Vote Against Fake Economic Development

As you deliberate over your ballot decisions in the next few days, one choice should be easy: Ask whether any candidate favors giving away taxpayer money to attract global companies.  If the answer is “yes” – even a squishy conditional “yes” – throw the bum out. I have no clue where Vice President Joe Biden

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Put Down the Brick…

The summer of 2020 may be receding, but it now feels like the beginning of another summer, 1914, when a Serbian nationalist assassinated the heir to the Austro-Hungarian empire, Archduke Franz Ferdinand. What could have been an isolated tragedy escalated because of rigid alliances, heavy arms buildups, and stubborn pride.  World War I ultimately killed

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What Are Wall Street’s Typical Returns (and a Mea Culpa)

If you read columns by financial advisors or listen to their radio shows or podcasts, you will find no shortage of bullish prognosticators who will tell you that if you patiently leave your money in the stock market for many years, you can expect a rate of return of 10%, 12%, even 18%. Dave Ramsey,

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Local Investment Strategy #4: Pay Your Mortgage Faster

(This blog is part of a 12-part series on emerging opportunities for local investment that are especially important in the post-COVID era.  It’s drawn from my new book, Put Your Money Where Your Life Is.) —– In my last blog, I argued that if you have any significant savings to invest (say $50,000 or more),

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Local Investment Strategy #3: Become a Homeowner

(This blog is part of a 12-part series on opportunities for local investment that are especially important in the post-COVID era.  It’s drawn from my new book, Put Your Money Where Your Life Is.) The COVID economy is riddled with bad news, but there is one bright spot: Interest rates are at a historic low. 

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The 10 Dumbest Phrases Used By Economic Developers

ED.  Everyone’s got it, and no one wants to talk about it.  I’m referring, of course, to the wonderfully loopy world of economic development.  While no blue pill can cure it, you might be able to help. Below are ten common phrases used by economic developers that suggest they are on the wrong track. If

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My Latest Book

“As so many Americans feel powerless to confront a financial system designed to serve the few, Shuman offers us real choices: tools that align our lives with our values. That’s power. I love this highly readable, timely, surprising book.” 
–Frances Moore Lappé, author of Daring Democracy and Diet for a Small Planet 

**40% quantity discount available from Berrett-Koehler on orders of 10 or more

Calendar of Events

October 4 – November 1: Local Investing in Montana Workshop Series, hosted by the Center for Community Ownership.

Michael H Shuman