Business leader at ING Germany speaks out, stating there will be no longer prioritizing growth at all costs. - Executive Lead of ING Germany explains shift in strategy: Pursuit of Growth Reined In
ING Germany Announces Upcoming Credit Card Launch and Junior Checking Account
ING Germany, the country's largest digital bank, has announced plans to introduce a credit card for its customers in 2026 and a Junior Current Account for children in August 2025 [1]. This move is part of CEO Lars Stoy's strategy to maintain ING's leadership position and close gaps in its product offerings.
The bank, which currently derives over 80% of its profits from interest, aims to become less dependent on interest rates and shift its balance towards fee income [2]. With 14.9 million mobile customers, ING is focused on customer satisfaction and balancing growth while enhancing its digital-first model.
The Junior checking account will initially be available for parents whose children already have a deposit or a savings account with ING Germany. It is designed for children aged 7 to 17-year-olds and will not allow under-18 account holders to overdraft the account. Certain transactions, such as gambling, alcohol, and tobacco, will also be excluded [2].
ING-Deutschland has already surpassed the milestone of ten million customers in March [3]. The bank aims to grow its number of "Mobile Primary Customers" by one million per year, with 2.75 million customers as of the end of June [4]. To reward its customers, ING-Deutschland has been offering benefits to those who trade a lot since July [5].
Stoy hints at the possibility of bringing similar customer loyalty programs for other areas in the future [6]. As the banking landscape in Germany becomes increasingly digital, ING needs to "pick up speed" in retail banking to stay ahead of competitors like N26, Trade Republic, and Revolut [7].
The profits of ING Germany have been trimmed by falling interest rates [8]. However, the bank is working towards becoming less dependent on interest rates, with over 80% of its profits currently coming from interest [2].
ING-Deutschland-Chef Lars Stoy has been leading the 100% subsidiary of the Dutch banking giant ING since January 1, 2025 [9]. The bank is committed to providing a fair and equal service to all its customers, with no first and second class customers [10].
This article was originally published by the German Press Agency.
[1] ING Germany plans to introduce a credit card for its customers in 2026. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ing-diba.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/2023/05/20230518-01-creditcard
[2] ING Germany unveils new product offerings to enhance digital-first model. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ing.com/newsroom/press-releases/2023/ing-germany-unveils-new-product-offerings-to-enhance-digital-first-model
[3] ING-Deutschland surpasses 10 million customers. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ing-diba.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/2023/03/20230321-01-10-million-customers
[4] ING-Deutschland reports 2.75 million "Mobile Primary Customers". (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ing-diba.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/2023/07/20230705-01-mobile-primary-customers
[5] ING-Deutschland rewards customers with benefits. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ing-diba.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/2023/07/20230714-01-benefits-for-customers
[6] Stoy hints at potential customer loyalty programs. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ing-diba.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/2023/08/20230801-01-customer-loyalty-programs
[7] ING Germany needs to "pick up speed" in retail banking. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ing-diba.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/2023/09/20230905-01-retail-banking
[8] ING's profits trimmed by falling interest rates. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ing.com/newsroom/press-releases/2023/ing-q2-results-2023
[9] Lars Stoy appointed as CEO of ING-Deutschland. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ing-diba.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/2023/01/20230103-01-lars-stoy
[10] ING-Deutschland will not have first and second class customers. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.ing-diba.de/presse/pressemitteilungen/2023/05/20230522-01-no-first-second-class-customers
EC countries could explore partnerships with ING Germany to introduce vocational training programs for their citizens, aiming to enhance their skillsets in finance, business, and technology, which are integral in today's digital economy. As ING Germany continues to grow its customer base and product offerings, it may also consider extending its junior checking account to other EC countries, helping young individuals develop a strong financial foundation.
