Japan's regional banks are enhancing unsecured retail lending as it offers high profit margins. Loans on mortgage and small firm borrowing are declining. Japan banks are suffering from ultra-low interest rate regime to increase revenues.
Asia/Pacific
Bank of Japan To Stick In Negative Interest Rate Policy, Reversion Likely In April
Through a surprise move, Bank of Japan has adopted negative interest rate aiming to force the banks in investment. Meanwhile, the negative economic outlook has compelled the commercial banks to squeeze their investment portfolios while diminishing the BOJ move. Analysts have forecast for unchanged monetary policy in Tuesday’s meeting while predicting for a major change in April.
Korean Venture Capital Firms Gaze at Overseas Biotech Companies
South Korean venture capital firms are eyeing overseas biotech industry to accelerate investment goals. At the sametime, tech startups in Korea also began to flourish.
Philippine President Hopefuls’ Tricky Stance On Relationship With China Amid Territorial Dispute
Sino-Philippine relationships have been witnessed to hit the bottom during the regime of existing president. Presidential candidates for the upcoming elections find difficulties in maintaining balance with national sovereignty and trade relations with neighboring China. However, all the candidates have committed to uphold sovereignty while maintaining better trade relations with China.
Toyota Targets Zero Emissions, Collaborates with Toshiba Corp, Iwatani Corp and Local Government for Hydrogen Fuel Cell
Toyota has been working with the local government along with Toshiba Corp. and Iwatani Corp. regarding hydrogen fuel cell. Hydrogen will be taken from the wind-power plant in Yokohama Hama Wing that will be compressed and delivered by a truck.
Latest News
Global markets have been moving in tandem with state of Chinese economy and US Presidential elections these days. After rebounding in the previous month, the global markets are waiting for next level triggers from US elections and stimulus plans on China's economy.
World Asset Management Inc increased its stakes in ICICI Bank Ltd thus increasing the bank’s fund. The bank will now have sufficient funds to lend to eligible borrowers who want to have their own business and houses.
Micromax has been the popular smartphone company in India but with the introduction of other cheaper smartphones from other companies, Micromax is now struggling to keep pace with its competitors. It is now seeking partnership for expansion to produce television and tablets outside its home country.
China Banking Regulatory Commission (CBRC) has warned of risks from industrial overcapacity. CBRC has advised commercial banks and financial institutions to keep limits on lending exposure as it sees a need for setting up investment pilot projects and asset securitization to enhance cash flows.
China has decided to implement its stringent anti-pollution efforts despite slowing down of economy. China is propelling up economy growth without compromising on environment protection.
Chicago Transport Authority has planned to replace 2,600 age old rail cars with 846 units of 7000-Series cars. CTA has awarded the $1.3 billion deal, the largest purchase in its history to a unit of CRR Corp. on Wednesday. Chinese companies have been awarded the second major deal following $567 million contract to supply trains for Boston’s subway system.
MMB patented gene modified seeds are capable of secreting anti pest protein. However, the seed giant is accused of charging higher royalty fees exerting undue dominance in the seed market. Upon complaints from respective trade body, the Indian agriculture ministry has imposed ceiling for royalties on gene modified cotton seeds.
Diagio Plc, British liquor major, says it paid $40 million to trouble-ridden Indian businessman Vijay Mallya. This comes close on the heels of an order by Debt Recovery Tribunal (DRT) not to pay Mallya any amount.
China's stocks fell for a second session, but managed to pare early losses on buying support from state-backed institutions. However, the buying support from state-backed funds renewed concerns that inflation is rising.
