Grow Smart Income - week 13, 2024

What happened this week?

Good day valued readers,

We hope this week's carefully curated selection of news finds you well. In this edition, we cover the latest developments across investing, finance, crypto, AI, and other topics to help you stay informed.

As always, our goal is to provide you with a professional, unbiased roundup of noteworthy news to augment your understanding of what's happening in the world. We take pride in hand-selecting articles from trustworthy sources across a diverse range of industries.

Please enjoy this week's newsletter. We're grateful for the opportunity to share these insights with you and look forward to continuing to be a valuable resource.

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Investing and Finance

Welcome to the latest edition of our newsletter, where we dive into the diverse and dynamic landscape of business, finance, and current events. In this issue, we explore the curious phenomenon of Bentley's declining sales, attributed to what the CEO describes as 'emotional sensitivity' among consumers. Meanwhile, the tech world is abuzz with news of Sam Altman's Reddit stake, soaring to over $600 million after a remarkable debut on the NYSE.

Amidst discussions of housing affordability in the U.S., we ponder what it would truly take for homes to become accessible once again. On the economic front, Federal Reserve officials are expressing optimism, increasingly believing in a 'soft landing' for the economy. In a surprising turn, Trump unveils a potential $3 billion windfall following a social media SPAC deal, showcasing the enduring impact of his ventures.

For those keen on Wall Street insights, we delve into the essential seven words every stock trader should know. Additionally, we explore the rising productivity in America, shedding light on how improved job skills are driving this trend. Drawing from two decades of financial management, we distill 20 invaluable lessons for managing money effectively.

As retirement planning remains a crucial topic, we offer realistic strategies for saving towards a secure future. Shifting gears to the gaming world, Take-Two's stock takes a hit amidst rumors of a 'Grand Theft Auto VI' delay, while Trump's Truth Social Owner sees a soaring stock debut, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of media and technology. Join us as we navigate these intriguing developments and more in this issue.

  1. Bentley sales are down thanks to ‘emotional sensitivity,’ CEO says - Read more

  2. Sam Altman’s Reddit stake worth over $600 million after first day pop on NYSE - Read more

  3. What Would it Take for Houses to Be Affordable in the U.S. Again? - Read more

  4. Fed Officials Increasingly Believe Economy Will Have 'Soft Landing' - Read more

  5. Trump unlocks potential $3bn windfall after social media Spac deal - Read more

  6. How To Trade Stocks: Do You Know The Seven Most Important Words On Wall Street? - Read more

  7. Productivity is way up. The reason: Americans are getting better at their jobs - Read more

  8. 20 Lessons From 20 Years of Managing Money - Read more

  9. How to Realistically Save for Retirement - Read more

  10. Take-Two Stock Sinks Following Report of Possible 'Grand Theft Auto VI' Delay - Read more

  11. Truth Social Owner Trump Media & Technology Stock Soars in Debut - Read more

“Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.”

Nelson Mandela

Crypto News

In this edition of our newsletter, we dive into the exciting and ever-evolving world of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology. In this issue, we start with the anticipation surrounding Cardano, as a crypto analyst boldly predicts a staggering 1,800% price explosion, potentially reaching $12. Meanwhile, US Spot-Bitcoin ETFs experience their largest three-day outflow since their launch, reflecting the shifting sentiments in the crypto investment landscape.

In a move that signals changes in the Indian crypto market, OKX announces its exit, urging users to withdraw funds by April 30th. On the innovation front, Vitalik Buterin doubles the grant for the Ethereum Name Service (ENS), injecting momentum into growth and innovation within Web3 addresses.

Despite the broader crypto downturn, Cardano stands out with a remarkable 170% increase in smart contract development year-to-date, showcasing its resilience and progress. Bitcoin ETFs, however, witness a full week of net outflows, with BlackRock and Fidelity recording record low inflows, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in traditional investment institutions.

