RBS pays out 10% of equity to investment bankers


In the banking business I think we all understand the point and motivational benefit of bonuses, however this story from a Bank that is almost a Government Department (70% government owned) takes insanity to a new level, if you are a taxpayer. The sheer size of the bonus pool of £4 billion is astounding. That represents just under 10% of the banks equity! I mention the government ownership because while we are used to investment bankers paying out such bonuses, one would have thought that their government overseers would have insisted on that £4 billion being used to boost capital, … Continue reading RBS pays out 10% of equity to investment bankers

Dear A.I.G., I Quit! | Jake DeSantis


It is very interesting and illuminating to read this resignation letter from Mr DeSantis of AIG.  He received $742K on march 16th and must either repay to keep and lose 90% to tax.  He intends to keep and donate residual to charity. Question de jour:  Should Mr DeSantis, who was earning $1 per annum salary, be held responsible for the world economic crisis?  Is he more accountable than Joe Plumber in Florida who signed up for a sub-prime mortgage knowing full well he could not afford the interest reset. These are difficult and emotional times.  Delivering bailouts without terms and … Continue reading Dear A.I.G., I Quit! | Jake DeSantis