The hottest Economic Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

America is being sold out by its leaders

Noahpinion • 53471 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Political alliances Economic Policy National Security
  1. There is a concern that America's leaders are making choices that could weaken the country, particularly in foreign relations. If the U.S. were to focus on itself and ignore global involvement, some believe it could hurt its standing in the world.
  2. Some political figures think their vision aligns better with countries like China and Russia than with traditional allies. This shift could lead to a more isolationist approach, where the U.S. limits its international influence.
  3. People worry that the U.S. might reduce military strength and abandon industrial policies, which could harm the economy. Cutting defense spending and focusing on raw materials rather than manufacturing could make the country rely more on other nations.

Trump starts to break things

Noahpinion • 74295 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy Tariffs Trade Relations Political Analysis International relations
  1. Trump's new tariffs on Canada and Mexico could raise prices for American consumers. These tariffs might hurt people's wallets and lead to higher costs for everyday goods.
  2. The tariffs may disrupt American manufacturers' supply chains, making it harder for them to compete. This could lower the production efficiency of U.S. companies that rely on imports from these countries.
  3. There is uncertainty about the impact of these tariffs on trade relations. If Trump keeps them in place, it could harm relationships with allies and create economic instability.

Anti-anti-neoliberalism is also not enough

Noahpinion • 21059 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy Democratic Party Progressivism Neoliberalism Elections
  1. The Democratic party is currently trying to find a strong message after a big election defeat. They need a clear economic policy to connect with voters.
  2. New progressive economics is gaining support, focusing on things like healthcare subsidies, strong union support, and taxes on wealthy individuals. However, it faces criticism for not being popular enough.
  3. Despite some successes, Biden's economic policies need adjustments. It's important to learn from his administration while also being open to new ideas outside of traditional economic approaches.

Counting Materials

The Honest Broker Newsletter • 814 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🔬 Science Environmental Science Resource Management Economic Policy
  1. The use of materials in the U.S. has evolved significantly since 1970, with some materials seeing reduced demand while the economy grows. This shows that it's possible to become more efficient in using resources.
  2. Many materials used today are sourced from other countries, meaning the U.S. is consuming but not producing everything. This raises questions about the sustainability of relying on foreign resources.
  3. As global living standards rise, the demand for materials will increase. It's important to manage these materials wisely to minimize environmental impact while still supporting industrial growth.

How You Would Prepare for a Financial Collapse in The Near Term

OK Doomer • 176 implied HN points • 02 Mar 25
💰 Finance Investing Economic Policy Personal Finance Market Trends Crisis Management
  1. It's important to prepare for financial uncertainties because the economy can change quickly. Think about what you would need if you suddenly couldn't access your money.
  2. Many people can't just drop everything and move to the woods to escape problems. Most of us have jobs and families, so we need practical solutions for city life.
  3. Consider stocking up on essentials like food and water. Being ready for the unexpected can give you peace of mind in uncertain times.
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Top Links 652 China's manufacturing dominance. The rouble running riot. How PM2.5 kills & the politics of the Rebecca riots.

Chartbook • 400 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics International relations Economic Policy Public Health Environmental Policy Labor relations
  1. China has a huge impact on global manufacturing, producing about one-third of the world's goods. This shows how essential China is in many important production areas.
  2. The rouble is experiencing significant fluctuations, which could affect the economy and trade. These changes can create challenges for Russia and its partners.
  3. PM2.5 pollution is harmful to health and has led to serious political issues in some areas. Understanding its effects can help address public health and environmental concerns.

Economic Collapse & the Post-American World

Glenn’s Substack • 2318 implied HN points • 02 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy International relations Debt crisis Military Strategy Global Trade
  1. The US faces a serious economic crisis due to high debt levels and declining fiscal responsibility. The country has been unable to effectively address these financial issues since the 2008 crisis.
  2. Efforts to boost US competitiveness, like subsidies and sanctions, often backfire and may harm the economy more. In contrast, countries like China are gaining strength by diversifying their economies and forming new partnerships.
  3. As the US struggles, other countries are building a new economic system that doesn't rely on America. This shift might create a world where multiple powers coexist, rather than one dominant force.

Announcing the Center for Land Economics

Progress and Poverty • 2655 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Housing policy Economic Policy Nonprofit Public Policy
  1. The Center for Land Economics is a new nonprofit formed to tackle the housing crisis using specific economic principles. They aim to provide data-driven solutions and policy analysis for better land management.
  2. There will now be a weekly blog post schedule to share updates on land value tax and housing policies. This blog will serve as a central place for discussions on these important topics.
  3. An open-source software library for land assessments will be released soon. This tool will help improve the accuracy of property valuations, making it easier for communities to work on land-related issues.

