The new chief executive of Iceland’s recently nationalised Kaupthing Bank, Finnur Sveinbjörnsson, spoke to Charlie Corbett about what lies ahead for the nation’s crippled banking sector and how the government can restore its credibility.

The time for recriminations is over. Iceland’s political and financial system must be rebuilt, and fast, if it is to maintain the quality of life to which its people has become accustomed. EU membership is increasingly regarded as the only viable option but it will be hotly contested. Writer Charlie Corbett in Reykjavik.

An investigation into the credit default swaps market is adding to the Icelandic banking system’s woes, but banks’ soundness and international reach should help them once the storm is over, writes Silvia Pavoni.

Iceland’s banks insist they have addressed concerns raised over low deposit ratios, a lack of communications and their use of capital markets. Silvia Pavoni reports.

When Landsbanki was criticised for its short-term financing risk, it decided to win back its reputation with two bond issues in the US. Edward Russell-Walling reports on an Icelandic success story.

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.

Under pressure from rating agencies, Reykjavik’s top financial brass politely make their case – unlike Venezuela’s premier Hugo Chávez.

On his visit to London last month, Iceland’s prime minister flew into a firestorm as concerns grew over the sharp decline of the krona. But Halldór Ásgrímsson is a man not easily ruffled, as Courtney Fingar found out.

Uncertainty in the Icelandic market has not perturbed Kaupthing Bank from pressing ahead with its expansion into Europe. Stephen Timewell reports.

Kaupthing
Mar Sigurdsson, CEO