The Impact of Corporate Profits on Inflation

Analysis of the 2021 inflation spike reveals a substantial contribution from corporate profits, particularly within the oil industry, fueling a suspected price-fixing conspiracy worth $200 billion. The chapter explores the disruptive role of US shale producers in challenging OPEC's control, and highlights collusion allegations between shale producers and OPEC officials to manipulate oil prices. It also discusses the broader economic repercussions, including rising consumer costs and the Federal Reserve's response.