Archives 2020

5 highlights in sustainable finance for BNP Paribas in 2019

Sustainable finance is a powerful lever for economic transformation, creating a more responsible company. Once again this year, as a world leader in this sphere, BNP Paribas has launched and conducted numerous initiatives in support of inclusive, environmentally aware economic growth. We look back at 5 key moments in the Group's story for 2019.

Yoann Bourgeois, or the art of suspension

Circus? Dance? Acrobatics? A Yoann Bourgeois show is all that at once. It is a dose of poetry and a dash of gentle metaphysics which, in a few years, have become the magic potion of an artist with a unique style.

#JazzPortraits: Thomas de Pourquery, the unclassifiable jazzman with the most unexpected inspirations

From Clara Luciani to Metronomy, Oxmo Puccino and Sun Ra, Thomas de Pourquery explores every genre and defies any attempt of categorisation. The BNP Paribas Foundation has been supporting this talented jazz musician since 2019 and he has many surprises in store.

BNP Paribas awarded Most ESG Responsible International Bank Global 2019

BNP Paribas has won Most ESG Responsible International Bank Global 2019 in the Capital Finance International (CFI) Awards. The award recognises the bank’s commitment to the energy transition, and accelerating the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

BNP Paribas announces senior executive appointments

Appoints José Placido CEO of CIB Americas and Sandrine Ferdane Global Head of FIC.

BNP Paribas Wealth Management presents its 10 most relevant investment themes for 2020

Easing political risks, improving economic indicators, equity market valuation, underlie the 10 investment themes for 2020 selected by BNP Paribas Wealth Management strategists in the US, Europe and Asia to guide investors towards attractive opportunities. The first three themes are aimed at investors with a more conservative profile looking for steady incomes, themes 4 & 5 address opportunities in global trends, themes 6 & 7 are related to environmental issues and human capital, the last 3 themes focus on disruptive innovation, the digitalisation of consumption and technological innovations in the healthcare sector. «Easing political risks and improving economic indicators will support the upward trend in risky assets in 2020. Like last year, our 10 investment themes for 2020 will mainly focus on the equity markets using tactical and structural themes», said Florent Bronès, Chief Investment Officer at BNP Paribas Wealth Management.

BNP Paribas, 1st French bank and 3rd bank worldwide in “Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations” ranking

In 2020, BNP Paribas appears for the sixth year running in the demanding ranking of the “Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations”, published every year on the occasion of the World Economic Forum opening in Davos by the Canadian magazine Corporate Knights.

BNP Paribas announces several appointments

Sofia Merlo will succeed Yves Martrenchar, at the end of 2020, as Head of Group Human Resources and member of the Executive Committee of BNP Paribas Vincent Lecomte is appointed CEO of BNP Paribas Wealth Management Anne Pointet is appointed Deputy-CEO of BNP Paribas Wealth Management Pierre Veyres is appointed Head of the South-East Region for French Retail Banking

BNP Paribas, partner of the Paris Fintech Forum 2020

Paris Fintech Forum will be back next January 28 & 29, 2020 in Palais Brongniart to host the 5th edition under the high patronage of M. Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic. During these two days, 2,700+ attendees from 70 countries will be in the heart of Paris to listen to 280+ CEO’s from banks, insurance, regulators and of course Fintechs from all continents and share their visions of the future of finance in the age of Fintech.

BNP Paribas and Open Banking platform Tink announce strategic partnership in Europe

BNP Paribas and Tink announce today a strategic partnership. The open banking platform Tink becomes BNP Paribas’ preferred partner in Europe for account aggregation, payment initiation and personal finance management technologies.

BNP Paribas obtains ‘Top Employers Europe 2020’ certification

BNP Paribas has been awarded Top Employers Europe certification for the seventh year in a row, with certification in eight countries: Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland, Ukraine and Turkey.

Opening up the economy for America’s women entrepreneurs

BNP Paribas has been a long-standing partner of Grameen, and its founder, Nobel Peace Prize winner Mohammed Yunus, across a large number of countries. This partnership in microfinance has blossomed in the United States over the past four years via Grameen America, with BNP Paribas and Bank of the West supporting tens of thousands of women entrepreneurs in New York and California who previously have been excluded from the economy.

BNP Paribas and the European Investment Fund launch a €10 million fund to co-invest in Social Impact Bonds (“SIB”) in the European Union

This co-investment agreement is meant for BNP Paribas and the European Investment Fund to invest together in SIBs structured by BNP Paribas within the European Union This fund is launched as part of the ‘Juncker Plan’, and provides a new tool for the European Union to improve access to financing for various social organizations and companies 3 SIBs already funded by this new vehicle will enable more than 1,000 students to benefit from dedicated support and will avoid foster care for more than 130 children in France

BNP Paribas Group: Results as at 31 December 2019

The Board of Directors of BNP Paribas met on 4 February 2020. The meeting was chaired by Jean Lemierre and the Board examined the Group’s results for the fourth quarter and endorsed the 2019 financial statements.

BNP Paribas obtains a higher score in the D-Rating index for "Digital performance by retail banks"

At its press conference held on 30 January 2020, D-Rating, an independent organisation rating the digital performance of banks, announced the results of the third evaluation model of its study on the “Digital performance of retail banks in France”. The BNP Paribas Group with its retail banking in France and Hello bank! came out at the top of the ranking of traditional French banks in terms of digital experience.

#FAAPointsForChange: Félix Auger-Aliassime, CARE and BNP Paribas join forces to promote children’s education in Togo

Young tennis hopeful, Félix Auger-Aliassime, has launched a programme called #FAAPointsForChange in partnership with BNP Paribas and the NGO CARE. Keen to link his sporting performance with a personal pledge related to his family history and upbringing, Félix wants to make his career more meaningful through this unusual new programme. The main purpose behind #FAAPointsForChange is to contribute to the education and protection of children in Togo.

Portrait of Phia Ménard, juggler, performer and director

“I always need to speak to the spectator’s flesh,” says Phia Ménard. Whether it is challenging, sometimes radically, our society or confronting herself to the natural elements, Phia Ménard is always in direct contact with our sensations. The BNP Paribas Foundation has been supporting this multitalented artist and founder of the Non Nova company since 2013.

