The Highest Movers table of the Top 1000 has had a distinctly Chinese feel to it in recent years, but 2013's ranking shows rapid growth among financial institutions the world over, including in Europe's crisis economies.
Central & eastern Europe
Latest articles from Central & eastern Europe
Russia leads CEE capital surge
July 1, 2013The Tier 1 capital of the 25 largest central and eastern European banks climbed by 30% in this year's ranking, led by Russia's largest bank Sberbank. Meanwhile, consumer banking operations across the region are prominent among the most profitable and the fastest growing banks in the region.
Government backs Kazakh capital markets revival
June 3, 2013Led by innovative deals from development banks, Kazakh bond markets are enjoying a dynamic spell, but pension reform casts uncertainty over the equity markets.
Never mind the banking union in Europe
May 28, 2013A European banking union means little unless there is greater consultation on the regulation of cross-border banking groups between home and host nations, and not just in Europe.
Can Slovenia avoid a bail out?
May 8, 2013
The need for a multilateral bail out of eurozone member Slovenia will depend on the state of its troubled banking sector, which lost a significant proportion of its capital in 2011.
Bankers wait for reform in Ukraine
May 1, 2013The management quality of Ukrainian banks is gradually improving, but they continue to face difficulties from legal and political uncertainty, with some foreign-owned banks already giving up the struggle.
Tough road ahead for Bulgaria's banks
May 1, 2013The Bulgarian banking sector has not needed government assistance in the wake of the financial crisis, but its slow growth rates and high non-performing loans do not make an inspiring combination.
Technology drives Russian retail banking revolution
May 1, 2013Growth rates and returns on consumer lending in Russia are remarkable, but the market demands increasing levels of sophistication to ensure success.
The future of mobile money
May 1, 2013Mobile money, including banking and payments, is encroaching into the everyday life of the consumer. Monetising the business is still proving difficult, but thanks to the abundance of products available already, tangible business models are slowly emerging.