The Great Depression Ahead How to Prosper in the Crash Following the Greatest Boom in History
The Great Depression Ahead How to Prosper in the Crash Following the Greatest Boom in History
Dent, former strategic consultant at Bain & Company, outlines the features of what he predicts will be the next Great Depression. The author argues that demographic trends were the greatest drivers of our economy, along with radical new technologies, working together to follow a four-stage life cycle of innovation, growth, shakeout, and maturity. While Dent’s doomsday predictions are depressing, his theories are persuasive and elaborated in meticulous descriptions of historic economic trends and cycles. The author’s candor is refreshing, especially when he discusses how equity investments experience a wide variety of returns, including substantial losses or extraordinary gains—and that the financial press has failed to remind the public of this fact. The book offers welcome portfolio allocation strategies during an economic crisis, as well as the bad news that the worst of the housing downturn will occur between 2010 and 2013. Along with domestic forecasts, Dent addresses terrorism’s economic roots and the growth of megacities in South and East Asia with characteristic thoroughness. (Jan.)
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars Something everyone needs to know about
This is a sobering look at how circumstances and cycles are coming together for what might well be the worst depression since the 1930s. Everyone owes it to themselves to examine the demographic cycles and projections for the depression that lies ahead. It has plenty of supporting econommic data for those so inclined. At the same time it is an easy read for the non-economist. I suggest you don’t rely only what the government is telling you. Read this book to help in your personal and family preparations.
4 Stars Heavy reading
This is definitely not bed-time reading, financial nightmare are sure to follow.
While the book seems well researched and reasoned it is quite heavy reading with abundant charts and stats. Sometimes things are also a bit repetitive or overly detailed. In particular the expected economic trends of a whole slew of countries is presented. This might be of interest to some but seems more than needed for the general reader.
But in the end the book does provide a very plausible outlook for the next 20-30 years and, even if it will not be on the dot, it should still make the reader a more informed economic being.
4 Stars A Great Guide
Like other readers I don’t believe anyone can truly prophecy about the future so lets get that out the way immediately. I found this book incredibly informative and it included information that I have never been presented or read before so I found it very useful. I intend to use the book as a “guide” for future decisions mainly because it has confirmed my own beliefs about the direction of our markets and the global economy. I also believe that if anyone had followed Dents general advice years ago they would be so far ahead now they wouldn’t even bother reading these posts. I am now reading the previous version and have ordered the earlier version because I feel the content of the book is very worthwhile in making investment decisions. Everyone knows that these books all contain marketing fluff of some sort but an educated reader doesn’t just jump in and buy everything on offer before reviewing their own library of knowledge to see if they really need it. I would and I have recommended friends read this book because I found it extremely useful.
4 Stars A Must Read if You Dare!!!
Most reviews call this an economics book. There is a great deal of that in the book but it is much more than that. In a way Mr. Dent is a futurist of sorts. He takes economic theory and demographic information to make some astounding predictions. These predictions in a way are covering the why on what is happening now in the news. He even goes into the why behind reactions.
Mr. Dent’s assumptions are pretty basic. He doesn’t say anything to revolutionary at all. The book is very well documented and easy to follow. At times he gets to detailed. There is a chart on about every page.
The main point Mr. Dent makes is simple. We have a bunch of things all going wrong at the same time. The retirement of the baby boom will create a drain on the economy. There will be a whole lot of wage earners leaving the work force. After that Mr. Dent introduces the demographic part of the book. He proves there aren’t any people to replace the baby boomers. That alone is enough to cause heart ache. On top of this shift you have a bubble that has burst with some perpetual bust cycle that is way over do. His analysis of these factors is very insightful. His predictions are very scary. He doesn’t have a good feel for the future. He feels things are going to get very bad. Mr. Dent does offer some good advice on how to whether the storm though. He also talks about how shifting demographics will impact the country in so many different ways.
This book will make you think. This book will scare you and open up your mind. It will make a lasting impression for sure.
3 Stars “Bold predictions” subject to constant revision (as opposed to accurate predictions you can bet on)
Demographic analysis reveals cycles that allow you to see the future. History does repeat itself. In a vague and general sense this seems to be possible. But when the author attempts to be precise and accurate the illusion is shattered. For example, on page 299 he advises: “The best strategy is to sell your present house by September 2009.” Much too late!
