Coopeuch: Best Socially Responsible Banking Chile 2021

Coopeuch is a chilean credit union with 54 years of history that today has more than 1 million members throughout the country. Its purpose is to improve the quality of life of each one of them, through the delivery of financial products and services in an inclusive way and adapted to their needs, generating social and economic impact among them and in Chilean families. Coopeuch is one of the most decentralized financial institutions in the country, which is shown in that 76% of its members live outside the capital of Chile and in each of the 346 communes of the country there are members of the cooperative.

Coopeuch has also been awarded for the level of service it provides to its partners and has been placed in important rankings of corporate reputation.

One of the benefits that the cooperative delivers to its members is the Remnant, which means that they annually receive part of the results of the institution. The Remainder is distributed to each member according to the percentage of products used by Coopeuch, participation fees and their behavior with the cooperative. Through the Remnant, resources are distributed and remain in local economies and energize them, generating a virtuous circle. During this year, as a Remnant, Coopeuch distributed more than 52 billion chilean pesos (more tan US$65.000) among more than 920 thousand cooperators throughout the country.

One of the axes of the savings and credit cooperative is to promote financial inclusion in addition to providing financial advice and education to help people to manage their finances, take care of your debt and make better decisions. That is why the cooperative has strengthened and amplified its financial education program, whose contents in 2020 reached more than 2,500,000 people through the cooperative's social networks.

Coopeuch also defined actions to transform itself into a carbon neutral cooperative by 2025, permanently reducing its emissions, highlighting its commitment to the environment. It has done this by strengthening the internal eco-efficiencies of its emissions; In addition, in the field of Green Finance, it is developing an offer that contributes to the mobilization of resources towards a sustainable economy. All the actions developed are quantified and rendered through a document called Cooperative Social Balance, which allows evaluating the fulfillment of the actions outlined above, based on the cooperative principles and the 17 United Nations SDGs.

The cooperative has an institutional solidity that is reflected in the fact that it currently maintains an international rating of Baa1 with a positive outlook with Moody's agency and a BBB + rating with a negative outlook with Standard & Poor's. Locally it is also classified by two agencies, these are Fitch Ratings and Feller Rate, where with both it maintains an AA rating with a stable outlook.


Etihad Credit Insurance: Most Innovative Finance Solutions Middle East 2021

Etihad Credit Insurance (ECI), the UAE Federal export credit company, was established in 2017 through a government initiative to foster economic diversification in the UAE — and help reduce its reliance on oil resources, which accounts for about a third of GDP. ECI can be considered the fastest growing and the most innovative export credit agency in the Middle Est and Africa, securing a record non-oil trade value of USD 2.7 Billion in a few years since its start of operations in February 2018.

ECI has achieved lots of firsts:

first ECA in ME to launch an online Trade Credit Insurance solution for SMEs (named SME Protect, awarded by Cfi.co in 2019).

first ECA to develop a credit scoring model based on Artificial Intelligence, to underwrite risks on SMEs (Awarded by Abu Dhabi Global Market and the UAE Central Bank in 2020)

first ECA to develop a Sharia Compliant solution for short term credit insurance (awarded by CFI.co in 2020)

ECI supports the growth prospects of local businesses looking to expand internationally, particularly in high-growth emerging markets. It offers exporters and re-exporters peace of mind with credit insurance solutions that protect against the potential insolvency or delinquency of buyers. Local investors can insure their foreign investments and projects against non-commercial and political risks. It works with local and international banks and financial institutions to provide factoring insurance, loss payee guarantees, letter-of-credit confirmations and surety bonds — which can help unlock funding opportunities, supported by its rating AA- from Fitch, reconfirmed for the third consecutive year in October 2021. It collaborates with private credit insurers to offer “top-up” plans for businesses with existing policies looking to increase a buyer’s credit limit. It levers a global network of more than 320 million businesses to bolster international relations, enhance trading opportunities and deliver market insights. Businesses can book an. Over the past four years, ECI has facilitated over $572m (2.1 billion Emirati dirhams) to support SME trade finance. The listed company is owned by the UAE federal government and the emirate governments of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. The CFI.co jury announces Etihad Credit Insurance, a repeat programme winner, as the recipient of the 2021 Most Innovative Finance Solutions (Middle East) award.


Gulf Insurance Group Kuwait: Most Innovative Insurance Solutions Provider MENA 2021

Gulf Insurance Group Kuwait (GIG-Kuwait) has been protecting people and property since 1962. The company is an insurance pioneer and was the first to introduce online policy procurement and claims approval in Kuwait. GIG-Kuwait implements advanced technology to enhance operations, increase efficiencies and improve client care. It has upgraded core systems to support the full insurance life cycle: underwriting, claims, reinsurance, finance and enterprise resource planning. It installed a human resources management system that has automated certain processes, like payroll, appraisals, hiring, onboarding and offboarding. Pharmacy benefits are managed through an automated process that can detect invalid claims based on solid medical and pharmaceutical rules, which has resulted in operational efficiencies, cost savings and quality enhancements. GIG-Kuwait is always looking to improve customer experiences and is revamping a cross-channel portal that unifies products, service and communication. Clients stay connected through multiple channels, including the website and app, where policies are purchased and claims approved. GIG-Kuwait is the largest insurer in the country, protecting 70 percent of the population. A 300-person team serves more than 54,000 customers, including 10,000 companies, through a national network of 9 branches. There are more than 200 health service providers working with GIG-Kuwait. Apart from health and life insurance, GIG-Kuwait also offers auto, marine, travel and property insurance. The CFI.co judging panel is pleased to present Gulf Insurance Group Kuwait, a repeat programme winner, with the 2021 award for Most Innovative Insurance Solutions Provider (MENA).


Banco do Brasil: Best Sustainable Bank South America 2021

Brazil is celebrating 200 years of independence in 2022 – and throughout that time Banco do Brasil has played an essential part in the growth of the nation. Opened in 1808, today it is one of Latin America’s biggest banks – but refuses to rest on its laurels. Banco do Brasil was one of the first Brazilian financial institutions to recognise the challenges of the 21st century, and was quick to adopt sustainable business policies. In 2003 Banco do Brasil introduced management strategies to shape the company’s social and environmental responsibilities - now a fundamental plank of its operations. Since 2005, BB has an ambitious sustainability plan which currently involves 40 actions and 110 indicators maintaining its alignment with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Also, in 2021, Banco do Brasil established 10 Long-Term Sustainability Commitments, with goals to be implemented by 2030, involving 3 work fronts: Sustainable Businesses, Responsible Investment and ESG Management. These Commitments aims at developing sustainable businesses, allocating finance on the basis of a business’s positive impact on the environment, including reduced carbon emissions and improved social benefits. The bank’s current sustainable credit portfolio is the biggest in Brazil’s finance industry. As the main financier of the country’s agribusiness, Banco do Brasil supports the sector at all stages of its production chain, and has fostered sustainable agriculture. The company’s aim is to ensure the spread of good ESG practices. The judging panel notes that the bank demonstrated its early adopter status when, in 2016, it won the Cfi.co award for Best ESG Management Team Brazil. In 2021 the judges have no hesitation in presenting the bank with the award Best Sustainable Bank South America.


Sydinvest: Best Investment Fund Manager Denmark 2021

Sydinvest offers investors the opportunity to take control of their financial future by becoming unit holders of one or more of its 38 actively managed funds. The Danish fund manager was founded in 1987 and has expanded its offering to cover a broad range of equity and debt securities. It’s a relatively small company that’s punching far above its weight, seeking the best returns at the lowest costs for its 71,000 members. It aims to enrich the lives of members and partners in both the economic and social sense. Sydinvest applies the UN’s Principles for Responsible Investments to asset management, incorporating ESG issues into investment decision-making processes, practicing active ownership to influence ESG performance and promoting transparent ESG disclosure among investee entities. The firm predicts that ESG and sustainability metrics will play an increasingly pivotal role across its investment portfolio. Sydinvest portfolio managers formulate the overall investment strategy of funds and stay on top of market trends to execute daily reconciliation as needed. This form of hands-on investment management has delivered strong performance over the year, with double-digit actual-to-date returns in the majority of its equity funds since the start of 2021. Sydinvest has become a specialist in emerging market products over the past three decades, gaining ground-level expertise in the regional investment landscape of countries with rapid development and low per-capita income. The CFI.co judging panel announces Sydinvest as the 2021 award winner in the category of Best Investment Fund Manager (Denmark).

[caption id="attachment_9867" align="aligncenter" width="358"] CEO Sydinvest: Steffen Ussing[/caption]


Akastor ASA: Best Oilfield Services Investor Global 2021

The Norwegian based global oil-services investment company Akastor practices active ownership of assets to create added value for stakeholders: existing and potential shareholders, clients of portfolio companies and Akastor group employees. The company was established in 2014 following the demerger of Aker Solutions, part of a group with 170 years of industrial manufacturing experience. Aker Holding AS, a subsidiary of Aker ASA, is Akastor’s largest shareholder at 36.7 percent. Akastor is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange. In 2020, its portfolio companies generated approximately $500m in revenues and employed over 2,000 people worldwide.

Akastor is an investor with a solid track record within the energy sector, making value-generating transactions and contributing industrial knowhow to spur growth and profitability. It looks for exits based on good timing and attractive terms. Akastor has made eight divestments since 2015, realizing more than $650m in net proceeds in total. Most recently, Akastor has demonstrated ability to carry through transactions also in a complex market environment through the combination between MHWirth, an Akastor portfolio company, and Baker Hughes’ subsea drilling division to create HMH, a global full-service offshore and onshore drilling equipment provider.

