The Economist: Financial Innovation - Playing with Fire

The Penguin Economist Special reports delve into the most pressing economic issues of the day: from national and global economies, to the impact of trade, industry and jobs. Written to be read on a long commute or in your lunch hour - be better informed in under an hour. Is financial innovation good or bad?Did it cause the financial crisis of 2007/2008?Are the current financial systems working for a stable global economy?Andrew Palmer answers these questions in his special report, but urges that it's more that just a debate on whether financial innovation does or doesn't work.
In fact, he claims, it is almost impossible to draw these distinctions. Using a variety of examples - from social bonds to securitisations risks - he highlights the weaknesses in innovative strategies, revealing how some innovation is doomed to failure. The consequences of innovation are now so crucial and so scrutinised - it is essential reading for anyone in the business world. Sections include:Playing with fireThe ferment of financeThe little guyFrom vanilla to rocky roadThe fast and furiousOf plumbing and promisesOn the side of the angelsSafety first