The hottest Economic Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways

It’s good business, but knee-bending is gross

Alex's Personal Blog • 32 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25

💼 Business Economic Policy

Chip stocks are doing well because of high demand for AI servers, especially after positive news from Foxconn. This growth indicates a strong start for the tech sector in 2025.
There are concerns about the current concentration of power in US politics, particularly with Trump in charge. Many companies feel the need to align with him for their business safety, which is seen as distasteful.
Sam Altman believes we are making progress toward advanced AI and that it could significantly change industries. He is optimistic about the future of AI, stating it could lead to greater innovations and prosperity.

Former Intel CEO Calls for a US Sovereign Wealth Fund

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 10 implied HN points • 01 Aug 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

A US Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF) is controversial because it could interfere with private markets instead of helping them. Many people think this could lead to problems rather than benefits.
The idea is that an SWF could help the US compete in technology by investing strategically. However, there's a big question about whether the government can handle this responsibly without political influence.
Funding an SWF might not be wise right now since the US is already facing huge budget deficits. Experts worry that adding another layer of government spending might make things worse.

The Everything Bubble Suddenly Feels Unstable

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 29 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25

💰 Finance Economic Policy

Investors might need to prepare for tougher conditions in the market. It seems like the Federal Reserve might not be there to support them like before.
The era of easily accessible money may be changing. Investors who relied on quick fixes might find it harder to bounce back from crises.
It's important for investors to rethink their strategies. They may need to adapt to a new reality where traditional safety nets aren't guaranteed.

It's Christmas (Chaos), All Over, Again

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 32 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24

💰 Finance Economic Policy

The market reacted sharply after the Federal Reserve cut rates, but this might not be a good sign for investors. Historically, market crashes often happen after rate cuts, indicating potential risks ahead.
There are concerns about high levels of leverage in the market, especially in options and cryptocurrency. This borrowing can make market movements more extreme and unpredictable.
The current market euphoria might be misleading, as past patterns suggest a sudden downturn could come. It's important to be cautious and not ignore the reality of valuations and economic conditions.

I’m Pumped That Tariffs Will Bring Our Blue Collar Manufacturing Jobs Back From Europe

I Might Be Wrong • 9 implied HN points • 31 Jul 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

Tariffs are being used to bring back blue collar manufacturing jobs from Europe to the US. This is seen as a way to help American workers who have struggled with competition from lower-wage jobs overseas.
While tariffs may raise costs for consumers, supporters believe the benefits of more jobs outweigh these drawbacks. American workers could see their wages increase as foreign competition decreases.
Critics argue that these tariffs could harm other industries, like auto manufacturing, and raise prices for everyone. There's concern about the long-term effects on trade relationships and the economy.

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Is that a stock or a religion?

Alex's Personal Blog • 32 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24

💰 Finance Economic Policy

MicroStrategy is a small software company that has invested heavily in bitcoin. It keeps buying more bitcoin by using money it raises, even though its software business alone can't fund these purchases.
Investors seem to trust MicroStrategy, allowing it to have a high market value compared to the actual worth of its bitcoin. This trust lets the company keep buying more bitcoin, which keeps pushing its stock higher.
The company's strategy could backfire if the market changes. If it needs to pay back debts in cash, it might be forced to sell bitcoin or shares, which could hurt its value.

Sick Days

Malt Liquidity • 10 implied HN points • 14 Jul 25

💰 Finance Economic Policy

People are feeling a lot of pressure and urgency to innovate and make changes in their lives and careers, especially after the upheaval of recent years.
The old ways of securing wealth and stability, like banks and gold, seem less effective now, leading to a lot of uncertainty about the future.
It's important to take breaks and manage stress, especially when dealing with complex and overwhelming thoughts, to maintain mental health and clarity.

