Economics Explored podcast

#Business #Gene Tunny #Economics #Finance

11:59

Most women I talk to over 40, 50, and 60 say the same thing: “I never thought I’d be here, dating at this stage of life.” And let’s be honest, midlife dating often gets a bad rap. But the truth? It can be the BEST time in your life to find real love… if you know how to approach it. In this episode, we talk about why dating now can be easier, more authentic, and more fulfilling than ever—and how shifting your perspective can change everything. Episode Highlights: Why dating now can feel easier and more authentic than ever The freedom that comes from wanting—not needing—a partner How showing up as your true self changes who you attract Why self-acceptance is magnetic How trusting yourself shapes every choice you make in love Episode Breakdown: 00:00 Dating Over 50: Why It’s the Best Time for Love 00:53 Meet Hilary 01:47 Midlife Dating Truths 02:07 Reason 1: Maturity & Clarity 03:44 Reason 2: Desire, Not Need 05:08 Reason 3: Authentic Self 07:06 Reason 4: Confidence & Magnetism 08:52 Reason 5: Self-Trust & Boundaries 10:28 Why It’s Never Too Late for Love Dating now isn’t about chasing chemistry or proving your worth—it’s about finding a true, equal partnership that adds to your already beautiful life. ✨ I’m Hilary Silver, LCSW, former psychotherapist turned master coach and founder of Ready for Love. I help high-achieving women show up in love as confidently as they do in their careers. 💡 Through this podcast, I share my WOMAN-centered, SELF-centered approach—time-tested methods that blend psychology, brain science, relationship skills, and no-BS dating advice. 🎙️ Since 2017, we’ve helped over 10,000 women with a 98% success rate, making Ready for Love the #1 program in the world for women who’ve tried everything else. 🎯 Watch my free masterclass to learn the proven 4-step Ready for Love Method: https://readyforloveinc.com/masterclass 💬 Apply for a free Love Breakthrough Call with my team: https://readyforloveinc.com/apply…

Economics Explored

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Hard-headed economic analysis applied to important economic, social, and environmental issues.

299 episoder

Economics Explored

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updated for 3 dage siden

Del

Serier hjem•Feed

Hard-headed economic analysis applied to important economic, social, and environmental issues.

299 episoder

#Business #Gene Tunny #Economics #Finance

Alle episoder

1
Debt, Inflation & Unrest: Western Warnings - ep297 47:26

for 3 dage siden47:26

47:26

Gene Tunny and John Humphreys unpack the economic troubles brewing in the UK, France, and the US—rising debt, social unrest, inflation, and faltering productivity. They explore why bond markets are sounding alarms, why governments are struggling to respond, and what this all means for Australia. The episode draws urgent lessons from these fiscal failures, with stark warnings for what lies ahead if policy inertia continues. Among other issues, they discuss Gary Stevenson’s proposal for a wealth tax in the UK. Gene would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. You can email him via contact@economicsexplored.com . This episode was recorded on Thursday, 18 September 2025. Timestamps Economic Challenges in Major Western Economies (0:00) Discussion on UK Economic Turmoil (2:31) Impact of Bond Market on UK Government (7:35) Comparison with France and the US (16:43) Lessons for Australia (35:29) Impact of Political Polarisation (43:55) Potential Solutions and Challenges (44:15) Global Economic Repercussions (44:49) Conclusion and Final Thoughts (46:24) Takeaways The UK’s fiscal crisis is deepening with stalled per capita GDP, rising debt, and bond markets losing confidence. France is politically paralysed amid fiscal deficits and bond yields now surpassing Italy’s—an unprecedented shift. The US faces stagflation risks, with inflation ticking back up and concerns about economic growth. Productivity stagnation is the root problem across Western economies, fueling deficits and weakening growth. Australia must learn from others' mistakes, avoiding unsustainable spending and instead boosting productivity. Links relevant to the conversation Slides with charts referred to this episode: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1ZMkunGxYj57TnCajOxvMcTEh0fQj0y5L/view?usp=sharing Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance Livestream of 18 September 2025: https://www.youtube.com/live/8YxnRT_YD50?si=_A1udQmCag3dMtyC Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED…