#JazzPortraits: Laurent Coulondre, the young keyboard wizard

Laurent Coulondre, a young pianist from Vauvert, France, backed by the BNP Paribas Foundation, recently received critical and public acclaim. He won a Victoire du Jazz award in 2016 and, just recently, the award for "French Record of the Year" from the Académie du Jazz for Michel on My Mind. Moreover Jazz Magazine named him "French Musician of the Year” and featured him on their February 2020 cover. In a duet or a trio, as leader or sideman, alongside other great musicians, a French jazz star is on the rise!

Looking at the world through a woman’s eyes: WOMAN, the film by Anastasia Mikova and Yann Arthus-Bertrand

BNP Paribas is supporting the release of WOMAN, a film directed by Anastasia Mikova and Yann Arthus-Bertrand as a tribute to women around the world. Previewed at the 76th Venice Film Festival in September 2019, the film received the Premio Sfera 1932 award and will be released in cinemas on 4 March 2020. The Group is the film’s main partner.

BNP Paribas structures its 10th Social Impact Bond worldwide and its 1st in Belgium!

On the 4th of March, the 1st Belgian SIB ( Social Impact Bond) structured and financed by BNP Paribas was officially launched, attended by Thierry Taverna (Deputy Head of Cabinet of the Flemish Minister for Welfare, Public health, Family and Poverty reduction), along with Roger Havenith (Deputy Chief Executive of the European Investment Fund), Sabine Bourgeois (General Manager of Oranjehuis ASBL), Sandra Wilikens (Chief Human Resources Officer and Member of the Executive Committee at BNP Paribas Fortis) and Maha Keramane (Head of Social Entrepreneurship and Microfinance Europe, Group CSR).

BNP Paribas is pursuing its work to support the HeForShe programme

BNP Paribas has fully incorporated the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals into its roadmap and these social and environmental issues are in line with BNP Paribas' CSR strategy.

A look back at the Refugeeks 2019 programme organised by Simplon

Eleven refugees learned basic digital skills in the first class of Simplon's "Refugeeks" programme. Here’s a look back at this new initiative supported by the BNP Paribas Foundation since 2019.

Covid-19: BNP Paribas supports employees and customers

The evolution of Covid-19’s spread and the stringent protection mechanisms put in place in many countries give rise to concerns and doubts. In this unprecedented situation, BNP Paribas has taken exceptional measures. The objective is to protect the Group's employees while helping economic actors – and our clients in particular – overcome the difficulties encountered. This involves measures tailored to each situation that respond as closely as possible to the emergency while preparing for economic recovery.

BNP Paribas: Board of Directors meeting of April 2nd, 2020

In an unprecedented context and taking into consideration the recommendations issued by the European Central Bank on 27 March 2020 with respect to dividend distributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, BNP Paribas’ Board of Directors met on 2 April 2020, with Jean Lemierre as the Chairman.

Development banks launch financial response to Covid-19 pandemic

As governments and other public-sector bodies across the Europe ramp up their response to the Covid-19 pandemic, BNP Paribas has brought to the market two landmark transactions. Helsinki-based Nordic Investment Bank (NIB) and the European Investment Bank (EIB) have both issued bonds last week week to provide funds to European nations as they shore up healthcare and financial systems to manage the impact of the ongoing crisis.

BNP Paribas is strengthening its emergency support plan in response to the health crisis

A direct support plan, activated in over 30 countries. Local support for hospitals, vulnerable populations and young people. An additional commitment bringing the Group’s contribution to over €50m.

Covid-19 : impact on the world economy

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a sudden stop in an increasing number of countries. This in turn had led to international spillovers via a decline in foreign trade and an increase in investor risk aversion triggering a global rush for dollar liquidity and a surge in capital outflows from developing economies.

50 million Euros across 30 countries: BNP Paribas organises a global response to the COVID-19 crisis

BNP Paribas and its subsidiaries mobilised at the outset of the crisis, aiding hospitals, medical research institutions and vulnerable populations on a local level. To strengthen those actions already in place and extend the Group’s support to more affected communities, the Group announced on 9 April an emergency support plan pledging a total of more than €50m in aide worldwide.

Covid-19 : How does it redefine sustainable finance ?

The COVID-19 pandemic is redefining sustainable finance in order to be more focused on social SDGs. Constance Chalchat, BNP Paribas CIB's head of company engagement, talks about her thoughts on how the coronavirus is putting social UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the centre of the sustainable finance roadmap.

BNP Paribas recognised as no. 1 European bank on the management of climate-related risks and opportunities in ShareAction’s 2020 ranking

On the 26th of April, the British NGO ShareAction released the results of its 2020 “Banking on a Low-Carbon Future” study analyzing how the 20 largest European banks are managing the risks and opportunities related to climate change.

The banking jobs: Transformation project consultant

Amid rapid changes in markets, sectors and new technologies, the development of BNP Paribas' activities hinges on the Group's ability to adapt its organization and business lines. To this end, in 2017, BNP Paribas created BNP Paribas Transformation's function: a team of experts made up of Project Managers, Project Leaders and Transformation Project Consultants to serve all Business Units in their major transformation projects, regardless of their environment or strategic challenges. Stefan Hautier, Head of BNP Paribas Transformation and Katia Deppen, Transformation Consultant, share their views on a dynamic activity that is growing every day.

BNP Paribas Group: Results as at 31 March 2020

The Board of Directors of BNP Paribas met on 4 May 2020. The meeting was chaired by Jean Lemierre, and the Board examined the Group’s results for the first quarter 2020.

The COVID-19 crisis: will commercial real estate resist the shock?

As one would expect, the health crisis and lockdown measures had an immediate impact on the real estate market and investment decisions worldwide: variation in transaction volumes, the impact of support measures, and much more. What is the outlook for commercial real estate in the short and medium terms? Is the sector optimistic? Richard Malle, Head of Research at BNP Paribas Real Estate, sheds some light on the issue.

Entreprises pour l’Environnement : sustainable development as a lever for priority progress

More than 50 international and French companies make up the French association Entreprises pour l’Envrionment (EpE). Since 1992, they have worked to promote solutions, practices and innovations allowing companies to better integrate the environment into their strategies and operations. As the current global health crisis continues, EpE shared their view on the priorities for the coming economic recovery.

