Code of Business Conduct Ethics
Code of Business Conduct Ethics
April 2024
1
1. Preamble 02
3. Privacy/Confidentiality 07
5. Personal Investments 11
of Terrorism 12
9. Workplace Responsibilities 16
Preamble
• ICICI Group expects all its employees, officers and Directors to act in accordance
with high professional and ethical standards. You must be, and be seen to be,
committed to integrity in all aspects of your activities and comply with all applicable
laws, regulations and internal policies.
• In accepting a position with ICICI Group or any of its subsidiaries, each of you
become accountable for compliance with the law, with the ICICI Group Code of
Business Conduct and Ethics (‘the Code’), and with policies of your respective
business units.
• The standards of the Code are not necessarily prescribed by the regulators - they
are something, which a well-respected institution must have in place and adhere to
on an ongoing basis. We therefore expect a high level of ethical conduct.
• You must conduct your duties according to the language and spirit of this Code and
seek to avoid even the appearance of improper behaviour. Your actions need to
demonstrate and evidence the principle of acting in good faith and without
negligence. You should be aware that even well intentioned actions that violate the
law or this Code may result in negative consequences for ICICI Group and for the
individuals involved.
• While covering a wide range of business practices and procedures, these standards
cannot and do not cover every issue that may arise, or every situation where ethical
decisions must be made, but rather set forth key guiding principles that represent
ICICI Group’s policy.
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Conflicts of interest can occur if our business practices sacrifice interests of one set
of customers in favour of another or place business interests ahead of customers.
To address such situations, the Bank has adopted a Framework for Managing
Conflicts of Interest which articulates several measures taken by the Bank in
ensuring that conflicts of interest are handled in an appropriate manner, at the
individual employee level, at the level of Board of Directors and at the Group level.
If you are aware of any circumstances which you think may give rise to a conflict of
any kind, or if you become aware of information which places you in difficulty in
carrying out your function (for example, if you obtain confidential information about
a company), you must handle the same as per the conflicts of interest framework
applicable to your Company.
As part of its management of conflicts of interest, the Bank has put in place
Standard Operating Procedure for “Operational Framework for Ethical Walls” for
ensuring that confidential information is appropriately secured and decisions and
service to clients are independent of such confidential information. There are
information barriers between departments that routinely have access to
confidential/non - public Information ("Insider Areas") from those who do not have
such access ("Public Areas"). As a general principle, “Insider areas” should refrain
from sharing any information with anybody in the “Public Areas”. However, in case
the need is felt, the procedure for crossing the wall including obtaining prescribed
approvals needs to be followed.
Conflicts of Interest includes, but is not limited to, a director or an employee who is a
party to, or who is a director or an employee of, or who has a material interest in,
any person who is a party to a material contract or proposed material contract with
the ICICI Group. It also means any situation that could reasonably be expected to
impair their ability to render unbiased and objective
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You must abide by specific “Dos and Don’ts” issued by business group you are part
of, or those issued by other groups such as Compliance Group, Financial Crime
Prevention and Reputation Management Group or Human Resource Management
Group.
You must disclose to the Compliance Group of your Company annually, a statement
that you have no material interest or any other conflicting interests, in any person/
entity who is a party to a material contract or proposed contract with the ICICI
Group. In case of any doubt in regard to the extent of disclosure applicable, kindly
contact the Compliance Group of your Company.
o Selling a product that is profitable for the Group but not appropriate for the
customer;
o Acting as a broker, finder, go-between or otherwise for the benefit of a third party in
transactions involving or potentially involving the Group or its interests;
o Working, in any capacity, for a competitor, customer, supplier or other third party
while employed by ICICI Group;
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o Competing with ICICI Group for the purchase or sale of property, products, services
or other interests;
While undertaking personal investments, it should be borne in mind that such investments
should not:
Affect or appear to affect your ability to make unbiased business decisions for ICICI
Group;
Please refer to the section on personal investments for further guidelines in relation to
adherence to the ICICI Bank code of conduct to regulate, monitor and report trades in
securities by directors, employees & connected persons (ICICI Bank Code on Prohibition of
Insider Trading).
Due to potential conflict with respect to your official responsibility towards ICICI Group,
you must obtain clearance from HR, Compliance and any other department as may be
required before you accept a position as a director of an unaffiliated for-profit company
or organization or when you work with a professional organisation/association outside
ICICI Group. Thereafter approval from Committee of Executive Directors (COED) and/or
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Board of the Bank (or an appropriate internal committee in case of other entities in
ICICI Group) should be taken as advised by HR and Compliance.
