The concept of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has developed over thousands of years and is now widely recognized as a core business practice across the globe. Governments, nongovernmental organizations, and businesses increasingly regard CSR as central to discussions about ethical and sustainable development. The importance of CSR lies in balancing the economic benefits of business activity, such as wealth creation and job opportunities, with the negative impacts on the environment and human health. By adopting socially responsible practices, companies can reduce harm while also gaining competitive benefits, including stronger customer loyalty, higher employee commitment, and increased public trust. These factors contribute to long-term competitive advantage, making CSR a critical strategy for differentiation in highly competitive markets. In Myanmar, this holds particular importance given the country’s underdeveloped financial system, marked by historical instability, inflation, bank runs, insider lending, and widespread public mistrust. Despite ongoing reforms, including steps toward greater transparency by the Central Bank of Myanmar (CBM), less than 10% of the population holds a bank account, while reliance on informal systems, black markets, and unregulated remittance channels remains high. However, with rapid growth in the global fintech industry, Myanmar’s banking sector is experiencing new opportunities for digital transformation. In this transitional environment, CSR emerges as a key mechanism for banks to build trust, attract customers, and foster loyalty in a market where credibility and stability are highly valued.
