HBR IdeaCast Future of Business: Standard Bank’s CEO on Driving Sustainable Growth and Shared Prosperity
54 snips
Nov 13, 2025 
Sim Tshabalala, CEO of Standard Bank and a seasoned leader in African banking, shares insights from his upbringing in Soweto that shaped his career in finance. He emphasizes the bank's commitment to inclusive growth and sustainable investments for all. The conversation highlights how digital transformation and AI enhance customer experiences while balancing technological advances with human empathy. Tshabalala addresses the importance of navigating Africa's political landscape, training employees for adaptability, and advocating for policies that support sustainable growth.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
From Soweto To Banking Leadership
- Sim Tshabalala recounts his upbringing in Soweto and a family steeped in education and public service.
- He shifted from law to finance to make broader societal impact by using legal and ethical knowledge in banking.
Purpose Links Inclusion To Lower Risk
- Standard Bank's purpose is to help people grow across businesses, families, communities, and environments.
- This broad purpose reduces country risk and supports sustainable returns by increasing participation in GDP growth.
Fintechs Driving Inclusion
- Sim highlights African fintech innovations like mobile payments and telco partnerships that expanded inclusion.
- He cites Optasium as an example: a company that started in 2012 and now serves millions across 38 countries.