The work is related to the legitimate professional interest and development of the
employee and does not interfere with the employee’s regular duties;
Does not compete with the work of ICICI Group and is not otherwise contrary to the
best interests of the Group;
It may however be mentioned that, while undertaking outside activities, you should not
use ICICI Group name, facilities, or relationships for personal benefit. Further any
employee accepting an appointment, as director of an unaffiliated for-profit company/
organisation must ensure that required approvals are taken and confidentiality of the
Bank’s data is maintained.
Do
Act in the best interests of ICICI Group and its customers and handle activities, interests
or relationships in a sensible manner
Handle conflicts of interest as per applicable Conflicts of Interest Framework
Submit an annual statement of Conflicts of Interest to the Compliance Group of your
Company.
Don’t
Privacy/Confidentiality
Intellectual property of ICICI Group such as trade secrets, patents, trademarks and
copyrights, as well as business, research and new product plans, objectives and
strategies, records, databases, salary and benefits data, employee medical
information, customer, employee and suppliers lists and any unpublished financial or
pricing information are some examples of proprietary and confidential information
that need to be protected.
You shall not in terms of your Employment Contract, during the course of your
employment/service with the ICICI Group and thereafter also post your employment,
without prior authorization from ICICI Group, engage in, publish, disclose, divulge or
disseminate any confidential and/or sensitive information in relation to ICICI Group
and/or comment on or publish in media or contact the media on any
aspect/issue/matter pertaining to the ICICI Group that has come to your knowledge
during the period of your service with ICICI Group, nor would you make any
representations which will have the effect of tarnishing or diluting the reputation or
brand equity of any entity in the ICICI Group. For the avoidance of doubt, confidential
or sensitive information shall, in addition to any information defined as such under the
Employment Contract, include any confidential and/or proprietary information
belonging or relating to ICICI Group, its customers, or potential customers, or any
member of the ICICI Group, howsoever received or any of its officers, directors,
employees, shareholders, any person or entity associated with them (both past and
present),or any business practices, plans or procedures, partners, products or
business of the ICICI Group. The aforesaid restrictions on publication of information
and non-disparagement will operate during and post your employment with ICICI
Group, since they are essential for protecting the business and commercial interests
of ICICI Group and are fair and reasonable in light of the benefits accrued to you by
your employment.
ICICI Group reserves the rights to monitor its employees’ activities on ICICI owned
assets.
We, at ICICI Group, respect the proprietary rights of other companies and their
proprietary information and require you also to observe such rights.
At ICICI Group, we recognise and protect the privacy and confidentiality of employee
medical and personal records. Such records would be shared strictly on need to know basis
or as required by any law, rule and regulation or when authorized by the employee or as
per subpoena or court order and requires approval by internal counsel.
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Do
Properly control access to your work areas and computers and keep sensitive
information safe and secured in all forms, physical or electronic
Ensure appropriate destruction of information (both physical or electronic) when the
same is not required for work anymore
Obtain any relevant information directly from the person concerned
Access to information or data by outsourced will also be subjected to the relevant
employee’s accountability, in case such data is misused
Keep customer information secured at all times and uphold ICICI Group Privacy
promise for customers
Limit access to non-public information strictly to authorised personnel on a ‘need to
know’ basis
Comply with local data protection and privacy laws that affect the collection, use and
transfer of personal customer information
While accessing Intranet and Internet, ensure compliance with internal policies and
procedures
Ensure that worldwide electronic information exchange and dialogue, electronic
business dealings are all as per internal policies and procedures
Report information security incidents such as suspicious emails, individual password
sharing, data leakage or data theft, phishing or malware attacks, hacking attempts
etc. through the reporting mechanisms of ICICI Group.
Abide by the ICICI Bank Personal Data Protection Standard.
Don’t
In general, employees should not accept gifts - anything of value (including entertainment
and incentives) from current or prospective customers or suppliers, unless it is in
accordance with the Operational Guidelines for Acceptance of Gifts, Entertainment and
Sponsored Travel. These guidelines broadly covers following areas:
Gifts
Entertainment and Sponsored Travel
Incentives offers received at the Bank's Level
Gifts and/or entertainment should be offered only post appropriate approvals from
relevant senior management and in compliance with the Operational Guidelines for
Gifts, Entertainment and Sponsored Travel. These guidelines broadly covers following
areas:
Gifts
Entertainment, Hospitality and other expenses
Donations
You must note that ICICI Group follows zero tolerance approach towards Bribery and
Corruption.
