"Perennial false narratives from the American left hold that our financial markets are under-regulated casinos and that they drain capital from the productive sectors of our economy. Norbert Michel and Jennifer Schulp effectively refute both notions. They show that despite excessive and often misguided regulation, the depth and sophistication of our public and private financial markets help drive American growth and contribute to our global economic leadership."- Sen. Pat Toomey, former ranking member of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs "It is unfortunate that a book explaining the history and criticality of robust financial markets to US prosperity is even necessary, but given recent progressive and populist attacks upon them, it is. Fortunately, this accomplished professional duo has risen to the moment to produce an excellent, well-researched, and easily readable work on the topic."-Rep. Jeb Hensarling, former chairman, House Financial Services Committee "This volume will be invaluable to anyone seeking to understand the current debates about future financial regulation.

"- Andrew Olmem, former deputy director, White House National Economic Council "This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand how America's financial markets have fueled our unmatched economic growth and prosperity. This highly readable book gives specific examples of financial regulations' unintended negative consequences and offers thoughtful core principles and recommendations for a better approach."- Michael Piwowar, former commissioner of the US Securities and Exchange Commission "In this valuable work, Michel and Schulp provide a necessary corrective to the anti-financial hysteria of many on the left and right today. By providing an overview of many aspects of historical and contemporary finance, this book will reward both financial novices and experts alike."- Judge Glock, director of research and senior fellow, Manhattan Institute, and contributing editor, City Journal.