Bloomberg Talks Evan Osnos, Author Talks New Book
Jun 3, 2025
Evan Osnos discusses the staggering wealth disparities in America, revealing how the ultra-rich control more wealth than ever before. He highlights the emergence of a new Gilded Age, marked by superyachts and luxury bunkers. The conversation shifts to the psychological toll of wealth, with the ultra-wealthy facing isolation and anxiety despite their riches. Osnos draws comparisons between the financial struggles of everyday Americans and the opportunities available in places like China, emphasizing the need for equitable solutions to prevent further concentration of wealth.
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Wealth vs. Opportunity Divide
- America is wealthier than ever, but half of adults lack $1,000 for emergencies.
- We face a choice to create broad opportunity or deepen inequality like Henry Ford warned.
Modern Gilded Age Parallels
- The current era resembles America's Gilded Age and the Roaring Twenties.
- Without wise choices, vast wealth won't lift the broader population.
Balance Wealth Inheritance Smartly
- Ensure wealth enables opportunity: leaving heirs enough to do anything but not so much they do nothing.
- Focus on producing more productive Buffets, not just ultra-wealthy Musks.
