Economics Explored

Michael Johnston, CFA of WealthChannel and show host Gene Tunny dissect the pressing issues facing the US Social Security system. Amid predictions of future insolvency, they discuss the demographic trends, financial realities, and policy adjustments needed to safeguard retirement incomes for future generations.Please contact us with any questions, comments and suggestions by emailing us at contact@economicsexplored.com or sending a voice message via https://www.speakpipe.com/economicsexplored. About this episode’s guest: Michael Johnston, CFAMichael Johnston, CFA is a financial industry veteran with a passion for improving outcomes for retail investors.Following stints in corporate finance and investment banking, Michael founded ETF Database (ETFdb) and grew it into the largest independent media property covering exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Under Michael’s leadership, the company achieved a commanding position within the ETF industry and played a key role in the “low cost revolution” that saw hundreds of billions of dollars flow from expensive mutual funds to low cost ETFs.ETFdb is now a part of TSX Group, a publicly-traded financial services company that operates the Toronto Stock Exchange.Michael co-founded WealthChannel with a mission of helping investors achieve financial independence by radically simplifying retirement planning and investing. Michael is responsible for WealthChannel’s content and education initiatives, including its flagship WealthChannel Academy.Michael graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in finance, and now resides in Oregon with his wife and son. He is active in his community as a member of the Board of Directors of the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency (LRAPA) and a volunteer at Hosea Youth Services.What’s covered in EP233[00:02:59] Sustainability of Social Security.[00:03:52] Retirement crisis in America.[00:09:43] Americans living longer.[00:13:25] Social Security trust fund depletion.[00:17:38] Social Security sustainability.[00:18:59] Social Security Funding Solutions.[00:24:36] Frankenstein policy solutions.[00:27:50] Immigration and Social Security.[00:30:46] Retirement age and social security.[00:35:54] Retirement savings statistics.[00:38:19] Retirement and financial literacy.[00:41:26] Retirement savings options in the States.[00:45:02] Social Security explained.[00:50:26] Social Security and retirement accounts.TakeawaysSocial Security Sustainability: The Social Security program in the US faces sustainability challenges due to changing demographics and financial dynamics.Retirement Crisis: There is a retirement crisis in the US, with nearly half of Americans having no retirement savings and relying heavily on Social Security for income in retirement.Potential Solutions: Various solutions were discussed, including raising the retirement age, adjusting cost-of-living adjustments, and increasing contributions to shore up the system.Individual Retirement Accounts: The US offers tax-effective retirement savings options like 401(k)s and Roth IRAs, but many Americans are not effectively using these tools.Comparison with Other Countries: The discussion highlighted differences in retirement systems between the US and countries like Australia, where superannuation accounts play a significant role in retirement planning.Links relevant to the conversationMichael Johnston’s bio: https://wealthchannel.com/about/michael-johnston/Wealth Channel Academy, Michael Johnston's initiative to demystify retirement planning: https://wealthchannel.comLumo Coffee, sponsor of the episode offering antioxidant-rich coffee: https://lumocoffee.comSocial Security Administration: https://www.ssa.gov/Millions of Americans nearing retirement age with no savings - CBS News: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/millions-of-americans-nearing-retirement-age-no-savings/EP87 – Saving & investing for retirement: 401(k)s, IRAs, mutual funds, ETFs, etc: https://economicsexplored.com/2021/05/15/ep87-saving-investing-for-retirement-401ks-iras-mutual-funds-etfs-etc/Lumo Coffee promotionLumo Coffee Discount: Visit Lumo Coffee (lumocoffee.com) and use code EXPLORED20 for a 20% discount until April 30, 2024.Thanks to Obsidian Productions for mixing the episode and to the show’s sponsor, Gene’s consultancy business www.adepteconomics.com.au. Full transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com.

