In Focus

Software vendors threaten to replace banks in SME payments

Software vendors threaten to replace banks in SME payments

By partnering early, banks remain the backbone of SME financial flows, McKinsey said.

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4 APAC markets face 'declining' outlook as loan yields retreat: Fitch

Any resulting drag on the operating profit and RWA should be manageable.

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CITIC leads China investment banking fees as market hits 3-year high

It retained its position as the top financial institution in terms of IB fees raised.

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GFTN targets growth-stage fintechs with $200m fund

The focus will be on firms that have shown commercial traction and scale.

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APAC Islamic banking rebound in 2026 set to mask market divides

Growth trajectories will differ across key markets.

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Indian banks hit decade-high returns but profit set to soften

Some of the more recent reforms are untested through a down-cycle, said Fitch.

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Indonesian banks’ credit costs may stay high in 2026 on weather risk

Major banks should still be able to deliver positive earnings growth of 1%-7%.

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Indian banks set to benefit from tighter oversight in 2026

The RBI’s multiple reforms over the next year will allow banks to provision more effectively.

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How investment banks can raise transaction banking value by 50%

Partnering with fintechs or making front office changes can raise profit by 3%-10%.

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APAC investment banking fees jumped 19% YoY in 2025

The region accounted for 18% of global investment banking fees during the year.

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Private capital gives CIBs advisory and financing opportunities

The largest players require support at the fund level, says McKinsey & Co.

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CIBs advised to create ‘nerve centers’ and ‘no regret moves’ against risks

Banks should ensure organisation readiness and identify four to five elements that matter most.

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MUFG plans role-based AI for the workplace

Humans will remain in control.

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Singapore keeps retail out of crypto for now

The central bank is unlikely to change its stance in the next two to three years.

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Banks shift deposit strategy from rates to relationships

Wealth management is a key focus.

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Hong Kong banks race to hire AI-ready talent as skill gap widens

Software development will be the biggest talent shortfall by 2030.

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Japanese megabanks set for better conditions in 2026

In contrast, Chinese banks and Hong Kong banks face “deteriorating” sector outlooks.

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