Asian Banking & Finance Magazine - Issue 117

In this issue

If most banking services can now be accessed through mobile phones, then what do customers do in physical branches? We chat with Hong Leong Bank CEO Kevin Lam about his five-point plan to reimagine the role of physical branches for the digital age. Read more on page 14.

Can Asian banks weather the profit squeeze in 2025?

Banking profits are expected to remain under pressure in many Asian markets in 2025, with lenders likely to post Bunder pressure either modest improvements or manageable declines, according to analysts.

3 mins

Asia struggles with G20 payment targets

Asian banks are racing to meet G20 cross-border -payment goals on speed, cost, and transparency, but dated infrastructure, high fees, and fragmented rules hinder near-real-time payment transfers.

1 min

Japanese banks seek M&A deals overseas

Japan's biggest banks pursued mergers and acquisitions (M&A) of local and foreign fintech firms in the second half of 2024 in search of better revenue, as the yen sank to a 34-year low amidst relaxed regulations.

2 mins

Hong Leong Bank transforms branches to solve non-virtual problems

CEO Kevin Lam reveals five branch models that merge tradition and technology.

3 mins

NETS adds inventory features to payment terminals for Singapore retailers

It is using data from its payment system to help businesses improve operations.

3 mins

Unlocking global expansion with Payoneer's seamless and reliable payments solutions

Payoneer empowers small and medium-sized businesses (SMBS) worldwide, simplifies global commerce, and enables entrepreneurs to grow with confidence and ease through its cross-border payment solutions.

2 mins

OCBC triples quantum tech workforce to enhance cybersecurity measures

The Singapore bank expects significant tech advancements in the next five to 10 years.

2 mins

Singapore's top central banker touts potential of asset tokenisation

The tech must be regulated, which can be a challenge.

2 mins

China's payment system gets boost from renminbi rise

Cross-border renminbi use for trade in services grew 22.3% YoY to $165b.

2 mins

BTN Prioritas wins prestigious international award - Retail Banking Awards

It was awarded the Customer Experience Initiative of the Year - Indonesia for PLUS by BTN Prioritas.

3 mins

BTN Wins Award at ABF Wholesale Banking Awards 2024

PT Bank Tabungan Negara (Persero) Tbk (BTN) won an award at the Asian Banking & Finance (ABF) Wholesale Banking Awards 2024 on Thursday, July 4, 2024.

2 mins

The way forward-GXBank leads the charge in transforming the local banking scene

Whilst digital banking in Malaysia is still in its infancy, there is no doubt that it can act t as a bridge to offer services or lack thereof-to those who are financially underserved.

2 mins

Read all stories from Asian Banking & Finance

Asian Banking & Finance Magazine Description:

Asian Banking & Finance Magazine (ABF) is a quarterly magazine that covers the latest news, trends, and developments in the Asian banking and finance industry. The magazine is published by Charlton Media Group and is available in print and digital formats.

ABF features a mix of editorial content, including:

* News and analysis: The magazine provides in-depth coverage of the latest news and trends in the Asian banking and finance industry, including mergers and acquisitions, regulation changes, and new product launches.
* Interviews: ABF features interviews with senior executives from leading banks and financial institutions in Asia, as well as with government officials and industry experts.
* Special reports: The magazine regularly publishes special reports on specific topics related to the Asian banking and finance industry, such as fintech, Islamic finance, and sustainable banking.
* Market data and statistics: ABF provides readers with market data and statistics on the Asian banking and finance industry, including key financial ratios, asset quality, and profitability.

The magazine is aimed at senior executives from banks and financial institutions in Asia, as well as government officials, investors, and other professionals who are interested in the Asian banking and finance industry. ABF is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to stay up-to-date on the latest news, trends, and developments in the Asian banking and finance industry.