Accountants and auditors can look forward to a hefty raise this year, but only if they are in the top echelons of the profession. (Asia One)

Aozora Bank and Shinsei Bank in merger talks. (Bloomberg)

J.P. Morgan has topped a list of the world's strongest banks. It heads international financial publication The Banker's annual list of the strongest 1,000 global banks, moving up from fourth place a year earlier. (983 Live)

China Construction Bank and Santander plan rural venture. (Bloomberg)

The head of Westpac's institutional banking division, Phil Chronican, has quit the bank after helping chief executive Gail Kelly steer the group through the global financial crisis. (Business Day)

Fewer Australians are likely to lose their jobs over the next year than previously thought, as the economy performs better than expected, according to an OEDC report. (News.com.au)