Stakeholder identification and consultation

Please describe which stakeholders (or groups/ types of stakeholders) you have identified, consulted, engaged, collaborated or partnered with for the purpose of implementing the Principles and improving your bank’s impacts. This should include a high-level overview of how your bank has identified relevant stakeholders, what issues were addressed/results achieved and how they fed into the action planning process.

JB Financial Group places co-prosperity and harmony with diverse stakeholders at the core of its overall management approach. The Group has been deeply engaged with its stakeholders and operates a structured response system guided by its “Principles for Stakeholder Communication and Response,” which are as follows:

1. Sustainability: JB Financial Group aims to achieve sustainable profits for the company in collaboration with stakeholders such as local communities, customers, employees, and long-term shareholders.
2. Ethics: The Group emphasizes the importance of adhering to universal ethical standards.
3. Fairness: JB Financial Group endeavours to make fair and balanced decisions without favouritism toward any specific stakeholder.
4. Transparency: The Group commits to transparently disclosing the basis for decisions related to stakeholders’ demands.

JB Financial Group considers customers, employees, shareholders and investors, local communities, and supervisory authorities as its key stakeholders, all of whom mutually influence one another. The Group engages with these stakeholders through various channels on a wide range of issues impacting overall management, including environmental, social, and economic matters. Annually, JB Financial Group conducts stakeholder surveys to identify material issues. Moving forward, the Group aims to expand its communication efforts by developing more efficient channels to gather feedback and opinions from stakeholders, as well as to better understand their key concerns. The communication channels for key stakeholders are as follows:

1. Customers: Website, customer call centre, customer satisfaction surveys, customer experience groups, social media, financial consumer protection education, Leaders Forum (VIP customers)
2. Executives/employees: Intranet and bulletin board announcements, corporate culture improvement programs, CEO engagement programs
3. Shareholders and investors: Website, board meetings, general shareholders’ meetings, shareholder communication letter, international conferences, investor relations (IR)
4. Local communities: Website, employee volunteer groups, social contribution activity reports, university student ambassadors, social media
5. Regulatory authorities: Attendance in regular meetings, submission of regular reports, regular and ad hoc inspections

How does JB Financial Group promote a culture of responsible banking among its employees?

In its 2025 PRB Reporting and Self-Assessment Template JB Financial Group reports that it took the following actions to promote a culture of responsible banking among its employees:

To strengthen ESG management and advance toward sustainable future finance, JB Financial Group develops and publicly discloses a range of policies. These include the Human Rights Policy, Code of Conduct, Declaration on the Prohibition of Sexual Harassment, Non-Sexual Harassment and Discrimination, Privacy Policy, Occupational Health and Safety Management Policy, Financial Inclusion Commitment, Guidelines on Director Independence, Board Diversity Guidelines, Anti-Corruption Management, Tax Policy, and the Anti-Money Laundering Policy, among others.

Building on this foundation, JB Financial Group provides training for employees on ESG management, human rights, ethics, safety and health, and information protection. These programs are conducted through regular training sessions, workshops, and seminars to ensure employees gain the necessary knowledge and skills related to ESG.

Furthermore, JB Financial Group integrates ESG-related objectives into its management KPIs. The CEO’s performance evaluation considers the development and implementation of the group’s ESG strategy, while the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) is assessed based on the creation of a climate risk assessment framework. ESG executives are evaluated on the development and execution of ESG management strategies and policies. This system encourages executives and employees to achieve sustainability goals and uphold responsible management practices.

 

UN Principles for Responsible Banking: Accelerating a positive global transition for people and the planet

With over 300 signatory banks representing almost half of the global banking industry, the Principles for Responsible Banking are the world’s foremost sustainable banking framework. Through these Principles, the banking community takes action to align core strategies, decision-making, lending and investment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement.

FBRH Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) Assurance:

First class PRB assurance services: The result of solid, hands-on ESG/ Sustainability experience

• • • FBRH is a GRI Certified Training Partner (Global), ISEP Training Centre and a member of CPD.
    • FBRH builds trust. Over 200 reviews from top professionals from around the world demonstrate our ability to build strong, trusting business relationships.
    • FBRH possesses a unique skill set that combines ESG/sustainability certified training, experience in advisory services and report preparation, and ESG/sustainability report assurance.

The combination of all the above empowers FBRH to provide first class Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) assurance services.

 

References:

This case study is based on published information by JB Financial Group, located at the link below. For the sake of readability, we did not use brackets or ellipses. However, we made sure that the extra or missing words did not change the report’s meaning. If you would like to quote these written sources from the original please revert to the following link:

https://www.jbfg.com/assets/download/pages/esg/achievements/JB Financial Group PRB Report(2025).pdf

Note to JB Financial Group: With each case study we send out an email requesting a comment on this case study. If you have not received such an email please contact us.

Stakeholder identification and consultation

Please describe which stakeholders (or groups/ types of stakeholders) you have identified, consulted, engaged, collaborated or partnered with for the purpose of implementing the Principles and improving your bank’s impacts. This should include a high-level overview of how your bank has identified relevant stakeholders, what issues were addressed/results achieved and how they fed into the action planning process.

Achmea Bank engages with stakeholders through a variety of tools and methods to ensure alignment with societal goals and values. The bank’s main stakeholder groups include employees, customers, partners, and investors. Achmea Bank connects with them through:

• Customer councils and customer-centric dialogue sessions
• Measuring service quality via Net Promoter Score (NPS)
• Conducting market research
• Employee councils
• Adherence to the Banking Code and the bank’s Code of Conduct
• Active participation in Dutch Banking Association initiatives such as ‘Bankers in the Classroom’ and market research
• Seeking partnerships to advance the SDGs across various areas, including collaborations with PCAF, EEM NL Hub, and the Sector Collective ‘Duurzaam Wonen’
• Engagement dialogues with partners and investors

How did Achmea Bank identify and work on strategic business opportunities to increase positive and reduce negative impacts?

In its 2024 ESG Impact Report Achmea Bank reports that it identified and worked on strategic business opportunities to increase positive and reduce negative impacts as follows:

Achmea Bank is committed to making a positive impact on SDGs 10, 11, and 13. Achmea Bank’s initiatives include:

• Offering services such as Centraal Beheer’s ‘Duurzaam Woongemak,’ which provides solutions for making homes more sustainable, including insulation, solar panels, home batteries, heat pumps, and green roofs.
• Providing customers with the option to finance energy-saving products as part of their mortgage, without the need to present an immediate plan for spending. The Energy-Saving Budget (ESB) can be kept in deposit for up to two years.
• Extending longer quotation periods for new-build homes, aligning with the process that buyers of new-build properties must follow.
• Introducing a “green loan” component to the mortgage offering, allowing customers to co-finance sustainability measures at a lower interest rate; efforts are also underway to make it easier for existing customers to obtain additional loans for energy-saving facilities. In 2025 Achmea Bank implemented a label A+ discount for houses with an energy label of A+ or higher.
• Monitoring both the average energy efficiency score and the financed emissions of the mortgage portfolio.
• Playing a key role in Achmea’s Green Finance Framework for issuing green bonds.

 

UN Principles for Responsible Banking: Accelerating a positive global transition for people and the planet

With over 300 signatory banks representing almost half of the global banking industry, the Principles for Responsible Banking are the world’s foremost sustainable banking framework. Through these Principles, the banking community takes action to align core strategies, decision-making, lending and investment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement.

FBRH Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) Assurance:

First class PRB assurance services: The result of solid, hands-on ESG/ Sustainability experience

• • • FBRH is a GRI Certified Training Partner (Global), ISEP Training Centre and a member of CPD.
    • FBRH builds trust. Over 200 reviews from top professionals from around the world demonstrate our ability to build strong, trusting business relationships.
    • FBRH possesses a unique skill set that combines ESG/sustainability certified training, experience in advisory services and report preparation, and ESG/sustainability report assurance.

