BPM Group - Borsa Italiana
Transcription
BPM Group - Borsa Italiana
2006 BPM Group Social Responsibility Report THE VALUE OF WORKING TOGETHER Interpretation, conception, action. The process with which projects are carried out is the same as ever. At various points in this process BPM has always advised individuals and businesses, financed and put them in contact. The real strategic resource for BPM Group is its continuous and constant exchange with Customers, Members, Personnel and all its Stakeholders: in this way action becomes joint action. CONTENTS 7 Methodology 8 Evolution of BPM Group’s Social Reporting Activity 11 BPM GROUP IDENTITY 15 Group Profile 27 Mission, Guiding Principles and Strategies 45 Governance 71 BPM GROUP ECONOMIC REPORT 73 Key financial highlights 76 Value Added 81 BPM GROUP SOCIAL POLICIES REPORT 83 Stakeholders of Banca Popolare di Milano 85 Customers 107 Members and Shareholders 127 Personnel 141 Suppliers 147 Community 155 Environment 159 Communications 163 GROUP BANKS AND PRINCIPAL COMPANIES 180 GLOSSARY Prepared by the General Affairs Office of Banca Popolare di Milano Layout and art direction Ology adv - Agema Group - Milan Consultancy and graphic direction Gilberto Cappelletti Methodology and procedural assistance Studio Badalotti for Bilancio Sociale S.r.l. Printing Grafiche Agema S.p.A. - Milan It is forbidden to reproduce either in full or in part the text and images contained in this report. Further information about this document, which may also be downloaded from the website: www.bpm.it, can be obtained by contacting the General Affairs Offi ce of Banca Popolare di Milano or by e-mailing: [email protected] BPM GROUP SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY REPORT 2006 I am pleased to present to you the fourth edition of BPM Group’s Social Responsibility Report. This year we once again confirm our commitment to reporting our Company activities for the benefit of our various Stakeholders and areas which we serve. Roberto Mazzotta Chairman Banca Popolare di Milano 5 Methodology The form and content of this document refer to the “Guidelines for the Preparation of Social Responsibility Reports” drawn up in 2001 by GBS (the Social and Environmental Accounting Study Group) and to the “Manual for the Preparation of Social Responsibility Reports by the Banking Sector” (2001) published by ABI (the Italian Banking Association), thereby ensuring the quality of reporting and the associated information. Ultramediass were consolidated according to the line-by-line method and that as at 31 December 2006 were no longer within the line-by-line scope of consolidation following: Structure of the document This document is organised in three sections: • Identity – describes the BPM Group’s profile, its mission, guiding principles and results of the 2004-2006 Strategic Plan, the 2007-2009 Strategic Plan and the Parent Bank’s model of co- operative governance and governance of the Group; • Economic Report – presents some of the Group’s key financial highlights and the calculation and distribution of Value Added. • Social Policies Report – describes the various social relationships and policies that Banca Popolare di Milano, the Parent Bank, maintains with its different types of stakeholders, stressing their consistency with the mission, principles and strategies discussed in the section on “Identity”. • the merger through incorporation of Ultramediass (a company already entirely controlled by Bipiemme Vita) into Bipiemme Vita. • the conclusion of a bankinsurance agreement with FonSai Group whereby 50% of the share capital of Bipiemme Vita was transferred to Milano Assicurazioni; This report also has been updated to include the key events that took place after the end of the 2006 financial year. Terminology A glossary of the specialist terms contained in this report can be found at the end of this document. Please note that the term BPM refers to the Parent Bank Banca Popolare di Milano. This section of the report also discusses the process of obtaining feedback and also contains a report on the commitments made in the 2005 edition of the Social Responsibility Report. As in past editions, a final section of the report describes the activities and key economic and social information relating to the Group’s banks and principal product companies. Scope of reporting and information The 2006 Social Responsibility Report refers to BPM Group, as indicated in the Consolidated Financial Statements of the Group. Unless otherwise specified, the economic and financial information and figures refer to those contained in the aforementioned Consolidated Financial Statements and mainly to 2005 and 2006. To take into account the changes made within the scope of consolidation and in order to guarantee better comparability between the data, the figures as at 31 December 2005 of BPM Group have been restated on a pro-forma basis. We point out that as at 31 December 2005, Bipiemme Vita and 7 Evolution of BPM Group’s Social Reporting Activity BPM Group launched its social reporting activity with the publication of the 2003 Social Policies Report through which it has been able to: • reflect on the Group’s mission and clearly identify the guidelines and values essential to achieving said mission; • take a critical look at the path followed in past years in order to identify the main lines of strategy that can be further pursued as well as guidelines for the future; • highlight the elements of “responsible management” naturally present in rules of governance and in relations with stakeholders. Communication activity The 2003 Social Policies Report and a letter of presentation from the Chairman were distributed to all Group employees and to Branches to divulge to their Customers. The Report was presented to the Members’ Associations and handed out to Shareholders attending the Shareholders’ Meeting of 24 April 2004 approving the financial statements. BPM Group continued its reporting endeavours by issuing its 2004 Social Responsibility Report, which was designed to give greater visibility to the Bank’s contributions to business growth and within different facets of the community. More specifically the report aimed to highlight the uniqueness and strong-points of the co-operative governance model adopted by BPM and its ability to bring together the needs of various stakeholders. This was made possible by: • analysing in-depth each stakeholder of the Parent Bank and developing the lines of strategy described in the 2003 Social Policies Report in light of the 2004-2006 Strategic Plan; • identifying the performance indicators able to intensity of relationships social responsibility report t social responsibility report t+1 representation of relationships 8 social responsibility report certainty of relationships measure the commitments made and report the improvements achieved; • preparing a base of instruments and methods to develop stable feedback activities with the stakeholders of the Parent Bank. Communication activity In June 2005 the Chairman presented stakeholders with the 2004 Social Responsibility Report. The presentation was held in the Sala delle Colonne room of the Milan headquarters in Piazza Meda. In attendance were the CENSIS General Secretary, Mr. Giuseppe De Rita, the General Director of Assolombarda, Mr. Roberto Polli, the General Secretary of the Milan Chamber of Labour, Mr. Giorgio Riolo, and the Director of Casa della Carità Father Virginio Colmegna. The report was also distributed to the Shareholders attending the Shareholders’ Meeting of 23 April 2005 approving the financial statements. In addition, along with the report, a letter of presentation from the Chairman and a satisfaction/ suggestion card were sent to all Group employees, and all the Branches for distribution to their Customers. A copy of the complete document appears on the Bank’s website and may be downloaded and/or consulted in full or section-bysection. The 2005 Social Responsibility Report refines the social reporting process of BPM Group and expands on its contents with: • information about feedback activities involving the Parent Bank’s stakeholders and the measures taken in respect of the commitments made; • a description of the measures taken to enact the 2004-2006 Strategic Plan; • more information about the Group’s banks and companies. The 2005 Social Responsibility Report also marks the start of a project that envisages greater social responsibility and aims to improve the overall quality of relations with stakeholders. Three characteristics have been identifi ed for describing the quality of relationships: intensity, representation and certainty: – the intensity of relationships is increased through the process of feedback and dialogue with the various stakeholders and through projects capable of developing the Bank’s links with the local area in order to boost its ability to interpret local economic and social needs; – the representation of relationships (accountability) is improved both by applying performance indicators that are better at measuring the achievement of strategic social responsibility objectives and by defi ning and satisfying the information requirements of the various types of stakeholders; – the certainty of relationships is increased through projects that help make the Bank’s conduct clear and transparent in respect of those dealing with it. For each of these BPM has identified specific projects that develop the Group’s social responsibility activities. Communication activity In September 2006, the Chairman presented the 2005 Social Responsibility Report to stakeholders during the inauguration of the “Centro Servizi BPM” Auditorium attended by Cardinal Dionigi Tettamanzi as well as the Director of A.A.Ster, Mr. Aldo Bonomi, the President of Assolombarda, Ms. Diana Bracco, and the Secretary General of the Milan Chamber of Labour, Mr. Onorio Rosati. The report was sent out to all the Branches to in turn be distributed to Customers. The employees of the Group however received a summary report containing a presentation by the Director of Resources and Contractual Policies together with a satisfaction/suggestions card. The complete document appears on the Bank’s website and may be downloaded and/or consulted in full or section-by-section. BPM Group’s 2006 Social Responsibility Report continues the social responsibility project aimed at transparent reporting and better relations with stakeholders. In particular, the Report: • describes the results of the feedback activity the Parent Bank engages in annually with stakeholders; • reports the measures taken with respect to the commitments made with the various types of stakeholders, redefining those for future years; • describes the results achieved by the Group by virtue of the 2004 – 2006 Strategic Plan; • sets out the guidelines of the new 2007-2009 Strategic Plan; • launches the TERRITORIAL WORKSHOP project to support competitive and sustainable development of the community and territories within which it is present. Governance of Corporate Social Responsibility The social reporting activity carried on from 2003 until today has enabled the Group to identify a model for governing corporate social responsibility involving the creation of a specific management team charged with co-ordinating the contributions and thoughts of the various company departments concerning responsible management and with checking the results achieved. This will make it possible to achieve, with understanding and graduality the “voluntary integration of social and environment aspects in all commercial dealings and relationships with all parties concerned”0.1 . On the basis of constant improvement, this model of governance will seek to achieve a system of social responsibility that is an integral part of the process of defining the Group’s general strategies that will help, with specific actions, to improve the quality of relationships with stakeholders. Corporate Social Responsibility will also aim gradually to involve the Bank’s different functions and to co-ordinate the various company initiatives in progress in this area: the preparation of the Social Responsibility Report, the process of obtaining stakeholder feedback and the relationships with Italian social responsibility networks. 1 COMMISSION OF THE EUROPEAN COMMUNITIES – GREEN PAPER, Promoting a European framework for Corporate Social Responsibility – Brussels, 18/07/2001 9 The value of working together. For economic, civil and social development. BPM Group identity The identity of the BPM Group is the expression of its way of being, meaning its business, organisational characteristics, people who work for it, the guiding principles behind its management and cultural model. This Identity reveals the Group’s distinguishing traits that characterise its uniqueness. 11 BPM GROUP IDENTITY 13 Group figures 15 GROUP PROFILE 16 Evolution of the BPM Group: key dates 18 20 22 BPM Group structure • Principal subsidiaries • Principal equity investments 24 Distribution network 27 MISSION, GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND STRATEGIES 28 Mission 28 Guiding principles 30 BPM Group Strategic Plan 45 GOVERNANCE 46 49 52 56 60 62 The Parent Bank’s system of co-operative governance • General Meetings • Board of Directors • Other Governing and Supervisory Bodies • Rules of Governance • Management structure 66 Governance of the Group 68 System of Internal Controls over the Group Group figures1 Group Customers 2006 2005 Individuals 1,166,000 1,176,000 Companies 143,000 143,600 13,000 10,500 Entities and Associations (in thousands of Euros) Income statement 2005 2006 (in thousands of euro) Operating income Volume of business 2005 2006 Loans 26,312,649 Pro-forma 22,585,310 Direct deposits* 29,354,399 24,612,847 Assets under management** 20,729,355 20,439,253 Assets under administration 18,884,318 16,655,183 * include amounts due to Customers, debt securities in issue and financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss. . ** at market value and net of any duplications. Pro-forma 1,764,675 1,551,657 Operating profit 695,120 513,720 Profit from current operations before tax 637,402 412,376 Net profit for the year pertaining to the Parent Bank 398,680 258,980 The figures refer to a duly reclassified format of the income statement so as to guarantee a clearer picture of performance and full compliance with normal market practices. The line items have been grouped or reclassified among the same. 2 Group personnel Managers Officials Other employees Total 2006 2005 2006 2005 2006 2005 2006 2005 97 108 2,334 2,346 3,884 3,947 6,315 6,401 Banca di Legnano S.p.A. 13 15 317 307 478 468 808 790 Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria 10 7 160 162 406 411 576 580 Banca Akros S.p.A. 25 25 112 109 107 107 244 241 Bipiemme Gestioni SGR S.p.A. 9 10 43 42 58 58 110 110 We@Service S.p.A. 4 4 33 31 41 41 78 76 Bipiemme Private Banking SIM S.p.A. 4 4 43 41 19 9 66 54 BPM Ireland Plc. 1 1 0 1 6 6 7 8 Banca Popolare di Milano Bipiemme Immobili S.p.A. 0 1 4 2 3 5 7 8 Other companies 2 1 6 5 58 57 66 63 165 176 3,052 3,046 5,060 5,109 8,277 8,331 Total 1 We point out that in order to take into account the changes in the scope of consolidation and to ensure better comparability of data, the figures as at 31 December 2005 of the BPM Group have been restated on a pro-forma basis. In this respect, the companies Bipiemme Vita and Ultramediass – which at 31 December 2005 were consolidated based on the line-by-line method – at 31 December 2006 were no longer within the scope of consolidation line-by-line following: • the conclusion of a bankinsurance agreement with Fondiaria-Sai Group whereby 50% of the share capital of Bipiemme Vita was transferred to Milano Assicurazioni (see “Significant events” - Directors’ Report of the Parent Bank); • the merger through incorporation of Ultramediass (a company entirely controlled by Bipiemme Vita) into Bipiemme Vita. 2 The number of personnel per category refers to the situation at the end of the period. The figures only include employees and exclude workers under different types of contracts (temporary and professional ongoing collaborators), which totalled 114 workers at the end of 2006. 13 BPM Group Identity Group profile Evolution of the BPM Group: key dates 1865 Banca Popolare di Milano was founded in 1865, in the climate of renewal characterising the era in the immediate aftermath of proclaiming the Unification of Italy. Luigi Luzzatti, the great economist and statesman, was Chairman from 1865 to 1870 and Honorary Chairman until 1927. The Bank rapidly established itself in the social and economic fabric of Milan thanks to its mutualistically inspired model and its support for small businesses, craftsmen and tradesmen without access to adequate credit and easy prey to usury. 1945 Up until the Second World War BPM developed as a typical local bank, enhancing its dominion in its area of origin. In the period immediately after the war the Bank made a significant contribution to reconstruction and economic recovery particularly fostering the start-up of small and medium enterprises in the northern area of the Milan province. 1990s The liberalisation of new openings resulted in the rapid growth of the number of branches, especially in Milan and Lombardy. In the second half of the 1990s the Group absorbed Banca Agricola Milanese, Banca Briantea and Banca 2000 (ex Inabanca), while obtaining control of Banca Akros. 1960s and 1970s After a decade of consolidating its past growth, the 1970s saw a considerable expansion in operations, taking BPM beyond its original territory with the opening of branches in Turin and Florence and branches and representative offices abroad. It also continued its expansionary strategy, absorbing Banca Popolare Cooperativa Vogherese in 1979. 2001 - 2005 In 2001, BPM acquired control of Banca di Legnano, expanding in areas of significant economic interest and within the vicinity of the Milanese centre of gravity. In 2003, as part of a growth strategy based on safeguarding its own identity, BPM signed an important agreement with the Strasbourg Federation of Crédit Mutuel, designed to develop operating synergies between the BPM Group and Crédit Industriel et Commercial, a bank with strong roots in the French capital and a Crédit Mutuel subsidiary. In the same year BPM reached an agreement with Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria to acquire control of Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria and subsequently to absorb it into the BPM Group. In 2004 BPM acquired control of 80% of Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria and executed the agreement to transfer 20% of Cassa di Risparmio di Asti to Banca di Legnano, a whollyowned BPM subsidiary. In 2005, BPM realized the Private Equity project through a partnership with Wise Venture SGR, developed a partnership in the property funds sector with AEDES S.p.A., and concluded a bankinsurance agreement with Fondiaria-SAI Group. 1980s The 1980s confirmed BPM’s great potential and solidity, with it taking a leading role in the rescue of Banco Ambrosiano (1982). In 1985 it obtained control of Banca Agricola Milanese through a hostile takeover bid – an unprecedented action in the Italian banking industry – demonstrating the banking regulator’s confidence in BPM and those firmly at its command. In 1988 it absorbed Banca Popolare di Bologna e Ferrara. At the end of the 1980s it created the BPM Banking Significant events in 2006 In 2006 a series of measures contributed to the results achieved by the 2004-2006 Strategic Plan and are at the root of the expected growth described in the new three-year plan. Among these are: BPM Group’s New 2007-2009 Strategic Plan The Plan continues from where the previous plan left off, adopting the following three main lines of strategy: development of Commercial Banking, higher profitability from the Corporate & Investment Banking area, and greater efficiency 1950s In the 1950s BPM’s growth strategy took it beyond the borders of Lombardy: it completed its first merger (with Banca Popolare di Roma, 1957), acquired control of Banca Briantea and obtained a major stake in Banca Agricola Milanese, becoming its principal shareholder. 16 Group to offer Customers complete, professional, multi-sector services, specialising in the more important areas of financial intermediation, asset management and remote banking. In 1989 it acquired Banca Popolare di Apricena. social responsibility report > group identity > profile > evolution of the bpm group in operating activities and platforms, completing the rationalisation process started in the last three years. Development of the bankinsurance agreement between BPM and Fondiaria-SAI Group Following the agreements signed on 21 December 2005, Fondiaria-SAI Group acquired a 50% stake in Bipiemme Vita. Within the ambit of non-life insurance, the Group has been marketing Multi-risk policies sold starting from last 12 March through the BPM network the distribution of car insurance policies is expected to start in 2008. The Group’s entry into the non-life insurance sector is designed to further increase Customer loyalty and expand the client portfolio. Acquisition of a stake in Pitagora 1936 S.p.A. In 2006, BPM Group purchased a 24% interest in Pitagora 1936 S.p.A., a special purpose vehicle holding 75% of Pitagora S.p.A., a financial company specialised in providing loans through salary and mortgage assignments. This agreement will enable BPM Group to widen its offering in the consumer credit sector, finance Customers with difficult access to credit, and exploit the Pitagora network to market other BPM products. Shareholding increase in SelmaBipiemme Leasing In May 2006, as provided for in the Shareholders’ Agreements, BPM increased its stake in SelmaBipiemme Leasing from 38.35% to 40% after renewing the commercial agreement for the distribution of products through BPM’s commercial network. Merger through incorporations of Bipiemme Immobili into BPM On 5 December 2006, BPM’s Board of Directors approved the merger through incorporation of Bipiemme Immobili S.p.A. (a real estate company of the Group in which BPM holds a 90.89% interest) into BPM following the purchase of the residual 9.11% of the capital currently in the hands of Banca di Legnano S.p.A. Securitisation of performing real estate mortgage loans worth approximately Euro 2 billion This operation entailled the pro-soluto transfer of a portfolio of performing real estate mortgage loans issued by BPM worth approximately Euro 2 billion and backed by first-level mortgage guarantees to BPM Securitisation 2 S.r.l. To finance the purchase of the portfolio, BPM Securitisation 2 S.r.l. issued a series of senior securities with limited recourse (with AAA, AA and BBB ratings) in July 2006. The securities were listed on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange and distributed to institutional investors for a total amount of Euro 2,015.3 million. Adoption of the new code of governance for listed companies In December 2006, BPM’s Board of Directors approved the adoption of a new code of selfgovernance for listed companies. The version adopted is the one presented by the Italian Stock Exchange on 14 March 2006 replacing the 1999 version (amended in July 2002), which BPM had fully adopted. Completion of the framework agreement with Crédit Industriel et Commercial In February 2006, BPM and Crédit Industrielle et Commercial (C.I.C.) mutually acquired an interest in each other’s share capital, with BPM acquiring from Crédit Mutuel Group 352,082 shares in C.I.C. for a total of 55,276,874, equal to 1% of the French bank’s share capital. This operation was carried out to perform and complete the Framework Agreement entered into with Crédit Industriel et Commercial with regard in particular to the mutual purchase of shares between the two banks. Simultaneously, C.I.C. granted BPM a put option on the sale of the aforementioned shares to be exercised in the six months following the possible date of transfer of the effects of the Framework Agreement. 17 BPM Group structure BPM is a group serving a vast clientele. It supports investment and lending projects for numerous types of Customer (households, small and medium enterprises, local authorities and associations) and combines with its evident vocation in the retail sphere constant attention to developing activities displaying greater growth potential, such as asset management and private and corporate banking. BPM is therefore a full-service diversified banking group, operating in all sectors of the financial markets. The Group’s structure is accordingly organised into the following business units: Retail Banking: this serves the retail market using different approaches according to Customer segment and includes the traditional branch network, as well as financial consultants, private banking and virtual banking with activities mainly focusing on: raising funds, disbursing credit, providing collection and payment services, distributing products and services for investment, retirement savings and risk hedging, providing e-commerce and on-line services in general. Corporate Banking: this serves the corporate market by granting credit, supplying collection and payment services, offering investment and risk hedging services and identifying commercial opportunities relating to extraordinary corporate finance operations. Investment Banking: this includes areas of business such as dealing in financial instruments, both on own account and on account of third parties, capital markets activities and primary market subscription and placement services (equities and bonds). Wealth Management: this mostly serves the retail market and includes all the activities associated with asset management, such as mutual funds, portfolio management schemes, insurance, products and services for the purposes of retirement savings and risk hedging. 18 social responsibility report > group identity > profile > bpm group structure BPM Group at 31 december 2006 Banca Popolare di Milano S.c.ar.l. Milan 93.51% 40% 55.16% Bipiemme Gestioni SGR S.p.A. 40% Milan 51% Bipiemme Private Banking SIM S.p.A. 56.89% Banca di Legnano S.p.A. Banca Akros S.p.A. Legnano (MI) Milan 19% 51% Milan Akros HFR Alternative Investments SGR S.p.A. Milan 90.89% Bipiemme Immobili S.p.A. 9,11% 100% Akros Securities Inc. Milan U.S.A. 50% Bipiemme Vita S.p.A. Milan 100% BPM Capital 1 L.l.c. U.S.A. Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria S.p.A. 80% Alessandria 99.99% Bipiemme Ireland Plc. 100% Dublin 100% Bipiemme Fund Management Ltd. Dublin Tirving Ltd. Dublin 99.99% We@Service S.p.A. 0.01% Milan 100% Ge.Se.So S.r.L. Milan 99% Retail banking BPM Luxembourg S.A. 1% Luxembourg Corporate banking 50% Calliope Finance S.r.L. Milan Investment banking NOTE - changes occured in 2007: • January: BPM purchased 100% of Bipiemme Immobili S.p.A. • June: Bipiemme Immobili S.p.A. was incorporated into Banca Popolare di Milano • June: BPM transferred another portion of shareholdings in Bipiemme Vita S.p.A. to Gruppo Fondiaria-SAI. BPM’s current shareholding amounts to 45.89%. • July: Banca Akros S.p.A. acquired the residual 49% share capital of Akros Alternative Inv. from HFR Europe Ltd., which changed its company name and is now only Europe Ltd. Wealth Management 19 Principal subsidiaries1 The structure of the BPM Group is the result of a process of acquisitions, equity investments and control of banks with distribution networks deeply rooted in the economy of areas neighbouring those of the Parent Bank and companies specialising in the development and offer of products capable of responding to the needs of a vast, diversified clientele. Banca di Legnano S.p.A. This established bank joined the Group in 2001. It has deep roots in the North West of Lombardy with a network of over 100 branches. Given its strong local roots, its focus is on retail Customers and small and medium enterprises. It also operates actively in the leasing segment. It owns significant interests in the Group’s product companies. Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria S.p.A. This bank joined the Group in September 2004. It is firmly established in the Alessandria area and surrounding provinces, neighbouring those in which the Group is already present. Its main business is with retail Customers and small and medium enterprises. It has around 80 branches. Banca Akros S.p.A. This bank provides investment and private banking services to Italian and foreign institutional Customers, as well as to companies and high net worth private clients. In 1999 it set up Akros Securities Inc. in the USA to act as a broker/dealer on the American market. Together with HFR, its American partner, through HFR Europe Ltd., it also set up Akros HFR Alternative Investments SGR S.p.A., a company that manages funds of hedge funds. In April 2007, Banca Akros exercised a call option on the purchase of the residual 49% of the capital held by the partner HFR Europe Ltd. The call option was granted under the Investment Agreement entered into with its American partner and expiring on 31 March 2007. Following the operation, the acronym “HFR” became the subsidiary’s company name. In 2006 Banca Akros acquired a holding in Promac, a company promoting alternative capital markets (listing in progress) and dedicated to giving small businesses easier access to capital markets. 20 Bipiemme Gestioni SGR S.p.A. This is the Group’s most important asset management company. It offers a complete range of asset management products, which is constantly updated and expanded to respond to the more diversified needs of Customers: mutual funds (active management, dynamic management, management for companies), funds of funds, pension funds and portfolio management schemes. Within this context, for the purposes of adopting the instructions issued by the Bank of Italy regarding collective asset management, and of providing transparency and an ever better response to investor needs, during the first half of 2006 the Company amended the regulations of the funds set up and/or managed by it. Bipiemme Vita S.p.A. An insurance company operating in the life and health/accident insurance sector, Bipiemme Vita S.p.A. offers one of the widest ranges of products on the Italian insurance market, guaranteeing the best investment opportunities and protection for its clientele. From a corporate standpoint, in performance of the agreements signed in December 2005 by BPM Parent Bank and Fondiaria-SAI Group to develop bankinsurance activity and possibly forge a partnership in the non-life sector, in 2006 Milano Assicurazioni, a company belonging in the Fondiaria-SAI Group, purchased in two instalments a total 50% stake in Bipiemme Vita. In the first half of 2007, Milano Assicurazioni exercised a call option on a further 1% of Bipiemme Vita thereby acquiring control of the company. On 31 December 2006, the subsidiary Ultramediass S.r.l was merged through incorporation into Bipiemme Vita in order to rationalise the shareholding structure of this latter. We@Service S.p.A. In IT, commercial and advisory terms, We@Service develops the virtual banking initiatives of BPM Group. The consolidation of We@bank, a website dedicated to retail Customers, and of InlineaNet, the portal designed for business, in 2006 was a pivotal step in developing a multi-channel bank that offers integrated services such as home banking, on-line trading and other high addedvalue services for its clientele. social responsibility report > group identity > profile > lprincipal subsidiaries BPM Ireland Plc. A finance company based in Dublin active in the dealing on own account of securities, bonds and credit derivatives. It controls BPM Fund Management Ltd. BPM Fund Management Ltd. A company incorporated under Irish law that manages harmonised funds, securities-backed guarantees and the multi-sector mutual fund called “Dublin International Fund” (D.I.F.), distributed in Italy through the network of financial advisors of the Group. The new sectors of the D.I.F. are to be marketed in Ireland in order to increase the financial products present on the market. Calliope Finance S.r.l. This financial intermediary company is listed in the register as per Article 106 of Legislative Decree no. 385/1993 and since the latter half of 2006 has been operative thanks to the joint venture between BPM and “LB UK RE Holdings Limited”, a company within the Lehman Brothers Group. In particular, Calliope Finance grants mezzanine loans for the acquisition and/or development of real estate. The project aims to optimise the potential synergies existing between BPM and Lehman Brothers within the ambit of property loans and take advantage not only of Lehman Brothers’ experience and client base within the sector of mezzanine lending, but also of BPM’s firm roots within the territory. Bipiemme Private Banking SIM S.p.A. Set up in 2001, this company provides personalised advisory services on investments in financial instruments and on wealth management to high net worth individuals who are clients of the Group. The company is distributed into 14 “Private Centres” located mainly throughout the region of Lombardy. In April 2007, the company obtained ISO 9001 certification for all its in-house processes. Bipiemme Immobili S.p.A. This company holds the non-instrumental property of the Group, in other words property to be sold or leased within the medium-term. Bipiemme Immobili has also headed the project for the development and completion of BPM’s Service Centre in viale Bezzi in Milan. In 2006, it continued to transfer non-instrumental assets. As this transferring activity was nearly reaching its conclusion, in the first half of 2007, Bipiemme Immobili was incorporated into BPM. The operation falls within the wider organisational rationalisation project envisaged in the 20072009 Strategic Plan of the Parent Bank to ensure that this latter retains sole management of the properties. 1 For further details on the banks and principal companies of the Group, see the final sections of this document. 21 Principal equity investments1 Banca Popolare di Milano owns interests in certain other companies in order to enhance the range of products and services offered to Customers and to support the respective local economies. The network of alliances is structured on the basis of a tripartite strategy: 1 To put the Group’s specialist expertise and specific product capability at the service of Customers of other banking partners with strong local ties. The agreements with the following banks fall under this strategy: Cassa di Risparmio di Asti S.p.A. (20% interest held through the subsidiary Banca di Legnano) A historical bank with deep roots in the area of Asti, this company is currently strengthening its territorial network in the provinces of Turin, Alessandria and Cuneo. Its commercial operations are mostly directed at retail Customers and small and medium enterprises. The bank aims to be an interpreter of economic development in its own particular territory. NordEst Banca S.p.A. (10% interest) This local bank, set up in 2002, operates in the provinces of Udine and Pordenone, positioning itself as a partner of reference for small and medium enterprises in the North East and for local investors. 2 To acquire additional specialist skills of excellence, possessed by external partners, in order to put them at the service of Customers of BPM and of other banks in the BPM Group. In this context we point out the partnerships with: Dexia Crediop S.p.A. (10% interest) This bank is a leading provider of finance to public works and infrastructure projects and of financial services to local communities. It is a point of reference for project financing involving local authorities, leading public agencies and the most important public-service companies. Aedes BPM Real Estate SGR S.p.A. (39% interest) Previously named Bipiemme Real Estate SGR, this company manages closed-end property funds, including “Investietico” – dedicated to retail clients and listed on the Italian Stock Exchange – whose equity is currently invested mostly in nursing and health care facilities and offices. SelmaBipiemme Leasing S.p.A. (38.35% interest) Set up as a collaboration between BPM Group and Mediobanca Group within the leasing sector, this company is among the leading ten companies in the sector. The company aims to satisfy the mediumterm financing needs of clients against fixed capital investments. Following the subscription of a capital increase reserved for payment, starting from January 2007 BPM has increased its interest in SelmaBipiemme Leasing from 38.35% to 40%. Etica SGR S.p.A. (27.50% interest) This company develops and sells mutual funds featuring a high degree of social responsibility (Responsible Values Funds) and whose assets are invested in financial instruments selected on the basis of strict ethical-environmental criteria. It serves investors wishing to invest their money in a more conscious fashion, based on the concept of sustainable development. In 2006 the three existing funds were joined by a new one under the name of “Responsible Values Equity”, which mainly invests in equities. In regards to defining the social-environmental criteria on which the investments of these funds are based, in 2007, the company switched from the ethical advisor Ethibel to EIRIS, an English company with a long-standing tradition in the ethical investment research sector. It is an active shareholder in the companies in which it has invested, meaning that it takes part in general meetings and presents proposals relating to the social and environmental responsibility of the companies themselves. 1 The companies described do not fall within the scope of consolidation of the Group 22 social responsibility report > group identity > profile > principal equity investments It supports microcredit in Italy, ensuring that 0.1% of the amounts invested in the Responsible Values Funds is transferred to a specific fund that provides small loans to the disadvantaged. Pitagora 1936 S.p.A. (24% interest) A special-purpose vehicle established in 2006 by BPM and, among others, the “Wisequity II & Macchine Italia” fund (managed by the subsidiary Wise Venture SGR S.p.A.) for the purpose of acquiring a majority 75% shareholding in Pitagora S.p.A., a finance company specialised in granting mortgages and loans against salary assignments. Through this shareholding, BPM Group is, among other things, able to optimise its offering in the consumer credit sector, a market segment with a great deal of potential thanks to the new laws that now allow employees of private companies and pensioners to obtain this form of financing and companies to finance clients with a bad credit history. Wise Venture SGR S.p.A. (20% interest) This company, which operates in the private equity sector, absorbed BPM Private Equity SGR during 2005. It currently manages three funds, among them “BPM Private Equity Fund”. Banca Italease S.p.A. (1.83% interest) This bank is run by a shareholder syndicate consisting of co-operative banks and mutual insurance companies. BPM’s interest is a result of the 2005 merger through incorporation of Factorit S.p.A. into Banca Italease. Banca Italease is the second-largest Italian bank operating in the sector of financial leasing. Its activity centres heavily on property and instrumental leasing. 31 December 2006 marked the completion of the merger through incorporation of Leasimpresa S.p.A. (a leasing company of Banco Popolare di Verona e Novara Group) into Banca Italease. 3 To acquire interests in organisations that carry out socially relevant activities. Falling within this context are the following equity interests: Istituto Europeo di Oncologia (I.E.O.) S.r.l. (3.53% interest) This is a private non-profit entity that provides services under arrangement with the national health service and otherwise. The institute, inaugurated in May 1994, became an Institute of Hospitalisation and Treatment for Scientific Purposes under a ministerial decree dated January 1996. In keeping with the standards of the most advanced international oncological centres, it carries out a complete range of activities in the fight against cancer: prevention and diagnosis, health education and training, research and treatment. In addition to BPM, its shareholders include Italy’s top banks (Mediobanca, Banca Intesa, Unicredit, Capitalia), top insurance companies (Fondiaria – Sai, Ras, Generali, Milano Assicurazioni) and some of the country’s most important industrial groups (Fiat, Pirelli, Edison, Telecom, Italcementi). Genextra S.p.A. (4.37% interest) This company carries out research and development in the innovative sectors of biotechnology, biomedicine and the functional genomics. The presence of biotechnology research centres of excellence in Milan and the commitment of respected scientists to making the city a national centre in this sector, have resulted in the decision to make this investment also with a view to the provision of support by a local bank to an important local venture that involves not only a particularly respected scientific and management team, but also institutional and private investors of high profile and visibility. In 2006 the company increased its share capital in order to be able to acquire control of Intercept Pharmaceuticals, a U.S.-based company whose scientific endeavours complement those of Genextra. Consorzio Idroenergia Soc. Consortile a r.l. (subscription to one share) This consortium generates electricity from renewable sources. The support for this venture is designed to achieve certification as a user of energy from renewable sources. 23 Distribution network The BPM Group uses a multi-channel distribution model in order to provide an ever better response to the demands for specialisation, quality and accessibility to the services by the different types of Customers. The number of locations and types of access to services is the result of concentrated investments in technology, organisation and training of the distribution network. The commercial sector of the Parent Bank was restructured in the first half of 2006 and has led Retail Branches - These represent the physical location specially for individual customers, professionals, and micro and small enterprises (with up to Euro5 million in turnover). Financial Consultants and Private Centres Financial advisors (2 working for Bipiemme Private Banking SIM, 35 for BPM and 14 for Banca Akros) comprise the network providing personalised advisory and asset management services. Thanks to this network the Group is also able to reach areas that have not traditionally been served. 710 retail branches 51 promotors 16 private centres pos (point of sales) Equipment that allows customers of traditional and mass market retailers to make safe payments using their credit and debit cards. around 20,000 pos 14 units in the corporate segment BPM GROUP internet channel Internet services - These allow information to be managed and transactions to be executed remotely, including on-line trading. They are managed by the company We@Service S.p.A. and are directed at individual customers and companies through the We@bank and inLineaNet channels respectively. 24 Corporate Segment - This is the BPM structure (4 corporate branches and 10 SME units,) operating in areas where the Group is particularly well established and created to provide advice and a point of reference for medium and large enterprises. 