Of all the forms of operational risk, compliance officers are most concerned with regulatory risk. Why? Because the consequences of getting it wrong can be so severe, writes Michael Imeson.

Flat tax is unpalatable to governments of established economies but its adoption by emerging countries could spark a rethink.

With demographic change and globalisation presenting fresh challenges, Rodrigo de Rato explains how the 60-year-old International Monetary Fund is adapting itself to new paradigms.

With an eye on China’s burgeoning consumer credit and retail markets, two American companies have invested in the future of Shenzhen Development Bank. Stephen Timewell reports.

UK regulators are reviewing hedge funds and alternative retail investments with a view to imposing new restrictions that could curtail growth in the sector, writes Michael Imeson.

Trade in whole mortgage loans is brisk in the UK, while Germany and the Netherlands show potential, but the booming European market’s main player is American. Michael Marray reports.

Although not yet in general use, biometrics are slowly being tested and adopted in the banking sphere as a way of increasing security, Wendy Atkins reports.

The Middle East is enjoying an investment boom but risks leaving the poor further behind. Microfinance can help to improve their prospects but it will take more than loans alone. Rula Dababneh explains.

The European Commission wants to boost efficiency in the mortgage market by creating a single European market for the sector. But care needs to be taken in establishing such a market, which must be free and open.

Proposed by the Committee of European Banking Supervisors, translated from officialese by Michael Imeson.