The Netherlands’ second biggest bank, ING, is not looking for a major partner as Dutch newspapers have suggested, CEO Michel Tilmant has told French reporters.

A major takeover is not necessary and he is not interested in making one, Tilmant was reported as saying. ‘I don’t really believe in ‘big is beautiful’,’ he said.
Tilmant was reacting to reports that ING was in the process of a strategic reorientation in the light of ABN Amro’s merger talks with Barclays. He said ING had some €20bn available for a takeover but that they are not planning to make one.