The Catalysts

Since the end of WWII, the United States has dominated the global economic stage. Not coincidentally, the US dollar has served as the world’s default currency. America has routinely rattled its saber to wage wars, leverage its soft power, and nudge its allies. Enemies who have opposed it have borne the brunt of America’s economic sanctions. For a bevy of reasons, however, America’s global financial reign is rapidly coming to a close. It’s not a question of if, but when. No dynasty lasts forever, and the US is no exception. Today, a diverse set of powerful catalysts is forging a new, dramatically different world financial order. These forces include America’s profound dysfunction, cryptocurrencies and decentralized finance, social engineering, the rise of nationalism, and the erosion of institutional trust. But what will this new world order look like? Where are the minefields and opportunities? How can a nation, its elected officials, and its regulators navigate this chaotic milieu? Policymakers, regulators, and the concerned citizens they represent lack answers to these critical questions. No one is more qualified to answer these questions than Amanda Wick. As senior investigative counsel for the US House of Representatives January 6th Committee, she witnessed how a once-great nation attempted to whitewash an insurrection. On the global stage, she has advised diverse organizations and spoken frequently about how cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology are affecting geopolitics. Wick’s award-winning debut book—featuring a foreword only available in the audiobook—could not have arrived at a more opportune moment. Insightful, timely, and essential, "The Catalysts" clearly explains what’s really happening, why, and what we can do to prepare for the vastly different world that’s rapidly approaching.