Turning our attention to El Salvador, the nation doubles down on its embrace of Bitcoin, cementing its position as a pioneer in crypto adoption at the governmental level. The SEC aims to seek a substantial $2 billion fine from Ripple (XRP), adding to the ongoing regulatory developments in the crypto space.

In a significant move for mainstream adoption, the London Stock Exchange announces plans to launch a market for Bitcoin and Ether ETNs starting May 28th, marking a pivotal moment for the intersection of traditional finance and crypto assets. As Bitcoin rebounds above $70,000, we observe a subsiding trend in ETF selling, indicating a potential stabilization in the market.

Goldman Sachs reports a resurgence in clients' interest in crypto assets, mirroring the broader trend of institutional acceptance. Notably, BlackRock's Bitcoin ETF surpasses holdings of OKX and Kraken combined, underlining the growing influence of established financial players in the crypto sphere.

Lastly, SWIFT makes strides in central bank digital currency (CBDC) integration with a successful DLT test, signaling potential advancements in cross-border payments. Join us as we explore these developments and more, unraveling the complexities and opportunities within the crypto and blockchain space.

  1. Cardano On The Brink: Crypto Analyst Predicts 1,800% Price Explosion To $12 - Read more

  2. US Spot-Bitcoin ETFs Post Largest Three-Day Outflow Since Launch - Read more

  3. Crypto exchange OKX exiting India, asking users to withdraw funds by Apr. 30 - Read more

  4. Vitalik Buterin Doubles Grant for ENS, Fueling Growth and Innovation in Web3 Addresses - Read more

  5. Cardano Defies Crypto Downturn: Smart Contract Development Up 170% Year-to-Date - Read more

  6. Bitcoin ETFs see full week of net outflows, record low inflows for BlackRock, Fidelity - Read more

  7. El Salvador Doubles Down on Bitcoin - Read more

  8. SEC to Seek $2 Billion Fine from Ripple (XRP) - Read more

  9. London Stock Exchange Will Start Market for Bitcoin and Ether ETNs May 28 - Read more

  10. Bitcoin Rebounds Above $70K as ETF Selling Subsides - Read more

  11. Goldman Sachs sees resurgence in clients' interest in crypto assets - Read more

  12. BlackRock Bitcoin ETF Beats OKX And Kraken Holdings Combined - Read more

  13. SWIFT Advances CBDC Integration with Successful DLT Test - Read more

“Attitude is a choice. Happiness is a choice. Optimism is a choice. Kindness is a choice. Giving is a choice. Respect is a choice. Whatever choice you make makes you. Choose wisely.”

Roy T. Bennett

Artificial Intelligence

In this edition of our newsletter, we delve into the latest developments at the intersection of artificial intelligence, technology, and their impact on various industries. In this edition, we explore how ChatGPT's 'Memory' feature is poised to revolutionize healthcare, offering three intriguing ways it can spark breakthroughs in patient care, research, and medical innovation.

JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon makes waves with his prediction that AI could usher in a 3½-day workweek, highlighting the potential for AI to reshape traditional work structures. Meanwhile, an unemployed individual leverages AI to apply for an astounding 5,000 jobs, resulting in 20 interviews, showcasing the transformative power of AI in the job market.

As the White House reports that 10% of US workers are in roles most exposed to artificial intelligence, discussions around the impact of AI on the workforce intensify. Microsoft's CEO weighs in, stating the company's readiness even if OpenAI were to disappear, underscoring the significance of data, intellectual property rights, and technological capabilities.

In Europe, we witness the emergence of five new jobs directly attributed to AI, highlighting the evolving landscape of employment in the AI era. However, concerns arise as Devin AI, an AI software engineer, raises questions about job security in the face of advancing technology.

Security breaches come to the forefront as it's revealed that hackers can access private AI-assistant chats despite encryption, raising important discussions about data privacy and AI vulnerabilities. Shifting gears, anticipation builds around the potential AI integration in the iPhone 16 Pro's chipset, signaling Apple's foray into AI-driven functionalities.

