Geopolitics and technology are exerting a disruptive influence on trade finance. Latin America is not immune to the consequences – or the benefits. Lucien Chauvin reports.
Latest articles from Trade & supply chain finance
Faster, cheaper, smarter: blockchain in trade finance
July 2, 2018As the hype around blockchain technology ebbs, real-world applications are coming to life, particularly in trade finance. Joy Macknight examines market initiatives, lessons learned and the role that blockchain could play in driving the digitalisation and growth of global trade.
Is technology enough to plug the SME financing gap?
October 2, 2017Technology is revolutionising trade finance while facilitating lending to small businesses by tech giants such as PayPal, Amazon and Alibaba. But is this enough to fill the $1500bn global trade finance gap? Stefania Palma investigates.
A new era for China-Latin America trade relations
April 3, 2017China’s recently declared support for globalisation has given fresh hope to Latin America, which could benefit from its established trade links with the eastern giant in the form of greater investment in infrastructure, lower tariffs and higher value exports. Silvia Pavoni reports.
The changing face of trade in a digital world
March 1, 2017The way goods and services are traded internationally is changing, fuelled by the globalisation and digitalisation of supply and distribution chains. Are free-trade deals still fit for purpose in a hyperconnected world? Joy Macknight investigates.
Will digitalisation render protectionist policies meaningless?
February 27, 2017While governments edge towards protectionism, digital platforms already enable trade to cross borders, transforming global supply chains.
Plugging the funding gap in trade
November 1, 2016Asset managers are showing greater interest in providing much-needed financial support for global trade, as greater digitisation opens up the market to these new players. Joy Macknight reports.
Blockchain: less talk, more action
April 1, 2016Last year saw the blockchain hype cycle reach its peak, and its disruptive influence on the global financial services industry continues to be the subject of much debate. But after a year of talking, how far has the industry progressed in turning potential into reality?
Latam's trade finance path
November 3, 2014Trade finance is emerging as a key part of the Latin American banking business model and is bound to be a hot topic on the agenda at this year's Felaban annual meeting being held in Colombia in November. Ahead of this, The Banker speaks to experts about the challenges and opportunities that this growing business line is creating in the Latin American market.
China's prime time for trade finance
September 1, 2014With heavy state involvement and the occasional scandal, China’s trade finance sector may not be perfect. But significant change is under way as government policies facilitate growth and diversification in the country’s industry and financial sector.