August 18, 2025

Welcome Back,
Happy Monday, everyone!
Good morning 🌞—I hope your weekend was refreshing, and if it wasn’t, at least may your coffee (or tea) be working overtime today.
Here’s a thought to kick things off: it’s one thing to build wealth, but it’s another to make it actually stick. Too often, money shows up like that one friend who comes to the party, eats all the snacks, and leaves before cleanup. The real challenge is learning how to keep it around long enough to do its job—giving you freedom, security, and options.
Today’s post is all about just that: how to build wealth that actually lasts. Not quick wins, not flashy moves, but the kind of financial foundation that supports you year after year (without you needing to check your portfolio every 10 minutes).
So let’s dive in and talk about building something solid, sustainable, and—most importantly—yours. 🚀
— Ryan Rincon, Founder at The Wealth Wagon Inc.
Quote of The Day
“Don’t count the days, make the days count."
– Muhammad Ali 🥊
PRESENTED BY MODE MOBILE
You won’t find this stock on the Nasdaq
That means you’re still early.
Shares of Mode Mobile have soared over 2,900% higher since their first private offering in 2021. But they have even bigger plans in store, reserving the Nasdaq ticker $MODE. Even better? You don’t have to wait to invest.
Here’s why you want in: Mode’s completely rethought the smartphone by letting their users earn and save money simply by using their phones. Safe to say, it’s been a huge success. They’ve already reached 45 million customers, made $75M+ in revenue, and topped Deloitte’s “Fastest Growing Software Company” list.
Now, Mode’s leveraging partnerships with Best Buy and Walmart to reach even more of the world’s 7B smartphone users. It’s a $1T market opportunity in total.
And you can be part of that growth, pre-IPO. You can even get up to 20% bonus stock as an early-stage investor. But don’t wait.
National

Russia Agreed to ‘Article 5-Like’ Security Guarantees for Ukraine
A White House envoy announced that Russia has accepted a framework resembling NATO’s Article 5, which ensures collective defense, in relation to Ukraine. If confirmed, this deal could mark a turning point in the war, signaling a possible endgame or new security alignment. However, skepticism remains, with analysts questioning whether Moscow will fully honor such commitments.
Americans Are Changing Their Views of Israel – That’s a Problem
A new opinion piece highlights the shifting attitudes of Americans toward Israel, particularly among younger generations and political groups. While support for Israel has long been a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy, growing divisions could complicate diplomatic efforts and weaken bipartisan consensus. The piece warns that this change might reshape U.S. involvement in Middle Eastern conflicts and negotiations.
U.S. Military Deploying Forces to Caribbean Against Drug Groups
The Pentagon is sending troops and naval assets to the southern Caribbean in a targeted effort against drug trafficking organizations. This move underscores Washington’s concern about rising cartel influence in the region and its links to instability. It also signals an expanded U.S. military footprint near South America, which could impact relations with local governments.
Economy

Republicans vs. Democrats on Price Report
A fresh economic report on prices has sparked partisan debate in Washington. Republicans argue that the report shows inflationary danger, while Democrats maintain it reflects a resilient economy. The article breaks down what the numbers mean for ordinary Americans and how the narrative will shape campaign messaging heading into the election season.
US Retail Sales Signal Resilience
Retail data suggests American consumers are still spending robustly, even as inflation and interest rates weigh on households. Analysts see this as a sign of economic strength, but warn it may complicate the Federal Reserve’s efforts to cool prices. This resilience also raises questions about whether a slowdown is truly imminent or still further off.
Inflation Clouds Fed’s Path, White House Eyes Intel Stake
The Federal Reserve faces a tricky path as inflation remains sticky despite earlier interventions. At the same time, the White House is considering a strategic stake in Intel to strengthen domestic semiconductor manufacturing. This dual focus highlights the intersection of monetary policy and industrial strategy in shaping the U.S. economy’s future.
Crypto

