Rwandan central bank governor John Rwangombwa explains how the government's drive to achieve a cashless society will benefit all levels of society by expanding financial inclusivity, increasing tax revenues and boosting grassroots businesses.

The Italian coalition government's strategy is unlikely to improve the economy in the long run, says London School of Economics visiting professor Lorenzo Codogno.

Customer data has been identified as a major risk facing the financial system, which is why the World Economic Forum (WEF) has been working on the formulation of principles surrounding its use, dissemination and possible leaks. WEF committee member Matthew Blake explains.

The EU is riven by internal discord, driven by nationalism and social discontent in member states, and squeezed by external pressures such as the US' actions and associated trade wars. Former European Council president Herman van Rompuy makes a plea for unity. 

Only by developing its local capital markets can Africa gain access to global investment, which would enable the continent's countries to combat climate change, build infrastructure and support its wide range of companies, says London Stock Exchange CEO Nikhil Rathi.

Islamic banks are doing well, especially in frontier states, with GCC dominance being challenged by previously underserved regions such as Africa and Asia. 

The CEO of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation describes how the organisation uses Islamic finance to bring about social change.

Islamic finance should have a wider global appeal, writes Kuwait's central bank governor.

Global civilisation and prosperity has been built on trade. For this to continue we should expand infrastructure, embrace innovation and foster mutual respect and trust, says DP World CEO Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem.

Demand for investments – including structured products – linked to environmental, social and governance criteria is one of finance’s virtuous cycles. But, as Danielle Myles reports, a more sophisticated market comes with more challenges.