The Pettis Paradigm and the Second China Shock

Noahpinion • 16059 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
💰 Finance International Trade Macroeconomics Economic Policy
  1. China has a large trade surplus, which is complex and not solely based on traditional economic theories. Many think its economy is getting help through government loans and subsidies.
  2. There are many opinions on how to deal with China's trade practices, especially the idea of using tariffs. Some believe that tariffs can help change China's focus from exporting to better domestic consumption.
  3. Economics is complicated, and experts often disagree on how to fix trade issues. Current solutions might not work as intended, and some past policies have not improved the situation as hoped.

the teutonic tragedy

bad cattitude • 251 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Economic Policy Energy Policy Civil Liberties Democracy Public Opinion
  1. Germany's energy prices have skyrocketed, mainly due to heavy reliance on renewable resources that are unreliable. This is causing significant challenges for industries that need stable electricity.
  2. The EU's economy is struggling overall, with German GDP stagnating since 2017. This highlights a larger issue within the EU's economic framework.
  3. There's a growing discontent with government policies in Germany, leading to support for populist parties that promise to restore cheaper energy and address immigration issues.

Manufacturing is a war now

Noahpinion • 45765 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Manufacturing Trade policy Defense Strategy International relations Economic Policy
  1. Manufacturing is becoming a major struggle between countries, especially between democracies and China. If a conflict arises, it could lead to serious consequences for those not producing enough weapons.
  2. China is rapidly increasing its production capabilities across various industries, including military manufacturing. As a result, other countries are facing challenges in competing against China.
  3. Both major political parties in the U.S. are not fully addressing the manufacturing threat from China. A more balanced strategy involving tariffs, industrial policies, and collaboration with allies is needed to tackle this issue.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer joins the boys and men party

Of Boys and Men • 465 implied HN points • 27 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Governance Education Gender Issues Economic Policy
  1. Governors are starting to focus on the challenges young men face today. They are discussing issues like housing and education that especially impact young men.
  2. Gretchen Whitmer highlighted specific gender gaps in home buying and education in her recent speech. She plans to take action to help increase men's participation in higher education.
  3. This is a significant move from a female leader known for advocating women's rights. It shows that improving opportunities for both genders is important and not a competition.

Make America Gilded Again

Campaign Trails • 5064 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political History Campaign strategies Economic Policy Social movements Populism
  1. Many people support Trump's idea of making America great again, but it's mostly based on nostalgic feelings about the past. They often don't really specify what that 'great' time is.
  2. Trump's idea seems to relate to the 1890s, a time known for wealth for a few and poverty for many. Most people were struggling to get by while a small number of rich people thrived.
  3. The 1890s also had serious issues with racism and restrictions on people's rights. For many, that period was quite harsh, showing that Trump's vision might not be good for everyone.

Goldman Sachs Thinks We Will Have A Decade-Long Bear Market — I Disagree With Them

The Pomp Letter • 839 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
💰 Finance Investments Market Trends Economic Policy Debt Management Predictions
  1. Goldman Sachs predicts a long bear market for the next decade, but some believe we're actually in a bull market. Data suggests stocks could do well in the near future.
  2. The U.S. is facing a significant increase in national debt, which affects the economy. This surge in debt could lead to currency devaluation.
  3. Long-term, the impact of currency debasement will overshadow other economic factors, like stock valuations. It’s important to stay aware of these financial trends.

Macroeconomics: The predator of foolish regimes

Noahpinion • 19353 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
💰 Finance Macroeconomics Debt Management Economic Policy Socialism
  1. Bad economic decisions, like keeping currency overvalued or borrowing too much in foreign currency, can lead to big problems for any government. This can happen regardless of whether a country is socialist or capitalist.
  2. Countries often face different types of economic crises. For example, some might deal with inflation while others face deflation, and they need to respond differently to fix these situations.
  3. Leaders who think they can control the economy through micromanaging are usually getting it wrong. Big economic problems need big-picture solutions.

