Transformational, Exponential, and Inclusive Growth

During the recent FINEX Week 2024, Ayala Corporation Chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala delivered a keynote address that highlighted sustainability; diversity, equity, and inclusion; and digitalization as keys to transformational growth.

I believe that transformational growth should be both exponential and inclusive. There is growing recognition of and increasing demands to be accountable for the impacts that businesses create both on the physical environment and people.

JAIME AUGUSTO ZOBEL DE AYALA
AC Chairman

A holistic perspective that recognizes the intersections between the environmental and social dimensions of sustainability, alongside the country's growth trajectory, and being mindful that no one is excluded and left behind as we embrace new technologies. These are essential to creating transformative, exponential, and inclusive growth, according to Ayala Corporation Chairman Jaime Augusto Zobel de Ayala, speaking at the conference of the Financial Executives Institute of the Philippines (FINEX) on October 4.

Recognizing the Philippines' environmental challenges and its vulnerability to climate hazards, JAZA noted the country's proactive stance in developing collaborative solutions. This includes hosting the Loss and Damage Fund Board, a UN-led mechanism to aid developing countries in responding to economic and noneconomic losses due to climate emergencies. He also mentioned Ayala's commitment to achieving Net Zero Greenhouse Gas Emissions by 2050 and its significant investments in sustainable financing.

Next, JAZA underscored the importance of incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into business policies, programs, and practices. He shared Ayala's own DEI journey, which includes policy updates, expanded employee benefits, and the creation of Inclusive Circles to foster a more inclusive work culture.

Finally, he discussed the role of digitalization and developing a future-ready workforce. He described how Ayala uses technologies such as AI and analytics to enhance the capabilities of its people and to create meaningful products and services to its customers.

"Ultimately, it is all about maintaining relevance to the stakeholders and communities that you serve," JAZA concluded. "It is in the best interest of businesses to help create opportunities and an environment that allows people to not just survive but become their best selves. This creates a virtuous cycle where both individuals and institutions will benefit."