Strategy Starts with the Customer
Building customer-centric, future-ready institutions through transparency, purpose, and adaptability
“Strategy begins with understanding what the customer truly needs.” Anchored by this belief, Mr. Sumedh Shevde, Head – Strategic Corporate Centre at Shinhan Bank India, shares that the most effective strategies begin by understanding customer needs rather than simply delivering products. He believes that strategy is not merely about planning for the future but about enabling organisations to evolve with purpose and adaptability.
Driven by the conviction that clear and transparent decision-making is the foundation of every successful strategy, Mr. Sumedh Shevde has been recognized as one of the Most Inspiring Strategy Leaders in India 2026. In an exclusive conversation with Corporate Trendz, he shares his views on the evolving future of corporate banking, emerging growth opportunities, and how leaders can build future-ready institutions:
“Corporate banking is becoming increasingly strategic. Clients today expect banks to combine relationship banking with digital capabilities, data-driven insights, and tailored financial solutions that create long-term value. As India strengthens its position in global trade and finance, opportunities in cross-border banking, emerging financial hubs such as GIFT City, and technology-led financial services will continue to expand. India’s BFSI ecosystem is fortunate to have a strong and forward-looking regulator. Technology and the rise of fintechs have already positively transformed retail banking in India.”
He further added, “To capitalize on these opportunities, leaders must build customer-centric organizations that embrace innovation and operational excellence. Finally, sustainable growth will belong to institutions that remain close to their customers, leverage technology with purpose and deliver trusted financial solutions that evolve alongside their customer’s ambitions.”
🏆 10 Most Inspiring Strategy Leaders in India 2026 — Sumedh Shevde, Head, Strategic Corporate Centre at Shinhan Bank India. ✨
