As banks expand credit to a traditionally under-banked economy, the sector is enjoying a period of rapid catchup growth. A positive feedback loop is at work in which banks are increasingly driving economic growth, supported by inflows from foreign investment and Filipinos working abroad, while growing trust in the banking system is drawing greater volumes of savings. Although bank lending has...
Asia Financial Services
Displaying 103 - 108 of 185
A series of reforms initiated by the administration of President Benigno Aquino III in the last few years have boosted spending on infrastructure and opened key industries to outside investors. The reforms prompted a series of upgrades to the Philippines’ credit ratings and echo initiatives taken in the region as it embarks on greater integration through the ASEAN Economic Community.
Chapter | Financial Services from The Report: Myanmar 2016
Since the political reforms of 2011, a number of significant steps towards liberalisation have been taken in the banking sector. The Central Bank of Myanmar has been given much needed autonomy and ATMs are now allowed in the country. Further aiding accessibility, mobile banking services have been introduced. New private banks are being set up and foreign banks have been granted licences to...
Many have hailed Myanmar’s recent economic, political and social restructuring as ground breaking, and for good reason. In a relatively short period the country’s economy has gone from being largely isolated to being a focal point for foreign investment.
Following successful completion of the Papua New Guinea liquefied natural gas project, the country is experiencing a surge of optimism about foreign investment and overall economic growth. PNG remains favoured by its traditional investors such as Australia, but it is increasingly a target for new players, including China and Japan.
The banking sector in Papua New Guinea is sound, growing and remarkably profitable. Its largest and only publicly traded institution, Bank South Pacific, reports return on equity 10 percentage points higher than the large Australian banks, which are among the most profitable in the world. Furthermore, continued expansion is expected. With 80% of the country unbanked, growth is almost assured...