Hewlett Packard Enterprises: Best Governance Team US 2021

Hewlett Packard Enterprises (HPE) was established in late 2015 following its separation from Hewlett-Packard Company. It has evolved into a global, edge-to-cloud Platform-as-a-Service company that specialises in transformative business solutions. It develops software and IT infrastructure with an eye for sustainability and efficiency, enabling clients to increase productivity while keeping costs and environmental impacts low. It promotes circular economies as an avenue to decouple financial growth from the consumption of raw materials. The company recently released its fourth annual Living Progress report, which details how HPE innovates to meet future tech demands as well as increasingly ambitious ESG objectives. Some of the highlights from the 2019 report include $21m in community donations and a million hours of employee volunteerism over the past five years. The company considers its people as its greatest asset, for their passion and commitment drives HPE innovation and growth. It has attracted one of the most skilled — and diverse — teams in the industry. Over half of the board identifies with one or more diverse groups, and the company continues to take action to further inclusion and equity. In addition to HPE’s facilitator-led training programme for inclusive leadership, it will launch an integrated advocacy programme and a global inclusion and diversity council. It supports scholarships at historically black colleges and universities, contributes to racial justice grants and offers to match employees’ charity donations. HPE strives to be a force for good, and the CFI.co judges recognise its steadfast progress with the 2021 award for Best Governance Team (US).


YOA Insurance: Best Insurance Broker Nigeria 2021

[caption id="attachment_9385" align="aligncenter" width="900"] YOA Management[/caption]

YOA Insurance Broker is Nigeria’s first specialist energy insurance broker. Its history can be traced back to 1978 when Yinka Omilani and Associates was set up as the first indigenous loss adjusting firm in Nigeria. With Nigeria’s rich natural and oil reserves, YOA Insurance Brokers has been the foremost and most experienced risk advisors and managers within this sector for nearly 2 decades. The ISO certified Insurance broker is a market disruptor with a focus on customer-centricity, innovative offerings, and quality service delivery. YOA Insurance Brokers works with all stakeholders to develop market capacity, leveraging local intelligence and international expertise to unlock the growth potentials of the industry in Nigeria. The YOA team plays major roles in designing policies to meet client-specific needs, as well as evolving technological trends and corporate governance requirements. YOA is structured to cater to both Corporate and retail risk management needs. There are specialist teams that service different industry players of all sizes and individuals of all demographic segments. Within the past few years, YOA Insurance Brokers has also grown its competencies in Reinsurance and benefits insurance.   In the marketplace, YOA Insurance Brokers is using digital channels for disruptive approaches in connecting with its audience and is committed to closing the knowledge gap that the Nigeria insurance industry is plagued with, via thought leadership and insurance knowledge-based content. The brand’s passion for Human capital development has led to the creation of its academy (YOA Academy), which is focused on sharing and upscaling industry knowledge both internally and externally. The current Managing Director, Mrs Enitan Solarin who has been in the company for over 15 years, has a growth plan that encompasses expansion that will allow for more financial inclusions across all customer segments. She is also a stern promoter of gender balance within top management and policymakers of the insurance sector in Nigeria. The CFI.co judging panel declares YOA Insurance winner of the 2021 award for Best Insurance Broker (Nigeria).


Société Générale Securities Services: Best Global Custody Services Europe 2021

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With more than 30 years behind it, Société Générale Securities Services (SGSS) ranks among the top 10 global custody service providers. The offer covers 80 markets through SGSS’s network — 22 locations in 17 countries — and partnership agreements cover the remainder. The French group is the third-largest custodial provider in France and the second-largest in Europe, with 85 percent of its €4.4bn assets under custody covered through the group network. Its 4,000-strong workforce addresses the needs of institutional investors, asset managers, financial intermediaries and corporate clients. Through tech investment, it has developed the New Custody Information System, a single platform covering all geographies in real time. Last year proved to be the group’s best in commercial terms despite the pandemic, with a smooth transition to remote working and no interruption of services. The group is an outsourcing partner for clients’ front-to-back operational chains via its transversal and modular CrossWise platform, integrated software that can be subscribed to in full or per module. SGSS provides a dealing desk platform, in addition to its securities services, as part of the CrossWise solution. SGSS aims to improve client experience through continuous innovation and strategic partnerships. AI helps to automate data for clients, and SGSS strives for maximum transparency on SRI and ESG reporting. It invites investors to engage with portfolio companies through shareholder voting schemes. The CFI.co judging panel declares SGSS winner of the 2021 award for Best Global Custody Services (Europe).


Quadia: Best Impact Investment Strategy Switzerland 2021

Swiss impact investor Quadia focuses on value creation through impact investing and active engagement with its portfolio companies. Private equity investments allow Quadia to establish direct relationships with European SMEs and their leadership teams. Investments tend to be late-stage venture capital and early-stage growth capital between €1m and €10m. Quadia leverages its influence to push for positive social and environmental effects — and to support their scalability. Every member of the niche investment team has a shared passion for sustainability. They sit on foundation boards and have first-hand experience of real-world issues. Quadia believes in a new economic paradigm which will see capital regenerated in a holistic manner — and believes the finance sector should lead the transition. Quadia has invested €220m in 30 companies since its 2010 inception. It selects transformative firms in the key sectors of sustainable food and agriculture, circular products and materials, and clean energy. The investment strategy outlines four core objectives: fostering circular production and consumption, improving natural resource use, promoting fair value chains, and supporting local communities. It has a dedicated impact fund and offers a range of flexible vehicles, including club deals and customised impact investment mandates. Quadia clients are private individuals, institutional investors and family offices that seek to make a difference as well as a profit. For having the courage and competence to go the extra mile for sustainability, the CFI.co judging panel presents Quadia with the 2021 award for Best Impact Investment Strategy (Switzerland).


Mashreq Bank: Best Smart Retail Bank Middle East 2021

Mashreq celebrates over five decades of excellence, and has emerged as one of the leading financial institutions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Mashreq’s innovation is driven by a singular consideration: to improve the banking experience for our customers. The bank has invested a significant amount of effort and resources to ensure that all its key products are designed with the sole intention of improving the customer journey.

For several years, Mashreq has placed a deep emphasis on its digital banking proposition and the Covid-19 pandemic further enabled a faster shift towards digital banking services.

At the onset of the COVID-19 outbreak, Mashreq’s staff was already geared to serve their customers remotely in an efficient manner. Furthermore, the bank created an exclusive microsite for its customers which included a full suite of all its products and services available digitally. There was a smooth transition to remote working, with no interruption of services. Mashreq expects the revised operating structure and flexible work schedules to become part of our work environment.

To help its customers during a time of stress, Mashreq Bank provided payment holidays to 50% of its customers, and even today 15 percent enjoy this benefit. There are many competitive advantages that Mashreq has developed over the last few years and these are paying dividends today. For instance, customers can open accounts digitally or get loan approvals in a matter of minutes. E-commerce activity has skyrocketed over the past year, and Mashreq Bank has taken several steps to ensure that its clients have the tools they need to thrive in the digital space. With a smartphone in one hand and a credit card in the other, clients can send money, pay bills, or execute trades in global markets.

Banking services are just a click away, with chatbots available 24/7 to answer questions.

The CFI.co judging panel presents Mashreq Bank, a repeat programme winner, with the 2021 award for Best Smart Retail Bank (Middle East).


Bedford Row Capital: Most Innovative Fixed Income Solutions United Kingdom 2021

The UK’s Bedford Row Capital partners with businesses to give new investors access to listed bonds. The firm takes a holistic approach to capital raising by first ensuring that the business — and cash flow — is efficiently managed. It specialises in global structured securities, a focus that has forged a reputation as a leading non-bank originator — among the top 100 in the country. Bedford Row Capital issues high-yield bonds, senior-secured debt, short-dated notes, delta-one trackers, and Shariah-compliant certificates. Bedford works with business leaders to develop bond solutions in the market, and in the moment. It elevates standard settlement infrastructure by combining proprietary information systems with high levels of transparency and security. Its streamlined process for single- or multi-issuance debt programmes work over a 12-week period between commencement and launch of issuance. On the primary market side, Bedford offers assistance with issuance structuring, preparation of legal documentation, liaising with transaction counterparties and stock exchanges, book-building support, and communication with regulatory news services (RNS) upon launch. It acts as a calculation and settlement agent on the secondary market and handles subsequent RNS releases. The Bedford Row Capital team has the expertise to cut to the heart of client questions and address them — even before they are voiced. Advisors perform due diligence to lay a solid foundation for new projects with ongoing preparedness. The CFI.co judging panel presents Bedford Row Capital with the 2021 award for Most Innovative Fixed Income Solutions (UK).


Austrian Anadi Bank: Best Digital Banking Solutions Austria 2021

Austrian Anadi Bank has a future-forward approach to banking. Its roots trace back to 1896 and the name translates to „eternal” in Hindu. The bank embraces the digital revolution while preserving the most client-centric aspects of traditional banking. It combines a next-generation digital banking platform with a regionally focused branch network. Austrian Anadi Bank offers corporate banking solutions to clients in Austria and Germany, is a specialist in public finance and in addition offers highly digitalized retail banking services via its scalable hybrid business model serving some 57,000 customers in total. Austrian Anadi Bank is looking to broaden its digital approach and to increase its customer base in the digital focus area tenfold over the next three years. It has around 270 employees with around 20 percent of the team dedicated to its internal FinTech capabilities. That figure is expected to continue rising as the bank plans further expansion in digital tech-enhanced banking services. Austrian Anadi Bank focuses in its retail division on customer credit in Austria and SME credit in Germany, it manages credit risk in the most cost-effective and competitive manner possible – by combining the risk management and distribution sides. During the pandemic, the bank tripled the disbursement in digital consumer credit. It is up to EUR 30m loan book on the digital banking side and expects to reach EUR 250m over the next three years together with other digital initiatives like the roll-out of the digital SME-credit product in Germany, launched in April 2021, and exclusive strategic partnerships on tablet basis like the recently launched cooperation with Austria’s largest retail chain network (2,300 outlets) under the brand ‘MARIE’. The CFI.co judging panel recognizes Austrian Anadi Bank – a market leader of speed, flexibility, efficiency and scalability – with the 2021 award for Best Digital Banking Solutions (Austria).


