The hottest Economic Policy Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top World Politics Topics

Top Links 546 Childcare as infrastructure. Why Larry Summers thinks blended finance is BS and how all that is solid burst into flames.

Chartbook • 243 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Childcare should be seen as important infrastructure for the economy. It's essential for supporting working families and boosting economic growth.
  2. Larry Summers is critical of blended finance, arguing that it doesn't really solve financial problems and can lead to more issues.
  3. There's a sense that many established systems are failing or breaking down. It's a call to rethink how things work in society.

Kishida May Raise Corporate Taxes, Part I

Japan Economy Watch • 319 implied HN points • 30 Oct 22
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. The Japanese government is considering raising corporate taxes after years of lowering them, due to disappointing outcomes such as insufficient investment and wage hikes.
  2. The need to finance a significant increase in defense spending is a major factor in the potential corporate tax hike, as relying on deficits is seen as irresponsible.
  3. Japan has a significant amount of retained earnings due to low shareholder power, leading to companies not reinvesting the cash in the economy.

LECTURE NOTES: 5.2. Neoliberalism & After

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 215 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. The Neoliberal Order focused on free markets and individual freedom but often failed to create a fair society, leading to fear and inequality. This has caused people to look for new solutions and ideas.
  2. People are starting to care more about their local communities and how policies affect their immediate surroundings. There's a desire for changes that help create opportunities right where they are, instead of relying on moving to find better chances.
  3. There is a rising demand for leaders who truly represent and fight for the common people's interests. Many feel that the current system favors the rich, and they want someone to disrupt that status quo.

Migration and the sovereign firm

Gray Mirror • 189 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. The relationship between a state and its citizens can be viewed in terms of ownership, where the state should safeguard and nurture its people as valuable assets. This perspective contrasts with the modern belief that the state exists to serve its citizens.
  2. Free movement of labor may negatively impact local human capital by creating job competition that reduces job quality for some citizens, affecting their value and contribution to society.
  3. Mass migration policies are often motivated by corporate interests and political goals rather than a genuine need to develop local talent or improve society, leading to ineffective and exploitative outcomes.

Saturday Commentary and Review #180

Fisted by Foucault • 199 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Populism is on the rise due to many people feeling left behind by the system. This is especially true for the middle class, who are struggling to maintain their living standards amid economic changes.
  2. The failures of liberal democracy have led to a distrust of elites and institutions. Events like the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic showed that many people's lives are worsening, making them more receptive to populist ideas.
  3. Some political movements have broken away from traditional left-right ideologies. In many cases, both sides have ignored the working class, which has opened the door for new political expressions and movements.
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The Beast That Can't Be Killed

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 150 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Capitalism has a tough time changing, even with attempts at regulation. Efforts to control it often fail, showing that it can be very resilient.
  2. Billionaires and powerful capitalists can influence and undermine regulatory bodies. Efforts to create rules for them can be ignored or dismantled.
  3. The system of capitalism can lead to negative outcomes for everyone, as the wealthy often prioritize their interests over the public good.

Postponomics: Kishida Punts On Startups and Income Redistribution

Japan Economy Watch • 259 implied HN points • 07 Dec 22
💼 Business Economic Policy
  1. Kishida's administration has postponed crucial decisions on tax breaks for startups and corporate tax hikes, potentially hindering economic growth and income redistribution.
  2. Access to funding remains a significant challenge for startups in Japan, impacting their growth potential compared to other countries. More support is crucial for new companies to thrive.
  3. Government actions such as expanding angel tax credits and implementing R&D tax credit carry-forwards can significantly boost support for startups and innovation in Japan.

Disinflation vs Deflation Explained

Concepts of Finance 🧠 • 159 implied HN points • 01 Aug 23
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. Disinflation means prices are still going up, but not as fast as before. It's a slowdown in inflation, which can be seen as a good sign for the economy.
  2. Deflation is when prices actually fall, which can seem good for prices but often leads to negative effects like less spending and economic slowdown.
  3. A balanced approach is crucial. Some inflation is often healthy for the economy because it encourages people to spend and invest, avoiding the risks linked to both disinflation and deflation.