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Don’t Fight the Market: A Price Mechanism Masterclass - ep296 42:05

for 8 dage siden42:05

42:05

Show host Gene Tunny breaks down why price controls are one of the most consistently failed economic policies. Using vivid historical examples from the 1970s US, the Soviet Union’s command economy, and Venezuela’s toilet paper crisis, he illustrates how interfering with the price mechanism leads to shortages, inefficiency, and unintended consequences. Gene would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. You can email him via contact@economicsexplored.com . Timestamps Introduction to the Podcast and Episode Theme (0:00) Price Controls and Their Economic Implications (2:47) President Nixon's Wage and Price Controls (8:53) The Soviet Union's Central Planning System (18:20) Economic Inefficiency in the Soviet Steel Industry (29:24) Venezuela's Toilet Paper Crisis (31:57) Takeaways Price controls disrupt vital economic signals, leading to misallocation of resources and market inefficiency. Nixon’s wage and price freeze in the 1970s led to empty supermarket shelves, black markets, and farmers slaughtering livestock to cut their losses. Soviet central planning failed due to the absence of price signals, leading to constant shortages—even of basic goods like meat and bread. Venezuela’s price caps on essentials like toilet paper created massive shortages and forced the government to import millions of rolls. The price mechanism acts as a societal dashboard, helping balance supply and demand more efficiently than central planning or rationing. Links relevant to the conversation Ben Bernanke’s book – 21st Century Monetary Policy https://www.amazon.com.au/21st-Century-Monetary-Policy-Inflation/dp/1324020466 BBC News Article on Venezuela's Toilet Paper Crisis: "Venezuela aims to end toilet paper shortage" https://www.bbc.com/news/business-22621833 Bread and Autocracy: Food, Politics, and Security in Putin’s Russia https://www.amazon.com.au/Bread-Autocracy-Politics-Security-Putins/dp/019768436X Stephen Kotkin – Armageddon Averted: The Soviet Collapse 1970–2000 https://www.amazon.com.au/Armageddon-Averted-Soviet-Collapse-1970-2000/dp/0195368630 Friedrich Hayek – “The Use of Knowledge in Society” https://www.econlib.org/library/Essays/hykKnw.html Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED…

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Beyond the Roundtable: Real Solutions for Australia’s Productivity Plunge - ep295 53:07

for 23 dage siden53:07

53:07

In this candid discussion, show host Gene Tunny joins a panel to expose the shortcomings of the Australian Government’s August 2025 economic reform summit. Topics include the high cost of energy, tax policy, the ballooning NDIS and big government generally, AI regulation, and Senator Matt Canavan’s rival roundtable, which Gene attended. This episode borrows the audio from Damian Coory’s The Other Side episode broadcast on YouTube on 22 August 2025. The other guests are Graham Young, Executive Director of the Australian Institute for Progress, and Dan Petrie, a data analyst and former editor at Bloomberg. Please email Gene your thoughts on this episode via contact@economicsexplored.com . Timestamps Australian Government's Economic Reform Roundtable Overview (0:00) Critique of the Official Roundtable (3:26) Challenges in Defining Productivity and Addressing Labor Market Issues (6:59) Impact of Government Spending and Energy Costs on Productivity (9:48) Innovation and Small Business Challenges (34:00) Taxation and Economic Reform Proposals (34:29) NDIS and Healthcare Funding Challenges (51:04) Final Thoughts on the Roundtable and Future Directions (51:15) Takeaways The Official Roundtable Lacked Focus & Diversity: Only six business leaders were among 30 participants — a serious oversight for a summit focused on productivity and economic reform. Energy Costs Are a Major Barrier: Australia’s rapid rollout of renewable energy is raising energy prices, affecting both consumers and heavy industries. Government Spending Is Too High: Public spending is nearing 40% of GDP, with half of Australians now receiving government income, raising concerns about sustainability and productivity. Small Business & Innovation Ignored: There was little meaningful discussion of the role of small business or innovation in driving productivity. AI Regulation Needs a Balanced Approach: The roundtable discussions on AI were dominated by union concerns, focusing on job protection rather than innovation. This risks stifling technological advancement and missing opportunities for productivity gains. NDIS Costs Are Spiralling Out of Control: The National Disability Insurance Scheme is growing at an unsustainable rate, with concerns about high eligibility and inadequate oversight. The government’s proposed changes lack proper consultation and shift costs to the states. Links relevant to the conversation The Other Side episode - “AUSTRALIA's Decline - No Vision, No Innovation, Just MORE Big Government and Taxes”: https://youtu.be/FeicrCu2sO0?si=Rd8xZV_CsmLzikW0 Senator Matt Canavan’s roundtable broadcast on Sky News - “Real Productivity Roundtable reveals four ways to save Australia:” https://youtu.be/4xBGcjIXgHU?si=Uk1kaqq92bhacSma Robert Carling’s recent paper - “Leviathan on the Rampage: Government spending growth a threat to Australia’s economic future”: https://www.cis.org.au/publication/leviathan-on-the-rampage-how-the-growth-of-government-is-draining-australias-economic-vitality/ Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED…