People who think they know the future get into trouble when they publish an exact number and date. Harry Dent’s less precise prediction about housing — home prices will have to drop 40% - 50% not 10% - 20% — has a much better chance of turning out to be generally correct. In Seattle, from 1976 to 1981, I was able to buy new condominiums at an average 7.45 price-to-rent ratio (based on data contained in my book: How to Invest in Condominiums). These condos when rented yielded an immediate positive cash flow. In 1986 I purchased my last investment condo with a 14.2 price-to-rent ratio. It had a negative cash flow. The bubble had started for conservative investors. This also suggests that the bubble is far from being fully collapsed and the bottom of the real estate market is nowhere in sight yet (and won’t ever be clearly visible without the benefit of hindsight), despite trillion dollar stimulus efforts by the government.
The author makes so many predictions he is bound be correct on some. But how does the reader pick out the good predictions and trust them enough to make an investment (this is assuming you did not buy into Harry’s Dow 40,000 forecast and have any money left to invest)?
The Great Depression Ahead How to Prosper in the Crash Following the Greatest Boom in History
The Great Depression Ahead How to Prosper in the Crash Following the Greatest Boom in History
Dent, former strategic consultant at Bain & Company, outlines the features of what he predicts will be the next Great Depression. The author argues that demographic trends were the greatest drivers of our economy, along with radical new technologies, working together to follow a four-stage life cycle of innovation, growth, shakeout, and maturity. While Dent’s doomsday predictions are depressing, his theories are persuasive and elaborated in meticulous descriptions of historic economic trends and cycles. The author’s candor is refreshing, especially when he discusses how equity investments experience a wide variety of returns, including substantial losses or extraordinary gains—and that the financial press has failed to remind the public of this fact. The book offers welcome portfolio allocation strategies during an economic crisis, as well as the bad news that the worst of the housing downturn will occur between 2010 and 2013. Along with domestic forecasts, Dent addresses terrorism’s economic roots and the growth of megacities in South and East Asia with characteristic thoroughness. (Jan.)
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
User Ratings and Reviews
4 Stars Something everyone needs to know about
This is a sobering look at how circumstances and cycles are coming together for what might well be the worst depression since the 1930s. Everyone owes it to themselves to examine the demographic cycles and projections for the depression that lies ahead. It has plenty of supporting econommic data for those so inclined. At the same time it is an easy read for the non-economist. I suggest you don’t rely only what the government is telling you. Read this book to help in your personal and family preparations.
4 Stars Heavy reading
This is definitely not bed-time reading, financial nightmare are sure to follow.
While the book seems well researched and reasoned it is quite heavy reading with abundant charts and stats. Sometimes things are also a bit repetitive or overly detailed. In particular the expected economic trends of a whole slew of countries is presented. This might be of interest to some but seems more than needed for the general reader.
But in the end the book does provide a very plausible outlook for the next 20-30 years and, even if it will not be on the dot, it should still make the reader a more informed economic being.
4 Stars A Great Guide
Like other readers I don’t believe anyone can truly prophecy about the future so lets get that out the way immediately. I found this book incredibly informative and it included information that I have never been presented or read before so I found it very useful. I intend to use the book as a “guide” for future decisions mainly because it has confirmed my own beliefs about the direction of our markets and the global economy. I also believe that if anyone had followed Dents general advice years ago they would be so far ahead now they wouldn’t even bother reading these posts. I am now reading the previous version and have ordered the earlier version because I feel the content of the book is very worthwhile in making investment decisions. Everyone knows that these books all contain marketing fluff of some sort but an educated reader doesn’t just jump in and buy everything on offer before reviewing their own library of knowledge to see if they really need it. I would and I have recommended friends read this book because I found it extremely useful.
4 Stars A Must Read if You Dare!!!
Most reviews call this an economics book. There is a great deal of that in the book but it is much more than that. In a way Mr. Dent is a futurist of sorts. He takes economic theory and demographic information to make some astounding predictions. These predictions in a way are covering the why on what is happening now in the news. He even goes into the why behind reactions.
Mr. Dent’s assumptions are pretty basic. He doesn’t say anything to revolutionary at all. The book is very well documented and easy to follow. At times he gets to detailed. There is a chart on about every page.
The main point Mr. Dent makes is simple. We have a bunch of things all going wrong at the same time. The retirement of the baby boom will create a drain on the economy. There will be a whole lot of wage earners leaving the work force. After that Mr. Dent introduces the demographic part of the book. He proves there aren’t any people to replace the baby boomers. That alone is enough to cause heart ache. On top of this shift you have a bubble that has burst with some perpetual bust cycle that is way over do. His analysis of these factors is very insightful. His predictions are very scary. He doesn’t have a good feel for the future. He feels things are going to get very bad. Mr. Dent does offer some good advice on how to whether the storm though. He also talks about how shifting demographics will impact the country in so many different ways.
