In Broken Money: Why Our Financial System is Failing Us and How We Can Make it Better, Lyn Alden takes readers on an in-depth exploration of the flaws in our current financial system. She explains how money has evolved, why it no longer serves as a reliable store of value, and how various economic forces have contributed to inflation, wealth inequality, and financial instability. For anyone interested in financial independence, investing, or understanding how money works, this book provides a thought-provoking analysis.
Who is Lyn Alden?
Lyn Alden is a respected investment strategist and financial analyst known for her expertise in macroeconomics and monetary policy. She has a background in engineering and finance, which gives her a unique perspective on economic systems. Her research is widely followed by investors seeking to understand market cycles, inflation, and asset allocation. Through her work, Alden has gained a reputation for clear, data-driven insights into the global financial system.
Lessons from Broken Money
- The Evolution of Money – Alden explains how money has transformed from commodity-based systems (gold and silver) to fiat currencies. She highlights how the transition to digital and central bank-controlled money has led to unintended consequences like inflation and financial instability.
- Inflation and Wealth Erosion – Broken Money delves into how central banks manipulate the money supply, leading to long-term inflation that erodes purchasing power. Alden emphasizes the importance of protecting wealth through investments that outpace inflation, such as stocks and hard assets.
- Bitcoin and Alternative Currencies – Alden presents Bitcoin as a potential solution to the shortcomings of traditional fiat systems. She discusses its potential role as “sound money” and how decentralized financial systems could provide greater financial stability.
- Debt and Government Spending – Broken Money highlights how excessive government debt and deficit spending weaken financial stability, increasing the risk of economic downturns and crises.
- Protecting Personal Wealth – Alden argues for diversifying investments into assets that can withstand currency devaluation, such as equities, real estate, and alternative stores of value.
Criticisms of Broken Money
While Broken Money offers a compelling analysis, some readers may find certain aspects lacking:
- Bias Toward Bitcoin – Some critics argue that Alden presents Bitcoin too favorably while downplaying its volatility and regulatory risks.
- Complexity for Beginners – The book is rich in macroeconomic concepts, which may be overwhelming for readers new to finance.
- Limited Practical Solutions – While Alden identifies systemic problems, some readers may feel that the book does not provide enough actionable solutions beyond investing in alternative assets.
Final Thoughts
Broken Money is a thought-provoking book that challenges readers to rethink how they view money, inflation, and financial stability. While it presents a strong case for alternative currencies and sound money principles, it may not be a perfect fit for those looking for beginner-friendly financial advice. However, for investors and those on the path to financial independence, Alden’s insights provide valuable knowledge on protecting wealth in an increasingly unstable financial system.
For those serious about long-term financial security, the lessons in Broken Money reinforce the importance of investing in strong assets, minimizing reliance on fiat money, and staying informed about economic trends. If you’re interested in personal finance, investing, or macroeconomic trends, this book is a must-read.
Winchell House 
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