The Russian consumer lending boom came to an abrupt end in late 2008, but convergence between consumer finance and traditional retail banking is providing the tools for sustainable growth. Writer Philip Alexander
Central & eastern Europe
Latest articles from Central & eastern Europe
Finance minister Jacek Rostowski determined to reduce deficit
March 31, 2010Poland has emerged as the most resilient economy in the EU during the global slowdown. However, The Banker's European Finance Minister of the Year is determined to stay ahead of the pack, and is now prioritising bringing down the country's budget deficit. Writer Philip Alexander
Vladimir Dmitriev
March 31, 2010State-owned development bank Vnesheconombank became a vital tool for the Russian government to combat the financial crisis, not only at home but also in neighbouring countries. The bank's chairman explains how it is exiting the assistance phase and preparing a long-term role in the economy. Writer Philip Alexander
Slovenia looks before it leaps
March 31, 2010Slovenia tracked the market's reaction to Greece's 10-year bond release in early March before moving quickly into action with its second bond issue of the year. Writer Edward Russell-Walling
Cautious optimism prevails in Europe's youngest nation
March 3, 2010A diversified economy of micro-businesses has shielded Kosovo from the worst effects of the financial crisis, but its unresolved national status and uncertain legal environment continue to pose challenges. Writer Nick Saywell
Latvia: Searching for a new path to economic growth
March 3, 2010Flooded with Scandinavian liquidity during the boom years, Latvia has suffered the most severe bust in the EU and bankers are devising a new business model while clearing up the consequences of the old one. Writer Philip Alexander
Right places, Right time
March 3, 2010When it decided to sell a slice of copper miner KGHM, Poland's government turned to Deutsche Bank, hoping that it would give the deal a more international approach as well as getting the timing of a potentially delicate deal just right. Writer Edward Russell-Walling
Politics holds key to lending
March 3, 2010There are no guarantees that a new president will usher in greater economic and political stability in Ukraine, which makes further consolidation likely in the country's under-pressure banking sector. Writer Philip Alexander
Stage set for mergers
February 1, 2010As the central bank of Russia tightens capital requirements, the country's Top 50 banks look set to continue accumulating capital and assets at the expense of smaller players. Writer Philip Alexander
Russia's ambitious plan for economic reform
February 1, 2010The economic advisor to the Russian president explains why he is cautiously optimistic about the country's economic prospects for 2010. Interview by Philip Alexander.