Going Infinite by Michael Lewis: The Rise and Fall of a New Tycoon

Allen Lane. Hardcover. NEW. Going Infinite: The Rise and Fall of Sam Bankman-Fried In his latest masterpiece, bestselling author Michael Lewis dives deep into the world of cryptocurrencies and high-frequency trading to bring readers the captivating story of Sam Bankman-Fried. With his signature storytelling style, Lewis reveals the enigmatic figure at the center of one of the most astounding financial collapses of the 21st century. Bankman-Fried, also known as the Gatsby of the crypto world, quickly rose to fame and fortune before the age of thirty. He became the world's youngest billionaire through his involvement in the crypto frenzy, garnering attention from CEOs, celebrities, and world leaders alike. His success was so extraordinary that he even considered paying off the entire national debt of the Bahamas just so he could set up his business there. However, as with all tales of great success, there came a moment when it all crumbled. Lewis was there to witness it all, having developed a close relationship with Bankman-Fried during his meteoric rise. In "Going Infinite," Lewis takes readers on an unparalleled journey through the mind-bending trajectory of a man who defied conventional rules and lived by his own. Bankman-Fried's rise to fame was characterized by his extraordinary ability to make money. From his cargo shorts and video game playing during TV interviews to his mysterious persona that even his million-dollar investors couldn't fully comprehend, Bankman-Fried remained an intriguing enigma. Lewis explores the secrets behind this preternaturally gifted "thinking machine," unraveling the intricacies of his mind and shedding light on the factors that contributed to his immense success. However, with great success comes great risk. Bankman-Fried's empire eventually collapsed, shaking the financial world to its core. Lewis skillfully reconstructs the events that led to this spectacular downfall, revealing the hubris and the wild ride of high-frequency trading and crypto mania that Bankman-Fried experienced. It is a tale of immense wealth, obsession, and the inherent dangers of an industry fueled by unreal amounts of money. "Going Infinite" is not just a financial exposé; it is a psychological portrait of a man who defied norms and created his own reality. Lewis's unparalleled storytelling brings to life the highs and lows of Bankman-Fried's journey, making readers question the boundaries of success and the price one pays for breaking the rules. From the extraordinary praise of "The Observer" to the accolades from "The New Yorker" and "The Economist," it is clear that this book captivates and mesmerizes readers. Lewis, being there every step of the way, provides a firsthand account of the events surrounding Bankman-Fried's rise and fall, ensuring that no one else could tell this story better. In "Going Infinite," Lewis offers readers an incisive exploration of the crypto world and high-stakes finance. Through the lens of Sam Bankman-Fried's incredible story, Lewis uncovers the truth behind a man who challenged the very foundations of the financial industry, leaving an indelible mark on history. It is a gripping narrative that will leave readers questioning the nature of success, the allure of power, and the consequences of pursuing unbounded wealth.