$19.8 million

$19.8 million dollars is a lot of money unless you are Bill Gates ( however a slight pinch might be felt if that money was lost.) That is the amount that ex-CEO of Freddie Mac Richard Syron made last year. I have no problem with someone making that kind of money (I sure won't mind making that much) but I do have a problem with someone making that kind of money and forcing individuals directly and indirectly involved in your company pay for decisions that you made. America is a capitalistic nation it's what makes America America. However that could be a double edged sword as we are observing during this current financial crisis. Decisions that were made by Mr. Syron are costing Americans millions of dollars now and in the future. If someone is placed in a position like that of Mr. Syron a lot of responsibiliy comes along with that title. Responsibility that must not be taken lightly. In a competitive environment decisions must be made quickly and efficiently. Mr. Syron made quick decisions but not efficient ones. In 2004 Syron was informed by his chief risk officer, David A. Andrukonis that the company was taking in bad loans. Syron refused to listen to Andrukonis and now look at where his former company is at. Mr. Andrukonis did his job in informing Syron about the risks associated with continual bestowment of bad loans. Syron however did not do his in listening to his risk officer instead he chose to ignore him. It is often said the bigger the risk the bigger the reward. Dealing with millions and millions of peoples financial security however is something that does not bring bigger rewards with bigger risks instead what it brings is turmoil. Turmoil that could've been prevented. That is just one example imagine if other CEO did the same thing risked communal financial security for personal financial security. The fact that both Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae are government backed may have contributed to the erronious decisions made by both CEOs of the company. Some how I think that the leaders of these two companies should be held liable and receive some sort punishment. I highly doubt a slap on the hand would be as effective as jail time or something similiar to that. A message needs to be sent out to the American people that if you mess with people's financial security you will pay.