A rigorous and readable exploration of the different types of financial markets around the world, the various factors that impact them, and the ways in which changes in the markets affect us.

Financial markets are forever in the news and have an enormous impact on our lives. But they can be bewildering and seemingly impenetrable for those with no experience or training.

A good understanding of what financial markets are and how they work is a huge asset in today's world.

Although the world of finance is complex and multi-faceted, it is within the reach of each of us to get a handle on the basics.

In Guide to Financial Markets, economist, historian, and former finance and economics editor at The Economist Marc Levinson explores financial markets in a readable, non-technical way — opening up the complex world of economics and finance to everyone.