Cayman National Bank Ltd. (CNB) has been named “Bank of the Year 2025” by The Banker magazine, Financial Times, winning the award for a ninth year and further reinforcing its position as a leading financial institution in the Cayman Islands.
An international panel of judges awarded the top spot to CNB as an early adopter of new banking technology and for its experience-driven financial products, services tailored to the local market and sustainability initiatives in the community.
“We are delighted that Cayman National Bank’s philosophy of continuous improvement has been recognised in this way,” says Janet Hislop, Chief Executive Officer of Cayman National Corporation Ltd. and President of Cayman National Bank Ltd. “Each year, we are able to demonstrate the many improvements we are making to serve our customers better, whether enhancing digital interactions, strengthening cyber security or building stronger connections in the local community.”
In 2025, CNB led the way in regional payment modernisation, adopting a new global financial messaging standard and upgrading SWIFT wire transfers to enable smarter, faster and more secure transactions.
CNB expanded its business offerings with the launch of the Mastercard KYD World Business card, allowing local businesses to make payments and manage day-to-day expenses in Cayman Islands dollars while seamlessly converting overseas purchases to the local currency. There has been strong uptake from retail, construction, professional services and other industries seeking a more convenient and secure alternative to cheques.
This year, Cayman National oversaw a strategic migration of high-value personal account holders from a Classic Debit card to the premium Visa Infinite Debit card which offers a better interchange rate and a wide range of benefits including global travel perks, concierge services and purchase protection.
In the community, Cayman National was recognised for its green initiatives, having implemented cash recycling at ATMs and issuing electronic statements to customers in lieu of paper statements. Cayman National also partnered with the National Trust for the Cayman Islands to plant native trees at MalportasPond in North Side. In an area renowned for its birding, the trees will provide shade for nature enthusiasts and food for local wildlife.
“Cayman National is an organisation with deep roots in the local community,” says Hislop. “As we continue to modernise our operational services, our priority remains in serving our customers and being a good corporate citizen in our home jurisdiction.”
The Banker magazine presented the award to Brian Esau, Executive Vice President at the Bank of the Year Awards held in London on 3 December 2025.
“We are honoured to receive this award for a record ninth time,” said Hislop. “As we continue to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of our customers, we are determined to break our own record again next year.”
Brian Esau, Executive Vice President (middle), received the Bank of the Year 2025 award in London on 3 December 2025.