Banking in emerging markets has traditionally been characterized by [1] government control, restrictions on borrowing and lending rates, and financial repression. However, in the 1990s regulators were forced to deregulate and liberalize financial systems due to macroeconomic pressures, technological developments, and global changes. This led to [2] privatizations, mergers and acquisitions, growth of foreign banks, and other structural changes in emerging market banking systems. Still, concerns remain regarding foreign bank ownership and continued reforms are needed to build stable banking sectors.