In a time when financial leadership is increasingly defined by resilience, innovation and social impact, the 2025 Asia’s Golden Icon Awards for Asia’s Remarkable Leadership in Financial Excellence was given to Frederic C. DyBuncio, president and CEO of SM Investments Corp. (SMIC).

The award, conferred by the Golden Icons organization — an alliance of public and private sector leaders —signals a growing regional shift in how financial leadership is being measured: not solely by profits, but by purpose.

DyBuncio’s recognition comes as Asian businesses navigate a rapidly changing financial landscape. Under his leadership, SM Investments has fortified its financial fundamentals while adopting a broader corporate philosophy — positioning itself not just as a retail and property giant, but as a key enabler of national progress.

Financial excellence

“Mr. Frederic C. DyBuncio has been selected for the award of Asia’s Remarkable Leadership in Financial Excellence for his outstanding contributions to the financial sector and his exemplary leadership at SM Investments Corporation,” the Golden Icons group said.

“Under his guidance, the company has not only achieved remarkable growth but has also set new standards for excellence in financial management and corporate governance.”

In response, DyBuncio emphasized the role of finance in driving meaningful impact across sectors.

“Leadership in finance today means creating value that is sustainable, human-centered and purpose-driven,” he said.

“At SM, we see ourselves as enablers — of entrepreneurship, of community development, and of opportunities that multiply across sectors. This recognition reaffirms our belief that doing well and doing good are not at odds, but part of the same equation.”

More than a personal milestone, DyBuncio described the award as a reaffirmation of SM’s mission to be a platform for innovation, financial resilience and social impact.

The Golden Icons organization, which promotes transformational leadership across Asia, noted that the award reflects a broader appreciation for companies that blend growth with governance and responsibility.