Brendan Greeley

Brendan Greeley, a PhD candidate with a background in journalism focused on the Federal Reserve, and Noah Smith, an economy expert and substack writer, dive deep into the complexities of national debt. They discuss how America’s financial practices evolved from colonial times to today, and the dangerous implications of the current $36 trillion debt. The duo also explores the risks of potential defaults, comparing it to the 2008 financial crisis, while questioning the political and social ramifications of our national borrowing habits.

Brendan Greeley, a financial historian and Financial Times writer, dives into the intriguing concept of America’s 'Dutch Disease,' where debt becomes a valuable resource. He discusses how the world’s demand for U.S. Treasuries turns borrowing into a commodity, affecting everything from the dollar's strength to manufacturing and Wall Street dynamics. Greeley also reflects on historical lessons from other nations, the quality of spending versus quantity, and the sustainability of America’s unique economic approach amid evolving global challenges.