The combination of all the above empowers FBRH to provide first class Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) assurance services.

 

References:

This case study is based on published information by Achmea Bank, located at the link below. For the sake of readability, we did not use brackets or ellipses. However, we made sure that the extra or missing words did not change the report’s meaning. If you would like to quote these written sources from the original please revert to the following link:

https://www.achmeabank.nl/-/media/achmeabank/documenten/duurzaamheid/ratings-rapporten-lidmaatschappen/esg-impact-report-2024-achmea-bank.pdf

Note to Achmea Bank: With each case study we send out an email requesting a comment on this case study. If you have not received such an email please contact us.

Stakeholder identification and consultation

Please describe which stakeholders (or groups/ types of stakeholders) you have identified, consulted, engaged, collaborated or partnered with for the purpose of implementing the Principles and improving your bank’s impacts. This should include a high-level overview of how your bank has identified relevant stakeholders, what issues were addressed/results achieved and how they fed into the action planning process.

Aiyl Bank actively seeks feedback from its stakeholders and is committed to responding to their concerns promptly and accurately. The bank believes that this engagement provides valuable insights, assists in managing risks and opportunities, and is vital for its long-term sustainability.

Engagement with Clients

Aiyl Bank is dedicated to placing its clients at the heart of all operations. Its complaint management system enables the bank to swiftly identify and resolve issues, reinforcing its commitment to customer satisfaction and consumer protection.

Interaction with Institutional and Regulatory Bodies

In 2024, Aiyl Bank proactively engaged with regulators and government authorities to promote sustainable finance within the Kyrgyz Republic. The bank contributed to discussions on establishing a framework that supports the transition to a low-carbon economy. This included participating in the development of the Kyrgyz Republic’s Green taxonomy and a Roadmap for advancing sustainable finance and implementing ESG principles in the banking sector, designed to meet the needs of all stakeholders.

Engagement with Investors

Recognizing the increasing importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in investment decisions, Aiyl Bank has strengthened its relationships with external analysts and ESG ratings agencies. The bank understands that strong ESG ratings and scores are essential for attracting sustainable investments and shaping investment strategies.

How did Aiyl Bank work with its clients and customers to encourage sustainable practices and enable sustainable economic activities?

In its 2024 PRB Responsible Banking Progress Statement Aiyl Bank reports that it works with its clients and customers to encourage sustainable practices and enable sustainable economic activities as follows:

As a universal bank in the Kyrgyz Republic, Aiyl Bank offers a comprehensive range of services. The bank is uniquely positioned to influence behavioural change and assist clients in high-emission sectors, such as agriculture, in transitioning toward more sustainable practices. Aiyl Bank’s objective is to embed ESG principles into its daily operations.

Aiyl Bank was the first Kyrgyz bank to sign the Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) and remains committed to supporting communities and vulnerable populations. The bank provides financial education programs aimed at increasing economic awareness and reducing social disparities. Through concessional lending, participation in state programs, partnerships, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives such as charitable activities and sponsorships, Aiyl Bank empowers communities and seeks to create a lasting positive impact.

At Aiyl Bank, sustainability is at the core of its strategy. The bank is dedicated to delivering fair and equitable service to its customers and actively equipping its employees with the knowledge and skills necessary to foster positive change. Recognizing that capacity building is a key challenge in expanding ESG practices within crediting and procurement, Aiyl Bank plans to intensify its efforts in this area.

 

UN Principles for Responsible Banking: Accelerating a positive global transition for people and the planet

With over 300 signatory banks representing almost half of the global banking industry, the Principles for Responsible Banking are the world’s foremost sustainable banking framework. Through these Principles, the banking community takes action to align core strategies, decision-making, lending and investment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement.

FBRH Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) Assurance:

First class PRB assurance services: The result of solid, hands-on ESG/ Sustainability experience

• • • FBRH is a GRI Certified Training Partner (Global), ISEP Training Centre and a member of CPD.
    • FBRH builds trust. Over 200 reviews from top professionals from around the world demonstrate our ability to build strong, trusting business relationships.
    • FBRH possesses a unique skill set that combines ESG/sustainability certified training, experience in advisory services and report preparation, and ESG/sustainability report assurance.

The combination of all the above empowers FBRH to provide first class Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) assurance services.

 

References:

This case study is based on published information by Aiyl Bank, located at the link below. For the sake of readability, we did not use brackets or ellipses. However, we made sure that the extra or missing words did not change the report’s meaning. If you would like to quote these written sources from the original please revert to the following link:

https://abank.kg/guarddog/laravel-filemanager/files/shares/responsible-banking-progress-statement-aiyl-bank-eng.pdf

Note to Aiyl Bank: With each case study we send out an email requesting a comment on this case study. If you have not received such an email please contact us.

Stakeholder identification and consultation

Please describe which stakeholders (or groups/ types of stakeholders) you have identified, consulted, engaged, collaborated or partnered with for the purpose of implementing the Principles and improving your bank’s impacts. This should include a high-level overview of how your bank has identified relevant stakeholders, what issues were addressed/results achieved and how they fed into the action planning process.

ALEXBANK places great emphasis on engaging stakeholders in responsible banking, understanding their essential contribution to its sustainability efforts. The bank’s stakeholders include its Employees, Senior Management, Customers, Suppliers and Business Partners, Communities and NGOs, Governments and Regulators, and Shareholders.

ALEXBANK prioritizes key material topics across its stakeholders. For employees, the bank focuses on retention, diversity & inclusion, health & safety, data security, and integrity. Senior management emphasizes governance, ESG risk management, and integrity. For customers, ALEXBANK’s key topics include responsible lending, green finance, sustainable agribusiness, financial inclusion, data protection, and customer experience. Suppliers and business partners are engaged on integrity, responsible lending, green finance, ESG risk management, and digital accessibility, while Communities and NGOs are key to responsible lending, green finance, sustainable agribusiness, financial inclusion, and community empowerment. For governments and regulators, ALEXBANK focuses on responsible lending, green finance, environmental stewardship, governance, and data security. For shareholders, good governance and ESG risk management are key.

Partnerships for Impact

• ALEXBANK collaborates with the European Investment Bank (EIB) through various initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable development in Egypt. Under the Green Economy Financing Facility (GEFF), ALEXBANK and the EIB committed a total of $15 million to finance renewable energy adoption and energy efficiency projects in Egypt’s industrial, commercial, and agricultural sectors.
• In addition to this, in October 2024, ALEXBANK and the EIB issued a second disbursement of USD 7.5 million for sustainable energy solutions. This collaboration, supported by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union, seeks to improve energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption in privately owned commercial buildings across Egypt. Eligible businesses will receive financial incentives of up to 2% of the facility’s aggregate amount, with sub-borrowers benefiting from incentives ranging from 10% to 15%.
• ALEXBANK has partnered with Life Vision to improve the livelihoods of 400 female farmers in Upper Egypt. The project sets up Farmer Field Schools & Farm Business Schools, providing 36 training sessions over 10 months on advanced farming and irrigation practices. The training curriculum strengthens smallholders’ farmer’s capacity and productivity. In addition, participants received 5 financial literacy sessions as part of the Central Bank of Egypt’s financial inclusion initiatives.
• 36 sessions
• Total project amount: 1200000
• Direct Beneficiaries: 1161 farmers aged 36-45
• ALEXBANK, in collaboration with WFP and CBE, launched the project “Innovative Financing by the Banking Sector to transform smallholder farmers in Upper Egypt.” The project started in July 2023 in upper Egypt, specifically in Hayah Kareema villages, focusing on financing interventions to increase productivity. By December 2025, activities were implemented in 2 villages in AlMinya Governorate to improve water use efficiency and create sustainable livelihoods.
• Total Project amount: 3000000
• Total Direct Beneficiaries: 6054
• Through a partnership with GIZ Egypt, ALEXBANK seeks to promote financial inclusion in rural Egypt. This collaboration focuses on farmers in the Beni Suef and Minya governorates, providing access to ALEXBANK’s financial services and financial literacy programs. By the end of 2024, 8 financial literacy sessions were conducted as part of the Central Bank of Egypt’s financial inclusion (FI) activation. This program is intended to equip farmers with the necessary knowledge to make informed financial decisions, helping them maximize their income.
• ALEXBANK remains committed to empowering rural women entrepreneurs in agribusiness by collaborating with the Alinea International under the Opportunities for Women in Agribusiness project (OWAP). In 2023, ALEXBANK supported 50 women-led environmentally sustainable startups in the Beni Suef and Minya governorates. These women were provided with essential resources such as financial education and diverse funding sources. In a final competition held in October 2024 virtually, 10 women entrepreneurs were awarded 10k each to help expand their businesses.
• Total project amount: 100,000
• 10 awarded female-led startups
• Direct Beneficiaries: 270 (190 female & 80 male)
• In October 2024, ALEXBANK, as part of the Intesa Sanpaolo Group, signed a five-year MoU with Cassa Depositi e Prestiti S.p.A. (CDP), Italy’s National Promotion Institution. The agreement is intended to improve access to microcredit and expertise for Egyptian agricultural SMEs, promoting sustainable development in Egypt’s agribusiness sector.

