Economic Consulting Associates (ECA): Best Economics Advisory Team Global 2021

[caption id="attachment_9605" align="aligncenter" width="900"] ECA Managing Director: Frederik Beelitz[/caption]

For over two decades, Economic Consulting Associates (ECA) has assisted clients worldwide — utility regulators, government agencies, , private investors, and international finance institutions — across regulatory and policy issues in the energy and water sectors. The firm is driven by a team of 27 professionals with academic and professional experience in the fields of economics and engineering. ECA has offices in London, Athens and Berlin to assist clients in 65 countries to navigate the economic, policy and regulatory issues across the electricity, natural gas and water sectors. It works with 40 regulatory authorities and 20 national utilities, developing economic analyses, reports, workshop materials and insights. It develops structured analytical solutions for infrastructure challenges and helps governments to establish regulatory frameworks and market designs  that encourage innovation, protect consumers, and bring transparency to decision-making. ECA is currently providing advisory support to the World Bank on the retirement and the repurposing of four coal-fired power plants in South Africa. It is exploring the potential of hydrogen energy in the Energy Community Secretariat. It is also currently supporting regulators in the Middle East and South-East Asia in their price controls for electricity networks. ECA leads a consortium for the implementation and design of energy efficiency regulations in the West Balkans as part of a multi-year framework contracts for the EBRD. It also offers clients modelling and advisory services on investment valuations for RE and battery energy storage assets and supports governments in incentivising investments for a low carbon energy  future. It helps to design and assess decarbonisation initiatives across the supply and-demand chain, to prioritise investment projects. The CFI.co judging panel announces Economic Consulting Associates as the 2021 global winner for the Best Economics Advisory Team award.


Cartica Management: Best ESG Active Investor Emerging Markets 2021

[caption id="attachment_9609" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Head of ESG Kate Ahern and Co-founder & CEO Teresa Barger[/caption]

Cartica Management was founded over a decade ago by specialists in emerging markets and corporate governance, including former executives of International Finance Corporation, the private sector investment arm of the World Bank Group. The leadership team brings 30 years of experience investing in emerging markets companies using investment theses based both on fundamental analysis and on improvements in corporate governance, environment, and social practices.

Deep fundamental analysis, active management, and a concentrated portfolio are key to Cartica’s success. The firm starts with a bottom-up analysis of a company’s financials, business model, management team, and corporate culture. Through continuous macro and country research, Cartica focuses on mitigating risk, using top-down analysis as a complement to bottom-up and ESG due diligence. Cartica takes an active ownership approach and seeks to unlock long-term value by engaging with investee companies to improve ESG and capital markets-facing issues and to support a corporate culture that contributes to strategy and continuous improvement. Cartica approaches investee companies with humility and respect, tailoring engagement strategies according to nuanced company needs and capital market conditions.

Cartica has attracted a team that is motivated to be a catalyst of positive change while creating long-term value for companies, shareholders, and communities. The firm is headquartered in Washington, DC, and is majority-owned by women. The CFI.co judging panel announces Cartica Management as the 2021 award winner for Best ESG Active Investor (Emerging Markets).


BankInvest: Best ESG-Responsible Investor Denmark 2021

Asset manager BankInvest, founded in 1969, forms an investment arm to 38 Danish banks. With $21.8bn in AUM, it employs 111 professionals with deep industry experience — and a passion for sustainability. BankInvest was the first Northern European asset manager to fully offset investee companies’ CO2 emissions, with projects supporting biodiversity, reforestation, and green energy in the global sustainable portfolios. BankInvest has launched global sustainable development equity and bond funds, guided by ESG profiles, the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and the goal of carbon emissions less than half the industry benchmark. The funds are certified by sustainability body Nordic Ecolabel, and meet 25 mandatory requirements on the selection, engagement, and divestment of companies. BankInvest reports steady inflows for these funds, as well as for its global fixed-income and Danish equity funds. Collaboration with independent agencies helps guide the continuous development of responsible investment products. BankInvest abides by the Principles of Responsible Investment and has established a committee to ensure the guidelines are adhered to. It is a member of Dansif, a regional non-profit supporting socially responsible investments, and collaborates with governing bodies on ESG ratings. It’s a signatory of the UN Global Compact, CDP, IIGCC, Climate Action 100+, Montreal Carbon Pledge, and Net Zero Asset Managers initiatives. BankInvest believes that sustainability can improve short- and long-term returns and contribute to a brighter future for all. The CFI.co judging panel presents BankInvest, a repeat programme winner, with the 2021 award for Best ESG-Responsible Investor (Denmark).


MAC SA: Best Stockbroker Tunisia 2021

MAC SA has evolved over the past two decades, to become the market leader in terms of securities trading and investment transactions. The company offers a full suite of financial services from stock broking and securities trading to asset management, equity research, fund raising, IPO’s, M&As, private placements and bond origination.

Thanks to its independence and expertise, MAC SA has been serving institutional, corporate and individual clients in Tunisia over two decades with innovative solutions. It has built a sizable customer base including high net worth clients, family offices and foreign investors (individuals and funds) by offering tax foreign accounts regulated by the FATCA laws.

Despite the difficult economic situation in Tunisia, the company has expanded direct investment inflows and assets gatherings for its fixed-income fund, Fidelity SICAV Plus, which has posted the highest returns for more than 3 consecutive years.

In 2021, MAC SA conducted important acquisition transactions (BTK, UBCI, BH-Assurances) and was the lead of the national bond issues.

MAC SA understands that a diversified offering makes good business senses and has recently developed private equity business, through its subsidiary MAC Private Management, to meet the needs of Tunisian SME’s.

Convinced on its professionalism and know-how, the German cooperation organization GIZ - Tunisia, has just signed a partnership agreement with MAC SA to launch a new and innovative private equity fund to alleviate the debt of Tunisian companies.

With a such successful business model that has shown its effectiveness locally, the company has grown beyond its borders and has established in Ivory Coast to serve the regional stock exchange of the West African Economic and Monetary Union region. After few years, the subsidiary MAC African SGI ranked in the top 5 of the most active brokerage firms in the region. A successful model of south-south cooperation. MAC SA promises confidentiality and independence via a one-stop business model. The CFI.co judging panel declares MAC SA winner of the 2021 award for Best Stockbroker (Tunisia).


Unity Willis Towers Watson: Best Sustainable Insurance Solutions Team Central America 2021

Unity Willis Towers Watson is an insurance and risk-management specialist with an established presence in the Central American corridor. The broker places the client at the centre of operations and works with regional companies to offer individual, corporate, and group insurance solutions. Families can find peace-of-mind with tailored plans covering home, health, auto and life. Corporations come to Unity Willis Towers Watson for property insurance and group coverage plans for employees. Unity recently joined forces with US-based Willis Towers Watson, a global advisory, broking and solutions company with a 193-year history and a presence in 140 countries. Both groups have benefitted, and the integration of accounts and personnel was a smooth process, despite the challenges of the pandemic. The acquisition has afforded Willis Towers Watson a stronger foothold in Central America and granted Unity access to a broad global network. Unity Willis Towers Watson has a peerless capacity for risk analytics. Operations and the executive team of Unity Willis Towers Watson remain unchanged, with some regional positions filled in-house. The company knows its people are a driving force for sustainable growth, and a longstanding corporate governance framework ensures operations remain transparent, efficient and ethical. It follows through on commitments to social responsibility via national development initiatives, corporate volunteering programmes in local communities, and outreach programmes promoting healthy lifestyles. The CFI.co judging panel has followed the company’s progress for several years and has found cause for further recognition: Unity Willis Towers Watson wins the 2021 award for Best Sustainable Insurance Solutions Team (Central America).


Casinos Austria International: Outstanding Contribution to Responsible Gaming Europe 2021

Casinos Austria International is committed to good corporate governance and responsible gaming. In 2018 alone, the company conducted 1,600 counselling interviews with guests, initiated 10,000 entry restrictions, and received and enacted 4,000 self-exclusion orders. This underscores the company’s ethical stance: it’s not about maximising profits at the expense of gamers, it’s about building long-term relationships with stakeholders. Casinos Austria International has a 40-year history and a foothold in 35 countries. It recently conducted a material analysis to pinpoint how best its operations could contribute towards the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. It has published a CSR report, highlighting performance metrics and targets for improvement. Casinos Austria International upgraded a computer-centre cooling system which cut CO2 emissions by 115 tons per year. It increasingly uses renewable energy and is reducing waste, particularly single-use plastics. The firm switched from plastic to biodegradable straws and convinced one of its suppliers to replace plastic wrapping with reusable palette covers. Casinos Austria International aims for top-employer status by embracing diversity, providing training, and supporting employee volunteerism. It’s one of the biggest contributors to Austria’s coffers, paying some €650m in taxes, duties and social security contributions. The CFI.co jury announces Casinos Austria International as winner of the 2021 award for Outstanding Contribution to Responsible Gaming (Europe).


The Foschini Group (TFG): Best Retail Experience South Africa 2021

The Foschini Group (TFG) is the only South African retailer with a presence on five continents. The portfolio encompasses 30 leading retail brands and 4,200 outlets in 26 countries. The group is headquartered in Cape Town and has been listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange since 1941. TFG has a track record of delivering attractive shareholder returns and credits its success to a superior customer experience. Each brand has a dedicated marketing team, and campaigns are tailored to target audiences. One TFG sporting brand features a real basketball court in a mall — complete with a DJ recording studio and shoe repair shop. Brands include fashion, athleisure, homeware, jewellery, cosmetics, and mobile phone services. The group benefits from a supply chain and manufacturing providers that promise quick turnarounds and responsible practices. Many of the offerings are produced in South Africa, providing local jobs and boosting manufacturing capacity. For the next year, the group has plans on vertical integration, continued customer satisfaction, and positive shareholder returns. It gives individual brands the freedom to chart their own path within the group strategy. Customers appreciate the product quality, ease of online shopping and free home delivery. They can click and collect from over 900 stores, and TFG offers a rewards programme for loyal customers. The CFI.co judging panel announces TFG as winner of the 2021 award for Best Retail Experience (South Africa).


