August 11, 2025

Welcome Back,
Happy Monday, everyone! ☀️
Good morning! I hope your coffee is strong, your inbox is light, and your week is off to a hopeful start.
You know that feeling when you walk into a Vegas buffet — so many options, shiny lights, and the sneaky suspicion you’ll end up with too much on your plate and regret later? Yeah… that’s how a lot of people feel about investing.
But here’s the truth: building wealth doesn’t have to feel like a high-stakes game of chance. You don’t need to “bet it all” on the hottest stock or chase every trend. You can create a steady, reliable plan that actually feels boring — in the best way possible — and still gets you where you want to go.
Today’s post is all about removing the casino vibes from investing and replacing them with something far better: calm confidence.
— Ryan Rincon, Founder at The Wealth Wagon Inc.
Quote of The Day
“Opportunities multiply as they are seized.”
— Sun Tzu
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Corporate

Computer Science Grads Struggle to Find Jobs in the A.I. Age
Despite a booming tech sector, many recent computer science graduates are finding it difficult to land jobs, especially in roles that AI and automation have begun to dominate. Recruiters are increasingly seeking specialized skills in machine learning, data science, and cybersecurity. This shift leaves many traditional software engineering grads at a disadvantage. Career experts urge students to adapt by acquiring niche, in-demand expertise.
Restaurants are under threat as costs skyrocket and consumers cut back
Rising food prices, higher wages, and mounting utility bills are pushing many restaurants to the brink. At the same time, consumers are dining out less due to inflation and economic uncertainty. Some businesses are reducing staff or trimming menus to survive. Industry leaders warn that without relief, closures could accelerate nationwide.
Indian billionaire Harsh Goenka hails Satya Nadella’s reply to Elon Musk’s jab as…
Indian industrialist Harsh Goenka has publicly praised Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella for his sharp yet measured response to criticism from Elon Musk. The exchange, which played out on social media, has captured attention in the tech world. Goenka called Nadella’s reply a model of professionalism and wit. The incident reflects ongoing tensions and rivalries among top global tech leaders.
Finance

Alpha Photo / Flickr
Harvard Discloses $116 Million Investment In BlackRock’s iShares Bitcoin ETF
Harvard University has revealed a substantial $116 million investment in BlackRock’s Bitcoin exchange-traded fund, signaling growing institutional interest in cryptocurrency. The move places Harvard among the largest academic investors in digital assets. Financial analysts see this as a vote of confidence in Bitcoin’s long-term viability. The investment also highlights the diversification strategies of major endowment funds.
Trump’s ‘no tax on tips’ raises worker questions: One bartender says it feels ‘too good to be true’
President Trump’s proposal to eliminate federal taxes on tipped income has sparked curiosity and skepticism among service industry workers. Proponents argue it would boost take-home pay and encourage more spending. Critics, however, question how the policy would affect overall tax revenue and tip reporting compliance. Many workers are cautiously optimistic but await concrete legislative details.
GUARANTEEING FAIR BANKING FOR ALL AMERICANS
The White House has announced a new initiative aimed at ensuring all Americans have access to fair and transparent banking services. The plan includes measures to crack down on predatory lending, increase financial literacy programs, and expand low-cost banking options. Officials say the goal is to close gaps in financial inclusion, particularly for underserved communities. Industry reactions have been mixed, with some banks raising concerns about regulatory burdens.
Politics

