Welcome to our curated list of the 20 best books about wall street corruption. If you’re looking for a gripping read that delves into the scandals, deceit, and manipulation that have plagued the financial world, you’ve come to the right place. These books provide an inside look at the darker side of Wall Street, offering a fascinating exploration of greed, power, and the devastating impact of corruption. Whether you’re an avid reader or simply interested in the topic, these books on wall street corruption are sure to captivate and inform.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Books About Wall Street Corruption
- 2 The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine
- 3 Flash Boys: A Wall Street Revolt
- 4 Black Edge: Inside Information, Dirty Money, and the Quest to Bring Down the Most Wanted Man on Wall Street
- 5 The Spider Network: The Wild Story of a Math Genius, a Gang of Backstabbing Bankers, and One of the Greatest Scams in Financial History
- 6 The Buy Side: A Wall Street Trader’s Tale of Spectacular Excess
- 7 The Billion Dollar Whale: The Man Who Fooled Wall Street, Hollywood, and the World
- 8 The Wolf of Wall Street
- 9 Too Big to Fail: The Inside Story of How Wall Street and Washington Fought to Save the Financial System—and Themselves
- 10 The Unlikely Disciple: A Sinner’s Semester at America’s Holiest University
- 11 The End of Wall Street
- 12 The Myth of the Rational Market: A History of Risk, Reward, and Delusion on Wall Street
- 13 The House of Morgan: An American Banking Dynasty and the Rise of Modern Finance
- 14 The Predators’ Ball: The Inside Story of Drexel Burnham and the Rise of the Junk Bond Raiders
- 15 The Greatest Trade Ever: The Behind-the-Scenes Story of How John Paulson Defied Wall Street and Made Financial History
- 16 The Money Culture
- 17 The Partnership: The Making of Goldman Sachs
- 18 The Age of Turbulence: Adventures in a New World
- 19 The Big Short
- 20 Flash Boys
- 21 Dark Pools
- 22 Conclusion
- 23
20 Best Books About Wall Street Corruption
The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine
by Michael Lewis
The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine by Michael Lewis is a gripping book on Wall Street corruption that delves into the events leading up to the 2008 financial crisis. Lewis provides a detailed account of the individuals who foresaw the impending economic collapse and bet against the subprime mortgage market, ultimately profiting from the chaos that ensued. Through compelling storytelling and in-depth analysis, the author exposes the corruption on Wall Street that led to the catastrophic meltdown, shedding light on the greed, recklessness, and lack of oversight that permeated the financial industry. This eye-opening book about Wall Street corruption offers a critical look at the inner workings of the financial world and raises important questions about ethics, accountability, and the systemic issues that continue to plague the global economy.
Flash Boys: A Wall Street Revolt
by Michael Lewis
Flash Boys: A Wall Street Revolt by Michael Lewis is a gripping exposé on the hidden world of high-frequency trading and the corruption that plagues Wall Street. Lewis delves into the world of finance, uncovering the deceitful practices that have become commonplace in the industry. The book follows the story of a group of Wall Street insiders who band together to challenge the unfair advantages and manipulation tactics used by high-frequency traders. Through their journey, readers are given a behind-the-scenes look at the dark underbelly of the financial markets and the impact it has on everyday investors. Lewis’s compelling narrative sheds light on the complexities of modern finance and the need for transparency and fairness in the industry. If you’re looking for a thought-provoking and eye-opening book about Wall Street corruption, Flash Boys is a must-read.
Black Edge: Inside Information, Dirty Money, and the Quest to Bring Down the Most Wanted Man on Wall Street
by Sheelah Kolhatkar
Black Edge: Inside Information, Dirty Money, and the Quest to Bring Down the Most Wanted Man on Wall Street by Sheelah Kolhatkar is a gripping book that delves into the world of insider trading and the relentless pursuit of justice. The book provides a detailed and fascinating account of the rise and fall of one of the most notorious figures in finance, showcasing the cutthroat culture of Wall Street and the lengths some are willing to go to in pursuit of wealth and power. With meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Kolhatkar shines a light on the dark underbelly of the financial world, exposing the web of deceit, corruption, and greed that ultimately led to a high-profile criminal investigation. Black Edge is a riveting and eye-opening read that offers a deep dive into the world of financial crime and the tireless efforts to hold those responsible accountable.