832 atm points ATMs - The Group's ATMs densely populate the area thanks to the presence of over 800 machines. call center call center - This provides customers with remote access and includes phone banking services. social responsibility report > group identity > profile > distribution network to changes in the organisational structure of the network, the closing of 18 corporate branches and the establishment of: • four new Large Companies branches that manage clientele that generates a turnover of more than Euro 50 million (divided into upper corporate from Euro 50 million to Euro 250 million and large corporate over Euro 250 million); • ten new Small to Medium Companies branches in each territorial area that manage clientele that generates a turnover from Euro 5 million to Euro 50 million. At 31 December 2006, BPM Group’s distribution network was composed of a total of 741 points of contact with Customers, consisting of 710 Retail Branches, plus the virtual branch of We@Bank, 4 new Large Company branches and 10 Small and Medium Company branches forming part of the operating structure of the Parent Bank, as well as 16 Private Centres, of which 14 belonging to Bipiemme Private Banking SIM and 2 to Banca Akros. There are 710 traditional branches spread out over 13 regions throughout Italy. In 2006 10 new branches were opened, of which 6 are BPM, 2 Banca di Legnano and 2 Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria. Two branches, one belonging to BPM and the other to Banca di Legnano, were closed. BPM Group distribution network 31/12/2006 Lombardy Province of Milan Other provinces in Lombardy of which: Banca Popolare di Milano Banca di Legnano Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria Banca Akros Other regions Emilia Romagna Latium Apulia Piedmont Other regions of which: Banca Popolare di Milano Banca di Legnano Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria Total Italy of which: Banca Popolare di Milano Banca di Legnano Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria Banca Akros We@Bank – virtual branch Total no. of branches Large Company Branches Small and Medium Company Branches Corporate Branches* Private Centres (Bipiemme Private Banking SIM and Banca Akros) Total distribution network 31/12/2005 465 462 322 322 366 96 2 1 364 95 2 1 245 240 31 58 38 92 26 30 57 37 92 24 152 11 82 149 11 80 710 518 107 84 1 702 513 106 82 1 1 711 4 10 – 16 741 1 703 – – 18 – 736 *In 2005 the Corporate Branches were replaced by Large Company Branches and Small and Medium Company Branches 25 BPM Group Identity Mission, Guiding Principles and Strategies Mission The BPM Group is committed to enhancing the value of personal savings and to support the business sector’s development with credit. It adopts a responsible approach to the demands of everyone it deals with and incorporates social and environmental considerations in its actions, making them a distinguishing feature of its activity as a bank and a co-operative and hence of its competitiveness and ability to create wealth. In keeping with this approach the BPM Group’s mission involves: promoting and sustaining economic, civil, social and environmental development in the areas in which it is present, exercising to the best its role as a banking group in respect of all sectors of the economy represented therein: • the private one - individual Customers and businesses, with a particular focus on small and medium enterprises; • the public one - entities and institutions representing the local authority sector; • the civil one - associations and other organisations representing the no-profit sector. Guiding principles 1 HARMONIOUS BALANCE OF INTERESTS The interests of Customers, Members and Shareholders and Personnel find a harmonious, balanced composition in the Group’s mission pursued to the benefit of all its stakeholders. To operate for the benefit of Customers by ensuring a quality, transparent service and for the benefit of Personnel by enhancing their professional skills are closely interdependent goals and represent the cornerstone of the Bank’s creation of value for its Shareholders. In fact, the different interests involved only compete against one another in a short-term, narrow sense, which may and must be overcome with a far-sighted vision of corporate interest, like that required in order to pursue the Group’s mission. The systemic, harmonious conception of value creation, not just economic value, takes into account the expectations for economic returns of even the most demanding of Shareholders, as a sure guarantee of commitment to meeting the expectations of national and international financial markets with regard to the principles of fair management conduct and transparent disclosure. 28 social responsibility report > mission, guiding principles and strategies 2 EFFICIENCY AND DEVELOPMENT Efficiency and development represent an inseparable pair of values and goals, always to be pursued together. While efficiency, constantly and resolutely pursued in every area of operation, produces development from solid, reliable basis, development itself is what gives real meaning to the comprehensive commitment to seeking ever greater efficiency. This virtuous circle involves developing state-of-the art processes and technology, enhances existing professional skills and increases the ability to attract top professionals from outside. • to generate the facts to be communicated. The BPM Group has a permanent commitment to communicating not just in words but with facts and work, reflected in its mission of social accountability. The Social Responsibility Report is the systematic method of reporting the Group’s strategies, actions taken and results achieved. 3 CO-OPERATIVE SPIRIT The co-operative spirit is at the basis of joint action for the benefit of all Members, by fostering their participation in the Bank’s affairs and decisions and in the development of the local areas in which it operates. This is an essential principle of the co-operative model, which in this way fosters the achievement of high standards of efficiency and social relations and so is fully entitled to a place in an economic system in which freedom of enterprise also signifies freedom to decide between different types of legal and institutional form. 4 ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY The principle of accountability and transparency requires every member of the business to perform their function responsibly, independently and to the best of their ability, answering for their activities to their superiors and being accountable to their stakeholders. The BPM Group views accountability and transparency as being at the basis of its ability: • to enact its values. It is a primary responsibility of top management, but also of all Members and Personnel, to enact the Group’s values and mission, continuously generating a genuine spirit of co-operation geared to achieving the mission itself and building with the various parties, inside and outside the business, fair and transparent relationships based on respect and trust, supported by professional competence. 29 BPM Group Strategic Plan The three-year strategic plan embodies the Company’s vision for the future, its positioning and objectives and strategies pursued through specific policies and measures. It is not merely a list of activities and measures, but represents a vision for the future of the company that contributes to the creation of a corporate identity. BPM Group’s Plan has been created and developed around certain key notions that on the one side stand as objectives to be achieved and on the other as the guided values that characterise the Group itself. Improvements in economic performance and in creating value for shareholders are brought together not only by more efficient internal work processes, but also by a commercial policy that is increasingly able to meet the needs of the changing demographics and culture of society and the new needs of the production system. In terms of the internal process for creating the Strategic Plan, the federal structure of BPM Group has worked together with direct contributions from all corporate functions and every Board of Directors of the companies of the Group. From this viewpoint, the Plan stands as a pact between everyone operating within the various corporate functions and clearly lays out the commitments each is able to undertake, thereby channelling human and economic resources to the designated management areas. Strategic planning process The Plan was structured based on a plan organised by business line in which the activities of BPM Group are divided according to a scheme that encompasses all the departments/companies of the Group. Governance of this process was entrusted to an ad hoc Guidance Committee composed of the Parent Bank’s management, the general Directors of the companies of the Group and a project team. The progress of the Plan was monitored not only by the ad hoc team set up within the Parent Bank (Strategic Planning), but also by all the corporate functions, each in relation to its own area of competence. This phase involves monitoring activities and entails further evaluation of the activities in question, possibly leading to review proposals on such activities. 30 social responsibility report > mission, guiding principles and strategies > strategic plan The choice of appropriate indicators is particularly important in monitoring the single strategic actions, highlighting economic results as well as qualitative results induced from the action itself. Process of strategic planning Defines the guidelines, validates the intermediate and final results, guides in strategic decisions. GUIDING COMMITTEE OPM (Operational Programme Management) (Strategic Planning) Acts as the starting point for the overall status of works, monitors, identifies and points out any critical areas. Analyse the issues assigned to them and draw up economic forecasts. TASKFORCES Works with the taskforces to provide specialised advisory services in the drawing-up of strategic measures. STRATEGIC PLANNING Gives support for the development of economic forecasts. OPERATIONAL CONTROL MARKETING Supports taskforces in processing marketing data. DRAWING-UP OF PLAN IMPLEMENTATION MONITORING AND CONTROL MONITORING THE STATUS OF WORKS PRELIMINARY ACTIVITY DEFINING STRATEGIES AND SINGLE MEASURES IDENTIFYING OBJECTIVES ANALYSIS IN DETAIL COMMUNICATION DEFINING THE OPERATIONAL MASTER PLAN DEFINING IMPLEMENTATION CONTROLS 31 Reporting of the 2004-2006 Strategic Plan During 2004 the BPM Group drew up a detailed and ambitious Strategic Plan for the three years 2004-2006 with the primary objective of regaining efficiency and consolidating profitability as a result of major revenue growth and targeted measures to cut operating costs. These goals have been achieved through a detailed programme of measures and projects affecting all functions across the Group; the efficiency and profitability goals have been achieved through general improvement in services and the variety of products offered to Customers, greater accessibility to and integration of the distribution channels, rationalisation of operating processes and organisational structures and refocusing of the business with regard to the economic sectors with which the BPM Group has been traditionally associated. Objectives of the 2004-2006 Strategic Plan • Plans for expanding volumes, revenues and Retail and Corporate customer base • Targeted expansion of the geographical and commercial network • Excellent products and development of marketing 1. Commercial development • Optimisation of operating processes and release of "commercial time" • Transfer of resources from the centre to the network • Actions regarding staff turnover and structural measures relating to payroll costs • Management of costs 3. Operational efficiency Goal for end of 2006** Cost/Income ratio 61% ROE* 12.4% Goal for end of 2006 annual average growth revenues +7.4% 2. Organisational set-up • Concentration/Rationalisation of the Financial Operations desk and direct channels (Internet and Phone banking) • Organisational simplification • Elimination of overlapping structures within the Group 4. Risk and capital management • Basel 2 project • Development of instruments and processes for improving the disbursement and monitoring of credit * Adjusted for goodwill and non-recurring items ** Objectives adjusted to apply IAS (originally 65% and 14.9%) and ITGAAP. 32 social responsibility report > mission, guiding principles and strategies > reporting of the 2004-2006 strategic plan Results achieved Organisational Structure 2006* Revenues Simplified 2005 RACE Project New Corporate Banking Structure +13.6% Costs +12.0% 2004 Reorganisation of finance area Closure of foreign branches Cost Income 61.3% 67.7% +3.4% Profitability 72.1% 2003 79.3% 6.3% 11.7% 7.5% Starting point ROE Adjusted 12.5% Results achieved during the three-year 2004-2006 Plan * For the sake of consistent comparison, 2006 figures have been recalculated on a pro forma basis through an integral consolidation of Bipiemme Vita instead of at equity. Actions carried out • Repositioned loan book on Retail and SME • Reduced concentration of loan book • Reduced financial assets component • Opened 33 new sales points • Increased number of home mortgages • Implemented RACE project (optimising the operational processes of branches) • Launched IT sector project to lower costs • Launched project to rationalise Back Office area 1. Commercial development 3. Operational efficiency 2. Organisational set-up 4. Risk and capital management • Restructured finance area • Closed foreign branches • Integrated BDL and launched the integration of CR Alessandria • Set up new Corporate Banking organisational structure • Implemented Basel 2 project (launched internal rating project to measure credit and market risks) • Entered into agreement with Aedes for property funds • Sold majority stake in BPM Private Equity • Entered into bankinsurance agreement with Fondiaria-SAI 33 2004-2006 Strategic Plan 1 Commercial development Volumes, revenues and clients1 The measures taken for Retail and Corporate clientele have resulted in significant growth in Customer business and revenues, which exceeded targets thanks especially to the positive performance of direct deposits and loans. The positive trend of volumes and margins improved company profitability and has enabled the Group to increase its market share (the direct deposit market share rose from 1.87% at the end of 2004 to 2.04% in December 2006). the margin of institutional relationships with credit companies. Consider in this sense employees of private companies who need temporary loans for amounts that are beyond their current means or pensioners. Bankinsurance The agreement reached and concluded in 2006 with Fondiaria-SAI Group, an Italian leader in bankinsurance activities, has enabled BPM Group to further consolidate its presence in the life sector and from 2007 market non-life products. By integrating banking and insurance systems and because they are complementary to one another, BPM will be able to offer its Customers a complete range of products aimed at satisfying needs that today’s life conditions render more and more complex. Strategic businesses During the course of the Plan, the BPM Group also worked on a large project to develop its business model in order to pursue objectives of qualitative excellence and product variety, by seeking out alliances with specialist partners who were market leaders in complementary spheres to that of traditional banking. BPM Group’s reorganisation translated into important company events such as the conclusion of agreements previously reached with specialist partners (Pitagora SpA and Fondiaria–SAI SpA Group) aimed at pursuing strategic businesses such as Consumer Credit and Bankinsurance. Furthermore, the agreement with Fondiaria-SAI Group will lead to production processes that are more efficient and to Customer services offered at competitive prices. Consumer credit A first transaction involved a partnership in the sector of financing against salary assignments between BPM Group and Pitagora 1936 SpA, a leader in the sector. The transaction was carried out together with the closed-end fund “Wisequity II & Macchine Italia” managed by its subsidiary Wise Venture Sgr. Through this partnership, BPM Group will have the opportunity to strengthen its offering in the credit consumer sector and, in the light of recent law changes, reach client segments that before were at Customer business and Clientele* 2004 2006 Objective 2006 Strategic Plan Direct and indirect deposits Euro 53 bn Euro 60.5 bn Euro Loans Euro 20 bn Euro 24.5 bn Customer business Euro 73 bn Euro 85 bn Net interest and other banking income Euro 1,417 mn Euro 1,794 mn 60 bn 14% Euro 23 bn 23% Euro 83 bn 16% Euro 1,723 mn 27% * Management reporting figures. 34 % change 2004-2006 social responsibility report > mission, guiding principles and strategies > reporting of the 2004-2006 strategic plan Expansion of the geographical and commercial network2 In the three-year period the Group continued to open new branches in keeping with its policy of making proximity to the Customer one of its fundamental drivers of growth. The programme of new openings mostly referred to BPM, in its traditional areas (province of Milan, Rome and Bari) and in places where citizens and businesses meet (Viale Bezzi Service Centre with the recent opening of a pilot branch with a self-service area and the Lombard airport system with the opening of the second Malpensa agency). All branches opened in 2006 strive to realise the R.A.C.E. project (Reengineerig and Commercial Excellence) – a new commercial model of the retail network – in order to improve their relations with Customers (with new window displays and internal layouts) and reengineer their internal processes so that personnel working in the branches and the head office can reduce their paperwork and focus more on their relationship with clients. Under the new commercial model R.A.C.E., selfservice areas will be installed and new spaces will be created so that clients can autonomously and freely manage their time and transactions. The geographical distribution of ATMs has also been extended, making them more accessible (including for the disabled), while use of the on-line channel has grown significantly. 1 More detailed information can be found in the section entitled “Key financial highlights” forming part of the Economic Report. 2 Detailed information on the development of the geographical and commercial network can be found in the section entitled “Stakeholders- Customers” forming part of the Social Policies Report. 35 2004-2006 Strategic Plan 2004-2006 Strategic Plan 2 3 Organisational Structure Operating efficiency Rationalisation of the Financial Operations desk and direct marketing channels (Internet and Phone banking) 2005 marked the conclusion of the reorganisation of BPM Group’s Financial Operations desk. The foreign branches in London and New York were no longer operational and in 2006 were definitively closed. BPM Group’s presence abroad is guaranteed through BPM Ireland, Akros Securities (U.S.), and the operations desks in Paris and Barcelona, as well as through the commercial correspondence agreements in force with the groups Crédit Industriel et Commercial, Caixa and Raiffeisen Mein Bank. As for the rationalisation of direct channels (Internet and Phone banking), all the activities concerning the Group’s virtual bank have been concentrated under We@Service S.p.A. which develops them in commercial, advisory and IT terms. Optimisation of operating processes The process of improving efficiency includes the measures to centralise and rationalise the central back offices, which have freed up “commercial time” for branch personnel, thus ensuring better Customer service. The measures designed to make operating processes more efficient have helped recover more resources than expected in the Plan; in fact, the measures adopted have helped recover the equivalent of around 100 staff. Semplificazione organizzativa ed eliminazione di strutture sovrapposte all’interno del Gruppo L’evoluzione dell’Area Finanza del Gruppo ha reso più efficace il presidio centralizzato dei rischi finanziari ed ha portato alla realizzazione delle necessarie modifiche dei processi organizzativi. Management of costs The management and control of costs have allowed the BPM Group to meet the targets set in the Strategic Plan. With regard to administrative expenses, these exceeded the plan’s final target for 2006 despite the costs for completing the Viale Bezzi Service Centre. Evolution of turnover The aforementioned operating rationalisation measures have resulted in significant changes within the personnel structure: There were 8,277 employees at the end of 2006, which was 228 fewer than at the start of the planning period. Le logiche sottostanti al processo di riorganizzazione sono riconducibili: • elimination of operational overlaps within the Group; • allocation of functions by centre of specialisation; • redefinition of internal checks for market risks. Operating efficiency* 2006 Group administrative expenses 2005 2004 (without IAS 32-39) Objective 2006 Strategic Plan 320.0 291.6 289.6 290.5 Payroll costs 691.1 656.8 626.2 624.0 Lightning of Group headcount ** 8.277 8.336 8.505 8.296 Cost/Income 61.3% 67.7% 72.1% 61.0% ROE adjusted 12.5% 11.7% 7.5% 12.4% * Management reporting figures prepared under IAS ** Figures do not include Bipiemme Vita and Ultramediass 36 social responsibility report > mission, guiding principles and strategies > reporting of the 2004-2006 strategic plan 2004-2006 Strategic Plan 4 Risk and Capital Management Between 2004 and 2006 BPM Group devoted particular attention to assessing and managing risks, in the knowledge that their careful controls within the ambit of their core business would be vital for steady growth. In particular, top management took steps to: – invest adequate resources in risk controls; – create unity in terms of strategy, coordination and control by centralising strategic decisions on risk management; – pursue and obtain full awareness of total risk profiles through analytic assessments of the risks incurred in the business areas and by the single subsidiaries; – use a system to limit risk exposure, managed and maintained by the Parent Bank for the business areas and subsidiaries based on the type of risk. The above measures were taken through the following actions: • Basel 2: BPM Group has officially decided to employ an internal rating system to determine creditworthiness. The internal rating models developed by the Bank are specialised according to type of clientele in order to take into account specific size. Attention is also given to “qualitative” data. In this way, BPM Group’s “local bank” image is strengthened, an image that it already promotes through its commercial activity, and value is given in the rating system to data that can be collected and interpreted thanks to the Group’s local presence. • Financial risks: with the goal of improving the quality of risk-measuring systems, BPM has decided to request formal approval from the Supervisory Authority of the systems already in use. • Operating risks: BPM has launched and started to implement a project to improve the way it manages operating risks, implementation which became necessary due to the progressive complexity of the “operating machine”. 37 From the 2004-2006 Strategic Plan to the 2007-2009 Strategic Plan The success of the 2004-2006 Plan has led BPM to draw up a 2007–2009 Strategic Plan that, like the one before it, seeks to render the operating machine more efficient, but, unlike its predecessor, is more focused on ambitious profitability and efficiency objectives in terms of its commercial operations in order to ensure BPM Group as a competitive player in the current banking scene. Evolution of the activities of the 2004-2006/2007-2009 Strategic Plans 2007-2009 STRATEGIC PLAN ACTIVITIES • 100 Activities • of which 15 reconfirmed from the previous Plan 15 activities reconfirmed in the new Plan 2004-2006 STRATEGIC PLAN • 11 Areas of implementation • 60 Activities 01/01/2004 31/12/2006 31/12/2009 2007-2009 Strategic Plan Improve profitability by increasing volume per sector and making commercial operations more effective and cost structures more efficient. 2004-2006 Strategic Plan Increase results and profitability by improving productivity, rationalising organisation and stabilising cost structures. 38 social responsibility report > mission, guiding principles and strategies > from the 2004-2006 to the 2007-2009 strategic plan The 2007-2009 Strategic Plan takes up from where the 2004-2006 Plan left off by: • consolidating the lines of strategy identified in the previous 2004-2006 Plan; • completing the commercial and organisational measures previously approved and in progress; • developing new initiatives and measures aimed at further reducing structural gaps by planning related investments and the actions connected thereto. 2007-2009 Strategic Plan The three pillars for development for BPM Group in 2007-2009 1. Development of BPM Customer Base • Higher volumes and more Customers, leveraging the Retail and Small Business segment • Expanding sales network and channels 2. Higher productivity and profitability 3. • Improving profitability and risk profile of Corporate and Investment Banking Better operational efficiency • Completing restructuring started in recent years • Developing selective • Launching new loan strategies products • Optimising risk profiles, human capital and capital allocation • Controlling new attractive segments Innovative actions on a mediumlong-term horizon Focus on performance and revenues Commercial Banking Wealth Management Corporate Banking Investment Banking • Optimising operational ROE 16.1% processes and ICT systems Structural measures with long-term benefits Net profit CAGR 14.3% Corporate Center Pay-out Around 50% Main objectives of 2007 - 2009 Strategic Plan 2006 2009 SP1 CAGR 06-092 25,340 38,640 24,517 88,497 33,383 45,298 31,993 102,220 9.6% 5.2% 9.3% 4.8% 1,765 –1,070 695 302 2,035 –1,129 906 443 4.9% 1.8% 9.2% 13.6% (Millions of Euros) Direct deposits Indirect deposits Loans Total Customer business (Millions of Euros) Operating income Operating costs Operating results Net profit for the year* DELTA 06-09 Cost Income Roe Adjusted* EPS* Tier 1 (Annual average)** EVA* 60.6% 12.5% 0.73 7.1% 147 55.5% 16.1% 1.07 7.7% 213 5.1 3.6 0.34 0.6 66 *2006 figures have been adjusted by excluding non-recurrent items. **2009 figures have been calculated taking into account the full application of Basel 2 1 2 S.P. Strategic Plan Objective CAGR Compound annual growth rate 39 2007-2009 Strategic Plan 1 Development of BPM Customer base MAIN INITIATIVES FOR 2007-2009 Branch plan Strengthen geographical presence, especially in the business market in the Bank’s traditional territorial roots, with the opening of 50 new branches. Overall renovation plan of the branch network The Plan envisages significant renovation to the internal layout of BPM Group branches and all the window displays. The new layout will make the areas more comfortable for Customers. The new window displays will showcase an image of the Bank that is clear and easily distinguishable as well as convey reliability and transparency so that the Group’s long-standing institutional/relationship values can emerge and be recognisable. By the end of 2008, all 700 of the Group’s branches will change the overall look of their window displays. New windows - daytime New windows - nighttime • Branch plan • BPM credit point • New branch layout (internal/external) • Development of Customer relations • Direct channels • Self-service • Telesales • Network of loan brokers • Network of consultants Distribution R.A.C.E.1 & CRM2 Customers • Direct issue of credit cards • Salary assignments • Life bankinsurance • Non-life bankinsurance • Leasing • Derivatives rates and exchange (sales) • Hedge funds Products • Loyalty program 2 • Emerging segments (young couples, immigrants and atypical workers) • Private Banking 1 2 40 R.A.C.E. – Reengineering and Commercial Excellence CRM – Customer Relationship Management social responsibility report > mission, guiding principles and strategies > 2007-2009 strategic plan Credit Point BPM plans to establish a network of Credit Points operating in conjunction with branches that is specialised in household credit (eg, mortgages, personal loans, salary assignments, revolving and non-revolving credit cards) and employs an innovative format that is more flexible and costeffective. Credit card issuance This project seeks to redefine the role of BPM from distributor to issuer of its own credit products. In this way, BPM would have the opportunity to establish a direct and efficient relationship with cardholders, while at the same time cutting management costs for the benefit of both BPM and the Customer. Development and attention to new Customer segments (young couples, atypical workers and immigrants) Because of the economic hardships and deep cultural differences that characterise this type of Customer, attention must focus on their constantly evolving lifestyles and highly segmented consumer behaviour. At the end of 2005, there were 2 million young couples, approximately 3 million atypical workers (17% residing in Lombardy) and 2.8 million immigrants in Italy. In the light of this data, BPM Group proposes to guarantee a comprehensive offering that responds to the needs of this target Customer, and to this end: • increase the immigrant Customer base for which BPM plans to devote multimedia corners within its branches, increase the number of agreements with ethnic/trade associations and telephone companies, and employ native speakers to work in branches and call centres; • make more mortgages available to atypical workers and young couples with special plafonds and flexible repayment methods. Consumer credit BPM Group plans to complete its consumer credit offering through a partnership with Pitagora 1936 to issue products and services linked to salary Instruments supporting the 2007-2009 Strategic Plan: R.A.C.E. and CRM Project The Plan will be backed by important commercial management instruments such as R.A.C.E. and CRM. R.A.C.E. is a commercial model aimed at improving Customer service and results for the Bank. CRM (Customer Relationship Management) is a tool used to identify the qualitative and behavioural traits of Customers. P R O C E S S E S • Segmentation of Customers and changes/redesign of portfolio (one manager per Customer) • New Front End organisation model • Final commercial plans at branch level • Structured and measurable sales processes • Redesign of operational processes with low added value for activity rationalisation (release of time for resources) • Motivational leverages • New internal layout RACE and CRM objectives Cutting Staff Defection Rate R.A.C.E & CRM I N S T R U M E N T S • Renewed platform • Individuals • Creation of CRM instruments to support the RACE project • Changes to indicators: churn, potential products, risk level Increasing Overall Cross Selling • Analysis of Customers financial position • Changes to and evolution of current platform • Companies • Optimisation of interface for companies • Integrated segmentation of potential commercial/risk • Prescreening of potential customers and preresolution of contact management system 41 assignments and other products and services marketed by BPM through the Pitagora network. Wider use of direct channels The Plan proposes to increase the use of Internet Banking by: • widening the offer of on-line products (eg, personal loans, virtual bank accounts for Small Business); • implementing innovative projects (eg, new access methods, electronic invoicing). Bankinsurance BPM Group plans to offer non-life products through its collaboration with Fondiaria–SAI to render the bank-insurance offering more complementary and integrative (eg, family protection products – home insurance, head of family insurance, legal assistance – and auto insurance). Main bank project Over time, BPM has become deeply rooted in Italy’s entrepreneurial fabric, especially in the area of Lombardy where it has been historically present. Thanks to BPM’s historical presence and attention to the needs of entrepreneurs over time it has recorded above-average increases in loans, while at the same time ensuring a level of risk that is among the lowest on the market. It is starting from these relationships forged over the years that the Group’s banks aim to strengthen their positioning and offer themselves as reference partners to satisfy the financial needs of companies. Loyalty Programme This programme rewards Customers’ loyalty to BPM products and services with collectable points. Addition of Customer relations resources BPM Group will add 80 professionals (between developers and financial brokers) to its network with the task of focusing on the Retail segment and the SME and Small Business market to enhance Customer relations. CHIEDI DI PIÙ ALLA TUA BANCA E RICEVI UN MONDO DI PUNTI. Scopri la facilità di regalarti tanti premi esclusivi. PREPARATI A UN NUOVO PUNTO DI VISTA. FOTOCAMERA DIGITALE. 42 CHIEDI DI PIÙ ALLA TUA BANCA E RICEVI UN MONDO DI PUNTI. Scopri la facilità di regalarti tanti premi esclusivi. PREPARATI A UN NUOVO PUNTO DI VISTA. SERVIZIO POSATE. social responsibility report > mission, guiding principles and strategies > 2007-2009 strategic plan 2007-2009 Strategic Plan 2 2007-2009 Strategic Plan 3 Greater productivity and profitability Lines of strategy for development of Risk and Capital Management The Plan seeks to improve risk levels and optimise capital absorption. The Group plans to strengthen its credit policy by: • strictly applying and carefully monitoring internal management restrictions; • developing operations with Private, Small Business and SMEs; • limiting the level of concentration of the loan portfolio. By fully applying the new Basel 2 prudential rules, BPM will have the opportunity to base its business Customer relations on more transparent and stable foundations. Lastly, by making its regulatory capital more efficient, BPM can narrow the gap between capital invested by shareholders (net equity) and capital allocated to business lines. Improve operating efficiency In terms of its internal processes, BPM will continue to regain efficiency, as already developed in the previous Plan. Rationalisation of the operational mechanism Organisational measures • Render the central functions and commercial network more efficient. • Optimise property management. • Consolidate and complete IT sector restructuring measures. ICT Administrative costs Investments • Cut unit purchase costs and consumption of all Group companies by: – making the Group's Procurement Department fully operational; – consolidating cost managment practises initiatied during the previous plan. • Restore investment balance through progressive action ranging from measures aimed at supporting the operational mechanism to investments geared towards developing commercial relations. Planned Activities The 2007-2009 Strategic Plan envisages approximately 100 activities, divided up by business line (commercial banking, corporate banking, investment banking, wealth management, IT and Corporate Centre) and involving all of the companies of the Group. LE ATTIVITÀ MESSE A PIANO Information Technology (9) Corporate Center (16) Wealth Management (2) Investment Banking (12) Commercial Banking (55) Corporate Banking (8) 43 BPM Group Identity Governance The Parent Bank’s system of co-operative governance Governance, in its widest sense, relates not only to the system of rules governing relationships between shareholders, Directors, management and other stakeholders, but also to the set of laws, market rules and methods of governance and management that allow the business to attract capital and to create an efficient, effective and profitable business. Governance of Co-operative Banks The applicability of the company law reforms to co-operative banks1 and specifically the new rules on co-operatives,2 confirms the membership of such banks in the diverse “family” of cooperative institutes, including those that are not “predominantly mutualistic”.3 In this way co-operative banks not only retain the principal structural and functional characteristics of co-operative entities, but they also offer a unique model of mutuality at the service of their Members, in support of the local economies of the areas in which they operate (providing particular access to credit for individual Customers and SMEs) and through their original “democratic” method of governance based on the equality of their Members. This equality includes the following features: • each shareholder-member is entitled to a single vote, regardless of the number of shares held (one-man-one-vote); • no one may hold more than 0.50% of share capital (shareholding threshold), with the exception of undertakings for collective investment in transferable assets; • there must be at least two hundred members; • any earnings not allocated to the legal reserve, other reserves, or other purposes specified in the articles of association or not distributed to members, are allocated to charity or activities of social benefit; • resolutions by the Board of Directors to approve or reject applications by shareholders for admission to membership must be taken bearing in mind the company’s interests, the rules embodied in the articles of association and the spirit of the co-operative principle (approval clause). Members are therefore those who not only own shares but have also been approved by the Board of Directors and so have been entered into the Register of Members, thereby becoming entitled to participate and vote in general meetings. Such a right is not granted to Shareholders, who can only exercise ownership rights. 1 As established by Decree 310/04 Within the limits specified in the special rule set out in new article 150bis of the Banking Act 3 In other words, the legislator allows the possibility of creating, within the standard co-operative model, corporate entities in which - like co- operative banks - the mutualistic purpose may co-exist, in compliance with the co-operative governance model, with a profit-seeking purpose, as reflected in the possibility of distributing the full amount of earnings, the grant of rights over the assets to shareholders who are not Members, and the favour accorded to institutional investors in the matter of share ownership limits. 2 46 social responsibility report > group identity > governance The co-operative banking model’s one-man-onevote system and restrictions on share ownership preventing the formation of pre-established controlling syndicates fosters the presence of independent Directors on the Board of Directors and its committees and is also the reason, since each Member has equal status, for the active participation in decisions taken in general meetings. Governance of Banca Popolare di Milano As part of the reconfirmed validity of the cooperative model, Banca Popolare di Milano has undertaken an extensive remodelling of its internal governance system in recent years with the purpose of optimising the rules of procedure and operation of its governing and supervisory bodies on the basis of greater efficiency and representation of its members. BPM’s current model of governance is based on the following principles and goals: • to foster the representativeness of the general meeting and the corporate bodies, through the defence of minority groupings and the presence of their representatives on corporate bodies; • to ensure the independence and professionalism of members of the Board of Directors and the transparency of their decisions, these goals also being behind the Bank’s adoption of the best practice rules contained in the Code of Conduct for Listed Companies (with the implementation of the new edition of March 2006); • to ensure effective rules of procedure and suitable controls over roles and responsibilities, through constant evaluation of the organisation and efficiency of board committees (to which, in accordance with the aforementioned Code of Conduct, a special annual meeting is now dedicated); • to make subsidiary companies aware of their responsibility for the specific mission concerning clear, transparent rules, promoting their appreciation and efficiency as part of a Group-wide strategic policy; • to encourage the holding of shares by employees in order to maximise participation; • to encourage shareholders to become members of the co-operative in order to foster their participation in its operation and decisions, also ensuring greater protection of their interests. Governance thus conceived makes it possible to achieve a harmonious balance between the interests of Members/Shareholders, Customers and Personnel. These interests, which in the long run find their natural reflection in the achievement of the Bank’s mission to the benefit of all the stakeholders, are protected in the short term by the transparency and efficiency of operations, guaranteed by the independence and professionalism of the Board of Directors and management. 47 governing and supervisory bodies shareholders’ meeting arbitration committee board of directors 3 acting memebers and 2 alternate members This performs supervisory activities, taking part in all meetings of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee and, in the person of the Chairman or one of his nominees, meetings of the Internal Control Committee. Members of the Board of Statutory Auditors may attend Supervisory Committee meetings. board of statutory auditors 20 directors, including the chairman, 2 deputy chairmen and one director entrusted with ensuring that the internal control system is functional (as provided for in the new code of conduct) 5 acting members and 4 alternate members executive committee 7 members, including the Chairman and two Deputy Chairmen Board Financing Committee key: 9 memebers, including the Chairman and two Deputy Chairmen 5 memebers (who do not sit on the Executive Committee) supervisory governing Remuneration Committee Members Relaions’ Commission 6 memebers (of whom 4 do not sit on the Executive Committee) Internal Control Committee 6 memebers (of whom 5 do not sit on the Executive Committee) Supervisory Committee (Decree 231/01) 4 memebers including the Technical and Operating Controls Manager This assists the Board of Directors in setting guidelines for the system of internal controls and periodically checks the adequacy thereof In accordance with Decree 231/01 this committee evaluates the adequancy of the organisational, operational and control models and of the COde of Ethics and monitors their operation and observance general management Policy guidelines Improvement of work programmes Oversees the process of evaluating credit, market and operational risks (measurement of exposure to risk, review of scenarios) risk management 48 State-of-the-art system of control management of internal auditing General audits Specific audits Follow-up work Monitoring Reporting of anomalies Verifies limits individual departments Results of reviews performed Individuals departments and the networks carry out specific controls on direct activities through duly documented monitoring procedures (line controls) social responsibility report > group identity > governance Is not bound to any operational function and reports directly to the BoD. Report on line controls Reporting of anomalies netwotks General Meetings General meetings represent all the Bank’s Members and its conduct is governed by the law, the articles of association, the Regulations for General Meetings and, unless otherwise provided, by the Chairman. General meeting may be attended by Members listed in the Register of Members, in the manner and terms stated in the articles of association, as well as by the Directors, members of the Board of Statutory Auditors and members of senior management. General meetings can be attended, without any right to speak or to vote, by professionals, consultants, experts, financial analysts, qualified journalists and persons other than Members, if expressly authorised by the Board of Directors or by the meeting’s Chairman. Regulations for General Meetings Their purpose is to provide a full set of functional rules for governing the proceedings of general meetings, a key event in the corporate life of a co-operative bank with widely-held shares. These Regulations provide rules relating to: • the procedures and conditions for taking part in general meetings; • the powers of the Chairman for running such meetings; • how ballot papers should be arranged, how voting should take place and how votes should be counted. List voting system BPM encourages the presence of the various member groups on the Board of Directors and Board of Statutory Auditors and their aggregation into associations representing like interests, with a view to the Bank’s general interest and in compliance with the co-operative model. The adoption of the list voting system for appointing Directors since the general meeting of April 2003 – now compulsory for listed companies 1 – has given “minority members” a more direct say in the running of the Bank, making its governing body more representative and respected by the general body of Shareholders. Single ballot for the appointment of the entire Board of Directors 1 Based on new article 147-ter of Decree 58/98, as amended by Law 262/05 (known as the “Investment protection law”) and subsequently by Legislative Decree no. 303/06 (the so-called “Corrective Decree”) As a result of adopting the “list voting system” in the general meeting of April 2003, it has become more appropriate to re-elect the entire Board of Directors in a single ballot (unlike the former system which involved at least two ballots), in order 49 to ensure balance between the different member groupings and to provide the Bank with a stable, cohesive governing body for the entire three-year term. The mechanism of list voting involves: • the presentation of the lists of candidates by a group of not less than 300 shareholders who have been included in the Register of Members for at least 90 days, and who have a Membership review The Bank’s membership is reviewed through a detailed examination of the entries contained in the Register of Members and the cancellation of all those names who no longer own the Bank’s shares. The purpose is to provide Members and the market with correct information about the actual size of membership; this is also needed for the purposes of determining the quorum for the meeting’s valid formation and the quorum required for passing valid resolutions set out in the articles of association. right to attend and vote at the general meeting; • a fixed number of Directors nominated by the majority members (16) and by any “minority” groups (up to 4 in total); • the replacement of Directors, if necessary, during the course of their three-year term in office maintaining - where possible - the proportion between the majority and any “minorities” as indicated above; • the introduction of a “representative quorum” for lists General resolution concerning management of relationshipswith Members This resolution defines the requirements and procedures for admitting the candidate as a Member, who must own at least 100 shares as a guarantee of their effective interest in taking part in the co-operative and provide a statement that they are committed to retaining these shares over time. This resolution also establishes the requirements and procedures for cancelling membership and the criteria for maintaining the Register of Members and the Register of Shareholders (see the subsequent section on “Members and Shareholders”). 