Italy came through the financial crisis in better shape than many of its peers for various reasons, says Intesa Sanpaolo chief executive Corrado Passera, who shares his thoughts on why Italian banks got it right and how his institution's reaction during the dip has set it up for growth. Writer Brian Caplen

Italy's philanthropic foundations remain significant shareholders in the country's banks, which has helped them ease their way through the economic crisis and maintain a long-term growth strategy. Writer David Lane

UniCredit, the Italian bank with a significant presence in Europe, is back on track following a €4bn rights issue to fund loan demand in eastern Europe. Its chief executive explains how the company's diversified business model is now giving it an advantage over its competitors. Writer Brian Caplen

Few markets in central and eastern Europe have escaped investor fears over excessive corporate debt. Equity offerings are on hold and refinancing conditions have rarely been tougher, but there are opportunities for banks that stay in the game, writes Philip Alexander.

Intesa Sanpaolo rose to prominence as Italy's largest bank after a series of domestic mergers and takeovers, and has improved its status further with a raft of selective acquisitions in central and eastern Europe, writes David Lane in Rome.

The share prices of leading Italian banks were buffeted in early 2009 as investors anticipated damage to asset quality from their high exposure to emerging Europe. But senior managers say the region is still at the heart of their strategy, writes Philip Alexander.

Italian banks’ cautious approach has distanced them from the risky instruments and products at the heart of the economic crisis, yet prudence is more important than ever if they are to support the country’s ailing industries. Writer David Lane in Rome, Milan and Siena.