Bubbles & How to Survive Them - Tapa dura

We now live in an "asset-backed economy". Our spending decisions are dependent on asset values like house and share prices. In turn these are inextricably linked to burgeoning debt. But asset prices are now subject to fiercely volatile boom and bust cycles, which threaten serious recession, thus putting more downward pressure on prices and more damage to the financial system, leading to the danger of deflation. Since 1991 Japanese land prices have fallen 90 per cent. In a readable, non-technical guide the author explores the implications (e.g. bad for real assets, possibly good for some financial assets) and the solutions for individuals, companies and central banks now that asset prices dominate the economic system. Underlying all of this is the question of where asset prices should be, for example what is the "right" price earnings ratio for stocks or house prices? This is a highly controversial area but the author argues, if there are not exact levels, there are ranges or averages for these assets in which individuals can invest accordingly.

John Calverley is the Chief Economist and Strategist at American Express Bank and edits its publication Economics for Investment. He is a well known commentator and appears frequently on CNN, CNBC, BBC and other TV stations as well as having his own column in Singapore Smart Investor monthly. He is Deputy Chairman of The Society of Business Economists. His previous books include The Pocket Guide to Economics for the Global Investor and The Investors Guide to Economic Fundamentals (Wiley 2003).