The impact of the international slowdown on the Philippines economy has been more severe than expected, but revenue collections are on track and overseas remittances remain strong, says the Philippines finance secretary.

Despite the international credit crunch, banks in the Philippines grew lending by 24% in the first half of 2008 and asset quality continues to improve, says the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) governor.

Inflation may be well above target but Uganda’s central bank earns high marks from bankers for emphasising risk management. The Banker talks to David Okiopello, acting deputy governor of the Bank of Uganda.

A rush of new banks, rapid branch expansion by established banks and an emerging mortgage battle are among developments that are enlivening Uganda’s banking scene.

The Tan brothers, Nestor and Lorenzo, are helping to reshape the Philippines’ banking industry. Ian Gill reports on how their international expertise is helping to break the shackles of traditional financial empires.

An unprecedented array of mortgage products is putting home purchases within reach of lower-income Filipinos – and helping banks achieve their best loan growth in a decade. 

Chile’s banks are scrambling for market share in the retail sector, where rich profits lie. Ian Gill reports on the courting of clients at the market’s lower end.