Blame the Right-Wing Noise Machine, Not the Facts on the Ground, for Voters' Dismay About the Economy

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 338 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Analysis Economic Policy Media influence Public Perception
  1. Voters are unhappy about the economy, but it's mainly because they are influenced by misinformation from certain media sources. The reality of the economy isn't as bad as many believe.
  2. The official statistics show a certain level of unemployment and underemployment, but this has always been a part of the economic landscape. People misunderstand these numbers and feel worse than the data suggests.
  3. Many believe the economy is struggling due to flawed statistics, but this misunderstanding has been constant. The data doesn't paint a complete picture of people's real experiences in the job market.

Yes: This Is Worth Signing: Economists Who Are Neither Bought Nor Crazy Oppose Broad-Based Tariffs

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 1137 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy Trade Policies Tariffs International relations
  1. Broad-based tariffs are generally not a good idea because they can harm the economy. Instead of helping, they often lead to higher prices and lower productivity.
  2. Historically, tariffs have not stopped the decline of manufacturing jobs in the U.S., which is mainly due to increased productivity and changes in demand. The economy is doing well even with trade deficits.
  3. Foreign investment is important for the U.S. economy, and tariffs can actually hurt growth. Successful economies attract foreign capital, which has helped the U.S. prosper throughout its history.

BRICS Develops a Multipolar Economic Architecture

Glenn’s Substack • 1099 implied HN points • 20 Sep 24
🌍 World Politics International relations Global Economy Geopolitics Economic Policy
  1. BRICS is working to create a new economic system that doesn't depend on the US. This means countries can trade and cooperate without worrying about US control.
  2. There is a strong desire among countries to join BRICS and work together to trade in their own currencies instead of the US dollar. This could help protect their economies from US influence.
  3. BRICS aims to foster connections between diverse nations, including rivals, to manage political issues through economic collaboration, rather than division. This could lead to a more cooperative global environment.

Always Bet Against the Davos Man

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2684 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political trends Global events Economic Policy Corporate Influence Social Issues
  1. At the World Economic Forum in Davos, the mood has shifted from disdain for Trump to a more interested attitude in 2025. Elite business leaders from Europe now want to engage with his ideas.
  2. While the forum continues to push topics like Environmental and Social Governance and Diversity, the actual conversations among executives reveal a different focus. They seem more optimistic about the changing American sentiments.
  3. Despite the fancy corporate language about sustainability, the reality for many leaders might be more about capitalizing on current trends than sticking strictly to these ideals.

How the mainstream abandoned universal economic principles

Global Inequality and More 3.0 • 3654 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy Neoliberalism Globalization Inequality Trade policy
  1. Mainstream economists have stopped following the old rules of globalization, like free trade and open borders. This change is happening because many people are unhappy with how these rules have worked in their lives.
  2. Current economic actions, such as raising tariffs and trade blocks, go against the principles of globalization that were once strongly supported. Now, even respected institutions are shifting their views on these issues.
  3. There is no clear global economic framework anymore. Different countries are acting based on their own interests, leading to confusion and a lack of universal rules for trade and economy.

Why targeted tariffs are more effective than broad tariffs

Noahpinion • 16882 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trade policy Economic Policy Tariffs Supply Chains International relations
  1. Targeted tariffs focus on specific industries or products, helping to reduce dependence on foreign sources like China for critical goods, such as batteries.
  2. Broad tariffs can create problems by raising costs for American manufacturers, making them less competitive against foreign companies, which may worsen trade deficits.
  3. To effectively improve trade balances, policies should avoid broad tariffs and instead concentrate on targeted measures that do not negatively affect American industries.

Top Links 639 Buybacks over investment in the US military-industrial complex. The Indian economy shifts gear. RAND on burden-sharing & Britain's wars of decolonization.

Chartbook • 557 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Policy Economic Policy International relations Political Economy
  1. There's a discussion about how companies are focusing more on buybacks instead of investing in important areas like the military complex. It raises questions about the priorities of businesses.
  2. The Indian economy appears to be making significant progress. This could indicate shifts in global economic dynamics and growth in emerging markets.
  3. A report from RAND explores how countries share defense responsibilities, particularly relating to Britain's historical wars. This could provide insights into current international relations and military commitments.

THE SHOW NOTES: Hurricane Milton, DeSantis Blasts Harris, & Kamala's Economic Problem

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 899 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political issues Economic Policy Public Opinion Disaster Management
  1. Hurricane Milton hit Florida and caused power outages for over 3 million people, but the damage was less severe than expected.
  2. The economy is the biggest concern for voters, with many preferring Donald Trump over Kamala Harris for handling economic issues.
  3. Inflation is rising, with food and shelter costs playing a big role, creating more challenges for Harris as the election approaches.

