Critics within his coalition government and the media are rounding on Austria’s ‘ineffectual’ chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer but, he tells Karina Robinson, those who write him off may be in for a surprise.

A conservative stance and good risk management are helping ING to keep steady in the credit crunch, CEO Michel Tilmant tells Karina Robinson.

Peer Steinbrück, Germany’s finance minister, defends his country’s positions – and cannot resist a dig at the UK leadership. Interview by Karina Robinson.

Vietnam’s booming economy is proving an irresistible lure for banks despite reform hold=ups and expensive valuations. Karina Robinson reports from Hanoi.

Vietnam’s central bank governor will have to toughen up as the country’s banking sector continues to develop at a rapid pace. By Karina Robinson.

BBVA may have grabbed the headlines for missed acquisitions but a bank that posts 20% a year profits growth, that pays a top return on equity as well as being a byword for prudence cannot be all bad, as Karina Robinson discovers.

Ferenc Gyurcsany, Hungary’s prime minister, tells Karina Robinson how he plans to rein in public spending yet confound the polls and get re-elected .

Roustam Tariko, owner and founder of Russian Standard Bank (and Vodka), tells Karina Robinson of plans to tailor his banking model to current realities.

People are using avatars to develop businesses and have fun in virtual worlds, such as Second Life. Karina Robinson reports on the growing response from banks and the potential they could tap.

Colombia’s security and economic situation has improved to the extent that foreign banks are looking for takeover targets. Karina Robinson reports from Bogotá and Medellín.