Skybound Financial Planning: Best Financial Advisory Team UK 2021

Skybound Financial Planning (SFP) was founded in 1999 to serve the financial planning needs of UK solicitors. Their clientele has expanded to accountants together with numerous referrals from clients who are happy to recommend SFP to friends and family. The firm favours an organisational structure that differs from the industry norm, with a set up that is similar to the arrangement favoured by many law firms.

SFP is a Firm of Chartered Financial Planners with a value system based on the highest ethical standards. The firm favours a horizontal approach that focuses on engagement and transparency. It offers an exceptional client experience and a healthy work-life balance for employees. Quality service depends on quality staff and the recruitment team ensures the best candidates are onboarded. SFP comprises 30 professionals, over half of them women. The Paraplanners play a key role in enabling the Financial Planners to focus on building close client relationships and are fully supported by the firm’s administrative team. SFP has invested to strengthen both departments and together they drive forward the Company’s service criteria. The members work in tandem to create opportunities for clients by offering innovative products and unbiased, well-researched advisory services. They size-up investment intentions and let technology help to guide allocation — motivated by the interests of clients, not commission-driven sales. SFP provides spot-on analysis and efficient back-office support to help realise financial goals.

The CFI.co judging panel announces Skybound Financial Planning as winner of the 2021 award for Best Financial Advisory Team (UK).


Camlife: Best Microinsurance Company Cambodia 2021

Camlife was founded in 2012 as Cambodia's first life insurance company – and it remains a Company all Cambodia can be proud of. This Company, which is fully owned by a Cambodian, Neak Oknha Kith Meng, Chairman of Royal Group of Companies, takes great pride in its national heritage.

Since its first operation in the Kingdom’s market, Camlife has been remarkably expanding to insure more than 83,000 lives amid mass transmission of Covid-19 pandemic which has triggered economic uncertainty to businesses. Camlife focuses on micro insurance which it views as the best way to serve the Kingdom’s population.

Camlife has a big network opportunity among subsidiaries under the Royal Group of Companies to support each other. It’s also the Chairman’s intellectual facilitation which plays a vital role in widening network among senior managements for growth, mutual leveraging and development.

Camlife has tapped into a wide spectrum of customers nationwide through a series of well thought products design aimed to meet the needs of the market especially the middle low-income market segment in ensuring that all families are always financially secured.

Camlife has also a plan to broaden its business with commercial banks and MFIs for bancassurance products to their customers as well as extending partnership with insurance brokers to reach insurance products and services to end customers. Besides the business expansion, Camlife is adopting a cutting-edge core system to support the micro insurance operation more efficiently.

The continuous growth of Camlife is largely attributed to the technical support of the Insurance Regulator of Cambodia under non-Bank Financial Services Authority.

The CFI.co judging panel recognizes a company with foresight and commitment, and names Camlife winner of the 2021 award for Best Microinsurance Company (Cambodia).


AccountAbility: Best ESG Strategy Development Partner Global 2021

[caption id="attachment_9699" align="aligncenter" width="752"] Mr. Sunil (Sunny) A. Misser[/caption]

Over the past 25 years, AccountAbility has solidified its position as the most comprehensive value proposition on the market for ESG advisory, standards, and research.

As a pioneer in the sustainability arena, AccountAbility integrates technical expertise from industry leading standards combined with practical and relevant counsel to advance its clients’ sustainability performance and impact. The firm applies a principles-based approach to sustainability management through its consulting and across its AA1000 Series of Standards, which includes the world’s first non-financial assurance standard, the top-ranked global stakeholder engagement standard, and its signature standard measuring inclusivity, materiality, responsiveness, and impact.

AccountAbility will be pursuing Public Benefit Corporation status in 2022 and has a team of international sustainability advisors and subject-matter experts that provide ESG consulting for clients. With a presence in Dubai, London, New York, and Riyadh, the firm serves clients across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. AccountAbility has partnered with some of the biggest names in financial services, power and utilities, energy and extractives, technology and telecommunications, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, real estate, and consumer products sectors. It works with investor coalitions, governmental agencies, and multilateral organisations.

AccountAbility has worked with the World Bank Group since 2007, the International Finance Corporation since 2011, and the International Monetary Fund since 2013, in the areas of Sustainability/ESG Strategy, ESG Metrics and Scorecard Development, and Reporting & Disclosure. AccountAbility is recognized by the World Economic Forum as an ESG framework developer.

The firm is considered a thought-leader in sustainability strategy, governance, and impact, and has hosted conferences and forums to encourage the adoption of more transparent, responsible, and effective business practices. The CFI.co judging panel presents AccountAbility with the 2021 global award for Best ESG Strategy Development Partner.


EXIM Hungary: Best Cross-Border Financing Bank Hungary 2021

[caption id="attachment_9653" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Mr Gergely Jákli, CEO, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Mr István Attila Szabó, Deputy CEO, Business Operations[/caption]

EXIM Hungary was established in 1994 and plays a crucial role in driving the country’s national exports, which account for above 80 percent of GDP. It stands out as a fully licensed bank and an insurer. Part of a global network of 84 export credit agencies, EXIM Hungary is able to finance and insure international trade for customers in 126 countries — with SMEs prominently featured. EXIM Hungary offers direct and indirect cross-border financing and export credit to cover clients’ trade risks, buyer credit, discounting facilities, export credit and foreign investment insurance. The banking and insurance divisions are separate entities working together under one brand, board and executive committee. This organisational structure affords greater flexibility and speed. It is the largest state-owned investor in the country and shares funds with the International Finance Corporation, as well. It has 74 investments in 25 countries and has achieved significant growth over the past five years. The EXIM portfolio totalled $3.5bn in 2016 — and $5.5bn by the end of 2020. When the global pandemic began to cause complications in international trade, the bank focused on domestic financing, offering fixed-interest loans to cover working capital needs. Now it’s moving forward with plans to unlock new export markets for Hungary. The CFI.co judging panel recognises an agile organisation that efficiently collaborates with clients and financial institutions to achieve positive outcomes. EXIM Hungary wins the 2021 award for Best Cross-Border Financing Bank (Hungary).


Qatar Development Bank (QDB): Outstanding Socio-Economic Impact Initiatives Global 2021

[caption id="attachment_9673" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Mr Abdulaziz bin Nasser Al-Khalifa, CEO of Qatar Development Bank (QDB) receiving an award from CFI.co's Chairman Tor Svensson and Director Marten Mark[/caption]

Qatar Development Bank (QDB) is an exceptionally accomplished financial institution with a tremendous track record in translating financing and strategic growth initiatives into tangible socio-economic impact.

QDB’s agility – in particular in terms of timely action and innovation while facing disruption head-on – is one key strength that stands out to CFI.co’s judging panel. The organisation’s strong leadership and agile DNA came in handy during the COVID-19 crisis where the launch of a focused range of symbiotic initiatives equipped business enterprises to navigate the pandemic more successfully. One such example is the timely release of the National Response Guarantee Program, which supported more than 4,000 companies with their business operating expenses.

Within the SME ecosystem, QDB continues to play a leading support role in key areas including capacity-building and enhanced access to markets. Changes in regional diplomatic relations induced newfound self-reliance to the benefit of local import-substituting production – which now also is translating into growing export with QDB’s support. The bank teamed up with global partners such as the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) to assists exporters with market intelligence data, advanced training programs, and networking platforms that boosted their volume of exports by 23% in just one year.

QDB also plays a crucial role in the continued transformation of Qatar into a knowledge-based economy and Doha into a smart city. The bank’s accelerated digital transformation drive is already yielding fruit with this year’s launch of the first phase of its ‘NUMU’ end-to-end, digital-first support platform for SMEs. In parallel, Qatar FinTech Hub (QTFH) – cofounded by QDB and recently ranked as the 2nd top investor in FinTechs in MENA – has to date supported 41 local and international startups towards introducing a range of fintech services to global markets.

Other development banks and financing institutions need to look no further for strategic inspiration than QDB. The profound suite of initiatives spearheaded by QDB has had a real domestic socio-economic development impact – and for which waves have reached far beyond Qatar’s shores.


Park Hyatt Doha: Best Luxury Hotel Qatar 2021

[caption id="attachment_9662" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Deep Kumar Sindhi (Director of Sales and Marketing), Stefan Gaessler (General Manager), and CFI.co's Chairman Tor Svensson[/caption]

Park Hyatt Doha is the best luxury hotel in Qatar based on the sum and combination of the following six criteria according to CFI.co’s judging panel:

Leadership and Management Team: The Hyatt veteran hotelier, Stefan Gaessler, has successfully spearheaded the hotel’s preopening and opening, establishing Park Hyatt as a synonym of luxury in Qatar and Doha’s fashionable district, Msheireb. Working with the team of experienced hospitality professionals, Stefan ensures smooth and efficient operations, achievement of the hotel’s financial goals, and Park Hyatt leading positioning on local and international markets.

Guest Services: A reference in worldwide hospitality, Park Hyatt Doha follows the highest standards and offers exclusive experiences to its guests across rooms, F&B, spa and events. The team of passionate and highly trained hospitality experts works tirelessly to ensure excellence at all levels.

Prime Location: Mixing tradition with world class modern culture, Msheireb downtown is Doha’s most sought-after destination, where culture, fashion and luxury meet. Jewel of the district, Barahat Msheireb town square is just a step from the hotel, and features beautiful facades and breath-taking evening lightings.