Akastor promises to integrate sustainability into its investment decisions and report on progress with timely transparency. The company is committed to move towards a carbon-neutral future and has for its office-based portfolio companies set a target of net-zero CO2 emissions by 2030, while the target for its industrial companies is to get to net zero within 2050. Akastor urges its portfolio companies, all primarily operating within the oil service industry, to align operations with the Paris Agreement as well as the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. Also, Akastor has strong focus on developing energy-efficient technologies within its portfolio companies to reduce adverse impact on the environment caused by their own and its customers’ operations. Akastor expects to see increased diversification and non-oil operations among portfolio companies as much of their knowledge, skillsets and equipment would adapt to renewable energy markets.


The Arab Petroleum Investments Corporation (APICORP): Best Multilateral Development Bank EMEA 2021

[caption id="attachment_9889" align="aligncenter" width="870"] APICORP Senior Management with CFI.co Award[/caption]

APICORP’s is a leading multilateral development bank based in Saudi Arabia. Its mission is to develop energy-related industries in the Arab world. It was created by an agreement between the ten member states of the Organisation of Arab Exporting Countries (OAPEC) in 1974. Originally focused on oil and gas, it has expanded its vision over the years to include outstanding renewable energy projects. It has $8.1bn in assets and has a credit rating of AA from Fitch and Aa2 from Moody’s. It is the only financial institution in MENA to have two “AA” ratings. Despite the pandemic and pressures on the oil price, APICROP increased net income by 3 percent to $115m in 2020. This was an impressive result and in contrast to the decreases experienced by most other MDBs. Its headline project in 2020 was the launch of a $500m countercyclical support package for the energy sector in member countries. This included a 20 percent equity stake in the Jordan Wind Project Company, the first utility-scale wind farm in MENA. The CFI.co judges also note the increasing funding commitment by members (authorised capital now up to $20bn) and APICORP’s increasing sophistication in the debt market. It issued its first benchmark bond in June for $750m, attracting orders of $1.1bn. The bond had the lowest spread in the region compared to peer organisations since the pandemic. The CFI.co judges are delighted to present APICORP the 2021 award Best Multilateral Development Bank (EMEA).


Edelmann Group: Best Sustainable Packaging Solutions Germany 2021

Edelmann Group has been a family-owned operation since 1913. The group, which has almost 3,000 employees and 16 sites in nine countries and four continents, works with clients around the globe. It designs and produces high-quality, low-emission, paper-based packaging solutions for the healthcare, beauty and consumer industries. The German group has a long-standing history of good corporate citizenship. Its first CSR initiative dates back to 1975 and production changes to reduce pollutants. Over the past years, the group has developed a customer sustainability programme, launched social inclusion projects, and began a wide range of projects to save raw materials and substitute plastic with carton-based solutions.  Edelmann Group believes it has a social responsibility to always act ethically in regard to the environment and people. The company offers renewable packaging sourced from sustainable forestry practices. It invests to continuously update processes and technologies. It’s an innovator of structural design and has developed openings that are safe for children. Edelmann Group takes a holistic approach to sustainability, looking at the whole supply chain and consulting with stakeholders to encourage continuous improvement. It publishes annual sustainability reports, detailing the group’s objectives and progress. It prioritises transparency and acknowledges any areas where ESG performance could be better. Edelmann Group sets a high bar for others to emulate. It received a gold status from EcoVadis, a leading sustainability ranking worldwide, and a notable A- ranking on climate change from the Carbon Disclosure Project. The CFI.co judging panel announces Edelmann Group as the 2021 Best Sustainable Packaging Solutions (Germany) award winner.


UniCredit Bank: Best Bank Bosnia & Herzegovina 2021

UniCredit Bank boasts a five-year track record of the highest bank assets, net profit and market share in Bosnia. The bank credits its success to a stellar team and strong group with a focus on customer satisfaction and business stability. The group originated in Italy and it has the strongest brand awareness in the market of Bosnia Herzegovina. UniCredit Bank was prepared to deal with the challenges caused by Covid thanks to a rock solid business continuity plan that was in tune with local needs and featured an increasing mix of online services. The bank launched a new version of a mobile app in 2020 that provides customers with the tools to stay on top of their finances and conduct business as usual. The bank pulls from group resources to pioneer international advancements to fit the local market. It prioritises diversity and benefits from the leadership of three women at the C-suite level. UniCredit Bank values its human capital and has earned the loyalty of its people by supporting their personal and professional development. The bank has achieved the highest index of employee engagement. UniCredit Bank supports educational initiatives, strengthens SMEs and protects the environment. The group is one of Europe’s most active ESG advocates, and UniCredit Bank is proud to lead Bosnia’s journey towards compliance in this crucial area. The CFI.co judging panel presents UniCredit Bank with the 2021 award for Best Bank (Bosnia & Herzegovina).


Navigator Holdings: Best Integrated Logistics CSR Global 2021

Navigator Holdings is pushing the sustainability agenda in the shipping industry. Navigator owns and operates a 38-vessel fleet of liquefied gas carriers. It offers maritime transport services of petrochemical gases, liquefied petroleum gas and ammonia for energy companies, industrial users and commodity traders. The publicly listed company has a transparent governance structure and a results-driven CSR plan. Everyone at the company, from leadership to entry-level workers, is onboard with the CSR programme and the intention to always do the right thing. The management team is responsible for defining what the “right thing” is for the company, its people and the environment. Values are outlined in the guiding principles of ANCHOR: authentic, nurture, collaborative, honest, ownership and resourceful. Three years ago, Navigator Holdings sought certification through EcoVadis, a leading global business sustainability ratings agency, and started off with a silver ratings. Now it has been upgraded to the gold status. Navigator Holdings focuses on the five SDGs where its operations have the highest material impact. Navigator was the first in the maritime gas industry to implement offsetting measures to achieve carbon neutrality for seaborne voyages. The company has invested in efficiency upgrades throughout the fleet — and pledged to remove single-use plastics from its ships. It dedicated resources towards the exploration of ammonia as a fuel source and has already secured agreements for its transport. The CFI.co jury announces Navigator Holdings, a signatory of the UN Global Compact, as the 2021 Best Integrated Logistics CSR award winner.


Matmut Group: Best ESG Integrated Insurance Provider France 2021

Matmut set out, in 1961, as a French mutualist with 278 members. Now the group manages 7.6 million insurance contracts for some four million members. It offers personal and property insurance products for individual and corporate clients. It also provides financial and savings services, including car loans, borrower insurance, savings book and life insurance. Matmut recently joined the UNEP’s Net-Zero Insurance Alliance and became a signatory of the Principles for Sustainable Insurance. This underscores the company’s commitment — as insurer and institutional investor — to accelerating the transition towards carbon neutrality. It sets five-year objectives, with annual monitoring and reporting. For Matmut’s 60th anniversary, the company defined its raison d'être around the pillars of sustainable development, inclusion and well-being. Matmut provides for, supports, protects and is committed to its members, who are both the insured and the insurer in a mutualist business model. It’s working to combat plastic waste by gifting employees reusable water bottles, gradually phasing out single-use plastic items and installing recycling points onsite. It collaborates with Circul'R and Plastic Odyssey on waste reduction initiatives. It has implemented a responsible purchasing policy and systematically questions suppliers about ESG factors during tenders. Matmut subsidiary OFI manages 74 percent of its asset portfolio. More than 85 percent of those assets are covered under ESG analysis, but Matmut intends to integrate Socially Responsible Investment criteria across the entire portfolio. The CFI.co jury presents Matmut with the 2021 Best ESG Integrated Insurance Provider (France) award.


Egyptian Banking Institute: Best Financial Training Institute MENA 2021

[caption id="attachment_9898" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Mr Abdel Aziz Nossier (center) Executive Director Ms Zeinab Abdel Razek (right) Chief of Business Development and International Cooperation Mr Hesham Refaat (left) Chief of Training and Assessment[/caption]

The Egyptian Banking Institute (EBI) was established in 1991 to be the official training arm of the Central Bank of Egypt with the vision of being the preferred partner for developing the human capital of the Egyptian banking ecosystem and strategic African and Arab countries through providing best-in-class human capital development services by mirroring the latest international banking trends. The not-for-profit organization excels in providing state of the art training solutions in line with the latest industry international best practices in areas of banking, management, leadership, IT and SMEs, besides a diversified portfolio of Assessment services. It can tailor programmes according to partner requirements. In 2009, EBI was the first accredited financial training institute in Egypt and the region by the US non-profit Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET), EBI succeeded in obtaining the reaccreditation for 2 more terms ending in 2024

The courses are taught by banking professionals, and the feedback from students and sponsoring institutions is consistently positive. EBI cooperates with more than 50 top notch international providers to deliver international programs in Egypt and in the region. EBI board is headed by H.E the Governor of the Central Bank of Egypt with membership of industry leaders. EBI charts a strategic growth plan every five years, which coincides with its ACCET accreditation renewal. The plan acts as a roadmap for development, collaboration, and expansion. EBI provided its training services in more than 40 African countries with more than 3500 African trainees.

The CFI.co judging panel announces the Egyptian Banking Institute as winner of the 2021 award for Best Financial Training Institute (MENA).


MTR Corporation: Best Public Service Financial Management Team Hong Kong 2021

MTR is a purpose-driven corporation striving to keep the world’s cities moving. That was no small feat during the Covid pandemic, when global health concerns and national lockdowns put the brakes on travellers. Despite these challenges, MTR Corporation has maintained the same shareholder dividend payments for 2020 and 2021 as it did in pre-pandemic 2019. It accomplished this thanks to the corporation’s diversified business model of rail and property assets combined with the proactive steps of its financial management team at the outset of the pandemic. MTR’s low-carbon railway is the backbone of Hong Kong’s public transport, supporting over four million daily journeys with world-class standards of safety and timeliness. The railway connects all 18 districts in Hong Kong and offers direct service to 58 destinations in mainland China. Based on the expertise accumulated in Hong Kong, MTR has established railway services in Beijing, Hangzhou, Shenzhen, Macau, Melbourne, Sydney, London and Stockholm. MTR’s property portfolio — 14 station-adjacent shopping malls, more than 1,500 station shops and over 100,000 managed residential units — allows the corporation to maintain high-quality railway services while achieving fiscal objectives in a responsible and sustainable manner. The focus going forward will be on enhancing ESG performance and spurring socio-economic community development by investing $12.8bn (HK$100bn) over the next ten years into new railway and property projects. The CFI.co judging panel salutes the forward-thinking perspective of MTR Corporation, the 2021 Best Public Service Financial Management Team (Hong Kong) award winner.


