In Pursuit of New Physics in the B System

The B-meson system offers interesting probes for the search of physics beyond the Standard Model. After addressing possible signals of new-physics contributions to the B -> phi K and B -> pi K decay amplitudes, we focus on the data for B^0_q-\bar B^0_q mixing (q = d, s), giving a critical discussion of their interpretation in terms of model-independent new-physics parameters. We address, in particular, the impact of the uncertainties of the relevant input parameters, discuss benchmarks for future precision measurements at the LHC, and explore the prospects for new CP-violating effects in the B_s-meson system, which could be detected at the LHC.