BBQ Economics

BBQ Economics by Liam Dann offers readers an insightful and compelling exploration of the New Zealand economy. From the intricacies of interest rates to the perplexing price of cheese, this book breaks down the essentials of how the economy functions and why it’s crucial to understand these mechanisms. Through a combination of sharp economic analysis and engaging storytelling, Dann demystifies complex financial concepts, making them accessible and relatable. His wealth of experience as a veteran financial journalist shines through as he lays out practical advice, historical context, and future predictions in an entertaining and informative manner.

Whether you are pondering whether to fix or float your mortgage, debating the optimal time to buy or sell, or wondering what secrets self-made billionaires hold, BBQ Economics provides answers rooted in decades of expertise. The book addresses everyday financial concerns with practical wisdom and humour, often gleaned from Dann's myriad conversations during casual BBQ gatherings. He elucidates key economic principles with stories and quotes from notable politicians, financial experts, and business moguls, supplemented by helpful graphs and illustrations.

In BBQ Economics, Dann covers an extensive range of topics, including:

• What even is money? - A straightforward introduction to the concept of money and its functions.
• Economic theory - Fundamental theories explained in layman's terms.
• Money and politics - The interplay between economic policies and political agendas.
• Bitcoin, NFTs and the future of money - Insights into modern financial innovations.
• Inflation and deflation - Understanding the dynamics of price changes.
• AI and the future of work - How technological advancements are shaping the job market.
• Migration - Economic implications of population movement.
• How to read an economic forecast - Tips for interpreting economic predictions.
• Good times, bad times - Navigating growth, recessions, and depressions.
• NZ's productivity problem - Addressing the challenges of economic productivity in New Zealand.
• Earthquakes, pandemics and market crashes - The impact of unforeseen events on the economy.
• Investing - A primer on making informed investment decisions.
• Safe as houses - Exploring New Zealand's property market obsession.
• Bank profits - Insights into the profitability and roles of banks.
• The Great Depression and beyond - A historical perspective on significant economic downturns.
• Taxing questions - A look at taxation and its economic impacts.
• Understanding risk - Essential strategies for risk assessment in financial planning.

Readers will find praise for Dann's ability to make economics not only understandable but enjoyable:

"Liam has managed to do the almost impossible - make the world of economics accessible, interesting and, dare I say it, even fun." - Grant Robertson, Former Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister

"Who knew The Lorax, Biggie Smalls and Jim Bolger's surf team could help explain economics? Dann nails why money matters. This is how to talk finance at the BBQ and still be invited back." - Guyon Espiner, Investigative journalist

"Liam's a master at telling you what you didn't know you needed to know, while still making you laugh. If you want a shortcut to impressing your friends at the weekend, this is the book to help you do it." - Frances Cook, Personal finance journalist and educator

"A guidebook to sounding smart next time someone asks about the economy. Dann easily translates complex jargon into simple, Kiwi examples." - Brad Olsen, Chief Executive and Principal Economist, Infometrics

"A surprisingly fun and easy read - filled with characters, humour and Liam's personal stories - that gives us the how, why and who of money in New Zealand." - Mary Holm, Personal finance writer and seminar presenter

"Liam has a remarkable way of making the complicated, uncomplicated. His insightful, considered, and plain-English explanation of economics is a must-read for anyone wanting to know just what makes our economy tick." - Sir John Key, former Prime Minister of New Zealand

BBQ Economics is a must-read for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of financial matters, making it a perfect addition to any personal or professional library. With Dann’s robust analysis, readers can confidently navigate the financial landscapes of both their own lives and the broader economy.