Containers Printers: Most Innovative Packaging Team South East Asia 2018

Using state-of-the-art technology, Singapore-based Containers Printers (CP) works closely with each client to provide personalised service and create bespoke packaging solutions. The company assumes responsibility for the entire integrated process, from artwork and design to after-sales support. Containers Printers manufactures the packaging and delivers it to client’s designated sites or storage facilities. After delivery, end-product assessments are conducted, and the company proactively troubleshoots any potential problems. With decades of experience in the industry, Containers Printers offers a range of customisable packaging options including functional printing and smart packaging, metal, with aerosol components, and in flexible laminates. Laminates are a versatile, eco-friendly material with food, beverage, industrial, and health care applications. The company employs the latest technology to ensure precise printing, vibrant colours and textured finishes. Containers Printers embraces the digital age and invests in the future with continuous innovation. It adopts the latest technologies to improve efficiency and lessen its carbon footprint. Sustainability and innovation are at the core of the company’s business vision, which aims to enrich stakeholders as well as society at large. The company has seen rapid growth since it was founded in 1981, and it now supplies products to more than 30 countries in Europe, South East Asia, Australasia, the Middle East and Africa. The CFI.co judging panel has followed the company’s progress since its win last year, once again naming Containers Printers as the reigning champion of the 2018 award for Most Innovative Packaging Team (South East Asia).


Active Capital Reinsurance, Ltd: Best Credit Reinsurance Solutions for Institutions Latin America 2018

Active Capital Reinsurance Ltd. (AC Re) operates on a principle of “benefits for all”. During its 11-year trajectory, the company has firmly established itself as one of the leading providers of credit-related reinsurance solutions in Latin America. Headquartered in Barbados, the company has offices in Panama and Miami, FL (USA) that are dedicated to developing regional business interests. The company’s London office has facilitated AC Re’s global expansion and geographic diversification, establishing a market presence in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (MENA), and Asia Pacific (APAC). AC Re now operates in more than 25 countries around the world, providing financial institutions with specialised reinsurance products covering credit fraud, card theft, credit life, and surety bonds, among other short-term non-catastrophe risks. In 2017, AC Re wrote net premiums comprising 72 percent surety, 20 percent affinity, and 7 percent property and casualty. In less than a decade, the company’s paid capital has increased by 66 percent. The company received a rating of A- FSR (Financial Strength Rating) and A- Long-Term ICR (Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating), indicating the industry’s assessment of AC Re’s excellent, stable outlook. In recognition of its strong performance in risk-adjusted capitalisation, the CFI.co judging panel is pleased to present Active Capital Reinsurance with the 2018 award Best Credit Reinsurance Solutions for Institutions (Latin America).


NCB Capital: Best Global Asset Management Team GCC 2018

NCB Capital, founded in 2007 in Saudi Arabia, is now the largest asset manager in the kingdom and the biggest Sharia-compliant asset manager in the world. The firm offers individual and corporate clients a full range of asset management services, specifically wealth management, brokerage, and investment services. NCB Capital’s financial advisory services help corporate clients navigate challenging business milestones, from mergers and acquisitions to joint ventures and corporate restructuring. The company has an investment fund for every appetite — including REIT, equity, money-market, fixed-income, and multi-asset funds — and its talented team offers sage investment advice based on each client’s objectives, risk tolerance, and investment philosophy. NCB Capital knows how crucial market intelligence is to sound investment decisions, and provides clients with an online library of leading market research. The firm’s client-centric approach aims to provide the largest range of services in the most convenient method. In August this year, NCB Capital became one of only about 1,500 firms worldwide to achieve Global Investment Performance Standards (GIPS) compliance, highlighting the firm’s dedication to improving investment performance and enhancing transparency for clients. The investment company has experienced rapid growth since its inception and now has over a million clients and $15bn worth of assets under management. The CFI.co judging panel applauds the firm’s expertise in fiduciary investment advisory services and its proficiency in helping clients achieve their investment goals. The judges congratulate NCB Capital on its 2018 Best Global Asset Management Team (GCC) award win.


Canary Wharf Group: Outstanding Contribution to Sustainable Development United Kingdom 2018

The Canary Wharf Group has worked over the past three decades laying the foundation for the cities of tomorrow. The group has left an indelible mark on the cityscape of London, adding 37 high-rise building to the iconic city skyline since its inception, and transforming the derelict docks of Canary Wharf into a thriving, 16.5m square feet of world-renowned office, retail, residential, and leisure spaces. With its far-sighted goals and bold ambitions, the group does more than pay lip service to the UN’s sustainable development goals (SDGs): it implements those principles and practices by promoting a resilient circular economy, where waste is converted into a resource and carbon emissions are minimised. As an inspiring early adopter with some impressive benchmarks, the Canary Wharf Group has powered all its operations by renewable energy since 2012, and minimised landfill waste since 2009. The company has established sustainable procurement procedures throughout its supply chain, set science-based targets to address ESG challenges, and collaborated with leading ecologists to encourage biodiversity throughout the area’s green spaces, which comprise 20% of the estate. The group is a fully integrated property development, investment, and management company, with the expertise and experience to take any project from concept to implementation. Of all the company’s forward-thinking approaches, the CFI.co judging panel particularly appreciates the group’s culture of ownership, which have afforded the brand absolute control over its ESG initiatives and clinched its status as an industry leader in sustainability. The judges congratulate Canary Wharf Group on its 2018 award win for Outstanding Contribution to Sustainable Development (United Kingdom).


MEEZA: Best IT Security GCC 2018

The CFI.co judging panel applauds Meeza on this third consecutive win of the Best IT Security award. This Qatar company has kept the momentum of discipline and adaptability in an industry that is subject to frequent change, and where cyberthreats are a constant enemy. Meeza has excelled in protecting its clients from reputational damage or security breaches as levels of threat are constantly monitored and analysed. Meeza represents top-class attitude and performance. Its advanced services ceaselessly scrutinise IT assets to ensure the instant flagging of any incident, using self-learning algorithms that detect traffic that deviates from the norm. Meeza is quick to identify vulnerabilities and predict possible future threats. Expertise and dedication have brought the company healthy growth and respect in the field, and have resulted in some big-name client acquisitions in 2018. Meeza is entering into promising strategic partnerships to further enrich its offering and its commitment with ongoing training programmes and workshops for staff. Meeza has received numerous awards and citations for its services, and is a Qatar Foundation joint-venture that is gaining increasing recognition for its role in supporting national development. Meeza is the recipient of the CFI.co 2018 award for Best IT Security (GCC).


ARTICO Partners: Best Quantitative Equity Asset Management Team Switzerland 2018

For the asset managers at ARTICO Partners, it’s not about being the biggest – it’s about being the best. There are six partners on the company roster, an agile team of senior-level professionals with impressive performance histories. The partners are significant co-investors in all of their funds. This means they have "skin in the game" ensuring that their interests are fully aligned with those of their investors. The investment approach is simple and compelling: invest in good companies. ARTICO has developed a selection process to identify companies with outstanding characteristics. The partners start with ARTICO’s proprietary database, containing over 25 years of data on more than 30,000 companies across the world. The firm then applies its methodology to assess the companies based on their growth rate, profitability, financial health, and stock market evaluation. Only companies with high scores across all four criteria are selected, creating diversified portfolios of sound, global companies, with a higher probability to outperform. It is exactly this combination of strong fundamental characteristics that makes ARTICO's portfolios unique. ARTICO manages three funds with the same systematic approach covering Emerging Markets, Global Small Caps and Developed Markets. In addition, ARTICO also offers risk-mitigated funds, to preserve client's capital across a range of scenarios. In recognition of its exemplary approach to investment, the CFI.co judging panel presents ARTICO Partners with the 2018 award for Best Quantitative Equity Asset Management Team (Switzerland).


Rosabon Financial Services: Best Social Impact Financial Services Nigeria 2018

Lending drives the development of industries and economies, and the progressive and modern non-banking institution of Nigeria, Rosabon Financial Services, is ready to help fund the mission. The financial products developed by Rosabon are fine-tuned to the demands of its clientele, and constantly updated to reflect evolving needs. The institution offers collateralised and non-collateralised loans, investment plans, and leasing services. Rosabon garnered the attention of the CFI.co judging panel in 2015 for its ethical business practices and peak corporate performance, and the institution has since made strides to become an even more socially oriented organisation. Passionate about education, Rosabon sponsors pupils from low-income families with school supplies each year. Furthermore, the Rosabon Educational Support Initiative partners with primary, secondary, and tertiary schools to offer low-interest tuition loans that enable parents to tackle private education in comfortable monthly payments rather than a large lump sum. Rosabon partnerships open avenues of capital flow in the travel sector, real estate market, and medical industry. Rosabon's Medical Equipment Leasing Initiative addresses healthcare concerns and covers a gap in the market, financing the procurement of crucial medical equipment for hospitals and medical facilities. Regulated by the Central Bank of Nigeria and a member of the Equipment Leasing Association of Nigeria (ELAN), Rosabon offers a gamut of products that promote financial inclusion and encourage consumer and corporate investment, leading the CFI.co judging panel to name Rosabon Financial Services winner of the 2018 Best Social Impact Financial Services (Nigeria) award.


