In 2012 we celebrated our 150th anniversary. Jacko Maree, Standard Bank Group Chief Executive, writes that it has been an inspiring year for the group.
"Our business has been resilient despite continued economic upheaval across Europe and a slowing down of China and the US, two of the world's largest economies. A large number of the fastest growing countries in the world are in sub-Saharan Africa, reinforcing our confidence in our Africa-centred strategy.
"Standard Bank Group has continued the journey of recovery that we started in 2011. We remain focused on delivering on our strategy. The diversity of the group and the markets in which we operate requires that we continuously assess what is working well across the group, reviewing where there is room for improvement and introducing remedial strategies where necessary to drive growth.
"We have also completed a number of long-term projects in Africa, in line with our vision and focus on Africa. This includes the good work that was done in standardising some of our processes including replacing our legacy systems across Africa.
"The new core banking platform, introduced in South Africa, Namibia and Uganda, aims to provide a single, standardised solution, and is already having a positive impact. I am also very pleased with the ever-improving levels of teamwork demonstrated across all areas of the group in pursuit of achieving our objectives.
"We have won a number of significant awards – among them Best Investment Bank in Africa – in a number of African countries, including Angola, Malawi, Namibia, Nigeria, Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa.
"A number of well-publicised scandals in the global banking industry have brought all banks under increased scrutiny from regulators and the public. At Standard Bank Group, we continue to ensure that all staff remain vigilant of all the legislation, regulations, policies and procedures. As far as we’re concerned an I-didn't-know attitude is not a valid excuse.
"We are aware of the many challenges that the global economy presents but believe that our healthy foundation and our broad product and client base will stand us in good stead. Standard Bank Group is in good health and our core businesses have strong momentum.
"I again acknowledge the continued hard work and commitment of all staff of Standard Bank Group to achieving the goal of being the leading financial services organisation in Africa. Thank you!
"To all our clients, investors and communities in which we operate, thank you for your ongoing confidence in Standard Bank Group. May 2013 be a successful year of moving forward to greater things.”
