Andrus Istomin (Author of Bitcoin)

Andrus Istomin liked Andrus Istomin's blog post: Economic Warfare in the 21st Century: How Trade Became a Weapon "Weaponized Economy: The Hidden History of Trade Wars and Their Impact on Global Politics Have you ever wondered why the stock market reacts so dramatically to trade tensions between major powers? Or why sanctions have become the go-to response in..." Read more of this blog post »
Apr 22, 2025 10:18AM
Andrus Istomin recommended The BlackRock Empire: How a Financial Giant Controls the Global Economy to Joseph Flynn The BlackRock Empire: How a Financial Giant Controls the Global Economy by Michael Rodriguez	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Apr 22, 2025 10:15AM · like
Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing The BlackRock Empire: How a Financial Giant Controls the Global Economy by Michael Rodriguez	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
★★★★★ Enlightening Deep Dive into Finance's Hidden Powerhouse I've always considered myself reasonably well-informed about global finance, but this book completely altered my understanding of who truly controls the world economy. Rodriguez's meticulou ...more
Apr 22, 2025 10:14AM · like · see review
Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing George Soros: The Man the World Hates by Michael Rodriguez	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
A Fascinating Deep Dive into One of Today's Most Polarizing Figures I've read several books about influential financial figures, but Rodriguez's analysis of George Soros stands apart for its remarkable depth and objectivity. In "George Soros: The Man ...more
Apr 14, 2025 08:25AM · like · see review
Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing Weaponized Economy: The Hidden History of Trade Wars and Their Impact on Global Politics by Michael Rodriguez	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Rodriguez delivers an eye-opening analysis of how economics functions as a weapon in international relations. Reading "Weaponized Economy" completely transformed my understanding of global conflicts, revealing how trade wars and sanctions often prece ...more
Apr 06, 2025 03:36AM · like · see review
Andrus Istomin liked Andrus Istomin's blog post: The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World "The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World What if the biggest threat to the global economy isn't war, pandemic, or climate change—but rather a collapsing housing market on the other side of the world? China's real ..." Read more of this blog post »
Apr 06, 2025 03:27AM
Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World by Michael Rodriguez	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
A Masterful Analysis of China's Looming Economic Crisis ★★★★★ 5/5 Michael Rodriguez's "The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World" is an eye-opening examination of what might be the most significant economic risk facing th ...more
Apr 01, 2025 02:56AM · like · see review
Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing The PayPal Mafia: Silicon Valley's Secret Power Brokers by Michael Rodriguez	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
I've read numerous books on Silicon Valley and tech innovators, but Rodriguez's "The PayPal Mafia" stands head and shoulders above the rest. Rather than focusing on just one company or entrepreneur, this book masterfully weaves together the interconn ...more
Apr 01, 2025 02:48AM · like · see review
Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing The Trillion Dollar Shadow: Vanguard, John Bogle, and the New Financial Order by Michael Rodriguez	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
Apr 01, 2025 02:37AM · like
Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World by Michael Rodriguez	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
A Masterful Analysis of China's Looming Economic Crisis ★★★★★ 5/5 Michael Rodriguez's "The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World" is an eye-opening examination of what might be the most significant economic risk facing th ...more
Apr 01, 2025 02:24AM · like · see review

Andrus Istomin liked Andrus Istomin's blog post: Economic Warfare in the 21st Century: How Trade Became a Weapon

"Weaponized Economy: The Hidden History of Trade Wars and Their Impact on Global Politics Have you ever wondered why the stock market reacts so dramatically to trade tensions between major powers? Or why sanctions have become the go-to response in..." Read more of this blog post »

Andrus Istomin recommended The BlackRock Empire: How a Financial Giant Controls the Global Economy to Joseph Flynn

The BlackRock Empire by Michael Rodriguez

The BlackRock Empire: How a Financial Giant Controls the Global Economy
by Michael Rodriguez

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Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing

The BlackRock Empire: How a Financial Giant Controls the Global Economy
by Michael Rodriguez