Max Burger: Best Sustainable Restaurant Chain Europe 2018

Consumers are becoming increasingly aware that the food they consume has a major impact on the climate and that beef products can result in high greenhouse gas emissions. Truly responsible companies are going beyond the environmental targets set in the Paris Climate Agreement. Max Burger is one such company. Sustainability is part of the company’s DNA and Max Burger is striving to make its 130 outlets part of the solution rather than part of the problem, giving consumers an opportunity to continue using a service they enjoy whilst protecting the environment. The company has demonstrated how a burger-focussed fast food chain can become climate positive whilst maintaining excellent profitability. To achieve this positive impact the company has taken a holistic approach to sustainability and engaged leading experts to help ensure best practice and analysis. Max Burger is not simply offsetting its emissions, the company is actively reducing its environmental footprint and clearly giving consumers the information they need to change their behaviour when making menu choices. Max Burger is well on its way to attain its corporate target of making every second meal vegetarian by 2022. The CFI.co judging panel feels that Max Burger should be considered a role model for the fast food industry. The judges are delighted to declare Max Burger winner of the Best Sustainable Restaurant Chain Europe 2018 Award.


Swedbank: Best Green Bank Sweden 2018

Swedbank balances economic ambition with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) responsibilities, assuming a strong role in the communities in which it operates and society at large. With around 7.4 million individual customers and 600,000 corporate clients, Swedbank is the largest bank in Sweden and one of the leading financial institutions in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. This strong market presence affords the bank the clout to influence market trends, and Swedbank is betting on a greener, more sustainable future. In support and promotion of long-term sustainable solutions, the bank issues green bonds to finance the development of sustainable innovations and services. Swedbank’s efforts are aligned with UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), specifically promoting affordable and clean energy, industry and infrastructure innovation, sustainable cities and communities, climate action, and life on land. The institution aims to lead by example, continuously assessing sustainability factors in order to reduce social and ecological risks and contributing to a more sustainable business community. Likewise, the bank’s careful consideration of anti-corruption and human rights issues supports its risk management strategy and creates value for stakeholders. According to Swedbank, sustainability risks equate financial risks, and for the CFI.co judging panel, this seals the deal: Swedbank wins the 2018 Best Green Bank (Sweden) award.


Fidelis Finance BF: Best Social Impact SME Finance West Africa 2018

In many ways, creating finance solutions for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is a greater challenge than developing solutions for larger organisations. For economies to prosper and diversify, SMEs need stable finance partners that understand their businesses and can make decisions based not only on raw financial figures, but also by on the business opportunity and management’s ability to deliver. Fidelis Finance BF is one such solution-provider. With more than 20 years of experience, Fidelis has been continuously developing the capacity to deliver on its mission statement: to push the limits of its capabilities and provide companies with financial services that best improve clients’ competitiveness and allow them to seize new opportunities. Several multilateral credit providers and development banks have recognised Fidelis’s capacity to profitably deliver services to SMEs. The CFI.co judging panel recognises the level of trust these institutions show in Fidelis. The company has built an excellent reputation for governance and efficient processes, which — when combined with a strong team that knows how to create and match solutions and opportunities — are helping SMEs reach their full potential. The CFI.co judging panel declares it the winner of the Best Social Impact SME Finance (West Africa) award – an honour the company has achieved twice. Fidelis Finance BF’s took the same CFI.co award in 2017.


Peabody: Best ESG-Responsible Mining Company Global 2018

Coal mining has had a bad rap over the years, but the industry has gone to great lengths to clean up its act — and global coal company Peabody is an industry leader in sustainable mining and advocating and collaborating to advance the development and deployment of clean coal technologies. Advanced technologies have reduced coal’s carbon footprint, with high-efficiency, low-emissions (HELE) power stations that can capture 90 to 99.92 percent of regulated emissions. Peabody continues to foster innovation in clean coal technologies, recognising and rewarding leadership through its annual global awards programme. Respect is embedded at the core of the Peabody philosophy and reflected throughout every action of its business practices, particularly its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) responsibilities. Last year, Peabody restored 5,145 acres of mined lands — 1.4 acres for each disturbed — into wildlife habitat, rangeland, hardwood forests, prime farmland, pastoral land, and wetlands. Passionate and proactive about restoring coal-mined lands for future generations, Peabody has spent $185 million over the last decade to restore 48,000 acres of land and contributed around $560 million to restore lands operated by other coal producers. Peabody reports on six environmental indicators in reference to the Global Reporting Initiative framework: last year the company recycled and reused approximately 59 percent of total water withdrawn and 72 percent of total waste. Peabody philanthropic funding and scholarship contributions totalled over $1.4m last year, and globally generated $10.6bn in direct and indirect economic benefits. The CFI.co judging panel has been following the company since its first award win in 2016 and is pleased to congratulate Peabody on its third consecutive win of the Best ESG-Responsible Mining Company (Global) award.


Caisse Régionale de Refinancement Hypothécaire (CRRH-UEMOA):  Best Inclusive Mortgage Finance Impact West Africa 2018

As cities around the world become more economically powerful and populous, the effects of the global housing crisis become more pronounced. The financial speculation of the global housing market has resulted in a shortage of housing for the poorer and more disadvantaged members of society. This is particularly true in West African countries, where the housing crisis — a shortage of 3.5 million housing units —remains one of the region’s biggest developmental challenges. Caisse Régionale de Refinancement Hypothécaire (CRRH), of the West Africa Economic and Monetary Union (UEMOA), is putting roofs over people’s heads. As the leading mortgage refinancer of the UEMOA region, CRRH has facilitated about 8,000 mortgages since its 2012 inception — no small feat in an area where fewer than seven percent of citizens can afford to buy a house. CRRH-UEMOA has powerful strategic partnerships to support the region’s housing development and financing. The World Bank Group’s International Finance Corporation recently made a $9m investment in local-currency bonds, issued by CRRH-UEMOA. The bonds mature in 12 years and are designed to increase housing finance – while strengthening local markets. The CFI.co judging panel salutes CRRH-UEMOA for its contributions to the global housing crisis, and congratulates Caisse Régionale de Refinancement Hypothécaire on winning the award for Best Inclusive Mortgage Finance Impact (West Africa) 2018.


Saradar Bank: Most Socially Responsible Bank Lebanon 2018

Lebanon’s Saradar Bank has a long-standing commitment to corporate social responsibility, and lists human capital as a strategic focus. It promotes gender equality in a traditionally male-dominated sector, and provides educational and training opportunities for its skilled workforce. Its training programmes range from outreach programmes and leadership workshops to team-building activities, and more than half of its staff is female – with its leadership team boasting a 57% female majority. The bank’s inclusive spirit dates back to 1962, when former CEO Joe Saradar established the Saradar Foundation to promote cultural and leisure activities in the region. The foundation sponsors a mobile learning programme, sending educational caravans to remote regions of the country to deliver specialised seminars and customisable courses. The foundation’s visual arts programme aims to bolster Lebanon’s artistic heritage through sponsorships and curated collections of national treasures. It also has an athletics programme to reward and encourage promising athletes by endorsing and sponsoring them at international level. In 2016, the CFI.co judging panel commended Saradar Bank’s for its rapid but sustainable growth and presented it with the Best Bank Governance (Lebanon) award. After reviewing the recent bank’s progress, the panel noted that Saradar Bank achieved a 25% growth rate in 2017. It is set to be one of the fastest-growing banks in Lebanon for 2018 — proof that social responsibility and growth can go hand-in-hand. Saradar Bank is the winner of the 2018 award for the Most Socially Responsible Bank (Lebanon).


Caisse de Refinancement de l'Habitat (CRH): Best Social Impact Finance France 2018

Caisse de Refinancement de l'Habitat (CRH) is unique among credit institutions. CRH was founded in 1985 in Paris, and operates within a special legal framework with the sole purpose of funding French home loans. Essentially acting as a fee-free pass-through, the company issues mortgage bonds to fund home loans granted by banks. The company has capitalised on its special legal standing to become one of the largest bond issuers in Europe, finishing 2017 with bonds worth €30.8 bn on its books. As CRH’s secured loans (written as promissory notes to commercial banks) precisely match its mortgage-backed bonds, the company’s balance sheet duration is zero. CRH bonds are compliant with Capital Requirement Directive 2, reflecting the Basel II and Basel III rules on capital measurement and capital standards. As such, CRH is eligible for open-market operations of the European Central Bank and European Covered Bond Council. Borrowing banks retain CRH refinanced loans on their balance sheets, but if a bank defaults French law gives CRH full ownership of the loans. The company’s unique set-up and special privileges have ensured a superb risk rating (Aaa by Moody's / AAA by Fitch) and a smooth trajectory with no losses or write-downs since its inception. The institution came to the attention of the CFI.co judging panel last year, and the judges have watched CRH’s successful progression with interest. For the second consecutive year, the judges name Caisse de Refinancement de l’Habitat as the winner of the Best Social Impact Finance (France) award.


BDO Austria: Best Audit and Tax Team Austria 2018

[caption id="attachment_6611" align="aligncenter" width="1500"] From left to right: Dr Andreas Bernhart, Dr Peter Pilz, Mag Peter Bartos, Dr Berndt Zinnöcker, Mag Andreas Thürridl, MMag Marcus Bartl[/caption]

Outsourcing tax and auditing responsibilities is a smart move for businesses seeking unbiased financial analysis, and can prove useful at tax time. BDO Austria has a 50-year history of delivering sage tax advice and versatile auditing services. BDO Austria partners with global clients as well as family businesses and SMEs to provide a range of specialised auditing and tax consulting services. The customer-centric company is led by Austrian partners and supported by a team of 420 local auditing and tax professionals. It has nine offices throughout Austria, is well-placed to meet demands across the country — and its reach is global. The BDO network extends across 162 countries and includes 74,000 people, affording BDO Austria clients unparalleled support and resources for international operations. BDO Austria develops individualised solutions for clients, and assigns dedicated consultants to each of them. This has led to partnerships of deep trust and long history. Swift and transparent communication is a company standard, and BDO Austria seeks feedback from its clients and its team to fuel continuous improvement. The CFI.co judging panel cites the company’s work environment and engagement programmes as contributing factors to its recruitment success. For its committed approach to client relationships and team collaboration, the judges present to BDO Austria the 2018 award for the Best Audit and Tax Team (Austria) award.


