September 6, 2025

Happy Saturday, friends!
Good morning 🌞—weekends are for slower mornings, second cups of coffee, and maybe even sneaking in a nap you’ll swear you didn’t need.

Here’s something worth reflecting on: most people don’t stay stuck financially because they aren’t smart enough or hardworking enough. They stay stuck because they’re playing by a script that was never designed to help them break free.

That’s exactly what today’s post is about: Why Most People Stay Stuck Financially (And How You Can Break Out). Because the truth is, escaping “average” money struggles isn’t about luck—it’s about shifting the way you think and making moves most people don’t.

So today, let’s talk about breaking out of the loop and setting yourself on a path where your money actually builds freedom—not just covers bills.

— Ryan Rincon, Founder at The Wealth Wagon Inc.

– Warren Buffett

Market Update: Wall Street couldn’t quite find its rhythm today, with all three major indexes taking a step back — the Nasdaq slipped -0.034%, the S&P 500 shed -0.32%, and the Dow Jones dropped -0.48%. But while equities cooled off, some other corners of the market found their shine.

Bitcoin inched up +0.10%, holding steady above $110K, while gold (+0.92%) and silver (+0.22%) reminded investors why they’re called safe havens.

On the corporate side, Microsoft had a rough session, tumbling -2.55%, while UPS (+0.66%) kept deliveries — and investor spirits — moving in the right direction. The star of the day? Tesla, which revved up with a +3.64% jump, proving once again that it thrives on volatility.

👉 In short: stocks cooled, metals glimmered, and Tesla stole the spotlight.

India slashes consumption taxes to spur spending

India has announced sweeping cuts on taxes for hundreds of goods, aiming to give households more buying power and jolt consumer demand. The move comes as the country navigates global trade tensions and domestic inflation pressures. Economists say the policy could provide a welcome boost to growth, but skeptics warn it may also strain government revenue. Shoppers, however, are likely to cheer the price relief.

Jobless claims tick up but hint at easing strain

The latest U.S. labor market snapshot shows jobless claims rising slightly, but economists say the overall trend suggests a cooling rather than a crisis. For workers, it could mean a bit more breathing room in a red-hot market. Businesses, however, are watching closely as any slowdown could alter hiring plans heading into fall. The big question now: is this just a seasonal wobble or the start of something larger?

New York Fed says AI isn’t reshaping jobs yet

Artificial intelligence may be rewriting headlines, but for now, it hasn’t rewritten the U.S. job market, according to the New York Fed. Officials note that while automation is creeping into workplaces, the data shows little measurable impact on employment levels. Still, they caution that the pace of adoption could change quickly, bringing both opportunities and disruptions. For now, workers can rest a little easier—robots aren’t stealing their jobs just yet.

Los Angeles’ 405 to face partial closure this weekend

The famously clogged 405 Freeway is about to get worse, at least temporarily. A planned closure in the Sepulveda Pass will squeeze traffic and likely send drivers scrambling for side streets. Officials say the work is essential to maintain the vital artery, but commuters are already bracing for gridlock. Angelenos know the drill—leave early, pack patience, and maybe curse under your breath.

Highways set for weekend closures across major metros

Drivers in several metro areas are in for headaches as major highway closures are scheduled this weekend. From construction projects to emergency repairs, the disruptions could snarl travel during the last stretch of summer. Officials are urging commuters to plan alternate routes well ahead of time. For road-trippers, it’s the perfect excuse to stock up on podcasts and snacks.

Seattle transit board questions pricey tunnel project

A board member of Seattle’s Sound Transit system is calling for the scrapping of a planned tunnel in its massive rail expansion. The reason? Cost concerns that could blow the budget sky-high. Supporters of the tunnel argue it’s critical for long-term efficiency, while critics say savings should take priority. The debate has reignited broader questions about balancing ambition with affordability in public transit.

Laptop built for doomscrolling features rotating screen

Also from Lenovo: a concept laptop with a screen that can rotate for seamless “doomscrolling.” The quirky design is being pitched as perfect for browsing, social media, and multitasking. Early reactions range from intrigued to bemused, with some asking whether it’s innovation or gimmick. Either way, it’s bound to turn heads at tech expos.

Lenovo unveils pricey Legion Go 2 gaming device

Lenovo has officially launched its Legion Go 2, a flagship handheld gaming machine starting at a steep $1,099. Packed with performance features, it’s aimed squarely at hardcore gamers willing to pay top dollar. Critics say the price may be tough to swallow, especially as competition heats up in the portable market. Still, Lenovo is betting big on the rise of high-end mobile play.

Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S11 looks a lot like iPad

Samsung is reviving its Galaxy Tab lineup with the S11, a sleek 11-inch device that feels suspiciously familiar. The tablet borrows heavily from the iPad playbook, right down to its stylus and design philosophy. Still, fans are eager to see how it performs in real-world use. Apple loyalists may scoff, but Android users finally have a worthy rival to show off.

Federal government phasing out paper Social Security checks

Paper checks are set to become history for Social Security recipients as the federal government continues its digital transition. While most beneficiaries already receive payments electronically, the last holdouts will now be nudged into direct deposit. Officials argue it’s safer, faster, and more efficient. Still, critics worry about seniors struggling with banking access or technology barriers.