How does ALEXBANK promote a culture of responsible banking among its employees?

In its 2024 PRB Reporting and Self-Assessment Template ALEXBANK reports that it took the following actions to promote a culture of responsible banking among its employees:

ALEXBANK is improving staff expertise in ESG through training and capacity-building initiatives. It advances financial inclusion by increasing access to digital products and services for underserved communities. Additionally, ALEXBANK supports Retail, Corporate, and SME clients in their ESG transition by offering customized sustainable finance solutions.

Training Topics	Percentage of Participation (%)
Introduction to Sustainable Finance	0.59%
Environment Risk Management	61.70%
Environmental & Social Risk Management	0.07%
Setting the sustainable finance strategy and goals	0.09%
Assessing the environmental & social projects to be financed	0.70%
Offering sustainable banking products and services	0.82%
Measuring the bank’s carbon footprint (because of internal activities)	0.02%
The Three Elements (Environment, Society & Governance)	0.18%
Financial Inclusion	5.07%
WMSME Gender Data, Driving Business Decisions	0.02%
Workshop on Integrating Sustainability Principles into Banking Practices	0.05%

ALEXBANK encourages financing initiatives focused on environmental sustainability and has established internal policies to oversee ESG-related portfolio risks. The bank is dedicated to sustainable operations by practicing responsible resource management and green procurement. Additionally, the Environmental and Social Risk Management System will be enhanced to strengthen risk governance, and sustainability reporting will be implemented to monitor progress and accomplishments.

 

UN Principles for Responsible Banking: Accelerating a positive global transition for people and the planet

With over 300 signatory banks representing almost half of the global banking industry, the Principles for Responsible Banking are the world’s foremost sustainable banking framework. Through these Principles, the banking community takes action to align core strategies, decision-making, lending and investment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement.

FBRH Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) Assurance:

First class PRB assurance services: The result of solid, hands-on ESG/ Sustainability experience

• • • FBRH is a GRI Certified Training Partner (Global), ISEP Training Centre and a member of CPD.
    • FBRH builds trust. Over 200 reviews from top professionals from around the world demonstrate our ability to build strong, trusting business relationships.
    • FBRH possesses a unique skill set that combines ESG/sustainability certified training, experience in advisory services and report preparation, and ESG/sustainability report assurance.

The combination of all the above empowers FBRH to provide first class Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) assurance services.

 

References:

This case study is based on published information by ALEXBANK, located at the link below. For the sake of readability, we did not use brackets or ellipses. However, we made sure that the extra or missing words did not change the report’s meaning. If you would like to quote these written sources from the original please revert to the following link:

https://www.alexbank.com/en/retail/our-group/sustainability/publications.html

Note to ALEXBANK: With each case study we send out an email requesting a comment on this case study. If you have not received such an email please contact us.

Stakeholder identification and consultation

Please describe which stakeholders (or groups/ types of stakeholders) you have identified, consulted, engaged, collaborated or partnered with for the purpose of implementing the Principles and improving your bank’s impacts. This should include a high-level overview of how your bank has identified relevant stakeholders, what issues were addressed/results achieved and how they fed into the action planning process.

Hengfeng Bank attaches great importance to stakeholder communication, has actively expanded communication channels, and fully listens to the opinions and suggestions from its stakeholders. The bank’s major stakeholders include governments and regulators, shareholders and investors, customers and employees, suppliers and partners, the environment, and society. In response to different stakeholder expectations and demands, Hengfeng Bank has effective communication channels, so as to provide timely response and measures.

During the 2024 reporting period, Hengfeng Bank’s stakeholder communication initiatives could be summarized as follows:

With the government and regulatory agencies: Hengfeng Bank maintains close communication with the government and regulatory agencies through daily approval and supervision, regular statistical reporting, and the release of regular reports and information announcements. This ensures that the bank remains aligned with regulatory requirements and can respond promptly to any changes in the regulatory environment. In support of national strategies and regional development, Hengfeng Bank actively studies and implements work instructions and, Internally, implements regulatory policies and supports the formulation of industry policies. Hengfeng Bank continues to strengthen internal control and compliance management, implement comprehensive risk management, and reinforce anti-corruption and anti- money laundering measures. These initiatives mentioned above help ensure stability and integrity in the bank’s operations.

With shareholders and investors: Hengfeng Bank is dedicated to providing timely, accurate, and comprehensive information disclosures. The bank maintains good relations with investors and protect shareholders’ rights and interests through different activities, including shareholder meetings, roadshows, and investor exchanges. These efforts ensure that shareholders and investors remain well-informed and engaged in the bank’s operations. At the same time, Hengfeng Bank during the 2024 reporting period continued to promote sound operations and improve its corporate governance system, also strengthening information disclosure to meet investor demand and maintain good relations. By doing so, Hengfeng Bank has ensured transparency and has built trust with its stakeholders, contributing to long-term stability and growth.

Customers: Hengfeng Bank maintains close contact with customers through a variety of channels, which include daily service communication, customer satisfaction surveys, the 95395-customer service platform, offline customer theme activities, and a customer complaint handling mechanism. The bank actively communicates with customers and consumers, proceeding with green financial product and mode innovation. Hengfeng Bank seeks to provide agile and efficient services, improve service capabilities through innovative products, and protect consumer rights at the same time. Additionally, it has focused on the needs of special groups such as private enterprises and the elderly, and improved the customer service experience and safeguarded the legitimate rights and interests of customers by strengthening the standardization of outlets, improving the level of intelligent services at outlets, creating “Hengai Home,” and optimizing online services such as remote banking services.

Employees: Hengfeng Bank effectively engages its employees through various channels such as staff congresses, regular training sessions, cultural and sports events, brainstorming platforms, and support systems for those in need. The bank has prioritized employees’ needs by protecting their legitimate rights and interests, strengthening talent development programs, establishing a fair promotion process, and paying close attention to their work, life, and physical and mental well-being. Additionally, Hengfeng Bank actively promotes a green office culture by encouraging employees to voluntarily conserve resources like food, paper, electricity, and water, thus reducing energy use and waste. These efforts have cultivated a strong environment of energy conservation and carbon reduction within the organization. Key initiatives include optimizing energy management, adopting paperless digital workflows, promoting waste sorting and recycling, advocating food-saving practices, and ensuring environmentally friendly management of official vehicles.

