Elements of the Euro Area

Book excerpt: First published in 2005, this volume considers that, as time elapses since the introduction of the Euro, it is legitimate to start asking what impact the new currency and the single monetary policy have had on European integration. This book provides the most comprehensive review of financial integration in the euro area. The volume includes an introduction to the institutional features of the euro area and the literature on financial integration. It examines developments in the financial structures at large and moves forward to focus on specific areas pertaining to financial intermediaries, the bond and equity markets, and market-based debt finance. It is particularly suited to researchers and students of developments in the euro area, central banking, money and banking, as well as international relations and international business more generally. While the introductory chapters will help in bringing undergraduates on board, the later chapters will particularly benefit the early graduate student as well as the professional observer.