Reasons for optimism and gloom

Article forms the lead and overview article in the FT: Special Report 'Investing in Poland 2012'. Despite threats facing the country, Poland goes into a difficult period with some strengths and a very remote chance of recession.

Other features in the Special Report:

+ Interview: Finance minister justifies upbeat assessment
Jacek Rostowski tells Jan Cienski how deregulation coupled with infrastructure and deficit improvements counter concerns on growth

+ Back office investment: Outsourcing gives a boost to jobs growth. European location works to advantage, writes Jan Cienski

+ Deregulation: Government starts to untangle red tape to attract investors. Administration costs an unnecessary €15bn a year, says Jan Cienski

+ Banking: Eurozone crisis sets a stiff test for the defences of a solid sector. A tougher period is looming after years of steady profit – but there is no shortage of hope in the sector, writes Jan Cienski

+ Energy: ExxonMobil departure unsettles outlook for shale gas exploration. Uncertain prospects and bureaucracy are hampering progress, says Adam Easton

+ Border ties: Port access highlights hope for better trade link with Russia. Frosty relations with Moscow may thaw as partnerships form, says Jan Cienski

+ Outward investment: Maturity sets wider horizon for companies. After some harsh early lessons, groups are starting to make profitable moves, reports Jan Cienski

+ Medical care: Private equity seizes a healthy opportunity
A fragmented sector in need of a cure, as illustrated by several recent hospital deals, reports Liam Nolan

+ The east: Image and reality combine to hamper progress for the ‘B team’. A new airport at Lublin is expected to unlock the potential of a neglected region, says Adam Easton

+ US move keeps PZL on an upward path. Janusz Zakrecki, CEO of PZL Mielec, maps out future in an interview with Andrew Kureth