Boom Bust Season 2 Episode 124 Preparing the Market for Rate Hikes and More On Oil

In season 2 episode 124 of Boom Bust, titled "Preparing the Market for Rate Hikes and More On Oil", the show explores the impact of expected interest rate hikes on the global economy, as well as the state of the oil market.

Hosts Brent Jabbour and Christy Ai kick off the episode by discussing the recent announcement by the Federal Reserve that it plans to raise interest rates in the near future. The hosts explain that such a move could have a ripple effect on financial markets worldwide, affecting everything from consumer borrowing to global investment flows.

The episode then turns to a conversation with financial analyst Steve Keen, who shares his thoughts on the potential consequences of rate hikes. Keen notes that while higher interest rates may seem like a good thing for savers and investors, they could actually lead to increased market volatility and a downturn in economic growth. He also suggests that the Fed's decision to raise rates could be driven more by political considerations than economic ones, given the current political climate in the US.

The discussion then shifts to the oil market, with the hosts and guest expert Kevin Book examining the factors driving recent price increases. Book explains that while geopolitical tensions in key oil-producing regions like the Middle East are certainly a factor, the overall trend is being driven by a mismatch between supply and demand. With global demand for oil continuing to rise even as some major producers cut back on supply, prices are likely to remain high for the foreseeable future.

The episode concludes with a look at some of the factors that could help offset the impact of these economic trends. The hosts discuss the potential of renewable energy technologies, as well as the role that alternative investments like cryptocurrencies could play in a world dominated by interest rate hikes and other market disruptions.

Overall, "Preparing the Market for Rate Hikes and More On Oil" provides a thoughtful and in-depth exploration of the economic factors driving today's global market trends. With expert insights and analysis from a range of viewpoints, the episode helps viewers understand the challenges and opportunities of the current economic climate and how to navigate them successfully.