedule of Contributions 
and Deficit Recovery Plan. 

The major categories of assets held for the pension schemes, stated at fair value, are as follows:  

Categories of plan assets 

Listed equities (quoted)  
Government bonds (quoted) 
Corporate bonds and other credit investments (quoted)  
Infrastructure (unquoted)  
Property (unquoted)  
Private equity investments (unquoted)  
Cash 
Liability relating to repurchase agreement  
Other assets and liabilities  
Total 

Group 

2019 
£m 
881 
3,846 
591 
312 
612 
380 
294 
(759) 
121 
6,278 

2018 
£m 
813 
3,350 
554 
324 
581 
317 
175 
(469) 
130 
5,775 

The defined benefit pension schemes do not invest in the Group’s own financial instruments or property. 

Assets described as quoted are based on unadjusted prices quoted in an active market and represent Level 1 assets as defined by IFRS 13. All private equity, infrastructure and property investments are Level 3 assets as defined by 
IFRS 13. These assets have been valued using a combination of industry standard approaches, for example discounted cashflow models. 

The Fund’s liabilities are partly hedged by matching assets, primarily government bonds and corporate bonds. In addition, the Fund invests in alternative matching assets such as property ground rents and property leases (included 
in property above) that are expected to generate inflation linked income over the long term. 

The Fund also holds return-seeking assets which are primarily listed equities. These are expected to generate a return over and above the Fund’s liabilities in the long term but may create risk and volatility in the short to medium 
term. 

During the year the Trustee has continued to reduce interest rate and inflation risk in the Fund, purchasing a number of government bonds amounting to a notional £653 million and transacting interest rate and inflation swaps 
amounting to a notional £1.2 billion. These investments have been supported by the utilisation of a repurchase agreement (a loan, collateralised against the Fund’s government bonds), which totals £759 million at the year ended  
4 April 2019 (2018: £469 million), and the sale of other assets, such as corporate bonds. This will reduce volatility from changes to long-term interest rates and inflation expectations. 

The investments are monitored by both the Trustee and the Group to ensure they remain appropriate given the Fund’s long-term objectives. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

30. Retirement benefit obligations (continued) 

The major categories of assets held for the pension schemes, stated at fair value, are as follows:  

and Deficit Recovery Plan. 

Categories of plan assets 

Listed equities (quoted)  

Government bonds (quoted) 

Corporate bonds and other credit investments (quoted)  

Infrastructure (unquoted)  

Property (unquoted)  

Private equity investments (unquoted)  

Liability relating to repurchase agreement  

Other assets and liabilities  

Cash 

Total 

The defined benefit pension schemes do not invest in the Group’s own financial instruments or property. 

Group 

2019 

£m 

881 

3,846 

591 

312 

612 

380 

294 

(759) 

121 

6,278 

2018 

£m 

813 

3,350 

554 

324 

581 

317 

175 

(469) 

130 

5,775 

The Group offers a salary sacrifice arrangement whereby employee contributions are deducted from pay before their salary is paid each month. Therefore, no employee contributions are reported in the table above; instead all 

employee contributions are reflected in contributions by employer. In line with UK pensions legislation, a formal actuarial valuation (‘Triennial Valuation’) of the assets and liabilities of the Fund is carried out at least every three years 

by independent actuaries. The effective date of the next Triennial Valuation of the Fund is 31 March 2019, from which point the Society and Trustee has 15 months to negotiate, among other things, a new Schedule of Contributions 

The principal actuarial assumptions used are as follows: 

Principal actuarial assumptions 

234  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

30. Retirement benefit obligations (continued) 

Discount rate 
Future salary increases 
Future pension increases (maximum 5%) 
Retail price index (RPI) inflation 
Consumer price index (CPI) inflation 

2019 
% 
2.40 
3.25 
3.00 
3.25 
2.25 

2018 
% 
2.45 
3.10 
2.90 
3.10 
2.10 

The assumptions for mortality rates are based on standard mortality tables which allow for future improvements in life expectancies and are adjusted to represent the Fund’s membership. The assumptions made are illustrated in the 
table below showing how long we would expect the average Fund member to live for after the age of 60, based on reaching that age at 4 April 2019 or in twenty years’ time at 4 April 2039. 

Life expectancy assumptions 

Age 60 at 4 April 2019 

Males 
Females 

Age 60 at 4 April 2039: 

Males 
Females 

2019 
% 

27.9 
29.1 

29.0 
30.6 

2018 
% 

28.0 
29.3 

29.2 
30.8 

Assets described as quoted are based on unadjusted prices quoted in an active market and represent Level 1 assets as defined by IFRS 13. All private equity, infrastructure and property investments are Level 3 assets as defined by 

IFRS 13. These assets have been valued using a combination of industry standard approaches, for example discounted cashflow models. 

The Fund’s liabilities are partly hedged by matching assets, primarily government bonds and corporate bonds. In addition, the Fund invests in alternative matching assets such as property ground rents and property leases (included 

in property above) that are expected to generate inflation linked income over the long term. 

Critical accounting estimates and judgements 

Retirement benefit obligations 

The Fund also holds return-seeking assets which are primarily listed equities. These are expected to generate a return over and above the Fund’s liabilities in the long term but may create risk and volatility in the short to medium 

term. 

The key assumptions used to calculate the defined benefit obligation are the discount rate, inflation assumptions (including salary increases) and mortality assumptions. If different assumptions were used, this could have a 
material effect on the reported obligation. The sensitivity of the results to these assumptions are as follows: 

During the year the Trustee has continued to reduce interest rate and inflation risk in the Fund, purchasing a number of government bonds amounting to a notional £653 million and transacting interest rate and inflation swaps 

amounting to a notional £1.2 billion. These investments have been supported by the utilisation of a repurchase agreement (a loan, collateralised against the Fund’s government bonds), which totals £759 million at the year ended  

4 April 2019 (2018: £469 million), and the sale of other assets, such as corporate bonds. This will reduce volatility from changes to long-term interest rates and inflation expectations. 

Change in key assumptions at 4 April 2019 

The investments are monitored by both the Trustee and the Group to ensure they remain appropriate given the Fund’s long-term objectives. 

0.1% increase in discount rate 
0.1% increase in inflation assumption 
1 year increase in life expectancy at age 60 in respect of all members 

(Decrease)/increase in deficit  
from assumption change 
£m 
(139) 
123 
229 

The above sensitivities apply to individual assumptions in isolation. The 0.1% sensitivity to the inflation assumption includes a corresponding 0.1% increase in future salary increases and future pension increases assumptions. 

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235  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

31. Core capital deferred shares  

Group and Society 

At 4 April 2019 
At 4 April 2018 

Number of 
shares 

10,500,000 
10,500,000 

CCDS  Share premium 
£m 
1,314 
1,314 

£m 
11 
11 

Total 
£m 
1,325 
1,325 

CCDS are a form of Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital which have been developed to enable the Group to raise capital from the capital markets. Previously issued Tier 1 capital instruments, PIBS, no longer meet the regulatory 
capital requirements of CRD IV and are being gradually phased out of the calculation of capital resources under transitional rules.  

CCDS are perpetual instruments. They rank equally to each other and are junior to claims against the Society of all depositors, creditors and investing members. Each holder of CCDS has one vote, regardless of the number of CCDS 
held. 

In the event of a winding up or dissolution of the Society and if a surplus was available, the amount that the investor would receive for each CCDS held is limited to the average principal amount in issue, which is currently £129.24 per 
share. 

There is a cap on the distributions that can be paid to holders of CCDS in any financial year. The cap is currently set at £16.36 per share and is adjusted annually in line with CPI. 

A final distribution of £54 million (£5.125 per share) for the financial year ended 4 April 2018 was paid on 20 June 2018 and an interim distribution of £54 million (£5.125 per share) in respect of the period to 30 September 2018 was 
paid on 20 December 2018. These distributions have been recognised in the statement of movements in members’ interests and equity. 

Since the balance sheet date, the directors have declared a distribution of £5.125 per share in respect of the period to 4 April 2019, amounting in aggregate to £54 million. This has not been reflected in these financial statements as it 
will be recognised in the year ending 4 April 2020, by reference to the date at which it was declared. 

32. Other equity instruments 

Group and Society 

At 4 April 2019 
At 4 April 2018 

Total 
£m 
992 
992 

Other equity instruments are AT1 capital instruments with a notional value of £1 billion. AT1 instruments rank equally to each other and to PIBS. They are junior to claims against the Society of all depositors, creditors and investing 
members, other than the holders of CCDS. AT1 instruments bear interest at a fully discretionary, non-cumulative initial rate of 6.875% per annum. Interest is paid semi-annually in June and December. 

An interest payment of £34 million, covering the period to 19 June 2018, was paid on 20 June 2018 and an interest payment of £34 million, covering the period to 19 December 2018, was paid on 20 December 2018. These payments 
have been recognised in the statement of movements in members’ interests and equity. AT1 instruments have no maturity date but are repayable at the option of the Society on 20 June 2019 and every fifth anniversary thereafter.  

Event after the reporting period 

On 24 April 2019, the Society notified investors of its intention to redeem the outstanding AT1 capital instruments in full on 20 June 2019.  

An interest payment of £34 million, covering the period to 19 June 2019, will be paid at redemption on 20 June 2019 and will be recognised in the statement of movements in members’ interests and equity in the financial year 
ending 4 April 2020. The impact on the Group’s capital is explained further in the Solvency risk section of the Business and Risk Report.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

31. Core capital deferred shares  

Group and Society 

At 4 April 2019 

At 4 April 2018 

held. 

share. 

236  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

33. Investments in Group undertakings 

The Society’s investments in Group undertakings are as follows: 

Number of 

shares 

10,500,000 

10,500,000 

CCDS  Share premium 

£m 

11 

11 

£m 

1,314 

1,314 

Total 

£m 

1,325 

1,325 

CCDS are a form of Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital which have been developed to enable the Group to raise capital from the capital markets. Previously issued Tier 1 capital instruments, PIBS, no longer meet the regulatory 

capital requirements of CRD IV and are being gradually phased out of the calculation of capital resources under transitional rules.  

