  We report recent results in rare B decays. Our focus will be on b -> d gamma
and b -> s l^+ l^- transitions. We discuss their impact on the CKM
phenomenology and their role within our search for new physics. In particular,
we analyse the impact of a recent lattice QCD estimate of the B -> K* form
factor at zero recoil. We also briefly discuss the presently available optimal
theoretical tools for the inclusive and exclusive modes.
