Russia’s finance minister Alexei Kudrin (right) welcomed the country’s forthcoming adoption of international accounting standards at The Banker’s Top 50 Russian Banks presentation recently, as Stephen Timewell reports from Moscow.

The low capital base of the Russian banking sector is a serious concern; it could hamper the country’s ability to achieve its ambitious growth targets. But there is growth.Stephen Timewell reports from Moscow.
The Russian economy may be growing strongly, with latest GDP growth estimates put at 5.8% in 2004, but Russian bankers are concerned about the low capability of Russia’s banks and their lack of access to long-term funds.

Banks in Europe are turning to chip and PIN payment cards not just to combat fraud but also in the hope that greater security will boost usage and strengthen their relationship with their customers. Stephen Timewell reports.

Iran’s reformers are keen to promote economic growth, which is leading to a resurgence of interest in the country’s private banks. Stephen Timewell reports.

Iran is reaping the benefit of economic reforms and its banking privatisation plan is likely to be a springboard to further financial success. Stephen Timewell reports from Tehran.

Egypt has a new prime minister and a new economic reform programme, but will anything change? How will the new government of Dr Ahmed Nazif provide the economic stimulus the country desperately needs? Stephen Timewell reports.

The Philippine government is taking significant steps to improve the country’s economy. But much still needs to be done. Stephen Timewell reports.

Prime Minister John Howard’s re-election is a reflection of the conservatism that pervades the country and its banking sector, says Stephen Timewell in Melbourne.

A report by Austria’s Raiffeisen International on the banking markets in 20 central and European countries paints a picture of privatisation and enormous potential. Stephen Timewell reports.

Massimo Arrighetti, head of retail at Italy’s Banca Intesa, talks to Stephen Timewell about the earthquake in his bank’s retail sector that has led not only to a radical rethink, but also to a step change in processes.
When Banco Ambrosiano Veneto, Cariplo and Banca Commerciale Italiana joined forces in late 2002 to form the largest bank in Italy, Banca Intesa, they also formed a bank with a staggering 1,500 different retail products.