The impact of „digitalization“ on sustainability reporting in Czech banks

Abstract

The financial services sector, particularly the modern banking industry, is increasingly embracing digitalization. Sustainability reporting, which involves sharing relevant non-financial information, is a relatively new concept in banking. Its adoption is currently only partially mandatory, driven by specific regulatory frameworks such as the EU Non-Financial Reporting Directive. This directive mandates sustainability disclosures for large public-interest entities, but smaller banks and financial institutions often fall outside its scope. This paper explores how digitalization has influenced the evolution of reporting processes – from data collection and analysis to the interpretation and integration of both financial and non-financial reports. It examines how technology is leveraged to enhance the efficiency, transparency, and stakeholder engagement in sustainability reporting. The study analyzes 19 sustainability reports from Czech banks, selected from the top 100 Czech companies by revenue in 2022. Results indicate significant advancements in the use of digital tools, graphical elements, and the presentation of both qualitative and quantitative ESG data. The paper concludes with recommendations for further research and practical applications in the banking sector.The study examines nineteen case studies of sustainability reports from Czech banks, selected based on their ranking among the top 100 Czech companies by revenue in 2022. These banks include Česká spořitelna, Československá obchodní banka, Komerční banka, UniCredit Bank, Raiffeisenbank, Moneta Money Bank, J&T Banka, Fio Banka, Air Bank, and PPF Banka. The analysis found that these banks have demonstrated a high level of digitalization in their reporting practices and have progressively enhanced key areas such as textual links, use of graphic elements, and, most notably, the depth of qualitative and quantitative sustainability indicators provided.