Over and over again, we discover, upon some obscure audit or forensic accounting report being published, derivatives were the real culprit behind some bank/credit union/country failing.

Now we have Greece considering suing U.S. banks over credit default swaps on their sovereign debt and other derivatives.

Greece is considering taking legal action against U.S. investment banks that might have contributed to the country’s debt crisis, Prime Minister George Papandreou said.

“I wouldn’t rule out that this may be a recourse,” Papandreou said.

While this interview is making headlines buzz, to read the details of why Greece would consider suing U.S. banks click here and here

What a surprise, having a vehicle that pays out hansomely if a nation defaults on their debt might create some shady dealings. Bloomberg:

European Central Bank President Jean-Claude Trichet said May 6 that he was concerned about speculation in bond markets using credit default swaps. “By first buying the CDS and then trying to affect market sentiment by going short on the underlying bond, investors can make large profits,” he said.