Morgan Stanley’s CEO has raised eyebrows with a candid assessment of the banking industry’s greatest threat: the “stupidity of own management.”

In a recent interview, the outspoken executive, John D. Johnson, pointed to a concerning trend within banks, suggesting that their own leadership’s questionable decisions pose a more significant danger than external factors.

Johnson argued that while banks often focus on external threats like economic downturns, regulatory changes, and technological disruption, they frequently overlook the internal issues caused by poor decision-making and a lack of strategic foresight.

He emphasized the need for banks to prioritize prudent management practices and avoid making rash decisions driven by short-term gains.

This statement has sparked a debate within the financial sector, with some applauding Johnson’s honesty and others criticizing him for oversimplifying the complexities of the industry.

Analysts are now closely watching to see if this unconventional perspective will lead to any tangible changes in Morgan Stanley’s approach to risk management and strategic planning.