Asia leads the way as profits make a return

Whereas last year North American and European banks were busy racking up losses, in this year's figures profits have returned to all regions. Asia accounts for the largest share of profits at 37.08%, with Europe accounting for 31.19% and North America 13.78%.

Last year losses were subtracted from profits for the aggregate figure so that regions that continued to make profits, such as Asia, had profits larger than the total.

In distribution by assets and Tier 1 capital there are no dramatic changes this year, although the long-term trend continues for emerging markets, especially Asia, to increase their share. Europe records 52.03% of assets, down from 55.6%, while Asia increases from 23.5% to 26.45%. In Tier 1, Europe goes up from 41.1% to 42.47% and Asia stays more or less the same. What stands out is that profit shares between the regions are not so far apart, yet Europe's assets and capital are significantly higher, indicating the greater returns being made in Asia.

North America has 22.55% of Tier 1 and 16.12% of assets with 13.78% of profits, again showing a disproportionate structure. If all banks were making the same returns, the proportions of the regions' assets, capital and profits would be roughly the same but clearly this outcome remains a long, long way away.

Tier 1 capital % 2009 (2008)

Pre-tax profits % 2009 (2008)

Assets % 2009 (2008)