Are you fascinated by the dark underbelly of finance and the scandals that have rocked Wall Street? If so, you’ll want to get your hands on the best books about wall street corruption. These books offer a captivating glimpse into the world of white-collar crime, insider trading, and financial deceit. From riveting exposés to gripping true crime tales, each book on wall street corruption will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re a finance enthusiast or simply love a good scandal, these 20 books are essential reads for anyone interested in the seedy side of high finance.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Wall Street Corruption Books
- 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 Final Thoughts on Best Wall Street Corruption Books
- 23
20 Best Wall Street Corruption Books
The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine
by Michael Lewis
The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine by Michael Lewis is a gripping exposé on the rampant corruption and greed that led to the financial crisis of 2008. In this eye-opening book about Wall Street corruption, Lewis delves into the world of high finance, revealing the reckless behavior and unethical practices that ultimately caused the collapse of the housing market and the global economy. Through the stories of a handful of Wall Street outsiders who saw the impending disaster and bet against the market, Lewis paints a vivid picture of the inner workings of the financial industry, exposing the deceit and hubris that fueled the crisis. With his signature blend of investigative journalism and compelling storytelling, Lewis takes readers on a journey through the heart of the financial meltdown, shedding light on the individuals and institutions responsible for the catastrophe. The Big Short is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of Wall Street corruption and the devastating consequences of unchecked greed.
Flash Boys: A Wall Street Revolt
by Michael Lewis
Flash Boys: A Wall Street Revolt by Michael Lewis is a captivating book that delves into the world of high-frequency trading and exposes the corruption and manipulation that takes place on Wall Street. Lewis provides a gripping account of how a group of Wall Street outsiders and misfits uncover the unfair advantage that high-frequency traders have in the stock market, and the lengths they go to in order to level the playing field for all investors.
The book sheds light on the intricate and often shady practices that drive the financial industry, revealing how the system is rigged in favor of those with the fastest technology and deepest pockets. Lewis’s narrative skillfully weaves together the personal stories of those involved in the fight against this corruption, making for a compelling and eye-opening read.
Flash Boys is a thought-provoking and insightful book about the inner workings of Wall Street, and it serves as a call to action for reform in the financial sector. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the modern market and the battle against financial sector manipulation.
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 pursuit of justice. The book follows the story of Steven Cohen, one of the most successful and controversial hedge fund managers on Wall Street, and the efforts of the government to hold him accountable for his alleged involvement in illegal trading practices.
Kolhatkar provides a detailed account of the high-stakes world of finance, filled with greed, deceit, and the relentless pursuit of wealth. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, she uncovers the intricate web of corruption and manipulation that permeates the financial industry.
Black Edge offers a fascinating and eye-opening look into the dark underbelly of Wall Street, shining a light on the ethical and legal dilemmas that plague the world of high finance. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the inner workings of the financial world and the ongoing battle against corruption in the industry.
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: The Wild Story of a Math Genius, a Gang of Backstabbing Bankers, and One of the Greatest Scams in Financial History by David Enrich is a gripping book about Wall Street corruption. It delves into the infamous LIBOR scandal, exposing the deceit and manipulation that took place within the financial world. Enrich recounts the captivating tale of Tom Hayes, a math genius turned rogue trader, and his involvement in a web of deceitful bankers who manipulated the London Interbank Offered Rate for their own gain.
Enrich’s narrative reads like a thrilling crime novel as he unravels the intricate schemes and backstabbing tactics employed by the characters involved in the scandal. The book offers a fascinating insight into the inner workings of the financial industry and the pervasive culture of greed and corruption that led to one of the greatest financial scandals in history. The Spider Network is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of Wall Street corruption and the far-reaching consequences of unchecked power within the banking world.
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 gripping memoir that offers a candid and eye-opening look into the world of high finance. Duff, a former trader, takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through the highs and lows of his career, offering a firsthand account of the greed, excess, and ethical compromises that are all too common in the world of finance. This book on Wall Street corruption pulls back the curtain on the culture of wealth, power, and risk-taking that defines the industry, providing a rare glimpse into the personal and professional struggles of those who work within it. Duff’s unflinching honesty and vivid storytelling make this book about Wall Street corruption a compelling and thought-provoking read for anyone interested in the inner workings of the financial world.