The Building and the Rooms: Designed by the hotel expert award-winning architect Jun Aizaki, Park Hyatt Doha is a work of art, created with the most noble materials and embodying the spirit of finesse in the architecture, blending modernity with local traditions. Hotel’s rooms feature an immaculate décor, while offering the utmost comfort, space, and light.

Fine Dining: High gastronomy is at the heart of Park Hyatt experience. Opus, led by the French Michelin-starred chef Jean-François Roquette, brilliantly marries Qatari and French cuisine in a unique and elaborate menu. Sora is Park Hyatt gourmet Japanese cuisine destination, offering the finest seafood and meet gastronomic creations, a selection of original cocktails, and spectacular view of the West Bay skyline. Anis, Park Hyatt’s all-day-dining café, invites guests to enjoy healthy snacks and drinks in cozy and warm interiors, or at a terrace overlooking a lovely pedestrian street of Msheireb district.

Sustainability and alignment with SDGs: Committed to support Sustainable Development Goals and actively taking part in global environmental transition, Hyatt launched a dedicated Environmental, Social and Governance platform ‘World of Care’. Part of the programme an designed in line with the highest sustainable design standards, Park Hyatt Doha continuously implements environmentally friendly strategies in its operations, aligned with Msheireb sustainable district requirements.

Since 1957, Park Hyatt Doha follows a proud tradition of creating an intimate luxury hotel experience, and offers the most unique and sumptuous hospitality experience in Qatar.


GNB Gestão de Ativos: Best Fixed Income Fund Manager Portugal 2021

[caption id="attachment_9665" align="aligncenter" width="900"] Top left – Vasco Teles
Top right – Manuel Aguiar
Bottom left – Hugo Custódio
Middle (with the trophy) – João Zorro
Bottom right – Paulo Joaquim[/caption]

Fixed income is a popular vehicle for risk-adverse investors looking for steady, reliable returns - and in Portugal, GNB Gestão de Ativos (GNBGA) is the go-to firm. GNBGA was founded in 1992 and benefits from a cohesive team with extensive experience in financial markets. It has shown courage and competence in backing worthy investments and manages portfolios with a clear goal on healthy returns. It promises transparency and seeks to create value for clients - and the results speak for themselves: NB Euro Bond, for instance, have won awards almost every year since 2010. The Lisbon-headquartered asset manager offers a range of investment solutions, including fixed income and equity funds, asset allocation products, pension fund management and discretionary portfolio management. GNBGA is the asset management arm of Novo Banco Group and caters to the needs of private and institutional investors. ESG criteria is becoming a central part of the firm's fiduciary duty, and GNBGA intends to prioritize investments that support climate action, circular economies, biodiversity, healthy communities, equality, regulatory compliance and consumer and shareholder rights. The GNBGA team has worked together for decades, with more than 20 years of specialization in fixed income funds. Despite the recent market turmoil, GNBGA has managed to retain a full staff and compensate for portfolio deviations. The CFl.co judging panel salutes this steadfast performance and presents GNB Gestão de Ativos with the 2021 award for Best Fixed Income Fund Manager (Portugal).


UniCredit: Best Social Impact Bank Europe 2021

Pan-European commercial bank UniCredit levers its strong profitability, capital and liquidity positions to fulfil its “Do Right” commitments. UniCredit has Italian roots and an established network in Western, Central and Eastern Europe. The group operates on a value system of ethics and respect, and integrates sustainability across financial, human, social, intellectual, and natural capital strategies. UniCredit took proactive steps to protect and support staff and clients during the pandemic. It moved quickly to remote working and trained team leaders in virtual environments. Discounted financing solutions and repayment moratoriums helped to ease stress for clients. UniCredit has launched initiatives to accelerate sustainable development, including financial education for youth and capacity-building programmes for female entrepreneurs. The group is proud of its diverse, multicultural team, and over the next two years it aims to double the percentage of women in senior leadership roles, which was at 15 percent in 2020. Last year, the group’s community contributions totalled €42m, and it intends to raise support for projects with positive social impacts to €1bn by 2023. UniCredit prioritises environmental responsibility through tree-planting partnerships, energy efficiency campaigns and science-backed climate action. It has taken a hard stance against coal, putting restrictions on new financing while increasing investments in renewable energy. UniCredit is an ESG-aligned bank making clear progress on ambitious targets. The CFI.co judging panel presents repeat winner UniCredit with the 2021 award for Best Social Impact Bank (Europe).


Le Groupe La Poste: Best Transformational Strategic Plan France 2021

[caption id="attachment_9678" align="aligncenter" width="900"] La Poste Director of Strategy: Diane Abrahams[/caption]

French postal service Le Groupe La Poste this year announced a strategic plan to develop sustainable sources of growth. The self-supporting business model consolidates traditional activities and public service missions, accelerates growth-producing activities, and develops models for the future. The group has been carbon-neutral since 2012 and is moving towards carbon-free delivery solutions in 225 cities across Europe. The group has distinguished itself in the finance field, with La Banque Postale ranking number one with several sustainability rating agencies and aiming to become Europe's premiere positive-impact bank. Here, too, internal operations are carbon-neutral — they have been since 2018 — and there is a target of net-zero emissions across all banking activities by 2040. The financial institution operates in line with the Paris Accord, and as a fund manager selects only socially responsible investments. It has pledged to double financing for energy transition projects by 2023. Le Groupe La Poste aims to become the first European exchange and link platform, serving clients and community with a focus on digital, green, and civic transformation. It benefits from its impressive physical presence and commercial network, serving over a million customers each day across 17,000 retail outlets nationwide. Two shareholders own the group: 66 percent is held by the Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations, the remainder by the French government. The CFI.co judging panel salutes a forward-thinking service provider, and declares Le Groupe La Poste winner of the 2021 award for Best Transformational Strategic Plan (France).


MauBank: Best SME Banking Services Mauritius 2021

MauBank understands the vital role SMEs play in socioeconomic development and has rolled out the red carpet to best serve their needs. According to the World Bank, SMEs represent some 90 percent of businesses and over half of employment worldwide, while generating up to 40 percent of GDP and seven out of 10 jobs in emerging economies. Despite these statistics, SMEs often cite limited access to financing as a significant obstacle to growth. MauBank has introduced a special scheme, SME LokalBoost, to provide financing for clients looking to start a new business or expand existing operations. SMEs can secure low interest rates and pay no processing, management, ledger or Internet banking fees for a year. The Mauritian bank has restructured its retail outlets into business centres and organised open banking promotions. MauBank unveiled a promotional campaign and its restructured branch network — which is one of the largest in the nation — through a series of traditional and digital advertisements which the panel considers to be well thought-out and nicely executed. SME success stories are shared in the campaign “Supporting Mauritian Enterprises”. Always happy to hear from a candidate’s satisfied customers, the panel points to praise from entrepreneurs regarding the bank’s proximity, service suites and growth-bolstering advisory. MauBank took proactive steps to ease financial burdens on SMEs throughout the Covid pandemic, offering moratoriums on capital, interest and equated monthly instalment loans. The CFI.co judging panel recognises MauBank, a repeat programme winner, as an instrumental partner of business clients — and the recipient of the 2021 Best SME Banking Services (Mauritius) award.


The AES Corporation: Best ESG Power Producer Global 2021

Over the past forty years, the AES Corporation, a global energy company, has demonstrated its commitment to building a greener, smarter energy future. In 1989, it created one of America’s first carbon-offsetting programmes when it planted 52 million trees in Guatemala to balance emissions from its power plant in Connecticut. In the early 2000s, the company stepped up its focus on cleaner energy solutions, when it began to invest in wind and solar power. The company also pioneered the application of lithium-ion batteries for energy storage, a critical technology in the broader adoption of renewables.

Today, AES works with its customers of all kinds to co-create solutions that meet their business objectives. The company is a major developer of renewable projects and integrator of technologies. It sees climate change as a global challenge that the public and private sectors must address through innovation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing.

The company engages in technology innovations that support renewable energy systems, and it has applied AI to crack tougher challenges. AES has been a leader in battery-based energy storage projects for more than 14 years.  It has introduced a prefabricated solar solution produced by Australian company 5B that can double energy density while using fewer resources — and is able to withstand hurricanes and other extreme weather events. AES was also the first publicly traded US energy company to issue a climate scenario report aligned with recommendations from the Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures.

The CFI.co judging panel sees in AES a catalyst for positive change and presents the corporation with the 2021 global award for Best ESG Power Producer.


Crowe Colombia: Best Audit & Tax Services Colombia 2021

Crowe Colombia has developed a code of conduct and organisational structure that prioritises collaboration for the common good of clients, staff and country. The firm has solidified its position in the Colombian market over the past 25 years by making daily improvements and always striving for excellence. The firm works with clients from a broad spectrum of industries, assisting with audit and assurance, taxes and legal advice, consulting, accounting outsourcing, global corporate finance and digital transformation strategies. A nationwide network — with offices in Bogota, Barranquilla, Cali, Manizales and Medellin — allows Crowe Colombia to give clients personalised attention and approach each project with flexible versatility. The firm goes beyond standard tax preparation to help businesses minimise exposure and risks, while also building trust with stakeholders through transparent financial reporting. It pairs clients with industry experts and uses innovative technology to deliver meaningful insights. Crowe Colombia publishes case studies to educate clients on economic opportunities and challenges. It hosts regular webinars to engage with clients on specific subjects, like non-financial asset valuation, process optimisation, dividend taxes — and the inevitability of change. The pandemic has pushed many industries to step up their digital game while spurring global demand for sustainable accountability. Crowe Colombia has offered support and incentives for hard-hit clients, particularly in the tourism and transport sectors. But now, as the economy slowly rebounds, those clients are expressing their gratitude and trust with enduring fidelity. The CFI.co judging panel presents Crowe Colombia with the 2021 Best Audit & Tax Services (Colombia) award.