CCDS are perpetual instruments. They rank equally to each other and are junior to claims against the Society of all depositors, creditors and investing members. Each holder of CCDS has one vote, regardless of the number of CCDS 

At 5 April 
Additions 
Reversal of impairment 
Disposals, redemptions and repayments 
At 4 April 

Shares 
£m 
315 
- 
- 
- 
315 

2019 

Loans  
£m 
30,981 
1,431 
- 
(507) 
31,905 

Total 
£m 
31,296 
1,431 
- 
(507) 
32,220 

Shares 
£m 
313 
3 
- 
(1) 
315 

2018 

Loans  
£m 
31,444 
1,018 
2 
(1,483) 
30,981 

Total 
£m 
31,757 
1,021 
2 
(1,484) 
31,296 

In the event of a winding up or dissolution of the Society and if a surplus was available, the amount that the investor would receive for each CCDS held is limited to the average principal amount in issue, which is currently £129.24 per 

The reversal of impairment of £2 million during the year ended 4 April 2018 related to a Group undertaking that held a corporate loan portfolio.  

There is a cap on the distributions that can be paid to holders of CCDS in any financial year. The cap is currently set at £16.36 per share and is adjusted annually in line with CPI. 

A final distribution of £54 million (£5.125 per share) for the financial year ended 4 April 2018 was paid on 20 June 2018 and an interim distribution of £54 million (£5.125 per share) in respect of the period to 30 September 2018 was 

paid on 20 December 2018. These distributions have been recognised in the statement of movements in members’ interests and equity. 

Since the balance sheet date, the directors have declared a distribution of £5.125 per share in respect of the period to 4 April 2019, amounting in aggregate to £54 million. This has not been reflected in these financial statements as it 

will be recognised in the year ending 4 April 2020, by reference to the date at which it was declared. 

32. Other equity instruments 

Group and Society 

At 4 April 2019 

At 4 April 2018 

Total 

£m 

992 

992 

Other equity instruments are AT1 capital instruments with a notional value of £1 billion. AT1 instruments rank equally to each other and to PIBS. They are junior to claims against the Society of all depositors, creditors and investing 

members, other than the holders of CCDS. AT1 instruments bear interest at a fully discretionary, non-cumulative initial rate of 6.875% per annum. Interest is paid semi-annually in June and December. 

An interest payment of £34 million, covering the period to 19 June 2018, was paid on 20 June 2018 and an interest payment of £34 million, covering the period to 19 December 2018, was paid on 20 December 2018. These payments 

have been recognised in the statement of movements in members’ interests and equity. AT1 instruments have no maturity date but are repayable at the option of the Society on 20 June 2019 and every fifth anniversary thereafter.  

Event after the reporting period 

On 24 April 2019, the Society notified investors of its intention to redeem the outstanding AT1 capital instruments in full on 20 June 2019.  

An interest payment of £34 million, covering the period to 19 June 2019, will be paid at redemption on 20 June 2019 and will be recognised in the statement of movements in members’ interests and equity in the financial year 

ending 4 April 2020. The impact on the Group’s capital is explained further in the Solvency risk section of the Business and Risk Report.  

An amount of £807 million is included within both additions and disposals, redemptions and repayments during the year ended 4 April 2018 in relation to the incorporation and subsequent liquidation of a financing subsidiary. 

Subsidiary undertakings 

The interests of the Society in its subsidiary undertakings as at 4 April 2019 are set out below:  

Subsidiary name 
Principal subsidiaries 
Derbyshire Home Loans Limited 
E-Mex Home Funding Limited 
Nationwide Syndications Limited 
The Mortgage Works (UK) plc 
UCB Home Loans Corporation Limited 

Other subsidiaries 
Dunfermline BS Nominees Limited  
First Nationwide  
Jubilee Mortgages Limited  
Monument (Sutton) Limited  
Nationwide (Isle of Man) Limited  
NBS Ventures Management Limited 
NBS Ventures Limited 
Piper Javelin Holding Company Limited 
Piper Javelin No 1 Limited 
The Derbyshire (Premises) Limited 

Notes 

i 
i 
i 
i 
i 

ii  
ii  
ii  
ii 

ii 
ii 
ii 

ii  

  Subsidiary name 
  Dormant subsidiaries 
  Ashton Employment Limited (dissolved on 10 May 2019) 
  at.home nationwide Limited 
  Confederation Mortgage Services Limited 
  Ethos Independent Financial Services Limited 
  Exeter Trust Limited 
  LBS Mortgages Limited 
  Nationwide Anglia Property Services Limited 
  Nationwide Financial Service Limited 
  Nationwide Home Loans Limited 
  Nationwide Housing Trust Limited 
  Nationwide Investments (No.1) Limited 
  Nationwide International Limited 
  Nationwide Lease Finance Limited 
  Nationwide Mortgage Corporation Limited 
  Nationwide Overseas (UK) Limited 
  Nationwide Property Services (NBS) Limited 
  Nationwide Trust Limited 
  NBS CoSec Limited 
  NBS Fleet Services Limited 
  Staffordshire Leasing Limited 

Notes: 
i.
ii.

Audited accounts are prepared for all of the Group’s principal subsidiaries. All principal subsidiaries are regulated entities with the exception of Nationwide Syndications Limited. 
For these companies, the Group has adopted the audit exemption for the year ended 4 April 2019 under Section 479A of the Companies Act 2006. The Society guarantees all outstanding liabilities of the exempted subsidiary undertakings. 

The Society directly or indirectly holds 100% of the ordinary share capital for each subsidiary undertaking. NBS Ventures Management Limited was incorporated on 25 July 2018 and NBS Ventures Limited was incorporated on  
24 September 2018. NBS CoSec Limited was incorporated on 7 January 2019. All of the subsidiary undertakings are limited liability companies, with the exception of First Nationwide which is an unlimited company.

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237  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

33. Investments in Group undertakings (continued) 

The registered office for all subsidiary undertakings, other than those listed in the table below, is Nationwide House, Pipers Way, Swindon, SN38 1NW. 

Subsidiary name 
Ashton Employment Limited 
Dunfermline BS Nominees Limited 
Nationwide (Isle of Man) Limited  

Registered office 
39/40 Upper Mount Street, Dublin 2, 662881 
Caledonia House, Carnegie Avenue, Dunfermline, KY11 8PJ 
5-11 St. Georges Street, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM99 1RN  

There are no significant restrictions on any of the Society’s subsidiaries in paying dividends or repaying loans, subject to their financial and operating performance and availability of distributable reserves.  

The Group has no material shares in associates. Further details regarding the Group’s interests in equity shares are included in note 13. 

Subsidiaries by virtue of control 

Details of consolidated and unconsolidated structured entities are set out in note 34. 

34. Structured entities 

A structured entity is an entity in which voting or similar rights are not the dominant factor in deciding control. Structured entities are consolidated when the substance of the relationship indicates control. 

Consolidated structured entities 

Structured entities are assessed for consolidation in accordance with the accounting policy set out in note 1. The following structured entities are consolidated in the Group’s results: 

Structured entity name 
Nationwide Covered Bonds LLP 
Silverstone Master Issuer plc 
Silverstone Funding (No.1) Limited 

Nature of business 
Mortgage acquisition and guarantor of covered bonds 
Funding vehicle 
Funding vehicle 

Registered office 
Nationwide House, Pipers Way, Swindon, SN38 1NW 
Wilmington Trust SP Services (London) Limited, Third Floor,  
1 King’s Arms Yard, London, EC2R 7AF 

Further details on the activities of the above structured entities are included in note 14. At 4 April 2018, the Group had a controlling interest in Cromarty CLO Limited. Following a deed of termination entered into during the year, the 
Society ceased to have any interests in this entity. As a result, the entity is no longer consolidated as part of the Group as a structured entity.  

Unconsolidated structured entities 

The Group has interests in structured entities which it does not sponsor or control. These largely consist of holdings of mortgage backed securities, covered bonds and CLOs issued by entities that are sponsored by other unrelated 
financial institutions. The entities are financed primarily by investments from investors, such as the purchase of issued notes. 

The Group’s direct interests in unconsolidated structured entities comprise primarily investments in asset backed securities which are reported within investment securities on the balance sheet. The total carrying value of these 
interests at 4 April 2019 is £3,847 million (2018: £3,391 million). Further details on the credit risk that the Group is exposed to in respect of these asset backed securities can be found in the ‘Treasury assets’ section of the Business 
and Risk Report. 

Management has concluded that the Group has no control or significant influence over these entities and that the carrying value of the interests held in these entities represents the maximum exposure to loss. During the year the 
Group has not provided any non-contractual financial or other support to these entities and has no current intention of providing any such support. There were no transfers to or from these unconsolidated structured entities during 
the year.  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

33. Investments in Group undertakings (continued) 

The registered office for all subsidiary undertakings, other than those listed in the table below, is Nationwide House, Pipers Way, Swindon, SN38 1NW. 

Subsidiary name 

Ashton Employment Limited 

Dunfermline BS Nominees Limited 

Nationwide (Isle of Man) Limited  

Registered office 

39/40 Upper Mount Street, Dublin 2, 662881 

Caledonia House, Carnegie Avenue, Dunfermline, KY11 8PJ 

5-11 St. Georges Street, Douglas, Isle of Man, IM99 1RN  

There are no significant restrictions on any of the Society’s subsidiaries in paying dividends or repaying loans, subject to their financial and operating performance and availability of distributable reserves.  

The Group has no material shares in associates. Further details regarding the Group’s interests in equity shares are included in note 13. 

Subsidiaries by virtue of control 

Details of consolidated and unconsolidated structured entities are set out in note 34. 

A structured entity is an entity in which voting or similar rights are not the dominant factor in deciding control. Structured entities are consolidated when the substance of the relationship indicates control. 

34. Structured entities 

Consolidated structured entities 

Unconsolidated structured entities 

and Risk Report. 

the year.  

Structured entities are assessed for consolidation in accordance with the accounting policy set out in note 1. The following structured entities are consolidated in the Group’s results: 

Structured entity name 

Nationwide Covered Bonds LLP 

Silverstone Master Issuer plc 

Silverstone Funding (No.1) Limited 

Nature of business 

Funding vehicle 

Funding vehicle 

Mortgage acquisition and guarantor of covered bonds 

Nationwide House, Pipers Way, Swindon, SN38 1NW 

Registered office 

Wilmington Trust SP Services (London) Limited, Third Floor,  

1 King’s Arms Yard, London, EC2R 7AF 

Further details on the activities of the above structured entities are included in note 14. At 4 April 2018, the Group had a controlling interest in Cromarty CLO Limited. Following a deed of termination entered into during the year, the 

Society ceased to have any interests in this entity. As a result, the entity is no longer consolidated as part of the Group as a structured entity.  

