Many of South Korea's largest financial institutions are having to reconsider their investment banking strategies in the wake of changed capital markets regulation, increasing competition and narrowing profits, with many turning to the international market.
Lingering resentment over its role in the Asian crisis of the 1990s and complaints that the continent is under-represented in its senior positions mean that the IMF's popularity throughout Asia is low. But will this sense of injustice lead to the forming of an Asian Monetary Fund that will push the IMF to the sidelines in the region?
The annual Sibos conference provides an ideal opportunity for transaction banking leaders to take stock of an industry that has over the past year seen notable geographic shifts, a greater focus on the client, and a reinvention of market infrastructures.
Sri Lanka’s banks have been riding on a peace dividend since the end of a 26-year civil war in 2009. As they push ahead, supporting the country’s economic development goals, there are concerns – such as capital constraints and increased regulation – but the mood remains optimistic.
Taiwan's rising prominence as an offshore renminbi centre reached a milestone earlier this year when the Bank of China opened a clearing bank in Taipei. But with Hong Kong, and to a lesser extent London and Singapore, already working as offshore renminbi hubs, where will Taiwan fit in?