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AI’s Economic Disruption: Infinite Intelligence at our Fingertips? w/ Prof. Chris Berg & John Humphreys - ep294 46:18

for 4 weeks siden46:18

46:18

Professor Chris Berg from RMIT University discusses the transformative potential of AI, likening it to the next industrial revolution. He argues that AI, particularly tools like ChatGPT, can boost white-collar productivity by up to 40%. Governments should cautiously avoid AI regulation to maximise these gains. Berg emphasises AI's bottom-up adoption and its exponential advancements. He also touches on the social implications, including the formation of parasocial relationships with AI and the potential for AI to displace certain jobs. The conversation, with ATA Chief Economist John Humphreys and Economics Explored host Gene Tunny, highlights AI’s dual promise of productivity gains and societal challenges. Please email Gene your thoughts on this episode via contact@economicsexplored.com . Timestamps Introduction to AI and Productivity (0:00) Government's Approach to AI Regulation (3:01) Bottom-Up Technology and Industrial Applications (9:40) Comparisons to Previous Industrial Revolutions (12:04) Social and Economic Implications of AI (16:46) AI and Human Labour (17:15) AI's Role in Public Policy Debates (35:41) Conclusion and Future Prospects (38:35) Takeaways AI as “Infinite Intelligence” – Berg views AI, particularly LLMs like ChatGPT, as offering effectively infinite intelligence, capable of dramatically transforming productivity. White-Collar Disruption – AI is not just about automating manual labour. It poses a serious threat (and opportunity) for traditionally “smart” jobs like writing, research, and art. Regulatory Caution – While Europe has rushed to regulate AI, Australia hasn’t, allowing innovation and productivity gains to take root. Parasocial Relationships with AI – AI companions (e.g., AI-infused toys or assistants) may change human interaction, especially among children and vulnerable populations. Rethinking Migration via Robots – Remote-controlled humanoid robots may one day allow low-skilled workers in developing countries to "work" in advanced economies without leaving home. Links relevant to the conversation ATA livestream on 21 August with Chris Berg: https://austaxpayers.substack.com/p/productivity-ideas-with-chris-berg Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED…

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Cash Flow Tax, Gas Bans & Big Government w/ John Humphreys - ep293 55:04

for 6 weeks siden55:04

55:04

Show host Gene Tunny and Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance Chief Economist John Humphreys tackle hot topics in Australian economic policy: the case for a cash flow company tax, the politics and maths of a gas ban, why stamp duty drags the economy, the growing size of government and the cost of living crisis. Please email Gene your thoughts on this episode via contact@economicsexplored.com . Timestamps Introduction and Greens’ Gas Ban (0:00) Government Spending and Adverse Effects on Economic Dynamism (8:32) Stamp Duty and Efficiency Cost (19:42) Inflation Data and Cost of Living Crisis (25:39) Productivity Commission's Company Tax Reform (28:55) Workers' Compensation and Tax Incidence (43:11) Tariffs and Taxation (54:52) Takeaways Cash Flow Tax Reform – The Productivity Commission proposes cutting company tax to 20% for most firms, adding a 5% cash flow tax, and keeping the system revenue neutral—aimed at boosting investment. Gas Ban Impact – John argues the NSW Greens’ proposal would delay global warming by only 10 hours by 2100, even under optimistic assumptions, yet could raise costs for consumers and businesses. Stamp Duty Inefficiency – Economic modelling by the Centre of Policy Studies (CoPS) shows stamp duty’s deadweight loss at 70–80 cents per $1 raised, far worse than GST or income tax. Government Spending Growth – The CIS’s Robert Carling claims over half of Australians now earn primary income from government sources, raising concerns about productivity and political incentives. Hidden Tax Burdens – Workers’ compensation costs, though nominally paid by employers, often reduce workers’ wages in the long run, John argues. Links relevant to the conversation ATA livestream on 7 August: https://austaxpayers.substack.com/p/australia-considers-cashflow-tax John’s article on Greens’ gas ban: https://austaxpayers.substack.com/p/greens-propose-gas-ban PC’s cash flow tax proposal: https://www.pc.gov.au/inquiries/current/resilient-economy/interim Leviathan on the Rampage: Government spending growth a threat to Australia’s economic future https://www.cis.org.au/publication/leviathan-on-the-rampage-how-the-growth-of-government-is-draining-australias-economic-vitality/ CoPS on stamp duty: Some taxes are inefficient at any level. Even modest reforms will help https://www.vu.edu.au/about-vu/news-events/news/some-taxes-are-inefficient-at-any-level-even-modest-reforms-will-help Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED…

