How private equity conquered America | The Chris Hedges Report

[@robluck21]

How disgraceful that these people are allowed to destroy benevolent companies that serve the public.

[@eddasturrup4912]

VERY WELL SAID.....

[@sprucewayne10]

This is absolutely critical for every American to understand.

[@SamuelClemente7718]

Especially MAGA! They hate UNIONS. And UNIONS is what gets Americans out of poverty! Mission impossible

[@greenvelvet]

And yet nobody knows. Probably what? 1%? of the American people knows private equity is dismantling the country and our government

[@klauskinski5969]

it would require tht americans get some education, which they dont and dont want.

[@bluehand9631]

Most Americans couldn’t care less.

[@oswaldocaminos8431]

Even to use "American" improperly as an adjective could be a racist or a derogative way to the egotistic presumption that only citizens from the United States deserve to be called as such, as the only inhabitants of the whole Continent.

[@mikec4845]

VAMPIRES is more of an appropriate term to describe these Private Equity firms.

[@sciagurrato1831]

“Asset stripping jackals” (Lionel Nation) is even more accurate.

[@den264]

Leaches.

[@BankFrederick-gk3nj]

jewish is more accurate

[@skykennedy3574]

Botflies

[@asahmed1980]

Even vampires will stop sucking blood when they're full.

[@sarahs2800]

My dad was in manor care, a PE owned rehab facility after having a surgery, the incision got infected and he lost his leg. He couldn’t work and his quality of life declined dramatically. He died about 18 months after the initial surgery on his leg. I hope these firms go first in the revolution.

[@SolomonMorris-s6q]

I dont understand why the company sells to the PE firms. Can someone explain this to me.

[@sarahs2800]

@@SolomonMorris-s6q short term gains that squeeze any liquidity out of company assets through leveraged debt buyouts. For example in manor care, they sold everything to PE firm, including the facilities themselves. The PE firm then rented back these buildings to manor care. They did this while cutting staff, limiting reorders of supplies like gloves and disinfectant, shoving patients two to a room (like they did to my dad) all while selling off any assets they don’t deem necessary. It’s vulture capitalism. It’s sick.

[@dwaynediesel6079]

Which revolution ? The Calm you nest rev?

[@dogsbestfriend8988]

So sorry this happened, my your love for your dad forever

[@YourCapyFrenBigly_3DPipes1999]

I'm so sorry. In a proper facility this never would have happened. PE is criminal! I wonder if you guys could try to sue for any kind of compensation? A lot of evil is going down right now. I think eventually it'll get stopped but we have to stay strong until then.

[@DonaldStokes-p]

The normal state of the U.S. economy is actually very bad. Because of this it goes into convulsive spasms fighting to grow any way it can out of desperation. Tricks, gimmicks, rule changes try to stimulate the economy and prevent it from falling but they only bring temporary relief to people since, when you factor in inflation we are declining.

[@PASCALDAB]

People believe their currency has the worth it does because they have no other option. Even in a hyper inflationary environment, individuals must continue to use their hyper inflationary currency since they likely have minimal access to other currencies or gold/silver coins.

[@SeanTalkoff]

Inflation is gradually going to become part of us and due to that fact any money you keep in cash or in a low-interest account declines in value each year. Investing is the only way to make your money grow and unless you have an exceptionally high income, investing is the only way most people will ever have enough money to retire.

[@viviancarolgioao]

I've tried investing in the stock market several times but always got discouraged by fluctuations of stock value. I would be happy if you could advise me based on how you went about yours, as I am ready to go the passive income path.!!

[@SeanTalkoff]

My CFA ’’ Sharon Ann Meny, a renowned figure in her line of work. I recommend researching her credentials further. She has many years of experience and is a valuable resource for anyone looking to navigate the financial market..

[@viviancarolgioao]

Thank you for the recommendation. I'll send her an email, and I hope I'm able to reach her.

[@kataroquasinzki7383]

Believe it or not, just yesterday, I watched Morris Pearl, and the founder of _Patriotic Millionaires_ in an investigative French programme and he said: "We Wall Street guys and bankers, we don't really provide that much value to society"

[@jgalt308]

They provide NONE!!!!! In "capitalism" there is no such thing as "too big to fail"l.

[@jamesparker1071]

Exactly. Like a tapeworm in the guts of a free society.

[@lcotee]

Understatement!

[@den264]

Historically contributors to a society had names like Baker, Butcher, Taylor, Thatcher, Cooper, Farmer, Shoemaker, Carpenter, etc. Conversely, those who added little value to their society had names like : Diamond, Gold, Silver, Ruby, Pearl, ect.

[@joshuagharis9017]

I'd love hear folks argue against that statement, what "value " they claim to provide

[@AGirlofYesterday]

Thanks for exposing this, Gretchen and Chris. It's so important for people to see these dark dealings clearly in the light of day. ☀️

[@jgalt308]

So you missed "Wall Street"? That was in 1987 and it lagged the reality.

[@averayugen7802]

That movie was mild compared to the long trend it depicted. We see the results now. Discover Bank is being sold out to "Capitol One" Soon I will not have a card to trust/use. Discover was over the moon with their customer service, soon there will be none.

[@jgalt308]

@@averayugen7802 Thank FDR, fiat, socialism, and an unconstitutional criminal government.

[@compassioncampaigner728]

​@@averayugen7802 Sad news. I have used D for decades

[@frankiefaithful]

Happening in Canada too. Some real estate investment company bought a 3 story medical building and immediately sky rocketed the rent thinking they were going to make bank. Our family doctor along with a bunch of other doctors in the building picked up and left to another location. They're now in a strip mall.

[@Dario-h8g]

the same thing here in Florida and in Montana ,Georgia its an epidemic that needs to be Stopped

[@seabreeze863]

Not just private companies, many so called “non profits” especially in healthcare are being run like for profit businesses while reaping the benefits of federal subsidies and tax breaks.

[@kjw6383]

Non profits are a giant leech on society being used for everything but charity.

[@kathrynj.hernandez8425]

Goodwill thrift stores? It's changed. I suspect a PE takeover of this thrift entity. And people no longer shopping there because it's stores do not offer low prices, its become profit-oriented and "shiny" like a retail store.

[@Slide61]

I find it utterly amazing how muted the discussion on this has been for the last 40 years

[@stevekaylor5606]

From especially 1971 on!

[@seanburton5298]

It has not been unspoken. This has been talked about for the last 40 years. It was just in a different form that people wanted to hear.

[@ysn12288]

You just can't talk about those people the last names listed by Chris here..

