Latest articles from Central & eastern Europe

Building momentum

October 6, 2008

New state funds and laws are allowing Russia’s ailing infrastructure to catch up with its fast-growing economy. The Banker hears from some of the key players in a $1000bn market. Writer Philip Alexander.

Pressing a home territory advantage

September 1, 2008

Leading European and US consumer finance players have expanded aggressively in central and eastern Europe, but they face a strong local competitor in the shape of PPF Group. Writer Philip Alexander.

Kazakhstan Searches for pain relief

August 4, 2008

When the credit crunch struck, Kazakhstan was first hit and worst hit among emerging markets. Philip Alexander looks for signs of recovery.

Nordic banks braced for Baltic slowdown

August 4, 2008

As recessions loom in the Baltic states, Scandinavian banks have reason to be grateful for their reliable domestic earnings, reports Karina Robinson.

Slow on the cards

July 1, 2008

Credit cards are relatively new to Russia and take-up is still slow as cash remains the dominating payment method. Brian Caplen reports on progress.

Big strides fail to resolve inherent weaknesses

July 1, 2008

Reliance on external markets for refinancing is one of the weaknesses in Russia’s banking system. Brian Caplen reports on this and other factors that are holding back the sector’s development.

Signs point to bright future

July 1, 2008

Three elections in two years and an inflation overshoot are compounding the uncertainty for Serbia’s banks, but foreign players still see great potential. Nick Saywell reports from Belgrade.

Investors wowed by Georgian bond issue

June 2, 2008

Edward Russell-Walling reports on how Georgia’s first ever issue on the international bond market was a resounding success.

Peripheral but a pool of potential

June 2, 2008

Banks have made little impact on the Hungarian economy. Is that what is keeping US players interested in the market? Nick Kochan reports.

Caucasus calling

May 5, 2008

The Azerbaijan government is keen to use its geostrategic location and growing resources wealth to establish its status as a regional hub, and the financial sector is eager to play its part, reports Philip Alexander.

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