October 2, 2025

Happy Thursday, everyone!
Good morning ☀️—I hope you woke up feeling ready to tackle the day (or at least ready for that first cup of coffee ☕). Isn’t it funny how some mornings we feel like superheroes, and other mornings we feel like… “let’s just survive until lunch”? Either way, you’re here—and that’s a win.

Here’s a thought to chew on today: what’s scarier—prices going up, or taking big risks to try to keep up? Most of us would probably say “both.” Inflation can feel like that sneaky houseguest who eats all your snacks, and risky investments can feel like playing hopscotch on quicksand.

That’s why today’s post is all about how to protect your money from inflation without swinging for the fences. Think of it like putting your wealth in a raincoat—keeps it dry, keeps it safe, and still lets you walk around without stress.

Because wealth isn’t just about growing; it’s about protecting what you’ve built so far. And if you can keep your money working without losing sleep, you’re already ahead of most people.

Let’s dig into some strategies that make your money inflation-proof, minus the headaches.

— Ryan Rincon, Founder at The Wealth Wagon Inc.

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— Bernard Meltzer

Market Update: The markets are riding a steady green wave — Nasdaq climbed +0.42% to $22,755.16, S&P 500 added +0.34% at $6,711.20, and the Dow Jones nudged up +0.09% to $46,441.10.

Crypto had the spotlight with Bitcoin jumping nearly +3% to $117,439.30, while metals glittered as Gold gained +0.50% to $3,892.60 and Silver soared +1.93% to $47.54.

On the stock side:

✨ In short: Tech and crypto are stretching higher, gold is shining steady, and Lululemon might need a new yoga pose to recover. 🧘‍♂️

Heaviest Snapchat Users to Face Storage Charges After 5GB Limit

Snapchat will begin charging users who exceed five gigabytes of free storage. The policy aligns with similar measures by other tech giants. The move comes as the platform manages rising storage costs and usage. Regular users under the threshold won’t be affected immediately.

Republicans Demand Data From Firms Setting College Tuition Prices

House and Senate Judiciary leaders are pressuring consultants and the College Board. They argue pricing algorithms may be fueling soaring tuition rates. Lawmakers invoked antitrust laws in their demand for transparency. The inquiry could reshape how education costs are set nationwide.

Reality TV’s Spencer Pratt Becomes Political Firebrand Against Gavin Newsom

Spencer Pratt, once seen as a celebrity stereotype, has rebranded himself. After losing his home in a California wildfire, he turned to activism. Pratt now criticizes Governor Gavin Newsom, aligning with Republican causes. His transformation highlights the blending of celebrity culture and politics.

Voice of America Halts Broadcasting After Government Shutdown Begins

The U.S. federal broadcaster has suspended operations due to the shutdown. In past crises, it remained on air to counter foreign propaganda. Officials say this stoppage weakens America’s global media presence. The closure reflects the broader fallout from political gridlock in Washington.

Government Shutdown Slows Federal Courts, Justice Department Cases Paused

The Justice Department is asking judges to freeze ongoing cases. Without funding, lawyers cannot continue litigation as normal. Delays could stretch into weeks, straining court backlogs further. Critics warn prolonged shutdowns risk undermining public trust in the legal system.

Some Democrats Cross Aisle to Vote With GOP on Shutdown

Two Democrats and an independent backed Republicans to avoid government closure. The bipartisan move aimed to keep funding flowing despite leadership deadlock. Their decision highlights growing rifts within the Democratic Party. The vote underscores high stakes as political battles intensify.

YouTube Reaches $24.5M Settlement in Trump Suspension Lawsuit

Donald Trump sued after YouTube suspended his accounts following Jan. 6. Alphabet, YouTube’s parent company, settled for $24.5 million. The suspension was tied to violent rhetoric and Capitol riot fallout. The case reflects ongoing clashes between tech platforms and political figures.

Uber Cleared of Responsibility in Sexual Assault Case by Jury

Uber was not held liable for a driver accused of sexual assault. The ruling comes as similar lawsuits pile up across the U.S. Victims argue the company failed to protect passengers from harm. Legal experts say the verdict could shape future cases.

China Showcases Tech at Expo, But Buyers Remain Reluctant

The Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou displayed China’s latest innovations. Despite advances, foreign buyers remain cautious amid U.S.-China tensions. Analysts say internal challenges are also limiting profits and adoption. The event revealed both progress and economic vulnerabilities in China’s tech sector.

AI, Fighter Jets, and Spies Redefine the Modern Battlefield

Russia’s war in Ukraine has reshaped military innovation globally. Start-ups and investors are pioneering AI-driven warfare tools and intelligence methods. Europe’s buildup includes unconventional tactics, from drone swarms to cockroach-like devices. The shift marks a new era of tech-centered defense strategies.

Trump Administration Imposes Tariffs on Furniture, Cabinets, and Lumber

New White House tariffs will hit imported furniture and kitchen cabinets. Timber and lumber will face lower duties compared to finished products. Officials say the move supports U.S. manufacturers against foreign competition. Critics warn it could raise prices for consumers.

U.S. Economy Shed 32,000 Private-Sector Jobs in September

The latest employment report showed a decline in private-sector positions. Economists worry the loss signals cooling momentum in the labor market. Hiring slowdowns are being felt across multiple industries. Analysts warn it could weigh on overall economic growth.

Poll Finds Majority Believe Free Speech Restrictions Have Gone Too Far

A new survey revealed most Americans oppose further limits on speech. Respondents believe censorship has expanded beyond acceptable boundaries. The findings reflect rising concern about political correctness and government overreach. Debate over free speech remains deeply polarized nationwide.

Federal Shutdown Brings New Travel Delays and Security Concerns

The government shutdown could disrupt air travel nationwide. TSA staff shortages and FAA slowdowns are expected. Delays may grow worse if the standoff continues. Experts warn passenger safety and efficiency could be compromised.

Inflation doesn’t care how hard you worked for your money. It just quietly eats away at your purchasing power year after year. Even at 3–4% inflation, what costs $100 today could cost $134 in just ten years. If your money isn’t growing faster than that, you’re moving backward.

The problem? Most people either:

The sweet spot is protecting your money without swinging for the fences. Here’s how you can do it:

The key isn’t betting on one thing — it’s blending:

That way, no matter what inflation throws at you, you’ve got a cushion.

You don’t need to outsmart inflation with complicated strategies. You just need to stop ignoring it. With a few smart moves, your money can not only keep pace but actually grow stronger, even in an inflationary world.

Because the truth is, inflation isn’t going away. But if you play it right — it doesn’t have to take you down with it.

Why don’t graveyards ever get overcrowded?
Because people are dying to get in.

On October 2, 1902, the first movie theater in Los Angeles opened to the public, charging just 10 cents for admission—planting the seeds for a multi-billion-dollar film industry. 🎬💰

In 2011, a man in Delaware sued a dry cleaner for $67 million over a pair of lost pants. (Spoiler: he lost.) 👖⚖️

Would you rather…

*Answers at the bottom