The Group has interests in structured entities which it does not sponsor or control. These largely consist of holdings of mortgage backed securities, covered bonds and CLOs issued by entities that are sponsored by other unrelated 

financial institutions. The entities are financed primarily by investments from investors, such as the purchase of issued notes. 

The Group’s direct interests in unconsolidated structured entities comprise primarily investments in asset backed securities which are reported within investment securities on the balance sheet. The total carrying value of these 

interests at 4 April 2019 is £3,847 million (2018: £3,391 million). Further details on the credit risk that the Group is exposed to in respect of these asset backed securities can be found in the ‘Treasury assets’ section of the Business 

Management has concluded that the Group has no control or significant influence over these entities and that the carrying value of the interests held in these entities represents the maximum exposure to loss. During the year the 

Group has not provided any non-contractual financial or other support to these entities and has no current intention of providing any such support. There were no transfers to or from these unconsolidated structured entities during 

238  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

35. Related party transactions 

Subsidiary, parent and ultimate controlling party 

The Group is controlled by Nationwide Building Society, the ultimate parent, which is registered in England and Wales. Details of subsidiary undertakings are shown in note 33. 

Key management personnel compensation 

Members of the Executive Committee (including executive directors), together with the non-executive directors of the Society, are considered to be the key management personnel as defined by IAS 24 ‘Related Party Disclosures’. 
Total compensation for key management personnel for the year was as follows: 

Key management personnel compensation 

Short term employee benefits 
Other long-term benefits 
Termination benefits 
Share based payments 
Total  

2019 

£’000 
8,775 
1,914 
- 
1,881 
12,570 

2018 
(note i) 
£’000 
9,415 
2,021 
440 
2,468 
14,344 

Note: 
i.

Prior year comparatives have been updated to reflect a change to the Group’s definition of key management personnel, which previously included only the Society’s executive and non executive directors.   

Other long-term benefits include amounts relating to long-term bonus schemes, some of which will be paid in future periods. Further information on these can be found in note 8. Share based payments include amounts that are 
dependent on the performance of the CCDS. Further information is included in the Report of the directors on remuneration.  

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239  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

35. Related party transactions (continued) 

Transactions with related parties 

A number of transactions are entered into with related parties in the normal course of business. These include derivatives, loans, deposits and the payment and recharge of administrative expenses. The outstanding balances for other 
related party transactions at the year end, and the associated income and expenses for the year are as follows: 

Transactions with related parties 

Loans payable to the Society 
Loans outstanding at 5 April 
Loans issued during the year 
Loan impairment release 
Loan repayments during the year 
Loans outstanding at 4 April  

Deposits payable by the Society 
Deposits outstanding at 5 April 
Deposits placed during the year 
Deposit repayments during the year 
Deposits outstanding at 4 April  

Net interest income 
Interest receivable  
Interest expense 

Other income and expenses 
Fees and expenses paid to the Society 

Other balance sheet items 
Accrued income and expenses prepaid due to the Society 
Other liabilities payable by the Society 

Society subsidiaries 

Key management personnel 

2019 

£m 

30,981 
1,431 
- 
(507) 
31,905 

1,417 
280 
(152) 
1,545 

783 
48 

19 

1,114 
2,282 

2018 

£m 

31,444 
1,018 
2 
(1,483) 
30,981 

1,569 
18 
(170) 
1,417 

756 
34 

17 

1,370 
3,207 

2019 

£m 

2.9 
0.6 
- 
(2.0) 
1.5 

4.7 
8.0 
(8.4) 
4.3 

- 
- 

- 

- 
- 

2018 
(note i) 
£m 

2.6 
1.2 
- 
(0.9) 
2.9 

3.3 
13.4 
(12.0) 
4.7 

0.1 
- 

- 

- 
- 

Note: 
i.

Prior year comparatives have been updated to reflect a change to the Group’s definition of key management personnel, which previously included only the Society’s executive and non executive directors.   

Loans issued and loan repayments during the year ended 4 April 2018 included £807 million in relation to the incorporation of a new financing subsidiary which was subsequently liquidated. 

Transactions with key management personnel 

Transactions with key management personnel are on the same terms and conditions applicable to other employees within the Group. A register is maintained by the Society containing details of loans, transactions and arrangements 
made between the Society or its subsidiary undertakings and directors of the Society or persons connected with directors of the Society. 

The register will be available for inspection by members at the Annual General Meeting on 18 July 2019 and during normal office hours at the Society’s principal office (Nationwide House, Pipers Way, Swindon, SN38 1NW) during the 
period of 15 days prior to the meeting. 

Transactions with Group companies 

Transactions with Group companies arise in the normal course of business. Interest on outstanding loans and deposits accrues at a transfer price rate agreed between the Society and its subsidiary undertakings. The Society does not 
charge the net defined benefit cost to the subsidiary undertakings that participate in the Nationwide Pension Fund. The pension cost to these subsidiary undertakings equals the contributions payable to the Fund.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
A number of transactions are entered into with related parties in the normal course of business. These include derivatives, loans, deposits and the payment and recharge of administrative expenses. The outstanding balances for other 

related party transactions at the year end, and the associated income and expenses for the year are as follows: 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

35. Related party transactions (continued) 

Transactions with related parties 

Transactions with related parties 

Loans payable to the Society 

Loans outstanding at 5 April 

Loans issued during the year 

Loan impairment release 

Loan repayments during the year 

Loans outstanding at 4 April  

Deposits payable by the Society 

Deposits outstanding at 5 April 

Deposits placed during the year 

Deposit repayments during the year 

Deposits outstanding at 4 April  

Net interest income 

Interest receivable  

Interest expense 

Other income and expenses 

Fees and expenses paid to the Society 

Other balance sheet items 

Accrued income and expenses prepaid due to the Society 

Other liabilities payable by the Society 

Note: 

Transactions with key management personnel 

period of 15 days prior to the meeting. 

Transactions with Group companies 

Society subsidiaries 

Key management personnel 

2019 

£m 

30,981 

1,431 

- 

(507) 

31,905 

1,417 

280 

(152) 

1,545 

783 

48 

19 

1,114 

2,282 

2018 

£m 

31,444 

1,018 

2 

(1,483) 

30,981 

1,569 

18 

(170) 

1,417 

756 

34 

17 

1,370 

3,207 

2019 

£m 

2.9 

0.6 

- 

(2.0) 

1.5 

4.7 

8.0 

(8.4) 

4.3 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

2018 

(note i) 

£m 

2.6 

1.2 

- 

(0.9) 

2.9 

3.3 

13.4 

(12.0) 

4.7 

0.1 

- 

- 

- 

- 

i.

Prior year comparatives have been updated to reflect a change to the Group’s definition of key management personnel, which previously included only the Society’s executive and non executive directors.   

Loans issued and loan repayments during the year ended 4 April 2018 included £807 million in relation to the incorporation of a new financing subsidiary which was subsequently liquidated. 

240  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

36. Notes to the cash flow statements  

Non-cash items included in profit before tax (note i) 

Net increase in impairment provisions 
Net decrease in provisions for liabilities and charges 
Impairment recoveries on investment securities 
Depreciation, amortisation and impairment 
Profit on sale of property, plant and equipment 
Loss on the revaluation of property, plant and equipment 
Gain on the revaluation of investment properties 
Interest on debt securities in issue 
Interest on subordinated liabilities 
Interest on subscribed capital 
(Gains)/losses from derivatives and hedge accounting 
Total 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities (note i) 
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 
Net derivative financial instruments and fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk  
Loans and advances to customers (note ii) 
Other operating assets 
Shares 
Deposits from banks and similar institutions, customers and others 
Debt securities in issue 
Deferred taxation  
Retirement benefit obligations 
Other operating liabilities 
Total 

Cash and cash equivalents  
Cash  
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions repayable in 3 months or less (notes ii and iii) 
Total 

Group 

Society 

2019 
£m 
36 
(75) 
- 
549 
(2) 
4 
- 
673 
238 
14 
(36) 
1,401 

(302) 
(340) 
(7,666) 
(487) 
5,966 
94 
(243) 
186 
(240) 
518 
(2,514) 

12,493 
3,363 
15,856 

2018 
£m 
20 
(114) 
(2) 
397 
(1) 
-  
(1) 
712 
175 
15 
1 
1,202 

17 
679 
(4,247) 
970 
3,461 
7,560 
(815) 
(46) 
(78) 
(246) 
7,255 

2019 
£m 
61 
(74) 
-  
549 
(2) 
4 
 - 
612 
238 
14 
7 
1,409 

(302) 
(681) 
(6,421) 
(1,148) 
5,966 
352 
(108) 
98 
(239) 
(391) 
(2,874) 

14,361 
3,149 
17,510 

        12,493  
         3,348  
         15,841  

2018 
£m 
21 
(115) 
(2) 
397 
(1) 
-  
(1) 
669 
175 
15 
26 
1,184 

17 
569 
(4,301) 
1,175 
3,461 
7,391 
(583) 
-  
(77) 
160 
7,812 

14,361 
3,133 
17,494 

IFRS 9 transition adjustments (as detailed in note 37) have been excluded from movements in balance sheet items. 

Notes: 
i.
ii. Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. 
iii. Cash equivalents include £1,982 million (2018: £2,071 million) of cash collateral posted with banking and similar counterparties. 

Transactions with key management personnel are on the same terms and conditions applicable to other employees within the Group. A register is maintained by the Society containing details of loans, transactions and arrangements 

made between the Society or its subsidiary undertakings and directors of the Society or persons connected with directors of the Society. 

The register will be available for inspection by members at the Annual General Meeting on 18 July 2019 and during normal office hours at the Society’s principal office (Nationwide House, Pipers Way, Swindon, SN38 1NW) during the 

The Group is required to maintain balances with the Bank of England and certain other central banks which, at 4 April 2019, amounted to £570 million (2018: £344 million). These balances are included within loans and advances to 
banks and similar institutions on the balance sheet and are not included in the cash and cash equivalents in the cash flow statement as they are not liquid in nature. 

Transactions with Group companies arise in the normal course of business. Interest on outstanding loans and deposits accrues at a transfer price rate agreed between the Society and its subsidiary undertakings. The Society does not 

charge the net defined benefit cost to the subsidiary undertakings that participate in the Nationwide Pension Fund. The pension cost to these subsidiary undertakings equals the contributions payable to the Fund.

