Citigroup C
Citigroup, founded in 1812 as the City Bank of New York by Samuel Osgood, evolved into a global financial titan known for its sprawling reach and tangled history. With its major merger in 1998 between Citicorp and Travelers Group, it created one of the world’s largest financial services conglomerates. The 2008 financial crisis, which saw Citi receiving a $45 billion bailout, marked a defining moment and a bruise on its reputation. As of 2024, Citigroup’s valuation is approximately $115 billion, a testament to its recovery efforts and persistent influence in the banking sector. The company has weathered various controversies including legal battles and regulatory fines but remains a pivotal player under the leadership of Jane Fraser, the first woman to lead a major Wall Street bank.