Economics Explored
Economics Explored applies hard-headed economic analysis to important economic, social, and environmental issues. Host Gene Tunny explores how economic ideas and evidence can inform public policy and everyday decisions. The show examines topics across markets, government, the environment, and society. It aims for clear, practical economic reasoning rather than marketing or partisan commentary.
Episodes
Why Governments Should Fear the Bond Market
Why did the US Treasury intervene to support the Japanese yen? And what does this tell us about the growing risks in global financial markets? Gene Tunny and John Humphreys examine the connections between exchange rates, government bonds, inflation and public debt. They discuss why selling US Treasury bonds could push up American borrowing costs, the dangers of high debt combined with higher inter
Career Advice for Aspiring Economists in the AI Age
If AI can write code and analyse data, what skills will tomorrow's economists need? Gene Tunny revisits his career advice for economics students and graduates, explaining why critical thinking, clear writing and interpersonal skills may matter more than ever. He weighs the benefits of starting in government versus consulting, explains why publishing your own work can open doors, and shares lessons
How Economic Growth Saved Us from the Grim Old Days w/ Chelsea Follett, Cato Institute
Before industrialisation, most people lived in extreme poverty, worked long hours, and faced dangers that are almost unimaginable today. In this episode, host Gene Tunny speaks with Chelsea Follett, Research Fellow at the Cato Institute and author of The Grim Old Days: An Introduction to the Pre-Industrial Past. Chelsea challenges romanticised views of history and explains how the Industrial Revol
When Money Disappears: Lessons from a War
What happens when a town runs out of money? During the Franco-Prussian War of 1870, the French town of Sedan faced an economic crisis as gold and silver coins disappeared from circulation. Yet, as Émile Zola recounts in his novel The Debacle, an ingenious solution helped keep commerce alive: locally issued emergency paper money. Show host Gene Tunny explores this remarkable story and what it revea
Will AI Finally Show Up in Productivity? With Chris Berg
Australia's latest Intergenerational Report assumes productivity growth will rebound significantly over coming decades, with AI potentially playing a major role. Is that reasonable? Professor Chris Berg of RMIT joins Gene Tunny and John Humphreys for a wide-ranging discussion of AI's economic potential and risks. They explore lessons from the computer and internet revolutions, AI's huge energy req
Gig Economy Pay Rises, Café Closures and the Zero-Sum Fallacy
When the award-winning Springfield café Screamin’ Beans announced its closure, Gene Tunny saw it as a symptom of a bigger problem: wage and regulatory costs rising faster than many small businesses can absorb. In this episode, Gene looks at a landmark Australian Fair Work Commission decision that could reshape pay for gig economy delivery drivers, and shares a conversation with John Humphreys of
How Good Tax Policy Gets Made and How It Doesn't: GST vs Capital Gains Tax in Australia
Most tax debates focus on the what: rates, base, and who pays. This episode is about the how: the process by which economic policy gets made. Drawing on his time in the Australian Treasury, host Gene Tunny argues that the latest changes to capital gains tax and negative gearing reflect a breakdown in good policymaking. They were announced on budget night without the consultation, published modelli
Dams, Development & Hyper Australia w/ Senator Matt Canavan, National Party Leader
Housing affordability, congestion and rising living costs are putting pressure on Australia's major cities. Could stronger regional development provide part of the solution? Gene Tunny shares highlights from a recent discussion with Nationals leader Senator Matt Canavan on his "Hyper Australia" agenda. They explore regional infrastructure, public investment, economic concentration, GST distributio
Taxing Capital More in a Productivity Slump? Perverse Policy in Australia
Australia has endured nearly a decade of weak productivity growth, and living standards are under pressure. In this episode, Gene Tunny and John Humphreys explore the common thread connecting several major economic debates: investment and incentives. They discuss Australia's productivity slump, the Federal Government’s proposed capital gains tax changes, Brisbane’s Olympics infrastructure plans, a
Debt and Deficits: Have We Lost Discipline? w/ Sinclair Davidson & John Humphreys
Debt and deficits used to be political dealbreakers. So why don’t they seem to matter anymore? In this episode, Gene Tunny explores the concept of fiscal illusion with John Humphreys and Professor Sinclair Davidson. They examine whether Australia is “sleepwalking” into a more precarious fiscal position, and what could happen if a crisis hits. A thought-provoking discussion on debt, accountability,
Have We Gone Too Far on Free Trade?
