Bank boards: non-executive inquisition

Bank regulators haven’t exactly covered themselves in glory. But an earlier defense against bank excesses ought to be their boards. It’s not an easy job, but directors could try harder to control risk-taking. Uncomfortable questions are welcome. One worth repeating, with the financial crisis slowly fading and 2009 results heralding a possible return to normality for some U.S. and European banks: «Why are we doing so well?» Boards often discuss problems. But from the UK’s Northern Rock to Countr...