An increasing number of financial institutions from international banks to local specialist players are developing sharia-compliant structured products, offering investors limited downside risk and high returns. But as the uptake for such products increases, so does the pressure of ensuring that they are 100% sharia-friendly.

Malaysia is going through a period of transformation as the government seeks to push the country to developed nation status. The ambitious economic goals, however, are being tested by events further afield and observers are questioning to what degree Malaysia’s growth will be impacted by the troubles of the eurozone. 

There is a feeling in some circles that as the East rises, the West must simultaneously decline. But why? Rising prosperity in Asia means more opportunities for businesses and banks in North America and Europe, and the only ones to suffer will be those who continue to think along 'East versus West' lines.

Malaysia has ambitious plans to reposition itself as an international finance centre, but, growth must occur in a well-regulated environment with minimal risks.

Despite Malaysia's banking sector emerging from the financial crisis in good health, consolidation and liberalisation look set to play a big part in its future. Writer Michelle Price

From Hong Kong to London, established global financial centres are looking to reinvent themselves as Islamic finance hubs and capture a slice of a fast-growing and still largely untapped market.

The Malaysian government has been active in promoting Islamic finance.

Despite 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