Free trade has long been a cornerstone of economic thinking, but is it still fit for purpose in a more dangerous and uncertain world? Gene Tunny is joined by Dan Ryan and John Humphreys to debate tariffs, industrial policy, and economic resilience. They explore whether Australia has gone too far in opening its economy, the risks of fragile global supply chains, and the perceived trade-offs between
Housing Crisis: Supply, Demand, or Both? w/ John Humphreys and Tom Switzer
What happens when geopolitical tensions collide with domestic economic pressures? In this episode, Gene Tunny is joined by John Humphreys and Tom Switzer to unpack the economic fallout from escalating tensions with Iran. The conversation then turns to Australia’s housing affordability crisis—examining whether government policies, population growth, or supply constraints are to blame.
Gene would lo
Fuel, Fertiliser, and Fear Down Under - ep314
Are fears of fuel shortages in Australia overblown—or are we underestimating the risks? Gene Tunny is joined by Dr John Humphreys and farmer Peter Rothwell to explore how rising diesel prices, fertiliser shortages, and supply chain stress could ripple through the economy. From supermarket prices to farm viability, this episode breaks down how a global energy shock could hit households and business
AI, Jobs, and the Value of Ideas w/ Benjamin Shiller, Brandeis University
AI can write essays, generate code, and assist with research, but does that mean it will replace human workers? Economist Benjamin Shiller, author of AI Economics, joins show host Gene to discuss how AI may instead make human creativity and ideas even more valuable. In this conversation with Gene Tunny, they explore AI’s potential impact on jobs, productivity growth, education, and inequality, as
Why Productivity Matters for Living Standards | Australia’s Productivity Problem
Australia’s productivity growth has slowed to its weakest rate in decades — and that matters because productivity ultimately drives rising living standards. In this episode, Gene Tunny explores why productivity is so central to higher wages, economic growth, and sustainable prosperity. The episode features insights from Danielle Wood, Chair of the Productivity Commission, on why policymakers need
Argentina’s Radical Economic Turnaround
Argentina was on the brink: inflation near 300% a year, real wages collapsing, poverty rising, and a large fiscal deficit. Voters elected libertarian economist Javier Milei, who promised deep spending cuts and radical reform. Many predicted a disaster. Two years on, inflation has fallen sharply, and real wages are projected to rise. In this episode, show host Gene Tunny chats with John Humphreys (
A Pro-Growth Tax Reform Agenda for Australia
What would tax reform look like if the goal were higher wages and stronger long-term growth — rather than more revenue? In this episode, Gene Tunny and John Humphreys examine capital gains tax, bracket creep, and income tax reform through the lens of productivity and living standards. While the discussion focuses on Australia, the principles apply everywhere. How should governments tax capital ver
What Would Adam Smith Make of Australia? | A C+ Scorecard
Adam Smith is often invoked as the intellectual godfather of modern capitalism — but he was also a moral philosopher. Judo Bank founder and former CEO Joseph Healy joins Gene Tunny to argue that Australia’s market economy has drifted from Smith’s vision. From weak competition and high household debt to corporate scandals and lobbying influence, this episode explores whether capitalism has been “hi
What Counts as Economic Activity — and What Doesn’t
What do we actually count as economic activity — and what do we leave out? In this episode, Gene speaks with economist Misty Heggeness about Swiftynomics, her new book on women’s work, unpaid care, and the limits of standard economic statistics. Misty uses Taylor Swift as a narrative anchor for a broader argument about care, work, and economic growth. She argues that large amounts of productive ac
Why Economists Defend Free Speech
What does free speech have to do with economics? A lot more than you might think. In this episode, Gene Tunny is joined by John Humphreys to explore free speech as a core institutional pillar of prosperous societies. From Mao’s Great Leap Forward to modern Australia, they show how restricting speech distorts incentives, breaks feedback loops, and leads to catastrophic policy failure. Even well-int
Auckland Upzoning: Hype or Housing Fix?
