CaixaBank becomes first financial institution to certify its social activity model with AENOR

• AENOR’s external audit endorses the bank’s social activity initiatives through measurable evidence that demonstrates their direct impact on vulnerable communities and the development of population centres
• The auditor highlighted the specialisation of the social activity team, as well as its professional and close-knit structure, characterised by its broad presence and integration into the commercial network
• The financial institution has also been recognised as the ‘Best Bank in the World for its Support to Society’ by the US magazine Global Finance

CaixaBank is the first financial institution to have its social activity model certified by AENOR. This distinction verifies that the bank’s social activity initiatives are both measurable and audited commitments, directly impacting vulnerable groups and the development of population centres.

AENOR has audited the commitments that CaixaBank assumes in its 'Annual Social Activity Report' with the financial institution's social activity central services and its three key areas. This verifies how its social strategy is transferred to its business activity throughout the territory and to society at large. To achieve this, interviews have been held with social organisations working alongside the bank, as well as with those in charge of social activity across different regional directorates, guaranteeing that the commitments are executed promptly and thoroughly.

The main strengths endorsing this recognition are the specialisation of the social activity team, complemented by a professional and close-knit structure, characterised by its broad presence and integration into the commercial network. Based on the financial institution’s roadmap, the auditors have confirmed that the commitments are being met in each area in which CaixaBank carries out its social activity.

• Accessibility and Social Banking: 

AENOR has assessed that the bank works to ensure all individuals have access to secure financial services tailored to their needs, as well as the organisation's responsiveness and adaptation of financial solutions for vulnerable groups. 

It especially highlights CaixaBank’s strong commitment to accessibility and the removal of financial exclusion barriers, and the specific value proposition for social projects, such as its free platform for fundraising.

• Social Impact and Volunteering: 

AENOR has audited the effectiveness of the support and mentoring programmes, as well as the roll-out of financial literacy workshops and the response to humanitarian emergencies, ensuring that volunteers mobilise proactively to serve society not only in exceptional circumstances. 

• Solidarity Network and Social Projects: 

AENOR has verified the ability of branches to detect local needs in their areas of operation. The swift collaboration in response to social needs and the ongoing monitoring of projects in areas such as disability, child vulnerability, and the education in values of young people were evaluated.

International recognition

CaixaBank has also been recognised by the American magazine Global Finance for its commitment to society and social inclusion. In the latest edition of the Sustainable Finance Awards, the financial institution was recognised globally by receiving the award for 'Best Bank for its Support to Society' for the third consecutive year. 

Additionally, across Western Europe, the financial institution has been recognised with the 'Best Bank in Social Bonds' award for the second year running, as well as being named 'Best Bank for Sustainable Bonds'.

Now in its sixth year, the Global Finance Sustainable Finance Awards recognise leading institutions in sustainable finance that promote initiatives aimed at mitigating the negative impacts of climate change and helping to build a more sustainable future for humanity.

About CaixaBank's Social Activity

CaixaBank is a company with a far-reaching social vocation, in addition to being a socially responsible bank. Its endeavours to serve its customer and society in general are reflected in backing social action initiatives and its efforts to encourage volunteering, as a way to meet the challenges posed by society. CaixaBank's social activity promotes charitable initiatives, activities and campaigns, some of which include the collaboration of ”la Caixa” Foundation. 

Thanks to its presence across all of Spain, its branch network, the largest in Spain, can detect local needs and provide much needed help, while also supporting ”la Caixa” Foundation in channelling financial aid to social organisations. Thanks to its financial activity, the bank also offers services and solutions for all kinds of people.

CaixaBank’s responsible actions have been recognised by leading international bodies. The Dow Jones Sustainability Index ranks it among the best banks in the world in terms of sustainability and the CDP international organisation has included it as a leading company in the fight against climate change.