The existence of significant differences in the organization of the US and European financial markets prompts a number of important questions. Firstly, is it possible to determine the type of institutions that are more conducive to growth? Secondly, did the financial markets play a key role in securing the growth and prosperity of the US during the 1990s? A third issue is the effect of the recent changes in the organization of the financial markets. The last issue addressed relates to the effects on investment and growth of the different corporate governance structures that prevail in the various countries. By exploring the differences between the financial markets in the US and Europe, this book helps the reader assess the role of financial markets in securing investment and growth.