You must not make any payment to or for anyone for the purpose of obtaining or
retaining business or for obtaining any favourable action. If you are found to be
involved in making such payments, you would be subject to disciplinary action as well
as potential civil or criminal liability for violation of the Code.
You should not offer or give any funds or property as donation to any government
agency or its representatives, in order to obtain any favourable performance of
official duties.
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While you are expected to put in best of your efforts in every transaction, you will not
be penalised by ICICI Group for delayed performance of a transaction solely on the
grounds of refusal to pay bribes.
You should familiarise yourself and comply with the Bank's Anti-Bribery and Anti-
Corruption Policy which is available on the Intranet. You should contact the
Compliance Group with any questions on the matter.
Do
Accept or offer any gift and/or entertainment only in line with the Code and the
Operational Guidelines for Gifts, Entertainment & Sponsored Travel
Adhere to Bank’s Anti-Bribery & Anti-Corruption Policy
Don’t
Personal Investments
To protect the integrity of ICICI Group and its subsidiaries and affiliates, it is essential
that you conduct your personal trading as per the framework prescribed for
prohibition of insider trading under SEBI (Prohibition of Insider Trading) Regulations,
2015, as amended from time to time, in an appropriate manner that withstands
public scrutiny and does not create even the appearance of impropriety.
ICICI Group policy and the laws of many countries prohibit trading in securities of any
company (listed/proposed to be listed) while in possession of material, non-public
information (also known as inside information or UPSI*) of any company. Employees
of certain ICICI Group businesses are subject to additional personal trading policy
restrictions.
You should note that using non-public information to trade in securities, or providing
a family member, friend or any other person with a “tip”, is illegal. All nonpublic
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information should be considered inside information and should never be used for
personal gain.
You are required to familiarise yourself and comply with ICICI Bank Code on
Prohibition of Insider Trading laid by the Bank in line with SEBI (Prohibition of Insider
Trading) Regulations, 2015 (or such other Code applicable to your Company), as
amended from time to time copies of which are available on the Intranet or from the
Company Secretary.
You are required to ensure compliance and conduct your trading in accordance with
Code on Prohibition of Insider Trading and the Code of Practices and Procedures for
Fair Disclosure of Unpublished Price Sensitive Information (UPSI) of the respective
company.
Do
Ensure adherence to the Code for Prohibition of Insider Trading applicable to your
Company.
Don’t
human, animal, organs, body parts, etc.), terrorism, theft, fraud, handling of stolen
goods, counterfeiting, etc. It is also an offence to undertake and/or facilitate
transactions with individuals and entities whom you suspect of being involved in
money laundering or terrorist financing (ML/TF). In such cases, escalate your concerns
to the Compliance team responsible for your units.
ICICI Group does not do business with persons suspected to be involved in ML/TF. We
are fully aware that no customer relationship is worth compromising our commitment
to combating ML/TF.
ICICI Group has adopted the Group Anti Money Laundering (AML) and Combating
Financing of Terrorism (CFT) Policy accompanied by detailed procedures with the
principal objectives as under:
Preventing ICICI Group from being used by money launderers to further their
illicit business;
Enabling ICICI Group to assist law enforcement agencies in identifying and
tracking down money launderers;
Ensuring that ICICI Group remains compliant with all relevant anti-money
laundering legislation and regulations.
You must exercise requisite care in selecting those with whom we conduct business.
While conducting business, you must adhere to processes which are in place for
checking the identity and complete profile of the customers and counter parties as per
guidelines. In case of unusual transactions which are not of regular nature, care
should be exercised and reasons for undertaking that transaction should be
analysed/documented with appropriate internal approvals. These processes ensure
adequate customer due diligence and ongoing monitoring of their transactions. This is
done to detect suspicious transactions during the entire period of relationship.
Do
Ensure adherence to the Group Know Your Customer (KYC), Anti-Money Laundering
(AML) and Combating Financing of Terrorism (CFT) Policy
Undergo relevant training to update yourself on applicable internal KYC/AML guidelines
Exercise requisite due diligence while accepting a customer and undertaking a
transaction and make reasonable enquiries in case of doubt
Escalate all suspicious activities/transactions (including attempted/aborted
transactions) where ML/TF is suspected regardless of the amount involved or the
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nature of the offence as per the applicable internal procedures. Failure to report
suspicious transactions despite having knowledge is an offence under law.
