Kilian Berz, global vice chair of BCG’s financial institutions practice, discusses how traditional banks can overcome challenges by embracing leadership and transformation. They delve into topics such as the impact of big tech companies, regulatory challenges, and the future of innovation in the banking sector.
Traditional banks can regain competitiveness by focusing on leadership and transformation.
Banking sector needs to prioritize innovation, modernize technology, and enhance customer experiences to stay relevant.
Deep dives
Challenges Faced by Banks in Modern Financial Systems
Banks are struggling in the modern financial system due to factors such as ultra-low interest rates and increased regulations. The top tier banks in North America have outperformed others since the financial crisis, while many banks face challenges in maximizing their value and profitability. Regulation post-2008 has increased capital requirements and limited banks' abilities to innovate and generate returns.
The Impact of Big Tech Players and Innovation on Banks
The presence of big tech players and their growing influence on customer interactions poses a significant challenge to traditional banks. There is a need for banks to innovate and transform their models to remain competitive. Incumbent banks must focus on operational efficiency, customer interfaces, and transformative changes, like operating with fewer employees, to adapt to the changing landscape.
Success Factors for Bank Transformation and Future Prospects
Successful bank transformations require strong leadership alignment, organizational mobilization, execution certainty, and a high-performance culture. CEOs must instill a shared vision for change within their teams. To navigate the evolving financial sector, banks need to prioritize innovation, modernize technology infrastructures, and enhance customer experiences. The future of banking envisions streamlined operations, reduced physical presence, and engaging digital interactions to stay relevant in a rapidly changing environment.
Banks and other financial systems are the lifeblood of the economy. But most of them trade at less than book value, constrained by regulation, the growth of private credit, and tech startups. Kilian Berz, global vice chair of BCG’s financial institutions practice, explains how traditional banks can regain their footing through leadership and transformation.