RE: US Banking System + Washington Mutual (WaMu)
Quote:
Originally Posted by 'Xzin',index.php?page=Thread&postID=121455#post121 455
I don't like to post an off topic message as a general rule. But this is important.
I am not trying to cause a panic here but as an active investor, I watch the markets very closely. There has been considerable concern about many banks - from investment banks, extending to stalwarts of industry that are failing left and right. Goes with the territory when you leverage yourself 30x or more. While FDIC insurance exists, it fails to cover account balances in excess of $100,000.00. Plus, it is grossly underfunded and payouts can take months or years. There are a number of banks that will implode or have already. Some are difficult to forecast but there are usually warning signs. I would urge anybody who banks with Washington Mutual (WaMu) to look at their numbers and make an informed decision as to if that institution is the type that you feel comfortable leaving your money in. Myself? I would not touch it with a 10 ft pole. If you are in excess of the 100k limit, at WaMu or elsewhere, you are a fool. It is possible somebody buys WaMu and bails everything out but why bet the farm on it? Take the time to consider current market conditions and ensure you take the proper steps to protect yourself.
http://chart.finance.yahoo.com/c/2y/w/wm
A) Investing greater then 100k in any bank = bad idea
B) Although the above is prbably smart for teh individual investor, everyone that removes theie money from a stressed bank is just causing a ripple affect.
1929/30/31 was makred by everyone trying to withdrawl there money from their bank, the bank entering bankruptcy. Rinse repeat x 3000.