David M. Smick

David M. Smick is a global financial strategist, author, and commentator who has advised both Wall Street firms and political leaders. He serves as CEO of Johnson Smick International, a financial market advisory firm, and is the founder and editor of The International Economy magazine. His most notable works include "The World Is Curved: Hidden Dangers to the Global Economy" (2008) and "The Great Equalizer: How Main Street Capitalism Can Create an Economy for Everyone" (2017). These books analyze global economic trends and propose solutions for financial market challenges. As a policy advisor, Smick has worked with leaders in both U.S. political parties and has testified before Congress on international economic issues. His articles have appeared in publications including The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and The Washington Post. Smick gained particular recognition for predicting the 2008 financial crisis in "The World Is Curved," which challenged Thomas Friedman's "flat world" thesis and highlighted the complexities and interconnected risks in the global financial system.

Readers view Smick as a pragmatic economic analyst who explains complex financial concepts through accessible writing. His books receive attention from both finance professionals and general readers interested in economic policy. What readers liked: - Clear explanations of complicated financial systems - Use of real-world examples to illustrate economic concepts - Non-partisan approach to economic solutions - Accurate predictions about market risks What readers disliked: - Some found his policy recommendations too broad - Later chapters in books can become repetitive - Limited coverage of emerging market economies - Writing style occasionally shifts between technical and casual Ratings across platforms: Amazon: "The World Is Curved" - 4.1/5 (87 reviews) "The Great Equalizer" - 4.3/5 (52 reviews) Goodreads: "The World Is Curved" - 3.8/5 (219 ratings) "The Great Equalizer" - 3.7/5 (48 ratings) One reviewer noted: "Smick presents complex economic ideas without oversimplifying or losing crucial details." Another commented: "Good analysis but needed more concrete solutions."

The World Is Curved: Hidden Dangers to the Global Economy (2008) An analysis of global financial markets that examines interconnected risks and challenges the notion of a "flat" world economy.

The Great Equalizer: How Main Street Capitalism Can Create an Economy for Everyone (2017) An examination of economic inequality that explores how market-driven solutions could help create broader economic opportunities.

Joseph Stiglitz Nobel laureate economist who writes about globalization, inequality, and market failures. His analysis of financial markets and criticism of international institutions align with Smick's focus on systemic economic risks.

Nouriel Roubini Known for predicting the 2008 financial crisis and analyzing global economic threats. His work focuses on financial crises, market behavior, and international economic systems.

Raghuram Rajan Former IMF chief economist who writes about hidden risks in the global financial system. His analysis of banking systems and financial markets parallels Smick's examination of economic dangers.

Mohamed El-Erian Financial markets expert who writes about global economic trends and policy implications. His work examines the intersection of markets, policy, and economic growth across developed and emerging economies.

Martin Wolf Financial Times chief economics commentator who analyzes global economic systems and their failures. His work covers international finance, monetary policy, and the challenges of globalization.