Only Socialism Can Fix This (Gestures to The American Hellscape)

JoeWrote • 139 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. America needs more than just minor repairs; it needs a complete rethink of how power and wealth are distributed. Simple fixes won't stop the rise of aggressive capitalism.
  2. The New Deal helped many but didn't end the dangers of capitalism, which still threaten social programs like Medicare and Social Security.
  3. We must not only push for useful social policies but also ensure that the systems allowing wealth concentration are dismantled to protect those policies for the future.

GDP still wins

Economic Forces • 11 implied HN points • 15 Dec 25
💼 Business Economic Policy
  1. GDP remains the best single-number summary of economic activity because no alternative captures the full picture of what an economy is doing.
  2. GDP correlates with many outcomes people care about — like lower infant mortality, better education, reduced extreme poverty, and higher self-reported happiness — because it measures the resources available to fund services and infrastructure.
  3. Despite its limitations, a well-measured GDP is practical and informative for policymaking and teaching, so attempts to outright replace it haven’t gained traction.

How Would Fearmongers and Doomers Invest in The Stock Market?

OK Doomer • 151 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. Many financial influencers spread fear about economic crashes but offer vague advice, like hoarding cash or buying during dips. It's not very helpful or specific.
  2. These influencers often blame the government for economic issues while ignoring their own role in creating panic. They don't really care about everyday people's financial well-being.
  3. Overall, the advice given is more about generating fear and attention rather than providing real, sound financial guidance. It’s like eating unhealthy protein bars instead of nutritious food.

Allied Scale and the Future of the West

European Straits • 14 implied HN points • 16 Nov 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. The West needs better coordination between the US and Europe to strengthen their combined power. It's not just about having resources; it's about how well they work together.
  2. The Russia-Ukraine war shows that winning wars relies on strong alliances and manufacturing capacity. Good partnerships can help endure longer conflicts more effectively.
  3. After World War II, NATO and the European project helped turn Europe's available resources into real power. They fostered cooperation and stability that made the region stronger.

Class and Cleavages

Some Unpleasant Arithmetic • 42 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Trade policies can deeply affect social classes, often favoring high-skill workers while disadvantaging low-skill labor. This can lead to economic disparities and social tensions.
  2. Women are increasingly benefiting from changes in the job market, while men are facing job losses in traditionally male sectors. This shift can impact gender dynamics and political views.
  3. The growing divide between social classes is connected to cultural differences and economic policies. As the economy evolves, conflicts between these classes become more pronounced.

Wang Jisi on The Relationship Between National Security and Other National Objectives

Pekingnology • 64 implied HN points • 22 Jun 25
🌍 World Politics Economic Policy
  1. National security is very important, but it needs limits. We should not let the pursuit of security take away freedom and wealth.
  2. Economic growth helps improve security, but too fast growth can cause unrest, especially in poorer countries. It's important for nations to balance growth and stability.
  3. The resources a country spends on military don't always equal better security. There are complex factors at play that influence how safe a nation really is.

Zelensky is literally selling Ukraine to US corporations on Wall Street

Geopolitical Economy Report • 219 implied HN points • 09 Sep 22
🌍 World Politics Economic Policy
  1. Ukraine's President Zelensky is opening up the country to US corporations on Wall Street for exploitation through a selloff program.
  2. Zelensky invited foreign corporations to invest billions in the country's projects, emphasizing economic opportunities.
  3. Critics liken Zelensky's actions to extreme neoliberal policies, highlighting concerns over labor rights and economic inequality.

Alexander Hamilton Did too Believe in "Industrial Policy"!!

