The best 34 Banking books

Snow Crash (1992) is a cyberpunk sci-fi novel starring katana-wielding, pizza-delivering hacker Hiro Protagonist and his partner, spunky teen skateboarder Y.T. It features a virus called Snow Crash which pervades both the physical world and the virtual world, also known as the Metaverse. But it soon becomes apparent that Snow Crash is more than just a virus –⁠ as Hiro delves deeper, he discovers a conspiracy that has its roots in ancient Sumerian legends and poses a dire threat to humanity.

The House of Morgan (1990) chronicles the influential Morgan dynasty, who shaped the course of modern finance through their shrewd financial acumen and keen understanding of world economic currents. This portrait, spanning four generations, details the rise of the Morgans from Victorian London to their pinnacle during the 1987 financial crisis. 

Too Big to Fail (2009) draws you into the heart of the 2008 financial crisis, revealing the high-stakes decisions and power struggles that shaped the world's economic landscape at that time. This gripping narrative untangles a complex web of financial intrigue, and will help you understand the forces that drove one of the most tumultuous periods in financial history.

Becoming Your Own Banker by R. Nelson Nash is a thought-provoking book that challenges traditional financial wisdom. It introduces the concept of using whole life insurance as a way to become your own banker and gain control over your finances. Through real-life examples and practical advice, the book offers a unique perspective on wealth accumulation and financial independence.

Discussion Materials by Bill Keenan offers a candid and humorous account of life as an investment banking associate. Through a series of entertaining anecdotes and insightful reflections, Keenan provides a behind-the-scenes look at the high-pressure world of finance and the absurdities that come with it. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the inner workings of Wall Street.

Digital Bank by Chris Skinner explores the transformation of the banking industry in the digital age. It delves into the challenges and opportunities for traditional banks as they adapt to the rise of online and mobile banking, fintech innovations, and changing consumer behaviors. Skinner provides valuable insights and analysis on how banks can reinvent themselves to thrive in this new era.

The Lost Bank by Kirsten Grind is a gripping account of the rise and fall of Washington Mutual, once the largest savings and loan bank in the United States. Grind delves into the risky lending practices, internal power struggles, and regulatory oversights that ultimately led to the bank's dramatic collapse during the 2008 financial crisis. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, she uncovers the untold story behind this notorious banking failure.

Commercial Bank Management by Peter S. Rose provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of modern banking. It covers topics such as bank regulation, risk management, lending strategies, and financial technology, offering valuable insights for both students and professionals in the banking industry.

Manias, Panics, and Crashes by Charles P. Kindleberger explores the history of financial crises and their underlying causes. Drawing on extensive research, the book provides insights into the patterns and behaviors that lead to market instability. It offers valuable lessons for investors, policymakers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of financial markets.

The Expats by Chris Pavone is a gripping thriller that follows the story of Kate Moore, a former CIA agent who moves to Luxembourg with her husband and children. As Kate tries to settle into her new life as an expat, she is drawn back into the world of espionage and deception. Filled with twists and turns, this novel explores the complexities of trust, identity, and the consequences of our past actions.

The Basics of Bitcoins and Blockchains by Antony Lewis is a comprehensive guide that demystifies the world of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. It provides a clear explanation of how Bitcoin and other digital currencies work, as well as the underlying blockchain technology. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, this book offers valuable insights and practical knowledge about this rapidly evolving field.

Stress Test is a memoir by Timothy F. Geithner that provides an insider's account of the financial crisis of 2008. Geithner, who served as the President of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York and later as the Secretary of the Treasury, shares his experiences and decisions during this tumultuous time, offering insights into the challenges faced and the actions taken to stabilize the global economy.

A Sensible Arrangement by Tracie Peterson tells the story of a young widow, Marty Dandridge Olson, who enters into a marriage of convenience with a wealthy businessman, Jake Wythe. Set in the late 19th century, the book explores themes of trust, family, and the quest for independence as Marty and Jake navigate their unconventional relationship and confront secrets from their pasts. With rich historical detail and a touch of romance, this novel offers a compelling tale of love and second chances.

The Moneychangers by Arthur Hailey is a gripping novel that delves into the world of high finance and banking. Set in the 1970s, it follows the lives of bank employees, executives, and their families as they navigate through power struggles, financial crises, and personal challenges. With intricate plot twists and well-developed characters, this book offers a fascinating insight into the complexities of the financial industry.

Banking the Billionaire is a romantic comedy novel by Max Monroe. It follows the story of a feisty photographer, Cassie, who finds herself entangled with a charming and wealthy businessman, Thatcher. As they navigate through hilarious misunderstandings and undeniable chemistry, they discover that love can be found in the most unexpected places.

The Bankster by Ravi Subramanian is a gripping thriller that delves into the world of banking and financial crime. Set in India, the novel uncovers a web of deceit, corruption, and murder as an investigation into a series of suspicious deaths leads to shocking revelations about the banking industry. With its fast-paced plot and intriguing characters, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

The Dead Key by D. M. Pulley is a gripping mystery novel that takes place in both 1998 and 1978. It unravels the dark secrets hidden within an abandoned bank in Cleveland. As a young engineer uncovers the mysteries of the bank's past, she becomes entangled in a dangerous web of corruption and deceit.

