Capitalisn't

The podcast delves into the dangers of financial consolidation, focusing on the power of the 'Big Four' index funds and private equity firms. They discuss the lack of transparency, challenges of concentrated financial power, and potential solutions for a more equitable economic system.

Legendary short seller Jim Chanos sat down with Luigi and Bethany to discuss the relationship between short sellers and our information environment, the fallout from the 'meme stock' craze, the effects of the Federal Reserve's interest rate policies, and how short selling can contribute to market efficiency and resilience.

Emily Hund, author of 'The Influencer Industry: The Quest for Authenticity on Social Media,' joins the hosts to discuss the rise of social media influencers and their impact on the media landscape and capitalism. They explore hidden incentives driving influencer messaging and the control and impact of platforms on the industry. The podcast also delves into the selling of worldviews, the clash between personal branding and research in the fashion industry, and the importance of professionalism and standards in journalism.

Anat Admati, a Stanford finance professor, discusses the issues of guaranteeing financial institutions that are too big to fail. She dissects new financial developments, such as the failure of Silicon Valley Bank and the crypto industry. Admati also explores how the current financial system is rigged for the few and offers suggestions on building a fairer and more accountable system. The podcast covers topics including the current state of banking, academic myths in the industry, views on banks holding more equity, challenging global banking behemoths, and the importance of highly leveraged banks in the financial system.

Luigi Zingales answers questions on competition policy, the impact of green energy on prices, regulating the shadow economy, and his struggles with his favorite soccer team. The podcast also explores dangers and benefits of direct democracy, SEC actions, the informal economy, and an alternate approach to addressing the influence of big tech firms.

Prof. Sendhil Mullainathan discusses the firing and rehiring of OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, governance of AI and innovation, regulating AI in comparison to the nuclear industry, profit vs. non-profit strategies in AI, citizen governance in various sectors, expressing viewpoints and regulating competition in the AI field, AI as a winner-takes-all business, and Larry Summers' stance on technology and AI.

Renowned Indian economist Raghuram Rajan discusses why India should focus on services-based development, dealing with economic inequality, engaging with Western business, and the critical role of democracy in India's economic success.

Investigative journalist David Enrich joins Luigi and Bethany to discuss his latest book on how big law firms have corrupted the justice system. They explore the ethical dilemmas faced by lawyers, the manipulation of the justice system by big companies like Walmart, and the need for transparency and accountability in law firms. The lack of transparency in settlements and prosecutions is also highlighted.

Zeke Faux, Bloomberg News investigative reporter, discusses the rise and fall of cryptocurrency, its relationship with capitalism, and the conviction of crypto entrepreneur SBF. They explore the challenges of Bitcoin as a replacement for central authority, the fraud surrounding FTX, criticism of stereotypical investments, the limitations of Bitcoin as a medium of exchange, and contrasting views on money.

Author Sohrab Ahmari discusses his book 'Tyranny Inc.' which explores the concentration of economic power and its impact on personal freedoms. The conversation touches on neoliberalism, the neglect of power in neoclassical economics, the exploitation of bankruptcy laws, and the struggle with compromise in American society.