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 176 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Alexander Hamilton supported the idea of using government policies to help grow local industries. He believed that controlling foreign competition can actually help American goods become cheaper over time.
  2. Hamilton thought that while tariffs might raise prices temporarily, they could lead to long-term benefits for domestic manufacturers and even help farmers by making goods more affordable.
  3. Critics of Hamilton miss the point that he advocated for state involvement in the economy to promote national growth, which is a form of planned economic strategy.

Did China Destroy Globalization?

Japan Economy Watch • 239 implied HN points • 22 Oct 22
🌍 World Politics Economic Policy
  1. Globalization has not been destroyed, but governments in the US and Europe are facing challenges in pursuing new trade agreements due to protectionism.
  2. Blaming China for rising protectionism overlooks the main issues, such as technological advancements and the shift towards services, leading to a decline in manufacturing jobs.
  3. Importance lies in addressing the root causes of worker distress, like job loss and wage suppression, with adjustments and mechanisms to alleviate these challenges.

The Slow Death of AC Transit

The Discourse Lounge • 531 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. AC Transit has faced a decline in ridership over the years due to funding cuts and neglect.
  2. Efforts are needed to increase funding for AC Transit and prioritize bus services over suburban rail projects.
  3. Long-term solutions include reforming funding priorities, restoring lost bus lines, and promoting public transportation over private shuttles.

Everyone is Now Middle Class

The Carousel • 128 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. The middle class has changed significantly, and now everyone seems to fall under this category. This shift means that even those who were once considered lower class are now being seen as middle class, leading to a divide in perspectives.
  2. There's a focus on a work ethic that pressures everyone to 'pull themselves up by their bootstraps.' This mentality suggests that hard work alone can lead to success, ignoring systemic issues that affect different classes.
  3. The elites appear to be distancing themselves from genuine leadership roles. Instead, they often mimic the middle class while forgetting their responsibilities to help those below them, which can create tension and inequality.

WEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED: For 2025-01-06 Mo

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 130 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Educational approaches should blend economic theories with historical context. This helps students grasp how past events shape current economic systems.
  2. To tackle gender disparities in birth rates, changing perceptions about motherhood and fatherhood is essential. Men need to support women more in their roles both at work and home.
  3. Inflation isn't solely linked to government spending; the Federal Reserve plays a significant role in managing it. Digital and global economic shifts complicate how we analyze these financial factors.

Putin-flation

Diane Francis • 359 implied HN points • 07 Jul 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Russia's actions have led to severe inflation in many countries, impacting economies worldwide. This inflation is more harmful than some sanctions against Russia.
  2. Germany is particularly affected due to its heavy reliance on Russian energy. This dependence has harmed its economy and could lead to significant challenges this winter.
  3. While many countries face economic downturns, the U.S. is less impacted due to its resources. Still, experts predict that the U.S. may enter a recession soon.

AI Oligarchs: Money Before Country, Again

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 115 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. U.S. industrial policy has focused on moving jobs overseas to benefit the wealthy, which has hurt the country's economy. Instead of helping the average person, it seems to make the rich even richer.
  2. The tech industry in the U.S. has missed out on competition and innovation because companies put profit before progress. This has allowed cheaper and better technologies from other countries, like China, to take over.
  3. Lina Khan, a regulatory leader, warned that lack of competition in the tech industry would hurt U.S. companies in the long run. It looks like her concerns have come true as American firms are now struggling against more agile competitors.

Washington's $300 billion dilemma

The Dossier • 303 implied HN points • 28 Feb 24
🌍 World Politics Economic Policy
  1. Western powers imposed sanctions on Russia by freezing $300 billion of Russian assets in the US and Europe, aiming to weaken the Russian economy, but the impact on the Russian war effort has been limited.
  2. The idea of seizing Russia's frozen $300 billion stash is being considered by the Biden Administration and Congress as a punitive measure, but legalizing such action through Congress is required.
  3. Seizing the $300 billion would be an unprecedented event with potential far-reaching consequences, including implications on the U.S. dollar's status as a global reserve currency and market signals about its stability.

Trump’s Taiwan Tariff Shock

Taipology • 102 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Trump has proposed very high tariffs on chips from Taiwan, which could hurt many businesses that rely on these products. This move is seen as harmful, especially for Taiwan, which has been a strong ally.
  2. People online are really upset about Trump's tariffs, criticizing the decision and questioning its economic logic. It seems like some are even saying it might lead to more inflation in the U.S.
  3. There are concerns that Taiwan needs to start thinking for itself instead of just following U.S. demands. Building more chip plants in the U.S. could be ruinous for Taiwan's economy.

We're going to need a bigger Bazooka

Comment is Freed • 138 implied HN points • 23 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Britain's economy has struggled to grow since the 2008 crisis, leading to lower living standards and less effective public services. This shows how important economic growth is for improving people's lives.
  2. The government has ambitious plans for growth but is facing challenges due to tight financial constraints and investor skepticism. They need to change how investors view the UK to encourage more private investment.
  3. To achieve real economic change, the government needs to adopt bigger, bolder strategies, especially in areas that directly link to growth, like transportation projects.

Leviathan and Behemoth

Some Unpleasant Arithmetic • 40 implied HN points • 06 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. The Abundance agenda is seen as a new take on old neoliberal ideas, emphasizing economic growth and technology. It's about building more and reducing unnecessary regulations to foster progress.
  2. Three main movements influence the Abundance ideology: YIMBYism which calls for more housing, progress studies focusing on technological development, and state capacity libertarianism that balances market and government roles.
  3. Despite its good intentions, the Abundance agenda faces skepticism as it may repeat the mistakes of neoliberalism, risking the same pitfalls of inequality and ineffective governance.

Ode to America

Net Interest • 41 implied HN points • 05 Jul 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. The story of finance in America is tied to its roots in railroads. Railroads brought massive investments, which led to innovative financial practices and the rise of stock markets.
  2. American optimism is a big part of its business culture. Investors in the U.S. often look at the best potential outcomes and are willing to take risks, which helps create new companies and technologies.
  3. The U.S. has one of the largest and most dynamic financial systems in the world, making it easier for entrepreneurs to get funding. This strong market encourages growth and renewal in the economy.

Erdmann Housing Tracker 2024 in Review (July to December)

Erdmann Housing Tracker • 105 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
💼 Business Economic Policy
  1. Rising rents are the main cause behind increasing home price-to-rent ratios. This happens when supply is restricted, leading to higher land rents that inflate home values.
  2. Cities with high costs usually face housing shortages because of strict building regulations. They aren't necessarily more desirable but are limited in housing availability.
  3. The mortgage market has changed, favoring higher credit score borrowers, which has reduced access for many potential homeowners. This has led to inflated home prices and keeps housing out of reach for lower-income families.

WEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED: For 2024-11-27 We

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 115 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Zero-sum thinking is on the rise, where people believe that economic growth takes away from someone else instead of benefiting everyone. This mindset can lead to less motivation and lower innovation in society.
  2. The belief that changes in the economy will harm individuals' existing benefits is a growing concern. Many people are starting to think that opportunities for advancement are limited.
  3. Recent predictions suggest that the U.S. economy could surprise us with better growth than expected. This positive outlook contrasts with the general fears of economic decline.

"Abundance" and Its Discontents

Gideon's Substack • 38 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. The book 'Abundance' brings up many issues but lacks specific solutions for each one. It's hard to see how all these problems relate under the same idea of abundance.
  2. It talks a lot about changing mindsets towards abundance but doesn't explain what this new mindset really means for politics or society.
  3. Many people are naturally cautious about big changes. They might prefer to see practical benefits for themselves rather than just a general idea of abundance.

