As the leading emerging markets in South-East Asia begin to falter under the impact of the global credit crunch and contracting European and US economies, Africa is attracting an increasing volume of private capital. In fact, private capital flows are outstripping and replacing official aid as the main source of external financing for Africa. But this very welcome trend is totally dependent on political and economic stability and strong regulatory regimes in Africa, argues. More...

The opening of a UK branch of Nigeria's Intercontinental Bank was celebrated with a glittering reception in the heart of the City of London. It also afforded Anver Versi, editor of African Banker, the opportunity to meet with the bank's chief executive to prepare this star profile and conduct an exclusive interview. More...

Zain’s Sokotele money transfer initiative, set to rival Safaricom’s M-pesa, is certain to deepen the market in the largely unbanked segment in Kenya and neigbouring countries. Stephen Williams reports. More...