50 social responsibility report > group identity > governance obtaining at least 150 f the votes validly expressed at the general meeting (lists obtaining less than this minimum threshold are not taken into consideration for the purposes of board appointments); • appointment of the Chairman and the two Deputy Chairmen, respectively, in the same order as the first three candidates shown on the list voted by the majority. General Meeting held in 2006 Reappointment of the Board of Directors Members – 54,478 (53.32%) The general meeting of 6 May 2006 elected the new Board of Directors using the list voting system, which confirmed four directors as representatives of "minority lists" out of the total number of twenty. Shareholders – 47,691 (46.68%) Lists Represented on the Board of Directors The Articles of Association have allowed groupings of members to transform themselves into associations. Friends of BPM Association 16 directors of whom one representing the Partner C.I.C. Credit Mutuel Group and one Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria. membership analysis Other Members – 39,438 (72.39%) Institutional Investor Members – 6 (0.01%) Together for BPM Association 2 directors Partner Members* - 7 (0.01%) Non-BPM Staff Members Committee 2 directors Large Shareholder Members – 27 (0.05%) Associations** - 15,000 (27.53%) analysis of the 5,267 votes placed List 3 - Friends of BPM Association - 2,160 (41.03%) List 1 - Together for BPM Association - 1,605 (30.47%) List 2 - Non-BPM Staff Members Committee - 1,421 (26.98%) Blank ballots - 61 (1.15%) Void ballots - 20 (0.37%) * Partner Members: Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria and C.I.C. - Credit Mutuel Group – with whom there are agreements which, amongst other things, make provision for involvement in the corporate bodies. ** Figures reported in declarations by the individual Member Associations. List - Association Votes gained % voters List 3 - Friends of BPM 2,160 41.03 16 List 1 - Together for BPM 1,605 30.47 2 1,421 26.98 2 81 (20+61) 1.52 List 2 - Non-BPM staff members committee Null and blank Directors 51 Board of Directors The Bank’s Board of Directors consists of a Chairman, two Deputy Chairmen and seventeen Directors, all of whom are members of the Bank in accordance with article 32 of the articles of association. The Board is invested with powers of ordinary and extraordinary administration and it usually meets once a month. It is called by the Chairman, who presents a specific, detailed agenda at least one week before the meeting, except in the case of more urgent meetings. The members of the Board of Directors and of the Board of Statutory Auditors are normally sent in advance all of the documentation and information needed to give them adequate background knowledge of the matters being discussed at board meetings. As a result of the voting at the general meeting in May 2006, four representatives of minority members were elected to the Board out of a total number of twenty. Executivity and Independence Following the adoption of the new Code of Conduct for Listed Companies (March 2006 edition), the Bank’s Board of Director’s met on 6 February 2007 to evaluate both the level of executivity (as per Article 2.C.1 of the Code) and independence (as per Article 3 of the Code) of Directors. The results of the evaluation revealed that based on the criteria set out in the Code of Conduct, two out of the twenty Directors were “executive” and therefore not independent (in particular the Chairman of the Board of Directors and the new Director charged with overseeing the functionality of the internal control system), nine were nonindependent Directors in other areas (more specifically, they are important representatives of strategic subsidiaries or have held their office for more than nine years) and the remaining nine Directors were independent in the sense that: • they do not control the Bank either directly or indirectly or even through subsidiaries, fiduciary companies or interposition of persons, nor can they exercise significant control or influence over the Bank; furthermore, they cannot participate in shareholders’ agreements in which one or more parties exercises control or a significant influence over the Bank; • they are not, nor have been in the past three financial years, influential members of the Bank, any of its strategic subsidiaries or jointlycontrolled companies, or of companies or entities that, together with others through shareholding agreements, control the Bank or have a significant influence over the same; 52 social responsibility report > group identity > governance • they do not have, now or in the previous financial year, a directly or indirectly significant commercial, financial or professional influence over (eg, through subsidiaries or companies of which they are influential representatives or as partners of a professional or consultancy firm): – the Bank, its subsidiaries or any of its influential representatives; – any party that, even together with others through a shareholders’ agreement, controls the Bank or, if a company or entity, over influential representatives, in other words are not nor have been in the last three financial years employees of any of the above parties. • they do not receive and in the past three financial years have not received from the Bank or its subsidiary or parent company substantial remuneration in addition to the “fixed” nonexecutive Directors’ fee, including participation in incentive plans linked to company performance, even through shareholdings; • they have not been Directors of the Bank for more than nine years in the last twelve years; • they are not executive Directors for another company in which an executive Director of the Bank holds an office as Director; • they are not members or Directors of a company or entity belonging to the network of the audit firm entrusted with auditing the Bank’s accounts; • they are not directly related to a person in one of the aforementioned conditions. been helped by its traditional roots in the retail and small and medium enterprise segments, which represent its most numerous class of shareholder. In this sense even the major strategic partnerships entered into in recent years (specifically the admission to membership of Crédit Industriel et Commercial and Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria) are strictly in the banking and financial sector and are directly geared to developing the Bank both nationally and internationally. It should also be stressed that no member of “big industry” has an interest in BPM’s share capital and so does not have any influence over its lending “philosophy”, or over company policy in general. Similarly, none of the current Directors is a representative of “big industry”. All the Directors are committed to exclusively pursuing the interests of the Bank regardless of those who put them up as candidates. Experience and integrity All the Directors meet the requirements of experience and integrity demanded by the special rules and regulations for the banking sector. The experience of the Directors is also witnessed by the professionalism, expertise and diligence displayed when participating at board meetings. Bank and industry separation and absence of conflict of interests The issues of Directors’ experience and independence are linked to the delicate topic of the relationship between banks and industry and the consequent potential conflict of interests. The restriction on share ownership in cooperative banks - which prevents the formation of pre-established controlling majorities - is on its own a guarantee that bank/industry separation is maintained. Banca Popolare di Milano has always paid the utmost attention to this subject, in which it has 53 The complete list of current Directors appointed in a single ballot by the general meeting held on 6 May 2006 is reported below, along with details of the board committees on which each sits and of other Directorships/corporate positions held. Roberto Mazzotta Chairman Member of the Committees: Executive, Financing Director of Sogepar S.p.A. Director of Crédit Industriel et Commercial Director of Aedes S.p.A. Director of Metalfin UK Director of Carmiano SS. Mario Artali Deputy Chairman Member of the Committees: Executive, Financing Deputy Chairman of Banca Akros S.p.A. Chairman of Wise Venture SGR S.p.A. Chairman of Sigma Tau America S.A. Director of Sigma Tau Finanziaria S.p.A. Deputy Chairman Sigma Tau Industrie Farmaceutiche Riunite S.p.A. Chairman of Sigma Tau International SA. Director of Sigma Tau Europe SA. Director of Sigma Tau Healthscience S.p.A. Chairman Sigma Tau Sudan Ltd. Director of Tecnogen S.p.A. Director of Biofutura Pharma S.p.A. Director of Biosint S.p.A. Director of Avantgarde S.p.A. Director of Prassis S.p.A. Marco Vitale Deputy Chairman Member of the Committees: Executive, Financing Chairman of Bipiemme Gestioni SGR S.p.A. Director of Etica SGR S.p.A. Chairman of Same Deutz Fahr Italia S.p.A. Director of Same Deutz Fahr S.p.A. Director of A.S.M. Brescia S.p.A. Director of Recordati Industria Chimica e Farmaceutica S.p.A. Director of Ermenegildo Zegna HoldItalia S.p.A. Director of Pictet International Capital Management Director of Pictet & C. SIM S.p.A. Chairman of Vincenzo Zucchi S.p.A. Member of the Supervisory Board Deutz AG – KOLN Director of Snaidero R. S.p.A. Director of LU-VE S.p.A. Director of Smeg S.p.A. Chairman of Consiglio di Sorveglianza Mid Industry Capital S.p.A. (1) Secretary to the Board of Directors (2) Representing a “minority” (“Together for BPM” list ) (3) Representing a “minority” (“Non-BPM Staff Members Committee” list) N.B. The list representing the majority is known as Friends of BPM. 54 Enrico Airaghi Director Member of the Committees: Executive, Internal Control, Members’ Relations Luca Caniato (2) Director Member of the Committees: Remuneration General Representative of Koelliker S.p.A. Executive Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of Koelliker Multimedia s.r.l. – Executive Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of M.M. Automobili Italia S.p.A. – Executive Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of Hyundai Automobili Italia Importazioni S.p.A. – Executive Deputy Chairman of Kia Motors Italia S.p.A. – Executive Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of Symi S.p.A. – Executive Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of Koelliker Gestioni S.p.A. – Executive Deputy Chairman and Managing Director of Koelliker Handling S.p.A. – Chairman of Autotrade and Logistics S.p.A. – Chairman of Ski Area Valchiavenna S.p.A. – Chairman of Koelliker Automobili Torino s.r.l. – Chairman of Koelliker Automobili Padova s.r.l. – Chairman of Koelliker Automobili Roma s.r.l. Emilio Castelnuovo (1) Director Member of the Committees: Executive, Financing, Remuneration Director of Bipiemme Immobili S.p.A. Giuseppe Coppini Director Member of the Committees: Financing, Members’ Relations Deputy Chairman of Banca di Legnano S.p.A. Director of Nordest Banca S.p.A. Director of Cassa di Risparmio di Asti S.p.A. Enrico Corali Director Member of the Committees: Financing Chairman of BAS-Servizi Idrici Integrati S.p.A. Director of Multiservizi Nord Milano S.p.A. Director of Trescore Infrastrutture S.r.l. Rocco Corigliano Director Chairman of Banca di Legnano S.p.A. Director of Vega Finanziaria S.p.A. Chairman of Bipiemme Vita S.p.A. Eugenio Crosta Director Member of the Committees: Remuneration, Internal Control Director of Banca di Legnano S.p.A. Director of Bipiemme Immobili S.p.A. Roberto Fusilli (3) Director Member of the Committees: Financing, Remuneration, Members’ Relations Director of Banca di Legnano S.p.A. Director of Bipiemme Gestioni SGR S.p.A. Piero Lonardi (3) Director Member of the Committees: Executive, Internal Control Director of Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria S.p.A. Director of L’Altra metà s.r.l. Director of Spinarmony s.r.l. Director of Siplast s.r.l. Director of Errepi S.p.A. Sole Director of Fin-Arco s.r.l. Sole Director of Cet s.r.l. Sole Director of Immobiliare Alfredo Mario s.r.l. Sole Director of Immobiliare Emanuela s.r.l. Sole Director of La Castagna s.r.l. Sole Director of M.G. Enterprise s.r.l. Sole Director of Toscolano s.r.l. Sole Director of Vismaf s.r.l. Chairman of the Board of Statutory Auditors of AMSA S.p.A. Chairman of the Board of Statutory Auditors of AMSA DUE s.r.l. Chairman of the Board of Statutory Auditors of AMSA TRE s.r.l. Chairman of the Board of Statutory Auditors of A. De Pedrini S.p.A. Chairman of the Board of Statutory Auditors of Medicaltraining S.p.A. Auditor of GUT Edizioni s.r.l. Auditor of Nitrol Chimica s.r.l. Maria Martellini Director Member of the Committees: Financing Chairman of Bipiemme Immobili S.p.A. Deputy Chairman of Banca di Legnano S.p.A. Director of R.C.S. Pubblicità S.p.A. Director of R.C.S. Investimenti S.p.A. Director of Class Editori S.p.A. Director of Milano Finanza Editori S.p.A. Director of CUEIM-Consorzio Un.Ec.Ind. e Manageriale Chairman of the Board of Statutory Auditors of Italcementi S.p.A. Michele Motterlini Director Member of the Committees: Executive Managing Director of Cofifast S.r.l. Gianfranco Pittatore Director Director of Banca Akros S.p.A. Director of Bipiemme Vita S.p.A. Director of S.I.A.S. Società Iniziative Autostradali e Servizi S.p.A. Director of Wise Venture SGR S.p.A. Chairman of the Board of Statutory Auditors of A.C.E.A.C.R.I. s.r.l. Chairman of the Board of Statutory Auditors of Lombardi s.r.l. Director of Soc. Immobiliare Ariosa s.r.l. Chairman of Palazzo del Governatore s.r.l. Director of Norman 95 S.p.A. Director of Palazzo del Monferrato s.r.l. Marcello Priori Director Member of the Committees: Members’ Relations Deputy Chairman of Bipiemme Gestioni SGR S.p.A. Chairman of the Board of Statutory Auditors of Etica SGR S.p.A. Chairman of the Board of Statutory Auditors of Carrefour Servizi Finanziari S.p.A. Director of Monzino S.p.A. Auditor of Lucchini S.p.A. Auditor of Reno De Medici S.p.A. Auditor of Fomas Finanziaria S.p.A. Auditor of IBI S.p.A. Jean-Jacques Tamburini Director Director of Banca di Legnano S.p.A. Managing Director and executive committee member of Credit Industriel et Commercial Chairman and Managing Director of CIC Société Bordelaise Chairman of Supervisory Board of CM-CIC Capital Privé Chairman and Managing Director of CIC Participations SAS Deputy Chairman of Supervisory Committee of CM-CIC Asset Management Director of CIC Investissement Director of CIC Finance Director of Banque de Tunisie Member on the Board of Statutory Auditors of Banque Marocaine du Commerc Extérieur Director of CIC Banque CIAL Director of CIC SNVB Director of CIC Lyonnaise de Banque Director of Institut de Participation de l’Ouest (IPO) Graziano Tarantini Director Member of the Committees: Financing Chairman of Banca Akros S.p.A. Chairman of Akros Securities Inc. Director of ESN North America Inc. Director of Interservice Gestione Partecipazioni S.p.A Director of Dexia Crediop S.p.A. Valerio Tavormina Director Member of the Committees: Executive, Internal Control, Members’ Relations Director of Banca di Legnano S.p.A. Director of Cassa di Risparmio di Asti S.p.A. Michele Zefferino Director Member of the Committees: Internal Control, Members’ Relations Director of Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria S.p.A. Director of Bipiemme Vita S.p.A. 55 Other Governing and Supervisory Bodies Board of Statutory Auditors Office held Antonio Ortolani Marco Baccani Enrico Castoldi Emilio Cherubini ** Paolo Troiano * Salvatore Rino Messina ** Enrico Radice Giuseppe Zanzottera Giorgio Zoia * Chairman Auditor Auditor Auditor Auditor Alternate auditor Alternate auditor Alternate auditor Alternate auditor * Representing a “minority” (“Together for BPM” list ) ** Representing a “minority” (“Non-BPM Staff Members Committee” list) N.B.: The list representing the majority is the one known as “Friends of BPM” 56 social responsibility report > group identity > governance Further to the reform of the articles of association, it is now compulsory for all the investigative and/or proposal-making board committees and commissions envisaged by the Code of Conduct for Listed Companies to have the presence of one Director elected on a minority list (there are currently two “minority” representatives on the Internal Control Committee). Similarly, a Director representing each of the two “minorities” is also present on the Executive Committee. Board of Statutory Auditors The Board of Statutory Auditors consists of a chairman, four acting auditors and four alternate auditors, who are elected from among the Bank’s members. Currently, two acting auditors and two alternate auditors representing the minority shareholders serve on the Board. In implementation of Law no. 262/05, the extraordinary shareholders’ meeting of 21 April 2007 amended Article 41 of the articles of association in order to ensure that the next chairman of the Board of Statutory Auditors will be one of the acting auditors representing the minority shareholders, as currently set out in Article 148, paragraph 2-bis of the Finance Act. The Board of Statutory Auditors takes part in all meetings of the Board of Directors and Executive Committee and the Chairman (or one of the acting auditors delegated by him) also takes part in meetings of the Internal Control Committee. The Board of Statutory Auditors also takes part in person at meetings of the Board Financing Committee. The main duties of this body1 consist of monitoring compliance with the law and deeds of incorporation, the observance of correct codes of management conduct, the adequacy of the company’s organisational structure (for the aspects falling under its remit) and the systems of internal and accounting-administrative control, as well as the reliability of the latter for correctly representing the company’s performance. The Board of Statutory Auditors also controls the way in which the rules of corporate governance envisaged by codes of conduct adopted by the Bank are effectively implemented, and the adequacy of instructions passed down to subsidiaries. The complete list of current members of the Board of Statutory Auditors appointed by the general meeting held on 6 May 2006 is reported below, along with details of any nomination by “minority” lists. 1 See Legislative Decree no. 58/98, as now amended by Law 262/05 Executive Committee The Executive Committee, formed annually by resolution of the Board of Directors, currently consists of seven members, including the Chairman of the Board of Directors and the two Deputy Chairmen. This body usually meets once a week with the participation of the General Manager and the Board of Statutory Auditors. Executive Committee resolutions must be passed by unanimous vote of all of those present; otherwise, the resolutions are referred to the Board of Directors for decision. For the 2006 financial year, the Board of Directors attributed the following powers and responsibilities to the Executive Committee: • to make proposals and identify lines of strategy and general policy for the Bank and BPM Group and consequently make the most appropriate decisions, which are to be submitted for approval to the Board; • to draw up the draft financial statements, to be submitted to the Board for approval; • to examine and express its opinions to the Board of Directors on hiring plans, company organisation structures, training programmes, disciplinary measures that entail more than a two-day suspension or dismissal; • to examine the Bank’s budget, specifically expenses and investments, as well as proposals for the purchase and sale of real estate and shares; • to resolve on ordinary expenses and out-of-budget investments of up to Euro 1.5 million per transaction and up to an annual limit of 5% of the budget approved by the Board of Directors; • to carry out all the resolutions, in performance of the duties specifically entrusted to the Executive Committee by the Board of Directors; • to resolve on all particularly urgent and necessary actions in cases in which the Board cannot immediately convene and without prejudice to this latter’s approval in the first meeting thereafter. Board Financing Committee The Board Financing Committee is made up of the high-ranking members and six Directors appointed specifically for this purpose by the Board of Directors and by the General Manager (or one of his nominees). The Committee primarily decides on credit facilities and lines that go beyond the authority of the Management Financing Committee, and those facilities whose approval by the latter featured a favourable majority but with dissentions or abstentions (including for conflicts of interest). Internal Control Committee Internal Control Committee Formed via a resolution of the Board of Directors of 13 November 2001, this Committee in 2006 widened and better defined its investigative and proposalmaking functions in light of the experience earned in the last few years and of that contained in the Code of Conduct for Listed Companies (March 2006 edition). The Committee’s current functions are as follows: • to assist the Board of Directors in defining the lines of action of the internal control system so that the main risks of the Parent Bank and the Group companies can be adequately identified, assessed, managed and monitored, furthermore establishing the criteria on the basis of which these risks are deemed compatible with the sound and correct management of the company; • to evaluate the work of those in charge of internal control and the periodical reports of these latter; • together with the auditors, to evaluate the head of the Administrative Division of the Parent Bank and representatives of the Group companies, as well as identify how to correctly implement the accounting standards and ensure that they are consistent in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements; • to express opinions on the main business risks and on how to plan, implement and manage the internal control system; • to evaluate the proposals of audit firms seeking to be entrusted as external auditors as well as the work plans prepared and the results appearing in the report and suggestion letter; • to oversee that the audits are being performed effectively; • to evaluate the findings that emerge from the reports drawn up by Internal Auditing Department and Internal Control Functions of the Parent Bank and Group companies; • to report to the Board of Directors, at least on a quarterly basis during the approval of the financial statements and quarterly reports, the activities carried out and the adequacy of the Group’s system of internal control; • to perform any further tasks the Board of Directors entrusts to it; • to assist the Board of Directors in defining the methods for approving and performing transactions with related parties and transactions in which it is presumed that there is a direct or indirect conflict of interest. After appointing the Director charged with overseeing the functional effectiveness of the internal control system, the Committee, when the Director so requests it, must then express its opinion on specific aspects that relate to identifying 57 the main business risks as well as to planning, implementing and managing the internal control system. The Committee is currently composed of five members (all non-executive and mostly independent, of which two elected in the two “minority” lists). The Chairman of the Board of Auditors, or other statutory Auditor appointed by the same, takes part in the activities of the Committee. The General Manager and, even disjointly, in relation to specific issues, the head of Internal Auditing Department, the head of Service Risk Management of the Parent Bank, members of management of the Parent Bank and heads of the Group companies may also be called upon to attend the Committee’s meetings. Legislative Decree no. 231/2001 in BPM The introduction of administrative responsibilities of entities into the Italian legal system (irrespective of the criminal responsibility of individuals for crimes materially committed) has had a significant impact on the entire Italian economic system and more specifically on banks, which now (on the basis of guidelines issued by the Italian Banking Association) must set up preventive internal rules specific to each bank in order to avoid any penalties that may arise from the application of the Decree. Towards this end, BPM has implemented a series of preventive measures, including an Organisation, Management and Control Model and a Supervisory Committee (as per Legislative Decree no. 231/01) The Supervisory Committee, set up in accordance with Legislative Decree no. 231/01, assesses the adequacy of the organisational/management/ control models and Code of Ethics adopted by the Bank, and monitors how they work in order to prevent the committing of the offences described in Legislative Decree no. 231/01. This Committee has also implemented an effective system of internal communication that, by guaranteeing the utmost confidentiality and protection to the reporter, allows anyone learning of unlawful acts, or situations that fail to comply with the organisational/management/control models and Code of Ethics, to report these to the head of their relevant departments and to provide the Supervisory Committee with every relevant fact for the purposes of Legislative Decree no. 231/01. In the course of 2006, in order to ensure greater autonomy and independence of the Committee, parties external to the Bank and the head of Internal Auditing were appointed to serve on the Committee. Code of Ethics. Furthermore, it has appointed a Supervisory Committee and set up distance learning courses for Personnel to whom the texts of the Legislative Decree, the Model and the Code of Ethics have been sent in hard copy and electronic format. In any event, Personnel may consult the texts simply by accessing the Bank’s General Regulation. Personnel have also been advised that a penalty system has been introduced for violations committed against the Code of Ethics and the Organisation Model. In fact, a special brochure has been sent to all members of Personnel, regardless of the relevancy of the tasks assigned to them. These measures have entailed a high level of commitment on the part of the Bank as well as Personnel, who are required to keep abreast of and comply with ever-evolving rules. However, this commitment has brought about important results in that on the one side the Bank and Its equity are safeguarded against possibly significant penalty risks and on the other side the Bank’s organisational processes are fully reviewed and any inherent risks that might arise in relation to the new rule of law are analysed in detail. No less important is the fact that the activities carried out by the Bank to comply with the Legislative Decree have enabled it to reinforce ethical values by which the Bank and everyone operating on its behalf have always been inspired in the performance of their activities. 58 social responsibility report > group identity > governance Members’ Relations Commission This reviews applications for the admission of members and proposals to cancel members in compliance with the law, the articles of association and related resolutions by the Board of Directors, as well as waivers on privileged guarantees on company shares. Remuneration Committee This reviews and makes proposals concerning the remuneration of Directors of the Bank holding particular offices and Directors of subsidiaries as well as top management remuneration policies within the Group, with a view to fostering uniform standards of evaluation that take account of the different levels of risk/responsibility. Arbitration Committee This was set up in accordance with article 42 of the articles of association. It consists of three acting and two alternate members elected for a three-year period in general meeting from among the Members. It reviews all the disputes referred to it under the articles of association and seeks to resolve disputes that might arise between Members or between the Members and Directors concerning the conduct of the business. Frequency of board and board committee meetings (2006) Number of whom of Directors representatives Board of Directors Number of meetings % of attendance 20 4 18 92 Executive Committee 7 2 39 90 Board Financing Committee 9 1 45 82 Internal Control Committee 5 2 12 95 Remuneration Committee 5 2 5 100 Members’ Relations Commission 6 2 10 91 Supervisory Committee (as per Legislative Decree no. 231/01) – – 7 97 59 Rules of governance Code of Conduct In March 2006 Borsa Italiana S.p.A. presented the new text of the Code of Conduct, which replaces the edition drawn up in 1999 and reviewed in July 2002. In the meeting held on 19 December 2006, the Board of Directors of BPM resolved to voluntarily adhere to the Code and set out a special calendar of the measures taken to implement the Code’s new provisions, to date fully enacted (in particular, an executive Director to supervise the system of internal control has been appointed, the executivity and independence of Directors have been evaluated based on new criteria, the limits of the tasks of Directors and the self-evaluation of the Board of Directors with respect to its size, composition and functioning and its Committees have been defined). Code of Conduct on Internal Dealing This Code1 strictly regulates the disclosure requirements and any restrictions involving dealings in listed financial instruments issued by BPM carried out by “Relevant Persons” (and their close associates), meaning those persons, who, by virtue of the position held in the Group (Director, statutory auditor, senior manager with decisionmaking powers such that can affect the issuer’s future prospects), have regular access to pricesensitive information regarding the Bank and the Group. The purpose of this Code is to ensure that dealings by such “Relevant Persons” are reported to the market in the most transparent, uniform way. Guidelines on significant operations and with related parties These guidelines (in the updated version approved by the Board of Directors in the meeting of 13 March 2007) aim to identify the “significant” operations of the Bank (and of the entire BPM Group) and more specifically those with related parties, as well as provide all interested parties with the rules of conduct to report to the Bank their status as a “related party” in carrying out transactions with the same and govern the authorisation process for such transactions in order to guarantee that they have been carried out correctly in substantial and procedural terms. 1 Revised and updated in the light of rules on “Market Abuse” (Law no 62/2005, so-called “2004 Community Law”) and CONSOB Regulation no 15232 of 29 November 2005. 60 social responsibility report > group identity > governance Procedures for price-sensitive announcements This consists of a detailed set of procedures for the Board of Directors and its committees regarding the handling and external communication of pricesensitive information regarding the Bank and the Group (ie, information that may affect the Bank’s share performance). In fact, the publication of such information requires specific authorisation and must be communicated to the market and press agencies in accordance with the related CONSOB regulations. In the light of the legislative changes, especially with reference to the Market Abuse Directive and in compliance with related CONSOB regulations (see CONSOB Regulation no 6027054 of 28 March 2006), with a meeting resolution of 25 July 2006, the Bank implemented a new “Resolution of the BPM Group on reporting obligations as per Article 114 of the Finance Act” regarding the Group’s internal procedures aimed at guaranteeing confidentiality of price-sensitive information (as defined in Article 181 of the Finance Act) during the lapse of time from the start of the various activities to when the market reporting obligations arise, as well as at ensuring a timely and non-selective disclosure of the information. • to ensure uniform, fair representation of the price-sensitive information and prevent it from being disclosed in a selective fashion (meaning its disclosure to certain persons beforehand, like shareholders, journalists or analysts), tardily or in an incomplete or inadequate manner; • to ensure compliance with the rules on “market disclosure” contained in articles 114 and 181 of Legislative Decree no 58/98. Group Regulations The Group Regulations contain the organisational structure and rules for governing the companies falling under the control of BPM, in line with Bank of Italy guidelines and the demands of strong, prudent management (see the subsequent paragraph on “Governance of the Group”). Code of Ethics This represents a clear statement of the values that the Bank recognises, accepts and espouses and the set of responsibilities that it assumes internally and externally. The observance by employees of the general standards of conduct contained therein is fundamentally important for the Bank’s proper operation, reliability and good reputation. Register of insiders and related rules In compliance with the provisions contained in article 115-bis of Legislative Decree no. 58/98, the Bank has created a Register of persons with access to price-sensitive information relating to BPM and any third-party issuers by virtue of their employment or profession or the job carried out. The Register has two main purposes: 1. to raise the awareness of those involved of the value of information and hence to stimulate the development of sufficient internal procedures such as to reduce the phenomenon of market rumours; 2. to assist the competent authorities (meaning in this case CONSOB and the judicial system) in carrying out investigations seeking to identify market abuses (meaning both the abuse of insider information and market manipulation). The Bank has adopted a special set of internal procedures for managing this Register, which, by defining roles, responsibilities and rules of conduct, is designed: • to ensure the precise observance of the requirements contained in article 115-bis of Legislative Decree no 58/98; • to control the circulation of price-sensitive information, ensuring observance of the duty of confidentiality; 61 Management structure As part of its 2004-2006 Strategic Plan, BPM remodelled its organisational structure. More specifically, the new organisational structure has sought to: • reorganise the Internal Auditing Department structure (previously Technical and Operating Controls Department) in order to improve the selection of the activities referred thereto as a consequence of the various legislative changes and of the new controls defined within the ambit of the Internal Control Model. The role of the Department was therefore strengthened to become the structure entrusted with evaluating the overall functionality of the control system at Group level and the definition of the internal auditing methods and evaluation of their application were increased; • remodel the structure of the Information Communication Technology Department, with the aim to improve the level of efficiency and effectiveness of the Group’s IT System, to develop projects with high impact for the company and to progressively integrate the IT functions of the companies within the Group. These measures called for stronger staff structures in order to better control the development of the strategic projects and improve line organisation and to respond to the issue of “development” by regrouping IT applications to better meet business needs and the issue of “infrastructure” by separating the moment when the service is provided from the study/ evolution of the systems; • reorganise the central structures so that may be more streamlined and rationalised by: – reducing the number of Departments and Services and therefore the number of direct dealings of General Management; – optimising the results of the “Rationalisation of central Back Offices” project within the ambit of credit and litigation; – regrouping certain functions in order to maximise synergies. 62 social responsibility report > group identity > governance CENTRAL BUYING SERVICE TAX SERVICE OPERATIONAL DEPARTMENT AND BACK OFFICE ADMINISTRATIVE AND OPERATIONAL DEPARTMENT * Financial reporting function * Corporate Affairs Function LEGAL DEPARTMENT * Legal GENERAL AFFAIRS OFFICE ACCOUNTING SERVICE function ORGANISATION DEPARTMENT COMMITTEES Management Committee Commercial Policies and Communication Committee Liquidity Committee Projects Committee Management Financing Committee Committee for Classification of Non-performing loans Credit Policies Committee Personal data processing Committee BOARD OF DIRECTORS GENERAL MANAGER EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CO-GENERAL MANAGER * Organisation DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER MANAGEMENT OF INTERNAL AUDITING * Personnel function function RESOURCES AND CONTRACTUAL POLICIES HUMAN RESOURCES DEPARTMENT STRATEGIC PLANNING DEPARTMENT INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT * ICT Function EXTERNAL RELATIONS OFFICE SUPERVISORY COMMITTEE LENDING DEPARTMENT * Credit FINANCIAL CONTROL AND RISK MANAGEMENT DEPARTMENT function FINANCE DEPARTMENT * Finance Function CORPORATE DEPARTMENT DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER AFFAIRS CORPORATE FINANCE SERVICE MARKETING DEPARTMENT * Marketing Function COMMERCIAL DIVISION COMMERCIAL NETWORK MANAGEMENT * Group governance function 63 General Manager This position is responsible for achieving the strategic and profitability goals established by the Board of Directors, assisting with their definition. He is head of the company’s management team and exercises the functions of guidance, co-ordination and control over activities and resources in order that all the transactions undertaken by the Bank meet economic and profitable criteria. He prepares the reports designed to provide the Board of Directors with full knowledge and governability of the business. He drafts proposals relating to development plans and budgets for submission to the Board of Directors. He oversees the implementation of an adequate system of internal controls, ensuring that due action is taken with regard to findings emerging from inspections by the internal control function and ratified by the Board of Directors. He maintains relationships with the principal national and international credit and financial institutions, with the supervisory and regulatory authorities, with institutional investors and with the Bank’s top Customers. He chairs the Management Committee, whose job is to co-ordinate policy and management and to pass down instructions in line with the strategies and goals established by the Board of Directors. Co-General Manager This position is responsible for specific areas decided by the General Manager, at present credit and commercial operations, the latter with particular reference to the subsidiary banks. General Management Office - Staff This function oversees external communications by the Bank and Group. It oversees Group-wide risk management activities relating to credit, market and operational risks. It monitors and supervises the group system of internal controls. It provides the General Manager’s office with support in planning and operational control of the Bank and the Group, ensuring effective monitoring of costs. It assists the General Manager’s office in defining the Group’s development strategies, in identifying the competitive positioning goals for the different areas of business and in defining the mission of subsidiary companies. 