Don’t
You must ensure that records, data and information owned, collected, used and
managed by you for ICICI Group are accurate and complete. Records must be
maintained as per the applicable record management policy of your Company in
sufficient detail so as to reflect accurately the company's transactions.
You must observe high standards of decency regarding content and language when
creating business records and other documents (such as email) that may be retained by
ICICI Group or a third party.
Non-maintenance of these records that comes into your notice and any
misappropriation or tampering of records needs to be reported to a relevant authority.
You must, therefore, never make inaccurate or misleading reports, certificates, claims or
statements to government/regulatory authorities.
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Do
Don’t
Protecting ICICI Group’s assets against loss, theft or other misuse is the responsibility of
every employee, officer and Director. Loss, theft and misuse of ICICI Group’s assets directly
impact our profitability. Any suspected loss, misuse or theft should be reported to your
supervisor or the Chief Financial Officer.
Do
Use ICICI Group assets (physical and intellectual) primarily for official purposes
Report any misuse or theft of assets, including instances of data leakage or data theft,
by any employee or outsourced agents of ICICI Group that comes to your notice
Don’t
Copy, sell, use or distribute information, software and other forms of intellectual
property in violation of licenses
Misappropriate ICICI Group assets as it is a breach of your duty and may constitute an
act of fraud against ICICI Group
Use official resources in another business in which you, a friend or family member is
involved
Use official stationery, supplies, and equipment for personal or political matters
Introduce, access or download material considered indecent, offensive, or is related to
the production, use, storage, or transmission of sexually explicit or offensive items using
ICICI Group assets
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Conduct any illegal or objectionable activities, including gambling, gaming, etc. using
ICICI Group assets
Make any changes to the settings or configurations of ICICI Group assets without
authorisation as per extant process
Open attachments or click on links in websites or unexpected emails that come from
unknown or untrusted sources or seem suspicious
Attempt to hack or gain illegal access to any ICICI Group assets
Download or install freeware or shareware (including screensavers), without
authorisation as per the extant process
Workplace Responsibilities
As a fair employment practice, you shall not (during the course of your service or for a
period of one year from the date of cessation), directly or indirectly on your own accord
or on behalf of or in conjunction with any other person, solicit or employ any director,
officer or employee of ICICI Group as well as any employee of any client or service
provider/vendor (with which client or service provider/vendor you have been associated
in the one year prior to your cessation of service), of the ICICI Group in any activity,
vocation, profession, employment, consultancy, service, occupation or business that you
undertake or in any manner, cause such person to be solicited or employed by any
person or enterprise with whom you may be associated in any capacity.
Fair Competition
You should ensure that your workplace is healthy and productive and free from drugs.
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ICICI Group has a Sexual Harassment Policy that prohibits unwelcome advances,
requests for sexual favours, or other verbal or physical conduct where such conduct has
the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual’s work performance
or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working environment.
ICICI Group considers safety of employees as the primary concern. ICICI Group is
committed to safety of employees and expects its businesses and employees to comply
fully with appropriate laws and internal regulations.
ICICI Group encourages responsible behaviour of its employees and colleagues that
result in the best possible accident prevention measures. This applies both to the
technical planning of workplaces, equipment, and processes and to safety
management and personal behaviour in everyday workplace.
Your work environment, therefore, must conform to the requirements of health oriented
safety design and you must constantly be attentive to safety principles.
The quality of our relationships with our suppliers and other external counterparties
often has a direct bearing on the quality of our products, services and ultimately our
customer relationships. We therefore expect our suppliers to operate to the same
standards as we expect of ourselves.
Your personal relationship with contractors, suppliers and vendors should be disclosed
to your superior at the time of entering into the transaction and should not influence
decisions made on behalf of ICICI Group. Negotiations with customers and potential
customers should be conducted in a professional manner.
Vendors or suppliers should not be used for any personal purposes, so as to have any
conflict of interest while dealing with them.
Products offered should be appropriate to the needs of the customer and based on an
assessment of the customer’s financial capability and understanding. The Bank will ensure
that customers are treated fairly and transparently with regard to suitability and
appropriateness of the products sold.
Corporate Opportunities
Employees, officers and Directors are prohibited from taking for themselves business
opportunities that arise through the use of corporate property, information or position.