JM Finn: Best Wealth Management Advisory Firm UK 2021

UK firm JM Finn favours a traditional approach to investment management, focusing on personal service and individual client care. It has had a solid year despite Covid and Brexit complications. Profits took a slight dip but investment performance remained strong, with fees up by three percent. In Q4 of 2020, JM Finn’s investment performance tracked at 8.2 percent, with a year-to-date performance of 5.7 percent. The growing team rallies behind the mantra of “the best, not the biggest”, and all 310 employees — including four new managers — were set-up for remote working with the support of a talented IT department. As the world settles back into some sense of normalcy, JM Finn looks forward to face-to-face time with new business partners. Employee wellbeing is at the top of the agenda, and the firm ensures staff members feel motivated and appreciated. Wealth planning is a key focus, and structural changes will see a streamlining of reporting. The firm has been in operation since 1946 and has been building the wealth-planning division since 2016. It views planning as an extension of investment management to grow and protect generational wealth. The CFI.co jury, which has followed JM Finn’s progress for years, congratulates the company on its new London office and a fruitful partnership with the Surrey County Cricket Club. JM Finn, a repeat programme winner, takes the 2021 award for Best Wealth Management Advisory Firm (UK).


BOŚ Bank: Best Green Banking Solutions CEE 2021

BOŚ Bank, one of the top 10 banks of Poland, boasts a loan portfolio that’s classified as 36 percent green, financing projects that create positive environmental and ecological impacts. It aims to increase that figure to 50 percent by 2023. BOŚ Bank is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, and over the decades its mission has remained the same — to accelerate the transition towards a democratic, free-market, low-carbon future. The bank sees itself not as a competitor but as a catalyst. It collaborates with multilateral institutions like the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to facilitate projects with strong ESG outcomes. It serves corporate and retail clients, with a focus on developing modern financial products to support the economy and the green transition. BOŚ Bank offers specialty loans to help clients implement clean energy solutions and purchase or lease zero-emission vehicles. The bank sees the green transition as one of the biggest global challenges — but also as one of Poland’s greatest investment opportunities. The country has the chance to modernise the economy across all sectors, from energy and transportation to agriculture and construction. The bank dedicates funding to offshore wind projects and clean air programmes. It promotes low-emission technology for personal cars and public transport. It is pushing for divestment of coal projects — which is still a legacy industry in Poland — in favour of financing transitional fuels. The CFI.co judging panel presents BOŚ Bank with the 2021 Best Green Banking Solutions (CEE) award.


WILO SE: Best Industrial CSR Europe 2021

At celebrations to mark the opening of Wilopark in Dortmund in February, Chancellor Angela Merkel spoke glowingly of Wilo – a business whose track record in economic and environmental progress is setting the benchmark for industrial sustainability. The Wilo Group is one of the world’s leading providers of pumps and hydraulic systems. WILO SE has invested some $350m in its new headquarters, which includes a climate-neutral “smart factory” and draws the company’s main operations under one roof. The project is one of Germany’s largest ever industrial developments, creating an ultra-modern digital factory, an office complex, customer service centre and product development facilities across an area of nearly 200,000 square metres. It was founded as a copper and brassware factory in 1872. Today, the company employs around 8,000 workers and is internationally recognised as a company with a total commitment to the environment, and a leading exponent of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) principles. Wilo’s operations are driven by an aspiration to be completely climate-friendly, thanks to the adoption of an over-arching sustainability strategy which involves “fairness, respect, passion, responsibility and integrity”, values which form the foundation of its actions. Wilo Group’s motto - green solutions for a better climate – describes a holistic strategy which aims for climate-neutrality at all its main production sites, worldwide, by 2025. In recognition of the company’s advances, the judging panel is pleased to present WILO SE with the 2021 award, Best Industrial CSR Europe.


Geidea: Best SME Payment Solutions Provider GCC 2021

Geidea is a market pioneer that believes problem-solving requires genius ideas (hence the name — Geidea). The Saudi start-up was the first fintech in the kingdom to be licensed as a payment institution — and the only non-bank to be granted a license by the Saudi Central Bank to process end-to-end payment solutions. Within four years of its first product launch, Geidea had secured half of Saudi Arabia’s POS market. There are now more than 500,000 Geidea terminals in Saudi Arabia, representing 75 percent of the market share. Business clients are offered a selection of POS devices to streamline sales, and an app to manage inventory, orders, and invoicing. Geidea processes more than four million transactions daily, and 100,000 merchants have signed up for the service, including local and international brands, SMEs, and e-commerce firms. For companies without a web presence, Geidea helps to showcase products to drive online sales. It has taken the first steps towards GCC expansion this year, in a partnership with Egypt’s Bank Misr. The fintech company is funded by some of the region’s most prominent investors — Gulf Capital, AO and RAI — and has partnered with multinational financial service companies to bring innovative solutions to market. Geidea is supported by a growing multicultural team representing some 50 nationalities. The CFI.co judging panel salutes a company bringing best-in-class technologies to market to help small businesses. Geidea wins the 2021 award for Best SME Payment Solutions Provider (GCC).


Adepa: Best Global Fund Administration Team Europe 2021

Over the past 40 years, Adepa has assembled a multicultural team with deep experience in investing, banking and financial services. The group is headquartered in Luxembourg with offices in Italy, Spain and Chile. The team is multi-lingual and works with clients across the globe, putting no geographic limits on the development of international products and services. It’s equally adept with liquid and illiquid strategies. The group offers a comprehensive range of structured solutions for independent financial advisors, asset managers, private equity real estate, venture capitalists, family offices and banking organisations. The group has evolved from its origins as an asset manager to include business process outsourcing (BPO) services that ensure cost efficiency. BPO services can be contracted for selected processes or to cover all administrative areas. The group has developed a client leadership approach to ensure the efficient management of business relationships. Dedicated team members serve as client leaders, acting as the intermediary between client and company. Client leaders work with a limited number of accounts and funds to allow personalised attention without time constraints. Adepa gives employees the autonomy and independence to act in clients’ best interests, while providing the organisational and tech support to deliver consistent results. The group constantly encourages employees’ growth and entrepreneurial spirit and inspires client loyalty by placing their needs at the centre of operations. The CFI.co judging panel announces Adepa as 2021 award winner for Best Global Fund Administration Team (Europe).


Saudi Aramco Total Refining and Petrochemicals Co. (SATORP): Most Innovative Project Finance Deal GCC 2021

SATORP, established in 2014, has been described as the Rolls Royce of refineries. Situated in Jubail, Saudi Arabia, it has a capacity up to 460,000 bpd and its production is sold to shareholders Saudi Aramco and Total. According to the panel, SATORP’s recent factoring within a corporate finance deal deserves a similar comparison to the famous car maker. SATORP’s Treasury main aim was to improve cash flow. Factoring (much cheaper than other working capital facilities) offered a brilliant solution, but the arrangement was no walk in the park. SATORP’s senior debtors are a dozen regional and international banks. According to a spokesman at investment bank Natixis, similar schemes had been tried elsewhere but would end in failure. Here the lenders were confident because SATORP was appropriately organised and negotiated well. Natixis plans to try this scheme out with other clients. Legal advisers at Allen & Overy were similarly impressed. Time was of the essence as receivables have a limited shelf-life, and there had to be a seamless process to deal with the complicated paperwork. According to the law firm, there have been no dramas, shouts for help, or complaints from any parties. This arrangements allow for significant savings and factoring will be crucial going forward. The panel applauds SATORP for a job well done and is delighted to confirm the award: Most Innovative Project Finance Deal GCC 2021.


IBM: Outstanding Workforce Training Global 2021

IBM has around 350,000 staff, 160,000 partners, and countless more clients worldwide and it is committed to their continuous development with its HR 3.0 system. Its aim is to build ‘Cognitive Enterprises” with data and AI transforming the workplace. Together IBM staff and partners provide training to IBM clients. Staff have access to “Your Learning”, a state-of-the-art cognitive-driven learning ecosystem. It is a one-stop ed tech system that is personalised for users using AI. It focuses on skills and agile practices. Over 99 percent of staff used the system in 2019. Every staff member is expected to spend a minimum of 40 hours in training and personal development each year. Staff, partners, and clients can also earn badges and certifications online through IBM Credentials. IBM also provides versions of its HR 3.0 systems to clients as part of its Talent Management Services. IBM is committed to transforming itself, its partners, and clients. The CFI.co judging panel also commends IBM on the launch of its SkillsBuild platform. The platform helps long-term unemployed, veterans, asylum seekers, refugees, and other jobseekers to start a career in IT using HR 3.0 systems. Job seekers can learn to code, earn IBM credentials, and enjoy career focused development. IBM sees a new world where micro-credentials can replace degrees for some workers. The CFI.co judges are more than pleased to present IBM as the winner of the global award for Outstanding Workforce Training Global for the second consecutive year.


KBC Group: Best Bank Governance Europe 2021

Thanks to solid contingency planning, KBC Group was well-prepared when the Covid pandemic hit. The company slipped smoothly into crisis mode, with its 41,000 staff transitioning to remote working and daily virtual meetings of executive committees to keep operations on track. It experienced no downtime and expanded its Group executive committee with the CEOs from its core countries to actively monitor the local situation during Covid. The group's long-term vision and stable liquidity allowed it to set aside €800m for contingencies and cut costs in the second quarter by six percent (€160m). KBC stands out in operational performance. Its pre-emptive actions to write off potential impacts in 2021 and 2022 have contributed to investor confidence, paved the way to pay out dividends - and caused a rise in KBC stock. CEO Johan Thijs has been thrice nominated in the top 10 of the world's best chief executive by the Harvard Business Review. Data scientist Thijs looks to other industries to drive innovation in banking. His leadership has helped the group to achieve a number one global ranking in terms of innovation and digital operations. Products and services are tailored to proactively meet changing customer needs. The latest development - KATE, an Al-driven tool - can understand and solve 90 percent of customer queries. Within the next two years, KATE is expected to reach 100 percent capacity. The CFl.co judging panel is impressed, and announces repeat winner KBC as winner of the 2021 award for Best Bank Governance (Europe).


