September 20, 2025

Happy Saturday, everyone!
Good morning 🌞—I hope your weekend is off to a strong (and maybe even slow, in the best way) start.

Here’s a little thought to chew on with your coffee: when you look at a company, do you see just a logo and a product… or do you see a living story with numbers, people, and decisions all woven together? Investors learn to read companies the way some people read novels—plot twists, rising action, hidden details, and all.

The cool thing? You don’t have to be Warren Buffett to start doing it. Even if you’re not an “investor,” learning to see companies like one gives you x-ray vision into how money really moves in the world. And once you see it, you can’t unsee it.

That’s exactly what today’s post is about: how to read a company like an investor (even if you’re not one yet). Think of it as learning a new language—the one that businesses actually speak. 📖💡

So before you dive in, here’s a fun question: if your favorite brand were a book, would it be a thriller, a comedy, or maybe a slow-burn drama?

— Ryan Rincon, Founder at The Wealth Wagon Inc.

— Sam Altman

Market Update: The markets are buzzing with mixed energy today, giving investors plenty to chew on. 📈 The Nasdaq (+0.72%), S&P 500 (+0.49%), and Dow Jones (+0.37%) all marched higher, signaling a cautiously optimistic mood across Wall Street. But Bitcoin didn’t get the memo—slipping -1.36% and leaving crypto traders scratching their heads.

Commodities, though, brought the shine—Gold glittered with a +1.12% bump while Silver sparkled even brighter at +2.96%. On the corporate front, it’s a tale of contrasts: Walmart stumbled -1.23% as consumer trends weighed heavy, while UnitedHealth flexed its resilience with a +0.56% gain. Meanwhile, Exxon dropped -0.97%, reminding everyone that energy stocks are still riding a choppy wave.

In short—stocks are climbing steadily, metals are shining, and Bitcoin’s taking a breather. Looks like the market’s serving a little bit of everything today! 🌍💰

Amex refreshes Platinum Card with $600 hotel credit and perks
American Express has updated its Platinum Card benefits, adding a $600 annual hotel credit among other travel-related perks. The move is designed to appeal to frequent travelers and luxury seekers. Experts say it strengthens Amex’s competitive edge as premium credit cards continue to battle for customer loyalty. The refresh highlights the growing trend of lifestyle-oriented rewards in the credit card market.

Gold prices continue slide as markets weigh interest rate cuts
Gold prices are dropping as investors remain cautious over possible interest rate cuts from central banks. Analysts note that while rate cuts usually boost gold, mixed signals about global economic health have kept buyers hesitant. The metal’s decline reflects investor uncertainty heading into key economic decisions. Traders are watching closely for Fed guidance that could shift momentum.

XRP and DOGE ETFs smash records with $54.7M debut
Exchange-traded funds tied to XRP and Dogecoin recorded an impressive $54.7 million in first-day trading volume. The milestone underscores strong investor appetite for crypto-linked financial products. Analysts say the debut could open the door for more meme-coin and altcoin ETFs in mainstream markets. The surge also reflects broader optimism in the digital asset space despite regulatory headwinds.

Kevin Durant regains access to frozen Bitcoin in Coinbase account
NBA star Kevin Durant has regained access to Bitcoin funds in his Coinbase account after a prolonged dispute. The case drew attention to custodial control and security issues on crypto exchanges. Durant’s recovery of his assets highlights both the risks and safeguards in place for high-profile users. It also underscores ongoing concerns over transparency and accountability in the crypto industry.

Golden statue of Trump with Bitcoin sparks scandal in Washington
A golden statue depicting Donald Trump holding a Bitcoin has caused a stir in Washington. The installation, viewed as both political art and provocation, sparked debates over money, politics, and digital currency symbolism. Critics argue it trivializes serious policy discussions, while supporters see it as commentary on Trump’s influence. The statue has become a flashpoint in the culture surrounding crypto adoption.

PayPal’s PYUSD stablecoin expands across multiple major blockchains
PayPal announced that its PYUSD stablecoin is now live on Tron, Avalanche, Sei, and other blockchain networks. The expansion is aimed at making PYUSD more widely usable in DeFi ecosystems. Analysts say this move could boost PayPal’s foothold in the digital currency space. By spreading across chains, PYUSD is competing more directly with established stablecoins like USDT and USDC.

BOJ holds rates as inflation drops to lowest since 2024
The Bank of Japan kept interest rates steady while noting that core inflation has dipped to its lowest since November 2024. The decision reflects cautious optimism but also ongoing fragility in Japan’s recovery. Policymakers are watching wage growth and global pressures before adjusting monetary policy. Economists say Japan faces unique challenges as it balances inflation control with economic growth.

Global economy weathers Trump-related shocks with cautious resilience
Markets and policymakers are adjusting to economic turbulence linked to Trump’s policies and rhetoric. Analysts say the global economy has so far taken the shocks in stride, but longer-term impacts remain uncertain. Trade, investment, and monetary policy are being carefully watched for ripple effects. Businesses worldwide are hedging against volatility as confidence wavers.

Critics highlight Trump’s destructive influence on the US economy
A new analysis argues that Trump’s policies and decisions are destabilizing the U.S. economy. The report cites erratic trade policies, growing deficits, and weakened institutions as key concerns. Economists warn that the damage could have lasting structural effects even if markets seem stable in the short term. The piece underscores fears of economic erosion under political uncertainty.