This episode explores the crucial role of efficient financial management in driving business performance and productivity. Guest Andrew Walker, a seasoned financial consultant, shares his extensive experience advising businesses on utilizing data for improved cash flow and strategic decisions. Walker emphasizes the transformation from traditional bookkeeping to strategic financial planning as businesses scale.Please contact us with any questions, comments and suggestions by emailing us at contact@economicsexplored.com or sending a voice message via https://www.speakpipe.com/economicsexplored. About this episode’s guest: Andrew Walker, CEO, Improcus Andrew, with over 30 years of executive management and accounting experience, across global and local markets, brings a depth of experience and credibility built across the manufacturing, retail, franchise, construction and transport sectors. Whether as CEO or on the shop floor, Andrew understands the challenges and demands of business. Andrew has an intuitive understanding of business in both financial and functional areas. His work experience includes:CEO of Improcus, a South East Queensland business improvement consultants company/business and has worked with 100 companies in 10 years with an aggregate annual turnover of $1.0b CEO of AAF Industries Plc, a London stock exchange listed company specialising in design, manufacture and installation of modular buildings in Europe. The Group also included a laboratory furniture manufacturing business and a scaffolding division.CFO BTR Dunlop Ltd, listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, responsible for all South African operations and the Financial Controller for Africa reporting to BTR PLc. Turnover R1.0billionDivisional Finance Director of Dorbyl Automotive Components consisting of 16 divisions supplying various automotive components to OEM’s.Financial Controller for the Aberdare Power Group, the largest manufacturer of power cables in South AfricaWhat’s covered in EP232Introduction (0:00)Streamlining business processes to improve cash flow. (4:15)Automating business processes for efficiency and growth. (9:19)Improving business performance through financial analysis. (13:54)Financial management and growth in a business. (18:30)Financial management and business growth. (23:55)When businesses need a CFO or financial controller. (28:52)Private equity, AI, and business trends. (32:09)Business software and data analysis. (36:22)Business productivity, taxes, and insolvency. (42:37)Financial reporting and cash flow management in businesses. (46:54)TakeawaysThe Peter Principle in Finance: Promotion beyond competence in finance roles can critically hinder a business’s growth. It's crucial to elevate financial management capabilities as the business scales.Automation and Efficiency: Leveraging modern software and automating processes can significantly reduce time and errors in financial reporting, enabling quicker strategic decisions.Strategic Role of Chief Financial Officers: A CFO’s role transcends traditional bookkeeping, focusing on external growth opportunities, mergers, acquisitions, and stakeholder management. Understanding when to transition from a bookkeeper to a CFO is key for business evolution.Data Utilization for Decision Making: Effective use of data, including forecasting and performance analysis, is essential for driving strategic business decisions and identifying areas for improvement.Cash Flow Management: Proactive cash flow forecasting and management are critical for navigating financial challenges and seizing opportunities, underscoring the importance of a competent finance department.Abbreviations used in the showATO - Australian Taxation OfficeBOM - Bill of materialsCFO - Chief financial officerCV - constant velocity, as in CV jointDIFOT - Delivery in full on timeERP - Enterprise resource planningGST - Goods and Services TaxIPO - Initial public offeringPAYG - Pay as you goLinks relevant to the conversationImprocus Business Improvement SpecialistsCustomer Success Stories – Get inspired by our customers (jedox.com)Why Jedox? | Simple – Adaptable – IntegratedAlan Jackson (businessman) - WikipediaLumo Coffee Discount: Visit Lumo Coffee (lumocoffee.com) and use code EXPLORED20 for a 20% discount until April 30, 2024.Thanks to Obsidian Productions for mixing the episode and to the show’s sponsor, Gene’s consultancy business www.adepteconomics.com.au. Full transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com