Banca Agricola Commerciale: Best Bank Governance San Marino 2018

Nestled among the mountains of north-central Italy lies one of the oldest republics, and one of the smallest and wealthiest countries in the World — the Republic of San Marino. The country has a booming economy, bolstered by a competitive finance industry and a favourable business framework for foreign investment. San Marino’s Banca Agricola Commerciale (BAC) has capitalised on that foundation to create, and maintain, a reputation of trust, responsibility, and competence. The bank was founded in 1920 and has been operating to the highest standards of governance ever since. With nearly a century of banking experience and expertise, BAC offers tailored solutions to meet its customers’ needs, whether they are local clients to international investors. The bank provides a comprehensive range of financial products for private individuals and professionals, corporate clients, high-worth investors, and public authorities. It also has a widespread network: 10 branches and three specialised subsidiaries (BAC Fiduciaria, San Marino LIFE, and BAC Investment SG). The BAC process of continuous innovation, based on research-backed insights and client-solicited feedback, has garnered it a reputation for sound decision-making and diligent compliance. BAC first registered on the CFI.co judging panel’s radar last year for its fine corporate governance. The judges are pleased to see the bank continue on a path of responsible growth, and present the Banca Agricola Commerciale – for the second consecutive year – with the Best Bank Governance (San Marino) award.


SIG: Best Innovation IPO Switzerland 2018

The packaging powerhouse of Switzerland — SIG — has evolved over its 165-year history from a small local company to a global player. The SIG story began in 1853 in the railway carriage construction industry and the company’s engineering expertise subsequently enabled it to become a valued equipment supplier to the Swiss Army and law enforcement agencies. However, by the year 2000 both these businesses had been sold in order to focus on packaging technology, an area where SIG has a long history dating back more than 100 years. SIG has a global team, with 5000+ employees serving customers in more than 60 countries. SIG is a leader in aseptic carton packaging, providing cartons for over 10,000 food and beverage products in a safe, sustainable and affordable way. The company also manufactures high-tech filling machines for its customers and currently has an installed base of more than 1,100 machines, which are maintained by a field force of 550+ engineers. SIG offers a wide range of carton formats, including two world firsts: a resealable spout and a screw cap (CombiTop and CombiTwist). Responsibility towards people and the environment are an integral part of the business strategy and SIG’s innovative Signature Pack is the first aseptic pack 100% linked to plant-based renewable materials. The company has made significant progress towards achieving its 2020 goal of using 100% renewable energy at its production plants and already uses 100% renewable electricity. SIG’s geographic diversification and product innovation have contributed to its long-term sustainable growth. The recent IPO cut its debt from €2.5bn to €1.5bn. The CFI.co judging panel presents SIG with the award for Best Innovation IPO (Switzerland) 2018.


ALBIS Leasing: Best Online SME Leasing Solutions Germany 2018

ALBIS Leasing has been providing German small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with more financial freedom for more than 30 years. When capital flows present hurdles to acquiring essential equipment, leasing provides a practical alternative for SMEs – and this is where ALBIS comes in. The company is a holding company, incorporating four operational companies offering a range of lease financing services for vehicles, capital goods, and rental properties. ALBIS tailors leasing agreements to match customers’ needs, and its digital process quickly delivers appropriate leasing solutions and calculates agreements. The company aims to be the single-source provider for all business leasing needs, and the innovation and speed with which it delivers solutions is a driving force in its success. ALBIS Leasing’s expansive portfolio gains a competitive edge on banks in Germany and the Netherlands which complement the company’s product lineup with banking services and refinancing solutions. The company’s financing activities are balanced by a comprehensive risk-management system and regulated by Germany’s Federal Financial Supervisory Authority. The organisational structure of ALBIS Leasing is diversified into individual service companies, and IT solutions and sales activities are centralised and integrated. The company now plans to expand into the food service industry and payment solutions sectors. The CFI.co judging panel was impressed with the simplicity of the company’s online system, and the breadth of the services it offers. The judges present ALBIS Leasing with the 2018 award for 2018 Best Online SME Leasing Solutions (Germany).


Blackstone Resources AG: Most Promising Long-Term Value Creation IPO Switzerland 2018

Blackstone Resources was established in 1995 with the aim of developing its own holdings and assets. Continued success in that area led the company to expand its horizons, and focus on natural resources and commodities assets. Blackstone Resources is a specialist in the exploration of metals for use in batteries, as well as gold and silver, and the company is well positioned to take advantage of the anticipated increase in consumption thanks to the electric vehicle revolution. Blackstone’s long-term strategy is to invest in the companies that seek, develop and extract these metals – ethically, and from politically secure countries. Blackstone has a diversified global portfolio and invests in the gold, silver and cobalt refineries that transform the metals into marketable products. The company supports indigenous communities through social projects, and is committed to using wind turbines and photovoltaic panels where possible to dovetail its production efforts with the global bid for sustainability. Blackstone’s dedication will open new markets: the company intends to develop a range of batteries for mobile phones and laptops. Emerging technology from the Blackstone’s testing programmes will be adapted to supply the wider battery market. A comprehensive research and development programme, exploring new battery technology and automated production processes, could reduce the production costs by up to 70%. The CFI.co judging panel feels that Blackstone Resources deserves recognition for its innovation and vision, and presents the company with the 2018 award for Most Promising Long-Term Value Creation IPO (Switzerland).


Commercial Bank of Ceylon (CBC): Best Green Bank Sri Lanka 2018

As one of Sri Lanka’s largest financial service providers, the Commercial Bank of Ceylon (CBC) has considerable weight to throw behind its sustainability initiatives. The bank takes a proactive approach and integrates social and environmental concerns throughout its daily business practices and its business plan. CBC’s sustainability strategy addresses social and environmental issues affecting people and the planet. The bank sets an example for its stakeholders — from customers and employees to suppliers and business partners — with its efforts for the responsible stewardship of the planet. CBC harnesses the latest technology to drive sustainability initiatives while reducing its own environmental footprint. Customers are being urged to adopt paperless mobile banking, and CBC branches are energy-efficient and compliant with the highest environmental standards. CBC encourages corporations and SMEs to invest in a greener future by financing Green Development Loans to implement eco-friendly solutions in energy saving, energy efficiency, and renewable energy projects. The bank has pioneered an eco-conscious lending framework to ensure all decisions comply with environmental and social regulations. CBC’s efforts have not gone unnoticed: in 2017 the World Bank Group’s International Finance Corporation partnered with the bank, allocating $165m to finance loans for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects. The CFI.co judging panel applauds CBC’s far-reaching sustainability initiatives, and has unanimously agreed: the Commercial Bank of Ceylon wins the 2018 award for Best Green Bank (Sri Lanka).


ArthaLand: Best Eco Property Developer Philippines 2018

[caption id="attachment_6521" align="aligncenter" width="700"] President: Jaime C González[/caption]

If global environmental targets are to be met, sustainability needs to be entrenched in the heart and soul of the construction industry – a core value, not a box-ticking exercise. Philippines-based ArthaLand has made sustainability part of its DNA, ensuring that its staff understand how to operate in a sustainable way, and why that’s necessary. ArthaLand staff are educated about the environmental problems today that are threatening a prosperous future tomorrow, and they spread environmental awareness throughout the communities in which they operate. At ArthaLand, single-use plastics are discouraged for their shameful disregard of the planet, and the higher costs of sustainable building materials are seen as a necessary investment for all future-proof homes. The result is a world-class development organisation which applies the same high standards to all its developments, and is continually implementing appropriate innovations. ArthaLand's Arya Residences project was the first home development in the Philippines to undergo dual compliance: the US Green Building Council’s LEED green building certification and the Philippines Green Building Council’s BERDE classification. The CFI.co judging panel believes more developers should follow ArthaLand’s lead of putting the environment at the heart of the planning and decision-making processes. The judges declare ArthaLand winner of the 2018 award for Best Eco Property Developer (Philippines), and commend the company’s efforts to spread the environmental message to the wider community through its team and its policies.


SBM Holdings Ltd: Best CSR Banking Sector Mauritius 2018

The SBM Holdings Ltd acts as an agent of change, developing and implementing high-impact and sustainable projects at the national level to help alleviate poverty and move the country towards its goal of becoming a higher-income economy. SBM’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, which focus on the education and empowerment of the nation’s most vulnerable groups, have become a reference model for the nation, setting an example for other firms to follow. As one of the most profitable companies of the Republic, SBM Holdings Ltd believes it has a duty to uplift the communities in which it operates and runs a variety of outreach initiatives through its social arm, the SBM Foundation. The Foundation’s efforts focus primarily on education as a tool for social empowerment. Since its launch, the SBM Scholarship Scheme has funded thousands of scholarships enabling deserving students to pursue university studies or vocational training, thus boosting their family household income as much as three-fold upon completion of their studies — making SBM the single largest provider of scholarships in Mauritius. In the spirit of synergy and sharing, SBM supports educational projects from 19 different NGOs, in addition to several inclusive projects for disabled people, ranging from prosthesis procurement to self-reliance systems. For its holistic approach to the strategic empowerment of the nation, the CFI.co judging panel names SBM Holdings Ltd as the 2018 winner of the Best CSR Banking Sector Mauritius award.