Seven and a half cents

America in Crisis • 19 implied HN points • 27 Sep 23

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

The song 'Seven and a half cents' from the 1954 musical 'Pajama Game' humorously portrayed the impact of a pay increase on workers over time, reflecting the changing economic landscape for working class Americans.
After 1973, the 'rising tide' of economic prosperity ended, leading to a shift in economic policy and an increase in the need for upskilling to maintain living standards, impacting different generations in varied ways.
The analysis of marriage prospects and income growth highlights how economic changes have influenced societal trends, showing disparities in income growth and social outcomes in different eras, emphasizing shifts in economic policy and culture.

How inequality reduction happened 80 years ago

America in Crisis • 19 implied HN points • 03 Aug 23

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

Inequality reduction 80 years ago was achieved through a combination of high marginal tax rates, pro-labor policies, and strong economic stimulus.
The handling of economic crises by political elites and the choice of policies played a significant role in resolving the issues without internal conflict.
The alignment of political parties and the evolution of party composition have an impact on the feasibility of implementing policies to address inequality and economic instability.

The End Of The End of History?

Some Unpleasant Arithmetic • 28 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

There's a lot of political unrest happening globally. People are frustrated with mainstream parties and are turning to extreme leaders across the political spectrum.
Economic issues, like inflation, are making voters unhappy and driving them to support radical parties. When people's wallets are affected, they often blame current leaders and seek change.
Many individuals now think in a 'zero-sum' way, feeling that someone's gain is their loss. This mindset is pushing some to support more aggressive political movements, like fascism.

The US Is Now on Track for a $3.5 Trillion Deficit in 2025

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 28 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

The US government is expected to have a $3.5 trillion deficit in 2025, which is the largest peacetime deficit ever. This means spending is much higher than the money coming in.
There is little chance that Congress will cut spending significantly. Most government spending is on essential programs like Social Security and defense, which people don't want to lose.
As the debt grows, it might lead to higher interest rates and economic problems for consumers and businesses, but it seems unlikely that people will support major budget cuts until they feel the impacts more directly.

The Legacy of Bidenomics: Overspending, Overtaxing, Overregulating

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 23 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

Biden's economic policies have led to a rise in national debt and inflation. This has made everyday life harder for many people, especially those with lower incomes.
High taxes and strict regulations are making it tough for businesses to grow and for people to find work. These policies discourage investment and can lead to lower productivity.
To improve the economy, there needs to be less government spending, lower taxes, and fewer regulations. This can help create a more favorable environment for growth and job creation.

How To Cut $2 Trillion Of Fat From The Federal Budget

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 30 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

The U.S. government needs to cut $2 trillion from its budget to avoid financial disaster. This is important for maintaining democracy and economic health.
To save this money, we can eliminate wasteful agencies, cut unnecessary spending, and reduce low-priority programs. It’s crucial to make these cuts soon to prevent further debt growth.
The proposed savings can be grouped into three main areas: cutting unnecessary bureaucracies, downsizing defense spending, and reducing entitlement programs. Each area has specific targets for savings.

Money Supply Growth Accelerates And Hits A 27-Month High

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 24 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25

💰 Finance Economic Policy

The money supply in the economy is growing rapidly, reaching a high not seen in over two years. This growth is mainly driven by government spending rather than strong economic conditions.
Interest rates are being pushed down by the Federal Reserve to help manage the government's large debt. This could lead to future inflation as more money is created to handle increasing deficits.
Despite recent economic growth, many believe it isn't based on solid foundations. The reliance on government spending and credit could pose risks for the economy moving forward.

The Perverse Incentives Depreciating Your House

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 22 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25

💰 Finance Economic Policy

Home prices are rising fast, making it hard for many people to think they'll ever own one. It's more of a struggle for the average person to afford a home nowadays.
Builders often focus on making homes quickly and cheaply instead of making them durable and long-lasting. This means new homes might not hold their value as well as older ones.
Homebuyers are not paying as much attention to quality. They’re more interested in lower prices, which can lead to issues later as newer homes may need repairs sooner.

