What happens when the financial markets are confronted to cultural values? The financing structures that conform to Islamic law are at the top of an evolution aiming to integrate cultural values in a globalised economy. Right now, the sukuk (Islamic products on capital markets) are at the heart of this trend.

For two months now, successive waves of layoffs in the banking sector occurred. ABN AMRO, the latest bank to announce a downsizing plan, will suppress 9% of its workforce. Goldman Sachs will lower salaries...