Despite volatility in equity capital markets the world over, Brazil continues to make a compelling investment case. And in 2012, twice as many new names are expected to debut on Bovespa than did in 2011, driven by the consumer and infrastructure sectors. For international banks wanting to win mandates competition will be tougher than ever, as Brazilian players continue to dominate the equity market.

Itaú BBA International has outlined a new strategy that leverages both its global presence and its Latin American expertise. Its head of corporate banking for North America, Europe and Asia, Renato Lulia-Jacob, explains why in an increasingly globalised and competitive market, the bank has chosen to position itself in this way.

Starvation and the effects of a poor diet continue to blight a large percentage of the world's population, despite the fact that enough food is produced to eradicate hunger. It is now time for the private sector to play a bigger role in tackling this problem, which would bring with it economic and humanitarian rewards.

Latin America's wealth management sector is experiencing impressive growth on the back of the region's commodities boom. And as the big, crisis-hit global banks exit the region, local players are jostling for position to take a piece of this lucrative market.

With Colombia's GDP expected to rise by 5% for both 2011 and this year, and a growing sense of optimism across the country, president Juan Manuel Santos explains why he is buoyant over the future of a country once dogged by corruption and drug trafficking.

The role of central bank governor has come under increasing scrutiny over the past 12 months as markets in the developed world continued to wobble. The Banker recognises those who have led their countries’ economies  through what has been another tumultuous year.