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 gripping book on Wall Street corruption that exposes the outrageous true story of Jho Low, a young Malaysian financier who pulled off one of the biggest heists in history. With an insatiable appetite for the high life, Jho Low orchestrated a multi-billion dollar scheme that involved embezzling funds from a Malaysian government investment fund and using the money to finance lavish parties, luxury real estate, and even bankrolling Hollywood films.
Through meticulous investigative journalism, the authors unravel the web of deception and manipulation that enabled Jho Low to deceive some of the most powerful institutions and individuals in the world, from Goldman Sachs to Leonardo DiCaprio. This book about Wall Street corruption offers a shocking and compelling account of greed, excess, and the staggering consequences of unchecked financial power. The Billion Dollar Whale is a must-read for anyone intrigued by true crime, high-stakes finance, and the dark underbelly of global capitalism.
The Wolf of Wall Street
by Jordan Belfort
The Wolf of Wall Street is a captivating memoir by Jordan Belfort, offering a firsthand account of his rise and fall on Wall Street. This compelling book delves into the world of high-stakes finance and the rampant corruption that plagued the industry during the 1990s. Belfort’s narrative is a rollercoaster ride of excess, greed, and deceit as he navigates the cutthroat world of stock trading, ultimately succumbing to the temptations of wealth and power.
Readers are taken on a wild journey through the underbelly of Wall Street, where Belfort and his cohorts engage in unscrupulous practices, manipulation, and extravagant lifestyles. The book offers a raw and unapologetic portrayal of the dark side of finance, shedding light on the unethical behavior that ran rampant in the industry.
With its electrifying storytelling and unflinching honesty, The Wolf of Wall Street provides a stark and cautionary tale about the seductive allure of wealth and the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition. This book on wall street corruption is a gripping and eye-opening read that offers valuable insights into 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 and detailed account of the 2008 financial crisis. Sorkin, a renowned financial journalist, takes readers behind the scenes to witness the high-stakes negotiations, power struggles, and desperate measures taken by key players in both the financial industry and the government to prevent the collapse of the global economy.
This book provides a deep dive into the world of high finance and the intricate web of relationships between Wall Street titans and government officials. It offers a fascinating look at the culture of excess, greed, and hubris that led to the crisis, as well as the intense pressure and moral dilemmas faced by those trying to avert disaster.
For anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the financial system and the human drama behind the headlines, this book on Wall Street corruption is a must-read. Sorkin’s narrative prowess and insider access make Too Big to Fail a compelling and illuminating account of one of the most tumultuous periods in modern financial history.
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 memoir that delves into the author’s experience of immersing himself in the culture of Liberty University, a conservative Christian institution. In this thought-provoking book, Roose, a liberal Brown University student, goes undercover as a transfer student at Liberty, seeking to understand the world of evangelical Christianity from the inside.
Roose’s engaging and humorous writing style takes readers on a journey as he navigates the unfamiliar territory of strict rules, chapel services, and the complexities of faith and morality. As he builds relationships with his fellow students and grapples with his own beliefs, Roose provides deep insights into the diverse perspectives and experiences within the evangelical community.
With its blend of humor, empathy, and introspection, The Unlikely Disciple offers a compelling exploration of faith, identity, and the human experience. Whether you’re interested in religion, sociology, or simply enjoy a well-written memoir, this book is a must-read.
The End of Wall Street
by Roger Lowenstein
The End of Wall Street by Roger Lowenstein is a compelling and in-depth exploration of the financial collapse of 2008. Lowenstein takes readers on a journey through the intricate web of greed, recklessness, and corruption that led to the downfall of some of the biggest financial institutions in the world. This book on wall street corruption delves into the risky investments, dubious practices, and unchecked power that ultimately brought the global economy to its knees. Lowenstein’s meticulous research and captivating storytelling shed light on the complex and often shadowy world of high finance, making it an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the inner workings of the financial industry. The End of Wall Street is not just a book about wall street corruption, but also a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked power and the devastating impact of unchecked greed. With its gripping narrative and insightful analysis, this wall street corruption book is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the events that led to the most significant financial crisis since the Great Depression.
