Bank That Lived a Little: Barclays in the Age of the Very Free Market

The Bank that Lived a Little is a brilliantly readable account of the transformation of the old Quaker bank into a hard-charging capitalist adventurer, based on exceptional access. It describes three decades of boardroom intrigue at Barclays, including feuds, grandiose dreams, and a struggle for supremacy between rival strategies. The book also shows how Barclays experiences are a paradigm for Britain's social and economic life over thirty years, creating unprecedented prosperity for a tiny number and leaving many in tatters.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 05 September 2019
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

Based on exceptional access, John Plender of the Financial Times has written a brilliantly readable account of the transformation of the old Quaker bank into a hard-charging capitalist adventurer. This captivating narrative, which blends elements of thriller and reminder, delves into the intricate tapestry of business, showcasing its fascination as it encompasses the entirety of human life.

The Bank that Lived a Little, authored by Philip Augar, provides a captivating portrayal of three decades of boardroom intrigue at one of Britain's largest financial institutions. Augar's narrative unfolds with compelling pace and drama, offering a riveting account of Barclays' journey from an old Quaker bank to a full-throttle capitalist machine.

Within this tale of feuds, grandiose dreams, and a fierce struggle for supremacy between rival strategies and their adherents, Augar sheds light on the internal dynamics of Barclays. The disagreement between those who sought to elevate Barclays to the prestigious ranks of global banks and those who preferred a smaller, domestic role more aligned with the bank's traditions resulted in the termination of three chief executives and continues to divide opinion within Barclays, the City, and beyond.

This extraordinary corporate thriller delves into various aspects of Barclays' journey, including its acquisition of Lehman Brothers for a bargain price in 2008, its strategic avoidance of government funding during the financial crisis, and the consequences for shareholders over a decade of barely controlled ambition. Augar also highlights how Barclays' experiences mirror the broader social and economic landscape of Britain over the past thirty years. These decades witnessed the City's transition from the periphery to its central position, leading to unprecedented prosperity for a select few while leaving others in tatters.

The book explores the emergence of the leveraged society, the winner-takes-all mentality, and the current era of austerity, all of which have shaped the economic landscape. Augar's analysis provides valuable insights into the forces that have shaped Britain's economic trajectory and the impact of these developments on individuals, governments, and society as a whole.

In conclusion, The Bank that Lived a Little is a must-read for anyone interested in business, finance, and the broader social and economic dynamics of our times. With its exceptional access and compelling storytelling, Augar offers a profound exploration of Barclays' transformation and its profound implications for Britain and the world. This book is a testament to the power of narrative and the ability of journalism to shed light on the intricacies of corporate life and the broader societal forces that shape it.

Weight: 346g
Dimension: 196 x 129 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780141987538