1637: “Tulipmania” hits its peak in the Netherlands, with the price of the rare Witte Croonen tulip bulb reaching 1,345 guilders per half-pound, up 2,506% in 33 days. Over the next five years, these bulbs lose an annual average of 76% of their value, until they fetch only 37.5 guilders in 1641.
2001: It’s time for eine kleine IPO, as the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (Gruppe Deutsche Borse) goes public, selling 2.8 million shares at 335 euros (roughly $290) per share. The Deutsche Borse becomes the largest stock exchange yet to sell its shares to the public -- naturally, just after the global market boom peaks. Still, the stock climbs 11% on its first trading day.
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