The business of banking ought to be simple. If it is hard…
“The business of banking ought to be simple. If it is hard it is wrong. The only securities which a banker, using money that he may be asked at short notice to repay, ought to touch, are those which are easily saleable and easily intelligible.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Banking should be straightforward; complexity signals error, and assets must be liquid and understandable.
In simple terms: Banking must be simple and use.
Prioritize transparency and liquidity.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- investment decisions
- banking operations
- risk assessment
- client advice
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- Are simple securities always sufficient?
- How to balance simplicity with profitability?
Complex markets sometimes require nuanced instruments.