BNP Paribas

The Tokyo Metropolitan Government is cementing its leading position at the forefront of Japan’s energy transition with its seventh green bond issuance — and proving to be an inspiration for similarly sized urban areas around the world.

Across electric vehicles adoption and green bond issuance, Asia Pacific leads the world in energy transition efforts.

Following a tumultuous year for businesses worldwide, the Key Treasury Challenges Survey finds corporations throughout the Asia Pacific region grappling with pressing concerns on working capital, currency volatility, funding, and more this year, while at the same time devising strategies to chart a course towards regaining growth.

SK Geo Centric secured a KRW 475 billion (approx. $375 million) sustainability-linked loan, the first in South Korea to be in line with global standards, ushering a new era of sustainable financing for companies in the country wanting to fulfil their net zero ambitions.

Chinese auto maker, Geely, is accelerating its transition to new energy vehicles with its first major financing under a new sustainable finance framework.

Vietnamese automotive industry newcomer, VinFast, wants to spearhead the global revolution in electric vehicles (EVs) – and has tapped investor appetite for sustainable finance to fuel its expansion.

Corporate treasurers are in the driver’s seat during a period of market uncertainty that requires tough decisions such as how to use cash reserves more efficiently and manage local currency risk.

If China is to meet its bold target of carbon neutrality in the next 40 years, it will need to focus on the sustainability of its cities – and look to real estate developers like Hang Lung Properties to show the way forward.

Global trade stands to benefit from a pioneering move to digitise maritime freight documentation. With legal certainty over electronic versions of essential paperwork, shipping is set for a more sustainable future.

Beijing’s focus on driving homegrown innovation and domestically-led growth in the emerging Greater Bay Area (GBA) will lure foreign investors that are forward-thinking and keen to leverage sectors that will reap the rewards from regional economic progress.

Mounting pressure from governments, investors and consumers for more clarity and transparency in supply chains will help align ethical standards and, in turn, drive greater competitiveness.

Rapid digitalisation has enabled corporates to manage the initial impact of the pandemic with minimal disruption. Now they must ensure new digital tools and technologies are fully integrated into their treasury strategy and proactively manage risks.