Optimum Asset Management: Best Pension Fund Asset Management Solutions Germany 2021

Optimum Asset Management S.A. assists institutional investors, including pension funds, banks and insurances to diversify portfolios with a selection of cherry-picked properties offering exceptional risk-return ratios and long-lasting value. Team members have complementary backgrounds in international real estate, finance and banking. Optimum stays close to investment opportunities and client needs through an international network with offices in Berlin, Hamburg, London, Luxembourg, Miami and New York. The company has €1.5bn in AUM and has already completed transactions totalling €1bn in residential and commercial assets. It looks for mispriced and mismanaged assets in the €10m to €50m range in German and US markets with strong potential for yield improvement and capital appreciation. Optimum has a track record for hitting the mark: it’s never sold a building below total investment cost while always achieving above market value disposal prices with average premium of +30%. Optimum can easily monitor investments via local teams on the ground, facilitating an active ownership approach. The company, which sold the Optimum Evolution Fund SIF – Property I to a prominent European institutional investor in 2014, has currently five real estate funds under management. The team’s collaboration, flexibility and perseverance are credited as the main factors contributing to the business’ success. The CFI.co judging panel is delighted to announce Optimum Asset Management S.A. as 2021 award winner in the category of Best Pension Fund Asset Management Solutions (Germany).

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Mainspring Fund Services: Best Private Assets Fund Administrator UK 2021

The UK’s Mainspring Fund Services specialises in the administration of private equity, venture capital and tax-based funds. The firm offers core services that cover essential fund accounting and administration needs as well as enhanced services that adapt to more complex structures. It develops solutions across a fund’s lifecycle and can assist with jurisdictions, governance, reporting and ESG compliance. This FCA-regulated custodian is a nominee for a significant proportion of the UK’s tax schemes, such as EIS and BPR funds. It has developed a tech-driven investment platform that gives fund managers full control of execution without the administrative burden. Mainspring’s investment platform allows fund managers to create co-investments with minimal cost and time and gives groups of high-net-worth investors access to private equity investments. This has been a gamechanger for the executives and staff who conduct due diligence on potential portfolio additions and are often inspired to co-invest alongside the fund. Some 40,000 high-net-worth individuals, family offices, asset managers and their financial advisors use the platform to access live, real-time data on their investments, such as direct deals and private equity. Mainspring distinguishes itself in a competitive market by underpinning all operations in quality, timeliness, technology and interaction. Cost effectiveness is also key. It is a privately owned and managed company that is no stranger to industry performance accolades this year. The CFI.co judging panel is delighted to name Mainspring Fund Services as winner of its 2021 award for Best Private Assets Fund Administrator (UK).


Orange Capital Partners: Best Real Estate Investment Team Netherlands 2021

Orange Capital Partners (OCP) is driven by a 55-person team of professionals with backgrounds in real estate, investment banks, consultancy, accountancy and advisory firms. The team is energetic and tech savvy, comprising 14 nationalities and 35 percent female, with an average age of 30. The real estate investment and asset management company was founded in 2014 by OCP managing partner Victor Van Bommel, who believes that business success stems from an open corporate culture that values integrity, professionalism and passion while rewarding initiative and independent-thinking. He has built the business from the ground up, transforming it with the support of his team into an international network with offices in the Netherlands, Ireland and Denmark and around €4.0bn in AUM. The organisation prioritises flexibility, freedom and a flat hierarchy where each voice counts as an equal. An open floor plan underscores this egalitarian mentality, and the team meets once a week to encourage collaboration and creativity. Team members have the autonomy to set their own schedules — and the discipline to ensure no detail is overlooked. The company experienced a growth spurt in 2021, as the team had already proven its competence and comfortability with the tech-enabled, self-disciplined working environments that became the norm during the pandemic. Now, it’s focused on solidifying its reputation as a good landlord — and exporting a clearly successful business model globally. The CFI.co judging panel declares Orange Capital Partners as the 2021 Best Real Estate Investment Team (Netherlands) award winner.


HeiQ: Best Materials Innovation Experts Global 2021

Swiss-headquartered HeiQ is a materials specialist with subsidiaries in nine countries and a network that spans five continents. HeiQ markets itself as a three-in-one company that can cover everything inhouse, from scientific research to materials manufacturing and consumer branding. HeiQ excels in the R&D field, where it tends to be significantly faster and more lateral than peers. It works with six tech platforms — rather than the industry's standard one or two — to foster innovation. The company, which is a spin-off from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, has established a network of innovation, including internal and external HeiQ teams as well as industry and academic collaborators worldwide. HeiQ is a technical company with the capabilities to design and manufacture, scaling up from pilot phase to commercialisation. Their philosophy is: “We don't talk to just our customers, we talk to their customers, talk to the brands and we anchor innovation at brand level and implement specifications.” Speed matters in the innovation cycle, and HeiQ has proven it can take a product from concept to materialisation and market in record time. HeiQ competes on an equal footing in its three business models, but when these are combined, it blows everyone else out of the water. The company, founded in 2005 and listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) since 2020, is well-positioned to capitalise on growing markets. HeiQ employs some 250 professionals, about half of which joined th group during the past year. The CFI.co jury presents HeiQ with the 2021 global award for Best Materials Innovation Experts.


Norvestor: Best Sustainable Equity Investor Nordics 2021

Norvestor has been partnering with Nordic businesses for nearly three decades. The firm has launched eight funds thus far, the last of which was an “Article 8” fund under the new Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation. The funds invest in mid-sized businesses with visionary leadership and a clear sustainability agenda. It targets companies with revenues ranging between €25m and €250m and practices active ownership of assets over three to six years. Investee companies have experienced an average increase in operating profits of 20 percent per year during Norvestor ownership. Norvestor looks to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as a framework for shared success, positive impact and measurable progress. It conducts due diligence to identify companies with strong ESG performance — and has found this metric to be a reliable predictor of long-term business prospects. Norvestor works with investees to improve ESG performance. Diversity is on the rise, with 83 percent of portfolio companies in 2020 reporting one or more women on their board of directors — up from only 13 percent in 2017. Today 21% of board members in Norvestor portfolio companies are female. Norvestor has seen a 31 percent reduction in the CO2 intensity of its portfolio since 2018 and intends to continue cutting emissions by establishing roadmaps to reach net-zero. In 2020, Norvestor earned high PRI ratings in the categories of strategy and governance (A+) and private equity (A). The CFI.co judging panel recognises Norvestor as a responsible corporate citizen — and the 2021 award winner for Best Sustainable Equity Investor (Nordics).


Brahms Group: Best African Project Developer Switzerland 2021

There is clear consensus — the African continent, with its wealth of human and natural resources, makes for profitable investments. The Brahms Group capitalises on this potential by developing impact investment projects in West Africa. The Swiss group was founded over a decade ago by African entrepreneur Daouda Fall. Brahms Group believes the energy, finance and agriculture sectors to be key building blocks of economic and social development — and that the time is opportune in Africa, as foreign direct investments have begun to outpace international aid donations. Brahms Group is a relationship-driven and results-orientated company that aims to create wealth for clients, communities and the continent. The group combines a profound understanding of African markets with a solid international finance network to implement an impact investing strategy that promises benefits for all stakeholders. The group plays well with others and has executed a number of successful joint development projects. It has just broken ground on the most recent of these agreements, this time with Africa Finance Corporation for a petroleum storage and refinery project in Kamsar, a port city in Guinea. It has partnered with Senegal’s sovereign wealth fund on another agricultural project. These initiatives, like so many before them, come with a boost in employment, GDP and CSR commitments. The CFI.co judging panel presents Brahms Group, a repeat programme winner, with the 2021 Best African Project Developer (Switzerland) award.


stc Kuwait: Outstanding Achievements in Corporate Governance & Stakeholder Protection Kuwait 2021

This year, stc Kuwait completed a profound and comprehensive exercise to strengthen and improve its corporate governance and stakeholder protection policies and procedures. This important initiative was carried out under the guidance of stc advisers PwC Middle East. According to the CFI.co judging panel, the results have been exemplary and stc Kuwait deserves to be congratulated on their fruitful efforts. As part of the certification process, CFI.co considered, inter alia, the company’s board composition and member responsibilities, compliance policy, transparency, regulatory reporting requirements (to the Capital Market Authority), risk management, internal and external controls (including audit), codes of conduct, and the regulations to address conflicts of interest and other potential problems. The panel feels that the framework in place to ensure good governance and protect all stakeholders is robust, meaningful, and worthy. Furthermore, there is confidence that stc Kuwait’s commitment to these virtues and critical corporate characteristics is unwavering and that the quest to secure, defend, and improve upon them will continue as the years unfold. It is obvious to the panel that the corporate culture at stc Kuwait is wholly supportive of the needs, aspirations and hopes of stakeholders as expressed in the company’s various policy statements. CFI.co thanks stc Kuwait and PwC Middle East for providing all necessary support during this certification process. The panel applauds the accomplishments and honourable intentions of stc Kuwait and has no hesitation in confirming the 2021 award for Outstanding Achievements in Corporate Governance & Stakeholder Protection (Kuwait).