Energean: Best ESG Energy Growth Strategy Europe 2021

Exploration and production company Energean has assets and projects in nine countries around the Mediterranean and North Sea. Over the past five years, it has increased reserves and resources nearly sixfold through organic growth and strategic acquisition. Energean’s flagship project is an Israeli offshore gas development; in Greece, it is exploring the potential of underground storage for captured carbon. The company, listed on the stock exchanges of London and Tel Aviv, is a signatory of the United Nations Global Compact and has pledged to become net-zero by 2050. It adheres to recommendations from the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosure, and in the Carbon Disclosure Project, Energean’s performance was ranked in the top third of exploration and production companies. It made progress on several medium-term targets in 2020, including increased production and revenues. It switched to renewable sources in Prinos, Greece and in 2021 rolled this strategy out across the operated Italian portfolio so cutting Scope Two emissions. Energean is aiming for a medium-term CO2-intensity target of less than half the global average for the oil and gas industry. The company has 620 employees and contractors from 23 nationalities, and the board and senior management teams are about one-third female. It prioritises employee wellbeing and promotes healthy lifestyles via online resources. The CFI.co judging panel recognises repeat programme winner Energean with the 2021 award for Best ESG Energy Growth Strategy (Europe).


SHARE NOW: Best Mobility Innovation Europe 2021

Private car ownership is on the decline, but car-sharing is — figuratively, at least — putting people back in the driver’s seat. And that means no parking fees, insurance premiums, or fuel costs. European company SHARE NOW formed from the merger of Car2Go and DriveNow. The company sees technology as a means to improve city living. SHARE NOW has thousands of premium brand models — BMW, Citroën, Fiat, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, and smart — in 16 cities in Austria, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. The SHARE NOW app allows drivers to make brief bookings for short trips — errands, commuting, or city outings — while long-term rentals for up to 30 days mean the freedom to explore or travel. There are rental rates by the minute, hour, or day, and the company says its services are 70 percent more cost-effective than the taxi option. Users can find a suitable car on the app map and unlock it with a smartphone. The app never sleeps, and clients can skip the waiting lines and paperwork normally associated with car rental. The cars can be picked up in one location and dropped anywhere within the home area. Inter-city travel is possible, but ending your rental is only allowed in the same city where you started the rental. SHARE NOW notes that studies show car-sharing schemes reduce private ownership and traffic congestion, with each shared car taking up to 11 others off the streets. The CFI.co judging panel presents SHARE NOW with the 2021 award for Best Mobility Innovation (Europe).


NatWest: Best Mortgage Provider UK 2021

As one of the UK’s largest mortgage providers, NatWest has always been a popular destination for home buyers. The bank also has its finger of the pulse of public opinion, and has committed to becoming climate positive by 2025. Part of that initiative includes the bank’s Green Mortgage scheme. The company offers lower rates to those looking for a more eco-friendly, energy-efficient home. UK homes account for 15 percent of the country’s total climate emissions. Lower rates are offered to those buying properties with an energy certificate performance (EPC) of A or B. The project is in response to research which shows that 70 percent of its customers are concerned about climate change but are unsure how to react. Green Mortgages are part of NatWest’s promise to have a positive impact on the environment. The scheme is one of a number of ideas aiming to encourage greener choices. The scheme offers a reduction on a two year or five year fixed rate mortgage. The bank is a principal sponsor of COP26, taking place in Glasgow in November 2021, an illustration of its determination to be a leading voice in climate change, recognising the need for collaboration and co-operation between government, business and society in general. The company sees its role as providing support for those seeking a transition to a low carbon economy. The judging panel, for the second consecutive year, recognises NatWest’s commitment to the industry, and in 2021 is pleased to present the award, Best Mortgage Provider UK.


Belvoir Group: Best Property Network Growth Strategy UK 2021

Over the past 25 years, property franchise Belvoir Group has built a network of 467 offices offering residential lettings, property sales and property-related financial services. The group added 20 lettings and estate offices to the network, including the acquisition of independent real estate company Nicholas Humphreys in March. Belvoir Group strengthened its alliance with the Nottingham Building Society through the acquisition of its financial services subsidiary, Nottingham Mortgage Services. These deals cost Belvoir over £5m and were funded from cash reserves. Belvoir Group was pleased to report another half-year of strategic and trading growth, achieving revenue growth across its three business lines. First-half results have outperformed expectations, with a 41 percent increase in revenue over the same period for 2020, from £9.8m to £13.8m. Basic earnings per share are up 36 percent, and interim dividends rose by 17.6% to 4p per share for the half year. The group’s resilient business model has allowed Belvoir to capitalise on opportunities in this year’s buoyant housing market — and ensured its growth strategy was unaffected by the pandemic. Investments in earnings-enhancing businesses have expanded its property and financial services divisions, leading to high activity across all business areas — and confidence that the group will achieve a strong trading performance for the full year. The CFI.co judging panel recognises Belvoir Group, a repeat programme winner, with the 2021 award for Best Property Network Growth Strategy (UK).


Murdoch Asset Management: Best Investment Management Solutions UK 2021

UK firm Murdoch Asset Management was built from the ground up over the past decade. The firm takes care with employee recruitment, only onboarding those with the highest academic and industry qualifications. It takes equal care with staff retention to ensure those contributing to the operation’s success receive the respect and renumeration that they deserve. Murdoch Asset Management claims the 'gold standard' distinction of Corporate Chartered Financial Planner accreditation — an honour granted to only six percent of the country’s financial planning businesses. This certification inspires trust and underscores the firm’s commitment to first-class services and practices. Another element that sets Murdoch Asset Management apart is its individualised client focus, with one of its three directors and two financial planners serving as the client’s dedicated adviser. Clients can expect to see the same friendly face anytime they seek financial advice, which is always based on individual needs and delivered with clear communication. Murdoch uses risk allocation models to compete across asset classes. Austen Robilliard, the firm’s investment director, spent 12 years developing this system, which has garnered attention for its innovation. Risk is based on volatility, but that’s not the only factor. As the firm asserts, risk is more than a mere consideration — it’s the start and end of investment management. Murdoch Asset Management’s compound year-on-year growth lends confidence in the firm’s long-term approach to wealth creation and alpha generation. The CFI.co judging panel presents the company with the 2021 Best Investment Management Solutions (UK) award.


Copernicus Wealth Management: Best Wealth Management Team Switzerland 2021

Copernicus Wealth Management was founded in 2016 in the Swiss canton of Ticino, an Italian-speaking region south of the Alps. The company’s business model was designed to serve institutional and high-net-worth individuals in the Swiss market. Copernicus offers assistance with discretionary management mandates, actively managed certificates, and undertakings for collective investment in transferable securities. It ranks among the top three wealth and asset management firms in the region. The Copernicus leadership team of five partners is supported by a 40-person workforce. Copernicus Wealth Management operates in a highly regulated environment, where its financial products and services are subject to comprehensive oversight. It stays abreast of all compliance guidelines, internal and cross-border regulatory developments, and administers funds in Luxembourg, Liechtenstein and Ireland. The company takes a 360-degree approach to wealth management by focusing on clients and tailoring services to meet their needs. It aims to create long-term value, helping to build and safeguard generational wealth by acting responsibly and remaining vigilant about risks. Copernicus feels confident that it will be able to adapt to any changes in the industry by identifying market trends and swiftly responding to tweak an offering where needed. The company is eyeing expansion opportunities, with special attention being paid to Switzerland and the Zurich and Geneva markets. The CFI.co judging panel is pleased to present Copernicus Wealth Management with the 2021 award for Best Wealth Management Team (Switzerland).


JPMorgan Chase: Best CSR Banking United States 2021

When Jamie Dimon, the chairman and chief executive of JPMorgan Chase & Co talks of “corporate citizenship”, he’s not paying lip service to a business fad – he’s deadly serious. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is integral to the bank’s culture. “When everyone has a fair shot at participating in the rewards of growth, the economy will be stronger and society more cohesive,” he says. He insists that the US must address widening income inequality. “The fault line for discord is a fraying American dream – the enormous wealth of our country is accruing to the very few. The fault line is inequality.” The company believes that as the world emerges from the pandemic it must build fairer, sustainable infrastructures. In 2018 the organisation launched a five-year $1.75b fund to support initiatives worldwide, including aid to urban communities. The JPMorgan Chase mission involves investment in customers, employees and communities, breaking down barriers to opportunity and creating lasting change. It aims to attract and retain employees in an environment where they can thrive. The bank, which operates in 65 countries, invests $300m in employee training every year. In terms of diversity, 49 percent of global new hires are women, while 58 percent of new US hires are ethnically diverse. JPMorgan Chase believes business has a vital role to play in the drive towards a low-carbon economy. The company is applying its expertise to tackle climate change and promote a sustainable future. In 2021, the CFI.co panel is pleased to present, for the third consecutive year, the award, Best CSR Banking United States.


