South African banks kept the top three regional places, with Nigerian and Egyptian banks making an impression.

Australia’s banks continue to dominate the regional table, excluding China and Japan, while South Korea and Vietnam also make an impressive showing.

Latin American banks have had mixed fortunes in 2020, largely dependent on their pre-pandemic situation. While some have seen growth, persistent lockdown measures could threaten this in 2021.

Europe’s banks survived the pandemic, even extending support for their respective economies. But there is still scope for improved profitability and consolidation in future.

Saudi Investment Bank showed the country’s larger lenders the way on asset quality and return on risk, to take the laurels for best performance. 

Investec topped the South Africa performance rankings and climbed up 63 places in the overall Top 1000 ranking. Its ‘Big Four’ peers fared less well.

Nigeria’s banks have had a tough year, as the economy hit a two-decade low. 

Indonesia’s biggest banks have slipped down the Top 1000 ranking, though some have grown their Tier 1 capital. 

Japan’s banks held on in a volatile environment but saw little capital growth. 

South Korea’s banks have had a good year for Tier 1 capital growth, which has helped several move up the Top 1000 ranking.