BNP Paribas is accelerating its timeframe for a complete coal exit

BNP Paribas is expanding to all OECD countries its target to end the use of coal by its electricity-producing customers by the end of 2030. The Group will continue its commitment to put an end, in the near future, to relations with any customer developing new coal-based production capacity. BNP Paribas will no longer accept any new customers with a coal related revenue share of more than 25%. The implementation of this policy will quickly lead to a reduction of around half of the number of BNP Paribas corporate customers using coal for a share of their electricity generation.

BNP Paribas steps up its coal-exit timetable

Since 2011, BNP Paribas has demonstrated its commitment to energy transition by reducing financing for industries that use fossil fuels, and in particular coal. After announcing stricter objectives in 2019, the Bank has decided to step up its coal-exit timetable by increasing the number of countries concerned by such an exit by 2030.

BNP Paribas publishes its first TCFD report, a step in the fight against climate change

Since 2017, BNP Paribas has supported and implemented the recommendations of the TCFD (Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures), a task force that promotes financial transparency relative to risks and opportunities related to the climate. For the first time, the Group published a dedicated report that gathers the information it has published in line with TCFD recommendations.

BNP Paribas presents solidarity initiatives including #RGLegendsTalks, a tribute to Roland-Garros

In late May, the Roland-Garros stadium will not be resounding with the sounds of killer forehands and backhands, due to the public health crisis. A sponsor of the famous French Open international tennis championship for the past 47 years, BNP Paribas has set out to keep the sporting spirit alive via initiatives featuring legendary players or special games benefiting the AP-HP hospital system in Paris. Hopes are high that the tournament can be held next autumn and, in the meantime, tennis buffs can enjoy a few thrills.

BNP Paribas continues to lead the charge toward a tobacco-free future

In celebration of World No Tobacco Day on the 31st of May, a campaign sponsored by the WHO, BNP Paribas is reaffirming its commitment to a tobacco-free future through the Tobacco Free Portfolio’s Stamp of Approval program.

IN my shoes: a podcast that puts its best foot forward

"IN my shoes" is a podcast series exploring the topics of diversity and inclusion, produced by BNP Paribas since October 2019. Each show is a 20-minute episode in French and English in which listeners get to discover the views of change-makers and examine the way we relate to others. Looking for a good dose of inspiration and positivity? Here's a preview of the first 10 episodes, available now on a range of podcast platforms.

BNP Paribas, China Investment Corporation (“CIC”) and Eurazeo are pleased to announce the launch of the France-China Cooperation Fund with the first close for 400m€

BNP Paribas, China Investment Corporation (“CIC”) and Eurazeo are pleased to announce the launch of the France-China Cooperation Fund with the first close for 400m€. The Fund will be managed by Eurazeo.

The banking jobs: Cash Management

Cash management, a key business facilitator. It’s little known to the general public, but cash management nevertheless plays a major role within banks and companies: it guarantees clients the necessary cash flow for their business to run smoothly. From cash optimization to managing payment methods and more, discover how cash management works with Diane Monfort, cash management expert and head of the special servicing and implementation team for Belgium at BNP Paribas Fortis.

Microfinance in India: Small steps to a new beginning

For more than 30 years, microfinance has been a major commitment of BNP Paribas and part of the Group’s CSR Policy.

The Blue Economy: BNP Paribas commits to protecting the oceans

In order to promote a model of economic growth that is more respectful of the envrionment, BNP Paribas supports its clients, and more widely, the economic actors throughout all its business lines in their ecological transition. For that reason, the preservation of the oceans has now become essential and the focus of several actions led by the Group. To celebrate World Oceans Day this 8th of June, we take a look at a major concern for the Group.

Impact of the Covid-19 Crisis and Economic Outlook for the Euro Area

The massive shock induced by the Covid-19 pandemic will plunge the global economy into a recession deeper than that of 2009. What may be expected for the year 2020?

The Fondation BNP Paribas and three partner theatres announce the launch of the call for applications for the 2nd edition of the DANSATHON, the international dance hackathon

The 2nd edition of the Dansathon, which will take place from 20–22 November 2020 in Liège, if the global health situation allows, will bring together 8 multidisciplinary teams to imagine the future of dance in the digital age. Dancers, choreographers, designers, web developers and even start-ups can apply between 16 June and 16 August 2020 via www.dansathon.eu Founded and sponsored by the Fondation BNP Paribas, this event is co-organised by the Maison de la Danse in Lyon, Sadler’s Wells in London and the Théâtre de Liège. Forty-eight participants will be provided with resources, technological tools and spaces to compete and attempt to win a grant of €20,000 awarded by the Fondation BNP Paribas.

Call for proposal for #dansathon20, the dance and technology hackathon dedicated to exploring futur

The second Dansathon will take place from November 20 to 22, 2020 in Liège, if the global health situation permits, as part of the IMPACT International Meeting in Performing Arts & Creative Technologies. Instigated and sponsored by the BNP Paribas Foundation, the event is being co-organized by the Maison de la Danse in Lyon, Sadler’s Wells in London and the Théâtre de Liège.

#FAAPointsForChange: for the youth of Togo, the match goes on with Félix Auger-Aliassime

Félix Auger-Aliassime, a young tennis pro, launched the #FAAPointsForChange programme in January in partnership with BNP Paribas and CARE International, a non-governmental organisation. This initiative is based on a simple principle – that each point won by the up-and-coming star of global tennis during an official match will help fund the EduChange programme, which works for the education and uplifting of children in Togo. A few months after its launch and in the midst of the pandemic, how far along is the programme?

A dedicated programme to support refugee integration in the host country

On June 20, World Refugee Day, BNP Paribas which has been committed to an aid programme dedicated to helping refugees in Europe since 2015, details the concrete aspects of its support and recalls the dire situation of refugees in this context of global pandemic.

