The Failure of Russian Capitalism With Bill Browder

Russia’s privatization after the Cold War, failed partially because the Russian government was too weak. It could not enforce property rights and the rule of law. Instead, the government was corrupted by the oligarchs. When Putin took over, he exchanged many oligarchs for one–himself.

When the U.S. tries to deregulate for potentially good reasons, and avoids taxes, we need to be careful that we are not setting up our own oligarchs who avoid helpful taxes and regulations at the expense of the people.

https://www.capitalisnt.com/episodes/the-failure-of-russian-capitalism-with-bill-browder

‘Days of thunder’: Steve Bannon on the second coming of the Trump administration

Musk successfully purchased political power.

“even as the former Trump strategist claims that Musk has limited influence, Bannon acknowledged that Musk had backed Trump’s campaign with hundreds of millions of dollars, and he “deserves a place at the table.””

https://www.politico.com/news/2025/01/14/bannon-second-trump-administration-00198197