Competent Man Podcast

In this podcast, Tom Bodrovics interviews Simon Hunt, a consultant on the global economy, China, and the copper industry, to discuss the future of the world economy and copper demand over the next eight to ten years. Hunt presents two potential scenarios for the global economy: one where central banks and governments stimulate the economy leading to stagnflation and high inflation, and another where the slowing economy turns into a recession followed by a systemic crash. Despite these scenarios, Hunt predicts that equity prices will outperform GDP growth as investors seek hedges against rising inflation and a falling US dollar, potentially driving up copper prices. He forecasts that copper prices will fall to around $7,000 by the end of next year and then rise to around $14,000 by the end of 2027 or early 2028. Hunt also discusses the convergence of various cycles that suggest volatile years ahead, with a potential peak in business activity and equity prices next year, followed by six years of decline. Geopolitical tensions, particularly between the US-led unilateral world and the BRICS-led multilateral world, are expected to continue, with potential flashpoints in Africa and the Middle East. Hunt also highlights the shift in the global economy towards a gold-backed currency within the BRICS nations, which could challenge the US dollar's dominance. He advises listeners to prepare for volatile times by holding physical gold and precious metals outside the banking system, maintaining cash for daily living, and stockpiling food. Hunt's insights provide a sobering perspective on the global economy's future, emphasizing the need for preparedness and a focus on the big picture of geopolitical shifts.

The silver roundtable discussion focuses on the current state and future prospects of silver, featuring insights from David Morgan, Bob Coleman, Vincent Lanci, and Steve San Angelo. The discussion began with the recent designation of silver as a critical mineral by the U.S. and its inclusion in similar lists by other countries, which could potentially impact its supply and demand dynamics. The panelists debated the implications of these designations, with some suggesting it could artificially keep prices up to support domestic mining activities, while others saw it as a strategic move to secure supplies for industrial and technological advancements. A significant portion of the conversation revolved around the tightness in the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) and the potential for a short squeeze in silver. The experts discussed the role of Exchange for Physical (EFP) transactions and how they reflect market sentiment and potential supply issues. They also touched on the increasing industrial demand for silver, particularly from the solar and automotive sectors, and the impact of central bank policies on precious metals. The panelists also explored the role of silver in the context of global geopolitics, with China's recent restrictions on silver exports and the potential for other countries to follow suit. They discussed the possibility of central banks and sovereign wealth funds increasing their silver holdings, either directly or through ETFs, which could further drive up prices. Additionally, the conversation delved into the differences between investing in silver ETFs and silver mining stocks, highlighting the risks and benefits of each. The experts also shared their thoughts on the future of silver, with some predicting a significant price increase over the next few years due to growing demand and potential supply constraints. Overall, the podcast provided a comprehensive overview of the current silver market, offering insights into the factors driving its price and the potential challenges and opportunities ahead. The experts emphasized the importance of staying informed and maintaining a long-term perspective when investing in silver.

During the podcast, Alasdair Macleod, Head of Research for GoldMoney and author of the Macleod Finance Substack, discussed the current state of the financial system and the potential implications of recent liquidity strains. He highlighted that the Federal Reserve's repo facility has been used to manage liquidity issues, which he attributes to quantitative tightening and the US Treasury's significant reliance on T-bills for financing. Macleod predicts that the Fed will continue to ease monetary policy, potentially leading to more quantitative easing, which could debase the currency and drive up inflation. Macleod compared the current situation to the Weimar Republic's hyperinflation, noting similarities in political pressures and public responses to currency devaluation. He warned that the US, like Weimar Germany, could face a credit bubble burst, leading to a significant decline in the dollar's purchasing power and a potential run on banks. However, he does not expect bail-ins to occur, as they would likely cause a bank run. Instead, he anticipates that regional banks may fail, but deposit holders will be protected, leading to further consolidation in the banking sector. Macleod also discussed the role of gold in the current financial system, noting that the LBMA's annual meeting forecasts a significant increase in gold prices by 2026. He suggested that the establishment understands the potential for supply difficulties in the physical gold market and that the recent pullback in metals prices may not alleviate delivery issues in London. Macleod also highlighted China's significant gold holdings and its efforts to insulate itself from US economic policies, including the potential for a gold-backed Yuan. He also mentioned Russia's increasing gold holdings and production. Macleod concluded by expressing concern about the valuation disparity between equities and bonds, which he believes is more stretched than ever in history. He predicted that when the credit bubble bursts, it will lead to a rapid decline in the current financial system.