Auckland’s upzoning reforms have become a global case study in housing policy. Gene Tunny and John August dig into the data behind claims that loosening zoning rules boosted housing supply and eased rent pressures. They explore the statistical methods used, the critiques raised by sceptics, and the limits of zoning reform on its own. The episode also examines infrastructure constraints and whether
AI, Power & the Future of Politics w/ Bruce Schneier, Harvard Kennedy School
Show host Gene Tunny speaks with cybersecurity expert Bruce Schneier of the Harvard Kennedy School about his new book, Rewiring Democracy, which explores the profound and often underappreciated ways AI is already reshaping democratic institutions. From AI-powered political campaigns and legislative drafting to citizen engagement and court systems, Schneier lays out both the potential and the peril
Why Roman Interest Rates Collapsed After Augustus Won | Fertility Economics Questions Answered | Friedman & Reagan on the Gold Standard – ep 304
Gene responds to thoughtful listener feedback on record-low fertility rates and explores why childcare, IVF, and returning to work for fortysomething mothers can be so economically challenging. He then travels back to ancient Rome to unpack a curious moment after Augustus’s victory over Antony and Cleopatra, when treasure flooded into Rome, interest rates plummeted, and land values soared—and expl
Is Gold Flashing a Warning Sign? ep303
Gold has doubled in price in less than two years—so what exactly is happening? Gene Tunny and John Humphreys break down the economic and geopolitical forces driving the surge, from inflation fears and rising global debt to BRICS nations buying massive amounts of gold. The conversation also explores whether a new gold-backed currency could challenge US dollar dominance.Gene would love to hear your
Should Australia “Make Things Again”? - ep302
“Make things again” — it’s a powerful slogan. But what does it really mean for Australia’s economy, workers, and national security? Show host Gene Tunny and Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance Chief Economist John Humphreys dig into the heart of the debate, from the politics of nostalgia to the realities of automation and global trade. A thought-provoking conversation about whether Australia can, or sh
The AI Boom: Innovation or Irrational Exuberance? w/ Aman Verjee - ep301
Venture capitalist Aman Verjee joins Gene Tunny to explore whether artificial intelligence is fuelling the next great economic bubble. Drawing lessons from history—from the 1840s railway boom to the 1990s dot-com surge—Aman argues that even frothy markets can spark long-term progress. The conversation also covers AI’s impact on jobs, productivity, and how policy can nurture innovation without stra
The Great Baby Bust: Why It Happened and What It Means for Us - ep300
Australia’s fertility rate is now at a record low of 1.48 babies per woman. Gene Tunny and John Humphreys discuss the sharp fall in fertility rates worldwide and what it means for Australia’s economy and society. They explore how declining birth rates threaten our economy, government budgets, and social cohesion, and whether migration, pro-natalist policies, or cultural change can reverse this tre
Shutdown Showdown: What It Really Means - ep299
Shutdowns are back—and Gene delves into the reasons, ramifications, and rhetoric. This episode examines the latest U.S. government shutdown, its potential to outlast previous ones, and whether it could signal deeper structural changes—or just more political theatre.Gene would love to hear your thoughts on this episode. You can email him via contact@economicsexplored.com. TimestampsUS Government Sh
Is Net Zero Achievable—or Just a Slogan? Highlights from episodes with Matt Canavan, Nicki Hutley, Tony Wood & John Humphreys - ep298
What does net zero really mean, and what will it take to get there? In this episode, highlights from past guests reveal the full spectrum of views—from urgent calls for climate action to scepticism about costs and feasibility. With perspectives on extreme weather, carbon pricing, nuclear energy, coal, and productivity trade-offs, this episode cuts to the heart of the net-zero debate. Gene would lo
Debt, Inflation & Unrest: Western Warnings - ep297
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
Don’t Fight the Market: A Price Mechanism Masterclass - ep296
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
Beyond the Roundtable: Real Solutions for Australia’s Productivity Plunge - ep295
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
AI’s Economic Disruption: Infinite Intelligence at our Fingertips? w/ Prof. Chris Berg & John Humphreys - ep294
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 touche
Cash Flow Tax, Gas Bans & Big Government w/ John Humphreys - ep293
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
Raleigh’s Rise: America’s #1 Best-Performing City w/ Kyle Touchstone, Raleigh Economic Development
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
Interest Rates, Australia’s 3 Biggest Challenges, Global Fertility Crash, & the Tobin Tax Debate w/ John Humphreys, Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance
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 glo
Listener Mailbag: Starve the Beast, Property Tax, and NDIS & Productivity Debates
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 episod
Chaos is Costly: Navigating Economic Uncertainty w/ Rebecca Homkes, Duke Corporate Education
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 savi
Australia’s Productivity Problem: Can It Be Fixed? w/ John Humphreys, Australian Taxpayers’ Alliance
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 Taxpay
What if Fort Knox Gold is Impure or Missing?