Supplier management: Hengfeng Bank fosters strong collaboration with its suppliers and partners through business cooperation, industry seminars, supply-and-demand matchmaking discussions, and bidding and tendering activities. Additionally, the bank has established a fair, transparent, and open procurement process to ensure procurement activities are conducted with integrity. Hengfeng Bank is committed to continuously improving its procurement system and strengthening supplier management. Regarding green and low-carbon initiatives, the bank’s “Procurement Management Measures” and “Supplier Management Measures” explicitly promote the concept of green procurement. Hengfeng Bank encourages the sourcing of domestic products and prioritizes purchasing environmentally friendly, energy-efficient, and sustainable products, provided they meet the necessary performance and quality standards.

Environment: Hengfeng Bank recognizes the importance of addressing environmental needs and fulfilling corporate responsibilities by focusing on climate change, advancing green finance, practicing sustainable operations, and supporting the national development of a green, low-carbon economy. To achieve these goals, the banks employs a dual approach in both external and internal communications. Externally, Hengfeng Bank engages stakeholders through environmental information disclosure, strategic business pricing, green public welfare initiatives, and promotion of green finance. The bank also actively participates in relevant meetings and forums to foster dialogue and collaboration. Internally, Hengfeng Bank has strengthened ESG management, expanded green financial products and services, implemented green office practices and sustainable operations, and elevated green finance to a strategic priority to support the growth of green industries.

Community: Hengfeng Bank actively engages with the community through participation in community development projects, public welfare, charitable activities, volunteer services, and financial literacy initiatives. The bank regularly organizes financial education campaigns, volunteer events, and other activities aimed at supporting vulnerable groups, enhancing people’s livelihoods and welfare, and fostering strong community relations with all stakeholders.

Hengfeng Bank recognizes the importance of maintaining open communication with its stakeholders. Using various channels and methods, the bank actively listens to and addresses their expectations and needs. Hengfeng Ban’s goal is to ensure that the interests of all stakeholders are fully considered in its ESG (environmental, social, and corporate governance) efforts, thereby supporting sustainable development.

How did Hengfeng Bank identify and work on strategic business opportunities to increase positive and reduce negative impacts?

In its 2024 PRB Reporting and Self-Assessment Template Hengfeng Bank reports that it identified and worked on strategic business opportunities to increase positive and reduce negative impacts as follows:

At the strategic level, Hengfeng Bank actively embraces the directives of the Central Financial Work Conference. The bank has integrated green finance into its overall development strategy and developed the “Implementation Plan for the High-Quality Development of Green Finance.” This plan outlines Hengfeng Bank’s development roadmap for the next five years, including specific goals and measures to achieve them. In response to shifts in the macroeconomic environment, the push toward carbon neutrality, and increasing customer demand for diversified low-carbon services, the bank continuously refined its green finance management structure. This dynamic optimization ensures that Hengfeng Bank remains agile and capable of effectively addressing emerging challenges and opportunities within the green finance sector.

During the reporting period, Hengfeng Bank implemented an intelligent green credit identification system, improving the efficiency of recognizing green businesses and strengthening the overall capacity of green financial services. Capitalizing on the opportunities presented by the growth of the national carbon trading market, the bank concentrated on carbon trading activities and offered financing products tied to carbon emissions, carbon trading, or energy efficiency. Additionally, Hengfeng Bank introduced carbon finance solutions to promote and steer the targeted allocation of limited resources toward green and low-carbon sectors.

Regarding product innovation, Hengfeng Bank consistently pursued advancements in green and sustainable finance. For instance, during the reporting period, the bank facilitated the country’s first water-saving loan linked to intellectual property and launched the inaugural green financial project loan for charging stations. Additionally, Hengfeng Bank developed the “Hengrong E” series of digital supply chain financial products and supported a high-quality state-owned enterprise in Shenzhen in successfully issuing the first green offshore bond listed on both the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and the Shenzhen Stock Exchange.

While emphasizing green finance, Hengfeng Bank also capitalized on opportunities in blue finance by establishing a “blue finance” engine to promote the transformation of “green shipping.” In 2024, the bank’s Fuzhou Branch issued a US$20.72 million guarantee to Xiamen Shipbuilding Heavy Industry Co., Ltd. for green shipping projects. This initiative created new integration channels for Hengfeng Bank’s corporate clients in both domestic and international shipbuilding sectors and offered distinctive financing options for the domestic equipment manufacturing industry to expand globally. Additionally, the bank actively engaged in the coordinated development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao region. Hengfeng Bank continued to increase resource allocation and provide tailored policy support to foster high-quality growth in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. Through bond investments, Hengfeng Bank’s Shenzhen Branch assisted Maoming Port Group Co., Ltd. in successfully issuing the 2024 offshore RMB bonds—marking the first corporate offshore blue bond in Guangdong Province and the first offshore RMB green bond in Maoming City. The proceeds are primarily designated for port infrastructure development and will support the high-quality advancement of clean energy and green transportation.

Finally, at the private sector level, Hengfeng Bank introduced the “Hengyin E-Chain” supply chain financial product. This innovative solution allows supply chain enterprises to access financing easily without requiring mortgages or guarantees. The process, from online and intelligent financing applications to credit approval and disbursement, is designed to be seamless and efficient. During the reporting period, Hengfeng Bank extended financing to 3,895 private enterprises, totaling 6.7 billion yuan. This initiative has effectively supported the growth of private businesses by offering them accessible and streamlined financial services.

 

UN Principles for Responsible Banking: Accelerating a positive global transition for people and the planet

With over 300 signatory banks representing almost half of the global banking industry, the Principles for Responsible Banking are the world’s foremost sustainable banking framework. Through these Principles, the banking community takes action to align core strategies, decision-making, lending and investment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement.

FBRH Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) Assurance:

First class PRB assurance services: The result of solid, hands-on ESG/ Sustainability experience

• • • FBRH is a GRI Certified Training Partner (Global), ISEP Training Centre and a member of CPD.
    • FBRH builds trust. Over 200 reviews from top professionals from around the world demonstrate our ability to build strong, trusting business relationships.
    • FBRH possesses a unique skill set that combines ESG/sustainability certified training, experience in advisory services and report preparation, and ESG/sustainability report assurance.

The combination of all the above empowers FBRH to provide first class Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) assurance services.

 

References:

This case study is based on published information by Hengfeng Bank, located at the link below. For the sake of readability, we did not use brackets or ellipses. However, we made sure that the extra or missing words did not change the report’s meaning. If you would like to quote these written sources from the original please revert to the following link:

https://hfbank.com.cn/upload/attach/Hengfeng Bank Reporting and Self-Assessment for Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) in 2024.pdf

Note to Hengfeng Bank: With each case study we send out an email requesting a comment on this case study. If you have not received such an email please contact us.

Stakeholder identification and consultation

Please describe which stakeholders (or groups/ types of stakeholders) you have identified, consulted, engaged, collaborated or partnered with for the purpose of implementing the Principles and improving your bank’s impacts. This should include a high-level overview of how your bank has identified relevant stakeholders, what issues were addressed/results achieved and how they fed into the action planning process.

Garanti BBVA incorporates its stakeholders’ concerns —stakeholders include customers, employees, shareholders, investors, suppliers, regulators, auditors, and society at large—on social and environmental issues, diversity, fiscal responsibility, human rights, and the prevention of corruption and other illegal activities into its business strategies, operations, and activities. The bank maintains ongoing dialogue with both external and internal stakeholders through different channels, and key issues are prioritized based on the feedback and insights gathered from these dialogues.

