Author Archives: Yves Smith

Geopolitics Takes A Back Seat As Biden Drops Sanctions On Venezuela

Quelle surprise! The US is trying to kiss and make up with Venezuela.

Links 5/21/2022

‘Public Bank’ Bill Blocked From State Senate Vote After Industry Pushback

Why is a modest public bank plan for New York going nowhere?

Book Review: An Urgent Plea to Save the World’s Megaforests

In “Ever Green,” two conservationists present a surprisingly hopeful look at the five five remaining megaforests.

Michael Hudson on the Ongoing Economic War

Michael Hudson looks at the long game of fundamental ecomomic restructuring of trade and financial relations among great powers.

Department of Justice to Saddle Up Against Private Equity Consolidation/Monopolization Plays. Will It Work?

The Department of Justice says it is taking aim at private equity. Will it hit any targets?

The Tory Guide to Surviving the Cost of Living Crisis

From moving into your parents’ annex to getting a better-paid job, the government has some savvy little tips for cost savings.

Your Money and Your Life: Private Equity Blasts Ethical Boundaries of American Medicine

In a harrowing new book, Laura Katz Olson exposes how private equity is taking over health care companies – and preying on human lives.

The Perverse Calls for More Russian Aggression in the Face of Its Methodical Operation in Ukraine

Some odd ideas about what Russia ought to be doing in Ukraine.

Bad Breath of Inflation Sinks Target, Walmart, Other Retailers on Surging Costs of Products, Labor, and Transportation

Mr. Market had a meltdown because retailers were unable to pass on all their cost increases. What’s a capitalist to do?

How America Can Stop Violence Against Health Care Workers

Congess is rousing itself to make health care employers Do Something to protect staff from violence….but is the legislation adequate?

Hydropower’s Future Is Clouded by Droughts, Floods and Climate Change – It’s Also Essential to the US Electric Grid

Why the hydropower magic bullet may come up short.

Links 5/18/2022

How the Options Tail Has Come to Wag the Market Dog: A Simple English Language Explanation of How Structural Changes in the Stock Markets Contribute to Whipsaw Movements in Prices

Why the use of options may be the risk bomb that blows a big hole in our financial system.

Whither Hegemony? Prof. Wen Tiejun Foreword to Michael Hudson’s The Destiny of Civilization

The development and future of America’s hegemony is a major focus of Michael Hudson’s new book, The Destiny of Civilization.