When we hear about banks and ratings, it can sound too technical. But behind these global standards are values we can all relate to—protecting people, being transparent, and preparing for the future. That’s why Security Bank’s recent MSCI ESG upgrade to an ‘A’ rating is worth celebrating—not just for investors, but for customers and Filipino families too.
What Is an MSCI ESG Rating?
An MSCI ESG Rating is one of the world’s most trusted benchmarks for evaluating how well companies handle environmental, social, and governance (ESG) risks.
Here’s what ESG covers:
- Environmental – How a company manages its impact on the planet (carbon use, resource efficiency).
- Social – How it treats people (labor practices, customer protection, community impact).
- Governance – How it leads and operates (board independence, transparency, accountability).
Ratings range from AAA (leader) to CCC (laggard). A higher rating means a company is more resilient in facing risks like climate change, cybersecurity threats, or unethical business practices.
Why Security Bank’s ‘A’ Matters
Security Bank is now the only Philippine bank with an MSCI ESG ‘A’ rating, putting it on par with some of the most respected banks in Asia-Pacific.
Key reasons for the upgrade include:
- Stronger corporate governance – better board oversight and transparency
- Top-tier consumer protection – fast complaint resolution and strong data safeguards
- Robust cybersecurity – encryption, access controls, and information security
- Sustainability in lending – reducing exposure to environmentally intensive sectors
“Being the only Philippine bank with an MSCI ESG ‘A’ rating is a clear signal that our governance, risk management, and sustainability practices are helping us realize our vision to be best-in-class in sustainable banking,” said Sanjiv Vohra, President and CEO of Security Bank.
Why It Matters to Customers and Families
For customers, this rating means the bank is working to protect their savings, data, and long-term interests. For moms and families, it’s a reassurance that their bank is not only reliable but also looking ahead to support sustainable growth—something that will affect future generations.
For investors, the rating signals that Security Bank is resilient, responsible, and strategically prepared for global changes in regulations, the environment, and society.
Beyond the rating, Security Bank is also:
- The first Philippine bank to join the Alliance for Green Commercial Banks, a global IFC-HKMA initiative for sustainable banking.
- Partnering with IFC to expand green financing for renewable energy and climate-resilient projects.
Together, these steps reinforce Security Bank’s role as a forward-looking financial partner committed to building a sustainable and inclusive economy.
FAQ
What does MSCI ESG ‘A’ rating mean?
It shows that Security Bank effectively manages environmental, social, and governance risks, ranking it as a leader in its industry.
Why is this rating important for customers?
It means better systems, stronger data protection, and more sustainable practices that safeguard customer interests long-term.
Is Security Bank the only Philippine bank with this rating?
Yes, Security Bank is currently the only Philippine bank with an ‘A’ from MSCI.
What other sustainability steps has Security Bank taken?
They joined the Alliance for Green Commercial Banks and partnered with IFC to expand financing for renewable energy and climate projects.
When was Security Bank established?
Founded in 1951, Security Bank is one of the Philippines’ leading universal banks.
