Edward Russell-Walling talks to Finland’s finance director Satu Huber about the rationale behind the country’s successful 5/11 strategy for issuing sovereign paper.

Although Germany is not normally regarded as a good place for foreign banks to make a fortune, Citigroup’s experience shows there are ways and means. By Jan F Wagner in Frankfurt.

Corporate profits are up, bad debts are down and there’s a palpable air of prosperity in downtown Oslo, says Nigel Dudley.

Forty-four per cent of Spanish bank BBVA’s 2005 attributable net profit came from Latin America. There is both a downside to this – excessive dependence on a risky region – and an upside – an incredible opportunity to leverage a strong franchise.

The Republic of Cyprus has an optimistic economic growth story in shipping, services and tourism but faces a tighter labour market and political stalemate. 

EU accession has led to foreign direct investment flowing into Cyprus more freely as companies take advantage of its favourable tax rates and strategic location to do business in both Europe and the Middle East. Michael Marray reports.

Minister of finance Michalis Sarris insists economic indicators prove Cyprus is on track for euro adoption.

In its latest debt exchange offer, Stora Enso managed to reduce its reporting burden. Edward Russell-Walling reports.

Most global players have largely ignored south-east Europe, but Alpha Bank and other Greek banks are showing the potential of cross-border retail banking in the region, says Stephen Timewell.

With its overheating economy and rapid growth in the banking sector, how is Iceland likely to fare? The Banker held a round table last month to explore the issues. Michael Imeson reports.