Barclays’ acquisition of Lehman’s US operations, while being a risky move, could be one of the most profitable gambles to come out of the credit crisis if the bank can conquer the American market. Writer Geraldine Lambe.

As the investment banking sector emerges wounded from the credit crunch, will the sector ever be the same? As Wall Street weakens, will the power shift elsewhere, and what are the chances of the banking behemoth rising again? Geraldine Lambe reports.

Germany’s example shows that renewable energy markets can be created if governments actively invest in infrastructure and provide clear, long-term policies. Writer Geraldine Lambe.

The global head of corporate and investment banking at BNP Paribas says the bank is enduring challenging market conditions with a risk-aware, rather than risk-averse, approach to business.

With oil prices predicted to hit $200 a barrel, every bank wants a piece of the rising energy market, not least to offset shrinking revenues elsewhere. But high prices, capital constraints and competition from industrial players are putting the brakes on ambition, writes Geraldine Lambe.

The demand for infrastructure projects will increase in the future, requiring big money, even in a recession. The private sector involvement that will be needed is already taking shape in the form of a growing number of infrastructure funds, writes Geraldine Lambe.

Vienna Stock Exchange’s strategy is raising its profile internationally as it develops indices and a data distribution network, Geraldine Lambe reports.

Credit woes have spread into the mid-market, drying up many areas of activity. But for those banks in the right products and geographies, there is still business to be done. And for those with cash, it’s a good time to build, writes Geraldine Lambe.

Sir David King is that rare creature who can happily straddle the academic, government and business worlds. In fact, his aim is to encourage them all to move in tandem in dealing with environmental problems. He talks to Geraldine Lambe.

Austrian banks and companies have been looking to central and eastern Europe for growth – a successful strategy that will continue, reports Geraldine Lambe.