Part of what stiffens resistance to a bailout is that Deutsche Bank has, since 2009, tapped markets for 13 billion euros in cash, while paying out 19 billion euros in bonuses, according to data compiled by Autonomous Research. http://nyti.ms/2deV8DU Christ.But given the political opposition in Germany to any form of help for banks in distress, especially before important elections next fall, the situation would have to deteriorate significantly to prompt state intervention.
I believe so. These are arguably government-sanctioned ponzi schemes. Issuing debt, then buying back stock, paying bonuses and dividends. It's not really hyperbole to say that it's a racket. That said, the government has been more than complicit. Central banks have encouraged the behavior.