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, written by Justin Fox, provides a fascinating exploration of the history of risk, reward, and delusion on Wall Street. This book delves into the fascinating world of finance and economics, offering readers a deep understanding of the forces that have shaped the financial markets. Fox skillfully uncovers the myths and misconceptions that have influenced investors and policymakers, leading to catastrophic financial crises.
With meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Fox exposes the fallacies that have driven the markets and reveals the human biases and irrational behaviors that have contributed to Wall Street corruption. By examining the evolution of economic thought and the rise of financial theories, Fox sheds light on the flaws in the market’s belief in rationality. This book is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the complexities of the financial world and the impact of corruption on Wall Street.
The House of Morgan: An American Banking Dynasty and the Rise of Modern Finance
by Ron Chernow
The House of Morgan by Ron Chernow is a captivating exploration of the rise of modern finance through the lens of the powerful American banking dynasty. Chernow delves into the history of the influential Morgan family and their impact on the world of finance, from their beginnings in 19th-century London to their dominance on Wall Street. The book provides a fascinating account of the family’s involvement in shaping the modern financial system and their influence on major events such as the Great Depression and World War I.
Chernow’s thorough research and engaging storytelling bring to light the complex and often controversial world of high finance, making this book a compelling read for anyone interested in the history of banking and the inner workings of Wall Street. With its insights into the dynamics of power, wealth, and influence, The House of Morgan offers a thought-provoking look at the forces at play in the world of finance, making it a must-read for those interested in the history of corruption in the financial sector.
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 about the scandalous world of high finance. This book delves deep into the world of corporate raiders and the rise of junk bond trading on Wall Street. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Bruck unveils the inner workings of Drexel Burnham Lambert, a once powerful investment bank, and its infamous junk bond king, Michael Milken.
Readers will be captivated by the detailed accounts of greed, deception, and corruption that plagued the financial industry during the 1980s. The book provides a fascinating insight into the cutthroat culture of Wall Street and the unscrupulous tactics used by these corporate raiders to amass wealth and power.
The Predators’ Ball is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of high finance and the darker side of Wall Street. Bruck’s thorough examination of the scandalous events that unfolded at Drexel Burnham Lambert is sure to leave readers both shocked and enthralled.
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 by Gregory Zuckerman is a captivating book that delves into the world of high-stakes finance and the incredible story of John Paulson, who defied the odds and made a fortune during the 2007-2008 financial crisis. This book is a thrilling account of Paulson’s bold bet against the subprime mortgage market, which ultimately earned him billions of dollars and solidified his place in financial history.
Zuckerman’s gripping narrative takes readers behind the scenes of Wall Street, providing a fascinating look at the inner workings of the financial industry and the key players involved. The book offers a compelling insight into the world of hedge funds, risk-taking, and the complex financial instruments that contributed to the crisis.
With its fast-paced storytelling and meticulous research, The Greatest Trade Ever is a must-read for anyone interested in finance, investment, and the inner workings of Wall Street. Zuckerman’s book about Wall Street corruption is a captivating and informative look at one of the most significant financial events of our time.
The Money Culture
by Michael Lewis
The Money Culture by Michael Lewis is a captivating exploration of the world of finance and the culture of Wall Street corruption. In this book, Lewis takes readers on a thrilling journey through the greed, excess, and moral bankruptcy that define the financial industry. Through a collection of insightful essays and articles, he delves into the unethical behavior and questionable practices that have come to characterize the world of high finance.
With his signature wit and keen observational skills, Lewis provides a thought-provoking and eye-opening look at the inner workings of Wall Street, shedding light on the pervasive culture of corruption and self-interest that has permeated the industry. From insider trading to corporate scandals, he uncovers the sordid underbelly of the financial world, offering a compelling and unsettling portrayal of the darker side of capitalism.
Whether you’re a seasoned investor or simply curious about the dynamics of the financial markets, The Money Culture offers a fascinating and revelatory glimpse into the world of Wall Street corruption.