64 social responsibility report > group identity > governance Deputy General Manager - Business This function ensures that the Bank’s financial and commercial policies are defined in keeping the strategies set by the Board of Directors. It ensures the achievement of income statement/ balance sheet targets for the retail and corporate markets by defining specific commercial and marketing plans and overseeing international activities. It guarantees the achievement of the Bank’s financial policy goals relating to the management of securities, foreign exchange dealing and other currency transactions. Commercial Division This ensures that company strategies are achieved in relation to the retail and SME market by defining suitable commercial and marketing initiatives designed to reach the expected economic/balance sheet goals. It is responsible for the overall definition of the portfolio of products and services for Customers, as well as for planning and implementing specific marketing measures. It manages and develops the entire Division, monitoring the commercial performance of the different Customer segments and identifying any measures needed to correct the policies undertaken. It is responsible for achieving income statement/ balance sheet goals and development goals relating to Customers that operate through “direct” distribution channels (namely the Internet, the call centre and financial advisors). Deputy General Manager - Resources and Contractual Policies This function ensures that human resources are managed as a strategic part of the Group’s overall design in accordance with the policies laid down by the Board of Directors. Once a year it defines general or special personnel plans with reference to recruitment, terminations, internal transfers, training, remuneration and incentives for submission, in agreement with the General Manager’s office, to Board approval. It prepares, in conjunction with the Human Resources Department, the related operating plans in application of decisions taken by the Board. It defines the next year payroll costs for each Department/Service. In conjunction with the Human Resources Department and through negotiation with the trade unions, it defines company rules governing personnel issues and problems. It ensures that contractual requirements and disciplinary measures are applied. It ensures that internal notices and communications are circulated. At the command of the Board of Directors and in agreement with the General Manager’s office, it co-ordinates and reviews the personnel policies of subsidiary companies. It acts as a liaison for the General Manager’s office for defining organisational development and property management policies. Credit and Information Communication Technology Functions These functions report directly to the General Manager’s office. The Credit Function evaluates and approves all types of lending that go beyond local limits, and, using separate structures, it constantly monitors credit positions, ensuring the governance of credit risk. The ICT Function uses information technology as a means of innovation and change, by planning and managing the Group’s information system. Administrative and Operational Support Division This division provides support functions to the General Manager’s office and secretarial and administrative support to the Board of Directors. It sees to the Bank’s corporate compliance, maintains institutional relationships with the regulatory authorities and looks after requirements needed prior to and subsequent to the Bank’s board meetings. It sees to the corporate and legal co-ordination of the Bank’s equity investments. It proposes and agrees with the General Manager’s office the policies for efficient financial reporting and control of all corporate events. It is responsible for preparing the draft financial statements, overseeing the related administrative and accounting process, and for compliance with tax and statutory requirements. It enacts the strategies announced by the Board of Directors and the goals contained in the Strategic Plan relating to the preparation of the annual financial report, including the Group’s consolidated report. It oversees buying policies and expenditure in accordance with the provisions contained in the Budget Spending and Buying Regulations. It is responsible for the management and custody of valuables. It oversees the Group’s administrative co-ordination. It provides operational and administrative services to the network and the necessary support to credit intermediation and securities administration activities. It oversees the recovery of non-performing loans and the provision of the related legal advice. 65 Governance of the Group The enhancement of the value and the strategies of the BPM Group, like those of its member companies, are promoted by Banca Popolare di Milano in its role as Parent Bank which: • definisce gli obiettivi delle singole società, che vengono recepiti dai rispettivi Consigli di Amministrazione e Direzioni, della cui realizzazione gli stessi diventano pienamente responsabili; • presidia in modo coordinato gli specifici mercati e aree d’affari in cui il Gruppo opera; • ottimizza il livello di redditività del capitale sia delle singole società che del Gruppo nel suo insieme e controlla le componenti di rischio originate dalle diverse aree di attività del Gruppo; • fornisce supporti operativi a livello di Gruppo (informatica, processi ed acquisti) che per loro natura, se accentrati, si prestano al conseguimento di rilevanti economie di scala e di scopo. The Group Regulations establish the model of governance and control, setting out general rules of conduct, the areas of competence and responsibility and the means of co-ordinating the different companies through instruments such as: Group Directives, Prior Authorisations and Committees. Among the latter, a central role is played by the Parent Bank’s Management Committee – whose job is to co-ordinate policy and management and to hand down instructions in line with the strategies and goals established by the Board of Directors - and the Group Management Committee, which required to provide effective control of the entire Group’s exposure to risk and co-ordinated management of the more important operating issues. In order to make co-ordination activities more effective, subsidiary company representatives also attend the Parent Bank’s management committees working in specific areas, such as: • the Commercial Policies and Communication Committee, which co-ordinates the Bank’s commercial policies with reference to channels, products, communication, commercial promotion and pricing; • the Liquidity Committee, which decides operating limits for the active management of assets and liabilities with a view to maximising income, while nonetheless seeking to minimise interest and exchange rate risks; • the Credit Policies Committee, which decides the Bank’s lending policies and examines the loan book in order to improve the quality of the risk and determine the amount of provisions against possible loan losses; 66 social responsibility report > group identity > governance • the Projects Committee, which has the job of overseeing the budget and major projects for change and innovation, as well as the principal investments in Information and Communication Technology (ICT); In fact, certain transactions or significant transactions by subsidiary companies – like for example amending their articles of association and internal regulations – require specific “Prior Authorisation” from the Parent Bank. • the Personal Data Committee, which oversees the related activities and co-ordinates the work of company managers to ensure that company applications comply with national and EC laws in this area. The Committee’s decisions must be adopted and implemented by the Group’s individual companies. The Parent Bank has issued a set of compulsory “Group Instructions” for this purpose, under which its central functions exercise operational co-ordination and control in their specific areas of responsibility. 67 System of Internal Controls over the Group In keeping with the general principles and guidelines issued by the regulatory authorities, specifically the Bank of Italy’s Supervisory Instructions, the BPM Group’s “System of Internal Controls” consists of the set of rules, procedures and organisational structures that seek to ensure compliance with company strategies and achievement of the following goals: • effectiveness and efficiency of processes (administration, production, distribution); • safeguarding asset values and providing protection from losses; • reliability and integrity in all accounting and management information; • compliance of transactions with the law, supervisory requirements and the Group’s policies, plans, rules and internal procedures. The system is therefore based on the assumption that: • control is an integral part of everyday operating procedures; • persons are identified to be in charge of structures and processes and they effectively monitor the activities for which they are responsible; • there is a clear separation of duties between those involved in operations and those involved in control activities, so as to ensure (both in form and in substance) the right level of objective criticism between manager and controller; • the system is efficient and effective. Control activities are carried out at all hierarchical and functional levels of the organisational structure. All company functions and structures are required to exercise control over the processes and operations under their responsibility according to the responsibilities and duties set out in the Bank’s Functional Rules and Group Regulations. Since BPM adopts rules and models that extend to all its subsidiaries, this activity involves it classifying risks at a group level, defining limits on their assumption (including on the basis of risk-return analysis) and the criteria for their measurement and assessment, always within a group logic. These limits are then defined and updated by the Board of Directors of each company in such a way that is in line with the Group’s risk management policies as set out by the Parent Bank. Within this ambit, the subsidiaries must implement the directives handed down from the Parent Bank 68 social responsibility report > group identity > governance with the goal to manage and monitor all the risks within its remit, avoiding any action that is not in line with the Group’s parameters. In addition, the subsidiaries co-operate with and assist the Parent Bank to ensure that all the directives and procedures are properly carried out and complied with by the subsidiaries. In terms of the System of Internal Controls, the Internal Auditing Department of the Parent Bank makes sure that the subsidiaries behave in such a way that is in line with the instructions received, and performs periodic assessments on each company. If the subsidiaries have autonomous internal control structures, the Internal Auditing Department of the Parent Bank will also co-ordinate and supervise local internal audits. 69 The value of working together. For economic, civil and social development. BPM Group Economic Report The Economic Report is the section of the Social Responsibility Report, which presents the BPM Group’s financial performance and represents the principal link with the Group Annual Financial Report. The calculation and reclassification of Value Added clearly presents the economic effect that the Group’s business has had on certain important types of stakeholder. BPM GROUP ECONOMIC REPORT 73 Key financial highlights • Principal balance sheet and income statement highlights • Reclassified consolidated balance sheet • Balance sheet ratios • Employee efficiency ratios • Profitability ratios 76 Value Added • Calculation of value added • Analytical distribution of total gross value added Key financial highlights Volume of business Direct deposits (consisting of amounts due to Customers, debt securities in issue and financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss) were Euro 29,354 million, 19.3% higher than at December 2005. Within this item, there was significant growth in terms of amounts due to Customers, which reached Euro 20,808 million, up by Euro 3,655 million (+21.3%), of which approximately Euro 2.0 billion referred to the issue of securities against securitisation of performing real estate mortgage loans entered into by institutional clients. The issue of new bond loans continued and in 2006 reached Euro 1.8 billion, of which Euro 1.3 million formed part of the Euro Medium Term Notes (EMTN) programme. The growth in volumes was reflected in the development of the direct deposits market share, which rose to 2.04% in December 2006 from 1.98% in December 2005. At the end of 2006 the overall aggregate of indirect deposits from Customers reached Euro 39,614 million (+6.8% over the end of 2005). Assets under administration rose significantly to Euro 18,884 million (+13.4%) as a combined result of the placement of bond loans issued by third parties and favourable market trends. Assets under management stood at Euro 20,729 million, up by 1.4% over 2005, despite the negative net deposits, a phenomenon that affected the market as a whole, of Euro 521 million, of which Euro 390 million related to mutual funds. These latter dropped by 2.2% compared with 2005. The market share of funds managed by Bipiemme Gestioni SGR and Bipiemme Fund Management amounted to 2.12%. Insurance-sector reserves and asset management grew respectively by 5.0% and 14.5% over the end of the previous year. The upward trend of loans continued and at 31 December 2006 reached Euro 26,313 million (+16.5% over the end of 2005) thanks to the growth of medium- and long-term technical forms, which showed a 26.5% increase in the mortgage sector. Also up from 2005 were mortgage loans, which rose to Euro 4 billion, with businesses, mostly those operating in the residential building sector, having a significant impact. The positive trend of loans pushed the relative market share in December 2006 to 1.95%, up from 1.89% in December 2005. An analysis of asset quality shows a percentage of total net impaired assets at 1.9% of the total loan portfolio, a further improvement from December 2005 (2.4%). The ratio between net non-performing loans and loans reached an outstanding level (0.5%) even better than December 2005 (0.7%). The level of coverage of doubtful loans rose to 44.9% from 41.3% in December 2005, as did that of nonperforming loans, up to 70.7% from 67.5% in the previous year, and among the highest in the Italian banking system. Net equity, comprehensive of profits for the year, reached Euro 3,359 million, up by Euro 424 million over December 2005 (+14.4%). Tier 1 capital ratio reached 7.21% while total capital ratio amounted to 10.44%. From an economic standpoint, BPM Group ended the year with an operating profit of Euro 695.1 million, up by 35.3% thanks in large part to a rise in operating income (+13.7% over the end of 2005), which more than compensated for the 3.0% increase in operating costs and resulted in a lower cost-income ratio, which at the end of 2006 amounted to 60.6%, significantly lower than the previous year (66.9%). Operating profits reached Euro 1,764.7 million (+13.7%), within the aggregate: • net interest income amounted to Euro 916.1 million (+20.9%) benefiting from the growth of Customer business (particularly in the medium- to long-term segment) and the improved spread with Customers; • net income from services, including all revenue net of net interest income, amounted to Euro 848.6 million, up by 6.9% over the same period in the previous year. Net fee and commission income climbed by 10.8% to Euro 613.7 million, reflecting increases in “management, brokerage and advisory services” commissions, mostly due to the higher commissions on security placement and asset management. We point out that within net fee and commission income a positive effect derived from the de-consolidation of Bipiemme Vita equal to Euro 15.6 million. Operating costs amounted to Euro 1,069.6 million, up by 3.0% compared with December 2005. In detail, we point out that: • the growth in personnel expenses (+Euro 34.6 million, +5.3%) to Euro 687.9 million reflects the 73 Euro 18 million increase laid down by the National Collective Labour Agreement, increased provisions to funds (Euro 5.6 million), as well as the higher share of profit allocated to employees of the Parent Bank (Euro 5.1 million), which assimilates the changes introduced by the new wording of Article 47 of the articles of association. The total employees of the Group (including personnel with other types of contracts in force) as at 31 December 2006 amounted to 8,391, down by 54 employees compared with the same period in 2005; • the decrease in administrative expenses and amortisations (-0.8%), together equalling Euro 381.7 million, reflects the positive effects of the rationalisation of the IT segment and the condition renegotiation with the main suppliers. Therefore, operating income of BPM Group amounted to Euro 695.1 million, with a 35.3% increase over December 2005, thanks to excellent revenue performance. Total provisions came to Euro 162.8 million (+43.1%), with net adjustments to loans and other financial asset-side items equalling Euro 124.2 million, the Euro 26.3 million rise of which was mainly due to higher adjustments on loans to Customers, to which Euro 38.6 million in provisions to risks and charges were added, Euro 18.9 million of which was affected by the closing of the Parmalat recovery procedures. After reporting non-recurring profits, included in the item profits from equity and other investments equal to Euro 105.1 million – of which Euro 71.9 million were attributable to profits deriving from the transfer of 50% of Bipiemme Vita to Fondiaria– Sai Group and Euro 34.7 million of which were attributable to the capital gains deriving from the sale of the “Galfa” property – the gross profit from current operations climbed to Euro 637.4 million, up by 54.6% over December 2005. After recording income tax for Euro 233.5 million (levied at a 36.6% tax rate) and net of Euro 5.2 million in profits from minority interests, the net profit in 2006 amounted to Euro 398.7 million, up 53.9% over 2005. The Group’s net profit came to Euro 301.5 million, net of the aforementioned extraordinary operations. (in thousands of Euros) Balance sheet and income statement highlights 2006 2005 Pro-forma 40,181,057 34,896,491 (Customers and banks) 30,088,874 24,826,223 Loans 26,312,649 22,585,310 68,968,072 29,354,399 61,707,283 24,612,848 39,613,673 37,094,436 3,358,992 2,935,416 916,055 757,779 1,764,675 1,551,657 848,620 793,878 Balance sheet highlights Total assets Total financial loans Total Customer deposits: - direct * - indirect (assets under management and securities in custody) Equity Income statement highlights Net interest income Net interest and other banking income Net income from services Operating costs 1,069,555 1,037,937 Profit from current operations before tax 637,402 412,376 Profit for the period pertaining to the Parent Bank 398,680 258,980 * Includes amounts due to Customers, debt securities in issue and financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss. 74 social responsibility report > economic report > key financial highlights (in thousands of Euros) Reclassified consolidated balance sheet Balance sheet ratios 2006 2005 Pro-forma 199,757 177,626 30,088,874 24,826,223 Financial assets designated at fair value through profit and loss and hedging derivatives 7,068,503 7,080,027 Fixed assets 1,479,917 1,531,915 Other assets 1,344,006 1,280,700 Total assets 40,181,057 34,896,491 Due to banks and due to Customers 25,448,119 21,862,251 Debt securities in issue 5,624,722 4,749,751 Financial liabilities held for trading and hedging derivatives 3,984,195 3,906,596 Other liabilities 1,643,525 1,404,301 Cash and balances with central banks Loans Minority interests Capital and reserves Net profit for the year Total equity and liabilities 121,504 38,176 2,960,312 2,676,436 398,680 258,980 40,181,057 34,896,491 2006 2005 Pro-forma Equity*/ Loans 11.25% 11.85% Equity*/ Direct deposits 10.08% 10.87% * Equity at the end of year, excluding net profit for the year just ended Balance sheet ratios Equity/ Loans This ratio indicates the percentage of gross loans to Customers, which is covered by equity and expresses the degree of the bank’s solvency. Equity/Direct deposits This ratio expresses the degree of the bank’s independence from third-party sources of funding. The higher the ratio, the greater the bank’s level of independence from outside sources of funding. (in thousands of Euros) Employee efficiency ratios Profitability ratios 2006 2005 Pro-forma 2006 Number of employees* 3,136 2,674 Total Customer deposits/ indirect) / Number of employees * 8,219 7,306 Direct deposits / Number of employees * 3,498 2,914 38.98% 42.10% 210 184 76 49 Payroll/ Operating income Operating income/ Number of employees * Profit from current operations before tax/Number of employees* * Including other personnel (114 employees at 31/12/2006 and 109 employees at 31/12/2005) Employee efficiency ratios Loans /Number of employees Total Customer deposits/Number of employees ** Direct deposits/Number of employees These three ratios reflect the bank’s productivity: they show that for every employee there is an average of Euro 3,136 thousand in loans to Customers and Euro 8,219 thousand in total deposits, of which Euro 3,498 million relating to direct deposits. The higher these ratios the greater the bank’s efficiency in the sense of its ability to generate funding and hence loans per employee. Payroll/Operating income This ratio expresses the proportion of net income from the core business that is absorbed by payroll costs. Operating income/ Number of employees This ratio expresses the net income from the bank’s core business per employee. Profit from current operations before tax/Number of employees This ratio expresses the profit from the bank’s current operations per employee. 2005 Pro-forma ROE (Return On Equity) 13.5% 9.7% ROA (Return On Asset) 1.0% 0.7% Net income from services/ Net interest income 92.6% 104.8% Net income from services / Operating income 48.1% 51.2% Administrative expenses Net interest income 106.4% 124.0% Administrative expenses Operating income 55.3% 60.6% Operating costs/ Operating income 60.6% 66.9% Profitability ratios ROE (Return On Equity) This is the ratio between net profit and equity. It represents the return on the investment of the bank’s own capital. ROA (Return On Assets) This is the ratio between operating profit and total assets; it is very important for assessing the efficiency with which a bank generates its earnings; it specifically reflects the ability of its assets to generate income. Net income from services/Net interest income Represents the amount of net interest income derived from net income from services. Net income from services/Operating income This ratio reports the amount of net interest income (net income from the bank’s core business) derived from net income from services. Administrative expenses/Operating income Represents the amount of operating income absorbed by administrative expenses. Operating costs/Operating income Represents the amount of operating income that is absorbed by its operating costs. 75 Value Added The calculation of Value Added (defined as the difference between gross revenue and the costs of consumption incurred for its production) is based on reclassifying the annual consolidated income statement. It presents the accounting data in a different format in order to underline the relationship with stakeholders. In fact, the calculation of Value Added makes it possible to represent the Group’s ability to create wealth and distribute it to the various stakeholders who interact with it in their different ways. (in thousands of Euros) Calculation of Value Added 2006 2005* Interest and similar income 1,583,274 1,462,447 Fee and commission income 688,483 626,968 - dividend and similar income 54,410 62,931 - net trading income 54,595 37,330 - net hedging gains (losses) 297 -2,385 Profit (loss) from transfer or repurchase of: 3,862 27,017 a) loans -3,329 24,856 6,189 1,674 0 0 b) financial assets available for sale c) financial assets held to maturity d) financial liabilities 1,002 487 17,044 9,357 Other operating income (charges) 142,731 128,642 Profit (loss) from equity investments 82,345 30,931 2,627,041 2,383,238 -667,219 -704,668 -74,739 -73,278 -275,597 -274,757 Net impairment charges: -124,154 -97,875 a) loans -120,918 -88,198 -2,356 -4,017 - net gain (loss) from financial assets and liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss TOTAL NET INCOME Interest expense and similar charges Fee and commission expense Other administrative expenses (net of indirect taxes and donations and gifts) b) financial assets available for sale c) financial assets held to maturity 0 0 -880 -5,660 -38,622 -15,867 TOTAL CONSUMPTION -1,180,331 -1,166,445 GROSS CORE VALUE ADDED 1,446,710 1,216,793 36,392 11,112 1,483,102 1,227,905 d) other financial transactions Net charges to provisions for risks and charges Gains/Losses on disposal of investments TOTAL GROSS VALUE ADDED Net adjustments to property, plant and equipment -44,620 -44,166 Net adjustments to intangible assets -43,732 -47,525 1,394,750 1,136,214 TOTAL NET VALUE ADDED * For the purposes of consistent comparison, 2005 data have been reposted considering Bipiemme Vita and using the equity method instead of the line-by-line method. Furthermore, modifications were made following the new interpretation of accounting principles and clarifications on the instructions issued by the Bank of Italy for drawing up financial statements. 76 social responsibility report > economic report > value added (in thousands of Euros) Analytical distribution of total gross value added 2006 2005* 1,483,102 1,227,905 145,262 62,255 5,187 5,850 HUMAN RESOURCES 687,882 653,321 Payroll: 687,882 653,321 - direct 441,855 420,253 - Indirect 219,413 211,828 26,614 21,240 298,773 213,836 Indirect and capital taxes 65,238 66,290 of which: 60,279 4,959 0 61,244 4,515 531 Income taxes for the year 233,535 147,546 of which: 162,881 68,865 1,789 103,471 39,305 4,770 TOTAL GROSS VALUE ADDED Distributed between: MEMBERS - Dividends paid MINORITY INTERESTS - Profit (loss) attributable to minority shareholders - Costs associated with equity-based payments PUBLIC BODIES/INSTITUTIONS (Central and local government) - Central government - Local authorities - Non-resident central governments - Central government - Local authorities - Non-resident central governments COMMUNITY 4,228 4,227 Donations and gifts 4,228 4,227 ENTERPRISE SYSTEM 341,770 288,416 Unallocated earnings 253,418 196,725 Net adjustments to property, plant and equipment 44,620 44,166 Net adjustments to intangible assets 43,732 47,525 (*) For the purposes of consistent comparison, 2005 data have been reposted considering Bipiemme Vita and using the equity method instead of the line-by-line method. Furthermore, modifications were made following the new interpretation of accounting principles and clarifications on the instructions issued by the Bank of Italy for drawing up financial statements. 77 distribution of total gross value added 2006 0.29% 9.79% 0.35% 20.15% Human resources 46.38% Enterprises system 23.04% Public bodies Institutions 20.15% Members/shareholders Dividends paid 9.79% 23.04% 46.38% Minority interests - Portion of consolidated net profit 0.35% Community 0.29% (in thousands of Euros) distribution of total gross value added 2006-2005 1,400,000 + 20.8% 1,200,000 1,483,102 1,000,000 1,227,905 800,000 + 5.3% 600,000 687,882 653,321 + 18.5% 341,770 400,000 + 39.7% + 133.3% 288,416 298,773 – 11.3% + 0.0% 200,000 213,836 145,262 62,255 total gross value added human resources enterprise system public bodies/ institutions Human resources The portion of Value Added attributable to Personnel represents 46.38% of the total and includes direct costs, indirect costs (social security charges and non-wage related costs) and the share of earnings allocated to employees. Enterprise system This represents the portion of Value Added (23.04%) reinvested in the Group in terms of unallocated earnings retained in reserves, and the depreciation and amortisation of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets. Public bodies and Institutions These are income taxes for the year and indirect and capital taxes paid by the Group to central and local government and represent 20.15% of Value Added. 78 social responsibility report > economic report > value added members/ shareholders dividends paid 5,850 5,187 minority interests portion of consolidated net profit 4,228 4,227 community 2005 2006 Members/Shareholders (dividends paid) These are the profits distributed to Shareholders of the Parent Bank and represent 9.79% of Value Added. Minority interests (portion of consolidated net profit) These represent the portions of net profit earned by group companies that are attributable to their minority shareholders and amount to 0.35% of Value Added. Community - these refer to donations and gifts to local communities in which the Group operates (BPM allocates 3%* of its annual net profit to good causes) and represent 0.29% of Value Added. (*Modified with the articles of association reform approved on 15/2/2007) details of the taxes and duties paid by the BPM Parent Bank During the course of 2006 the total cost to Banca Popolare di Milano for taxes and duties payable to central and local government was more than 243 million. (in thousands of Euros) Income taxes for the year 2006 2005 89,145 75,388 52,855 29,317 – 3,295 142,000 108,000 Central government: IRES Local authorities: IRAP Non-resident central governments : Local taxes of foreign branches Total (in thousands of Euros) Indirect taxes and duties 2006 2005 Central government: 47,439 48,745 Stamp duties 36,123 36,697 Stock transfer stamp duties 328 391 Flat-rate tax 9,775 10,610 Other taxes and duties 1,213 1,047 Local authorities: 3,336 3,483 Local property tax 1,620 1,613 Other local taxes and duties Total 1,716 1,870 101,550 104,456 79 The value of working together. For economic, civil and social development. BPM Group Social Policies report This is the section of the Social Responsibility Report which contains a qualitative and quantitative description of the main effects of the bank’s business with regard to its different types of stakeholder and highlights the consistency between decisions taken, strategies and stated values. BPM GROUP SOCIAL POLICIES REPORT 83 Stakeholders of Banca Popolare di Milano 85 Customers 107 Members and Shareholders 127 Personnel 141 Suppliers 147 Community 155 Environment 159 Communications The relationships that Banca Popolare di Milano has with its stakeholders are characterised and enriched by its co-operative structure which gives priority to the local area and its now recognised role of being the engine of economic, social and cultural growth in the places in which it is present. A long-standing protagonist in the areas in which it operates, Banca Popolare di Milano associates its success with the cohesion and growth of the stakeholders with which it deals and bases its development strategy on improving relations with them. Stakeholders of Banca Popolare di Milano personnel community bpm suppliers customers bpm media members and shareholders environment In fact, it considers that “social responsibility” – meaning a corporate culture of attention to its stakeholders and social dialogue with them – must permeate its strategic and operating policies and support and direct a modern, distinguishing vision of being a bank: solid and progressive, co-operative and competitive, efficient and in mutuality with the territory, local and capable of dealing with business and opportunities from globalised markets. 83 the Parent Bank BPM Customers Policy guidelines BPM believes in the importance of continuously listening to the “markets”, taking into account not just its players but also the community, the territory and the factors that influence its development. It is through a constant process of listening that measures can be taken that effectively service the needs of households and companies. The structure of reporting these activities also reflects this conviction: the results of feedback are presented first as the basis for reporting the measures taken and undertakings for the future in respect of Customers. 86 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > customers Customer feedback In 2006, feedback was received from more than 8,800 Customers. listening people trends economic situation Support in developing households and private, public and social enterprises. Accessibility, efficiency and integration of the distribution channels. service initiatives Transparent communcation. Customer protection, prevention and solving of problems. SUMMARY OF FEEDBACK IN 2006 Topic Customers concerned Number Methodology Frequency Customer Satisfaction Individuals 4,000 Telephone interviews Annual since 2005 Customer Satisfaction Small Businesses 1,500 Telephone interviews Annual since 2005 Reasons for decision and user experience New individuals registered to use We@bank 3,300 E-mail questionnaire Continuous Reasons for and expectations of conto@me Individual account holders of conto@me Focus group Ad hoc 50 8,850 87 People Trends Economic situation listening Customer satisfaction The systematic reporting of Customer Satisfaction (CS) seeks to measure “perceived” quality, in other words quality as an element of the Customer experience in using the bank’s products or services. With a view to growing “Customer care” and continuous improvements in business performance, the reporting of CS therefore represents an essential step towards the correct functioning of the overall organisation. Accordingly, BPM has continuously monitored CS with a view to evaluating the quality of the services provided to individual and SME Customers. Objectives: The survey was carried out in order to identify the current perceived level of service and priorities in terms of marketing activities designed to increase the level of satisfaction. Procedure: 2006 marks the second phase of CS monitoring. It is therefore possible to analyse the trend over time of the main CS indicators. Monitoring activity in 2006, unlike in 2005, not only involved BPM, but also two other banks of the Group, Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria and Banca di Legnano. % Customers by age range 2006 2005 1% 2% < 18 4% From 19 to 25 4% 36% 36% 34% 34% From 26 to 45 From 46 to 65 Over 65 0 88 25% 24% 25 50 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > customers listening Individual Customer Results Corporate Customer Results The overall satisfaction of BPM’s individual Customers remained stable over 2005 and was still higher than the system, even if there was a slight rise in general satisfaction with the system. Relational factors scored well, reflecting the fact that its personnel are the bank’s real strength. The product area scored less well, except for the Internet banking service. None of the indicators varied substantially over 2005. The areas in which Banca Popolare di Milano enjoys the best reputation relate to the transparency and maintenance of its promises. The survey carried out with Corporate Customers confirms the Individual Customer results. Corporate Customer satisfaction exceeded general satisfaction with the system, despite the fact that this latter is on a slight up rise. Personnel, branches and the corporate banking service all scored well. The other products/services reviewed did less well. Also in this case 2006 results remained substantially stable with respect to 2005. The score for “Reputation” was broadly identical to that for Individual Customers, a sign that the bank enjoys a consistent reputation regardless of the type of Customer. corporate customers satisfaction 0% 25% 50% 75% 100% Staff 94.1% 94.2% Branch 91.3% 92.0% Current account 80.8% 81.3% Corporate banking 92.0% 94.2% Investments 90.0% 88.2% Overall satisfaction - BPM figure 88.3% 87.7% Overall satisfaction - Industry figure 86.4% 83.0% % very much in agreement + pretty much in agreement (marks from 6 to 10) 2006 2005 reputation 0% 25% 50% 75% 100% Maintains undertakings to customers 86.3% 86.3% Has a transparent relationship 88.3% 83.7% Is attentive to customer interests 76.6% 75.6% % very much in agreement + pretty much in agreement (marks from 6 to 10) 2006 2005 89 Findings of other research Individual users of Internet banking The research carried out during the course of 2006 with Individual Customers examined the more important aspects of choosing and using the We@ bank Internet banking service for the first time, as well as focused on analysing the experience, attitudes and know-how of on-line users (conto@me account holders). First-time use A questionnaire was automatically sent out to all newly-registered members, through which it was possible to examine the user’s registration process, reasons for requesting the service, support received and interest in various functions. It emerged that Customers opt for Internet banking mostly for greater autonomy and control, while factors such as cost and access to functions seemed to play a lesser roll. Attitudes toward and expectation of conto@me Research has confirmed that users mainly choose Internet banking services because of lower costs and because they seek greater autonomy/ independence. For this reason routine banking transactions can be carried out on line. Conto @me is more cost-effective and practical than its competitors and, more importantly, it enjoys greater reliability thanks to its tangible presence throughout Italy and the support it has from such a trustworthy and solid banking group. Indeed, in choosing an on-line account, it is important for users to know that behind it lies a “physical” banking group and not merely an image. The Customer-bank relationship is one of the main differences between traditional banks and on-line banks. The link that connects an on-line bank with its Customers is defined through an impersonal relationship: the no-frills, direct relationship is also undoubtedly reliable and advantageous and characterised by greater efficiency and transparency. 90 BPM.SET Laboratorio Laboratori locali sullo STerritoriale viluppo delle EconomiePMI Territoriali per le PMI As also highlighted in BPM’s current Strategic Plan, to develop, the Bank must increasingly focus its attention on the fact that Italian SMEs feel the need for growth. This is a highly important and especially complex strategic objective as Italian SMEs must on the one hand deal with a globalised economy and on the other must remain deeply rooted in their territory, ie, remain connected to their resources and socioeconomic ties. What’s more, these same territories, understood as complex network systems, compete for human, financial and technological resources in order to develop. Each territorial area follows a path towards growth that is highly specialised and differentiated and this inevitably translates into a demand for personalised services (even financial services). Thus it is vital to adopt further mechanisms in order to receive feedback on the economic, social and cultural dynamics of territorial areas. If correctly structured, these mechanisms make it possible to maximise innovation and relations between the Bank and local businesses. It is with this premise that BPM is defining a project aimed at launching labs within territorial areas that reinforce the bonds between the Group and its territory through “agendas for sustainable local development”. social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > customers BPM response to customer feedback Support in developing households and private, public and social enterprises Services for Customers As a result of gathering Customer feedback BPM has implemented a number of measures in support of households and enterprise in terms of offering them new products and services and of developing the quality of the relationship. Individuals and households BPM offers a wide range of products and services to “Individual” Customers, whose number exceeds 920,000 evenly divided between men and women, in order to support their long-term projects involving savings, pensions or other expenditure. number of customers 920,085 Women 50.6% Men 49.4% 2006 928,497 Women 50.5% Men 49.5% 2005 0 30 60 % Customers by age range 2006 2005 1% 2% < 18 4% From 19 to 25 4% 36% 36% 34% 34% From 26 to 45 From 46 to 65 Over 65 0 25% 24% 25 Choose your own account and try it out for 6 months July 2006, this initiative is transparent and caters to Customer needs by allowing new Customers to acquaint themselves with BPM free of charge for 6 months. Essentially, the initiative enables new Customers to “try out BPM” and open an account free of charge for 6 months. During this time, the user has free access to services linked to the account, such as bank transfers and ATM withdrawals. Furthermore, charges for stamp duties on the current account or on any securities in custody are all incurred by BPM. At the end of the trial period, any Customers deciding not to keep their account with BPM will not incur any expenses for closing the account or the custody of any securities opened. After 6 months, Customers deciding to keep the account open will be subject to the standard terms and conditions for the account illustrated during the sales negotiations. The initiative is applicable to accounts with different uses and new Customers may choose the type of account that best responds to their needs: 1. Conto Compilation, an account for young people; 2. Service Line, a choice of accounts that only cost Euro 1 a month; 3. Globalconto Line, an all-inclusive account; 4. Flexiconto, an account that rewards cash holdings. To foster relations with new Customers during the 6-month trial period, feedback on Customer satisfaction is obtained through the BPM Call Center so that any critical situations can be immediately remedied. 