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Raleigh’s Rise: America’s #1 Best-Performing City w/ Kyle Touchstone, Raleigh Economic Development 56:12

for 8 weeks siden56:12

56:12

Kyle Touchstone, Director of Raleigh Economic Development, shares with us how Raleigh became the top-ranked large city in the US, according to the Milken Institute. Kyle and show host Gene Tunny discuss the city's success in biotech, AI, quantum computing, and advanced manufacturing—all underpinned by the world-class universities and innovation ecosystem of North Carolina’s Research Triangle. The conversation also explores Raleigh’s growing role in the gaming industry, including its connection to Epic Games—the creator of Fortnite—and the rise of eSports in the region. Please email Gene your thoughts on this episode via contact@economicsexplored.com . Timestamps Raleigh's Economic Growth and Milken Institute Ranking (0:00) Industry Sectors and Infrastructure in North Carolina (5:17) Significant Announcements and Investments (7:23) Population Growth and Quality of Life (12:23) Entrepreneurial Ecosystem and Community Support (15:08) Tax Policy and Economic Development (15:35) Quantum Computing and AI (19:49) Sports and Entertainment (43:40) eSports and Gaming (47:55) Lessons in Economic Development (50:39) Takeaways Top Rankings: Raleigh was named the #1 best-performing large city by the Milken Institute and is part of the #1 state for business (North Carolina, per CNBC). Research Triangle Advantage: Home to NC State, Duke, and UNC Chapel Hill, the Research Triangle fuels innovation with top-tier talent and research. Massive Investment: Biotech firms, such as Biogen, Amgen, and Genentech, have invested billions, drawn by the infrastructure, affordability, and access to research. Quantum & AI Leadership: IBM’s quantum hub and regional AI focus are positioning Raleigh as a leader in next-gen computing. Entrepreneurial Ecosystem: Startups like Pendo and social enterprises like 321 Coffee thrive thanks to a strong support network and educational institutions. Links relevant to the conversation Raleigh, NC and Gainesville, GA Top Milken Institute’s 2025 Annual Ranking of Best-Performing Cities: https://milkeninstitute.org/content-hub/news-releases/raleigh-nc-and-gainesville-ga-top-milken-institutes-2025-annual-ranking-best-performing-cities Raleigh Economic Development: https://www.raleighecondev.org/ Zoom catch up with show host Gene Tunny Join Gene and other listeners for a catch-up on Zoom on Thursday, 31 July at: 21.30 to 22.30 AEST/GMT+10 (Australian East Coast time) 12.30 to 13.30 BST/GMT+1 (British Summer time) 07.30 to 08.30 EDT/GMT-4 (US East Coast time) The link to the Zoom room is: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9471595560 RSVP by 20.00 GMT+10 on 31 July to contact@economicsexplored.com Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED…

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Interest Rates, Australia’s 3 Biggest Challenges, Global Fertility Crash, & the Tobin Tax Debate w/ John Humphreys, Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance 57:25

for 10 weeks siden57:25

57:25

Show host Gene Tunny and colleague John Humphreys dissect Australia’s latest controversial Reserve Bank interest rate decision, debating inflation targeting and central bank independence. They challenge conventional economic thinking, particularly around the NAIRU—the Non-Accelerating Inflation Rate of Unemployment (NAIRU). The episode also tackles the implications of declining fertility rates globally, the controversial Tobin tax on financial transactions, and critiques current climate policies through an economic lens. Please email Gene your thoughts on this episode via contact@economicsexplored.com . Timestamps Reserve Bank of Australia's Interest Rate Decision and Inflation Targeting (0:00) Debate on RBA Independence and Inflation Targeting (8:12) Challenges Facing the Australian Economy (23:00) Libertarian Perspectives on Currency and Population Decline (35:33) Economic Implications of Declining Fertility (36:31) Tobin Tax and Its Economic Rationale, Pros and Cons (50:12) Conclusion and Future Topics (56:48) Takeaways RBA Decision Controversy: The RBA's recent decision on interest rates highlights the complexity and uncertainty around inflation management. NAIRU Concept Critique: The Non-Accelerating Inflation Rate of Unemployment is flawed and may misguide policy, according to John Humphreys. Demographic Concerns: Declining fertility and aging populations could be the defining issue of the 21st century. Economic Impacts of Climate Policy: Current climate change actions often lack transparent cost-benefit analyses, raising economic risks. Risks of Tobin Taxes: Tobin taxes seem feasible at low levels but risk inefficiency, evasion, and global governance issues. Links relevant to the conversation Full ATA livestream “ATA Live #20: Tobin tax & interest rates”: https://www.youtube.com/live/34WBRZNbwwc?si=TPU14g7SffIXuWMP Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance: https://www.taxpayers.org.au/ Zoom catch up with show host Gene Tunny Join Gene and other listeners for a catch-up on Zoom on Thursday, 31 July at: 21.30 to 22.30 AEST/GMT+10 (Australian East Coast time) 12.30 to 13.30 BST/GMT+1 (British Summer time) 07.30 to 08.30 EDT/GMT-4 (US East Coast time) The link to the Zoom room is: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/9471595560 RSVP by 20.00 GMT+10 on 31 July to contact@economicsexplored.com Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED…