In a recent podcast, Tom Bodrovics interviewed Don Durrett, an author, investor, and founder of Goldstockdata.com, to discuss the current economic landscape and the future of gold and silver mining stocks. Durrett expressed concern about the U.S. economy, which he believes has been deteriorating since the early 2000s due to excessive debt accumulation. He argued that the economy has been artificially propped up by low interest rates and money printing, leading to asset bubbles and a hollowed-out middle class. Durrett also highlighted the risks posed by the U.S. dollar's status as the global reserve currency and the potential for de-dollarization, which could lead to a significant loss of wealth for the United States. Durrett predicted that the current economic cycle will culminate in a severe recession, potentially worse than the 2008 financial crisis. He believes that the Federal Reserve's attempts to combat inflation and stimulate economic growth will ultimately fail, leading to a prolonged period of economic stagnation and potential currency reset. He sees gold and silver as safe havens in this environment, with gold potentially reaching $6,000 to $8,000 per ounce before a reset occurs. Durrett also discussed the potential for AI and automation to displace jobs, exacerbating economic inequality and slowing economic growth. Durrett advised investors to focus on mid-tier gold and silver mining stocks, which he believes offer the best combination of growth potential and risk management. He emphasized the importance of companies maintaining pristine balance sheets and avoiding excessive debt. He also discussed the concept of optionality, where investors can buy gold and silver in the ground at a significant discount to market prices, providing potential for substantial gains as metal prices rise. Durrett cautioned that the stock market is likely to experience a significant correction in the near future, which could provide buying opportunities for investors in gold and silver mining stocks. He recommended buying the dip in the S&P 500 between 5,500 and 4,500 as a potential entry point for investors.

Parallel Mike, an organic farmer and creator of Parallel Systems, shares his journey and insights with Tom Bodrovics on the Competent Man podcast. Mike's diverse background includes being a sailor, boxer, ultra runner, podcaster, new father, and homesteader, all of which have contributed to his unique perspective on life and success. Mike attributes his ability to excel in various fields to his hyper-focused personality and his willingness to say "yes" to new opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for one's life and learning from failures. Mike's boxing and running careers, though challenging, taught him valuable lessons about discipline, resilience, and the power of the mind. He stresses that success comes from going all in on something and continuously improving oneself. Mike and Tom discuss the importance of listening to different perspectives and engaging in civil debates. Mike shares his experiences with two significant exoduses from his channel, one due to his views on Bitcoin and the other on Yabbie Milay. He believes that challenging opinions and constructive feedback are essential for personal growth and understanding different viewpoints. The conversation also touches on Mike's move to Poland with his wife, highlighting the resilience and historical significance of the country. Mike appreciates the lessons he has learned from the Polish people and their experiences, which have shaped his perspective on life and preparedness. Mike's advice to his son and others is to never accept victimhood, to see challenges as opportunities, and to always strive for personal improvement. He hopes to impart these values to his son, emphasizing the importance of making the most of one's time and circumstances. Throughout the podcast, Mike and Tom explore the themes of personal growth, resilience, and the importance of embracing challenges. Mike's journey serves as an inspiration for those seeking to make the most of their lives, regardless of the obstacles they face.

