Left Hook Economics
Left Hook Economics contributors focus on critical analysis of the Trump administration’s economic policies, explaining threats to our economic future, and advancing alternative policy approaches in terms that are accessible to all.


Private Equity’s Profit Charade
Private equity's seemingly high returns have been attributed to "freedom" from regulation. But, however explained, there is the question of how real the private equity profits have actually been.

The Private Equity Deception
Private equity firms are a risky place to invest and their reported returns can be misleading.

Stablecoins: Crypto Kryptonite
Despite being called a currency, crypto lacks one of the most important characteristics that a currency (money) should have—a stable value.

The Fed Versus Trump: How Much Does it Matter for Interest Rates Overall?
The Fed’s rate cut is likely to have little impact on mortgage interest rates. The reason is straightforward but rarely recognized in the abundant flow of commentary on Fed policy.

The Underestimated “Price of Parenting”
Even a low-ball estimate of the cost of time shows just how misleading an estimate based only on money expenditures really is.

More Babies or Better Care for Newborns?
Most so-called pronatalist policies seriously underestimate the costs and risks of raising children in today’s economic environment.

Trump Tariffs and Stagflation: Why TACO is the Least Bad Option
The first obvious step right now for fighting stagflation is for Trump to dump his tariff policies.

What’s Crypto Good For? Corruption, Exploitation, and Billions for Insiders
As with the subprime lending crisis, crypto appears to be more of an example of predatory inclusion than enhancing financial access.

How the Rich Got Richer
As more and more pass-through business income goes to the super-rich, the income share of the top 1% doubles.

Making America Poisoned Again
The stated rationale for jettisoning environmental protections is that they are inefficient and have “suffocated” the economy. But economic benefits must be weighed against costs, including impacts on human health.

The Disastrous Climate Impacts of Trump’s Budget Bill: How To Fight Back
Nothing less than saving the planet is at stake.

Crypto: What Is It and What Is the Fuss All About?
Cryptofinance, including cryptocurrency, is the newest hot item in the world of financial “innovation.”