Angelo Mozilo (CEO)

Angelo Mozilo is a former American banker who was the CEO and co-founder of Countrywide Financial, one of the largest mortgage lenders in the U.S. He played a significant role in shaping the home loan industry, especially during the housing boom of the early 2000s. Mozilo was known for advocating relaxed lending standards that made it easier for many Americans to buy homes. However, these practices also contributed to the 2008 financial crisis when many borrowers defaulted, leading to widespread economic turmoil. His career remains a notable example of how leadership decisions in finance can impact the broader economy.