The frequency of financial crises over recent decades makes an in-depth study of the phenomenon imperative. This should involve particular attention to those points the different crises have in common, so as to draw lessons that can be used by financial authorities, regulators and the actual participants in the financial system. The causes of the crises and the efficacy (or inefficacy) of response by governments are essential aspects that must be studied in order to determine the lessons to be drawn and recommendations to be made. The Centro de Estudios Espinosa Yglesias (CEEY) brought together a group of experts in financial systems and public finance to debate the origin of the above-mentioned financial crises and the viability of means for anticipating them.