Singapore-based DBS has once again cemented its position at the pinnacle of international finance after being named Global Bank of the Year 2025 by The Banker, a prestigious publication under The Financial Times. Announced during the organisation’s renowned Bank of the Year Awards, the recognition marks the third time DBS has secured this coveted global honour, following earlier triumphs in 2018 and 2021. The repeated success firmly places DBS among the world’s most influential financial institutions.
The award ceremony highlighted DBS’ extraordinary achievements over the past year, celebrating its strong financial performance, dedication to technological advancement, customer-centric strategies and commitment to responsible banking. DBS’ win is particularly notable given the presence of 294 banks contending for recognition across multiple categories. This year, DBS did not merely secure the top global title; it also swept a series of major accolades including Asia Bank of the Year, Singapore Bank of the Year, Investment Bank of the Year – Asia, and, for the first time, Investment Bank of the Year – Financial Institutions Group.
The Banker’s Editor-in-Chief, Silvia Pavoni, praised DBS as a pioneer in modern banking innovation. She emphasised the bank’s impressive use of artificial intelligence to combat financial scams, a problem affecting customers across Singapore and beyond. Pavoni also highlighted DBS’ significant progress in implementing smart contract technologies, enabling faster and more secure cross-border payment mechanisms. According to the judging panel, DBS distinguishes itself by delivering innovations that provide tangible benefits to customers’ daily lives, enhancing confidence and trust in the banking sector.
DBS’ CEO, Tan Su Shan, expressed immense pride in the institution’s latest global achievement. She described the accolade as a validation of DBS’ forward-thinking approach and its determination to remain at the forefront of global banking excellence. Tan assured that despite the success, DBS would continue to remain “hungry, humble and nimble,” constantly striving to push boundaries, embrace new technologies and lead sustainable banking practices for the future.
The Banker itself, founded in 1926, remains one of the world’s most respected voices in financial journalism. Its annual awards are among the most sought-after in the industry, recognising banks that display outstanding resilience, innovation, operational strength and strategic clarity.
DBS, now present in 19 markets across Asia, continues to distinguish itself as a financial powerhouse. It holds among the world’s highest credit ratings—AA- and Aa1—signalling extraordinary stability and trustworthiness. Over the years, DBS has accumulated an impressive portfolio of global recognitions, having been named World’s Best Bank by Global Finance and Euromoney, as well as World’s Best Digital Bank and Most Innovative in Digital Banking by The Banker. It has also been crowned Asia’s Safest Bank by Global Finance for an unmatched 17 consecutive years.
Beyond banking, DBS emphasises social responsibility through the DBS Foundation, which works to uplift underprivileged communities and nurture social enterprises. The bank also prioritises financial literacy, digital skills and sustainable development as part of its long-term mission.
Through its strong presence across Greater China, Southeast Asia and South Asia, DBS continues to shape the trajectory of Asian banking while influencing global standards—solidifying its status as a truly world-leading institution.