The SME Banking Awards 2023, a prestigious program that celebrates exceptional accomplishments in the SME banking sector, successfully concluded on June 16, 2023, with an awards ceremony in Milan. These distinguished awards acknowledge banks, neobanks and individuals who showcase innovation, excellence, and make a significant impact on SME banking.
The awards encompassed several categories, including SME Neoplayer of the Year, SME Bank of the Year, and SME Banker of the Year. Winners were selected through a meticulous process involving expert evaluation and online voting, ensuring a fair and impartial assessment.
In the highly anticipated SME Neoplayer category, the winners are:
• Gold: Allica Bank (United Kingdom)
Allica Bank's dedication to empowering small and medium-sized businesses and revolutionizing the banking industry made them a true game-changer.
• Silver: OakNorth Bank (United Kingdom)
OakNorth Bank has successfully facilitated financing for ambitious businesses, supporting entrepreneurs and driving economic growth.
• Bronze: Validus (Singapore)
Validus, a Singapore-based neobank, emerged as a leader in providing tailored financial solutions to SMEs, addressing their financing needs and driving growth.
In the SME Banker category, exceptional individuals who have made a significant impact in the SME banking sector were recognized:
• Gold: Jenine Zachar (Standard Bank South Africa)
Jenine Zachar, Head of Enterprise & Direct Banking Segment at Standard Bank South Africa, has been acknowledged for her relentless dedication to driving positive change in Africa's SME segment and empowering women entrepreneurs.
• Silver: Michal Boleslawski (ING Group)
Michal Boleslawski, responsible for corporate banking at the ING Group, has been recognized for his exceptional contributions to SME banking and providing innovative financial solutions.
• Bronze: Julie Hall (Commonwealth Bank)
Julie Hall, a Veterans Business Banker at Commonwealth Bank, has been acknowledged for her robust leadership capabilities and customer-centric approach, inspiring the SME banking sector.
Lastly, in the highly competitive SME Bank of the Year category, the winners are:
• Gold: Starling Bank (United Kingdom)
Starling Bank, the leading business bank in the UK, has played a pivotal role in supporting entrepreneurs and setting new benchmarks in SME banking through cutting-edge technology and customer-centric solutions.
• Silver: Commonwealth Bank (Australia)
Commonwealth Bank, a renowned financial institution in Australia, has established itself as a trusted partner for small and medium-sized commercial businesses, leveraging technology and providing tailored solutions.
• Bronze: Akbank (Turkey)
Akbank, founded in 1948 in Turkey, continues to excel in corporate and investment banking, commercial banking, consumer banking and SME banking, supporting SMEs and driving their success.
The SME Banking Awards 2023 celebrated these outstanding institutions and individuals, showcasing their commitment to driving innovation, supporting SMEs, and fostering economic growth. These awards serve as a testament to their continuous efforts in transforming the landscape of SME banking.
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