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 Global Economic Chessboard: Trump, Trade, and Transformation w/ Emmanuel Daniel
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.
Beyond Stocks and Bonds: Exploring Alternative Assets, e.g. private credit, VC, farmland, infrastructure w/ Kim Flynn, XA Investments
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
Exploring the Future of Personalized AI w/ Lotic CEO Bill Welser
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, dat
Smarter Density: A Blueprint for Better Cities w/ top US architect Kevin Kennon
Kevin Kennon, an award-winning architect, discusses the future of cities, housing affordability, and the role of architecture in urban life. He emphasizes the importance of smarter density, mixed-use developments, and integrating residential, commercial, and community spaces. Kennon highlights the impact of tariffs on housing costs and the need for free trade. He also discusses the benefits of pre
Rethinking Property and Taxation: The Georgist Approach w/ John August
Nineteenth-century American economist Henry George blamed poverty and depressions on landlords. George argued that their rents were associated mainly with public investments and should be shared with the community. Show host Gene Tunny speaks with returning guest John August about Georgism—the economic philosophy of Henry George that advocates for a single tax on land value. They explore the ethic
The Gangster Method in Tariff and Trade Negotiations: w/ Nicholas Gruen
Gene Tunny and Nicholas Gruen dive deep into the economic implications of Trump's sweeping tariffs. They explore the micro and macroeconomic dimensions—from optimal tariff theory to trade deficits and geopolitical fallout. With humour, clarity, and urgency, they unpack why these tariffs will do more harm than good, both economically and politically. A video version of this episode will appear as a
Trump’s Tariffs: Art of the Deal or Economic Disaster? w/ Darren Brady Nelson - Bonus Episode
Are Trump’s tariffs a masterstroke of economic negotiation or a blunder with global consequences? Show host Gene Tunny and returning guest Darren Brady Nelson debate the rationale behind punitive tariffs, the backlash from markets, and whether this is all part of a broader deal-making strategy. They also discuss Elon Musk’s DOGE initiative and Darren’s run-in with a wild turkey on Wisconsin’s spec
Inside Project FASTT: Real-Time Payments for All w/ the World Bank's Nilima Ramteke - EP278
Show host Gene Tunny and the World Bank’s Nilima Ramteke delve into the transformative impact of fast payments. They discuss how Project FASTT (Frictionless Affordable Safe Timely Transactions) bridges financial gaps and drives inclusive economic development worldwide. For example, they cover how QR codes and mobile apps make digital payments more accessible for small merchants and rural communiti
Fixing Australia’s Housing Crisis: Fusion’s Plan w/ Owen Miller - EP277
There’s an upcoming election in Australia, and housing will be a big issue. Show host Gene Tunny chats with Fusion Party candidate Owen Miller about Fusion’s sweeping housing policy proposals. Topics include eliminating negative gearing, taxing capital gains on owner-occupied homes, and increasing public housing. They also discuss ideas like charter cities, high-speed rail, and a government-run re
Gallium, Hafnium & the Strategic Metals Shaping Our World w/ Louis O’Connor, Strategic Metals Invest - EP276
Show host Gene Tunny speaks with Louis O’Connor, CEO of Strategic Metals Invest, about the increasing demand for strategic metals like gallium, hafnium, and indium—essential for modern technology. They discuss China’s dominance in rare earth processing, the geopolitical stakes, and how supply chain vulnerabilities could impact global markets. Louis also shares insights into investing in these scar
What HS2, Channel Tunnel & Sydney Opera House Teach Us about Project Management w/ Adam Boddison OBE - EP275
In this episode, Gene Tunny interviews Prof. Adam Boddison, CEO of the Association for Project Management. They explore why projects—whether in construction, IT, or public infrastructure—often go over budget and run late. Adam shares insights on project planning, risk management, and the importance of stakeholder engagement. They also discuss real-world case studies, including the Sydney Opera Hou
Patriarchy Inc. - Gender and Workplace Dynamics w/ Cordelia Fine - EP274
Show host Gene Tunny sits down with Professor Cordelia Fine to discuss her latest book, Patriarchy Inc. Professor Fine argues gender biases are embedded in jobs and organizational structures, affecting women's career prospects. Topics include ‘greedy jobs,’ the undervaluation of feminized professions, the limits of diversity programs, and the role of evolutionary psychology in shaping gender assum