Ben Fraser, Managing Director of Aspen Funds, argues, “There's a huge opportunity to get into fossil fuel production.” He discusses macro-driven alternative investments, investable megatrends, including the disruption to energy markets as advanced economies decarbonise, and the outlook for the US economy, particularly inflation. Disclaimer: this episode presents general information only and is not financial or investment advice.Please contact us with any questions, comments and suggestions by emailing us at contact@economicsexplored.com or sending a voice message via https://www.speakpipe.com/economicsexplored. About this episode’s guest: Ben Fraser Ben Fraser is the Chief Investment Officer at Aspen Funds, where he combines his analytical nature with a passion for delivering outstanding client service and strong returns through out-of-the-box investments. With a professional background that spans over a decade, Ben has become an expert in the field of investment management and has worked for several reputable financial institutions.Ben is the co-host of the Invest Like a Billionaire podcast, where he joins his father, Robert, co-founder and CFO of Aspen Funds, along with co-founder Jim Maffuccio, to discuss economic trends and best practices for alternative investing.Prior to joining Aspen, Ben served as a Commercial Lender at First Business Bank, one of the top SBA lenders in the nation. There, he specialized in government-backed loan originations, specifically SBA and USDA loans. Before that, he worked as a Commercial Credit Underwriter for Crossfirst Bank, where he personally underwrote over $125MM in C&I and CRE loans across various industries.Ben also has experience working in the asset management industry, having served as a key member of the team at Tortoise Capital Advisors. At Tortoise, he helped grow institutional managed accounts from ~$3BN AUM to ~$7BN AUM.Ben holds an MBA from Azusa Pacific University and a Bachelor of Science in Finance from the University of Kansas, where he graduated magna cum laude. Ben’s commitment to excellence and his ability to deliver strong returns for clients make him an invaluable asset to the Aspen Funds team.What’s covered in EP23100:00:04 - Global Energy from Fossil Fuels (excerpt from interview)00:00:33 - Introduction to Economics Explored Podcast00:01:06 - Guest Introduction: Ben Fraser of Aspen Funds00:02:08 - Aspen Funds' Investment Focus00:05:17 - Accredited Investors and Investment Opportunities00:06:04 - Expanding Accredited Investor Definitions00:08:47 - Alternative Investments and Client Strategy00:11:29 - Investable Megatrends for the Next Decade00:13:03 - Inflation and Energy Market Outlook00:15:37 - Private Credit in Real Estate00:20:37 - Commercial Real Estate Market Dynamics00:23:42 - Energy Investments and Fossil Fuel Outlook00:29:10 - OPEC's Influence on Oil Prices00:31:28 - Gold, Bitcoin, and Investment Hedges00:35:09 - US Fiscal Policy and Debt Concerns00:38:40 - Closing RemarksTakeawaysMacro-Driven Alternative Investments: Aspen Funds focuses on macro-driven alternative investments, which involve understanding long-term economic trends to identify investment opportunities.Investable Megatrends: Aspen Funds has identified investable megatrends for the next decade, including higher inflation for longer and an energy crisis due to a transition to green energy.Opportunities in Real Estate: Aspen Funds sees opportunities in private credit within the real estate market, particularly in the midsection of the capital stack, where risk can be reduced while achieving good returns.Energy Market Insights: Ben Fraser discusses the impact of transitioning to green energy on fossil fuel production, highlighting potential supply shortages and investment opportunities in fossil fuel production.Views on Gold and Bitcoin: Ben Fraser comments on gold and Bitcoin as alternative investments, acknowledging their role as hedges against fiat currency but cautioning against heavy allocations due to the risks involved.Links relevant to the conversationAspen FundsInvest Like a Billionaire PodcastFull transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com.

Analyzing Australia's gender pay gap data, Dr. Leonora Risse discusses factors like occupational segregation and societal norms. They debate the impact of 'greedy jobs' and the need to address gender inequities, while exploring the transparency of data sources and the importance of company actions aligning with gender equality initiatives.

