In 2008, Iceland's banking system, ten times the size of its economy, collapsed, leading to a severe financial crisis. Major banks fell, causing the national debt to skyrocket to €50 billion against a GDP of €8.5 billion. The Icelandic krona plummeted, inflation spiked, and the country faced bankruptcy. This crisis exposed deep-seated issues, including extensive inter-bank loans and conflicts of interest, highlighting the importance of financial oversight and accountability.