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Money Quote by David Frum

“The financial and economic consequences of the stoppage of payments by the largest purchaser of goods and services on planet Earth could not be calculated, could barely even be imagined. It would be a nuclear event—and Republican Party leaders were willing to threaten it not only once, but a…” quote by David Frum
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““The financial and economic consequences of the stoppage of payments by the largest purchaser of goods and services on planet Earth could not be calculated, could barely even be imagined. It would be a nuclear event—and Republican Party leaders were willing to threaten it not only once, but a second time again in 2013.””

David Frum

About This Quote

Source Opinion Column: The Wall Street Journal, 2013

A massive default by the world’s biggest buyer would cause catastrophic economic fallout, comparable to a nuclear event, yet some leaders threaten it repeatedly.

In simple terms: Default would cause huge economic damage.

Key Takeaway

Avoid reckless fiscal threats.

Themes

economics politics risk management

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

policy financial

When to use this quote

  • government budgeting
  • corporate procurement
  • financial regulation
  • policy debates

Key Concepts

default risk global supply chain political brinkmanship

Questions to Reflect On

  • What safeguards prevent such a crisis?
  • How do political threats affect market stability?
A Different Perspective

May exaggerate for rhetorical effect.

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