My case for a global economy soft-landing: a mix of supply and demand crisis.

I'm currently delving into [Seven Crashes: The Economic Crises That Shaped Globalization](https://duckduckgo.com](https://yalebooks.yale.edu/book/9780300263398/seven-crashes). by the esteemed economic historian Harold James.

This insightful work categorizes financial crises into two distinct groups:

• The "good" crises prompt market expansion and increased globalization
• The "bad" crises reduce prosperity and result in a more insular world.
• James meticulously examines seven key moments in financial history, including the Depression of the 1840s, the Covid-19 crisis, and others. He articulates how supply-driven crashes, such as the oil shortages of the 1970s, boost globalization, whereas demand-driven crises like the 2007-2008 Global Financial Crisis retract it.

Demand crisis:

The collapse of the dot-com bubble in 2000 led to a decline in demand for technology products and services. The financial crisis of 2008 led to a decline in demand for housing and other assets. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a decline in demand for travel, tourism, and other services.

Supply crisis:

The oil crisis of the 1970s led to a shortage of oil and a sharp increase in prices. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a shortage of goods and services, such as personal protective equipment, medical supplies, and food. The war in Ukraine has led to a shortage of wheat and other agricultural products. These are just a few examples of the many demand and supply crisis events that have occurred in the past. These events can have a significant impact on the global economy, and it is important to be aware of their potential consequences.

James’ exploration includes the viewpoints of notable economists like Karl Marx and John Maynard Keynes, highlighting how globalization's ebb and flow has molded economic theory, and providing insights for future preparedness.

The current economic cycle is a complex mix of both supply and demand shocks. While many financial publications are predicting an impending market crash, I believe that the reality is more nuanced. On the supply side, we are seeing disruptions to global supply chains due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the conflict in Ukraine, and other global events. This has led to shortages and inflated prices. On the demand side, many countries are experiencing economic growth slowdowns as consumers and businesses become more cautious due to rising inflation and uncertainty. This is also putting pressure on prices. The uncertainty and complexity of the current economic landscape make it to guess what will happen next. However, I believe that it is important to be aware of the different factors that are at play and to be prepared for a variety of outcomes.

Determining whether the current crisis is primarily demand or supply-driven is challenging, but it is evident that both elements are at play. Should the crisis be demand-driven, a global market contraction might ensue, possibly leading to a recession. If it's supply-driven, it may instead catalyze further globalization, reflecting the lessons drawn from "Seven Crashes." The present situation's evolution depends on numerous factors such as the intensity of supply and demand shocks, government and central bank responses, and the overall resilience of the global economy. Various elements could tip the balance, and it's critical to remain vigilant and act to mitigate potential risks. China's economy, for instance, is grappling with its own unique challenges, including weakened demand, deflation, and a troubling property market. Recent data indicates a slackening in retail sales growth and industrial production, coupled with rising inflation, reflecting global trends. The property market's decline adds to the complexity.

The challenge of reviving demand is a substantial one, and the government's success or failure in this endeavor could have significant global repercussions.

As we navigate these uncertain times, the historical perspective offered by James's work can offer valuable insights to policymakers, businesses, and individuals alike.

By understanding the different types of shocks that can drive economic crises, we can better prepare for the future and mitigate the risks. We must also remember that the global economy is a complex system, and it is impossible to predict the future with certainty.

However, by understanding the past, we can make better decisions about the present and the future. The future of the global economy is uncertain, but it is not inevitable. By taking steps to mitigate the risks and build resilience, we can create a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come.