Foundations of Personal Finance serves as a guide to the U.S. economic system and an introduction to the global economy. It will help you understand the system and how it affects you as a consumer, producer, and citizen. It will also help you make the most of the future opportunities that come your way in the global economy. The text outlines the key characteristics of the free market system and the challenges of globalization. It describes your financial activities as worker, consumer, manager, and shopper. Mastering these decision-making functions lays the foundation for personal financial competence through all the stages of your life. - Introduction.