The authors argue that the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (SOX) is a colossal failure, yet seek to salvage some lessons from the ruins of SOX.

Purpose – Under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000, the Financial Services Authority (FSA) is the single regulator of firms in the UK financial services industry. The Act grants extensive powers to the FSA such that it can impose by rules and regulations additional corporate...

This survey paper considers the 'special' nature of financial services and traces the roots of the reputational risk that firms in the industry invariably encounter. It defines what reputational risk is and outlines the types of reputational risk facing financial services firms. It considers the...

Sound corporate governance is essential for a well-functioning banking system and the integrity of financial markets. The paper discusses the corporate governance of Italian banks, its regulatory framework, and the specific challenges arising from the role played by foundations and large...

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mechanisms adopted by cities to control the provision of externalized public services and to explore the determinants of such control choices. Design/methodology/approach – The paper presents the results of a multiple case study based...

Purpose – This purpose of this paper is to investigate the determinants of board and audit committee meeting frequency. Design/methodology/approach – The determinants studied are related to the ownership structure and to the board characteristics. The study is conducted in an agency setting...