The asset quality of Asean banks could weaken over the next 12-18 months, but strong performance in recent years their should enable them to absorb the impact, says Standard & Poor's Ratings Services (S&P) "The recurring profits and adequate capital of banks and the strong government support for these banks will underpin rating stability and buffer against downside risks, credit analyst Ivan Tan said. A report entitled "Asean Banks Will Remain Resilient to Rising Risks" said risks had been building up for regional banks after several years of smooth sailing. These include credit risk due to rising property prices and household indebtedness, funding pressure from tight liquidity and market risks from rising interest rates in certain countries, The analysis looked at six major markets Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam. Rising property prices amid widely avail able and affordable credit have propelled an increase in household debt in Singapore and Malaysia. A prolonged run-up in housing prices and household indebtedness have also contributed to growing economic imbalances. But non-performing loans (NPLs)in both countries haye remained low, reflecting affordable mortgage rates and nearly