Meaning: The quote "With a group of bankers I always had the feeling that success was measured by the extent one gave nothing away" by Francis Aungier reflects a sentiment that is often associated with the world of banking and finance. It suggests that within this environment, success is often perceived as being closely tied to the ability to maintain a sense of secrecy and to avoid revealing too much information. This mindset can be attributed to the competitive nature of the industry, where professionals are often required to guard sensitive information and maintain a certain level of discretion in their dealings.

In the context of banking, the notion of giving nothing away can be interpreted in several ways. On one hand, it may refer to the need for bankers to maintain a level of confidentiality when handling sensitive financial information. This can include protecting the privacy of clients, safeguarding proprietary trading strategies, and ensuring the security of transactions. In this regard, success may be linked to the ability to uphold a strict code of confidentiality and to avoid divulging information that could compromise the integrity of the bank and its clients.

Furthermore, the quote may also allude to the importance of maintaining a sense of control and composure in business dealings within the banking sector. Success in this context may be associated with the ability to negotiate and navigate complex financial transactions without revealing one's hand or intentions too readily. This could involve maintaining a poker-faced demeanor during negotiations, refraining from disclosing too much information during discussions, and carefully managing the flow of information to one's advantage. The idea is that by giving nothing away, individuals are better positioned to negotiate from a position of strength and maintain a competitive edge in the market.

In a broader sense, the quote by Aungier can also be seen as a commentary on the culture of discretion and privacy that often characterizes the world of finance. Bankers and financial professionals are often entrusted with sensitive information that can have far-reaching implications for their clients and the market as a whole. As such, the ability to uphold a standard of confidentiality and to avoid giving away too much information is integral to maintaining trust and credibility within the industry.

It is important to note, however, that while the sentiment expressed in the quote may resonate with certain aspects of the banking world, it also raises questions about the balance between transparency and discretion in the financial sector. In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on the importance of transparency and accountability in the banking industry, particularly in the aftermath of the global financial crisis. Regulators and policymakers have sought to implement measures aimed at promoting greater transparency and disclosure within the financial sector, in an effort to enhance market stability and protect the interests of investors and consumers.

In conclusion, the quote by Francis Aungier captures a perspective on success within the context of banking that emphasizes the importance of discretion and the careful management of information. While this sentiment may reflect certain realities of the industry, it also prompts important considerations about the role of transparency and accountability in the financial sector. As the banking landscape continues to evolve, finding the right balance between confidentiality and disclosure remains a key challenge for professionals in the industry.