Business Update-Banks lift Asia

March 16, 2009

Asian share markets gained as regional banks surged, while fears about the health of U.S. lenders eased. Markets await Federal Reserve and Bank of Japan meetings this week, while the BOJ is reportedly considering purchase of banks' subordinated debt to boost their finances. *Pioneer shares soar after reports that its looking for a car navigation partner. *Taiwan's share benchmark hits 4-month high. *Oil prices slump after OPEC keeps production steady.