Public Sector Pension Investment Board: Best Sustainable Pension Fund Manager Canada 2021

The Public Sector Pension Investment Board (PSP Investments) is one of Canada’s largest pension investment managers. It manages a diversified global portfolio composed of investments in capital markets, private equity, real estate, infrastructure, natural resources, and credit investments. Established in 1999, PSP Investments manages and invests amounts transferred to it by the Government of Canada for the pension plans of the federal Public Service, the Canadian Forces, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, and the Reserve Force. PSP Investments understands that the pursuit of generating returns must be balanced with ESG considerations – and sees this as an opportunity for collaboration. As of March 31, 2021, reports include C$204.5 billion of net assets under management, a one-year net portfolio return of 18.4%, and a five-year net annualized return of 9.3%. PSP engages with company boards and managers to promote good corporate governance practices and to encourage positive change. Along with seven leading pension fund managers, PSP Investments has issued a statement calling for the transparent and standardized disclosure of financially material sustainability data for informed decision-making. It has clearly defined ESG performance indicators and has developed an asset-level data-gathering tool to facilitate benchmarking and investment analysis. It launched a corporate governance dashboard to monitor activity and share insights. PSP Investments aims to scale success through knowledge-sharing and the adoption and achievement of science-based environmental objectives. It has developed a climate-change toolkit to help the evaluation of material ESG risks – and opportunities – at every stage of the investment process. The CFI.co judging panel recognizes Public Sector Pension Investment Board as an organization striving to create a more equitable, inclusive, and sustainable future. The panel presents the company with the 2021 award for Best Sustainable Pension Fund Manager (Canada).


The State Investment Corporation Limited: Outstanding Support to Entrepreneurs Mauritius 2021

Over the past 37 years, the State Investment Corporation (SIC-The Corporation) has played a vital role in the development of Mauritius business. The organisation is the investment arm of the government and is responsible for a diversified portfolio of assets valued at $176.7m. SIC has achieved impressive growth thanks to a collaborative workforce and prudently monitored investments throughout key sectors.

The Corporation is a reputable partner for local and foreign entrepreneurs and institutions seeking to establish new ventures in the region, and its endorsement has proven to be a contributor to project success. SIC supports entrepreneurs with high-growth potential as well as those with strategic importance for the country.

The SIC is structured into business clusters comprising gaming, property and diversified investment portfolio management. The Corporation is supported by key subsidiary companies, namely, Capital Asset Management Limited (CAM) and Prime Partners Ltd (PPL). These two companies add value to the client services such as fund management, financial and corporate administration. SIC manages a Line of Credit (LOC) of USD 500M from the EXIM Bank of India for the implementation of major infrastructural projects.

SIC invests across the entire value chain, taking a minority shareholding in most projects. The portfolio includes strategic sectors including transport and communication, ICT, financial services, entertainment and tourism, real estate, logistics and distribution, manufacturing, agro-industrial, diversified holdings and support services. Due diligence precedes any investment and continuous appraisal ensures the partnerships stay on track.

SIC has taken a leadership stance in the roll-out of relief measures for Covid-impacted businesses, acting as point-person between the collaboration of various government-owned entities, including the Development Bank of Mauritius, the SME Equity Fund and the Investment Support Programme. Support measures range from repayment moratoriums and corporate loan guarantees to equipment leasing and revolving credit lines.

The CFI.co judging panel presents The State Investment Corporation Limited with the 2021 award for Outstanding Support to Entrepreneurs (Mauritius).


Absa Bank: Most Responsible Bank Seychelles 2021

Absa Bank (Seychelles) forms an integral part of a financial services group with 42,000 employees and a presence in 12 countries. In a year of challenge, Absa has made several noteworthy accomplishments. It was the first to offer a “payment holiday” to individuals and businesses affected by Covid-19. Absa Bank made donations to public health organisations and supported 20 local institutions. It partnered with another major institution to provide social development programmes for young students. The bank recently published a financial literacy booklet — with the apt title of Things I Wish a Bank Had Told Me — and has already disseminated some 10,000 copies. The guidebook covers the origins of the banking industry, with fun facts about banking in the Seychelles and advice on the responsible management of personal finances. A future edition is planned, focusing on SMEs. The bank stays at the forefront of tech trends and encourages clients to take advantage of its digital platform. Clients can control their finances via its e-banking portal, while the NovoFX app allows for easy cross-border payments. Any lingering questions can be cleared up through the assistance app, Abby. Absa Bank is an African brand that aims to be a catalyst of socio-economic advancement across the African region. It earns trust by treating all stakeholders fairly, delivering on promises, and focusing on environmental impacts. The CFI.co judging panel presents Absa Bank (Seychelles) — a repeat programme winner — with the 2021 award for Most Responsible Bank (Seychelles).


Deloitte Cyprus: Best International Financial Advisory Team Cyprus 2021

The pandemic put the brakes on development worldwide, but momentum has started to pick up in Cyprus. Confidence and activity are on the rise, and Deloitte Cyprus is helping businesses and investors to seize the moment. The company is part of the global Deloitte network, providing a range of services for businesses and investors, including financial advisory, risk advisory, consulting, audit and assurance, as well as tax. Specialist advisors work with foreign investors to assess project viability, assist with legal and tax compliance, and implement capital protection measures. Deloitte Cyprus also focuses on the tourist infrastructure, technology & innovation, healthcare and energy sectors — mainly renewables— to support local developers of projects and foreign investors, to evaluate opportunities in the market and assess the commercial and financial viability of new projects. The firm expects to announce more developments over coming months as pipeline projects turn into closed deals. Deloitte Cyprus advises on EU-backed governmental projects, including those that will accelerate the transition to a carbon neutral economy. Funds will be spent on building renewable energy production and storage capacity, as well as workforce reskilling and upskilling, over the next decade. The firm engages with key stakeholders on fund allocation and socio-economic impacts. Deloitte Cyprus highlights the island nation’s status as a fintech hotspot with reliable infrastructure and low corporate tax rates — and helps foreign businesses to set-up shop. The CFI.co judging panel notes the company’s stable revenues and high retention rates among clients and team members. Deloitte Cyprus wins the 2021 award for Best International Financial Advisory Team (Cyprus).


Bank One: Best International Banking Services & Best Custodian Bank Indian Ocean 2021

From its base in Port Louis, in the Indian Ocean island state of Mauritius, Bank One Limited is a top-tier banking institution recognised for its bespoke products and services delivered to more than 50,000 domestic and international customers. The bank is privileged to have two large groups as shareholders: CIEL Finance Limited a subsidiary of the CIEL Group, a Mauritian conglomerate with a significant footprint in Africa, and I&M Holdings PLC, a financial services group with a presence in Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda. Bank One thus plays an active role in supporting businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa because of its unique onshore and offshore capabilities. The objective of the bank is to leverage Mauritius’ position as an international financial centre for Africa to serve the rising Financial Institution and Corporates as well as the Wealth Management, Securities and Custody Services needs of its clients in key Sub-Saharan African economies. By doing so, Bank One aims to become the ‘Bank of Choice’ for Financial Institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa and has deepened its relationships with DFIs, and the African Trade Insurance Agency, which helps the bank enhance its lending structures in challenging markets. The judging panel recognises Bank One's well-defined long-term ambitions and presents it with the 2021 award for Best International Banking Services & Best Custodian Bank (Indian Ocean).


Old Mutual Investment Group: Best ESG Responsible Investor Africa 2021

Old Mutual Investment Group forms part of an organisation with a 175-year history in South Africa. The multi-boutique investment house oversees listed equity AUM for parent company Old Mutual Ltd and offers solutions for institutional and individual investors. Old Mutual Investment Group believes responsible investing to be a moral imperative as well as an opportunity to gain a competitive business edge. This allows for the pursuit of delivering sustainable long-term returns for our clients, while being responsible stewards of the assets we manage.It integrates ESG factors throughout the decision-making process. Old Mutual Investment Group takes proactive stewardship of investments by exercising proxy voting rights to push for better ESG performance . Its investment products support economic growth aligned with socially inclusive, low-carbon and resource-efficient outcomes. In addition, clients gain exposure to renewable energy, land reform, affordable education, and gap housing through the group's private market affiliates. Old Mutual Investment Group develops investment solutions using hard exclusions based on ESG leadership indices and Shariah investment principles. It offers equity guidance through its proprietary ESG profile-scoring system - and targets a 20 percent improvement in those scores and a 40 percent reduction in carbon intensity. Old Mutual Investment Group has a partnership mindset and strives to increase the size the entire pie, not just its own slice. The CFI.co judging panel presents Old Mutual Investment Group with the 2021 award for Best ESG Responsible Investor (Africa).


