
The Moral Dilemma of Interest
In this episode of Saturday Morning Muse, Andy explores the historical tension between the moral objections to charging interest and the economic necessity for credit. It traces the evolution of interest from ancient civilizations, through religious prohibitions, to modern acceptance, highlighting the innovative financial practices that emerged to reconcile these conflicting views. The discussion emphasizes the ongoing challenge of balancing the need for credit markets with concerns about exploitation and inequality.
The Birth of the Banknote
In this episode of the Saturday Morning Muse, Andy explores the introduction of the banknote by the Bank of England in 1694, which revolutionized modern finance by standardizing currency and formally establishing government currency backing. This historical narrative connects the evolution of banking practices to the currency we use today.
The Medici Bank
In this episode of Saturday Morning Muse, Andy explores the evolution of banking from the Knights Templar to the Medici family, highlighting key innovations, market opportunities, and lessons learned from history. It emphasizes the importance of transparency, political integration, and diversification in financial practices, while drawing parallels to modern banking and financial technology.
The Crusades, the Knights Templar, and Modern Banking
In this episode of Saturday Morning Muse, Andy explores the historical roots of banking, tracing its origins back to the Crusades and the role of the Knights Templar. He discusses how the need for secure wealth storage during the Crusades led to the development of early banking practices, including the issuance of letters of credit. The conversation also delves into the evolution of usury laws and their implications for modern banking, highlighting the ongoing relevance of these historical developments in today's financial landscape.
What is a Bank?
In this episode of Saturday Morning Muse, Andy Temte explores the evolution of currency from promissory notes to modern fiat money, emphasizing the role of trust in the value of currency. He introduces the concept of banking, its characteristics, and importance in the economy. Andy also touches on the Great Recession, highlighting the consequences of poor risk management in banking.