IT operations are energy-hungry and eco-unfriendly, making trading operations – banks’ most IT-intensive functions – increasingly unsustainable. But some improvements are being made. Michelle Price reports.

Instability in many of the regions supplying oil and gas, coupled with escalating costs in the fossil fuel market, has caused the financial markets to look towards the renewable energy sector. Business sense, as well as an environmental conscience, make this a wise move, writes Joanne Hart.

A slew of eco-friendly developments shows that markets, investors and corporates are taking the environment seriously. Innovation has moved beyond clean energy funds into advisory services and structured products, but can market participants counter scepticism that market mechanisms are the best way to cut emissions? Geraldine Lambe reports.

Sir David King is that rare creature who can happily straddle the academic, government and business worlds. In fact, his aim is to encourage them all to move in tandem in dealing with environmental problems. He talks to Geraldine Lambe.

Engineering and technological marvels are cropping up all over the world as ambition and demand for ever-more advanced infrastructure grows, writes Silvia Pavoni.

Traditionally a low-risk area, the European covered bond market is now a much more volatile place. Philip Alexander explains how Portugal fits into the wider European picture.

A sure sign that Africa is entering a new phase of growth and development is the rapid advancement and increasing sophistication of its capital markets. 

Africa is one of the most resource-rich areas on the planet but without a reliable power supply the continent will never benefit.

As the effects of the credit crisis continue to reverberate around the world there is an increased reliance on transaction banking to add value and deliver greater operational efficiency across the industry. For corporates, freeing up trapped liquidity in the supply chain and having the right technology and the right banking relationship is crucial to achieving this enhanced efficiency. This debate is sponsored by Citi but independently edited and written.