The best banks in the Asia-Pacific region, according to customers

SINGAPORE — Customers in Asia-Pacific have picked their favorite banks as lenders scramble to meet consumer expectations in a fast-changing environment. After a prolonged period of high inflation — and interest rates — banks in the region are starting to navigate the global trend of lower rates. They’re also facing technological innovation that has the […]

Chinese companies rush to hike dividends, buy back shares in Japan-style reform

Chinese listed companies are rushing to buy back shares and lift dividends as they respond to regulators’ calls that echo reform efforts in Japan and South Korea, driving a welcome rally even if investors doubt that broader governance changes are afoot. China-listed firms announced record cash dividends totalling 2.2 trillion yuan ($300 billion) for 2023 […]

Hitachi plans to sell 40% stake in Johnson Aircon JV

Japan’s Hitachi (OTC:HTHIY) is considering selling its 40% stake in an air-conditioning joint venture with Johnson Controls (NYSE:JCI) International Plc, Bloomberg News reported on Tuesday, citing people familiar with the matter. The deal could value the joint venture, Johnson Controls-Hitachi Air Conditioning, at almost 500 billion yen ($3.16 billion), Bloomberg reported citing the sources. A Hitachi spokesperson […]