”It is clear that Danske Bank has failed to live up to its responsibility in the case of possible money laundering in Estonia. I deeply regret this. Even though the investigation conducted by the external law firm concludes that I have lived up to my legal obligations, I believe that it is best for all parties that I resign. As the CEO, I have the management responsibility for the things that take place in the bank, and, of course, I take on this responsibility. It has been clear to me for some time that resigning would be the right thing to do, but I have held off the decision, because I have felt a responsibility for seeing the bank through this difficult period towards presentation of the investigations.
It has been a great privilege to lead the more than 20,000 employees who each day work tirelessly to give our customers the best advice and services on the market, and I will miss them all. The bank obviously has a big job ahead of it because of this case, but has a strong foundation and is well prepared for the future”, says Thomas F. Borgen.
Ole Andersen, Chairman of the Board of Directors, says:
”It is with regret that we have to say goodbye to Thomas Borgen. We have, of course, discussed the situation on an ongoing basis, and I share his sentiments and respect his decision, which I agree is the right one. Thomas Borgen has made a tremendous effort for Danske Bank through many years – not least in the last five years where, as the CEO, he has been the driving force behind the bank’s transformation and progress. Danske Bank is on the whole in a completely different and stronger position today than at the time when he was appointed”.
Thomas F. Borgen will continue in his position until a new CEO has been appointed.
Danske Bank