With Finance For Tomorrow, BNP Paribas positions itself as a key figure in sustainable finance

Thanks to French actors in the Financial sector, Paris seeks to further its position that the future of finance will be sustainable. This ambition is taking shape with Finance for Tomorrow, an organisation that fosters sustainable actions from within the Paris financial centre. BNP Paribas, which was already an active member in the organisation, will now further its involvement with the election of Laurence Pessez, Global Head of CSR, BNP Paribas, to the Finance for Tommorow Board for the 2020-2022 period.

The banking jobs: UX designer

Two letters: "U" for "user" and "X" for "experience". UX designers build the best possible digital experience for website, software or mobile application users. Though their job was still unheard of 15 years ago, UX designers are now an essential talent for every user-oriented digital company. Joao Samora, UI and UX designer at BNP Paribas, breaks down all the elements that make interface ergonomics a true form of art.

BNP Paribas 2019 Integrated Report: a responsible bank for a sustainable economy

In a changing world, BNP Paribas, a leading international banking player and the leading bank in the Eurozone, plays a major role in creating value for its customers, for the economy and for society as a whole. BNP Paribas' 2019 Integrated Report thus presents how the Group creates the conditions for a responsible and sustainable economy, based on its diversified and integrated model and the foundations of its strategic plan.

BNP Paribas Wealth Management Investment Strategy - The Covid-19 virus crisis amplifies some trends: Five investment themes confirm their potential in 2020

BNP Paribas Wealth Management Investment Strategy     The Covid-19 virus crisis amplifies some trends: Five investment themes confirm their potential in 2020 ln March, the lockdown of almost half the world's population plunged the global economy into an unprecedented recession, and global stock markets shed 34% in 30 days. Although they bounced back strongly after the announcement of government measures (gradual exit from lockdown and economic stimulus policies), the short-term environment remains uncertain. The challenges to implementing economic policies, the impact of 'deglobalisation' and renewed trade tensions between the United States and China are likely to see episodes of increased volatility. « As a result, our central medium-term economic scenario involves a gradual recovery in the second half of the year, continuing into next year (a U-shaped recovery» declares Florent Bronès, Chief Investment Officer of BNP Paribas Wealth Management. « Some markets will benefit from an attractive valuation. Beyond short-term fluctuations in prices, it is important to look for opportunities to increase equity positions in the event of a fall in prices. ln this context, a thematic approach should enable greater selectivity.».

BNP Paribas Bank Polska - a resilient bank for challenging times

In the face of recent shockwaves, the BNP Paribas Group’s subsidiary in Poland has shown its stability and operational resilience providing uninterrupted customer service while continuing a seamless transition to digital products, services and processes. The bank, being a major player in the Polish banking sector, is setting its sights on supporting clients and communities and making a contribution to economic recovery in the country.

Major Eurozone banks start the implementation phase of a new unified payment scheme and solution, the European Payment Initiative (EPI)

Today, a group of 16 major European banks from five countries (Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands and Spain) paved the way for the future launch of the European Payments Initiative (EPI).

Eco-health: an emerging science enabling efficient fight against epidemics

Researchers at the French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD), Eve Miguel and Olivier Dangles both aim at fostering the development of « eco-health », which is particularly key in this context of Covid-19 crisis. They are laureates of the 2019 call for projects launched by the BNP Paribas Foundation for its Climate & Biodiversity Initiative. Created in 2010, this international philanthropic program supports research on climate change and biodiversity.

Volunteering…And what if it was you?

Volunteering is a part of BNP Paribas’ efforts as a socially responsible player. It also responds to our employees’ willingness to give back. Through volunteering, employees can use their knowledge and skills to make real contributions to the common good and have a sense of personal fulfillment.

4th Disability Agreement: BNP Paribas reaffirms its commitment

At the beginning of the year, BNP Paribas signed its fourth agreement to renew its commitment towards the professional integration of people with disabilities. Since its first agreement signed in 2008, Mission Handicap continued to develop and acquire new expertise. Clarisse Breynaert-Mauvage, Head of BNP Paribas S.A. Disability Team, outlines a commitment of key importance to the company.

A closer look at carbon neutrality for BNP Paribas

BNP Paribas has been carbon neutral on its operational scope (direct greenhouse gas emissions and indirect emissions linked to the purchase of energy and to business travels) since 2017, through careful monitoring and reductions of CO2 emissions, the use of renewable energy and offsetting residual emissions. However, the work toward reducing the Group’s carbon footprint did not stop there. Specific and regularly enforced objectives have continued to reduce BNP Paribas’ direct environmental impact in terms of energy, travel and the responsible use of resources, allowing the Group to have already met its 2020 objectives. To understand better the Group’s achievement in these reductions, we take a closer look at the efforts made to achieve and maintain carbon neutrality.

Corporate philanthropy 2019 report: world tour of BNP Paribas’ philanthropic initiatives

Titled « Committing to the common good », our corporate philanthropy report presents the key philanthropic initiatives of the BNP Paribas Group in 2019 worldwide and across our 3 fields of actions: Culture, Environment and Solidarity.

BNP Paribas recognised in Euromoney Western Europe Regional & Country Awards for Excellence

BNP Paribas has been named Western Europe’s Best Bank for Corporate Responsibility and Best Investment Bank, two of six accolades across the Euromoney Western Europe and Country Awards.

Investing like an entrepreneur: 7 lessons from the Global Entrepreneur Report 2020

Between low interest rates and volatility in the equity market, the financial environment is uncertain today. What strategies do entrepreneurs prefer to protect their capital and unlock capital gains and better returns? To answer this question, the sixth edition of our Global Entrepreneur Report surveyed 1,132 entrepreneurs from 19 countries, examining the main trends in their private investments for the year 2019. Discover their key lessons.

BNP Paribas Group: Results as at 30 June 2020

Board of Directors of BNP Paribas met on 30 July 2020. The meeting was chaired by Jean Lemierre and the Board examined the Group’s results for the second quarter 2020 and endorsed the interim financial statements for the first half of the year.  

Violence against women: a Company-wide issue

One in three women world-wide is, has been or will be a victim of physical and/or sexual violence in her lifetime, most often at the hands of her spouse or ex-spouse. While such violence has an impact on the personal lives of victims, and on their professional lives too. As businesses are affected, they have a role to play in supporting victims. Learn from Caroline Courtin, Head of Diversity and Inclusion, what measures BNP Paribas has put in place to help.