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Listener Mailbag: Starve the Beast, Property Tax, and NDIS & Productivity Debates 51:20

for 11 weeks siden51:20

51:20

Show host Gene Tunny delves into listener feedback on recent episodes regarding the feasibility of tax cuts preceding spending cuts ("starve the beast"), a capital gains tax on property, and the practicality of Georgist land taxes. He explores the complexities behind Australia's productivity challenges and regulatory capture issues raised by listeners. Please email Gene your thoughts on this episode via contact@economicsexplored.com . Timestamps Feedback from Listeners and Show Updates (0:00) Discussion on the Starve the Beast Theory (2:26) Listener Feedback from Australia (8:25) Georgism and Property Taxation (20:11) Feedback on Productivity and Regulatory Capture (26:25) NDIS and Labour Force Participation (30:16) Tax Reform and Efficiency (41:15) Closing Remarks and Future Plans (50:21) Takeaways Tax Cuts Need Matching Spending Cuts: The "starve the beast" theory—that tax cuts alone will force spending cuts—is usually ineffective, historically resulting in higher deficits and debt. Capital Gains Tax Controversy: Taxing capital gains on family homes would be politically unpopular and controversial. Productivity and NDIS Debate: Growth in social services sectors, such as Australia’s National Disability Insurance Scheme, may negatively impact productivity measures, although this growth may also bring social benefits. Avoid Regulatory Capture: Effective regulatory reform requires vigilance against corporate lobbying and vested interests to ensure regulations genuinely benefit the public. Links relevant to the conversation Previous episodes: Australia’s productivity problem w/ John Humphreys: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/australias-productivity-problem-can-it-be-fixed-w-john/id1480645795?i=1000712724732 Rethinking Property and Taxation: The Georgist Approach w/ John August https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/rethinking-property-and-taxation-the-georgist-approach/id1480645795?i=1000703744281 Fixing Australia’s Housing Crisis: Fusion’s Plan w/ Owen Miller https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/fixing-australias-housing-crisis-fusions-plan-w-owen/id1480645795?i=1000700967776 Livestream on superannuation with John Humphreys and Cameron Murray: https://www.youtube.com/live/SlGCSaiGCVU?si=sj-ySFaccJUm08sg Articles on the failure of the land value tax in the early 20th-century UK: https://marginalrevolution.com/marginalrevolution/2025/03/the-failure-of-the-land-value-tax.html https://worksinprogress.co/issue/the-failure-of-the-land-value-tax/ Book review of Kaldor’s Expenditure Tax monograph: http://piketty.pse.ens.fr/files/Kaldor1955ExpenditureTaxDebate.pdf Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED…

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Chaos is Costly: Navigating Economic Uncertainty w/ Rebecca Homkes, Duke Corporate Education 54:35

for 13 weeks siden54:35

54:35

Rebecca Homkes of Duke Corporate Education and London Business School joins the show to discuss how economic and trade policy chaos is hindering strategic decision-making in global firms. Rebecca shares how to spot the CEOs who are genuinely thinking ahead—those who anchor their choices in beliefs and prepare to adapt as conditions change. We also explore AI’s real value in business: not just saving time, but repurposing it for higher-value work and strategic growth. Please email Gene your thoughts on this episode via contact@economicsexplored.com . Timestamps Introduction and Overview of the Podcast (0:00) Manufacturing Jobs vs. Manufacturing Capacity (1:03) CEO Strategic Paralysis and Policy Uncertainty (16:31) Regulation and Economic Policy (16:47) Vision for the Future and National Security Concerns (20:10) CEO Strategies in Uncertain Times (23:36) Exemplars of Strategic Preparation (28:08) Impact of AI on Business Strategy (36:56) Challenges in AI Adoption (47:51) Future of Jobs and AI (49:57) Conclusion and Final Thoughts (52:01) Takeaways Chaos breeds inaction – CEOs facing policy and geopolitical uncertainty often freeze, avoiding significant investments due to a lack of clarity. AI’s true value lies in repurposed time – Businesses should measure AI’s success not by time saved, but by how that time is used for higher-value tasks. Strategic beliefs drive resilient planning – The best-performing organisations base decisions on articulated beliefs, not reactive responses. Links relevant to the conversation Rebecca’s website: https://www.rebeccahomkes.com/ Rebecca’s book Survive, Reset, Thrive: https://www.surviveresetthrive.com/ Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED…

