dot-com bubble

The dot-com bubble refers to a period of speculative investment in internet-based companies during the late 1990s. Fueled by excitement over the potential of the internet, venture capital flowed freely into startups, many with unproven business models. Stock prices of these companies soared, creating immense wealth on paper. However, by early 2000, the bubble burst. Overvaluation, unsustainable business practices, and a lack of profitability led to a sharp decline in stock values. Many dot-com companies went bankrupt, resulting in significant financial losses for investors. While the immediate aftermath was devastating for many, the dot-com era also laid the groundwork for the digital economy we know today, with many surviving companies evolving into major tech giants. The recent passing of former Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan, who oversaw the economy during this period, brings renewed attention to the economic policies and oversight during the dot-com boom and bust.