This book will make you think. This book will scare you and open up your mind. It will make a lasting impression for sure.
3 Stars “Bold predictions” subject to constant revision (as opposed to accurate predictions you can bet on)
Demographic analysis reveals cycles that allow you to see the future. History does repeat itself. In a vague and general sense this seems to be possible. But when the author attempts to be precise and accurate the illusion is shattered. For example, on page 299 he advises: “The best strategy is to sell your present house by September 2009.” Much too late!
People who think they know the future get into trouble when they publish an exact number and date. Harry Dent’s less precise prediction about housing — home prices will have to drop 40% - 50% not 10% - 20% — has a much better chance of turning out to be generally correct. In Seattle, from 1976 to 1981, I was able to buy new condominiums at an average 7.45 price-to-rent ratio (based on data contained in my book: How to Invest in Condominiums). These condos when rented yielded an immediate positive cash flow. In 1986 I purchased my last investment condo with a 14.2 price-to-rent ratio. It had a negative cash flow. The bubble had started for conservative investors. This also suggests that the bubble is far from being fully collapsed and the bottom of the real estate market is nowhere in sight yet (and won’t ever be clearly visible without the benefit of hindsight), despite trillion dollar stimulus efforts by the government.
The author makes so many predictions he is bound be correct on some. But how does the reader pick out the good predictions and trust them enough to make an investment (this is assuming you did not buy into Harry’s Dow 40,000 forecast and have any money left to invest)?
Are You Dumb Enough to Be Rich The Amazingly Simple Way to Make Millions in Real Estate
Are You Dumb Enough to Be Rich The Amazingly Simple Way to Make Millions in Real Estate
“…provides insight about how to get started in 120 days with smart realty investment methods.” — Robert J. Bruss, syndicated columnist
“Barnett offers specific, hands-on strategies and techniques….Those who follow his experience will profit handsomely.” — Michael LeBoeuf, Ph.D., author of The Millionaire in You
“This is an excellent book with a unique approach, which every new and experienced real estate investor should read.” — San Ramon Valley Times Nov 8, 2003
“This is the Bible of aquiring wealth through real estate.” — Doug Wead, author of All The President’s Children
“You travel with brilliance when you plug into this volume. By the way, Bill ain’t dumb, despite the title!!” — Ty Boyd, author, The Millionaire Toolbox
..a MUST read and may very well be one of those minor decisions one makes that creates major change. — Ron LeGrand, real estate investor and author of
“…it’s one of the best [books] I’ve read on this specific topic. The real strength of the book is that it takes the reader by the hand and provides practical, possible to follow guidance on how to get started on a path toward successful real estate investment in 120 days by following innovative methods….I would list this book as ‘must read.’”
–The Real Estate Professional
Fresh approach …. Provides welcome insight about how to get started in 120 days with smart realty investment methods. — Los Angeles Times, June 15, 2003
Provides practical, possible to follow guidance on how to get started on a path toward successful real estate investment…. — The Real Estate Professional, July/August 2003
User Ratings and Reviews
5 Stars Dumb Enough to Be Rich: Real Estate Book For A Dismal Real Estate Market
I have been investing in real estate for over 25 years. I’ve made much more than I have ever lost even in the current downturn. But the fact of the matter is dismal real estate markets are some of the best times to invest IF you know what to look for. That’s the reason I love “Are You Dumb Enough To Be Rich.” This book takes you gently by the hand and SHOWS YOU how to do it. If you’re serious about really profiting in any real estate market… do yourself a favor and invest in this book.
Daniel Hall, Author
Speak On Cruise Ships: 8 Easy Steps To A Lifetime Of Free Luxury Cruises
5 Stars With a special 120-day plan for beginning investing in real estate
Real estate investments have generated excellent results even in ‘down’ markets, and the second updated edition of Are You Dumb Enough to Be Rich? Explores these opportunities, providing a special 120-day plan for beginning investing in real estate. Even those with no real estate or financial background can follow the ideas and opportunities presented here, with a new edition including the author’s new ‘hot mapping’ system for figuring out where to invest, and updated, concrete strategies for success.
4 Stars One Of The Best Books On This Topic
Bill Barnett II has written one of the best books on the topic of how to succeed as a real estate investor. I’m always suspicious when a book says, essentially, “it’s simple to make millions in real estate” — suspicious not because I think making millions in real estate is complex, but because these books are generally selling something else (i.e. a seminar) or they are so simplistic they’re embarrassing. While it’s true, as some reviewers have pointed out, that Barnett excessively promotes his Web site and his seminar/coaching (it’s somewhat alarming that publishers today allow so much of this), he nonetheless provides plenty of solid information that any adult could follow to success and riches.