Explosion in Beirut: the Rescue and Recover Fund in action

A major explosion occurred Tuesday evening, the 4th of August, at the port in Lebanon’s capital, Beirut. The incident has devastated the city, which has since been declared a disaster area, only adding to difficulties for a country facing corruption and a sharp economic downturn. In response to the crisis, donations from BNP Paribas employees and French Retail Banking clients will be matched by the Group in order to support the Rescue and Recover fund’s NGO partners taking action on site.

BNP Paribas: men and women, committed to improving the quality of life at work

Day in and day out, men and women of the Group play their part in developing a work environment respectful of both human and environmental values. This open, stimulating workplace fosters new talents by encouraging the acquisition of new skills.

Intrapreneurship: driving innovation

It is possible to foster an entrepreneurial spirit without working in a startup, and you can still be innovative within a large company. This the daily motto of intrapreneurs, who have been given the opportunity to develop their new ideas within their current company. These internal programs allow for a project to evolve in a flexible environment, and the practice is becoming more and more popular within BNP Paribas.

BNP Paribas, a bank contributing to society

Developing a solid contribution to society is one of the three primary ambitions for BNP Paribas’ 2020 transformation plan. In addition to promoting diversity and equality throughout all business lines, the Group is committed to making a strong impact on the local communities where it operates around the world. Click below to learn more about this commitment and how BNP Paribas employees around the world have been putting it into practice through microfinance projects, a strong response to the COVID health crisis, and volunteer opportunities.

What is an Integrated Report?

Today's society increasingly expects corporate entities to uphold ethical values and implement socially responsible business models. In 2019, these expectations made their way into French law, which incorporated social responsibility (accounting for the social, societal and environmental aspects or impacts of a company's activity) into the definition of a business enterprise. Further reflecting these changes, there is a trend in favor of replacing the activity report with a new annual reporting document called the integrated report. The publication of the BNP Paribas 2019 Integrated Report offers a good opportunity to take a closer look at this synthetic document, its purpose and its contents.

BNP Paribas, working toward a more sustainable economy

In order to encourage more inclusive, equitable growth, BNP Paribas is continuously innovating to remain a leader in sustainability. With a CSR strategy in-line with the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and work across all business lines to offer financial products and services that have a positive impact, The Group has been consistently recognized for its commitment to change. Click below to see some recent examples of how BNP Paribas has been at the forefront of sustainable finance.

Deciphering Sustainable Finance

While we often hear about sustainable finance and its benefits to society and the environment, sometimes it can be difficult to keep track of all the different terms used to describe these sustainable initiatives. To stay up-to-date on these ever evolving and crucial subjects, we take a look at defining sustainable finance’s most important elements.

BNP Paribas’ new film reaffirms its engagement towards society and its clients

The period we are experiencing, and its impacts around the world, are unique in their scale, intensity and duration. Since the beginning of the health crisis, banks have taken a number of measures to support their clients. At BNP Paribas, as a service deemed essential to the functioning of the economy and wider society, the Group has made great efforts to continue business operations, including at the height of the crisis.

An innovative payment solution for all of Europe

Europeans will soon be taking advantage of EPI, the European Payment Initiative. 16 large banks are driving this new, 100% European payment, which is expected to be fully realized in 2022. Its primary goal? To bring real advantages to European businesses and customers, while also reinforcing the continent’s independence.

Brazil: weak investment, a limiting factor to growth

Alongside demographics and productivity, investment is an important determinant of economic growth. It helps to increase an economy’s production capacity and is one avenue through which improvements to productivity can be made. In Brazil, investment rates have been structurally low but have also notably weakened over the past decade. While a number of enabling elements have emerged in recent years to help spur investment, many challenges remain and a recovery of the investment rate to its pre-2014 level is not projected to materialize until the second half of the decade, at the earliest.

Two 2020 Euromoney Global Awards for BNP Paribas

BNP Paribas has been named “World’s Best Bank for Corporates” and “World’s Best Bank for Financial Inclusion” 2020 by Euromoney, a publication specializing in international finance.

Celebrating artistic creation at the Montpellier Danse 40 bis festival

Renamed Montpellier Danse 40 bis, following the rescheduling provoked by the Covid19 pandemic, the 40th edition of the Montpellier Danse festival will take place exceptionally from 19 September to 28 December 2020. In the form of several rendez-vous, the festival invites us to return to the theatres and will offer 20 pieces versus the 23 initially scheduled.

Meet with Billie Jean King, an iconic figure in the battle for gender equality and a tennis legend

To mark the 50th anniversary of the “Original 9”, the founding movement for equality in tennis led by Billie Jean King, the International Tennis Federation (ITF) has decided to rename the Fed Cup as the “Billie Jean King Cup by BNP Paribas”. A strong tribute to this American tennis champion who has worked throughout her career for the recognition of the place of women in sport and in society.

BNP Paribas takes another step forward in its commitment to contributing to the Paris Agreement

Since 2015, several banks, including BNP Paribas, have committed to aligning the greenhouse gas emissions elicited by their loan portfolios with the Paris Climate Agreement. In 2018, during the COP24 in Katowice, Poland, BNP Paribas and four other European banks signed an agreement concerning the development of a common, concrete methodology to make this alignment possible. On September 21st, the signatory banks announced the publication of their first paper on the application this methodology. Imène Ben Rejeb-Mzah (Head of Methodologies and Data within the CSR Department at BNP Paribas), who coordinated this mechanism for the Group, talked to us about this commitment.

Katowice Banks - First application report of Pacta for Banks, a joint methodology to help align credit portfolios with the goals of the Paris agreement

International banks BBVA, BNP Paribas, ING, Société Générale and Standard Chartered have published a report on the application of the PACTA methodology, designed to steer their credit portfolios towards the objective of the Paris Climate Agreement. This report aims at helping banking peers to quickly understand and apply this methodology and thus publish comparable results.

A bank committed to building a better future

September 18th through the 26th mark the Global Goals Week, celebrating a worldwide commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Since their creation in 2015, these goals have been a guiding force for BNP Paribas’ strategy. This week, as the Group’s businesses reflect on ways to improve their contributions to a more sustainable future, we take a look at how the Bank is already committed to having a positive impact on a rapidly changing world.

