In the past two years, ING Bank, part of ING Groep, has undergone significant developments that reflect its strategic priorities and market adaptability. One pivotal event was the announcement on 28 January 2025 of the proposed sale of ING Bank (Eurasia) JSC to Global Development, marking the bank’s complete exit from the Russian market amid geopolitical tensions, as reported in an official ING press release. Additionally, ING reported robust financial performance in 2024, with a full-year net profit of €6,392 million, alongside strong commercial growth, as highlighted in their 4Q 2024 results. This financial success was complemented by continued growth in lending volumes and fee income into 2025, with a net result of €1,675 million in Q2 2025. These milestones underscore ING’s focus on streamlining operations while maintaining profitability in a challenging global landscape.

ING Bank, headquartered in Amsterdam, is a major Dutch multinational banking and financial services corporation, operating as part of ING Groep N.V., with a presence in over 40 countries. It serves both retail and wholesale clients, offering services ranging from personal banking to complex corporate finance solutions, positioning itself as a leader in digital banking and sustainable finance. As of 2025, ING has solidified its reputation as an innovative bank, with a strong emphasis on technology-driven customer experiences and a commitment to environmental goals, as detailed in their annual reports. For young professionals in investment banking, trading, or corporate finance, ING represents an employer with a global footprint and a forward-thinking approach. The bank’s recent financial results, including a net result of €1,455 million in Q1 2025, reflect its resilience and competitive stance in the industry.

ING Bank boasts several competitive advantages that make it an attractive employer for ambitious graduates. Its leadership in digital banking, driven by a strategic focus on technology and innovation, allows it to offer cutting-edge tools and platforms, which are particularly appealing for roles in trading and fintech-related corporate finance. Furthermore, ING’s commitment to sustainable finance—evidenced by tripling its renewable power generation financing target to €7.5 billion annually by 2025, as noted in their 2024 annual report coverage—positions it as a pioneer in green investments, offering unique project exposure for young professionals. The bank’s strong financial performance, with consistent growth in customer balances and fee income, also ensures stability and resources for career development. Lastly, ING’s global network provides opportunities for international exposure, a key draw for those looking to build a versatile skill set in investment banking.

Despite its strengths, ING Bank faces certain challenges that could impact its operations and employee experience. One notable limitation is its exposure to cyber risks, intensified by its heavy reliance on technology, with threats like ransomware and advanced persistent threats growing in sophistication, as outlined in their 2025 registration document. Additionally, the bank forecasted lower total income for 2024 due to anticipated interest rate cuts by the European Central Bank, which could constrain revenue growth and affect bonus pools or investment in new initiatives, according to a Reuters article. These financial pressures might limit resources for training or expansion in competitive areas like trading. For young professionals, this could mean navigating a more constrained environment compared to some rivals with broader revenue streams.

ING Bank is well-positioned to capitalise on several growth areas that could enhance its appeal as an employer. The bank’s focus on sustainable finance, including mobilising funds for low-carbon transitions, presents opportunities to work on impactful projects, especially in corporate finance roles, as detailed in their 2024 annual report press release. Additionally, ING’s strong deposit growth and fee income targets—aiming for €5 billion by 2027—signal potential for expansion in wealth management and advisory services, areas of interest for investment banking professionals, as per their Q2 2025 earnings call transcript. The bank’s ongoing share buyback programme, valued at €2.0 billion in 2025, also reflects confidence in future growth, potentially creating a stable platform for career progression. For young talents, these developments offer a chance to engage with innovative financial products and strategies in a growing institution.

ING Bank faces external risks that could challenge its stability and growth trajectory, impacting employees and job seekers. Geopolitical uncertainties, such as those prompting its exit from Russia, highlight the bank’s vulnerability to international conflicts and regulatory changes, as noted in an ING press release. Additionally, economic slowdowns in key markets like the US and Europe, with growth expected to moderate in 2025, could dampen demand for banking services, as forecasted in their H1 2024 interim accounts. Intense competition from both traditional banks and fintech disruptors also poses a threat to ING’s market share, particularly in digital banking, potentially pressuring margins and innovation budgets. For young professionals, these factors could translate into a more competitive job market or reduced opportunities for rapid advancement within the bank.