50 91 Elimination of costs for closing accounts opened by categories of socially disadvantaged persons From February 2006, and therefore before the Bersani Decree, BPM decided to eliminate costs for closing certain current accounts. This benefit is geared toward helping groups of disadvantaged Customers. The initiative involves accounts dedicated to young people (Conto Compilation for Customers over and under 18 years of age), the elderly (GlobalConto Senior), foreign citizens (Conto Extraordinario small e large), lowcost accounts (Il conto - Servizio bancario di base and Conto Service1) and on-line accounts (Conto@ me). Services for foreign citizens The goal is to facilitate the assimilation of foreign citizens into the Italian social fabric, giving them access to financial services and showing the value BPM gives to diverse cultural identities. BPM’s commitment in 2006 was carried out on two fronts through: A) the proposal for a specific offering, the Extraordinario line; B) the development of new multi-ethnic service methods through the activation of multilingual call centres and Extraordinario Points. A) Extraordinario Line Immigrant citizens have financial needs that grow as their level of social integration grows. Within this context, BPM proposes an offering made up of various solutions at differing cost levels. To satisfy immigrants’ needs to send money abroad, BPM offers an inexpensive, fast and safe way for them to send money abroad to loved ones from all BPM branches thanks to arrangements between BPM and many foreign banks in the state of origin. BPM also offers international prepaid credit cards without cardholders being required to open an account. Cardholders can also make payments in Italy and abroad and withdraw money from ATMs. The offering has been expanded to encompass three types of current accounts available at reasonable costs and differentiated based on the services included. For Customers wanting to start up a business or develop an already existing one, BPM offers Extraordinario Business, a product aimed to satisfy all business management needs. Brochures are available at all BPM branches and have been translated into eight different languages besides Italian: Arabic, French, Spanish, Filipino, Romanian, Portuguese, English and Chinese. Multilanguage information is available on the website www.bpm.it or by calling the toll-free number 800.100.200 where multi-lingual phone operators are on-hand to respond in French, Arabic, Romanian, Spanish and English. Foreign Customers by country of origin 2006 2005 Eastern Europe 8,181 7,318 Rest of Europe 2,303 2,148 Africa 7,912 7,686 Asia 8,194 7,857 South America 5,725 5,484 923 856 33,238 31,349 Rest of the world Total 92 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > customers service initiatives B) Extraordinario Points To provide further assistance with understanding products and services, BPM offers immigrant Customers the chance to interface with a mothertongue operator via a video-consultancy service. The service is currently available in six branches: three in Milan, one in Saronno, and one in Bologna and Rome. Customers can book a video-consultancy service at the self-service area located in each of the six branches or by calling the toll free number 800.100.200. Support for immigrant enterprises In 2006, BPM continued its collaboration with ASIIM – Association for the Development of Immigrant Enterprise in Milan – by offering support and initiatives such as surveys on the needs of immigrant entrepreneurs and the opening of an “Immigrant enterprises point” (at the Milan Chamber of Commerce and through the website www.imprenditorimmigrati.it) aimed at helping immigrants start up or develop their own businesses in Italy. For 2007 and with the contribution of Members, the Association has planned to set up a training programme for aspiring entrepreneurs available free of charge. BPM received two awards for its commitment to foreign Multi-language presentation citizens: 1. the Sodalitas Social Award, first place in the category “Socially responsible financial initiatives” “for having successfully offered a complete banking service package linked to various phases of local integration for immigrants that encourages their economic citizenship”; 2. the WelcomeBank Award, issued by Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Biella ed Etnica. Video-consultancy area 93 100% mortgage For first-home buyers who do not have initial capital, BPM proposes a new solution for 100% financing for up to a maximum amount of Euro 350,000. BPM provides a renegotiable fixed-rate mortgage combined with a fixed-rate guarantee for the first five years and the opportunity to afterwards modify the financing plan at pre-defined conditions. Photovoltaic loans This project is designed to encourage the production of electrical energy through photovoltaic systems (which transform solar energy into electrical energy) and was created following Legislative Decree of 28 July 2005, issued by the Ministry of Productive Activities in concert with the Ministry of the Environment and Territorial Protection. Households and businesses intending to install or boost pre-existing photovoltaic systems are eligible for floating-rate financing for up to Euro 150,000, repayable in up to 10 years. In light of the new (“energy saving”) finance law, in the first half of 2007 BPM will develop specifically designed products for businesses, condominiums and individuals wishing to use environmentallyfriendly technologies and systems and save on energy consumption. Ethical funds - Investments in companies conscious of the environment and the protection of human rights BPM Group is co-founding partner of Etica Sgr (a company promoting “Responsible Values” ethical funds and belonging to the Banca Popolare Etica Group). Etica Sgr is the only Italian asset management company specialised in exclusively promoting socially responsible mutual funds. Etica Sgr is the first Italian asset management company that actively exercises shareholder rights on social and environmental issues by attending the general meetings of listed companies in which the funds invest. In 2006, its fourth year on the sustainable finance market, Etica Sgr promoted the placement of the new fund “Responsible Share Values”. For every Euro 1,000, fund subscribers donate Euro 1 to a fund that guarantees microcredit projects in Italy. The fund is used by Banca Etica in partnership with local entities and charities. Offers to students: “Un C@ppuccino per un PC” An agreement was entered into with the Ministry for Innovation and Technology, in concert with the Ministry of Education, Higher Learning and Research and the Ministry of Economy and Finance, to offer financing to Italian university students called “Un C@ppuccino per un PC”. Thanks to the agreement students can receive loans without having to provide any accessory guarantees. This project is among many initiatives that BPM makes available to students, more specifically in the ambit of masters and specialisation courses, through specific agreements with the top universities in Lombardy. Consumer credit guarantee fund Following an agreement with the Ministry of Productive Activities, in 2006 BPM issued financing for the purchase of goods or services for families whose annual income (according to the household income indicator, ISEE) is less than Euro 15,000. Financing is guaranteed for up to 50% through a specific guarantee fund. 94 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > customers service initiatives Distribution of the Italian Ethical Fund Market*: Position of Etica Sgr Etica Sgr – 210 (10.8%) Others – 436 (22.3%) Eurizon – 641 (32.8%) Pioneer – 669 (34.2%) (*) Calculation by Etica Sgr based on Assogestioni data, December 2006. Only funds classified as “ethical” by Assogestioni have been calculated. in thousands of Euros euro Contribution of the BPM Group to total assets managed by Etica SGR Performance of fund guaranteeing microcredit projects Total assets managed Assets managed Used for microcredit projects 70,212 33.36% 2004 90,000 48,000 Other 140,234 66.64% 2005 185,000 105,000 Total 210,447 100.00% 2006 264,000 114,000 BPM Group 95 Companies Products for companies Also in 2006 BPM, often in partnership with local trade associations and institutes, provided financing solutions for companies to help them solve business challenges, such as: - Short-term debt consolidation: BPM serves 98,465 small companies and 9,430 medium and large companies (an ever-growing figure), of which around 74% in Lombardy. The project iis geared towards helping craftsmen consolidate their short-term debts. The initiative was launched in association with the Craftsmen Union of the Province of Milan with financing backed by guarantees from the Lombardy Craftsmen Co-operative for Guarantees. Its purpose is to raise awareness among craftsmen that they can transform surplus short-term debts into medium-term debts. - Equity adjustment: The project, in conjunction with the Milan, Varese and Como Chambers of Commerce, aims to help companies adjust their equity after investments and company restructurings. - Usury prevention: BPM has kicked off the arrangement with the local prefecture to promote financing in order to prevent usury. The initiative seeks to provide financing to companies, presented by guarantee consortiums or authorised associations, that are burdened with financial hardships and request assistance through a guarantee set up using public anti-usury funds. - Investments in economically depressed areas: BPM has entered into an agreement with Cassa Depositi e Prestiti to manage Law no 488, the instrument whereby companies are given a large portion of sinking fund and low-interest loans. This project envisages loans aimed at fostering investment in depressed areas by companies with the help of the Ministry of Economic Development in part through sinking funds and in part thorough interest accounts. 96 - Low liquidity: To help companies deal with low liquidity issues following the differing methods for allocating post-employment benefits for employees, BPM has set up a post-employment benefit fund that provides a two-fold form of financing. The first part of the financing has a term of 11 months at highly attractive rates, while the second covers the first three years, with repayment after five. Small Businesses 2006 2005 Skilled trades 22% 21% Services 24% 21% Industry 17% 18% Commerce 14% 14% Agriculture 3% 3% 20% 23% Other social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > customers service initiatives Entities and Associations BPM for the non-profit sector Collaboration activities in the non-profit sector led to a rise in 2006 in the offering of products and services for the non-profit sector. In 2006 membership to the website www.faresolidale.it increased by 68%. The website was redesigned and the new version was launched in May 2007, offering associations the chance to present up to 6 projects and use state-of-the-art online fund collection instruments. During the course of the year, the ON LINE DONATIONS service has increased its membership and now has an added service expressly set up by BPM called FRECCIA WEB Solidale whereby nonprofit associations can collect funds on-line. In 2006 BPM took part in several nation-wide and, in keeping with its logic as a local area bank, local initiatives. The initiatives included TUTTAUNALTRACOSA and Stramilano. The non-profit sector in BPM* 2006 Number of Customers Social co-operatives 2005 Number of Customers 205 211 3,920 1,465 Foundations 185 169 Religious entities 538 547 4,848 2,392 Associations and other Entities Total * In 2006, through an analysis conducted, the segment was better defined to include associations as well as other nonprofit entities such as committees, research institutes and organisations for senior citizens. 97 SERVICE INITIATIVES Accessibility, efficiency and integration of distribution channels Commercial network Territorial coverage BPM continued to pursue its territorial expansion activities also in 2006. In line with the bank’s mission to keep its strong local roots and constantly improve service, BPM’s distribution policy involved the pursuit of a widespread network with heavy coverage especially in the areas in which BPM’s presence is deeply rooted and where a direct knowledge of the area facilitates a proactive approach in Customer relations. New branch model In 2006, BPM continued its efforts to modernise and render the internal areas of its branches more functional by providing better security and improving Customer-Bank relations. Self-service area set up for new and advanced procedures. 98 Typical work area equipped with automatic cashiering services for safe cash management social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > customers On-line channel We@bank In its six years of existence, the We@bank service has earned noteworthy results in terms of its widespread Customer use. More than 25% of BPM account holders are registered to use the We@bank service and on average, in the 12 months of 2006, more than 130,000 transactions took place each month through this on-line service (payments, stock market trades and transactions in funds). These results place We@bank at the top end of the market in terms of Customer penetration. The important goals established when the We@bank service was created have been achieved. Ever-wider Customer penetration and more intense use of the services offered remain the permanent objectives of the We@bank service. To reach these goals, projects were designed in 2006 to improve and complete the offering of products and services available on We@bank. We@bank’s growth does not stop here. We@bank has entered into a new phase as an operational channel as well as a Customer relations and sales channel. This latter objective arises from the experience gained by Customers in using on-line channels in general. We@bank has already started to change in this directions by redesigning the part of the website accessible to the public, made available on 1 July 2006. In 2007 the private area will be completely redesigned keeping these new perspectives in mind. (more than 6 logins per month per active Customer). With regard to banking operations, we point out that: • 9,605,119 information requests (current account balances, transactions, instruction results etc) were made, up 20% over 2005; • Customers giving bank instructions rose from 62,640 in 2005 to 79,066, up 26%; • the number of instructions (bank transfers, bank slips, automatic transfers, payments against notice, etc) totalled 1,131,608, up by 31 % over 2005; • on-line trading again reached record highs in 2006 with 406,927 stock exchange transactions performed compared to 325,313 in 2005 (+25%). This result is slightly higher than that of the overall Italian market performance. Indeed, the average daily trading percentage on the Italian Stock Exchange in the same period was 21% higher than the previous year, reporting a growth of the market share as well; • transactions on funds have reached significant levels with 25,667 transactions carried out in 2006 (purchases, sales and switches) compared with 18,722 in the previous year (+37%). Market trends have fuelled this growth, but they are surely not the only reason for this phenomenon. Since 2005 this Active We@Bank Customers 140.000 We@bank results for BPM In 2006 31,157 Customers registered to use We@ bank, a sharp increase over 2005 of 20%. At 31 December 2006, 182,457 Customers signed up for access to BPM’s Internet Retail service (+ 13% over the previous year). With regard to the use of the We@bank service, we point out that: • a monthly average of more than 92,000 users access the private areas of the website (via a login and password), up from 77,500 in 2005 (+18%); • on an annual basis, the total number of active Customers who used the service at least once reached 130,560 compared to 111,954 in the previous year, resulting in a 17% increase. The total number of active clients accounts for 72% of the total clients registered with the service against 70% at the end of December 2005 and 69% at the end of December 2004; • these clients accessed the We@bank website a total of 9,481,985 times (+ 20 % over 2005), with an average of 72 logins/Customers in twelve months 130,560 116.000 111,954 99,518 93.000 83,260 70.000 2003 2004 2005 2006 We@Bank Banking Instructions 1,131,608 1.100.000 900.000 861,868 700.000 500.000 641,800 424,869 300.000 2003 2004 2005 2006 99 sharp increase has been the result of more intense usage of more sophisticated services on the part of the Customers and therefore greater maturity in the use of We@bank Accessible We@bank Accessible We@bank is the version of individual Customer home banking service devoted to the otherwise abled. This service makes it possible to navigate and use the principal functions involving the giving of instructions and requesting of information already available in the “traditional” version of We@bank, by using special technology to allow these functions to be used by the otherwise abled. Its various features include the possibility of modifying the viewing mode, enlarging the characters or increasing the contrast, and the possibility for the blind to use a specific screen reader to read web pages. During 2006 over 7,289 Customers used Accessible We@bank involving a total of more than 62,010 logins and 7,748 instructions. On-line security The public portion of the website has been made even more secure with the application of an https scheme that protects data through encryption. In general terms, security of the private area of the website has been strengthened through the use of a second password (see image below) previously used to confirm all instructions placed in the private area. Lastly, use of the second password has been optimised through the request of only 2 codes so that as a result the possible combinations are widened. inLineaNet In 2006 the number of Customers and instructions rose sharply, even in light of the legislative changes brought about by the Bersani Decree, which requires all businesses to use on-line instruments. The number of new users of this service totalled 15,068, for a total of 48,618 Customers, equal to 49% of the total business Customers, up 10% from 2005. The number of F24 forms collected in 2006 totalled 234,758 against 94,858 in 2005, up 247%. On-line Documents The “On-line Documents” service has been active since March 2004 and is available to both individual Customers using We@bank and corporate Customers using inLineaNet. The On-line Documents service allows users to receive accounting documents that the bank would normally send via post directly online inside a personal file within the private area of the website. These documents refer to: • banking transactions such as bank transfers, account transfers; • the sale and purchase of securities; • other types of transactions such as automatic transfers, reversals, collections; • bank statements and securities in custody; • summary documents from 1 January 2007. The service continues to be very successful. The percentage of Customers signed up for the service as at 31 December 2006 grew by 69% compared with December 2005. Accounts registered for the service equal more than 87% of active Customers using Internet services (monthly figure at December 2006) and more than 52% of all existing Customers (for branch 599 Customers, the percentage exceeds 70%). Figures for On-line Documents services We@bank + inLineaNet 2006 2005 143,300 98,000 Bank statements produced 1,100,000 500,000 Documents produced 7,100,000 3,200,000 Saving by Customers (in euro) 1,430,000 1,250,000 Accounts registered for the service Figures for inLineaNet 2006 2005 44,696 24,790 Total no. site accesses 5,005,690 4,142,591 Total no. information requests 5,170,895 4,245,279 13,051,805 6,364,934 Average active Customers in a month Total no. instructions 100 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > customers BPM response to customer feedback Patti Chiari Transparent communication Banca Popolare di Milano has adopted from the outset the eight initiatives taken as part of the project sponsored by ABI (Italy’s Banking Association) with the goal of improving bank-Customer relationships, by basing Customer engagement on the values of clarity, fairness, ease of understanding and comparability of the various choices on offer. After obtaining quality certification in 2004 for each of the 8 initiatives, BPM maintained this status in the three-year period from 2005 to 2007 thanks to its correct provision of the 8 services, confirming its commitment to introducing the transparency principle to the market. In addition, BPM has adhered to the initiative within the ambit of PattiChiari called Cambio Conto, which aims to provide greater information on procedures regarding the mobility of Retail Customers in relation to current account products (in application of the Bersani Decree) through a process that is clear, simple and efficient, thereby guaranteeing: • a list of services regulated on the account being closed/transferred; • the automatic transfer of collections; • the monitoring of timing for closing the account. By the end of 2007, the initiative will ensure that all services linked to the account are fully transferred. Awareness of Patti Chiari 2006 2005 I am aware of the initiative 44.20% 44.20% I have only heard of it 38.15% 38.45% 6.05% 5.75% 55.80% 55.80% I am well aware of the initiative I am not aware of the initiative In order to understand and monitor knowledge of the project, in 2006 BPM asked Customers whether they are aware of Patti Chiari as part of the wider Customer Satisfaction survey. The data reported in the table below show how awareness of the initiative has improved among those who have already heard of it, while more attention should focus on informing people who are not aware, the percentage of which remains unchanged. Guide to the initiative for the Customer List of services regulated on current account available at branch Half-year monitoring of closing periods (report on periods available at branches from June 2007) Automatic transfer of charges managed by the automatic transfer service October 2006 December 2006 February 2007 Automatic transferability of all services activated on the account December 2007 Source: Patti Chiari Consortium 101 Controversial Patti Chiarimarkets Law no 185/90 governs the exchange of arms within the context of foreign defense policy and its compliance with the Banca Popolare principles di Milano of hathe aderito dall’inizio fundamental Italiansin Constitution. alle otto iniziative realizzate nell’ambito del progetto promosso dall’ABI con l’obiettivo di migliorare 2006 report on the technical operations of BPM: i rapporti allo sportello, improntando il dialogo con1.la The clientela ai valori di chiarezza, correttezza, application of our policy of July 2005, which does not entail taking part in financing transactions that concern the comprensibilità e comparabilità delle offerte. exportation or importation of arms, resulted in 2006 in a further significant reduction in the number of collections (14 compared with 31 in 2005) and the related volumes authorised (Euro 18,216,000 compared with Euro 43,638,000 in 2005). Dopo aver ottenuto nel 2004 la certificazione di In 2006 payment of a 8 brokerage of Euro 1,576,000 was authorised and Euro 771,000 was collected within the context of qualità perthe ciascuna delle iniziativefee previste, BPM ha mantenuto tale riconoscimento anche per il 2005 an inter-governmental co-production programme for which no prior authorisation is required. grazie ad una corretta erogazione degli 8 servizi, a riconferma dell’impegno nell’attivazione dei principi 2. Product recipient countries suffered a decrease and were: France, Great Britain, Greece, Ireland, USA, India and Turkey di chiarezza sul mercato. receiving a very small provision. Per comprendere e monitorare la conoscenza del Although progetto,underlining BPM ha inserito la rilevazione della issue of relations between banks and the activities governed by Law no the controversial and complex notorietà di Patti Chiari presso la propria clientela 185/90, BPM has revealed that in 2007 it intends to further dramatically reduce its technical operations by applying even more all’interno dell’indagine più complessiva sulla restrictive and selective criteria than those contained in Law no 185/90, both for products and for recipient companies. Customer Satisfaction. I dati riferiti un continuo BPM also alla confitabella rms thatcomporteranno around January 2008 it will produce a report on 2007 and will continue its long-standing practice sforzo nelle attività di informazione, individuando organising a meeting with important NGOs and with Banca Etica. On this occasion BPM will also make known by when it nel of contempo gli strumenti più idonei per intends defile nitively leave this market. comunicaretocon diverse tipologie di clienti. 2004 – 2006 technical operations trend 102 year ministerial authorisations amount authorised for collection hgfsrsreagfssgsgsfss 2004 2005 2006 n, 32 n, 31 n, 14 euro euro euro social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > customers 57,946,000 43,638,000 18,216,000 BPM response to customer feedback Customer protection, prevention and solving of problems Handling of complaints Complaints represent an important opportunity for listening and responding to Customers, with a view to maintaining the quality of the service and overall satisfaction of Customers. They are handled by the Complaints Office, which usually resolves the problems directly, so that Customer recourse to the Ombudsman is minimal. A total of 2,325 complaints were received during the course of 2006, almost all of which in writing. This number is lower than in 2005. Complaints on the charging of interest have been nearly eliminated, while some complaints remain on securities that in the past few years have gone in default. There has been a slight increase in complaints in the tax segment, especially in relation to F24 forms. New complaints have arisen following the changes brought about by the Finance Act, particularly with regard to successions. Complaints by type 2006 2005 Accounts 624 560 Investment products 595 666 Financing products 355 814 Payment and collection services 581 475 36 43 134 142 2,325 2,700 Insurance policies Miscellaneous Total 103 COMMITMENTS: steps taken and new objectives for improvement Objectives for improvement set out in the 2005 Social Responsibility Report 104 State of play at the end of 2006 Steps taken Development of projects in support of young families and atypical workers. Accessibility to credit. 100% mortgage. J • Procedural analysis has been started. • The 100% mortgage project has been realised and marketed. Development of the multi-ethnic bank with initiatives specifically targeted at the immigrant population. Multi-lingual call centre operators. Multi-lingual corners in branches. J • 8 mother-tongue operators speaking French, Arabic, Romanian, Spanish and English have been hired for BPM call centres. • Video-consultancy areas have been set up in 6 BPM branches. Development of a project to strengthen ties with the nonprofit sector/social economy. Implementation of specific measures. J • The product and service offerings and online fund collection services have been changed. Basel 2 project to assist SMEs with this transition. Establishment of loans to fund development. J • Collaborations with trade associations to introduce financing solutions to help businesses competative markets have continued. Supplementary retirement savings project aimed at both workers and companies. Training/ Information activity. J • The initiative has been launched. Start of continuous monitoring of Customer Satisfaction. Second survey. Extension to other banks in the Group. J • The second edition of monitoring has been realised. Since 2006 it has been extended to other banks of BPM Group, for a total of 6,600 Customers involved. Rationalisation and simplification of range of products and services. Continuation of the review process. J • The simplification of the Product Catalogue has continued and has resulted in the significant decrease of type of current accounts offered to Customers, with a view towards greater transparency and efficiency for the sales network. Territorial social dialogue workshops” with “players” and companies. Organisation of the first “round tables” on certain key topics concerning the bank/markets relationship. J • The line of products created and marketed is constantly being widened. Territorial social dialogue workshops” with “players” and companies. Organisation of the first “round tables” on certain key topics concerning the bank/markets relationship. K • A project feasibility study has been drafted. Financing for the phases foreseen for 2007 and 2008 are still being evaluated. social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > customers COMMITMENTS: steps taken and new objectives for improvement Objectives for further improvement Outlook for 2007 Monitoring of Customer Satisfaction. • Research on SME and individual Customers widened to improve knowledge on these segments, even in terms of needs and expectations. Development of the multi-ethnic bank with initiatives specifically targeted at the immigrant population. • Collaborative relationships built with the most important ethnic communities in Italy. • Training provided to foreign entrepreneurs, in partnership with ASIIM – Associaion for the Development of Immigrant Enterprise in Milan. • Examination of specific projects aimed to integrate multi-ethnic personnel into branches and create multi-ethnic loan brokers. Simplification of Customer-bank relations. • Methods for accessing services simplified. 105 The Parent Bank BPM Members and Shareholders 107 Policy guidelines BPM is committed to dealing with its Members and Shareholders in accordance with its mission and guiding principles. More specifically, it intends to pursue the following key objectives: • to create value over time for all its Members and Shareholders as a result of rigorous, business management that, by ensuring a solid capital base, produces a constant growth in earnings, productivity, development and control of risks; • to strengthen its identity as a leading co-operative bank known for its wide, diverse membership base unified around its mission; • to seek a model of governance firmly tied to the principle of responsibility and transparency that allows the different components of its membership base to be represented. 108 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > members and shareholders An overview Co-operative banks represent an important player in terms of their territorial presence and the role they play in developing local business. In recent years they have significantly increased their importance within the Italian banking industry, while at the same time taking on the challenge of change with a series of aggregations and transformations. These changes have not significantly changed their business models – which continue to be a territorial banking one – while their co-operative format has facilitated a kind of development that respects traditional relationships between the bank, Customer and community, by fostering “proximity” to the Customers concerned. In this way the benefits of our country’s economic, social and legal tradition are brought to the fore. In this context BPM is committed to satisfying the expectations of its Members and Shareholders by implementing with constancy and graduality a banking model that is ever more efficient, solid and profitable and socially responsible, which seeks to help local enterprises to grow, thereby offering a perspective of long-term value to their investment. analysis of share capital made up of 415,034,231 shares (distribution per agggregations and relative % of shareholding) Partner Shareholders - 4.02% ** holding 16,674,760 shares Other Shareholders - 32.20% holding 133,635,141 shares Large Shareholders - 8.41% * holding 34,907,114 shares Institutional Investors - 55.37% * * Institutional Investors and Large Shareholders with more than 100,000 shares. ** Partner Shareholders (3.42% CM-CIC Group - 0.59% Fondazione Cassa Risp. Alessandria) 109 Shareholder composition BPM is a limited co-operative company whose share capital consists of shares listed on the Milan Stock Exchange in the S&P MIB segment; it combines the characteristics of a partnership with those of a limited company in compliance with the complex rules that regulate the market. Its co-operative nature (which treats the relationship between people as fundamental and focuses on developing mutuality between its Members) combined with the recourse to capital markets determines and influences its shareholder and corporate structure; in fact, this consists of a large number of small individual Shareholders and a smaller number of Large Shareholders, Partner Members/Shareholders and Institutional Investors who hold a significant portion of share capital. The breakdown of shareholdings by type and size shows that BPM has been able to grow while continuing to be a co-operative and at the same time to acquire a large number of professional investors among its Members and Shareholders who mainly invest in the Bank’s stock on a medium/ long-term basis. More specifically, the strategy of seeking alliances with partners interested in long-term investment and commercial agreements, has led BPM to make cross-shareholdings with Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria and the group headed up by Federale du Credit Mutuel Centre Est (C.I.C.). Based on the information received by BPM and disclosures to CONSOB, at 30 June 2007, the following shareholders held “significant shareholdings”: analysis of share capital consisting of 415,034,231 shares held by 90,818 members and shareholders Total Members 50,319 (55.40%) No. Shares 97,662,922 (23.53%) Total Shareholders 40,499 (44.60%) No. Shares 317,371,309 (76.47%) Institutional Investor Shareholders (54,73%)* Total: 279 with 227,136,546 shares Italian residents: 53,049,663 shares Foreign residents: 174,086,883 shares Other Members (18.88%) Total: 50,288 with 78,359,363 shares Large Shareholders (7.01%)* Total: 30 with 29,087,235 shares Italian residents: 18,688,161 shares Foreign residents: 10,399,074 shares Partner Members (2.60%)** Total: 7 with 10,803,010 shares Italian residents: 2,469,087 shares Foreign residents: 8,333,8923 shares Partner Shareholders (1.41%)** Total: 5 with 5,871,750 shares Large Shareholder Members (1.40%)* Other Shareholders (13.32%) Total: 40,185 Institutional Investor Members (0.65%)* Total: 19 with 5,819,879 shares Italian residents: 5,819,879 shares with 55,275,778 shares Total: 5 with 2,680,670 shares Italian residents: 1,654,302 shares Foreign residents: 1,026,368 shares * Includes only Large Shareholders and Institutional Investors with more than 100,000 shares ** Partner Members and Shareholders (3.42% C.I.C. Group - 0.59% Fondazione Cassa Risp. Alessandria) 110 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > members and shareholders Restriction on share ownership and terms of admission to Membership Share capital for Large Groupings 2006 Number Shareholding Foreign Funds 108 76,483,356 Italian Funds 16 8,485,665 124 84,969,021 32 15,766,373 Grouping Total Funds Foreign Pension Funds Italian Pension Funds 0 0 32 15,766,373 Total Funds and Pension Funds 156 100,735,394 Accredited Foreign Investors 86 82,863,522 Accredited Italian Investors 42 46,218,300 Total Accredited Investors 128 129,081,822 Total Institutional Investors* 284 229,817,216 11 14,205,673 Total Pension Funds Foreign Strategic Partners Italian Strategic Partners 1 2,469,087 Total Strategic Partners 12 16,674,760 Large Foreign Shareholders* 8 10,399,074 Large Italian Shareholders* 41 24,508,040 Total Large Shareholders 49 34,907,114 8,614 11,900,055 243 129,295 81,616 121,605,791 Total employees 90,473 133,635,141 Total Members and Shareholders 90,818 415,034,231 Total BPM employees Total BPM GROUP employees Other Shareholders Total other shareholders and * Includes only Large Shareholders and Institutional Investors with more than 100,000 shares Declarer Direct shareholder Julius Baer Invest. Manag. LLC Julius Baer Invest. Manag. LLC Caisse Federale du Crédit Mutuel Centre Est Europe (CM-CIC Group) ** Adepi, Placinvest, Cicor, Cic Partecipations, Credit Industriel et Commercial SA, SofiHolding3, Gestunion3, Acm Vie SA, Acm MUT, Iard The admission of new Members is also governed by the articles of association and by a specific resolution concerning “rules for the admission of Members and management of the relationship” which: • confirms the establishment of the “Members’ Relations Commission”, comprising Directors with powers to review applications for membership admission and to exclude Members; • defines requirements and procedures for the admission of new Members. Admission depends on the prospective Member’s effective espousal of the Bank’s aims, its objective interests and its co-operative spirit. This requirement is deemed to be satisfied if the application is presented by a Shareholder with a minimum holding of 100 shares and is accompanied by a written undertaking to maintain this number of shares over time; • establishes the conditions and procedures for cancelling a Member; • outlines the criteria for maintaining the Register of Members and Register of Shareholders; • defines the procedures for granting any special treatment or benefits to Members. Share % of share capital 2.058 3.42 Amber Capital LP Amber Capital LP 2.160 Credit Suisse Group Credit Suisse International, Credit Suisse Securities, Credit Suisse 2.552 Jp Morgan Securities Limited 2.675 JP Morgan Chase & Co. Corporation Article 21 of the BPM articles of association and article 30 of the Banking Act1 specify limits on share ownership. As a result of reports received from intermediaries in relation to payment of the 2005 dividend, BPM has served notice on 20 shareholders that they have exceeded the 0.50% shareholding limit. 1 ** CM-CIC Group holds a convertible bond loan maturing in 2009 and composed of 25,568,181 convertible bonds with a ratio of 1 share per bond with a unitary value of Euro 7.04. Article 30 of the Banking Act: “No shareholder’s interest may exceed 0.50% of the share capital. As soon as it becomes aware that this limit has been exceeded, the Bank serves formal notice of the breach on the shareholder concerned. The excess shares must be sold within a year of such notice; after this deadline, the related rights pertaining to these shares are acquired by the Bank until their disposal. The above-mentioned limit does not apply to mutual investment funds; the relevant limits in such cases are those imposed by the rules of the fund concerned”. 111 Membership is cancelled if Members breach their contractual obligations to the Bank, while membership is forfeited if a Member no longer owns any shares. For the purposes of correctly presenting its shareholder base, once a year BPM cancels all those names from its Register of Members who are no longer owners of its shares. The number of membership admissions and cancellations/forfeitures 2006 2005 735 545 – – Members admitted Applications rejected Memberships cancelled Memberships forfeited 14 8 4,650 4,159 In a co-operative company, Customer Members/ Shareholders and Employee Members/ Shareholders are a fundamental part of the shareholder base: in fact both categories are tied to the Bank not only by the fact that they have invested in its shares, but also by the nature of the Customer and Employee relationship that binds them to the co-operative. Customer Members, with the multitude of transactions undertaken in the normal course of banking business, and Employees, by virtue of the services performed for Customers, have theoretically conflicting interests, which actually complement one another and converge in the general interest of the business. Customer and Employee Members and Shareholders Customers No. Members and Shareholders Individuals Companies/Entities Total Total Employees No. No. Members and of shares Shareholders 38,112 52,590,079 403 1,660,251 38,515 54,250,330 8,614 8,614 Total No. No. Members and of shares Shareholders 11,900,055 11,900,055 No. of shares 46,726 64,490,134 403 1,660,251 47,129 66,150,385 Customer Members/Shareholders account for 42.40% of total shareholders, while Employee Members/Shareholders (including under-age children represented) amount to 9.48%, and respectively represent 13.07% and 2.87% of the capital. Territorial distribution of Members and Shareholders Members Shares Shareholders Shares Area Milan and Province 31.053 52,682,855 10,622 65,574,495 Lombardy 9,777 16,216,729 6,509 10,129,617 Latium 2,160 1,968,015 2,179 7,263,178 Apulia 1,168 1,007,326 1,352 670,398 4,984,253 Emilia Romagna 3,271 8,545,644 5,205 Piedmont 1,343 4,822,854 2,670 8,578,077 Other regions and abroad 1,547 12,419,499 11,962 220,171,291 50,319 97,662,922 40,499 317,371,309 Total The analysis of Members/Shareholders by geographical area shows a shareholder base that is consistent with the Bank’s territorial roots, which are concentrated in Lombardy. 112 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > members and shareholders Value creation and return on capital employed 2006 2005 415,034,231 415,034,231 13,138 9,246 Maximum official price for the year 13,40 9,74 Minimum official price for the year 8,93 6,35 5,452 3,847 2,960,312 2,935,416 398,680 258,980 145,261 62,255 0.96 0.62 13.7 14.8 Number of shares in issue The creation of value for Members and Shareholders and all other stakeholders takes place in a harmonious balance of interests and on the basis of a gradual development strategy designed to safeguard the Bank’s profitability and assets. The amount of assets, the outlook for earnings and the ability of management are fundamental determinants of enterprise value; in the case of a listed company like BPM this value is reflected in the market value of its shares. Following the success of its ambitious 2004/2006 strategic plan, BPM further increased its credibility. Today is considered a solid, well-managed and trustworthy group. BPM’s outstanding business performance is also reflected in the performance of its stock price, which from 2004-2006 rose more than 150% from Euro 5.2 at the end of 2003 to Euro 13.1 at the end of 2006, ranking among the highest in the period. The growth in dividends for shareholders is another aspect linked to the Group’s higher profitability; in the three-year period dividends grew from Euro 0.12 to Euro 0.35, an increase that amounts to an average return of 3.3%. After the strong progress already made in 2005 (+41%), BPM stock turned in yet another positive performance in 2006, enjoying an increase of over 42% and fluctuating between a minimum of Euro 8.93 on 13 June and a maximum of Euro 13.4 on 20 December. An average of more than 3.3 million shares were traded per day, with a peak of over 15.8 million on 17 May 2006. Last official price for the year Stock capitalisation at year’s end Equity (in thousands of Euros) Net profit for the year (in thousands of Euros) Declared dividends (in thousands of Euros) Earnings per share (Euros) 1 Price/Earnings (P/E) Dividends per share Yield per share Equity per share (euro) 2 Price/book value (P/BV) 0.35 0.15 3.31% 1.62% 7.13 7.07 1.84 1.31 1 P/E indicates the ratio between the market price of the company’s shares and its earnings per share. 2 P/BV indicates the ratio between the market price of the shares and the value of the company’s equity reported in its financial statements (book value) divided by the number of shares. February 2007 resolved on a free increase of share capital from Euro 3 to Euro 4 of the nominal value of the share by extracting the amount from the reserves. The extraordinary shareholders meeting of 15 Bpm Stock price performance 14.00 13.00 12.00 11.00 10.00 9.00 35000000 30000000 25000000 20000000 8.00 15000000 7.00 6.00 10000000 5.00 4.00 5000000 0 04 04 04 04 04 04 05 05 05 05 05 05 06 06 06 06 06 06 1- 3- 5- 7- 9- 1- 1- 3- 5- 7- 9- 1- 1- 3- 5- 7- 9- 1-0 3-0 5-0 5-0 2-0 2-1 4-0 4-0 6-0 7-0 7-0 7-1 6-0 8-0 1-0 1-0 1-0 9-1 2 0 1 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 113 BPM ratings Another important aspect relates to communications and dealings with rating agencies who help, through their research and opinions, to strengthen the bank’s image with investors and savers. These relationships are vitally important because they are meant to ensure that rating agencies have a clear picture of the business’s strategy, thanks to direct contact with its top management. Through their periodic meetings with such agencies, the bank’s top and senior management has sought to provide a constant source of information on the BPM Group’s activities and strategies. Throughout the year “conference calls” are set up, especially when presenting the results for the period, a Strategic Plan or during special events that are very important for the future strategies and economicfinancial prospects of the Group. BPM allows itself to be rated by the leading rating agencies every year. In 2006, the three agencies indicated below confirmed their rating. Rating agency * Long-term Short-term debt debt Outlook Moody’s A1 P-1 stable FitchRatings A F1 stable Standard & Poor’s A- A-2 stable *data updated as at 31/07/2007 Key: Medium- Long-term Standard & Poor’s: A-; Strong capacity to pay interest and principal, but a certain sensitivity to the adverse effects of change in circumstances or change in economic conditions. The “+” or “-” sign indicates the relative position in the rating scale. Moody’s: A1; Medium-high quality bonds. The factors guaranteeing principal and interest are adequate but there are elements of skepticism on their ability to remain as such in the future. The numbers from 1 to 3 indicate the position within the rating class (3 being the worst). Fitch: A; The rating signifies a low expectation of credit risk. The current capacity to honour financial commitments is considered to be strong. However, this ability may be vulnerable as a result of changes in economic circumstances; the “+” or “-” sign indicates the relative position in the rating scale. Short-term Standard & Poor’s: A-2; Satisfactory ability to honour financial commitments on their due date. The level of safety is less high for securities rated as A (A-1 is the highest level; A-3 the lowest level). Moody’s: P-1; The issuer has a strong capacity to settle its obligations in the short term. Fitch: F1; F2; Good quality of credit. A satisfactory capacity to honour financial commitments in the short term, but the margin of safety is not as high as in the case of higher ratings (F1 highest level; F3 lowest level). Outlook Positive means that the rating could increase - Negative means that the rating could decrease - Stable means that the rating is not likely to change - Development means that the rating could increase or decrease. 