The realisation of the Single Euro Payments Area has been dogged by delay and now, even before SEPA Direct Debit has launched, it looks to some as though the European Commission is moving the goalposts before mandating an end-date. Frances Maguire explores whether the industry can jump this final hurdle.
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Opportunity after knocks
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Regulation collaboration comes closer
July 6, 2010An unprecedented overhaul of the securities industry is taking place under politically mandated reform. This is forcing markets and regulators to work more closely together to ensure that there is no repeat of the recent financial crisis. Writer Frances Maguire
FX in flux
May 28, 2010Banks looking to compete in today's foreign exchange markets need to cope with immense challenges, including new players, new markets, and no less than a revolution in technology. Writer Charlie Corbett
Will a new business model reinvigorate the credit card industry?
May 28, 2010Troubled since 2005, the UK credit card industry has been suffering a severe test of profitability. But credit card issuers are hoping to rejuvenate the industry by moving to a more convenience-focused, sustainable and transparent business model.
Filling Asia's vacuum
May 28, 2010As international banks have pulled back their trade and commodity finance operations in Asia during the downturn, so increasingly sophisticated local players, particularly in China, are piling in. Writer Charlie Corbett
Russia's second-tier investment banks have ambitious plans
May 28, 2010As Russian capital markets activity revives, second-tier investment banking groups have ambitious plans to share a larger slice of the business. But competition is tough. Writer Philip Alexander
Clearing and settlement remains a barrier to Australian competition
May 28, 2010The much-anticipated competition in Australia's cash equities markets is finally taking hold, but hopeful new entrants may yet be stymied by the challenges presented by the clearing and settlement infrastructure. Writer Elton Cane
Egyptian stock market shows strong growth
May 5, 2010With the Egyptian stock exchange on a high, the EGX chairman, Maged Shakey, explains what is behind its new-found energy. Writer Daniel Maalo
Ready to roar
May 5, 2010Despite its relatively low level of activity, the potential of Beirut Stock Exchange is causing both local and foreign investors to take notice. Writer Daniel Maalo