Tanger Med Zones: Best Industrial Free Zone Global 2021

Tanger Med Zones occupies a prime position at the gateway between Europe and North Africa, with 5000 hectares of land in an 80-kilometre radius around the largest port in Africa and Mediterranean sea, Tanger Med Port (Tanger, in its French spelling). Tanger Med Zones has established an integrated industrial platform of eight special economic zones: Tanger Free Zone, Tanger Automotive City, Renault Tanger Med, Tetouan Park, TetouanShore, Economic and Logistics Activity Zone, and Retail Zone. Over the past decade, Tanger Med Zones has attracted $5.9m in FDI and 1,100 tenants. Fourteen of the world’s 20 largest automotive suppliers have set up in the free zone, exporting a million 700 000 Moroccan-manufactured vehicles each year. Aeronautical manufacturers have found a base here, too. The free-zone port boasts the best maritime connectivity in Africa, ranked 24th globally, and links 187 ports around the world. Seven million passengers and 700,000 trucks pass through Tangier on an annual basis — and 90,000 jobs have been created throughout the zones and the port. Foreign subsidiaries benefit from investment incentives offered by the Moroccan government, including a business-friendly tax framework and VAT exemption. Tanger Med Zones plug-and-play platform streamlines business set-up, cutting through red tape by consolidating dealings within the free zone authority rather than via separate governmental departments. Tanger Med Zones promises a quick and easy installation process, with documentation usually processed within 10 business days. There are 900 export-geared companies, with goods worth $10.4bn, in residence. The CFI.co judging panel presents Tanger Med Zones with the 2021 global award for Best Industrial Free Zone.


McKinsey & Company: Best Management Consultancy Spain 2021

Many businesses were tempted to hunker down and wait out the Covid-19 storm which hit in late 2019. Not so McKinsey and Co. The US-based global management consultancy, the oldest and largest in the world, was on the front foot, immediately evaluating risk, and conceiving strategies for businesses and economies to emerge the stronger. Nowhere was this more evident than in Spain, a country particularly vulnerable to the pandemic, given its reliance on tourism. McKinsey has operated offices in Barcelona and Madrid for more than 40 years, offering advice across the private, public and social sectors, transforming organisations and building enduring capabilities. In 2020, McKinsey staff in Spain produced a detailed report - The Future of Work after Covid-19 - focussing particular attention on the travel and tourism sector. The report not only outlined areas of risk, but offered guidance to overcome the problems faced by travel-dependent businesses. Tourism represents 14.3 percent of Spain’s GDP. The McKinsey report suggested that by the time the sector recovered, Spain could face cumulative GDP losses of $300b, and up to 4.4 million jobs might be lost. The company’s experts urged government and travel businesses to work together on high-priority areas to turn the tide and hasten recovery. Suggestions included the need for business to become more agile; to react quickly to changes in demand, and to innovate customer interaction. In 2021, the judging panel recognises, for the second successive year, the contribution made by McKinsey & Co, and is pleased to present the company with the award, Best Management Consultancy Spain.


YLG Group: Most Responsible Gold Exporter Asia 2021

Gold has been a cornerstone of commerce from the earliest civilisations. Since the minting of the first rude coins, the precious element has been the basis of trade across the planet. But this most ancient of industries is undergoing rapid change. The YLG Group of Thailand, established in Bangkok as the Yoo Lim Gold Factory only 20 years ago, has understood that speed and adaptability are the keys to success. The company, today the leading importer and exporter of gold bullion in Thailand, prides itself on reacting quickly to the needs of clients. YLG is a member of LBMA, the London-based organisation responsible for ensuring integrity and transparency in the global precious metals industry. YLG has established a secure online trading platform for the trading of bullion, and provides gold futures brokerage services for Thailand’s Futures Exchange Market (TFEX). It also runs a 24-hour online platform for gold investment. YLG has developed a one-stop solution for gold trading and investment, employing a team of experts to offer advice to clients across all sections of its business. The company also employs goldsmiths, designing and manufacturing a range of high quality jewellery. Every piece of work meets internationally-recognised standards. YLG is expanding internationally, having established, at the invitation of the Singaporean government, operations to help Singapore become an international hub in the gold trade. In recognition of the company’s dedication to quality and service, the judging panel has no hesitation in presenting the YLG Group the 2021 award, Most Responsible Gold Exporter Asia.


Sango Capital: Best Africa Mid-Market Investor South Africa 2021

Sango Capital has been active in Africa since 2011, building relationships, pursuing growth orientated top-quartile mid-market returns, and contributing to value creation. It is committed to responsible stewardship of the capital, people, resources, relationships and communities with which it has been entrusted. Sango Capital's annual forums facilitate networking and encourage international best-practice. The firm takes a thematic approach to investing, selecting funds with potential for high growth and returns, executing direct co-investments and other customised investment structures and building platforms in select sectors along with fund and non-fund partners. Investments target Africa's fastest-growing sectors: consumer goods, energy, natural resources, and infrastructure services. Sango Capital diversifies across countries, industries, and teams to structurally mitigate capital loss. As an active investor, it engages with its fund partners and investee companies to help deliver high impact socio-economic development, continent-wide. The firm is one of the few in Africa to raise a long-term capital pool. It credits its success to its unrelenting pursuit of excellence and its high-calibre team. Endowments, foundations and family offices trust the firm's local expertise to uncover and execute on promising opportunities. Sango Capital promotes Africa as the last remaining scalable geographic investment opportunity, a burgeoning GDP and attractive asset pricing. The CFI.co judging panel recognises a firm with fair and transparent practices, and presents Sango Capital with the 2021 award for Best Africa Mid-Market Investor (South Africa).


Pirelli: Best ESG Responsible Manufacturer Italy 2021

If the world-famous Pirelli calendar is a record of the times, the 2021 Zeitgeist is accurately captured by the fact that its publication has been cancelled in the face of Covid-19. The news that the Canadian singer and photographer, Bryan Adams, has been enlisted to shoot the 2022 edition is a hopeful sign. But the multinational Italian tyre manufacturer has been far from idle during the pandemic. The Milan-based firm is a shining example of the rapidly changing focus of industry, being among the first o adopt Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles in the early years of the 21st century. Throughout the disruption of the pandemic, Pirelli stepped up its continuous and transparent dialogue, not only with stakeholders, but with the communities in which it operates. During the height of the pandemic the company was involved in numerous projects focussed on community support. Pirelli operates 19 plants in 12 countries on four continents, all of which are managed with a view to environmental efficiency. Targets include reducing water withdrawal, energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and waste recovery. Pirelli achieved 97 percent waste recovery in 2021, in pursuit of the group’s target of zero waste to landfill. The company is investing heavily in innovation, with ground-breaking research into new raw materials in its production process, with the aim of developing products with an improved life-cycle and better environmental efficiency. In 2021, for the second consecutive year, the CFI.co judging panel is pleased to present Pirelli with the award, Best ESG Responsible Manufacturer Italy.


XM: Most Reliable Broker & Most Transparent Broker Global 2021

The web is awash with brokers making big promises - but few can compete with the execution, customer support and transparency of XM. The online broker has been in operation for over a decade and serves some five million customers in 196 countries. It offers customer support in 30 languages and has a hi-tech infrastructure that ensures swift and reliable trading execution. More than 99 percent of its 2.4 billion trades have been executed in less than one second - with zero requotes or rejections since its launch in 2009. It offers over 25 secure payment methods across 16 full-feature trading platforms. The company is highly-regulated with offices worldwide. It's a large, well-established company that favours the human approach.

XM Management has visited 120 cities to conduct face-to-face meetings with clients and partners. The XM Group partners with investment-grade international banks, and maintains segregated accounts ensuring safety for client funds. All clients benefit from XM's negative balance protection policy, which means they can never lose more than their account balance.

The CFI.co judging panel presents repeat programmer winner XM with dual global awards for 2021: Most Reliable Broker and Most Transparent Broker.


Ghana Investment Promotion Centre: Best Investment Promotion Agency Africa 2021

By embracing technology, social media and webinars during the pandemic, Ghana Investment Promotion Centre (GIPC) has strengthened client relations and aftercare practices. GIPC established a diaspora investment desk and collaborates with the World Economic Forum to redefine investment criteria. It highlights responsible and sustainable principles that drive positive impacts for environment and communities. Ghana is a solid investment location, boasting one of the world’s fastest-growing economies; it is ranked number one in West Africa for ease of business. It has been ranked fourth worldwide and first in Africa on the global retail development index. The English-speaking West African nation is easily accessible to Europe and the US, with one of the best ultramodern airports in Africa. It boasts one of the largest ports in Africa, with a shipping-container capacity of 3.5 million TEUs. Ghana has a thriving fintech sector and one of the highest mobile and data penetration rates. A stable government and favourable regulatory framework offer tax and duty incentives for manufacturing and export businesses. GIPC has positioned itself as the main hub for investor activity in a country which prides itself on being the “gateway to Africa”. The centre played a key role alongside the UNDP, in rolling out the SDG Investor Map, which guides investment into key sectors, including agriculture, infrastructure, technology, health and education. The CFI.co judging panel congratulates repeat winner GIPC on its apt slogan — “Grow in, and with, Ghana” — and confers on the firm the 2021 award for Best Investment Promotion Agency (Africa).


CFI Financial Group: Best Online Financial Trading Services MENA 2021

The CFI Financial Group and through its multiple regulated entities around the world is the preferred broker and trading provider of the Middle East, with over two decades of experience and an online trading platform offering thousands of stocks, Forex pairs, commodities, indices and ETFs. The company has invested in top-tier technology to provide traders with advanced order execution, strategy automation, powerful charting capabilities and a next-generation interface. Clients can choose between MetaTrader 5, MetaTrader 4, and cTrader platforms, three of the industry's cutting-edge solutions. The globally regulated company operates out of multiple regulated jurisdictions including London, Dubai, Larnaca, Beirut, Amman, Port Louis, and others. CFI offers low-latency, fast execution, spreads from zero pips and zero commissions. The company has clients from over 100 countries, providing personalised services through dedicated, and one-on-one account managers. Clients can open a trading account with no minimum deposit or hone their skills in a demo account that simulates the real environment with virtual cash. CFI publishes daily technical reports and hosts free webinars to educate traders of all levels, helping them to avoid mistakes and gain confidence. Information on the company’s products and services are easily located on its intuitive website. The company enjoys many word-of-mouth referrals given its ever-improving reputation, based on its superior support services and a track record of going above and beyond client expectations. The CFI.co judging panel presents CFI Financial Group, a repeat program winner, with the 2021 award for Best Online Financial Trading Services (MENA).