NIBULON: Best Rural Economic Investment Partner Ukraine 2018

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The story of NIBULON, the Ukraine’s largest agricultural producer, investor and exporter, is rooted in perseverance and resilience — and its co-founders’ ability to see challenges as opportunities for growth and shared benefits. The company name pays homage to the founders’ home cities – NIkolaev, BUdapest and LONdon – and underscores its position as a major player in international markets. NIBULON was founded in the year that the Ukraine became an independent state – 1991 – and it’s been a driving force in the country’s economic growth ever since. NIBULON started with just five employees, and now has over 7,000. Since its inception, it has invested more than $1.6 bn in the Ukraine economy, helping the country to survive the economic crisis, ease unemployment and combat inflation. NIBULON began by developing agricultural land to efficiently produce grain, but the economic crisis and political uncertainty brought shortages of fuel and resources. With the perspective that challenges are nothing more than opportunities, NIBULON expanded into new markets to solve its logistical headaches. The company now has a diversified portfolio ranging from logistics to livestock. NIBULON tends nearly 83,000 hectares of agricultural land and operates 43 branches in 12 regions in the Ukraine. The CFI.co judging panel was impressed with the company’s foreign activities, which in 2015 delivered $8.2m in global economic contracts. The judges congratulate NIBULON as the winner of the 2018 award for Best Rural Economic Investment Partner (Ukraine).


MPICO: Best Full Property Services Malawi 2018

For nearly half a century, MPICO has been a key player in driving Malawi’s private property development and contributing to the national economy. Formerly known as the Malawi Property Investment Company, MPICO engages in the development, rental, and management of commercial, residential, and industrial properties as well as consultancy services. The MPICO portfolio shows the company’s keen interest in shopping malls, office complexes, and hospitality spaces. MPICO has a customer base of around 300 tenants, including government bodies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and corporate clients. The company was established in 1972 to facilitate private funding to develop the country’s property infrastructure, and it issued an IPO in 2007 to further its original objective. The IPO helped to broaden MPICO’s ownership base and gave the company access to capital markets — a distinct advantage for raising finance in the future. MPICO recognises the correlation between productive and profitable small- to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and a thriving economy. Its properties are home to many of Malawi’s SMEs, which MPICO also supports by outsourcing its services to them. The company has a history of strong corporate citizenship, funding hospitals and collaborating with disaster-relief organisations. The CFI.co judging panel congratulates MPICO — whose 28-property portfolio is now valued at more than $47m — and presents the company with the 2018 award for the Best Full Property Services (Malawi).


Aston Martin Lagonda: Best ESG Manufacturing Strategy United Kingdom 2018

Aston Martin Lagonda is a symbol of British heritage that epitomises motoring prestige and elegance – and the company’s environmental, social, and governance policies have ensured a sustainable future for the luxury brand.
The iconic sports car company was immortalised by the daring exploits of the UK’s favourite fictional spy – but Aston Martin Lagonda’s Second Century Strategy goes beyond Bond. The strategy promotes responsible and sustainable economic growth – without compromising the opulent level of detail for which it’s famed.
As a signatory of the UN Global Compact, Aston Martin Lagonda’s Corporate Responsibility Strategy seeks to addresses environmental and supply chain sustainability, community and stakeholder engagement, and the health and wellbeing of its employees.
The company has a long history in motor racing and continues in the tradition of transferring key racing technologies such as aerodynamics, lightweight materials and advanced powertrain solutions from the racetrack to the road.
Under its Second Century Strategy, Aston Martin Lagonda will launch seven new cars over a seven year period, including the company’s first SUV, first mid-engine sports car and its first electric vehicles (EV). The company outlined its EV plans earlier this year at the Genève Motor Show , where it announced the company’s second brand Lagonda was to be relaunched as a Luxury EV brand. The company also intends hybrid or fully electric technology to be available for all its models by the middle of the next decade. In addition to electrifying its new products the company has announced plans to retrofit its classic cars with electric powerplants.
The CFI.co judging panel admires the company’s ability to combine sustainable growth with its vision of a zero-emissions future. The judges also commend Aston Martin’s commitment to recycling, and its dedication to gender equality, outreach programmes, and flexible working arrangements. Aston Martin Lagonda takes the 2018 award for Best ESG Manufacturing Strategy (United Kingdom).


Invest In Madrid: Best Regional FDI Promotion Team Europe 2018

Invest In Madrid, the regional office facilitating foreign investment in and around Spain´s capital city, is a public-private partnership between the Ministry of Economy, Employment and Finance of the region of Madrid and the city’s Chamber of Commerce. It has the remit to provide services to investors interested in installing or expanding businesses, supporting them at every step of the project. Madrid boasts the lowest tax burden of Spain’s 17 autonomous communities, thanks to the liberal economic policies of its regional government, which is committed to backing private enterprise, reducing bureaucracy, streamlining the administrative processes, and removing obstacles to setting up businesses. This dedication to promoting the capital as a business-friendly hub, boosting foreign direct investment, has paid off. The capital is now number seven in the global ranking of cities attracting most foreign investment. The 7,000-plus foreign companies within its borders make up 39% of all those operating on Spanish soil, and Madrid has the EU’s third-highest number of multinational headquarters. While the region comprises just 13.75% of Spain´s population, it boasts 16% of the country’s total number of businesses, with more than 500,000 registered companies calling it home. This outstanding level of service in ensuring an attractive and efficient environment for business to flourish led the CFI.co judging panel to present the 2018 award for Best Regional FDI Promotion Team (Europe) to Invest In Madrid.


CleanMax Solar: Best Solar Power Turnkey Solutions India 2018

The best environmental solutions come from collaborations between private citizens and companies more so than from government legislature, according to CleanMax Solar, India’s preeminent partner for sustainable energy solutions. CleanMax Solar is the largest developer of solar solutions in India and the largest provider of solar power to corporates in India’s commercial and industrial sectors. The cleantech company delivers onsite and off-site solar solutions on a turnkey basis. CleanMax Solar is helping businesses cut energy costs and reduce their carbon footprint by converting the country’s rooftops into renewable energy generators. CleanMax Solar provides on-site solar power requiring no upfront capital expenditure (capex) through its pioneering BOO (build-own-operate) model. Clients forgo the capex and performance risk, and pay only for the energy consumed — which typically costs 20 to 40% less than the grid electricity tariff — and CleanMax handles the operation and maintenance, and retains ownership of the assets. The company can also supply solar power to large corporates through the grid from its solar farms. The CFI.co judging panel predicts a bright future for the company, and congratulates CleanMax Solar on its 2018 award win for Best Solar Power Turnkey Solutions (India).


KenGen (Kenya Electricity Generating Company): Best Sustainable Power Producer East Africa 2018

Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) is the environmentally friendly and socially responsible company empowering the country, economy, and population with reliable, safe, and affordable energy. KenGen provides 70 percent of Kenya’s electricity, harnessing the power of sustainable energy to generate electricity from geothermal, hydro, wind, and thermal sources. The company is the largest producer of geothermal energy in Africa, and among the top 10 producers in the world. Renewable energies already make up 80 percent of KenGen’s power production, with geothermal being the highest, and the company’s plans for solar power should push power production to 90 percent renewable in the near future. KenGen understands that sustainability can only be successful if future generations continue to work towards it. In 2012, the company established the KenGen Foundation to implement its CSR programmes countrywide, particularly in the communities where it operates. The foundation supports educational, environmental, and water and sanitation initiatives at the local level, funding student scholarships and school infrastructure development and spearheading reforestation efforts. Through local partnerships, the KenGen Foundation has contributed to water projects that now provide clean accessible water to over 65,000 community members. KenGen has been working on a Good-to-Great transformation strategy, building upon its past success to plan for a prosperous future. The CFI.co judging panel gives KenGen top marks for its good corporate citizenship, and congratulates Kenya Electricity Generating Company on its 2018 award win for Best Sustainable Power Producer (East Africa).


DueDil: Best Identity Management RegTech - Europe 2018

Conducting business on an interconnected scale, and at an international level, entails forging relationships with clients and colleagues around the world. But without due diligence, those relationships can represent a degree of risk to a company’s reputation and returns. Negative associations can have an impact on operations and jeopardise growth, but careful screening and identification procedures can safeguard against potential financial and legal damage. The London-based company DueDil enables businesses to focus on new opportunities by mitigating risk with data-driven compliance solutions. DueDil is a predictive company intelligence platform building the world’s most complete source of information on companies and the people behind them. It uses proprietary matching technology to link billions of company data points from authoritative sources, providing unique insight through its Business Information Graph. DueDil's powerful API and web platform provide its clients with the data and tools to target, assess and on-board SMEs at scale. The company’s Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) checks provide peace-of-mind when welcoming new customers, and its application programming interface (API) can be easily integrated to automate and streamline customer identity management. The DueDil API powers many processes: auto-population of webforms, compliant customer and supplier on-boarding, quick credit-approval decisions, and autonomous CRM integration. DueDil has created a database detailing over 20 years of financial data, including 15 million director relationships – which the CFI.co judging panel cites as a powerful tool to meet regulatory requirements and protect business interests. Congratulations to DueDil, the 2018 winner of the Best Identity Management RegTech (Europe) award.

For further information, please visit their website.


AmsterdamGold: Best Precious Metals Investment Advisory Team Europe 2018

AmsterdamGold facilitates all aspects of the trade in, and safekeeping of, precious metals. The company was set up in 2008 and in a few short years became market leader, tapping into a vast reservoir of unmet demand.

