This show is made possible by you!  To become a sustaining member go to LauraFlanders.org/donate  Thank you for your continued support!In this episode, I dive deep into discussions on the state of the banking system and the economy, touching on topics such as the stress in the banking system, the implications of the recent Silicon Valley Bank situation, and the challenges faced by central banks in reducing inflation. We also explore the rise of nationalism in politics and its impact on policy decisions, the increasing influence of money in the political landscape, and the potential consequences of a plutocratic society. Additionally, we delve into the role of international institutions like the IMF and the World Bank in addressing global issues and the challenges they face in democratizing decision-making. In the second part of the episode, we explore the challenges facing modern society, including low birth rates, wage stagnation, and labor market issues. We discuss the potential influence of Europe's more cooperative economic models, as well as the importance of rational argument and finding alternative solutions to current problems. Join me for this fascinating and insightful conversation with my sister and guest, Stephanie Flanders, head of economics and government at Bloomberg. It's an episode you won't want to miss!Full Show Notes are located HERE.  They include related episodes, articles, and more to dive deeper.Music In the Middle:  “Saints and Sinners” by Bluey of Incognito from his solo album Life Between the Notes released on Shanachie Records. Chapters:(0:00:00) - Latest stress in the banking system. Internationalism.  (0:05:32) - Economic Statecraft & Globalization.  Subsidy wars?  IMF & China.(0:8:20) - What happens to Democracy when so much money is so much and so concentrated?  Heading to a Plutocracy?(0:12:15) - Music Break(0014:40) Silicon Valley Bank, what happened?  State of the banking system.  Alternatives to the banking system.(00:17:24) - What can be done to create better checks and balances.  (00:19:50) - How profit margins factor from EU to US.  Birth Rates and the Economy. (0:24:00) - What is the story the future will tell about now?(00:25:40)  - Laura's closing commentary