BAC reimagines the financial sector by introducing Sustainable Loans

the trend for companies, seeking to consume products and services from those that, in addition to generating profits, also add value to society in a positive way. According to a study by McCann Worldgroup in Spain, “81% of citizens believe that brands can play a key role for the common good.” On this account, a sustainable company or business has a greater opportunity to attract significant and better revenues.

In a context where sustainability is redefining the business environment, BAC has taken on a leading role in developing financial solutions that not only support business, but also promote tangible change in its three dimensions: Environmental, social and economic.

According to the Inter-American Development Bank, “Sustainability is relevant for the financial sector, given that it allows channeling funds to businesses that prove their ability to leverage new market opportunities and ensure that businesses in riskier sectors adequately manage the associated environmental and social risks.” (McKee, 2020) . Currently, the performance of companies is evaluated by financial indicators that are correlated with non-financial indicators such as environmental, social and corporate governance factors.

Consumers, for their part, are also influencing

Sustainable companies or businesses are an achievable reality for those who seek to become agents of change, optimizing the impact of their operations and positively contributing to the environment.

Due to its responsible contribution to the sustainable activation of the country, BAC has positioned itself as a strategic ally by offering “Sustainable Loans” to meet the growing demand of companies that have integrated sustainability into their strategy.

“As the leading financial advisor in the region, we have introduced Sustainable Loans, designed to reduce the environmental footprint and operational expenses, guiding companies towards the promotion of positive environmental and social impacts. At BAC, we focus our efforts on financing loans for water management and promoting energy efficiency, thus contributing to a more sustainable future,” said José Carlos Barrios, Vice President of Commercial Strategy and Marketing at BAC Guatemala.

Loans aimed at sustainable water management seek to support efficient systems and technologies for water consumption, such as wastewater treatment projects, efficient irrigation systems and other water management-related projects. On the other hand, loans for the efficiency or sustainable management of energy promote the installation or modernization of efficient systems, as well as projects that reduce energy consumption by 20% and the consumption of fossil fuels.

Sustainable Loans offer competitive interest rates and flexible financing terms of up to seven years, together with the possibility of financing up to 100% of the project and up to twelve months of grace on principal payments. Certification and labeling costs that each company is interested in obtaining can also be included.

In addition, BAC stands out due to its strategic partnerships with service providers specializing in water management and energy efficiency, which translate into even more favorable conditions for customers who seek to adopt business practices in harmony with the environment.

The net positive strategy that BAC has put forward at a regional level reimagines the business model of a financial institution. It understands that the