July 30, 2025

Happy Wednesday, everyone! 🌱
Good morning! You’ve officially made it to midweek—whether you’re thriving, surviving, or somewhere in between, you’re doing better than you think.

Today, we’re talking about one of the smallest but most powerful money moves out there: the 1% Rule.

No, not the fancy yacht club kind of 1%. We’re talking about making tiny, consistent improvements—just 1% better each day. 📈💪

It sounds small (because it is), but when those little shifts stack up, the results are massive. You don’t need a big break. You just need a little momentum—and the patience to let it compound.

So today’s the day to start. Not perfect. Not dramatic. Just 1% better than yesterday.

Let’s build quietly, and watch it grow loudly.

— Ryan Rincon, Founder at The Wealth Wagon Inc.

— Warren Buffett

Market Update: A red tide swept through the markets today, with just a glimmer of green. Here's your concise snapshot 🌊📉:

Bitcoin sank 1.16%, matching the downward trend in gold (-0.65%) and silver (-0.091%). Not much sparkle in commodities today.

Apple tumbled 1.30%, and Airbnb had the roughest landing, down 3.74%.

Only bright spot? Microsoft nudged up 0.014%—just enough to stay in the green. 🟢

In summary: A broadly negative day across sectors, with just one tech titan holding the line.

Schumer blasts Trump’s EU deal: ‘It’s fake!’
Senator Chuck Schumer has harshly criticized Trump’s EU deal, calling it “fake” and misleading. Schumer argues the agreement doesn’t address critical issues like climate or labor standards. The comment reflects continued Democratic skepticism of Trump's international negotiations. The tone suggests rising tension in Congress as the deal garners headlines.

Mike Lee wants to cancel August recess — or let Trump appoint nominees on his own
Senator Mike Lee has suggested canceling the August recess to speed up confirmations. He proposes allowing Trump to bypass the process and appoint nominees directly if Congress delays. Critics warn this would disrupt the balance of power and diminish the Senate's role. Lee’s proposal highlights political gridlock and Republican frustration.

Cabal behind the ‘Russia hoax’ laid bare in declassified intelligence files
The Washington Times reports new declassified files pointing to a so-called “cabal” behind the Russia investigation. Trump allies believe the revelations validate claims of political targeting. The files allegedly show coordinated efforts within intelligence agencies. It’s likely to spark more partisan debate over past investigations.

Trade deficit sinks to 22-month low as businesses try to time Trump tariffs
The U.S. trade deficit dropped to its lowest point in nearly two years. Many businesses rushed exports and imports in anticipation of new tariffs from the Trump administration. Economists believe this temporary drop could reverse as new tariffs take effect. The data suggests companies are bracing for economic instability.

IMF upgrades global growth forecast as weaker dollar aids world economy
The International Monetary Fund has revised its global growth forecast upward. A weakening U.S. dollar is cited as a key factor in boosting other economies. This change suggests more optimism around international trade and investment. The IMF warns, however, that geopolitical risks remain.

Asia-Pacific markets mixed as traders await outcome of U.S.-China trade talks
Markets in Asia showed a mixed performance due to uncertainty around upcoming U.S.-China trade negotiations. Investors are watching closely for any progress. While some indices rose slightly, others fell amid caution. The talks are expected to impact global supply chains and tariff regulations.

Warren Buffett’s longtime Social Security warning is coming to fruition
Buffett has repeatedly warned about the unsustainability of Social Security in its current form. His concerns now seem valid as retirees face reduced benefits and later retirement ages. Financial planners recommend diversifying retirement portfolios. The looming shortfall in Social Security could prompt legislative reforms.

Frugal people say these under $50 upgrades saved them more money than expected
Upworthy shares tips from frugal consumers on purchases under $50 that saved them hundreds. Items range from kitchen gadgets to energy-efficient products. Many users reported noticeable drops in their utility bills or food waste. It’s a reminder that small investments can lead to long-term savings.

Dutch pension giant pledges $650mn to Octopus Australia
A major Dutch pension fund has pledged over half a billion dollars to Octopus Australia. The move signals confidence in renewable energy and infrastructure investment in the region. This funding will expand clean energy projects across the continent. It reflects a broader trend toward ESG-focused investing.

Verizon will give you a free Samsung Z Flip 7 phone right now — how the deal works
Verizon is running a new promotion offering the Samsung Z Flip 7 for free with certain trade-ins and plans. The move is designed to drive adoption of foldable phones. Customers should check eligibility requirements carefully. The Z Flip 7 continues to generate attention as a hybrid of novelty and functionality.