In Scotland, a distillery makes waves by utilizing AI to craft limited edition whisky, blending tradition with cutting-edge technology in the pursuit of unique flavors. Meanwhile, OpenAI's pitch of Sora to Hollywood sparks a response from creatives, indicating a potential shift in AI's role in entertainment production.

Lastly, with OpenAI filing a 'digital voice assistant' trademark application, speculations arise about Sam Altman's ambitions, possibly aiming at Siri and Alexa's territory. To wrap up, we delve into how people are truly utilizing GenAI, offering insights into the practical applications and user experiences of this innovative technology. Join us as we explore these fascinating stories and their implications on the ever-evolving landscape of AI.

  1. 3 Ways ChatGPT’s ‘Memory’ Can Spark Breakthroughs In Healthcare - Read more

  2. JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon says AI could bring a 3½-day workweek - Read more

  3. Unemployed Man Uses AI to Apply for 5,000 Jobs, Gets 20 Interviews - Read more

  4. 10% of US workers are in jobs most exposed to artificial intelligence, White House says - Read more

  5. Microsoft CEO says "It wouldn't matter if OpenAI disappeared tomorrow. We have the data, IP rights, and all the capability." - Read more

  6. The 5 new jobs being created in Europe because of AI - Read more

  7. Devin AI, an AI software engineer, Your job is in danger? - Read more

  8. Hackers can read private AI-assistant chats even though they’re encrypted - Read more

  9. The iPhone 16 Pro’s chipset could be designed with AI in mind - Read more

  10. Distillery in Scotland using AI to create limited edition whisky - Read more

  11. OpenAI is pitching Sora to Hollywood. Creatives are fighting back. - Read more

  12. Sam Altman may have Siri and Alexa in his sights after OpenAI filed a 'digital voice assistant' trademark application - Read more

  13. How People Are Really Using GenAI - Read more

“The secret of your future is hidden in your daily routine.”

Mike Murdock

Top Article Picks this week

In this edition, we delve into thought-provoking topics that touch on personal growth, societal trends, and intriguing mysteries. In this edition, we explore the unexpected effectiveness of having children study their failures, shedding light on how embracing setbacks can lead to valuable learning experiences.

As the self-care movement gains momentum, we examine a science-backed perspective on whether one should prioritize self-care over caring for others, offering insights into achieving a healthy balance. Contrary to common belief, we uncover the potential benefits that recessions can bring, highlighting the silver lining amidst economic challenges.

Reflecting on solitude, we ponder the question of spending too much time alone, particularly in a society that often values constant connection. Delving into economic nuances, we discuss America's 'trapped in place' economy, where stability can hinder mobility for those seeking change in their lives.

A longevity doctor shares the number one mistake that could accelerate the aging process, offering valuable advice on maintaining health and vitality. From the happiness index of Nordic countries, we learn valuable lessons on what contributes to their consistently high rankings and how we can implement these practices in our own lives.

For parents concerned about bullying, we provide tips on how to bully-proof children for life, equipping them with tools for resilience. In a segment featuring insights from brilliant minds, we share smart words that inspire and provoke thought.

Considering the age-old dilemma of renting versus buying a house, we offer a comprehensive guide to help make this significant decision. Aspiring authors can discover three secrets to writing a book that captivates readers, drawing from expert advice.

In a fascinating twist, we delve into the mystery of a 1,700-year-old unbroken egg, capturing the attention of scientists and sparking curiosity worldwide. Concluding our journey, we contemplate the biggest unsolved mysteries of the universe, inviting readers to ponder the vast unknown.

Join us as we explore these diverse topics and more, aiming to spark curiosity, inspire growth, and uncover the wonders of our world and beyond.

