Issue 116 spotlights The Asia Pacific Banking Industry Outlook 2013 which provides a thorough and objective insight into the banking industry in the Asia Pacific region. The outlook report focuses on domestic banks whilst maintaining a regional overview, while highlighting key themes which include:

• Macroeconomic growth prospects for the region that will determine the overall demand for loans and financial services
• Continuing economic integration of regional economies, especially in Southeast Asia, that could lead to increased capital investment and infrastructure development that will drive growth
• Emerging markets that have seen renewed growth and are creating new sources of growth for the region, such as Myanmar, Bangladesh and the Philippines.
• Threats of inflation and asset appreciation as well as challenges of increased regulatory compliance on industry growth

This issue also features an interview with the vice chairman of the China Banking Regulatory Commission who shares his views on the macro-prudential management of the country’s banking sector. Additionally, payment messaging provider SWIFT’s senior management outlines the company’s priorities and direction, and DBS’ CFO shares her thoughts on creating an integrated risk management framework.

Issue 116 comprises:

• Regional Asia Pacific banking industry outlook
  • Overview and implications for the banking industry in region
  • Key regional banking industry statistics
  • Trends in the regional economy
  • Risks and challenges facing the Asia Pacific region
  • Currency volatility and market expectations
  • Commodity prices outlook for 2013
• CBRC enhances financial stability through macro-prudential supervision
• DBS formulates an integrated risk management framework
• SWIFT charters its own course to stay true to core values