If We Have a Strong Economy, Why Are Americans Struggling?

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 23 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25

💰 Finance Economic Policy

Many Americans are struggling financially even when the economy seems strong. High inflation and rising costs are making life harder for a lot of people.
Rising treasury yields and mortgage rates are linked to ongoing inflation and economic uncertainty. This means borrowing money is becoming more expensive.
When people feel the pinch of price increases and government spending on foreign issues, they are likely to vote for change. Economic struggles can greatly influence election outcomes.

Former PBOC Research Chief Attempts to Calm Stock Market Frenzy

Pekingnology • 33 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24

💰 Finance Economic Policy

China's central bank is not directly supporting the stock market, so investors should be careful and avoid risky speculation.
Recent policies by the government have improved investor confidence but real economic improvements will take time and continuous efforts.
It's important for financial institutions to help investors understand risks and ensure that loans aren't misused to invest in the stock market.

December 29, 2024

Letters from an American • 22 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

Jimmy Carter, who passed away at 100, dedicated his life to human rights and was a significant figure in American politics.
During his presidency, Carter focused on civil rights, environmental protection, and human rights in foreign policy, making many impactful reforms.
After leaving office, he continued to promote peace and health through the Carter Center, showing a commitment to global humanitarian efforts.

If It Talks Like An Idiot, If It Walks Like An Idiot, It Most Likely Is An Idiot.

C.O.P. Central Organizing Principle. • 24 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

The idea of America’s global power is weakening, and there are emerging economies that challenge its dominance. This shift could lead to less reliance on the US dollar.
Many believe that past actions and choices in American leadership have damaged the working class and unions. This has made the American market less appealing to both workers and foreign investors.
Trump's tough talk about trade doesn't represent strength; instead, it highlights a fragile position in the global economy. His approach may not succeed against established trading groups like BRICS.

Manchin: "[West Virginians] live within their means." In reality, the state is #1 in medical debt collections.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 99 implied HN points • 04 Nov 21

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

West Virginia has serious issues with medical debt, leading the nation in collections. This showcases the struggles many residents face in affording healthcare.
Capping out-of-pocket costs for Medicare recipients could really help people in West Virginia. It would make medications more accessible for those who are struggling financially.
Senator Manchin's views do not reflect the reality of many West Virginians. People are trying hard to manage their finances but find it tough due to high medical and living costs.

Julebrev til abonnentene våre

steigan.no • 23 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

The organization has created important discussions about major events like the Libya war and the COVID-19 response. They believe these issues impact people daily.
They aim to provide original content instead of just translating articles. This will help offer unique insights on the challenges facing society.
To grow and have more writers, they need financial support from readers rather than relying on wealthy donors. Every small donation helps maintain their independence.

Deficit-to-GDP Ratio Near World War II Levels, CBO Finds

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 18 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25

💰 Finance Economic Policy

The U.S. government is facing huge deficits, with the deficit expected to be around 6.2% of GDP in 2025. This level hasn't been seen since World War II.
Federal spending is outpacing revenue, primarily due to rising costs for programs like Social Security and Medicare. This is leading to increasing government debt.
Despite the seriousness of the debt problem, it hardly gets discussed in politics, meaning there's little pressure to change how spending is managed.

Why Are Gold And The Dollar Trading Together?

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 19 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25

💰 Finance Economic Policy

Gold and the US Dollar are sometimes moving together, which can indicate stress in the global market. This unusual connection raises questions about economic stability.
Central banks influence both gold prices and the dollar's value. Higher interest rates can make the dollar seem more appealing, but many still look to gold to protect against inflation.
Events like political chaos and wars can make people feel uncertain, leading them to invest in gold as a safe option during tough times.