The Spider Network: The Wild Story of a Math Genius, a Gang of Backstabbing Bankers, and One of the Greatest Scams in Financial History
by David Enrich
The Spider Network by David Enrich is a captivating book about a real-life financial scandal that rocked the world. It delves into the story of a math genius who masterminded one of the greatest scams in financial history, involving a group of backstabbing bankers. The book provides a fascinating insight into the world of high finance and the intricate web of deception that led to the downfall of one of the most powerful players on Wall Street. Enrich’s meticulous research and compelling storytelling bring to life the drama and intrigue of this unprecedented financial fraud. The Spider Network is a must-read for anyone interested in the inner workings of the financial industry and the dark side of Wall Street corruption.
The Buy Side: A Wall Street Trader’s Tale of Spectacular Excess
by Turney Duff
The Buy Side: A Wall Street Trader’s Tale of Spectacular Excess by Turney Duff is a captivating memoir that provides an insider’s look into the world of high finance and the culture of excess that dominated Wall Street during the 2000s. Duff’s firsthand account of his rise and fall as a top trader at some of the most prestigious firms offers a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the world of greed, addiction, and moral bankruptcy that characterized the industry. This compelling narrative sheds light on the dark underbelly of the financial world, exposing the rampant corruption and unethical practices that were prevalent during this era. The Buy Side is a gripping and eye-opening read that will leave readers both fascinated and appalled by the culture of excess and the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition on Wall Street.
The Billion Dollar Whale: The Man Who Fooled Wall Street, Hollywood, and the World
by Tom Wright and Bradley Hope
The Billion Dollar Whale: The Man Who Fooled Wall Street, Hollywood, and the World by Tom Wright and Bradley Hope is a captivating exposé on the infamous financial scandal that rocked the world. This gripping book delves into the true story of Jho Low, a Malaysian con artist who masterminded one of the most audacious financial schemes in history. The authors provide a detailed account of how Low deceived Wall Street, Hollywood, and global financial institutions to orchestrate a multibillion-dollar embezzlement. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Wright and Hope shed light on the intricate web of corruption, greed, and deception that permeated the highest echelons of power. The Billion Dollar Whale is a riveting and eye-opening read that unveils the shocking reality of modern-day financial corruption.
The Wolf of Wall Street
by Jordan Belfort
The Wolf of Wall Street by Jordan Belfort is a gripping memoir that delves into the world of finance, greed, and excess. Belfort takes readers on a wild ride through his rise to power on Wall Street, detailing the cutthroat nature of the industry and the corruption that runs rampant. As he climbs the ranks, Belfort becomes consumed by the lavish lifestyle that comes with his success, leading to a downward spiral of drugs, wealth, and deceit. The book offers a firsthand account of the dark underbelly of the financial world, shedding light on the unethical practices that plague Wall Street. Belfort’s story is a cautionary tale that exposes the consequences of succumbing to the allure of wealth and power. This book on wall street corruption is a raw and unapologetic look at the destructive forces at play in the world of high finance.
Too Big to Fail: The Inside Story of How Wall Street and Washington Fought to Save the Financial System—and Themselves
by Andrew Ross Sorkin
Too Big to Fail: The Inside Story of How Wall Street and Washington Fought to Save the Financial System—and Themselves by Andrew Ross Sorkin is a gripping account of the 2008 financial crisis and the efforts to prevent a total collapse of the financial system. Sorkin takes readers behind the scenes of the high-stakes negotiations, power struggles, and frantic decision-making that took place among Wall Street executives, government officials, and regulators. The book offers a detailed and captivating insight into the world of high finance and the interconnected relationships between Wall Street and Washington. With meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Sorkin provides a comprehensive look at the events that led to the crisis and the controversial actions taken to avert disaster. This book on Wall Street corruption is a compelling and eye-opening read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of the financial world.