I&M Bank (Rwanda) Plc: Best Bank Rwanda 2021

I&M Bank (Rwanda) was the first commercial bank in the country, incorporated in 1963. It has pinned its success on customer relations and value proposition and prioritises staff recruitment and retention. I&M Bank launched the country’s first blockchain-powered app, SPENN, helping to connect unbanked people with financial services. It introduced the first NFC-enabled ATMs with contactless, tap-and-go technology. These digitalisation strategies are geared to fulfil evolving customer needs while maximising operating efficiencies. I&M Bank serves a well-segmented customer base of corporate, retail and MSME clients, tailoring products to reduce touch-points in credit analysis and deliver services in a timely manner. It offers retail, business, and corporate cards, as well as one supporting 17 international currencies. Over the next two years, the bank aims to capitalise on the growth of core activities and efficiencies gained in a 2018 restructure and transformation. It enables future growth via a three-pillar approach to drive business, build resiliency, and optimise the operating model. The bank anticipates that this will triple the customer base — from 35,000 to 100,000 account holders — and see digital banking activity reach 80 percent of operations. Digital saving and lending products are being explored as an avenue to tap into new markets and diversify revenue streams. All these strategies are the result of data-driven decision-making, and the CFI.co judging panel applauds the advances. The judges present I&M Bank with the 2021 award for Best Bank (Rwanda).


Platinum Groupe: Best Investment Banking Team Zimbabwe 2021

Platinum Groupe has been serving institutional, corporate and individual clients in Zimbabwe for over two decades. The holding company offers specialised financial services through four strategic business units: Platinum Investment Managers, Platinum Securities, Platinum Financial Solutions and Platinum Microfinance. Platinum investment managers assist clients with all types of portfolio mandates, including equity, fixed income, real estate and alternative assets. Platinum offers a full suite of financial services from wealth management, stock broking and securities trading to capital raising, IPOs and bond origination. Platinum Groupe ranks among the top financial outfits in Zimbabwe in terms of structuring and investment transactions. It completed a landmark transaction this past year, bringing together three of the largest financial institutions in the country. Platinum Groupe is licenced by the Securities Commission of Zimbabwe. It promotes investment opportunities in the mining industry to develop the country’s large mineral resources, including lithium and gold. It helps investors add real estate assets to stabilise portfolio performance during volatile cycles. Platinum Groupe plays a crucial role as a key financer of the country’s energy and infrastructure projects, while its agricultural investments alleviate food security concerns and support contract farmers. The group is headquartered in Harare, the capital and most populous city in Zimbabwe. The CFI.co judging panel presents Platinum Groupe with the 2021 award for Best Investment Banking Team (Zimbabwe).


Arca Fondi SGR: Best SME Equity Fund Italy 2021

Arca Fondi SGR is the longest-running asset manager in Italy, with one of the country’s largest distribution networks. It offers long-term investment opportunities in the Italian equity market through the Arca Economia Reale Equity Italy fund. The fund has been structured to be less reliant on global economic trends and more influenced by the specifics of selected securities. Arca Fondi has found that SMEs, such as those in the STAR and AIM indices, offer more balanced sector exposure with a weighted industrial component — where Italian small-cap companies typically shine. Industrial companies make up nearly a quarter of the fund, followed by healthcare, consumer staples, communication services and utilities. Arca manages the SME fund for sector diversification, aiming for the preservation of portfolio value in even the most turbulent market phases. The fund saw a sharp drop in March 2020, as the world began pandemic lockdown protocols — but over the past year, it has rebounded and emerged stronger than ever. Since inception, Arca Economia Reale compound returns have been above that of its benchmark. The fund has been assigned a five-star rating for performance, as well as an A-rating for cost. The CFI.co judging panel has recognised Arca Fondi SGR in previous award programmes, and continues to find cause for recognition. The judges announce Arca Fondi SGR as winner of the 2021 award for Best SME Equity Fund (Italy).


National Bank of Greece: Best Corporate Governance Greece 2021

Established in 1841, the National Bank of Greece (NBG) has played an ongoing and important role in the country’s economic development. It has evolved into one of the largest financial groups in Greece, while its product line-up and service suite have developed along with the needs of its corporate, business and private clients. The bank and its subsidiaries offer financing facilities, deposit and investment products, as well as brokerage, insurance, leasing and factoring services. NBG has a strong e-banking platform and a national network with approximately 350 branches, 1500 ATMs and 84 international units. It unites a workforce of around 7,700 employees behind a mandate to advance the progress and prosperity of Greek society – values which have contributed to the bank’s business success. NBG aims to be an exemplary corporate citizen and has implemented CSR initiatives to support entrepreneurship, community welfare, human rights, environmental protection and cultural preservation in Greece. The bank’s corporate governance framework aligns with national regulatory requirements and international guidelines for continuity, consistency and efficiency. NBG implements its responsibilities and obligations through good corporate governance and a comprehensive code of ethics. Its strict and effective procedures ensure operational compliance with internal strategies and guidelines, as well as all applicable laws and regulations. It prioritises transparency and publishes annual corporate governance reports, following applicable legislation and best practices. The CFI.co judging panel presents National Bank of Greece, a repeat programme winner, with the 2021 award for the Best Corporate Governance (Greece).


TGE Polish Power Exchange: Best Sustainable Commodities Exchange Central Europe 2021

TGE (Towarowa Giełda Energii) Polish Power Exchange has been in operation for more than two decades, contributing to national energy security by developing markets for electricity, natural gas, property rights and CO2-emission allowances. It added an agricultural and food market to the mix in 2020. TGE is licensed and regulated by the Polish Financial Supervision Authority and has a leading position among Central and Eastern European exchanges in terms of liquidity and commercial offering. The exchange maintains its competitive edge by focusing on employee development, tech innovation and high-quality services. It has operated as a Nominated Electricity Market Operator (NEMO) since 2015 — when it first published a CSR strategy. TGE outlined its commitment to improving the quality of the domestic commodity market through strong corporate governance, clear communication and active cooperation with market participants. TGE was granted multi-NEMO status for another four years in 2019. TGE and the Polish Wind Energy Association are collaborating to create new solutions for trading electricity generated from renewable energy sources (RES). TGE was an integral part of the Interim Coupling Project that went live this June, establishing electricity connections at the borders of the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania along with Poland and the pan-European multi-regional coupling market. The company introduced contact-free e-signing procedures in response to Covid. The CFI.co judging panel presents TGE Polish Power Exchange, a repeat programme winner, with the 2021 award for Best Sustainable Commodities Exchange (Central Europe).


Deutsche Oppenheim Family Office: Best Strategic Asset Allocation Team Germany 2021

Deutsche Oppenheim Family Office is a full-service multi-family office and wealth manager whose services cater to the needs of individuals, entrepreneurs, churches, foundations, and institutional investors. The firm specialises in customised generational wealth solutions and offers its clients access to the global network of its parent group, Deutsche Bank, the largest German banking institution. The first and most important step in Deutsche Oppenheim’s investment process is the Strategic Asset Allocation (SAA), which relies on the firm’s proprietary Monte-Carlo simulation tool. Using quantitative and academically founded models, the SAA tool explicitly accounts for complex market relationships, including “black swans” (fat tail events) and yield smoothing. By capturing future risks, opportunities, and correlations of liquid and illiquid asset classes, investment strategies are tailored to clients’ individual risk profiles and liquidity needs. The family office provides a natural implementation of the investment strategies derived in the SAA: “PassivePlus”. As the name suggests, this approach favours passive funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) as its core investments. Market fads will not make the cut – but active funds are pursued when the data deem them worthy. The “PassivePlus” strategy applies big data concepts for alpha generation, multi-dimensional risk management, peer-group analysis, and realistic fund benchmarks. The data-driven approach removes emotion from the investment process and avoids costly tactical asset allocation mistakes. For more than ten years, Deutsche Oppenheim has offered private individuals access to institutional SAA services. The CFI.co judging panel presents Deutsche Oppenheim Family Office – a repeat winner – with the 2021 award for Best Strategic Asset Allocation Team (Germany).


AXA IM: Best ESG Global Asset Manager France 2021

Responsible investing equals better investing: that mantra guides every decision taken at AXA IM’s Paris operations. Investing is about prediction, and incorporating ESG factors into the decision-making process makes it easier to forecast the future. The company excludes businesses which draw more than 30 percent of their revenues from coal, but recognises green ambition as well as full commitment to sustainability. AXA IM has an eye open for businesses whose actions clearly reflect a “brown to green” transition. The company believes this approach could prove beneficial in unearthing growth opportunities. It has updated its assessment framework and is monitoring market growth in social and sustainable bonds linked to client interest. The methodology allows it to accurately gauge its contribution to the achievement of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Johann Plé, head of Green Bond Strategy at AXA IM in Paris, says the firm has strengthened the way it approaches this market, with the goal of improving the quality and quantity of the green, social, and sustainable bonds in its portfolios. AXA IM’s customer-centric focus is underscored by the decision in 2020 to appoint a specialist to every business line, while reorganising its focus to incorporate ESG factors at all levels. The CFI.co judging panel recognises the continued development of this responsible strategy, and presents AXA IM with an award for the second consecutive year. This time, the firm takes the 2021 title for Best ESG Global Asset Manager (France).