During this podcast, host Tom Bodrovics and guest John Rubino, a former Wall Street analyst and author, discuss the current economic landscape and its implications for investors. Rubino expresses skepticism about the Federal Reserve's recent decision to lower interest rates by 25 basis points, arguing that this move is incongruous with the current stock market bubble and other economic indicators suggesting a potential recession. He predicts that the Fed will continue to ease monetary policy aggressively, potentially leading to dramatically lower short-term interest rates and higher long-term rates, which could result in economic chaos. Rubino also discusses the narrow performance of the stock market, particularly in tech stocks like Nvidia, and the potential for a crack-up boom, where asset prices inflate rapidly before a sudden collapse. He highlights the risks in the AI sector, where vendor financing could lead to a daisy chain of defaults, potentially bursting the tech bubble. Rubino suggests that the current economic environment resembles the late 1990s dot-com bubble, with a few large stocks driving market performance. The conversation also touches on the repo market and the shadow banking system, where recent bankruptcies and losses could signal broader financial instability. Rubino predicts that the Fed will eventually resort to quantitative easing and even buying equities to support the economy, which could further distort market signals and lead to a massive crash. Rubino advises investors to focus on stability and real assets like gold and silver, which have maintained their value over centuries. He sees the current pullback in precious metals as a natural consolidation and a buying opportunity. Rubino also discusses the potential for a currency reset, where governments might return to a gold standard to address economic crises. The podcast concludes with a discussion on commodities, particularly copper and uranium, which Rubino sees as essential for the electrification of the world. He advises investors to consider physical ETFs and high-quality mining stocks as part of their portfolios. Rubino also touches on the oil market, noting that while it may not see the same parabolic growth as other commodities, it still offers investment opportunities, particularly in high-quality dividend-paying stocks. Throughout the discussion, Rubino emphasizes the importance of staying informed and being prepared for potential economic turmoil.

Rudy Havenstein, a senior market commentator and former Reichsbank President, joined Tom Bodrovics on "The Competent Investor" podcast to discuss the current economic landscape and the Federal Reserve's role. Havenstein expressed his belief that the Fed's primary concern is managing massive government deficits rather than controlling inflation, which he views as out of control. He criticized the Fed for enabling reckless government spending and creating a moral hazard that benefits the wealthy while harming the middle and lower classes. Havenstein also touched on the political and social issues, expressing his disapproval of the Fed's involvement in politics and the potential for inflation to exacerbate social unrest. He mentioned the historical context of hyperinflation leading to extremism and the potential for similar outcomes if current policies continue. He also discussed the Epstein case, suggesting that it may have been a tool for intelligence agencies to control powerful individuals. The conversation shifted to potential solutions, with Havenstein advocating for a bottom-up approach, focusing on family, community, and local politics. He emphasized the importance of electing representatives who prioritize the average American and suggested that individuals should focus on improving their earning power and helping their communities. Havenstein also discussed the potential for a higher gold price to benefit countries with significant gold reserves and the importance of understanding market history to navigate future economic challenges. He expressed optimism about America's resilience and the potential for positive change, despite current challenges. He concluded by expressing his love for America and his hope for a leader who can unite the country.

During the podcast, Francis Hunt, known as the Market Sniper, discusses various economic and financial topics with host Tom Bodrovics. Hunt emphasizes the interconnected nature of fiat currency and debt, describing them as "Siamese twins" that cannot be separated. He argues that the current economic system is unsustainable due to excessive debt and fiat currency issuance, which he believes is creating a massive Ponzi scheme. Hunt highlights the role of hedge funds and the repo market in propping up the treasury market, noting that the demand for treasuries is artificially inflated. He criticizes the use of negative haircuts, where lenders provide more funds than the collateral value, as a risky practice that exacerbates the system's fragility. Hunt predicts that the current economic model is headed for a collapse, comparing it to a snowball gaining momentum down a hill, and warns that the financial system is exceedingly precarious. The discussion also touches on the role of stablecoins and their potential impact on the treasury market. Hunt dismisses the idea that stablecoins can significantly increase demand for treasuries, arguing that their market cap is insufficient to match the parabolic growth of debt issuance. He also criticizes the use of stablecoins as a form of digital gold, stating that they are not backed by sufficient collateral and are essentially a Ponzi scheme. Hunt expresses skepticism about the effectiveness of central bank policies and the appointment of new Fed chairs, arguing that the system is controlled by nameless, faceless individuals who are order takers rather than decision-makers. He advises listeners to focus on preserving and growing their wealth through sound money principles, such as investing in gold and silver, and to establish multiple avatars of existence across different geographies to secure their financial future. Throughout the podcast, Hunt emphasizes the importance of taking action and not being paralyzed by fear or inertia. He encourages listeners to educate themselves about the financial system, take steps to protect their wealth, and live a life of freedom and independence.

