With online and back-office payments processing systems becoming increasingly accessible, Dan Barnes asks whether banks can retain their grip on this fundamental area of business.

Siam Commercial Bank’s chief information officer has a hard-nosed ‘if we can do without it, forget it’ attitude to customisation and modification. Dan Barnes reports.

Corporate social responsibility is not new to European savings banks. They have a historical commitment to making a contribution to their local communities. Chris De Noose reports.

Regulation is on the rise in Europe and will have a massive impact on the banking industry in the next decade. Crispian Lord examines the conflict between bankers and regulators, and suggests three key steps for a bank’s strategic response.

A mobile global population means a constant stream of money transfers between countries. Initiatives are under way to ensure the process is simple, safe and affordable, as Wendy Atkins reports.

The majority of Europe’s savings banks are viewing the Capital Requirements Directive, which transposes Basel II into European
law, as a good thing. Michael Imeson explains why.

Cross-border consolidation does not necessarily mean better integration, a more competitive or more efficient banking sector but nor is it the only way of serving customers well. Chris De Noose looks at the viable alternatives.

In the age of globalisation, local market representation and proximity to customers is deemed essential by both US and EU banks, writes Chris De Noose, chairman of the ESBG/WSBI management committee.

Post offices have progressed from merely serving the unbanked in developing countries to becoming serious contenders in the financial services stakes. Wendy Atkins reports.

Susana Fernández Caro details how some banks have tapped into
the potential for making loans available exclusively through ATMs.