General Banking Course

Are you working in the banking industry? That means you are an expert in your field, as banks accept nothing but the best. However, as a specialist, you may lack an overall perspective. This program provides a comprehensive view of the banking sector, helping you deepen and broaden your knowledge.

During this program, you will explore:

• The products and services offered by banks;
• The role of the ECB and the influence of macroeconomics on the banking sector;
• How payment systems are organized;
• The structure of a bank’s balance sheet and how banks generate revenue;
• The principles of risk management in banking;
• The Basel Accords and their supervisory implications;
• How financial markets function;
• The role of compliance in the banking sector.

Who is this program for?

This program is designed for professionals working in or with the banking sector or those considering joining. Suitable for:

• Accountants, auditors, controllers;
• Account managers, client advisors, commercial support staff;
• Compliance officers, financial regulators, legal professionals;
• Business analysts, operational staff, IT professionals;
• And other professionals within the banking industry.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this program, you will be able to:

• Identify banking products and services and explain their roles in the sector;
• Describe the role of the European Central Bank (ECB) and analyze macroeconomic influences;
• Explain how payment systems are structured, including SEPA and instant payments;
• Analyze a bank’s balance sheet and describe how banks generate revenue;
• Apply key principles of risk management, such as credit, liquidity, and market risk;
• Explain the Basel Accords and their importance for supervision and capital requirements;
• Understand the functioning of financial markets and their impact on banking and investment;
• Discuss the role of compliance in the banking sector and its importance for integrity.

Practical Application 


This program provides in-depth insights into all aspects of banking. While your expertise remains central, you will also gain a broader banking perspective, enhancing your ability to communicate and collaborate effectively within your organization.

Program Structure

The program consists of six sessions, each lasting four hours. Prior to each session, you will read a chapter of approximately 20-40 pages from the syllabus. Sessions focus on addressing theoretical challenges and working on interactive case studies, making the material practical and engaging.

The following eight themes will be covered:

1. Core Functions of Banks

An overview of banking functions and their practical application.

2. The Economy and ECB Policy

Insights into macroeconomic variables, monetary policy, and supervision.

3. Balance Sheet and Revenue

Analysis of bank balance sheets and profit models.

4. Payments

Clearing, settlement, SEPA, transaction monitoring, and instant payments.

5. Risk Management

Handling various risk categories and their management.

6. Basel Accords and Supervision

Capital requirements and the SREP process.

7. Asset Management

Principles of financial markets, sustainability, and behavioral biases.

8. Customer Due Diligence (CDD)

Preventing financial crime with practical client investigations.

Certification and Exam

Upon completion, you will receive a certificate of participation. Optionally, you can take the exam, further boosting your employability in the banking sector.