The overhaul of the banking system is the latest reform milestone crossed by the Obasanjo government. Although many challenges lie ahead, the momentum of reform is gathering pace, promising long-lasting transformation, writes James Eedes.

The recent drop in Gulf stock prices gave everyone a shock. But, as Stephen Timewell reports, it appears to have been the correction of a maturing market and not the precursor to a regional slump.

Stock market turbulence should not detract fromthe huge strides being made by the wider Saudi economy, writes Jon Marks in Riyadh.

Despite international progress on microfinancing initiatives and good results in Mexico’s microcredit industry, Mexican banks are still not keen to lend to the poor. Monica Campbell reports from Mexico City.

The UK bank’s strategy in Latin America is paying off. Jules Stewart reports.

Taiwan’s newly installed vice-premier Tsai Ing-wen tells The Banker what the government plans to do to help create a sound capital and financial market.

Taiwan’s financial reform programme is addressing not only issues about China but the problems of a highly fragmented banking sector. Stephen Timewell reports from Taipei.

India’s economic dreams can only be realised with a consistent approach to capital flows, writes Kala Rao.

Kazakhstan stands on the verge of an oil boom but government conditions are putting oil companies off investing in the country. By Christopher Pala.