Drexel & Company was a prominent American investment banking firm founded in 1838 by Francis Drexel. The firm played a significant role in the development of the U.S. financial markets and was known for its expertise in underwriting and trading securities. It became one of the leading firms on Wall Street, contributing to various major financial transactions throughout its history. In 1973, Drexel & Company merged with Burnham & Company to form Drexel Burnham Lambert, which further expanded its influence in investment banking. However, the firm faced challenges in the late 1980s, leading to its eventual collapse in 1990 amid a scandal involving illegal trading practices.