We analyze the governance structure of three main French banking groups (BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole, and Société Générale) in the context of the global financial crisis. To this end, We, first, show the heterogeneity within the ownership structures of these three banks, which points differences with regard to performance among these banks. Second, we underscore the importance of institutional investors in stimulating banking growth. Finally, we note that the high number of independent directors on the boards of directors of BNP Paribas and Société Générale as well as the use of incentive pay in executive compensation might explain the excess risk taking of these banks.