AmsterdamGold has since moved its business to a tightly secured area of Schiphol Airport, Europe’s second-largest airline hub and, as such, an ideal place for traders and investors to meet and conduct their business. The company maintains an onsite storage facility and due to its location inside the heavily guarded customs area, AmsterdamGold is the only precious metals dealer in The Netherlands able to deliver silver and platinum tax free.

AmsterdamGold has succeeded in simplifying the buying and selling of physical gold and other precious metals. The company also serves retail investors who seek shelter from market volatility by moving their assets into gold. Financial services providers are notoriously reluctant – or simply refuse – to deal with precious metals whilst others demand hefty commissions and only accept large volumes.

By keeping all aspects of the trade in precious metals under a single, and secure, roof, AmsterdamGold has been able to corner the market. The company is fully licensed by the Dutch Financial Market Authority (AFM) and is recognised as an authorised economic operator (AEO) by the country’s customs service.

The CFI.co judging panel notes that AmsterdamGold has identified and filled a void in the market. The judges agree that investors are often denied the option to invest in physical gold and other precious metals. AmsterdamGold offers a range of easy to implement – and cost effective – solutions. The judging panel commends AmsterdamGold on its achievements and declares the company, a previous winner, recipient of the 2018 Best Precious Metals Investment Advisory Team Europe Award.


Arca Fondi SGR: Best Emerging Markets Debt Manager Europe 2018

For more than 35 years, Arca Fondi SGR is one of Italy’s leading independent asset management companies. With steely resolve and strategic manoeuvring, it has navigated a choppy year of challenging markets – and the Milan-based company forecasts more favourable conditions ahead. Arca Fondi leads the way in safety and security, and is more than capable of holding a steady path towards its targets. Despite the underperforming bond indices and volatile stock markets of the past year, Arca Fondi’s smart diversification strategies have delivered smooth progress for the firm. It boasts a far-reaching distribution network of more than 100 regulated financial service-providers, and has more than 8,000 branches. It also has dedicated financial advisors and online channels to provide customers with support and service. For more than 30 years, the company has driven its growth and expansion with the guiding principles of trust, integrity, and respect. Its responsible stewardship has earned the long-term loyalty of its customers and clients. With over €31bn in asset management and 650,000 subscribers, Arca Fondi SGR offers financial planning, portfolio management, and investment services to private customers and institutional clients in Italy and abroad. The CFI.co judging panel has followed the firm’s trajectory for some time – this is the fourth consecutive year in which it has won a CFI.co award – and is pleased to see it has weathered the past stormy year with aplomb. The judges point to the firm’s tradition of pioneering product development and exceptional customer care as deserving of recognition, and name Arca Fondi SGR winner of the 2018 award for Best Emerging Markets Debt Manager (Europe).


12 Hay Hill: Best Business And Leisure Private Members’ Club Mayfair

Situated in the heart of Mayfair, London´s most exclusive area, the private members’ club 12 Hay Hill boasts a set of top-end facilities. The founders were aware that London features many clubs, some geared towards a traditional clientele, with Chesterfield sofas and formal dining rooms, and others featuring shared office spaces for younger entrepreneurs hosting meetings in more contemporary surroundings. The 12 Hay Hill founders saw a gap in the market for a club which offered both ambiences and facilities. At the Mayfair establishment, members have access to office suites with fast internet, audio-visual and conference call facilities, as well as reception and call-taking services. Staff are on hand around the clock and there are luxurious leisure facilities which allow members to relax, enjoy a cocktail or two, and wine and dine clients and associates in the artistically designed restaurant, bar and lounge. 12 Hay Hill is the pioneer of the concept of “clubworking”, meeting the needs of a young, cosmopolitan clientele. In addition to serviced office suites offering room service, the club has nine meeting rooms providing discreet areas for board meetings and/or private dining. It also hosts regular events to host leaders from the worlds of business and politics, including the 12 Hay Hill Davos Debrief conference in partnership with The Financial Times. Members can organise their own events in these plush surroundings, taking advantage of the facilities and services on offer. The CFI.co judges were impressed by the range of amenities and spectacular setting of 12 Hay Hill, and unanimous in announcing it winner of the 2019 award for Best Business And Leisure Private Members Club (Mayfair).


Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Bangkok Branch: Best International Wholesale Services Bank Thailand 2018

Established in 1952 as the first Japanese bank in Thailand, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Bangkok Branch (SMBC Bangkok) has been providing trusted financial products and services in the region for the past 66 years. Always keen on growth opportunities, the company aims to grow and prosper along with its customers, maximising shareholders' value through continuous business investment, enhancement, and expansion. Customer service and governance at SMBC Bangkok are central to company philosophy, and the bank maintains productive working relationships with its Thai clients, as well as regulatory bodies. SMBC Bangkok has a strong presence in the domestic debt market and offers various loans and bill-of-exchange services. The bank’s wholesale services are designed to meet the exacting needs of high-profile corporate clients. SMBC Bangkok facilitates large trade transactions, working capital financing, and currency conversion through its wholesale services. The company has a disciplined business approach, and ethically sound CSR initiatives are in place. SMBC Bangkok’s educational initiatives are training programmes designed to help staff match, and exceed, international expertise in the local sector. The CFI.co judging panel is pleased to present Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation Bangkok Branch with the 2018 Best International Wholesale Services Bank (Thailand) award.


Pyramidal Technologies: Best Forensic Technology Global 2019

To properly address the escalating nature of crime, Pyramidal Technologies is proactive when it comes to innovative solutions that can be used to help create more civil societies and provides law enforcement and judicial systems with vital tools to ensure offenders are held accountable under the law. The company has leveraged the power of technology to elevate forensic ballistics from subjective opinion to data-backed science. Pyramidal Technologies has driven the technological evolution of forensic ballistics and firearms registration by offering its flagship product, ALIAS, to support justice departments, police and military forces and government agencies worldwide. ALIAS combines a next generation scanning system, using interferometry, with a sophisticated software front-end, including advanced intellectual property for “Correlation”, to capture and compare firearms evidence in the form of bullets and cartridge cases. The majority of profits are reinvested into the evolution of ALIAS through ongoing R&D in order to ensure that law enforcement officials are equipped with the best methods available to identify violent offenders. Pyramidal Technologies is carrying out its efforts through ongoing strategic discussions with government leaders worldwide with regard to issues of national security and public safety as it relates to firearms. The CFI judging panel is familiar with the company’s contribution to civil societies, having recognised Pyramidal Technologies for its forensic fortitude in previous awards. The judges are pleased to see the company and its partnerships continue to flourish and contribute to public safety, such as to reduce violent crime, including gang and drug related murders. For example, firearm homicides in the Dominican Republic have been cut in half over the past five years through a National Security initiative using ALIAS as a principle solution. Without hesitation, the judges declare Pyramidal Technologies as winner, for the third year, of the 2019 award for Best Forensic Technology (Global).


Tracom Services: Best Enterprise Payment Solutions and Best eCommerce Payment Solutions East Africa 2019

Kenya is a hub for East African financial services and investments, and has become a headquarters for the tech teams driving a mobile money revolution. Tracom Services, based in Nairobi, delivers solutions from hardware to software and services — all backed by the latest technology that increasingly defines the country’s business ecosystem. Tracom is leveraging a successful 10-year history of innovation-led growth and reliability to respond to customer needs and market demands, grow its client base and penetrate new markets. The firm maintains two research and development centres, in Kenya and Tanzania, embracing the power of modern technology to deliver solutions. Kenya is a leader in fintech innovation, and Tracom has expanded its established suite of products to deploy fresh eCommerce solutions. Tracom’s eCommerce offerings are an extension of the work it’s been doing so well over the past decade — creating secure payment gateways to streamline clients’ day-to-day business operations for optimal efficiency and scalability. The company has put its extensive knowledge to good effect, and its strong growth and market expansion have caught the eye of the CFI.co judging panel for the third consecutive year. The judges congratulate Tracom Services on winning dual awards in 2019: Best Enterprise Payment Solutions and Best eCommerce Payment Solutions (East Africa).


QNB Alahli: Best SME Bank Egypt 2019 and Best Retail Bank Egypt 2019

Reforms are helping Egypt’s economy to recover, and Qatar National Bank ALAHLI is part of the success story. QNB ALAHLI is a leading financial institution with a retail-banking client base more than a million strong. QNB ALAHLI clients range from individuals and large corporates to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and the bank’s tradition of providing quality and service has cemented generational relationships. QNB ALAHLI offers a comprehensive suite of retail banking services through a multichannel platform, including a network of 216 branches and electronic services. This reflects the bank’s spirit of innovation, and ensures secure and convenient account control. Accelerated financial inclusion is a key strategy for sustainable economic growth, and QNB ALAHLI addresses this with products tailored for targeted market segments. QNB ALAHLI offers youth accounts to engage clients at an early age, green loans to finance energy efficient projects, and “pro” packages to support self-employed professionals. Another avenue for fostering economic prosperity lies in its SME support. QNB ALAHLI’s SME portfolio comprises more than 20% of its total lending, and its subsidiaries provide value-added products and services for SMEs’ daily operations. The CFI.co judging panel has followed QNB ALAHLI’s story for a number of years, and believes that the bank’s prudent risk-management has delivered yet another year of strong liquidity and continued growth. The judges unanimously approved QNB ALAHLI’s 2019 award for Best SME Bank and Best Retail Bank (Egypt).