The Partnership: The Making of Goldman Sachs
by Charles D. Ellis
The Partnership: The Making of Goldman Sachs by Charles D. Ellis is a captivating exploration of the rise of one of the most powerful and controversial investment banks in the world. Ellis delves into the history of Goldman Sachs, chronicling its evolution from a small partnership to a global financial powerhouse. The book provides a fascinating insider’s look at the inner workings of the firm, its key players, and the pivotal moments that shaped its trajectory.
With meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Ellis paints a vivid portrait of the firm’s successes, challenges, and controversies. This book offers valuable insights into the world of high finance and the complex dynamics of Wall Street. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in the inner workings of investment banking and the forces that have shaped the financial industry. The Partnership: The Making of Goldman Sachs is a thought-provoking and informative read for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of the financial world.
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 provides an insider’s perspective on the world of finance and economics. Greenspan, the former chairman of the Federal Reserve, offers a unique and insightful look at the global economy, financial markets, and the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century. This book delves into the complexities of economic policy, the impact of globalization, and the interconnectedness of the world’s financial systems.
Greenspan’s narrative is both informative and entertaining, as he shares personal anecdotes and experiences from his time at the helm of the Federal Reserve. The Age of Turbulence is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of the global economy, as well as the key players and events that have shaped it. Whether you are a seasoned investor or simply curious about the forces that drive our modern economy, this book offers valuable insights and a compelling narrative that will keep you engaged from start to finish.
The Big Short
by Michael Lewis
The Big Short by Michael Lewis is a captivating book about the corruption and greed that led to the financial crisis of 2008. Through the stories of a handful of investors who saw the impending collapse of the housing market and bet against it, Lewis provides a gripping account of the events that led to the meltdown on Wall Street. The book offers a fascinating insight into the world of finance and the individuals who profited from the downfall of the housing market, while also shedding light on the irresponsible lending practices and the unchecked risk-taking that ultimately caused the economic crisis. With his signature engaging writing style and meticulous research, Lewis paints a vivid picture of the financial industry and its players, making The Big Short a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the financial world and the devastating consequences of unchecked greed.
Flash Boys
by Michael Lewis
Flash Boys by Michael Lewis is a gripping exposé on the world of high-frequency trading and the corruption that lurks within Wall Street. Lewis takes readers on a thrilling journey through the backrooms and boardrooms of the financial industry, uncovering the deceit and manipulation that has become all too common in the world of stock trading.
The book follows the story of a group of Wall Street outsiders who discover the rigged game of high-frequency trading and set out to expose the corrupt practices that have been plaguing the market. Through their eyes, readers are given a firsthand look at the inner workings of the financial world and the lengths to which some will go to gain an unfair advantage.
Flash Boys is a captivating and eye-opening read that sheds light on the dark underbelly of Wall Street. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of the financial industry and the ongoing battle against corruption.
Dark Pools
by Scott Patterson
Dark Pools by Scott Patterson is a riveting exploration of the hidden world of high-frequency trading and the rise of secretive trading platforms known as dark pools. In this eye-opening book, Patterson delves into the world of Wall Street corruption, shedding light on the shady practices and power plays that have shaped the financial markets.
Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, the author exposes the inner workings of these dark pools and the impact they have had on the traditional stock market. Patterson takes readers on a journey through the rise of electronic trading and the ways in which it has transformed the financial landscape.
With a keen eye for detail and a knack for unraveling complex financial concepts, Patterson paints a vivid picture of the hidden forces at play in the world of high finance. Dark Pools offers a fascinating and sobering look at the underbelly of Wall Street, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the inner workings of the financial industry.
Final Thoughts on Best Wall Street Corruption Books
When it comes to understanding the complexities of Wall Street Corruption, these 20 books about Wall Street corruption offer invaluable insights and perspectives. From in-depth analyses of financial scandals to gripping narratives of greed and power, these books shed light on the dark underbelly of the financial world. Whether you’re a finance professional, a student of economics, or simply interested in the inner workings of Wall Street, these books are essential reading for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the forces at play in the world of high finance.
Which book about Wall Street Corruption 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 about Wall Street Corruption?
The best books about Wall Street Corruption are:
- 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 about 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 five 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,
- 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.