No employee, officer or Director may use corporate property, information or position for
personal gain, and no employee, officer or Director may compete with ICICI Group.
Competing with ICICI Group may involve engaging in the same line of business as the
Group, or any situation where the employee, officer or Director takes away from the
Group opportunities for sales or purchases of property, products, services or interests.
All external communications require prior approval from the Head - Corporate
Communications Group (CCG). External communication regarding the organisation is to
be conveyed by official/authorised spokespersons. An official/authorised spokesperson
is either a Business Head or someone who is authorised by the Bank to talk on
product/service related matters related to their specific areas after consultation with
the CCG.
Social Media
Social media allows users to interact with each other by sharing information,
opinions, knowledge and interests. Some examples of social media are sites such as
Facebook, YouTube, LinkedIn, Instagram, X, (formerly Twitter), etc.
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To read more about the Bank’s Corporate Communications and Social Media Guidelines,
go to Universe > Reporting Tools & Guidelines > Guidelines > Corporate Communication &
Social Media Guidelines.
ICICI Group will conduct prompt and thorough investigations of alleged violation and
take appropriate corrective action.
Retaliatory action against an employee for making a good faith report is prohibited.
HR takes appropriate actions against individuals who have broken laws, rules and
regulations.
An employee who knowingly violates the internal policies and guidelines shall be
subject to disciplinary action, including demotion or dismissal.
Investigations
You are required to cooperate fully with authorised internal and external investigations.
Making false (or misleading) statements to regulators/auditors/ICICI Group representatives
during investigations can be a criminal act that can result in heavy penalties.
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Do
Don’t
Knowingly withhold information that raises ethical questions and bring such issues to
the attention of senior management or ensure reporting as per the applicable Whistle
Blower Policy. Employees may refer the Whistle Blower Policy available on the
Intranet for more details. (Intranet-Reporting Tools-Whistle Blower Policy).
Destroy records that are potentially relevant to a violation of law or any litigation or
any pending, threatened or foreseeable government investigation or proceeding
Duty of selection - Carefully select the employees for a job in light of their personal
and professional qualifications. The duty of care increases with the importance of the
obligation to be entrusted to the employee.
Do
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Don’t
ICICI Group's Policy is to maintain an open and co-operative relationship with our
regulators and to comply with all applicable laws, rules and regulations. The Group
also disseminates information regarding compliance with laws, rules and regulations
that affect business.
Accordingly the Bank has put in place the Group Compliance Policy as approved by
the Board of Directors.
Violation of the law must be avoided under any circumstances, especially violations
that attract punishment of imprisonment, monetary penalties, or fines.
Notwithstanding the legal consequences of such violation, any employee found guilty
will be additionally liable to disciplinary actions, initiated by the company for violating
the Code.
Particular care should be taken to act legally in those areas where the law is evolving
rapidly or is being extended to cover activities that have not been covered by legal
requirements in the past. When in doubt, the Compliance Group should be consulted.
Independent Directors of the Bank shall adhere to the duties as provided in Code for
Independent Directors under Schedule IV of the Companies Act, 2013 as well as
duties as prescribed in the Companies Act, 2013 as amended from time to time and
the deed of covenants specified by RBI which shall also form an integral part of the
Code (attached as Appendix) and all Directors and other employees shall ensure
compliance with applicable laws, rules and regulations applicable to them from time
to time.
Do
Don’t
Commit an illegal or unethical act, or instruct others to do so, for any reason
Commit such acts simply because you see someone else doing it, or your supervisor
not warning you
Key Irregularities
While the Group believes that the employees would realise and appreciate the need
to follow this Code in letter and spirit, in an unfortunate incident or act of breach, a
corrective and/or deterrent action becomes unavoidable. Therefore any breach of the
stipulations mentioned in the Code should be treated as misconduct for which
appropriate penalty would be imposed.
A. Habitual Irregularities
B. Gross/serious violations
Any act which is in breach of the Code, internal policies/procedures and which may cause
financial loss or reputation risk to the Company falls under this category.
Illustrative behaviour under this category includes:
Failing to comply with ICICI Group policies, procedures, rules and working practices
Obstructing the customers from dealing with ICICI Group or obstructing other
employees from discharging their responsibilities
Engaging in any other trade/business/employment while in the employment of the
Company without confirming with your supervisor
Participation in any demonstration against the Company or its officials
Accepting gifts and favours from clients and vendors in violation of relevant
guidelines
Disrupting/slowing down of continuous customer service or work, in the branch or
office - either solely or by way of participation in strike, bandh etc.
