Since the publication of its first Sustainability Report (SR) in 2021, Banque Cantonale de Fribourg has been firmly committed to integrating ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) principles into all its activities.
In 2024, BCF reassessed its medium-term strategy (2025–2027) and redefined its mission for the coming years. The challenges, areas of focus, objectives and strategic initiatives were reviewed, both at the overall corporate level and within the divisions and units. Strengthening the Bank’s ESG positioning is one of the five areas of focus.
In this fourth SR, BCF unveils its Sustainability Policy, which has been developed to specify the constituent elements of its ESG positioning:
1. Business ethics: BCF is committed to providing its customers with clear, accurate and accessible information, ensuring that they are fully informed. Transparency is at the heart of each exchange and strengthens the Bank’s trust and credibility.
2. Customer protection: BCF provides detailed information on its products and services, with a particular emphasis on fairness. It ensures that all its customers receive appropriate and impartial treatment. Banking secrecy and data protection are fundamental principles, supported by enhanced security tools to safeguard customer confidentiality and interests.
3. Access to finance: BCF provides clear information on credit terms, rates and fees. It explains in simple terms the steps to be taken to obtain financing, enabling everyone to make informed decisions. The Bank understands the needs and specificities of each economic sector and encourages regional initiatives.
4. Protection of data and information: BCF protects its customers’ data through robust systems and procedures, such as secure hosting, encryption, the use of complex passwords, strong authentication, firewalls and the “four eyes” principle for sensitive transactions. Access to data is strictly controlled, and critical operations are checked by two people. The Bank regularly performs risk analyses (cybersecurity, unauthorised access, human error, etc.) and implements action plans and technical and organisational solutions to strengthen security and protect the interests of its customers. It also pays particular attention to people who have difficulty using digital tools, offering them specific training and support.
5. Environmental impact of financing: Before granting financing or making an investment, BCF carefully analyses environmental risks and impacts (energy consumption, CO2 emissions, etc.). It uses specific calculation tools to assess the energy performance of buildings, thereby helping to reduce the environmental footprint of the projects it finances.
The publication of this general policy significantly strengthens BCF’s ESG positioning and clarifies its intentions for the future. It provides the Bank with a guide for setting quantitative targets, defining a concrete transition plan and implementing realistic and effective measures.
Our ESG commitment, which is central to BCF’s values, meets the expectations of our customers and the demands of today’s society.
Dominique Jordan Perrin
Member and head of ESG of the Board of Directors
François Briguet
Head of Strategy/ESG/Transformation