Community Reviews

Rating(4 / 5.0, 100 votes)
5 stars
33(33%)
4 stars
35(35%)
3 stars
32(32%)
2 stars
0(0%)
1 stars
0(0%)
100 reviews
July 14,2025
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Some articles are indeed better than others. This particular one seems to be a shameless potboiler, and yet it is written by a very good journalist.

Surprisingly, it still fulfills my purposes for it. It allows me to get a quick portrait of the money culture from a time before I was even conscious.

Perhaps it's not the most profound or well-researched piece, but in its own way, it provides a snapshot of that era.

The journalist's skill shines through, even in this somewhat less-than-stellar work.

It makes me wonder if there are other hidden gems among their writings that I might discover.

Overall, while it may not be a masterpiece, it has its value in satisfying my curiosity about the past money culture.
July 14,2025
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The finance markets are a realm filled with gripping stories that have the power to both thrill and terrify.

From the rise and fall of stock prices to the complex maneuvers of hedge funds, these stories unfold with the drama of a high-stakes thriller.

Investors watch nervously as their portfolios rise and fall, hoping to make a killing or avoid a devastating loss.

The actions of a single trader or the release of a key economic report can send shockwaves through the markets, causing chaos and uncertainty.

Yet, despite the risks, the allure of the finance markets remains strong, attracting countless individuals and institutions eager to test their skills and make their fortune.

These gripping stories of the finance markets continue to captivate our attention and remind us of the power and unpredictability of the global economy.
July 14,2025
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A collection of essays from around 1989 - 1990 regarding finance. It is rather dated. Looking back, it was overly concerned about Japan while completely ignoring China. It also seems somewhat self-absorbed. However, it is a quick read and showcases Michael Lewis' future promise. The essays might have been relevant during that specific time period, but with the passage of time, their limitations have become more apparent. The focus on Japan, which was a major economic power at that time, was perhaps understandable. But the complete omission of China, which has since emerged as a global economic giant, is a significant oversight. Despite these flaws, the collection gives an indication of Michael Lewis' talent and potential, hinting at the great works he would go on to produce in the future.

July 14,2025
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I give this book a 2.5 stars.

Some of the essays were entertaining, but as a whole, the book was just average.

The "Money Culture" is a collection of essays by Lewis that highlights the downside of capitalism.

For example, a con-artist bond salesmen can still succeed because he can sell, despite being duplicitous.

Wall-street is just legalized gambling for mathematicians.

Is Wall Street really good for the economy?

On the one hand, it has led to the Great Recession.

On the other hand, the liberalization of Wall Street in the 80's led to the globalization of the 90's, which has markedly produced a decline in wars between trading countries today because it is not in their economic interest to go to war.

The main thesis of this book is that any economic system is flawed, whether it's free-market capitalism that America favors or the centralized capitalism that East Asian countries favor.

Lewis is surprisingly against the regulation of Wall Street because it creates inefficiencies.

After reading this book about heavy regulation in Japan, I am convinced that whatever regulation or taxes the government imposes on the rich, the rich will be able to get around them if they want.

Golden Parachutes are dangerous because executive compensation is not directly tied to performance.

In the US, greedy people get rich.

US tax policy encourages both companies and corporations to go into debt that they cannot easily repay.

It is apparently better for companies to hold bonds than stocks because they do not have to pay taxes to the government.

Supply-sider economists assume the markets are always rational, thus tax policy should be geared toward having the government out of the way so rich people can invest money.

The problem is that the market is not always rational.

Wall Street is against any sort of regulations.

My issue with unregulated cowboy capitalism is if a sector in capitalism destroys the whole economy or if the government has to constantly bail out the gambling traders.

A disconcerting thought is that supply-sider economists borrowed the concept of going into debt from LBO firms.

Does LBO truly create efficiency as its proponents suggest or is it a negative in destroying American companies?

Also, is using non-productive tax-deduction tricks tax evasion or just taking advantage of opportunities in an inefficient system?

Although it seems like common sense to main street Americans, it took Ben Bernake to warn Wall Street of LBO and the dangers of debt.

In an era of company loyalty, the LBO strategy of firing productive employees seems shocking.

According to Lewis, no money guru can beat the stock market in the long run, but those with information can beat it in the short run.

American capitalism and its focus on money is able to break a society based on caste.

The liberalization of Wall Street was a necessary precursor to globalization.

In an interconnected world, economic effects from one side of the world have real consequences for the other side.
July 14,2025
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Interesting. A whole bunch of it flew right over my head. However, there are some tidbits within it that are truly worth reading, even for someone who is not well-versed in the culture of money. These little nuggets of information can offer unique perspectives and insights that might surprise and educate. They have the potential to open the eyes of those who may not be deeply immersed in the world of finance and economics. It's quite remarkable how such seemingly small details can have a significant impact on our understanding. Whether it's a new concept, a different way of looking at things, or a little-known fact, these tidbits are like hidden treasures waiting to be discovered.

July 14,2025
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The quintessential book about Wall Street in the '80s, along with Liar's Poker, is a captivating piece of literature. It delves deep into the inner workings of the financial world during that era.


The book offers a vivid portrayal of the high-stakes games, cutthroat competition, and the larger-than-life personalities that dominated Wall Street. It takes readers on a thrilling journey through the offices and trading floors, revealing the secrets and strategies that were employed.