The Unlikely Disciple: A Sinner’s Semester at America’s Holiest University
by Kevin Roose
The Unlikely Disciple: A Sinner’s Semester at America’s Holiest University by Kevin Roose is a captivating exploration of the author’s experience as a secular student at Liberty University, a conservative Christian college. As he immerses himself in the campus culture, Roose grapples with his own preconceptions and stereotypes, and ultimately gains a deeper understanding of faith and community. Through humorous and insightful anecdotes, the book offers a thought-provoking examination of the intersection between religion and secularism in America. With its engaging narrative and introspective commentary, The Unlikely Disciple is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring different perspectives and bridging cultural divides.
The End of Wall Street
by Roger Lowenstein
The End of Wall Street by Roger Lowenstein is a gripping book on the downfall of the financial industry. Lowenstein delves into the intricate web of greed, corruption, and mismanagement that led to the 2008 financial crisis. Through detailed analysis and compelling storytelling, he exposes the reckless behavior of key players on Wall Street and the catastrophic consequences for the global economy. Lowenstein’s thorough research and insightful commentary make this book about Wall Street corruption a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of the financial world and the devastating impact of unchecked power. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for unraveling complex financial concepts, Lowenstein provides a compelling account of the events that led to the end of Wall Street as we knew it.
The Myth of the Rational Market: A History of Risk, Reward, and Delusion on Wall Street
by Justin Fox
The Myth of the Rational Market by Justin Fox is a captivating book on Wall Street corruption. Fox delves into the history of the financial markets and explores the corruption and delusions that have plagued Wall Street for decades. He discusses how the belief in the rationality of the market has led to risky behavior and financial crises. Through engaging storytelling and thorough research, Fox challenges the conventional wisdom that markets are always efficient and rational. He exposes the corruption and greed that have influenced investment decisions and shaped the financial landscape. This thought-provoking book about Wall Street corruption offers valuable insights into the complexities of the market and the human behavior that drives it. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just interested in the workings of Wall Street, this book is a must-read.
The House of Morgan: An American Banking Dynasty and the Rise of Modern Finance
by Ron Chernow
The House of Morgan: An American Banking Dynasty and the Rise of Modern Finance by Ron Chernow is a captivating exploration of the influential Morgan banking family and their impact on the development of modern finance. Chernow delves into the history of the family dynasty, from its origins to its pivotal role in shaping the financial industry. The book provides a fascinating look at the rise of J.P. Morgan and the bank’s involvement in major events such as the Great Depression, World War I, and the formation of the Federal Reserve. With meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Chernow sheds light on the complexities of the banking world and the power struggles within it. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of banking, finance, and the complexities of the financial industry.
The Predators’ Ball: The Inside Story of Drexel Burnham and the Rise of the Junk Bond Raiders
by Connie Bruck
The Predators’ Ball: The Inside Story of Drexel Burnham and the Rise of the Junk Bond Raiders by Connie Bruck is a gripping book on Wall Street corruption. Bruck provides a detailed account of the rise and fall of Drexel Burnham Lambert, a powerhouse investment bank that played a significant role in the corruption of Wall Street during the 1980s. The book delves into the world of junk bond traders, corporate raiders, and the controversial figure of Michael Milken, who was at the center of the corruption on Wall Street. Bruck’s captivating storytelling and meticulous research shed light on the unethical and often illegal practices that fueled the financial boom of the era. The Predators’ Ball is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the darker side of the financial world and the consequences of unchecked Wall Street corruption.
The Greatest Trade Ever: The Behind-the-Scenes Story of How John Paulson Defied Wall Street and Made Financial History
by Gregory Zuckerman
The Greatest Trade Ever: The Behind-the-Scenes Story of How John Paulson Defied Wall Street and Made Financial History by Gregory Zuckerman is a gripping book about Wall Street corruption. This compelling narrative details the incredible true story of John Paulson, an investor who saw the impending housing market crash and bet against it, making billions in the process.