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241  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

36. Notes to the cash flow statements (continued) 

Liabilities arising from financing activities 
Group 

At 5 April 
Issuances 
Redemptions 
Foreign exchange 
Fair value and other movements 
At 4 April 

Liabilities arising from financing activities 
Society 

At 5 April 
Issuances 
Redemptions 
Foreign exchange 
Fair value and other movements 
At 4 April 

2019 

Debt securities 
in issue 
£m 
 34,118  
27,956 
(25,970) 
(44) 
(118) 
35,942 

Subordinated 
liabilities 
£m 
 5,497  
1,029 
- 
172 
8 
6,706 

2019 

Debt securities 
in issue 
£m 
29,734 
27,956 
(25,288) 
(117) 
69 
32,354 

Subordinated 
liabilities 
£m 
5,497 
1,029 
- 
172 
8 
6,706 

Subscribed 
capital 
£m 
 263  
- 
(13) 
- 
- 
250 

Subscribed 
capital 
£m 
263 
- 
(13) 
- 
- 
250 

Total 

£m 
39,878  
28,985 
(25,983) 
128 
(110) 
42,898 

Debt securities 
in issue 
£m 
40,339 
22,298 
(27,737) 
(474) 
(308) 
34,118 

Total 

£m 
35,494 
28,985 
(25,301) 
55 
77 
39,310 

Debt securities 
in issue 
£m 
35,872 
21,389 
(26,970) 
(361) 
(196) 
29,734 

2018 

Subordinated 
liabilities 
£m 
2,940 
3,995 
(1,251) 
(201) 
14 
5,497 

2018 

Subordinated 
liabilities 
£m 
2,945 
3,995 
(1,251) 
(201) 
9 
5,497 

Subscribed 
capital 
£m 
279 
- 
- 
- 
(16) 
263 

Subscribed 
capital 
£m 
279 
- 
- 
- 
(16) 
263 

Total 

£m 
43,558 
26,293 
(28,988) 
(675) 
(310) 
39,878 

Total 

£m 
39,096 
25,384 
(28,221) 
(562) 
(203) 
35,494 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

36. Notes to the cash flow statements (continued) 

Liabilities arising from financing activities 

Group 

At 5 April 

Issuances 

Redemptions 

Foreign exchange 

Fair value and other movements 

At 4 April 

Liabilities arising from financing activities 

Society 

At 5 April 

Issuances 

Redemptions 

Foreign exchange 

Fair value and other movements 

At 4 April 

Debt securities 

Subordinated 

liabilities 

Subscribed 

capital 

2019 

Total 

Debt securities 

Subordinated 

2018 

Subscribed 

capital 

in issue 

£m 

 34,118  

27,956 

(25,970) 

(44) 

(118) 

35,942 

in issue 

£m 

29,734 

27,956 

(25,288) 

(117) 

69 

32,354 

£m 

 5,497  

1,029 

- 

172 

8 

6,706 

£m 

5,497 

1,029 

- 

172 

8 

6,706 

£m 

 263  

(13) 

- 

- 

- 

250 

£m 

263 

(13) 

- 

- 

- 

250 

£m 

39,878  

28,985 

(25,983) 

128 

(110) 

42,898 

£m 

35,494 

28,985 

(25,301) 

55 

77 

39,310 

in issue 

£m 

40,339 

22,298 

(27,737) 

(474) 

(308) 

34,118 

in issue 

£m 

35,872 

21,389 

(26,970) 

(361) 

(196) 

29,734 

liabilities 

£m 

2,940 

3,995 

(1,251) 

(201) 

14 

5,497 

liabilities 

£m 

2,945 

3,995 

(1,251) 

(201) 

9 

5,497 

Debt securities 

Subordinated 

liabilities 

Subscribed 

capital 

2019 

Total 

Debt securities 

Subordinated 

2018 

Subscribed 

capital 

Total 

£m 

43,558 

26,293 

(28,988) 

(675) 

(310) 

39,878 

Total 

£m 

39,096 

25,384 

(28,221) 

(562) 

(203) 

35,494 

£m 

279 

- 

- 

- 

(16) 

263 

£m 

279 

- 

- 

- 

(16) 

263 

242  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

37. Adoption of IFRS 9 

The Group has adopted IFRS 9 from 5 April 2018. As permitted by IFRS 9, comparatives have not been restated following adoption. The following tables summarise the adjustments to the Group’s and the Society’s balance sheet at 
5 April 2018. 

Group 

Assets 
Cash  
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 
Investment securities  
Investment securities  
Investment securities  
Derivative financial instruments 
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 
Loans and advances to customers 
Loans and advances to customers 
Assets not affected by changes arising from IFRS 9 
Deferred tax 
Total assets 

Liabilities 
Liabilities not affected by changes arising from IFRS 9 
Provisions for liabilities and charges 
Total liabilities 

Members’ interests and equity 
Capital and reserves not impacted by changes arising from IFRS 9 
General reserve  
Fair value through other comprehensive income reserve  
Available for sale reserve 
Total members’ interests and equity 
Total members’ interests, equity and liabilities 

IAS 39 category 

IFRS 9 category 

Amortised cost 
Amortised cost 
AFS 
AFS 
Amortised cost 
FVTPL 
Amortised cost 
Amortised cost 
Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 
Amortised cost 
FVOCI 
FVTPL 
Amortised cost 
FVTPL 
Amortised cost 
Amortised cost 
FVTPL 

Notes 

ii 
ii 

iii 
iv, v, vi 
iv, vii 

viii 

ix 

x 
x 
x 

As at  
4 April 2018 
(note i) 
£m 

14,361 
3,493 
11,926 
- 
1,120 
4,121 
(109) 
191,593 
- 
2,495 
98 
229,098 

216,422 
273 
216,695 

2,377 
9,951 

75 
12,403 
229,098 

Classification 

Measurement 

Impairment 

£m 

- 
- 
(45) 
45 
- 
- 
- 
(246) 
246 
- 
- 
- 

- 
- 
- 

- 
13 
62 
(75) 
- 
- 

£m 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
(35) 
(2) 
1 
- 
8 
(28) 

- 
- 
- 

- 
(28) 
- 
- 
(28) 
(28) 

£m 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
(171) 
- 
- 
38 
(133) 

- 
1 
1 

- 
(134) 
- 
- 
(134) 
(133) 

As at  
5 April 2018 
(note i) 
£m 

14,361 
3,493 
11,881 
45 
1,120 
4,121 
(144) 
191,174 
247 
2,495 
144 
228,937 

216,422 
274 
216,696 

2,377 
9,802 
62 

12,241 
228,937 

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243  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

37. Adoption of IFRS 9 (continued) 

Society 

Assets 
Cash  
Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 
Investment securities  
Investment securities  
Investment securities  
Derivative financial instruments 
Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 
Loans and advances to customers 
Loans and advances to customers 
Assets not affected by changes arising from IFRS 9 
Deferred tax 
Total assets 

Liabilities 
Liabilities not affected by changes arising from IFRS 9 
Provisions for liabilities and charges 
Total liabilities 

Members’ interests and equity 
Capital and reserves not impacted by changes arising from IFRS 9 
General reserve  
Fair value through other comprehensive income reserve  
Available for sale reserve 
Total members’ interests and equity 
Total members’ interests, equity and liabilities 

Notes 

ii 
ii 

iii 
iv, vi 
iv, vii 

viii 

ix 

x 
x 
x 

IAS 39 category 

IFRS 9 category 

As at  
4 April 2018 
(note i) 
£m 

Amortised cost 
Amortised cost 
AFS 
AFS 
Amortised cost 
FVTPL 
Amortised cost 
Amortised cost 
Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 
Amortised cost 
FVOCI 
FVTPL 
Amortised cost 
FVTPL 
Amortised cost 
Amortised cost 
FVTPL 

14,361 
3,477 
11,926 
- 
1,120 
3,108 
(109) 
158,175 
- 
35,150 
95 
227,303 

216,797 
271 
217,068 

2,272 
7,883 

80 
10,235 
227,303 

Classification 

Measurement 

Impairment 

£m 

- 
- 
(45) 
45 
- 
- 
- 
(231) 
231 
- 
- 
- 

- 
- 
- 

- 
13 
67 
(80) 
- 
- 

£m 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
(35) 
3 
5 
- 
8 
(19) 

- 
- 
- 

- 
(19) 
- 
- 
(19) 
(19) 

£m 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
(96) 
- 
- 
24 
(72) 

- 
1 
1 

- 
(73) 
- 
- 
(73) 
(72) 

As at  
5 April 2018 
(note i) 
£m 

14,361 
3,477 
11,881 
45 
1,120 
3,108 
(144) 
157,851 
236 
35,150 
127 
227,212 

216,797 
272 
217,069 

2,272 
7,804 
67 

10,143 
227,212 

Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. 
Includes a debt security that has been transferred from available for sale investment securities to FVTPL due to its contractual cash flow characteristics.  
The reduction in fair value for portfolio hedged risk relates to the removal of fair value hedge accounting adjustments for loans that have been reclassified from amortised cost to FVTPL, and which therefore no longer qualify for hedge accounting.  
The reduction of amortised cost loans and advances to customers under IAS 39 relates to loans reclassified under IFRS 9 as FVTPL due to their contractual cash flow characteristics.  
£2 million is the net impact of the transitional lifetime ECL adjustment on the balance sheet carrying value of POCI loans, and the adjustment to credit impaired loans to restore the carrying value to the contractual amount owed.  
The reduction of the amortised cost loans and advances to customers due to impairment (Group: £171 million, Society: £96 million) is the difference between IFRS 9 ECL impairment and the IAS 39 incurred loss provisions.  

Notes:  
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
vi.
vii. Group carrying values of FVTPL loans and advances to customers increased by £1 million (Society: £5 million) on transition to IFRS 9.  
viii. The valuation of the deferred tax assets recognised on adoption of IFRS 9 reflects HMRC’s legislation that the tax effect of the impact on adoption of IFRS 9 should be realised over the ten years following adoption. Deferred tax is determined using tax rates 

and laws that are expected to apply in the period when the deferred tax asset is realised based on rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date, including the banking surcharge when applicable.  

ix. An additional £1 million has been provided separately within provisions for liabilities and charges. This relates to provisions against separately identifiable irrevocable commitments for the pipeline of personal loans, commercial loans and mortgages. 

