It has been a difficult year for the Middle Eastern banking sector and this shows in the regional top 25. But there are reasons to be positive – the Gulf region remains strong, the overall figures from The Banker's Top 1000 World Banks suggest an increase in profits and there is a welcome new entry from Iraq.
African banks continue to fail to realise growth potential
June 30, 2011The banking landscape in Africa remains a case of potential unrealised, as its financial institutions' share of the Top 1000's overall assets and Tier 1 capital dipped slightly. However, the lowering of the average cost-to-income ration in the continent did provide some good news.
Balance of power shifts from western Europe
June 30, 2011The global structure of the Top 1000 displays some positive results on the surface. But a closer inspection reveals a dramatic shift in the balance of power depending on the geographical location, with western Europe losing out.
Innovation in Banking Technology Awards 2011
June 1, 2011From collaborative software development to running risk calculations on lightning fast graphics chips, IT teams from all corners of the banking world have proven more inventive than ever over the past 12 months. The Banker's Innovation in Banking Technology Awards celebrates those behind the industry's brightest ideas.
Will exchange consolidation be derailed by politics?
June 1, 2011As exchanges attempt to forge international relationships, local regulators, banks and politicians are voicing concerns about a loss of sovereignty and influence. Could opposition derail the deals?
BNP Paribas Personal Investors reaps the benefits of collaboration
June 1, 2011BNP Paribas Personal Investors has overhauled the way it manages, monitors and evaluates technology projects. IT manager Benjamin Mourrat explains how it was done.
How bringing systems into the 21st century can be a springboard for success
May 4, 2011Chris Curtis, head, global sales and consulting, at Oracle Financial Services, explains how modernising core systems helps banks expand into new geographies and sectors, as well as improve customer service.
National Bank of Greece takes an unconventional approach
May 4, 2011Nelly Tzakou, group head of operations at the National Bank of Greece, explains how its hi-tech flagship branch will improve uptake for the bank’s electronic banking services.
Escaping equities: exchange consolidation and new asset classes
May 3, 2011The recent frenzy of exchange mergers is rooted in tough market conditions for US and European equity exchanges, forcing them to move away from their bread and butter operations to new asset classes.
Massive mergers: How IT can make or break M&A
March 21, 2011Technology is not always a primary consideration in banking M&A activity. But the success, or failure, of subsequent IT integrations can make or break any deal.