Arab Bank: Most Innovative Digital Banking Services Middle East 2021

Arab Bank has a 92 year history of supporting the socio-economic development of Middle Eastern economies. The bank is headquartered in Jordan with an expansive global network spanning 600 branches and five continents. Arab Bank has established a presence in the world’s largest financial hubs: London, Dubai, Singapore, Shanghai, Geneva, Paris, Frankfurt, Sydney and Bahrain. The bank differentiates itself from the competition by constantly seeking to improve financial services for consumers, SMEs and corporations. More than 80 percent of consumer clients actively use the Arabi Mobile banking app, which promises easy onboarding, anytime account access and convenient payment and withdrawal solutions. Arabi Mobile is integrated with a growing API ecosystem — including the fitness-inspired rewards app FittiCoin and voucher purchase promotions from beIN Sports. Consumers across the MENA region can manage multi-country accounts through one app. Consumer loans up to $10k can be approved and dispersed in 10 minutes. Merchants sell products online with special offers and seamless checkout via the Arabi eMart Marketplace. SMEs use the bank’s supply chain finance app to factor invoices and its lending portal to seek cash flow advances. Corporate clients appreciate the bank’s trade portal and cash management app. The CFI.co judging panel presents repeat winner Arab Bank with the 2021 Most Innovative Digital Banking Services (Middle East) award.


iEnergizer: Best Business Process Outsourcing Solutions India 2021

iEnergizer began as a business process outsourcing (BPO) operation in India with a small team and client roster — now it has a global workforce of 23,000 professionals delivering service to Fortune 500 clients. Over the company’s two-decade history, it hasn’t lost a single client due to operational inefficiencies and has won many new clients by word-of-mouth. It works with clients across a range of geographies and industries, including healthcare, banking, financial services, insurance, publishing, legal, gaming and utilities. Four of the top online gaming companies trust iEnergizer to handle BPO services like accounts receivable, customer lifecycle management, inventor and shareowner services, sales fulfilment, market research and analytics, quality assurance and back-office support. It also offers content delivery services for K-20 education, publishing and conversion, corporate learning, IT services and data management. iEnergizer helps brands to optimise operations, increase profits and stay competitive. It customises solutions to client needs, offering high-quality services in a cost-effective manner. Clients start with significant initial savings and minimised upfront capital expenditures. The savings are ongoing and add-on business lines come at a discounted rate. iEnergizer promises consistent brand alignment, rapid service deployment and scalability across geographies. iEnergizer is a frequent victor in industry awards ceremonies, recognised for excellence in outsourcing and customer service. The CFI.co judging panel concurs with the growing consensus: iEnergizer goes beyond outsourcing to act as a multi-disciplined, brand-dedicated partner. The jury announces iEnergizer as the 2021 award winner for Best Business Process Outsourcing Solutions (India).


Exxaro Resources: Best Sustainable Mining Leadership South Africa 2021

Exxaro Resources believes that power is the backbone of the economy. The South African company embraces its role in the just transition from an extractive to a regenerative economic model. The company has been on a sustainability journey since its inception in 2006. Exxaro has invested in renewable energies (wind and solar), through wholly owned Cennergi Holdings, in addition to an asset portfolio that includes thermal coal and ferro-alloys operations, as well as iron ore and zinc investments. Exxaro is on a mission to empower lives in Africa and beyond. That commitment starts with the health and safety of the people on its worksites and communities. Exxaro is proud to report above-target safety performance in 2020. During the pandemic, it took swift action to support all stakeholders: it donated to community relief initiatives, offered counselling to employees, extended payment terms for affected clients and provided some small business loans. Exxaro set up Covid laboratories at two of its sites, and through ongoing testing since August 2020 has tested over 200% of its employees (ca14 700, including contractors) and to date has vaccinated 75.5% of its employees. It has sought certification to extend this service to community members. Exxaro has published a thorough, award-winning 2020 ESG report, featuring 184 pages on performance highlights and lowlights. It scored more than 90 percent on the assessment in relation to the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures. Exxaro is now working with partners on a joint mine de-carbonisation programme. The CFI.co judging panel announces Exxaro Resources as the 2021 Best Sustainable Mining Leadership (South Africa) award winner.


MAX Burger: Best Sustainable Restaurant Chain Europe 2021

The MAX Burger story started 53 years ago with a mom-and-pop restaurant in Sweden. Over the past two decades, MAX has doubled turnover every four years — but emissions were also on the rise, up 48,000 tonnes from 2013 to 2020. This carbon-conscious burger joint offsets emissions through certified tree-planting. Since 2008, it has financed the planting of 2,9 million trees in Africa. MAX Burger has reduced its carbon footprint with 24 percent per earned Swedish krona over the eight last years. It recycles frying oil into biodiesel, reduces unnecessary packaging and installs the latest energy efficiency technologies throughout its facilities. The franchise publishes the most comprehensive reporting of greenhouse gas emissions in the restaurant industry. MAX’s range of green burgers has helped the group decouple growth of turnover and emissions. Green burger consumption is climbing while red meat declines. MAX says, bit by bit and bite by bite, it will help bring about a climate-positive future where emissions are reduced and then offset by the full three-scope calculation — plus an additional 10 percent to ensure a climate-positive outcome. MAX Burger was named among the top three airport restaurants in the world by Travel + Leisure and top ten most innovative restaurants worldwide by Fast Company. CFI.co adds its own accolade and presents MAX Burger with the 2021 Best Sustainable Restaurant Chain (Europe) award.


The Blackstone Group International Partners LLP: Best ESG Corporate Strategy UK 2021

The Blackstone Group International Partners LLP, the London-based subsidiary of the Blackstone Group, a leading US global investment company, is at the forefront of the drive for business transformation in the post-pandemic world. Indeed Blackstone, which is the world’s largest alternative asset manager, believes the pandemic has been a catalyst for positive change, including by accelerating the transformative use of technology, which it sees as a vital method of ensuring its portfolio businesses remain competitive. Blackstone is committed to the UN’s Social, Environment and Governance (ESG) aims, and invests for the long-term, believing that successful, resilient businesses create stronger communities and greater economic growth. Through its global charitable foundation, it supports innovation and fosters healthy economies to enable social progress. Blackstone employees are encouraged to get involved in community service and volunteer projects. The company has also introduced an entrepreneurship network to mentor university students. In September 2021 Blackstone announced an £850m investment into the UK’s science park sector, which will lead to the creation of 2,700 jobs. The investment will involve the establishment of a purpose-built laboratory complex in Cambridge to focus on the development of vaccines and responses to global health crises. Stephen A. Schwarzman, CEO of the Blackstone Group, said: “The UK is one of the best places in the world to do business.” The Cfi.co judges, recognising the company’s commitment to sustainable and ethical practices, has no hesitation in presenting The Blackstone Group International Partners LLP with the 2021 award, Best ESG Corporate Strategy (UK).


Jordan Enterprise Development Corporation: Best SME Economic Project Partner Jordan 2021

Jordan Enterprise Development Corporation (JEDCO) was founded 50 years ago as the governmental body overseeing the development of the country’s private sector. JEDCO forms partnerships with key stakeholders to help MSMEs achieve sustainable growth. The corporation is led by a board of directors from the public and private sectors and chaired by the country’s industry, trade and supply minister. It has established development programmes targeting players in the manufacturing, services and agro-industrial domains. It supports small farmers and agricultural enterprises by improving access to finance, building technical capacities, integrating the value chain, creating jobs and increasing exportation. It offers technical and financial support for first-time exporters and for companies looking to export services. It launched a special support programme in response to the global pandemic to facilitate the exportation of medical supplies and personal protective equipment. JEDCO’s Behmetkom programme gives young pioneers the training, guidance and financial support to transform ideas into viable projects. It established a national bonds programme to lessen the country’s reliance on imports and replace with local products. It also offers support programmes to cover export shipping costs for industrial companies. JEDCO works with local companies to implement international standards of best practice and increase competitivity at the regional and global level. It’s an economic enabler dedicated to enhancing capacities, improving production and boosting collaborations. The CFI.co judging panel presents Jordan Enterprise Development Corporation with the 2021 award for Best SME Economic Project Partner (Jordan).


Ageas: Best Sustainable Insurance Solutions Europe 2021

[caption id="attachment_10006" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Frank Vandenborre Sustainability Director & Hans De Cuyper CEO[/caption]

Over its 200-year history, Ageas has evolved into an international insurance provider with operations in 14 countries across Europe and Asia. Ageas has developed a long-term sustainable growth strategy that capitalises on existing core business while tapping into new markets. The group places sustainability at the centre of decision-making processes and prioritises engagement with all stakeholders: employees, partners, customers and communities. It reviews and adjusts sustainability strategies on a three-year cycle, using external industry standards as a guide to set objectives. The group has a four-pillar focus on product innovation, responsible investing, high-quality employment and reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Ageas will scale innovations — addressing issues like ageing, health, wellbeing and financial literacy — to create economic and societal value for over 40 million customers. Ageas has set a 2024 target for achieving carbon neutrality for its own operations. By the end of 2020, it had invested €6.5bn into sustainable projects, like renewable energies and social housing. It has pledged to invest €10bn by 2024 in projects making a positive contribution to the sustainability transition. It already has real estate and ESG infrastructure projects in the pipeline. The group fosters a work culture of inclusivity, diversity and continuous learning. It has defined ambitious ESG targets and implemented measures to reduce or offset carbon emissions. The CFI.co judging panel presents Ageas with the 2021 award for Best Sustainable Insurance Solutions (Europe).


