Posted
6:41 PM
by Gene
Comforting to know as Bear Stearns might sell itself for half its Friday close:Throughout much of its history, Bear Stearns has masterfully persuaded the market that its business — narrowly focused on mortgage finance — was worth more than it actually was. To some degree this trick has been a testament to the coy gamesmanship of two of its past leaders, Alan Greenberg and Mr. Cayne.
Both men are devout bridge players and Mr. Greenberg is an amateur magician as well, so they are well schooled in the art of not showing their hand.Well, bridge may not be poker but it's still a card game; and certainly the Richie Riches of the Wall Street Casino are incomparable at making money disappear -- without a magic wand, even.
P. S.
$2 a share.The central bank has agreed to fund up to 30 billion dollars of Bear Stearns’ less liquid assets.
Uncle Sucker comes to the rescue!