Growth may be crucial to a bank’s success but not at all costs. Short-term gains are often the result of a high-risk approach. Organic growth is the only sustainable route as it enhances an organisation’s value, as Krishnan Ramanujam explains.

Banks and investment managers are bracing themselves for the excesses of a new regulatory spying system that its makers hope will reduce the risk of future market turbulence, writes Michael Imeson.

Despite regulatory changes, banks need to take more of a holistic view when it comes to money laundering and fraud. Alan Duerden reports.

Are standards and regulation simply reactive to technological innovation or are they in fact the real driving force behind new developments in IT? Alan Duerden finds out.

Bank rules are a key reason behind the upset in financial markets and the advent of Basel II will do little to improve the situation.

The Islamic finance industry is rapidly evolving and expanding, with growth of banking assets estimated at $750bn and growing at a rate of 15% to 20% a year. Nabeel Shoaib explains.

Despite infrastructure issues and a lack of scenery, São Paulo has seen off local rivals and is emerging as the region’s pre-eminent financial centre. John Rumsey explains.

Hong Kong has emerged as the clear global financial centre in Asia, standing alongside London and New York. Mark Michelson examines the drivers behind the city’s success.

Professor Joe Bannister, chairman of Malta Financial Services Authority, talks to The Banker about the role of the regulator and its vision for the industry in Malta.

Thierry Gigant, managing director at BNP Paribas in Cyprus, tells The Banker what Cyprus has to offer financial institutions and how regulations, EU accession and joining the euro affect business.