[@stevekaylor5606]

Very much the Davos billionaires - their private equity {$2 thousand trillion of gambled-up claims} - have usurped America, the EU, Japan, etc. Yet with a 1933-like Bankruptcy Reorganization + Glass-Steagall Act - their claims would be firewalled-out, their bailouts from the Fed would end and they would be reduced to 1 vote apiece! @@ysn12288

[@stevekaylor5606]

Good expose - Chris and Gretchen!@@ysn12288

[@mikeingrassia7505]

If I had found Chris in my early 20s, it would have totally changed the way i communicated about politics for the better. I was hysterical and hyperbolic, and he is so calm and precise. His style leaves no room for the beast to wiggle. He is like a boa constrictor.

[@sanca5982]

Interesting that you used the word "beast." Here's why: The "second beast" of Revelation 13. Who do you think it is? What is the most powerful nation on earth that has the power of sanctions? Sanctions...to control the buying and the selling because that's what the aim is.

[@AmericanBillions-yp8ns]

Good one.

[@sanca5982]

@jf2176 If you don't read Daniel, you won't understand.

[@sanca5982]

@jf2176 Didn't say it was the "mark of the beast." I said it's a beast power. There's a difference, you know?

[@sanca5982]

Btw, the mark of the beast is neither a chip, a bar code or anything material. It is a mark of your character. When that "time of trouble" comes around as Daniel 12: 1 tells us, people in essence will mark themselves by choosing whom to obey. For those who attain that age, their faith will be tested.

[@singingway]

This is what happened to our local K-Mart, and Macy's. And then they blame the business for the "debt" and tell the public they are "rescuing" the failing business.

[@jambimc7516]

Same thing with joanns fabrics

[@bellakrinkle9381]

and now, Nordstroms - not that it will be missed, except by a few. (I wonder if the family is involved in their own destruction.) @@jambimc7516

[@paullowman9131]

Poor Sears and k-Mart have been under the heal of a vicious corpie draining their earnings for decades now. He allows them to near bankruptcy and then forces them to take loans at very high interest from himself. This sort of thing should be illegal, but these corpies own the politicians. We are under illegitimate government.

[@relationshipmoments1]

Yeah, but the owners agreed to these investments. It happens because the original owners agreed, unless it gets even darker and there are threats or blackmail involved.

[@hashimthedream3581]

BRICS and De-Dollarization means: Bill Gates, Peter Schiff, Tom Bilyeu, Warren Buffet, Elon Musk, Kamala Harris, Jim Rickards, Donald Trump, Chris Hedges, all US Congressional Representatives, all US Senators and Jeff Bazos will be forced to report to Skid-Row like everyone else. BRICS, THE GREAT EQUALIZER!!!

[@tatianastarcic]

Stability is a result of our economy's struggles with uncertainty, housing issues, foreclosures, global volatility, and the pandemic's consequences. To restore stability and promote growth, all sectors must respond quickly to concerns about growing inflation, slow growth, and trade disruptions.

[@TinaJames222]

Consider hiring financial advisors, estate planners or tax experts. They can provide specialized knowledge and help you navigate complex financial decisions.

[@nicolasbenson009]

Having an investment advisor is currently the best way to approach the stock market. I was going alone, but it wasn't working. I've been working with an advisor for a while now, and last year, I achieved over 85% capital growth minus dividends

[@sharonwinson-m8g]

This is definitely considerable! think you could suggest any professional/advisors i can get on the phone with? i'm in dire need of proper portfolio allocation

[@nicolasbenson009]

Certainly, there are a handful of experts in the field. I've experimented with a few over the past years, but I've stuck with ‘’Melissa Terri Swayne” for about five years now, and her performance has been consistently impressive.She’s quite known in her field, look-her up.

[@Vincent-j8u]

Thank you for this tip. It was easy to find your coach on web. Did my due diligence on her before scheduling a phone call with her. She seems proficient considering her resume.

[@PremSteve-yg4de]

Successful investing is hard work because it means disciplining your mind to do the opposite of human nature. Buying during a panic, selling during euphoria, and holding on when you are bored and just craving a little action. Investing is 5% intellect and 95% temperament.

[@valeriepierre9778]

We have learnt in investing journey that you can't control the market but you have the power to control your actions in the market

[@yolanderiche7476]

This is why I entrusted a fiduciary with my investmnt decisions. Many underestimate advisors until emotions lead to losses. My advisor crafted a tailored strategy aligning with my long-term goals, guiding entry and exit points for the equities I focus on. This has grown my portfolio to over $850k. My personal best so far

[@bernisejedeon5888]

That's really great. I've tried doing some research myself to hire a financial advisor, but it's really overwhelming. Could you recommend who you work with please?

[@yolanderiche7476]

Sharon Marissa Wolfe is the licensed advisor I use. Just search the name. You’d find necessary details to work with to set up an appointment.

[@fresnaygermain8180]

I just looked her up on the web and I would say she really has an impressive background in investing. I will write her an email shortly.

[@Just-Browsing-123]

Working to expose, dismantle and hold accountable people who run these firms will change America, not who you vote for as president. The Sad part is that most people will never watch this and would rather watch Netflix, go to sleep just to go back to their lousy job the next morning.

[@WLBarton4466]

Teddy Roosevelt fought against monopolies. That's why Republicans did not support him for a 2nd term. So T. R. ran under the Bull Moose banner and split the Republican ticket and Wilson was elected. Wilson was a right winger though.

[@Anttweezy]

I agree, but if we share this content with others maybe we can speed up things a bit and serve as the new “catalyst” for better.

[@JohnMarden59]

De-corperatising government agencies, health care facilities, defense and security industries is needed urgently to pull the world back from the Reagan/Thatcher mythology is needed urgently.

[@JohnMarden59]

Kennedy 24 is the first real sign of hope in 50 years.

[@Novastar.SaberCombat]

Sadly, no amount of YT viewership will change the behavior and influence of people who have coin, connections, crews, clout, computer code, control, communities, and opportunities. The wealthy hold all the cards, all the chips, all the money, and they own "The House". Everyone else is merely a pawn upon their boundless chessboards. 💪😎✌️ #StayInYourLane

[@WLBarton4466]

Shelter,food and healthcare should be protected by law from the greed lust by private equity crooks.

[@sprucewayne10]

Unfortunately the private equity crooks write all the laws.

[@Novastar.SaberCombat]

But it is the WEALTHY and POWERFUL who create, promote, and ratify the rules and laws! And to make things more ironic, THEY don't need to follow those regulations. Laws are meant to en$lav3 the poor; they don't apply to the wealthy. No exceptions.

[@WLBarton4466]

@@Novastar.SaberCombat If course. They take helicopters and private planes so they don't need infrastructure. They profit off the private equity profits with dividends and shares of stock. Robber Barons 2.0

[@therealrobertbirchall]

But but but that's socialist and woke.

