EU citizens have had a project underway for a banking union since 2012. Since then, we have taken giant leaps toward a borderless European banking system. However, a few relevant issues still need to be addressed.

Javier Malagón, CFO of BBVA Bancomer, the most profitable bank in Mexico and the leader of the country’s financial sector, presented the bank’s strategy and main financial data at the Barclays Global Financial Services Conference today.

One of the consequences of the latest financial crisis for banks has been the so-called non-performing loans or NPLs. Loans regarding which the borrower has either already failed to meet his payment obligations or is showing signs of having difficulties meeting them. Some financial systems, such as Spain’s, have already done their homework clearing their balance sheets. However, for other systems credit quality is still a matter that needs to be addressed. A recent case are Italian banks, which still bear a burden of over €300 billion in this type of assets.

Mexico is celebrating its national holiday this Thursday. An important day, and we want to humbly join in the celebrations by offering a special selection of content focusing on Mexico and BBVA Bancomer on our website, bbva.com.

Thierry Barbier has been appointed new Head of BBVA France replacing Gregoire de Lestapis. BBVA's French branch is focused mainly on corporate lending and investment banking activity and has around hundred employees.

Just as in previous years, the G20 summit – held in China this year – has drawn worldwide attention. But the leaders of the 20 major economies were not the only ones to meet in Hangzhou. In parallel, business leaders from these same economies presented their proposals in the Business 20 event.