MAS reviewing banks' capital plans, including dividend payouts

Singapore

AMID "substantial uncertainty" over the global economic outlook as corporate defaults are set to rise, the Singapore regulator is now in "close discussions" with Singapore banks on their capital management ahead, which would include conversations around - though not limited to - restricting dividend payouts.

Speaking to reporters at the release of the central bank's annual report, Monetary Authority of Singapore's (MAS) managing director Ravi Menon said banks' capital management should be approached "from a position of strength".