Return to previous page

Summaries of books by William D. Cohan:

Power Failure

The Rise and Fall of General Electric
William D. Cohan
The book chronicles the decline of General Electric (GE), once a symbol of American ingenuity and economic power, detailing the missteps and strategic errors that led to its financial troubles. It provides an in-depth analysis of the company's leadership, culture, and business decisions that contributed to its fall from grace.
See full summary

House of Cards

A Tale of Hubris and Wretched Excess on Wall Street
William D. Cohan
The book provides an in-depth look at the fall of Bear Stearns, one of the first major casualties of the 2008 financial crisis, detailing the combination of risky business practices, poor decisions, and market forces that led to its collapse. It offers a behind-the-scenes perspective on the personalities and power struggles within the firm that contributed to its demise and the subsequent impact on the global economy.
See full summary

The Last Tycoons

The Secret History of Lazard Freres & Co.
William D. Cohan
The book delves into the secretive world of the elite investment bank Lazard Frères, chronicling its rise to power and the influential bankers who shaped its legacy. It provides an insider's view of the cutthroat deal-making, internal power struggles, and the larger-than-life personalities that drove the firm's success and drama.
See full summary

Why Wall Street Matters

William D. Cohan
The book provides a defense of the role Wall Street plays in the American economy, arguing that despite its flaws, the financial sector is essential for providing capital, creating jobs, and fostering innovation. It also examines the history of Wall Street, the causes of financial crises, and the importance of understanding and reforming the system rather than dismantling it.
See full summary