Kirstein: Best Strategic International Manager Advisory Scandinavia 2021

Kirstein has been in operation for nearly three decades, building an expansive network of clients and contacts in the asset management field. The firm works with asset managers worldwide from offices in Copenhagen and Boston, helping them to break into European markets. It offers a range of advisory services covering people, place, products, projects, pricing, partnerships, and positioning. Kirstein credits part of its success to excellent investor access and engagement. It cultivates strong relationships, spending more than 1,800 hours annually on investor engagement and C-suite conversations. Kirstein's multilingual team pulls from engagement efforts and proprietary research to form insights into market dynamics and growth opportunities. It understands investor needs and asset management strategies, helping clients to fill in gaps and seize the competitive advantage. One of the most dominant trends in recent history has been investors' increasing demands for ESG impacts. Kirstein talks with hundreds of investors and CEOs across Europe, and they're all exchanging ideas and challenging each other to improve. Over the past four years, Kirstein has completed more than 150 asset management projects across 15 countries with a management team bringing an average of 15 years' hands-on experience to the table. The company communicates core values during the onboarding process for new hires, then invests considerable time and resources into their professional and personal development. The CFl.co judging panel congratulates Kirstein on claiming the 2021 award for Best Strategic International Manager Advisory (Scandinavia).


RESAAS: Best Online Real Estate Platform Canada 2021

Real estate is a social industry, about meeting people and making connections. Canadian tech company RESAAS has brought that industry to the modern age, providing a platform for agents, brokers, realtors and multiple-listing services (MLSs) to take their business to the next level. The platform is open to all agents, regardless of affiliation or geography, but closed to the general public to give agents a competitive edge. RESAAS hasn’t reinvented the wheel; it’s simply built the technology to connect real estate agents at a worldwide scale, facilitating unprecedented referral business and market insights. Agents enter data directly into the platform — which is hosted securely in Microsoft’s Enterprise Cloud — providing RESAAS with a vast supply of information to analyse concerning migratory trends, buyer movements and second-home appetite. RESAAS has brought together the world’s largest network of real estate professionals, more than 500,000 industry peers collaborating and sharing opportunities. The platform was designed to allow flexible integrations with existing and emerging enterprise solutions for brokers and MLS companies. It’s an industry favourite, with agents setting their own referral fees and realtors benefitting from thousands of fresh listings, referrals and requests. RESAAS started 10 years ago with a good idea and a great team — most of whom are still with the company, helping drive innovation and growth. Next up, the company will replicate its residential platform for commercial real estate. The CFI.co jury presents RESAAS with the 2021 Best Online Real Estate Platform (Canada) award.


Vattanac Bank: Most Responsible Bank Cambodia 2021

Vattanac Bank, a 100% Cambodian-owned bank, celebrated its 19th anniversary on 8 November 2021. The bank has built an expansive network of 29 branches, 12 of them in Phnom Penh and 17 spread out in other Provinces. It has invested to establish a strong service culture and mobile platform for retail and commercial banking. Vattanac’s Board of Directors strikes a balance between male and female members, who are appointed by the shareholders general assembly and confirmed by the National Bank of Cambodia. Vattanac Bank is a responsible employer that has developed job enrichment and leadership training programmes to offer opportunities for personal and professional growth. The bank has clear policies and guidelines that delegate duties and responsibilities among staff, so employees feel empowered to take the initiative to ensure the strongest corporate governance and best customer care.

Vattanac Bank encourages employees to volunteer and support community causes — and the bank leads by example. In 2021, Vattanac Bank donated Covid-19 rapid test kits and medical supplies in Phnom Penh and in the provinces, in addition to its $1million donation to the national fundraising campaign for Covid-19 vaccines in 2020.  It supported Smile Cambodia - to provide free cleft-lip and palate operations, several other NGOs, sporting events and financial forums.

Vattanac Bank promises transparency and to act with the ethics and accountability of a highly responsible corporate citizen. Vattanac Bank is doing good deeds and good business, which contributes to its trustworthy reputation and strong financial position. The CFI.co judging panel presents Vattanac Bank with the 2021 Most Responsible Bank (Cambodia) award.


Standard Chartered USA: Best International Corporate & Institutional Bank US 2021

[caption id="attachment_9990" align="aligncenter" width="870"] CEO, Americas: Steven Cranwell[/caption]

Standard Chartered USA draws on more than  160 years of financial services experience to execute clients’ financial imperatives and drive commerce and prosperity through its unique diversity. The group, headquartered in the UK and dual listed on the London and Hong Kong Stock Exchanges, deploys a global workforce of 85,000 employees with over 120 nationalities to serve clients across 150 markets. The Americas business is headquartered in NYC and present in eight locations across North and South America. Through its corporate, commercial and institutional banking division, Standard Chartered USA works with multinational corporations, ﬁnancial institutions and development organisations, leveraging the group’s global network and deep local knowledge to support clients’ growth and international expansion efforts. Standard Chartered USA boasts a strong balance sheet with exceptional access to top-tier entities, a proven understanding of dynamic global markets and deep institutional knowledge. The bank is committed to driving commerce and prosperity on a global scale — and in alignment with the sustainability agenda. Standard Chartered USA promotes sustainable development goals and the 2050 target to achieve net zero carbon emissions through financing. It assists clients across the network with the drafting and implementation of net-zero strategies. It works with multinationals and community partners through various programmes that support disadvantaged youth and hopes to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators through a series of youth outreach initiatives. The CFI.co judging panel announces Standard Chartered USA — agile, ambitious and always client-centric — as the winner of the 2021 award for Best International Corporate & Institutional Bank (US).


Finsbury Growth & Income Trust: Best ESG Portfolio Management Strategy UK 2021

Finsbury Growth & Income Trust has found that well-established companies run by conscious and diligent management teams deliver superior returns over the long-term. The Finsbury Growth & Income Trust Board believes responsible ownership of investments to be the most material method of creating ESG impacts and generating long-term, sustainable returns. The Trust invests in high-quality companies with similar ethos. As of October 2021, Finsbury Growth & Income Trust has a £2bn portfolio with a net yield of two percent.

Finsbury Growth & Income Trust has outsourced management of its portfolio to Lindsell Train Limited, a signatory of the UK Stewardship Code and the UN Principles for Responsible Investment. Due diligence is conducted before every investment and ongoing engagement encourages investee companies towards higher ESG standards. The Portfolio Manager evaluates ESG factors throughout the investment lifecycle, looking at risks and issues facing the business, including, but not limited to, corporate strategy, operating performance, competitive positioning, climate action, remuneration, deployment of capital and regulation.

The long-term focus of the portfolio — and its strong governance and performance — inspires trust with institutional investors and wealth managers. The Finsbury Growth & Income Trust Board does not impose quantitative ESG targets but discusses ESG at every Board Meeting with the Portfolio Manager. Finsbury Growth & Income Trust and Lindsell Train have built strong credibility in the ESG and sustainability space.

The CFI.co judging panel presents Finsbury Growth & Income Trust with the 2021 Best ESG Portfolio Management Strategy (UK) Award.


AIA Insurance Lanka Limited: Best Life Insurance Company Sri Lanka 2021

AIA Insurance Lanka is part of AIA Group which has a history of over 100 years of helping people live healthier, longer, better lives, across 18 markets. In Sri Lanka the company has been delivering on this promise for over three decades and has established itself as one of the leading life insurers in the industry.

AIA are driven by the brand purpose of helping people live healthier, longer, better lives and were instrumental in changing the ‘you die- we pay’ model of life insurance, to partnering people to help them live life. This purpose has resulted in AIA Sri Lanka becoming a game changer in the insurance industry. With the introduction of their ‘health and wellness solutions’, the insurer no longer provides customers with just ‘products’ but also ‘propositions’; an entire eco-system of wellbeing solutions that helps them get and stay healthy.

For example, AIA was the first insurer to introduce telemedicine services to customers in Sri Lanka, even before the pandemic. They also offer free consultations with wellness specialists online, not to forget the virtual fitness platform offered to customers, free of charge. At the end of the day, customer’s health and wellbeing is at the core of the company’s focus.

AIA Sri Lanka is also revolutionizing digital transformation in the industry, which inevitably, positively impacts their customer service. Their objective is to make life easy for the customer and they are not afraid to utilize technology to enable that. As part of a multinational giant, AIA has a leading edge when it comes to leveraging on technologies and best practices. This has helped them launch many innovative industry firsts in Sri Lanka including Robotic Process Automation, the new and sophisticated, fully automated and integrated IVR (Interactive Voice Response) system to the Inbound Call Care Centre, and the all new MyPos that uses cutting edge technology to provide their Distribution function everything they need to make a sale, in a single app.

AIA Sri Lanka has always maintained a prudent approach to financial management of the Company, and this holds them in good stead during times of external shocks. They judiciously manage their investments, to generate attractive risk commensurate returns and continue to concentrate their portfolios in government securities and high-quality instruments issued by the top credit quality banks in the country.  These have resulted in the Company reporting a regulatory capital adequacy ratio of 488% as at end 2020, which is four times the required capital adequacy ratio stipulated by the regulator and is the highest in the industry. This means the company can always deliver on their promise to customers, even in the face of a global crisis. In fact, they have a track record of delivering above promised customer dividends for the past 30 years.

In 2021, AIA Sri Lanka was recognized as a Best Workplace in Sri Lanka for the ninth consecutive year and was also adjudged the Best Workplace for Women in Sri Lanka for the fourth straight year, by the Great Place to Work Institute®.  Not to forget for the first time AIA Sri Lanka was recognised as a Best Workplace in Asia list - Large Category and as a Best Workplace for Millennials in Sri Lanka. Most recently they were also recognised as one of the top 10 women friendly workplaces by Satynmag.com and CIMA Sri Lanka.

The CFI.co judging panel presents AIA Insurance Lanka Ltd with the 2021 award for Best Life Insurance Company (Sri Lanka).


