Amsterdam, Netherlands, 7 November 2024 – Every year, the Banking on Values Day brings together a global movement for positive change. Founded in 2009, the GABV represents a movement of leading sustainable and ethical banks that are driving innovative solutions to reshape the financial system for positive, lasting impact.
This year, we celebrate under the theme “Transforming Banking. Transforming Lives,” which reflects the measurable impact of values-based banking in six focus areas: Affordable Housing, Biodiversity & Nature Preservation, Women Empowerment, Clean Energy, Financial Inclusion, and Peace & Social Justice. These pillars highlight how values-based banking contributes to building a fairer, greener, and more inclusive global economy.
Transforming Lives through Key Themes
Affordable Housing
As the world grapples with the ongoing housing crisis, values-based banks promote access to housing as a source of financial wellness and inclusion. Their efforts to finance affordable and social housing projects, support efficiency homes and uplift disadvantaged populations demonstrate that banking can be a powerful tool for positive social change. Read more
Biodiversity & Nature Preservation
Half of the world’s GDP relies on nature, including essential resources like clean air, water and food. Recognising this, GABV member banks take an active role to protect biodiversity and nature. They provide green loans and investments for eco-friendly projects, integrating environmental criteria into their business decisions delivering sustainable finance with the power to help regenerate our planet. Read more
Women Empowerment
Despite significant progress, women continue to face systemic barriers in various aspects of life, including economic participation, education and leadership opportunities. Empowering women is not only a matter of social justice but also a crucial driver of economic growth and community development. Read more
Clean Energy
Finance plays a pivotal role in achieving the climate goals agreed by the international community. Most values-based banks exclude financing for fossil fuel related activities, and many have committed to ambitious net zero targets as early as 2035. They intentionally finance clean energy and energy efficiency solutions for individuals and businesses, often leading the way in their regions. Read more
Financial Inclusion
Financial inclusion gives individuals and businesses, regardless of status, access to essential services like banking, credit, and insurance. This helps manage risks, invest in education, and build a secure future. Globally, 1.7 billion people, including 1 billion women, lack banking access, relying on cash and informal lending. Bridging this gap is key to personal stability and equitable economic growth. Read more
Peace and Social Justice
In banking, peace and social justice are essential to create a financial system that serves all people fairly and equitably. Values-based banks prioritise ethical practices, support sustainable development and empower marginalised communities. This approach fosters trust and stability within the financial system and contributes to a more inclusive and resilient world, where economic opportunities and resources are available to everyone. Read more
Discover Banking on Values Day 2024
Celebrating 15 Years of Transformation
The year is especially significant as GABV marks its 15th anniversary. Over the past decade and a half, GABV and its members have transformed lives, financed innovative projects, and pushed the boundaries of what banking can achieve. This milestone inspires us to think about what we hope to accomplish in the next years to come.
To bring this celebration to life, we are hosting a series of four webinars featuring values-based banking leaders from around the world. These sessions will provide inspiring insights and showcase transformation stories:
- 12 November: Leaders from European banks will highlight how they are addressing critical societal needs, including affordable housing, clean energy, and social justice.
- 14 November: Financial leaders from Emerging Markets will share their approaches to fostering inclusive finance and sustainable growth in some of the world’s most challenging regions.
- 19 November: Experts from Australia, the USA, and Canada will discuss their measurable impact in areas like sustainability, inclusion, and empowerment.
- 21 November: Latin American leaders will reflect on transformative efforts, covering topics such as women’s empowerment, clean energy, and financial inclusion.
Learn more about Banking on Values Day 2024 at www.bankingonvaluesday.com
