1995: the Far-Eastern money market is still emerging, and the scene is set for one naïve young Englishman to appear out of nowhere to bend the rules.

Working from the Singapore office of the Queen's bankers, Nick Leeson (McGregor) would appear to have everything going for him - a position of trust, money and a beautiful new bride (Anna Friel). But he also has an unchecked driving ambition and an insatiable appetite for the highlife. But before long, his reckless gambling on the open market will spiral completely out of control and lead to unprecedented trading losses that he must somehow cover up and keep from his unsuspecting employers and trusting wife.

His spectacular downfall will send ripples across the financial world, destroying a 200-year-old institution and making headlines across the world...