Andrew Einhorn from LevelFields shares insights into leveraging AI for financial market analysis. Their innovative platform is designed to detect critical events affecting stock prices, enabling investors to react swiftly. The conversation covers the benefits of AI in democratizing financial information and the future implications for investment strategies. Disclaimer: Nothing in this episode should be considered financial or investment advice. Always conduct your own research or consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.Please contact us with any questions, comments and suggestions by emailing us at contact@economicsexplored.com or sending a voice message via https://www.speakpipe.com/economicsexplored. About this episode’s guest Andrew EinhornAndrew Einhorn is the visionary CEO and co-founder behind Level Fields, a groundbreaking company leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize the way investors interact with the stock market. With a career deeply rooted in technology and finance, Einhorn has dedicated himself to democratizing access to advanced investment strategies, making it possible for the average investor to make informed decisions swiftly and with confidence. Before establishing Level Fields, Einhorn led a successful event monitoring system company for a decade, serving publicly traded companies and offering insights into how market events affect stock prices. His passion for utilizing technology to enhance market transparency and fairness has led to the creation of Level Fields' AI-driven platform, designed to scan the market for events impacting stock prices, thereby leveling the playing field between retail investors and the larger, more resource-rich players in the market.What’s covered in EP229Introduction. (0:00)Using AI to analyze financial news and announcements. (2:47)Using AI for stock market analysis and avoiding fraudulent companies. (7:19)AI applications and their limitations. (13:38)Using AI to analyze market data for investment insights. (18:24)AI-powered stock market analysis. (23:26)AI-powered investment research platform for retail investors. (28:01)Using AI to analyze audio transcripts for investment insights. (33:12)Using AI for event monitoring and investment analysis. (38:45)Using historical data for investment strategies. (44:10)AI's role in investing and the financial establishment's reaction. (49:19)Takeaways1. AI can help democratize access to investment strategies by scanning vast amounts of market data and financial reports that individual investors cannot monitor themselves.2. Understanding how historical events have impacted stock prices can provide insights on predicting future price movements and avoiding losses from overreacting to news.3. While AI is not a crystal ball, it can be a useful tool for investors when combined with human judgment, by automating tedious research tasks and identifying potential opportunities that may otherwise be missed.Links relevant to the conversationLevelFields website: https://www.levelfields.ai/Andrew’s interview on the Side Hustle City podcast: https://www.sidehustle.money/1350142/14348901-revolutionizing-investing-andrew-einhorn-unveils-levelfields-the-game-changing-tool-in-stock-market-analysisThanks to Obsidian Productions for mixing the episode and to the show’s sponsor, Gene’s consultancy business www.adepteconomics.com.au. Full transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com.

This episode examines the need for tax reform in Australia and reviews various options for overhauling the country's tax system. Simon Cowan joins host Gene Tunny from the Centre for Independent Studies to discuss issues like bracket creep, the tax system's progressivity, mining royalties, and negative gearing. They also analyse the political strategies around the stage three tax cuts and how expenditure reform, including controlling the growth of programs like the NDIS, is needed to reduce the tax burden. Cowan argues the tax system has become too reliant on income tax and higher-income individuals. Please get in touch with us with any questions, comments and suggestions by emailing us at contact@economicsexplored.com or sending a voice message via https://www.speakpipe.com/economicsexplored. About this episode’s guest Simon CowanSimon Cowan is Research Director at the CIS. He is a leading commentator on policy and politics, with a regular column in the Canberra Times newspaper, frequent interviews on Sky and the ABC, and multiple appearances before parliamentary committees discussing the budget, citizenship, taxation and health policy. He has written extensively on government spending and fiscal policy, with