Averda: Most Innovative Waste Management Services Middle East 2018

A clean environment improves lives, safety, and sustainability. Dubai-based industrial engineering company Averda should know: it manages municipal, industrial, and residential waste across three continents. Capitalising on waste-as-energy breakthroughs, Averda transforms residual waste into refuse-derived fuel (RDF) using an environmentally friendly process. Averda’s adaptable thermal treatment reduces waste volume by 90 percent, resulting in a viable by-product that can be used for power or heat, or sold for profit. The Averda story began in 1964, and in tech terms the company was way ahead of its time; 54 years later, it continues to be a pioneer of waste management technology. Clean cities thrive and prosper, inspire residents and communities to take action, and attract forward-thinking businesses. Averda first came to the attention of the CFI.co judging panel in 2017, winning an award for its conscientious management of landfill sites and disposal of e-waste. Averda has maintained its promising trajectory, providing creative, tech-based solutions for one of the world’s most challenging issues. Since the 2017 award win, the company has secured several major projects — proving that it is forging ahead with continuous innovation. Averda’s powerful partnerships combine third-party image capture with analytics to improve routing and collection efficiencies and perform quality assurance checks. For its continued dedication to creating a cleaner world, the CFI.co judging panel names Averda winner of the award for Most Innovative Waste Management Services (Middle East) – for the second consecutive year.


Tebyan Real Estate Development: Best Landmark Project Partner UAE 2019

In the real estate world, location (location, location) is key, and Tebyan Real Estate Development – with headquarters in the luxurious Dubai Marina – is perfectly positioned. The firm’s operational bases are in stunning high-rise towers, the latest of which shoots up from the marina skyline to create a shining new standard of style, amenity and quality. The flagship project, Sparkle Towers, is the result of some powerful and stylish collaborations. Tebyan extends an invitation to buyers who would like to reside among the stars in “a space marvelled by Swarovski”, referencing the iconic company responsible for the towers’ crystal-adorned lobby and common areas. The towers feature a façade that glitters in the evening marina waters as more than 1,500 lights illuminate the development’s 373 opulent apartments and penthouses. The rooms are finished with the finest materials, from marble and ceramic flooring and granite countertops to crystal-encrusted door plaques. Tebyan Real Estate Development stands out in the marina, and its emphasis on quality is evident in the lavish detail of its twin towers. Consolidating the expertise and experience of several major real estate investors and developers, the Tebyan team has a proven track record of development in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Dubai. Tebyan will launch projects worth more than AED1.5bn over the coming two years, adding three more deluxe developments to its portfolio. The CFI.co judging panel was swayed by the Tebyan’s sumptuous style and quality, and announces Tebyan Real Estate Development the winner of the 2019 award for Best Landmark Project Partner (UAE).


Tandem & Stark: Best Construction Project Cost Services Team Africa 2019

Before breaking ground on a new construction project, budget and time constraints must be carefully considered and calculated — and then respected. In Kenya, and across the wider East and Central Africa region, the consultancy firm Tandem & Stark has earned a reputation for delivering projects on-time and on-budget. Like many success stories, this one sprang from humble beginnings: Tandem & Stark’s first workspace was a garage. The firm flourished and has grown to become one of the leading consultancy firms in Africa. It prepares a detailed roadmap for each project, outlining customer objectives and expectations in clear terms, and ensures strict adherence to budget and timeframe. Tandem & Stark counts its workforce as one of the key drivers of its success. The dedicated team boasts many years of experience in the construction industry, and possesses intimate knowledge of regional markets and international trends. The company aims to provide value-added construction cost engineering services by partnering with customers throughout a project’s development. Tandem & Stark specialises in creating bespoke solutions, and has a proven track record of delivering top-notch construction cost-control and quantity surveying. It uses the latest tech advances to optimise the accuracy of estimates and stay on top of deadlines, as well as to increase overall efficiency. The company has recently expanded its services to include project management, where it applies the same thorough methodology. The CFI.co judging panel is pleased to see Tandem & Stark continue its upward trajectory, and confers the 2019 award for Best Construction Project Cost Services Team (Africa). This is the third consecutive year for Tandem & Stark to receive an award from CFI.co.


Air Austral: Best Airline Strategic Partnership Africa and the Indian Ocean 2019

A strategic alliance can convert competitors into colleagues – as well as maximising profits and expanding operations. Air Austral, based on the island of Reunion, off the coast of Madagascar, has signed a Privileged Partnership Agreement (PPA) with Kenya Airways and Air Madagascar. The partnership aims to strengthen each individual airline, as well as the co-operative alliance, with plans to share technical and training resources. Each carrier can now offer customers a wider slice of the globe to explore, and each gains access to its partners’ destinations through code-sharing pacts. Air Austral’s established network includes direct flights to destinations in Europe, Asia, and the Indian Ocean, and the partnership opens new destinations for the airline by establishing Nairobi as an African mainland hub. Air Austral and its partners expect the co-operative exercise to optimise operations through improvements in flight scheduling and capacity exchange. Air Austral has owned an equity stake in Air Madagascar since late 2017, further solidifying the link between the two airlines. The CFI.co judging panel believes that the alliance creates ample room for commercial and operational synergies, and congratulates Air Austral on winning the 2019 award for Best Airline Strategic Partnership (Africa and the Indian Ocean). This is the second 2019 CFI.co award win for Air Austral.


Afghanistan International Bank: Best Corporate Governance Afghanistan 2019

Strong corporate governance puts the proper checks and balances in place to ensure sustainable success, something vitally important for organisations and businesses in pioneer markets. The Afghanistan International Bank (AIB) was founded in 2004 to drive economic development in the country. It has spent the past 15 years building a reputation as a reliable partner of international finance expertise, and for its local market competence. AIB’s new corporate headquarters, in one of the most stylish and accommodating office buildings in the country, is a fitting home for an institution on the move. AIB board members ensure that the bank’s governance code continues to meet the highest international standards and best-practice benchmarks, acting as a catalyst for growth for the nation and its people. AIB implements the latest and most relevant safeguards to protect the institution – and its shareholders – against any fraudulent or illicit financial associations. The bank’s exacting anti-fraud and anti-money laundering regulations have contributed to its trustworthy reputation, and earned AIB the distinction of serving as a clearing facility for multiple currencies. The bank has consistently earned a vote of confidence from its stakeholders: clients, staff, investors and advisors. Having followed AIB’s progress – and made multiple awards for its excellence – the CFI.co judging panel is well aware of the bank’s merits. The judges congratulate Afghanistan International Bank on winning yet another accolade: the 2019 award for Best Corporate Governance (Afghanistan).


Banco Económico: Best Bank Governance Angola 2019

The future is digital – and Angolan commercial and investment bank Banco Económico should know. The financial institution has an innovation-driven growth strategy designed to propel company and country to greater prosperity. Banco Económico was founded in 2014 and it differentiates itself from the competition with attractive saving plans, profitable investment solutions, and strong ethical standards. The bank has a new hand on the tiller, with CEO Pedro Cruchinho stepping up to guide development and fortify its already solid governance practices. Additional levels of governance and a network of interlocking committees and commissions provide Banco Económico with an overarching understanding of the rapidly evolving Angolan economy. With the conviction that “there are no successful businesses in failing societies”, Banco Económico aims to be a transformative agent for economic development, and a catalyst for social responsibility. The bank has programmes in place to support environmental, educational and cultural initiatives. It funds scholarships, sponsors a cultural museum, donates medical equipment and supplies, and has begun to construct community schools. The bank leads by example and has mobilised its workforce — which it counts as a key strength — to take up the mantle of social responsibility. After following the bank’s development over the past few years, the CFI.co judging panel is pleased to see it has maintained its strong ethical compass, self-sufficient status and high liquid capital assets. Banco Económico – with two previous CFI.co award wins to its name – has been announced as winner of the 2019 Best Bank Governance (Angola) award.


Ostoul Capital Group: Best Boutique Investment Bank Egypt 2018

Founded only three years ago with the sole intention of becoming one of the biggest financial institutions in Egypt, Ostoul Capital Group is a fully-fledged investment institution and an industry pioneer. Along with its two subsidiaries; Ostoul Securities Brokerage and Ostoul Consultancies, the Cairo-based company offers a diverse range of services including brokerage services, portfolio and asset management, custody, private equity, investment banking and consultancy services in addition to being a listing agent and Nilex sponsor. With an acute business vision, aggressive strategies, and a competent banking-experienced board, the Group’s brokerage arm managed to rank in the top 20 brokerage firms with a total turnover value of EGP 225 million within its first year. By the end of 2018, Ostoul still ranked among the top 20 but with a whole year total turnover of EGP 5.64 billion. Through its custody arm, Ostoul is able to enlist companies with the Depository system, a service which landed it an assets base worth more than EGP 12 billion by the end of 2018. In addition, Ostoul became a bond trader to be alongside the top ranked brokers; CIBC, Beltone and EFG-Hermes. This only shows the perseverance of Ostoul to become a leader in financial services in Egypt. With Ostoul’s prominent list of shareholders, renowned client base and solid and highly experienced team, the Group was able to cement its presence in such a short time. The CFI.co judging panel thus concurs: Ostoul Capital Group wins the 2018 award for Best Boutique Investment Bank (Egypt).