Richard Duncan, a macro economist and author, discusses his views on the economic strategies proposed by former President Donald Trump, particularly focusing on Trump's potential influence over the Federal Reserve and his plan to re-industrialize the United States. Duncan argues that Trump's strategy aims to reverse the massive U.S. current account deficit, which has fueled global economic growth since the 1980s but has also led to de-industrialization and a hollowed-out middle class in the U.S. Trump's plan, as outlined in a paper by Steven Moran, involves three steps: imposing high trade tariffs, threatening to withhold military defense unless countries comply, and convening a global accord to devalue the dollar and isolate China. Duncan highlights the potential consequences of this strategy, including reduced global economic growth, higher inflation, and increased interest rates. To mitigate these effects, Trump would need to take control of the Federal Reserve, which Duncan believes is Trump's ultimate goal. Duncan explains that by appointing or influencing key Federal Reserve governors, Trump could gain control over U.S. monetary policy. This would allow him to implement aggressive quantitative easing, driving down long-term interest rates and potentially sparking an economic boom and a surge in asset prices. However, this approach also carries significant risks, including high inflation, a crashing U.S. dollar, and potential economic instability. Duncan also discusses the geopolitical implications of Trump's strategy, particularly in relation to China. He argues that China's rapid technological and economic advancements pose a significant threat to U.S. national security. Duncan advocates for a U.S. sovereign wealth fund to invest in future technologies, ensuring that the U.S. remains competitive and secure. The conversation also touches on the potential challenges and opportunities that could arise if Trump's economic strategy is implemented, including the risks of increased income inequality and the potential for a future economic bust. Duncan concludes by emphasizing the importance of U.S. investment in new industries and technologies to maintain its global competitiveness and national security.

Luke Gromen, founder and president of FFTT, discussed the geopolitical and economic implications of the US and China's competition for critical minerals and infrastructure, particularly in the context of rare earth elements and semiconductor technology. Gromen highlighted the US's recognition of the unsustainability of its current economic model, which has led to a significant reliance on China for manufacturing and industrial output. He emphasized that the US's high debt-to-GDP ratio and political instability necessitate a shift in policy to re-industrialize and strengthen its domestic industrial base. Gromen argued that China's strategic initiatives, such as the China 2025 plan, have been underestimated and that China is well-positioned to win the race for high-end semiconductor and AI capabilities. He contrasted this with the US's challenges in rebuilding its industrial infrastructure, citing examples like the delayed repair of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore. Gromen also discussed the potential for gold to serve as a rebalancing mechanism for the global economy, given its role as a neutral reserve asset. He suggested that central banks buying gold signals a shift towards a more stable economic system and that a significant rise in gold prices could help address the US's debt issues. Gromen also touched on the role of Bitcoin and stablecoins in the global financial system, arguing that while stablecoins could provide short-term benefits, they may not be a sustainable solution. He expressed skepticism about the US government's ability to implement effective policies without causing further economic disruptions. Gromen concluded by emphasizing the importance of understanding the broader economic context and being prepared for elevated market volatility. He recommended investing in physical gold, Bitcoin, and electrical infrastructure as sectors poised to benefit from the current economic environment.

