Just as the UK goes into recession, the authorities decided to get tough on loan repayment insurance. Surely this is dreadful timing? Writer Michael Imeson

The global economic downturn is catching up with Bahrain's banks. However, the country still has some cause for optimism, particularly in its Islamic banking sector. Writer Michael Imeson

The United Arab Emirates began to feel the chill winds of global recession late last year. However, the Emirates' immense accumulated wealth, especially that of Abu Dhabi, is likely to protect the economy in general, and the financial system in particular, from the worst effects. Writer Michael Imeson

The EU directive on retail investment funds is being revised – yet again – but the proposals are flawed.

The EU’s Transparency Directive is not functioning properly because most states have failed to implement it, and where it is in force it has been gold-plated to varying degrees.

Investment firms preparing for MiFID are getting ready to seize the commercial advantages. Alternative trading and market data platforms are being created to challenge the supremacy of the established exchanges.

Banks in South Africa are being forced to open up the payments system to newcomers and slash transaction charges, writes Michael Imeson.

Preparations for the new capital accord trundle on but there are growing fears among bankers and their supervisors that its inconsistent implementation around the world will cause problems. 

The Financial Services Action Plan was supposed to lead to the creation of a single European market in financial services by this year. It will not. What went wrong and what is being done about it? 

Multinationals are more likely than ever to outsource their treasury operations to banks because of the growing regulation, cost and complexity of treasury management. Michael Imeson reports.