The 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

Regulators are intent on reforming the role that derivatives play in bankruptcies, with the aim of preventing a future AIG or Lehman Brothers. But some are warning that, without a direct ban of these controversial financial instruments, this will be no easy task. Writer Suzanne Miller

Troubled since 2005, the UK credit card industry has been suffering a severe test of profitability. But credit card issuers are hoping to rejuvenate the industry by moving to a more convenience-focused, sustainable and transparent business model.

Côte d'Ivoire's huge unbanked population makes the country an attractive target for both local and foreign banks. With the west African nation's banking sector on the verge of a consolidation process, those left standing will be well placed to tap into this enormous potential. Writer Nick Kochan

The governor of the Banque Centrale des États de l'Afrique de l'Ouest, Philippe-Henri Dacoury-Tabley, outlines his monetary policy to increase capital and maintain stable inflation levels. Writer Nick Kochan

Côte d'Ivoire's minister for economy and finance, Charles Koffi Diby, has effectively steered the country through the global credit crisis and, as he tells The Banker, his reform policies are beginning to bear fruit. Writer Nick Kochan

The optimism over Côte d'Ivoire's economic prospects is well placed. Despite continued political instability, inflation is being kept in check, the economy is growing and the restructuring of the country's debt has been widely praised. Writer Nick Kochan