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Assumption Quote by John C. Bogle

“So the misplaced assumption is that we have this whole new institutional element where these [financial] institutions are looking after their own financial interests before the financial interests of the principals, princi-pals whose interests they are really bound to observe first.” quote by John C. Bogle
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“So the misplaced assumption is that we have this whole new institutional element where these [financial] institutions are looking after their own financial interests before the financial interests of the principals, princi-pals whose interests they are really bound to observe first.”

John C. Bogle

About This Quote

Source Book: Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits, 1958

Financial institutions often prioritize their own gains over those they serve, creating a conflict of interest.

In simple terms: Banks may put their profit before clients’ needs.

Key Takeaway

Demand transparency and alignment of interests.

Themes

ethics finance conflict of interest

Mood

cautious critical

Type

analytical prescriptive

When to use this quote

  • investment decisions
  • corporate governance
  • client advisory
  • policy making

Key Concepts

principal‑agent problem fiduciary duty regulation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can investors protect themselves?
  • What reforms could align interests better?
A Different Perspective

Regulatory capture can limit effectiveness of reforms.

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