Violation of any of the provisions of the security policy including Information Security
Policy of the company
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Taking a decision, which has financial implications favouring you, any of your teams
or relatives
Involvement in harassment including sexual harassment or racial harassment
Failure to take all possible steps to protect the interest of ICICI Group and to perform
duties with utmost integrity, honesty, devotion & diligence
Indulging in any act which is likely to cause damage/loss to the property and which
are prejudicial to the reputation and interest of ICICI Group
Failure to act in the best judgment while performing duties as well as while exercising
delegated power entrusted by ICICI Group
Failure to avoid indebtedness in any manner while in service
Engaging in and/or facilitating any financial dealing/s including money lending
whatsoever with colleagues
Any act which brings or have the potential to bring dis-repute to the image of ICICI
Group at all times
Failure to comply with existing regulatory rules and regulations such as Reserve Bank
of India Act, 1934 and Banking Regulations Act, 1949, etc.
Any other act which is against the ethos/culture of the company
C. Fraudulent Irregularities
Any act with a fraudulent or malafide intention irrespective of whether there was any
financial loss or loss of reputation to ICICI Group falls in this category. Some illustrative
behaviour under this category would include:
The Bank is governed by the Companies Act which as recently revised in August 2013 has
defined the act of “fraud” under Section 447 and has prescribed the penal provisions for
the same. The same is given below:
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Definition of Fraud:
i. “Wrongful gain” means the gain by unlawful means of property to which the
person gaining is not legally entitled;
ii. “Wrongful loss” means the loss by unlawful means of property to which the
person losing is legally entitled.
Without prejudice to any liability including repayment of any debt under this Act or any
other law for the time being in force, any person who is found to be guilty of fraud, shall be
punishable with imprisonment for a term which shall not be less than six months but which
may extend to ten years and shall also be liable to fine which shall not be less than the
amount involved in the fraud, but which may extend to three times the amount involved in
the fraud.
Provided that where the fraud in question involves public interest, the term of
imprisonment shall not be less than three years.
Employees are requested to be mindful of the above provisions and exercise necessary
diligence.
Any act which may not be apparently with fraudulent intention but are considered as
High Risk area irrespective of any financial loss or loss to the reputation to ICICI Group falls
in this category. This includes:
The areas considered, as High Risk will be assessed by the Senior Management of the
Group. The Senior Management will also have the power and authority to notify the list of
High Risk areas from time to time.
It must be noted that irregularities cited in the above categories are indicative in nature
and are not exhaustive.
Disciplinary Procedures
The following paragraphs deal with the disciplinary procedures, which could be used as
indicative guidance for the ICICI Group constituents while formulating their respective
disciplinary procedures.
When deciding upon the appropriate way to deal with any potential issues an
employee has in meeting ICICI Group standards, the reasons behind this difficulty will
be considered. There may be occasions when problems are due to an employee’s
incapability to do his/her job, personal circumstances or health rather than there
being any measure of personal blame. In such cases, the employee will be informed
by the immediate manager that he/she is not meeting the required standards.
The immediate manager will discuss his or her concerns with the employee and
where appropriate, will agree objectives with the employee to be achieved over a
reasonable period of time. The immediate manager will also discuss any assistance
the employee may require, including where practicable - training. If after a reasonable
time, an employee is still unable to reach the required standards, the matter may be
dealt with within the context of the disciplinary procedure.
If the problem relates to the employee’s health, the immediate manager may arrange
for the employee to see ICICI Group nominated Medical Advisor.
If the problem stems from the employee’s failure to demonstrate satisfactory conduct,
or there are problems with the employee’s performance e.g. due to the employee’s
inattention or lack of motivation, the disciplinary procedure will be implemented.
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Usually disciplinary procedure would start after detailed fact finding exercise/internal
investigation; is carried out and a detailed report to that effect is submitted to the
concerned committee for deciding the level of disciplinary action, if any, to be imposed
on the employee.
Disciplinary action
Depending upon the nature and seriousness of non-compliant behaviour, the Company
may take corrective action against the erring employees. The Company may prefer civil or
criminal action against errant employees. Such actions may include penalties as deemed
appropriate considering the nature of violation and its implications on the Company. The
extenuating/mitigating circumstances, if any, may also be considered while taking action.
