The rise of non-bank intermediaries in Europe is an opportunity, not a threat
Americas
Latest articles from Americas
Thirst for Foster's boosts SABMiller deal
March 1, 2012SABMiller's need to finance its $12.3bn takeover of Foster's saw it issue a $7bn multi-tranche Yankee. The result defied even the most optimistic of expectations, with high demand seeing the brewer come close to refinancing its bridging loan of $8bn in one fell swoop.
Uruguayan banks take domestic approach to profit growth
March 1, 2012Awash with liquidity and buoyed by a strong local economy, the story of Uruguay's banks seems to be a rosy one on first inspection. However, with its banking sector dominated by state-owned lenders, private banks have struggled to turn in a profit, leading them to look towards local consumer loans and mortgages.
Will new listing rules bring IPO rush for Mexico?
March 1, 2012A new proposal in Mexico is urging foreign-owned banks to list on the country's stock exchange. But while these banks achieve high returns on equity and the global equity markets remain volatile, the Mexican regulators may have a wait on their hands before these plans come to fruition.
Latam banks gain as European giants retreat
March 1, 2012Since the onset of the financial crisis, Europe-based international banks such as HSBC and Santander have been scaling down operations in Latin America. This has created myriad opportunities for emerging regional financial players, which have lost no time in filling the gaps left by the European retreat.
Domestic players make mark in Central American ranking
March 1, 2012International banking groups have traditionally been the main players in Central America but as markets begin to grow, in nearby Colombia in particular, local lenders are increasing their profits, acquiring foreign-owned subsidiaries and establishing a greater presence in the market.
Global banks go back to basics
March 1, 2012Investors appear to have lost confidence in diversified cross-border banking models, forcing banks to decide what they do best.
Valuation and structural issues keep Brasil Travel from listing
February 13, 2012Brazilian tourism company Brasil Travel Turismo e Participacoes has withdrawn its plans for an initial public offering (IPO) on the Brazilian stock exchange, leaving uncertainty as to when IPO activity in the country will resume again.
Brasil Travel re-opens Brazilian IPO market
February 7, 2012An initial public offering by Brazilian tourism company Brasil Travel Turismo e Participacoes will bring an end to the six-month IPO drought on the Brazilian stock exchange.
Fee criticism brings costs quandary for US retail banks
February 1, 2012With traditional revenue streams taking a hit as a result of new regulations, retail banks in the US face a predicament. Should they risk losing customers by increasing their fees to cover costs, or is there another strategy that will appease shareholders and customers alike?