Zuckerman takes readers behind the scenes, offering a fascinating look at the high-stakes world of finance and the individuals who played a pivotal role in the financial crisis. The book provides a captivating account of Paulson’s audacious trade and the impact it had on Wall Street and the global economy. With meticulous research and engaging storytelling, Zuckerman delivers a powerful and eye-opening book on Wall Street corruption that sheds light on the inner workings of the financial industry.
The Money Culture
by Michael Lewis
The Money Culture by Michael Lewis provides a captivating exploration of the world of finance and the culture of Wall Street. Lewis takes readers on a journey through the highs and lows of the financial industry, offering a revealing look at the greed, excess, and corruption that have come to define this world. Through a series of compelling essays and anecdotes, he delves into the inner workings of Wall Street, shedding light on the questionable practices and unethical behavior that have shaped the industry. With his signature wit and insight, Lewis offers a thought-provoking critique of the money culture, exposing the darker side of finance and the impact it has on society at large. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the complexities and controversies surrounding the financial world.
The Partnership: The Making of Goldman Sachs
by Charles D. Ellis
The Partnership: The Making of Goldman Sachs by Charles D. Ellis is an insightful and captivating book about the evolution of one of the most powerful and controversial financial institutions in the world. Ellis delves into the fascinating history of Goldman Sachs, from its humble beginnings to its rise as a dominant force on Wall Street. The book provides a comprehensive look at the inner workings of the firm and the individuals who shaped its success. Ellis also explores the challenges and controversies that have surrounded Goldman Sachs, making it an intriguing read for anyone interested in the world of finance and the complexities of corporate power. This book offers a compelling and in-depth exploration of the dynamics and politics of the financial world, making it a must-read for anyone curious about the inner workings of the financial industry.
The Age of Turbulence: Adventures in a New World
by Alan Greenspan
The Age of Turbulence: Adventures in a New World by Alan Greenspan is a captivating memoir that offers a unique perspective on the global economy. As the former chairman of the Federal Reserve, Greenspan provides an insider’s look at the inner workings of the financial world, offering insights on economic policy, global markets, and the challenges of navigating through turbulent times. The book delves into the complexities of monetary policy, the impact of globalization, and the interconnectedness of the global economy. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of economic principles, Greenspan paints a vivid picture of the forces that shape our world. If you’re interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the financial world and the factors that drive economic turbulence, this book is a must-read.
The Big Short
by Michael Lewis
The Big Short by Michael Lewis is a gripping non-fiction book about the financial crisis of 2007-2008. It follows the stories of a group of financial experts who saw the impending collapse of the housing market and bet against the risky mortgage-backed securities. The book provides a fascinating insight into the world of high finance and the culture of greed and corruption that led to the economic meltdown. With a combination of compelling storytelling and in-depth research, Lewis exposes the dark underbelly of the financial industry, shedding light on the complexity and deceit that ultimately led to the downfall of Wall Street. This eye-opening book on Wall Street corruption is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of the financial crisis and the individuals who profited from the chaos.
Flash Boys
by Michael Lewis
Flash Boys by Michael Lewis is a riveting exposé on the world of high-frequency trading and the corruption that plagues Wall Street. Lewis takes readers on a journey through the dark underbelly of the financial markets, revealing how a group of Wall Street outsiders uncovered the unfair advantage that high-frequency traders have over regular investors. Through the eyes of these mavericks, Lewis paints a compelling picture of the greed and deceit that permeates the industry, ultimately leading to a groundbreaking investigation that exposes the truth behind the rigged system. With meticulous research and captivating storytelling, Flash Boys sheds light on the complex and shady practices that have come to define the world of finance. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the inner workings of Wall Street and the pervasive corruption that has become synonymous with the industry.
