PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk

Bank Rakyat Indonesia is one of the most profitable banks in the world. Its return on equity, a key measure of profitability, stood at 34% in 2013. ROE at most banks in developed countries is in the single digits. BRI's focus on micro loans helps the lender maintain a high interest margin. The bank claims to have a nearly 50% market share in the micro loans segment.

In a bid to expand its telecommunications network across the archipelago, BRI plans to launch its own $250 million satellite. The bank believes this move is the first of its kind.

Sofyan Bashir, who was appointed BRI's president in 2005, will step down next year after his second five-year term. He is rumored to be one of the leading candidates to take over a top post at another state-owned company, such as the national flag carrier, Garuda Indonesia. He previously served as president of Bank Bukopin, a local private lender.