Kay International AMEA: Best Global Reinsurance Broker GCC 2021

Kay International AMEA commenced operations as a boutique reinsurance intermediary and underwriting management agency in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) in 2016. As the company celebrated its fifth anniversary this December, it announced the addition of a Miami-based office to better serve Latin American markets. Kay International AMEA is the first DIFC reinsurance broker to go from east to west. The group has already established a strong presence in Africa, the Middle East and Asia, working with more than 100 insurance companies. The new wholly owned US subsidiary will help to build a bridge between MENA and Latin American markets. The group has observed attractive parallels between both emerging markets, each moving forward with major development and infrastructural projects — and insurance penetration rates that are still low yet increasing. Kay International AMEA credits its success to the quality of its people and the depth of their passion. The group has an apprenticeship programme that allows employees to rotate within the company and develop different skillsets. It prioritises initiative and drive rather than years of experience when recruiting for fresh talent. Kay International AMEA operates with the agility and appetite of a start-up with the dual-licensed, hybrid business model of reinsurance brokerage and underwriting. The CFI.co judging panel believes Kay International AMEA to be a company with the vision and competence to capitalise on emerging market opportunities. Kay International AMEA wins the 2021 award for Best Global Reinsurance Broker (GCC).


Boursa Kuwait: Best Digital Transformation Strategy GCC 2021

Boursa Kuwait is a trading pioneer that can trace its roots back to the first stock exchange in the GCC, and one of the oldest in the Middle East. The company was established in April 2014 and assumed responsibility for the operation of the Kuwait stock exchange on April 25. On October 5, Boursa Kuwait was awarded the exchange license by the Capital Markets Authority for the independent operation of the exchange. On September 14, 2020, Boursa Kuwait was listed on the “Premier” Market.

Boursa Kuwait launched its newly upgraded electronic ecosystem in December 2020, which included a newly-redesigned website and a suite of applications for smartphones, watches and tablets.

The website has been developed from the ground up using a bespoke Content Management System (CMS), designed to make the vital information that market participants rely on easier to find, while introducing several new features, including an enhanced version of MarketWatch, while the stock screeners option allows users to focus on what matters most to them. Investors can also keep up with the new calendar and company announcements, as well as access sophisticated charts and reports that assist in the decision-making process. In addition to the website, applications  for iOS, iPadOS,  WatchOS and Android phones and tablets were also developed.

Boursa Kuwait follows ISO 27001 standards for information and cybersecurity, applying internal controls to ensure confidentiality, integrity and availability, while also testing against vulnerability and DDoS attacks. All these steps contributed to a seamless continuation of business during the pandemic, with web-based portals launched for brokerage firms and secure connections to the VPN for remote-work employees.

The CFI.co jury unanimously voted for Boursa Kuwait, a repeat programme winner, in the 2021 category of Best Digital Transformation Strategy (GCC).


Golar LNG: Best ESG Energy Business Strategy North America 2021

Golar LNG presents natural gas - cleaner and cheaper than high-polluting fossil fuels like coal - as an ideal transitional energy source for a world moving towards carbon neutrality. Golar is a pioneer in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) market having moved up and downstream along the value chain, starting with the conversion of an older LNG carrier into a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) in 2007 and another into a floating liquefaction vessel (FLNG) in 2014. The fleet now includes nine LNG carriers, one FSRU and two FLNGs. Golar also continues to manage and operate the fleet of downstream assets that it sold in April 2021. Golar aims to commoditise and democratise access to cleaner LNG-based energy, taking advantage wherever possible of natural gas that would otherwise be flared or re-injected. Celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2021, the company believes that sustainable value creation will be key to celebrating its centenary. It is constantly evaluating new tech and taking action to accelerate energy-efficiency and carbon-capture technologies. Golar recovers the heat waste from ships' generators for reuse providing up to 80% of the energy required to run its current FLNG units and has developed a seawater turbine unit for FSRUs that can save up to 5,000 tons of CO2 annually. Repurposing the two LNG carriers into FLNGs is estimated to save over 120,000 tons of greenhouse gas emissions relative to a newbuild of the same specification, equivalent to removing over 25,000 cars from the road for a year. Golar is also investigating the feasibility of marinized hydrogen and ammonia production with a long-standing business partner. The company has a board with a high ratio of women and a workforce with a mix of local and international talent. It has notably high levels of seafarer retention and has never scrapped an LNG ship: Golar understands the importance of repurposing assets. The CFl.co jury presents Golar LNG as the 2021 Best ESG Energy Business Strategy (North America) award winner.


Indaco Venture Partners: Best Venture Capital Asset Manager Italy 2021

Indaco Venture Partners entered the Italian venture capital scene in 2018, while its team has developed an extensive experience in venture capital since 2008, building a portfolio of investments in innovative companies with proprietary technologies. The asset management company is led by four partners — two men, two women — with backgrounds in private equity, science and technology research. Indaco cites the team’s diverse specialisations as one of the company’s greatest strengths. Their understanding of the underlying science and technology allows them to see beyond flashy marketing and sift the wheat from the chaff. They work with companies in areas of biotech, medtech, electronics and robotics, digital, artificial intelligence, quantum computing and new materials. This crossed technology approach is paramount for the company’s vision for the future and its platform for innovation investing. Indaco is bringing onboard some new teammates with strategic complementing experiences to support in the endeavour of a new fund in the pharma and biotech sector. The company promotes diversity and gives team members autonomy. The investment managers lever extensive experience in venture investing at home and abroad. Indaco Venture Partners manages five funds totalling more than €250m, including dozens of companies in the seed, start-up and growth stage. The firm has a proven track record of successful exits and has executed more than 10 thus far, including IPOs and transactions with corporate partners. It mainly targets Italian enterprises but has also made investments in Europe, USA and Israel. The CFI.co judging panel announces Indaco Venture Partners as the 2021 award winner for Best Venture Capital Asset Manager (Italy).


QSix: Best Residential Property Investor Germany 2021

QSix is an established specialist real estate asset manager with combined assets under management in excess of £1bn. Headquartered in London, with offices in Germany and the Netherlands, it employs more than 50 experienced professionals with expertise in real estate acquisition, debt origination, portfolio construction, asset management, risk management and information technology.

QSix acts as sole Property Advisor to Phoenix Spree Deutschland. Launched in 2007 and listed on the London Stock Exchange in June 2015, Phoenix Spree has a track record of delivering both reliable income and capital growth through investment in Berlin residential property. The aggregate value of the portfolio has grown from €168m in 2008 to a last reported €778m, with each year showing an increase.

The firm cultivates relationships with all of its stakeholders, from realtors and tenants to regulators and investors. Its deep-rooted experience allowed Phoenix Spree to quickly react to the Berlin rent freeze laws which were introduced in 2020 and subsequently declared void in 2021.

In addition to its core rental business, QSix also selectively identifies condominium projects within the Phoenix Spree portfolio of properties. This strategy involves the division of selected apartment blocks as private units. Although recent legislation is likely to limit the future conversion of multi-family homes into single condominiums, Phoenix Spree has a unique position in the Berlin market in that almost three quarters of its portfolio is already irrevocably split into condominiums and, during its last financial year, announced record condominium sales.

The firm is committed to improving the overall standard of accommodation to its clients, treating them fairly at all times. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it has worked sensitively with both residential and commercial tenants to find solutions for those struggling to pay rent. QSix has kept all employees on full salary during lockdowns and had zero layoffs. The CFI.co judging panel presents QSix with the 2021 Best Residential Property Investor (Germany) award.


VIA optronics: Best Technology Innovation Value Creation Strategy Germany 2021

Digital displays are a ubiquitous part of modern life. VIA optronics has developed a patented optical bonding process and is using state-of-the-art technology to create customised display, touch panel and camera solutions for clients worldwide.

Headquartered in Nuremberg, the company has production facilities in Germany, China and Japan, sales subsidiaries in Taiwan and the US as well as a subsidiary for design and development of camera solutions in the Philippines.

VIA optronics has a global workforce of 800 employees, including R&D. The company tailors solutions to each project’s needs, working with clients in the automotive, consumer electronics, and industrial markets. VIA optronics uses a proprietary silicon-based bonding material — that’s strong and durable — and copper-mesh touch-sensor technology to create displays and systems for high-demand applications, including extreme temperatures, bright sunlight and harsh environments. The company’s displays are easy to read even in bright sunlight and are rugged enough for rough environments.

The company is a strategic partner of Corning, a materials science pioneer and glass manufacturer, for solutions leveraging Cornings Coldform™ Techology for automotive interior displays.

VIA optronics has a growth strategy centered on continued investments in research and development to further enhance its solutions. The CFI.co judging panel points to the company’s next-generation technology, multidisciplinary team and farsighted management as factors in the selection of VIA optronics as the 2021 award winner for Best Technology Innovation Value Creation Strategy (Germany).


Boursa Kuwait: Outstanding Contribution to the SDGs GCC 2021

The UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) provide a universal framework to meet urgent environmental, social and economic challenges. Boursa Kuwait is rising to the challenge by focusing on four key areas: people, community, education and environment. The recently privatized operator of Kuwait’s national stock exchange has been instrumental in the diversification of Kuwait’s economy and development of its capital market — which was recently upgraded from Frontier to Emerging market in the world’s top three indices. Boursa Kuwait is an equal-opportunity employer that participates in global initiatives to support women’s empowerment. It provides ongoing professional development to employees and promotes internship opportunities through university partnerships. In 2020, employees benefited from over 2,000 training hours via a partnership with LinkedIn Learning. Boursa Kuwait also continued to develop content for its free digital education portal to increase financial literacy and understanding of financial markets. The company engages in a broad range of social impact initiatives to create long-term benefits for the population, from strategic partnerships to improve children’s hospital experiences to employee volunteerism. Boursa Kuwait is working to reduce its carbon footprint, and efficiency upgrades have resulted in a consumption reduction of over a million kilowatts of energy and 85,000 gallons of water during 2020. The bourse’s three-phased “Align, Create and Integrate” approach to corporate sustainability seeks alignment with international standards and business objectives as well as a measurable return on investments for the company and its stakeholders. The CFI.co judging panel presents repeat programme winner Boursa Kuwait with the 2021 Outstanding Contribution to the SDGs (GCC) award.


