DBS Bank’s Han Kwee Juan: From Singapore-Centric to Global Powerhouse
DBS Bank’s Group Head of Institutional Banking reflects on the bank’s historic World’s Best Corporate Bank win, the shift toward more intentional supply chains, and how agentic AI is reshaping the way DBS serves corporate clients. The post DBS Bank’s Han Kwee Juan: From Singapore-Centric to Global Powerhouse appeared first on Global Finance Magazine .
Han Kwee Juan, Group Head of Institutional Banking at DBS Bank, discussed the bank's recent recognition as the World's Best Corporate Bank in 2026 with Global Finance. This marks the first time a bank from Southeast Asia has received this accolade. Speaking about the award, Han described it as a "defining moment" for DBS. He views it as a testament to the bank's transformation from a Singapore-centric institution to a global partner trusted by clients for their banking needs across Asia.
Han noted that many are calling current supply chains "disrupted," but DBS sees something different. Companies are adopting local-for-local and region-for-region strategies to navigate trade challenges and tariffs. To support this, DBS provides clients with the flexibility to move across trade corridors while managing risk and liquidity. The bank leverages its deep knowledge of Asian markets to help clients select the optimal capital structure for each investment opportunity.
Technology is playing a pivotal role in shaping DBS's future, according to Han. Firstly, a modernized technology stack enables instant payments and settlement. Secondly, agentic AI is transforming internal operations. A prime example is the rollout of an agentic credit memo solution to all relationship managers. This tool prepares memos for the RMs, freeing them to apply their own judgment and client knowledge.
Lastly, DBS is preparing for a world where AI agents interact with clients' AI agents, positioning itself for future interactions.
Despite plentiful liquidity, DBS is facing pressure on this resource. Major hyperscalers and governments in developed markets are heavily drawing on liquidity to fuel AI and data infrastructure developments. This makes it challenging for other borrowers to access funds. However, DBS sees opportunities in innovative funding solutions for clients.
This includes partnerships with financial sponsors in private credit and private equity, as well as combining loans, syndication, and capital markets with private players and insurers.
Written by urgent.news from Global Finance's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
