Banks are using volatility products with transparent structures and pay-offs that are easy to understand to attract a growing number of institutional and individual investors.
Latest articles from Banking strategies
Structured products move one step closer to harmonisation
June 30, 2011In theory, the advent of the Ucits IV Directive should lead to standardised documentation for structured products across the EU. In practice, structurers must still work with diverging national regulatory frameworks.
Investors get tactical on emerging markets
June 30, 2011Emerging market equities were outperformers in 2010, but investors are looking for more selective ways to play the market in 2011.
Middle East bond markets capitalise on hunt for yield
June 30, 2011International investors eyeing the Middle East are undeterred by political uncertainty and Dubai’s debt problems in their hunt for a decent return, but can supply keep up with demand?
Intraday cash management: why banks must get to grips with their money
June 30, 2011SmartStream's CEO Philippe Chambadal and senior product manager Phil Cantor discuss the importance of intraday cash management in helping financial institutions save money, stay competitive and avoid regulatory pressure.
Moelis & Co: a boutique no longer?
June 30, 2011It is becoming more difficult to call four-year old Moelis & Co a boutique firm. Times are good for independent investment banks, but can this run of good business continue?
Ghana vows to avoid oil curse
June 30, 2011The discovery of oil has turned Ghana into one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. Ghana knows it has plenty to do to ensure the commodity remains a blessing but the early signs are good.
Ghana keen to diversify while the going's good
June 30, 2011Ghana is making plenty of effort to diversify its economy. But cocoa, gold and oil will have the biggest impact on the economy in the coming years, so for now the country is reaping the benefits of high global prices for these commodities.
Petrobras eyes euro and sterling markets
June 30, 2011Brazilian oil company Petrobras is planning to take advantage of the changing world order in currency terms by reducing its reliance on the US dollar in favour of the euro and sterling markets.
Europe draws on Japanese variable annuity experience
June 30, 2011As companies abolish final salary pension schemes and governments seek to foster private pension provision, variable annuity offerings are moving to centre stage in Europe. But they require careful structuring.