Record profits and improving economic conditions have characterised the financial environment over the past year or more. But while many banks produced such performances, uncertainty remains in the political sphere and economic recovery is still unclear.  The Banker Awards – sponsored by global IT and networking services company BT and software solutions provider Oracle – reflect the success and overall achievements of the world’s financial institutions. Our 162 Bracken winners from 133 countries represent the cream of the global banking community and the top achievers in the industry.