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★★★★★ Enlightening Deep Dive into Finance's Hidden Powerhouse
I've always considered myself reasonably well-informed about global finance, but this book completely altered my understanding of who truly controls the world economy. Rodriguez's meticulou ★★★★★ Enlightening Deep Dive into Finance's Hidden Powerhouse
I've always considered myself reasonably well-informed about global finance, but this book completely altered my understanding of who truly controls the world economy. Rodriguez's meticulous investigation into BlackRock's rise and unprecedented influence reads like a financial thriller while delivering sobering truths about modern capitalism.
The author traces Larry Fink's journey from a catastrophic $100 million mistake to creating a financial empire that now manages more assets than most countries' GDPs. What's particularly fascinating is the exploration of the secretive "Aladdin" algorithm—a technological marvel developed in the 1990s that now analyzes over $20 trillion in assets daily. This isn't just software; it's essentially an artificial intelligence system making crucial decisions about global capital flows.
Rodriguez excels at revealing the intricate connections between BlackRock, Vanguard, and State Street—the "Big Three" that effectively control significant portions of supposedly competing corporations. The chapter on the "illusion of choice" was particularly eye-opening, demonstrating how companies like Coca-Cola and Pepsi, apparent market rivals, are substantially owned by the same financial entities.
The book's examination of BlackRock's role in the housing market crisis is both enlightening and disturbing. Learning how institutional investors systematically purchased hundreds of thousands of single-family homes, driving up prices and rents nationwide, helped me understand why homeownership feels increasingly unattainable for my generation.
What distinguishes this work from typical "conspiracy theory" literature is Rodriguez's balanced approach. He doesn't paint BlackRock as a simplistic villain but rather as the logical culmination of trends within late-stage capitalism—a system where algorithmic decision-making and concentration of power have become defining features.
My only criticism is that I would have appreciated more exploration of potential solutions or alternatives to this new financial order. However, this doesn't diminish the book's value as an essential exposé of how financial power operates in the 21st century.
This is mandatory reading for anyone concerned about economic inequality, democratic accountability, or simply understanding the hidden forces shaping our world. I found myself highlighting passages on nearly every page and discussing the revelations with friends for weeks afterward. ...more

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George Soros: The Man the World Hates
by Michael Rodriguez

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A Fascinating Deep Dive into One of Today's Most Polarizing Figures
I've read several books about influential financial figures, but Rodriguez's analysis of George Soros stands apart for its remarkable depth and objectivity. In "George Soros: The Man A Fascinating Deep Dive into One of Today's Most Polarizing Figures
I've read several books about influential financial figures, but Rodriguez's analysis of George Soros stands apart for its remarkable depth and objectivity. In "George Soros: The Man the World Hates," the author neither demonizes nor glorifies his subject, instead offering a meticulously researched examination of how one man's financial decisions have repeatedly altered the course of global economics and politics.
What impressed me most was the comprehensive exploration of Soros's famous trades, particularly the 1992 attack on the British pound. Rodriguez explains the mechanics behind these complex financial maneuvers in terms that even non-experts can appreciate, while also delving into the broader economic consequences. His breakdown of how Soros applied his theory of reflexivity to identify market vulnerabilities gave me genuine insights into high-level speculation that I haven't found in other financial literature.
The book is surprisingly balanced in addressing the controversies surrounding Soros. Rather than simply dismissing accusations as conspiracy theories or accepting them at face value, Rodriguez provides documented evidence about Soros's foundations and their activities across Eastern Europe and elsewhere, allowing readers to form their own conclusions. The sections on the Open Society Foundations' work in post-Soviet countries were particularly eye-opening.
I especially appreciated the psychological portrait Rodriguez constructs, tracing how Soros's experiences during the Holocaust shaped his worldview and approach to risk. The juxtaposition between his ruthless financial speculation and his philanthropic work creates a fascinating study in contradictions.
The final chapters examining how Soros created a new model of global influence—operating beyond traditional state structures yet wielding comparable power—left me with much to consider about the evolving nature of power in our interconnected world.
This isn't a quick read, but it rewards careful attention. If you're interested in global finance, political influence networks, or how individual actors can shape world events, I highly recommend this thoughtful and comprehensive analysis. ...more

Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing

Weaponized Economy: The Hidden History of Trade Wars and Their Impact on Global Politics
by Michael Rodriguez

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Rodriguez delivers an eye-opening analysis of how economics functions as a weapon in international relations. Reading "Weaponized Economy" completely transformed my understanding of global conflicts, revealing how trade wars and sanctions often prece ...more

Andrus Istomin liked Andrus Istomin's blog post: The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World

"The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World What if the biggest threat to the global economy isn't war, pandemic, or climate change—but rather a collapsing housing market on the other side of the world? China's real ..." Read more of this blog post »

Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing

The Chinese Real Estate Bubble by Michael Rodriguez

The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World
by Michael Rodriguez

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A Masterful Analysis of China's Looming Economic Crisis
★★★★★ 5/5
Michael Rodriguez's "The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World" is an eye-opening examination of what might be the most significant economic risk facing th A Masterful Analysis of China's Looming Economic Crisis
★★★★★ 5/5
Michael Rodriguez's "The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World" is an eye-opening examination of what might be the most significant economic risk facing the global economy today. As someone with an interest in international economics but limited specialized knowledge of China's property market, I found this book both accessible and deeply informative.
Rodriguez skillfully traces the origins of China's real estate bubble from Deng Xiaoping's market reforms through the massive construction boom of the early 2000s to the current crisis exemplified by defaulting developers like Evergrande. The book excels at explaining complex economic concepts in clear language without oversimplification.
What impressed me most was the author's multidimensional approach. Rather than focusing solely on financial metrics, Rodriguez explores how cultural factors (the importance of property ownership for marriage), demographic trends (aging population and declining birth rates), and governance structures (local government dependence on land sales) all contributed to creating this unprecedented bubble.
The sections on "ghost cities" and the unique presale financing model were particularly illuminating. I had heard these terms before but never fully understood their significance until reading Rodriguez's detailed explanation, supported by striking statistics and vivid examples.
The global implications chapter should be required reading for investors, policymakers, and anyone interested in international economics. Rodriguez persuasively argues that China's real estate problems will affect everything from commodity markets to supply chains to financial systems worldwide.
While the subject matter could be dry in less capable hands, the author maintains engagement through well-chosen anecdotes, clear explanations, and a measured tone that neither downplays risks nor veers into alarmism. The three potential scenarios presented in the conclusion provide a helpful framework for thinking about possible futures.
Whether you're an economics professional or simply someone wanting to understand a major force shaping our world, this book delivers valuable insights that will change how you view not just China's economy, but global economic interdependence as a whole. ...more

Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing

The PayPal Mafia: Silicon Valley's Secret Power Brokers
by Michael Rodriguez

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I've read numerous books on Silicon Valley and tech innovators, but Rodriguez's "The PayPal Mafia" stands head and shoulders above the rest. Rather than focusing on just one company or entrepreneur, this book masterfully weaves together the interconn I've read numerous books on Silicon Valley and tech innovators, but Rodriguez's "The PayPal Mafia" stands head and shoulders above the rest. Rather than focusing on just one company or entrepreneur, this book masterfully weaves together the interconnected stories of PayPal's founders and early employees, revealing how their relationships, shared philosophies, and strategic decisions created the most influential network in modern technology.
What impressed me most was Rodriguez's ability to balance detailed business analysis with compelling storytelling. The book opens with the famous Fortune magazine photoshoot that coined the term "PayPal Mafia," then takes readers on a fascinating journey through the company's formation, internal power struggles (the boardroom coup against Musk was particularly riveting), and eventual sale to eBay. But that's just the beginning.
The real strength of this book lies in Rodriguez's analysis of what happened after PayPal. His chapters on Palantir were eye-opening - I had no idea of the extent of its government contracts or its origins in anti-terrorism efforts. Similarly, the connections he draws between early PayPal cryptographic work and the later emergence of Bitcoin were thought-provoking without venturing into conspiracy theory territory.
I particularly appreciated the exploration of Peter Thiel's libertarian philosophy and how it influenced not just PayPal but an entire generation of tech entrepreneurs. The book doesn't shy away from examining the implications of this concentrated power and wealth, raising important questions about techno-utopianism versus democratic governance.
Rodriguez clearly did his homework, drawing on extensive research and insider interviews. His writing style makes complex financial and technological concepts accessible without oversimplification. I found myself highlighting passages on nearly every page.
If you want to understand the forces shaping our digital future, "The PayPal Mafia" is essential reading. It reveals how a small group of visionaries transformed from payment system innovators into kingmakers who now influence everything from social media and transportation to space exploration and politics. Highly recommended for anyone interested in business, technology, or the future of our increasingly digital society. ...more

Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing

The Trillion Dollar Shadow by Michael Rodriguez

The Trillion Dollar Shadow: Vanguard, John Bogle, and the New Financial Order
by Michael Rodriguez

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Andrus Istomin rated a book it was amazing

The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World
by Michael Rodriguez

Rate this book

Clear rating

1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars

A Masterful Analysis of China's Looming Economic Crisis
★★★★★ 5/5
Michael Rodriguez's "The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World" is an eye-opening examination of what might be the most significant economic risk facing th A Masterful Analysis of China's Looming Economic Crisis
★★★★★ 5/5
Michael Rodriguez's "The Chinese Real Estate Bubble: An Economy That Could Collapse the World" is an eye-opening examination of what might be the most significant economic risk facing the global economy today. As someone with an interest in international economics but limited specialized knowledge of China's property market, I found this book both accessible and deeply informative.
Rodriguez skillfully traces the origins of China's real estate bubble from Deng Xiaoping's market reforms through the massive construction boom of the early 2000s to the current crisis exemplified by defaulting developers like Evergrande. The book excels at explaining complex economic concepts in clear language without oversimplification.
What impressed me most was the author's multidimensional approach. Rather than focusing solely on financial metrics, Rodriguez explores how cultural factors (the importance of property ownership for marriage), demographic trends (aging population and declining birth rates), and governance structures (local government dependence on land sales) all contributed to creating this unprecedented bubble.
The sections on "ghost cities" and the unique presale financing model were particularly illuminating. I had heard these terms before but never fully understood their significance until reading Rodriguez's detailed explanation, supported by striking statistics and vivid examples.
The global implications chapter should be required reading for investors, policymakers, and anyone interested in international economics. Rodriguez persuasively argues that China's real estate problems will affect everything from commodity markets to supply chains to financial systems worldwide.
While the subject matter could be dry in less capable hands, the author maintains engagement through well-chosen anecdotes, clear explanations, and a measured tone that neither downplays risks nor veers into alarmism. The three potential scenarios presented in the conclusion provide a helpful framework for thinking about possible futures.
Whether you're an economics professional or simply someone wanting to understand a major force shaping our world, this book delivers valuable insights that will change how you view not just China's economy, but global economic interdependence as a whole. ...more

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	Bitcoin: Everything You Need to Know about Bitcoin, how to Mine Bitcoin, how to Exchange Bitcoin and how to Buy BTC. (Cryptocurrency Book 3) 3.38 avg rating — 13 ratings — 8 editions	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
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	Automatic Passive Income: How the Best Dividend Stocks Can Generate Passive Income for Wealth Building. Beginner's Guide to Investing by Andrus Istomin (Goodreads Author), Tracy Trust 3.25 avg rating — 4 ratings — 2 editions	Error rating book. Refresh and try again. Rate this book Clear rating 1 of 5 stars 2 of 5 stars 3 of 5 stars 4 of 5 stars 5 of 5 stars
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