I read most if not all of the books on this topic to consider them for live author interviews on my Real Estate Investors Hour and most of them never make the cut. Few of them make it to my “favorites” list as this one has. Barnett also proved to be an excellent interview.
There are too many good points in the book (including the author’s 120 day program to success) to discuss all of them, but I’ll especially talk about the author’s point that you don’t have to put your own money into real estate deals. I saw another reviewer who panned the book in disbelief of that point, but the reviewer is wrong. Barnett provides a credible script for seeking other people’s money for investment purposes. And any of us who have done any real estate investing also have likely experienced the call from a distant friend or relative who asks, “If I send you some money, can you use it to buy real estate and pay me 10 to 12 percent?” And indeed we can . . . and we do. Anyone who doesn’t believe that hasn’t much experience with real estate investing. On the other hand, you do have to believe in the system and as Barnett points out you have to trust his script.
I also like what Barnett has written because so much of it is consistent with what we teach our franchisees in Success Systems Training. We go into far greater depth and we do much of the work for our franchisees, but a franchise also costs considerably more than a book! And the same truth applies: Those who trust in the script and believe in the system and work it will succeed. Those who do not generally fail or struggle.
I don’t think you have to be “dumb enough” to make money as a real estate investor, or in this case to be “rich,” but I do believe you must be “disciplined enough” to succeed. Most people are not. However, for those who are, this is one of the few books that can legitimately show you how to get rich as a real estate investor. And there’s never been a better time to get started than right now!
John P. Hayes, Ph.D.
President & CEO
HomeVestors of America, Inc.
Host: Real Estate Investors Hour, WBAP, Dallas, TX
[...]
5 Stars Great RE Investors guide !
I have to say that everything in this book is right on the money ! Especially the “pitfalls to avoid” notations in each chapter. As a novice real-estate investor, I have spent the last two years reading many RE investing books and attending RE seminars. This book holds most of the info that I’ve read and heard for over 2 years. It puts it in an easy to digest format. If your even considering buying real-estate, before spending thousands on seminars and the “get rich quick” schemes, I suggest you read this book and join a local RE investment group.
5 Stars Finally! A Great Source for All– Starters to Seasoned Investors
I had been investing in real estate by traditional means (i.e. bank loans) for over a year and having marginal success. I thought I had read every “how to” book on the market until I found Bill Barnett’s. You always hear of his methods from other investors and in other books but never get a good layout of what YOU need to do to make it work. Using a few of the methods described in Bill’s book, I bought a property 3 days after I put the book down and turned it for 22% in 5 weeks. I have been doing this for the past 4 months and re-read the book often as it serves as a good reference as well. The presentation of facts versus good fortune and other people’s stories is what serparates this book from the thousands of others. There will always be risks involved with investing and there is no such thing as an “overnight” millionaire–but this book will certainly get you on your way. Highly recommended.
Real Estate Investing Fundamentals Instructional Video Show Me How Videos
Real Estate Investing Fundamentals Instructional Video Show Me How Videos
A reviewer JD, a new investor, 01/05/2008 I found this DVD very informative as I am trying to learn more about real estate investing. The expert are real investors with practical information. There are also some great links to free REO and foreclosure websites I was lookin at having to pay to get with other companies. thanks JD –Barnes and Nobel
User Ratings and Reviews
1 Star Awful
Almost pointless video. The majority of the time they discuss investing down in the keys or Florida, this video was obviously made during the real estate boom in Florida, I can now see why Florida is in so much trouble. Anytime you have “real estate investors” like these people you’re bound to create problems. No information on multi family.
1 Star Not for outside the USA
Very extensive and useful information for investments within the USA but does no bring anything to you if you are diversifying outside the US borders…
5 Stars An excellent and easy to follow product!
This video was very easy to follow and incredibly informative. For someone who knows almost nothing about real estate and has always wanted to learn, this is an excellent resource. A thorough, comprehensive, and high quality video, a must have for those wanting to learn about real estate investing.
5 Stars EXCELLENT INFORMATION, A GOOD BUY
Logical, methodical, takes you through a mountain of information, step-by-step. This is exactly what I was looking for.
5 Stars A MOST HELPFUL VIDEO!
As someone who felt very naive about real estate investing and hence hesitant, this instructional DVD was a godsend. Thorough, clear, concise, realistic — full of great information. I feel much more confident now as I embark upon my new vocation.
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Main Content
The Great Depression Ahead How to Prosper in the Crash Following the Greatest Boom in HistoryThe Great Depression Ahead How to Prosper in the Crash Following the Greatest Boom in History ...