Nancy Pelosi And Her Husband’s Net Worth Eclipses $263 Million, As Trump Wonders How “These Two…”
House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi and her husband, Paul Pelosi, have reportedly seen their net worth climb above $263 million, largely from stock market gains and real estate investments. Former President Donald Trump has questioned the ethics of such wealth accumulation for a long-time public servant. Pelosi has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing, emphasizing that her financial activities comply with all laws. The revelation has reignited debate over lawmakers’ stock trading.
Germany updates: Israel arms halt met with CDU/CSU backlash
Germany’s recent decision to halt arms exports to Israel has sparked strong opposition from the CDU/CSU, the country’s main conservative bloc. Critics argue the suspension undermines Israel’s security and Germany’s foreign policy credibility. Supporters of the move cite concerns over the ongoing Gaza conflict and potential human rights violations. The dispute reflects growing political polarization in Germany over Middle East policy.
SC to resume hearing of Imran’s appeal against bail denial on 12th
Pakistan’s Supreme Court is set to continue hearings on August 12 regarding former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s appeal over a denied bail request. Khan’s legal team argues the charges are politically motivated, while prosecutors insist on the validity of the case. The proceedings are being closely watched as they could influence Pakistan’s turbulent political climate. Security has been heightened ahead of the hearing.
World

France’s recognition of Palestinian state scuttled Gaza truce talks, Rubio says
U.S. Senator Marco Rubio has claimed that France’s formal recognition of a Palestinian state derailed delicate Gaza ceasefire negotiations. According to Rubio, the move emboldened Hamas and complicated Israel’s position. French officials reject the accusation, saying their decision was a matter of principle. The incident highlights how diplomatic moves by third parties can influence Middle East peace efforts.
Far-Right Israeli Minister Calls for Quicker Military Moves in Gaza
A senior far-right member of Israel’s government has urged immediate acceleration of military operations in Gaza, defying warnings from security officials and international allies. The call comes as tensions remain high and ceasefire efforts stall. Critics fear the push could lead to a dramatic escalation of violence. The statement underscores deep divisions within Israel’s political leadership on handling the conflict.
Hundreds of protesters arrested in London for supporting banned pro-Palestinian group
London police arrested over 300 demonstrators during a rally linked to a group recently outlawed under the UK’s anti-terror legislation. Authorities say the organization has ties to violent extremist networks, a claim supporters deny. The arrests have sparked debate over free speech and the limits of protest in Britain. Human rights groups are calling for an independent review of the crackdown.
U.S.