Ahli United Bank: Best Global Network Bank GCC 2021

Ahli United Bank B.S.C. (“AUB” of “the Bank”) offers clients a wide range of banking services through a network of 156 branches in eight countries. The Bank was incorporated in Bahrain in May 2000. Since its inception, AUB Group has expanded through a series of strategic acquisitions, mergers and organic growth. It targets continued expansion in the region by incorporating/acquiring banks and regulated financial services companies with a minimum of 10 percent market share. AUB has streamlined its UK operations to support commercial, private and investment banking activities. The multicultural group employs a workforce of 4,000+ professionals, boasting 35 nationalities and a 36 percent female ratio. The Bank has undertaken transformation plan which is expected to spur further growth. The Bank's group-wide digitalisation focus has helped it to deliver results despite the turbulent market conditions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The Bank has invested to improve remote connectivity, data-driven analytics and tech-savvy human capital. The Bank has received solid ratings from leading international rating agencies like Fitch, Moody's and Capital Intelligence. The CFl.co judging panel presents Ahli United Bank B.S.C. with the 2021 Best Global Network Bank (GCC) award - making the Group a four-time programme winner.


Active Capital Reinsurance Ltd: Best Specialised Reinsurance Solutions Global 2021 &  Best Reinsurer Emerging Markets 2021

Juan Antonio Niño P., the founder and president of Active Capital Reinsurance Ltd (Active Re), says the history of the company, founded in 2007, has spanned a time of “transcendental” change in global economics. Active Re has flourished due to a focus on diversification and expansion in challenging times. The company, with headquarters in Barbados, and representation offices in Miami, Panama and Madrid, operates in more than 100 countries in Latin America, Europe, North Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Its mission - “benefits for all” - has guided its strategy since inception, delivering reinsurance solutions and comprehensive risk management for clients. It has stepped up diversification, expanding into new markets and increasing product offerings. Active Re achieved its first international investment grade in 2014. In 2018 it was upgraded by the credit rating agency, AM Best, with an A- (excellent) which has since reaffirmed Active Re’s financial strength rating, putting it in a select group of global companies. While there are many challenges on the horizon, Active Re’s vision is to reinforce its role as a specialised and innovative reinsurer, with plans to improve even further its rating, increase its capitalisation and financial strength, as well as investing in technology, applying analytical tools to create solutions which add tangible value and benefits to customers. The company has won many awards since its foundation, including recognition from the CFI.co judging panel. In 2021, for the second consecutive year, the panel is pleased to once again present two awards, Best Specialised Reinsurance Solutions Global, and Best Reinsurer Emerging Markets.


Kommunalkredit Austria AG: Best ESG Infrastructure Finance Europe 2021

Kommunalkredit Austria AG invests in infrastructure to create added value for society and low-risk returns for shareholders. Kommunalkredit is a sustainability pioneer with a long list of firsts. In 1997, the bank became the first European financial services provider to adopt EU Eco-Management and Audit Scheme guidelines. In 2017, Kommunalkredit issued Austria’s first social bond and, within three years, became the first financial services provider in Austria to join the European Clean Hydrogen Alliance. The bank has built an investment portfolio that spans borders and industries — with a strong ESG strategy uniting it all. It targets sustainable infrastructure projects that improve quality of life, spur socio-economic development and support climate action. Its main investment areas are energy and environment, communication and digitalisation, traffic and transportation social infrastructure and natural resources — a portfolio that covers 12 of the United Nations’ 17 SDGs. Kommunalkredit positions itself as the bridge between project developers, operators and investors. It tailors financing solutions under an “originate and collaborate” approach to connect sustainable infrastructure players with institutional investors. Kommunalkredit’s infrastructure debt fund, Fidelio, outperformed its target of €150m, with a third and final close in late February 2020 totalling over €350m. The fund is already fully invested, including four investments into renewable energy and digital infrastructure projects within the first half of 2021. The CFI.co judging panel recognises the steadfast momentum of Kommunalkredit Austria AG, a repeat programme winner, with the 2021 award Best ESG Infrastructure Finance (Europe).


Qatar Insurance Company: Best Insurance Leadership GCC 2021

Founded in 1964, QIC was the first domestic insurance company in the State of Qatar. Since its inception, QIC has consistently navigated individuals and businesses through economic cycles by offering a diverse portfolio of personal (car, home, travel, boat, personal accident benefit) and commercial (energy, marine & aviation, property & commercial, medical & motor) lines of insurance, combining a broad-based distribution strategy with excellent service delivery. The group motto promises clients security, stability and strength.

Based on the proactive steps taken by its management, QIC demonstrated resilience by successfully navigating headwinds such as the COVID pandemic and natural catastrophes. Among management’s strategic steps were the highly successful hybrid capital raise of US$ 300 million in H1 2020 and the initial public offering of its subsidiary, QLM Life & Medical Insurance Company in Q4 2020.

Today QIC is the leading insurer in the MENA region. In terms of gross premiums, profitability and total assets, QIC is the largest insurance company in the MENA region. During the past decade, through a combination of organic and inorganic growth, QIC has grown from being a Middle East focused direct insurer, to a global insurance and reinsurance group with operations that spans Qatar, UAE, Oman, Kuwait, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Malta, Italy, Singapore, Bermuda and Gibraltar.

QIC is one of the highest rated insurers in the Gulf region with a rating of “A” from Standard & Poor’s and “A (Excellent)” from A.M. Best.

The CFI.co judging panel announces Qatar Insurance Company as the winner of the 2021 award for Best Insurance Leadership (GCC).


SABIC: Best ESG Responsible Petrochemical Company Global 2021

In 45 years SABIC has become the second most valuable chemical brand in the industry. In 1985, it produced 6.3 million tonnes, today it produces 60.8 million tonnes with operations across 50 countries. SABIC has also embraced the challenge of becoming an industry leader in ESG. Since 2010, it has proactively set and progressed towards ambitious sustainability targets. This includes a 25 percent reduction in GHGs, water intensity, and energy intensity by 2025. In 2019, it was a founding member of the Alliance to End Plastic Waste In 2020, it actively participated in G20 discussions on the circular economy. Its TRUCIRCLE circle economy initiative is continuing to deliver; SABIC has become the first petrochemical company to scale up a process for recycling used mixed plastics back to the original polymer for commercial application. Other 2020 highlights include the production of blue ammonia for zero-carbon power generation using carbon storage; this was a joint project with ARAMCO and the Japanese Institute of Energy Economics. In addition it supports the Sustainable Development Goals and has made a commitment to focusing on ten of them. This includes a $40 million investment in corporate social responsibility programmes across 34 countries. On top of this it has recently formed an ESG Reporting Steering Committee to maintain its high ESG standards. The CFI.co judges are thus proud to present SABIC as the winner of the global award for Best ESG Responsible Petrochemical Company for the second consecutive year.


Al Hilal Life: Best Life Insurance Provider Middle East 2021

Al Hilal Life offers hope and security to thousands of people in the Middle East, providing life and medical insurance services through offices in Bahrain and Kuwait. The company set the wheels in motion for a digitalization campaign in 2020, just in time when the pandemic sent the businesses racing to bolster their online capabilities. Al Hilal Life launched new products and is enabling online purchase options in 2022 along with various other innovative changes to simplify the customer onboarding process and enrich the overall experience. It has fully embraced the digital transformation and aims to strengthen its online presence, particularly as branch foot traffic declines. It will soon launch some digital products that are new to these markets. The digital platform will allow easier access to Al Hilal’s many takaful savings and protection plans as well as corporate insurance coverage. According to research, the global takaful insurance market is projected to grow from $24.8bn in 2020 to $97.2bn by 2030. Takaful members contribute to a pool system from which claims are paid. Unlike most other insurance types, which can be considered a form of gambling according to Islamic law, takaful is shariah compliant and free from uncertainty. For businesses, it offers group life and medical insurance, as well as coverage against the loss of key personnel or the outstanding debt of deceased borrowers. Al Hilal Life achieved slight growth in 2020, and 2021 profits are higher than the previous year. The CFI.co jury presents repeat winner Al Hilal Life with the 2021 award for Best Life Insurance Provider (Middle East).


Sai Gon J.S. Commercial Bank: Best Commercial Bank Vietnam 2021

SCB will soon celebrate its tenth anniversary since it was founded through the consolidation of three smaller but proud local commercial banks. Today with its combined strength, it is among the top five of Vietnam’s commercial banks by capital and was among the 500 fastest growing Vietnamese companies in 2021. Headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City, it has over 239 branches and 6,700 employees from north to south. It is also one of the most modern banks in Vietnam having embraced advanced technology and new diverse product offerings, which covers the needs of both commercial and individual clients. The CFI judging panel also commends SCB for its extraordinary understanding during the current crisis. SCB has reduced a range of fees for its corporate clients and has provided new short and medium-term loan products with preferential interest rates. It has also been working closely with companies to provide them with online payment technology to facilitate e-commerce. SCB has also promised to raise the bar further with its decision to partner with McKinsey & Co. for its “Transformation and sustainable development strategy 2020-2030”. SCB is looking to strengthen its competitive advantage through further innovation and increased operational efficiency. The CFI.co judging panel congratulates SCB on its first ten years as a consolidated entity and looks forward to an even brighter future for the bank. The panel is pleased to present Sai Gon J.S. Commercial Bank with the 2021 award for Best Commercial Bank (Vietnam).


