The Next Economic Collapse

It's inevitable. Economic collapse always happens. Here in the United States we haven't had a real collapse in most people's living memory. Sure, we've had downturns, but nothing like the Great Depression. Our little recessions, while tough on lots of people, hardly rises to the level of collapse.

Personally, I've been surprised we've gone this long. The oil shocks of the 70s could have done it. The stock market problems of '87 looked like the real thing. Later the tech collapse might have been the trigger. The 2008 real estate bubble looked like it could do it. One thing I've learned is to never underestimate the ability of the powers that be to kick the can down the road.

Eventually, collapse will happen. Right now it's all pretty much mathematically baked into the cake. One small example, the derivative market cannot be paid off with all the money in the world. It's highly unlikely that even something as simple as student loans can be made whole. Right now there's an increased risk of a trade war, and that could be a trigger. It doesn't help that regulations designed to keep financial institutions in check are being weakened and eliminated.

There are some tricks, like massive inflation, that can paper over the problems. However, at some point that becomes just another kind of collapse.

There are those who'll claim it will never happen. However, for the rest of us, it doesn't hurt to be prepared. No one can isolate themselves from the effects of full collapse. They can certainly reduce the negative effects. Focus on being able to provide for your basic needs: food, water, shelter, and security.

If you want some idea what collapse looks like, just check out the current situation in Venezuela. Collapse is here. It's just not evenly distributed . . . yet.

-Sixbears