[@Benny_San]

"No we should leave it to the private sector to figure it out" - the thieves in suits

[@TonyMarren-o8m]

This is as good a description of evil as you could ever imagine, power without responsibility or empathy for that which you have power over for gain.

[@MargaretCampbell583]

I agree this is evil

[@gustavoaragon4194]

Capitalism at his finest. We love capitalism so much that we are not seeing is destroying us as a society.

[@sonyjoseph5426]

Add the military industrial complex .. as well

[@Novastar.SaberCombat]

Rich gotta rich.

[@MargaretCampbell583]

@@Novastar.SaberCombat Exactly

[@beeamendola]

It's a shame Mr. Hedges is not on this channel any longer!!!! He is missed !!!!!!!!

[@ceptember.]

I'm sad to hear that

[@justpassingthrough...2492]

I still watch his presentations here. Search his name and you will find them.

[@thorntonwilliams3851]

Too bad this won't be shown on mainstream media.

[@SteveSmith-mw5zk]

Thanks Chris and Gretchen for keeping eyes on these corrupts. Much appreciation for keeping us informed.

[@weslee511]

Fix the monetary system. Fiat debt based fractional reserve was a scam from the beginning

[@stevekaylor5606]

The must be a 1933-like Bankruptcy Reorganization - international this time!@@weslee511

[@dnickaroo3574]

The Democrat and Republican Parties are Two Wings of the same Bird. The US conducted the War in Vietnam with two Democrat Presidents plus two Republican Presidents - thereby avoiding Elections in Vietnam in 1956 (because Ho Chi Minh’s Communist Party would have won).

[@BonnieBlair-zm4uu]

Back to 🦅Gold 🥇 Standard.🥺⚖️🛡️🩹🩸⚖️🦅🇺🇲✝️🌎🕊️✨

[@mattt2094]

My company got acquired by private equity, it's terrible! Constantly understaffed!

[@stevekaylor5606]

At my combined system sewage treatment plant, private finance took over the plant. Staffing was soon reduced from 10/shift to 2/shift. After 4" of rain overnight, the entire plant and everyone's basements were flooded, and waste flowed into the river for over 5 months!

[@elizabethmurray5718]

Most all drugstores are using self-check outs. Groceries are using that system too.

[@mordantfilms]

Great interview as usual, Chris. Gretchen's work actually sheds light on why things are the way are the way almost nothing else does.

[@susanmercurio1060]

Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) is an empirical description of how the US monetary system works. It also explains why things are the way they are, but it has been successfully demonized by establishment economists and by people who have heard "something about it" and think they know what they are talking about.

[@jgalt308]

So why are things the way they are? With all that "light" being shed, the answer should be easy.

[@stevekaylor5606]

Oligarchy; the Principles of 1776 are anti-oligarchic! @@jgalt308

[@Tom-g6p6j]

When government works properly it should curve the behavior of corporate sociopaths.

[@BurningMyBra]

Buying, Selling, and destroying. Tragic end to many great American companies and communities.

[@4945three]

Plunder rhymes with blunder. Because every dog has its day. Thank you Mr. Hedges.

[@swhaster]

Looting with financial sophistication.

[@roberttorres7867]

Zionists…

[@daddyinacaddy]

Not mad, just wanna know how to get in on the action.

[@BellaBella-dy5gn]

Professional thieves

[@stevekaylor5606]

@@BellaBella-dy5gn Looting was clamped down - beginning in 1933, by the Congressional Pecora Commission!

[@hashimthedream3581]

BRICS and De-Dollarization means: Bill Gates, Peter Schiff, Tom Bilyeu, Warren Buffet, Elon Musk, Kamala Harris, Jim Rickards, Donald Trump, Chris Hedges, all US Congressional Representatives, all US Senators and Jeff Bazos will be forced to report to Skid-Row like everyone else. BRICS, THE GREAT EQUALIZER!!!

[@x44413]

I love listening and reading how Chris presents his information. His words are succulent and appreciated.

[@susanmercurio1060]

succinct

[@cheri238]

Indeed

[@jgalt308]

@@susanmercurio1060 or he could be a "word sucker"?

[@photosynthesis69]

His words are bussin no cap

[@cheri238]

His words are true.

[@kathyirwin5518]

This is depressing. Turns out you can’t trust government or corporations. People need to have better morals.

[@ianwoodywoodwoof345]

Absolutely first class discussion from Chris and Gretchen....thanks!

[@richfaltisco3226]

A friend and i stepped on the toes of one of the Carlyle Group's companies, Synagro, a company that processed sewage waste to be used as fertilizer sprayed on farm fields. The harassment from the company was diabolical.

[@Novastar.SaberCombat]

You're lucky to still be breathing. Usually, when one confronts the ultra-wealthy and uber-powerful... we all know what the punishment is: invisibility and "unalive-ing", lol.

[@leonardkellum6984]

The book Supermobsters, they went for stealing to owning.

[@stevekaylor5606]

The large banks and corporate cartels have run up $2 thousand trillion of gambled-up claims - and this is set to become a reverse leveraged blowout!@@leonardkellum6984

[@seanburton5298]

It's interesting to know how to step on the firm's toes.

[@seanburton5298]

@@Novastar.SaberCombat yeah just look at the Boeing whistle-blower!

[@m.rebman7221]

One of the most important topics yet with an excellent commentary by both Gretchen and Chris. What is described here is unregulated financial activity inimical to the economy as a whole. In a word, this is criminal behaviour and dereliction of duty by governments the world over.

[@neoman1858]

Private is an important word. These are not publicly traded nor are they meeting the usual corporate responsibilities.

[@lanagrossman489]

They are traded. I never so so many really dumb comments ever.

[@shellylofgren]

The U.S. economy can actually get better if only the govt can start making better decisions for the sake of it's citizens, cos' they've really made life more difficult for its residents. Hyperinflation has left the less haves bearing the brunt of the burden. Its already eating into my entire $620k retirement portfolio. Like where else can we invest our money with less risks?

[@Robert_Seaman]

Just get a financial planner straight up! personally, I would invest in etf and also love investing in individual stocks. yes it’s riskier but I'm comfortable in my financial environment.

[@Walter_hill_]

I agree. Exactly why I now work with one. A lot of folks downplay the role of advisors until being burnt by their emotions, no offense. I remember some years back, during the covid-outbreak, I needed a good boost to stay afloat, hence researched for advisors and thankfully came across one with grit. As of today, my cash reserve has yielded from $350k to nearly $1m

[@Trevor_Morrow_LTD]

Who is your advsor please? if you don't mind me asking

[@Walter_hill_]

Vivian Jean Wilhelm is the licensed advisor I use. Just research the name. You’d find necessary details to work with a correspondence to set up an appointment.

