Walter Wriston Quotes

A collection of quotes by Walter Wriston.

Walter Wriston was an American banker and CEO of Citibank from 1967 to 1984. Born on August 3, 1919, in Middletown, Connecticut, he played a significant role in shaping the modern banking industry and revolutionizing the world of electronic banking.

After serving in World War II, Wriston began his career at Citibank in 1946. He swiftly rose through the ranks and eventually became CEO in 1967. During his tenure, he transformed Citibank into one of the largest and most influential financial institutions in the world.

Wriston was known for his forward-thinking and innovative approach to banking. He was a strong advocate for deregulation and the removal of barriers in international banking, believing that these steps could improve economic growth and increase global prosperity. He embraced technological advancements, spearheading the development and implementation of the first automated teller machine (ATM) network, revolutionizing how customers accessed their accounts.

Furthermore, Wriston played an influential role in shaping U.S. monetary policy and was a trusted advisor to several U.S. presidents. He was an outspoken advocate for free-market capitalism and emphasized the importance of risk-taking and entrepreneurship in driving economic growth.

Beyond his banking career, Wriston was a prolific writer and authored several books on finance and economics. He continued to be active in various business and policy circles until his death on January 19, 2005, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the banking industry.