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On the Glass-Steagall thing, like I said, if you could…

“On the Glass-Steagall thing, like I said, if you could demonstrate to me that it was a mistake, I'd be glad to look at the evidence. But I can't blame [the Republicans]. This wasn't something they forced me into. I really believed that given the level of oversight of banks and their ability to…” quote by William J. Clinton
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“On the Glass-Steagall thing, like I said, if you could demonstrate to me that it was a mistake, I'd be glad to look at the evidence. But I can't blame [the Republicans]. This wasn't something they forced me into. I really believed that given the level of oversight of banks and their ability to have more patient capital, if you made it possible for [banks] to go into the investment banking business as continental European investment banks could always do, that it might give us a more stable source of long-term investment.”

William J. Clinton

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He argues that allowing banks to engage in investment banking could stabilize long‑term funding, but acknowledges political constraints and the need for evidence.

In simple terms: Banks in investment banking might boost stable capital.

Key Takeaway

Consider evidence before policy change.

Themes

economics regulation politics banking

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

policy political

When to use this quote

  • debating financial reform
  • evaluating regulatory impact
  • political negotiation

Key Concepts

financial stability policy analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What data would convince you?
  • How do political realities shape economic policy?
A Different Perspective

Evidence may not outweigh political opposition.

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