That Tariff Shit Sure Was Pointless

I Might Be Wrong • 17 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

Recent tariffs between the US and Canada seemed pointless and were lifted without gaining anything significant. This shows how negotiations can sometimes yield very little.
Trump's approach to tariffs might harm America's economic credibility in the long run. It's like he's playing a game but doesn't understand the rules properly.
Congress can step in and clarify the rules about tariffs to prevent future chaos. They should take control to keep things stable and effective.

Cannibal Spirits

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 22 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24

💰 Finance Economic Policy

Markets can go both up and down, which is a natural part of freedom in trading. It's important to understand that fluctuations are normal.
The term 'animal spirits' is often used to explain market behavior, but many believe it's overused and doesn't accurately describe what's really happening.
There's a perception that the financial system is rigged, relying heavily on inflation and debt, which can create skepticism about the true state of the markets.

The Aftermath

The Last Bear Standing • 22 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24

💰 Finance Economic Policy

After the election, the stock market jumped a lot, especially small and tech stocks, showing a positive reaction to the new leadership.
Different companies reacted in various ways; some like energy stocks did well due to traditional support while others, like solar, saw drops.
Concerns about tariffs and manufacturing shifts are growing, with many companies considering moving production out of China to avoid potential issues.

Republicans Should Aim for Canada-Size Cuts

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 16 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

Canada did well economically in the 1990s after making big cuts to spending and focusing on privatization. This shows that similar actions could help stabilize a country's finances.
In the 1990s, both Canada and the U.S. managed to cut spending successfully. However, Canada stuck to its cuts longer than the U.S. did, which helped their economy grow.
To avoid a financial crisis, the U.S. government needs to consider making substantial and sustained cuts to spending, similar to what Canada achieved. A goal of reducing spending by a few percentage points of GDP might help stabilize the economy.

January 16, 2025

Letters from an American • 17 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

President Biden warned that a rich and powerful elite, or oligarchy, is threatening democracy in America. This means that a small group is gaining too much control over the government and people's lives.
Economic inequality has grown significantly since the 1980s, with more wealth moving to the top 1%. This shift has made it harder for everyday Americans to get ahead.
The American public is increasingly unhappy about this inequality, as shown by recent events. People are starting to recognize the dangers of extreme wealth concentration and are looking for change.

Reducing Spending Now: The Key to Growth, Not Austerity

QTR’s Fringe Finance • 17 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

Cutting government spending can actually help grow the economy instead of slowing it down. It frees up resources for private businesses to invest and expand.
By reducing spending now, it can lead to higher incomes for Americans in the future. People can earn more if the government manages debt and keeps taxes low.
Spending cuts can avoid future tax hikes, which can be harmful, especially for low-income families. Less spending now can protect people from financial strain later.

January 2, 2024

Letters from an American • 17 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

President Biden gave the Presidential Citizens Medal to 20 Americans who have shown great service to their country, focusing on civil rights and community service.
Biden emphasized unity and progress in response to a tragic attack in New Orleans, while Trump and Musk are trying to deepen cultural divides in America.
The political scene is shifting again as Trump returns to hardline stances on immigration and culture wars, while Democrats continue to focus on economic recovery and workers' rights.

Destroying Trump's Economic Argument

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 20 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

Many people voting for Trump might hurt their own economic interests. Past examples, like Brexit, show that voting against one's own benefits can lead to long-term regret.
The U.S. economy is performing well under Biden, with growth and low unemployment. This progress may not be recognized by everyone in time to prevent a potential shift back under Trump.
Billionaires and their influence can lead to chaotic economic policies. Their motivations often center around their own goals rather than the well-being of the average person.

This Ticker is the New Game

Malt Liquidity • 17 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24

💰 Finance Economic Policy

The value of things is often based on attention rather than real productivity. People might buy trendy items as a bet on their popularity instead of actual worth.
Change can lead to uncertainty, and while it may feel uncomfortable, it can also create opportunities for innovation and improvement.
Social media has shifted how people perceive discussions and opinions, sometimes prioritizing profit over rational thought and leading to unhealthy behaviors in society.

