This book examines the fundamental nature of banking in the economy of the 1970s and 80s, arguing that banking cannot be properly understood unless it is regarded as the retailing of financial services. In analysing the nature of banking the book demonstrates how banking might operate without regulatory constraints; surveys the patterns of regulatory constraint in a wide range of economies; analysis the effects of these various forms of constraint on the operation of a previously unregulated bank; examines the move to multinational banking; explores risks peculiar to multinational banking, whilst providing a diagrammatic illustration of those risks. When originally published this was one of the first books to treat banking from both a theoretical and empirical perspective and is unique in reviewing the case of a completely unregulated commercial bank and following the progression of banking through to the multinational stage.

This comparative, international study looks at origins and business strategies of multinational banks. A distinguished team of bankers and academics from the United States, Japan, Europe and Australia survey the evolution of multinational banks over time and suggest a conceptual framework in which this development can be understood. In-depth analyses of the multinational banking strategies of selected countries and institutions lead from early nineteenth century on to late twentieth century developments and future trends in investment banking. The approach is interdisciplinary, with economists and business historians joining together to confront theory with facts. The findings presented in this major study will be of interest to scholars and professionals in international business, banking and finance, economists and business and economic historians.

This book is designed to help the reader understand the environment and practices of multinational banks. Topics have been selected for their continuing relevance, despite changing events and issues. This comprehensive, up-to-date presentation provides both theory and practical information relating to international banking centers, regulation in international banking, foreign exchange management, financial engineering, country risk assessment, multinational banking services, syndicated loans, and international institutions in multinational banking. This book presents the growth and development of international banking and the role of large multinational banks in financial markets. It also presents the numerous types of foreign banking presence a bank can choose when it decides to go international. A description of the important banking centers is also covered. Issues pertaining to the regulation of international banking are elucidated in detail along with the impact of numerous U.S. laws on the operation of U.S. multinational banks. Specific operational issues such as foreign exchange management, the use of standard derivatives such as swaps and options, along with numerous financial engineering and risk management techniques are presented. Among other things the book covers country risk assessment, other multinational banking services, project financing, syndicated loans, and is part of the activities of many multinational banks. Furthermore, international institutions such as the Export-Import Bank, The World Bank, The International Monetary Fund, and the Bank for International Settlements, are described and their role in international finance and banking is explained. Finally, the book looks at likely future issues that will affect and influence the field of international banking. In particular, the advent of new competition, legislation, and financial instruments are analyzed.

Examines the progression of banking from an unregulated commercial bank to the multinational banking stage. Specifically addresses the nature of banking, the influence and patterns of regulatory constraints on domestic and uncontrolled banks, the move to and risks of multinational banking, and proposals to regulate multinational banking.

A brief overview of some facts about multinational banking; tax evasion, global money, and capital market banking; welfare effects of international banking; and implications for public policy.