The "Wall Street Journal" Tells Us: Trump Takes Command of Inflation, Which Was Massively Unsatisfactory under Biden

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 1353 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Government Elections Economic Policy Media
  1. Recent inflation rates are slightly above the targets set by the Federal Reserve, but not alarmingly high. This suggests that there isn't an urgent need for drastic policy changes right now.
  2. There is skepticism about Trump's understanding of monetary policy and how he believes oil prices affect overall inflation. Many experts think he is outdated in his thinking.
  3. Trump's comments on inflation and interest rates may not seriously influence economic policy due to his advisor's stance on maintaining the Federal Reserve's independence.

FAFOnomics: How Chaos Became America's Economic Strategy

Kyla’s Newsletter • 201 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy Trade Relations Political strategy Globalization
  1. America is using chaos as a strategy in its economy, making decisions that hurt trust with allies while trying to grab attention. This tactic might work for now, but it’s risky and unsustainable.
  2. The U.S. economy relies heavily on global partnerships and imports, which means isolationist policies could backfire by harming America's own economic health. We can't just unplug from the global economy and expect to thrive.
  3. Tariffs meant to protect American jobs are actually a tax on American consumers. This might not lead to the expected benefits for workers and could hurt everyday people financially.

✨⏩ JD Vance offers an accelerationist AI vision in Paris

Faster, Please! • 548 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Populism Technology AI Policy Economic Policy International relations
  1. JD Vance spoke about how technology can empower workers instead of taking their jobs away. It's important to focus on how AI can help people do their jobs better.
  2. He emphasized the need for more support in areas that are less technologically advanced. Investing in the heartland can help create a balanced economy.
  3. Vance's speech addressed the idea of balancing innovation with careful development. It's crucial to ensure that the rapid growth of AI doesn’t lead to negative social impacts.

Disinflation is here: But it's not the kind we want!

COVID Reason • 376 implied HN points • 14 Oct 24
💰 Finance Economics Inflation Federal Reserve Economic Policy
  1. Disinflation means prices are rising more slowly, but that doesn't always mean good news. If people aren't spending because they can't afford things, it can signal trouble in the economy.
  2. The Federal Reserve may lower interest rates in response to disinflation to try and encourage spending, but this might just be a way to show they are doing something without fixing the deeper issues.
  3. Sticky prices and disinflation can show that people are struggling financially. For a healthy economy, we need wages to rise so people can spend more, rather than just seeing temporary price drops.

Time to Revisit: How Does This Assessment Look Fourteen Months Later?

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 192 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
💰 Finance Macroeconomics Inflation Federal Reserve Economic Policy Market Analysis
  1. There are two main views on inflation: 'Team Transitory' believes inflation will go away, while 'Team Persistent' thinks it will stick around. The debate is important to understand how to deal with the economy's ups and downs.
  2. The Federal Reserve's actions, like raising interest rates quickly, play a big role in managing inflation. If the Fed hadn't acted as strongly, inflation expectations could have gone out of control.
  3. Past economic cycles were shaped by different factors, like wars and technological changes. Understanding these historical trends can help us navigate today's economy better.

Strategic Funds

Points And Figures • 692 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
💰 Finance Investment Economic Policy Taxation Cryptocurrency Government spending
  1. The idea of a Strategic Wealth Fund (SWF) and a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR) is seen as bad because they could go against individual freedoms and lead to misuse of taxpayer money.
  2. Government can't truly invest money; it can only spend what it collects from taxes or borrows. This means investments made by the government aren't genuine investments.
  3. Bitcoin is still mostly potential and hasn't proven its real-world value. Critics argue that despite years of development, it lacks practical uses in everyday life.

Top Links 631 US labour market churn in historical perspective. The decline of retail jobs. Writhing Leviathans & the business of deportation.

Chartbook • 472 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Labor Market Economic Policy Employment Trends Social Issues Migration policy
  1. The US labor market has seen a lot of changes over time, with many people switching jobs frequently.
  2. Retail jobs are declining, which impacts many workers and the economy.
  3. There are ongoing discussions about the business of deportation, highlighting important social issues.

The Trump EO on Grant Payments

Points And Figures • 959 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive orders Government spending Economic Policy
  1. Many states and cities are worried about funding due to Trump's Executive Order on grant payments. They are concerned about how they will manage their budgets.
  2. A lot of government money goes to projects that might not be necessary or useful. There's a big issue with wasteful spending, which affects those who genuinely need support.
  3. Startups, especially in the medical field, are worried about losing funding because of this order. It makes it harder for them to develop new treatments and grow their businesses.