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Australia’s Productivity Problem: Can It Be Fixed? w/ John Humphreys, Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance 59:39

for 15 weeks siden59:39

59:39

Gene Tunny and John Humphreys dissect the causes behind Australia's productivity slump, analysing recent GDP data, labour market policies, and regulatory constraints. They debate whether tax cuts should precede spending cuts and question the effectiveness of central planning and government intervention (i.e. ‘picking winners’) in driving innovation. John is Chief Economist at the Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance (ATA). This episode is the audio of an ATA livestream on 12 June 2025. Please email Gene your thoughts on this episode via contact@economicsexplored.com . Timestamps National Accounts and Productivity Concerns (0:00) Government's Productivity Roundtable and Regulatory Reforms (4:34) Economic Policy and Institutional Reforms (8:19) Challenges in Private Investment and Productivity Measures (13:56) Industrial Relations and Labour Market Reforms (18:14) Housing Market and Regulatory Barriers (22:56) Tax Reforms and Fiscal Responsibility (29:59) Superannuation Tax Changes and Political Implications (47:15) Conclusion and Future Prospects (57:22) Takeaways Australia is in an 8-year productivity slump, with minimal growth in GDP per hour worked and GDP per capita declining in most recent quarters. The Albanese Government’s proposed productivity roundtable is met with scepticism, particularly due to its unwillingness to touch industrial relations. Private investment remains weak, threatening future economic growth despite government spending and immigration-fueled expansion. Superannuation changes are controversial, especially the proposal to tax unrealised gains and the lack of indexation, prompting fears of unfair treatment of self-managed funds. Regulation, housing policy, and taxation are significant barriers to productivity; both speakers call for serious reform and question whether centralisation in Canberra helps or hinders progress. Links relevant to the conversation ATA livestream (i.e. video of this episode): https://www.youtube.com/live/lDlner_PHc0?si=1M9krIiPwvIcFxLs ATA website: https://www.taxpayers.org.au/ Australia’s National Accounts: https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/economy/national-accounts/australian-national-accounts-national-income-expenditure-and-product/latest-release Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED…

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What if Fort Knox Gold is Impure or Missing? 55:23

for 15 weeks siden55:23

55:23

Gene Tunny and Darren Brady Nelson delve into the gold reserves at Fort Knox, exploring whether the gold is as pure as expected and what the implications might be for the U.S. dollar if it's not. They cover the history of gold confiscation, central bank policies, and the enduring allure of gold in uncertain economic times. This episode was inspired by a question Gene received at a talk he gave to the AusIMM Sydney branch in April 2025. Darren is currently the Chief Economist at Fisher Liberty Gold. This episode contains general information only, and nothing in this episode should be considered as investment or financial advice. Please email Gene your thoughts on this episode via contact@economicsexplored.com . Timestamps Darren Brady Nelson's Role at Fisher Liberty Gold (0:00) Investing in Gold Through Fisher Liberty Gold (3:00) The Gold in Fort Knox: Historical Context and Implications (5:11) The Quality and Purity of Gold in Fort Knox (7:58) The Role of Gold in Economic Uncertainty and Impact of Tariffs (28:57) Central Banks’ Role in Gold Markets (34:08) The Future of Gold and Monetary Policy (38:37) The Independence of Central Banks (40:53) The Role of Government in Economic Growth (48:46) Final Thoughts and Future Topics (53:41) Takeaways Fort Knox's Gold Purity Questioned: Much of the U.S. gold reserve came from coin melts, meaning it may fall short of the “Good Delivery” standard of 99.5% purity. Audit Calls from High Places: Figures like Trump, Elon Musk, and Rand Paul have recently advocated for a Fort Knox audit. Central Banks Stockpile Gold: Global central banks are shifting reserves from U.S. dollars to gold, with 1,000 metric tons of gold purchases expected in 2025. Gold as Growth, Not Just Protection: Darren's modelling shows gold may outperform the S&P 500 over the long term. Audit the Fed?: The episode concludes with a discussion on Ron Paul's push to audit the Federal Reserve and whether central banks should remain as independent as they are. Links relevant to the conversation Fisher Liberty Gold: https://www.fisherlibertygold.com/ Mises Institute article “The Gold at Fort Knox Was Stolen from Americans”: https://mises.org/mises-wire/gold-fort-knox-was-stolen-americans Mises Institute article “How Much Gold Does the US Government Own, and Where Is It?”: https://mises.org/power-market/how-much-gold-does-us-government-own-and-where-it Reuters report on central bank gold purchases: https://www.reuters.com/world/india/central-banks-track-4th-year-massive-gold-purchases-metals-focus-says-2025-06-05/ Bernanke’s apology for Great Depression on behalf of the Fed to Milton Friedman: https://www.federalreserve.gov/boarddocs/speeches/2002/20021108/ Perth Mint: https://www.perthmint.com/ In Gold We Trust report: https://ingoldwetrust.report/?lang=en Peter Bernstein’s book “The Power of Gold”: https://www.amazon.com.au/Power-Gold-New-Foreword-Obsession/dp/111827010X Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED…

