"Given that the 2% of GDP guideline was originally made in 2002 and has been largely ignored (especially in Europe and especially since the Global Financial Crisis), we are very sceptical that much will change." Barclays has recommended Lloyds Banking ( LON:LLOY ) and Barclays ( LON:BARC ) as the best plays on the UK banking market going forward. Lloyds has the highest market shares in retail (20%), has more retail in the mix than other big banks (72%), has lagged in branch cuts. A new cost plan is due in the autumn, and so should re-rate.