Banking inclusion is a key issue in our society. It ensures that everyone, including the most vulnerable, has access to basic financial services, contributing to better economic and social integration. As a committed player, Crédit Mutuel Arkéa implements innovative and supportive measures to address these needs.

What is Banking Inclusion?

Definition

Banking inclusion refers to access for all to basic financial services, such as:
- opening bank accounts,
- making transfers,
- or accessing payment methods like debit cards.
The primary goal is to enable people in precarious situations or facing social exclusion to participate in the economic system. These services, often taken for granted, are essential for leading an independent life and participating in the economy.

Some Key Figures on Banking Inclusion in 2023

In 2023, according to reports from the Banking Inclusion Observatory, about 4,3 million people in France were in financial difficulty. While the banking inclusion rate is improving, disparities persist, particularly in rural areas. Supportive measures from banks, such as those implemented by Crédit Mutuel Arkéa, help reduce these inequalities.

How to Promote Banking Inclusion?

To promote banking inclusion, several levers can be activated:
- Accessibility: making banking services more accessible, particularly through tailored offers for customers in difficulty.
- Support: offering personalized guidance to help manage finances and avoid banking incidents.
- Financial Education: informing and educating vulnerable populations on managing their personal finances.

Crédit Mutuel Arkéa: An Inclusive Bank

At Crédit Mutuel Arkéa, financial inclusion is at the heart of our concerns. As a cooperative and supportive entity, we offer a range of solutions to meet the needs of the most vulnerable.

• The specific offer for fragile clients is available for €1.
• 38% of our fragile clients benefit from this specific offer.
• Exemption from account incident fees is total for holders of this offer.
• A cap of €25 per month on account incident fees is also available to beneficiaries of the right to an account.

These initiatives are part of a broader strategy aimed at reducing financial inequalities.

Furthermore, the "solidarity measures " (link to the page “Our other solidarity initiatives”) proposed by our federations, Crédit Mutuel de Bretagne and Crédit Mutuel du Sud-Ouest, encompass three major actions in favor of banking and social inclusion:

Actions for Employment

We provide financial support to those creating jobs. Thanks to our financial aid, hundreds of jobs are created or maintained in our territory every year. We also support companies facing financial difficulties, and we assist small businesses and employer associations during their creation or takeover.

Support for Families in Difficulty

Certain situations, such as unemployment, the loss of a loved one, or divorce, can put families in financial distress. We intervene by offering tailored financial solutions, such as partial coverage of loan repayments, financial donations, or the provision of personal microcredits. These personal microcredits (loans) allow those excluded from the banking system to finance reintegration projects, such as purchasing a vehicle to return to work.

Support for Client Associations

Since the local association network is an essential part of community life, we provide them with refurbished computers to help them fulfill their missions. When associations are engaged in charitable actions or environmental protection, or if they face financial difficulties, we can also provide them with additional aid.

In addition to these banking initiatives, the Crédit Mutuel Arkéa Endowment Fund conducts sponsorship actions, which include supporting general interest associations and individuals in financial difficulty through donations.

Some Key Figures on Crédit Mutuel Arkéa's Solidarity Initiatives

Crédit Mutuel Arkéa's efforts in this area have a significant impact on the ground. Here are some figures for 2023, illustrating the scale of the solidarity initiatives of CMB and CMSO:

Crédit Mutuel de Bretagne:
- 3,240 families assisted,
- 741 associations supported,
- 1,059 professionals aided.

Crédit Mutuel du Sud-Ouest:
- 739 individuals assisted,
- 1,057 associations supported,
- 234 professionals aided.

For 2024, a significant budget has been allocated to continue these actions:
- Crédit Mutuel de Bretagne: €3.3 million,
- Crédit Mutuel du Sud-Ouest: €1.2 million.

These figures illustrate Crédit Mutuel Arkéa's ongoing commitment to banking inclusion, reaffirming its major role in the fight against economic and social exclusion.

Key Takeaways on Banking Inclusion

Banking inclusion is a crucial issue for building a fairer and more supportive society. Through its various initiatives, Crédit Mutuel Arkéa demonstrates that it is possible to combine economic and social solidarity. Our efforts in supporting employment, assisting families in difficulty, and helping local associations make us a key player in the fight against banking exclusion in our regions.