Griftopia by Matt Taibbi delves into the world of financial fraud, political corruption, and the power dynamics that led to the 2008 financial crisis. With sharp wit and incisive analysis, Taibbi exposes the greed and deceit that permeate Wall Street and Washington, offering a compelling critique of the system that allows such rampant exploitation to occur.

The Color of Money by Mehrsa Baradaran delves into the history of racial inequality in the United States through the lens of banking and financial systems. It explores how government policies and banking practices have perpetuated wealth disparities between white and black Americans, and offers thought-provoking insights into the ongoing challenges of economic justice.

End the Fed by Ron Paul is a thought-provoking book that challenges the role of the Federal Reserve in the US economy. Paul argues that the Fed's policies have led to financial instability, inflation, and a devaluation of the dollar. He presents a case for abolishing the central bank and returning to a system of sound money and free market principles.

The End of Alchemy by Mervyn King delves into the flaws of the global financial system and offers insightful solutions for a more stable and resilient economy. Drawing on his experience as the former governor of the Bank of England, King challenges the conventional wisdom and calls for fundamental changes to the way we approach banking and finance.

Panic on Wall Street by Robert Sobel explores the history of financial crises in the United States. From the Stock Market Crash of 1929 to the more recent Global Financial Crisis of 2008, the book provides a comprehensive analysis of the events and factors that led to these panics. Sobel delves into the economic and social ramifications of these crises, offering insights into the workings of the financial world.

The Quants by Scott Patterson delves into the world of quantitative finance and the rise of mathematical geniuses on Wall Street. It explores how these "quants" used complex algorithms and computer models to make huge profits, but also contributed to the financial crisis of 2008. The book offers a fascinating insight into the high-stakes world of finance and the potential dangers of relying too heavily on mathematical models.

The Warburgs by Ron Chernow is a captivating biography that delves into the history of a prominent German-Jewish banking family. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Chernow uncovers the family's rise to power, their contributions to the world of finance, and their enduring legacy. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of wealth, influence, and the tumultuous events of the 20th century.

Bull by the Horns (2012) is Sheila Bair's firsthand account of her experience as the head of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) during the 2008 financial crisis. Offering unique insights and a no-holds-barred perspective, Bair reveals the challenges, power struggles, and critical decisions made in an effort to stabilize the banking system and protect the American economy.

The Big Reset by Willem Middelkoop explores the looming global financial crisis and the potential for a major reset of the international monetary system. Middelkoop delves into the history of money, the role of central banks, and the impact of geopolitical shifts, offering insights and predictions for what may lie ahead. This thought-provoking book challenges conventional wisdom and provides a compelling analysis of the challenges facing the world economy.

13 Bankers by Simon Johnson and James Kwak examines the power and influence of Wall Street in shaping the American economy. It delves into the history of banking in the United States and argues that the concentration of financial power in the hands of a few large institutions poses a threat to the stability and fairness of the financial system.

Secrets of the Temple by William Greider delves into the inner workings of the Federal Reserve and its impact on the global economy. Through extensive research and interviews, Greider uncovers the hidden power and influence of this institution, shedding light on its role in shaping monetary policy and financial crises.

Crash of the Titans by Greg Farrell delves into the dramatic downfall of two financial giants, Bank of America and Merrill Lynch, during the 2008 financial crisis. Through meticulous research and insider interviews, Farrell uncovers the risky decisions, power struggles, and corporate greed that led to the historic merger and subsequent collapse. It offers a gripping account of a pivotal moment in modern finance and the individuals at the center of it all.

A Dangerous Fortune by Ken Follett is a gripping historical novel set in 19th century England. It delves into the world of high finance and family secrets, as it follows the lives of the Pilaster family. With themes of power, betrayal, and ambition, the book unravels a dangerous conspiracy that threatens to destroy everything in its path.

is a thorough investigation into the history and operations of the Federal Reserve. Griffin exposes the secret meeting on Jekyll Island that led to the creation of the central bank and reveals its true nature and impact on the economy. This book offers a compelling critique of the Federal Reserve and its role in shaping the financial system.

Why Aren't They Shouting? by Kevin Rodgers delves into the transformation of the financial industry in the digital age. Through his own experiences as a veteran trader, Rodgers discusses how advances in technology have changed the way trading is conducted and the impact it has had on the markets. He also explores the potential risks and challenges that come with these changes.

Devil Take the Hindmost by Edward Chancellor is a comprehensive and engaging account of financial speculation throughout history. From tulip mania in 17th century Holland to the dot-com bubble of the late 20th century, Chancellor explores the psychological and economic factors that drive individuals and societies to take reckless risks in pursuit of wealth. This thought-provoking book challenges conventional wisdom about financial markets and offers valuable insights into the recurring patterns of speculative excess.

Money and Power by William D. Cohan delves into the inner workings of Wall Street giant Goldman Sachs. Through extensive research and interviews, the book uncovers the firm's rise to power, its role in the 2008 financial crisis, and the influence it wields in the world of finance and politics. It offers a compelling and revealing look at the intersection of money and power in the modern financial system.