Why is there poverty in the US? Do immigrants have less social mobility? Is family structure a factor? The US is a prosperous nation. But, poverty has a hold on a significant portion of the population. The stubborn persistence of poverty has given rise to several false explanations for its staying power, including immigration, non-traditional family structures, and a bad work ethic among the poor. Read more to see how social scientist Matthew Desmond tackles these three myths about poverty in the US.
1997 Asian Economic Crisis: How LTCM Was Affected
What was the 1997 Asian economic crisis? How did the crisis affect LTCM? Several Asian countries experienced a currency collapse in 1997. The crisis eventually found its way to the US, affecting several hedge funds, including LTCM. Here’s how the 1997 Asian economic crisis led to the collapse of LTCM.
What Is YIMBY? Introducing the “Yes in My Back Yard” Movement
What is YIMBY? What’s the frustration behind it, and what’s its goal? YIMBY (“Yes in My Back Yard”) is a social and political movement focused on affordable housing. A response to NIMBY (“Not in My Back Yard”), they demand reforms in policies and regulations that govern housing in large cities. Keep reading to learn about the YIMBY movement and its demands.
How the 1998 Russian Financial Crisis Changed US Investing
What was the 1998 Russian financial crisis? How was LTCM affected by the crisis? The collapse of the Russian ruble in August and September 1998 exacerbated the impending liquidity crisis in global financial markets, intensifying the fund’s difficulties. Russia defaulted on its financial obligations, sending shockwaves throughout global financial markets. Find out how the 1998 Russian financial crisis contributed to LTCM’s downfall.
Housing and Poverty: Exploitation vs. Empowerment
Do you want to keep the poor out of your neighborhood? Are you struggling to become a homeowner? In Poverty, by America, social scientist Matthew Desmond addresses the link between housing and poverty. He argues that some public policies and personal choices exploit the poor. But, he says that we can turn things around and offer empowerment instead of exploitation. Keep reading to understand Desmond’s argument.
LTCM’s Hedge Fund Collapse: Timeline of Events
Why did the hedge fund LTCM collapse? What economic crises contributed to the downturn? The year 1997 was the beginning of the end for LTCM, as it succumbed to the enormous risks it had taken on, along with the combined pressures of the 1997 Asian financial crisis and the 1998 Russian financial crisis. We’ll explore how unexpected volatility began to sink the fund. Check out the events that led to this hedge fund collapse.
Empower the Poor by Cracking Down on Welfare for the Rich
Does the tax code favor the rich? Is a progressive tax system the most fair? Matthew Desmond asserts that poverty in America persists because it benefits many people to keep some others in a state of want. He offers a multifaceted approach to eradicating poverty. One part of this is to crack down on welfare for the rich and use the money to empower the poor instead. Continue reading to get the details of Desmond’s proposal as well as a counterargument to it.
How the Global Drone Market Is Being Slowed by the FAA
What is the drone economy? How are various industries using it and what does the future promise for it? The global drone market is expanding rapidly and is expected to reach $56 billion by 2030. However, strict FAA regulations on drone flights are limiting further growth of commercial drone services. Here’s a look at the FAA’s regulations, and the potential future uses of drones.
Irrational Exuberance: Robert J. Shiller on Speculative Bubbles
What are the key points in Irrational Exuberance, Robert J. Shiller’s book on speculative bubbles? What does Shiller teach about stock market behavior? In Irrational Exuberance, Robert J. Shiller explains that speculative bubbles arise out of feedback loops, often driven by media coverage. When you learn more about these bubbles, you can better understand how to avoid losing money in stocks. Continue reading for an overview of Irrational Exuberance.
The Speculative Bubble: 3 Examples From US Markets
What does a speculative bubble look like? What are some examples of speculative bubbles? Speculative bubble examples can be found in US stock, housing, and bond markets throughout history. If you know what a speculative bubble looks like, you can help prevent stock market crashes in the future. Learn what a speculative bubble is from these three examples.