[@Trevor_Morrow_LTD]

Thank you so much for your helpful tip! I was able to verify the person and book a call session with her. She seems very proficient and I'm really grateful for your guidance

[@shne388]

Thank you for your investigative journalism! For speaking truth to corporate and government terrorism. Keep it up. Stop voting the duopoly and build a workers movement for our era. ✌🏻❤

[@stevekaylor5606]

Build concordance with foreign nations!

[@GwendolynStancell]

WORKERS MOVEMENT 😮 😊 ON THE MOVE, COMING OUR WAY 😅 😂

[@veronicasanacion]

"Shylock was a money lender. He had become rich by lending money at a very high interest to the merchants. He was a hard-hearted man and disliked by all good men for his nature." Shakespeare had already spotted those greedy creatures back in 1600.

[@MDMUKTADIRBHUIYAN-my6gx]

Merchant of Venice is the true face of them

[@justpassingthrough...2492]

Shylock is an unfortunate reference considering the present political climate. But I always did say that the only time in the Christian New Testament that Jesus got mad was when he chased the moneychangers out of the temple. Of course, Jesus was Jewish.

[@elote12331]

Former governor of Illinois bruce rauner gave a talk at my high school. He was incredibly successful in private equity before becoming governor and was one of the most anti-union governors in the country at the time. He basically just railed on how “greedy” teachers unions in Chicago were and even at such a young age I couldn’t stand the sick irony of someone who made millions off the backs of others to be criticizing some of the most vital and undervalued people in society

[@lanagrossman489]

If you still didn’t understand how greedy teachers unions are and what they did during Covid, while all private schools were open you would never be employed in any PE, you need brain just see through what actually going on.

[@micheal_mills]

The rising interest rate can surely control inflation, but won't prevent erosion of the eroding purchasing power of the US dollar. I have learnt my lesson this time. The banks can't be making money off my money, while inflation eats into it. I have set aside 650k to invest in the stock market now, since that keeps up with inflation, but I don't know how to get started.

[@donna_martins]

Investing without proper guidance can lead to mistakes and losses. I've learned this from my own experience.If you're new to investing or don't have much time, it's best to get advice from an expert.

[@Walter_hill_]

Keeping money in the bank is like paying banks and the Govemment. Here's how it works: The bank gives out your money as loan, and charge interest obviously higher than inflation rate, and then give you, the depositor, interest lower than inflation rate. That means net loss for you. That is why I prefer to invest, and on average, my advisor makes returns that always beats inflation!

[@berkrix4312]

To be honest, I've been wary of banks for a while, but I wasn't sure how to speak with an advisor first. Please let me know who your adviser is if it's okay; I need some recommendations.

[@Walter_hill_]

Vivian Jean Wilhelm a highly respected figure in her field. I suggest delving deeper into her credentials, as she possesses extensive experience and serves as a valuable resource for individuals seeking guidance in navigating the financial market.

[@berkrix4312]

Thank you so much for your helpful tip! I was able to verify the person and book a call session with her. She seems very proficient and I'm really grateful for your guidance

[@fredsimmons2793]

Chris and Gretchen,this was a lovely and refreshing interview.Gretchen is a stately woman,and you Chris are a courtly gentleman.

[@jgalt308]

You feel refreshed? In what sense?

[@fredsimmons2793]

@@jgalt308 In the sense that truth get a good airing our,like a breath of fresh air.

[@jgalt308]

@@fredsimmons2793 I doubt this interview represents the TRUTH...or capitalism, but it does suit Hedges' agenda...

[@fredsimmons2793]

@@jgalt308 Does capitalism represent the truth,or is capitalism synonymous with truth.WHATS your definition of truth,mine is what Jesus said,I am the way,the truth,and the light.The truth will set you free.Would Jesus create or use a system to deny health care to children?

[@jgalt308]

@@fredsimmons2793 No he didn't say all that nor did he die for YOUR sins.

[@jaysphilosophy1951]

It's important to note: that most of these firms make money by shrinking the economy, instead of growing it. It's a different type of capitalism. It's not industrial capitalism....It's financial capitalism, a raunche, rent seeking economy.....

[@sigilfredogaleano6568]

The late Larushe ( I think I spell it wrong) said this back in the 80s already

[@jgalt308]

which is NOT capitalism, but a pre-existing condition.

[@weslee511]

Fix the monetary system. Fiat debt based fractional reserve was a scam from the beginning

[@stevekaylor5606]

Bring back the Glass-Steagall Act of 1933-99!@@weslee511

[@seanburton5298]

Yes! Affiliate marketing has seen subscription models as the most profitable.

[@roegoleg]

You now understand why the manufacturing sector has disappeared from America.

[@ralphchurch7]

Manufacturers went to countries where products are made cheaper.

[@muirgirl]

@@ralphchurch7Laws can change that.

[@stevekaylor5606]

@@ralphchurch7 Outsourced !

[@danielhutchinson6604]

@@muirgirl If You assume Laws will be changed to take power from Capitalists, who can afford to buy Political Office. You have not been to a Political Convention. The Democracy we supposedly still control, select the Names on the Ballot according to the ability to be Good and Faithful Servants of those who Bought them.

[@muirgirl]

@@danielhutchinson6604 There is still power in the people. The wealthy want you to give up.

[@bamkablam]

What an enlightening podcast full of vital an indispensible information. Thank you.

[@kla757]

1. Apollo - Leon Black 2. Blackstone - Stephen A. Schwarzman 3. Carlyle Group - Harvey M. Schwartz, David Mark Rubenstein, 4. KKR Kohlberg, Kravis, Roberts (KKR) - George Rosenberg Roberts ,Jerome Kohlberg, Henry Kravis 5. Blackrock - Larry Fink

[@mkaberli614]

We'll know when we are about to have a SHTF scenario when all these corporate crooks and our corrupt politicians find safe harbor in their offshore private bunkers.

[@tomh5094]

​@@snorttroll4379besides their connection to Epstein....

[@djentlegiant739]

​@@snorttroll4379let's not do this dude...

[@maytt675]

You nailed it. But such a candid observation summons the REAL haters, who will emote freely with nary a cogent attempt at analysis.

[@juanmonge7418]

Are they all members of Maralago?

[@anthonyantenorcruz7611]

U are a prophet mr. Hedges. Thank u for being a light in the midst of growing darkness.

[@justmyopinion9883]

Thank you, Chris. Thank you, Gretchen. I learned a lot here.

[@domesticengineerlifecoach6938]

Thank you Chris for having such important and highly intelligent journalist! And thank you Gretchen for your work! And your bravery to expose such corruption in our own Country and Investment groups! .. thank you both again!🙏👏👍

[@MrGadfly772]

There's an entire population that have never seen Oliver Stone's "Wall Street". They haven't seen Gordon Gekko claiming that greed is good or have seen how they buy up a company and run it into the ground on purpose (in order to take all the assists and resell them}, or have they seen the inside trading nature of these equity forms. We have reverted to a naive state of acceptance of these new age robber barons. Greed once again is "good", and we just keep handing the knife to these serial killers and are left clueless when they slash our throats.

