

Economics Matters with Laurence Kotlikoff
Economics Matters
Economics Matters is a podcast hosted by Professor Laurence Kotlikoff, one of the most influential economists in the world, a Global Economics Advisor, NY Times Best Selling Author, President of Economic Security Planning, Inc., and Director of the Fiscal Analysis Center. In each episode, Professor Kotlikoff talks to experts about the power of economics in our modern day society. From personal finance and fiscal policy, to social security and income inequality, Economics Matters delves into much of the economic challenges of modern society.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 14, 2024 • 43min
Trump and the Art of the Deal: David Cay Johnston's In-Depth Analysis
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff welcomes David Cay Johnston back on Economics Matters. David is an investigative journalist, author, and specialist in economics and tax issues. David's authority on these subjects is unquestioned, with a career boasting a Pulitzer Prize for Beat Reporting and a long history of examining economic complexities. His work deeply scrutinizes fiscal policies and has brought to light many hidden layers of the American tax system.
Johnston's academic presence at Syracuse University as a visiting lecturer melds practical journalism with academic insights, ensuring the conversation is both grounded and intellectually robust. His expertise in Donald Trump's finances brings an unparalleled depth of understanding to issues surrounding Trump’s legal entanglements and political maneuverings.
Topics Covered:
Trump's Financial Empire
Legal Battles and Political Influence
Election Integrity and Foreign Interference
The Role of Power and Authoritarianism
This conversation promises to be invaluable for anyone interested in the intersection of finance, law, and politics. It illuminates complex issues with the sharp analysis only a seasoned journalist like David Cay Johnston can provide.
Time Stamps:
03:58 Man runs for president, opposes Trump, predicts dictatorship.
07:10 Donald Trump facing legal challenges in court.
12:10 Donald Trump disclosed crucial national security secrets.
15:50 Unlimited resources to fuel criminal activities, and Kremlin interference revealed.
17:57 Claims of wrongdoing but no concrete evidence.
21:42 Supreme Court unlikely to take up case.
25:05 Florida judge violates oath, New York trial expected.
27:45 Trump's CFO likely avoiding jail time.
30:53 State cases matter due to pardon limitations.
35:13 Trump's bail status and First Amendment rights.
37:02 Putin aims to reassemble old Soviet Union.
41:04 Trump's legal issues, Russia.
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Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

Mar 12, 2024 • 54min
Theo Kocken's Insights on Demographic Changes and Economic Stability
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff joins forces with Theo Kocken, a distinguished professor of risk management at VU University Amsterdam and the visionary founder of Cardano, a trailblazing pension, investment, and risk management firm. Theo's compelling background as a former head of risk management at ING and his strategic expertise in averting financial crises for major pension funds, like KLM's, mark him as an authoritative voice in the field of economic risk management and sustainable development finance.
Topics Covered:
The Financial Risks and Rewards of An Aging Global Population
Risk Management as a Pillar for Economic Stability
The Intersection of Climate Change and Global Finance
Investment as a Tool for Development and Diplomacy
The value of this discussion is immense, offering a perspective that bridges the gap between academic theory and practical execution in risk management, development finance, and global economic trends. It reveals how sound fiscal precautions and targeted investments could potentially avert future financial and environmental crises, promoting sustainable growth and cooperation across borders.
_____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

Mar 7, 2024 • 47min
Navigating Elder Care: Trusts, Estates, and Family Dynamics with Harry Margolis
Harry Margolis, an expert in elder law, discusses asset distribution, long-term care strategies, Medicaid maze, and elder care options. Learn insights on aging with dignity and security while navigating complex legal and financial concepts for everyday individuals.

Mar 5, 2024 • 1h 2min
The Economics of Aging: Rick Miller's Approach to Retirement Planning
Rick Miller and Laurence Kotlikoff discuss retirement planning strategies, misconceptions about savings, and the human psychology of financial decisions. They cover the importance of setting realistic goals, the need for comprehensive financial planning, and the differences in preferences for grocery shopping. The conversation also touches on high-income earners' retirement savings, the history of pensions, and the shortcomings of current economic planning tools.

