Deutsche Bank partners with IBM to advance digital transformation strategy

Deutsche Bank is advancing its digital transformation strategy with a new IBM partnership. The strategic agreement grants the firm further access to IBM’s comprehensive suite of software solutions.

This includes IBM’s business and IT automation stack, advanced hybrid cloud products and access to the watsonx AI portfolio. Deutsche Bank will also benefit from the latest upgrades to the IBM Storage Protect software suite, according to the announcement.

Deutsche Bank provides retail and private banking, corporate and transaction banking, lending, asset and wealth management products and services as well as focused investment banking to private individuals, small and medium-sized companies, corporations, governments and institutional investors. Deutsche Bank is the leading bank in Germany with strong European roots and a global network.

IBM is a “natural partner” for Deutsche Bank’s transformation

IBM’s solutions are enabling Deutsche Bank to further optimize its business processes, IT infrastructure and services. By leveraging IBM’s technology, Deutsche Bank aims to replace legacy solutions, maximize ROI and deliver an enhanced customer experience.

The new agreement marks a significant continuation of the longstanding relationship between the two companies, particularly in relation to Deutsche Bank’s existing software estate.

“IBM is a natural partner for Deutsche Bank’s ambitious technology transformation, and their innovative solutions continue to help optimize and streamline our technology stack,” said Tony Kerrison, head of group technology infrastructure and head of technology data and innovation for the Americas at Deutsche Bank. “Our employment of IBM’s software and tooling strategically complements our ambitions to modernize, simplify and strengthen our technology infrastructure.”

With access to IBM's comprehensive offerings, including the innovative watsonx AI and automation portfolio, Deutsche Bank will be able to analyze its data more deeply, simplify complex business processes and drive IT automation, added Dominic Schulz, IBM global managing director for Deutsche Bank.

Join us at All Access: AI in Business Transformation 2025!

Banking’s digital transformation revolution

Banks around the globe are investing heavily in digital transformation as the financial sector continues to evolve and modernize. Banks are investing in digital transformation to stay relevant, reduce costs, increase efficiency, meet customer demands and fend off competition from FinTech and tech giants. It’s no longer a luxury – it’s essential for survival and growth in the modern financial ecosystem.

For example, UniCredit recently partnered with Google Cloud to transform group-wide operations for a new era of banking at scale. Likewise, Santander expanded its digital transformation strategy in Mexico, broadening its retail business footprint amid increasing customer demands for simple, accessible mobile banking solutions.

In March, NatWest Group became the first UK-headquartered bank to work with OpenAI in a collaboration to support its strategic focus on bank-wide simplification. In April, leading specialist bank Vanquis took a “game-changing” step in its digital transformation journey in partnership with technology provider Fiserv, Inc.

Image credit: Deutsche Bank

Data governance in the age of generative AI & agentic AI: Industry report

Data Governance in the Age of Generative & Agentic AI Industry Report

As AI capabilities accelerate, strong data governance is no longer optional—it’s essential. This report explores how organizations are redefining governance strategies to keep pace with generative and agentic AI.

Inside, you'll discover:

• How data governance underpins AI success
• Key frameworks, KPIs, and metrics that matter
• Top challenges and success factors from real-world AI initiatives
• What the rise of agentic AI means for future governance models

Featuring insights from experts at EdgeVerve, Marks & Spencer, Navy Federal Credit Union, and more.

Download Now