G20 Summit 2025: Standard Bank eyes business opportunities

Standard Bank, Africa's largest bank by assets, is actively participating in the G20 Summit 2025 under South Africa's presidency. Sim Tshabalala, the Group CEO of Standard Bank, has been a prominent figure in the finance sector advocating for Africa to leverage its growth opportunities and tackle challenges like climate change. In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa's Fifi Peters, Tshabalala emphasized the importance of Africa seizing the moment to drive sustainable development and economic progress. The G20 Summit serves as a crucial platform for African countries to engage with global leaders and shape policies that will benefit the continent's future. During the interview, Tshabalala discussed the significance of Africa's economic rise and the need for strategic investments to foster long-term growth. He highlighted how technological advancements and digital innovations are reshaping the financial landscape in Africa, offering new opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs. Tshabalala stressed the importance of building a resilient financial sector that can support inclusive growth and address social challenges across the continent. Moreover, climate change emerged as a key topic of discussion, with Tshabalala underscoring the urgency for sustainable practices in business operations. Standard Bank is committed to promoting environmentally friendly initiatives and investing in green projects that contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future. Tshabalala reiterated the bank's dedication to ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles, emphasizing the alignment of financial goals with social and environmental responsibilities. As Africa's economic landscape continues to evolve, Tshabalala urged stakeholders to embrace innovation and foster a conducive environment for business growth. He emphasized the role of public-private partnerships in driving economic development and urged policymakers to create a conducive regulatory framework that supports entrepreneurship and investment. By leveraging Africa's demographic dividend and harnessing the continent's vast potential, Standard Bank aims to play a pivotal role in advancing financial inclusion and sustainable development across the region. In conclusion, Standard Bank's active engagement in the G20 Summit 2025 underscores its commitment to promoting Africa's economic prosperity and addressing global challenges in a collaborative manner. With a focus on innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth, Standard Bank is well-positioned to lead the financial sector's transformation and drive positive change in the years to come.