Future financing and relationship models in SME banking 


Overview
The Efma SME banking conference has become a leading annual event in this sector. SME banking remains one of the fastest and most profitable growth markets in European financial services. However, these are challenging times and making good profits isn’t easy. New entrants are emerging as they see the relationship between traditional banks and SME customers weakening. Consequently, suppliers have to radically reappraise their operating models and their future customer and service propositions.

This year’s event will focus on the key factors that affect the ability of banks to fund the SME market and generate acceptable levels of profitably, whilst maintaining and building long-term relationships with SMEs. During the conference, there will be opportunities for interactive debate with speakers and fellow delegates.

Key questions
• What are the keys to financing and profitability? What new funding and lending models are being developed? Deposits are becoming increasingly important, but where are the new income streams and opportunities? How can banks reduce the cost to serve?

• How can banks be more customer-centric and really understand the needs of SMEs? What role will branches and relationship managers play in the future? Will remote relationship models be viable - and if so, which are the best? How can banks regain customer trust and confidence?

• How has risk management changed for SMEs? What are the new risk management models and strategies in this new economic environment?

Hot topics
Some of the other key topics that will be discussed include:

• The threats posed by new entrants
• New approaches to SME segmentation
• Developing the right collection model
• Driving cost out of the back office
• Performance management and KPIs for the new SME operating model
• Channel management and opportunities via direct channels
• The role of innovation