Ketaki Paygude / Netscribes
Winklevoss Twins Reveal Details of Gemini IPO
Tyler and Cameron Winklevoss disclosed new information about their crypto exchange Gemini’s plans to go public. The IPO is positioned as a key step to boost confidence in U.S.-based crypto platforms at a time when regulation is tightening. The move could set a precedent for how crypto firms navigate Wall Street.
$1M Bitcoin in 2026 Would Spell Trouble
Billionaire investor Mike Novogratz warned that if Bitcoin were to hit $1 million by 2026, it would actually indicate severe economic instability rather than financial success. He argued such a surge would only be possible if traditional financial systems collapsed, making it more of a doomsday signal than a celebration for investors.
Thailand Launches Crypto Conversion Scheme for Tourists
Thailand has introduced a new program allowing tourists to easily convert their cryptocurrency into local currency. Officials hope the initiative will boost tourism and position the country as a hub for digital finance. If successful, it could pave the way for more crypto-integrated economies in Southeast Asia.
Personal Finance

Private Equity and Crypto Could Impact 401(k)s
New financial regulations may soon allow retirement accounts to include riskier investments like private equity and crypto. Advocates argue this could boost long-term gains, while critics warn it exposes savers to higher risks. The report explains what everyday investors need to know before considering such options.
Codie Sanchez on Money as the ‘Sword of the 21st Century’
Investor and entrepreneur Codie Sanchez is making waves with her philosophy that money is the most powerful tool of modern times. She’s urging Americans to embrace financial independence through alternative investments, warning that dependence on traditional systems leaves individuals vulnerable. Her ideas are sparking debate about wealth-building in today’s economy.
Habits of People Who Never Struggle Financially
An article breaks down eleven daily habits common among financially secure people, from disciplined budgeting to continuous learning. These behaviors, while seemingly small, accumulate into long-term financial stability. The piece emphasizes that mindset and routine are just as important as income level.
Business/Markets