Chase: Most Innovative Retail Banking Services US 2021

US consumer and commercial bank Chase serves half of America’s households. It is a subsidiary of JPMorgan Chase, a global financial services provider with $2.6tn in assets and operations. Chase offers a comprehensive suite of services, including personal banking, credit cards, mortgages, auto financing, investment advice, small business loans and payment processing. The bank hopes to expand its market penetration still further with incentives, including a $225 signing bonus for new customers who set up a direct deposit or meet specified balance averages. Clients can access their accounts through the secure digital platform or via the thousands of physical Chase branches and ATMs. They can choose between credit cards with cashback incentives or rewards for hotels, airlines and entertainment. The bank encourages its clients to build their savings, and provides digital tools to advance financial awareness. It offers certificates of deposit with competitive interest rates. Chase also helps people to realise their home dreams with the “DreaMaker” mortgage, which allows for down payments as low as three percent of the purchase price, a $2,500 grant to help with closing costs, and a $500 bonus for completing a homeowner’s educational course. Clients can also seek a mortgage or home equity line-of-credit to pay off debts or make renovations. The CFI.co judging panel announces Chase as winner of the 2021 award for Most Innovative Retail Banking Services (US).


PPS Portfolio Performance: Best Investment Services for Pension Funds Brazil 2021

PPS Portfolio Performance boasts nearly three decades of experience in the application of methodologies of portfolio evaluation in Brazil as well as other sophisticated tools for the development of asset liability management, life-cycle projects and the likes. PPS has developed a robust database on Brazilian portfolio managers through profound analysis and investigations based on the work of its due-diligence team. The firm tailors services to client needs and is committed to managing returns to meet actuarial goals. As interest rates have dropped in Brazil, the need for sophisticated investment instruments has become even more important. PPS Portfolio Performance board members and executive managers must adapt to rapidly changing regulations and capital markets, and the firm’s leadership is responsible for arming them with the educational resources to meet those challenges. CEO Everaldo Guedes de Azevedo França and Rafael Sampaio, a senior investment consultant and partner at PPS Portfolio Performance, have trained more than 500 people in such subjects as investments policies, portfolio construction, risk management, compliance, conflicts of interests and asset liability management. The two executives have been frequent speakers at both domestic and international events. PPS Portfolio Performance is a pension-fund pioneer in the Brazilian market. It advocates for international diversification of portfolios and, over the past year, has seen a 15 percent increase in revenues. The CFI.co judging panel has followed the company for several years and is pleased to note its continued progress: PPS Portfolio Performance, a repeat programme winner, takes the 2021 award for Best Investment Services for Pension Funds (Brazil).


Banco Santander Mexico: Most Innovative Banking Services Mexico 2021

Banco Santander Mexico has an 89-year history, 19 million customers, 25,500 employees and 1,300 branches. It forms part of the global Santander network that has provided €33.8bn in green finance since 2019 — and invested €408m in communities, universities and social programmes in 2020. Banco Santander Mexico has achieved 13 percent return on tangible equity and €387m in underlying attributable profit. Over the past five years, the bank has made significant investments in digitalisation — and more than five million customers rely on its digital financial services. Clients can explore Santander Mexico’s digital investment offering and earn up to two percent cashback by transferring funds from another bank. Onboarding is simple and straightforward, with a low starting minimum of five thousand pesos ($247). CETEs, or Mexican Federal Treasury Certificates, are available in various term limits and the same minimal buy-in. CEDES (fixed-term deposit certificates) offer attractive returns and monthly interest. These deposits are protected (currently to a maximum of some $135,000) by an inflation-linked public insurance scheme. Banco Santander Mexico offers innovative fund solutions using technology and quantitative models to build dynamic portfolios that adjust to market conditions. Its debt-plus fund (STERMXN) invests in American debt, converted to pesos, while its reward fund (RCOMP) offers complete capital protection. The CFI.co judging panel applauds the group’s commitment to ensure growth remains inclusive and sustainable, and presents Banco Santander Mexico the 2021 award for Most Innovative Banking Services (Mexico).


Victoria Mutual: Best Financial Advisory Team Caribbean 2021

Victoria Mutual was founded in 1878 to “meet the needs of the deserving thrifty” and empower Jamaicans to pool resources and become homeowners. The mission remains the same, but the product range has expanded. Through its subsidiaries and partners, Victoria Mutual offers savings, deposits, loans, forex trading, money transfers, insurance, residential and commercial mortgages, and real estate services. Its members can control their wealth via Victoria’s pension fund management, administration and consultancy. The firm serves island residents and the diaspora community with 16 branches across Jamaica and representative offices in the UK and US. Victoria Mutual weathered the pandemic by digitalising operations; face-to-face meetings gave way to virtual events, online communication, and social media webinars. A trustee training workshop registered thousands of attendees, and a June expo to highlight innovation attracted more than 16,000 viewers on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram. There were virtual property tours and members were encouraged to submit queries electronically; Victoria Mutual was quick to make detailed responses. The team adapted well to remote working conditions, with no loss in productivity or accountability. Victoria Mutual is driven by a qualified workforce and an executive board that is 40 percent female. The CFI.co judging panel has followed the firm’s progress for several years and is impressed with its cool competence throughout the pandemic challenges. Repeat winner Victoria Mutual takes the 2021 award for Best Financial Advisory Team (Caribbean).


Commerzbank: Best Universal Banking Services Germany 2021

Flexibility and innovation have enabled Germany’s Commerzbank to adapt and prosper for more than 150 years. These aptitudes are as important today as ever as the world adjusts to the consequences of climate change, and Commerzbank, a leading player in both SME and corporate finance, is moving rapidly to tackle the challenges. Indeed, Manfred Knof, the recently installed CEO of Commerzbank, describes his organisation as “financiers of the green transformation”. Sustainability, he says, has become a fundamental pillar of the company’s business model. Commerzbank has set a commitment to become a net zero business by 2050 at the latest. The company has pledged to support its 11.6 million customers to make the transition to full sustainably. To that end Commerzbank plans to mobilise 300 billion euros by 2025, tripling its sustainable business volumes from its 2020 position. An indication of the company’s intentions is a guarantee not to finance any new coal-fired power plants. In the past two years alone, the bank’s exposure to coal-related business has been halved. Commerzbank intends to expand this policy to include gas and oil by 2022. Despite its size, the bank prides itself on a focus on personal contact with customers, maintaining teams of hands-on advisors for clients across its network of 800 branches. Approval ratings indicate that the level of customer satisfaction with Commerzbank services remains consistently high. In 2021, for the third consecutive year, the CFI.co judging panel has no hesitation in presenting Commerzbank with the award, Best Universal Banking Services Germany.


China Construction Bank: Best Retail Banking Services China 2021

Over the past 67 years, China Construction Bank Corporation (CCB) has evolved into a comprehensive financial service-provider with 346,671 employees, 14,741 domestic branches, and hundreds of overseas subsidiaries. CCB serves hundreds of millions of customers around the world and ranks as the fourth-largest listed bank in terms of market capitalisation — and second in Tier 1 capital. CCB’s “New Finance” approach focuses on home rental, inclusive finance, and fintech. The state-owned bank expands its user base via digitalisation initiatives. At the end of Q1 this year, CCB’s housing rental platform covered 328 cities and 34 million registered users. Inclusive finance loans have radically increased, helping to tackle poverty and revitalise rural areas. Fintech has been harnessed to facilitate the sharing of data and to improve agricultural livelihoods. CCB targets five regions, helping to lift 750,000 people in 2,486 villages out of poverty. Inclusive finance solutions expand through an online-offline financial services system that prioritises lower-tier cities and rural areas. CCB’s brand, Yunongtong, covers the nation with 527,000 service points, providing services to 41 million rural residents through the Rural Revitalisation campaign. The bank has built 2,022 schools and organised 45,000 training sessions, including several geared to financial literacy and poverty reduction. Over three million rural residents have benefitted from the programme. The CFI.co judging panel recognises the inclusive momentum of China Construction Bank with the 2021 award for Best Retail Banking Services (China).


Containers Printers: Best Sustainable Packaging Technology and Most Innovative Packaging Team South East Asia 2021

Containers Printers (CP) is a leading provider of metal and flexible-laminate packaging solutions for the nutrition and medical industries. The Singapore-based company was founded in 1981, and since then has continuously driven innovation and sustainability. CP works with clients from 30 countries and operates to the highest global standards, with ISO certification for quality management systems, workplace safety, and environmental performance and compliance. It supports Singapore’s Towards Zero Waste initiative and is committed to minimising packaging, which accounts for about a third of domestic waste by weight. CP helps its customers to meet the requirements of Singapore’s 2021 Mandatory Packaging Reporting regulation, including by developing and executing 3R plans for their packaging. The company’s solar panels, LED lighting and upgraded equipment are the result of ongoing sustainability programmes and the EENP Energy Efficiency National Partnership. In-house energy measurement systems systematically measure and manage consumption, and identify avenues for increased efficiency. CP combines state-of-the-art technology and advanced design in digital solutions to identify counterfeit products, track supply chains, and connect with clients. Quality management systems for material handling, hygiene and food safety inspire trust, while CP’s design capabilities offer creative consistency. The company values its staff and has established an in-house training centre to develop individual technical and leadership skills. The CFI.co judging panel presents Containers Printers — a repeat programme winner — with the 2021 awards for Best Sustainable Packaging Technology and Most Innovative Packaging Team (South East Asia).


