Given current regulations regarding SWFs, the US and EU have no right to attack emerging economies on how they invest.

Government intervention may let the financially reckless off the hook but it can also prevent the wider economy from collapsing.

Web-based social networking is coming to banking, and marketeers must learn to talk to exploit it, writes Marian Salzman.

Brazil’s approach to economic stability has a strong social priority, with lower inflation and greater job creation benefiting even the poorest citizens, says Henrique de Campos Meirelles.

After pursuing a strategy of investing in less-developed Asian markets, ANZ is set to enjoy the fruits of its labours as these markets grow. Virginia Marsh reports.

At HSH Nordbank, CEO Hans Berger is too busy preparing for an IPO to be concerned about the debate over Landesbanken consolidation or what role his bank could play in it.

In the debate on whether German Landesbanken should consolidate further, Hannes Rehm is Siegfried Jaschinski’s ideological opponent. While he does not rule out further consolidation in the sector, Mr Rehm, who has a PhD in economics, sees no pressing need for it, arguing that the three-pillar system has adequately financed corporate Germany.

What is ironic about Mr Jaschinski is how different he is from the way in which the German press has portrayed him.

Cross-border expansion, privatisation and consolidation are likely to change the face of the German Landesbanken scene. Jan F Wagner, in Frankfurt, talks to three Landesbank chiefs about plans for the future.

Jefferies has managed to grow and maintain an entrepreneurial partnership culture. It now needs to seriously beef up its brand. Will it be able to get to the next level without sacrificing its character, asks Geraldine Lambe .