Let’s look at the data above. Deutsche Bank had a leverage ratio as (the total wealth / assets divided by capital / equity) in the top 50. Total debt is owned by Deutsche Bank to reach € 200 billion – the amount is equivalent to 80% of GDP (gross domestic product) of Germany. Of course, when there is chaos, the Bundesbank or even the German government would find it difficult to help conduct stabilization measures.

England’s largest bank, Barclays, had a leverage ratio above 60 with a total debt worth £ 1.3 trillion. The amount exceeds the GDP of the United Kingdom. Another example, Fortis, had a leverage ratio of “only” 33 – but the number is several times larger than the GDP of Belgium. In the Pakto 88, Indonesia has so many banks with mounting debt. “Fortunately,” the monetary crisis which forced the Indonesian banking architecture became more prudent and conservative.

It is true that the number of the above is not really accurate. In European countries, the definition of statistical and accounting standards can be applied differently by the U.S. or also in Indonesia. Leverage ratio is also not a perfect indicator to describe the risk. But at least the above illustration can describe how dangerous debt if managed properly and not greedy.

Actually there are many lessons from the financial crisis that we can take in the financial management of individuals and households. For example, have you ever tried to calculate your personal finances? How much debt (or installment debt) to be paid compared with net income you earn? Are you sure that you can manage debt without disrupting your life?

Honestly, look at the situation these days often makes me worry. Credit promotion is not controlled released. People can take a new motor with no money down. The car can also take home only with a down payment of several million dollars alone. Not to mention when calculating credit scoring process is often overlooked in pursuit of just the target. Even worse, the credit is used for things that are consumed, not for productive activities.

I have been amazed at the Jakarta bus conductor pocketed sophisticated camera phone, while one of the leading corporate executives in Indonesia are still using the old phone for a brick. I also shake my head to see an employee forced to take the BMW car loan while the boss just drove the old Corolla. It seems there is something wrong with our society in which the distinction between what is desirable and necessary.

Rather than force myself to look fabulous, why not try to be modest and what they are? In my opinion, much better looking mediocre than look rich (but actually did not have anything).