Participate in the 16th edition of the Mobile Film Festival

1 Mobile, 1 Minute, 1 Movie: this is the challenge issued by the Mobile Film Festival, supported by BNP Paribas. For its new edition, the festival is inviting filmmakers from across the world to make a 60-second film on the same theme: Women’s Empowerment. You have until 20 October 2020 to submit your entry!

Stitching luxury and science into the sustainability-linked bond market

COP21, the UN SDGs… have contributed towards heightening awareness of the urgency of climate change. Public opinion has gained awareness that the world’s climate relies on a fragile equilibrium. To build a better world, sustainable growth is the only viable economic route. And all actors, be they governments, civil society or the private-sector, have a key role to play in making this become a reality.

CHANEL pioneers new Sustainability-Linked Bonds supported by BNP Paribas

BNP Paribas announced today it has supported leading luxury goods company CHANEL to issue its first Sustainability-Linked Bonds. The pioneering €600mn inaugural transaction – a first in the luxury sector linked to the ICMA Sustainability-Linked Bonds Principles – will support CHANEL’s ambitious Mission 1.5° climate strategy by linking the bond terms to carbon reduction targets.

BNP Paribas ranked 1st in the CAC 40 by EcoAct in 2020 for its climate commitments

This week, EcoAct released its annual Sustainability Reporting Performance Report, which analyzes companies around the world for their actions and reporting on climate-related sustainability. Among French corporations in the CAC 40, BNP Paribas has placed 1st, while also being ranked 5th worldwide.

#RG2020 - BNP Paribas confirms its commitment to the younger generation of international tennis players

This year, despite the health crisis, the French Open goes ahead. The most famous clay-court tournament welcomes the world’s greatest tennis players and has adapted to this unprecedented situation. With a capacity reduced to 1,000 people per day and a completely renovated stadium with a new retractable roof on the Philippe Chatrier court, the French Open offers the best possible conditions for players and their fans.

Designer-developer, a key skillset for BNP Paribas

Apps, websites, business intelligence tools, etc. – there are countless digital systems and we all use them every day, customers and employees alike. And behind each system’s interface are the lines of code written by a designer-developer. A few years ago, BNP Paribas decided to train and help its employees acquire or expand these IT development skills. In this joint interview, we talk to Johane Marmai, who joined the BDDF design-development team in February 2020 after six months of training, and Philippe Mansard, who heads ‘La Fabrique’ whose goal is to support and contribute actively to the reappropriation of technical and functional knowledge of the FRB Information System. They told us about their jobs and aspirations.

Diversity and Inclusion: BNP Paribas is taking new measures and setting new objectives

BNP Paribas SA's new "Diversity and Inclusion Agreement" comes into force on 1 October. Claudine Quévarec, Head of Policies & Social Affairs France and Caroline Courtin, Head of Group Diversity & Inclusion and HR CSR, enlighten us on what is at stake and the main measures set out in this agreement

Listen to “Sur la Voix des Champions”: when the greatest legends of world tennis inspire tomorrow’s champions

For the 2020 Paris Open, BNP Paribas is bringing together the greatest legends of the tennis world to inspire the budding talents of tomorrow. To accompany the future tennis champions of the BNP Paribas Young Talents Team on their journey, We Are Tennis is launching "Sur la Voix des Champions", an unprecedented mixtape that compiles motivational tips from the biggest names in world tennis, to music composed by the musical collective Bon Entendeur.

Portrait of Alexander Vantournhout, between circus and dance

Supported by the BNP Paribas Foundation since early 2020, the choreographer and his company, not standing, present the world premiere of Through the Grapevine, its new creation, on 3 October in Marseille.

BNP Paribas and Allfunds announce completion of strategic agreement

BNP Paribas, a leading financial institution, and Allfunds, a world-class independent leader in wealth technology, today announce the completion of their strategic agreement to build next-generation fund distribution services.

TREE BODYGUARDS: the impact of climate change on tree health

In the context of the European Sustainable Development Week, the BNP Paribas Foundation presents the first issue of an articles series that introduce the 9 laureates projects for 2020-2022 of its international philanthropy programme “Climate & Biodiversity Initiative”.

Biodiversity emergency: BNP Paribas takes action

Poaching, illegal trade of endangered species, pollution, overfishing and the destruction of natural habitats: every 20 minutes, a plant or animal species disappears from the planet. In the face of this reality, BNP Paribas decided to take action via its endowment fund to support the work of one of its partner NGOs, IFAW.

Science fiction or tomorrow’s opportunities? L’Atelier brings technological foresight in-house

What will be the primary concerns of society and of our customers within the next decade? What major impacts could emerging technologies have on the market? And how will events today change the world tomorrow? As a part of the Group dedicated to foresight and insight, these are only some of the big questions that L’Atelier BNP Paribas explores.

Diversity and inclusion at the heart of BNP Paribas corporate culture

Diversity Week, starting October 12, is launched with the implementation of a new Diversity and Inclusion Agreement between BNP Paribas SA and representative trade unions. This ambitious agreement once again demonstrates the conviction - included in the 2020 Engagement Manifesto and essential to our Group - that of the diversity of profiles and experience comes true wealth.

Portrait of Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker: a world reference in contemporary dance

Belgian Flemish artist, teacher, dancer and choreographer Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker is a figurehead in the world of international choreography. Her latest solo creation “The Goldberg Variations, BWV 988” which Anne Teresa De Keersmaeker performs herself, accompanied by pianist Pavel Kolesnikov, was presented first in France on 13 October at the Montpellier dance festival 40 bis.Since meeting the BNP Paribas Foundation in 2013, a partnership based on the transmission of a cultural heritage has been built.

HUM-ANI: the impact of climate change on infectious diseases emergence

In the context of climate change, what is the role of biodiversity as well as human activities and behaviours in the spread of infectious diseases in Southern Africa? Issues that the « HUM-ANI » project is trying to answer.

Accor and BNP Paribas become strategic partners to launch a co-branded payment card in Europe

This card will be linked to the Group’s loyalty program ALL - Accor Live Limitless and will be available in several versions. It will offer members the opportunity to collect loyalty points when making everyday purchases and to receive benefits tailored to their interests. The card will be launched in France early 2021 before being gradually rolled-out in Europe.

