Select a region
2014 was a year to remember for Skipton International in Guernsey as it continued to be one of the leading local mortgage lenders. Yet it looks set to be eclipsed by 2015 as the Guernsey bank continues to increase its local mortgage book and becomes an international player.
Last year Skipton announced its support of the Guernsey Housing Association’s Partial Ownership Scheme scheme, which helps local people buy affordable homes. The move was part of a consolidation of its mortgage business in the island where it had been market leader for the prior four years.
Yet it was the launch of British expat buy-to-let mortgages in July 2014, which saw the fastest growth rate for the bank. The mortgages, which are being offered on English and Welsh properties, have proved very popular with expats looking to invest back home and Channel Islanders looking to diversify their investments. That demand looks set to continue into 2015 with more expat applications now being processed than for either Jersey or Guernsey. The increased business means that Skipton created several new jobs in 2014, and is now employing 37 people across the islands, including a Mortgage Sales Manager, it’s first Jersey-based employee.
Managing Director, Jim Coupe, said it was a record year for the bank: "We have grown steadily since the launch of Skipton International in 2009, following the amalgamation of Skipton Guernsey and Scarborough Channel Islands. We are recognised for our personal customer service, transparent communications, local expertise and our considered approach to both lending and savings. For 2015 we remain fully committed to the Channel Islands, and our local customers, while also expanding our overseas business reach through expat mortgages and more international savings accounts."
Locally there were other milestones in 2014, not least, Skipton International’s 5th anniversary, which saw the bank turn Castle Cornet purple for a night.
Skipton International has always invested in the community and 2014 was no exception, with the continuation of its support for the Skipton Swimarathon, which had a record fundraising year, and also promoting International Purple Day to raise awareness and funding for the Epilepsy Association.
The Skipton International savings business saw several new products launched during 2014, and strong interest from across the world. Skipton was also commended for its savings accounts in the Moneyfacts Best Offshore Account Provider category.
