February 9, 2012
It's quite simple: when banks operate as casinos they endanger our economy and our society. Already, the leverage that banks employ in our fractional reserve system is terribly threatening to our economy through the risk taking it makes possible. There's nothing wrong with taking risks - however, it's not OK when it puts other people's money at risk. As it does when banks do it. Did we learn nothing from the Great Depression? Do we have to repeat it all over again? It seems so, given how much we think that "it's different this time"!
It's not different. Not this time or any time.
The fact that we even have to have this conversation suggests a deep corruption in our affairs. The fact that nothing has really changed since 2008, and that those who took systemically crippling risks have not only not be prosecuted for their crimes, but have been actually bailed out with taxpayer dollars suggests that those in charge, at the highest levels of government, have benefited from this crime.
If you are one of these people, know this: your day of accountability is coming.
I’m writing in support of a strong Volcker Rule. My family and I were affected by the economic collapse of 2008, and we don’t want it to happen again.
As you prepare the final rule, bear in mind the fundamental goal of the rule – to ban big banks from exposing consumers and taxpayers to risky proprietary trades.
Banks that break the rule should face swift, automatic penalties for violations. Violations of the Volcker Rule endanger the stability of our financial system. They should not be treated lightly.
I want no exemptions to this rule. None. Period.
Thank you for considering my comment,
Stephen J Pew
Vancouver, WA