October 28, 2024

Letters from an American • 19 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

The stock market crash of 1929 marked the end of the economic boom of the 1920s, leading to severe impacts like high unemployment and food waste. Many people struggled to find jobs, and farmers had to let crops rot because prices were too low.
President Hoover tried to fix the economy by cutting taxes and government spending, which didn’t help struggling Americans. Instead of providing public works, he believed private charity was the solution.
Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal aimed to help everyone, not just the wealthy. It created jobs and set up regulations that supported workers and civil rights, helping the country recover from the Great Depression.

December 11, 2024

Letters from an American • 16 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

Biden contrasted his economic approach with Trump's supply-side economics, highlighting the success of creating over 16 million jobs during his term. He believes growth should come from the middle and bottom of the economy.
He emphasized that the previous supply-side policies mostly benefited the wealthy and left the middle class struggling, suggesting that tax cuts primarily helped the rich while public investment was cut.
Biden warned that if Trump reinstates old policies, it could harm economic progress made in recent years, urging voters to recognize the positive effects of his administration's investments in the American people.

December 4, 2024

Letters from an American • 16 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

The debate over wealth distribution in America has been ongoing, with some believing that the wealthy shouldn’t have to support the poor, while others insist that government should ensure fair opportunities for everyone.
From the early 20th century to around 1981, there was a consensus that government regulation and support were necessary to help the middle class thrive and to prevent major economic crises.
The economic policies under recent administrations have shifted back towards deregulation and tax cuts for the wealthy, with significant implications for social programs and the middle class.

Animal Spirits

Net Interest • 15 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24

💰 Finance Economic Policy

There's a feeling of optimism in the finance world right now, with a lot of excitement and positive energy among investors.
Many financial leaders believe that changes in regulations could lead to better conditions for banks and companies, making it easier for them to operate.
Executives are hopeful for the future, driven by recent strong performances in the stock market and a more patient regulatory environment.

Some Democrats Think the Disease is the Cure

I Might Be Wrong • 14 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

Working class voters are increasingly leaning towards the GOP. Democrats need to rethink how they connect with these voters since their current approach isn't working.
There are two main ideas on why Democrats are losing touch: some say it's cultural, while others believe it's due to neglecting economic issues of the working class.
Populist economic strategies, which try to appeal to working class concerns, haven't worked in recent elections. Just because these ideas are popular doesn’t mean they will lead to electoral success.

Chaos kills coordination

Economic Forces • 10 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

Chaos in policies can hurt the economy by making it hard to predict what will happen next. This uncertainty stops businesses from wanting to invest money.
When prices change unpredictably, they become less helpful as signals for making decisions. This means people may hold off on projects that could benefit the economy.
A stable set of rules is important for economic growth. Even if policies aren't perfect, having clear and consistent ones helps businesses and workers plan for the future.

Where inflation comes from

The Works in Progress Newsletter • 12 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24

💰 Finance Economic Policy

Inflation measurement is complex and changes in how we calculate it can significantly impact our understanding of the economy. Small adjustments can make us feel either richer or poorer.
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is crucial for economic policies, affecting everything from Social Security benefits to tax brackets, which makes its measurement a point of political debate.
Various methods and indexes, like the PCE and the chained CPI, aim to capture price changes accurately, but they each have strengths and weaknesses in addressing real-life consumer experiences.

Maybe Appalachia is Secretly Pining for Elizabeth Warren

I Might Be Wrong • 11 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24

🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy

Democrats are really unpopular in Appalachia, where the Republican Party dominates. The shift from a blue to a red region shows there are big challenges for Democrats there.
Economic populism is being suggested as a solution for Democrats in regions like Appalachia. Some believe that focusing on issues like corporate power might help regain trust with voters.
However, there's doubt about whether voters truly care for populist policies like those of Elizabeth Warren or whether they just want good economic outcomes without the political jargon.