Though rated stable by international ratings agencies, analysts are of the view that profitability for Singapore's three listed banks (UOB, OCBC and DBS Bank) would not be boosted next year due to their being hit by a double whammy of declining loans growth and low interest rates. Mergers and acquisition opportunities in Thailand, Taiwan and Indonesia could be potential income drivers for these banks. SMU associate professor of finance, Annie Koh reckoned that Indonesia might be a good collaboration market for our local banks.
TODAY