Is the Iraq crisis principally about removing a despot from power or is the underlying reality more to do with asserting US global hegemony? Stephen Timewell explores the issues and discusses their implications for banking and finance.

The Saudi financial sector continues its vibrant growth. Stephen Timewell reports from Riyadh on the players and a new law governing capital markets.

Wall Street banks are facing damages to the tune of $25bn but are reluctant to set aside reserves as they fear it may encourage new claims. Suzanne Miller reports on the legal battle that threatens to spread overseas.

China's largest city pulls out all the stops to regain the title of 'global financial centre', says Louise do Rosario.

Wall Street is finding that there is no quick fix when it comes to winning back public confidence. Suzanne Miller reports from New York on leading banks' attempts at restoring investor faith

Rolf Breuer expands on how Europe's largest economy can regain sustained and vigorous economic growth.

SEB chairman Jacob Wallenberg talks to Karina Robinson about family business Investor AB and about the many strategic ventures that SEB has tried out.

Roberto Setúbal, CEO of Banco Itaú, considers the outlook for Brazil under a newly elected leftist government after a decade of reforms.

Vicente Fox, Mexico's president, has been determined to combat corruption in government so he can move ahead with economic improvements. Karina Robinson meets him.

Milan has always been a capital of style but it is now being recognised as Italy's financial centre. David Lane reports on the city's banking trends.