markets and, crucially, its legal system. However, under the current Presidential administration, numerous factors that are often viewed as being separate from the economy are actively undermining America’s economic standing. For instance, pursuing absurdly draconian immigration policies, twisting the legal system to serve at the pleasure of the president, war-mongering with no strategy other than provocation, and needlessly saber-rattling with reliable allies all actively undermine economic prosperity and progress. All of these factors currently exist within the federal government and, most acutely, at the executive level. If these policies continue to be pursued, the U.S. dollar will no longer be the world’s reserve currency much quicker than anyone could possibly anticipate. In addition, the U.S. federal government is also pursuing economic policies that directly undermine its own economic standing. Tariffs, as they’re being deployed by the current administration, are being used as a coercion tactic. It’s no coincidence that, upon the implementation of a new round of tariffs, the responses from the governments on the business end often use words like “shock,” “anger,” “dismay” and “frustration.” There is widespread belief that these tariffs are being used to economically browbeat other countries, all the way from perceived economic adversaries like China to long-time economic partners like Canada. This mode of what is essentially economic warfare can be enormously beneficial to those in power in the short term, but it hugely undermines the long-term economic viability and standing of a nation. A major component of the dollar’s status as the world’s reserve currency is having cooperative, trusting relationships with allies and, at a minimum, a level of basic respect and honesty with adversaries. This has also been a core component of America’s diplomatic strength post-World War II. Currently, the American federal government is in the process of dismantling all of the economic and social goodwill we have accumulated over decades. It seems that our federal government, the media and other power centers have completely lost sight of what made America’s ascent possible in the first place. As a result, we have people in power who believe success can be achieved through force rather than diplomacy, bluster rather than honesty, and extortion rather than fair economic terms. No matter what lens one chooses to view it from — whether social, economic or diplomatic — these kinds of comprehensively reckless choices are speeding up our nation’s demise in a remarkably clear way. JOHN ANDERSON, NMBA EVP, NAMED TO BEST LAWYERS IN AMERICA John Anderson, Executive Vice President of NMBA, has been recognized by his peers in the 2026 edition of The Best Lawyers in America for his high-caliber work in banking and finance law. Inclusion in Best Lawyers is based on a rigorous peer-review survey. For over 40 years, Best Lawyers in America has been regarded by both the profession and the public as the most credible measure of legal integrity and distinction. As such, recognition by Best Lawyers in America symbolizes excellence in practice. Best Lawyers in America’s founding principle remains unchanged since 1981 and forms the basis of its transparent methodology: The best lawyers know who the best lawyers are. As always, no fee or payment to participate is allowed. Consequently, as a Best Lawyers in America honoree, John possesses the elite privilege to participate in the exclusive voting process for next year’s edition. 15
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