31.  Standard Chartered is active in trading regional currencies from Singapore, to Kuala Lumpur and Jakarta.

32.  That makes the mark the de facto regional currency.

33.  That may be further delayed due to the turmoil in regional currency markets.

34.  That could further depress regional currencies.

35.  That is because Americans are snatching up products from Asia that are at bargain prices because of the strong dollar and devalued regional currencies.

36.  The company said second-half profits will be lower due to a weaker market and weaker regional currencies.

37.  The devaluation of the Thai baht last week also caused foreign investors to worry other regional currencies may follow.

38.  The full force of the slump still lies ahead, following attacks that began in the spring on regional currencies.

39.  The International Monetary Fund cut its growth forecasts for Southeast Asia, delivering a bleak assessment of the damage caused by months of turmoil in regional currency markets.

40.  The leaders of Thailand, the Philippines and Singapore issued statements after meeting Mahathir that supported using regional currency for regional trade.