Global trade flow volumes have declined in 2012, dwindling to $37.7 billion and registering 217 deals in the year. This is down from $40.5 billion and 593 deals recorded in 2011.
Total global syndicated loan volume was down 16% in 2012. Asia-Pacific loans fared comparatively well and fell only 3%, mainly due to a buoyant Japanese market.
Korea is seeking to reduce its reliance on US dollars as a trade currency, and hoping to tap its swap line with China more. CT asks is this a sound strategy?