With a cost-to-income ratio of 40.73%, Asia-Pacific was the most improved region for efficiency in The Banker's Top 1000 World Banks ranking.
Brazil's investment banks vie for market share
July 1, 2013Once dominated by global firms, Brazil’s investment banking space is being reclaimed by local players, putting the squeeze on returns. But, despite increased competition and lower returns, is Brazil’s economy just too big to be ignored?
Copenhagen keeps cost advantage
July 1, 2013It is typically the same couple of names that come out on top of international finance centre rankings, however, an analysis of IFCs by operating costs gives less archetypal results, with Copenhagen topping the table.
Developing countries top for efficiency
July 1, 2013Emerging markets are coming up trumps in terms of bank cost-to-income ratios, with Africa the top ranking region and Qatar the top ranking country.
Brazil's big four maintain Latin American dominance
July 1, 2013Although Brazil's largest four banks remain well clear of the pack in Latin America, there were promising developments in Colombia, Mexico and Venezuela in 2012.
Leading positions change in North America rankings
July 1, 2013There is a new largest bank in North America, with Bank of America losing ground to JPMorgan.
Panama's passage to growth
June 3, 2013Panama's buoyant economy has allowed its banking sector to flourish. And, with future economic growth as good as guaranteed with the forthcoming completion of the Panama Canal expansion, many of the country's lenders are making moves to further capitalise on the country's prosperous position.
Hong Kong tops inward financial services FDI ranking
June 3, 2013Hong Kong has shown impressive growth in its foreign direct investment attraction, recording the largest global inward investment in the financial services sector.
Hong Kong leads Asia-Pacific FDI ranking
May 23, 2013
Hong Kong was the most attractive international financial centre in Asia-Pacific in 2012, with more than $6bn-worth of foreign investment in the special administrative region.
Opportunities abound in the rebuilding of Jamaica's economy
May 1, 2013Jamaica has turned a corner since its recession in 2010, say finance minister Peter Phillips and central bank governor Brian Wynter, thanks in no small part to its plans to restructure the country’s public debt and attract more cross-border investment.