IDFC FIRST is building a world-class bank that’s guided by ethics and powered by technology to be a force for social good. The bank was formed by a 2018 merger between erstwhile IDFC Bank and Capital First, combining the strengths of infrastructural financing with retail lending for consumers and micro-entrepreneurs. IDFC FIRST Bank prioritises customers’ needs and pushes for innovation throughout the product line-up. It was the first universal bank in India to offer a savings account with monthly interest credits. It introduced credit cards that are free for a lifetime and waived fees for many banking services. IDFC FIRST customers appreciate the convenience of paying toll, fuel and parking charges with India’s first RFID (radio frequency identification) tag. The bank’s business strategy is rooted in sustainability, inclusion and sound corporate governance. It incorporates ESG considerations across all aspects of the value chain and recently appointed a dedicated head of ESG and consumer lending. IDFC FIRST believes the nation’s net-zero initiatives will open significant financing opportunities in areas like climate adaptation and green economies. The bank levers its capital, digital innovation and talent to deliver meaningful impacts across the operational ecosystem. The CFI.co judging panel has praised the bank in past programmes, deeming IDFC FIRST as India’s most transformed bank in 2020 and its most promising new bank in 2019. For the second consecutive year, the jury has awarded IDFC FIRST Bank with the title of Best Sustainable Banking Strategy (India 2022).