FT Live Report: The digital transformation of Asian banking

Asia’s banks face a pivotal moment. Despite growing investment in digital transformation, most banks in the region are still falling short of their digital goals — and risk losing ground to faster, tech-first challengers.

How can incumbent banks accelerate transformation while managing cost, risk and customer trust?

This FT Live report explores how digital payments, AI and virtual banking are reshaping the sector — and what’s needed for traditional banks to compete in a rapidly evolving landscape.

Download the report now to get the insights you need ahead of Banking Summit Asia.
Gain a clearer view of the region’s shifting financial infrastructure and be part of the conversation on 11 September 2025 at the Four Seasons Hotel, Hong Kong.

2025 Official Event Brochure

Download the brochure for a comprehensive event overview, including the agenda and key themes such as digital transformation and regulatory change, to confirmed speakers, moderators and session highlights. You’ll also find details on who’s attending and how to book your place at this high-level gathering of Asia’s most influential banking leaders — a valuable opportunity to build connections and explore new partnerships.

Webinar recording | Rethinking Regional Banking: Asia’s Shifting Role in Global Finance

This webinar explored AI’s transformative role in the banking value chain, the real impact of China’s financial influence, and the disruptive rise of neobanks, offering a critical analysis of the region’s future amid global fragmentation.

Discussion points included:

• How can banks protect profitability and maintain competitive edge amid Trump-era tariffs and escalating trade tensions?
• Which emerging technologies should banks prioritise to strengthen market position as economic fragmentation accelerates?
• As US-China tensions reshape capital flows and market access, how will China’s role in Asian banking evolve?
• How can banks scale digital operations while safeguarding regulatory compliance and mitigating cybersecurity threats in a volatile geopolitical climate?

India - Sustaining growth amid new challenges

Hardika Shah, Founder and CEO, Kinara Capital
Kimberley Long, Asia Editor, The Banker

Amid soaring economic growth, India’s banking sector is still tasked with meeting the fast developing needs of its burgeoning population. As customer demands and markets mature, how will its banking sector respond? 

• How insulated is the Indian economy to global risks? 
• As overseas investment increases, how can India’s financial system benefit?
• Where does India sit amid wider Asia growth prospects?

China - Is reform critical to the success of its financial sector?

Jinny Yan, Managing Director, Chief China Economist, ICBC Standard Bank
Benjamin Hung, President, International, Standard Chartered
Kimberley Long, Asia Editor, The Banker

With the Chinese economic growth and domestic demand having stalled, overseas investor confidence has threatened to waiver. As global lenders seek to expand their Asia businesses, how should the industry approach China? 

• How is sentiment among international banks changing for investment in China? 
• Should banks remain committed to China for the long haul? 
• What is the outlook for China-West relations in the medium term?

2024 Highlights Report

Missed last year's event? Download our highlights report for a summary of some key sessions:

• Opening Keynote Interview - NatWest Group CEO highlights growth priorities amid regulatory debate
• CEO Fireside Chat - Barclays CEO highlights growth, regulation, and investment strategy
• Digital Transformation - How much more do bank business models need to adapt?
• AI - Modernising to the core
• Hyper-personalisation - How are customer needs evolving?
• CEO Keynote Interview - Lloyds CEO
• CFO Perspectives - Maintaining the path to profit
• Trust and Data - Can AI implementation be efficient, secure, and revenue-generating?
• The 2025 Horizon - Lessons for leadership and fundamentals for growth

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