We study the stability of the banking system after a mortgage shock when a discretionary bailout policy is applied. Results suggest that the authority should be focused on preventing contagion. The decision over the appropriate policy depends upon the goal which the authority wants to pursue....

Recessions associated with banking crises are deeper and longer than other recessions. While banking crises are often believed to reflect defects in regulation and supervision, regulatory and supervisory frameworks may also determine the shape of subsequent recoveries. Combining new databases...