Library of Mistakes

Ray Perman, an author and journalist famed for his insights into Edinburgh’s financial history, joins librarian Helen Williams for a captivating exploration. They take listeners on the Money Talks, Money Walks tour, revealing the city's financial heritage, from Adam Smith's legacy to modern tech-infused walking apps. Their discussion highlights upcoming events at the Library of Mistakes, including a talk on financial crime, and suggests must-read books—showcasing how understanding financial missteps is crucial for informed decision-making.

In this engaging discussion, Duncan Mavin, author of 'Meltdown', reveals the tangled history of Credit Suisse, marked by scandals and a toxic corporate culture dating back to WWII. He delves into the bank's questionable practices and risky investment strategies that led to its dramatic downfall. Mavin also explores the fierce rivalry with UBS and the ethical dilemmas faced by executives during crises. Finally, he highlights how journalism played a crucial role in igniting public fears that precipitated the bank’s collapse.

Fraser Allen and Leila Johnston take you behind the scenes at the Library of Mistakes once more. This month we hear from the brilliant behavioural finance expert Herman Brodie, discover the colourful back story of Didasko CEO David Clarke, and find out more about the library itself with Lauren Hotson and Helen Williams.If you have any queries about hiring the Library as a venue, simply email Lauren at facilities@libraryofmistakes.com or visit www.libraryofmistakes.com – where you can also find out about our Practical History of Financial Markets course.And to provide any feedback regarding the podcast, ask questions or make suggestions, please email fraser@libraryofmistakes.com or Leila@libraryofmistakes.com.

In this discussion, theatre director Liam Rees dives into the intriguing tale of Gregor MacGregor, a 19th-century conman who sold imaginary lands. David Clarke shares captivating highlights from the Weekend of Mistakes event, while librarian Helen Williams explores Russia’s complex narratives and the influence of figures like Putin and Trump. Listeners gain insight into evolving financial education initiatives for school leavers, reflecting on the importance of storytelling in understanding economic and political landscapes.

Mauricio Drelichman, co-author of 'Lending to the Borrower from Hell,' delves into the intriguing financial history of King Philip II of Spain. He reveals how Renaissance bankers innovated lending practices despite dealing with a defaulting monarch. The conversation highlights the impact of Spain's silver trade on economics and military spending, and discusses how historical lending practices inform modern finance. Drelichman also explores the complex relationship between government debt and political power, shedding light on defaults' theological justifications.

In the first of a new thread of monthly episodes, we take you behind the scenes at the Library of Mistakes. Join us as we turn the tables on our resident interrogator Professor Russell Napier by putting the questions to him. We also interview David Clarke of Didasko, Helen Bradley of Future Asset and our librarian Helen Williams. And fear not, Russell's regular interviews with financial historians will also continue here as normal.Shelf Life is presented by Leila Johnston & Fraser Allen – please do contact us with any feedback, ideas or questions at fraser@libraryofmistakes.com or leila@libraryofmistakes.com.

Felix Martin, author of "Money – The Unauthorised Biography," delves into the complexities of money's role in society. He discusses the fascinating Irish Bank Strike of 1970, demonstrating how communities adapt to crises through alternative currencies. Martin critiques traditional economic views, elaborating on historical figures like William Lowndes and John Locke to illustrate the evolution of monetary thought. He also highlights the vital connections between trust, political power, and the stability of money, emphasizing the relevance of leadership in shaping financial systems.

Lionel Barber, former Financial Times editor and author of "Gambling Man," dives into the life of Masayoshi Son, a pivotal yet underappreciated investor. He discusses Son's rise from a Korean slum to global wealth and influence. Barber reveals Son's bold investment strategies, comparing them to those of Warren Buffett. The conversation also touches on the balance between ambition and eccentricity in leadership, and the complexities behind major investments like the Vision Fund and beneficial tech mergers. It's a fascinating look at the highs and lows of a financial giant.

Money & Promises (Seven Deals That Changed World) is Paolo Zannoni's first book and one of Russell Napier's favourite books of the year. For as well as being President of the luxury Italian fashion group Prada, Paolo is a highly experienced banker who has combined his professional expertise with a passion for exploring ledger archives to create a ground-breaking work of financial history.•The Library of Mistakes runs an outstanding course called the Practical History of Financial Markets. To find out more, go to: www.libraryofmistakes.com/course

David McWilliams, an economist and co-founder of Kilkenomics, shares his provocative insights on money from his book, 1oney: A Story of Humanity. He explores how money has evolved throughout history, connecting it to societal structures and even democratic movements. McWilliams argues against traditional economic models, advocating for a more human-centered, biological approach. The discussion highlights the transformative power of currency, and the interplay between art, entrepreneurship, and economic evolution in driving innovation.