Nigerian banks are continuing to make headway, but for the time being South Africa remains dominant. Writer Stephen Timewell.

After the giddy levels of flotation activity seen in Brazil in recent years, even usually optimistic bankers are not anticipating much new IPO business before the second half of 2009, at the earliest. Writer John Rumsey.

Despite being the leading player in one of the world’s largest markets, State Bank of India lags a long way behind the top global names. The bank’s chairman, O P Bhatt, discusses its strategy and direction. Interview by Stephen Timewell.

Croatia has not been immune to the global liquidity squeeze, but measures taken by its central bank in recent years to avoid an uncontrolled build-up of foreign debt mean the banking system may be less vulnerable than some of its local counterparts. Writer Nick Saywell.

Saudi Arabia’s strong fundamentals mean that bank exposure to the credit crisis has been limited, and the mood among bankers is bullish. Writer Nadine Marroushi.

Having had a lucky escape from the global turmoil, Libya’s investment authority is determined to follow a cautious, patient approach. Writer John Hamilton.

The Central Bank of Egypt’s reform programme has made significant improvements to the sector but a turbulent economic environment is creating challenges. Writer Nadine Marroushi.

Despite the volatility of the oil markets, it looks likely that Arab banks’ conservative strategies will insulate them from the worst effects of the global downturn. Writer Stephen Timewell.

As US regulators and government work together to increase liquidity and help stabilise the economy, mixed opinions abound on just how much public money should be used to alleviate the problems stemming from the country’s banking sector. Writer Jane Monahan.

The prospect of government meddling in the Tupi offshore fields has caused much alarm – but not for Petrobras, says CFO Almir Guilherme Barbassa. Writer Courtney Fingar.