Editorial

Adaptability, sustainability and resilience

Five years on from Covid-19 pandemic-induced disruptions in global supply chains, our main feature looks at how treasurers can build resilient supply chains through enhancing visibility, flexibility, control and strengthening supplier relationships. Experts agree that regular supply chain stress-testing can help identify vulnerabilities and point out how supply chain finance programmes can strengthen supplier relationships and improve working capital.

Technology is critical for building resilient treasury operations. Many mid-sized companies in Asia have adopted cloud-based treasury management systems (TMS) which don’t require substantial IT infrastructure and specialised personnel.

In our Corporate View this month, Roopashini Maheswaran, Head of Group Treasury at X-Press Feeders, talks about leading a project to implement a new TMS intended to automate and streamline treasury processes.

In-house banking (IHB) has emerged as a strategic enabler for modern treasury functions. We look at best practice when setting up an IHB, with top tips from Roche, Treasury Cube and Cobase.

Staying abreast of regulatory changes is also paramount, as the penalties for non-compliance can often be significantly higher than the cost of compliance. However, regulatory and operational fragmentation creates significant challenges. Finance leaders at Kerry Ingredients and Flavours, DFI Group and Marsh McLennan discuss their strategies to mitigate regulatory risks.

Our country coverage explores the opportunities that the Indian market presents for large global brands, particularly those that take a flexible, localised approach when operating in such a diverse market. Many believe that a local finance team is key to effectively navigate the country’s complex regulatory environment, as well as respond to changing consumer expectations and payment preferences.

Many corporates are setting up regional treasury centres (RTCs) in the Middle East, as treasury functions are now decentralising to better align with business growth in frontier and emerging markets. The UAE remains the top choice in MENA for hosting RTCs due to its world-class banking infrastructure, stable and business-friendly regulatory environment.

Treasury professionals need to build strong working relationships with a host of other departments across the organisation, from procurement and IT to legal and HR. Experts from Avramar, Thomas Cook India and Wolters Kluwer share best practice.