Australia

Australia’s second largest bank’s major play for Bank of East Asia underscores expansionist leanings.

Asia’s banking and finance sector is preparing for 2013 and all eyes are the region as a key barometer of the world’s economic fortunes.

The list excludes China and Hong Kong.

China Construction Bank plays catch-up to its Big Four rivals.

More home loans made across Australia.

The launch follows its acquisition of RBS.

Westpac Banking Corporation profit has fallen to US$6.2 billion.

CIMB starts Australian operations this week.

Rein in costs and cut jobs.

 A 6 percent rise for the year.

Customers have a right to be angry at Australian banks over past treatment, says the Chief of Bendigo and Adelaide Bank, Mike Hirst.

Australia's High Court unanimously allowed a class action representing 38,000 ANZ customers to challenge a wide range of "exception fees".

But are Australian businesses open to engaging with banks such as CIMB, ICBC, and CCB in the domestic market?

ANZ Bank profited A$4.4 billion for the nine months to June for a 10 percent increase of profits.

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia bucked uncertain business environment to push its profit up 11 percent from last year to US$7.43 billion.

The Commonwealth Bank of Australia says its acquisition of BankWest maintained public and investor confidence in the stability of the Australian financial system.