Georgia's banks provide the calm amid a regional storm

The stand-off between Russia and Ukraine, and the subsequent sanctions imposed on Russia and fall in the value of its currency, has negatively impacted upon the economies of almost all former Soviet republics. In Georgia, however, the country's banks are faring well, in no small part because of the central bank's conservative approach. 

Georgia's prime minister uses business savvy

In his spacious office high above Tbilisi, Georgia’s newly elected prime minister – and wealthiest citizen – Bidzina Ivanishvili talks about his plans to boost investment, to mend the relationship with Russia and to manage a difficult political cohabitation.

Georgia's banks remain unshaken by political uncertainty

As the political stand-off in Georgia between the new prime minister and president shows no sign of abating, the country’s economy is showing resilience and its banks are eyeing opportunities to strengthen growth by tapping into the country's unbanked population.

Armenia takes a gradual approach to reform

Armenia’s finance minister and former central bank vice-president Vache Gabrielyan is focusing on maintaining the country on its path of recovery, controlling inflation and starting a reform of its pension system.

Armenia's banking caution looks set to pay off

Although the global financial crisis led to a significant contraction in the Armenian economy, the country’s banks were largely unaffected by the turmoil. With low banking penetration and regulation that is both progressive and cautious, the future for these institutions looks bright.