Sam Altman vs. Elon Musk
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman appears to be strategically positioning his ventures against Elon Musk’s empire, targeting one company at a time. The rivalry reflects their competing visions of technology’s future, from AI to space exploration. The article highlights how this rivalry could shape innovation in the coming decade.
Inflation Alarm Bells Ringing Again
Inflation has once again accelerated, raising concerns for consumers and policymakers. Prices are rising across essentials like food and fuel, stoking fears of reduced purchasing power. Economists are split on whether this is a short-term spike or a sign of a longer struggle.
Electricity Prices Outpacing Inflation
A new report reveals that electricity costs in the U.S. are climbing more than twice as fast as general inflation. This surge is putting pressure on households already grappling with higher living costs. Analysts warn that energy affordability could become a central issue in upcoming political debates.
PRESENTED BY LONG ANGLE
A Private Circle for High-Net-Worth Peers
Long Angle is a private, vetted community for high-net-worth entrepreneurs, executives, and professionals across multiple industries. No membership fees.
Connect with primarily self-made, 30-55-year-olds ($5M-$100M net worth) in confidential discussions, peer advisory groups, and live meetups.
Access curated alternative investments like private equity and private credit. With $100M+ invested annually, leverage collective expertise and scale to capture unique opportunities.
Today’s Snapshot
🚀 How to Build Wealth That Actually Lasts
Hey friend — let’s talk about money (but without the boring finance jargon).
Here’s the truth: most people either chase fast money and burn out, or they pile up savings in a way that never really grows. Neither feels good. One leaves you exhausted, the other leaves you stuck.
But wealth? Real wealth?
It’s not about quick flips or playing defense forever.
It’s about building something solid, something that makes your future self breathe easier, and something that keeps paying you back long after the effort is done.
So let’s break down the game plan. Three steps. All doable. All powerful.
1. Treat Money Like a Tool, Not a Trophy 🛠️
A lot of people chase money just to have it — a certain number in the bank, a nice car, a house with extra rooms they never use. Nothing wrong with enjoying your money (seriously, treat yourself), but here’s the shift:
👉 Money isn’t the end goal. Money is the tool.
Think about it like this:
For a corporate pro — your income might be high, but your time is limited. Use money to buy freedom (investments, systems, or even outsourcing tasks that eat your weekends).
For business owners — money is leverage. It fuels growth, lets you hire great people, and buys you breathing room to think big.
For the young & hungry — money is optionality. That first $5k, $10k, $20k invested smartly can buy you flexibility that most people don’t have in their 30s.
Bottom line: if you see money as a tool, you’ll use it to create more — not just hoard it like a trophy you dust off once in a while.
2. Build “Layers” of Wealth 🍰
Here’s where most people trip up: they focus on just one wealth strategy. Maybe it’s a paycheck, maybe it’s a business, maybe it’s stocks. But wealth is way more stable when you build it in layers.
Think of it like a cake (and who doesn’t like cake?):
Layer 1: Income (the foundation)
This is your job, your business, your freelance hustle. It’s the base — without income, nothing else happens.Layer 2: Investments (the growth)
Stocks, ETFs, real estate, angel investing, whatever fits you. This is where your money starts compounding and working harder than you ever could.Layer 3: Cash Flow Assets (the sweet spot)
Dividends, rental properties, side businesses, royalties. These pay you again and again while you sleep.Layer 4: Ownership & Equity (the wealth lock-in)
Owning part of a business, real estate appreciation, or even equity in your own growing company. This is long-term, life-changing wealth.
You don’t need all the layers at once. Just ask yourself: What’s my next layer? If you’re crushing your career, maybe it’s time to start investing. If you’re investing already, maybe add a cash flow asset.
Step by step, the cake gets bigger (and tastier).
3. Play the Long Game (While Staying Nimble) 🎯
Here’s the not-so-sexy truth: wealth takes time. Years. Sometimes decades. But before you yawn and click away, here’s the exciting part: the earlier you start, the more freedom you buy.
Let’s look at two people:
Alex starts investing $500/month at 25 → By 45, they’ve got a portfolio worth over $500k (assuming decent market growth).
Jordan waits until 35 → They put in the same amount for the same number of years, but end up with almost half as much.
That’s the magic of time + compounding.
But here’s the balance: while you play the long game, you also stay nimble. New opportunities (crypto, new markets, startups, AI-driven businesses) pop up all the time. The trick is to have your foundation solid so you can afford to take smart, calculated risks without blowing up your future.
Quick Wins You Can Do Today 🏆
Alright, enough theory. Here are a few things you can literally do this week:
Automate your investing. Pick a number (even if it’s small) and make it a “bill” that pays your future self.
List your wealth layers. Write down where you’re strong (income, investments, assets) and where you’re weak. Your next move is obvious.
Cut one “dumb expense” and redirect it. That $100 subscription you don’t use? Throw it into an ETF and let it work.
Create an opportunity fund. Even $1,000 in cash waiting for the right moment puts you in a different league than 90% of people.
Final Thought 🌱
Wealth isn’t about luck or being born into it. It’s about stacking smart moves, layer by layer, with patience and a bit of boldness.
Use money as a tool.
Build wealth in layers.
Play the long game while staying flexible.
That’s it. Not complicated. Not “get rich quick.” Just the kind of steady, strategic game plan that lets you look back in 10 years and go…
“Dang. I really set myself up right.”
And hey — your future self will absolutely thank you for starting today.
Fun Stuff
😂 Joke of the Day
Why did the banker break up with their calculator?
Because they felt they couldn’t count on it anymore. 🧮💔
📆 This Day in Financial History
August 18, 1920 – The 19th Amendment was ratified in the U.S., giving women the right to vote. 💪 While not a “financial market” event, it reshaped economics and labor markets by expanding women’s influence in society, politics, and business.
🤯 Wild & Wacky Business Fact
Did you know? In 2013, a Canadian man legally tried to pay his $7,000 credit card bill in pennies. The bank refused, citing “storage concerns.” 🪙😂
⚖️ Would You Rather…
Would you rather be able to invest with perfect foresight (but only once per decade) OR have unlimited capital but zero knowledge of markets?
*Answers at the bottom
Thought of The Day
The quality of your questions often determines the quality of your results. Better questions spark deeper thinking, unlock new perspectives, and accelerate growth.
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.