Latest articles from Central & eastern Europe

Lean and liquid

May 5, 2010

The Russian consumer lending boom came to an abrupt end in late 2008, but convergence between consumer finance and traditional retail banking is providing the tools for sustainable growth. Writer Philip Alexander

Finance minister Jacek Rostowski determined to reduce deficit

March 31, 2010

Poland has emerged as the most resilient economy in the EU during the global slowdown. However, The Banker's European Finance Minister of the Year is determined to stay ahead of the pack, and is now prioritising bringing down the country's budget deficit. Writer Philip Alexander

Vladimir Dmitriev

March 31, 2010

State-owned development bank Vnesheconombank became a vital tool for the Russian government to combat the financial crisis, not only at home but also in neighbouring countries. The bank's chairman explains how it is exiting the assistance phase and preparing a long-term role in the economy. Writer Philip Alexander

Slovenia looks before it leaps

March 31, 2010

Slovenia tracked the market's reaction to Greece's 10-year bond release in early March before moving quickly into action with its second bond issue of the year. Writer Edward Russell-Walling

cp/76/GET-Kosovo.jpg

Cautious optimism prevails in Europe's youngest nation

March 3, 2010

A diversified economy of micro-businesses has shielded Kosovo from the worst effects of the financial crisis, but its unresolved national status and uncertain legal environment continue to pose challenges. Writer Nick Saywell

Latvia: Searching for a new path to economic growth

March 3, 2010

Flooded with Scandinavian liquidity during the boom years, Latvia has suffered the most severe bust in the EU and bankers are devising a new business model while clearing up the consequences of the old one. Writer Philip Alexander

Team

Right places, Right time

March 3, 2010

When it decided to sell a slice of copper miner KGHM, Poland's government turned to Deutsche Bank, hoping that it would give the deal a more international approach as well as getting the timing of a potentially delicate deal just right. Writer Edward Russell-Walling

cp/76/GET-Ukraine.jpg

Politics holds key to lending

March 3, 2010

There are no guarantees that a new president will usher in greater economic and political stability in Ukraine, which makes further consolidation likely in the country's under-pressure banking sector. Writer Philip Alexander

Stage set for mergers

February 1, 2010

As the central bank of Russia tightens capital requirements, the country's Top 50 banks look set to continue accumulating capital and assets at the expense of smaller players. Writer Philip Alexander

Russia's ambitious plan for economic reform

February 1, 2010

The economic advisor to the Russian president explains why he is cautiously optimistic about the country's economic prospects for 2010. Interview by Philip Alexander.

The Banker on Twitter