Explains how we got into the current economic disaster that developed out of the economics and politics of the housing boom and bust. The "creative" financing of home mortgages and "creative" marketing of financial securities based on these mortgages to countries around the world, are part of the story of how a financial house of cards was built up--and then collapsed.

The role of directors of financial institutions has changed significantly. Subsequent changes in regulation to protect shareholder and public interests have created new challenges for directors. This handbook provides advice from directors and regulators about what directors of financial institutions worldwide need to know to perform their duties.

Republication of U.S. Central Intelligence Agency material in the public domain.

OECD Factbook 2005 is the first edition of a comprehensive and dynamic new statistical annual from the OECD. More than 100 indicators cover the full range of topics covered by the OECD.