Asia Banking
Bank Indonesia’s credibility at risk as markets watch and wait
Indonesia’s central bank is finding itself under sharper investor scrutiny after Governor Perry Warjiyo confirmed a new “burden-sharing” arrangement with the government.
IMF urges Islamabad to strengthen State Bank of Pakistan independence
The International Monetary Fund has called on Pakistan to remove the finance secretary from the State Bank of Pakistan’s board and fill two long-vacant deputy governor positions.
Indonesia’s innovative Payment ID raises privacy concerns
Bank Indonesia has introduced a new identity for the national payment system, marking a shift towards a more unified, secure, and innovative financial ecosystem
Philippines growth holds steady as rate cuts remain in view
The Philippine economy recorded stronger growth in the second quarter of 2025 compared with the first, primarily due to a spike in goods exports ahead of impending tariffs.
South Korea’s tax reform triggers investor concerns
What was once a buoyant rally under President Lee Jae Myung’s pledge to lift the Kospi to 5,000 points is now shadowed by concerns over the economic implications of sweeping tax changes.
Reserve Bank of India holds repo rate at 5.5% amid rupee pressure and US tariff threats
The Reserve Bank of India has kept the repo rate unchanged at 5.5% as the rupee continues to weaken under pressure from renewed US tariff threats.
Indian opposition blames government on Trump threats
Under President Donald Trump’s second term his administration has taken a much more hawkish stance that Indian purchases enable Russia to weather sanctions and indirectly fund its war effort
Bank of Japan holds interest rate as inflation projections rise
The Bank of Japan has decided to maintain its benchmark interest rate at 0.5%, a move that was largely anticipated by markets.
Bitcoin hits historic high for second time in one day
Bitcoin broke its historic price record for the second time in one day, surpassing $118,000 in global market trading after setting a new high above $116,000 overnight.
Global banking’s new powerhouse: Asia
Asia's level of digital banking infrastructure has enabled it to challenge and even surpass traditional Western players such as Citi and HSBC in key regional markets.
Syria receives IMF visit for first time since 2009
Conflict-torn country faces “enormous challenges”, says mission. Majority of GDP wiped out. Restoring power infrastructure alone could cost at least $40bn.
Pakistan holds key interest rate at 11% amid oil price risks
Pakistan’s central bank has kept the interest rate unchanged at 11%, citing fresh inflationary risks due to volatile global oil prices and regional geopolitical tensions.