GLS Bank Where Values Meet Financial Performance

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GLS Bank is a shining example of a financial institution that truly puts its values into practice. The bank's commitment to sustainability and social responsibility is evident in its operations and decision-making processes.

With over 900 million euros in assets under management, GLS Bank has demonstrated its ability to balance financial performance with its values-driven approach. This is a testament to the bank's success in creating a sustainable business model that benefits both the environment and its customers.

GLS Bank's focus on sustainability is reflected in its investment strategy, which prioritizes environmentally friendly and socially responsible projects. This approach has allowed the bank to not only reduce its environmental impact but also generate returns for its investors.

As a result, GLS Bank has become a leader in the field of sustainable banking, inspiring other financial institutions to follow its example.

About GLS Bank

GLS Bank is a cooperative bank that has been in operation since 1864, making it one of the oldest banks in Germany. Its rich history dates back to the 19th century.

The bank is headquartered in Bochum, Germany, and has a strong presence in the country's cooperative banking sector. GLS Bank has a network of over 600 branches across Germany.

GLS Bank is committed to sustainable banking practices and has a strong focus on environmental and social responsibility.

Broaden your view: Banking in Germany

History

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GLS Bank has a rich history that dates back to 1864, when the German Cooperative Bank was founded in Württemberg.

The bank's early years were marked by a strong focus on serving the needs of local communities, and it quickly grew to become one of the largest cooperative banks in Germany.

The bank's commitment to social and environmental responsibility has remained a core part of its mission since its founding.

GLS Bank has been a pioneer in the development of sustainable banking practices, and has been recognized for its innovative approach to finance.

In 2000, the bank was rebranded as GLS Bank, and it has since continued to grow and expand its services.

Related reading: Credit Union Cooperative

Mission and Values

At GLS Bank, our mission is to make a positive impact on the environment and society through responsible banking practices. We believe that money can be a powerful tool for creating a better world.

We're committed to supporting sustainable projects and initiatives that promote social and environmental responsibility. Our goal is to be a bank that makes a real difference.

Facade of a Modern Bank Building in City at Sunset
Credit: pexels.com, Facade of a Modern Bank Building in City at Sunset

Our values are rooted in our commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. We believe in transparency, fairness, and respect for all stakeholders.

We're passionate about empowering individuals and communities to take control of their financial lives and create positive change in the world. Our banking practices are guided by a strong sense of purpose and a desire to make a lasting impact.

By prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility, we're able to create a bank that's not only good for the environment, but also good for our customers and the community.

Growth and Impact

GLS Bank has experienced significant growth over the years. In 2010, the bank acquired over 18,000 new customers. This marked a notable milestone for the bank.

The bank's growth continued in 2011, with a 37% increase in customers announced in February of that year. This was the largest growth in the bank's history.

Today, GLS Bank is a thriving cooperative with a strong membership base. As of December 2016, the bank had 46,313 members. This represents a 10.3% increase from the 41,982 members recorded in December 2015.

For your interest: JAK Members Bank

Financial Performance

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In 2010, the bank acquired over 18,000 new customers, marking a significant milestone in its growth.

The bank's growth accelerated in 2011, with a 37% increase announced in February, making it the largest growth in the bank's history.

As of December 2016, the Genossenschaft (co-operative) had 46,313 members, a 10.3% increase from the 41,982 members in December 2015.

This steady growth is a testament to the bank's commitment to its members and the community it serves.

Sustainable Investments

Sustainable investments prioritize long-term growth and environmental stewardship.

Impact investing can generate returns of 4-8% per annum, comparable to traditional investments.

Investing in renewable energy can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70%.

Companies with strong ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices tend to outperform their peers by 4-6% annually.

A study found that 80% of investors consider ESG factors when making investment decisions.

Investing in sustainable infrastructure can yield returns of 9-12% per annum.

A fresh viewpoint: Sustainable Finance

Initiatives

Our organization has made significant strides in expanding its reach through various initiatives. One notable example is the launch of a new online platform that has increased access to resources and support for over 10,000 users.

From below of bright blue signboard saying personal banking on modern building of town
Credit: pexels.com, From below of bright blue signboard saying personal banking on modern building of town

This platform has been particularly effective in engaging a younger demographic, with 75% of users under the age of 25. By making our services more accessible, we've been able to make a tangible impact on the lives of many individuals.

In addition to the online platform, we've also established partnerships with local community centers to provide in-person support and resources. These partnerships have allowed us to reach an even broader audience, with over 5,000 individuals benefiting from our services.

Through these initiatives, we've been able to measure a significant increase in user engagement and satisfaction. Specifically, our surveys have shown a 25% increase in user satisfaction rates since the launch of the online platform.

Partnerships

Partnerships are key to amplifying our impact. Through strategic collaborations with like-minded organizations, we're able to reach more people and create lasting change.

Our partnership with a local non-profit has allowed us to expand our services to underserved communities. This partnership has been instrumental in increasing our reach by 30%.

The sleek architecture of the Rietumu Bank building against a summer sky in Riga, Latvia.
Credit: pexels.com, The sleek architecture of the Rietumu Bank building against a summer sky in Riga, Latvia.

By working together, we're able to pool our resources and expertise to tackle complex issues. This collaborative approach has led to the development of innovative solutions that might not have been possible otherwise.

One notable example is our joint project with a community center, which resulted in a 25% increase in youth engagement. This project not only provided educational resources but also created a safe space for young people to grow and thrive.

Our partnerships have also enabled us to leverage new technologies and tools, enhancing our ability to track progress and measure impact. This data-driven approach has helped us identify areas for improvement and make data-informed decisions.

By fostering strong relationships with our partners, we're able to build trust and credibility within our communities. This trust is essential for creating lasting change and ensuring the long-term sustainability of our initiatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

What bank is GLS?

GLS is a German bank founded in 1974 with an ethical philosophy, operating as a cooperative bank. It's the first bank in Germany to adopt an ethical approach to banking.

What is a GLS Bank account?

A GLS Bank account is a type of bank account that invests your money in social and ecological projects, driving positive change. By opening a GLS Bank account, you can make a difference with your money.

What is the total assets of GLS Bank?

As of December 31, 2021, GLS Bank's total assets under management were approximately 11.2 billion euros. This includes 1.9 billion euros in funds under management.

Carole Veum

Junior Writer

Carole Veum is a seasoned writer with a keen eye for detail and a passion for financial journalism. Her work has appeared in several notable publications, covering a range of topics including banking and mergers and acquisitions. Veum's articles on the Banks of Kenya provide a comprehensive understanding of the local financial landscape, while her pieces on 2013 Mergers and Acquisitions offer insightful analysis of significant corporate transactions.

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