The former UK prime minister turned international envoy talks about his latest initiatives for improving African governance. Interview by Peter Guest.

Are French banks in a stronger position than others to weather the economic crisis? Probably yes, as their model, which is more stable and highly diversified, differs appreciably from that of other international players.

London’s role as a global financial centre has been damaged by the current crisis and the UK’s ruling Labour Party must bear some of the responsibility for this. However, there is a political consensus to remedy the situation.

The global financial crisis is a time of opportunity as well as challenge, to be grasped with both hands.

Good news from Africa is often drowned out by a tide of negative reporting. The Banker aims to combat this by profiling the achievements of leading young Africans. Writer Charlie Corbett.

Parallels between the Asian economic crisis 10 years ago and the current financial turmoil may hold some useful lessons for world governments as they steer through troubled times.

Lowered oil prices and political fear have rocked the balance of Russia’s economy, but there is still some cause for optimism.

India has been shocked to feel the fallout from the crisis but has introduced measures to survive the downturn.

As turmoil in the banking industry intensifies, the appeal of Islamic finance and its risk-sharing approach is growing. Yet to bring Islamic structures into the mainstream, a workable infrastructure must be established. The Banker brought together a panel of industry experts to discuss the key considerations.

Dislocation and falling equity markets are breathing life into the Australian corporate bond market, while a falling cash rate and government-led initiatives are also resuscitating the once lifeless government bond market. Writer Kate Hage.