However, domestic banks are not defenseless in the battle to hire talented people. Some offer an allowance to purchase real estate. The amount varies on length of service and position, but it can be worth tens of thousands of yuan.

All about timing

Xiao Yang, a Bank of China employee in Shanghai, declined the chance to work at an overseas bank.

As a graduate from Shanghai International Studies University renowned for its foreign language education, he said the chance to speak English is rare in his current position.

"I want to gain more experience before making a wise move," he said. "If the right timing comes, I will move."

1

2

3

(For more biz stories, please visit Industry Updates)