Air Austral: Best Airline Financial Management Team Indian Ocean 2019

With a focus on the future and an emphasis on quality service, Air Austral is amplifying its destination network and updating its fleet to provide passengers with the best possible travel experience. Air Austral is headquartered in the French overseas department of Reunion, an island off the coast of Madagascar. It connects Reunion to Europe with daily direct flights to Paris and weekly ones to Marseilles. The airline also offers direct flights to destinations in Asia (Thailand, India, and China) and the Indian Ocean (South Africa, Madagascar, the Comoros, Mauritius, Mayotte, and the Seychelles). More than 100 additional destinations are covered through codeshare partnerships and aviation alliances. Through freshly forged strategic partnerships, Air Austral has opened the gate to the African continent with new codeshare flights to Kenya from Reunion and Madagascar. The company has signed a Privileged Partnership Agreement for enhanced shared flight scheduling and technical training. Air Austral benefits from a financial management team capable of steering the company to sustainable profit. The CFI.co judging panel believes the airline’s fiscal responsibility will carry it to new heights, and presents Air Austral with the 2019 award for Best Airline Financial Management Team (Indian Ocean).


Corporación Zona Franca Industrial de Santiago: Best ESG Industrial Free Zone LatAm & Caribbean 2019

By seeking progress and prosperity for the community as a whole, businesses can potentiate the economic and social development of the regions in which they operate. In the Dominican Republic, the Free Zone Corporation of Santiago (CZFS) attracts major international brands keen to take advantage of the park’s accommodating regulatory framework. Companies can engineer a financial boost for themselves, and improve quality of life for communities, as well as the country. CZFS was founded in 1974, and its journey has been characterized by sustainable growth in scale and scope, as well as in production capacity and environmental and societal impacts. Over the years, the zone has doubled its manufacturing facilities – two million square-meters in area – and increased the scope of its community enrichment programs. CZFS opened the doors to a community clinic in January, and upcoming projects include a housing complex, a commercial and business center, and an industrial garden. These developments serve the entire community, not just those linked to the free zone. CZFS is a strong advocate of educational opportunity and environmental responsibility, and invests in initiatives to empower the population and safeguard the planet. The CFI.co judging panel recognizes the zone’s robustness of service, and the sound nature of its environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies. The judges had no hesitation in naming the Corporación Zona Franca Industrial de Santiago as winner of the 2019 award for the Best ESG Industrial Free Zone (LatAm & Caribbean).


Dexi.io: Best Data Extraction Solutions Global 2019

There’s gold in the web — digital gold from mountains of raw data — and Dexi.io offers to mine it and turn it into ingots of pure market insight. The digital disruptor uses next-generation web-scraping software, intelligent automation and advanced Application Programming Interface tools. Dexi.io has developed an internet-extractor robot that sets it apart from the competition. Bots created by, and controlled from, the platform scour the web for valuable information and distil it into actionable market data. The company predicts that early adopters of its products will become the first “data superpowers” of tomorrow. The Dexi.io community of implementation partners is growing, with more than 50,000 companies around the world signed-up, together proving Dexi to be a powerful partner capable of complex data harvesting and processing. The company maximises benefits from gathered data with automation controls, Natural Language Processing and artificial intelligence. Dexi.io has developed a breakthrough model for data management to handle the large caches of raw information. Over the past two years, Dexi.io has deployed more than 30 million research robots, and processed 700 TB of data through intelligent automation — the equivalent of almost 200 years of continuous research. The CFI.co judging panel commends the company’s practical approach to codifying and evaluating data, and presents Dexi.io with the 2019 award for Best Data Extraction Solutions (Global).


Shell LiveWIRE: Best Youth Entrepreneurship Engagement Programme Global 2019

It’s common knowledge that when a country’s startups thrive, so too does its economy. In light of this widely accepted axiom, the British-Dutch oil and gas company Royal Dutch Shell (Shell) launched an expansive programme to develop enterprise around the world – especially in the communities in which it operates. Founded in 1982, the LiveWIRE programme empowers young people to switch from employee to employer, from seeking employment to providing it. Shell LiveWIRE programmes, which operate in 15 countries around the world, have benefited over 9.2 million young entrepreneurs since its inception. As the sixth largest oil and gas company in the world, Shell has a long history of successful business management, and the expertise it’s accrued over the years makes it an excellent partner to help launch young entrepreneurs’ careers. Shell LiveWIRE programmes provide promising youth with the necessary knowledge and support to “transform their enterprising ideas into a viable and sustainable business”. The LiveWIRE programme is divided into five modules: Bright Ideas, Business Planning and Management Training, Business Startup, Post Startup Support, and Performance Measurement and Refinement. The Bright Idea module centres young entrepreneurs with a 20-question checklist intended to help spark a great idea and develop it into a viable business plan through guided critical thinking. The remaining modules help to finetune the plan, identify possible financing sources, provide mentorship, and maximise impact through global Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). The CFI.co judging panel applauds Shell’s commitment to – and investment in – global enterprise and presents Shell LiveWIRE with the 2019 Best Youth Entrepreneurship Engagement Programme (Global) award.


Co-op Legal Services: Best Estate Administration And Probate Services Provider UK 2019

The experience of bereavement is always difficult and businesses providing services to those recently bereaved need to ensure their teams are empathetic and compassionate. The Co-op has a strong heritage looking after bereaved families and Co-op Legal Services helps families to achieve the closure they need as swiftly as possible with their high-tech, hands-on team. Co-op Legal Services sends representatives to the homes of families who have lost a loved one to assist them with all the necessary paperwork to begin the probate process and estate administration. Documents are scanned at the client’s home and synchronised to the company software system to get administration under way immediately. Each client’s case is assessed using intelligence in the software and assigned the ideal team member for the individual case.

Co-op Legal Services has combined face-to-face services, underpinned by technology in the field and in-house, on an end-to-end case management platform, to provide a unique high quality service. The Co-op invests in technology solutions to enhance customer service and ensure quick liquidation and distribution of estates. The Co-op’s track record of continuous improvement is a point of pride, and the organisation embraces each opportunity to expand and enhance its services for the benefit of its clients. The Co-op manages more than £2bn in estates each year, and has 600 staff in offices spread from Manchester to London, Bristol, Sheffield, and Stratford-upon-Avon. In addition to probate services and estate administration, Co-op Legal Services offers advice and assistance in family and employment law, will-writing, personal injury claims, and conveyancing. What most impressed the CFI.co judging panel was the Co-op’s commitment to client care.

Without reservation, the judges present Co-op Legal Services with the 2019 award for Best Estate Administration and Probate Services Provider (UK).


Absa: Best SME Partner Bank Africa 2018

Amalgamated Banks of South Africa (Absa) was founded in 1991 through the merger of financial services providers UBS Holdings and Allied & Volkskas. Fourteen years on, Barclays Bank purchased a controlling interest in Absa – its largest-ever investment outside the United Kingdom. In early 2018, Barclays reduced its stake to below the 15 percent mark, which reinvigorated the Absa brand after a $1bn investment from Barclays to cover separation-related expenses. Absa, under the earlier company style of Barclays Africa Group, was the winner – for three consecutive years, 2015 to 2017 – of CFI.co’s SME Partner Bank award. The CFI.co judging panel has insisted that Absa be recognised again for its performance in 2018 because, in the judges’ unanimous view, Absa’s policies and programmes in support of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) continue to lead the way throughout the African continent. The award is made to recognise outstanding efforts in support of a vital economic sector: SMEs are responsible for a third of Africa’s economic output. The Absa Enterprise Development Programme helps to stimulate economic growth by providing training for entrepreneurs, as well as business development support and access to markets. Competitive funding rates at Absa further encourage SME development. The driving force at Absa is the notion of “Africanacity”: a quintessentially African ability to find ways of getting things done. The judging panel takes the view that Absa is continuing to get things done for SMEs, and responds admirably to the sector’s needs. Without hesitation, CFI.co confirms Absa as the 2018 winner of the award Best SME Partner Bank Africa.


New World Development Co Ltd: Best Investor Relations Team Hong Kong 2019

A goliath of the Chinese real estate market, New World Development Company (NWD), has left an indelible mark on the country’s architectural heritage — and developed a thriving, synchronised ecosystem across diverse industries and services. The group manages a property portfolio comprising well-equipped residential complexes and retail projects, as well as iconic, mixed-use commercial buildings. Since its launch in 1970, NWD has contributed to China’s economic growth and advances in infrastructure through strategic investment and expert management. At the close of 2018, NWD had assets under management valued at HK481.3bn (£46.5bn), and property sales hit a record high at more than HKD28.3bn (£2.74bn). NWD connects customers in residential, professional, and retail communities. It has an eye for inspired aesthetics, and a focus on ease-of-use. Diversification is a key strength of the NWD strategy, with projects ranging from transport hubs to sports centres. It has expanded into the wellness and healthcare sectors through its HUMANSA health brand, and into the insurance market with the acquisition of FTLife Insurance – further strengthening NWD’s aim for synergy across sectors. NWD is publicly listed on the Hong Kong Hang Seng Index, and has three subsidiaries: NWS Holdings, New World Department Store China, and New World China Land. NWD first came to the attention of the CFI.co judging panel in 2017, when it won an award for its pioneering, sustainable business model, and its no-nonsense approach to raising investment funds. The judges are pleased, once again, to present New World Development Company with the 2019 award for Best Investor Relations Team (Hong Kong).