First look at iPhone 17 Pro? Public images seemingly confirm big design and camera changes
Leaked images of the iPhone 17 Pro suggest Apple is overhauling both design and camera systems. The changes could include a more compact chassis and upgraded lenses. If accurate, these modifications would align with Apple’s goal of staying ahead of Android competitors. Tech fans are buzzing with anticipation.

Apple’s latest MacBook Air M4 has never sold for less at $200 off, now down to $799
The MacBook Air M4 has hit a record-low price, making it more accessible to a wider audience. Retailers are offering $200 off, bringing it to $799. With upgraded performance and long battery life, it’s a strong choice for students and professionals. The deal is expected to drive strong back-to-school sales.

PREVIEW: Visa, Mastercard set for higher profits on solid spending trends
Visa and Mastercard are poised to report strong earnings, according to early analyst estimates. Consumers have been spending steadily, especially on travel and services. These trends support higher transaction volumes, boosting profit potential. Payment tech stocks may benefit in the upcoming quarter.

UnitedHealth Continues to Struggle as Rising Medical Costs, Shortfalls Affect Business
UnitedHealth is facing pressure from soaring medical costs and a shortfall in expected profits. The healthcare giant is struggling to manage margins amid ongoing economic shifts. Analysts warn that sustained inflation in the healthcare sector could hurt more insurers. This situation highlights ongoing volatility in the health services industry.

Gold market analysis for July 29 – key intra-day price entry levels for active traders
Gold analysts have released their forecast for July 29, targeting key support and resistance levels. The market is currently in a sensitive position, impacted by inflation expectations and interest rate speculation. Short-term traders are watching closely for a potential breakout. Gold remains a critical hedge in uncertain economic times.

Can we talk about something weirdly simple that most people skip when trying to “make it”?

I call it the 1% Rule. And no, it’s not about rental real estate (though that version’s great too). This is different.

This is the idea that if you get just 1% better every day — financially, mentally, skill-wise, network-wise — in a year, you’ll be 37x better. (Yep, compound math is wild.)

Let’s talk about how this tiny shift in thinking can quietly stack your bank account, your business, your investments, and honestly… your entire life.

Most people are waiting for a big break:

But that’s backwards. Waiting for the perfect moment keeps people broke and stuck.

Meanwhile…

The key isn’t making one giant leap.

It’s small moves, made consistently.

Let’s look at how tiny actions stack:

Example 1: Money

And that’s just $10/day. Add a zero and the results explode.

Example 2: Career

You see where this is going?

You don’t need a fancy strategy. You need one repeatable thing you can do today that puts you a little closer to your financial freedom or business goal.

Some ideas (pick one!):

💼 For the corporate folks:

💡 For the entrepreneurs:

📈 For the investors:

🚀 For the career-curious / figuring-it-out crowd:

Small stuff. But big ripples.

Start saying this to yourself:

“I don’t need to win the game today. I just need to get a little better at playing it.”

Wealth isn’t won by jumping to the front of the line.

It’s won by staying in the game long enough — and getting 1% smarter, stronger, and sharper every round.

We all move at our own pace. The 35-year-old exec isn’t “better” than the 22-year-old barista who just opened a Roth IRA and wrote their first blog post.

Both are compounding.

Both are winning.

And guess what? If you’re reading this — you’re already ahead of 99% of people who never take time to think about money, growth, or ownership at all.

Want a fast win? Pick ONE thing from this list and do it today:

That’s your 1% today.

Tomorrow, pick another.

And just like that… you’re on your way.

Keep growing, keep stacking, and don’t forget:

Slow and steady doesn’t just win the race — it owns the track.

Why did the investor bring a ladder to the IPO?
Because they heard the stock was about to go through the roof! 📈

In 2011, Coca-Cola became the first private company allowed to sell in Myanmar after U.S. sanctions lifted — meaning Coke was sold in every country on Earth except North Korea and Cuba.
Talk about global market penetration.

Would you rather…

(Do you trust compound growth... or prefer guaranteed gains?)

A business charges $100 for a product.
They run a “Buy One, Get One Half Off” promotion.
What’s the average price per item?

*Answers at the bottom

Brain Teaser - Answer:

✅ Still a nice margin — but psychology makes it sound like a steal!