Banks are reticent to discuss the consequences of the US's new Volcker Rule, restricting proprietary trading. While some analysts predict dire results for market liquidity, others suggest that bank leaders privately welcome the opportunity to pull out of risky prop-trading activities. Writer Silvia Pavoni
Latest articles from Trading
Temporary blip or long-term shift?
December 8, 2010The third quarter of 2010 was a dismal time for banks' trading businesses. Virtually all of them saw precipitous falls from the third quarter of 2009. While most believed this year would not be as good as the last, does this slump suggest a more long-term decline for one of investment banks' stellar business lines? Writer Joanne Hart

The emergence of Asia's dark pools
November 24, 2010Alternative liquidity is surging in Asia, and dark pools are now leading this assault. However, some major market participants are lagging behind. Writer Michelle Price
CME struggles to find path to CDS clearing
September 29, 2010The Chicago Mercantile Exchange has struggled to establish itself in credit default swap clearing against stiff opposition. However, it sees plenty of opportunities, starting with the launch of new trading platforms and the growth of business and partnerships overseas. Writer Geraldine Lambe
Collateral damage
September 29, 2010There is broad consensus that moving over-the-counter derivatives to central clearing will reduce individual and systemic risks, but this is not a panacea. Writer Philip Alexander
A coming of age
July 28, 2010Enjoying Israel's new status as a developed market, the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange is pushing to attract high-tech listings, planning to renew its IT system and playing its part in Israeli-Palestinian relations. Writer Michelle Price
Will MIFID II deal a decisive blow to Europe's exchanges?
July 28, 2010The European Commission's MiFID review should enhance the competitive environment in Europe in a manner that will deal a second, more decisive blow to Europe's exchanges. But the latter are not going down without a fight. Writer Michelle Price

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