The bank has consistently been actively involved in numerous initiatives, working closely with all stakeholders. These initiatives focus on the following priority areas:

• Global Frameworks: Garanti BBVA and the BBVA Group are among the banks involved in establishing, promoting, and supporting the UNEP-FI Responsible Banking Principles. In 2023, Garanti BBVA also joined the main group responsible for shaping the 2030 strategy of the UNEP FI Responsible Banking Principles.
• Climate Commitments: Garanti BBVA is a member of the Net-Zero Banking Alliance supported by UNEP-FI, aligning its operations with the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement.
• Market Standards: The bank supports key standards such as the Equator Principles, ICMA’s Green Bond Principles, Social Bond Principles, LMA’s Green Credit Principles, and the EU Taxonomy, among others, developed by the banking sector.
• Transparency: Garanti BBVA publishes an integrated activity report aligned with the Turkish Sustainability Reporting Standards and includes a GRI Standards index.
• Regulatory Engagement: The bank actively participates in many consultative and advisory processes with regulatory and supervisory bodies, including the Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change and the Banks Association of Turkey, to support the development of sustainable finance regulations.

For over a decade, Garanti BBVA has actively engaged in various transnational initiatives. In addition to its commitment to the United Nations Global Compact and its status as a signatory of the UNEP FI, the bank has been involved in numerous sustainability-focused initiatives since 2012. It is a member of several working groups, including the United Nations Net-Zero Banking Association (NZBA), the United Nations Responsible Banking Principles Working Group, the Global Compact Turkey Group, SKD Turkey (Business World and Sustainable Development Association), the Banks Association of Turkey (TBB), the Role of the Financial Sector in Sustainable Growth Working Group, and the Turkish Industrialists’ and Businessmen’s Association (TÜSİAD) Environment and Climate Change Working Group. Throughout these efforts, Garanti BBVA maintains close cooperation with all key stakeholders—including industry players, regulators and supervisors, investors, and civil society organizations.

How does Garanti BBVA promote a culture of responsible banking among its employees?

In its 2024 PRB Impact Report Garanti BBVA reports that it took the following actions to promote a culture of responsible banking among its employees:

The BBVA Group has established a comprehensive global training program to equip its employees with the knowledge needed to tackle strategic sustainability challenges. Through the Campus BBVA training platform, two learning pathways are available to all employees, regardless of their location or role. Worldwide, over 102,000 BBVA employees have completed these courses, and by December 31, 2024, a total of 18,707 Garanti BBVA employees had received sustainability training, including the Principles for Responsible Banking introduced in 2020. The foundational sustainability training covers the 2030 Agenda and the SDGs, the financial industry’s role, and the BBVA Group and Garanti BBVA’s strategic approach, while the advanced level delves into sustainable finance.

To ensure employees can effectively address sustainability within their respective roles, specialized training programs have been developed in collaboration with renowned international institutions. These include training on portfolio alignment and the use of internal tools such as the alignment dashboard based on PACTA methodology and the Transition Risk Indicator, supporting the Group’s decarbonization goals.

Responsible Banking practices are a key focus for Garanti BBVA, with senior management leading the initiative. Sustainability is one of the bank’s six strategic priorities, and EVPs, along with the CEO, serve on the Responsible Banking and Sustainability Committee, where various departments present updates on their sustainability projects. To foster ownership of the strategy, sustainability considerations have been integrated into the premium eligibility criteria for employees at all levels, starting with the Board of Directors.

Recognizing the importance of global collaboration in maintaining leadership in sustainable finance in Turkey, Garanti BBVA actively works to partner with peers and suppliers. The bank continues efforts to provide sustainability training to suppliers, aiming to clearly communicate its sustainability strategies and promote adherence to its standards.

Additionally, the bank leverages its communication channels, such as social media, to raise awareness on environmental and social issues, highlighting a different theme each month. As part of the Sustainable Habits initiative, Garanti BBVA shares best practices and innovative ideas from its employees to foster a culture of sustainability.

 

UN Principles for Responsible Banking: Accelerating a positive global transition for people and the planet

With over 300 signatory banks representing almost half of the global banking industry, the Principles for Responsible Banking are the world’s foremost sustainable banking framework. Through these Principles, the banking community takes action to align core strategies, decision-making, lending and investment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement.

FBRH Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) Assurance:

First class PRB assurance services: The result of solid, hands-on ESG/ Sustainability experience

• • • FBRH is a GRI Certified Training Partner (Global), ISEP Training Centre and a member of CPD.
    • FBRH builds trust. Over 200 reviews from top professionals from around the world demonstrate our ability to build strong, trusting business relationships.
    • FBRH possesses a unique skill set that combines ESG/sustainability certified training, experience in advisory services and report preparation, and ESG/sustainability report assurance.

The combination of all the above empowers FBRH to provide first class Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) assurance services.

 

References:

This case study is based on published information by Garanti BBVA, located at the link below. For the sake of readability, we did not use brackets or ellipses. However, we made sure that the extra or missing words did not change the report’s meaning. If you would like to quote these written sources from the original please revert to the following link:

https://www.garantibbvainvestorrelations.com/en/images/pdf/GBFR24_ENG_App6.pdf

Note to Garanti BBVA: With each case study we send out an email requesting a comment on this case study. If you have not received such an email please contact us.

Stakeholder identification and consultation

Please describe which stakeholders (or groups/ types of stakeholders) you have identified, consulted, engaged, collaborated or partnered with for the purpose of implementing the Principles and improving your bank’s impacts. This should include a high-level overview of how your bank has identified relevant stakeholders, what issues were addressed/results achieved and how they fed into the action planning process.

Fidelity Bank is dedicated to maintaining strong stakeholder engagement as a fundamental element of its sustainability strategy and the application of the principles. Fidelity Bank identifies and prioritizes stakeholders according to their relevance to its operations, the extent to which the bank’s activities may affect them, and their level of interest in sustainability issues. Fidelity Bank’s engagement approach is rooted in inclusiveness, transparency, and accountability. The insights gained from these interactions help the bank conduct materiality assessments, inform policy development, and drive ongoing enhancements to its sustainability initiatives.

Key stakeholder groups and engagement methods include:

• Customers: Engaged through feedback surveys, social media, focus groups, customer service channels, relationship managers, and complaints management systems to understand their needs and expectations.
• Employees: Engaged via the intranet, staff meetings, newsletters, training sessions, surveys, performance appraisals, employee resource groups, and whistleblowing channels to foster alignment with the bank’s goals and promote a responsible workplace.
• Investors and Shareholders: Consulted through Annual General Meetings, investor presentations, sustainability reports, investor relations platforms, and analyst calls to share performance updates and strategic insights.
• Regulators: Interacted with through regulatory submissions, consultations, formal meetings, and participation in industry working groups to ensure compliance and contribute to sector policy development.
• Suppliers: Managed through audits, contractual agreements, workshops, and review meetings to promote responsible sourcing and alignment with Fidelity Bank’s ethical standards.
• Communities: Engaged via town hall meetings, collaborations with local organizations, social investment programs, and grievance mechanisms to support local development and address community concerns.
• NGOs and Civil Society: Collaborated on specific environmental and social projects and through participation in multi-stakeholder initiatives promoting sustainable development.
• Media: Engaged through press releases, briefings, interviews, and social media to ensure transparency and communicate important updates.
• Government: Interacted with relevant ministries, departments, and agencies through meetings, conferences, and joint initiatives, especially on regulatory and policy issues.
• Industry Peers: Participated in industry associations, benchmarking activities, and collaborative platforms to share knowledge and advance collective sustainability efforts.

These stakeholder engagement efforts have been vital in shaping Fidelity Bank’s sustainability strategy, enhancing transparency, and strengthening its social license to operate.

How did Fidelity Bank identify and work on strategic business opportunities to increase positive and reduce negative impacts?

In its 2024 PRB Progress Report Fidelity Bank reports that it identified and worked on strategic business opportunities to increase positive and reduce negative impacts as follows:

Fidelity Bank is unlocking new strategic business opportunities through the expansion of its sustainable finance offerings, aligning with the dual objectives of enhancing positive impacts and minimizing negative ones across its portfolio. In 2024, the bank made significant progress in inclusive finance by increasing access and strengthening engagement with underserved groups, including women, youth, MSMEs, and rural communities. Over 7,000 student accounts were opened via campus activations, while rural women received financial education and were onboarded as POS agents. The Agency Banking network expanded to over 35,000 agents with more than 7,000 POS terminals, improving financial access nationwide. Additionally, more than 6,000 women received digital skills training, empowering female-led enterprises.

