In Focus
SEA leads fintech density as Asia gap widens
SEA leads fintech density as Asia gap widens
Singapore recorded 619 fintech companies per 1 million people.
Why do Singapore banks dominate brand value rankings?
Resilient balance sheets and steady growth are amongst the key reasons.
HDFC and ICICI well-placed to against uncertain operating backdrops: report
The two banks will enter FY2027 in a position of strength, said CreditSights.
Why payments dominate banking-as-a-service as KYC demand surges
The market reached $4.4b in 2025 with compliance tools expanding rapidly across borders.
Singapore bank margins hit as SGD tightening triggers 'safe-haven flush'
Stronger SGD attracts global capital seeking safety from Middle East instability.
APAC banks' data sharing outpaces global average but fragments access
Korea and India offer widest datasets whilst Indonesia restricts scope.
How can foreign ownership shape India’s financial institutions?
Capital access may improve but credit impact depends on risk discipline and governance.
Banks lag tech firms in driving credit card use
Delayed rewards and weak reminders leave cardholders disengaged.
Retail holds 38% of APAC’s payment market
Healthcare is the fastest-growing segment.
SWIFT payment framework targets clearer fees and faster tracing
More than 50 banks back changes that rely on existing systems.
DBS and OCBC seen lifting buffers as credit costs rise
Both banks’ managements will review macroeconomic variables related to the Middle East.
How China wallets crush cards in 2025 payments race
Alipay reached 85% of surveyed users whilst WeChat Pay stood at 73%.
Taiwan SME loans rise to $520.63m in February
The average NPL ratio is the same as in January.
Hong Kong’s gig workers face loan hurdles despite 95% holding prime credit status
About 82% of gig workers met payment obligations vs 80% of the city’s general population.
Commercial banking dominates M&A with 179 deals worth $190b
The segment captured 38% of the 2025 value.
Philippine loan relief helps banks avoid NPL spike despite profit hit
Credit losses remain elevated.
Philippines flags financial gaps as 48% lack emergency buffer
The majority claim financial awareness, yet many show a disconnect in capability.
Commentary
The financing challenge behind Asia’s wealth transfer
Banks need to rethink identity governance for AI agents
From stablecoins to sovereignty: The rise of trust-based digital dollar systems
Indonesia’s banks need faster fraud decisions as digital payments grow
China’s leasing giants are growing up — and Asia’s banks can’t look away
Adapting to change with confidence
Asia plays part in $129t global credit market pool