Meta CTO addresses smart glasses demo failure and lessons learned
Meta’s Chief Technology Officer acknowledged the company’s smart glasses faced technical failures during a recent demo. He explained the root causes and emphasized that the issues are being addressed. While embarrassing, the admission underscores Meta’s willingness to publicly learn from setbacks. The company remains committed to advancing wearable AR technology despite the hurdles.

Google expands AI capabilities across Chrome browser ecosystem
Google has announced a major rollout of AI-powered tools integrated into its Chrome browser. The features include enhanced search, writing assistance, and personalized browsing experiences. The move highlights Google’s push to embed AI deeply into everyday user interactions. Analysts say it could reshape productivity and strengthen Chrome’s dominance in the browser market.

Google Home redesign powered by Gemini AI debuts first look
A new redesign of the Google Home experience has been revealed, powered by Gemini AI. The interface promises smoother controls, smarter automation, and better integration with third-party devices. Early previews suggest a more intuitive user experience designed to rival Apple’s HomeKit and Amazon’s Alexa. Analysts say the overhaul is part of Google’s broader push into AI-driven home ecosystems.

Mortgage rates rise despite Fed interest rate cut
Mortgage rates are climbing even after the Federal Reserve announced interest rate cuts, a move that usually lowers borrowing costs. Analysts point to investor caution, inflation concerns, and broader market volatility as factors keeping rates elevated. For homebuyers, this means affordability remains challenging despite policy shifts aimed at relief. Experts warn the housing market may stay tight if rates don’t ease soon.

Ray Dalio: Gold and digital assets will outlast fiat currencies
Billionaire investor Ray Dalio predicts that gold and cryptocurrencies will increasingly be relied upon as stores of value. He argues that traditional fiat currencies are being eroded by debt, inflation, and poor fiscal management. Dalio sees digital assets, alongside gold, as part of a diversified strategy to preserve wealth. His comments add momentum to debates about the future of money and alternative investments.

Grocery prices climb higher, no relief in sight for consumers
Food costs have surged again, with grocery prices rising more sharply than expected. Families across the U.S. continue to feel the pinch, with staples like bread, produce, and meat driving the increases. Economists say supply chain pressures, fuel costs, and climate factors are compounding the problem. Consumers are being forced to cut back or shift to cheaper alternatives as inflation drags on.

Most people look at businesses from the outside: the products, the ads, maybe the vibe of the brand. But investors — whether they’re putting money into a stock, a startup, or even buying a small business — look at something else: the inner workings.

Learning how to “read” a company is one of the most practical money skills you can develop. Even if you’re not a professional investor (yet), this mindset can help you:

Let’s break it down into something you can use in real life.

Businesses love to make noise: press releases, flashy marketing, big claims. But investors look at cash flow.

💡 Real-life takeaway: Whether you’re considering buying stock, starting a side hustle, or even analyzing your current employer, ask: Does this business actually make money consistently?

A moat is what protects a business from competition. Warren Buffett loves this concept — and for good reason.

Types of moats include:

💡 Real-life takeaway: If you’re investing, pick businesses that have a moat. If you’re running your own business, figure out what moat you can build to avoid being replaced by the next competitor.

Debt isn’t always bad. But too much debt? That’s how businesses get crushed when times get tough.

💡 Real-life takeaway: When looking at a company (or even your own finances), ask: Could this survive a rough year?

Behind every set of numbers is a leadership team making decisions. Some are visionaries. Others are reckless.

Signs of strong management:

💡 Real-life takeaway: If you’re investing, listen to what leaders say — but more importantly, watch what they do. If you’re an employee, pay attention to how your company’s leadership steers the ship. It tells you a lot about your future there.

Every company has a personality:

Neither is “better.” It depends on your goals.

💡 Real-life takeaway: Young and willing to take risk? Growth businesses might suit you. Looking for predictable returns? Stable companies are your friend.

Here’s a simple exercise you can do today:

That’s how investors think. That’s how you should start thinking.

You don’t need a finance degree to analyze a company. You just need curiosity and a willingness to look beyond the shiny marketing.

Once you start thinking like an investor, you’ll notice opportunities everywhere — whether it’s spotting undervalued stocks, building your own business smarter, or even just realizing your employer might not be as “stable” as you thought.

Because at the end of the day, money flows to people who can see businesses clearly, not just from the outside, but from the inside out.

Why did the banker quit his job?
He lost interest. 💵

I can bring you profit or loss. I change every day, yet I’m not alive. What am I?

This company’s very first product was an MP3 player before it later revolutionized the way people watch movies and shows.

You have two ropes that each burn for exactly one hour, but they don’t burn evenly. How can you measure exactly 45 minutes?

*Answers at the bottom

Riddle - Answer: The stock market 📈

Guess the Company - Answer: Netflix 🎬

Brain Teaser - Answer:

Looking for a way to generate an additional $5,000 per month in income, reply with the word “Course” and will send you over our free course guide teaching you exactly how to build wealth and generate income.

Why? Our job is to help you achieve financial freedom through wealth building and we believe that this can help you do just that. - Ryan Rincon