Bank of Nova Scotia has received recognition as Global Bank of the Year from The Banker magazine, the bank said Thursday.

Scotiabank (TSX:BNS) was also recognized in seven other categories, including Bank of the Year for the Americas. This is the first time a Canadian bank has been recognized in either category.

Financial institutions are judged on their ability to deliver shareholder returns and gain strategic advantage.

“We are honoured to be the first Canadian bank to be recognized as Global Bank of the Year,” said Rick Waugh, CEO of Scotiabankm, in a release. “At Scotiabank we pride ourselves on our ability to earn a strong return on capital while staying true to the risk management culture that has been a driving force of our success for more than 180 years.”

Scotiabank was also recognized by the magazine as Bank of the Year in Canada, Antigua, Barbados, Belize, Turks and Caicos and the British Virgin Islands.

The Banker’s Bank of the Year Award is in its 12th year. The London, England based-magazine is the world’s longest running international banking magazine, recognized as a leading source of information on finance and investment around the globe.