Banks, financial markets and monetary policy

Financial innovations have led to globalization and intensified competition. The success of these developments ultimately depends on the behaviour of customers, financial institutions and governments. Although this behaviour is influenced by the increase in possibilities brought about by financial innovations, it is often determined by the financial infrastructure. This infrastructure differs from one country to another. In order to understand recent and future developments in financial markets, it is essential to have insight into the different national backgrounds. In 'Banks, financial markets and monetary policy' the chapters on the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom shed light on these backgrounds. For a more global perspective, chapters on the United States and Japan have been added.