Topic: Oil Collapse

The hosts predict a global economic collapse in 2017 following the U.S. election, citing falling prices for gold, silver, and oil. They argue that the fracking industry maintains political support through "dark money" donations to both parties, including former Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley. The decline in oil prices is seen as a threat to the profitability of shale and natural gas projects.

A theory is presented comparing the current U.S. shale oil and natural gas boom to the 1850s Gold Rush. The hosts suggest this influx of "free money" from energy resources might delay a total economic collapse until approximately 2017.

A retrospective look at the Lehman Brothers collapse notes that financial analysts who predicted the failure were ignored or attacked by mainstream media outlets like CNBC. The discussion shifts to the impact of falling oil prices on countries like Venezuela, whose national budgets were built on the assumption of much higher per-barrel costs.

The debate over free-market deregulation continues as oil prices are driven up by futures traders and speculators. Predictions are made that oil could reach $200 per barrel before a massive collapse due to falling demand. George Soros is mentioned for his recent losses on Bear Stearns stock despite his public support for the government bailout.