Tower of Basel

“Adam LeBor's Tower of Basel: The Shadowy History of the Secret Bank That Runs the World makes a strident case for challenging these financial shamans [central bankers] ... Mr. LeBor's polemical tone makes his book compelling ... It's a very ugly picture, and Mr. LeBor has painted it well.”

“[Lebor] does a creditable job in this well-researched account.”

“An absorbing and thorough examination of one of the world's most important yet opaque institutions.”

“It's a story of financial intrigue, secrets and lies, rumor and truth. LeBor, a business journalist (he's also the author of several thrillers), knows how to make a true story about finance as thrilling as any spy novel. A highly entertaining and informative book about the most powerful bank you've probably never heard of.”

“Lebor exposes the wheeling, dealing, and often nefarious activities of global investment bankers…Lively… The historical and contemporary power of the secretive BIS will surprise and alarm readers.”

“Adam LeBor has written an absolutely fascinating history of the BIS, perhaps the most enigmatic financial institution in the world. The story he unveils of the many skeletons in its closet and its astounding ability to remake itself periodically only add to its mystique.”

“Tower of Basel is essential reading. Meticulously researched and fluently written, it reveals a slice of the modern world's untold history—a gripping tale of covert networks, secret deals and unaccountable, powerful individuals whose decisions shape our lives.”

“Compelling reading—a masterly depiction of the role of the BIS in the Nazi period and Second World War.”