These actions could be - Cautionary Action, Deterrent Action and Capital Action
Cautionary action
Deterrent action
Capital action
It must be clearly understood that the Company will be the sole judge to decide on the
categorization of breaches as also the form of corrective actions.
All disciplinary action would start on the basis of the report received by the Fraud
Controller or HRMG from the investigation team after following the process as
described in the foregoing.
Depending upon the nature of such report employee/s would be informed about the
gist of the instance/s of breach of the Code reported against them and would be
afforded with an opportunity to make their submission/s in writing within specific
time frame to the designated official. On receipt of such communication, employees
would be required to make their submission/s in writing which would be taken into
consideration while arriving at a decision. However, in case employee/s choose not to
avail of such an opportunity within the specific time frame or within extended time
frame, if allowed by HRMG in deserving cases, it would be construed that the
employee concerned has no submission to make and accordingly the matter would be
decided upon ex-parte and any decision taken in that circumstances would be
binding on the concerned employee.
HRMG of the Company would put in place a matrix of Disciplinary Authority and the
Appellate Authority to carry out all administrative/disciplinary actions envisaged
under the Code.
For ICICI Bank, India, a designated Disciplinary Authority will on the basis of reports
submitted to it by an Investigating authority and/or suo-moto after ensuring adherence
to due process initiate appropriate investigation and disciplinary proceedings/actions
against an erring employee and impose penalty/ies including but not limited to, placing
an employee under suspension.
An employee against whom an order has been passed by a Disciplinary Authority, may,
within seven working days from the date of receipt of the order, prefer an appeal in
writing to the Appellate Authority. Such written appeals, if received within the
stipulated time, shall be disposed of by the Appellate Authority.
*In the event disciplinary action affects terms of employment, BGRNC will
review and make necessary recommendations to the Board.
** Appellate authority will be Board for matters referred to the BGRNC for
review.
The range of possible actions outlined above should not be regarded as necessarily
either sequential or cumulative. ICICI Group reserves the right to omit any or all of the
levels of action where it considers it appropriate.
ICICI Group recognises the need for this Code to be applied equally to everyone it
covers. All employees, Directors and officers are expected to comply with all of the
provisions of this Code. The Code will be strictly enforced and violations will be dealt
with immediately, including subjecting persons to corrective and/or disciplinary action
such as dismissal or removal from office.
The Group Chief Compliance Officer (GCCO) will have primary authority and
responsibility for ensuring the implementation of this Code across the ICICI Group,
subject to the supervision of the Board Governance & Remuneration Committee or, in
the case of accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters, the Audit
Committee of the Board of Directors. ICICI Group will devote the necessary resources
to enable the Group Chief Compliance Officer to establish such procedures as may be
reasonably necessary to create a culture of accountability and facilitate compliance
with this Code. Queries concerning this Code should be directed to the Group Chief
Compliance Officer. A facility to raise such queries has been hosted on the Universe.
The Group Chief Compliance Officer shall not be member of any committee which
brings his/her role in conflict with responsibility as member of the committee,
including any committee dealing with purchases/sanctions. In case the GCCO is
member of a committee, he/she may have only advisory role. The GCCO will however
approve such expenses incurred on behalf of the Bank/ICICI Group where such
approvals are in line with Delegated Financial Powers (DFP) of the GCCO.
Employees, officers and Directors should promptly report any concerns about
violations of ethics, laws, rules, regulations or this Code, including by any senior
executive officer or director, to their supervisors/managers or the Group Chief
Compliance Officer or in the case of accounting, internal accounting controls or
auditing matters, the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. Any concerns
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involving the Group Chief Compliance Officer should be reported to the Board
Governance & Remuneration Committee.
The Group Chief Compliance Officer shall notify the Board Governance &
Remuneration Committee of any concerns about violations of ethics, laws, rules,
regulations of this Code by any senior executive officer or Director reported to him.
You should report actions that may involve Conflicts of Interest to the Group Chief
Compliance Officer. In order to avoid Conflicts of Interest, executive officers and
Directors must disclose to the Group Chief Compliance Officer any material
transaction or relationship that could reasonably be expected to give rise to such a
Conflicts of Interest, and the Group Chief Compliance Officer shall notify the Board
Governance & Remuneration Committee of any such disclosure. In the event that the
Group Chief Compliance Officer is subject to any Conflicts of Interest, he/she shall
report about the same to the Board Governance & Remuneration Committee.
