Over the past few decades, the Philippines has enjoyed stellar economic growth but its poverty rates have remained unacceptably high. Its newly appointed finance secretary explains how his tax reforms will bring an end to this situation.

The Philippines has grown to have some of the strongest economic fundamentals in south-east Asia, thanks in no small part to the economic policies rolled out by finance secretary Cesar Purisima over the past six years. He talks to Stefania Palma.

Filipino banks continue to be some of the healthiest lenders in Asia. Now, record volumes in equity and debt capital markets offer a further source of growth in one of the strongest banking sectors in the region. Stefania Palma reports.

The Philippines has weathered the emerging markets storm that began in 2015 relatively well, meaning that its central bank has not needed to follow global trends and ease monetary policy. How has central bank governor Amando Tetangco achieved this? Stefania Palma finds out.

Vietnam is on its way to becoming a heavyweight presence in south-east Asia, with the top ranking for asset growth, while Indonesia retains its crown as the most profitable country in the region.  

The launch of the Asean Economic Community has opened up a new wave of opportunities. However, with Western banks pulling back from Asia and domestic banks all-powerful in the region's more developed markets, it may only be the Greater Mekong region that sees any discernible change to its financial landscape in the near future.

There might not be much movement among the top positions in this year’s Top 100 Association of South-East Asian Nations Banks ranking, but Filipino lenders are on the rise, while Indonesia’s banks boast the highest returns. 

The Land Bank of the Philippines is working with small farmers and fishermen to promote inclusive growth and improve their quality of life, in even the most devastating of situations.