Banking sectors across the globe still face trying times in the aftermath of the financial crisis. In this context, Standard&Poor's Ratings Services has reviewed its Banking Industry Country Risk Assessments (BICRAs) for 86 countries using its updated BICRA criteria. We believe the risk of downward changes to our BICRAs presently outweighs the possibilities for upward revisions. This is true for both mature and emerging economies. Key contributing factors include widespread concern about European sovereign debt, as well as the increased risk of a double-dip recession in Europe. Troubled funding markets and the future exit strategies of central banks and governments may also have an impact on banking sectors. Added to this is the potential for rising economic imbalances