a specific focus on welfare and superannuation policy. He earlier work focused on government industry policy, defence and regulation.What’s covered in EP228Australian tax system overhaul and cost of living relief. (0:04)Tax bracket creep and its impact on income. (5:14)Tax system and progressivity. (9:44)Tax cuts and political strategy in Australia. (15:29)Tax system in Australia, income tax reliance, and potential changes. (21:13)Taxation, welfare, and the burden on working-age population. (26:02)Tax reform and its challenges in Australia. (31:03)Taxation and resource extraction in Australia. (38:05)Australian tax system and potential reforms. (45:42)Takeaways1. Australia's tax system has become overly reliant on income tax and needs to diversify its revenue sources.2. Bracket creep is a real problem that has not been adequately addressed, particularly for higher-income earners.3. Both major political parties have taken cynical, short-term positions on tax reforms that are not in the community's best interests.4. Expenditure reform, including controlling the growth of programs like the NDIS, is needed to reduce the tax burden.5. Lowering company taxes could boost business investment and economic growth in Australia.Links relevant to the conversationSimon’s article on the stage 3 tax cuts:https://www.cis.org.au/commentary/opinion/labors-tax-backflip-all-the-easier-against-an-opposition-with-no-spine/AFR article (pay-walled) “Royalty hike and IR overhaul threaten critical mineral pipeline: BHP”:https://www.afr.com/policy/economy/royalty-hike-and-ir-overhaul-threaten-critical-mineral-pipeline-bhp-20231119-p5el3yQLD Government announcement on coal royalty hike:https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/95467Grattan Institute’s view on tax reform:https://grattan.edu.au/news/thats-not-tax-reform-this-would-be-tax-reform/Thanks to Obsidian Productions for mixing the episode and to the show’s sponsor, Gene’s consultancy business www.adepteconomics.com.au. Full transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com.

This episode of Economics Explored explores the theory of Ricardian equivalence, a proposition that fiscal policy measures like tax cuts or stimulus payments may not effectively boost the economy if households anticipate higher future taxes to pay off government debt. Host Gene Tunny explains the concept originating from David Ricardo and popularized by Robert Barro, involving ultra-rational consumer optimization over infinite time horizons. While an elegant theoretical model, Ricardian equivalence relies on unrealistic assumptions and fails empirical tests. Evidence shows households do increase spending after rebates or transfers, although not always by as much as policy makers would like. Ultimately, while the merits of discretionary fiscal policy are debatable, Ricardian equivalence is too extreme a hypothesis. Households do not behave as ultra-rational dynamic optimizing models predict.Please get in touch with us with any questions, comments and suggestions by emailing us at contact@economicsexplored.com or sending a voice message via https://www.speakpipe.com/economicsexplored. You can listen to the episode via the embedded player below or via podcasting apps including Google Podcasts, Apple Podcast and Spotify.TakeawaysFive takeaways from this episode are:1. Ricardian equivalence is an elegant theoretical model but relies on unrealistic assumptions about rational consumer behavior.2. Empirical evidence overwhelmingly finds that households do increase spending after tax rebates or fiscal stimulus, contrary to Ricardian equivalence predictions.3. Related concepts like Friedman's permanent income hypothesis are more nuanced but also face limitations in fully explaining consumer decisions.4. While fiscal policy faces challenges, Ricardian equivalence is not a compelling argument against its effectiveness due to failures of the underlying theory.5. Examining economic models against real-world evidence is important for evaluating their validity and implications for policy.TimestampsIntroduction. (0:00)David Ricardo's economic theories and their relevance today. (5:30)Ricardian equivalence in macroeconomics. (11:02)Consumption function and fiscal policy. (17:48)Rational economic models and their implications. (23:18)Ricardian equivalence theory and its limitations. (26:41)Ricardian equivalence theory and its empirical support. (33:59)Consumer spending after receiving tax rebates. (39:10)Ricardian equivalence in economics. (43:55)LinksPrevious episode in which Ricardian Equivalence was mentioned:https://economicsexplored.com/2024/01/11/the-limits-of-fiscal-policy-insights-from-tony-makin-alex-robson-others-ep222/Robert