Next in the regulatory sights of the UK Financial Services Authority is the private equity market. It will almost inevitably lead to a tightening of the rules, writes Michael Imeson.

As long as rich people want small banks that can offer a personalised service, institutions like Hoare & Co will thrive. CEO Alexander Hoare talks to The Banker.

Crèdit Andorrà
Crèdit Andorrà has had a rewarding year. Its consolidation strategy in the personal, private and commercial banking divisions and the increased product offering resulted in a profit growth of more than 40%, breaking a sequence of flat profits in the previous two years.

Stephen Timewell discovers how the Belgian bank improved the efficiency, productivity and client-facing time of its sales network.

Karina Robinson interviews Tommaso Padoa-Schioppa, Italy’s minister of economy and finance, the man tasked with the unenviable job of reeling in the nation’s budget deficit.

Bert Heemskerk, chairman of Rabobank, tells Stephen Timewell about the Dutch bank’s programme of overseas expansion with a food and agricultural bias.

David Lane reports on the tiny state of San Marino’s bid to take on the likes of Ireland and Luxembourg.

Private equity investors entering the world of Germany’s public sector banks could provide a shot in the arm for the country’s traditional three-pillar banking system. Joanne Hart reports.

At 150 years old, Spain’s stock exchange holding company, BME, is powering ahead to the top rankings of the world’s bourses while speculation continues over its future as an independent exchange. Jules Stewart reports.

There is a strong resurgence of EU banks investing in Turkey. At a time when clashes of religions and secular systems are a concern worldwide, Turkey is an important example of what can be achieved.