Feb 29, 2024 • 55min
Napolitano & Von Kohorn: Unpacking Trusts for Asset Protection
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff is joined by two notable authorities in finance and estate planning: Frank Napolitano and Katie Von Kohorn. Frank Napolitano brings to the discussion his multifaceted experience as a certified financial planner and chartered financial analyst. His expertise shines in asset and risk management, setting him apart as a guiding force for clients navigating the complexities of estate planning and retirement income planning.
Katie Von Kohorn, stands out with her 20-year tenure in trusts and estates law. A trusted advisor to multi-generational families, she wields a depth of knowledge in the intricacies of trust planning, charitable giving, and exempt organizations.
This discussion provides invaluable insights for anyone seeking to understand the significance of estate planning and how to manage their financial legacy responsibly. Whether you're affluent or part of the middle class, the expertise of Napolitano and Von Kohorn will illuminate paths to ensure fair treatment of heirs and secure financial futures.
Toipcs Covered:
Strategic Estate Planning for Asset Protection
Navigating Tax Implications and Benefits
The Role of Trusts in Modern Financial Planning
Time Stamps:
00:00 Discussing estate planning, gift planning, and finances.
16:14 Get a will or trust to decide.
17:57 Revocable trust aids in estate planning for beneficiaries.
23:04 Spouse as trustee, limited distributions for tax benefits.
24:16 Segregation, control, and distribution in marital trusts.
29:16 Trust needed to exempt $24 million tax.
33:15 Reducing estate tax using trust and insurance.
36:17 Concerns about trustee reliability, control, and succession.
37:42 Trustees' concerns, family members' roles, fiduciary duty.
46:10 Estate planning to protect inheritance and benefits.
47:23 Trustee charges for estate and child care.
51:01 Allocating assets between spouses with different amounts.
53:43 Options for handling assets in event of death.
__________________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
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Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/pace Twitter: @kotlikoff LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/ Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/ Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/ Facebook: kotlikoff Twitter: @kotlikoff LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/ Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/ Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

Feb 27, 2024 • 1h 9min
Diversity versus Meritocracy in Academia: Insights from Glenn Loury
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Glenn Loury, a distinguished economist and academic known for his incisive analyses on racial and socioeconomic issues. As the Merton P. Stoltz Professor of the Social Sciences at Brown University, Loury's academic rigor and outspoken commentary on public policy have cemented his position as a leading voice on contemporary race relations and economics. His insights are enriched by a prolific career, with accolades from esteemed organizations, and his direct experience as the youngest African American to receive tenure in Harvard's economics department.
Topics Discussed:
College Admissions and Minority Representation
The Examination of Affirmative Action's Efficacy
Societal Mission of Educational Institutions.
Race and Public Policy
Time Stamps:
00:00 Boston University proud of hiring Glenn.
07:26 Accomplished intellectual holds prestigious memberships, pursues diverse interests.
13:31 Impact of stereotypes on minorities.
18:45 Debate over affirmative action and its consequences.
30:12 Alabama districting racially biased; racism not eliminated.
37:14 Issue with admissions at Harvard University and Alabama.
38:08 Harvard admissions considers various factors, including ethnicity.
46:29 Admissions may accept based on interviews only.
53:21 Schools have specific criteria for class diversity.
56:27 Diverse society with strong, persuasive views.
59:37 Early education crucial to addressing college disparities.
01:08:31 Harvard produces successful graduates, despite controversies.
01:10:19 Grateful for diverse friends and interesting discussions.
You will come away with a richer understanding of the nuanced debates around education, affirmative action, and racial justice, emboldened by Loury's authoritative yet accessible discourse. This dialogue promises not only to enlighten but also to ignite a broader conversation on the intersection of economics, race, and policy.
_____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

Feb 23, 2024 • 46min
Peter Coy's Bearish Economic Outlook and Global Projections
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff sits down with guest Peter Coy, whose prolific career in journalism has solidified his position as a leading voice in the articulation of complex economic issues to the public. With a rich background that spans from covering the history of the periodic table to providing in-depth analyses on the economic repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic, Coy brings not only a wealth of knowledge but also a unique ability to make dense topics accessible and engaging.
His authority springs from decades of experience, interviews with eminent economists like Milton Friedman, and his tenure as an economics editor.
Topics Covered:
Commercial Real Estate and Banking Solvency.
Challenges of Modern Macroeconomics.
Geo-economic Shifts and the Future.
Journalism and Economics.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Peter's diverse career path from history major to columnist.
05:12 Harvard's lessons still relevant; writing for NYT.
10:38 Peter interviews multiple economists for insightful articles.
14:30 Public writing, newspapers still essential.
19:53 Generations' approach to climate change and policies.
24:33 Real estate troubles may lead to bank failures.
26:01 Trillion-dollar overnight withdrawal sparks fears of inflation.
31:17 Banks loosen commercial real estate loan standards.
33:06 Study suggests banks may be bankrupt soon.
38:58 Chinese economists see slower growth, but positive.
41:44 Western Europe, Japan, Russia, China, India challenges.
You can anticipate a rich discussion, sharpening your understanding of the current economic landscape, unveiling the behind-the-scenes challenges of economic journalism, and broadening your perspective on the global economy.
_____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