Overdrafts and credit card commitments are provided for within the ECL provision models, with allowance for future drawdowns made as part of the exposure at default (EAD) element of the ECL calculation for each account.  
The transfer from the FVOCI reserve to general reserve relates to the accumulated AFS reserve in respect of financial instruments that have been reclassified from AFS to FVTPL. 

x.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

37. Adoption of IFRS 9 (continued) 

Society 

Assets 

Cash  

Deferred tax 

Total assets 

Liabilities 

Loans and advances to banks and similar institutions 

Investment securities  

Investment securities  

Investment securities  

Derivative financial instruments 

Fair value adjustment for portfolio hedged risk 

Loans and advances to customers 

Loans and advances to customers 

Assets not affected by changes arising from IFRS 9 

Liabilities not affected by changes arising from IFRS 9 

Provisions for liabilities and charges 

Total liabilities 

Members’ interests and equity 

Capital and reserves not impacted by changes arising from IFRS 9 

General reserve  

Fair value through other comprehensive income reserve  

Available for sale reserve 

Total members’ interests and equity 

Total members’ interests, equity and liabilities 

IAS 39 category 

IFRS 9 category 

As at  

Classification 

Measurement 

Impairment 

4 April 2018 

(note i) 

£m 

£m 

£m 

£m 

As at  

5 April 2018 

(note i) 

£m 

Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 

AFS 

AFS 

FVTPL 

FVOCI 

FVTPL 

FVTPL 

Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 

Amortised cost 

FVTPL 

Notes 

ii 

ii 

iii 

iv, vi 

iv, vii 

viii 

ix 

x 

x 

x 

14,361 

3,477 

11,926 

- 

1,120 

3,108 

(109) 

158,175 

- 

35,150 

95 

227,303 

216,797 

271 

217,068 

2,272 

7,883 

80 

10,235 

227,303 

(45) 

45 

(231) 

231 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

13 

67 

(80) 

- 

- 

(35) 

(19) 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

3 

5 

- 

8 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

(19) 

(19) 

(19) 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

1 

1 

- 

- 

- 

(96) 

24 

(72) 

(73) 

(73) 

(72) 

14,361 

3,477 

11,881 

45 

1,120 

3,108 

(144) 

157,851 

236 

35,150 

127 

227,212 

216,797 

272 

217,069 

2,272 

7,804 

67 

10,143 

227,212 

Notes:  

i.

ii.

iii.

iv.

v.

vi.

Comparatives have been restated as detailed in note 1. 

Includes a debt security that has been transferred from available for sale investment securities to FVTPL due to its contractual cash flow characteristics.  

The reduction in fair value for portfolio hedged risk relates to the removal of fair value hedge accounting adjustments for loans that have been reclassified from amortised cost to FVTPL, and which therefore no longer qualify for hedge accounting.  

The reduction of amortised cost loans and advances to customers under IAS 39 relates to loans reclassified under IFRS 9 as FVTPL due to their contractual cash flow characteristics.  

£2 million is the net impact of the transitional lifetime ECL adjustment on the balance sheet carrying value of POCI loans, and the adjustment to credit impaired loans to restore the carrying value to the contractual amount owed.  

The reduction of the amortised cost loans and advances to customers due to impairment (Group: £171 million, Society: £96 million) is the difference between IFRS 9 ECL impairment and the IAS 39 incurred loss provisions.  

vii. Group carrying values of FVTPL loans and advances to customers increased by £1 million (Society: £5 million) on transition to IFRS 9.  

viii. The valuation of the deferred tax assets recognised on adoption of IFRS 9 reflects HMRC’s legislation that the tax effect of the impact on adoption of IFRS 9 should be realised over the ten years following adoption. Deferred tax is determined using tax rates 

and laws that are expected to apply in the period when the deferred tax asset is realised based on rates enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date, including the banking surcharge when applicable.  

ix. An additional £1 million has been provided separately within provisions for liabilities and charges. This relates to provisions against separately identifiable irrevocable commitments for the pipeline of personal loans, commercial loans and mortgages. 

Overdrafts and credit card commitments are provided for within the ECL provision models, with allowance for future drawdowns made as part of the exposure at default (EAD) element of the ECL calculation for each account.  

x.

The transfer from the FVOCI reserve to general reserve relates to the accumulated AFS reserve in respect of financial instruments that have been reclassified from AFS to FVTPL. 

244  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

37. Adoption of IFRS 9 (continued) 

The table below reconciles the opening IFRS 9 ECL provision to the increase in provision on the adoption of IFRS 9 on 5 April 2018:  

Reconciliation of impairment provisions within staging bands 

Group 
Residential mortgages 
Consumer banking 
Commercial and other lending 
Total  

12 month ECL 
Stage 1  

£m 
17 
25 
6 
48 

Lifetime ECL – 
non-credit 
impaired 
Stage 2 
£m 
171 
103 
10 
284 

Lifetime ECL – 
credit impaired 
Stage 3 and 
POCI 
£m 
47 
237 
13 
297 

Total ECL 

Less IAS 39 
provisions   

£m 
235 
365 
29 
629 

£m 
(145) 
(298) 
(15) 
(458) 

Reconciliation of impairment provisions within staging bands 

Society 
Residential mortgages 
Consumer banking 
Commercial and other lending 
Total  

12 month ECL 
Stage 1  

£m 
6 
25 
6 
37 

Lifetime ECL – 
non-credit 
impaired 
Stage 2 
£m 
33 
103 
10 
146 

Lifetime ECL – 
credit impaired 
Stage 3 

Total ECL 

Less IAS 39 
provisions   

£m 
12 
237 
13 
262 

£m 
51 
365 
29 
445 

£m 
(36) 
(298) 
(15) 
(349) 

Increase in 
provision  
on adoption  
of IFRS 9 
£m 
90 
67 
14 
171 

Increase in 
provision  
on adoption  
of IFRS 9 
£m 
15 
67 
14 
96 

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245  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

37. Adoption of IFRS 9 (continued) 

IAS 39 accounting policies 

The policies for financial assets and impairment of financial assets have changed from 5 April 2018, as 
detailed in note 1, following the adoption of IFRS 9. The following principal accounting policies applied under 
IAS 39 prior to 5 April 2018: 

Financial assets 

Financial assets are recognised initially at fair value. Purchases and sales of financial assets are accounted for 
at trade date. Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows have expired or where 
the assets have been transferred and substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership have been 
transferred.  

The Group classifies its financial assets at inception into the following four categories: 

(a)  Financial assets at fair value through the income statement 

This category consists of derivative financial assets used for risk management purposes and other financial 
assets that are designated at fair value through the income statement by the Group. 

Assets in this category are carried at fair value. The fair values of derivative instruments are calculated by 
discounted cash flow models using yield curves that are based on observable market data or are based on 
valuations obtained from third parties. Gains and losses arising from the changes in the fair values are 
recognised in the income statement. 

(b)  Loans and receivables 

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not 
quoted in an active market. The Group’s residential and commercial mortgage loans, unsecured lending, loans 
and advances to banks and cash are classified as loans and receivables. 

Loans are recognised when the funds are advanced to customers. Loans and receivables are carried at 
amortised cost using the effective interest rate method less provisions for impairment. 

Loans and receivables acquired through a business combination or portfolio acquisition are recognised at fair 
value at the acquisition date. The fair value at acquisition becomes the new amortised cost for acquired loans 
and receivables. Fair value adjustments are made to reflect both credit and interest rate risk associated with 
the acquired loan assets. 

(c)  Available for sale assets 

Available for sale assets are non-derivative financial assets that are not classified into either of the two 
categories above. The majority of available for sale assets are measured at fair value using, in the majority of 
cases, market prices or, where markets have become inactive, prices obtained from market participants. In 
sourcing valuations, the Group makes use of a consensus pricing service, in line with standard industry 
practice. In cases where market prices or prices obtained from market participants are not available, 
discounted cash flow models are used. Further information is provided in notes 21 and 22. Investments in 
equities that do not have a quoted market price in an active market and whose value cannot be reliably 
measured are recognised at cost. 

Interest on available for sale assets is recognised using the effective interest rate method. 

Unrealised gains and losses arising from changes in values are recognised in other comprehensive income, 
except for amounts relating to impairment losses and foreign exchange gains and losses, which are 
recognised in the income statement. Gains and losses arising on the sale of available for sale assets are 
recognised in the income statement, including any cumulative gains or losses previously recognised in other 
comprehensive income, which are reclassified to the income statement.  

(d)  Held to maturity 

Held  to  maturity  assets  are  non-derivative  financial  assets  with  fixed  or  determinable  payments  and  fixed 
maturity dates that the Group has the positive intention and ability to hold to maturity.  

Held to maturity assets are carried at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method, less provisions for 
impairment.  

Impairment of financial assets 

(a)  Assets carried at amortised cost 

The Group assesses at each balance sheet date whether, as a result of one or more events that occurred after 
initial recognition, there is objective evidence that a financial asset or group of financial assets is impaired. 
Evidence of impairment may include: 

indications that the borrower or group of borrowers is experiencing significant financial difficulty 

i) 
ii)  default or delinquency in interest or principal payments 
iii)  debt being restructured to reduce the burden on the borrower. 

The Group first assesses whether objective evidence of impairment exists either individually for assets that are 
separately significant or individually or collectively for assets that are not separately significant. If there is no 
objective evidence of impairment for an individually assessed asset it is included in a group of assets with 
similar credit risk characteristics and collectively assessed for impairment. 

If there is objective evidence that an impairment loss has been incurred, the amount of the loss is measured 
as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows 
discounted at the asset’s original effective interest rate. For loans in a hedge relationship, the effective interest 
rate used for discounting is calculated using the carrying value of the loan including the hedge adjustment. 
The resultant provisions are deducted from the appropriate asset values on the balance sheet. 

The methodology and assumptions used for estimating future cash flows are reviewed regularly by the Group 
to reduce any differences between loss estimates and actual loss experience. If, in a subsequent period, the 
amount of impairment loss changes, the provision is adjusted and the amount of additional provision or 
reversal is recognised in the income statement. 

Loans remain on the balance sheet net of associated provisions until they are deemed no longer recoverable. 
Where a loan is not recoverable, it is written off against the related provision for loan impairment once all the 
necessary procedures have been completed and the amount of the loss has been determined. Subsequent 
recoveries of amounts previously written off decrease the amount of impairment losses recorded in the 
income statement. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
The policies for financial assets and impairment of financial assets have changed from 5 April 2018, as 

detailed in note 1, following the adoption of IFRS 9. The following principal accounting policies applied under 

For retail loans cash flows are estimated based on past experience combined with the Group’s view of the 
future considering the following factors: 

246  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

37. Adoption of IFRS 9 (continued) 

Retail loans 

Loans subject to individual impairment assessment, whose terms have been renegotiated, are subject to 
ongoing review to determine whether they remain impaired or are considered to be past due. 
Where a loan is renegotiated on different terms such that it is substantially a different loan, the loan is 
derecognised and a new loan is recognised at its fair value. 

exposure to the customer 

i) 
ii)  based on the number of days in arrears at the balance sheet date, the likelihood that a loan will progress 

For those loans for which no individual impairment is recognised, a collective impairment assessment is 
made, taking account of the following factors: 

through the various stages of delinquency and ultimately be written off 

iii)   the amount and timing of expected receipts and recoveries 
iv) 
v) 

the realisable value of any security at the estimated date of sale 
the likely deduction of any costs involved in the recovery of amounts outstanding. 

i) 
size of the loan 
ii)  arrears status 
iii)  historical loss experience (adjusted for current market conditions) 
iv) 

the estimated period between impairment occurring and the loss being identified (’emergence period’). 

