The 2nd Pakistan Banking Awards took place on the eve of September 19th, organized by the Institute of Bankers, A.F. Ferguson and Company and Dawn Media Group.

Bank Alfalah received the Best Bank Award for 2017 demonstrating “the most significant contribution to national development and the most effective management of its resources, including its employees, clients, franchise community, and financials”.

This award went to United Bank last year.

A total of six banks were given awards in eight different categories.

1. Best Bank for the Unbanked

Telenor Microfinance Bank was declared the Best Bank for the Unbanked for paying attention to financial inclusion by expanding its outreach through rural and low-income urban penetration and diversification among all segments of account holders.

2. Best Microfinance Bank Award

Telenor Microfinance Bank also received the Best Microfinance Bank Award for its performance in terms of penetration, outreach efficiency and access to low-income communities across Pakistan.

3. Best Bank for Small Business and Agriculture

Habib Bank was declared the Best Bank for Small Business and Agriculture for its performance, diversification, and quality of SME and agriculture lending nationwide.

4. Best Bank for Corporate Finance and Capital Market Development

United Bank was declared the Best Bank for Corporate Finance and Capital Market Development. It excelled in promoting capital market development, deepening secondary markets and providing advisory services to optimise the efficient use of industrial and commercial assets.

5. Best Islamic Bank

Meezan Bank was declared the Best Islamic Bank for expanding its Islamic banking franchise and raising public awareness.

6. Best Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Bank Award

JS Bank received the Best Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Bank Award for its conduct of responsible business.

A number of bankers, including State Bank of Pakistan Governor Tariq Bajwa, participated in the ceremony. Mr Bajwa said that the banking sector plays a vital role in the economic development of any country. He added that the awards will provide an incentive for the banks to improve their performance.

The jury for the awards consisted of former State Bank Governor Salim Raza, senior bankers Azhar Hameed, Shahzad Naqvi, Feroze Rizvi and Zeelaf Munir.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more details.