"I am a female banker in Asia. People don't discuss sexism enough here"

1 February 2026

2 minute read

I am a female banker working in the Asian markets. Whenever I hear of people discussing sexist attitudes in banking, it is in relation to London or New York. What people don't understand is that it can be even worse in Asia.

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Male bankers in Asia often think they have a right to treat young females however they like. If you try to object to this, they can make your life very difficult indeed. The men have all the power here and in my experience the senior women will not help you. There are usually only one or two women on teams of 15 people and those women feel very exposed. They close ranks and side with the men.

Wrongdoing is never discussed because when women leave banks where they've been mistreated, they always sign NDAs. These are often accompanied by packages which are big enough to persuade them to go quietly, but small compared to the amounts that the senior men are paid.

I've tried to speak out about the sexism I've experienced and it has made my life very difficult and been damaging to my career. I've had no messages of support from the other women who are very aware of my situation. I'm struggling and I would like to urge other women to take a stand when they see things they disagree with. Today it's me, tomorrow it could be you!

Tang Shuren is a pseudonym

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AUTHORTang Shuren

Insider Comment

Da
Danny Global
3 February 2026
To be clear, sexim exists for both men and women in Asia and also in the West. Speaking from senior executive in APAC, I've seen so many good men victimized against false allegations and distorted narrative from women who refuse to work hard and fair - instead lean towards sexism narrative. I am told from my friends in East and West to keep distance and abide by Pence rule to be safe.
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Fa
Fatma26
2 February 2026
From my point of view, sexism will take many years ,maybe even decades to end, and I’m sure it will never completely vanish. But that doesn’t mean I should stand still and do nothing about it. Still, we can’t make a real difference when we’re in small positions. I understand ( though not ethically ) why some women align themselves with men until they reach higher positions, especially in this field. All I can say is: try to find a way to survive until you reach a position where you can actually change something. my heart w you <3
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Su
Sultan
2 February 2026
poor little girl ...
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