Bang for Your Buck in Economic Development: Access to Town Water, Roads to Connect Isolated Communities w/ Kate Schecter, World Neighbors - EP273
Kate Schecter, CEO of World Neighbors, returns to the show and reveals how empowering local communities leads to long-term self-sufficiency in developing economies. She explains that roads connecting isolated communities to local markets can massively improve opportunities. She also explains that even modest interventions, like access to municipal water, can have profound impacts. From disaster pr
Does Free Trade Benefit Everyone? A Deep Dive into the Stolper-Samuelson Theorem - EP272
Is free trade always good for workers? Gene Tunny explores the Stolper-Samuelson theorem, which shows how trade can lower wages for some while benefiting others. He discusses key economic insights from Wolfgang Stolper and Paul Samuelson, real-world historical examples, and the implications for today’s global trade debates. If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for Gene, please email
Industrial Policy vs Free Trade w/ Ian Fletcher, Coalition for a Prosperous America - EP271
Ian Fletcher, co-author of Industrial Policy for the United States, published by Cambridge University Press, joins the show to argue that free trade does not always serve national interests. Fletcher defines industrial policy as government intervention to support better industries, emphasizing that some industries are inherently more valuable. He highlights successful industrial policies in Japan,
How LBOs, Share Buybacks & Private Equity Revolutionized Corporate America: Don Chew’s Case for Transformation - EP270
Donald Chew discusses the evolution of corporate finance, emphasizing the shift from old-fashioned corporate finance, which focused on steady earnings growth, to modern corporate finance, which aims for high returns on capital. He highlights the decline of conglomerates in the 1970s and the rise of private equity. Despite criticism, Chew argues that modern corporate finance has been a success stor
Jimmy Carter the Great Deregulator, AmFest, MAGA & Migration, and Why Competition? w/ Darren Brady Nelson - EP269
Gene Tunny and Darren Brady Nelson discuss the economic legacy of President Jimmy Carter, highlighting his deregulation efforts, particularly in aviation, which led to increased competition and significant cost savings. They also touch on Carter’s appointment of Paul Volcker as Federal Reserve Chairman, credited with fighting inflation. The conversation shifts to the America Fest conference in Pho
US Debt Ceiling: Why Trump is Right to Call for its Abolition & Gene’s Experience with Aussie Debt Ceiling - EP268
Show host Gene Tunny discusses the ineffectiveness of the U.S. debt ceiling, citing its frequent increases and the political grandstanding it entails. He notes that since 1960, Congress has amended the debt limit 78 times. Tunny argues that the debt ceiling does not enforce fiscal discipline and highlights the need for better fiscal rules, such as the Swiss Debt Brake or the Taxpayer Bill of Right
How Global Events are Affecting Coffee Prices w/ Raihaan Esat, International Coffee Traders - EP267
Coffee prices have surged dramatically over the past year, with green coffee increasing by 78%. In this episode, International Coffee Traders GM Raihaan Esat joins hosts Gene Tunny and Tim Hughes to explore the key drivers behind this spike, including harvest shortages, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical factors. Discover why your morning brew may soon cost more and how the coffee industry
Trump & Trade, France in Crisis, Global Capitalism’s Flaws & Job Losses from AI w/ Jean-Baptiste Wautier - EP266
This episode explores the economic implications of Trump’s re-election, France’s political deadlock under Macron, and the future of global capitalism. Jean-Baptiste Wautier, a private equity investor and World Economic Forum speaker, shares insights on trade wars and deficits. He argues that short-term profit motives undermine the global capitalist system. Jean-Baptiste also discusses AI's transfo
2024 Highlights: Reagan’s Budget Boss on Trump | Greedy Jobs | Super Abundance | Buffett in Omaha | Housing & Immigration
Host Gene Tunny discusses significant economic issues from the year. He features clips from interviews with experts on various topics, including the economic consequences of Donald Trump's re-election, the U.S. budget deficit, the gender pay gap, and environmental impact. President Reagan’s budget director David Stockman criticizes Trump’s policies for being anti-capitalist, citing a $8 trillion i
