As banks advance in implementing the UN Principles for Responsible Banking (PRB), their efforts not only benefit clients and shareholders, they also catalyze systemic change—both within the banking system and across the real economy. 

As the framework under which the United Nations and the global banking sector work together to enable and accelerate the economic transition needed for a sustainable future, the PRB brings together a responsible banking community of unparalleled strength and diversity.  

Providing data and analysis on over 350 banks in more than 85 countries – representing approximately 50% of global banking assets – the PRB’s third biennial progress report – Responsible Banking: A Six-Year Journey of Systemic Change – demonstrates a sector-wide shift in banking practices.   

The report showcases how PRB signatories are increasingly moving from commitment to action, with tangible impacts now visible on the real economy and society. It also reveals that as part of the Responsible Banking Community, signatories: 

  • Evidence the financial advantage of embedding sustainability into strategy, governance and client relationships
  • Outperform peers across key sustainability metrics such as ESG ratings 
  • Innovate, pilot and scale new sustainability approaches which inspire global market practice 

For example, over 65% of PRB banks—and with that a significant portion the global banking sector—have adopted the impact analysis tool developed jointly by the UN and PRB Signatories, which now is also being used to apply the EU’s double-materiality approach.  

As a leadership group, the community also significantly outperforms its peers across key sustainability and financial measures:

  • 61% of PRB signatories rated as ESG leaders vs. 23% non-PRB banks.[1]
  • PRB signatories paid one percentage point less for equity and debt capital than non-PRB banks.[1]
  • Research suggests a positive link between banks that commit to PRB principles and their overall performance on key sustainability metrics.[2]

 

PRB signatories are further outpacing the industry in terms of developing financial products aligned with sustainability transition needs, having sustainability governance structures and establishing E&S policies – leading to stronger risk management in high-impact sectors, better regulatory preparedness, and enhanced board oversight. 

By addressing systemic sustainability risks and supporting client transitions, PRB signatories not only strengthen their own resilience but also contribute meaningfully to the transformation of the real economy. 

If your bank is looking to enhance its sustainability infrastructure, strengthen operational resilience, and unlock opportunities for long term growth, we encourage you to download this resource here, as well as explore how to become a Signatory.  

 

6 November | ESG Leadership and Financial Performance: What Investors Can Learn from Responsible Banking
This panel will explore the financial implications of sustainability commitments, drawing on MSCI Institute’s analysis of signatories of the UN Principles for Responsible Banking. The discussion will highlight how responsible banking practices correlate with stronger ESG performance and lower cost of capital, with broader relevance across sectors and investment strategies.

This is an official side event of PRI in Person 2025, taking place from 4–6 November in São Paulo. PRI in Person will bring together over 1,000 leaders and practitioners across the global investment ecosystem ahead of COP30. This unmissable event will feature high-level debate and insightful peer discussion on key strategic issues impacting your organisation, alongside extensive networking opportunities. Register for this upcoming PRI In Person event here.

 

[1] MSCI Institute: Do commitments matter? 

[2] S&P Global Sustainable 1: How do banks that commit to Principles for Responsible Banking measure up on sustainability KPIs?