Basellandschaftliche Kantonalbank: Best Regional Sustainability Bank Switzerland 2021

An indication of the seriousness with which BLKB (Basellandschaftliche Kantonalbank) approaches sustainability is a prominent statement on its website: “We want to do today what matters tomorrow”. BLKB is not only recognised as the top sustainable regional bank in Switzerland, it also aspires to be the most forward-looking; one committed to sustainable development for all. The Baselland-based bank, with 850 employees and branches across northwestern Switzerland, has sustainability at the heart of its actions, and it focusses its entire business strategy accordingly. BLKB, which was founded in 1864, provides retail and business banking products. Seven years ago the bank underwent radical change, switching gradually to a mainly sustainable product range. It has established a set of guiding principles which aim to prioritise people, society and the environment. It regularly measures progress towards its 2030 sustainability objectives, and publishes developments in frequent and transparent sustainability reports. BLKB employs sustainability owners throughout every department, and, among other initiatives, has launched a consulting offering for other regional banks, and stepped up its programme of public events, speeches and webinars which promote its sustainability strategy. It is also dedicated to employee training and development, offering an advanced leadership academy. During the pandemic the bank introduced new flexible working programmes, while also giving time off for child care. BLKB works hard to earn the trust of its customers who, the bank says, inspire it every day to accept new challenges. In 2021, for the second consecutive year, the judging panel is pleased to present BLKB with the award, Best Regional Sustainability Bank Switzerland.


Toledo Capital: Best Wealth Management Services Switzerland 2021

For over a decade, Toledo Capital has helped high-net-worth clients nurture multi-generational wealth by stepping away from short-term speculation and designing diversification strategies for the long game. Toledo’s philosophy is to always find the best solution for its clients. Toledo manages portfolios with $4m or more in bankable assets. It applies an absolute return approach to investments, and — despite Covid challenges — its flagship portfolio returned 16 percent in 2020. Toledo has added new asset classes to its services and strategically balanced the asset allocation between classes. The firm selects and recruits top asset managers and takes great care in assigning them to asset classes and client portfolios.

Toledo Capital recently began working with one of the largest data valuation companies in Europe, which feeds into its proprietary AI platform and supports informed decision-making by the experienced team. Through a novel, exclusive cooperation with ZWEI Wealth Experts, Toledo Capital allows its clients to select their asset manager based on the largest certified database of the best Swiss active asset managers. The firm has attracted new clients, increased assets under management, and recently launched a new website.

Toledo Capital is licensed and regulated by FINMA, Switzerland’s independent financial markets authority, and adheres to the highest standards. The FINMA licensing process took six months and represents a major milestone for the firm. Toledo offers a corresponding level of guidance and oversight for clients by controlling and monitoring services, screening for inconsistencies across banking transactions, and studying markets for any potential risks.

The CFl.co judging panel has again found just cause to present Toledo Capital, a repeat winner, with an award — this time for the Best Wealth Management Services of 2021 (Switzerland).


Arca Fondi SGR: Best Emerging Markets Debt Manager Europe 2021

Over the past four decades, Arca Fondi SGR has defended its market-leading position with courage and competence. The asset manager ranks as one of Italy’s longest-running operations. It began when 12 shareholder banks joined forces in 1983, and has expanded through ongoing placement relationships with credit institutions, investment firms and banks. It has built a comprehensive distribution system — one of the largest in the country — with more than 8,000 service points at a network of placement agencies, promoters, and online channels. Arca Fondi has been a reliable investment partner for private and institutional clients, ensuring the transparent, risk-controlled and cost-efficient management of savings, not swayed by market trends. There are mutual funds for financial needs and asset classes including equity, balanced, multi-asset, flexible, bond, and individual savings plans. Arca’s open-ended pension fund, Arca Previdenza, was among the first to be launched in Italy, leaning toward debt securities issued by sovereign states, supranational entities and private companies with high credit ratings. Arca Fondi SGR acts as the investment manager and global distributor of Sidera Funds, pursuing advanced yield performance via selective stocks and the careful management of themed investments. The CFI.co judging panel has followed the company for several years for its consistently clean audit reports and high retention of clients and staff. This year the panel was impressed by its steadfast calm and resilience throughout the Covid pandemic: Arca Fondi SGR wins the 2021 award for Best Emerging Markets Debt Manager (Europe).


National Bank of Bahrain: Best Online Banking Solutions Middle East 2021

National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) — the country’s first locally grown financial institution — has evolved over the past 64 years to become the market leader in retail and commercial banking services. Digital transformation has unlocked new levels of convenience, speed and security. With NBB’s online services, onboarding is simple and an account can be opened — with a “selfie” — in just five minutes. Registration can be completed with a national ID, an account number and a debit or credit card. Log-in times are fast, too, particularly when using the biometric access option. Clients can perform a variety of actions online, from managing cards to making payments. The bank set an ambitious digitalisation strategy — and has backed it with investment. The state-of-the-art platform has accelerated the new-to-bank onboarded customers and increased the current existing account engagement by double the figures in six months. This showcases the strength of the platform and the simplicity and speed that the customers are onboarding, anywhere and anytime. It also shows the confidence of our customers towards our bank. The digitalisation strategy was executed by a tech team on a mission to modernise banking in Bahrain. NBB is an institution that aims to enrich Bahraini lives for generations to come. It delivers on its promise of remaining closer to its clients with the largest network in Bahrain of ATMs, CDMs (Cash Deposit Machines) and branches. Additional branches in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh afford a springboard for expansion across the Gulf region and international markets. The CFI.co judging panel announces National Bank of Bahrain as winner of the 2021 award for Best Online Banking Solutions (Middle East).


DTIDZ: Best Free Economic Zone Leadership Balkans 2021

Over the past two decades, DTIDZ has created an ideal environment for conducting business in south-eastern Europe. The North Macedonia Free Zones Authority is the governmental body responsible for developing free economic zones (FEZs) throughout the country — and DTIDZ is the focal point for investor support. Free-zone investors enjoy a 10-year tax holiday on profit and corporate tax, plus a 100 percent reduction in personal income tax. They’re exempt from value-added tax on imports and traded goods, and customs duties are waived on equipment, machinery and spare parts. FEZ tenants receive exemptions on utilities taxes and free connection to the natural gas, water and sewerage networks. There are no building permits fees and long-term leases — up to 99 years — are offered at concessionary prices. DTIDZ advises on government support programmes for capital investments that could provide a healthy return on investment. It has implemented a one-stop-service concept that aligns with international best practice, benefitting investors with individualised packages based on 10-year projections on revenues, profits, employment and salaries. Committed after-care services are a priority for the agency. DTIDZ also launched a single-contact after care system enabling direct communication with each company. DTIDZ is more than a development agency; it’s a repository of efficient business concepts led by professionals. The free zones operate through public and private partnerships that facilitate knowledge-sharing and optimal operations. Thanks to these efforts, Northern Macedonia has been hailed as a new business haven for Europe. The CFI.co judging panel notes the country’s business-friendly climate, and recognises the part DTIDZ has played in its achievement. DTIDZ wins the 2021 award for Best Free Economic Zone Leadership (Balkans).


AMS Integrated Solutions: Best Fleet Manager Emerging Economies 2021

AMS Integrated Solutions started out in Kosovo in 2002. The firm has steadily established a presence across multiple continents by bringing international best practice to workforces in the communities where it operates. In most of the developed world, automotive parts are imported rather than made in-country. But in AMS markets, those parts are locally made by workers who have proved themselves to be true craftspeople. AMS keeps its focus on best practice and cultural integration, and its workers are carefully selected for their professional expertise and craftsmanship. AMS collaborates with clients to transform operations in a culturally sensitive manner. It standardises maintenance processes across locations and brings in skilled engineers to train regional workforces. It aims to reduce costs for end-users while building up the skillsets of locals who show passion, purpose and a thorough understanding of regional challenges. Governments, aid agencies and commercial clients trust AMS to provide reliable advice on job creation and the certification of skilled employees. The company delivers integrated solutions in project operations and support, software and data solutions, supply chain & procurement and life support services across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. It has proven its worth as a capable and trustworthy partner, combining local knowledge and cultural sensitivity to drive sustainable growth for its clients and communities. The CFI.co judging panel presents AMS Integrated Solutions with the 2021 award for Best Fleet Manager (Emerging Economies).


Maiwand Bank: Best Corporate Banking Solutions Afghanistan 2021

Maiwand Bank is committed to fostering growth for Afghan businesses and fortifying the country’s treasury. It was founded by prominent business leaders on a mission to support the people and economy of Afghanistan. The country has been embroiled in conflict in recent decades, making socio-economic development a challenge. Maiwand, a financially-sound regional bank with international operations, contributes to the country’s economic restructuring process. It has onboarded half a million new clients over the past decade and works with a cross-industry selection of companies and corporations. Maiwand offers a range of corporate banking solutions, including trade finance, term loans, overdraft protection, bank guarantees and letters of credit. The bank has assembled a team of dedicated professionals to serve clients through a 42-branch network spread across the major provinces in Afghanistan, and soon to achieve full national coverage. The tech-driven institution continually strengthens its digital platform to ensure customer security and convenience. Maiwand has established agreements with reputable multinational commercial banks to facilitate international payments and financial services. The bank’s deposits sit at $335m and advances at $150m. Over the next five years, Maiwand plans to increase support and financing for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises. It targets start-ups and micro-businesses and sees the MSME arena as one of high-growth and strong potential. The CFI.co judging panel declares Maiwand Bank winner of the 2021 award for Best Corporate Banking Solutions (Afghanistan).


Vector Group: Best Financial Management Team United States 2021

Vector Group is an American holding company with tobacco and real estate interests. The group traces its roots back to the late 1800s with the founding of tobacco subsidiary, Liggett, which today ranks as the fourth-largest U.S. cigarette manufacturer. Liggett was the first company to settle certain smoking-related litigation and is the only major tobacco company to carry “Smoking is Addictive” warning labels and list ingredients on its packaging. Despite declining cigarette smoking over the past decade, Liggett was the only U.S. manufacturer to increase its market share and unit volumes between March 2010 and March 2020. Since 2010, Liggett’s Tobacco Operating Income has increased from USD $130m to USD $332m.

