While most large Russian banks have managed to hold onto their position relative to each other, they have all suffered significant falls in Tier 1 capital and profits as they find themselves challenged by currency depreciation and difficult market conditions. Written by Matthew Karwacki, research by Valeria Yakutovich.
Farewell to the debt valuation adjustment rule
January 26, 2016
The byzantine accounting rule introduced much volatility into the earnings and has finally been repealed by the US Financial Accounting Standards Board.
European banks quicker to cut staff than US lenders
January 14, 2016
Since the 2008 financial crisis, European banks have shed a significantly higher proportion of their workforce than their counterparts in the US.
Eurobond issuance soars among EM banks
January 6, 2016
In emerging markets, bond issuance used to be the preserve of sovereigns, but over the past decade bank activity in the Eurobond markets has ballooned.
Syndicated loans suffer from commodity woes
December 17, 2015
The US commodities industry attracted more syndicated lending than nearly any other business in 2014. It also saw the largest rise in bad loans.
UK buy-to-let lending nears pre-crisis peak
December 15, 2015
Buy-to-let lending in Britain is now near its pre-crisis peak. Who is originating these mortgages?
Banking on negative rates
December 9, 2015
Negative rates stunt interest income as banks are reluctant to pass the costs onto depositors.
Rise of subprime auto loans in US
December 4, 2015
The spike in subprime auto lending in the US could cause headaches for less diversified lenders.
Ranks of correspondent banks grow thinner
December 1, 2015Correspondent banking remains an important channel for financial flows in the eurozone, but it is becoming increasingly concentrated in the hands of just a few banks.
Portugal’s banks turn a corner
November 30, 2015
Lower provisions and a resurgent economy are helping Portuguese banks to become profitable again