Vampire Squid Watch: 4 Scary Economic Trends for 2012

Top economic thinkers explain why 2012 will be a year of continued – and escalating – predation by financiers. 

By Lynn Parramore, AlterNet
Posted on December 29, 2011, Printed on January 2, 2012

Having been seen to twitch – ever so slightly – in 2011 as global protests erupted, the vampire squid is stirring in its evil lair. Reports of sucking noises and new tentacles sprouting in every direction tell us that the global financial monster is poised to steal yet more wealth and resources from the public in the coming year. Top economic thinkers have shared their forecasts with AlterNet, and the focus is clear: 2012 will be a year of continued – and escalating – predation by financiers. Their influence over political, financial, and economic activity is likely to grow – along with potential for harm.