Over the past decade, Greece's leading banks have expanded into south-east Europe. To remain competitive, however, they will now need to weather the financial storm and continue to focus on increasing their presence in the Balkans and the rest of eastern Europe. Writer Kerin Hope
Central & eastern Europe
Latest articles from Romania
Positive prospects in play
May 5, 2008BCR’s interim CEO is confident that the bank’s transformation will allow it to capitalise on the opportunities presented by one of Europe’s fastest-growing economies, he tells Philip Alexander.
Policy clash leaves economy vulnerable
July 2, 2007In theory, joining the EU should force a country to adopt greater policy discipline. In practice, Romania’s muddy political waters and an appetite for spending are about to magnify its vulnerabilities, putting fiscal and monetary policy at odds, writes Adina Postelnicu.
The hard work begins
April 2, 2007With EU accession and a strengthening economy, Romanians may be increasingly positive about their future, but tough challenges remain. Neil Tyler reports.
Entering the risk zone
December 4, 2006As Romania prepares to join the EU next year, governor of the National Bank of Romania Mugur Isarescu talks to Adina Postelnicu in Bucharest.
Eager Romania guards against euphoria
November 6, 2006Romania is due to join the EU in three months’ time, and its banking sector is heating up. Old and new players are vying for a bigger slice of the action in a country that is still underbanked. Adina Postelnicu reports.
NBR puts reins on lending
May 2, 2006As Romania’s banks cash in on the surge in consumer borrowing, the central bank, concerned about a rising current account deficit, is placing stringent curbs on foreign currency lending. The measures are proving highly controversial.
Romania's main stock exchange has started to make gains
May 2, 2006After a bear market and fund scandals, The Bucharest Stock Exchange’s market capitalisation is in the ascendancy. But more privatisation is necessary if the gains are to be consolidated.
Moment of truth
May 2, 2006Despite significant structural change over the past five years, Romania faces daunting macroeconomic challenges as it gears up for EU membership.
The future looks bright
December 5, 2005Romania is speeding towards EU accession, as witnessed by the growing sophistication of its banking sector, and a stream of sell-offs. Tom Blass reports.