The Hindu Business Line : BANCON to address key issues

Mumbai, Nov. 23 Effective management, optimal use of capital, and implementation of sound human resource practices are the key challenges facing the Indian banking industry, according to Mr. H N Sinor, Chief Executive, Indian Banks’ Association (IBA).

These must be addressed in order to prepare Indian banking for adopting global best practices. “Managing capital risk is particularly important in order to maximise returns,” said Mr Sinor, in the context of two-day Bankers’ Conference (BANCON) in Mumbai, starting November 26.

While the focus of the last year’s Bancon was financial inclusion, this year’s topic is ‘Indian Banking: Towards Global Best Practices’. “This is of contemporary relevance as more and more Indian banks are looking at expanding overseas,” Mr Sinor said.

McKinsey & Company, the Knowledge Partner for the conference, will present a progress report on Indian banks’ best practices. The findings from the five proprietary surveys conducted by McKinsey at 14 leading Indian banks will be released at an event on November 26.

Reducing NPA

Indian banks have come a long way in terms of reducing the quantum of non-performing assets and implementing information technology. But still, there are certain areas where domestic banks are lagging behind their global peers, felt bankers.

BANCON will also discuss effective use of capital, HR, and IT, said Mr Sinor.

BANCON is being hosted by Bank of Baroda with the organisational support of the IBA.