Dark Pools
by Scott Patterson
Dark Pools by Scott Patterson is a riveting book that delves into the intricate world of high-frequency trading and the rise of secretive trading venues known as dark pools. This eye-opening book explores the hidden corners of the financial markets and sheds light on the questionable practices and potential manipulation that occur within these dark pools. Patterson’s investigative reporting and compelling storytelling provide readers with a fascinating glimpse into the world of finance and the impact of technology on Wall Street. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the inner workings of the financial industry and the potential for corruption within it. Dark Pools is a captivating and enlightening exploration of the complexities and controversies surrounding modern finance, making it a compelling book about Wall Street corruption.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 20 best books about Wall Street Corruption offer a compelling and insightful look into the dark underbelly of the financial world. From detailed accounts of infamous scandals to in-depth analyses of the systemic issues at play, these books shed light on the often murky and complex world of Wall Street. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or simply interested in understanding the inner workings of high finance, these books are essential reads for anyone looking to uncover the truth behind the corruption that has plagued Wall Street for decades.
Which Wall Street Corruption book is best?
The best book on Wall Street Corruption can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine by Michael Lewis,
- Flash Boys: A Wall Street Revolt by Michael Lewis,
- Black Edge: Inside Information, Dirty Money, and the Quest to Bring Down the Most Wanted Man on Wall Street by Sheelah Kolhatkar.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Wall Street Corruption?
For those looking to learn about Wall Street Corruption, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine by Michael Lewis,
- Flash Boys: A Wall Street Revolt by Michael Lewis,
- Black Edge: Inside Information, Dirty Money, and the Quest to Bring Down the Most Wanted Man on Wall Street by Sheelah Kolhatkar,
- The Spider Network: The Wild Story of a Math Genius, a Gang of Backstabbing Bankers, and One of the Greatest Scams in Financial History by David Enrich,
- The Buy Side: A Wall Street Trader’s Tale of Spectacular Excess by Turney Duff,
- The Billion Dollar Whale: The Man Who Fooled Wall Street, Hollywood, and the World by Tom Wright and Bradley Hope,
- The Wolf of Wall Street by Jordan Belfort,
- Too Big to Fail: The Inside Story of How Wall Street and Washington Fought to Save the Financial System—and Themselves by Andrew Ross Sorkin,
- The Unlikely Disciple: A Sinner’s Semester at America’s Holiest University by Kevin Roose,
- The End of Wall Street by Roger Lowenstein
These books offer a range of perspectives on Wall Street Corruption, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books on Wall Street Corruption?
The best books on Wall Street Corruption include:
- The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine by Michael Lewis,
- Flash Boys: A Wall Street Revolt by Michael Lewis,
- The Myth of the Rational Market: A History of Risk, Reward, and Delusion on Wall Street by Justin Fox,
- The House of Morgan: An American Banking Dynasty and the Rise of Modern Finance by Ron Chernow,
- Too Big to Fail: The Inside Story of How Wall Street and Washington Fought to Save the Financial System—and Themselves by Andrew Ross Sorkin,
- The Billion Dollar Whale: The Man Who Fooled Wall Street, Hollywood, and the World by Tom Wright and Bradley Hope.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Wall Street Corruption are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Wall Street Corruption books of all time?
Choosing the best Wall Street Corruption books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
- The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine by Michael Lewis,
- Flash Boys: A Wall Street Revolt by Michael Lewis,
- The Buy Side: A Wall Street Trader’s Tale of Spectacular Excess by Turney Duff,
- Too Big to Fail: The Inside Story of How Wall Street and Washington Fought to Save the Financial System—and Themselves by Andrew Ross Sorkin,
- The End of Wall Street by Roger Lowenstein,
- The House of Morgan: An American Banking Dynasty and the Rise of Modern Finance by Ron Chernow,
- and The Myth of the Rational Market: A History of Risk, Reward, and Delusion on Wall Street by Justin Fox.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Wall Street Corruption and continues to be influential today.