114 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > members and shareholders Participation and satisfaction of Members Participation in the general meeting is a privilege of Members and represents an important occasion for meeting and exchanging ideas, but above all it is a time when every Member can affect the company’s management through the debate and vote on the appointment of its Directors, through the approval of its financial statements and through the other ordinary and extraordinary decisions that fall to the Members by law. In the case of BPM – a co-operative with widely-held shares – this participation is even more important since all the Members carry equal weight and importance. In fact, every Member has one vote regardless of the number of shares held and, in order to ensure that all members can effectively and properly exercise their rights – foremost of which the right to take the floor on the matters being discussed – the Bank communicates the principal dates and events in its corporate calendar promptly, clearly and transparently. The orderly conduct of general meetings is governed by a set of Regulations for General Meetings while controls on the proper formation of the meeting are performed using a modern, tried and tested organisational set up and one of the best available software packages for running such meetings. the widest and most informed participation at its general meetings. During 2006 it developed a special technical/organisational procedure making it possible to issue in real time – and at all the Bank’s branches (irrespective of the branch where the securities are deposited) – the document needed for admission to the general meeting. This document is a further concrete example of how committed the Bank is to encouraging and making it easier for its Members to participate in the Bank’s corporate life and general meetings. In keeping with the principles and values that have characterised the Bank’s co-operative model, BPM has initiated a series of measures designed to encourage dialogue with its Members and Shareholders and their involvement in the various activities promoted by the Bank. These measures envisage specific forms of communication and dialogue as well as the “Members Value Line” – reserved exclusively for Members/Customers – which provides benefits on bank products and services. During 2006, the “Linea” service was widened on the basis of the results emerged from the dialogue and feedback initiatives. General meetings report a good attendance every year and the introduction of the list voting system, of proxies and the right of minorities to be represented, has increased participation, strengthening the special type of corporate democracy that characterises the Bank’s governance. In compliance with the law and its articles of association, the Bank has always encouraged Participation in Ordinary Meetings by type of Members 2006 BPM Employees BPM Group Employees Under-age Children of BPM Employees Under-age Children of BPM Group Employees 2005 In person By proxy In person By proxy 1,301 156 960 58 43 5 45 – - 493 – 398 - 5 – 5 Total Employees 1,344 659 1,005 461 Total Other Members 1,430 1,924 803 864 Grand total 2,774 2,583 1,808 1,325 Total Voters 5,357 3,133 115 The value of communicating Members’ involvement in the corporate life and the interest of shareholders in knowing strategic decisions and management data are vital elements to efficient communication. As a listed company BPM conducts its dealings with Members, Shareholders and the financial market in full compliance with the rules requiring it to communicate on a continuous, fair and transparent basis that guarantees parity of information to all concerned. To improve communication, the Bank has long used specific methods and channels for informing and communicating with its Members and Shareholders such as: • the Social Responsibility Report, as a method of informing, communicating and reporting to its stakeholders (in the case of Members also with the involvement of the Members’ Associations); • the letter to Members and Shareholders, as an effective instrument for communicating once a year the main events affecting the Bank and its performance; • the Bank’s website with a specific section devoted to “Shareholders and Members” and another dedicated to institutional investors. Relations with institutional investors The Investor Relations function handles financial communication with analysts and institutional investors in accordance with the following goals: • to ensure timely, accurate reporting that allows users to form a correct opinion of the company’s economic-financial performance and prospects; • to maintain a high level of knowledge about the BPM Group in Italy and abroad, and if possible to raise it; • to seek constant development of relationships with institutional investors. In order to achieve these goals BPM adopted a precise programme of communication during 2006; this programme involved periodic meetings with the financial community at the time of presenting the annual and interim results. A series of road shows were also planned with the aim of presenting BPM to the main international financial markets. The subsequent table summarises the number and nature of the various encounters taking place in 2006. In 2006, the presentation of the 2007-2009 Strategic Plan held last July marked a particularly important event. To illustrate the Group’s economicfinancial strategies to investors, last July a conference call was set up to present the plan that enabled the most important analysts/investors in Italy and abroad to interface with top management. Afterwards, meetings with Italian investors were organised as well as an international road show whose destinations included London and the main US financial markets. This table clearly shows the attention given to and shown by institutional investors in BPM. On the one hand there were over 130 direct visits to the Bank by leading analysts/domestic and international The Members Office is responsible for handling relationships with Members and Shareholders through use of the website www.bpm.it (Members and Shareholders section), the toll free number 800 013 090 and, in partnership with the External Relations Department and Institutional Investors Relations Department, the annual letter to Members and Shareholders. The Members Office also manages the desk devoted to Members and Shareholders located in the new “Bezzi” Service Centre in Via Massaua 6, Milan. Contacts with Institutional Investors and Brokers One-to-one meetings and/or conference calls 116 Presentation to the financial community and Conference Call Road Show Meetings held with groups of investors One to One Investors present Total 2005 162 66 68 174 470 2006 129 47 84 462 722 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > members and shareholders investors, while on the other BPM organised periodic meetings/conference calls with the Italian and international financial community. Banca Popolare di Milano dedicated 17 days in 2006 to international road shows, making a total of over 131 contacts. The main destinations were London, Edinburgh, Paris and Frankfurt in Europe and New York and Boston in the United States. BPM also organised meetings in Milan with leading Italian fund managers to raise awareness of the BPM Group on the domestic market. In 2006, visits by “Ethical Funds” continued and which, with their emphasis on sustainable growth, are destined to become an increasingly important stakeholder in the future, thereby confirming the interest of this category of investors in BPM. The Investor Relations function uses a wide range of instruments in its activities, some of which aimed at all Members and Shareholders, others at specific categories of investors. Among these is the Bank’s website (www.bpm.it), in addition to the aforementioned letter sent out to Members and Shareholders at least once a year and usually involving a comment by the Chairman and one by the General Manager. INSTITUTIONAL INVESTORS Top 50 institutional investors – portion of share capital per geographical area Other 4% Ireland 6% Swiss 14% UK 19% Germany 8% Italy 8% US 18% France 23% Source: Thomson Financial – Top 50 institutional investors at March 2007 Top 50 institutional investors percentage by type of investment GARP 27% Index 6% Growth 44% Value 23% The Investor Relations page contains a good deal of useful information for investors: staff members, the financial calendar for the year, press releases, all the presentations to the financial community, financial reports and the corporate governance report. This section provides an up-to-date record of easily consulted documents, information and news. VALUE style of management is based on effective value and tends to privilege investment decisions based on the analysis of company fundamentals. It is an investment strategy that selects company stocks that are undervalued by the market and whose price is low compared to the company’s level of dividends, profits and accounting value. The website is constantly updated both in terms of technology and content, allowing anyone to have access to information and economic-financial figures in real time and thus fully satisfying the legal requirements regarding the publication of such data. GROWTH style of management is based on growth and tends to privilege companies with a high potential of development that can offer innovative technologies. It is an investment strategy that selects stocks with a high potential for increasing value and mainly based on expectations of profitability of the products and services offered and thus on the value of a company regardless of traditional parameters of analysis. GARP (Growth At a Reasonable Price): investment in stocks that offer an attractive prospect for growth and value ratio. The main goal is to identify “underestimated” earnings within the stock market and choose a stock whose price does not yet fully reflect its potential. INDEX management strategy has the sole objective of replicating market performance without trying to obtain high performance. The main advantage is lower costs, possibly even much lower than the costs of so-called “active” funds. This difference is due to lower management costs. 117 Participation of Employee-Members Members’ Associations BPM’s co-operative nature and special type of governance encourages share ownership by its Personnel: this occurs with the utmost transparency, in compliance with existing laws and the BPM articles of association which, under Article 47 (modified by the Extraordinary Shareholders’ Meeting of 15 February 2007) also sets aside 5% of gross earnings for all employees, delegating to the Board of Directors the forms and methods of payment. The Board may attribute all or part of the sum to the Bank’s shares at the reference value calculated as the average market price of the company’s shares identified 30 days prior to allocation. As part of measures to maximise the principle of participation by Employee-Members and in keeping with the goals of enhancing the Bank’s specific model of governance, its Board of Directors voted in April 2007 to distribute the earnings due to employees in the form of shares. Employees were then given the option to confer these shares on the “BPM employees share ownership scheme for 20042009”. The table below reports the performance of the first three years of the scheme. The articles of association give minorities the right to be represented on the Bank’s corporate bodies and provide for a list voting system for the appointment of such bodies. This encourages Members to group together into “Associations” which present lists of candidates for election as representatives on the Board of Directors and Board of Statutory Auditors. The Bank engages with Members’ Associations, receives complaints and proposals, and, in compliance with rules governing the right of information required for listed companies, it extensively reports its figures and other relevant information. There are three associations which played an important role in the general meeting of May 2006 and which are represented on the Board of Directors and Board of Statutory Auditors: the Friends of Banca Popolare di Milano Association, the Together for Banca Popolare di Milano Association and the Non-BPM Staff Members Committee. The following presentations prepared by the associations themselves (without any editing by the Bank) are reproduced in order to get a better idea of their characteristics and goals and who they represent. Employee share ownership scheme 2006 2005 2004 Entitled employees 6,686 6,785 6,890 Registered employees 4,691 5,112 5,104 2,021,659 2,395,774 3,256,457 0.487 0.577 0.784 8,727,058 8,295,686 6,570,430 Shares assigned % of share capital Shares conferred through scheme 118 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > members and shareholders Friends of Banca Popolare di Milano Banca Popolare di Milano is a co-operative that has had strong worker participation ever since it was set up. In this way employee-members have been able to make a constant contribution to the good results and growth of their company through share ownership and the sharing of strategic decisions, as well as through the vital contribution of their work and professional ability. The Bank’s specific corporate form and the one-man-one-vote voting system have allowed employees to increase their scope of action and competence over time: through their representative association they are able to put forward their own candidates for a place on the Board of Directors. The Friends of BPM Association set up in April 2003, as a replacement for the previous representative bodies, welcomes the family, friends, Customers and employees of BPM Group companies to its membership. Activities in 2006 Following elections in November 2005 to re-appoint the officers, at the end of January 2006 the Association’s Chairman, the Governing Council and the Control and Guarantee Committee were elected. After the bodies were set up, the governance and articles of association working parties continued their activities. The governance working party provided useful information and analyses on the new investment protection law. In addition, it examined the progress of the European Commission’s violation procedure on the presumed clash between the company rules of co-operative banks and the free movement of capital and the establishment of businesses in Europe. Receiving constant attention from the Association’s governing council, the issue was closed at the end of the year with the hope that it will be archived. The articles of association working party presented a series of ideas for widening the Association’s representation to include family, Customers, retired employees and more specifically employees of the Group. The issue of widening participation has become a topical one also in view of the general meeting held in May when the officers were re-appointed and which many of the co-operative’s Members attended. The Association presented a list of candidates to hold office which obtained the majority vote with 42% of the votes and resulted in the election of 16 Directors, among which the chairman and 2 deputy chairmen. Although good results have been achieved, one of the main objectives is still to increase Members’ attendance in meetings as a highly meaningful sign of participatory spirit. With a view to encouraging attendance of Members-Employees, the results achieved by the “share allocation to employees scheme” are particularly satisfying. In its third year of application, more than 4,600 employees with more than 8,700,000 shares conferred their shares on the scheme (2.10% of the Bank’s share capital). During the last few months of 2006, the Association carefully examined the changes made to the articles of association for the wording of Article 47 (changing the distribution of earnings) and discussed the matter in depth with association members. (The amendment of Article 47 was approved in the extraordinary shareholders’ meeting of 15 February 2007, editor’s note). The association has more than 7,300 members. 119 Together for Banca Popolare di Milano Introduction The “Together for Banca Popolare di Milano” Association was formed as a result of the decision by the extraordinary general meeting (held on 19 December 2002) to revise the articles of association with the purpose of “enhancing the role of the different shareholder groupings as members of the Board of Directors... omissis”. This revision was viewed as being necessary to create BPM Membership Associations into which active, organised members could group themselves. With the introduction of the list voting system for the appointment of the Bank’s corporate officers, this change would provide representation for minority shareholders. Another reason leading BPM to make this significant change in its model of governance was the need to allow different groupings of Members to define and exercise their role. The Association’s promoters also aim to encourage the formation of a group that would equally embrace the participation of retired BPM employees and member Customers alike, in an effort to overcome any feelings of antagonism, which clearly are not in the Bank’s best interest. Formation of the Association A group of former retired employees of Banca Popolare di Milano, all of whom long-standing Members of the Bank, organised the formation of the “Together for Banca Popolare di Milano” Association with the purpose of: • protecting the interests of its Members by bringing them into line with those of the entire body of Members; • making its members take an active role in the life of Banca Popolare di Milano, directing its conduct and decisions in order to safeguard and enhance the co-operative banking model and its specific legal and corporate form; • identifying potential candidates to hold office in Banca Popolare di Milano and BPM Group companies; • engaging with the Board of Directors and other governing bodies of Banca Popolare di Milano with a view to fostering the widest agreement of interests within the membership base; • collaborating with other Associations with a similar purpose. Mission The Association’s purpose detailed in its articles of association (article 3) has been accompanied by a specific “mission” statement identifying the following goals: • to work actively so that the Board of Directors does its utmost to safeguard and protect the Bank’s history and social tradition, also representing fundamental factors for enhancing and defending the co-operative. Another commitment resulting from this goal is the encouragement of every initiative, by the Bank itself or others, designed to enhance the co-operative banking culture in its widest sense. • as a representative body of a group of BPM Members, working to safeguard and enhance the investment of its own Members, to review the Bank’s progress and the economic-financial context in which it operates in order to understand and focus its growth strategies in order to maximise returns. The Association seeks to maintain an institutional relationship with the BPM Board of Directors, under the presumption that the latter will undertake to keep the Association regularly informed about the results of the Bank’s ordinary activities. The Association expects a similar undertaking in respect of extraordinary facts and events, although with due time allowed for making sufficient reflection on the issues involved. 120 The Association’s governing council undertakes in respect of its members: • to provide constant, transparent information on a regular basis and using a format that fosters awareness and motivation in its members; • o prepare the list of candidates for the Board of Directors, the Board of Statutory Auditors and Board of Arbitrators of Banca Popolare di Milano. To identify candidates to hold office in companies belonging to the BPM Group, who have the required experience and skills and demonstrate loyal and staunch support for the Association’s goals. As far as banking and growth policies are concerned and bearing in mind developments in the economic environment and industry as a whole, the Association still firmly believes in the principles that must guide a co-operative locally-based bank which gives priority to the social and economic problems of its traditional stakeholders. The Association is fully aware that the Bank’s good performance depends inexorably and decisively on full respect for the independence and role of the different corporate bodies and so it is committed to consistently and loyally observing this prerequisite, hoping that this approach will be adopted by other corporate bodies. Activities of the Association Since its establishment, the Association has been confirmed as the second-largest grouping of members participating in the Bank’s general meetings. In 2006, for the latest re-appointment of the corporate officers, the Association obtained 31% of the ballot. As a result, it has representation among the corporate officers in office from 2006 to 2008 through the following representatives chosen by the Association itself: Board of Directors Enrico Airaghi and Luca Caniato Executive Committee Enrico Airaghi Board of Statutory Auditors Paolo Troiano (auditor) and Giorgio Zoia (alternate auditor) The Association has always acted to forge a strong bond with its members in terms of organisation and information. In recent years, close attention has been paid to the problems arising at Community and national level on the legal status of co-operative banks. On a broader spectrum, in terms of the effect globalisation has had on the Italian banking system in recent years, the Association has been responsible in being open to constructive dialogue on the projects proposed by the Bank’s Board of Directors on grouping initiatives. It is the Association’s belief that against the activism of competitors BPM should now and in the future be committed to finding suitable solutions that will enable it to emerge as a winner in the face of market challenges, obviously without compromising the values that BPM has always upheld in its relations with members and within its local areas. Registered office Together for Banca Popolare di Milano can be reached at: Address: via Giuseppe Mazzini, 11 – 20123 Milan Tel.: 02 8050 9134 – Fax: 02 7700 6149 Website: www.assoinsieme-bpm.it E-mail: [email protected] The Association has more than 3,000 members. 121 Non-BPM Staff Members Committee Nature, purpose and organisation The Non-BPM Staff Members Committee was formed in 1993 at the initiative of Piero Lonardi, a professional accountant from Milan, and five other founding members, in order to defend the interests of Members of Banca Popolare di Milano and to ensure that they were adequately represented on the Bank’s governing bodies. This association particularly addressed the category of Customer-Members and Customer-Savers. The Committee has its registered office in Via Pietro Mascagni 15, Milan and operational base in Via Mazzini 11, Milan. The nature, purpose and organisation of the Committee, as stated in its articles of association, can be summarised as follows: • it is an association of a voluntary nature that does not seek profit; • Members and Shareholders of Banca Popolare di Milano may join it. The Association’s aims are: • to safeguard and promote the image, role and economic and financial interests of Banca Popolare di Milano; • to represent Members of Banca Popolare di Milano, and particularly those Members who are not employees, safeguarding their interests and representing their opinions with the bank and all institutions, public and private entities, including through discussion and collaboration with all other BPM Members and its Board of Directors; • to promote initiatives and activities that satisfy the aims described; • to safeguard and defend the bank’s role and co-operative spirit, encouraging the participation of all its Members in its corporate life, seeking the utmost transparency in corporate communications and in the conduct of general meetings. The Committee’s constituent bodies are as follows: • the general meeting of Members; • the Executive Committee (consisting of five members); • the Chairman; • the Deputy Chairman; • the Treasurer; • the Secretary. Members: 3,900 The Non-Employee Members Committee can be reached at: Address: via Giuseppe Mazzini, 11 – 20123 Milan Tel.: 02 7700 3997 Web: www.comitatosocibpm.it E-mail: [email protected] 122 listening Listening to Members and Shareholders Through an external company BPM conducted a motivational and psycholinguistic Qualitative Survey, which involved: – in 2005, BPM shareholders and Customer/ Members – in 2006, BPM shareholders and non-Customers/ Members The surveys explored the following areas: • relations with the bank: meaning and experience, services, type and brand; • the features, image and company policy; • the meaning of being Members/Shareholders as Customers and non-Customers; – focus on the experience, meaning and opportunity of being Members/Shareholders; – focus on reasons for/interest in being classified as Members/Shareholders; • BPM commercial profile: experience, products and services; • experience in respect of BPM: interest, communication, expectations and future scenarios, optimisation of relationship with BPM as current or potential Customers. • evaluation of certain items of the “Members Value Line” (non-Customers) offering as well as prospects, initiatives and offers to classify the relationship with BPM. Focus groups were set up by a psychologist and the results of at-home and telephone interviews are reported below. The banking sector under development and opportunities for BPM The surveys aimed at receiving feedback from the different target groups show convergent results. Important developments are taking place in the current banking sector that feature strong competitor-driven factors not devoid of risks, but also new opportunities for banks. Trends towards bank bundlings and mergers and evolutions towards large aggregations that are more efficient and evolved, but at the same time more anonymous and foreign to the Customer, leaves ample space for relationships and business. A growing number of Customers prefer direct dealings, displaying a greater inclination for disloyalty. BPM is the only large bank that the Milanese still have after losing Cariplo: this heritage of credibility and image is based on a solid and historic presence and a strong emotional link with targets. 123 From the sample of interviewees it emerges that BPM could capitalise on several recognised competitor values and assets by: • reinforcing its tradition, historical presence and strong roots within the local area of Milan and in Lombardy; • proposing itself as an alternative option to the levelling out and globalisation of the large banking groups; • creating a stronger link between BPM and the current success of We@bank; • giving value to the role of Member and membership. BPM enjoys a positive image with non-Customer Shareholders/Members, which it could further exploit by expanding its presence in “large cities and regional areas”. From Shareholders to Members: two targets deserving value and involvement Shareholders (Customers and Non-Customers) The bond between BPM and its shareholders could be improved and tightened through specific actions in which BPM: • provides specific information and enacts management policies aimed at stabilising stock value/return; • creates a strong and advantageous link between being a Customer, Shareholder and the holding of shares and distinguishing features for BPM stock buyers; • involves Shareholders by making them direct targets of membership proposals, special promotions, sponsored cultural events and mostly through personalised communication on share and investment performance and the Bank’s future. Members (Customers and Non-Customers) Non-Customer Members show openness and interest towards BPM, but they need to be stimulated and receive suitable offers. It is necessary to highlight Members’ opportunities and rights and make this status visible and tangible. Members are an important resource for BPM and can be more involved in initiatives in which from potential stand-by Customers they become effective Customers; it is necessary to make membership an advantageous and “rewarding” opportunity through an attractive Programme. open to dialogue. Interviewees also suggest that BPM set up a “Member Family” scheme and, for non-Customers, a first-time membership benefit package. Other significant findings Members’ Profile Both BPM Customer and non-Customer Members tend to be older and have an above-average level of education. They are often unmarried, in tune with the media, cultured and they love to travel, go to the theatre and visit exhibitions. Shareholders’ Profile Both Customer and non-Customer Shareholders are in many ways similar to Members, however they tend on average to be younger, have larger families and have differing relationships with the media. They enjoy spending their free time with their families and playing sports. For both Shareholders and Members BPM continues to be viewed as reliable, trustworthy and efficient, a bank that is independent and deeply rooted at local level. However, non-Customers underscore BPM’s lack of innovation and tendency to follow the standardisations established within the Italian banking scene. Very few Shareholders are aware that they can also become Members and at any rate when asked directly Shareholders do not show particular interest in becoming Members as they are uninformed on what exactly the proposal offers. Indeed, they are unaware of the one-man-one-vote mechanism and in general of the participation rights reserved to Members of co-operative banks. Non-Customers seem to base their reasons for not becoming Customers on on-going relationships they have consolidated with other banks (often due to the convenient location of that bank’s branches). Customer and non-Customer Shareholders are in any event fully satisfied with their investment. Everyone agrees on and confirms the validity of a proposal/scheme aimed at increasing loyalty (of Members/Shareholders) and they suggest that an advisor be designated to Members/Shareholders. Non-Customers have indicated that the Bank needs to increase its “vitality” in involving Shareholders and Members, while Customers do not shun benefits on commonly-used bank products. A specific scheme for Members The interviewees ask for greater communication, information and products and services that convey BPM’s image as a bank that pays attention to its Shareholders and Members and that is unique and 124 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > members and shareholders COMMITMENTS: steps taken and new objectives for improvement Objectives for improvement set out in the 2005 Social Responsibilities Report To continue to seek alliances with investors with a long-term investment horizon. To seek other methods of participation in share capital. State of play at the end of 2006 Steps taken J • Dealings with various investors interested in long-term investments have continued. K • The feasibility of operations inherent to financial instrument have been verified. • Communication project for Members has been drawn up: under examination by the Projects Committee. • An electronic secret voting system has been created. The decentralisation of meeting notices has been finalised. Increase in number of communications to Members and Shareholders (divided by different Targets). J Finalisation of organisational aspects to facilitate even greater participation of Members. J Advancement of the Project and the Members Value Line. • The Products basket has been updated. Monitoring and ultimate reporting of the results achieved by the 2004-2006 Strategic Plan. J J J Improvement of the Members and Shareholders section of the website www.bpm.it to encourage dialogue and communication (activation of the website). K • An analysis on the changes made to the website format is underway. J • A survey has been carried out on nonCustomer Members/Shareholders and the findings have been processed in order to have an overall picture of the relationship between the Bank and Members/Shareholders. Enhancement of the Investor Relations office. More feedback and dialogue with Shareholders, Members and Member Associations (new edition of Member surveys extended to non-Customer Members/Shareholders). • The office has been enhanced. • A detailed report has been produced on the activities included in the Social Responsibility Report. Objectives for further improvement Outlook for 2007 Better payout for Members/Shareholders. • Changes to the articles of association and the realisation of the 2007-2009 Strategic Plan. J 125 The Parent Bank BPM Personnel 127 Policy guidelines During 2006 BPM continued to remain loyal to its tradition of internal unity and a strong team spirit. These are values that underpin BPM’s personnel policies, to which the staff - in their dual role as employees and shareholders - respond in terms of maximum commitment to achieve a high level of productivity. 128 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > personnel Improving and innovating in the name of continuity Over the years, the fact that BPM is a co-operative bank has translated into a climate of staff participation and involvement in the life of the Bank. Participation and involvement that express themselves in two distinct areas, namely: • dealings with the shareholders: as they are able to intervene together with all the other members in Shareholders’ Meetings, enabling them to take part in a number of important business decisions; • industrial relations: based on respect for each others’ roles and on the concepts of transparency, information and sharing, which have had a very positive impact on internal welfare. In addition to the value of belonging to the cooperative world, which still has all of its ability to exert a positive influence over the corporate climate, BPM has begun to add other values that are able to renew the spirit of responsibility, in line with the 2004/2006 Strategic Plan. The intention is to encourage, foster and reward, more and more, values based on meritocracy, career planning, results orientation, widespread leadership, taking an entrepreneurial attitude to one’s work, professional ethics and accepting responsibility. With a view to greater integration, the Bank’s Deputy General Manager Human Resources Department (whose functions include HR management, planning, development and administration) has launched a Group coordination project which, in addition to the progressive centralisation of personnel management for all Group companies, aims to ensure consistency in their HR policies, which includes more suitable approval procedures for strategic matters. 129 An overview As the 2004-2006 Strategic Plan came to an end, the Bank had achieved its cost containment goals by reducing the number of employees. At year-end, employees numbered 6,315 (86 fewer than in 2005), mainly due to the partial limitation of personnel turnover (171 hires with 257 resignations) after incentives were offered to employees to leave the Bank, affecting 68.5% of total resignations. New hires included experts (11.7%) and transfers from other group companies (5.3%). Fixedterm contracts accounted for 20.5% of the new employment contracts. In addition, 69% of the newly-hired employees were assigned to the Local Sales Areas, in which 66.3% of the Bank’s employees work. Women made up 39.2% of new employees. However, as in previous years, the percentage of women employees increased, reaching 42.1%, as a result of the lower number of women who resigned compared to men (15.2% of resignations). At year-end 39.2% of new employees were university graduates, 19.4% of total employees, slightly up on the previous year. Allocation by structure 2006 2005 Men Women Men Women Branch network 2,169 1,804 2,212 1,797 Headquarters 1,110 590 1,146 544 Struttura intermedia 338 92 357 98 Outside the structure 38 174 54 193 3,655 2,660 3,769 2,632 Total Breakdown by level 2006 Men Managers Women Men Women 94 3 103 5 Officials 1,709 626 1,773 573 Clerical 1,852 2,031 1,893 2,054 Total 130 2005 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > personnel 6,315 6,401 The average age of incoming employees was 29.3, while the overall average age of all employees was 42.8 (40 for women and 44.8 for men). Part-time contracts accounted for 14.6% of all employment contracts. Prior year trends were confirmed in this respect, with an increase in part-time arrangements in both absolute terms and as a percentage of total employees, with a decrease in open-ended part-time contracts. The only turnaround in these trends was the reduction in the number of men who work part-time (from 65 to 59). New hires 2006 2005 171 160 Number of new hires Type of contract 2006 2005 No. of permanent employees 5,356 5,432 No. of fixed-term employees 35 54 No. of part-time employees 924 915 6,315 6,401 2006 2005 Total Type of part-time contract The average employment period went from 17.7 to 17.9 years, as the average number of years employees held a position before a promotion rose from 3.9 to 4.3. 12.7% of employees were promoted, with 65% of these promotions relating to branch personnel. Overtime hours continued to decrease (-11%) along with the accrual of compensatory time off (-8.5%), although the decrease in overtime hours could be due to the fact that in July 2006 the bank implemented the directives of the national labour agreement and stopped remunerating first and second level officials for overtime. Vertical part-time Horizontal part-time Cyclical part-time 59 60 827 824 38 31 Turnover Balance in 2005 6,401 New hires 171 Resignations 257 Balance in 2006 6,315 Breakdown of employees by age 2006 2005 Men Women Men Women < 30 282 296 286 323 31-35 389 452 455 579 36-40 439 621 577 658 41-45 614 495 550 442 490 46-50 624 532 729 > 50 1,307 264 1,172 140 Totale 3,655 2,660 3,769 2,632 Breakdown by length of service Clerical Officials Men Women < 5 years 269 229 68 5 - 10 years 844 907 454 11 -15 years 142 121 50 16 – 20 years 249 404 352 21 – 25 years > 25 years Total Men Managers Women Men Women 13 8 0 113 15 0 26 3 0 204 7 1 61 107 101 50 3 0 287 264 684 219 58 2 1,852 2,032 1,709 625 94 3 131 Vacation not taken decreased on 2005 (-1.9%), affecting a smaller percentage of employees (77%), with an average of 5.8 days per person. Overall, the average number of vacation days accrued but not taken for all employees dropped to 4.4. Absences remained substantially in line with the previous year and included ordinary time off, extraordinary time off and sick leave, affecting 17% of workdays. Overtime No. of hours Clerical men women Total 2006 2005 48,648 25,846 74,494 54,135 27,919 82,054 Time bank No. of hours In 2006, 18,321 days of training were offered to 5,074 trainees, with an average of 3.6 days per person. In addition, 15,628 days of training activities (85.3% of total days) were organised for branch personnel. Clerical men women Total 2006 2005 17,157 16,302 33,459 20,662 16,095 36,757 Type of resignations Clerical Officials Managers Total Resignations 21 11 1 33 Transfer 24 15 6 3 Termination 2 3 11 16 Retirement 57 91 12 160 Other 10 12 2 24 Total 105 123 29 257 Staff qualifications Clerical University degree (long course) University degree (short course) Managers Total Women Men Women Men Women 252 439 319 153 47 2 1,212 5 7 – – – 12 1,106 1,311 1,322 447 46 1 4,233 Middle school certificate 127 107 26 7 1 Primary school certificate 362 168 42 18 1,852 2,032 1,709 625 High school diploma Total 132 Officials Men social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > personnel 268 590 94 3 6,315 Employee training and qualification to meet Customer and market demands Bonus system BPM continues its approach to developing the Bank’s human resources through continuous training programmes that are designed not only to improve employees’ professional skills, but also to accompany them along specific and targeted career paths. These initiatives, which include HR planning with a view to developing the potential of each employee to the full, aim to achieve four main objectives: • to encourage professional growth on the part of all employees; • to prepare replacement charts for various positions, especially key positions; • to facilitate the achievement of results required by the market through overall professional improvement; • to offer Customers more qualified professional support and assistance. Moreover, the move towards greater integration between the various Group companies is activating a number of synergies, while fostering an exchange of skills, raising the level of know-how as a result. Training by category 2006 2005 Managers Total population No. of days 97 380 108 520 Officials Total population No. of days 2,335 5,037 2,346 7,026 Clerical Total population No. of days 3,883 12,580 3,947 15,092 Total Total population No. of days 6,315 18,321 6,401 22,694 The Bank’s remuneration system was improved during 2005 with the introduction of an incentive scheme designed to act as a greater stimulus to achieve more and more ambitious results. The scheme only pays the full amount of the bonuses if the Bank reaches the targets laid down in the budget. The results can be adjusted for the impact - positive or negative - of extraordinary events or transactions that were not foreseen in the budget and which take place during the year in question. The incentive scheme can be split into two parts: • Network/head office incentives. Per quanto riguarda le strutture di rete commerciale l’indice di riferimento per la misurazione dei risultati è il “margine di intermediazione”; • Network incentives. The portion to be allocated to this part is added to the network/head office incentive and is only foreseen for those operating units of the distribution network that achieve results that are above average for units of their size. The incentive scheme is also meant to reward the following aspects, in additional to the results achieved: • the care taken in accepting risk versus the clientele; • Customer satisfaction; • respect for the rules as a way of guaranteeing the quality of the relationship with the internal/ external Customer. Ongoing rationalisation of structures and of procedural aspects has made it possible to reduce overtime considerably. Course content No. of hours Procedures Management skills Sales and marketing Professional skills New hire training Remote training Languages Seminars & other initiatives Total 2005 2004 27,503 12,270 18,926 35,050 13,500 13,898 5,860 7,963 134,970 73,018 8,538 16,485 37,875 12,662 9,058 7,650 4,506 169,792 Average gross pay by category Managers 2006 2005 159,647 160,978 Officials 58,974 63,882 Clerical 36,643 36,686 Promotions Promotions as % of total employees 2006 12.7% 2005 15.0% A total of 5,074 people were involved in training courses with an average of 3.6 days’ training per head. 85.3% of all training was given to branch personnel. 133 Respect for diversities, protection of minorities and equal opportunities By adopting a Code of Ethics, BPM has undertaken to avoid all forms of discrimination: ethnic origin, nationality, sex, age, physical disabilities, sexual orientation, political or trade union opinions, philosophical ideas or religious convictions are not grounds for discrimination as far as the Bank is concerned. The number of female employees at BPM has been rising steadily in recent years. Anche nel 2006 si è avuta una lieve crescita della presenza femminile (2.660 donne, 28 in più rispetto al 2005), che costituisce il 42,12% dell’organico complessivo. Moreover, a policy of equal opportunities finds concrete application in promotions, economic incentives and other forms of recognition, which reflect the proportions of men and women present in the workforce. Staff breakdown by gender 2006 2005 No. % No. % Men 3,655 Women 2,660 57.88 3,769 58.88 4.12 2,632 41.12 Total 6,315 100.00 6,401 100.00 Assunzioni suddivise per sesso 2006 Men 134 2005 No. % v % 104 60.82 93 54.70 Women 67 39.18 67 45.30 Total 171 100.00 160 100.00 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > personnel BPM company welfare services For some time, BPM has implemented company welfare policies aimed at improving the environment in the workplace and employees’ free time, while helping them find a more satisfying balance between work and family. It has also focused on integrating health and social security issues in its policies, recognising the importance of offering these services to employees to motivate them and help foster a sense of belonging. In addition to traditional management services, BPM has developed a variety of social tools and initiatives, such as “ARES Bipiemme”, “Cassa Mutua di Assistenza del Personale” and “Fondo di Previdenza Bipiemme”, in addition to the new company creche and social outreach service for employees going through family-related difficulties. ARES Bipiemme ARES Bipiemme is a co-operative company created for BPM employees and retirees to promote recreational, cultural and social services and activities to improve the quality of their free time and create a positive balance between work and family. The Bank supports these activities by providing funding, suitable space and dedicated personnel so that ARES can organise events on its own behalf (summer camps and specific events for Christmas and Easter). ARES is based in Milan, with different 16 sections, each targeting a specific interest, and more than 2,500 members (from a Literary Salon to the group of Silver Retirees), and branches in Rome, Bologna and Foggia. ARES has 9,116 members (6,578 employees of BPM and its Group companies, along with 2,538 retirees), in addition to their family members who enjoy its services, for a total of 33,244 people, making ARES the largest of its kind in Italy. In 2006, ARES Bipiemme carried out activities and provided services to its members and their families (sale of products, travel organised for groups and individuals, day trips, ticket sales for the theatre and concerts, magazine subscriptions and public services, etc.) worth roughly Euro 2,000,000. Social solidarity activities and those to support international cooperation through funding from its members and the Bank included initiatives and projects totalling approximately Euro 150,000 in 2006. The summer camp service brought 575 children of employees together to enjoy a delightful holiday in special structures in Italy and abroad. 