OREANDA-NEWS. September 20, 2011. Co-compiled by Baltic International Bank and invited experts, the TOP List (comprising investment events witnessed in the CIS/ Baltic region during the first half of 2011) reveals the three most significant events, namely Estonia’s changeover to the euro / accession to the Euro zone, devaluation of the Belarusian ruble, and the MICEX - RTS merger deal, i.e., a merger deal between Russia’s two major bourses: MICEX (Moscow Interbank Currency Exchange) and RTS (Russian Trading System), reported the press-centre of BIB.

On BIB Selection List (the rankings based on the opinions from 21 experts), the most pivotal economic, social and legislative processes and investment deals are ranked in order of importance. The List also mentions three Latvia-related events:  President’s Valdis Zatlers decision to initiate the dissolution of the Saeima (the Parliament of the Republic of Latvia), the upgrade of Latvia’s sovereign credit ratings, and Latvia’s successful sale of 10-year Eurobonds on international markets.

„The List mainly focuses on the events and processes that have affected - and will continue to affect - the investment environment in the long run. Particular events, such as Estonia’s adoption of the euro, can certainly be called historic. We are happy for Latvia appearing on the List amidst a string of positive developments,” the Bank’s Board Chairperson Ilona Gulchak said.

„You should expect considerable diversity of views if you put together a team of experts.  However, expert opinions are somehow interrelated. Most events having occurred in the CIS / Baltic region are laudable, generally viewed in a positive light, and may indirectly spur economic growth,” I. Gulchak added.

The TOP List BIB Selection will be prepared half-yearly. The material provided on the List may serve as a guideline, albeit an informative one. The List gives an overview of the investment environment, reveals the trends impacting the environment, and may therefore prove helpful for evaluating the economic processes.

Please visit our website www.bib.eu to read the List containing expert opinions and comments.