This article by Franco Carlo Papa (Chairman of PGS Consulenti) and Luca Sala (Partner of PGS Consulenti) examines the often conflicting approach taken by banks and entrepreneurs to crisis. Banks aim to protect credit rather than fostering company meritocracy. Since they are on the frontline in company rescues, banks should go beyond providing financial support and also offer business input (a little like shareholders). Entrepreneurs, on the other hand, should focus on social responsibility, finding ways to work alongside these new partners and enhancing executive thinking to overcome the crisis affecting their company.