Today marks the launch of our 2025 fundraising campaign! If you enjoy our comprehensive reporting, insightful analysis, daily curated links, engaging comments, and adorable animal pictures, please consider visiting the Tip Jar to discover various ways to support us through checks, debit, or credit cards. Let’s kick off this fundraiser with momentum! Every contribution empowers us to be more resilient and impactful in 2026!
Your support is essential to us. Over the past year, we’ve received a wave of encouragement from readers, proving the value you place on our incisive commentary, community engagement, and mental health breaks with cat videos. If you find yourself in a fortunate position, please be generous to help balance out those who may be facing tighter finances. You can also contribute by sharing our posts with friends and colleagues, engaging in discussions in the comments, and sending us potential links to explore.
As is tradition, we utilize this initial post to reflect on the past and gaze into the future. However, understanding our current state and potential directions is becoming increasingly complex. Even prior to the chaos incited by Trump, as well as the disruptive actions taken by short-sighted oligarchs and an array of elites who seem to embody the Dunning-Kruger effect, our once stable systems were beginning to falter under their sheer weight. This challenge is compounded by the overarching crisis of climate change and resource depletion.
From an economic standpoint, challenges have intensified since the global financial crisis. In our work, we highlighted how the upheaval signaled an end to neoliberalism, suggesting that a breakdown of existing paradigms was the most probable outcome. Attempts to patch the old order have only exacerbated conditions, with officials and elites pulling levers that have ceased to function properly.
In 2021, we described the current situation as one of early-stage collapse. By 2024, we noted how siloed thinking—such as separating domestic and foreign policy—was disintegrating. Increasingly, energy is being channeled into systems already strained, heightening the likelihood of disorder. For instance, the refusal of Western nations to negotiate a peace that preserves their honor in Ukraine has not only triggered financial and political crises in countries like France and the UK but has also led citizens to question the rationale of sacrificing their social safety nets for geopolitical maneuvers. How many in the UK and EU truly understand the steep costs they’ve incurred due to sanctions on Russia, reflected in soaring energy prices and job losses?
Despite this grim trajectory, the previous year saw even more wheels come off the metaphorical bus. Trump’s chaotic influence contributes significantly to this turmoil. Many of his actions, including tax cuts, attacks on social programs, and positions on international matters, signify a continuation of policies rather than a complete overhaul. Trump is a notably aggressive figure, yet he is accompanied by a coalition of anarcho-libertarians, including figures like Musk and various crypto advocates, along with others seeking to promote a surveillance state and manage foreign conflicts. While some critiques of the current system held by Trump and his allies may have merit, their proposed remedies often lean towards destructive tactics without a solid reconstruction plan.
Trump’s counter-revolution, marked by a blatant disregard for established norms or laws, reveals a troubling lack of strategy. His chaotic methods have even led to remarks reminiscent of Sun Tzu’s ideas: relying heavily on tactics without a cohesive strategy leads to eventual defeat.
His actions have intensified the pressures of late-stage capitalism, igniting tariff disputes across many nations and alienating former allies like Canada and India. Many businesses find themselves caught in the crossfire as Trump’s inconsistent policies keep shifting, creating uncertainty in negotiations, particularly related to Ukraine. The U.S. has also made vague threats against various nations, creating a façade of strength amid its imperial decline.
Moreover, dire consequences were in motion even before Trump’s arrival, such as Europe’s costly decision to sever its ties with inexpensive Russian gas and the unyielding hardships faced by Palestinians at the hands of Zionist policies.
The domestic landscape is similarly bleak, highlighted by Trump’s cuts to critical programs like Medicare and Medicaid and abuses by agencies such as ICE. His disdain for established education and scientific programs has dealt severe blows to U.S. academic standing. The influence on free speech rights, attempts to seize control of local policing, and heavy-handed actions targeting political adversaries further illustrate his overarching ambitions.
However, we must not ignore the notion of profit driving Trump’s support. His followers, whether from Project 2025, MAGA, or sectors like crypto and the arms industry, see potential gains stemming from a Trump win.
Trump’s relentless pursuit of media attention often overshadows other indicators of American decline, such as rising youth mortality rates, the increasing number of economically burdened citizens, and the deterioration of infrastructure amidst bureaucratic challenges.
China, too, faces its own hurdles despite being in a stronger position than the U.S., grappling with overcapacity and a deflationary environment. As seen in earlier years, Chinese leaders are implementing changes to curb destructive competition and rationalize key industries, like electric vehicle manufacturing. Yet, reversing deflation remains challenging, and with wavering foreign markets, the prognosis appears uncertain.
What does the upcoming year hold? It seems likely that Israel will once again confront Iran, potentially drawing the U.S. deeper into the fray, with both parties possibly unwilling to yield as they have in the past. Simultaneously, it remains to be seen how the U.S. will manage campaigns in Venezuela and against Mexican gangs while facing renewed demands from potential conflicts with Iran.
France and the UK are on the brink of economic and political upheaval, which may not resonate strongly in other European capitals. The duration of the Ukraine conflict hinges on the resilience of its military and government, with potential repercussions extending into 2026.
In an ironic twist, Trump’s efforts to stifle a multipolar world have only served to strengthen it further. While we regard BRICS as somewhat inflated in significance, the movement towards forging alliances independent of Western influence is gaining momentum. Revoking visas for Palestinian representatives serves dual purposes: bolstering support for Israel while simultaneously hindering the rise of multipolarity.
