A new survey reveals that many private bank clients are dissatisfied with the services they receive, mainly due to middle and back office failures. If the banks do not act quickly not only could they lose custom but service providers could also suffer mandate losses. Roxane McMeeken investigates.

Following the Basel Committee meeting last month, the US is on side again and the accord looks likely to keep within its timetable.

Europe’s leveraged finance market is following in the US’s footsteps. However, inherent differences in the bank lending culture, investor base and legal landscapes mean that Europe still lacks the rational pricing of the US market. Joanna Hickey reports.

Malta will be one of 10 states joining the EU next year. Michael Imeson reports on preparation in the financial sector, and the consequences that membership will bring.

Foreign-owned bank expansion and strong economics are fuelling
the growth trend. Alice Brand reports.

Despite the liberalisation of China’s banking system, in line with WTO guidelines, foreign banks still face major hurdles in operating profitably, says Louise do Rosario.

It is a wonder that Zambia’s banks survive, let alone make money, in a country where running costs are high, reports Gill Baker.

Competition is heating up among Russia’s banks and foreign players for a slice of the growing retail banking and mortgage lending markets that are catering for the new middle class. Anthony Robinson reports from Moscow.