Biggs, Robert

Barton Biggs (1932–2012) was an American financier and author, recognized as one of the earliest global investment strategists. He spent over three decades at Morgan Stanley, where he established their investment management division and was instrumental in developing the concept of emerging markets as a distinct investment area. Biggs gained significant recognition for accurately forecasting the dot-com bubble in the late 1990s, identifying the U.S. stock market as the "biggest bubble in the history of the world" in 1999, a prediction that proved correct when the market crashed in 2000. After retiring from Morgan Stanley, he founded Traxis Partners, a successful hedge fund.

Beyond his financial acumen, Biggs was also an author. His book "Hedgehogging" explored the culture and personalities within the hedge fund industry. His later work, "Wealth, War and Wisdom," presented a more somber outlook on the future, advocating for survivalist measures and self-sufficient retreats in anticipation of potential societal breakdowns. He also authored "A Hedge-Fund Tale" and "Diary of a Hedgehog."

Barton Biggs revolutionized investment strategy by focusing on emerging markets, a concept he helped define and popularize. He joined Morgan Stanley in 1973, becoming a managing director and partner, and was instrumental in creating Morgan Stanley Investment Management in 1975. His foresight in identifying the potential of developing economies positioned him as a leading global strategist. Biggs's influence was such that his mere presence in a region, like India, could spur significant investor interest. He was consistently recognized by financial publications for his expertise in global asset allocation and research, solidifying his reputation as a preeminent figure in international finance.

Transitioning from a career in finance, Barton Biggs became a notable author, delving into both the intricacies of the financial world and broader societal concerns. His book "Hedgehogging" offered an insider's perspective on the hedge fund industry, its eccentric personalities, and competitive dynamics. In "Wealth, War and Wisdom," Biggs adopted a more philosophical and cautionary stance, exploring historical patterns of wealth and societal collapse. He controversially advised readers to consider extreme survivalist measures, including establishing self-sufficient, remote retreats stocked with essentials, in anticipation of potential infrastructure breakdown and civil unrest. This work highlighted a profound concern for future global stability.

“the biggest bubble in the history of the world”

“assume the possibility of a breakdown of the civilized infrastructure”

“Your safe haven must be self-sufficient and capable of growing some kind of food”

“It should be well-stocked with seed, fertilizer, canned food, wine, medicine, clothes, etc. Think Swiss Family Robinson. Even in America and Europe there could be moments of riot and rebellion when law and order temporarily completely breaks down.”