Here are the key indicators of a bubble economy approaching collapse:
- Over-reliance on artificial stimuli: The Federal Reserve has created trillions of dollars out of thin air and pumped it into the financial system, propping up the economy through unprecedented monetary easing.
- Unsustainable asset valuations: Stock market valuations are inflated, with some assets, like AI-fueled companies, experiencing astronomical increases in revenue and stock prices.
- Growing debt and national debt: Decades of fiscal irresponsibility have led to a massive buildup of government debt, with the Treasury Department reporting a rapidly increasing national debt.
- Inflationary pressures: The money supply has been expanded excessively, leading to rising prices and inflationary pressures, which will exacerbate the cost of living crisis.
- Economic indicators weakening: Recent trends in the labor market, such as a surprisingly weak July jobs report and a deteriorating manufacturing index, suggest a slowing economy.
- Risk sentiment deteriorating: Despite assurances from economists like Diana Iovanel, risk sentiment is weakening, and investors are becoming increasingly cautious.
- Leadersā extreme measures: Governments and central banks are taking unprecedented actions to prop up the economy, indicating a growing sense of desperation.
Consequences of the Collapse
When the bubble bursts, the consequences will be severe:
- Market crash: Asset values will plummet, wiping out trillions of dollars in wealth.
- Recession: The economy will contract, leading to widespread job losses, business failures, and a sharp decline in economic activity.
- Inflationary spiral: As the money supply contracts, prices will rise rapidly, eroding purchasing power and reducing the standard of living.
- Debt crisis: The national debt will become unsustainable, leading to a debt crisis and potentially even default.
In summary, the final stages of a bubble economy before collapse involveĀ unsustainable asset valuations, excessive debt, weakening economic indicators, and growing risk sentiment. The consequences of the collapse will be severe, with far-reaching impacts on the economy, markets, and individuals.