Domestically, the U.S. may be closer to a crisis point than many might envision. Trump’s approval ratings are on the decline, and the economy is teetering on the edge of stagflation. The looming threat of the AI bubble bursting could unravel financial stability dependent on high-income spending, further plunging asset prices amidst struggles in Europe.
The ongoing power plays, from pervasive ICE violations of basic rights to coercing universities, continue to dismantle obstacles to Trump’s control. Should his policies falter or backfire, resulting backlash could extend to broad segments of the American populace.
Amidst this frantic whirlwind, essential issues like climate change receive minimal coverage. Unfortunately, this may stem from a consensus among certain elites resigning themselves to the challenges posed by this crisis.
So what actions can we take in light of these daunting realities?
Many of you visit this site regularly, navigating an increasingly convoluted information landscape to uncover the truth amid swirling narratives. The ongoing gaslighting—from shifting perceptions of Zelensky to the inflated claims surrounding the war on drugs—illustrates our dire need for clarity. Those aware of the situation understand we’ve largely been abandoned to navigate these challenges on our own.
As numerous readers have remarked, engaging with Naked Capitalism often feels like gaining a glimpse of tomorrow’s news today. While we take pride in our record of early and accurate insights, this endeavor thrives on community support. Our diverse and knowledgeable commentariat tirelessly debates critical issues, ranging from labor struggles within immigration debates to shifting political dynamics within the EU.
Your active engagement and generous contributions have helped us not only persevere after Lambert’s departure but also to expand our roster with notable new writers like Haig Hovaness and Nat Wilson Turner. Our offerings, including Coffee Break segments and Sunday movie features from semper loquitur, have significantly enriched our platform.
If you appreciate our in-depth analysis and reporting, we invite you to visit the Tip Jar and contribute generously.
Naked Capitalism occupies a unique position, providing both incisive commentary and in-depth analytical perspectives. Here are just a few highlights from our regular contributors:
Conor Gallagher illuminates the U.S. power dynamics within the Zangezur Corridor, highlights bipartisan authoritarianism, and emphasizes the criminalization of homelessness;
Nick Corbishley analyzes peak Palantir, the inherent dangers of the digital Euro, and U.S. arms smuggling exacerbating violence south of the border;
KLG addresses the American scientific crisis and examines MAHA influencers chasing immortality;
Nat Wilson Turner critiques how Gaza shapes the disintegration of traditional U.S. party alliances and delves into the political implications of AI;
Haig Hovaness investigates issues like bribery as a weapon in warfare and politics and critiques Trump’s lavish projects;
Curro Jimenez shares on-the-ground reports from BRICS 2025 and explores the U.S. revitalized interest in Latin America as a realm of influence;
I provide commentary on the Ukraine crisis, unpacking the implications of agreements and economic dynamics linked to “buy now, pay later” schemes.
Additionally, semper loquitur presents a Sunday morning movie feature covering a spectrum from classics to foreign films.
Michael Hudson graces us with exclusive insights on Trump’s impact on U.S. agriculture and the country’s longstanding strategies regarding Iran. Tom Neuburger remains vigilant regarding the persistent threats posed by climate change and the political instability within the U.S. Our contributors like Satyajit Das and Rob Urie delve into finance and cultural commentary, while Hubert Horan and George Georgiou examine vital economic issues facing the UK and EU.
We aim to do more and to do it even better. Imagine the impact we could have with greater resources!
Please consider supporting our efforts. Any contribution—big or small—is invaluable, whether you can spare $5, $50, or even $5,000, through our Tip Jar. Every dime helps us reach our fundraising goals. If you’re able, please give generously on behalf of our loyal readers who may be facing financial burdens.
If a financial contribution isn’t possible, you can still play a vital role! We rely increasingly on all of you to champion Naked Capitalism and expand our readership. Help us by sharing articles, links, and Coffee Breaks with friends, family, and colleagues who may find them enlightening. Engage in discussions on social media platforms, submit thoughtful comments, or even share endearing animal pictures.
In our accompanying kickoff post, we outline how your donations will be utilized and update our progress towards financial goals. Our first milestone is set at $25,000, dedicated to essential digital infrastructure. It may not sound glamorous, but these foundational aspects keep our platform running smoothly. Special thanks to our tech guru, Dave, for maintaining our systems so effectively.
We particularly appreciate checks, as they eliminate processing fees! Just bear with us regarding any delays with USPS 😊.
Checks can be made out to “Aurora Advisors Incorporated” and sent to:
Aurora Advisors Incorporated
PO Box 110105
Brooklyn NY 11211-0105
Please notify us by email if you send a check, so we can include your contribution in our total fundraising tally. Send an email with the subject line “Check is in the mail,” listing the amount, to yves-at-nakedcapitalism-dot-com.
You can also use the Tip Jar for credit or debit card donations through Clover or PayPal. PayPal allows you to pay with a regular credit or debit card, and the next best fee arrangement is through debit cards via our merchant processor, Clover. For those utilizing Wise, please email yves-at-nakedcapitalism-dot-com with “Wise” in the subject line for details.
We must also address that, as much as we wish to personally thank each donor, our limited capacity means we would have to scale back on content generation to do so. We hope you can forgive us for prioritizing the continuous production of the content you value.
We sincerely hope you will support our work, whether through contributions large or small. Together, we have built a vibrant community, and with your ongoing support, we aspire to enhance it even further in the coming year.
