The Banker Awards 2008

Published: 04 December, 2008

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After five years of banking boom the global credit crisis hit hard in 2008 and banks across the globe felt the impact. But despite the financial turmoil many institutions managed creditable performances and record results. The Banker’s ninth Bank of the Year Awards – sponsored by Qatar Financial Centre – reflect the success and financial achievements of the top banks from countries across the globe. Our 160 Bracken winners, representing a record 148 countries and all the regions of the world, are the cream of the global banking community and the highest achievers in the industry.

The Banker’s ninth annual commercial banking awards provide winners in a record 148 countries along with seven regional awards, including Global Bank of the Year to France’s BNP Paribas. In addition we include awards in emerging markets, cash management, securities services and environmental, social and governance. Together these winners represent the best commercial banking performances across the globe.

In a special award, Ibrahim Dabdoub, chief executive of National Bank of Kuwait, receives The Banker’s second Lifetime Achievement in Banking Award at our ceremony in London on November 26, 2008.

The criteria for the assessment of the Bank of the Year Awards for the 148 countries and the regions is built around detailed questionnaires provided by banks, and this year 740 banks from 150 countries submitted questionnaires to our editorial team. Awards were not given in Afghanistan and Iceland. Our global judging team reflects not only on the latest results, growth rates and performance data over the period contained in the questionnaires but also analyses of all available material examining technology, acquisitions and key strategic developments.

The award for a single bank in each country is for the best overall performance in the previous period incorporating performance criteria, qualitative achievements and strategic initiatives.

As in previous years, the winners in 2008 come from a diverse range of banks but a few banks did have multiple successes. The Ecobank Group won in 10 countries in Africa while South Africa’s Standard Bank Group won in its home country and nine countries in Africa. Canada’s Scotiabank won in five countries in the Americas.

For a list of the winners click here . To watch highlights from the awards, click on the image below:

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