Foreign banks are finding that the lure of Iran’s large population, oil-rich heritage and privatisation opportunities may outweigh the risks, writes Karina Robinson from Tehran.

Public and private sector banks have been restructured on the long journey to banking sector reform, but major challenges remain, writes Nadine Marroushi.

Tapping into the huge and underserved housing market is the next challenge for Brazilian banks. John Rumsey reports on the growth of mortgages and the consequent development of the securitisation market.

Guernsey’s financial watchdog gives aggressive fund promotors what they want: a quick turnaround time for new products. Silvia Pavoni explains.

Fitch finds banks are more likely to fail than to default; and S&P outlines its approach to risk-adjusted capital analysis.

The level of risk management sophistication on the part of insurers is rising, resulting in brisk business for banks specialising in the provision of products such as derivatives. Edward Russell-Walling explains.

Arriving late on the modern banking scene, institutions in central and eastern Europe have not been weighed down by the baggage of complex legacy systems. Technology being implemented in the region is now finding its way west, writes Rekha Menon.

The number of players in Nigeria’s banking sector is falling again as a desire to maintain a top 10 listing, as well as a nationwide presence, pushes a new wave of mergers, writes Nick Kochan.

Tapping into the huge and underserved housing market is the next challenge for Brazilian banks. John Rumsey reports on the growth of mortgages and the consequent development of the securitisation market.

The outcome of the tussle for ABN AMRO will have a decisive effect on the Brazilian banking scene, which is currently dominated by domestic players. John Rumsey reports.