The Reserve Bank of New Zealand has strengthened its liquidity requirements for banks. It will be expensive, but at least they'll be operating on a sounder footing. Writer Michael Imeson
Asia-Pacific
Former prime minister Jim Bolger on the promise of Kiwibank
February 1, 2010The former prime minister of New Zealand and now chairman of New Zealand Post Group's fast-growing Kiwibank believes that the company offers a template for post groups around the world attempting to establish a banking brand. Writer Michelle Price
Government effects reform despite recent turmoil
February 1, 2010Unfazed by continued political and economic turmoil, Thailand is embarking on major deregulation to strengthen its banking and finance sector and, in the grander scheme, to diversify the country's economic base. Writer Michelle Price
The big four banks look outside Australia for growth
December 30, 2009Having sidestepped the worst of the global financial crisis, the dominance of Australia's big four banks in the domestic market means that further major expansion is likely to happen elsewhere, particularly in Asia. Writer Elton Cane
Hidden strengths propel growth
December 30, 2009Despite Malaysia's reticence in establishing itself as a globally recognised financial centre, it is now moving forward fast. Bank Negara Malaysia governor Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz discusses the role of Islamic finance products in the country's push. Writer Silvia Pavoni
Finance Minister of the Year 2010 - Global and Asia-Pacific
December 30, 2009Strong nerves and creative strategies have characterised the best-performing finance ministers over the past 12 months. Here The Banker recognises those whose will and skill have proved outstanding at tackling the immediate effects of the slump while positioning their countries for future growth.
World
/ Asia-Pacific
/ China
Peter Nolan - Comment
December 23, 2009China has defied expectations by successfully establishing a number of state-owned, internationally competitive firms, but the country must increase its outward foreign direct investment if it is to establish a firmer footing in the global marketplace.
Kishore Mahbubani - Comment
December 23, 2009Trust and confidence in the Anglo-Saxon model of regulation have evaporated so much as a result of the financial crisis that Asian policy-makers are now beginning to rethink key issues about regulation from first principles.
Reform is a work in progress
November 27, 2009Policy reforms in Indonesia's banking sector have transformed shareholding structures and foreign investors have scooped up local banks. But further change is needed to enable the country to cope with an anticipated economic explosion, say local bankers. Writer Michelle Price
The Singapore Stock Exchange's Terry Gibson on the importance of infrastructure
November 27, 2009The senior vice-president and head of product management at the Singapore Exchange discusses its major post-trade infrastructure project. Writer Michelle Price