China Life Insurance (Group) Company: Best Life Insurance Services China 2021

China Life Insurance (Group) Company, headquartered in Beijing, provides insurance and annuity products to clients across the mainland and abroad. China Life received an A1 financial strength rating from Moody's and A from Standard & Poor's. It ranks 32nd in Fortune’s 2021 Global 500 Companies. According to Forbes, China Life has a market capitalisation of $57.3bn and sales of $113.8bn. The state-owned company is the country’s largest insurer in terms of assets. It divides insurance business into life, health, accident, and other financial services, including asset management. It has a nationwide service network, with a million sales-force channels serving over 500 million customers. It administers some 303 million long-term annuity contracts and policies for individual / group health and life insurance. The corporate mission calls for prudent operations and progress fuelled by trustworthy service and innovative products. China Life aims to be a lifelong partner that fulfils lifelong promises. Its wholly-owned subsidiary, China Life Insurance (Overseas) Company (CLIO), acts as the group’s overseas business development arm. CLIO has established a foothold for the group in South East Asia, with offices across Hong Kong, Macau, Singapore and Indonesia. The CFI.co judging panel cites the group’s strong management and harmonious development as factors in its growth. The judges present China Life Insurance (Group) Company — listed on the stock exchanges of Shanghai, Hong Kong and New York — with the 2021 award for Best Life Insurance Services (China).


Banque Neuflize OBC: Best ESG Private Banking Strategy France 2021

France's private Banque Neuflize OBC was founded by entrepreneurs and philanthropists over 350 years ago. lt believes in balancing investment with positive outcomes for society and the environment, and statistics show that 63 percent of the French population is in agreement. For more than a decade, carbon emissions in the bank's operations have been offset via reforestation programmes. Banque Neuflize OBC sees finance as an opportunity to drive positive transformation. lt takes a holistic approach which guides investment towards "virtuous" sectors, and it is committed to ESG. lt takes into account the extra-financial value of companies — based on CSR, ESG and SRI criteria — to integrate sustainability into all processes. lt focuses on supporting clients' transition towards a sustainable future, and enriches employees' experience by integrating environmental concerns and with community support. One fund aims to accelerate sustainable development by investing in renewable energy and agriculture in emerging countries. Others seek to promote financial inclusion via microfinance and impact-aligned emerging-market debt. The bank has launched two non-profit foundations. The Neuflize OBC Foundation has supported cultural and arts patronage for about 25 years, while the Philgood Foundation gives clients access to a carefully curated and fully transparent collection of philanthropy projects. The CFl.co judging panel presents Banque Neuflize OBC with the 2021 award for Best ESG Private Banking Strategy (France).


Eqdom Maroc: Best Digital Consumer Finance North Africa 2021

Eqdom Maroc has been offering consumer credit solutions to Moroccan households for almost 50 years. The company is a subsidiary of French multinational retail investment banking and financial services giant Groupe Société Générale. Eqdom Maroc is undergoing a rebrand that sees a new logo, motto, and action plan unfurl. Digital transformation is a key pillar in the process. The global pandemic accelerated the need for action and propagated a rapid change to the company’s online offering. Before Covid, the Eqdom website served mainly as a lead generator of new clients. Through a data-driven, user experience-focused overhaul, Eqdom has developed a best-in-class website with loan simulation tools and online credit application. The company prioritises digital security and data processing. A physical visit to a branch is still required to finalise an approval, but as soon as national regulations allow, the process will be completely digital. Eqdom has seen a rebound in business activity since the start of the pandemic. It has introduced an online feature allowing clients to apply to defer loan payments. The company’s business model has evolved from traditional to modern, a transition marked by digital progress and aimed at customer satisfaction. This has boosted the growth trajectory and operational efficiency of Eqdom, and enhanced customer service and feedback. The CFI.co judging panel presents Eqdom Maroc, a repeat programme winner, with the 2021 award for Best Digital Consumer Finance (North Africa).


Jusan Bank: Best Bank Kazakhstan 2021

Jusan Bank is one of the largest and most dynamically developing banks in Kazakhstan. It is continuously enhancing digital technologies to improve the quality and accessibility of services, expanding the product-line, and assisting clients to achieve their financial goals. After the shareholder change and subsequent rebranding from Tsesna Bank in 2019, the Jusan management team has been successfully implementing a new development strategy and stabilisation programme. As a result, Jusan Bank has achieved impressive financial results in a short period. The turnaround over the past two years has been remarkable, with its corporate business and SME deposit portfolio doubling to the equivalent of $2.1bn. The retail client portfolio grew to around 2.5m accounts by October 2021. This growth was largely due to the launch of innovative new products such as a mobile application Jusan, which is actively used by more than 700,000 private customers. A brand-new internet banking system Jusan Business for SMEs that launched last year has already attracted more than 41,000 users.

Advanced functionality means that the Jusan is a truly super app. Today, financial services available on the mobile application range across banking products, investment, and insurance. There is also a line of non-financial services, such as a digital mobile operator Jusan Mobile, and a marketplace with an assortment of goods and services presently covering more than 456,000 items (which can be purchased in instalments over a two-year period). Furthermore, Jusan is the only bank to offer investment services via an application. It is also worth noting that Jusan Bank is not only systematically developing its ecosystem of digital services but is also generally expanding its spheres of influence.

In early September 2021, Jusan Bank completed the merger of Kazakhstani ATFBank, which was bought out last year. Total volume of assets reached the equivalent of some $6.5bn. In the same month, the Jusan group acquired 100 percent of the Russian Asia-Pacific Bank - and went on to acquire a non-controlling interest in Kcell, the leading mobile operator in Kazakhstan. All this creates a highly attractive proposition for clients and fosters increasing trust in the financial institution amongst corporates and the general population. The CFI.co judging panel recognises this outstanding transformation and presents Jusan Bank with the 2021 award for Best Bank (Kazakhstan).


Azimut Group: Best Independent Asset Manager Italy 2021

Knowledge, experience and unconditional principles – these are the values which underpin the philosophy of the Azimut Group, Italy’s largest independent asset management company. The Milan-based organisation has earned a reputation for commitment to customer engagement, having built up a network of experienced investment management teams which span the globe. These units provide specialised services aimed primarily at private and institutional clients. The company currently operates in 17 countries, and prides itself on a light touch. Gabriele Blei, Azimut’s CEO, encourages managers to constantly seek out innovative products and services, without exerting excessive hierarchical pressure. He believes that traditional asset classes are no longer sufficient to generate performance, which is why Azimut is continually investigating alternatives. The key to the company’s agility, he says, is its independence, coupled with an “Anglo-Saxon” approach which he believes makes Azimut more receptive to innovation. Gabriele Blei believes an independent player with integrated systems has a promising future, despite market volatility, and regulation – two factors which can never be forecast, he says. And fundamental to the company’s success is a “winning team” mentality, supported by long experience. Many of Azimut’s managers have been with the company for more than 30 years. The company is an enthusiastic supporter of the UN’s Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) code, and during the pandemic its philanthropic arm, the Azimut Foundation, was active in providing support to local communities. The CFI.co judging panel is pleased, in 2021, to present the Azimut Group with the award, Best Independent Asset Manager Italy.


CICERO Shades of Green: Outstanding Contribution to Green Finance Transparency Global 2021

The urgency of the need for a green transformation across global industry is vividly highlighted by the news that CO2 emissions are expected to return to pre-pandemic levels in 2021, having fallen by 5.4 percent in 2020. Cicero Shades of Green, a subsidiary of the Centre for International Climate Research (Cicero) in Norway, is working tirelessly to provide the necessary research and advice to global business. The organisation knows that transformation must be financially sustainable, which is why businesses and investors are constantly looking for guidance. Oslo-based Cicero has played an active role in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) since 1992. In recent years it has developed a reputation for expertise in climate financing. In 2018 it established the subsidiary, Cicero Shades of Green. The aim was to review green and social criteria in relation to bonds, using a methodology which involves labelling bonds to differentiate the environmental value of potential investments. The darker the shade of green, the less risk it poses to the climate. Christa Clapp, co-founder and managing partner, says: “There is no turning back from the greenhouse gases we’ve already emitted. But to avoid the worst impacts in the longer run, rapid and sustained emission reductions are necessary.” In 2020, Cicero Shades of Green was presented with the CFI.co global award for Best Green Bond Evaluation Expert. In 2021, the judging panel is delighted to add to that award by presenting it with the award Outstanding Contribution to Green Finance Transparency Global 2021.


Shelter Afrique: Best Real Estate Finance Company Africa 2021

Shelter Afrique is purpose-driven: committed to increasing access to decent affordable low cost housing. The pan-African development financial institution has partnered with 44 governments, the African Development Bank , African Reinsurance Corporation and  Fonds De Solidarite Africain (FSA) to improve living conditions across the continent. Shelter Afrique views decent housing as a fundamental human right — and a moral obligation for the company. According to the United Nations Human Settlement Programme(UN-Habitat), there are some 238 million people living in slums in Sub-Saharan Africa, while Shelter Afrique’s Centre of Excellence  cites a housing shortage of 56 million units. The company addresses this crisis through public and private partnerships to turn slums into decent housing, applying social distancing to mitigate the spread of infectious diseases. It finances projects to rebuild war-damaged homes and promote certified green housing projects. It has earmarked over $1bn to finance new housing projects as part of its 2019-2023 strategic plan, with the goal of mobilising $20m of annual equity capital from existing and new members. It works with capital markets to issue bonds, provides lines of credit and is developing a platform to facilitate institutional funding. It is launching  a $500m local currency bond in November 2021 to work with developers and financial institutions in their own currency. Shelter Afrique also offers capacity building, advocacy  and affordable housing research services. The company, which  celebrated its 40th anniversary in June 2021, has 44 African countries who have subscribed to Class A Shares and 3 Large Financial institutions who have subscribed to Class B shareholders. The CFI.co judging panel announces Shelter Afrique as the 2021 award winner for Best Real Estate Finance Company (Africa).