Observers see the lack of Asian participation in dollar deals as a temporary blip, due largely to current conditions. However, European bankers are still keen to cultivate investment from Asia. Michael Marray reports.

A surge of new offerings are coming out of central and eastern Europe, with Russia and Kazakhstan showing the new EU countries how it should be done. Michael Marray reports.

In Argentina’s delicate post-crisis economic landscape, inflation targeting isn’t the answer, central bank policy needs to reflect the transitional phase of the Argentine economy, says Martín Redrado.

Nigerian banks know that expanding branch networks and introducing new technology requires a skilled workforce. Nick Kochan reports on staff training efforts.

Banking consolidation has given Nigerian banks the headache of integrating a variety of disparate technological systems onto single platforms. Nick Kochan reports.

High prices and new finds mean Nigeria’s dependence on hydrocarbon exports will go on, albeit with a greater emphasis on in-house refining. John McCarthy reports.

The government is taking steps to address the lack of funding available to micro, small and medium-sized businesses. John McCarthy reports.

Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, CEO of Access Bank, tells The Banker of his plans for a top five Nigerian listing by 2010 and his vision of establishing a pan-African presence.

Nigeria’s retail environment is developing fast, says Nick Kochan, but further growth is hampered by the absence of a credit checking system and a national ID card.

Nigerian banks are beginning to realise that they can build their customer bases and raise efficiency by participating in mobile banking, says Wendy Atkins.