Vector Group's financial management team has done a spectacular job protecting and diversifying the company’s revenue streams. In 2005, Vector Group acquired New Valley LLC, which owns Douglas Elliman Realty LLC, the largest residential real estate brokerage firm in the New York metropolitan area and sixth-largest in the U.S. Over the past seven years, Douglas Elliman’s revenues have increased from USD $541m to USD $881m. In addition to owning Douglas Elliman, New Valley owns a USD $100m portfolio of consolidated and nonconsolidated real estate ventures. New Valley has recently focused its investments in the emerging PropTech sector to enhance the technology-experience of Douglas Elliman’s agents and customers.

Vector Group’s financial management team boasts an average tenure of 26 years with the company and is comprised of the CEO, COO, CFO and General Counsel. Management and directors own approximately seven percent of Vector Group's common stock.
The CFl.co judges declare Vector Group as the 2021 Best Financial Management (US) award winner.


Reaseguradora Delta Internacional: Best Reinsurance Solutions Central America 2021

Founded in 2010 in Panama, Reaseguradora Delta Internacional is a client-centric operation that aims to help insurance companies to measure risks and support informed decision-making. The company is owned by shareholders from the insurance and investment industries, and the network includes offices in Panama, the US and Venezuela. Reaseguradora Delta began operations in 1963 with just two employees. Today, the group is a leading reinsurer in the Venezuelan market and a prominent regional player with broad international projection. Delta Reinsurance, located in Miami, focuses on the underwriting lines of its partners. The group is unified behind the motto “SER DELTA”, a Spanish-language acronym which stands for service, excellence, profitability and talent development. It offers consulting services, supported by years of industry experience, as well as technical training. It also provides backing for contractual and facultative reinsurance business. Backing services give insurance companies stability and solvency by covering part of assumed risks and reducing the economic impact of policy pay-outs. Facultative products range from vehicles, boats and general liability to bonds, industry, commerce, and the transport of goods. Contractual products cover non-proportional, excess-of-loss treaties or proportional, automatic treaties. Reaseguradora Delta Internacional conducts its own due diligence, evaluating the business portfolios of prospective partners to determine risk coverage and capabilities, and adapting services and products to fit. The CFI.co judging panel presents Reaseguradora Delta Internacional with the 2021 award for Best Reinsurance Solutions (Central America).


C2FO: Best SME Working Capital Innovator UK 2021

On any given day, there’s an average of $40tn in outstanding invoices worldwide — with SMEs often way down on the waiting list. The global supply chain is frequently forced to wait weeks, or even months, to receive payment for products and services provided. US-based C2FO is dedicated to providing businesses around the world with the capital they need to grow. The company began building a digital working-capital platform in 2008 and was processing payments within two years. Since then, C2FO has generated $140bn in working-capital funding and accelerated payment for companies in 180+ countries. Its clients include some of the world’s biggest names: HP, Danone, Phillips, Siemens, Pfizer and Walmart. C2FO provides solutions for suppliers and enterprises, helping companies to accelerate or extend accounts payable or accounts receivable on demand, via an easy-to-use online platform. C2FO was founded by Alexander “Sandy” Kemper, a former banking CEO who believed that the financial system was broken — with SMEs falling through the cracks. Banks tend to view large companies as low risk, while SMEs are seen as a less reliable proposition. SMEs looking for bank finance often have to deal with slow approval processes, a long wait for the money, and high-interest repayment terms. But with C2FO — it stands for Collaborative Cash Flow Optimisation — these hurdles melt away. The CFI.co judging panel recognises repeat programme winner C2FO with the 2021 award for Best SME Working Capital Innovator (UK).


Decathlon: Best Sports Branding France 2021

An online reviewer, testing a pair of running shoes, says: “If you’re looking for a decent shoe for cross-country but don’t have a massive budget, these should be on your radar. At £50 they’re a fraction of the cost of their rivals, yet the performance would never suggest that.” That, in a nutshell, describes Decathlon’s fundamental brand objective – the best quality at the lowest price. Decathlon started life as a discount store in the French city of Lille in 1976. In the following 45 years it has grown into the largest sporting goods retailer in the world, with more than 2,000 stores in 56 countries, employing 93,000 staff – and branding excellence is at the heart of that growth. The family-owned business designs and develops its own products in its own studios and laboratories – with each sport having its own brand, supported by in-house experts. Decathlon aims to inspire customers from all skill levels. Sport shouldn’t be just for the privileged few, it says, but accessible to all. The Decathlon brand also chimes with the age, giving prominent commitment to the health of the planet. The company has pledged to maintain a positive environmental impact, not only helping people stay healthier for longer, but also to live by environmental principles. For instance, it turns waste plastic bottles into running jackets, and aims to use natural fabrics where possible. The judging panel recognises that Decathlon’s branding strategy is unique, and is pleased to present the 2021 award for Best Sports Branding France.


ATLAS Infrastructure: Best Climate Impact Responsible Investor UK 2021

ATLAS Infrastructure identifies the nexus of investment and climate change as a pressing world issue. The company was founded in 2017 by five partners and is majority owned and financially supported by Global Infrastructure Partners, a direct infrastructure investor with AUM of over $70bn. ATLAS Infrastructure accounts for the inevitable phasing-out of fossil fuels to mitigate the risk of stranded assets. The firm has long-term vision, assessing companies’ cashflow as well as regulatory and contractual considerations over the life of the asset. It splits its 13-person investment team — with more than 150 years of combined infrastructure investment experience — between London and Sydney offices, giving excellent coverage of global markets. The approach is to analyse the expected investment returns of each portfolio company against three climate-change policy scenarios: Base Case, Fast Transition and Delayed Action. Special emphasis is placed on energy transition and emissions reduction. ATLAS Infrastructure came to the attention of CFI.co in 2019, and since then has given the judging panel plenty of cause for further interest and study. The firm is a founding signatory of the IIGCC’s Net Zero Asset Managers initiative, and one of the world’s first asset managers to implement an investing framework aligned with the Paris Accord. Following its adoption of the Net Zero Asset Managers initiative, ATLAS has constructed carbon emission profiles stretching out to 2050 for all the companies it covers, enabling it to construct a portfolio in line with the PAII. Recently it has onboarded two further advisory board members with climate and energy expertise. The CFI.co jury presents ATLAS Infrastructure — a repeat programme winner — with the 2021 Best Climate Impact Responsible Investor (UK) award.


Bank of China: Best Bank Branding China 2021

Bank of China (BOC), founded in 1912, was the country’s central bank, international exchange bank, and specialised international trade bank for its first 37 years of operation. It played a crucial role in helping China to open its economy by capitalising on foreign funds and tech advances. It became a wholly state-owned commercial bank in 1994, and listed on the Hong Kong and Shanghai stock exchanges in 2006. It was the banking partner of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games and 2017 Paralympic Winter Games. BOC focuses on integrity and innovation, and has been ranked as a Global Systemically Important Bank. This is due in part to BOC’s comprehensive network, which includes a digital platform, national coverage, and operations in 57 countries. BOC offers a full suite of financial services, from corporate, commercial, and personal banking to financial markets, investment banking, securities, funds, and insurance. It has defined a three-step strategic goal aligned with the Chinese New Era agenda. BOC plans to build on its reputation through consistent, value-driven actions. It pledges to drive advancement through technology, development through innovation, and performance through transformation — all the while enhancing strength through reform. The bank has contributed to the modernisation of the Chinese economy and the rejuvenation of the nation — and it intends to continue, and accelerate, that progress. The CFI.co judging panel presents Bank of China with the 2021 award for Best Bank Branding (China).


Tanger Med Zones: Best Low-Carbon Free Zone Opportunities Global 2021

Tanger Med Zones (TMZ) is committed to the fight against climate change and pursues low-carbon energy efficiency and environmental protection. By 2019, the group’s reforestation and green space development efforts had seen hundreds of thousands of trees planted and huge swaths of land covered in grass and wildflowers. TMZ oversees eight industrial free zones surrounding Tangier port, where 40 percent of energy consumption comes from renewable sources. The aim is to make that 100 percent by 2030, via solar, hydro-electric and wind-farm generation. TMZ been certified under the Port Environmental Review System, and Tangier was the first in Africa to be awarded the “EcoPort” classification. The group’s environmental management programmes address water, air, and soil quality, and monitor waste and natural resource use. TMZ has established a partnership with the International Finance Corporation to support its transition towards full eco-industrial park status. It has implemented energy efficiency measures for public lighting, with LED fitments resulting in energy savings of up to 55 percent. Thousands of square metres of rooftops in the Tanger Automotive City are covered with photovoltaic solar panels for low-consumption technical equipment. TMZ views biodiversity preservation as a crucial preventative measure against global warming, and prioritises sustainable socio-economic development. The CFI.co judging panel presents Tanger Med Zones with the 2021 global award for Best Low-Carbon Free Zone Opportunities.


