“Important player in the Netherlands plc – and beyond”
On 21 November, Ralph Hamers, CEO of ING Group, took part in the round table discussion “Government view of the Dutch Banking Sector”. Read what he had to say here.
A summary of what Ralph Hamers told the meeting:
- ING is still very grateful to the Netherlands for the support we received in 2008 and 2009.
- ING is close to making the final aid repayments and the restructuring of ING is nearly complete.
- Thanks in particular to its diversified profile, ING Bank is able to deal with the challenges facing the sector and to support the economy and society.
- ING is delighted that the many changes in supervision and regulation since 2008 have reinforced financial stability and have substantially reduced he risks for the taxpayer.
- At the same time, ING believes it is crucial not to over-restrict the effectiveness of banks in supporting the economic recovery.
- Additional measures that impact the structure and operations of banks must, as far as ING is concerned, be consistent with what is happening elsewhere in Europe; ING is therefore a great proponent of a European Banking Union.
- ING points out that fundamental change takes time and must come from within and is therefore doing all it can to build a strong, service-oriented bank for its customers, in the Netherlands and beyond.
As well as Ralph Hamers, the following CEOs gave their views:
Gerrit Zalm, ABN AMRO
Marinus Minderhoud, Rabobank Groep
Gerard van Olphen, SNS Reaal
Albert Roell, Kasbank
Plus Chris Buijink, of the Netherlands Bankers’ Association (NVB).
Read Ralph Hamers’ full contribution (pdf)
What is a round table discussion?
On 21 November, the Standing Committee on Finance of the Lower House of the States General organised a round table discussion entitled “Government view of the Dutch Banking Sector”.
A round table discussion is used by the members of the Lower House to conduct discussions with people and organisations.
The invitees take part in the discussion at the same time, so that there is interaction with the Members of Parliament and the other invitees.
Public meeting
The round table discussion is a public meeting attended by the press and the public. The round table meeting could also be followed on the website of the Lower House
(www.tweedekamer.nl). No minutes of the round table meeting are recorded.
www.tweedekamer.nl