[@lanagrossman489]

Relax ! Nobody slashing your throat! You never worked in your life how hard this people work and paying taxes because people like you paying nothing.

[@justpassingthrough...2492]

@@lanagrossman489 You don't know anything about "Mr. Gadfly." Best keep your opinions to yourself.

[@DonDeering]

Of course they do. This is how capitalism works. The U.S. government is a committee that manages the affairs of society on behalf of the bankers, CEOs, and large landlords.

[@henrythegreatamerican8136]

And it all happened because of reduced regulations, reduced taxes, and endless loopholes. Next time you hear a politician scream for these things, DO NOT VOTE FOR HIM. All it does is accumulate excessive wealth in few hands. History has proven that.

[@Benny_San]

Such a succinct yet insightful analogy

[@mikewilt7857]

Yes, America is a corporation.... the language of our CON- TUITION favors the PEOPLE who wrote it US INC.. Politicians are puppets/or archons(from the Greek political system, it's been going on for thousands of years..

[@paulring86]

This isn’t capitalism- this is fascism where people break the laws but grease the palms of the government agencies who should be shutting them down or at least preventing them from breaking the law going forward

[@stevekaylor5606]

Rubberstamps the affairs of bankers over society!

[@thejuddah]

When we understand that this level of destruction and corruption is well established in our country, the covid corruption is more believable. I found the discussion regarding emergency department spin offs incredibly interesting. The general population has no idea how 'disempowered and dependent' many physicians have become over the past 30 years.

[@nottajaXon]

Oh my heart is breaking because average Americans love their houses even career!!! Doctors pharmacist students!!!! Mommy's and families!!!

[@FranciscoSalas33]

This should have millions of views

[@zogjones]

Despite differences about social issues, this is our common enemy. Everyone of every skin color and identity is affected by these dealings. Set aside differences and conquer this issue!

[@joshuagharis9017]

Amen, the capitalist, unelected may I add, elite want us divided, ...when we're blaming immigrants, students, minority people, welfare recipients, unhoused, etc...we're not looking at them, THE REAL ISSUE

[@joshuagharis9017]

Workers ought to own companies, bam, they'd not agree to this crap

[@michaelrandle8316]

Don't count on that ever happening. Divide and conquer works and works well in America. It always has. It won't happen.

[@CarolineMcKenzie-x2d]

I 💯 agree.

[@ThatisFever]

Love Chris.

[@NihouNi]

My 16 year old son came into the kitchen where I am cooking and listening to this. To see his face, finding out that these practices are allowed in the world in which he is becoming an adult, is heartbreaking. What a psychopathic set of malefactors. Makes me want to cry…or live on an island…or sleep for an awfully long time .

[@justpassingthrough...2492]

Amazing guest. Thank you Ms. Gretchen for your dedication to delivering a critical message to the public. I love your idea of forcing PEs to label their enterprises. Put their names out there and their brand will have the stink of Monsanto soon.

[@jaysphilosophy1951]

The Tempi train crash that killed 57 students in Greece in 2023, was due, in part, by finance capitalism. A cargo train was allowed to proceed and travel the wrong way at the same time while a passenger train carrying 300 people was allowed to proceed travelling in the opposite direction. The trains collided killing 57 students. This disaster happened Feb 28 2023 and is known as the Tempi train disaster. Later on it was discovered that the train company had essentially been bought out by a private equity firm. The controller had just been hired on that week, and the company was firing people that had been there for years because of the high debt burden. Several months later there were actually protests in France and Greece that were about the privatization of local companies including greek train lines, and victims families were protesting as well. The news media had smeared them, called them racist, called them far right, and imprisoned a few.... There are all kinds of stories like this, but one has to do the research for themselves, because the media isn't going to do it. Anyway, 57 young people dead because of the privatization of Greek train lines.

[@stevekaylor5606]

Financial marketing - over railway operations!

[@DaveGoogle-su3hi]

Sad

[@joshuagharis9017]

Im sick of capitalism, realtors complaining about being sued for jacking commissions, billionaires acting upset at "work shortages" , wealth hoarding, all of it. We need democracy in OUR economy, for the love of God

[@coopsnz1]

capitalism built the middle class not Big government that shrinks it

[@jamesduggan5846]

This is not capitalism. This is a result of cheating and stealing.

[@Novastar.SaberCombat]

Legitimate "democracy" is long, looonnng dead. What remains is a surreptitious, corrupt, shrouded form of totalitarianism; an autocracy, or plutocracy. It's also becoming less and less "invisible", too. The uber-wealthy super-kings are becoming so blatant, they don't even TRY to hide the corruption anymore. After all... why should they?! 😂 There are no consequences for the filthy rich. Rockefeller quote says it all, and so did the big one from J. Goebbels.

[@morpholino]

Well-regulated capitalism is the ideal, we shouldn’t trash capitalism as the alternatives are not great

[@beataannanowak659]

ADAM SMITH did not invent whatever is going now now it is a mass murder

[@kathleenhillock9366]

Mafia racketeering.

[@IanPunter]

Yes and remember what ethnic mafia this is and it's not Italian.

[@stevekaylor5606]

The British led oligarchy is not limited to Italian racketeers! @@IanPunter

[@robertl4765]

Mostly Zionists

[@OldItalianYankee]

🤚🏼🙋🏻‍♂️​@@stevekaylor5606

[@presterjohn1697]

But how can it be mafia racketeering if China also has some of the world's largest equity firms?

[@CalistroVC]

Thanks!

[@gordo7659-v9o]

Excellent presentation. Shocking how the greed of these financiers is ruining society. "The business press praises the billion dollar deals, but never looks at the many who suffer on the other side of the transaction."

[@ABELARDOASISTIDO]

these books should be part of the reference books of students in business and economics.

[@lennyhaglund1]

This is where the explosion of fees, fees, fees comes from…

[@stevekaylor5606]

Companies, Health Care and even veterinarians run up fees - to stay solvent in a globalist system where $5 trillion changes hands every day!

[@singingway]

This is the mind sickness the native Americans saw in the Europeans who invaded their land. Wetiko. The Hungry Ghost. The greed that can never be satisfied because no amount is ever enough for a hollow person.

[@coopsnz1]

the government crooks the greedy , you ever own a business more than 50% goes to government

[@nikiyoussef55]

sociopats never feel full of wealth or inflicting cruelty on others their sadism and greed is something that is impossible to satisfy it is demonic world we live in

[@failranch9542]

That’s profound.