Advice column sparks family inheritance drama

In Dear Abby, a reader’s dilemma over a son’s bold inheritance demand has raised eyebrows—and warnings of a potential family feud. The adult child’s request has left siblings fuming and sparked chatter about fairness and entitlement. Abby, ever the straight shooter, doesn’t mince words about the risks of giving in. Families everywhere may be quietly nodding in recognition.

California pension fund tangled in Bitcoin exposure

California’s giant $500 billion pension fund has found itself with an unexpected twist: exposure to Bitcoin. The fund’s managers are now split on whether the crypto investment is a smart long-term play or a risky distraction. Supporters see it as forward-thinking diversification, while skeptics warn of volatility. Either way, retirees may soon be watching the crypto market more closely than ever.

Elon Musk could soon become world’s first trillionaire

Tesla’s new pay package for Elon Musk could catapult him into trillionaire territory, according to financial analysts. The deal is tied to performance milestones, and early indicators suggest Musk is well on his way. Fans see it as proof of his vision, while critics argue it’s excessive compensation. Either way, Musk’s net worth continues to soar into uncharted territory.

U.S. jobs report shows hiring slowdown after leadership shakeup

The first jobs report since Trump fired the Labor Department’s commissioner paints a picture of a slowing employment market. Hiring is still happening, but at a weaker pace than earlier this year. Analysts say the uncertainty in leadership could be adding jitters to an already fragile economy. Workers and businesses alike are bracing for what comes next.

European stocks rally as U.S. jobs data lifts spirits

Markets across Europe breathed a sigh of relief after new U.S. jobs numbers showed more stability than feared. Stocks ticked upward and bond yields eased, giving investors reason to feel cautiously optimistic. The rally comes after weeks of choppy trading tied to rate-cut speculation. For traders, it was a welcome break in the storm.

You’ve probably met people who’ve been “working hard” for 10, 20, even 30 years… yet they’re still stressed about money, living paycheck to paycheck, or barely scraping by.

And then there are others — maybe they don’t seem smarter or even harder-working — but they climb out, get ahead, build wealth, and somehow unlock financial freedom.

So what gives?

It usually comes down to how they think about money. Not how much they make. Not even how they invest. The mental framework behind their decisions is what makes all the difference.

Today, let’s break this down — because mastering this shift could literally change the trajectory of your life, career, or business.

Most people treat money like a hamster wheel:

That’s it. They think more hours = more money. More promotions = more lifestyle upgrades. But here’s the problem: this cycle keeps you working forever.

And if you’re not careful, inflation, unexpected expenses, or bad financial habits make the wheel spin faster without you ever actually moving forward.

Sound familiar?

Here’s the mental switch wealthy people make:

They stop thinking like “workers” and start thinking like capital allocators.

Instead of asking, “How can I earn more money?” they ask:

👉 “How can I make the money I already earn work harder for me?”

That subtle change transforms your role:

Think of it like three “modes” people operate in:

If you’re reading this newsletter, chances are you’re somewhere between Comfort and Wealth. But the real leap is learning to think like someone in Wealth Mode — consistently.

Okay, let’s get into the real-life stuff. Here’s how you can start applying this shift immediately:

Before you spend or invest, ask: “What’s the ROI here?”

Most people blur the line. They get a bonus and instantly upgrade lifestyle. Wealth thinkers split it:

Both are important. But if your growth bucket never grows, freedom never comes.

The wealthy ask: “How will this decision play out in 5–10 years?”

Compounding isn’t just about investments. It’s about every choice you make.

If you’re making a solid salary but still feel stuck, here’s your edge:

Your money mindset is even more critical because every dollar can be:

Ask yourself: “Is this dollar better spent making my business more resilient or more scalable?”

You might feel behind, but honestly? You’re in the best spot.

If you focus on skill-building + avoiding debt traps, you can lap people making 6-figures but spending it all.

Here’s the uncomfortable truth:

Most people know what to do. Spend less than you earn. Invest wisely. Keep learning.

But knowing isn’t the problem. Mindset is.

If you keep thinking like a worker, you’ll keep living like one. If you start thinking like a capital allocator — even with small amounts — you open the door to freedom.

Money is a game of perspective.

Your income matters, sure. But your thinking about money matters more.

So next time you touch a dollar — whether it’s a paycheck, a bonus, or that crisp $20 bill — pause and ask yourself:

👉 “Am I spending this like a worker, or allocating it like a wealth builder?”

That little question, asked consistently, can change your entire financial future.

What comes once in a minute, twice in a moment, but never in a thousand years?

This company’s original slogan was “Don’t be evil”, and it quietly dropped it from its code of conduct in 2018.

Would you rather:

Four prisoners are in a line, all facing forward. The first can’t see anyone. The second sees one person. The third sees two people. The fourth sees all three. Each prisoner wears either a black or white hat. They’re told there are two black and two white hats. They can only say one word to guess their hat color, starting from the back. Who speaks first and how?

*Answers at the bottom

Riddle - Answer: The letter M. 🔤

Guess the Company - Answer: Google 🔍

Brain Teaser - Answer:
The fourth prisoner (who sees three hats) should speak first. If he sees two hats of the same color, he knows his must be the opposite.