The banking jobs: the product owner, the essential leader in the digital era

Job titles are not always so straightforward. When it comes to the position of product owner, there can be some confusion about the exact nature of the role. However, this hybrid profession combining technological skills and business savvy has become ubiquitous and offers promising career opportunities. Lisa Cabot, Senior Product Manager at Bank of the West, helps us learn more about her job.

Sofia Merlo is appointed Head of Group Human Resources and a member of BNP Paribas’ Executive Committee

Sofia Merlo is appointed Head of Group Human Resources and a member of BNP Paribas’ Executive Committee. She takes up her position on 2 November 2020, succeeding Yves Martrenchar, who becomes Senior Advisor on that date and who will lead a mission alongside the Group's General Management until May next year, after which he will retire.

BNP Paribas Group: Results as at 30 September 2020

The Board of Directors of BNP Paribas met on 2 November 2020. The meeting was chaired by Jean Lemierre and the Board examined the Group’s results for the third quarter 2020.

"Bio-Inspirée…": The new exhibition by the Cité des sciences et de l’industrie with the BNP Paribas Foundation

The “Bio-Inspired, another approach” exhibition offers a highly original perspective: it examines how the organisms that make up the living world can inspire new sustainable development models and innovative solutions to environmental issues.

Supporting social entrepreneurs to accelerate change

Seeking to accelerate the transition to a sustainable economy, the bank intends to grant credit, in every sense of the word, to the solidarity-based economy. The current health and social context and expectations of savers clearly reveal that the solidarity-related dimension of our economy is a vital component thereof. It contributes to a strong social fabric, itself essential to a healthy global economy. Some initiatives like social enterprises, social business, microfinance, etc., taken within the sphere of the social and solidarity-based economy (SSE), are conducive to social inclusion and economic efficiency. We wanted to take part in their commitment to support this specific sector of the economy. This is why BNP Paribas has made it a development priority in its own right, in order to accelerate the transition towards a sustainable economy.

Expanding circular economies to accelerate change

The circular economy is a key concept in the drive towards a more sustainable and socially responsible economy. It calls for developing products and services conceived for re-use, refurbishment or recycling, making a second life or new applications possible. By recovering materials, it helps avoid the depletion of our limited natural resources, creating an economically and environmentally virtuous circle. This marks a resolute departure from the model of the linear economy (making everything disposable) towards an ecological transition. In short, it requires us to rethink as how we design, make and use things as well as how we live.

Rethinking the nature of savings to accelerate change

Personal savings play a key role in the economy. Money held in the bank, which some may believe is stagnating, is actually used to finance private and public enterprises. However, the impact of savings doesn't stop there. By choosing certain criteria (environmental, social and corporate governance), individuals are not only deciding how their money should be used, but also that these choices should favour projects with a positive economic impact. Accordingly, it's up to players in the financial sector - banks, insurers and investment funds - to offer products that correspond to these new expectations in order to speed up the transition. BNP Paribas already offers many products and solutions to meet this growing demand for responsible savings and continues to adapt its offer on a regular basis.

Climate Finance Day: Europe looks to sustainability to reboot the economy

Against the backdrop of the unprecedented challenges to the world economy in 2020, Finance For Tomorrow, a Paris-based organization leading the charge on a more sustainable future, has organized the 6th edition of their flagship event: Climate Finance Day.

Empowering efficient energy to accelerate change

With many economic actors agreeing on the need to build economic recovery on sustainable pillars, energy efficiency is a challenge that companies cannot ignore as it means substantial savings, taking part in a collective effort towards the environment, and offers access to pooled innovation. Encouraging energy efficiency suffuses companies with new dynamism by placing them at the heart of a responsible economy that boosts their competitiveness. The drive for greater energy efficiency is an opportunity, rather than an obstacle - an inevitable component in tomorrow’s economy and one that BNP Paribas fully intends to leverage and develop both with its clients and for its own operating model.

Channeling new energies to accelerate change

Scientific consensus is clear: to meet the climate objectives set by the Paris Agreement, we must be more efficient in managing energy and leave most fossil fuel reserves in the ground. The energy transition necessary to achieve this requires heightened energy efficiency and a switch from high greenhouse-gas-emitting energies to decarbonated ones. We believe that a responsible recovery involves accelerating the energy transition. The banking sector has a role to play here and can rely on three channels to influence change.

Helping companies switch gears to accelerate change

Sustainable finance plays a key role in serving a more responsible economy, in two aspects in particular. The first is to finance and support projects that promote a responsible economy and thus makes it possible to redirect capital on the macroeconomic scale. The second aims to assist companies in their own transformation by helping them to accelerate this approach. Both aspects require designing and deploying innovative and responsible financial products for all segments, from institutional investors to individual savers. As such, financial innovation serves companies for a responsible transformation and sustainable recovery.

BNP Paribas makes significant progress in Dow Jones Sustainability Indices, World and Europe, 2020

BNP Paribas confirms its position among leaders of the banking sector, placing itself in the top 7% of banks assessed (global universe of 254 banks). With an overall score of 81/100, BNP Paribas shows a continuous progress this year in the annual extra-financial rating of SAM – now part of S&P Global – while the average score of the “Banks” sector has noticeably decreased (39/100, i.e. -15 points in two years).

The European economy in the era of Covid-19

The economic shock caused by Covid-19 is indisputable: deterioration of public finances, shifts in the fiscal paradigm in Europe and the economic levers for recovery. Louis Boisset and Hélène Baudchon explain.

Women's Forum 2020: getting more women into STEM and AI

BNP Paribas, a strategic partner of the Women's Forum Global Meeting for the fifth consecutive year, is a key player in promoting women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines and in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). STEM and AI are two key themes of the Women's Forum, whose 2020 edition will concentrate on building a more inclusive world. This goal of greater inclusion has proved difficult to achieve in the AI sector, where women represent only 12% of workers and bias and discrimination remains a major issue.

MOMMY KNOWS BEST : the limits of blue tit birds' ability to adapt to climate change

How to adapt to climate change when the entire environment is changing? What are the limits to rapid adaptation? Through the adaptation lens of blue tits' breeding time, those are the questions that the “MOMMY KNOWS BEST” project is trying to answer.