Liechtenstein Bankers Association: Outstanding Contribution to Good Bank Governance Liechtenstein 2021

Liechtenstein, a German-speaking principality between Austria and Switzerland, boasts political stability and a strong financial base. It has the world’s highest corporate density, and the financial centre contributes about a quarter of GDP. The Liechtenstein Bankers Association (LBA) works with member banks and regulatory committees to ensure the micronation’s reputation remains as pristine as the Alpine landscape. LBA has published articles of association, a code of conduct, and various guidelines to establish uniform standards for ethics, transparency, due diligence, and long-term sustainability. Banking statistics show impressive growth for past year, despite the challenges of the pandemic. AUM was up nearly three percent, full-time recruitment increased by 13 percent, and women now hold over 40 percent of banking positions. LBA conducted business as usual, save for some necessary changes to setting and processes. A robust digital infrastructure allowed for an easy transition to remote working. The association was concerned about the pandemic’s possible effect on young people and schoolchildren, so it launched a “Giving Joy” campaign to support banking professionals and society at large. In partnership with the social services office, LBA organised activities across various categories — outdoors, creative, sports, research and learning, fun and games — to make a Summer stuck at home as exciting as possible. The CFI.co judging panel presents Liechtenstein Bankers Association, a repeat programme winner, with the 2021 award for Outstanding Contribution to Good Bank Governance (Liechtenstein).

See for Outstanding Contribution to Good Bank Governance Liechtenstein 2020


Wesgro South Africa: Best International Business & Trade Promotion Team South Africa 2021

Official tourism, trade and investment promotion agency Wesgro South Africa wants the world to know that Cape Town and the Western Cape are open for business. Wesgro invites visitors to virtually explore the region through editorials and opinions, country factsheets, trend analyses and sector insights. If a client’s query can’t be satisfied through Wesgro’s website and other resources, a research team will be commissioned to sort it out. Wesgro South Africa credits its success to a purpose-driven philosophy, an effective digitalisation strategy and a dedicated team. The company has more than 100 employees who unite to smooth the way for international business, trade and investment. It reacted swiftly to the Covid challenges, setting up a help centre, adjusting operations, and ensuring uninterrupted supply chains. Wesgro teams assist the regional government with its economic growth and job creation agenda through the promotion of tourism, exports, investments and the film industry. It helps companies to secure and expand investments in the region and to become export-ready. It can facilitate entry into foreign markets either through outward FDI across the continent or outward global missions, including physical, virtual and hybrid structures across a range of sectors and countries. Wesgro South Africa serves as an interface between government, regional businesses, and international investors. In the 2019/20 financial year, the agency contributed towards the creation of 4,600 jobs, and generated billions in committed investments and trade agreements. The CFI.co judging panel presents Wesgro South Africa with the 2021 award for Best International Business & Trade Promotion Team (South Africa).


Titan Bank: Best Online SME Bank United States 2021

Titan Bank treats small business like a big deal. The time-tested financial institution is an FDIC-insured bank with offices in Texas and a nationwide digital offering for SMEs. It has established a strong digital presence over the past 20 years. Titan Online business accounts can be set up within 24 hours, complete with free debit cards, initial business checks, Quickbooks-integration and withdrawals via a nationwide network of 37,000 ATMs. Clients can access Titan’s online portal for fee-free mobile deposits and ACH payments, or get in touch via the call centre. The portal has tools enabling larger corporate clients to work across countries — and multi-billion-dollar accounts. Titan makes commercial loans from $250,000 to $5m, providing businesses nationwide with fair terms, quick decisions and fast closing on funding. Specialised loan programmes help SMEs to invest in income-producing properties or purchase, refinance, and expand business premises. Titan makes business acquisition loans, lends capital for the construction and expansion of business facilities, and is one of few banks to offer non-recourse loans to its retirement plan customers. The bank connects clients with government loan programmes and was recognised by the Small Business Administration for its streamlined funding process. The CFI.co judging panel was impressed by Titan’s handling of $200m in claims in the first three days of the government’s Covid relief-lending programme. Titan Bank wins the 2021 award for Best Online SME Bank (US).


IMT Asset Management AG: Best Asset Allocation Strategy Liechtenstein 2021

Empirical studies show asset allocation accounts for 80 percent of a portfolio’s overall performance, and IMT Asset Management AG (IMTA) follows the science. The Liechtenstein firm focuses on a broad diversification across asset classes in order to design robust portfolios, which weather changing market conditions. Draw-down risks are carefully managed by vetting individual investments, tactical variations of the asset allocation, and certain tail-risk hedges. It takes care to ensure clients are not overexposed, and balances active and passive investment products to keep product costs in check. IMTA, established in 1999, invites scrutiny from industry experts to promote continuous learning and objective self-assessment. It promises full transparency and fair fees. Conservative, cost-conscious, and with a comfortable hedge strategy, the firm ended the tumultuous year of 2020 with a positive performance. In 2021 as of Mid-August IMTA’s balanced portfolio was up 10%. IMTA is licensed to operate under the Alternative Investment Fund Managers Directive. It works with institutional and individual investors as well as third-party investment managers across the European Economic Area. Supervision by the Liechtenstein Financial Market Authority and tried and tested strategies have won the trust of clients. As well as discretionary asset management, IMTA offers assistance with the structuring and maintenance of regulated investment funds, including private equity. It offers independent, unbiased advisory and control services for trusts, foundations and family offices, assisting with governance structures, due diligence and the selection of third-party investment managers. The CFI.co judging panel announces IMT Asset Management AG as winner of the 2021 award for Best Asset Allocation Strategy (Liechtenstein).


Paradice Investment Management: Best ESG Global Equity Boutique Australia 2021

In the increasingly crowded field of ESG-aware fund managers, Paradice Investment Management (“Paradice”) stands out with the promise of accountability, alignment, experience and performance. Paradice was founded in 1999, and over the next two decades began operating from offices in Sydney, Denver, and San Francisco. Investments are aligned with client goals for achieving medium- and long-term compounding capital protection whilst balancing shareholder outcomes and stakeholder responsibilities. The investment teams, with over 150 years of combined investing experience, apply rigorous ESG analysis to manage risks and unearth opportunities. Paradice takes ESG into account in its investment process including identifying cashflow risks and market mispricing. Engagement is an integral part of successful ESG integration, covering general financially material risks. Paradice engages on general ESG issues utilising the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board’s framework. It identifies possible evidence of modern slavery by evaluating a company’s revenue and geographic supply-chain exposure. It factors climate change into the equation via a three-point check system: the regulatory implications of transitioning to a low-carbon economy, the physical risks of climate change, and the management team’s ability to deal with those challenges. All of these considerations are tracked and managed through on-going engagement with portfolio companies as appropriate. The CFI.co judging panel presents Paradice Investment Management, a carbon-neutral operation, with the 2021 award for Best ESG Global Equity Boutique (Australia).


Baloise Group: Most Innovative Sustainability Insurer Switzerland 2021

[caption id="attachment_9601" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Gert De Winter CEO Baloise Group & Kim Berrendorf Sustainability Manager[/caption]

Baloise Group operates as an insurer, bank, and asset manager in Switzerland, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg and Liechtenstein. It is driven and supported by a workforce of 7,700 — and a history stretching back 150 years. The group has developed a “Simply Safe” strategy with sustainability embedded in all business decisions. It seeks to create value for all stakeholders and recognises staff, customers, partners, investors and the environment as the keys to positive impacts. Baloise offers meaningful work and competitive renumeration for its employees. It invests insurance premiums in companies with responsible ESG policies that support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals — and the long-term financial health of the group and its subsidiaries. Decision-making processes focus on lasting impacts for planet and people, guided by Baloise departments of corporate governance, IT security, risk-management and compliance. Baloise Group has expanded its offering of products and services through investments, partnerships and collaborations, particularly in the home and mobility sectors. That includes peer-to-peer rental start-ups offering cars, camping vehicles and clothing, as well as subscription-service home furnishings, e-vehicle charging stations and an app that extends the lifecycle of products through repair, share or resale services. One of its investee companies helps consumers to offset travel-related carbon emissions. Another has developed a digital platform for comparing and calculating the costs and benefits of renewable energy installation and renovation. The CFI.co judging panel announces Baloise Group as the 2021 award winner for Most Innovative Sustainability Insurer (Switzerland).

About Baloise

The Baloise Group is more than just a traditional insurance company. The changing security, safety and service needs of society in the digital age lie at the heart of its business activities. The 7,700 or so employees of Baloise therefore focus on the wishes of their customers. The best possible customer service, combined with innovative products and services, makes Baloise the first choice for people who want to feel ‘simply safe’. Located at the heart of Europe, with its head office in Basel, the Baloise Group is a provider of prevention, pension, assistance and insurance solutions. Its core markets are Switzerland, Germany, Belgium and Luxembourg. In Switzerland, with Baloise Bank SoBa, the Group also operates as a specialised financial services provider, offering a combination of insurance and banking services. The Group offers innovative pension products to retail customers throughout Europe from its competence centre in Luxembourg. Bâloise Holding Ltd shares are listed in the main segment of the SIX Swiss Exchange.


MTI Consulting: Best Boutique Management Consultancy MEA 2021

Bahrain-based MTI Consulting was founded in 1997 by international thought-leader Hilmy Cader. Since its inception, MTI has completed some 670 projects in 49 countries — eliciting pages of positive feedback from clients. It works across a range of industries to solve some of the most pressing modern business challenges. The company has established a network of boutique consultancy firms in 30 countries, powered by a team of consultants, analysts, researchers, functional specialists and experts in various fields. MTI Consulting helps clients to analyse and strategize and can assist with planning, corporate restructuring, international expansion, growth and transformation. It advises on how to tweak operational processes and systems, enhance performance, optimise talent and implement digitalisation. It can also facilitate M&As and financial restructuring for corporate finance clients. MTI employees are guided by a values system that encourages situational prudence and calculated risk. They share a mindset of limitless possibilities and seek out opportunities for learning and improvement. The team is bottom-line-driven and thinks in terms of strategic simplicity. The members interact with clients through value-adding communication based on respect and integrity. Company actions are underpinned by clear processes, quality planning, and a bias for closure. MTI Consulting has conceptualised breakthrough models that successfully challenge conventional thinking. Its work has been showcased and presented at 150 conferences around the world. The CFI.co judging panel announces MTI Consulting as winner of the 2021 award for Best Boutique Management Consultancy (MEA).


