The Jordan Harbinger Show 1217: Evan Osnos | The Haves and Have-Yachts of American Oligarchy
14 snips
Oct 2, 2025 
Evan Osnos, a journalist and New Yorker staff writer, dives into the world of American oligarchy and the role of superyachts. He reveals how these floating mansions have transformed into power hubs where billion-dollar deals unfold beyond public scrutiny. Osnos highlights the shocking environmental impact of these yachts, comparing them to 1,500 cars, and discusses the insatiable desires of the ultra-wealthy. He also shares insights on the implications of rampant political donations and the potential crises that extreme inequality could trigger. A thought-provoking look at wealth and power!
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Wealth Meets Politics
- Oligarchy means fusion of economic and political power, not just privatized state assets.
- Billionaire political donations rose from ~$25M in 2004 to ~$3B in 2024, supercharging influence.
Yachts As Status Machines
- Superyachts signal status more than investment; they cost ~10% of purchase price yearly to maintain.
- Buyers treat yachts as prestige consumption and an arms race for bigger vessels.
Skipping The Wait List
- A buyer traded down from a 200-foot hull to a 150-foot hull to move money and accommodate another buyer.
- Wealthy buyers paid millions to skip multi-year wait lists during COVID.