During a conversation with Tom Bodrovics, Kevin Muir, the publisher of The Macro Tourist Newsletter and co-host of The Market Huddle, expressed significant concerns about the current state of the markets. Muir highlighted the stark contrast between the extreme bearish sentiment of 2023 and the current widespread optimism, suggesting that the market may be overvalued and due for a correction. He compared the current environment to the dot-com bubble, emphasizing that while AI and other technologies may be revolutionary, the market's exuberance has priced in expectations that may not be realistic. Muir argued that the rapid rise in gold prices, driven by central bank buying and investor nervousness, could negatively impact the stock market. He noted that gold's recent gains have been unprecedented, and its rise could signal broader economic instability, potentially leading to a market correction. Muir also discussed the role of fiscal policy in driving economic growth, arguing that the U.S. and other countries have been spending more aggressively, which has supported markets. However, he cautioned that this spending could eventually lead to inflation and crowd out private sector investment. Muir expressed skepticism about the AI bubble, comparing it to the dot-com bubble and suggesting that many investors are overlooking the risks. He also discussed the potential for a significant market correction, predicting that it could be larger than many investors expect. Despite his concerns, Muir identified energy as an underappreciated sector, noting that the demand for energy, particularly from developing countries, could drive significant growth in the coming years. Throughout the discussion, Muir emphasized the importance of understanding what is already priced into the market and being cautious about investing in overvalued assets. He also highlighted the potential for geopolitical and economic shifts to impact markets, particularly in light of Trump's potential influence on monetary policy and the U.S. dollar. Muir's insights provided a contrarian view of the current market environment, urging investors to be mindful of the risks and potential for a correction.

Rick Rule, founder and CEO of Rule Investment Media, discusses the current state and future of the metals and commodity markets with host Tom Bodrovics. Rule highlights the psychological and strategic considerations for investors in these markets, noting that while the market has significant potential, it may also experience volatility and corrections. He shares his personal strategy of selling 25% of his junior mining investments to secure profits and reduce downside risk, while reinvesting in physical gold and other high-quality assets. Rule emphasizes the importance of understanding one's psychological tolerance for risk and market volatility, drawing from his extensive experience in the industry. He also discusses the current dynamics in the silver market, attributing recent dislocations to logistical issues rather than a systemic crisis. Rule expresses his belief in the long-term potential of precious metals, driven by factors such as inflation and geopolitical instability. He also touches on the challenges facing the mining industry, including rising capital costs, permitting issues, and increasing social rents. Additionally, Rule critiques the involvement of governments in natural resource investments, arguing that governments are typically poor investors and that regulatory reforms and tax code changes could stimulate investment in the U.S. He also shares his optimism about the oil and gas sector, viewing it as a hated but potentially lucrative investment opportunity. Throughout the discussion, Rule stresses the importance of fundamental analysis and a long-term perspective in investing, while also acknowledging the potential for short-term market manipulations. He concludes by promoting his new venture, Battle Bank, which aims to provide financial services to natural resource investors, and his website, Rule Investment Media, where he offers personalized rankings of natural resource stocks.

During the podcast, host Tom Bodrovics and guest Eric Yeung, an investor and former contract manufacturer in China, delve into the complexities of the current silver market. Yeung highlights the deliberate complexity of the system, designed to obscure understanding, and shares his insights gained from extensive research. The discussion begins with the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) and its reported shortage of physical silver, with Yeung citing sources indicating a drastic reduction in the LBMA's free float of physical silver from 5,000 to 0 metric tons in just two weeks. This scarcity has led to unprecedented events, such as the SLV ETF temporarily halting share redemptions for physical silver and the spike in lease rates, which Yeung interprets as banks refusing to lend or lease silver bars. Yeung suggests that the system's freeze is due to one of the major banks ceasing to lend physical silver, causing a domino effect. He posits that the current price action and the dwindling free float are key factors in this market stress. The conversation also touches on the role of the US dollar in this equation, with Yeung noting that fluctuations in the dollar's value can affect the market due to its role as the funding cost for exchanges and bilateral contracts. The exchange for physical (EFP) mechanism and ETFs are discussed as integral parts of the system, with Yeung explaining how ETFs serve as physical metal reserves for bullion banks. The potential outcomes of the current situation are explored, with Yeung presenting a best-case scenario of an orderly unwinding of bullion banks' short positions and a gradual price increase for silver. The worst-case scenario, however, involves a technical default by the LBMA, leading to a loss of confidence and a potential shift in the global pricing mechanism for precious metals to exchanges like the COMEX and the Shanghai Gold Exchange (SGE). The conversation also touches on the potential for central banks, including those in the BRICS countries, to add silver to their reserves, using it as collateral for international trade, similar to gold. Yeung believes this shift is part of a broader move away from the US dollar-dominated system, with China and other global south countries developing a new monetary order based on gold and silver collateral. The podcast concludes with Yeung advising listeners to own physical gold and silver as a hedge against fiat currency risks and suggesting that miners could be a viable alternative if physical metals become scarce.