The Group’s provision methodology recognises previous arrears as a driver of future possible default and 
therefore accounts which have either capitalised arrears or have been in arrears in the last 12 months typically 
attract a higher provision level. 

(b)  Available for sale assets 

Commercial loans 

In assessing objective evidence of a loss event for commercial loans, the following key indicators are 
considered: 

contractually due payments exceeding 30 days in arrears 

i) 
ii)  high loan to value or low interest cover ratio 
iii)  other covenant breaches 
iv) 
v) 
vi)  restructuring of the debt relating to the borrower’s financial difficulties (‘forbearance’) 
vii)  local economic conditions (for example, where this impacts on the value of underlying collateral). 

loss of significant tenants or other decreases in tenant quality 
the probability of the borrower entering bankruptcy 

Where there is objective evidence of impairment, cash flows are assessed on a case by case basis considering 
the following factors: 

i)   aggregate exposure to the customer 
ii) 

the viability of the customer’s business model and their capacity to trade successfully out of financial 
difficulties and generate sufficient cash flows to service debt obligations 
iii)  the amount and timing of expected receipts and recoveries of collateral 
iv) 
v) 

the likely dividend available on liquidation or bankruptcy 
the extent of other creditors’ claims ranking ahead of the Group’s, and the likelihood of other creditors 
continuing to support the borrower 
the complexity of determining the aggregate amount and ranking of all creditor claims and the extent to 
which legal and insurance uncertainties are evident 
vii)  the realisable value of security at the expected date of sale 
viii)  the likely deduction of any costs involved in recovery of amounts outstanding 
ix)  when available, the secondary market price of the debt. 

vi) 

The Group assesses at each balance sheet date whether there is objective evidence that a financial asset or a 
group of financial assets is impaired. If any such evidence exists for available for sale assets, the cumulative 
loss, measured as the difference between the current amortised cost and the current fair value, less any 
impairment loss on that asset previously recognised, is recognised in impairment losses/recoveries on 
investment securities in the income statement. 

A subsequent decline in the fair value of an available for sale asset is recognised in the income statement 
when there is further objective evidence of impairment as a result of further decreases in the estimated future 
cash flows of the financial asset. Where there is no further objective evidence of impairment, the decline in the 
fair value of the financial asset is recognised in other comprehensive income. 

If the fair value of an available for sale asset increases in a subsequent period, and the increase can be 
objectively related to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognised in the income statement, 
the impairment loss is reversed through the income statement to the extent it reverses the previously 
recognised impairment. Any gain in fair value in excess of the original impairment is recognised in other 
comprehensive income. On disposal, where sales proceeds exceed the carrying amount of an impaired asset, 
the proportion of the gain which offsets the previously recognised impairment loss is recognised as a credit in 
impairment losses/recoveries on investment securities in the income statement. 

Impairment losses recognised in the income statement on available for sale equity shares are not reversed 
through the income statement. 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

37. Adoption of IFRS 9 (continued) 

IAS 39 accounting policies 

IAS 39 prior to 5 April 2018: 

Financial assets 

Financial assets are recognised initially at fair value. Purchases and sales of financial assets are accounted for 

at trade date. Financial assets are derecognised when the rights to receive cash flows have expired or where 

the assets have been transferred and substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership have been 

transferred.  

The Group classifies its financial assets at inception into the following four categories: 

impairment.  

(a)  Financial assets at fair value through the income statement 

Impairment of financial assets 

This category consists of derivative financial assets used for risk management purposes and other financial 

(a)  Assets carried at amortised cost 

assets that are designated at fair value through the income statement by the Group. 

Assets in this category are carried at fair value. The fair values of derivative instruments are calculated by 

discounted cash flow models using yield curves that are based on observable market data or are based on 

valuations obtained from third parties. Gains and losses arising from the changes in the fair values are 

recognised in the income statement. 

(b)  Loans and receivables 

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not 

quoted in an active market. The Group’s residential and commercial mortgage loans, unsecured lending, loans 

and advances to banks and cash are classified as loans and receivables. 

Loans are recognised when the funds are advanced to customers. Loans and receivables are carried at 

amortised cost using the effective interest rate method less provisions for impairment. 

Loans and receivables acquired through a business combination or portfolio acquisition are recognised at fair 

value at the acquisition date. The fair value at acquisition becomes the new amortised cost for acquired loans 

and receivables. Fair value adjustments are made to reflect both credit and interest rate risk associated with 

the acquired loan assets. 

(c)  Available for sale assets 

Available for sale assets are non-derivative financial assets that are not classified into either of the two 

categories above. The majority of available for sale assets are measured at fair value using, in the majority of 

cases, market prices or, where markets have become inactive, prices obtained from market participants. In 

sourcing valuations, the Group makes use of a consensus pricing service, in line with standard industry 

practice. In cases where market prices or prices obtained from market participants are not available, 

discounted cash flow models are used. Further information is provided in notes 21 and 22. Investments in 

equities that do not have a quoted market price in an active market and whose value cannot be reliably 

measured are recognised at cost. 

Interest on available for sale assets is recognised using the effective interest rate method. 

Unrealised gains and losses arising from changes in values are recognised in other comprehensive income, 

except for amounts relating to impairment losses and foreign exchange gains and losses, which are 

recognised in the income statement. Gains and losses arising on the sale of available for sale assets are 

recognised in the income statement, including any cumulative gains or losses previously recognised in other 

comprehensive income, which are reclassified to the income statement.  

(d)  Held to maturity 

Held  to  maturity  assets  are  non-derivative  financial  assets  with  fixed  or  determinable  payments  and  fixed 

maturity dates that the Group has the positive intention and ability to hold to maturity.  

Held to maturity assets are carried at amortised cost using the effective interest rate method, less provisions for 

The Group assesses at each balance sheet date whether, as a result of one or more events that occurred after 

initial recognition, there is objective evidence that a financial asset or group of financial assets is impaired. 

Evidence of impairment may include: 

i) 

indications that the borrower or group of borrowers is experiencing significant financial difficulty 

ii)  default or delinquency in interest or principal payments 

iii)  debt being restructured to reduce the burden on the borrower. 

The Group first assesses whether objective evidence of impairment exists either individually for assets that are 

separately significant or individually or collectively for assets that are not separately significant. If there is no 

objective evidence of impairment for an individually assessed asset it is included in a group of assets with 

similar credit risk characteristics and collectively assessed for impairment. 

If there is objective evidence that an impairment loss has been incurred, the amount of the loss is measured 

as the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash flows 

discounted at the asset’s original effective interest rate. For loans in a hedge relationship, the effective interest 

rate used for discounting is calculated using the carrying value of the loan including the hedge adjustment. 

The resultant provisions are deducted from the appropriate asset values on the balance sheet. 

The methodology and assumptions used for estimating future cash flows are reviewed regularly by the Group 

to reduce any differences between loss estimates and actual loss experience. If, in a subsequent period, the 

amount of impairment loss changes, the provision is adjusted and the amount of additional provision or 

reversal is recognised in the income statement. 

Loans remain on the balance sheet net of associated provisions until they are deemed no longer recoverable. 

Where a loan is not recoverable, it is written off against the related provision for loan impairment once all the 

necessary procedures have been completed and the amount of the loss has been determined. Subsequent 

recoveries of amounts previously written off decrease the amount of impairment losses recorded in the 

income statement. 

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247  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 
Notes to the financial statements (continued)

38. Capital management 

The Group is subject to the regulatory capital requirements applied by its regulator, the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA). Regulatory capital comprises the Group’s general reserve, fair value through other comprehensive 
income reserve, revaluation reserve, core capital deferred shares, other equity instruments, permanent interest-bearing shares (PIBS) and subordinated debt, subject to various adjustments and transitional arrangements required by 
the capital rules. 

During the year the Group complied with the capital requirements applied by the PRA. Further unaudited details about the Group’s capital position can be found in the ‘Solvency risk’ section of the Business and Risk Report.  

39. Registered office 

Nationwide is a building society, incorporated and domiciled in the United Kingdom. The address of its registered office is: 

Nationwide Building Society 
Nationwide House 
Pipers Way 
Swindon 
SN38 1NW 

 
 
 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Notes to the financial statements (continued) 

38. Capital management 

the capital rules. 

39. Registered office 

Nationwide Building Society 

Nationwide House 

Pipers Way 

Swindon 

SN38 1NW 

The Group is subject to the regulatory capital requirements applied by its regulator, the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA). Regulatory capital comprises the Group’s general reserve, fair value through other comprehensive 

income reserve, revaluation reserve, core capital deferred shares, other equity instruments, permanent interest-bearing shares (PIBS) and subordinated debt, subject to various adjustments and transitional arrangements required by 

During the year the Group complied with the capital requirements applied by the PRA. Further unaudited details about the Group’s capital position can be found in the ‘Solvency risk’ section of the Business and Risk Report.  

Nationwide is a building society, incorporated and domiciled in the United Kingdom. The address of its registered office is: 

248  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Other
Information

249  Annual business statement

• Statutory percentages

• Other percentages

• Information relating to directors

• Directors’ service contracts

• Directors’ share options

252  Underlying profit 

252  Forward looking statements

252  Glossary

253  Index

Chiz, member since 2015

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249  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Annual business statement for the year ended 4 April 2019 

1. Statutory percentages 

Statutory percentages 

Lending limit 
Funding limit 

2019 
% 
6.25 
29.21 

Statutory limit 
% 
25.00 
50.00 

The above percentages have been calculated in accordance with the provisions of the Building Societies Act 
1986 as amended by the Building Societies Act 1997 and the Modification of the Lending Limit and Funding 
Limit Calculations Order 2004. 

