S&P seeks more accurate comparison of capital adequacy while BCG advises foreigners on starting out in China.

Forty-four per cent of Spanish bank BBVA’s 2005 attributable net profit came from Latin America. There is both a downside to this – excessive dependence on a risky region – and an upside – an incredible opportunity to leverage a strong franchise.

Growth powered by political motives is unsustainable and will lead to instability, warns Arthur Waldron.

Banking in India and China has a long way to go to match global comparisons, but both countries will get there in the end.

Most global players have largely ignored south-east Europe, but Alpha Bank and other Greek banks are showing the potential of cross-border retail banking in the region, says Stephen Timewell.

Sheikh Salem Abdul Aziz Al-Sabah, governor of the Central Bank of Kuwait, tells Stephen Timewell he is optimistic about the future of Kuwait’s banking sector and economy.

Regulatory failings in Kuwait’s stock exchange have led to calls for the setting up of a capital markets authority.

As both the banking sector and competition grow, Kuwait’s major banks are developing their individual strategies. Stephen Timewell reports.

In the Gulf financial centres race, Kuwait is starting at the back of the field and has yet to find its role.

Despite the enormous riches stemming from $70-a-barrel oil, strong growth and good prospects across all sectors, the jury’s out on whether Kuwait’s leadership has the political will to achieve its potential. Stephen Timewell explains.