In Focus

They can help manage costs, which could balloon to 3% of assets.

CIMB leads Malaysian banks in H1 2024 returns.

Banks in South and Southeast Asia must enhance tech systems or face firmer penalties.

Up to 40 mutual lenders may consolidate and potentially disappear, said S&P analyst Lisa Barrett.

Much-needed policy changes may be delayed.

Multinationals are likely to hasten their ASEAN expansion.

The moratorium for new licenses will be lifted on 1 January 2025.

About 70 rural banks have already undergone mergers since 2023.

But their Q2 profits are likely to be lower compared to Q1, analysts said.

Banks must become the main choice of the customer, an analyst said.

China should follow Spain's footsteps and establish a fund pool against bankruptcies.

After the initial novelty and rewards, digibank users are likely to revert to their old bank.

The digital bank onboarded two-thirds of its 3.4 million users through supermarket kiosks.

Trade and private bankers are most in demand, although banks are cautious.

The 2024 Wholesale Banking Awards, Retail Banking Awards, Corporate and Investment Banking Awards, and the inaugural FinTech Awards recognised the industry's top performers for their innovation, dedication, and exceptional client service.

Roles related to wealth advisory and anti-ML and fraud are most in demand.