The lending limit measures the proportion of business assets not in the form of loans fully secured on 
residential property and is calculated as (X-Y)/X where: 

X = 

business assets, being the total assets of the Group plus impairment provisions on loans and advances 
to customers less liquid assets, property, plant and equipment, intangible fixed assets and investment 
properties as shown in the Group balance sheet. 

Y =  

the principal of, and interest accrued on, loans owed to the Group which are fully secured  
on residential property.   

The funding limit measures the proportion of shares and borrowings not in the form of shares held  
by individuals and is calculated as (X-Y)/X where: 

X =  

shares and borrowings, being the aggregate of: 

i)
ii) 

iii)  

the principal value of, and interest accrued on, shares in the Society, 
the principal of, and interest accrued on, sums deposited with the Society or any subsidiary 
undertaking of the Society excluding offshore deposits in an EEA subsidiary, and 
the principal value of, and interest accrued under, bills of exchange, instruments or agreements 
creating or acknowledging indebtedness and accepted, made, issued or entered into by the Society or 
any such undertaking, less any amounts qualifying as own funds. 

Y =  

the principal value of, and interest accrued on, shares in the Society held by individuals otherwise than 
as bare trustees (or, in Scotland, simple trustees) for bodies corporate or for persons who include 
bodies corporate.  

The statutory limits are as laid down under the Building Societies Act 1986 as amended by the Building 
Societies Act 1997 and ensure that the principal purpose of a building society is that of making loans which 
are secured on residential property and are funded substantially by its members. 

2. Other percentages 

Other percentages 

As a percentage of shares and borrowings: 

Gross capital 
Free capital 
Liquid assets 

Profit for the financial year as a percentage of mean total assets 
Management expenses as a percentage of mean total assets 

2019 
% 

9.4 
8.6 
15.2 

0.26 
0.96 

2018 
% 

8.8 
7.9 
14.9 

0.33 
0.90 

The above percentages have been prepared from the Society’s consolidated accounts and in particular:  

•

•

•

•

•

•

‘Shares and borrowings’ represent the total of shares, deposits from banks and similar institutions, other 
deposits and debt securities in issue 

‘Gross capital’ represents the aggregate of general reserve, revaluation reserve, fair value through other 
comprehensive income reserve (2018: available for sale reserve), cash flow hedge reserve, CCDS, 
Additional Tier 1 capital, subscribed capital and subordinated liabilities 

‘Free capital’ represents the aggregate of gross capital and provisions for collective impairment losses on 
loans and advances to customers less property, plant and equipment and intangible assets   

‘Liquid assets’ represent the total of cash, loans and advances to banks and similar institutions and 
investment securities 

‘Mean total assets’ represent the amount produced by halving the aggregate of total assets at the 
beginning and end of the financial year 

‘Management expenses’ represent administrative expenses including depreciation, amortisation and 
impairment of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Annual business statement for the year ended 4 April 2019 

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

1. Statutory percentages 

Statutory percentages 

Lending limit 

Funding limit 

2019 

% 

6.25 

29.21 

Statutory limit 

% 

25.00 

50.00 

2. Other percentages 

Other percentages 

As a percentage of shares and borrowings: 

Gross capital 

Free capital 

Liquid assets 

The above percentages have been calculated in accordance with the provisions of the Building Societies Act 

1986 as amended by the Building Societies Act 1997 and the Modification of the Lending Limit and Funding 

Limit Calculations Order 2004. 

The lending limit measures the proportion of business assets not in the form of loans fully secured on 

residential property and is calculated as (X-Y)/X where: 

X = 

business assets, being the total assets of the Group plus impairment provisions on loans and advances 

to customers less liquid assets, property, plant and equipment, intangible fixed assets and investment 

properties as shown in the Group balance sheet. 

Y =  

the principal of, and interest accrued on, loans owed to the Group which are fully secured  

on residential property.   

The funding limit measures the proportion of shares and borrowings not in the form of shares held  

by individuals and is calculated as (X-Y)/X where: 

X =  

shares and borrowings, being the aggregate of: 

i)

ii) 

the principal value of, and interest accrued on, shares in the Society, 

the principal of, and interest accrued on, sums deposited with the Society or any subsidiary 

undertaking of the Society excluding offshore deposits in an EEA subsidiary, and 

iii)  

the principal value of, and interest accrued under, bills of exchange, instruments or agreements 

creating or acknowledging indebtedness and accepted, made, issued or entered into by the Society or 

any such undertaking, less any amounts qualifying as own funds. 

Y =  

the principal value of, and interest accrued on, shares in the Society held by individuals otherwise than 

as bare trustees (or, in Scotland, simple trustees) for bodies corporate or for persons who include 

bodies corporate.  

The statutory limits are as laid down under the Building Societies Act 1986 as amended by the Building 

Societies Act 1997 and ensure that the principal purpose of a building society is that of making loans which 

are secured on residential property and are funded substantially by its members. 

2019 

% 

9.4 

8.6 

15.2 

0.26 

0.96 

2018 

% 

8.8 

7.9 

14.9 

0.33 

0.90 

Profit for the financial year as a percentage of mean total assets 

Management expenses as a percentage of mean total assets 

The above percentages have been prepared from the Society’s consolidated accounts and in particular:  

•

•

•

•

•

•

‘Shares and borrowings’ represent the total of shares, deposits from banks and similar institutions, other 

deposits and debt securities in issue 

‘Gross capital’ represents the aggregate of general reserve, revaluation reserve, fair value through other 

comprehensive income reserve (2018: available for sale reserve), cash flow hedge reserve, CCDS, 

Additional Tier 1 capital, subscribed capital and subordinated liabilities 

‘Free capital’ represents the aggregate of gross capital and provisions for collective impairment losses on 

loans and advances to customers less property, plant and equipment and intangible assets   

‘Liquid assets’ represent the total of cash, loans and advances to banks and similar institutions and 

investment securities 

‘Mean total assets’ represent the amount produced by halving the aggregate of total assets at the 

beginning and end of the financial year 

‘Management expenses’ represent administrative expenses including depreciation, amortisation and 

impairment of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets. 

250  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Annual business statement for the year ended 4 April 2019 (continued) 
Annual business statement (continued)

3. Information relating to directors at 4 April 2019 

Information relating to directors at 4 April 2019 
Name and date of birth 

Occupation 

Date of appointment 

Other directorships 

D L Roberts 
BSc (Hons), MBA, PhD (Honorary), CFifs 
Chairman 
12 September 1962 

Non Executive Director 

1 September 2014 

R A Clifton 
CBE, MA (Cantab), FRSA 
30 January 1958 

R M Fyfield 
MA, BA (Hons) 
3 May 1969 
A Hitchcock 
dipMBA, CEng, FIET 
16 January 1965 
J D Garner 
MA (Cantab) 
23 June 1969 
M A Lenson 
MBA, BA (Hons), 
ACIB, FSI 
17 September 1954 
K A H Parry 
OBE, MA (Cantab), FCA 
29 January 1962 

L M Peacock 
BA (Hons) 
26 December 1953 
Baroness U K Prashar 
CBE, PC 
29 June 1948 
T P Prestedge 
12 February 1970 

Campion Willcocks Limited 
Beazley plc (Chairman) 
Beazley Furlonge Limited (Chairman) 
NHS Improvement (Associate Non Executive Director) 
NHS England (Vice Chairman) 
BrandCap Limited 
Rita Clifton Limited  
ASOS plc 
Ascential plc 
The Green Alliance Trust 
Roku, Inc  

Non Executive Director 

1 July 2012 

Non Executive Director 

2 June 2015 

Non Executive Director  

2 December 2018 

Executive Director 

5 April 2016 

UK Finance  
British Triathlon Foundation Trust (Chairman) 

Non Executive Director 

18 July 2011 

The Currency Cloud Group Limited 

Non Executive Director 

23 May 2016 

Non Executive Director 

18 July 2011 

Non Executive Director 

18 January 2017 

Executive Director 

28 August 2007 

Daily Mail and General Trust plc 
Intermediate Capital Group plc (Chairman) 
KAH Parry Limited 
Royal London Group (Chairman) 
Serco Group plc 
The Westminster Society for People with Learning Disabilities (Chair)  
Hawkins Residents Limited
UK Community Foundations (Honorary President) 
Cumberland Lodge (Chair) 

Nationwide Anglia Property Services Limited 
Dunfermline BS Nominees Limited 
Monument (Sutton) Limited 
NBS Ventures Limited 
NBS Ventures Management Limited  
The Derbyshire (Premises) Limited 
The Nationwide Foundation 
The Nationwide Trust Limited 

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251  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Annual business statement for the year ended 4 April 2019 (continued) 
Annual business statement (continued)

3. Information relating to directors at 4 April 2019 (continued) 

Information relating to directors at 4 April 2019 
Name and date of birth 

Occupation 

Date of appointment 

Other directorships 

M M Rennison 
BA (Hons), FCA 
9 August 1960 

Executive Director 

1 February 2007 

C S Rhodes 
BSc (Hons), ACA 
17 March 1963 

T J W Tookey 
BSc (Hons), FCA 
17 July 1962 
G Waersted 
MBA 
16 March 1955 

Executive Director 

20 April 2009 

Non Executive Director 

2 June 2015 

Non Executive Director 

1 June 2017 

Confederation Mortgage Services Limited 
Exeter Trust Limited 
First Nationwide 
LBS Mortgages Limited 
Nationwide Anglia Property Services Limited 
Nationwide Housing Trust Limited 
Nationwide Investments (No.1) Limited 
Nationwide Lease Finance Limited 
Nationwide Mortgage Corporation Limited 
Nationwide Syndications Limited 
NBS Fleet Services Limited 
NBS Ventures Management Limited 
Staffordshire Leasing Limited 
Arkose Funding Limited 
Piper Javelin No.1 Limited 
Piper Javelin Holding Company Limited 
Silverstone Securitisation Holdings Limited 
at.home Nationwide Limited 
Derbyshire Home Loans Limited 
E-Mex Home Funding Limited 
Jubilee Mortgages Limited 
The Mortgage Works (UK) plc 
UCB Home Loans Corporation Limited 
The Lending Standards Board Limited 
NBS Ventures Management Limited 
Westmoreland Court Management (Beckenham) Limited 

Telenor ASA (Chair) 
Petoro AS (Chair) 
Lukris Invest AS 
Fidelity International 
Saferoad ASA 

Documents may be served on any of the Directors c/o Addleshaw Goddard, One St Peter’s Square, Manchester M2 3DE. 