During the podcast, Tom Bodrovics interviews Mart Wolbert, founder of the Contrarian Codex Newsletter, to discuss the current state and future prospects of the uranium market. Wolbert highlights the significant increase in the term price of uranium, which has risen to $82-$83, driven by cost inflation and project delays. He notes that despite this increase, the market remains tight, with a substantial supply-demand deficit projected through 2040. Utilities, particularly in the US and Europe, are facing challenges in securing adequate fuel supplies, leading to a shift towards longer-term contracting and higher prices. Wolbert emphasizes that the uranium market is complex and requires multiple factors to align for a balanced supply. He discusses the potential for new supply sources, such as uranium extraction from phosphate tails and re-enrichment of tails, but notes that these depend on higher prices and technological advancements. He also highlights the geopolitical considerations surrounding Kazatomprom, a major Russian uranium producer, and its influence on global uranium supply. The conversation also touches on the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in driving future demand for uranium, as data centers require significant power. Wolbert believes that while AI will increase demand, it is not the primary driver of the current uranium bull market. He also discusses the importance of diversifying investments to mitigate risks, including holding positions in gold, silver, oil, gas, and other commodities. Wolbert shares his sentiment rating for the uranium market, which is currently very optimistic but not yet euphoric. He advises listeners to be cautious and prepare for potential market corrections, using the analogy of a desert trek to emphasize the importance of planning for challenging times. He concludes by encouraging listeners to stay informed and consider the long-term prospects of the uranium market.

Jaime Carrasco, Senior Portfolio Manager and Senior Investment Advisor at Harbourfront Wealth Management, discussed the current state and future of precious metals with Tom Bodrovics. Carrasco emphasized the importance of focusing on allocation rather than the price of gold and silver, highlighting that only 2% of Western wealth is currently allocated to the sector. He noted the historical context, recalling that during their first conversation in March 2020, gold was around $1,575 and silver was around $15.50, contrasting with the current prices of approximately $4,000 for gold and $50 for silver. Carrasco outlined his strategy, which involves maintaining a minimum 30% allocation to the precious metals sector and rebalancing portfolios to manage volatility. He discussed the significance of central banks accumulating gold, with some now holding more gold than US treasuries, signaling a shift in the global monetary system. He also touched on the potential for gold to reach much higher prices, citing historical precedents and the current monetary environment. The discussion also covered the role of silver, which Carrasco believes is poised for significant gains due to its industrial demand and monetary properties. He mentioned the gold-silver ratio and its historical significance, suggesting that silver could outperform gold in the current bull market. Carrasco highlighted the importance of having a long-term strategy and not getting caught up in short-term price movements. He advised investors to focus on building and maintaining their allocations in precious metals, as this sector is likely to outpace others during monetary crises. He also mentioned the potential for a monetary reset, drawing parallels with historical events and the role of precious metals in rebuilding the monetary system. Throughout the conversation, Carrasco stressed the need for investors to educate themselves and take action, as the current environment presents a unique opportunity to protect and grow wealth through precious metals.