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The Global Economic Chessboard: Trump, Trade, and Transformation w/ Emmanuel Daniel 42:53

for 17 weeks siden42:53

42:53

Emmanuel Daniel, founder of the Asian Banker, explains how global economic dynamics are shifting. The discussion covers the decline of multilateral trade arrangements, the strategic blunders in U.S. tariff policy, why a BRICS currency won’t replace the US dollar as the global reserve currency, and the rise of domestic fintech infrastructures that challenge Western dominance in financial services. For example, the challenges Visa and Mastercard face in Indonesia are explored. Emmanuel Daniel, founder of the Asian Banker, explains how global economic dynamics are shifting. The discussion covers the decline of multilateral trade arrangements, the strategic blunders in U.S. tariff policy, why a BRICS currency won’t replace the US dollar as the global reserve currency, and the rise of domestic fintech infrastructures that challenge Western dominance in financial services. For example, the challenges Visa and Mastercard face in Indonesia are explored. Please email Gene your thoughts on this episode via contact@economicsexplored.com . Timestamps Global Economic Trends and Trade Wars (0:00) Impact of Trump's Trade Policies on the US (3:11) Evolution of the US Economy and Services Industry (6:19) Concerns About US Recession and Consumption (11:53) Reactions from Exporting Countries (14:56) Challenges for US Corporations in Emerging Markets (22:37) BRICS and the Future of the US Dollar (27:55) Geopolitical Implications of Trade Policies (39:12) Long-Term Economic Trends and AI (39:33) Final Thoughts and Future Prospects (42:18) How would you rate this summary? Takeaways Capital Flows Over Trade: The U.S.'s remaining global leverage lies in capital flows—not trade—due to its deep, open financial markets and dominance in dollar-based transactions. Tariff Tactics Are Backfiring: Trump’s tariff policies lack coherence and are harming U.S. markets and consumers. There's no clear playbook, only reactionary moves. BRICS Currency Is a Mirage: Internal distrust among BRICS nations and incompatible fiscal policies make a unified currency unfeasible, at least in the near future. Global Shift in Financial Services: Countries like Indonesia and India are creating their own payment systems, sidelining U.S. giants like Visa and MasterCard in favor of local fintech solutions. We’re in a New Multipolar Era: Similar to pre-WWI geopolitics, the world is entering a new phase of power realignment—this time driven by technology, information, and AI. Links relevant to the conversation About this episode’s guest Emmanuel Daniel: https://www.emmanueldaniel.com/biography-and-contact/ Previous episode on real time payments featuring World Bank expert: https://economicsexplored.com/2025/04/03/inside-project-fastt-real-time-payments-for-all-ep278/ Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED Full transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com .…

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Beyond Stocks and Bonds: Exploring Alternative Assets, e.g. private credit, VC, farmland, infrastructure w/ Kim Flynn, XA Investments 56:10