Barro’s 1974 article “Are Government Bonds Net Wealth?”https://eml.berkeley.edu/~saez/course131/Barro74JPE.pdfJames M. Buchanan on “Barro on the Ricardian Equivalence Theorem”https://www.journals.uchicago.edu/doi/abs/10.1086/260436Geoffrey Brennan and James M. Buchanan on “The Logic of the Ricardian Equivalence Theorem”https://www.jstor.org/stable/40911555John J. Seater on “Ricardian Equivalence”https://www.jstor.org/stable/2728152T. D. Stanley on “New Wine in Old Bottles: A Meta-Analysis of Ricardian Equivalence”https://www.jstor.org/stable/1060788Economist 2008 column “Ricardian equivalence is dead”https://www.economist.com/free-exchange/2008/05/19/ricardian-equivalence-is-deadAnrdrew Leigh’s paper “How Much Did the 2009 Australian Fiscal Stimulus Boost Demand? Evidence from Household-Reported Spending Effects”http://andrewleigh.org/pdf/FiscalStimulus.pdfMatthew D. Shapiro & Joel B. Slemrod’s study “Did the 2008 Tax Rebates Stimulate Spending?”https://www.nber.org/papers/w14753Claudia R. Sahm, Matthew D. Shapiro and Joel Slemrod’s analysis “Check in the Mail or More in the Paycheck: Does the Effectiveness of Fiscal Stimulus Depend on How It Is Delivered?” https://www.aeaweb.org/articles?id=10.1257/pol.4.3.216Ikuo Saito’s paper “Fading Ricardian Equivalence in Ageing Japan”https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/WP/Issues/2016/12/31/Fading-Ricardian-Equivalence-in-Ageing-Japan-44302Thanks to Obsidian Productions for mixing the episode and to the show’s sponsor, Gene’s consultancy business www.adepteconomics.com.au. Full transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com. Economics Explored is available via Apple Podcasts, Google Podcast, and other podcasting platforms.

Show host Gene Tunny interviews UMass Amherst Professor Gerald Epstein about his new book "Busting the Bankers’ Club", which is about the powerful influence of banks in politics and regulation. Epstein argues the bankers’ club maintains control through political allies and regulators. The conversation also covers financial deregulation, insufficient Dodd-Frank reforms, Quantitative Easing impacts, and alternatives like public banking and non-profit financial institutions.Please contact us with any questions, comments and suggestions by emailing us at contact@economicsexplored.com or sending a voice message via https://www.speakpipe.com/economicsexplored. About this episode’s guest Prof. Gerald EpsteinGerald Epstein received his Ph.D. in economics from Princeton University, is a professor of economics, and is a founding co-director of the Political Economy Research Institute (PERI) at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He has published widely on various economic policy issues, especially in central banking and international finance. His most recent book, Busting the Bankers' Club: Finance for the Rest of Us, was forthcoming in January 2024 from the University of California Press. What’s covered in EP226Banking industry's influence in politics and regulation. (0:04)Financial deregulation and its impact on the economy. (8:58)Financial system's impact on democracy and fairness. (13:24)Financial system issues and regulation. (16:24)Economic policy after the financial crisis, including impacts of Quantitative Easing. (22:50)Financial regulation and publicly owned institutions. (28:08)Public banking, crypto, and risk-taking in finance. (33:30)TakeawaysProfessor Epstein argues in this episode:The "bankers’ club" of allies including politicians, central banks, and economists helps sustain the power and influence of large banks.Financial deregulation in the US and weak Dodd Frank reforms failed to address issues like too-big-to-fail banks and accountability.Quantitative easing policies after the financial crisis disproportionately benefited wealthy asset holders over others.  There is a need for more diverse public and non-profit financial institutions focused on social missions over profits.Crypto poses risks if it infects the core banking system or continues high-carbon polluting practices.Links relevant to the conversationGerald Epstein’s book Busting the Bankers’ Club: Finance for the Rest of Ushttps://www.amazon.com/Busting-Bankers-Club-Finance-Rest/dp/0520385640Working paper co-authored by Prof. Epstein “Did Quantitative Easing Increase Income Inequality?”https://www.ineteconomics.org/research/research-papers/did-quantitative-easing-increase-income-inequalityThanks to Obsidian Productions for mixing the episode and to the show’s sponsor, Gene’s consultancy business www.adepteconomics.com.au. Full transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com.

