Americans are quite familiar with the often messy process of divorce.

But the breakup of those unions (usually) don’t result in a transnational financial crisis.

On September 18, the people of Scotland will vote to determine if they will leave the United Kingdom and become an independent nation.

The Yes (For Independence) Campaign has been gaining steam late in the game as polls show a dead heat between supporters and opponents of the referendum.

Independence might seem like a slam dunk when you consider Scotland’s distinct national identity and political qualms with Westminster.

But dissolving a 300-year-old political union in an increasingly globalized world isn’t without drawbacks. Though this separation would not involve a bitter custody fight for Wales or a contentious division of assets (Scotland would retain its valuable off-shore oil reserves), it could create huge economic headaches for Scotland.

Economists and bankers alike are sounding the alarm with dire warnings of a credit crunch and investor flight not seen since the 2008 global financial catastrophe.

Then there’s the currency… What money will Scotland use?  

There is no certainty that an independent Scotland could use the current English pound.

This uncertainty could cause a mass exodus of Scottish capital and savings across the border to English banks. The resulting recession would cripple Scotland’s economy just as the new nation was getting its start (and make it all but impossible for the Scottish government to pursue the generous welfare policies that many Scots favor).

Independence might not seem like such a good idea after all.

 Is this referendum a prime example of nationalism run amok? Or are the bankers and elites utilizing scare tactics to intimidate the Scottish people?

And would you vote for independence if we were still under British rule today?

Let us know in the comments section below.