Donald Trump is preparing to sign an executive order that would allow Bitcoin, gold, and other alternative assets in 401(k) plans. The move could radically change how Americans save for retirement, moving beyond the traditional stock-and-bond-only approach that has dominated for decades. Under the proposed order, regulators would be directed to identify and remove barriers that currently prevent professionally managed portfolios from holding digital currencies, precious metals, and private investments like private equity and infrastructure. The move is part of Trump’s broader push to mainstream crypto and alternative investing. Critics may view the policy as risky or politically motivated, but historical performance offers a compelling counterpoint. From 2015 to 2025, a portfolio with 60% stocks, 20% bonds, 10% Bitcoin, and 10% gold returned 601%. That’s nearly five times the 135% return of a traditional 60/40 mix. Even with slightly higher volatility, the alternative portfolio had a stronger Sharpe ratio, indicating better returns per unit of risk. If the next decade follows a similar pattern, this approach could significantly increase long-term retirement savings. Even with more modest returns, the gains still outpace the standard model. In a volatile economic environment, access to high-growth, low-correlation assets could redefine how Americans build wealth for the future.

Congress Sounds Alarm Over Illegal Weight-Loss Drug Imports From China.

Mark Cuban is sounding the alarm on the AI arms race, warning that intellectual property (IP) will be the key battleground. In a series of posts on X, he said companies are pouring over a trillion dollars into AI and won't settle for second place. “They will find a way to battle,” Cuban wrote, predicting an ugly fight for dominance. He emphasized that firms like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft are not just building models—they're aggressively acquiring talent and locking down IP to stay ahead. Cuban advised creators to protect their work by encrypting and siloing valuable IP, or putting it behind a paywall to maintain control and value. He also lamented the end of the “publish or perish” era in academia, saying that once research is public, it's instantly absorbed by foundational models, losing its value. “Publish, and its value perishes,” he said. Cuban's warning underscores a critical shift in the AI landscape: owning and protecting data, code, and creative outputs is more important than ever. With tech giants racing to scale, investors are now watching AI-heavy stocks and ETFs as this trillion-dollar battle unfolds.

Rocket Refocuses Pipeline As Gene Therapy Sentiment Sours.

A Reddit post from a middle-class parent struck a nerve with working families across the country. The parent realized that daycare in their area costs twice as much as state college tuition. “It’d be cheaper to pay for my infant’s undergrad than to get him to public kindergarten,” they wrote. Hundreds of parents responded, sharing similar frustrations. Many reported paying over $30,000 per year for daycare, with costs that rival or even exceed their mortgage payments. One commenter put it bluntly: “My mortgage is less than daycare.” According to federal data, full-time daycare can consume up to 16% of a family’s income, depending on location and care type. Infant care at a center in a major metro area is often the most expensive option, while in-home preschool in rural areas tends to be cheaper. Many families said the high cost forces one parent to leave the workforce or take opposite shifts just to avoid care expenses. The stress, sleep loss, and long-term career hits are common trade-offs. The post also sparked political debate. Some users blamed government priorities, arguing there’s more focus on making college free than solving early childhood care. Others pointed to military programs as a better model. The message was clear: families feel squeezed—and unsupported.

Cathie Wood Doesn't Need Tesla To Win—ARKK Delivers A Blowout While EV Giant Idles.

On a recent episode of "The Ramsey Show," Dave Ramsey and co-host George Kamel discussed Donald Trump's "One Big Beautiful Bill Act." Ramsey was blunt, calling it “a bunch of nickel and dime stuff” and reminding listeners that personal finance starts at home. “Quit waiting on the White House to fix your house,” he said. The bill makes the 2017 tax cuts permanent, which helps most Americans who take the standard deduction. It also includes temporary deductions for tips and overtime income through 2028, capped at $25,000 and $12,500. Income limits apply, phasing out benefits for individuals earning over $150,000 or couples over $300,000. A $1,000 “Trump Account” will be created for babies born between 2025 and 2028. It will be held by the Treasury and comes with restrictions. Ramsey wasn’t too impressed, calling it just “a thousand bucks.” Kamel added concerns about how it would be managed. The bill removes EV and solar tax credits after 2025 but allows interest deductions on loans for American-made vehicles. Ramsey questioned why this only benefits those who take on debt. Medicaid changes will require most childless adults to work, train, or volunteer 80 hours per month by 2026. Other small updates include increases to the child tax credit, expanded HSA and 529 uses, and a modest charitable deduction—even for those taking the standard deduction. Small businesses under $31 million in revenue will benefit from the return of the R&D tax credit, which Ramsey called long overdue. In the end, Ramsey said the bill won’t transform anyone’s finances. “It’s a bill. I’ll give them that,” he concluded.

'It's The Craziest Gamble Ever,' Says Joe Rogan About Insurance. You Pay And Cross Your Fingers They'll Actually Cover You.

What does it take to be considered rich in America today? According to the 2025 Charles Schwab Modern Wealth Survey, the magic number is $2.3 million. That’s down slightly from $2.5 million last year, but still far out of reach for most. To feel just “financially comfortable,” Americans say you need $839,000, up from $778,000 in 2024. The rising bar reflects real economic pressure. Groceries, housing, and interest rates are all up, and more than 60% of people now say it takes more money to feel rich than it did a year ago. Meanwhile, the median U.S. household net worth is just $192,900. Even the average—pulled up by the ultra-wealthy—sits at just over $1 million. Expectations vary by age and location. Boomers set the bar highest at $2.8 million, while Gen Z clocks in at $1.2 million. In San Francisco, people say you need $4.4 million to be rich. In New York, it’s $2.9 million. And retirement? Northwestern Mutual says Americans now think $1.26 million is enough to retire comfortably—down from last year, but still well above what most have. In today’s economy, wealth isn’t just about status. It’s about survival, security, and staying ahead of the curve.

Deal Dispatch: Will Buffett Catch The Train? Plus — Bezos Circles CNBC.