Asking Rents Mostly Unchanged Year-over-year

CalculatedRisk Newsletter • 38 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
💰 Finance Economic Policy
  1. Asking rents have mostly stayed the same over the past year. While there have been slight month-to-month increases, overall rent growth has slowed down.
  2. Different sources report varying trends in rents, with some noting recent decreases while others show modest increases. This suggests that the rental market is a bit mixed right now.
  3. Factors like increased supply of rental units and changing immigration policies are affecting rents. These influences may continue to shape the rental landscape throughout the year.

The Great De-Globalization

Diane Francis • 319 implied HN points • 14 Apr 22
🌍 World Politics Economic Policy
  1. De-globalization is speeding up due to the pandemic and the war in Ukraine. Countries are changing their trade practices and looking for new suppliers to avoid shortages.
  2. The world might split into two trade blocs led by the US and China. This division could drive up prices and limit choices for consumers.
  3. China is facing several internal issues that could hurt its economy. If it continues to support Russia, China risks losing its trade partners and investors.

The True Shape of America's Debt & Deficit "Burdens"

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 261 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Debt-to-GDP ratio in the U.S. has fluctuated over the years, with significant changes under different administrations.
  2. The U.S. could manage its debt by matching program spending to taxes in the future, allowing it to gradually diminish.
  3. The current U.S. deficit is a concern as it exceeds the optimal level, posing a risk for the future due to political and economic factors.

The Great MAGA Immigration Meltdown

Unpopular Front • 93 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. The H-1B visa program ties workers to their jobs, making it hard for them to leave and seek better opportunities, which some compare to indentured servitude.
  2. The current debate about immigration among Trump supporters isn't just about policy; it's linked to deeper beliefs about race and who should get priority in the workforce.
  3. There are two contrasting views on how to approach immigration: one sees it as a way to foster fair economic competition and freedom, while the other focuses on grabbing a select group of skilled workers based on racialized criteria.

On the US/EU tariff deal, aka another YUGE win for Donald Trump

Unreported Truths • 31 implied HN points • 28 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. The US/EU tariff deal is seen as a major victory for Donald Trump. It gives the US more favorable terms while requiring the EU to lower their tariffs.
  2. European leaders have noticeably lost leverage in negotiations, leading to what some call an embarrassing outcome for the EU.
  3. The tariffs are low enough that they may help American manufacturing without causing much inflation, suggesting a potential positive impact on the US economy.

Rare Earth and China

TP’s Substack • 39 implied HN points • 19 Jun 25
🌐 International Economic Policy
  1. China dominates the rare earth market, producing around 94% of these materials used in magnets. They are also increasing their control over the entire supply chain.
  2. China has been restricting exports of rare earth materials, especially higher-value products like magnets, likely to strengthen their manufacturing capabilities and hurt foreign competitors.
  3. Research and patents on rare earth technology are concentrated in China, meaning they have the expertise needed to produce high-quality magnets, which are essential for industries like electric vehicles and renewable energy.

Everyone wants a male breadwinner

Sex and the State • 38 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Many people still believe in a male breadwinner model where the man earns money while the woman takes care of the home. This belief can create pressure and expectations in relationships.
  2. Research shows that marriages where women earn more than men can lead to more stress and higher chances of divorce. This hints that traditional gender roles still have a strong influence on people's decisions.
  3. Challenging the idea that men should always be the main earners could help improve marriage quality and financial outcomes for families. It's worth reconsidering these old norms for better relationships.

BIWEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED: For 2024-12-14 Sa

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 92 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economic Policy
  1. Economic growth in the G-5 has faced challenges due to policy choices, like the Reagan deficits and insufficient public investment. These choices have slowed growth compared to earlier times.
  2. ObamaCare has effectively controlled entitlement spending, shifting the focus to new financial issues. It's become clear that previous crises have changed over time.
  3. Wages for non-managerial workers have started to rise compared to managerial workers. This shift shows a significant change in the workforce that isn't just due to technology but reflects broader social dynamics.