This Very Short Introduction introduces the reader to the international world of banking. Offering a brief survey of the essential characteristics of the bankin

Banks are of central importance for economic growth, the allocation of capital, competitiveness, and financial stability. Propelled by technological advances in

In recent years the finance industry has mushroomed to become an important part of modern economies, and many science and engineering graduates have joined the

This is a revision of the business of global banking. With the increased globalization of the world economy few sectors are the equal of banking and financial s

Why are some countries rich and others poor? In 1500, the income differences were small, but they have grown dramatically since Columbus reached America. Since