We consider a model in which the threat of bank liquidations by creditors as well as equity-based compensation incentives both discipline bankers, but with different consequences. Greater use of equity leads to lower ex ante bank liquidity, whereas greater use of debt leads to a higher...

We empirically examine the Capital Purchase Program (CPP) used by the US government to bail out distressed banks with equity infusions during the Great Recession. We find strong evidence that a feature of the CPP - the government's ability to appoint independent directors on the board of an...

We empirically examine the Capital Purchase Program (CPP) used by the US government to bail out distressed banks with equity infusions during the Great Recession. We find strong evidence that a feature of the CPP - the government's ability to appoint independent directors on the board of an...

This paper provides a brief assessment of how organizational higher purpose, ethics, culture and corporate governance have evolved in banking since the financial crisis. It concludes that we need to strengthen capital ratios and equity governance in banking to improve ethics and culture, and...

We empirically examine the Capital Purchase Program (CPP) used by the US gov- ernment to bail out distressed banks with equity infusions during the Great Recession. We find strong evidence that a feature of the CPP – the government’s ability to ap- point independent directors on the board of...

The main causes of the crisis could be ascribed to the global liquidity equilibrium, political interference in the credit market, bank credit standards, securitization and credit ratings. In order to better understand the crisis development and effects, the infectious leverage and the role of...

We show the anticipation of a bailout of distressed firms worsens ex ante adverse selection, causing a market freeze and inviting government intervention - a "bailout trap." When firms of heterogenous qualities raise financing, high-quality firms are willing to bear adverse selection costs...

This paper briefly discusses the causes of the 2007-09 financial crisis and the extent to which the systemic risk that buffeted this crisis was linked to excessive leverage. It then focuses on what is needed for a healthy financial system that has a relatively low probability of a systemic...