Toledo Capital AG: Best Wealth Management Services Switzerland 2019

At Toledo Capital AG, investment advisors aren’t seduced by short-term investment speculations. They play the long game, with stable diversification strategies for the preservation and transmission of multi-generational wealth. The boutique, multi-family firm was founded in the thriving international finance hub of Zurich to provide wealth management services for high-net-worth individuals and families, worldwide. Clients’ interests and objectives set the course for the firm’s investment strategies. Toledo Capital creates investment profiles for each client, with carefully calculates risk-return ratios and the ad-hoc reporting of portfolio performance. The firm allocates financial and human resources to the personalised creation of each client’s monthly portfolio performance report. Its status as an independent asset manager ensures the firm is not influenced or limited by bank policies. It also enables Toledo Capital to give clients the focus and attention that they deserve. Working hand-in-hand with clients, Toledo Capital advisors use their financial prowess to cherry-pick from the investment solutions that promise an optimal balance of risk and reward for each portfolio. To achieve clients’ investment goals, Toledo Capital encourages diversification across jurisdictions, classes, and currencies, to create a balanced investment portfolio mixing higher risk opportunities with others carrying low risk, and predictable returns. The CFI.co judging panel applauds the firm’s client-centric and far-reaching focus, and names Toledo Capital AG as the winner of the 2019 award for Best Wealth Management Services (Switzerland).


Tandem: Best Neo Bank UK 2019

When Tandem Money Ltd was founded six years ago its mission was twofold. Firstly, to improve its customers' lives by making banking more accessible therefore helping them to understand their money and make the best use of it. Secondly, to use highly sophisticated data models to connect with customers in whole new ways. The bank had a unique launch with 11,000 investors-cum-customers who it calls it “co-founders” to demonstrate the closeness of the relationship. Tandem differentiates itself from other banks in the way its people always consider how well a new initiative will work for the customer and how it helps to solve real money problems; that is something that has been embedded in its culture from day one. The app is particularly user-friendly and shows the customer their balance, upcoming bills and how much they can spend, it sends alerts when a bill increases, or a payment is received and helps reduce bills by finding better deals thereby saving them money. In January 2018, Tandem acquired Harrods Bank, gaining 10,000 new customers, a major coup for a 'challenger' bank and the following month it launched a credit card which guarantees the holder cashback on every purchase and no exchange fees when spending abroad. In April of the same year, it introduced a fixed term savings account with market-leading rates. Having enjoyed rapid growth, including a second acquisition, the money management app Pariti, Tandem is very much looking to the future with 500,000 customers in the UK and is currently expanding in Europe and Asia. The judging panel took all these factors into account when naming Tandem as Best Neo Bank UK 2019.


CheBanca! - Most Innovative Digital Smart Bank Italy 2019

The revolutionary digital platform that Milan-based CheBanca! has developed is its operational heart, offering customers convenient, anytime, anywhere, multi-channel access to a range of services. Constant upgrades and improvements to the platform continue to elicit praise, and while it is a point of corporate pride, CheBanca! has never lost sight of the importance of fostering meaningful relationships with its clients and customers. Established in 2008 as a high-tech subsidiary of Mediobanca – one of Italy’s leading financial groups – the bank now boasts more than 837,000 customers, and over €23bn in funding. Since its inception, the bank has been at the vanguard of innovation in Italian financial markets, employing advanced analytics, big data, and robot consultancy to unlock customer insights, enhance services, and streamline workflows. CheBanca! is constantly analysing data and encouraging digital dialogue to anticipate customers’ needs and develop smart solutions and relevant promotions. The CheBanca! loyalty programme tracks customers’ banking activity and awards points that can be cashed in for rewards ranging from gourmet bites and entertainment to high-tech gadgets and travel. The latest technology enables the bank’s teams to manage customer relationships in a personal manner, always recognising those clients as individuals. The emphasis the bank has placed on tech innovation serves only to underline its human focus and capability, from imaginative problem-solving skills to friendly front-end services. For the second consecutive year, the CFI.co judging panel is delighted to present CheBanca! with the award for Most Innovative Digital Smart Bank (Italy) 2019.


Natixis: Most Innovative Trade Finance Solutions Africa 2019

Natixis is a French multinational financial services firm specialized in asset & wealth management, corporate & investment banking, insurance and payments. It designs customised solutions to help clients fulfil their ambitions and realise projects worldwide. The company boasts a workforce of some 16,000 employees in 38 countries across Americas, Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. A subsidiary of Groupe BPCE, the second-largest banking group in France, Natixis leverages its resources, talents and energy to serve the long-term interest of its clients: corporations, financial institutions, sovereign and supranational organizations, and the customers of Groupe BPCE’s networks. Natixis trade solutions facilitate clients’ import and export activities, and its secure banking service for international transactions affords clients peace-of-mind. In 2018, Natixis acted as the sole arranger and agent for a successful tender — a trade finance facility of $415m — between commodity trader Trafigura and EPSE, the state-owned Ethiopian Petroleum Supply Enterprise monopoly in charge of importing refined petroleum products. The innovative method of securing commodity receivables unlocked new funding sources for traders and investors, regionally and internationally. As an early adopter of digitalisation, Natixis partnered with IBM and Trafigura to modernise practices and workflows of the global crude oil trade using blockchain, yielding a platform with enhanced transparency, security, and efficiency. The CFI.co judging panel was unanimous: Natixis is the winner of the 2019 award for Most Innovative Trade Finance Solutions (Africa).


The International Butler Academy: Best Private Butler Training Global 2018

When Robert Wennekes founded The International Butler Academy twenty years ago, he did so with vast experience and know-how of the industry.

Having worked as a butler, personal assistant and executive manager to an American billionaire for six years, he returned to Europe to take up the position of Head Butler for an eminent Austrian family.

After that, whilst working at the US Embassy in Berlin, he was awarded a certificate for Outstanding Service by the White House.

It was when Professor Wennekes was headhunted by the global executive search firm Egon Zehnder to head their domestic staff division that he realised there was a shortage of high-quality butlers who would meet the exacting requirements of his clients.

So he decided to create The International Butler Academy, thereby ensuring that by imparting his knowledge and experience of top-class private service, he could meet his clients’ needs.

A pioneer in the field, the high quality of the trainers and the curriculum meant that the school was a resounding success and it wasn’t long before imitators started springing up.

However, by maintaining the highest professional standards, the Academy is internationally recognised as number one in its field.

In 2014, always seeking to improve their offering, the Academy acquired a mansion in the Netherlands, Huize Damiaan, the kind of location that students might well be working in upon graduation.

They run three training programmes a year, each lasting ten weeks; the courses are always full.

This superb establishment boasts 135 rooms all equipped with the tools and products the students will use once in private service; including four pantries, a porcelain room, three cellars and a flower-arranging room.

The student accommodation certainly beats anything you will see downstairs in Downton Abbey, Students have access to their own private living room outfitted with everything you would expect in a private home. This includes comfortable furniture, a fully-equipped kitchen (although all meals are prepared by the academy´s own Chef), a large-screen TV, DVD-player and (fast) wireless Internet.

The students´ laundry and bedding are also taken care of, which means they can devote their undivided attention to learning the expertise of the trainers.

Whereas their competitors use makeshift places to train such as corners of hotels or even warehouses, the students at The International Butler Academy can take advantage of their perfect surroundings to feel comfortable when they find employment in the grand houses or luxury penthouses of the world.

The Judging Panel recognises that its centre of excellence is unique in its field and that, together with the unrivalled level of instruction, is why they unanimously resolved to bestow the award for Best Private Butler Training - Global 2018 on The International Butler Academy.


MAROCLEAR: Best Financial Services Corporate Governance Team North Africa 2018

According to the CFI.co judging panel, MAROCLEAR, the central depository of securities of Morocco, takes its corporate governance responsibilities very seriously and is an extraordinarily well run organisation headed by the exceptionally talented Fathïa Bennis. MAROCLEAR ensures that its business practices align with international best practice to ensure the smooth functioning of the market, providing partners and affiliates with a secure and reliable framework for security retention and transaction completion. Without doubt MAROCLEAR has, since its inception, contributed significantly to the development of the Moroccan financial sector. Bennis, at the head, is passionate about reducing the gap between men and women – particularly at the decision-making level. She has been quoted as saying that she values women that are able to occupy strategic positions and has always been sensitive to the cause of female empowerment. Bennis takes the view that the secret of the promotion of women is solidarity. CFI.co agrees, and the panel insists on a personal award to Fathïa Bennis to applaud her commitment to gender equality. This individual recognition will go alongside the corporate award Best Financial Services Corporate Governance Team North Africa 2018 in the name of MAROCLEAR.


Pictet: Best Thematic Investing Solutions Global

[caption id="attachment_6578" align="aligncenter" width="1000"] Equity Partner, Head of Marketing & Products: Derick Bader[/caption]

Pictet is one of the most respected names in the world of asset and wealth management with CHF 512 billion AUM (as at September 2018). Founded in Geneva in 1805, Pictet has maintained its principles of succession and in 213 years there have been only 42 partners, with an average tenure of 21 years. This has allowed the company to establish strong traditions and values which translate into long and trusted relationships with its clients. Always the pioneer, Pictet was one of the first asset managers to develop a thematic fund strategy, launching its water fund almost 20 years ago, followed by more thematic funds including the innovative Digital Fund in the summer of 2008 when there were only five million iPhones in the world, compared to over the billion in use today. Pictet has built on its early success by creating highly specialist investment teams from diverse backgrounds with a deep understanding of the themes. Understanding how to create such teams has helped set Pictet apart from its competition and enabled them to develop new thematic investment products. The Group´s adherence to the UN Principles for Responsible Investment and the integration of high ESG standards has helped enhance returns and mitigate risk . These factors have resulted in the funds not only delivering financial results but have also contributed to the delivery of SDGs and sustainable solutions.  Given the increasing demand for responsible investment solutions, the CFI.co judging panel felt Pictet Group, with its ability to identify strong thematic investment solutions that deliver strong rewards for its clients whilst funding positive change, deserved the recognition of the award for The Best Thematic Investing Solutions - Global 2018.