MAPFRE AM: Best ESG Asset Manager Spain 2021

The MAPFRE brand is known throughout Iberia and Latin America as one of the top global insurance providers. The group originated in Spain nearly 90 years ago, and its asset management arm — MAPFRE AM — has been maximising profits and ESG impacts over the past 30 years. MAPFRE AM has a presence in 25 countries, a workforce of 150 professionals and €40bn of equity under management. Expansion since 2016 has involved notable partnerships in Luxembourg, France and the US. MAPFRE AM took a 25 percent stake in French boutique fund manager, La Financière Responsible, which boasts a decade of experience in socially responsible investments. An alliance with US-based Boyar Value Group unlocked research-driven added value in small and mid-cap markets. MAPFRE AM subscribes to the principles of responsible investing and develops products that align profits with ESG performance. Its Responsible Inclusion fund invests in companies that proactively recruit people with disabilities. The fund, highlighted by the UN as an exemplar of best practice, has grown significantly. The MAPFRE AM Behavioural Fund, which targets undervalued companies suffering from psychological bias and irrational market behaviour, has also delivered excellent results. Another high-performance fund in the roster targets quality companies with good governance. MAPFRE AM identifies responsible investments as the cornerstone of its business model — and was the first Spanish manager to receive the prestigious French ISR label for sustainable investments. The CFI.co judging panel adds its own accolade, declaring MAPFRE AM as the 2021 Best ESG Asset Manager (Spain) award winner.


Bishopsfield Capital Partners: Best Funding Solutions Boutique UK 2021

Bishopsfield Capital Partners is led by a management team with over two decades of experience in lending, structuring, and arranging funding solutions. The London-based boutique is known for its astute decision-making — and for delivering on its promises. It has attracted a loyal client base and has a steady flow of repeat business. Bishopsfield encourages staff to think like entrepreneurs, putting clients first and focusing on quality service. It works with financial institutions, large and medium-sized corporations, and institutional investors across Western Europe, providing monitoring, surveillance and advisory services. Bishopsfield develops non-traditional solutions for financial products that it judges ripe for disruption. It draws on its expertise in structuring and arranging to offer implementation advice and operational support. Bishopsfield Capital Partners recently partnered with Dutch bank ABN AMRO to launch a digital financing platform, Aymz. It went live in July and has a number  of institutional investors signed up to the platform and keen to fund promising projects. The digital platform connects medium-sized companies with reputable institutional lenders, providing a source of capital for corporate loans with a borrowing requirement of €5m to €30m. The lending objective for the first year is modest, but by 2023, the partnership hopes to achieve an annual production of €350m plus. The CFI.co judging panel presents Bishopsfield Capital Partners  as the winner of the 2021 award for Best Funding Solutions Boutique (UK).


Société Générale Congo: Best Bank Republic of the Congo 2021

Founded in 2012, Société Générale Congo has brought an outstanding level of compliance and corporate governance to the heart of Africa. Building on the foundation of Société Générale’s international reputation, the current management team has made the bank a beacon for international banking and customer relationships in the region. They have improved international transaction services by negotiating better terms and conditions with overseas banks and by improving the workflow for payment instructions from customers. They have also added new corporate services and universal banking products for both business and private customers. This is on top of the bank’s existing lending products, insurance products, online banking services, and import-export services. It also has a strong traditional branch footprint in the country with five branches in the two main cities of Brazzaville and Pointe Noire. It has become one of the leading banks in the Congo and the region. It has shown that close customer relationships and governance are core values, and that these are guided by an ongoing commitment to modernisation, innovation, and continual improvement. In parallel, its financial results have improved. The bank saw its first positive financial result in the last quarter of 2019 and has not looked back since. In testament to its nearly ten years of service to the Congo, its stellar reputation, and the recent gains under its current management, the CFI.co judging panel is pleased to award Société Générale Congo winner of the 2021 Best Bank (Republic of the Congo).


TechRules: Best Wealth Management Software Solutions Europe 2021

Over the past 20 years, Spanish consultancy and software provider TechRules has been delivering integrated wealth-tech solutions for clients across Europe, USA and Latin America. It first developed portfolio management and analytics tools for financial advisors, with advisory and investment planning tools following soon after. TechRules clients can choose from 200 API options to customise digital platforms and streamline user experiences. They have been developing front solutions with a stunning onboarding, profiling, investment proposals, reports, financial planning, end customer web portals and state-of-the-art Robo Advisors that meet market requirements. The company enjoys a leading market position, with deep industry experience and high employee retention rates. The company takes care of its people, and staff tenure on average runs to a decade. TechRules leverages its expertise and multilingual geographical coverage to create impressive tech offerings. It is attentive and approaches client projects with the flexibility to develop and integrate holistic solutions. Everything is accomplished in-house, including the hosting and upgrade of new releases. Over the past year, TechRules has expanded cloud-based capabilities, particularly in the field of communications, reporting and compliance. It can assist businesses with the onboarding of clients, and bring automation to bear on digital banking and wealth management. The company continually expands its tech capabilities, harnessing AI to unlock efficient methodologies and strengthen the marketplace. Blockchain will be used to help banks to transform operations. Clients entrust mission-critical projects to TechRules because it demonstrates the competence and innovation to always get the job done. The CFI.co judging panel announces TechRules as the winner of the 2021 award for Best Wealth Management Software Solutions (Europe).


Rogers and Company Ltd: Outstanding Commitment to Sustainability Mauritius 2021

Rogers and Company Limited (Rogers) started its business operations in 1899 and has since then operated a sustainable and ethical set of businesses. Listed on the Stock Exchange of Mauritius, Rogers operates in four main served markets, FinTech, Hospitality, Logistics and Property, across 10 countries including Mauritius.

Sustainability has always been an important focus for the group of some 5,000 employees spread across 110 worksites. Rogers is responsible to drive positive changes through its businesses to embrace a sustainable and inclusive future. Rogers believes that this ecosystem will shape and form sustainable but profitable opportunities, and that knowledge sharing will strengthen partnerships and lead to better Environmental, Social, and Governance practices across business lines. Leveraging on its core values of Leadership, Agility and Excellence, the group has the ability to anticipate change, adapt and evolve over time.

Rogers is a market leader with a track record for delivering on commitments, on-time. A 10-member Sustainability and Inclusiveness Board Committee guides business, and Rogers recently published a detailed sustainability report outlining current footprint, objectives to reduce the same and key accomplishments during the year. It offset the carbon footprint of the printed report by planting trees on its 2,500-acre domain in Bel Ombre, an eco-focused region that is set in the heart of a UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserve. The region is increasingly used as a laboratory to incubate the Group’s sustainability practices.

Rogers identifies five pillars for its initiatives: climate change, circular economies, biodiversity, inclusive development, and vibrant communities. It has defined non-financial KPIs that align with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and SigneNatir, the sustainability and inclusiveness initiative led by Business Mauritius. Progress will be disclosed in the next report. The CFI.co judging panel marks the group’s ongoing journey with the 2021 award for Outstanding Commitment to Sustainability (Mauritius).


NOW Money: Best Inclusive Mobile FinTech Middle East 2021

Dubai-based fintech NOW Money is on a mission to empower the massive population of unbanked migrants workers in the Middle East. Migrant workers contribute to the development of their adopted countries and support their families by sending regular remittances back home. According to the data from the United Nations, there are millions of international migrant workers in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, accounting for an average of 70 percent of the region’s workforce. Low-income migrants typically have smartphones — but don’t earn enough money to meet the monthly minimum requirements for opening a bank account in the Middle East. NOW Money was founded in 2016 to ease these difficulties with a high-quality, low-cost digital solution. NOW Money works with companies to provide digital payroll and accounts solutions for their employees. Account holders receive their wages in a digital account and can use the associated debit card to make purchases, pay bills, top-up mobile phones and withdraw money at ATMs. The free account has no monthly minimums and can be accessed through the NOW Money app, which features an in-house exchange marketplace for sending remittances. The offering covers the value chain of corporate needs, which will soon expand to include corporate expense and commission accounts. This peer-to-peer service is addressing a pressing need and creating positive social impacts. NOW Money presents a strong case for a profitable business and has raised $7m in its latest funding round. The CFI.co judging panel announces NOW Money as the 2021 award winner for Best Inclusive Mobile FinTech (Middle East).


PAC Capital: Best Investment Banking Team Nigeria 2021

With headquarters in Nigeria and branch in Ghana, PAC Capital Limited “PAC Capital” aims to become the preferred investment bank for the African continent. The firm has positioned itself as a pan-African institution, working with private enterprises, government agencies, financial institutions and HNIs via collaborative partnerships.

PAC Capital goes beyond advisory services to assist with the implementation of long-term financial support for local businesses. It values its people and invests in their continuous professional development. The inclusive work environment prioritises cultural diversity and multi-language proficiency.

PAC Capital provides opportunities for advancement with a management plan that includes clear metrics for accountability and performance.   The company’s investment banking team provides specialised finance advisory on fundraising as well as equity and debt capital markets. With a research department that supports operations through the ongoing and regular provision of market intelligence and insights, the company’s team is dedicated to bridge the funding gap by developing a comprehensive financing network that connects investors with worthy projects, particularly in the key sectors of the economy.