Uncertainty and Enterprise: Harnessing Imagination and Narrative w/ Prof. Amar Bhidé - EP264
Professor Amar Bhidé of Columbia University discusses his new book “Uncertainty and Enterprise”, published by Oxford University Press. It emphasizes the limitations of standard economic models that rely on probability distributions. He argues that entrepreneurship involves dealing with unique, non-quantifiable uncertainties, which require imagination and narrative skills. Bhide critiques the over-
Elite Networks: The Hidden Driver of Inequality? w/ Vuk Vukovic - EP263
Dr Vuk Vukovic, economist and founder of Oraclum Capital, joins Gene Tunny to discuss elite networks, their economic impact, and the future of democracy. Delving into his research, Dr Vukovic examines how political connections affect income inequality and corporate success. He shares his innovative Bayesian approach to predicting financial and political trends, offering a glimpse into his hedge fu
Is DeFi the Future of Finance? Exploring VirtuSwap’s Vision w/ Prof. Evgeny Lyandres - EP262
Explore the mechanics of decentralized finance (DeFi) with Professor Evgeny Lyandres, who breaks down how decentralized exchanges work and how VirtuSwap stands out in providing liquidity for small-cap crypto assets. With insights into the challenges and future of tokenization, this episode offers a clear view of where DeFi may be heading. Evgeny is Professor of Finance and Head of the Blockchain R
Trump 2.0 w/ Top Wisconsin Door-Knocker & Economist Darren Brady Nelson - EP261
Economist and returning guest Darren Brady Nelson shares insights from his time as the top door-knocker for the Trump campaign in the battleground state of Wisconsin. He explains why Trump’s messages on inflation, immigration, and cultural issues resonated with voters. He breaks down Trump’s economic vision for the second term, including plans for Elon Musk to lead a government reorganisation. Sho
Japan’s Corporate Comeback: Inside the Resolute Japan Model, w/ Wharton Prof. Michael Useem - EP260
Wharton Professor Michael Useem joins host Gene Tunny to discuss his new book, Resolute Japan, which unveils Japan’s emerging shift in management practices fueling a corporate revival. Japanese companies are adopting ambidextrous management, empowering frontline employees, and embracing Western practices while retaining stakeholder-first traditions. He emphasizes the importance of top management i
The China Business Conundrum: One Bed, Two Dreams w/ Ken Wilcox, former CEO, SVB - EP259
Ken Wilcox, former CEO of Silicon Valley Bank, discusses his book "The China Business Conundrum" and the challenges of doing business in China. He explains the concept of "one bed, two dreams," highlighting the disparity in goals between western and Chinese joint venture partners. Wilcox details his bank's entry into China, emphasizing the strategic invitations and control exerted by the Chinese C
Abundance Mindset: Exploring the Super Abundance Thesis w/ Marian Tupy, Cato Institute - EP258
Marian Tupy, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute, discusses his book "Super Abundance" with Gene Tunny. Tupy argues that resources are becoming more abundant relative to global population, a concept he calls "super abundance." He explains that human ingenuity has led to cheaper commodities over time. Tupy refutes Malthusian predictions of resource scarcity, citing examples like the Haber-Bosch p
UBI Experiment: Success or Failure? Insights from Sam Altman’s Trial - EP257
In this episode, Gene Tunny dives into a recent Universal Basic Income (UBI) experiment funded by Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI. Gene explores the key findings of the randomised controlled trial and discusses whether the positive outcomes are enough to convince sceptics. Are UBI recipients more financially secure, or are there deeper concerns about its impact on labour force participation and long-ter
The Future of VC: Blockchain, Web3, and Emerging Markets w/ Qin En Looi, Partner, Saison Capital - EP256
Qin En Looi, a partner at Saison Capital, discusses the venture capital landscape, particularly in emerging markets like Southeast Asia, India, and Latin America. Saison Capital, backed by Credit Saison, focuses on early-stage investments and has $150 million in assets under management. The firm has seen three exits and emphasizes the potential of Web3 and decentralized finance (DeFi). Looi highli
Balancing Needs & Wants: Chris Ball, Hoxton Wealth, on Global Wealth Management in an Uncertain World - EP255
