The Rogue Gambler: 7 Nick Leeson Trades That Triggered a Bank's Sudden Collapse

4. The Earthquake that Shook the Financial World

In January 1995, a devastating earthquake hit Kobe, Japan. The disaster had a significant impact on the Japanese stock market, which plummeted in the wake of the tragedy. For Leeson, who had bet heavily on the market's stability, the earthquake was a disaster. His losses, which had already been substantial, ballooned to over £800 million. Despite this, Leeson continued to gamble, hoping that he could recoup his losses.