South Korea’s banks are looking overseas for opportunities and faster profit growth now that their domestic market no longer offers the revenues and excitement it once did.

The economy is suffering as months of protests show no sign of abating. Banks have been targeted by demonstrators. So far, its financial markets have been largely unaffected. But surely it is only a matter of time before Asia’s greatest financial centre suffers too?

Hong Kong’s Financial Services under-secretary is a rare species: a government official willing to talk to the media, despite holding such a tough job of keeping the SAR’s markets operating smoothly in a time of chaos.

As well as investing heavily in digital in-house capabilities, this Taiwanese financial instiution is keeping an eye out for acquisitions – and, in turn, Asia and international banks should keep an eye on it.

At the forefront of the trend toward a more environmentally friendly financial system, Development Bank of Japan combines making a profit with a commitment to making an impact for good.

The first Chinese bank to sign the Equator Principles, Industrial Bank has led the development of the green financing market.

Haitong's ambition and aggression has helped shape Asia's financial system, and made it a mainstay of Hong Kong's capital markets.

Japan's Mizuho is one to watch in the region as it builds on its domestic strength to move into overseas markets.

CTBC has expanded strategically across southeast Asia, but now needs to develop its presence in China to make it a leader in regional banking.