Bank of Montreal: Best Commercial Bank Canada 2021

There’s a maxim at the Bank of Montreal which says the company must be great in good times – but even better when the going gets tough. When the Covid-19 crisis struck, the bank made it a priority to reaffirm its commitment to customers – holding virtual advice sessions, providing guidance on how to manage the pandemic’s challenges, and offering access to experts to help clients navigate the difficulties. One of Canada’s “big five”, the Bank of Montreal is a multinational investment bank and financial services company in continuous operation for more than 200 years. The company runs 900 branches across North America and provides a range of personal and commercial banking, wealth management and investment products and services to more than 12 million customers. The bank has famously not missed a dividend payment since 1829, even during major global catastrophes, including the financial crisis of 2008. It recently launched a “climate institute” which gathers the relevant data and insights needed to be a leading advisor to clients and partners on climate-related risks and opportunities. In 2021 the bank gave its support to the International Day of the Girl through a series of initiatives aimed at encouraging young women to aspire to leadership roles. The company believes in the importance of amplifying women’s voices, advocating for their rights, evaluating their position in society and reinforcing their capacity as decision-makers. In recognising its commercial performance, the judging panel is pleased to present the Bank of Montreal the 2021 award, Best Commercial Bank Canada.


Charme Capital Partners: Best Mid-Market Growth Equity Partner Europe 2021

Charme Capital Partners, a European mid-market private equity fund, applies a three-pillar approach to spur transformational change, growth and internationalisation. Charme relies on proprietary sourcing and deep local networks to uncover off-market and primary deal flows. It also identifies potential strategic buyers during the underwriting process. It practices active ownership of portfolio companies, acting as a catalyst to shift mindsets, fuel expansion and explore adjacent high-value-added opportunities. Charme levers scalable platforms to accelerate growth and buy-and-build strategies to expand market reach. It suggests operational efficiency measures to enhance competitiveness, professionalise management and optimise reporting and planning systems. All these efforts leave investee companies on far more solid financial footing at exit time. Charme originates multiple exit routes, proactively managing relationships with prospective buyers to maximise exit value and avoid large auctions. Buyers tend to be large corporates and global private equity funds. The firm has a 16-year track record as a preferential partner for founders and family businesses. It has helped numerous companies to double revenue and globalise operations. Under Charme ownership, Poltrona Frau Group’s revenue increased from €83m to €272m over a 10-year period. Charme helped the group gain market share and expand its geographical footprint through strategic acquisitions and international partnerships. Charme Capital Partners, headquartered in Milan with offices in London and Madrid, invests in high-potential businesses across Europe. The CFI.co judging panel presents Charme Capital Partners with the 2021 award for Best Mid-Market Growth Equity Partner (Europe).


Barrick Gold: Best Sustainable Mining Strategy Africa 2021

Barrick Gold aims for the gold standard of sustainable mining — and is increasingly hitting its target. The Canadian-owned company has 11 gold mining operations across the Americas and Africa, and three copper operations. It is ranked in the 95th percentile in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index, achieving industry-leading scores in environmental reporting, water related risks, social reporting and human rights. It believes in the primacy of community partnerships and inclusivity. It took over the Acacia assets in Tanzania and engaged with locals to reduce illegal mining by 75 percent. It worked in partnership with the Acacia community, assisting with the land and infrastructure, to establish a poultry project that provides employment and nourishment. The project sells about $8,000 of poultry and eggs per month to the mining kitchens. Barrick Gold spearheaded efforts to curtail the spread of Covid, administering some 10,000 Moderna vaccines and introducing rapid testing onsite. It has provided more than $30m in Covid support to host countries and communities. It has established Community Development Committees at all operational sites and spent more than $4.5bn with host country suppliers. It aims to cut costs, reduce emissions and empower communities by installing renewable energy systems, like hydro power in the Congo and solar panels in Mali and Saudi Arabia. It underscores the link between biodiversity and climate change by pursuing decarbonisation opportunities to conserve woodlands and enforce antipoaching laws. The CFI.co judging panel presents Barrick Gold, a repeat programme winner, with the 2021 Best Sustainable Mining Strategy (Africa) award.


Italtile Limited: Best Value Creation Retailer South Africa 2021

Italtile, a leading manufacturer, retailer and franchisor of tiles, sanitaryware and related products across South Africa and beyond, operates on the guiding principles of commitment to service, efficiency and harmonious teamwork. The company, founded in 1969, strives to stay in tune with the needs of its staff and customers – a tenet which was at the core of its response to the pandemic, which created unprecedented challenges. Despite logistical difficulties, the company believes it has emerged a more resilient entity, remaining on course to become the sector’s best in Africa, with an emphasis on product, price and service. The enforced work-from-home reality of the pandemic had the effect of changing lifestyles, and Italtile has capitalised on a home-improvement boom. The company works hard to maintain an ethos of partnership and empowerment – a percentage of profits are shared among employees. It also funds its own Foundation Trust, a non-profit organisation dedicated to transforming communities by developing skills, and supporting activities relating to education, sport and conservation. As a supporter of the UN’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) aims, Italtile’s factories rank among the most energy-efficient in the world. Its low-carbon footprint Eco-Tec tile range is recognised as a leader in the manufacture of eco-sensitive products. The company has plans to expand further into East Africa but remains faithful to its home market. The 78-year-old chairman, Giovanni Ravazzotti, still regularly visits individual stores and factories, and CEO, Jan Potgieter, admits he still considers himself “a shopkeeper”. The CFI.co judging panel has no hesitation in presenting Italtile Limited the 2021 award, Best Value Creation Retailer South Africa.


Varun Beverages Ltd: Best FMCG Corporate Governance India 2021

In the world of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) there can be few success stories as impressive as Varun Beverages Ltd (VBL), a humble family business which has grown to become one of India’s top performing companies. VBL is the second largest franchise holder in the world, outside the US, for PepsiCo, producing and distributing a wide range of soft drinks throughout most of India. It also holds PepsiCo franchises for Nepal, Sri Lanka, Morocco, Zambia and Zimbabwe. It’s operations span across 27 States and 7 Union Territories in India and 5 other countries across the world. The Company is serving more than 1.35 billion customers and has more than 2 million retail outlets with strengthening infrastructure of more than 90 depots, 1,500 primary distributors & 2,500 owned vehicles. Further, it has 37 state-of-the-art production facilities and employs more than 10,000 people. Founding Non Executive Chairman Mr. Ravi Kant Jaipuria believes VBL’s success is firmly based on its employees, many of whom have been with the company for decades. He says the contribution of workers who produce the goods, and those who go out and sell to millions of customers is incalculable. Employees are encouraged to adopt the company’s mantra – concentrating on delivering consumer value with integrity and passion. VBL has seen a strong resurgence following India’s lockdowns, exceeding pre-pandemic levels, as the market improves at a faster than anticipated rate. VBL constantly monitors changes in consumer preferences, and is expanding its nutritional wing, having introduced product innovations, including zero-calorie drinks, energy drinks, and ethnic flavours, demonstrating the company’s innovative approach and forward-thinking. The judging panel, in 2021, is pleased to present Varun Beverages, for the third consecutive year, the award Best FMCG Corporate Governance India.


La Trobe Financial: Best Investment Management Team Australia 2021

La Trobe Financial is an Australian investment manager and financial services provider that consistently earns the highest ratings from the country’s independent fund ratings agencies. The firm has been in operation since 1952; it now serves 70,000 investors and manages $13bn in assets. The team is united by a commitment to make positive impacts, helping people to build wealth while contributing towards a sustainable future. La Trobe Financial offers a range of investment, financing and insurance solutions. It has seen significant growth over the past 12 months, with AUM up by 36 percent. La Trobe Financial has managed to outperform the benchmark for its flagship strategy against the challenging backdrop of the global pandemic. La Trobe Financial has a proud track record of fiduciary responsibility, having never lost a cent of investor capital nor missed a monthly distribution of interest income. The firm has launched two new offerings — a six-month notice account and a two-year account — in response to strong investor demand. The six-month notice account invests in mortgage assets, Australian cash and other credit instruments, while the two-year account focuses on registered first mortgage loans with low volatility. La Trobe Financial is a Blackstone portfolio company, a leading investment firm with $731bn in AUM. The company and its leadership have been repeatedly recognised in industry awards programmes. The CFI.co judging panel adds its own accolade, announcing La Trobe Financial as the 2021 Best Investment Management Team (Australia) award winner.


Chunghwa Telecoms: Best Telecom Holding Governance Asia 2021

Chunghwa Telecoms, the largest integrated telecom service provider in Taiwan, describes itself as a pioneer of smart living, and an enabler of the digital economy. In the fast-moving world of communications technology, the Taipei-based company, which employs more than 20,000 people in Taiwan, works hard to stay at the cutting edge. The business celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2021. Today, Chunghwa Telecoms has the highest market share in terms of revenue and subscribers in the sector, outperforming its rivals in mobile speed and coverage. It operates its own satellites and runs the largest network of undersea cables, linking locations around the world. The company is currently expanding its 5G network with the aim of achieving 80 percent population coverage, focussing on areas of high business demand, particularly universities, industrial parks, and tourist hot-spots. Chunghwa believes 5G will enhance the competitiveness of Taiwan businesses, and will create a digital transformation in industrial eco-systems and smart-city applications, generating new business opportunities. Chunghwa works to establish a corporate culture of ethical management, adopting a series of business principles which cover areas including a strict prohibition of unethical conduct. Indeed, the company has issued its own “guidelines for conduct” document to clearly define areas of risk, covering everything from bribery to conflicts of interest among directors and managers. The company abides by philosophies of honesty, transparency and responsibility, creating an environment for sustainable development. The CFI.co judging panel, in 2021, is pleased to present Chunghwa Telecom with the award Best Telecom Holding Governance Asia.