for 19 weeks siden56:10

56:10

Kim Flynn, President of XA Investments, discusses her 25-year career in asset management, focusing on alternative investments. She highlights the challenges faced during the 2008 financial crisis at Nuveen Investments, where she refinanced $15 billion in frozen auction rate securities. Flynn explains the structure and benefits of closed-end funds, particularly interval funds, which offer periodic liquidity. She details XA Investments' three SEC-registered closed-end funds with $900 million in assets, emphasizing private credit strategies with yields ranging from 9% to 15%. Flynn also explores the potential of alternative investments like farmland, infrastructure, and crypto, noting their role in portfolio diversification and income generation. Note: this episode contains general information only and is not financial or investment advice. Please let Gene know your thoughts on this episode by emailing him at contact@economicsexplored.com . About Kimberly Ann Flynn Kimberly Ann Flynn is a President at XA Investments. She is a partner in the firm and responsible for all product and business development activities. Kim is responsible for the firm's proprietary fund platform and consulting practice. Kim has developed an expertise in closed-end fund product development and is a frequent contributor to media and industry events on topics including interval funds, alternative investments and London-listed investment companies. Kim has earned the CFA designation and is a member of the CFA Institute and CFA Society Chicago. She is also Series 7, 63 and 24 licensed. Previously, Kim was Senior Vice President and Head of Product Development for Nuveen Investments' Global Structured Products Group. In her 11 years at Nuveen, she helped develop over 40 closed-end funds, raising approximately $13 billion in capital. In her leadership role at Nuveen, Kim was responsible for asset-raising activities through the development of new, traditional and alternative investment funds, including CEFs, ETFs, UITs and commodity pools. Kim received her MBA degree from Harvard University, where she was a William J. Carey scholar and President of the HBS Volunteers. Before attending Harvard Business School, Kim spent three years working in Morgan Stanley's Investment Banking Division (1999-2002) in their Chicago office. She earned her BBA in Finance and Business Economics, summa cum laude, from the University of Notre Dame in 1999 where she was a valedictorian candidate, Rhodes Scholar finalist and the first recipient of the Paul F. Conway Award, given to a senior in the Department of Finance who embodies Notre Dame's tradition of excellence and who enriches the ideals of the university. Kim was recently selected to serve on the Notre Dame Wall Street leadership committee. She also serves on the board of the Women in ETFs Chicago chapter as Head of the Mentorship Committee and on the advisory board of Youth Guidance's Becoming A Man program. She is an active member of the University Club of Chicago and the Harvard Club of New York City, where she conducts regular business. Kim and her family - husband, Leo; son, Teddy; and daughter, Rose - live in Lincoln Park. Timestamps Introduction (0:00) Kim Flynn's Career Journey (3:09) Experience During the 2008 Financial Crisis (4:41) Development of New Financial Products Post-Crisis (7:17) Understanding Closed-End Funds and Interval Funds (8:48) Investment Strategies and Alternative Assets (21:01) Energy Investments and ESG Considerations (29:02) Gold, Crypto, and the Role of FinTech (31:36) Evaluating Asset Managers and Investment Strategies (35:03) Investment Outlook and Market Dynamics (47:07) Takeaways Alternative Investments Offer Diversification: Kim Flynn explains that alternative investments, including real estate, private credit, and farmland, provide diversification benefits, reducing reliance on traditional stocks and bonds. Liquidity Management is Crucial: Interval funds allow limited liquidity for investors, making them suitable for illiquid asset classes like private equity and real estate. Lessons from the 2008 Crisis: Kim shares her experience during the financial crisis, where she managed funds impacted by frozen liquidity, highlighting the importance of flexibility and innovation. Private Credit and Farmland Are Popular: Kim notes that private credit and farmland investments have seen significant interest due to their yield potential and inflation protection. Understanding Liquidity Premiums: Kim emphasizes that investors should seek a 300-400 basis point premium for illiquid investments compared to equivalent public market assets. Links relevant to the conversation Kim’s bio on the XA Investments website: https://xainvestments.com/team/ US Treasury webpage on the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP): https://home.treasury.gov/data/troubled-asset-relief-program Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED Full transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com .…

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Exploring the Future of Personalized AI w/ Lotic CEO Bill Welser 58:06

for 19 weeks siden58:06

58:06

Gene Tunny interviews William ‘Bill’ Welser IV, the visionary behind Lotic, an AI startup designed to transform personal data into actionable insights while protecting user privacy. Bill discusses how Lotic’s AI-powered digital companion is designed to help users make better decisions, improve mental health, and understand their behavior patterns. The episode dives into ethical considerations, data security, and the economic implications of widespread AI adoption. Please let Gene know your thoughts on this episode by emailing him at contact@economicsexplored.com . Timestamps Introduction (0:00) Bill Welser's Vision for Lotic AI (3:14) Data Collection and User Interaction (6:18) Behavioral Insights and Health Applications (14:20) Privacy and Legal Considerations (32:51) User Demographics and Market Reach (34:58) Startup Journey and Future Plans (44:12) Takeaways Personalized AI as a Digital Companion: Lotic aims to transform individuals from passive data subjects into active agents by providing personalized insights. The AI helps users understand themselves better, make small behavioral changes, and potentially improve mental health, relationships, and job satisfaction. Privacy and Ethical Data Collection: Bill Welser emphasizes a deliberate, privacy-first approach to data collection. Lotic uses advanced cryptography, blockchain technology, and user-controlled data sharing to protect personal information, ensuring users have agency over their data and insights. Potential Economic Impact of AI: Welser suggests that as AI disrupts traditional job markets, individuals could leverage their personal data as a form of currency. He believes creating comprehensive, discrete personal data sets could help mitigate potential unemployment waves and provide new economic opportunities for people. Links relevant to the conversation Lotic website: https://www.lotic.ai/ CEO Magazine profile of Bill Welser IV: https://digitalmag.theceomagazine.com/william-welser-iv/?r=global Everybody Lies: Big Data, New Data, and What the Internet Can Tell Us about Who We Really Are https://www.amazon.com.au/Everybody-Lies-Internet-About-Really/dp/0062390856 Lumo Coffee promotion 10% of Lumo Coffee’s Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee. Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLORED Promo code: 10EXPLORED Full transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com .…

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Smarter Density: A Blueprint for Better Cities w/ top US architect Kevin Kennon 55:45

for 21 weeks siden55:45