To facilitate a just and low-carbon transition, Fidelity Bank increased its green finance portfolio. In 2024, the bank completed 482 transactions under green initiatives such as the Fidelity Easy Asset Lease Scheme (Solar Power) and Green Energy Financing, totaling ₦509.01 million. Fidelity Bank also provides funding to businesses implementing green initiatives across various sectors and is developing the Fidelity Green App, a digital platform that connects green product providers and consumers with embedded financing options. Further sustainable finance solutions are in development to meet rising demand.

Fidelity Bank’s sustainable finance efforts contribute to multiple SDGs, including SDG 3 (Good Health and Wellbeing), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 9 (Industry Innovation and Infrastructure), SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). Noteworthy initiatives include donating a solar-powered water facility serving 8,000 people, launching Fidelity Send to lower remittance costs and improve financial inclusion, and establishing a new SME Hub to foster innovation and collaboration.

The bank also plays a leading role in promoting financial literacy at the national level. As Chair and Secretariat of the Financial Literacy and Public Enlightenment Subcommittee of the Bankers’ Committee, Fidelity Bank contributes to shaping Nigeria’s financial inclusion strategy through awareness campaigns, educational programs, and stakeholder engagement.

All sustainability-related activities are guided by internal frameworks and aligned with international standards and taxonomies. Fidelity Bank’s definition of green finance is comprehensive, incorporating criteria such as alignment with designated use of proceeds in investor offer letters, adherence to international standards like the ICMA Green Bond Principles, and compliance with green taxonomies of development banks. These efforts aim to foster long-term value creation, inclusive economic growth, and climate resilience across clients and communities.

 

UN Principles for Responsible Banking: Accelerating a positive global transition for people and the planet

With over 300 signatory banks representing almost half of the global banking industry, the Principles for Responsible Banking are the world’s foremost sustainable banking framework. Through these Principles, the banking community takes action to align core strategies, decision-making, lending and investment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement.

FBRH Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) Assurance:

First class PRB assurance services: The result of solid, hands-on ESG/ Sustainability experience

• • • FBRH is a GRI Certified Training Partner (Global), ISEP Training Centre and a member of CPD.
    • FBRH builds trust. Over 200 reviews from top professionals from around the world demonstrate our ability to build strong, trusting business relationships.
    • FBRH possesses a unique skill set that combines ESG/sustainability certified training, experience in advisory services and report preparation, and ESG/sustainability report assurance.

The combination of all the above empowers FBRH to provide first class Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) assurance services.

 

References:

This case study is based on published information by Fidelity Bank, located at the link below. For the sake of readability, we did not use brackets or ellipses. However, we made sure that the extra or missing words did not change the report’s meaning. If you would like to quote these written sources from the original please revert to the following link:

https://www.fidelitybank.ng/documents/Fidelity-Bank-Sustainability-And-Climate-Report-2024.pdf

Note to Fidelity Bank: With each case study we send out an email requesting a comment on this case study. If you have not received such an email please contact us.

Stakeholder identification and consultation

Please describe which stakeholders (or groups/ types of stakeholders) you have identified, consulted, engaged, collaborated or partnered with for the purpose of implementing the Principles and improving your bank’s impacts. This should include a high-level overview of how your bank has identified relevant stakeholders, what issues were addressed/results achieved and how they fed into the action planning process.

Stakeholder dialogue allows Fana Sparebank to prioritize and identify key focus areas for engagement. Throughout 2023, the main emphasis was placed on Key Resources, with the goal of increasing employee engagement and fostering a sense of ownership of initiatives within the organization.

Key Resources – Engage (High influence and high interest)
These stakeholders have both significant influence and strong interest in using it. Fana Sparebank aims to satisfy and actively involve them in its work.

• The board of directors, management, employees, subsidiaries, suppliers, and customers

Satisfy (High influence and low interest)
These stakeholders hold considerable influence but have limited interest in using it. It is important for Fana Sparebank to ensure their needs are met in relation to projects.

• Authorities, rating agencies and analysts, capital markets and stock exchanges, industry groups, and NGOs

Keep informed (Low influence and high interest)
These stakeholders are interested in the bank’s activities but have limited influence. They may provide valuable insights and should be kept informed about relevant developments.

• The local community, media, educational institutions, and research organizations.

Fana Sparebank also maintains open communication and actively participates in various networks with other stakeholders, including competitors and similar independent savings banks, to share experiences and collaborate.

How does Fana Sparebank promote a culture of responsible banking among its employees?

In its 2025 PRB Reporting and Self-Assessment Template Fana Sparebank reports that it took the following actions to promote a culture of responsible banking among its employees:

Fana Sparebank employs a full-time sustainability officer and has established a sustainability group consisting of staff from various departments and disciplines. Additionally, there are sustainability committees at the departmental level to engage employees, promote involvement, and coordinate sustainability-related activities.

The sustainability group oversees the progress of implementing the bank’s sustainability strategy and reports to the management team.

Employee-led initiatives have prompted Fana Sparebank to take steps that exemplify future expectations, such as certifying the bank as an Eco-Lighthouse (Norwegian: “Miljøfyrtårn”), promoting the use of public transportation for work travel, introducing a weekly meat-free day in the cafeteria, installing beehives on the roof of Fana Sparebank’s headquarters, and participating in an annual shoreline clean-up of a nearby lake.

To further boost engagement, the initiative Bærekraftsskolen (Sustainability School) has been established, aiming to enhance ESG competencies among all employees. A strategy for ESG training has been developed, incorporating a mix of e-learning, workshops, and presentations on sustainability topics.

 

UN Principles for Responsible Banking: Accelerating a positive global transition for people and the planet

With over 300 signatory banks representing almost half of the global banking industry, the Principles for Responsible Banking are the world’s foremost sustainable banking framework. Through these Principles, the banking community takes action to align core strategies, decision-making, lending and investment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement.

FBRH Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) Assurance:

First class PRB assurance services: The result of solid, hands-on ESG/ Sustainability experience

• • • FBRH is a GRI Certified Training Partner (Global), ISEP Training Centre and a member of CPD.
    • FBRH builds trust. Over 200 reviews from top professionals from around the world demonstrate our ability to build strong, trusting business relationships.
    • FBRH possesses a unique skill set that combines ESG/sustainability certified training, experience in advisory services and report preparation, and ESG/sustainability report assurance.

The combination of all the above empowers FBRH to provide first class Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) assurance services.

 

References:

This case study is based on published information by Fana Sparebank, located at the link below. For the sake of readability, we did not use brackets or ellipses. However, we made sure that the extra or missing words did not change the report’s meaning. If you would like to quote these written sources from the original please revert to the following link:

https://www.fanasparebank.no/0615cf605cc2478f86d840075db205c6

Note to Fana Sparebank: With each case study we send out an email requesting a comment on this case study. If you have not received such an email please contact us.

Stakeholder identification and consultation

Please describe which stakeholders (or groups/ types of stakeholders) you have identified, consulted, engaged, collaborated or partnered with for the purpose of implementing the Principles and improving your bank’s impacts. This should include a high-level overview of how your bank has identified relevant stakeholders, what issues were addressed/results achieved and how they fed into the action planning process.

Socredo participates in various committees, initiatives, and partnerships involving both the private and public sectors, as well as civil society through its involvement with associations. Through these channels, Socredo engages on numerous topics related to the implementation of the PRB within its work and actions. Issues such as climate change, biodiversity, inclusion, and equality are frequently addressed to explore solutions, understand critical challenges, and deepen Socredo’s knowledge.

