Part 2/10:
In the year leading up to Lehman's downfall, the firm was embroiled in mounting financial troubles stemming from a collapsing property market and a growing fear around the subprime mortgage crisis. Despite warnings, Lehman's leadership continued to engage in high-stakes risky investments, leveraging their assets to unprecedented levels, with a shocking ratio of 44:1 at its peak. The firm, once boasting significant property investments, saw its stock prices plummet as confidence evaporated.