Chris Ball, CEO of Hoxton Wealth, discusses the company's focus on wealth management for internationally mobile individuals, particularly in Dubai. Hoxton Wealth, with offices globally, offers fee-based services to high net worth and mass affluent clients, emphasizing comprehensive financial planning. Ball highlights the use of AI for administrative tasks and the challenges of property investing i
Efficiency and Externalities: A Q&A on Market Failures - EP254
Show host Gene Tunny responds to listener feedback about the private versus public sector's role in wealth creation, particularly addressing externalities like environmental harm and whether governments should fund facilities like Men’s Sheds. He also explores the efficiency of the private sector compared to government spending.If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions for Gene, please e
China’s Economic Future Under Xi & the Australia-China Relationship w/ Emmanuel Daniel - EP253
Show host Gene Tunny talks with Emmanuel Daniel, founder of The Asian Banker, about China's evolving economic policies under Xi Jinping. They explore China’s state intervention, the country's property sector, and the global implications of Xi's economic vision. Emmanuel also shares insights into Southeast Asia's rise, focusing on Indonesia's growth prospects. The conversation concludes with a disc
Franchising Fitness: Lessons from the Expansion of Spartans Boxing Clubs w/ Russell Harrison, CEO - EP252
Show host Gene Tunny interviews Russell Harrison, CEO of Spartans Boxing Club. They discuss the rise of boutique boxing gyms, the benefits of boxing for fitness and mental health, and the challenges of expanding a fitness franchise globally. Russell describes how Spartans uses technology to enhance the member experience and how boxing training can benefit corporate executives and employees. Hear f
From Academia to Impact: Transforming Workplaces w/ Achyuta Adhvaryu, Good Business Lab - EP251
This episode delves into the work of Good Business Lab (GBL), co-founded by Professor Achyuta Adhvaryu. GBL focuses on innovative workplace interventions to improve worker well-being and firm productivity, and it typically evaluates these interventions using Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). Show host Gene Tunny and Ach discuss the effectiveness of soft skills training programs and the importan
RBA Deputy Governor’s ‘Beware False Prophets’ talk: Reactions w/ Michael Knox - EP250
Show host Gene Tunny and Morgans Chief Economist Michael Knox explore the recent insights Reserve Bank of Australia Deputy Governor Andrew Hauser shared on monetary policy at the 2024 Economic Society of Australia (QLD) business lunch. They examine the RBA's data-driven approach to interest rates, the equilibrium real interest rate concept, and the impacts of Quantitative Tightening (QT). Michael
Navigating Volatile Crypto Markets & Avoiding Scams w/ Ben Simpson, Collective Shift - EP249
Ben Simpson, founder of Collective Shift, a crypto education and research company, shares valuable insights into the volatile world of cryptocurrency. Because the crypto field is filled with misinformation and scams, Ben emphasises the need for comprehensive education and reliable research before making investment decisions. He emphasises the importance of understanding the risks and potential of
Australia's Lost Policy Exceptionalism w/ Nicholas Gruen - EP248
Gene Tunny welcomes Dr Nicholas Gruen from Lateral Economics to explore the decline of Australia's policy exceptionalism. They delve into the era of microeconomic reforms, the role of neoliberalism, and the challenges current policymakers face. Nicholas provides a historical perspective and discusses potential ways forward. He shares insights from his time advising the Hawke and Keating government
Government vs. Private Sector: Who Generates Wealth? - EP247
In this episode, Gene Tunny explores the relationship between government spending and wealth creation. He talks about President Obama’s memorable expression, “You didn’t build that”, and how economists think about the role of government and wealth creation. Gene discusses the roles of both the government and private sector in generating wealth and their impact on productivity, GDP and living stand
Dollar Dominance: Can the US Keep Its Edge? w/ Stephen Kirchner - EP246
This episode features a conversation between Gene Tunny and Stephen Kirchner about the US dollar's dominance in global finance. They examine the reasons behind the dollar's strong position, the effects of US fiscal policy and public debt, and the debate over its future role. Kirchner explains how the US's status as a net oil exporter influences currency dynamics and global trade.If you have any qu