[@misuchimiss1161]

Yet they were building their own empires here

[@stevekaylor5606]

Indians became better hunters, after horses were brought in from 1509 on. They continued to battle over hunting grounds! @@misuchimiss1161

[@marcusmatthews8255]

“Greed is good” is still the US motto

[@denisoconnell8745]

We got taken over by private equity a year and a half ago. Loads of departments let go, no long term vision for our product, its all about getting 3-4 quarters of lean looking growth and reselling, usually leaving the buyer with a dud as all the cuts eventually catch up and our products no longer compete. We were a cashflow machine when they bought us but immediately saddled us with crippling debt that is now distressed as we can barely fund it. I'm all for responsible capitalism but the only thing private equity does is ruin good companies for the benefit of the billionaire partners.

[@lashlarue59]

When they did this on The Sopranos they called it "The Bust Out". Tony and the boys would get some business owner to become indebted to them via gambling, drugs, women etc. and that would get them into the company. Then they would raid whatever savings the company and owner had. Then they would use the companies credit line to borrow money to buy as much equipment as possible and then sell that equipment. They would continue the selling and borrowing and selling other assets until the credit was gone then in the end they would torch the business for the insurance money. This is pretty the same thing as private equity.

[@YoungBlackJedi]

Was just thinking this before I read your post

[@leonardkellum6984]

And they have a friend at the insurance co.

[@numbersix8919]

Thank you ma'am for your work on our behalf.

[@leanmchungry4735]

Private equity: the invisible hand on the throat, great work Gretchen.

[@Boxer4ever]

Transport, healthcare, energy, farming, water…should never be allowed to be privately owned! Never!

[@MargaritaFerguson]

I practiced with this strategy for about 4 days with demo account and found it very reliable. With good money management this is fantastic, been using it live for around 2 weeks now and consistently papering up end of day in good profit! Nice work

[@Nigel-Wilkinson]

Fantastic show Mr. Hedges! This is why your show so great, you take the time to find the books worth reading that will point the general public where to look. It would be wonderful to see your recommended reading list. Can't wait to read this one. Thank you.

[@averayugen7802]

Medicare coverage is now disappearing for ordinary oldsters. Chris' guest explains why.

[@ninjabreadgirl]

Thank you so much for this interview. Brilliant. I have shared it around and will never stop spreading the word about TRUE injustice! To anyone reading this, keep your hope alive. Good wins, always. Love will win. We WILL beat these evil, greedy people in power!

[@davidsessera1337]

I wish it was the case. There have been stories for over 40 years of how WallStreet and big fianacers have been hedge hogging the system. Not many changes occurred after 2008 crash. US government gave a trillion dollars to Wall Street and banks. Now, it is part of our 34.5 trillion dollar debt. People with such greed continue to find new ways to take from the little guy and not pay share of taxes. Congress has been bought and paid for lobbyists for the last 40 years, caring little about the overall health of our society. I hope you fight for good. I'm too overwhelmed, too old. Unfortunately, I believe it's going to take the collapse of the whole system before a real change takes place.

[@davidsessera1337]

Good may win in the end. Fighting evil takes much courage and evil does not care what or who it destroys. I'm glad you have hope and are spreading it.

[@stanleykania7184]

Governments allowed it all, they need to be held accountable

[@xamaqueen1902]

Very smart woman! So frogging true!!! From down under Australia 🇦🇺 but we are same same atm with this kind of crap! They are doing similar to nursing homes here putting up their costs bc they are all running at a loss & the poor aged pensioners will suffer it’s just plain wrong!!

[@chalinofalcone871]

Israel's state economy is 90% Private Equity....

[@den264]

No surprise there !

[@gregorypatton6187]

Snap!! thanks for this info.

[@nickvoutsas5144]

I’m trying to understand what you mean , are you saying that the private equity is flowing from the US to Israel or are you saying that Israel has allowed firms with private equity to make positive strides for the greater good of the people?

[@growthandunderstanding]

@@nickvoutsas5144Or the slaughter of Palestinians?

[@markbrophy5454]

That's state equity. By definition, private equity is private.

[@bulentosmane]

The problem is actually pretty simple to understand and even more simpler to solve. they rely on out complicity.

[@kateoneal4215]

On the Silence of the Lambs....

[@marspalk7611]

Power of naked capitalism.

[@failranch9542]

Except it’s not. This is cronyism and it is antithetical to capitalism- despite what all the people wrapped in American Flags and wearing Statue of Liberty hats while carrying upside down bibles tell you.

[@stevekaylor5606]

Racketeering!

[@clos397]

Not Capitalism, this is called Crony Capitalism .

[@stevekaylor5606]

In 1933, the Pecora Commission grilled parasitic bankers in court - and some went to prison!@@clos397

[@Methodius93]

Unrestrained corporate capitalism that Reagan & his handlers unleashed in the 1980s.

[@vapeking466]

Its best to care for your elderly family members at home. Nursing homes are just too shady. I cared for mom until she passed. It did take a toll on me and my own health but that's primarily because no other family would help so I never got a break. Its important to take breaks and allow another family member to help while you take some time off. Even better if the whole family will help out in the care. This was the least I could do for my mom after all she had done for me especially as a kid. 🙏

[@alisa562]

Thank God for men like Chris Hedges….

[@peterstrous2092]

The success of a country depends on working together for the interests of all: health, food, border and social security, a harmonious place where supported people have the opportunity to thrive. America's obcession with competition is in the way. Like the old kings, shahs, emperors conned the people in order to gain and maintain their position, the new elites are doing the same.

[@andybunn5780]

At least kings, shah, and emperors had an incentive to help others for religious or at least dignity's sake. There is a whole thing about aristocratic virtue and religion that is discussed in philosophy circles showing that they at least aspired to differing values than our modern elite. In modern society, your problems are yours alone since the only reason you have bad things happen to you is because you're lazy, stupid, or morally corrupt. Remarkably different context

[@peterstrous2092]

​@@andybunn5780 Thanks for your comment. Re: "In modern society, your problems are yours alone since the only reason you have bad things happen to you is because you're lazy, stupid, or morally corrupt." yes that appears to be the modern culture but the point is that we are (also here) lacking "collective intelligence". The forces in society supporting this notion, are rooted in an incomplete evaluation of all observations and all possible perspectives. Unfortunately, this typifisch our species. We just jump to simple convenient conclusions all the time. Our "rationality" is driven by our emotions, habits, culture, education, upbringing, values etc.. We can only start deliberate intelligent thinking, once we realize human thinking is flawed because of being constrained by our past. While we see flawed thinking as only occurring in others, we will continue our arrogant human behaviour. Arrogance is rooted in the way we humans think. Racism is rooted in the way we humans think. Scientific limits are rooted in the way we humans think. The way we humans think creates limitations on social harmony, including causing our wars. The notion that humans have been created in an image of a God, appears an insult to that God.

