Banks have undergone radical change in the face of evolving pressures from markets, globalisation and regulatory authorities. In recognition of this change, this book seeks to forge a new theory, or theories, for economic banking in the 21st century. It provides a platform for new thinking and stimulating ideas, which, it is hoped, will help shape the future of research on the banking sector. Combining incisive theoretical analysis with shrewd contributions by leading authors, from both the academic and professional world of banking, who are well placed to offer real insight into the current realities of the sector, this book addresses a diverse range of issues. These include measurement of bank performance, competition and consolidation, compliance, supervision, risk transfer, diversification and financial integration in Europe. The New Banking Economics provides a genuine and dynamic alternative to current banking theory that is embedded in a political and real-world context. Offering diverse perspectives, this book will be of great interest to students of finance, economics and business, as well as to economists, analysts and researchers in the field of banking.