The Ascent of Money - PBS Documentary

PBS documentaries, for the most part, are a roll of the dice. However, I ran across the program “The Ascent of Money” while browsing PBS’ list of programs.

I clicked on the link and it turned out to be a fairly recent program (Jan-2009) that offers the option to watch the entire show online.

Fore the most part, “The Ascent of Money” is a fairly accurate summation of money, banking, markets and the current meltdown. One thing that I particularly enjoyed was how it showed the evolution of the housing market in the US, the role of Freddie Mac / Fannie, and ongoing housing problems.

It gave a quick node to Soros betting against the Pound, to Long Term Capital Management, Enron and its after effects.

It also broaches the subject of bonds, options, and derivatives. I was surprised at the concise and succinct way that it explained derivatives without loosing the audience.

It is no “Commanding Heights” but it is a well rounded program and is worth watching. “The Ascent of Money” is a definite addition to the Feral Capitalist home library.

-- Lache, The Feral Capitalist