The 2026 programme places a clear emphasis on execution. As retail banks move beyond pilot initiatives, the awards sharpen their focus on outcomes — how technology is deployed at scale, and what it delivers in practice.

This year sees the introduction of Gen-AI dedicated categories, reflecting the rapid shift from experimentation to embedded use across onboarding, client engagement, investment advisory and risk. The intent is to distinguish between early-stage adoption and institutions already delivering measurable results.

Category refinements across digital innovation, service delivery and omnichannel banking bring greater clarity to how banks are embedding technology into day-to-day operations. Innovation is no longer assessed in isolation, but in how effectively it translates into client experience and operational performance.

The programme also strengthens its recognition of ecosystem-driven models, with more defined vendor categories and clearer expectations for joint submissions. This acknowledges the growing reliance on technology partners in delivering core capabilities.

Judging criteria have been tightened, with increased weight on quantifiable impact — including client uptake, efficiency gains and revenue contribution — alongside strategic execution.

Expanded coverage of digital wealth and SME banking further reflects the convergence of retail propositions, as banks build integrated platforms across customer segments