2006 was also ARES Bipiemme’s 20th anniversary. To commemorate the occasion, it launched an intense schedule of activities, which began in November 2006 with a successful cabaret show, and continued with a backpack sent to all members, along with a coupon to purchase books. A Spring Festival is also planned for June. The festivities will end in September 2007 with a touring show from Milan to Foggia, with stops in Bologna and Rome. The members’ involvement in the twentieth anniversary is a sign of their appreciation of this co-operative, which has kept up with the times while holding on to its co-operative and collaborative spirit, positively influencing the Bank’s company welfare system. Cassa Mutua di Assistenza for employees Cassa Mutua di Assistenza (CMA) is a non-profit association of volunteers made up of Banca Popolare di Milano employees and retirees. Its purpose involves: • providing health assistance through participating doctors and structures to integrate and improve the National Health Service; • providing economic assistance in addition to that offered by the National Health Service in accordance with legislative measures; • encouraging health education by promoting research into the early diagnosis of diseases and their causes, including those that relate to the workplace; • providing geriatric health assistance through targeted initiatives. Cassa Mutua di Assistenza provides services to its 135 members and their families. Its activities are based on the principle of mutual insurance stated in it’s articles of association, which govern its activities and characterises the Bank’s co-operative roots. At 31 December 2006, Cassa Mutua di Assistenza had over 9,500 members and more than 7,900 beneficiary family members, with total assets of over Euro 9,800,000. Proceeds exceeded Euro 14,000,000, with expenditure for services of more than Euro 12,000,000. Fondo di Previdenza Bipiemme This is a pension fund set up for all Bipiemme Group company employees. It operates as a non-profit fund for the purpose of providing pensions in addition to those under the mandatory social security system. The fund receives contributions from the Bank and employees under specific agreements signed with the trade unions. At 31 December 2006, there were 6,231 active workers participating in the plan, divided into management segments. Participants can periodically decide the rate of their contribution. The fund has net assets of over Euro 297,000,000. For example, the creche: is a pedagogy project that focuses on the harmonious development of each child and the child’s relationship with his/her family; • the choice of colours is based on chromo-therapy studies; • the curtains depict stories of animals and plants that tie in well with the rest of the environment and are, in and of themselves, pedagogic-educational elements; • some of the furnishings have been created madeto-measure for the creche, including a labyrinth, a curved mirror, mirror prisms and a sensory board; • all educational and other staff members have been hired under open-ended contracts. They were trained in Reggio Emilia, Italy’s most renowned school in this field, and one of the most cutting edge in pedagogy. • In addition, the creche has a modern kitchen managed by a professional chef. The menu not only meets legal dietary requirements but also uses organic products supplied by companies that promote fair trade. Company creche In September 2006, “Il Giardino di Bez” company creche was opened for some 35 children ranging in age from 0 to 3 years. The creche was created at the Bank’s service centre in Via Massaua 6 - Milan, setting a significant precedent for the redevelopment of the neighbourhood. After the work was completed with the creation of modern, comfortable working areas, the Bank completely reclaimed a large green area for public use. The creche is also open to families in the area; of the 35 children who attend, 14 are from families in the neighbourhood. The Bank’s decision to open the service to the community is part of its solution to helping bridge the gap between actual needs and the scarcity of creche services in Milan, and throughout Italy. In 2007, the Bank will sign an agreement with the Milan Municipal Authorities to guarantee a quota of slots. The structural and educational project, which involved the Bank’s structures for nearly three years, is up-to-date with the most modern and innovative practices in pedagogy today. 136 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > personnel The Mobility Manager and Social Responsibility Industrial relations The position of Mobility Manager, introduced with the Decree of the Ministry of the Environment on 27 March 1998 (Ronchi Decree) is part of a new approach to employee mobility, implementing solutions that reduce pollution and traffic. Accordingly, this is an important social responsibility issue. As mentioned previously, BPM intends to stand out as a work environment that gives employees a strong sense of belonging to a team. The Bank therefore implements HR management policies in a system of relationships with the trade union representatives that are based on mutual respect, transparency, information and sharing. Companies with more than 800 employees are required to have a Mobility Manager. The law does not fine companies that do not fill the position, but BPM believes it is important to deal with this issue. If, on the one hand, BPM’s co-operative model permits important forms of participation by employees at Shareholders’ Meetings as well as profit-sharing, as foreseen in the articles of association, on the other hand, it has also made it possible to develop trade union relations in a spirit of respect for each party’s respective roles and autonomies. Negotiations are always open and inclusive, without degenerating into cases of corporative privilege; they also envisage forms of information and consultation that help avoid conflicts. The Mobility Manager’s most important strategic and operating tool is the Commuter Plan, a survey of employees’ commutes on which the Bank has based a series of initiatives aimed at: - reducing the use of private vehicles; - reducing commuting costs; - decreasing the risk of accidents; - ensuring more regular commute times; - reducing traffic-induced stress. These initiatives can have a positive impact on company productivity, while helping decrease city pollution. This positive climate makes it possible to develop trade union negotiations that are able to reconcile the interests of the workforce with those of the Bank, in line with its strategies and objectives. In addition to providing benefits for employees, solutions have been studied to help Customers and the public at large. For instance, these solutions include possibly using large “interchangeable” car parks where Customers can park their cars to then take the underground into the city centre, or participating in the financing of public works to improve the road system. With respect to these issues and goals, in 2006, BPM began contacting a leading consultancy company to conduct a survey on employees’ commuting habits in 2007 and prepare the Commuter Plan. 137 listening Employee feedback How important is the social report for the Bank 75.0% Upon publication of the 2005 Social Responsibility Report, the Bank sent each of its employees an extract of the document as an invitation to read the complete version, along with a cover letter from the Deputy General Manager of Human Resources and Contractual Policies and a score card. Employees can view the document on the Internet or by requesting it in hardcopy from BPM’s General Affairs Service Desk (although the Bank encourages employees to read the electronic version to prevent the excessive use of paper). Approximately 250 score cards were returned, many with suggestions written in the space provided. 63.7% 50.0% 28.1% 25.0% 0.0% 2.2% Not at all 5.9% Some Not very much Very much How much has the social report increased your knowledge of the bipiemme group In short, the results were as follows: 75.0% 61.0% 50.0% The suggestions were numerous and varied, without significant concentration on any specific issues. This means that there were interesting areas to be considered, but mainly in terms of completing the report, rather than substantially changing it. 25.0% 18.4% 15.4% 5.1% 0.0% Not at all Some Not very much Very much Completeness and clarity of the 2005 social responsibility report Excellent: 9.6% Complete numbers Good: 41.5% Fair: 27.4% Sufficient: 18.5% Poor: 3.0% Excellent: 10.2% Complete information Good: 38.0% Fair: 29.9% Sufficient: 16.8% Poor: 5.1% Excellent: 12.4% Good: 46.0% Clear presentation and language Fair: 16.8% Sufficient: 13.1% Poor: 6.6% Excellent: 10.0% Good: 52.1% Clear organisation Fair: 22.1% Sufficient: 12.9% Poor: 2.9% 0.0% 138 10.0% 20.0% 30.0% social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > personnel 40.0% 50.0% 60.0% COMMITMENTS: steps taken and new objectives for improvement Objectives for improvement set out in the 2005 Social Responsibilities Report Effective governance of the process of inserting new hires into the corporate structure. State of play at the end of 2006 J Organisational simplification to improve the Bank’s efficiency and effectiveness definizione della seconda fase. J Revision of administrative functions in favour of the commercial area definizione della seconda fase. J K K Improvement in the system of internal communication. Governance of Corporate Social Responsibility Steps taken • The recruitment process was confirmed with an outside company in three phases: 1) individual interviews; 2) group sessions; 3) orientation interviews to learn about the candidates’ abilities and personality with respect to the roles that they should fill. Assistance after hiring with individual interviews to provide information on the bank and its management policies. • The central bank offices were centralised and streamlined, with the discontinuation of foreign branches and the reorganisation of direct sales channels (online and phone banking). • RACE Project test phase launched. • Analysis. • Reflections on social responsibility governance methods.. Objectives for further improvement Outlook for 2007 Mobility Management. • Survey of employees’ commute to prepare the Commuter Plan and develop the Mobility Management project. (estimated duration: three years) 139 The Parent Bank BPM Suppliers Policy guidelines Banca Popolare di Milano has undertaken to make the process of buying goods and services more efficient, using professional buyers with state-of-the-art tools and methods. All of this by establishing and maintaining clear and lasting relationships with suppliers based on mutual respect and benefit. 142 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > Suppliers An overview In 2006, the Bank had dealings with 2,998 suppliers, 57 of which are resident abroad. I nuovi fornitori sono stati 375 pari al 13% del numero totale. Nel corso dell’anno si è assistito ad una contrazione, seppur minima, del numero dei fornitori dovuta principalmente all’incremento di fatturato indirizzato sui fornitori strategici. Supplier selection system The Bank handles relationships with suppliers through the Procurement Department, a centralised service that has purchasing lines of governance that feature: The following tables give a breakdown of suppliers and orders placed on the basis of the type of goods and services requested and their geographical location. Of the 1,902 suppliers in the “North-West Italy” area, 1,760 are located in Lombardy (92% of NorthWest Italy and 59% of the whole of Italy). 2006 Amount 2005 No. of suppliers Up to 100,000 € % No. of suppliers % 2,602 86.79 2,635 86.85 283 9.44 287 9.46 From 100,001 to 500,000 € From 500,001 to 1,000,000 € 51 1.70 58 1.91 Over 1.000.000 € 62 2.07 54 1.78 2,998 100.00 3,034 100.00 Total 2006 Type No. of suppliers In carrying out its functions, the Procurement Department pursues the following objectives with ethical and transparent conduct: • a commitment to treat suppliers fairly; • fair competition without discrimination with a view to creating long-term commercial relationships; • a willingness to include on the list of possible suppliers all those who are able to guarantee the right level of professionalism, as part of a wider policy of reducing the overall number of counterparties; • the establishment of a formal List of Suppliers; • a search for quality, at a suitably high level according to the specifications; • transparent costs in line with the quality provided; • development of rating systems over time. 2005 Orders No. of suppliers 75,435,450 Orders Property expenses 445 Technologies 213 133,653,243 258 164,879,964 Services 2,340 142,486,235 2,273 135,941,005 Total 2,998 351,574,928 3,034 363,827,472 2006 Area • widespread use of on-line competitive tenders to guarantee negotiating transparency, equity and speed; • where possible, two suppliers for each type of goods or services, so as to ensure over time product quality, timely delivery and environmental protection, limiting the risk of depending on just one supplier; • a deliberate effort to create long-term relationships by signing Framework Agreements that last for several years. 503 63,006,503 2005 % No. of suppliers % of orders % No. of suppliers % of orders 2006 Province 71 4.03 69 4.06 42 2.39 39 2.29 Como 55 3.13 60 3.53 Cremona 23 1.31 21 1.23 Lecco 80 4.55 69 4.06 63.44 80.05 61.15 77.41 Lodi 10.47 7.41 11.83 4.67 Milan Central Italy 14.88 8.39 16.41 12.27 Southern Italy 8.61 1.99 8.21 1.74 Pavia Islands 0.70 0.61 0.59 0.24 Sondrio Abroad 1.90 1.55 1.81 3.67 Varese 100.00 100.00 100.00 % Brescia North-East Italy 100.00 % No. of suppliers Bergamo North-West Italy Total No. of suppliers 2005 Mantua Total 18 1.02 14 0.82 1,302 73.97 1,274 74.90 2 0.11 4 0.24 70 3.98 66 3.88 1 0.06 0 0.00 96 5.45 85 5.00 1,760 100.00 1,701 100.00 143 The SIRF Project - Sustainability and Integrity General principles and Guidelines of the SIRF Project in Dealings with Suppliers Integrity of the relationship The purchasing process has to reconcile, at the one time, the search for maximum competitive advantage with the granting of equal opportunities to each existing or potential supplier. In handling relationships with existing and potential suppliers, companies undertake to adhere to the principles of legality, transparency, fairness and honesty. Companies do not intend to gain competitive advantages from suppliers based on irresponsible behaviour. During the year, BPM continued to process information within the SIRF Project, by filling out a specific questionnaire on its supplier policies (general policies, regulations, processes and controls). Avanzi Sri Research checked and analysed the findings of the questionnaires by comparing them with those of other project participants. This comparison showed a few critical issues and, accordingly, areas for improvement (e.g., with respect to risk identification and mapping, transparency and communications). The Bank is committed to adopting the necessary rules and implementing the appropriate tools to address these areas for improvement in the new version of its Code of Ethics, which is currently being prepared. Disputes Suppliers are paid within the contractual terms, based on clear and detailed agreements, with the result that disputes are minimal. 144 Traceability of the procurement process The entire procurement process has to be easily reconstructed at any moment in time according to methods and for periods laid down in specific procedures. Supervision of the procurement chain Infringements by suppliers of the rules on safety and health in the workplace, protection of the environment and public health and international principles envisage suitable penalty mechanisms that aim, among other things, to avoid crimes against the Public Administration or environmental disasters. To this end, specific clauses are included in all procurement contracts. Separation of duties The unit that requests the supply and the one that stipulates the contract have to be completely separate and belong to different reporting lines. Rotation of purchasing staff Purchasing staff are periodically rotated to perform other duties, providing this is compatible with organisational requirements and with certain exceptions that are regulated by specific procedures. social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > Suppliers IMPEGNI: initiatives completed and new goals for improvement Improvement goals set out in the 2005 Social Responsibilities Report State of play at the end of 2006 Initiatives completed Creation of a Group Procurement Department: Increase in the number of contracts handled centrally. J • Issuing of a specific measure with diversified budget limits for each Group company, over which the Parent’s Procurement Department must be used. This led to an increase of over 60% in the number of deals negotiated. Completion of the supplier reporting system. J • The reporting system was completed. K • Comparison activities continued on the SIRF project, with the Group’s participation in filling out a specific questionnaire surveying supplier policies. Commitment to promote the adoption of the SIRF Guidelines also by the Bank’s own suppliers. Objectives for further improvement Adoption of SIRF guidelines in the Code of Ethics. Developments foreseen in 2007 • Adoption of rules and tools identified through the study and discussion as part of the SIRF project, to be included in the new edition of the Code of Ethics currently being written. 145 The Parent Bank BPM Community 147 Policy guidelines Since it was founded in 1865, Banca Popolare di Milano has been committed to supporting culture, solidarity and art in the areas in which it operates through non-banking cultural initiatives. BPM has chosen to collaborate with regional entities, associations and foundations, promoting specific lines of work and identifying areas for development to consolidate relationships between public bodies, individuals and companies. 148 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > community An overview Health Because it is a co-operative bank of people and not capital, BPM has always sought to focus on people, their abilities, commitment and work, without overlooking their needs, weaknesses and imperfections. Old and new health crises, in addition to the rise in complex illnesses, require private institutions to work hand-in-hand with public bodies to support research, prevention and cures, taking on the burden of otherwise unsustainable costs. In over one hundred and forty years, the Bank has put the genuine before the abstract, actual work before mere statements of intent, and without ever discriminating, it has understood and prioritised values: a warm bowl of soup for the hungry in its canteen and the restoration of art damaged by time. At the same time, we see the improvement in the quality of life and longer life expectancy, along with the inevitable ageing of the population and the increasingly growing group of people in need of ever more personalised and specific structures and care, as well as new expertise and awareness on the part of social-healthcare workers. In accordance with its articles of association, the Bank has allocated 3% of earnings to social initiatives. The fact that puts ethical choices before figures reveals the strength, constance and concern it has dedicated to social work, a tangible indication of its unique, one-ofa-kind approach to the world and its problems. At a time when certain elements of security, that appeared to be consolidated and definitively acquired, are giving way to precariousness and unsatisfied needs, where progress is failing to respond to the challenges of new types of poverty and hardship, the social activity of a bank that is deeply rooted in the economic and productive fabric of society is also of undisputed value, one that is able to ignite a glimmer of hope in many. With this view, social groups have been created to flank the government and individuals in pushing society as a whole to take on a more profound sense of collective responsibility. BPM’s has been involved since the beginning with an equal commitment to all fields. The Alzheimer ward of the Istituto Palazzolo of Milan was completed in 2006, with the Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi. The Bank’s commitment continues with the creation of a new ward for vegetative patients over the next few years. (euro) Social interventions School Health Culture Research Solidarity Associations Other Total 2006 2005 81,700 305,000 2,731,732 146,620 1,271,780 203,000 533,060 5,272,892 147,000 690,000 2,645,000 109,000 855,000 134,000 903,000 5,483,000 (euro) Initiatives by macro area 2006 2005 Institutions against poverty and social marginalisation 1,870,295 1,645,000 Cultural associations Other Total 3,270,597 132,000 5,272,892 3,265,000 573,000 5,483,000 The new headquarters of the Mario Negri Pharmacological Institute 149 The Bank’s contribution has made it possible to renovate the newborn oncology ward at the De Marchi Clinic in Milan, with BPM at the forefront of the fight against cancer. The Bank also awards new scholarships for paediatric oncology studies with the l’Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori (National Institute for Cancer Research and Cure). A significant scientific project was carried out at the Centro di Medicina del Sonno (Medical Centre for Sleep) within the Fondazione Centro San Raffaele del Monte Tabor on sleep behaviour disorders, RBD, while the operating rooms in the urology ward of Milan’s Policlinico received new, sophisticated equipment. Although they are all within the Milanese area, taken together, these projects and donations help forge nation-wide synergies, with benefits not only for local residents, but all patients from other areas who come to Milan for diagnosis or treatment. BPM is also involved in the field of biomedical research by helping to fund the Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri, which is a centre of excellence in the development and enhancement of pharmacological active ingredients. BPM also provides support for the following initiatives: Vidas This is an association that provides integrated, continuous and free home-care for advanced and terminally-ill cancer patients; it is also the first Italian provider of home-care that relies entirely on the private sector. In 2006, Casa Vidas was opened. It is a hospice home for patients who cannot be cared for at home, but cannot be hospitalised either. They are cared for in a safe, modern and fully equipped environment to alleviate the burden on their families. Associazione del Centro Dino Ferrari - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico It operates by promoting various cultural activities and raising funds to fund the centre’s clinical and scientific research into muscular and neurodegenerative diseases. Fondazione Emergency This humanitarian organisation was founded in 1999. It operates around the world in areas struck by war, famine and poverty, providing medical and surgical assistance to civilians. It has an international staff of emergency healthcare workers. BPM is one of the founding members. BPM also collaborates with the Fondazione IRCCS Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Mangiagalli e Regina Elena which, by combining hospital services with research and university training, seeks to rapidly translate clinical research into medical treatment. 150 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > community Culture Again in 2006, Banca Popolare di Milano continued to support cultural institutions with long-term commitments and individual initiatives, in the unwavering belief that culture is not extraordinary or a marginal aspect of human creativity, but that it is an ever-present and changing condition with the vision to encompass many directions and different levels. The Bank also sponsors the Bach Weeks, the various cycles of Music and Poetry at San Maurizio organised by the Società del Quartetto, and La Milanesiana, a summer review of literature, music and cinema under the patronage of the Province of Milan. The Bank is one of the Founding Members of the Fondazione Orchestra Sinfonica e Coro Sinfonico di Milan Giuseppe Verdi and continues to help fund this important orchestra and choir, which is becoming increasingly well-known and in demand internationally. As part of its cultural commitment to research and conserve historical, documentary heritage, BPM participates in ISEC – Istituto per la Storia dell’Età Contemporanea – of Sesto San Giovanni. Its mission is to “study and learn the social, political, economic and cultural history of contemporary Italy” given the need to remember the country’s political and social roots. The third volume in the “Classici del pensiero politico ed economico europeo del Novecento” (“Classic European political and economic though of the Twentieth century”) series was published. This is a series that offers otherwise obscure essays to the public, which deal with issues relating to economics, society and politics. Scheduled restoration work continued in the Chiesa di San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore, which BPM has sponsored with a ten-year commitment. The work entails recovering the vault, organ and wooden crucifix. It is a groundbreaking, ambitious project, also in terms of the funding. Once completed, the entire architectural complex will be returned to its original splendour. The Bank’s constant tie to its area continues with the Festival di Villa Arconati, organised by Polo Culturale Insieme Groane, with the participation of Italian and international rock, pop and jazz artists and the Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli concert to honour the pianist’s art and memory, held in Bergamo and Brescia, now in its 43th edition. These institutions include historic places in Milanese culture that meet high standards of both artistic quality and professional commitment, as well as public and critical interest, such as the Fondazione Teatro alla Scala and the Fondazione Piccolo Teatro d’Europa. The most significant events of 2006 included the exhibition at the Palazzo Reale “Maestri del ‘600 e del ‘700 lombardo nella collezione Koelliker” and a series of Sunday concerts “Domeniche alla Scala” to bring young people closer to the world of music. Lastly, the Bank supports the Fondazione Cineteca Italiana which, with its commendable conservation work, saves, restores and digitises kilometres of film in its archives, which would otherwise be lost over time. Part of the restoration of San Maurizio al Monastero Maggiore 151 Solidarity Modern poverty, immigration issues and the difficulties faced by young people today encourage growing marginalisation and create a sharp contrast between the daily lives of the unfortunate, overlooked by current models, which base societal views on the subjective and social value of the wealthy, successful and well-known. As the international economy cannot ensure constant and well-balanced development, and as the geopolitical gap between rich and poor countries grows, dramatic problems arise, even in wealthier nations, requiring the help of not only local authorities and the government, but also institutions and private associations, to plan and coordinate solutions that would otherwise not suffice. The Fondazione Fratelli di San Francesco d’Assisi helps the elderly, not necessarily because they are alone or in need, but because they are weak. It has created a “Custode Sociale” programme to constantly provide genuine help with a widespread network of assistance and entertainment activities, especially during the hot summer months when Italian cities and people alone most suffer from solitude and abandonment. especially for volunteers who over time have become highly specialised and professional in all social fields in which these emergencies arise. Although the Bank operates on the basis of expenditure priorities and budget, it has always tried to support, whenever possible, all worthy initiatives, such as Piccolo Cottolengo and the Comunità di San Patrignano. BPM also helps: AVSI Associazione Volontari per il Servizio Internazionale, an NGO involved in international co-operation which operates in an extremely wide field that ranges from the needs of small children to professional training and from food security to improving urban dwellings. Its activities include, more specifically, distance support and international adoption. The aim of Fondazione Banco Alimentare is free distribution to charitable entities of essential food products donated by major producers, distributors and the European Union. It operates thanks to the involvement of volunteers who visit the associations and institutions that are members of the scheme throughout Italy. The Casa della Carità “Angelo Abriani” also works in this field but with a different focus. It was founded by a generous Milanese entrepreneur as a project to help people living in difficult social conditions characterised by weakness, need and marginalisation. It seeks to help each guest return to a productive life, through the search for a job and a home that will ensure genuine independence. Together with the Fondazione Attilio e Teresa Cassoni, BPM recently completed the Villaggio Barona project to redevelop an industrial area on the basis of an extensive urban and regional redevelopment plan for social purposes. The entire neighbourhood will be used to meet the residential needs of individuals and families in difficulty. It also includes housing communities and student housing. BPM is also active in supporting the CAF, a help centre for abused children and families in crisis. It is a non-profit organisation with three independent communities working to protect, educate and heal the wounds and trauma suffered by children aged three to twelve due to maltreatment and abuse. The needs and requests for help are many, 152 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > community Local projects (euro) Location is not synonymous with participation. Those present in a location can either stand back and watch or actively take part in their community. BPM has opted for the latter, a decision that reflects its identity and its way of operating directly in the area wherever it is located. Since the Bank is in Milan and is traditionally the bank of the Milanese, it has naturally privileged projects in its historic location. One example is its official sponsorship of Stramilano, the city’s largest sporting event, with race participants from all over Italy and abroad running along all of Milan’s main arteries. As its business grows geographically beyond the city and the region, the Bank has adjusted its target area accordingly, contributing to significant and effective projects in the various areas in which it is present: Piedmont, Emilia Romagna, Latium and Apulia. However, it is crucial that the Bank always maintain a balance and its ability to analyse and listen, abilities that have long made BPM stand apart, to continue to fully meet the needs and expectations day after day that cannot be let down. Only in this way can hope, desires and ideas become reality. Areas of social outreach Milan 2006 2005 4,667,917 4,854,000 Province of Milan 174,500 125,000 Lombardy 214,715 190,000 Other 215,760 314,000 Total 5,272,892 5,483,000 Type of social outreach 2006 2005 Cultural associations 28 17 Volunteer associations 76 33 Patron saints’ celebrations 19 23 Parishes 84 92 Sports centres 15 26 Schools 21 32 Other associations 73 129 “Stramilano” sporting event 153 COMMITMENTS: steps taken and new objectives for improvement Objectives for improvement set out in the 2005 Social Responsibility Report Devote attention to the various initiatives that are proposed by institutions and associations to strengthen the link with the territory and to give concrete help to the needs of the community. State of play at the end of 2006 J Steps taken • In 2006, BPM continued to operate with real social, cultural, solidarity and artistic projects, devoting specific attention to local needs and development. Objectives for further improvement Ensure continuous support to social, cultural, solidarity and artistic projects organised by the institutions and associations with which BPM has commitments. 154 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > community The Parent Bank BPM Environment 155 Policy guidelines The Bank now wants to put more and more emphasis on environmental matters. In particular, BPM intends to: • apply good internal practices in its policies for energy savings and in the sorting and recycling of waste; • identify suitable types and methods of credit for profit and non-profit business that operate in the protection and improvement of the environment, artistic and cultural heritage, urban settings and the countryside; • evaluate the possibility of including environmental and/or sustainability certification as an element of merit in the process of granting credit to businesses; • devote specific attention to the environment and to the quality of life in the areas surrounding our offices. The respect that a business has for the environment reflects the respect that people who staff and manage the business have for the environment. In a social context that has achieved mature well-being, environmental awareness and the possible, although not immediate, effects that environmental-friendly policy have on the quality of life, can only grow. This increasingly widespread awareness is taking on growing importance in corporate decisions, although it must be coordinated with other efficiency and competitiveness requirements. The Bank has established guidelines and objectives in the above areas, demonstrating the strong commitment of management and operating staff to the environment. 156 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > environment Steps taken in 2006 All electricity consumed by BPM for its needs is from hydro-electric sources and is “EAUX DE LA VALLÉE Energia pura” certified. This is possible in part due to the progressive deregulation of the market, which allows BPM to choose its supplier everywhere it uses electricity, without affecting service continuity. To this end, when the electronic back-up centre was relocated from Palazzo Galfa to Piazza Meda, decisions were made to set up the plant and, especially the air conditioning system, in a way that would maximise energy savings, while exploiting the effects of natural ventilation. For the purpose of improvement the efficiency of heating systems, new heating systems were installed on the district heating grid offered by local consortia. Use of electricity 2006 2005 Kwh/m2 128 * 126 2 50,200 ** 43,400 Kwh/m *Start-up and inspection of the new Centro Servizi Bezzi 2 contributed to increasing total use of electricity. **The weather conditions in winter 2006 generated an increase of roughly 20% on 2005. Energy efficiency goals were also considered in the choice of new technological equipment, as this concept takes on increasing importance. In particular, the new electricity back-systems installed at the data processing centres are top of the line in terms of energy yield and all new monitors installed at workstations have liquid crystal displays. large air conditioning systems. To date, the results in a system serving the data processing centre are positive. The solution will be extended to other systems as well. The wealth of each of the above goals leaves vast areas for improvement in the year to come, also through government incentives that have become available in the meantime. In particular, the Bank is focusing specifically on saving and producing electricity itself using alternative sources, as both an energy user and a financer and sponsor of these types of initiatives to Customers. The creation of photovoltaic financing products for companies and individuals, along with the “business ecology package” to provide incentives to companies that plan to use environmentallyfriendly technologies and plants, while reducing consumption, meet the objective of identifying suitable types and methods of credit for profit and non-profit business that operate in the protection and improvement of the environment, artistic and cultural heritage, urban settings and the countryside. BPM’s commitment to paying specific attention to the environment and the quality of life in the areas surrounding its sites led it to open a public playground in 2006, in conjunction with the expansion of the Centro Servizi Bezzi and making the “Il giardino di Bez” company creche available to neighbourhood children in addition to employees’ children. In addition to electricity, water is increasingly becoming an asset to conserve and not waste. To this end, the Bank has tested new technical solutions to reduce water consumption in its technological systems that most use this resource: The production of waste Consumption per head (m2 per year/average number of employees 2005 170,680 145,024 840 4,940 1,094,418 953,739 Waste in Kg Water consumption per year m3 per year 2006 2006 2005 380,150 405,000 60 63 Urban and similar waste** Spent oil (in litres) Non-dangerous waste * Dangerous/Special waste*** Total 9,474 8,705 1,275,412 1,112,408,10 * Paper, cardboard, plastic, toner ** Mixed material packaging *** Hygienic waste, batteries, neon 157 COMMITMENTS: steps taken and new objectives for improvement Objectives for improvement set out in the 2005 Social Responsibility Report Identify the types of consumption to be monitored and to create a database for the extraction of information. Fill the database with as much data as possible. Apply good internal corporate practices in its policies for energy savings and in the sorting and recycling of waste. Open a channel of communication with employees to make them more aware of the problem of environmental impact and energy savings. Devote particular attention to the environment and to the quality of life in the areas surrounding our offices. State of play at the end of 2006 Steps taken K • The energy consumption database was improved and IT applications were created to monitor consumption. J • An agreement was signed for the purchase of hydroelectric energy to cover all of the Bank’s energy needs. J • The playground built in conjunction with the expansion of the Centro Servizi Bezzi was opened. • The “Il giardino di Bez” company creche was opened at the service centre for employees’ children and neighbourhood children. • A photovoltaic financing product was created for companies and individuals. Identify suitable forms and methods of credit for profit and no-profit enterprises operating in the protection and enhancement of the environment, artistic and cultural heritage, urban settings and the countryside. J Evaluate the possibility of including environmental and/or sustainability certification as an element of merit in the process of granting credit to businesses. K Objectives for further improvement Developing and providing incentives to use and produce energy from renewable sources while containing consumption. 158 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > environment • A “company ecology package” was created to provide incentives to companies that plan to adopt environmentally-friendly technologies and plants while reducing energy consumption. • Feasibility studies. Developments foreseen in 2007 • Projects were developed in collaboration with ESCO (Energy Service Company) to improve energy efficiency. • Research was conducted into new methods of financing based on the opportunities created by the decrees of the Ministry of production activities in relation to energy from renewable sources. • Energy provisioning policies were extended to all Group companies. • New lighting systems were created using innovative energy savings systems. The Parent Bank BPM Communications Policy guidelines Communications is an important tool for BPM in its dealings with the various stakeholders, including the media and public and private institutions. The Bank’s communications are guided by principles of transparency and clarity, but also the quality of relationships. As regards the media in particular, through periodic contacts BPM guarantees direct and timely collaboration with the press, radio and television, so as to make the distribution of news to the general public as efficient as possible. 160 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > communications Communication with the media is a fundamental strategic activity because it allows BPM to inform the general public about the life of the Bank and its subsidiaries. Attention to the media and the relationship of mutual trust that has been built up over the years allows BPM to participate as a leading player in any discussions about the banking system. The Press Office, which reports to the Communications, Press and Public Relations Department, operates in continuous contact with the media, making sure that any price-sensitive information complies with the specific rules issued by the supervisory authorities. COMMITMENTS: steps taken Objectives for improvement set out in the 2005 Social Responsibility Report Reinforce and intensify relationships with contacts with a view to providing clear, timely and transparent information on the activities of the BPM Group. State of play at the end of 2006 J Steps taken • Activities continued to forge relationships and communicate with the media, to ensure clear and transparent disclosures on BPM’s business. 161 Banca di Legnano S.p.A. Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria S.p.A. Banca Akros S.p.A. Bipiemme Gestioni SGR S.p.A. We@Service S.p.A. Group banks and principal companies Banca di Legnano S.p.A. History Founded in December 1887, Banca di Legnano was created to respond to the financial needs of manufacturing industry which in those years was taking on a leading role in the economic life of the area north of Milan, constituting a major industrial hub that has continued to be a constant feature of this area up to the present day. From the establishment of the Bank to the end of the First World War, Banca di Legnano enjoyed a period of strong growth, maintaining intense relationships with the more important local industries and vigorously sustaining the service sector and public savings, becoming a dynamic and reassuring presence in a region that was developing rapidly. Neither the Great War nor the events that took place immediately afterwards had much of an impact on the Bank’s solid progress, as it knew how to handle the problems connected with the reconversion from a war economy to one of peace, favouring the definitive consolidation of one of the country’s top industrial groups. In the years that followed the Second World War, Banca di Legnano took an active part in the reconstruction and during the economic boom contributed towards the development of a modern Italian industry. It was at that time that Banca Commerciale Italiana became the majority shareholder. Since 2001, Banca di Legnano has been a part of the Banca Popolare di Milano Group. In September 2002, Banca di Legnano S.p.A. was merged with Fin Partecipazioni S.p.A., which changed its name to Banca di Legnano. Mission Banca di Legnano is developing its distinctive characteristic as a retail bank with a strong mission to support the local economy, which makes it the bank of reference for retail Customers and for small and mid-sized businesses located in the Bank’s historical area and neighbouring areas, essentially north of Milan. Its mission is in line with the Business Reorganisation Plan of the BPM Group. Strategy The Bank’s medium/long-term sales and marketing policy follows two main lines of strategy: recovering market share and raising efficiency. Recovering market share Banca di Legnano is increasingly taking on the characteristics of a “network bank”, deeply rooted in a well-defined area in which commercial development is inevitably linked to reinforcing its presence in its traditional location by boosting market share. Attention is paid to all Customer segments - private, corporate, public administration, entities and associations - by offering products that can satisfy their respective needs. Increasing efficiency The Bank will pursue this goal through the following: • quantitative analysis to verify the presence of resources in the network and to improve its distribution capacity; • qualitative analysis of professional roles so as to develop suitably personalised training courses. (in millions of Euros) Balance sheet and income statement figures (from the reclassified financial statements) 2006 2005 2006 2005 Direct deposits (*) 2,604.3 2,415.8 Indirect deposits (in millions of Euros) 4,039.5 4,023.4 Loans 2,625.8 2,440.7 - of which asset management 2,103.0 2,114.2 Operating income 215.4 179.6 Branches 107 106 Operating costs -88.7 -86.6 Net income from financial activities Employees* 819 821 126.7 93.0 Net profit for the year 133.8 62.7 Customers 227,388 ** 226,324 - of which individuals 88.58% 87.46% - of which companies 11.42% 12.54% Equity (including net profit for the year) 1,262.8 1,180.8 ** include amounts due to Customers, debt securities in issue and financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss. 164 Other information * employees, including secondment and temporary staff ** figures restated following the reclassification of Customer types in 2006. social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > group banks and principal companies Distribution network Governance Board of Directors Board of Directors Chairman: Rocco Corigliano Deputy Chairman: Giuseppe Coppini Deputy Chairman: Maria Martellini Directors: Giorgio Bianchini Scudellari, Eugenio Crosta, Roberto Fusilli, Francesco Giaretta, Alberto Lazzarini, Aldo Mario Mainini, Giuseppe Merlini, Leone Spozio, Anna Strazzera, Jean Jacques Tamburini, Valerio Tavormina. In accordance with art. 25 of the Articles of Association, the Board normally meets once a month: during 2006, it met 11 times. Executive Committee Made up of 5 members: Chairman: Rocco Corigliano Deputy Chairman: Giuseppe Coppini Deputy Chairman: Maria Martellini Consiglieri: Francesco Giaretta, Leone Spozio. The Executive Committee normally meets once a fortnight: during 2006, it met 17 times. Board of Statutory Auditors Chairman: Giuseppe Pajardi Acting Statutory Auditors: Enrico Castoldi, Luigi Doppietti 2005 Branches ATM POS Province of Varese 29 19 472 Province of Como 10 11 96 Province of Novara 11 11 94 Province of Milan Other provinces – – 14 Total 106 116 1,740 2006 Branches ATM POS Province of Milan 55 75 1.042 Province of Varese 30 19 480 Province of Como 11 11 97 Province of Novara 11 11 105 Other provinces Total – – 23 107 116 1.727 Customers The Bank is making every effort to improve and enhance its vocation as a “local bank” by intensifying contacts and relationships with current and potential Customers, institutions and associations. The purpose being to interpret the emerging needs of its area so that it can satisfy them in the best way possible. Supervisory Committee in accordance with Decree 231/2001 Chairman: Valerio Tavormina Members: Anna Strazzera, Remo De Monte. The Bank’s Top Management also takes part in various Group Committees, including the Liquidity Committee, the Intergroup Committee, the Credit Policies Committee and the Commercial Policies and Communication Committee. Number of Customers by type Individuals Small business Mid-sized and large companies Public Administration Service industry Total Small companies by business Agriculture Skilled trades Commerce Industry Services Other Total 2006 % 196,912 86.60 2005 % 197,929 87.46 24,295 10.68 22,977 10.15 1,677 0.74 1,223 0.54 30 0.01 29 0.01 4,474 1.97 4,166 1.84 227,388 100 226,324 100 % 2005 % 111 0.45 97 0.42 7,108 3,348 4,603 3,601 5,524 24,295 29.26 13.78 18.95 14.82 22.74 100 6,679 3,250 4,740 3,156 5,055 22,977 29.07 14.14 20.63 13.74 22.00 100 2006 165 Products and services The products sold to Customers are the same as those offered by the Parent Bank. They are created to meet the most diversified needs of Customers, while improving cross-selling and loyalty targets. The portfolio project launched a few years ago was recently completed. It ensures individuals receive the best advisory services in the field of indirect deposits, also through new products created in collaboration with the Group’s product companies, in terms of both bonds and bankinsurance. In the business segment, specific attention is paid to developing leases, relationships with underwriting syndicates and construction financing, which have performed particularly well. As for services, the Group focused on developing electronic products, such as We@bank and inLineaNet, in addition to its main traditional services (foreign, portfolio, credit and debit cards and POS systems). In 2006, Banca di Legnano continued its strategy of widespread, systematic and periodic communication to Customers. Along with their monthly statement of account and periodic investment statements, Customers receive prompt information of a commercial nature, cultural proposals and initiatives of a social nature in which the Bank was involved during the year. Personnel Banca di Legnano has continued to involve its employees in its business mission. Training and development processes have been further strengthened by focussing on personal relationships and management of human resources. Equal opportunities The Bank’s policy is to offer part-time employment contracts to women who return to work after maternity leave. Furthermore, it carries out cancer prevention activities for its female employees. Personnel mix 2006 % 2005 % No. of employees with open-ended contracts 728 90.09 726 91.90 No. of employees with fixed-term contracts – – 7 0.89 No. of part-time employees 54 6.68 39 4.94 No. of newly hired employees 26 3.21 18 2.28 808 1 100% 790 13 100% Total No. of temps Breakdown by position Arrivals Departures1 Arrivals less departures 1 48 32 16 32 52 –20 % 12 2 1.48 0.24 14 1 1.77 0.13 Officials Men Women 279 39 34.5 4.82 272 33 34.43 4.18 Clerical Men Women 304 172 37.62 21.28 305 165 38.61 20.89 808 100 790 100 2006 2005 Men Women Men Women University degree (long or short course) 114 52 107 46 High school diploma 405 143 406 135 Middle school certificate or lower high school diploma Total 76 595 18 213 78 591 18 199 Women Men retirement and transfers to other Group companies Distribution by structure Local structure Central structure Total 166 2005 2005 Men Women Staff qualifications 2006 % Managers Total Personnel flows in and out 2006 2006 % 79.8% 2005 Men Women 475 20.2% 120 100 595 % 170 79% 43 Average age of personnel Men Women 474 148 21% 117 51 213 100% 591 199 2006 Men 2005 Women Managers 54.92 53.5 53.57 55 Officials 46.94 43.33 46.58 43.70 Clerical 40.24 37.24 39.80 36.95 Average 43.68 38.51 43.32 38.16 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > group banks and principal companies Training In 2006, a significant number of man/days was dedicated to training activities, with 4,135 man/ days of training, equal to 5.12 days per person. The percentage of days dedicated to updates was also high, coming in at over two thirds of all training activities provided. 2006 man/days 2005 man/days 3,027 530 Professional skills 836 2,116 Seminars & other initiatives 272 190* 4,135 2,836 Course content Procedures Total * figure reclassified for consistency with 2006 Social activities and the work atmosphere Recreational activities in the strictest sense are “subcontracted” to the CRAL (Circolo Ricreativo Aziendale Lavoratori, the staff social club), which every year receives significant financial support from the Bank. Similarly, the Bank funds the Associazione Mutua Integrativa Aziendale. This year saw the second edition of a meeting with the Chairman and Top Management, during which prizes were awarded to all members of staff with a period of service of 25-35 years; new hires and all of those who retired during the year were also invited. An annual meeting is held with all of the Bank’s pensioners. The 2006 Redundancy Incentive Plan allowed retirees to put forward a son or daughter as a candidate for a position in the Bank according to a special procedure. Communications To date, a personal interview is the main way of communicating with staff and getting them involved in the Bank’s commercial strategies and strategic guidelines. On particular occasions, when he wants to communicate an important matter personally, the General Manager has sent a signed letter to each member of staff. Community Banca di Legnano supports cultural, social, sporting and solidarity initiatives organised by associations, entities and private individuals that operate in the Bank’s chosen territory. In particular, cultural initiatives in 2006 included the continuance of the Bank’s publishing activities with a new high-end cultural publication “De Fletu Ecclesie” in collaboration with the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio in Bologna. These two banks, which differ in terms of location, mission and structure, came together to promote the publication of one of the most significant works by a Legnano resident, Giovanni degli Oldendri (known as Giovanni da Legnano), in its entirety. “De Fletu Ecclesie” is an extreme testament to the moral and legal foundations of a political body that was inevitably replaced by a new construction of Western Christianity, seeking a more autonomous, profitable system of political ethics, heralding acerbic dialect that would turn the modern world on its head. The collaboration of Professor Berardo Pio made the publication of this work possible. On 10 February 2006, at the headquarters of Banca di Legnano, the “Fondazione Comunitaria del Ticino Olona” was officially founded. Banca di Legnano is a founding member, along with the Municipalities of Abbiategrasso, Legnano and Magenta, the Fondazione Cariplo, the Milan Chamber of Commerce and the Fondazione Famiglia Legnanese. Rocco Corigliano was appointed Chairman of the foundation’s board of directors. The foundation, which operates in the western part of the province of Milan, is non-profit making. It pursues aims that are exclusively those of social solidarity, promoting improvements in the quality of life in the community by stimulating civil, cultural, social, environmental and economic development. During 2006, the foundation awarded 313,750 to 36 projects presented, totalling approximately 1,000,000 from non-profit organisations, and social associations, local entities and religious institutions throughout the area. The Bank manages various treasury offices of municipalities and schools, as well as that of the Legnano Civil Hospital. (Euro) Social outreach 2006 2005 189,553 159,141 Solidarity 15,543 8,850 Associations 75,880 27,330 Other 102,985 136,280 Total 383,961 331,601 School, culture and healthcare 167 Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria S.p.A. History Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria was set up by Royal Charter on 21 August 1838. As part of the reorganisation plan drawn up in accordance with Law 218 of 30 July 1990 and approved by Ministerial Decree of 23 December 1991, Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria spun off its banking activity with the establishment of Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria S.p.A. With effect from 24 September 2004, Banca Popolare di Milano holds 80% of Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria, which as a result has become part of the BPM Group. Mission Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria wants to help promote the development of the territory in which it operates by paying constant attention to the needs of local households and businesses, with particular regard to SMEs. The Bank’s link with the local territory is also being developed thanks to the innumerable treasury services provided to the Public Administration. Parent Company, HR management has to tend towards a higher level of overall efficiency that is able to raise the Bank’s competitiveness and create a greater orientation towards Customers and the market. • Innovation and technology Technological resources are a fundamental tool to implement the Bank’s strategies in a balanced way, to upgrade all IT procedures to new legal requirements and to offer new products in line with state-of-the-art technologies that can satisfy the needs of Customers. • Marketing and communication The Bank strategically revitalises relationships with Customers on a continuous basis in sectors in which the Bank has been traditionally and historical involved, such as private banking (families and entrepreneurs, particularly small and mid-sized companies); public banking (local public entities and institutions); civil banking (non-profit associations and organisations). Governance (Information updated to 17 May 2007) Strategy Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria’s strategy is to reinforce and enhance its vocation as a retail bank, offering a full range of high quality products and services, with a particular eye on global consulting. Integration with the BPM Group is playing an important role in recovering and consolidating profitability, holding down costs and raising efficiency and productivity. • Development of human resources and the organisation Human resources are an important and strategic variable. By means of various interventions of corporate reorganisation and synergies with the Board of Directors Made up of 15 members: Chairman: Giuseppe Pernice Deputy Chairman: Enrico Corali Directors: Marco Bertini, Paolo Bianchi, Giorgio Bianchini Scudellari, Sergio Guglielmero, Piero Lonardi, Giacomo Maranzana, Piero Martinotti, Piero Milano, Renzo Giuseppe Patria, Roberto Roveta, Bruno Tacchino, Luciano Vandone, Michele Zefferino. The Board normally meets once a month. (in millions of Euros) Balance sheet and income statement figures Direct deposits * Loans Operating income Operating costs Net income from financial activities Net profit for the year Equity (including net profit for the period) 2006 2005 1,790.3 1,630.4 111.8 -64.8 47.0 16.7 1,759.2 1,471.0 98.6 -64.0 34.6 15.8 165.3 161.5 Other information Indirect deposits (in millions of Euros) - including AUM (in millions of Euros) Branches Employees Customers - of which individuals - of which companies * include amounts due to Customers, debt securities in issue and financial liabilities designated at fair value through profit and loss. 168 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > group banks and principal companies 2006 2005 2,353.3 946.5 2,179.3 922.9 84 82 576 580 112,844 85% 15% 113,872 88% 12% Executive Committee Made up of 5 members: Chairman: Giuseppe Pernice Deputy Chairman: Enrico Corali Directors: Giorgio Bianchini Scudellari, Piero Martinotti, Michele Zefferino. Personnel As part of the process of integrating increasingly with the Parent Bank, Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria maintains its HR management philosophy based on fairness and transparency in all internal communications. In particular, the Bank is implementing internal policies designed to: • consider each employee as a company asset; • enhance the skills, professionalism and personal aptitudes of each member of staff to ensure the The Executive Committee normally meets once a fortnight. Board of Statutory Auditors Chairman: Enrico Castoldi Acting Statutory Auditors: Guido Barberis e Antonio Ortolani. Personnel mix Supervisory Committee in accordance with Legislative Decree no 231/2001 Chairman: Paolo Manzato Members: Giacomo Maranzana, Guido Porta, Enrico Accomello e Adriano Parrini. 2006 % 2005 % No. of employees with open-ended contracts 519 90.1 503 86.7 No. of employees with fixed-term contracts 11 1.9 31 5.4 No. of part-time employees Total 46 8.0 46 7.9 576 100.0 580 100.0 16 2.8 14 2.4 No. of temps Distribution network 84 retail branches: 65 in the province of Alessandria (head office in Alessandria, 2 area offices and 62 branches); 5 in the province of Asti; 2 in the province of Pavia; 4 in the province of Genoa; 5 the province of Savona; 3 in the province of Vercelli and 1 in the province of Cuneo. Customers Number of Customers by type Individuals Companies Public administration Customers Service industry Customers Total Staff levels 2006 % 2005 % Managers Men Women 10 – 1.7 – 7 – 1.2 – Officials Men Women 108 52 18.8 9.0 107 55 18.4 9.5 Clerical Men Women 152 254 576 26.4 44.1 100.0 160 251 580 27.6 43.3 100.0 Total 2006 % 2005 % 95,510 84.6 96,895 85.1 13,378 11.9 13,135 2006 Staff qualifications 11.5 University degree (long or short course) 142 0.1 136 0.1 3,824 3.4 3,706 3.3 112,844 100 113,872 100 2005 Men Women Men Women 66 59 66 56 190 232 191 235 Middle school certificate or lower high school diploma 11 7 14 7 Other 3 8 3 8 Total 270 306 274 306 Middle school diploma Average age of personnel Managers Officials Clerical Average 2006 2005 Men Women Men Women 57 49 40 44 48 40 41 56 50 40 44 – 49 40 42 169 growth of the individual and of the Bank as a result; • discuss policies with the Parent Bank (both its own traditional policies and those being developed in the form of synergies); • maintain contact and critical comparison with the same sectors at the Parent Bank, taking advantage of high level professional skills that already exist. Members of staff on secondment from the Parent Bank have made a decisive contribution in this direction. Personnel flows in and out 1 2006 2005 Arrivals 33 50 Departures1 37 59 Arrivals less departures -4 -9 almost all are due to retirement Distribution by structure 2006 % 2005 Men Women % Men Women Branch network 71 191 218 71 193 217 Headquarters 25 76 67 26 80 73 4 3 21 3 1 16 100 270 306 100 274 306 Outside the structure Total Training The 2006 training plan falls into the Parent Bank’s development strategy. Classroom lessons, both in terms of traditional training and procedural training – continued to focus on sales employees, confirming the Bank’s internal belief that earnings, growth and business development are directly related to Customer service and the integration with the Parent Bank, which will be completed in 2007, with IT integration slated for November. Certain courses grew exponentially on previous years, with qualified instructors from outside the bank, such as business courses (“Foreign commerce”, “Advanced commerce”, “Entrepreneurial thinking”, “Insurance”, etc.) and development training for network employees. In accordance with Law no. 626/94, 70 first aid courses were provided to most staff members. About 2/3 of employees with the right to receive mandatory medical check-ups for the use of monitors did. In addition, a significant number of employees participated in the new FAD courses (the 170 Parent Bank’s web platform), on administrative responsibilities (Law no. 231) and health and safety regulations (Law no. 626). More than 400 employees took part in these courses. The PattiChiari courses were also provided to all network employees once again. In addition, training activities were provided in connection with the distribution of didactic and informational pamphlets to all employees on the Organisational model as per Law no. 231 and the anti-theft guide, as well as updates (handled by Marketing) on PattiChiari via the company intranet. During the year, new temporary task force training continued (16 employees), involving internal instructors on more than one occasion (basic training, field training and continuous updates). Members of staff also took part in various external courses, either on the advice of their heads of department, or as decided by the staff training department. Course content Procedures Management skills 2006 2005 man/days man/days 282 131 46 132 Sales and marketing 470 87.5 Professional skills 662 548 New hire training 50 582.5 Remote training 388 410 - – 10 26.5 1,908 1,917.5 Languages Seminars & other initiatives Total Training by category 2006 2005 Managers Total No. of days 7 9 1 1 Officials Total No. of days 120 617 120 551.5 Clerical Total No. of days 315 1,282 340 1,365 Total Total No. of days 442 1,908 461 1,917.5 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > group banks and principal companies (euro) Community and Institutions Locally, Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria can consider itself a leader in the management of treasury services for local government entities, as it provides this service for more than 250 entities, including the Provincial Authority and the Municipality of the provincial capital. Together with the Fondazione Cassa di Risparmio di Alessandria, the Bank published a book entitled “Monferrato. The signs of modernity” This is the third volume in a series dedicated to the Monferrato, an important part of the territory Social outreach School, culture and healthcare 2006 2005 282,870 116,000 Other 60,850 24,000 Total 343,720 140,000 mainly consisting of hill-land, whose cultural, environmental and tourist enhancement plays a central role in the redefinition of the economic and social destiny of this area, known as the “Alessandrino”. COMMITMENTS: steps taken and new objectives for improvement Objectives for improvement set out in the 2005 Social Responsibility Report Initiatives aimed at Customers/ new markets Objectives for further improvement Steps taken • Specific attention was paid to developing products for non-E.U. immigrants, with a particular project handled by the Parent Bank and promoted by the various local channels with the involvement of provinces and municipalities, as well as economic and volunteer associations. • The first-home 100% mortgage covering the entire value of the property was offered. A new prepaid credit cart called “Eura” was also launched, completing the sales offer, with the restyling of the credit card graphics. • The farming segment was also expanded to complete the offer with a new line of advertising communications. • Relationships with trade associations and underwriting syndicates continued with specific attention devoted to both conventions and seminars for entrepreneurs and through agreements to promote loans and other products. • New collaborative agreements were also signed with trade associations in the various provinces in which the Bank is present. Sviluppi previsti per il 2007 Initiatives aimed at Customers/ new markets • New products were developed in synergy with the Parent to complete the Bank’s offer in specific Customer segments. Particular emphasis will be placed on a series of subsidies and incentives to increase the use of renewable energy sources, with specific loans for companies and individuals who use them. The Bank will mainly target farmers, young people and students, non-E.U. immigrants, business associations and accountants. • New collaboration agreements will be signed with trade associations in the various provinces where the Bank has a presence, with a view to increasing commercial penetration in the various market segments. Organisation/distribution network • Il 22007 will see the process of integration of the CRA IT system into BPM’s IT system, which should give rise to profitable synergies and positively impact organisation and costs. • A new “Treasury Service Centre” will be created to oversee all administrative, legal and operating functions on behalf of entities for which the Bank provides treasury/ cash services, to improve the quality of the service and contain costs 171 Banca Akros S.p.A. Banca Akros is the BPM Group’s investment and private banking specialist, acting as an important point of reference for institutions, companies and individuals who participate in financial markets. Constant financial analysis of equity markets underpins all of the services offered by Banca Akros. Banca Akros, which controls Akros HFR Alternative Investments SGR in Italy and Akros Securities Inc. in the United States (New York), has significant strategic investments in companies such as Group S.r.l. (for the subscription and placement of securities), ESN LLP (equity research) and ESN NA (broker dealer). (in millions of Euros) Balance sheet and income statement figures 2006 2005 423.9 300.4 (held for trading and available for sale) 2,347.5 2,270.4 Other assets Total assets 187.9 2,959.3 134.2 2,705.0 1,850.3 1,978.7 865.7 148.3 557.0 87.3 95.0 82.0 2,959.3 2,705.0 95.0 -58.7 85.8 -52.7 36.3 34.0 33.1 31.7 2006 2005 2,207.0 807.0 3 1,912.0 902.0 2 244 241 Loans and advances to banks and Customers) Financial assets Liabilities and equity Due to banks and Customers Financial liabilities held for trading Other liabilities Equity (including net profit for the year) Total liabilities and equity Operating income Operating costs Net income from financial activities Net profit for the year Other information (in millions of Euros) Indirect Customer deposits - of which asset management Number of branches Number of employees at year end In 2006, Banca Akros participated in the PRO MAC S.p.A. foundation, an alternative market that allows small and mid-sized companies to be listed on a circuit for institutional investors. The subsidiary Akros HFR Alternative Investment SGR manages Italian funds of hedge funds to offer Customers investment tools that allow them a rational diversification of risk and consequent optimisation of the expected return. The funds included in the portfolios are selected according to rigorous criteria of transparency and performance analysis. This initiative is managed in partnership with Hedge Fund Research, the worldwide leader in the selection of hedge fund managers. Governance Board of Directors Made up of 10 members: Chairman: Graziano Tarantini; Deputy Chairmen: Mario Artali, Ernesto Paolillo; Managing Director: Marco Turrina Directors: Maurizio Biliotti, Roberto Cavallotti, Dario Martelli, Giordano Pelosato, Gianfranco Pittatore, Leonardo Savini. Board of Statutory Auditors Chairman: Marco Baccani; Acting Statutory Auditors: Enrico Castoldi, Ezio Maria Simonelli. Supervisory Committee Strategies La sBanca Akros has built its strategy around innovation and specialised expertise, with operations deeply rooted in Italy, integrated with competitive business development on all major international markets. Banca Akros is a leading name in the field of Investment Services and Private Banking for: • mid-sized and large companies (both listed and unlisted); 172 • institutional investors and intermediaries (banks, insurance companies, bank foundations, security houses, fund management companies, OEICs and asset managers in general); • government entities and the public administration; • high net-worth individuals. in accordance with Decree 231/20011 Members: Alessandra Barzaghi, Ferrante Zilioli. The services provided by Banca Akros The services offered by Banca Akros cover the entire range of Investment & Private Banking activities. In the field of investment banking, the Bank acts as trader and market maker for equities and bonds. It trades in derivatives on regulated and OTC markets. Banca Akros also handles interest and exchange rate hedging transactions on behalf of companies and institutions with the need to hedge their financial risk. It offers its specialised expertise in the creation of domestic and international competitive financial instruments in terms of yield, social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > group banks and principal companies transparency and innovation, to banking networks and insurance companies. In the equity market, it assists companies in stock market listings and the placement of equities and bonds. In corporate finance, Banca Akros offers advisory services to companies and local entities, M&A consultancy and securitization services. Banca Akros private banking services include wealth management for high net worth individuals, with personalised asset management and order collections specialised in terms of clients’ transactions on domestic and international financial markets. Banca Akros has offices in Milan, Rome and Turin, with a range of services to meet the demands of the most sophisticated clients. Personnel Breakdown by level Men Women 24 1 24 1 Officials Men Women 77 35 79 30 Clerical Men Women 53 54 53 54 244 241 2006 2005 225 223 – 19 – 18 0 0 244 241 Personnel mix No. of employees with openended contracts No. of employees with fixedterm contracts No. part-time employees No. newly hired employees Number of employees at year end Staff qualifications University degree (long or short course) High school diploma Middle school certificate or lower high school diploma Number of employees at year end Average age of employees Managers Officials Clerical Average age of employees 2006 Women Men Women 69 34 70 28 76 48 77 49 9 8 9 8 154 90 156 85 Men Women Men Women 48 40 36 40 51 40 36 38 47 39 35 39 50 40 35 37 2006 Arrivals1 Departures2 Arrivals less departures Hired under open-ended contracts 2005 Men Personnel flows 1 2005 Managers Number of employees at year end Financial research and analysis Banca Akros’ Financial Analysis team acts as the financial research centre for the entire BPM Group. Its research activity covers fundamental equity analysis, macroeconomic research and technical analysis. To ensure full coverage of European equity markets for its clients, Banca Akros helped found the European Securities Network LLP (ESN). This company, which is owned in equal shares by the ten leading banks and traders in Europe and represents ten European countries, trades in securities and conducts equity research on over 800 European equities. ESN is based on a multi-local federal model, one-of-a-kind in Europe, with 130 analysts and 140 sales representatives for equity markets. It is independent with no conflicts of interest. 2006 2 2005 2006 2005 21 18 3 16 15 1 Mainly voluntary resignations COMMITMENTS: areas for improvement Business strategy and corporate governance • product and process innovation to meet new developments in Customers’ needs, in step with the market and European regulations; • internationalisation and development of the corporate finance business. Banca Akros promoted these initiatives in its strategic group plan. It expects to achieve these targets by 2009. 173 Bipiemme Gestioni SGR S.p.A. Bipiemme Gestioni SGR is the Bipiemme Group’s fund management company, boasting 20 years of experience in the field of mutual funds after being founded in 1984. Bipiemme Gestioni SGR offers comprehensive products and services to meet all its clients’ needs, encompassing global funds and geographically specialised funds. Over time, the product range has been expanded to include important innovations: from quantitative management to flexible funds, from specialist funds to ethical and multimanager funds. Bipiemme Gestioni SGR also offers various different lines of asset management in securities and in funds, as well as the chance to supplement public pension cover with an open-ended pension fund. The quality of the services offered by Bipiemme Gestioni SGR has won it a variety of awards over the years: • for the fourth year running, it ranked among the top large fund managers in Italy in the Premio Alto Rendimento organised by “Il Sole 24 Ore”: 1st place in 2003 and 2004, 2nd in 2005 and 2006; • 1st place in the Standard & Poors Fund Awards 2007 “Specialist Group” for 2006; • 1st place in the Milano Finanza Global Awards 2007 for 2006 as the Italian company with the most A ratings and the best average rating in the last three years for mid-sized managers; • 1st place in the Grand Prix Eurofonds for the best European fund managers, as the best Italian company with 16 to 25 funds. In addition: in 2004 and 2005, the BPM Iniziativa Europa fund was awarded the Premio Alto Rendimento as the best “European Equity Fund”. • the Bipiemme Valore fund won 1st place in the “S&P’s Fund Awards Italy 2007” for best performance from 2002 to 2006. Mission To offer professional, innovative, transparent management with tailor-made solutions and instruments for individual investment requirements: mutual funds, funds of funds, pension funds and managed portfolios. To diversify Customers’ portfolios in the best way possible according to their time horizon and propensity for risk. Strategies • rento increasingly boost the efficiency of transactions in its industry; • to offer a complete range of products and services, constantly striving for excellence in terms of staying in step with competitive developments; • to strengthen profitability by significantly increasing revenues and introducing measures that focus on management costs. Governance (updated to July 2007) Board of Directors Made up of 11 members: Chairman: Marco Vitale Deputy Chairman: Marcello Priori Deputy Chairman: Gino Camillo Puliti Directors: Maurizio Biliotti, Roberto Cavallotti, Italo Ciancia, Federico Fornaro, Roberto Fusilli, Roberto Marmo, Mario Mazzoleni, Sergio Riboldi. Board of Statutory Auditors Chairman: Marco Baccani Acting Statutory Auditors: Alberto Balestreri, Luigi Dabbicco (in millions of Euros) 174 Balance sheet and income statement figures 2006 2005 Other information Net interest and other banking income 52.2 43.9 Employees Operating costs -21.0 -20.5 Net profit for the year 18.6 13.9 Assets in mutual funds and Pension fund in millions of Euros Equity 42.5 36.3 Individual asset management schemes in millions of Euros social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > group banks and principal companies 2006 2005 110 110 12,442.1 12,826.1 7,433.0 7,114.0 Supervisory Committee in accordance with Legislative Decree no 231/2001 Chairman: Italo Ciancia Members: Marco Baccani; Alberto Balestreri, Carlo Cesare Farma. Distribution network Bipiemme Gestioni SGR distributes its mutual funds inside the BPM Group through the banking branches, a website and a network of private bankers; and outside the Group, through thirdparty banks, insurance companies, SIMs (security houses) and financial consultancy networks for a total of 44 institutions with which the SGR has signed a placement contract. Products • Investment solutions Funds structured in such a way as to meet the aims of investors who delegate to the management company both the structure of the portfolio and the choice of the individual businesses that make it up. • Investment tools Funds that specialise in particular markets or geographical areas, which together can make up a diversified portfolio for investors who delegate the choice of individual business to the management company, but who want a say in choosing the best investment strategy to meet their objectives. • Cash management Funds geared to individuals or legal entities that manage their financial assets, or part of them, over a period of less than two years, exclusively using money market instruments. For companies and other institutional investors, BPM Gestioni also offers solutions that meet the need for effective and active treasury management, without overlooking tax advantages. Customers The Company maintains a constant and continuous flow of information on Customers, which permits maximum transparency in the analysis of the services offered and maximum effort in supporting the products and services offered with continuous advice and a shared approach to satisfying each Customer’s needs. The Customers of Bipiemme Gestioni SGR consist of banks and security houses that distribute its products and services or that buy them for themselves. Moreover, numerous institutional organisations (pension funds, insurance companies, charities, etc.) use the Company’s services for their own investments. Relationships with individuals are limited to a small number of Customers with particular needs. In other words, the Company works mainly with institutional Customers, both inside and outside the Group. External relations Bipiemme Gestioni SGR pays a great deal of attention to external relations with the media and with Customers. For several years now, the Communications and External Relations Department has been handling all contact with the media so as to make the spreading of news to the general public as effective as possible, by means of: • press releases that are sent to financial/national newspapers, magazines and press agencies; • meetings with financial journalists to directly discuss the Company’s activities and the various initiatives that it promotes; • a website that provides all of the information that a Customer might need on the products and services provided by the Company, as well as the latest news on the economy. Every year, Bipiemme Gestioni SGR organises the Economy and Savings Forum, an event devoted to the prospects of financial markets with the participation of world-famous experts. 175 Personnel Bipiemme Gestioni SGR wants to stand out for the high level of co-operation within the firm and for the development of its members of staff by adopting best market practices to attract people with the top professional skills and to offer high quality services. Breakdown by level 2006 % 2005 % Men Women 7 2 6.36 1.82 7 3 6.36 2.73 Men Women 27 16 24.54 14.54 28 14 25.45 12.73 Men Women 33 25 30.00 22.74 31 27 28.18 24.55 110 100 110 100 2006 % 2005 % No. of employees with long-term contracts 103 93.64 105 95.5 No. of employees with fixed-term contracts 1 0.91 – – No. of part-time employees 6 5.45 5 4.5 110 100 110 100 Managers Institutions Bipiemme Gestioni SGR has on-going relations with the Supervisory Authorities, trade associations and external consultants that handle matters relating to the correct management of the company and relations with the Bank of Italy, CONSOB, COVIP, and with various trade associations and external consultants which handle matters relating to financial products. Within ABI and Assogestioni it follows the activities of the taskforces relating to the Company’s areas of interest. Officials Clerical Total Personnel mix Total No. of temps 2 Average age in and out 2006 Managers 2005 Men Women Men Women 45.57 49 44.5 47 Officials 41.92 41.6 40 41.5 Clerical 36.18 35.72 35.5 35.5 Average 39.48 38.32 38.5 38 Staff qualifications 2006 2005 Men Women Men Women University degree (long or short course) 36 13 35 14 High school diploma 28 24 28 24 3 6 3 6 67 43 66 44 Middle school certificate or lower high school diploma Total 176 3 social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > group banks and principal companies Community Together with the Diocesan Museum of Milan - Fondazione Sant’Ambrogio – Bipiemme Gestioni SGR organises the cultural initiative entitled “Un Capolavoro per Milano”. This is an initiative which every year brings to Milan a work of art that is normally kept elsewhere, in a place where it is hard for the general public to gain access. After a short pause in 2005, Bipiemme Gestioni SGR returned to this initiative in 2006, in collaboration with the Museo Diocesano, inaugurating the exhibition of the Holy Family with Saint Elizabeth and the Infant Saint John the Baptist by Andrea Mantegna, from the Kimbell Art Museum of Fort Worth, Texas. Given its artistic and cultural significance, the initiative was organised under the auspices of the President of the Italy and the Ministry of Culture, the Lombardy Region - Lombardy Culture, Identity and Independence, the Province of Milan and the City of Milan - Cultural Department. Year Work of art 2002 Ecce Homo by Antonello da Messina 15,000 2003 Annunciazione by Domenico Beccafumi 20,000 2004 Cattura di Cristo by Caravaggio 50,000 2006 The Holy Family by Andrea Mantegna 50,000 Social outreach School, culture and healthcare Visitors 2006 2005 30,000 30,000 Moreover, since 2000, together with the Parent Bank Banca Popolare di Milano, BPM Gestioni has organised the Economy and Savings Forum, an annual, high level meeting, devoted to economic scenarios and financial markets, with particular attention to changes in investors’ attitudes and needs, and the way in which sector operators get organised to satisfy them. The event is reserved for Customers and big names in economics and finance. 177 We@Service S.p.A. History We@Service was set up in 2000 as a commercial services and information technology company focusing principally on the Internet channels of the BPM Group. The Internet services handled by We@Service are aimed both at individual Customers through We@Bank, and at corporate Customers through InLineanet. Governance Board of Directors Made up of 7 members: Chairman: Michele Motterlini Deputy Chairman: Sergio Fumagalli Managing Director: Andrea Cardamone Directors: Roberto Cavallotti, Davide Meale, Marco Montalenti, Michele Zefferino. Mission The Company’s mission includes the following objectives: • to maintain leadership in terms of completeness of service (contents and technological updating); Board of Statutory Auditors Chairman: Piero Vergani; Acting Statutory Auditors: Enrico Radice, Paolo Salvaderi. to support and guarantee the process of commercial and IT integration with the Group’s various distribution channels to produce additional revenue, also from dedicated Internet services; • to create value for the Group by fostering growth and loyalty among the Customer base, while making it possible to handle large volumes of transactions at low unit costs. • Strategy Through its business, the Company develops and manages BPM’s on-line channel so as to generate value for Customers and for the shareholder by achieving efficiency and profitability. The Company’s strategic guidelines are based on continuous innovation so as to maintain a constant level of improvement in the services that it provides, both in terms of quality and performance, as well as functional completeness, also through the introduction of value-added services. Operations Committee This is made up of the Company’s Area Managers, together with the Managing Director. It lays down operating policies based on the strategies decided by the Board of Directors. Supervisory Committee in accordance with Legislative Decree no. 231/2001 Chairman: Sergio Fumagalli Members: Francesco Gramaglia, Piero Vergani. (in millions of Euros) Balance sheet and income statement figures 2006 2005 Value of production 22.2 21.9 Production margin 6.2 6.4 Net profit for the year Equity (including net profit for the year) 178 3.6 7.3 10.9 11.7 Other information 2006 2005 78 76 Authorised Customers 257,471 206,698 Of which users 197,207 152,114 Employees Of which users who carry out transactions Number of accesses social responsibility report > bpm group social policies report > group banks and principal companies 134,283 89,695 16,032,000 13,182,527 Personnel Community (in millions of Euros) Breakdown by level 2006 % 2005 % Men Women 4 – 5 – 4 – 5 – Officials Men Women 15 18 19 23 13 18 17 24 Clerical Men Women 14 27 78 18 35 100 16 25 76 21 33 100 2006 % 2005 % No. of employees with long-term contracts 71 91.0 70 92 No. of employees with fixed-term contracts 7 9.0 6 8 Managers Total Type of contract of which No. of part-time employees 6 78 100 76 100 of which No. of temps 17 21.8 13 17 2006 Men Women Managers 41 Officials Clerical Average 2006 Solidarity 2,200 4,500 w– 15,100 2,200 19,600 Associations Total 2005 5 Total Average age of personnel Interventi nel sociale 2005 Men Women – 40 – 41 37 40 36 31 34 31 32 38 35 37 34 Training Training was held in 2006 to ensure the professional growth of human resources in their respective areas, as well as to lay the cultural foundation for innovation. To this end, a project was launched in part of the company to create the necessary methodology for profit margin innovation in line with business targets. This methodology will be applied to specific areas. Staff qualifications 2006 Men Women 2005 Men Women University degree (long or short course) 15 19 17 19 High school diploma 17 25 15 23 1 1 1 1 33 45 33 43 Middle school certificate or lower high school diploma Average 179