Socredo recognizes that its employees and Board members are both sustainability ambassadors and key stakeholders. By participating in workshops, conferences, and representing the bank on committees and external missions, they share their expertise and acquire new skills. These experiences help enhance practices and improve Socredo’s sustainable strategy. Here are some examples of how their engagement supports and advances Socredo’s approach:

• During the “Je Marche Pour La Planète” month organized in September 2024, more than 20 Sustainable Development ambassadors contributed to a variety of activities to share knowledge on eco-friendly practices (e.g., learning to make homemade eco-friendly laundry detergent); participated in a walking challenge to raise awareness about health issues; engaged with local actors involved in ecological transition through themed conferences; and organized weekend initiatives such as beach clean-ups.
• During the Carbone 4 onsite mission, 70 employees took part in workshops. Based on their ideas and reflections, they helped shape the bank’s Action Plan.
• The Management and Sustainable Development Department participates in the Regional CEC (Business Convention for Climate), which brings together various local stakeholders to collaboratively develop sustainable solutions for the territory. This platform encourages joint thinking on sustainable initiatives for Socredo’s Fenua, draws inspiration from global practices, and strengthens efforts through partnerships and exchanges with other regional actors.
• An executive director of the bank serves on the Board of CESEC (the Economic, Social, and Cultural Counsel of French Polynesia), playing a direct role in shaping national policies that benefit and protect all citizens.
• A member of the Executive Committee is the chairwoman of FACE (Foundation Act Against Exclusion), actively involved in developing inclusion initiatives and promoting social equity in French Polynesia.
• Executive senior managers participate in the Polynesian branch of MEDEF (Movement of French Companies) to collaborate with other private sector stakeholders and influence policymakers on key industry issues.
• Over the past year, the Sustainable Development team has undergone training provided by the CCISM (Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Overseas Society) to learn how to conduct a carbon footprint assessment.
• 100% of new staff members completed a training session on Sustainable Development.

Public institutions, organizations, and associations are key stakeholders for Socredo. Engaging with them promotes change and provides valuable insights from the frontlines. Here are some examples of how Socredo engages with them:

• As a founding member or major shareholder of local associations such as FACE and ANAVAI (a crowdfunding platform), Socredo benefits from these partnerships in various ways. These collaborations enable the bank to amplify its message and advance financial inclusion, while also gaining valuable insights from their field activities.
• Socredo partners with impactful organizations such as:
  • Aoa, which is committed to restoring and protecting French Polynesian biodiversity. Through this partnership, Socredo is actively involved in raising awareness among real estate developers about the environmental impact of land clearing for new construction. The goal is to encourage them to consider and incorporate these ecological dynamics into their projects. As part of this collaboration, Socredo proposes a “compensation” initiative where, for every square meter built, the developer contributes a specific amount of money to Aoa. This contribution covers half of the cost, with the bank covering the remaining half.
  • Other associations, public institutions, and private actors, which, in exchange for partnership, share their expertise with Socredo through conferences, workshops, or internal training sessions. An example of this is the installation of a worm composting system at one of the bank’s branches.
• At the request of the University of French Polynesia, Socredo helped design and develop courses for a new Sustainable Development program. The bank contributed by integrating local business needs and expectations to train a new generation of skilled professionals directly within the territory.
• Through the French Polynesian government’s “Fare Ora” (Home for Everyone) initiative, which streamlines administrative processes on remote islands, Socredo will expand its reach to a broader client base. By partnering with this program, the bank enhances its capacity to serve underserved communities, providing access to essential banking products and services that were previously inaccessible.

Finally, Socredo positions its clients as direct stakeholders. The bank highlights and supports MSMEs with innovative or environmentally beneficial initiatives to promote sustainable alternatives and responsible consumption. Moreover, Socredo actively engages with its clients by providing tailored advice to guide them toward more virtuous choices, a commitment further strengthened through the implementation of the MATIE sheet.

Through these various engagements, Socredo aims to involve all its stakeholders, from policymakers to clients, in driving rapid change to address climate issues and promote inclusion at every level. In the long term, the bank aspires to establish itself as a central hub for the Fenua’s activities, fostering a virtuous cycle through its positive impact financing initiatives and emerging as the key player in sustainable development in French Polynesia. Investing in Socredo will accordingly be recognized as a mark of quality and a commitment to resilience.

How does Socredo promote a culture of responsible banking among its employees?

In its 2024 PRB Reporting and Self-Assessment Template Socredo reports that it took the following actions to promote a culture of responsible banking among its employees:

Socredo values the dedication of all its employees in fully embracing its sustainability initiatives and ensuring they feel involved in these changes. To foster this culture, a variety of strategies are implemented, both within the organization and in the broader community.

Strong internal communication is essential for Socredo to effectively raise awareness, highlight initiatives, and cultivate a robust ESG culture. In 2023, more than 40 newsletters, including “The Sustainable Development Minute,” were published on the internal portal, a momentum supported by Socredo’s continually expanding internal network of Sustainable Development ambassadors. Their enthusiasm and dedication have been instrumental in organizing numerous events and projects both within and outside the bank. In September 2024, the second edition of #JeMarchePourLaPlanète month (#IWalkForTheEarth) mobilized around 20 ambassadors to coordinate expert conferences, internal challenges, and awareness workshops promoting eco-friendly behaviours. Additionally, they contributed to the launch of Soc’lib, Socredo’s new fleet of self-service bicycles, aimed at encouraging employees to embrace eco-mobility and collectively contribute to reducing Socredo’s carbon footprint.

Socredo places great importance on integrating its branches, as they reflect the organization’s values and ambitions through the archipelagos. For example, in the reporting year, a worm composter was installed at the Moorea branch. This initiative aims to raise awareness among employees and enhance waste management by valuing organic waste. It also highlights the dedication of Socredo’s client, Nīnamu Solutions, who contributes to the virtuous circle Socredo strives to foster between the bank, its clients, and the community as a whole.

To foster this culture, Socredo encourages its employees to participate in various events and challenges. These include collecting school supplies for children and competing in sporting and solidarity challenges between companies which led to 1MXPF being raised for La SAGA Tahiti, an initiative providing activities during school breaks for the most disadvantaged children—and organizing beach clean-ups.

Promoting this responsible culture at all levels helps raise awareness among employees in their professional roles, leading to improved work performance and a positive influence on clients. Furthermore, Socredo aims for this commitment to extend into employees’ personal lives as responsible citizens.

 

UN Principles for Responsible Banking: Accelerating a positive global transition for people and the planet

With over 300 signatory banks representing almost half of the global banking industry, the Principles for Responsible Banking are the world’s foremost sustainable banking framework. Through these Principles, the banking community takes action to align core strategies, decision-making, lending and investment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement.

FBRH Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) Assurance:

First class PRB assurance services: The result of solid, hands-on ESG/ Sustainability experience

• • • FBRH is a GRI Certified Training Partner (Global), ISEP Training Centre and a member of CPD.
    • FBRH builds trust. Over 200 reviews from top professionals from around the world demonstrate our ability to build strong, trusting business relationships.
    • FBRH possesses a unique skill set that combines ESG/sustainability certified training, experience in advisory services and report preparation, and ESG/sustainability report assurance.

The combination of all the above empowers FBRH to provide first class Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) assurance services.

 

References:

This case study is based on published information by Socredo, located at the link below. For the sake of readability, we did not use brackets or ellipses. However, we made sure that the extra or missing words did not change the report’s meaning. If you would like to quote these written sources from the original please revert to the following link:

https://www.socredo.pf/uploads/documents/cards/unep-fi-self-assessment-2024-version-definitive-677460bb6e7d4480506080.pdf

Note to Socredo: With each case study we send out an email requesting a comment on this case study. If you have not received such an email please contact us.

