While many South Florida banks closed down or moved their global banking operations in the wake of the attacks, the Spaniards are spearheading a resurgence of international banking in Miami, after several years of contraction following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks and the toughening of anti-money laundering regulations to fight terrorism.

Speaking about the fact that the Spaniards are leading a resurgence of international banking in South Florida to Miami Daily Business Review, Fernando Alonso, who helped put together several deals for the Spanish banks, was quoted saying: "It’s a healthy environment when you see transactions like these taking place and I’m finding it encouraging that Florida is being used as a point of entry." "Their presence is really an all-around benefit, " he said.

He added that: "They’re bringing a stronger capital base; they’re not just going to come and stay put in terms of just keeping their initial investment. They’re here to continue an expansionist policy.”

Alonso is a partner in the Miami office of Hunton & Williams LLP and chair of  the  Latin America practice group. He has practiced in the corporate and securities, banking and international fields for more than 20 years.