I had a really strong reaction to an article about mega
banks that are too big to fail. The only
way to make sure there are no more mega bank bailouts is to make sure that mega
banks are sufficiently capitalized that they can absorb massive losses and that
their management has mega incentives to be careful. The 12 mega banks ought to have 8 to 10
percent of assets in equity capital or convertible bonds that can be turned
into equity when needed to absorb losses.
If stock and convertible bond holders are on the hook for a really big
chunk of losses, they will force management to be much more careful. Also, mega bank management compensation above
that of the president of the United
States and all of the outside directors'
compensation should be reclaimable back 3-5 years in the event that a bailout
is needed for any mega bank that's too big to fail. Requirements like this will reduce the number
of mega banks, or at least make sure their managements and stock and
convertible bond holders have a LOT of skin in
the game. Bottom line is make moral
hazard a lot more painful for all involved.
Original Article on the Mega Banks: