Greek banks have been regaining access to debt capital markets, a turnaround that has enabled NatWest Markets – RBS's renamed investment banking business – to show its mettle by acting as bookrunner in three major issuances out of the country, as Edward Russell-Walling reports.

Volvo Group’s financial position is starting to look more healthy after a few shaky years, and Swedish fund manager Cevian Capital chose its moment to sell its stake in the company with help from Nomura. Edward Russell-Walling reports.

The UK homebuilding industry is in rude health, which is good news for investment bank Moelis & Company. It enjoyed a productive 2017, with its advisory role in Bridgepoint's £655m acquisition of Miller Homes, and the subsequent bond sale, a high point, as Edward Russell-Walling describes.

When French freight shipping giant CMA CGM wanted to visit the capital markets, it knew the cyclical nature of its business could prove tricky. But, along with lead manager BNP Paribas, the company worked hard to convince investors of its creditworthiness, not once but three times. Edward Russell-Walling reports.

Some investors are turning to alternative risk premia, citing it as a cheaper hedge fund substitute with the added appeal of better transparency. Edward Russell-Walling reports on Deutsche Bank, which has strong claims on being the market leader in this field.

Shock election outcomes, concerns about global protectionism and the consequences of the Brexit vote led to a general air of pessimism going into 2017, yet the markets remain sanguine in the face of myriad risks, even into 2018. Is this optimism well placed – or just complacency? Edward Russell-Walling reports.

Citi's all-encompassing role in Sibanye Gold's acquisition of Stillwater Mining helped the South African company overcome numerous hurdles in a deal complicated by the country's political uncertainties, among other factors. Edward Russell-Walling reports.

After a dearth of initial public offerings in 2016, investor appetite is beginning to recover. Credit Suisse can attest to the market’s resurgence, having led several top European deals, including Société Générale’s flotation of its ALD car lease business. Edward Russell-Walling reports.

Following Japan's 2016 decision to invest $30bn in African infrastructure and health systems, the country's biggest lender, Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, has been quick to make its move into the continent. In establishing partnerships with various African development finance institutions, it sees an opportunity to generate business as well as bring two of its key arms closer together. Edward Russell-Walling reports.

Regulatory changes affecting the lending abilities of international banks, a reduction in government deposits, and still-low oil prices have seen many in the Middle East turn to the capital markets to raise funds. This plays into the hands of law firm White & Case, which has a long-standing presence in the region, as Edward Russell-Walling reports.