Just as the UK goes into recession, the authorities decided to get tough on loan repayment insurance. Surely this is dreadful timing? Writer Michael Imeson

Growing competition in the post-trade clearing and settlement infrastructure, brought about by MiFID, could dramatically reshape Europe's custody market. Writer Frances Maguire

FSA chairman Lord Turner will soon publish plans for tightening up UK banking regulation. Bankers are resigned to tougher rules but have some concerns. Writer Michael Imeson.

The short-selling of financial stocks is still banned in most major economies but hedge fund managers, brokers and others are campaigning hard for the restrictions to be lifted. Writer Michael Imeson.

In the US’s multi-layered banking sector, the credit crisis is being felt on all levels. But as the Treasury launches wave after wave of initiatives to protect the larger banks, and the smaller community banks stand firm due to their low exposure to subprime, it is the medium-sized banks that face the greatest threat. Writer Jane Monahan in Washington, DC.

There has been plenty of talk globally about the need for banks to return to traditional values and operating models to avoid future financial turmoil. Malta is following this path and is reaping the rewards for its conservatism. Writer Michael Imeson.

The AIG and Lehman debacles have convinced regulators globally that a central clearing counterparty is critical for the future of the credit default swaps market. But many market participants feel that the idea is flawed. Writer Michelle Price.

Lovells’ restructuring of Cheyne Capital’s $7bn structured investment vehicle set an example for other troubled SIVs. Writer Edward Russell-Walling.

Those who thought the EU had gone as far as it could to stamp out savings tax evasion, think again. A tougher version of the Savings Tax Directive is being drafted – and the banks don’t like it. Writer Michael Imeson.

The banking system has shirked its ownership of risk, but governments must be generous if it is to survive.