Women's Forum 2020: BNP Paribas renews its support for women entrepreneurs

Supporting women business leaders in their projects is all the more crucial as they are bearing the brunt of the Covid-19 crisis. A partner of the Women's Forum since 2016, BNP Paribas is strengthening its support for women's entrepreneurship.

Orange Day – Fighting violence against women: a priority during the health crisis

The Covid-19 pandemic and lock-down have sharply increased the number of reported cases of violence against women around the world. Withdrawal and isolation are aggravating factors in situations of domestic violence.

EPI: The European Payments Initiative

The European Payments Initiative (EPI) enters the next phase with Worldline and Nets becoming shareholders of the EPI Interim Company, as the first third-party acquirers to join the initiative. EPI is also glad to announce the appointment of Dr. Joachim Schmalzl as chairman of the board and Martina Weimert as CEO of the Interim Company.

Isabelle Giordano will succeed Jean Jacques Goron as Head of Group Philanthropy and General Delegate of the BNP Paribas Foundation

Notification by the ECB of the 2020 Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process (SREP)

BNP Paribas has received the notification by the European Central Bank of the outcome of the 2020 Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process (SREP), which states that capital requirements on a consolidated basis from last year remains in force for the Group.

BNP Paribas moves towards the mobility of the future

Mobility. The term has become fashionable in discussions of strategic commitments, but why? The reason: a more sustainable world cannot be achieved without sustainable mobility. Ready for cleaner mobility solutions that are less detrimental to the environment? BNP Paribas and its subsidiaries are already on their way to making it possible thanks to an exciting, collaborative effort.

Together, let's support isolated people: BNP Paribas triples your donation!

Since 2012, BNP Paribas supports humanitarian actions through its endowment fund, the Rescue & Recover Fund. This fund raise donations from BNP Paribas employees and retirees, and clients from the french retail bank, to finance projects from its NGO partners.

1MillionHours2Help: Let's celebrate International Volunteer Day

Launched in 1985 by the United Nations, International Volunteer Day celebrates every 5 December the volunteers who, alongside associations, are committed to a fairer and more united world. This day recognizes their essential contribution to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals and in 2020, will acknowledge all their efforts in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

Disability: accessibility, a commitment for BNP Paribas

Any type of disability should not be a barrier to accessing the Bank’s infrastructure and services: branches, ATMs, websites, etc. Accordingly, the Group is committed to increasing the physical and digital accessibility of all its contact points with its customers and employees, both in France and internationally. On the occasion of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities on Thursday, 3 December, we look at the Group’s inclusive approach for all and in particular for those with disabilities

BNP Paribas says "Hello Tomorrow" by supporting deep tech innovations

Hello Tomorrow is a global organization supporting the development of cutting edge “deep technologies” (or deep tech). From 16 -20 November, experts from BNP Paribas were among the more than 5,000 participants from startups, academia, and the corporate world that came together for Hello Tomorrow’s Global Summit.

CAMBIO: the role of tree diversity in countering climate change

Facing increasing CO2 emissions, how to enhance the key role of forest plantations in mitigating climate change? A question the “CAMBIO” project is trying to answer.

Mobile Film Festival 2020: 8 awards to films committed to the cause of women across the world

The Mobile Film Festival(Opens in a new tab)(Opens in a new tab) announces the winners of its 16th edition, chaired by film director Agnès Jaoui. A 2020 selection firmly committed and dedicated to the cause of women, looking at the challenges they face in today’s world. Discover the 8 films awarded by the festival jury now!

EPI: The European Payments Initiative

Press release The European Payments Initiative (EPI) announces major Polish and Finnish banks and consortium of twelve Spanish credit institutions join as new founding shareholders.

"Green Company for employees": Reducing our impact, bringing our employees together

The “Green Company for Employees” programme was created to accelerate the reduction of BNP Paribas’ direct environmental impacts, empowering our employees. Perrine Tiret, in charge of Green Company for Employees, spoke with us about how the programme works toward this goal and contribute to a more sustainable world.

#Blockchain: BNP Paribas is supporting the future of the audiovisual industry

A world premiere! An investment fund specialising in audiovisual production (films and series) offers an investment path entirely based on blockchain: a new way of financing this sector impacted by the health crisis. This innovative financing model based on tokensation (the name taken from the token obtained in exchange for participation in the blockchain) will allow for more liquid, secure and transparent financing. This is a major innovation. BNP Paribas, Europe's leading provider of financing for cinema, is renewing its unwavering support for the 7th Art, which has been hit hard by the current crisis, with this unprecedented and pioneering operation.

The Whitaker Peace & Development Initiative programme celebrates its first generation of peace ambassadors

42 young people from the first promotion of the programme graduated on 3 December 2020. The programme, which BNP Paribas supports for 5 years, will train 350 young leaders from Cape Town to become peace and sustainable development ambassadors.

5 years after the Paris Agreement: the road to Zero Carbon

Organized by the City of Paris and the French economics publication, La Tribune, the Paris Zero Carbon forum was held the on the 10th and 11th of December at the City Hall of Paris and made accessible online. For BNP Paribas, this international event presented an opportunity to take stock of the advancements already underway and to look toward the continuing role of finance in the energy transition.

BNP Paribas Wealth Management presents its 10 investment themes for 2021

Health and consumer crisis: Europeans remain cautious

For nine months now, Europe has been dealing with the Covid 19 crisis and the resulting restrictions (lockdowns, curfews, etc.) it has imposed. The second wave had not yet hit, but households were already showing very cautious confidence. A far cry from actual optimism on a way out of the crisis, but rather a wait-and-see attitude, as the latest study by the Cetelem Observatory carried out in nine European countries reveals.

The banking jobs: cybersecurity, protecting against evolving digital threats

Banks hold a large quantity of client and financial data and are front line actors in fighting cybercriminals. The teams tasked with securing BNP Paribas' bank and customer data need to be curious, dedicated and driven. Malie Combs, Cybersecurity Manager at Bank of the West in Omaha, Nebraska, USA, gives us a glimpse into her profession.