This report analyses the EIB Group's activity in cohesion regions in 2022. This year's edition focuses on the Group's contribution towards innovation for an inclusive, green and digital transition in line with the Innovation, Digital & Human Capital (IDHC) Orientation 2021-2027. The report starts with a review of recent economic trends in cohesion regions and their investments in innovation, followed by a presentation of the EIB Group's activities in these regions in 2022. The Group's support for economic, social and territorial cohesion is presented in relation to policy objectives, activity sectors, countries, contribution to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and sector-specific project results. A number of case studies are used to illustrate the Group's activities and impact. The wider macroeconomic impact of the Group in cohesion regions is then discussed through the lens of a recent academic study. Finally, the role of digitalisation and innovation in cohesion regions is presented along with the range of tools deployed by the Group to support these policy objectives in cohesion regions.

This report analyses the EIB Group's activity in cohesion regions in 2023, with particular emphasis on targeted social investments in key systemic enablers in those regions, such as access to essential services (e.g. inclusive healthcare and education, social and affordable housing), digital connectivity and the growth of mid-caps and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the latter with a particular focus on women entrepreneurs and youth. The Group's support for economic, social and territorial cohesion is presented in relation to its policy objectives, activity sectors, countries of operation, contribution to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and sector-specific project outcomes. While acknowledging convergence between countries, the report's essay section observes an increasing heterogeneity at the regional level. It also provides insights into key barriers to cohesion and illustrates how targeted social investments can help unlock regional labour potential. A selection of case studies showcases the significant social impact that the European Investment Bank Group has achieved through the use of its full range of financial and technical expertise.

As part of the EIB Group's bigger, bolder and more focused approach to cohesion, this report, the first in a new series, presents the EIB Group's activities in EU cohesion regions in 2021. The results are presented in terms of policy objectives, activity sectors, countries, contribution to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and sector-specific project results. It features a number of case studies and also takes a look at the economic and social challenges facing cohesion regions and the macroeconomic impact of the EIB Group's support for this fundamental EU policy priority.

The Finance in Africa report emphasises the challenges faced by the African banking sector — including the impact of recent shocks, such as the COVID-19 crisis and Russia's invasion of Ukraine — and the importance of gender diversity in business and banking. The report also discusses the need for international support and sustainable finance to advance economic development and climate change in Africa. It provides insights into the financial conditions, banking sector performance, and investment trends in the region. It covers the nature of climate finance flows in Africa and the degree of climate risk on bank balance sheets. With the right measures in place, Africa has the potential to overcome its challenges and unlock its true economic potential.

Deciphering the European Investment Bank: History, Politics and Economics examines the European Investment Bank (EIB), the European Union’s financial institution and the largest lender and borrower among the International Financial Institutions. Since its establishment in 1958, the EIB has developed without becoming front-page news and has remained highly invisible. By putting together 14 chapters that analyze topical and meaningful moments and aspects of the bank, this edited book offers the first comprehensive analysis of its origins and its evolution in terms of its mandate, governance, structures, policy activity, and performance. Written by acknowledged experts from various disciplines, the chapters weave together history, economics, law, and political science to provide a multidisciplinary examination and capture the complexity of the EIB. The book is a timely initiative for understanding the EIB, whose role has been ever increasing for contributing to the recent global economic challenges, including the economic and financial crisis, climate change, and COVID-19 pandemic. The chapters are written at a level which will be comprehensible to undergraduates in economics, history, and international political economy. It will also be a valuable source of reference for academics, policy makers, bankers, and other practitioners interested in regional development banks and their role in the global economy.

The EIB Circular Economy Guide aims to promote a common understanding of circular economy, and raise awareness about and promote circular solutions. The Guide provides information about EIB's lending and advisory activities in this field, and communicates our vision of how the EIB can further support the transition to a circular economy. The Guide is a living document that will be updated in response to our evolving understanding of circular economy needs, opportunities and risks, and growing experience with the appraisal and financing of circular economy projects.