What are the top 10 biggest financial fraud cases in the past decade?

1. Bernie Madoff Ponzi Scheme (2008): Bernie Madoff, a former chairman of NASDAQ, operated the largest Ponzi scheme in history, defrauding investors of an estimated $65 billion.

2. 1MDB Scandal (2009-2015): This Malaysian state fund scandal involved misappropriation of approximately $4.5 billion by high-ranking officials and associates, including the country’s former prime minister.

3. Wells Fargo Unauthorized Accounts Scandal (2016): Wells Fargo employees created millions of unauthorized bank and credit card accounts to meet aggressive sales targets, resulting in a $3 billion settlement and widespread reputational damage.

4. Volkswagen Emissions Scandal (2015): Volkswagen admitted to installing software in their vehicles to manipulate emissions tests, resulting in a $14.7 billion settlement, massive recalls, and legal consequences for the company.

5. Worldcom Accounting Scandal (2002): Worldcom, a telecommunications company, engaged in accounting fraud that inflated its assets by about $11 billion, resulting in bankruptcy and several high-profile criminal convictions.

6. Enron Scandal (2001): Enron Corporation, an energy company, engaged in accounting irregularities and used special purpose entities to hide debt and inflate profits, leading to its bankruptcy and financial losses for investors.

7. Olympus Accounting Scandal (2011): Olympus Corporation, a Japanese manufacturer, covered up losses of $1.7 billion through fraudulent accounting practices, leading to criminal charges and heavy financial penalties.

8. Satyam Computer Services Scandal (2009): Satyam Computer Services, an Indian IT services company, inflated its revenue and assets by around $1.47 billion, leading to a major corporate scandal and legal consequences for top executives.

9. Petrobras Scandal (2014): Brazil’s state-owned oil company, Petrobras, was involved in a massive corruption scheme, with billions of dollars funneled to politicians and executives. It resulted in numerous arrests, a drop in the country’s economy, and significant financial losses.

10. AIG Accounting Scandal (2005): American International Group (AIG), an insurance company, engaged in improper accounting practices to manipulate its financial statements, resulting in regulatory fines and settlements totaling $1.64 billion.