ICICI Group encourages all employees, officers and Directors to report any suspected
violations promptly and intends to thoroughly investigate any good faith reports of
violations. ICICI Group will not tolerate any kind of retaliation for reports or
complaints regarding misconduct that were made in good faith. Open communication
of issues and concerns by all employees, officers and Directors without fear of
retribution or retaliation is vital to the successful implementation of this Code. You are
required to cooperate in internal investigations of misconduct and unethical
behaviour.
Interested parties may also communicate directly with the Company’s non-
management Directors through contact information mentioned in the Company’s
Annual Report or on the website.
Any waivers (including any implicit waivers) of the provisions in this Code for executive
officers or Directors may only be granted by the Board of Directors and will be promptly
disclosed to the shareholders. Any such waivers will also be disclosed in the Group’s
Annual Report under Indian law and its Annual Report on Form 20-F. Any waivers of this
Code for other employees may only be granted by the Group Chief Compliance Officer.
Amendments to this Code must be approved by the Board of Directors and will also be
disclosed in the Company’s Annual Reports.
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Appendix
1. Subject to the provisions of this Act, a director of a company shall act in accordance
with the articles of the company.
2. A director of a company shall act in good faith in order to promote the objects of the
company for the benefit of its members as a whole, and in the best interests of the
company, its employees, the shareholders, the community and for the protection of
environment.
3. A director of a company shall exercise his duties with due and reasonable care, skill
and diligence and shall exercise independent judgment.
4. A director of a company shall not involve in a situation in which he may have a direct
or indirect interest that conflicts, or possibly may conflict, with the interest of the
company.
5. A director of a company shall not achieve or attempt to achieve any undue gain or
advantage either to himself or to his relatives, partners, or associates and if such
director is found guilty of making any undue gain, he shall be liable to pay an amount
equal to that gain to the company.
6. A director of a company shall not assign his office and any assignment so made shall
be void.
7. If a director of the company contravenes the provisions of this section such director
shall be punishable with fine which shall not be less than one lakh rupees but which
may extend to five lakh rupees.
1. undertake appropriate induction and regularly update and refresh their skills,
knowledge and familiarity with the company;
2. seek appropriate clarification or amplification of information and, where necessary,
take and follow appropriate professional advice and opinion of outside experts at the
expense of the company;
3. strive to attend all meetings of the Board of Directors and of the Board committees of
which he is a member;
4. participate constructively and actively in the committees of the Board in which they
are chairpersons or members;
5. strive to attend the general meetings of the company;
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6. where they have concerns about the running of the company or a proposed action,
ensure that these are addressed by the Board and, to the extent that they are not
resolved, insist that their concerns are recorded in the minutes of the Board meeting;
7. keep themselves well informed about the company and the external environment in
which it operates;
8. not to unfairly obstruct the functioning of an otherwise proper Board or committee of
the Board;
9. pay sufficient attention and ensure that adequate deliberations are held before
approving related party transactions and assure themselves that the same are in the
interest of the company;
10. ascertain and ensure that the company has an adequate and functional vigil
mechanism and to ensure that the interests of a person who uses such mechanism are
not prejudicially affected on account of such use;
11. report concerns about unethical behaviour, actual or suspected fraud or violation of
the company’s code of conduct or ethics policy;
12. acting within his authority, assist in protecting the legitimate interests of the company,
shareholders and its employees;
13. not disclose confidential information, including commercial secrets, technologies,
advertising and sales promotion plans, unpublished price sensitive information, unless
such disclosure is expressly approved by the Board or required by law.
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Employee Declaration
(To be submitted to the HR at the time of joining)
I have read and understood the terms of employment applicable to me and the
provisions of the Group Code of Business Conduct and Ethics
I shall, during the course of my service with the Bank/Group companies or in the event
of cessation of my service in the future, due to any reason whatsoever, for a period of
six months from the date of such cessation, directly or indirectly, either on my own
accord or on behalf or in conjunction with any other person/s, firm or company
refrain/desist from canvassing or soliciting attempting to or inducing any employee(s)
business associate(s) to leave their current employment with the Bank/Group
companies/business partners to join the services of any new employer/firm/company or
any other competitor of the Group companies/Business Partners.
I am aware that any act in contravention of the above provision on my part shall
attract initiation of appropriate action as deemed fit by ICICI Group.
All bank accounts being held by me - either singly or jointly with other family
members
_______________________________________
Employee Signature
Date: