Trust is an essential component of properly functioning economies, business practices and the overall functioning of society. When trust is in scarce supply, or even disappears completely, it can lead to the fragmentation and polarization that is a feature of many modern liberal democracies. Trust in individuals, institutions, political parties, governments, and their policies has deteriorated. Trust Is Priceless argues that conventional economic thinking about such problems has tended to ignore the importance of trust in the functioning of capitalist economies. It argues that to achieve higher levels of trust in others, free market economies and their institutions need to foster altruism and shared values. Complementing mainstream economics with insights and evidence from related fields, this book provides examples and stories that illustrate with real life events the relevance of the social and economic problems generated by the lack of trust in our societies.

'Trust is one of the most valuable assets any society, institution, or company can build. In this insightful book, Jordi Gual makes a powerful case for restoring trust as the essential ingredient for responsible leadership, thriving societies, effective institutions, and sustainable business. A thought-provoking and highly relevant contribution to today’s debate and a meaningful read for leaders across sectors.'

Laura R. de Galarreta - Corporate Affairs and Communication Manager, IKEA Spain

'Jordi Gual has written an important and insightful book on the nature and significance of trust in modern-day economies and societies. He describes the role that trust plays in all of business, finance, fiscal policy, monetary policy, and the EU. He suggests that a trust deficit is both a cause and consequence of a failure to prioritize trust sufficiently, and he describes the business and government practices and policies required to address this.'

Colin Mayer - Emeritus Professor of Management Studies, Said Business School, University of Oxford