PAC Capital was ahead of the game when the spread of coronavirus forced a shift to remote working. Its staff regularly conduct business while on the road and in the air, and business has continued normally throughout the pandemic. The investment banking firm welcomes enquiries from experienced finance professionals, and offers new graduates the opportunity to apply their theoretical learning in a supportive environment.

The CFI.co judging panel presents PAC Capital, which has active transactions in 30 countries, with the 2021 award for Best Investment Banking Team (Nigeria).


Eagle Technology AS: Best Sustainable Technology Value Creation Europe 2021

Norway’s Eagle Technology has an origin story that’s been 95 years in the making, fuelling growth through engineering, business development and M&A.

The company has achieved a technological advantage through years of continuous development in some of the world’s strictest regulatory environments. Since 2014, it has focused on the development of environmentally friendly, energy-efficient system solutions, providing engineering products and services globally.

Expansion is under way in Bosnia, where a new factory is being constructed. The company has onboarded 60  employees, 20 of them engineers. Clients rely on Eagle’s competitive pricing and high standards for design, documentation, and production in offshore, marine and land-based industries.

By the daughter company, Due Miljoe, it has patented technology to refine raw bio-marine material into fat free product called fish protein isolate (FPI). The process relies on sequential molecular membrane separation, ultrafiltration and nanofiltration. The FPI process retains more than 80 percent of the protein while removing salt, fat, taste and odour. The technology promises energy consumption savings for the end-user which is documented by CAPEX/OPEX benefits and meets bio-marine environmental regulations.

The first edition of mobile test lab unit, which will be operating at a customer site, is available in the market 1st Q of 2022. It will mainly be used to demonstrate production of FPI from marine residual raw material and additionally be able to conduct tests that produces data essential for scaling up production.

Eagle Technology first registered on the CFI.co radar for its ability to harness advanced technology to protect environmental resources and combat food scarcity. The judging panel has been impressed by the company’s continued focus during the pandemic and presents Eagle Technology — a repeat winner — with the 2021 award for Best Sustainable Technology Value Creation (Europe).


Nordea Asset Management: Best ESG Team Europe 2021

The Nordea family of financial service providers dates back over 200 years, and famous fairy tale author Hans Christian Andersen was one of its early customers. Nordea Asset Management (NAM) remains true to its Nordic origins as one of the oldest sustainable investors having delivered responsible returns for over three decades.

Of NAM’s €274bn assets under management, around 64 percent is currently allocated to solutions like the ESG STARS Funds range, which seek to find tomorrow’s sustainable investments, and to other SFDR Article 8 and 9 products, including Nordea 1 - Global Social Empowerment Fund and Nordea 1 - Global Climate and Social Impact Fund.

Nordea Asset Management takes pride in its ESG leadership, industry-leading corporate-level Responsibility Investment policy, focused on achieving both sustainability and attractive returns through deep ESG analysis and a world-class engagement and voting program.

All of these efforts build on what CFI.co rates as currently the European Asset Management industry’s strongest ESG team. Over the years, NAM’s Responsible Investments team, one of the largest and longest-standing teams in the business, has continued to grow and deepen its experience within all areas of ESG. Today, the team is a true leader in European ESG investing. The CFl.co judging panel applauds NAM’s efforts which have taken sustainability from a fairy tale to a reality, and presents Nordea Asset Management with the 2021 award for Best ESG Team (Europe).


Alpha MOS: Best Sensory Analysis Solutions Europe 2021

Sensory evaluation is vital part of quality control for many industries — and Alpha MOS has been a pioneer in the field since 1993. The company is headquartered in Toulouse, France, where its R&D team pushes the boundaries of the possible in a fully equipped, hi-tech lab. Alpha MOS products and on-demand analysis services help clients to ensure consistency across their product line-up. It works with a global network of  distributors and has established international offices and laboratories in the US and China to provide regional sales and technical support. HERACLES Neo, the electronic nose, can sniff out issues before they become a problem — or identify key ingredients in a competitor’s product. ASTREE, the electronic tongue, provides accurate, objective and reproducible taste analyses for precision quality control or the development of new flavours. IRIS Smart Vision relies on hi-res imaging in a closed, control-lit cabinet for the visual inspection of production batches to deliver consistency of colour and shape, which is of particular use in the Food & Beverage industry. The company is pushing for greater automatisation across the sensory analysis sector. The CFI.co judging panel only recently became acquainted with Alpha MOS, which placed in last year’s awards programme. ALpha MOS also has a MedTech division, BOYDSense, that is developing  a breath-based glucose-monitoring device for the painless management of diabetes. The judging panel unanimously declares Alpha MOS winner of the 2021 award for Best Sensory Analysis Solutions (Europe).


Brompton Asset Management: Best Asset Allocation Strategy UK 2021

Brompton is a young multi-asset investment management firm staffed by experienced people committed to offering outstanding risk-adjusted returns over the long term. The firm was founded in 2009 by John Duffield and senior colleagues who worked with him in his previous companies, Jupiter Asset Management and New Star Asset Management. It provides investment services to mutual fund investors, private clients and institutions. Brompton describes its investment approach as dynamic asset allocation. The starting point in its investment process is to determine an asset allocation to reflect its prevailing views on economic trends and market valuations. Secondly, the team selects the best fund managers it can find. Lastly, the team blends those managers into portfolios designed to meet investors’ needs. This dynamic asset allocation approach gives Brompton the flexibility to invest globally across all major asset classes, selecting the specialist fund managers that it considers to be the best in each particular asset class. In constructing portfolios, the team manages the risks in clients’ portfolios by diversifying across a range of asset classes, regions, currencies and investment themes, with the aim of ensuring that performance is not narrowly dependent on one central outcome. The team takes a long-term approach while monitoring performance daily and making regular and timely adjustments. The investment team is led by Gill Lakin, who has more than 30 years’ investment experience including 11 years as Brompton’s chief investment officer, providing the firm’s investors with continuity and a consistent investment approach over many years. Gill is supported by colleagues with many years of investment experience between them, specialising in such areas as portfolio construction, fund selection and risk. The benefits of the Brompton multi-asset investment approach were demonstrated in the challenging investment climate of 2020, a year in which four of the six EF Brompton Multi-Manager OEIC funds were in the top quartile and two were in the second. From launch until the end of 2020, five of the six funds had outperformed their sector average and half were in the top quartile. The CFI.co judging panel is impressed by the emphasis on real returns balanced by a healthy respect for risk management. Asset classes include equities, bonds, commercial property and alternative investments such as commodities and hedge funds. Brompton is dedicated to high levels of customer service. The CFI.co judging panel awards Brompton Asset Management winner of the 2021 Best Asset Allocation Strategy (UK).

For details of the funds and their risks please refer to the prospectus or key investor information and supplementary information documents, which can be found on the Brompton website. The value of assets and income generated from them may fall as well as rise. Investors may not get a steady income flow and, on disposal, may not receive all their capital back. Past performance is not an indicator of future performance. Fund performance data sourced from Lipper at 01.01.21. Brompton is not authorised to give investment advice. Please obtain professional advice before making an investment decision.


Metito: Most Impactful Water Company Global 2021

Water is such an integral part of all life forms, and it is one people take for granted. But water is a scarce resource with only 1% of earth’s water suitable for drinking. The growth in the global population, rapid industrialization, increasing pollution levels and climate change have put this already fragile global water supply under significant pressure. These macro factors are increasing the gap between the demand for water, which is at an all-time high, and the declining quality of existing supply resources.

Metito has been at the forefront of the water and wastewater industry for over 60 years, creating sustainable and intelligent water management and treatment systems that balance political, social, economic, and environmental issues.

Metito is strongly committed to the United Nation’s Strategic Development Goals, particularly, goal 6 – clean water and sanitation, goal 7 – affordable and clean energy, goal 11 – sustainable cities and communities and goal 13 – climate action through its three business areas: design and build, specialty chemicals, and utilities. It works closely with governments in the region and beyond to enhance water security and achieve local water and sanitation goals, while providing job opportunities and upskilling talent to deliver long-term, world-class quality practice and deliverables.

Metito addresses the pressing challenges of water scarcity by establishing strong public and private partnerships (PPPs) and mega infrastructural projects. A testament to this successful approach;

In Rwanda, Metito has built the first bulk surface water supply PPP Project in Sub-Saharan Africa. The plant meets approximately 40% of Kigali city’s potable water requirements, a milestone that has had a huge impact on the socio-economy of the country.

In Egypt,

Al Mahsamma agricultural drainage treatment, recycling and reuse plant, a project developed by a Metito JV, which contributes to the cultivation of 70,000 acres and conservation of the region’s ecology. At time of award and construction, this was the largest of its kind in the world with a capacity of one million cubic metres of water per day.

El-Hammam plant, agricultural drainage, recycling and reuse plant, is another project developed by a Metito JV, which produces six million cubic metres of water per day, providing up to 515,000 acres of water to the west of the Nile Delta area. This is now the largest plant of its kind in the world.

In the Kingdom of Saudia Arabia, Metito is currently developing the Jubail II seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) desalination plant in Saudi Arabia producing 400,000 cubic metres of water per day. The location of the plant is significant being an integral industrial hub that significantly contributes to the Kingdom’s vision to secure a more diversified economy. This is also one of the largest SWRO plants developed by the company in recent years.

In the Republic of Serbia, expanding their global presence further, Metito is also developing the first-ever wastewater treatment plant in Serbia, in line with the Serbian government’s strategic water agenda.

With these remarkable achievements, despite the challenging times that were brought about with the evolving Covid-19 pandemic, and Metito’s growing impact on water and energy sustainability, the CFI.co judging panel applauds the tireless efforts of Metito and confers on it the 2021 Global Award for the Most Impactful Water Company.