Vance and Lammy host Ukraine talks ahead of US-Russia summit
Senior U.S. and U.K. officials, including Senator J.D. Vance and Foreign Secretary David Lammy, have met with Ukrainian leaders ahead of a highly anticipated U.S.-Russia summit. The discussions focused on military aid, energy infrastructure protection, and diplomatic strategies. Kyiv is pushing for firm Western commitments before any concessions are discussed with Moscow. Both sides stressed unity, but acknowledged deep concerns about Russia’s expanding influence in Eastern Europe.
Mexico’s President Says U.S. Forces Are Unwelcome in Her Country
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum reaffirmed her stance against the presence of U.S. military forces in Mexico, citing sovereignty and national security concerns. The comments come amid heightened tensions over cross-border crime and cartel violence. Sheinbaum insists on bilateral cooperation without foreign military involvement. U.S. officials have not yet formally responded, but the statement could complicate ongoing security talks.
America’s housing market is shuddering
The U.S. housing market is showing signs of significant slowdown, with sales dropping and mortgage rates remaining elevated. Economists point to a combination of high borrowing costs, stubborn inflation, and waning buyer confidence. Homebuilders are delaying projects, while sellers are slashing prices to attract hesitant buyers. Analysts warn that if conditions persist, the market could face a prolonged downturn.
Today’s Snapshot
How to Invest Without Feeling Like You’re Gambling at a Vegas Buffet
Let’s be honest — investing can feel like standing at a Vegas buffet.
You’ve got way too many options, everyone’s telling you “this is the best thing ever,” and you’re not entirely sure if that thing you just put on your plate (or in your portfolio) is going to be delicious… or give you financial food poisoning.
But here’s the truth:
Wealthy people don’t invest by chasing the next “hot” thing. They invest with a game plan. And you can too.
Step 1: Decide Your “Why” Before Your “What”
Before you buy a single share of anything, ask:
Am I investing for freedom?
Am I investing for status? (No judgment, we all want to look smart sometimes.)
Am I investing for security?
Knowing your “why” will keep you from panic-selling when the market dips… or going all-in on that “guaranteed 10x” coin your cousin swears by.
Step 2: The Boring Stuff is the Best Stuff
Want to know a secret?
The investments that make people rich are usually:
Boring
Predictable
Unsexy
Think:
Broad market index funds
Quality dividend-paying companies
Real estate in solid areas
Businesses with consistent cash flow
The “boring” stuff doesn’t make you an overnight millionaire… but it does make you a comfortable, confident one.
Step 3: Stop Trying to Time the Market
Timing the market is like trying to guess when the guacamole will run out at the buffet.
You might get lucky once or twice… but eventually, you’ll miss your shot.
Instead:
Invest on a schedule (monthly, quarterly)
Ignore the noise
Let compounding do the heavy lifting
Fun fact: Missing just the 10 best days in the market over 20 years can slash your returns in half. Yikes.
Step 4: Use the “Barbell” Approach
This is my personal favorite trick.
Split your investments into two “buckets”:
Super safe stuff – stable, reliable, low risk.
Calculated risk stuff – startups, growth stocks, new opportunities.
That way, you can take swings without putting your entire financial future at risk.
Step 5: Remember — Investing is a Long Game
If you’re expecting instant results, you’re going to get frustrated fast.
The wealthiest investors in the world aren’t playing for Friday. They’re playing for 2035.
So zoom out.
Think in years, not days.
And don’t be surprised when your future self sends you a thank-you note (and maybe a bottle of something nice).
Bottom line:
Investing isn’t about being the smartest person in the room.
It’s about having a plan, sticking to it, and letting time and compounding do the heavy lifting.
And if you still feel lost? Remember:
Boring > Flashy.
Time in the market > Timing the market.
And never, ever invest in something you don’t understand — no matter how good the buffet smells.
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Fun Stuff
😂 Funny Joke
Why don’t accountants ever play hide-and-seek?
Because they always make things count.
🏢 Guess the Company
Clue:
Founded in a Seattle garage in 1975, this company originally sold a BASIC interpreter for the Altair 8800 before becoming a global tech giant.
🤔 Would You Rather
Would you rather…
Have your business idea stolen but you get $10M in stock of the new company, or
Keep the idea and build it yourself… with no guarantee of success?
🧠 Brain Teaser
A merchant can place 8 large boxes or 10 small boxes into a carton for shipping. In one shipment, the merchant sent a total of 96 boxes in cartons, each completely filled. If there were more large boxes than small boxes, how many cartons did the merchant ship?
*Answers at the bottom
Thought of The Day
If your business disappeared tomorrow, would your customers truly miss it — or just replace it?
(A good reminder to focus on irreplaceable value.)
Answers
Guess the company - Answer: Microsoft
Brain Teaser - Answer: 11 cartons (8 large boxes × 8 cartons = 64, 10 small boxes × 3 cartons = 30, total = 94… wait, we need 96, so it’s 7 cartons of large boxes (56) and 4 cartons of small boxes (40) = 96 total, total cartons = 11.)
That’s All For Today
I hope you enjoyed today’s issue of The Wealth Wagon. If you have any questions regarding today’s issue or future issues feel free to reply to this email and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Come back tomorrow for another market update, and snapshot. I hope to see you. 🤙
— Ryan Rincon, CEO and Founder at The Wealth Wagon Inc.
Disclaimer: This newsletter is for informational and educational purposes only and reflects the opinions of its editors and contributors. The content provided, including but not limited to real estate tips, stock market insights, business marketing strategies, and startup advice, is shared for general guidance and does not constitute financial, investment, real estate, legal, or business advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided. Past performance is not indicative of future results. All investment, real estate, and business decisions involve inherent risks, and readers are encouraged to perform their own due diligence and consult with qualified professionals before taking any action. This newsletter does not establish a fiduciary, advisory, or professional relationship between the publishers and readers.