Directors’ service contracts 
Executive directors’ terms and conditions of employment are detailed in their individual contracts or service agreements which include a notice period of 12 months from the Society to the individual and a notice period of six months 
from the individual to the Society. The notice period offered to any new recruit would be in line with this approach. 
Directors’ share options 
A proportion of executive directors’ variable pay is linked to the value of the Society’s core capital deferred shares (CCDS), details of which have been provided in the Report of the directors on remuneration. For 2018/19, the 
Directors’ Performance Award (DPA) was the only variable pay plan in which directors participated. 20% of awards under the DPA is payable in June 2019 with 20% retained until June 2020. The remaining 60% is deferred, payable 
between years three and seven following the date of award. 50% of the upfront portion and 60% of the deferred portion is linked to the performance of the Society’s core capital deferred shares (CCDS). These CCDS linked elements 
are payable in cash subject to a 12 month retention period. No Directors held securities in Nationwide Building Society during the year. 

 
 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Annual business statement for the year ended 4 April 2019 (continued) 

3. Information relating to directors at 4 April 2019 (continued) 

Information relating to directors at 4 April 2019 

Name and date of birth 

Occupation 

Date of appointment 

Other directorships 

Executive Director 

1 February 2007 

Confederation Mortgage Services Limited 

Exeter Trust Limited 

First Nationwide 

LBS Mortgages Limited 

Nationwide Anglia Property Services Limited 

Nationwide Housing Trust Limited 

Nationwide Investments (No.1) Limited 

Nationwide Lease Finance Limited 

Nationwide Mortgage Corporation Limited 

Nationwide Syndications Limited 

NBS Fleet Services Limited 

NBS Ventures Management Limited 

Staffordshire Leasing Limited 

Arkose Funding Limited 

Piper Javelin No.1 Limited 

Piper Javelin Holding Company Limited 

Silverstone Securitisation Holdings Limited 

at.home Nationwide Limited 

Derbyshire Home Loans Limited 

E-Mex Home Funding Limited 

Jubilee Mortgages Limited 

The Mortgage Works (UK) plc 

UCB Home Loans Corporation Limited 

The Lending Standards Board Limited 

NBS Ventures Management Limited 

Executive Director 

20 April 2009 

M M Rennison 

BA (Hons), FCA 

9 August 1960 

C S Rhodes 

BSc (Hons), ACA 

17 March 1963 

T J W Tookey 

BSc (Hons), FCA 

17 July 1962 

G Waersted 

MBA 

16 March 1955 

252  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Underlying profit  

Profit before tax shown on a statutory and underlying basis is set out on page 27. Statutory profit before tax of £833 million has been adjusted to derive an underlying profit before tax of £788 million. The purpose of this measure is to reflect 
management’s view of the Group’s underlying performance and to assist with like for like comparisons of performance across periods. Underlying profit is not designed to measure sustainable levels of profitability as that potentially requires 
exclusion of non-recurring items even though they are closely related to (or even a direct consequence of) the Group’s core business activities. The components of underlying profit have changed in the period to more accurately reflect 
underlying performance. For more information see page 27 of the Financial Review. 

Nationwide has developed a financial performance framework based on the fundamental principle of maintaining its capital at a prudent level in excess of regulatory requirements. The framework provides parameters which allow it 
to calibrate future performance and help ensure that it achieves the right balance between distributing value to members, investing in the business and maintaining financial strength. The most important of these parameters is 
underlying profit which is a key component of Nationwide’s capital. We believe that a level of underlying profit of approximately £0.9 billion to £1.3 billion per annum over the cycle would meet the Board’s objective for sustainable 
capital growth. This range will vary from time to time, and whether our profitability falls within or outside this range in any given financial year or period will depend on a number of external and internal factors, including conscious 
decisions to provide value to members or to make investments in the business. It should not be construed as a forecast of the likely level of Nationwide’s underlying profit for any financial year or period within a financial year. 

Forward looking statements 

Certain statements in this document are forward looking with respect to plans, goals and expectations relating to the future financial position, business performance and results of Nationwide. Although Nationwide believes that the 
expectations reflected in these forward looking statements are reasonable, Nationwide can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to be an accurate reflection of actual results. By their nature, all forward looking 
statements involve risk and uncertainty because they relate to future events and circumstances that are beyond the control of Nationwide including, amongst other things, UK domestic and global economic and business conditions, 
market related risks such as fluctuation in interest rates and exchange rates, inflation/deflation, the impact of competition, changes in customer preferences, risks concerning borrower credit quality, delays in implementing 
proposals, the timing, impact and other uncertainties of future acquisitions or other combinations within relevant industries, the policies and actions of regulatory authorities, the impact of tax or other legislation and other 
regulations in the jurisdictions in which Nationwide operates. The economic outlook also remains unusually uncertain due to Brexit. As a result, Nationwide’s actual future financial condition, business performance and results may 
differ materially from the plans, goals and expectations expressed or implied in these forward-looking statements. Due to such risks and uncertainties Nationwide cautions readers not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking 
statements. 

Nationwide undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. 

Non Executive Director 

2 June 2015 

Westmoreland Court Management (Beckenham) Limited 

This document does not constitute or form part of an offer of securities for sale in the United States. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. Any public offering 
to be made in the United States will be made by means of a prospectus that may be obtained from Nationwide and will contain detailed information about Nationwide and management as well as financial statements. 

Non Executive Director 

1 June 2017 

Telenor ASA (Chair) 

Petoro AS (Chair) 

Lukris Invest AS 

Fidelity International 

Saferoad ASA 

Glossary 

The glossary for Annual Report and Accounts 2019 is available at: 
https://www.nationwide.co.uk/about/corporate-information/results-and-accounts 

Documents may be served on any of the Directors c/o Addleshaw Goddard, One St Peter’s Square, Manchester M2 3DE. 

Directors’ service contracts 

Directors’ share options 

Executive directors’ terms and conditions of employment are detailed in their individual contracts or service agreements which include a notice period of 12 months from the Society to the individual and a notice period of six months 

from the individual to the Society. The notice period offered to any new recruit would be in line with this approach. 

A proportion of executive directors’ variable pay is linked to the value of the Society’s core capital deferred shares (CCDS), details of which have been provided in the Report of the directors on remuneration. For 2018/19, the 

Directors’ Performance Award (DPA) was the only variable pay plan in which directors participated. 20% of awards under the DPA is payable in June 2019 with 20% retained until June 2020. The remaining 60% is deferred, payable 

between years three and seven following the date of award. 50% of the upfront portion and 60% of the deferred portion is linked to the performance of the Society’s core capital deferred shares (CCDS). These CCDS linked elements 

are payable in cash subject to a 12 month retention period. No Directors held securities in Nationwide Building Society during the year. 

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253  

Annual Report and Accounts 2019 
Annual Report and Accounts 2019 

Index 

Accounting policies, Statement of (note 1) 
Additional Tier 1 capital (note 32) 
Administrative expenses (note 8) 
Annual business statement 
Audit Committee report 
Auditors’ report, Independent 
Balance sheets 
Board of directors 
Board Risk Committee report 
Business and Risk Report 
Business risk 
Capital and leasing commitments (note 28) 
Capital management (note 38) 
Cash flow statements 
Chairman’s letter 
Chief Executive’s review 
Classification and measurement (note 12) 
Commercial and other lending, credit risk 
Conduct and compliance risk 
Consumer banking, credit risk 
Contingent liabilities (note 29) 
Core capital deferred shares (CCDS) (note 31) 
Corporate governance, Report of the directors on 
Credit risk 
Customer redress (note 27) 
Debt securities in issue (note 18) 
Deposits from banks and similar institutions (note 16) 
Derivative financial instruments (note 15) 
Derivatives and hedge accounting, Gains/losses from (note 7) 
Directors, Information relating to 
Directors’ report 
Directors’ service contracts 
Directors’ share options 
Employees (note 9) 
Fair value hierarchy of financial assets and liabilities held at fair value (note 21) 
Fair value of financial assets and liabilities held at fair value – Level 3 portfolio (note 22) 
Fair value of financial assets and liabilities measured at amortised cost (note 23) 
Fee and commission income and expense (note 5) 
Financial review 
Financial services compensation scheme (FSCS) (note 27) 
Forward looking statements 
Glossary 
Group Directors 
IFRS 9, Adoption of (note 37) 
Impairment losses and provisions on loans and advances to customers (note 10) 
Income statements 
Intangible assets (note 25) 

181 
235 
198 
249 
59 
166 
177 
36 
67 
97 
160 
229 
247 
180 
5 
7 
207 
130 
163 
124 
229 
235 
43 
106 
227 
216 
215 
213 
195 
250 
94 
251 
251 
200 
219 
220 
222 
194 
27 
227 
252 
252 
36 
242 
200 
175 
225 

Interest expense and similar charges (note 4) 
Interest receivable and similar income (note 3) 
Investments in Group undertakings (note 33) 
Investment securities (note 13) 
Judgements in applying accounting policies and critical accounting estimates (note 2) 
Liquidity and funding risk 
Loans and advances to customers (note 14) 
Market risk 
Model risk 
Nomination and Governance Committee report 
Non-financial information 
Notes to the accounts 
Notes to the cash flow statements (note 36) 
Offsetting financial assets and financial liabilities (note 24) 
Operational risk 
Other deposits (note 17) 
Other operating income/expense (note 6) 
Other equity instruments (note 32) 
Pension risk 
Principal risks and uncertainties 
Property, plant and equipment (note 26) 
Provisions for liabilities and charges (note 27) 
Registered office (note 39) 
Related party transactions (note 35) 
Remuneration, Report of the directors on 
Residential mortgages, credit risk 
Retirement benefit obligations (note 30) 
Risk management 
Risk overview 
Solvency risk 
Statements of comprehensive income 
Statements of movements in members’ interests and equity 
Statutory percentages 
Strategic Report 
Structured entities (note 34) 
Subordinated liabilities (note 19) 
Subscribed capital (note 20) 
Taxation (note 11) 
Top and emerging risks 
Treasury assets, credit risk 
What have we done to build society this year 
Who we are and what we do 

194 
193 
236 
208 
193 
139 
208 
154 
161 
75 
33 
181 
240 
224 
161 
216 
195 
235 
159 
99 
226 
227 
247 
238 
81 
111 
230 
103 
26 
150 
176 
178 
249 
2 
237 
217 
218 
204 
98 
135 
3 
4 

 
 
 
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Nationwide Building Society 
Head Office: Nationwide House, Pipers Way, Swindon, Wiltshire SN38 1NW.
nationwide.co.uk

G101 (A) 2019