What’s in a name? Linguistic diversity, EMU and the single currency

Linguistic arguments were in some of the new Member States invoked to justify national variations in the spelling of the name of ‘euro’ while, in others, a ‘sovereign right’ was claimed to spell that name in accordance with national language rules and usage traditions. Examining these claims against the background of the current Community language rules and of the exceptions and limitations to the ‘principle of linguistic equality’ inherent in these rules, this article will argue that, while the issue of the spelling of ‘euro’ is not one of language, even if it were to be conceived as such, the Treaty objectives served by a ‘single name for the single currency’ should prevail over arguments in favour of national variations of its name

Financial supervision in the Republic of Cyprus: the case for reform

Purpose – Aims to examine the current financial scenario in Cyprus and to suggest medium-term reforms to the institutional set-up of Cypriot financial supervision. Design/methodology/approach – Details the different sectors in Cyprus's financial set-up and suggests measures necessary for remedial reform. Findings – The suggested reforms should considerably enhance the consistency and extend the viability of the Cypriot financial supervision system without unduly upsetting its hitherto institutional balance or introducing unnecessary complications to its contemporary arrangements. Originality/value – This represents a starting-point for Cypriot financial reform, which has up to press been only marginally considered.Banking, Cyprus, Financial control, Insurance, Securities