Japan’s distinctly tiered banking system could change dramatically if local government reform goes ahead, and regional banks are worried by the potential threat that a privatised postal savings bank could pose. Charles Smith reports.

Despite huge technological advances, firms still issue clunky, non-standardised activity announcements – that can be misinterpreted. Frances Maguire assesses the industry’s attempts to automate the process.

What makes a successful international financial centre? Michael Imeson reports on the imperfect art of ascertaining which world city is truly the greatest.

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 establishment of a school for financial regulation in London should attract students from around the world eager to learn about the UK’s principles-based oversight model, says Mervyn Davies.

The US government wants to impose cost basis reporting on the investment industry to make it easier to determine how much capital gains tax investors owe on their securities. Michael Imeson reports.