A little-known network of laws and regulations came into effect after the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, that greatly expand the power of the U.S. government to control, direct and even confiscate private wealth.

Even if you're not a terrorist, or have no connection to "terrorist" organizations, these laws and regulations threaten your wealth in profound ways. For instance, in the event of a sudden collapse in the value of the U.S. dollar, the President, at the stroke of a pen, can:

• Impose foreign exchange controls restricting the ability to convert U.S. dollars to other currencies
• Restrict foreign investors from repatriating dollar profits or investments to their home countries
• Restrict foreign investment in U.S. property
• Close U.S. banks and/or restrict withdrawals in dollars from bank accounts.
• Close or impose trading restrictions on U.S. securities exchanges
• Prohibit or restrict international travel
• Ration goods previously imported to the United States, particularly gasoline and oil
• Impose wage and price controls
• Prohibit hoarding assets that would otherwise be purchased with depreciating dollars.

This report lays out the history of these powers, under what circumstances they can be used, outlines scenarios for their possible use in the future and suggests strategies you can take now to deal with them.

War and Emergency Financial Controls: The Threats They Pose to Your Wealth (3d Ed. 2008, 40 pg., US$25).

Click here for the Table of Contents from this report...