Show host Gene Tunny interviews Marcos Buscaglia, former head of the Latin America economics team at Bank of America Merrill Lynch, and author of the book "Beyond the ESG Portfolio, How Wall Street Can Help Democracies Survive." Buscaglia argues that, through their investment choices, many investors have inadvertently been supporting autocratic regimes, and he calls for a change in investment practices. Tune in to this thought-provoking episode to learn more about the ultimate impacts of our investments and how Wall Street can contribute to the survival of democracies.Please get in touch with us with any questions, comments and suggestions by emailing us at contact@economicsexplored.com or sending a voice message via https://www.speakpipe.com/economicsexplored. What’s covered in EP225Introduction to the episode. (0:03)Aligning investments with values and democratic growth. (4:32)Autocratic regimes, EU funding, and corruption in Hungary. (9:41)Investing in emerging markets while avoiding autocratic countries. (22:31)Economic sanctions, autocratic regimes, and investment strategies. (28:06)Economics, democracy, and the role of finance.TakeawaysInvesting in autocratic regimes can inadvertently support and strengthen those regimes.ESG (environmental, social, governance) investing should also consider whether countries are democratic.ESG metrics and indices currently do not prioritize democracy as a factor.There are limited investment options that exclude autocratic countries, but investor demand can drive change in this area.Sanctions can be an effective tool in limiting financial support to autocratic regimes.Links relevant to the conversationMarcos Buscaglia’s book: Beyond the ESG Portfolio: How Wall Street Can Help Democracies Survivehttps://www.amazon.com/Beyond-ESG-Portfolio-Democracies-Survive/dp/1265115605Thanks to Obsidian Productions for mixing the episode and to the show’s sponsor, Gene’s consultancy business www.adepteconomics.com.au. Full transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com.

Economics Explored host Gene Tunny speaks with David Stockman,  President Reagan’s first Office of Management and Budget director. Stockman discusses his new book, "Trump's War on Capitalism," and shares his frank and fearless commentary on the former president's economic policies. In his foreword to the book, Robert F. Kennedy Jr wrote, “Stockman has become one of the nation’s most steadfast and eloquent crusaders against the corrupt merger of state and corporate power.”Please get in touch with us with any questions, comments and suggestions by emailing us at contact@economicsexplored.com or sending a voice message via https://www.speakpipe.com/economicsexplored. What’s covered in EP224Trump and capitalism. (0:04)Trump's fiscal and monetary policies. (4:41)Government spending and lockdowns during the Trump presidency. (10:04)Trump's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact. (15:06)COVID-19 response and blame game. (20:05)US economy under Trump, job growth, and performance. (25:51)Economic growth and tax cuts during Trump's administration. (30:10)Monetary policy and inflation during Trump's presidency. (36:26)Corruption in US government and military spending. (41:56)Alan Greenspan's legacy and economic challenges. (49:54)TakeawaysDavid Stockman argues that while Trump portrayed himself as a capitalist, his fiscal and monetary policies like large tax cuts, increased spending and pressure on the Fed to keep rates low were reckless and a threat to capitalism.According to Stockman, the data shows the US economy was not in its strongest position ever pre-COVID, as Trump claimed, with key metrics like GDP growth, job growth and investment lower under Trump compared with some previous presidents.Stockman believes Trump bears responsibility for the unprecedented pandemic spending and deficits, as he could have resisted lockdowns but instead endorsed huge stimulus packages.Stockman views Trump as the worst president for sound money policy due to his pressure on the Fed to keep rates low.Links relevant to the conversationAmazon page for Trump’s War on Capitalism:https://www.amazon.com/Trumps-War-Capitalism-David-Stockman/dp/1510779329William Greider’s famous 1981 Atlantic article “The Education of David Stockman”:https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/1981/12/the-education-of-david-stockman/305760/Thanks to Obsidian Productions for mixing the episode and to the show’s sponsor, Gene’s consultancy business www.adepteconomics.com.au. Full transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com.