The passporting of financial services across the EU was a much-lauded part of the creation of a single European market. At least until the financial crisis.
Development banks stay in fashion in eastern Europe
June 30, 2011Governments in central and eastern Europe can take heart from the fact that every economy in the region is forecast to grow in 2011. But the expanded role for development finance ushered in by the financial crisis is not being rolled back just yet.
Basel III struggles to define liquid assets
June 30, 2011The liquidity coverage and net stable funding ratios are intended to ensure that Basel III fills the gaps left by the previous Basel accord. But defining suitable liquid assets is proving difficult.
Europe draws on Japanese variable annuity experience
June 30, 2011As companies abolish final salary pension schemes and governments seek to foster private pension provision, variable annuity offerings are moving to centre stage in Europe. But they require careful structuring.
New regulations see insurers and banks link up over liquidity
June 30, 2011The advent of Solvency II and Basel III means insurers are reconsidering where to invest, just as banks are looking for new sources of funding. Structurers are seeking ways to play these mutual interests.
Top 1000 World Banks 2011
June 30, 2011Global banking profits are now approaching their 2007 pre-crisis peak according to this year's Top 1000 World Banks ranking, but the divergence between growing and stagnant markets is becoming increasingly stark.
Consolidation takes hold in central and eastern Europe
June 30, 2011Central and eastern Europe was dominated by consolidation and recovery this year which has had a significant impact on its regional top 25, with some departures, some new entrants and some surging into the highest movers list of the Top 1000.
Retail banks thrive in return on capital rankings
June 30, 2011Asian and Turkish banks stand out as the top performers in The Banker's Top 1000 World Banks for return on capital. But the more general trend across emerging markets is that banks with a retail focus appear to be prevalent among those generating the highest returns.
US banks still struggling in aftermath of subprime crisis
June 30, 2011The Banker's survey shows that non-performing loans are continuing to have a detrimental effect on US regional retail banks, with eight US institutions featuring in the top 25 NPL list.
Latam looks to positive future while CEE takes cautious approach
June 30, 2011When looking at The Top 1000 World banks' asset qualities on a regional basis, Latin American financial institutions seem to be the most optimistic about their future.