Frances Gagua
ICBC launches $11.04b tech and innovation fund
ICBC launches $11.04b tech and innovation fund
It will support “hard technology” such as semiconductors and advanced manufacturing.
Nomura Securities establishes Sustainable Innovation Investment Scheme
It will provide financial advice and financial services to support transition and innovation.
Nomura withdraws from Net-Zero Banking Alliance
MUFG and Mizuho remains signatories.
YouBiz and Tiktok launch ad spending cashback for businesses
TikTok advertisers can receive up to US$100 in ad credits.
Weekly Global News Wrap: Piraeus buys 90% of Ethniki Insurance; BBVA SA seeks double CIB revenue
And the world’s leading climate coalition seeks new members as it overhauls rules
Cambodia enables cross-border QR code payments via UnionPay
Cambodians need only to scan the UnionPay QR Code to pay.
Japan's financial institutions report $4.28t in loans as of Feb 2025
It is a 3.1% increase from the same month last year.
More Gen Z Hong Kongers taking up revolving line accounts
New accounts granted to them more than doubled.
Thai finance operators tone down loan growth targets amidst asset quality concerns
They foresee a weaker-than-expected economic outlook in 2025
Vietnam calls on banks to enhance financing for Mekong Delta rice industry
Banks are asked to ensure no delays or denials in loan access for those with good business plans.
JCB now available in Google Play of Hong Kong and 4 SEA markets
JCB said it will continue to provide its cardmembers expanded accessibility.
Bank of Singapore names new head of Hong Kong’s investment solutions group
Joey Tang worked in the Bank of China (Hong Kong) and Citi prior to joining BOS.
PH banks and insurers face MSME credit gap, AI fraud, climate risk
Nearly 8 in 10 MSMEs still face barriers to accessing loans, an expert said.
Philippine banks and insurers called to pursue human-centred AI adoption
AI adoption should be centered on financial inclusion, customer experience, and personalisation.
Lady bankers need work-life balance, says UOB’s Choo Wan Sim
The flight stewardess turned bank digital head also highlighted the importance of mentors.
Digital wealth advisory Endowus introduces OTP verification
There’s also a Whatsapp OTP verification for customers logging in overseas.
HSBC Singapore unveil entertainment platform for Premier Mastercard clients
It offers preferential and exclusive access to certain shows.
Commentary
Asia’s banks hold the mandate to innovate. Now they must earn it.
Why Asia's banks are rebuilding their credit infrastructure in 2026
Banks retreat, private credit advances: Asia Pacific’s quiet lending revolution
Human Sparsity Blockchain: A citizen-validated ledger for digital finance supervision
Will stablecoins disrupt the banking business?
Digital transformation starts with leadership