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Customer Quote by Michael Lewis

“The markets in the long run are no doubt driven by fundamental economic laws—if the United States runs a persistent trade deficit, the dollar will eventually plummet—but in the short run money flows less rationally. Fear and, to a lesser extent, greed are what make money move.” quote by Michael Lewis
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““The markets in the long run are no doubt driven by fundamental economic laws—if the United States runs a persistent trade deficit, the dollar will eventually plummet—but in the short run money flows less rationally. Fear and, to a lesser extent, greed are what make money move.””

Michael Lewis

About This Quote

Source Book: Flash Boys by Michael Lewis, 2014

Explains that short‑term market movements are driven more by emotion—fear and greed—than by fundamental economic principles.

In simple terms: Short‑term markets are swayed by emotion, not just fundamentals.

Key Takeaway

Recognize emotional drivers in financial decisions.

Themes

finance behavioral economics psychology risk

Mood

cautious analytical

Type

financial educational

When to use this quote

  • trading strategies
  • investment planning
  • risk management
  • policy analysis

Key Concepts

emotional bias market dynamics short‑term vs long‑term

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can investors mitigate fear‑driven decisions?
  • What safeguards reduce greed‑induced market distortions?
A Different Perspective

Emotional influences can cause irrational bubbles and crashes, undermining rational analysis.

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