[@carycunningham9510]

This is what class warfare looks like. We need ranked-choice voting, ballot access, and more parties.

[@stevekaylor5606]

Public money only in elections, no private money at all!

[@Lalallalu]

Shared widely already. Blessings to you and the team behind these programmes from the U.K.

[@slavsaratlic8197]

Much love and appreciation for you both. Thanks for exposing the Robber Barons. Peace ✌️ Justice and Fairness for all...

[@kdi9049]

Politicians leave their position to take over these businesses after they've used their political favors to increase their profits within said companies.

[@jefbezoss7638]

This is very valuable. Jeremy Hunt health secretary UK is carving up the NHS for these PE. PE already asset stripped the water utilities and now dumping raw sewage into our rivers. The environmental agency is defunded to undermine monitoring and enforcement. The PE love captive customer utilities with big assets and pensions. Thames water wiped out in first few years with dividends £700m reserve turned to debt.

[@kp6215]

I saw this in the 80's an can interview me anytime because employees of Del Monte know about this practice that led to death before 62 has destroyed health of the worker.

[@tyfromuzi5871]

blessings~

[@bcadams75]

Excellent episode 👏 America is experiencing "peak capitalism"

[@jgalt308]

Except it's not capitalism.

[@tracyleighbasham]

​@@jgalt308lol. It's EXACTLY capitalism. Don't worry, you are not a capitalist. You are a slave to the capitalists.

[@jackbeagle8458]

@@jgalt308Right, we really live in a socialist utopia where workers own the means of production. This is very much capitalism as always intended.

[@jgalt308]

@@jackbeagle8458 Capitalism, like life, never promised a utopia...and just because you add a modifier to it does not make it capitalism..the key concept being that of "production". Nothing is being "produced" here... except "money" that is NOT "money". It takes an exceptional degree of mental gymnastics and historical revisionism to reduce the ills of the world to a single word...while ignoring the obvious fact that governments having a monopoly on force bear the ultimate responsibility for whatever conditions exist within their control...and in the U.S. ignorance of history is second only to the ignorance of the law...a truth which would shock any normal person but will never be covered by the likes of Hedges or Alt media. Here's a question for you: Why did the 16th Amendment remove the census and enumeration provision regarding direct taxes?

[@CowToes]

​@jgalt308 this is literal late stage capitalism at work. Usury with extra steps.

[@juditrotter5176]

In the ‘70’s I read a book for Uni. The title is Paper Profits and written by Adam Smith. It describes how the economy will work when investors are just passing pieces of paper around in circles not creating any products. It’s a tragedy.

[@kortyEdna825]

More and more people might face a tough time in retirement. Low-paying jobs, inflation, and high rents make it hard to save. Now, middle-class Americans find it tough to own a home too, leaving them without a place to retire.

[@KaurKhangura]

The increasing prices have impacted my plan to retire at 62, work part-time, and save for the future. I'm concerned about whether those who navigated the 2008 financial crisis had an easier time than I am currently experiencing. The combination of stock market volatility and a decrease in income is causing anxiety about whether I'll have sufficient funds for retirement.

[@PatrickFitzgerald-cx6io]

This is precisely why I like having a portfolio coach guide my day-to-day market decisions: with their extensive knowledge of going long and short at the same time, using risk for its asymmetrical upside and laying it off as a hedge against the inevitable downward turns, their skillset makes it nearly impossible for them to underperform. I've been utilizing a portfolio coach for more than two years, and I've made over $800,000.

[@Justinmeyer1000]

Impressive can you share more info?

[@PatrickFitzgerald-cx6io]

There are a handful of experts in the field. I've experimented with a few over the past years, but I've stuck with ‘’Aileen Gertrude Tippy’’ for about five years now, and her performance has been consistently impressive. She’s quite known in her field, look-her up.

[@Justinmeyer1000]

Thanks a lot for this suggestion. I needed this myself, I looked her up, and I have sent her an email. I hope she gets back to me soon.

[@williampaddack3599]

The roots of the American Demise

[@hashimthedream3581]

BRICS and De-Dollarization means: Bill Gates, Peter Schiff, Tom Bilyeu, Warren Buffet, Elon Musk, Kamala Harris, Jim Rickards, Donald Trump, Chris Hedges, all US Congressional Representatives, all US Senators and Jeff Bazos will be forced to report to Skid-Row like everyone else. BRICS, THE GREAT EQUALIZER!!!

[@ninat4869]

So much truth being shared here it's overwhelming. The love of money... the root of all evil.

[@jgalt308]

"What is the root of all money?"

[@mccarthymccarthy237]

Interesting naked capitalism is correct we need to pass laws to control his type of lawlessness and fix this problem leave out the Trump Biden thing they both could be corrupted by money

[@lanagrossman489]

Please let us know !! Who works anywhere for nothing or for love of money??

[@ninat4869]

@@lanagrossman489 sometimes ppl realize that they've been lied to. Sometimes they never do.

[@justbe1451]

The world is cha cha changing! Thanks for standing up! Thanks for speaking out! ❤

[@wendyfay16]

Yet another brilliant report from Chris! When Chris reports I know it's going to be fascinating, enlightening & reliable! Thanks Chris, for shining the light on what's happening out there in the 'real' world!

[@angladebrayden]

Absolutely mesmerizing! This KZbin video captivated me from start to finish. Truly a masterpiece worth sharing with everyone!

[@AutonomousVoice]

