Mongolia’s banking system is relatively young and untested, and, therefore, the Central Bank of Mongolia is facing a range of challenges. One such example is the rapid drop in the tugrik, which lost approximately 20% of its value over the past year, placing pressure on the banking system but also reducing the price of exports. Currently, there are no limitations placed on foreign ownership of...
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Since the country’s transition from communism two decades ago, the Mongolian economy has experienced rapid liberalisation. Sectors including ICT and insurance are expanding quickly and, while the mining sector has been responsible for making Mongolia a rising star in the global economy, there is great potential for further growth in all economic sectors.
On the cusp of 2014 national elections and the 2015 integration of the ASEAN Economic Community, Indonesia is poised to continue its rapid economic expansion. While the country’s natural resources are still plentiful, by channelling foreign direct investment into the right areas, the government is ensuring that true potential, in terms of value and manufacturing, is achieved.
Despite the political and social challenges that marked late 2013, Thailand’s economy has remained stable and is poised for further growth in the coming years. However, concerted action by the public and private sectors will be needed for the country to avoid the middle-income trap of stagnating productivity and to maintain its stance as a top Asian economy.
Accounting for 30.1% of bank lending in the second quarter of 2013, consumer lending has been the key driver of loan growth. Household debt rose from 56% of GDP in 2007 to 77% in 2012. Dominated by Thai lenders, the banking sector remains well-capitalised and liquid. Strong fee-revenue growth is offsetting pressure on net interest margins. Due to increased competition for deposits, net interest...
Banking remains a highly profitable sector in Indonesia despite being limited in its reach. Leading banks’ average profits were the highest amongst major economies in 2012, according to Bloomberg data, a remarkable feat in an era of falling bank profits globally. Credit plays a modest role in the Indonesian economy, with loans amounting to 32.85% of GDP. This is considerably lower than in many...