Feb 22, 2024 • 1h
Dissecting the 2008 Financial Crisis: Opacity, Defaults, and Herd Behavior
Delve into the complexities of banking practices and financial challenges with expert insights on the 2008 financial crisis. Topics include banking mismatches, transparency issues, Lehman Brothers, and systemic risks. Gain nuanced understanding of financial crises and today's economic landscape.

Feb 20, 2024 • 1h 7min
The Trump Effect: Analyzing Governance with David Cay Johnston
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
In this captivating episode of EM, we are honored to have Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and esteemed author, David Cay Johnston, join hosts Laurence Kotlikoff and Alex Kotlikoff for an in-depth exploration of American democracy and the economic impact of political power. David's investigative prowess and authorship of critically-acclaimed books, including "The Making of Donald Trump" and "The Big Cheat," provide him with authoritative insights into the intersection of economics, politics, and the American legal system.
Topics Covered:
1. The State of Democracy: We probe into David’s concern about the erosion of democratic institutions and the implications for the U.S. political landscape. Johnston’s examination of the potential dangers of one-party rule and extreme viewpoints offers a sobering look at the current threats to democratic traditions.
2. Political Accountability and Economic Impact: Our discussion transitions to the ethical and financial ramifications of political behavior, with David Cay Johnston sharing his research on the Trump administration's business dealings, legislative outcomes, and the worrying patterns of monetizing political positions.
3. Future of American Politics: David and our hosts contemplate the prospects of democracy amidst the shifting grounds of political allegiance and the vitality of centrist issues. Johnston provides a critical forecast on Trump’s future influence and the possibility of emerging leaders in U.S. politics.
4. Media, Investigation, and Truth: This segment delves into David Kay Johnston's critique of media practices in investigating public figures and how a diligent pursuit of the truth is essential for an informed electorate. His first-hand experience with investigative journalism underscores the session’s emphasis on fact-based discourse.
Listeners will emerge from this episode more informed about the intricate dynamics of politics, wealth, and power, appreciating the vital role of responsible media in upholding democratic values. The dialogue is certain to stimulate both thought and discussion on the importance of transparency and legal integrity in the functioning of society.
_____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/

Feb 16, 2024 • 1h 6min
Shaping Behaviors through Economics: Akerlof's Societal Perspectives
Take the guesswork out of financial decisions at every stage of life with Maxifi: https://maxifiplanner.com/. Designed by Economist Laurence Kotlikoff.
Professor Kotlikoff engages with the esteemed Robert Akerlof, Associate Professor of Economics at the University of Warwick. A voice of authority in his field, Akerlof specializes in the confluence of sociology and economics, focusing on how moral considerations and social interactions influence preferences and behaviors within organizations. His work has vital implications for understanding economic behavior through a nuanced and interdisciplinary lens.
Topics Covered:
1. The Balance of Peer Influence
2. Resolving Cultural Clashes
3. Economic Perspectives on Society
4. Addressing South Korea's Fertility Crisis
Time Stamps:
00:00 People are guided by beliefs, stories motivate actions.
10:33 Microsoft fostered individualism, causing internal competition and anger.
16:23 Social norms act as adaptable, subtle programming.
19:18 Conflict can be modeled as relatively rational.
27:06 Values affect self and peer esteem interactions.
30:51 Improving social life and educational culture in schools.
38:22 Defining reasonable person and its application.
42:07 Mediating conflicts through cultural commonality and justice.
46:22 Prime-age men without work, family, esteem.
51:18 Traditional and modern family dynamics and labor.
59:59 Career first, marriage last, impacting fertility.
_____________________________________________________
Laurence Kotlikoff is a Boston University Economist, a NY Times Best Selling Author, President of maxifi.com, and Author of Money Magic.
Follow Professor Kotlikoff:
Facebook: kotlikoff
Twitter: @kotlikoff
LinkedIn: laurencekotlikoff
Substack: https://larrykotlikoff.substack.com/
Books: https://kotlikoff.net/books/
Company: https://maxifiplanner.com/


