World Bank, more than a “Knowledge” bank, a “Besserwisser” bank, be the “Wisdom” bank I know you could be; or, if that sounds too haughty, at least aspire to be “The Common Sense” bank.
A “Knowledge” bank might think that assets perceived as risky could be risky for banks. A “Wisdom” bank understands that what could be especially risky for banks, and for bank systems, is what is perceived as safe.
A “Knowledge” bank might think that it is great for banks to avoid taking risks.
A “Wisdom” bank knows that the most important function for banks is to take intelligent risks on behalf of society.
A “Knowledge” bank might agree with the Basel Committee’s bank capital requirements based on perceived risks.
A “Wisdom” bank would think much more in terms of not distorting credit allocation, and, if that’s not possible, in terms of capital requirements for banks with a purpose, like on perceived chances of fostering human and natural capital wealth
A “Knowledge” bank, if it has to distort the allocation of bank credit, might agree with bank capital requirements against sovereigns based on credit ratings.
A “Wisdom” bank, in such a case, would much more prefer to base the bank capital requirements on a good governance index.
A “Knowledge” bank might say: “We know it all”. A “Wisdom” bank, would understand “We know Jack shit!”
Or, if aspiring to becoming the “Wisdom bank” sounds too haughty, the World Bank it should at least aspire to be “The Common Sense” bank.
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