Bubbles and how to survive them

We now live in an "asset-backed economy". Our spending decisions are dependent on asset values like house and share prices.

In turn these are inextricably linked to burgeoning debt.

But asset prices are now subject to fiercely volatile boom and bust cycles, which threaten serious recession, thus putting more downward pressure on prices and more damage to the financial system, leading to the danger of deflation.

Since 1991 Japanese land prices have fallen 90 per cent.

In a readable, non-technical guide the author explores the implications (e.g. bad for real assets, possibly good for some financial assets) and the solutions for individuals, companies and central banks now that asset prices dominate the economic system.

Underlying all of this is the question of where asset prices should be, for example what is the "right" price earnings ratio for stocks or house prices?

This is a highly controversial area but the author argues, if there are not exact levels, there are ranges or averages for these assets in which individuals can invest accordingly.