Getting to the Fun Part

The Transcript • 139 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
💰 Finance Market Trends Economic Policy Consumer behavior Investment Strategies Corporate Finance
  1. The economy is showing signs of resilience, with positive movements even though growth isn't super strong. People are feeling more optimistic about things improving.
  2. A drop in interest rates could lead to more business activity and investment. However, experts believe we might need more rate cuts for that to happen.
  3. Consumers are cautious but still spending. Overall, the job market remains steady, and many are waiting to see how upcoming events affect the economy.

Investing Update: Hedge Fund Buys & Holdings

Spilled Coffee • 36 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
💰 Finance Investing Market Trends Stock Analysis Economic Policy Hedge Funds
  1. The stock market has seen a decline, with major indices like the S&P 500 and Nasdaq dropping significantly this week. This means investors have lost some of their gains for the year.
  2. Many big-name stocks have dropped more than 20% from their highs, indicating a possible bear market. This trend affects nearly a third of S&P 500 stocks.
  3. Despite recent volatility, it's common after elections, and the overall bull market isn't in danger. Companies are still reporting strong earnings, suggesting a slight pullback is normal.

Huang Frankenstein

Dana Blankenhorn: Facing the Future • 79 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Integrity Authoritarianism AI Ethics Political Ideologies Economic Policy
  1. Some technologists believe they can create a world where people aren't needed, which raises concerns about everyone's role in society.
  2. There is a mindset that defines a person's value mainly by their monetary contribution, ignoring the importance of art and idealism.
  3. Political and technological systems should serve people, ensuring their safety and happiness, rather than just focusing on control and profit.

Infographics: The Shadow Cash Market

Concoda • 313 implied HN points • 28 May 25
💰 Finance Investments Market Trends Economic Policy Financial Instruments Cash Flow
  1. The shadow cash market involves various types of private transactions that are not easily tracked or regulated. This means that a lot of money moves around without official oversight.
  2. Overall, the liquidity in this market can act like bonds, providing a kind of security and stability for those involved. It’s an alternative way to manage and access funds.
  3. Understanding this market is important as it has impacts on the economy. It helps people see how money flows in ways that aren’t always visible.

So... When Does The Economy Crash?

OK Doomer • 191 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
💰 Finance Economy Market Trends Investments Economic Policy
  1. Many experts are predicting an economic crash, but no one knows exactly when it will happen. People are worried about the potential impact of technology and global events.
  2. A lot of individuals are tied to their investments, making it hard for them to react quickly to market changes. Most people can't just sell off their stocks easily because of employer-based retirement plans.
  3. There’s a mix of genuine concern and opportunism in the market around impending crashes, with some people genuinely preparing and others just trying to sell fear-based products.

We Are All Precariat Now

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 31 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Economic Policy Class Struggle
  1. The current system creates a lot of fear and instability, making many people feel like they are struggling without options. The wealthy elite prioritize their profits, often at the expense of everyday people.
  2. It's important for people, especially those suffering in the U.S., to realize that their true enemy is not immigrants or foreign powers, but the billionaires and corporations taking advantage of them. Building a united front among workers can help fight back.
  3. Small groups are already taking action, like striking and forming mutual aid networks. These efforts can grow into a larger movement that challenges the current power structures and seeks a fairer distribution of wealth.

Top Links 630 Flexible exchange rates, fear of floating, Goldfinger & the reality of the global exchange rate system.

Chartbook • 414 implied HN points • 26 Jan 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy Global Economy Monetary Systems Financial Markets
  1. Flexible exchange rates can cause uncertainty, which some countries try to avoid, leading to a 'fear of floating'.
  2. The discussion around the realities of the global exchange rate system helps us understand how it impacts economies worldwide.
  3. Lessons from past conferences on floating exchange rates are valuable for grasping their long-term effects and challenges.

Neoliberalism is Back!

KERFUFFLE • 57 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Populism Neoliberalism Economic Policy Political History
  1. Neoliberalism is making a comeback, resembling previous political patterns where promises of change ultimately benefit the elite.
  2. Past leaders like Obama and Trump had populist messages, but their actions often favored corporate interests instead of truly supporting the public.
  3. Current political moves are seen as repeating historical mistakes, with influential figures like Elon Musk drawing attention away from genuine worker empowerment.