In this episode of The Competent Investor, host Tom Bodrovics engages with market analyst Bob from Profit's Plus and contributor Jim Hunter to dissect the evolving precious metals landscape, focusing on gold and silver amid a global bull market. The discussion highlights structural shifts since the 2008-2011 cycle, including reduced futures open interest, which has tempered leverage and whipsaws, though silver remains volatile due to its small market size and susceptibility to stops. Key insights include the interplay of backwardation and contango, where spot prices exceeding futures—driven by physical demand from fabricators and investors—creates arbitrage opportunities, potentially reversing metal flows from New York to London to alleviate tightness and elevated leasing rates. Bob unpacks Basel III's role in de-leveraging unallocated accounts, boosting physical demand from Asia (e.g., India and China) while Western retail selling earlier this year gave way to post-Labor Day buying from high-net-worth individuals, tightening specific products like sovereign coins and rounds. ETF inflows, such as SLV's recent 5 million share creation, underscore paper market influences, but borrowing fees spiking to 9.8% signal dislocations, with authorized participants struggling to provide liquidity despite physical backing. Manipulation is framed nuancedly: short-term spoofing by banks affects daily pricing but hasn't derailed long-term gains (gold up over 10x this decade), while industry greed—high buy/sell spreads and sensational marketing—has eroded retail trust more profoundly, pushing flows to ETFs. Broader risks include counterparty exposure in ETFs, sub-custodian vulnerabilities under London law, and energy-intensive mining costs rising amid industrial demand for silver in solar and batteries. The panel views metals as a confidence barometer against fiat debasement and systemic debt, with central banks stockpiling gold as a hedge. Long-term bullishness prevails, though mining stocks appear overbought, and volatility looms from potential economic warfare or bubbles. Emphasis falls on physical ownership for true risk mitigation in an analog world increasingly strained by digital narratives and energy constraints. (Word count: 300)

In a conversation between Tom Bodrovics and London Paul, the discussion revolves around the evolving global geopolitical landscape, with a particular focus on the role of gold and the shifting dynamics between the East and West. Paul emphasizes that China's strategic vision for gold is deeply rooted in its historical love for the metal, which began with significant gold imports from the West around 2012. This love for gold was catalyzed by discussions with architects of a multipolar world, who predicted the eventual failure of the U.S. financialization model, a prediction that materialized with the 2008 financial crisis. China's gold strategy involves not only accumulating physical gold but also developing gold hubs globally to facilitate trade in gold, thereby internationalizing the yuan. Paul highlights that China's approach to gold is part of a broader strategy to move away from the U.S. dollar, which China views as a weaponized tool. This strategy includes making the yuan fully convertible into gold for trade partners, effectively creating a gold-backed currency. Paul also notes that China's gold reserves are significantly higher than publicly acknowledged, with estimates suggesting around 40,000 tons, a figure that includes both government and privately held gold. The conversation also touches on the de-dollarization trend, where countries are moving away from the U.S. dollar in international trade, a process accelerated by U.S. sanctions and the weaponization of the dollar. Paul argues that the U.S. is facing significant economic and financial challenges, including a massive debt burden and a declining global influence. In contrast, China's economy is seen as more robust, with a real economy that produces and trades goods, rather than relying on financialization. Paul also discusses the implications of digital currencies and digital IDs, cautioning against fear-mongering and misinformation. He argues that while surveillance and control mechanisms exist, the introduction of new technologies like digital currencies does not fundamentally change the existing power dynamics. Instead, he advises focusing on solutions and understanding the realities of the financial system. The discussion concludes with a reflection on the current geopolitical tensions, particularly the Ukraine conflict, and the broader implications for global stability. Paul emphasizes the importance of rational thinking and understanding the complexities of international relations, rather than succumbing to fear and misinformation.