Stakeholder identification and consultation

Please describe which stakeholders (or groups/ types of stakeholders) you have identified, consulted, engaged, collaborated or partnered with for the purpose of implementing the Principles and improving your bank’s impacts. This should include a high-level overview of how your bank has identified relevant stakeholders, what issues were addressed/results achieved and how they fed into the action planning process.

The Society’s Stakeholders
The Society’s sustainability efforts are rooted in understanding and responding to the perspectives of its stakeholders. In 2019, the Society’s Board formally identified its key stakeholder groups as members and customers, colleagues, investors, suppliers, community groups, and the environment. This identification was based on an assessment of the Society’s activities and the groups significantly impacted by those activities. To facilitate this understanding, the Society employs a variety of formal and informal mechanisms to gather stakeholder feedback. This engagement ensures that relevant parts of the Society, including the Board, are aware of stakeholder views to support informed decision-making.

Stakeholder Engagement Activities
The Society maintains regular engagement with its stakeholders through multiple channels. These include the annual general meeting, direct discussions with members on key issues via the Members Panel, supplier relationship management meetings, internal research, external benchmarking, and employee feedback through the Great Place to Work Trust Index survey. The Treasury team also regularly interacts with primary wholesale investors and ratings agencies through formal channels. The Deputy Chair, Jo Kenrick, is responsible for understanding colleagues’ views and ensuring they are represented to the Board. Additionally, Brendan O’Connor, one of the Society’s Non-Executive Directors, has a designated role to represent members’ perspectives at the Board level. The Society’s Community Team engages with community groups and partners through facilitated discussions to understand what matters most to them.

Stakeholder engagement plays a crucial role as the Society addresses its environmental footprint. Coventry Building Society is actively collaborating with suppliers to reduce emissions associated with the products and services it purchases. As its second-largest source of emissions, Coventry Building Society aims to partner with its suppliers to achieve a decarbonization target of between 5% and 25% from 2021 to 2030.

While the Society is committed to taking positive action to support a just transition to Net Zero, tackling the climate challenges facing the UK’s housing stock cannot be achieved by the Society alone. It requires collaboration with stakeholders across government, the utilities sector, and housebuilders to reach this goal. In 2023, Coventry Building Society engaged with industry peers on this issue and continued collaborative efforts throughout 2024 and beyond. Given the current geopolitical environment, its subsequent impact on energy prices, and the cost of living crisis, it is more important than ever to focus on improving the energy efficiency of UK housing.

Regular stakeholder engagement helps Coventry Building Society identify the most relevant sustainability issues, ensures its strategy aligns with those priorities, and informs its broader decision-making process. This ongoing process is supported by Coventry Building Society’s annual materiality assessments.

How does Coventry Building Society promote a culture of responsible banking among its employees?

In its 2024 PRB Report Coventry Building Society reports that it took the following actions to promote a culture of responsible banking among its employees:

Coventry Building Society’s strategic priority includes creating an inspiring environment that better reflects the diversity of its city and communities. The Society aims to provide a safe, inclusive, and engaging workplace for its employees, supporting their health and wellbeing. This begins with a set of shared goals, approved by the Board, that guide the actions of colleagues throughout the Society.

Effective communication is essential, and Coventry Building Society dedicates time and effort to foster understanding of its ambitions, goals, and the impact each individual can have. This includes numerous opportunities for colleagues to share their opinions, whether through engagement sessions with the Board and Executive, all-Society surveys, or via representative bodies such as Unite the Union and My Society, its employee forum.

Values: Coventry Building Society’s culture is rooted in its shared ‘CARES’ values, which focus on being Caring, Ambitious, Responsible, Empowering, and Straightforward in interactions with each other, members, customers, and other stakeholders. These values serve as a key driver of employee engagement and help sustain a strong organizational culture. The Society’s approach to its people is guided by its purpose and values, shaping all aspects of talent acquisition, personal and career development, wellbeing, and the overall colleague experience.

Coventry Building Society is a place to grow, develop, and learn. In 2023, the Society achieved these ambitions through initiatives such as:

• Filling 43% of roles with existing colleagues;
• Expanding its colleague-led Networks to include Asian and Carers networks;
• Introducing the “Time for You” allowance, enabling colleagues to dedicate time to wellbeing and development;
• Employing 36 interns, 77 apprentices, and 9 graduates;
• Facilitating 4,800 hours of learning each month.

Reward: Coventry Building Society’s reward proposition reflects its shared values and focus on wellbeing. Compensation is benchmarked externally against comparable roles within financial services. For customer-facing roles, the Society operates pay accreditation schemes that offer opportunities for pay increases as colleagues develop role-specific skills and capabilities. The Society is committed to pay equity and conducts regular reviews to ensure fair compensation for all employees performing similar work. Benefits are available to all staff, regardless of whether they work full-time or part-time.

The Society does not offer individual bonuses to employees, as such awards could pose risks to its culture and potentially shift focus onto individual priorities. Instead, it operates a Success Share scheme overseen by the Remuneration Committee, which is aligned with the Society’s strategic scorecard. This scheme includes a range of measures spanning financial, risk, customer and people. Under Success Share, every employee, regardless of role, receives the same percentage award.

Employee Code of Conduct: Coventry Building Society’s Employee Code of Conduct outlines its commitments to doing the right thing. This document is designed to ensure all colleagues: (i) act professionally, cooperatively, courteously, and inclusively in the performance of their duties; (ii) behave with honesty and integrity; (iii) conduct both their personal and professional lives in a manner that does not pose a risk to the Society or its reputation; (iv) understand the standards of behaviour and conduct expected by regulators and the potential consequences of failing to meet these standards; and (v) appropriately manage and report conflicts of interest. This underscores the broader principle that all colleagues contribute to shaping the Society’s culture.

Policies: Coventry Building Society has a range of policies aimed at fostering a culture of responsible behaviour among its employees, including the Anti-Money Laundering, Terrorist Financing, and Facilitation of Tax Evasion Risk Management Policy; the Anti-Bribery and Inducements Policy; the Whistleblowing Policy; and the Data Protection Policy. Responsible business conduct toward the Society’s customers is outlined in the Society’s Conduct Risk Framework. Behaviour between colleagues is detailed in the Employee Handbook, which also sets expectations for engagement with customers. Responsible conduct toward suppliers is covered in the Society’s Supplier Code of Conduct.

Training: All employees, whether temporary or permanent, are required to complete training on financial crime prevention, including anti-money laundering (AML), fraud, and anti-corruption. Additional mandatory training programmes include whistleblowing procedures, which explain how concerns can be raised—anonymously if desired—along with data protection and cyber security awareness in the workplace.

 

UN Principles for Responsible Banking: Accelerating a positive global transition for people and the planet

With over 300 signatory banks representing almost half of the global banking industry, the Principles for Responsible Banking are the world’s foremost sustainable banking framework. Through these Principles, the banking community takes action to align core strategies, decision-making, lending and investment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and international agreements such as the Paris Climate Agreement.

FBRH Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) Assurance:

First class PRB assurance services: The result of solid, hands-on ESG/ Sustainability experience

• • • FBRH is a GRI Certified Training Partner (Global), ISEP Training Centre and a member of CPD.
    • FBRH builds trust. Over 200 reviews from top professionals from around the world demonstrate our ability to build strong, trusting business relationships.
    • FBRH possesses a unique skill set that combines ESG/sustainability certified training, experience in advisory services and report preparation, and ESG/sustainability report assurance.

The combination of all the above empowers FBRH to provide first class Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB) assurance services.

 

References:

This case study is based on published information by Coventry Building Society, located at the link below. For the sake of readability, we did not use brackets or ellipses. However, we made sure that the extra or missing words did not change the report’s meaning. If you would like to quote these written sources from the original please revert to the following link:

https://www.coventrybuildingsociety.co.uk/content/dam/cbs/member/pdfs/esg/sustainability/Principles-for-Responsible-Banking-Report-2024.pdf

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