The Banker's panel of judges salutes the best banks in 149 different countries based on their performances over the past year.

The Banker's panel of judges salutes the best banks in 144 different countries based on their performances over the past year.

Despite the fallout from the global downturn continuing to make its presence felt, optimism is returning to many areas of the banking world. The Banker's Bank of the Year Awards celebrate the achievements of the most innovative, dedicated, creative, resilient and ambitious banks in each region of the world, and across 144 countries.

The Banker’s Bank of the Year country awards acknowledge banks for the best overall performance in their country. Our global editorial team chose the winners based on analysis of the latest results and performance data provided by the banks through questionnaires plus a review of their strategic developments and overall achievements.

Banks around the world have achieved record profits and profitability for almost four years in a row as steady economic growth, especially in Asia, globalisation and the awakening of consumer finance in new markets continue to stimulate financial institutions. While uncertainties exist, the relatively benign environment is creating a bonanza for banks.

Record growth and record profits have characterised the financial community over the past year or more but while the economic outlook is broadly positive, there are significant political and economic uncertainties at work as well.