Whichever political party is in power, the fundamentals of the system are the same. Whether we have the present electoral system, proportional representation, or whether many people vote or don’t vote, capitalism is the driving force for state policy. ANY vote is a vote for capitalism. As working-class people, we are exploited whether we can take part in so-called ‘free’ elections or whether we live under a blatantly authoritarian regime. National and international capital continue to control the wealth that we create, and protect it through the police, legal system, and military. People who don't vote are told that, “If you don’t vote you have no right to complain”, but voting under these circumstances is just pretending that the system we have is credible, that voting gives us power. If that was true, the working class, the class that forms the vast majority of the population, would by now be living in comfortable material conditions, and have the functionaries of the state very clearly acting on our instructions to the benefit of all. This is obviously not the case though - we have next to no say in the decisions that get taken by the people we elect. The system we have is called ‘representative democracy’, yet when have the interests of the working class ever been truly represented? Our standard of living has been consistently eroded for many decades whoever is in power This is because the role of government is NOT to represent the interests of the people, but to represent the interests of capital. Whatever way you vote, you are voting for capitalism, you are voting to be exploited, and you are voting to be ruled over, bossed around and bullied by various institutions that can control you with violence or the threat of violence. When we vote we sell out our birthright to be free individuals that fully benefit from our own labour and our collaboration with other workers. This makes no sense and more and more people are beginning to realise it. OK, so what can we do instead of this impotent act of submission? Well, if we don’t want others to have power over us, then we shouldn’t willingly put our power in someone else’s hands! History tells us that those we give power to will betray us and abuse that power. Organising horizontally, using some form of direct democracy, where everyone affected by a decision gets a say in that decision, while not perfect, is infinitely more fair and practical than handing over decision making to individuals and institutions who’s class interests are absolutely opposed to our own. So… DON’T VOTE, ORGANISE! We should organise with our neighbours, workmates, other people we have shared interests with, and other working-class people who are subject to particular modes of oppression because of their identity, such as racism, homophobia, transphobia etc. We are the experts on what we need, and on the best way to run things for the common good. We can use direct action to achieve this… Direct action is where we individually or collectively (usually collectively) solve a problem without looking to someone else to solve it for us. By this we mean, not just protesting and asking for change, but things like occupying, sabotaging, working to rule, refusing to pay their prices or their rent, and striking when WE decide if it’s time to strike, not when union bureaucrats and the state give us permission to. Plus of course, creating our own, horizontally organised groups, affinity groups, mutual aid groups and unofficial unions. For example, when workers aren’t paid the wages owed them, rather than asking the government to give us better legal protection, we take action to force employers to pay. Such things have been achieved with only a few dozen people. Renters unions have had many successes such as getting repairs done and refusing to pay rent increases, sometimes with only a handful of people. Imagine the power we could wield in our workplaces and our communities if thousands of us decided to refuse to be abused, oppressed and exploited any longer, and began to say NO! Of course, in reality, people are understandably afraid of taking the state on. But direct action doesn’t have to mean an all-out fight to defeat capitalism in one go, but by confronting the system directly at any point we can start to take control. In fact, all the good things we think of as having been created by the state - free healthcare, free education, health & safety laws to protect us at work, housing regulations, sick pay, unemployment benefits, pensions - came about historically to put an end to organised campaigns of collective direct action that threatened their power. Mostly we do this collectively - where we would fail as individuals, together we can win. That doesn’t mean that individuals can never act on their own - sometimes an individual can take an action that can inspire thousands! It’s time for us to stand up as individuals and as communities, and take our destinies into our own hands. It’s time to reject absolutely the legitimacy of the state and any top-down institutions that say they will represent our interests, such as political parties both large and small. We, as a class, already produce everything required for our material needs. We, as a class, know very well how to operate and take advantage of the technology we already have, and how to innovate to create even greater technologies. The ruling class, and their illogical, dysfunctional capitalist system just obstruct optimal production of goods and services and prevent a fair, functional and practical distribution of the wealth that we create. This is now in plain sight and it’s time for us to act! It’s inevitable this will sometimes lead to confrontation on the streets and elsewhere. This can be scary but ultimately, we have to stand up for ourselves and our class by whatever means are necessary, otherwise we will continue to be ground into the dirt with increasing austerity, inequality, increasing destruction of our communities by local government and their policies of social cleansing for example, and through increasing authoritarianism and state violence. We can lay down and let it happen, or we can come together, realise our power, and FIGHT BACK!

[@cheri238]

RIGHT ✅️ Ralph Nader, Happy birthday !!! He just turned 90 years old, and he never lied to the American people .

[@jgalt308]

But you keep electing the same criminals. Why is that?

[@VicTicklish]

And you heard her say who Trumps right hand man was!

[@lulusp1023]

Love you text....maybe in the near future we will all stand together! Blessings

[@VicTicklish]

@@jgalt308 listen up…our politicians DON’T work for us..period… got it? We are in a slave system and we all need to fix it… everybody needs to WAKE UP… or we’re all gonna end up in FEMA CAMPS with only the elites at the top of the food chain😬

[@quanty30]

And why are all the biggest private equity firms owned by a single ethnic group?

[@stevekaylor5606]

Vanguard, Blackrock

[@billyboy969]

Epstein and Maxwell

[@CarolineMcKenzie-x2d]

Jews?

[@ILoveAnchovies334]

There 2 kinds of people in the world. Those who create value and those who take without giving. Unfortunately the latter is who wins in capitalism.

[@TheBillythepoet]

This is not really accurate. Capitalism requires rewarding those who provide value. Perhaps what we have is the product of capitalism, but its not a capitalist system. Its really closer to feudalism.

[@thomaswikstrand8397]

​@@TheBillythepoet... there's nothing about capitalism that involves "rewarding those who provide value". The opposite, in fact. It's completely about "rewarding" those who own.

[@alankwellsmsmba]

@@thomaswikstrand8397 If a company does not add enough value for a customer to buy their products or services they won't stay in business long. "Owning" an unproductive asset is, well, unproductive. Better to sell it so someone who can better utilize it to create value which it can then sell. If the asset being bought at a free-market price by a private equity firm is a tell that the company is way under performing in its market. Note: much of the hospital consolidation was in fact incentivized by Obamacare paying higher reimbursements to "hospitals" and less to physicians *the exact same service...*, increasing costs, driving private physicians out of business and by effect making hospitals ripe for "plunder" in the nomenclature of the presenter. What really happened is Obama increased the value of hospitals which made their capital structure inadequate for their cash flow which made them better investments.

[@den264]

Historically if you were a contributor to society, you had names like, Baker, Taylor, Butcher, Thatcher, Carpenter, Plumber, Cooper, Farmer, etc. Conversely, if you were the type to only take from society, you had names like: Diamond, Silver, Ruby, Gold, Pearl etc.

[@keithparker1346]

​@@TheBillythepoetworkers provide value but workers are exploited under capitalism

[@BradDunn]

This is super fascinating. I've worked for a few companies who were taken over by PE firms and this stuff rings so true.

[@twhelostl61]

The general public can't see the man behind the curtain. The Wizard of Oz in the 30s. The tornado represents harm. Old money has always distorted the system hiding behind complex deals.

[@StateOfPurgatory]

Oh my goodness , we went through extreme sadness with my aunt :( Thank you

[@nsbd90now]

I just feel so sad how things have gone.

[@gr8macaw1]

I have lived in the US for 40 years. I wish I could detail the changes I have witnessed to this country that I loved so much.

[@charliekowittmusic]

Don’t be sad. There are a lot of bad actors, and we live in a declining system that incentivizes greed, it’s true. But pick any problem under the sun, from preventable disease, to climate change, to over-incarceration. There are MILLIONS fighting each and every day to make things better for people. You can be on the frontlines too.

[@mikolowiskamikolowiska4993]

​@@gr8macaw1how did you vote

[@pamelaouellette6682]

True, but it starts at the top! Our own current administration has sold out our country, stripping away our rights to give to non Americans. Ppl follow these ideologies.

[@CrossoverClassic]

Lol😂​@@charliekowittmusic