Thailand is suffering tumbling export receipts and a decline in business confidence and investment. Its recently installed minister of finance discusses how he plans to get the country through the crisis. Writer Simon Montlake

If Western banks pull back from project finance abroad, they will leave a large funding gap. But they will also create a golden opportunity for local players to grab market share. Writer Geraldine Lambe

Asian central banks are still key customers for European issuers, even if their reserve growth is slowing. The move out of emerging market currencies and sterling is also giving a boost to euro-denominated issues. Writer Michael Marray

In recent months, the State Bank of Vietnam has allowed five international banks to convert into wholly owned local entities in the country, opening its banking sector up to competition and bringing broader products and services to the market. Writer Nick Freeman.

After years of underdevelopment, Laos is reforming its laws and encouraging greater banking activity in anticipation of gaining WTO membership. Writer Nick Freeman in Vientiane.

Dislocation and falling equity markets are breathing life into the Australian corporate bond market, while a falling cash rate and government-led initiatives are also resuscitating the once lifeless government bond market. Writer Kate Hage.

The global financial crisis is a time of opportunity as well as challenge, to be grasped with both hands.

India has been shocked to feel the fallout from the crisis but has introduced measures to survive the downturn.

Parallels between the Asian economic crisis 10 years ago and the current financial turmoil may hold some useful lessons for world governments as they steer through troubled times.

Despite being the leading player in one of the world’s largest markets, State Bank of India lags a long way behind the top global names. The bank’s chairman, O P Bhatt, discusses its strategy and direction. Interview by Stephen Timewell.