The Banker marks 100 years of global financial leadership at the London Stock Exchange
Today, The Banker, a service from the Financial Times, marked a century of publication by closing the market at the London Stock Exchange. This Market Close ceremony celebrates 100 years of the title’s leadership in financial journalism and its enduring role in shaping the global banking conversation.
Launched in 1926 by Brendan Bracken, The Banker was founded to bring greater transparency to a world often seen as opaque. Its mission was clear: to shine a light on the forces shaping finance and to offer emerging markets a platform to be seen and heard.
A century later, that ambition remains intact. The Banker has followed the evolution of the international banking system, the transformation of capital markets, and the growing importance of regulation, technology and sustainability. It has chronicled major global financial crises, the rise of digital currencies, and the shifting landscape of financial power. In doing so, it has become a trusted source of intelligence for central banks, commercial banks, multilateral institutions and policymakers around the world.
Throughout its history, The Banker has built a reputation for clarity, independence and analytical depth. Its editorial coverage combines data-led insight with expert commentary, helping readers understand not only what is happening in global finance but why it matters. Its research and rankings, including the annual Top 1000 World Banks, are widely recognised as industry benchmarks.
Today, The Banker is a multi-platform service, offering daily reporting, in-depth video interviews, tailored data tools and a growing events programme - all designed to serve a global audience. It remains committed to providing a genuinely international perspective, with editorial teams and contributors delivering insights from every major financial region. As banking is reshaped by innovation, economic uncertainty and geopolitical change, The Banker’s role as a trusted source of guidance is more relevant than ever.
“For a century, The Banker has stood at the centre of global finance, setting the standard for insight, rigour and independence. Through periods of profound change and global crises, it has helped generations of readers understand what is shaping banking, and banks’ impact on the world. As the industry looks ahead to a future defined by technological innovation, resilience and responsibility, The Banker enters its second century with even greater ambition than ever before.”
Silvia Pavoni
Editor-in-Chief
Today’s Market Close is both a celebration and a commitment. The Banker will continue to inform, analyse and connect the global finance community for the years ahead.
