In this regard, we foresee a scenario of fewer but more financially powerful universal and commercial banks that are better able to compete in a world of more open borders. However, this is not to say that there will be no place in the evolving financial environment for smaller banks such as thrift and rural banks.
In fact, smaller specialist banks cover important niche markets that have unique needs; for instance, consumer trade and microfinance come to mind. Under this scenario, the smaller banks complement the services of the bigger banks, thus ensuring the availability of financial services to the entire market spectrum.