In "Is It Even Possible to Become More Productive?" Kelly Stout delves into her quest for productivity, starting from her days working at a wax museum in Times Square during the Great Recession. Back then, being underemployed left her feeling unproductive despite working long hours. As she transitioned into a "real job" at a magazine, productivity became an unspoken expectation. She explores the historical roots of productivity, from Benjamin Franklin's to-do lists to modern Silicon Valley's obsession with efficiency.

The pandemic shifted the focus back to productivity, with remote work blurring the lines between work and life. Desperate for answers, Stout tried various productivity hacks, from blue-light glasses to the Pomodoro technique. She sought guidance from books and experts, each offering their own philosophy on productivity, but none seemed to bring lasting change.

Reflecting on Stephen King's writing process involving cocaine, she grapples with the pressure to produce and the allure of shortcuts. Returning to Madame Tussauds, she finds herself fascinated by the wax figures' intense focus. A chance encounter with a wax mold artist offers a moment of clarity – productivity isn't about numbers or output, but how you spend your life. In this realization, she sees the beauty of losing count, flowing steadily from one task to another with affection for the work itself.

Stout's journey through the highs and lows of productivity culture reveals a universal struggle: the balance between output and joy. As she watches the artist at Madame Tussauds, she understands that the pursuit of focus, not just productivity, might hold the key to a fulfilling work life. The article ends with her realization that perhaps the true essence of productivity lies in finding joy in the process, even if it means losing track of the widgets along the way. Read more on our featured article No.14 below.

  1. The surprising effectiveness of having kids study why they failed (Reading time: 58 min) - Read it here

  2. A science-backed answer to whether or not you should prioritize self-care over caring for others (Reading time: 4 min) - Read it here

  3. The upside of recessions (Reading time: 4 min) - Read it here

  4. I like my own company. But do I spend too much time alone? (Reading time: 6 min) - Read it here

  5. America has a 'trapped in place' economy. The economy is actually doing great - unless you want to make a change in your life. (Reading time: 5 min) - Read it here

  6. A longevity doctor says this is the No. 1 mistake that will ‘make you age faster’ (Reading time: 3 min) - Read it here

  7. Why do people in Nordic countries consistently rank as the happiest and what can we learn from them? (Reading time: 8 min) - Read it here

  8. How to Bully-Proof Your Kids for Life (Reading time: 7 min) - Read it here

  9. Smart Words From Smart People (Reading time: 3 min) - Read it here

  10. Should You Rent or Buy a House? (Reading time: 11 min) - Read it here

  11. 3 Secrets to Writing a Book People Can’t Stop Recommending (Reading time: 3 min) - Read it here

  12. This 1,700 Year Old Egg Never Broke - And Now It’s Further Stunning Scientists (Reading time: 3 min) - Read it here

  13. The biggest unsolved mysteries in the universe (Reading time: 16 min) - Read it here

  14. Is It Even Possible to Become More Productive? (Reading time: 23 min) - Read it here

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“I’m not a product of my circumstances. I am a product of my decisions.”

Stephen Covey

Book of the week

"How to Read a Book" is a masterclass on the art of reading. Adler and Van Doren guide readers through four levels of reading - from the elementary level of learning pronunciation and retaining facts, to the inspectional level of understanding the overall structure, to the analytical level of grasping core concepts and critiquing the book, and finally to the syntopical level of comparing multiple works on the same topic. Their systematic approach equips readers with practical techniques like asking reflective questions, taking effective notes, and developing intellectual habits to read actively and thoughtfully.

This classic covers reading different genres like fiction, poetry, history, science, and philosophy, making it a comprehensive guide. While the advice may seem academic at times, it ultimately nurtures a profound love for books and elevates reading from a passive activity to an enriching pursuit of knowledge. Whether you're a student struggling with dense texts or a lifelong learner seeking to read more fruitfully, this book is an indispensable tool. "How to Read a Book" will forever change how you approach the written word and push you to engage with ideas at the highest level.

“The hard days are what make you stronger.”

Aly Raisman

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