The country has developed a resilient banking sector over the years, but challenges such as falling behind in competitiveness and Gafilat’s grey-listing remain.
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Latest articles from Panama

Panama’s economic minister on the country’s economic challenges
January 24, 2023Héctor Alexander, Panama’s minister of economy and finance, discusses the country’s economic outlook and its most pressing issues, such as the crisis in its pension system.

Panama faces an economic fight to preserve its status in Latam
January 18, 2023While economic growth is back on track, the country needs to address the sustainability of its social security system, assure the viability of its mining sector and fix long-term challenges in its labour market.
Bad loan risks rise at Panamanian banks
September 22, 2021MMG Bank Panama saw its non-performing loan ratio rise to 12.8% in 2020.
How mutual trust and respect will enhance the Latam-China relationship
November 1, 2019Latin America’s increasing interest in attracting Chinese investments, tourists and commerce is matched by China’s growing presence in the region, says Panama's former vice-president and foreign minister.

Tax and narcotics dominate Panama finance minister's agenda
July 4, 2018The finance minister of Panama, Dulcidio De La Guardia, is seeking international co-operation to help the country tackle issues such as tax evasion and drug trafficking. In addition, he tells Silvia Pavoni, he is also looking to the UK to assist in cultivating an environment in which fintechs can thrive.
Panama Papers expose a tale of data leaks and toothless bodies
April 24, 2016Progress in cleaning up offshore financial centres should be driven by international jurisdictions not the leaking of documents.

Top 100 Central American Banks: Foreign-owned banks tap into Panama’s growth
March 1, 2016Panama retains its position as one of the best markets for banking in Central America, but success stories can also be found in Nicaragua and Guatemala.

Top 200 Latin American banks ranking 2015: Argentina and Brazil press on in hard times
November 2, 2015The Banker’s Top 200 Latin American banks ranking for 2014 sees Brazilian institutions stay on top, while Argentina maintains its status as most profitable, despite mounting challenges.

Top 100 Central American banks ranking: Colombian-owned banks loosen their grip
March 1, 2015While BAC Panama remained in top position, other Colombian-owned lenders fared less well in the Top 100 Central American Banks ranking, leaving the way open for Panamanian, Costa Rican and Guatemalan banks to make up ground.