With its engaging narrative and detailed descriptions, it provides valuable insights into the complex and often chaotic world of finance. Whether you're a finance professional or simply interested in learning more about this fascinating period, this book is a must-read. It offers a unique perspective that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the forces that shaped Wall Street in the '80s.

July 14,2025
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It is truly good to pass the time and hear some new stories. When we engage in this activity, it enriches our minds and provides a form of entertainment. New stories can take us to different worlds, introduce us to unique characters, and expose us to various situations. They can激发 our imagination and make us think in new ways. Whether it's a fictional tale full of adventure and magic or a real-life account that is inspiring and thought-provoking, hearing new stories has the power to captivate us and keep us engaged. It allows us to escape from the daily routine and immerse ourselves in the narrative. Moreover, sharing stories with others can also create a sense of connection and community. So, the next time you have some free time, consider listening to or reading some new stories. You never know what wonderful experiences and insights they might bring.

July 14,2025
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Michael Lewis is truly an outstanding writer.

Some of his columns offer a fascinating perspective on a period that I can hardly recall regarding the "threat" presented by the Japanese.

These columns are not only interesting but also provide valuable insights into how leveraged buy-outs functioned.

In essence, it was a process of ripping off shareholders and evading taxes.

It showcases Wall Street at its most unethical, yet it is vividly explained by a great writer like Michael Lewis.

His work allows us to better understand the complex and often murky world of finance during that particular era.

It is through his detailed descriptions and incisive analysis that we can gain a deeper appreciation of the events and practices that took place.

Overall, Michael Lewis's columns are a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of finance and the inner workings of Wall Street.
July 14,2025
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No match to Liar's Poker

Liar's Poker is a unique and exciting card game that has captured the hearts of many. It requires a combination of skill, strategy, and bluffing. However, when it comes to other card games, they simply can't compare.

Unlike Liar's Poker, which offers a fast-paced and unpredictable gameplay, many other card games follow a more traditional and structured format. This can make them seem dull and repetitive in comparison.

Liar's Poker also allows for a high level of interaction and competition among players. The ability to bluff and deceive your opponents adds an extra layer of excitement and challenge. In contrast, some other card games may lack this element of psychological warfare.

Moreover, Liar's Poker has a certain charm and allure that is hard to replicate. Its simplicity yet depth make it accessible to players of all skill levels, while still providing enough complexity to keep experienced players engaged.

In conclusion, while there are many great card games out there, Liar's Poker stands out as a truly unique and unrivaled experience. It offers a level of excitement, strategy, and interaction that is simply not matched by other games. So, if you're looking for a card game that will test your skills and keep you on the edge of your seat, look no further than Liar's Poker.
July 14,2025
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Most of the Japan section was fairly boring.

It seemed to lack the excitement and dynamism that one might expect. The topics covered were perhaps a bit too mainstream and failed to capture the true essence and uniqueness of Japan.

In contrast, the US and Europe sections were awesome.

The content was engaging, diverse, and full of interesting facts and perspectives. It offered a comprehensive look into the cultures, economies, and societies of these regions.

The US section, in particular, was filled with stories of innovation, entrepreneurship, and technological advancements. It showcased the country's vibrant and ever-evolving nature.

The Europe section, on the other hand, highlighted the rich history, art, and architecture of the continent. It provided a fascinating insight into the different countries and their unique identities.

Overall, while the Japan section left something to be desired, the US and Europe sections more than made up for it with their captivating and informative content.
July 14,2025
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I purchased this book with the intention of taking it along during my holiday. You're familiar with that sensation when you begin reading a book and then suddenly realize that you've read it before, right? Well, that's precisely what occurred in this case. I推测 this book was originally published in the 1980s and was re-released in 2011. You know how it goes - a new cover, capitalizing on a much larger profile than when it was initially released. And, being a huge fan of Michael Lewis's "Liars Poker," "Flash Boys," and "Boomerang," each and every one of which is excellent. It was still an enjoyable read. In hindsight, you can see just how astute Lewis was. He definitely predicted the complete collapse that we witnessed in the 2000s, which was caused by all the toxic debt being assumed by inexperienced fund managers who were being fed this debt by the sharks on Wall Street. Anyway, while this book is still worth a read, it is nowhere near as good as his more recent offerings.

July 14,2025
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After reading the book, The Money Culture, by Michael Lewis, I would rate it 4/5 stars.

Published in 1991, this book is a captivating read. Lewis, who worked for Solomon Brothers in the 1980s, has in-depth knowledge of the financial market. His insider perspective enables him to develop theories about the events that occur in the world of money and the people behind them.

The book is relatively short but is filled with humor, exciting facts, and a detailed account of government regulations and rules that were flagrantly violated. It offers readers a fascinating "behind the scenes" look at Wall Street during the 1980s. Lewis presents his writing in an unconventional manner, with the book comprising his journal and newspaper articles. His past experience and understanding of Wall Street combine to make the book impossible to put down.

The 1980s was an outrageous and turbulent era in financial markets, second only to the 1929 Crash. It had a significant impact on both domestic and international markets. Lewis showcases the actions of wealthy stock brokers and business executives like Michael Miliken, Donald Trump, Boris Boesky, T-Bone Pickens, and Leona Helmsley, who were among the notables taking advantage of market data provided by financial insiders.

I would recommend this book to anyone aged 14 and above who is interested in stocks, banking, or business. Despite its short length and humorous tone, Lewis's unusual writing style can sometimes disrupt the flow of the book. Overall, however, I would highly recommend this book to everyone in this class.
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