I examine three topics related to systemic risk which not usually considered in mainstream research. I find evidence that coffee price risk might be hedged by Ugandan producers, possibly mitigating the risk of economy-wide devastation. I provide evidence that there is a long history of a relationship between real estate lending and bank failures, which have threatened economic collapse several times in American history. And I show the potential benefits of an options market for temporary shelter for persons fleeing natural disasters, history’s most unforgiving threat to individuals and nations. All three papers contribute to the understanding of systemic risk, providing important insights for policymakers and avenues for further research.