Tom Bodrovics interviews Tom Luongo, producer of the Gold Goats and Guns newsletter, discussing various economic and political topics. Luongo shares his journey from being summarily let go at Newsmax to launching his successful newsletter. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining objectivity and adaptability in the face of unexpected challenges. A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Luongo's collaboration with Dexter, highlighting their differing approaches to analyzing events. Luongo tends to see linear narratives and cause-and-effect relationships, while Dexter views events more stochastically. Despite their differences, they respect each other's perspectives and have found a productive middle ground in their analysis. The conversation delves into the assassination of Charlie Kirk, with Luongo suggesting it was a message from a higher power, likely aimed at warning Donald Trump. He believes the goal of such chaos is to destabilize society and create an environment where Marxism or nihilistic libertarianism can take hold, both of which he views as anti-civilizational. Luongo also discusses the importance of rebuilding the middle class, particularly through housing and economic policies. He criticizes the current system for making it difficult for young people to enter the housing market and start families. He advocates for the IPO of Fannie and Freddie, arguing that it would help stabilize the housing market and provide more opportunities for younger generations. The interview touches on the role of the Federal Reserve and the potential revaluation of gold, which Luongo believes could significantly impact the economy. He criticizes those who use fear and doom-mongering to gain followers, emphasizing the need for honest and collegial discussions. Luongo concludes by stressing the importance of strengthening local communities and rebuilding civilization from the ground up. He believes that by making small, efficient improvements in our daily lives, we can create a better world for future generations.

During the podcast, Vincent Lanci, a Professor of MBA Finance, Commodity Portfolio Manager, and Publisher of the GoldFix Substack, discussed his concerns about the global economy and the implications for gold. Lanci noted a significant shift in his tone regarding gold, attributing it to a series of events and conversations that led him to believe China might be accelerating its plans to monetize gold. He highlighted China's liberalization of gold ownership and the increasing purchases of gold by Chinese banks, indicating a strategic move by China to diversify its reserves and potentially challenge the US dollar's dominance. Lanci also discussed the geopolitical tensions between the US and China, suggesting that China's patience with the US has worn thin due to Trump's rhetoric and actions. He mentioned China's pushback against US policies and its strategic moves, such as aligning with India and other BRICS countries, as signs of a potential economic war. Lanci believes that the US is in a precarious position, unable to withstand a recession due to high stock valuations and the need to rebuild its manufacturing base. He argued that the US is creating a bubble to avoid a recession, which could lead to a significant economic crisis if China decides to escalate its gold strategy. Lanci also touched on the role of oil in the global economy, noting that the traditional signal of geopolitical tension through oil prices has been broken. He suggested that investors should look at refined products like gasoline and diesel for better indicators of global unrest. Lanci believes that the US is prioritizing inflation over recession, as a recession could lead to a collapse in stock markets and a loss of confidence in the US economy. He advised investors to own a barbell portfolio, with one end focused on stocks and the other on gold and miners, to hedge against potential economic downturns. Lanci also discussed the potential for stablecoins to play a significant role in the global economy, suggesting that they could be used to absorb excess liquidity and support the US dollar. He believes that stablecoins could be a force in the market, but their success will depend on the anchor tenants that adopt them. Lanci also noted the potential for gold to be revalued, which could instill confidence in the metal and lead to further price increases. He suggested that a revaluation of gold could be bullish for the metal, as it would encourage more companies to hold it and potentially lead to further price increases.

In this podcast, Tom Bodrovics interviews Doomberg, the head writer for The Doomberg Team and creator of the Doomberg Substack, to discuss various geopolitical and economic topics. Doomberg begins by analyzing a recent post by Donald Trump about Ukraine, suggesting that Trump's words were sarcastic and aimed at distancing the U.S. from direct involvement in the conflict. Doomberg argues that the mainstream interpretation of Trump's post as a shift in policy is misleading and that Trump is, in fact, disengaging from the Ukraine situation. The conversation then shifts to the broader geopolitical landscape, with Doomberg discussing the increasing military capabilities of countries like Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, which vastly exceed NATO's current capabilities. He criticizes the Western techno-arrogance that underestimates these countries' advancements and highlights the potential for a catastrophic outcome if the U.S. and its allies underestimate their adversaries. Doomberg also delves into the future of the United Nations (UN) and NATO, suggesting that both organizations may face significant challenges and potential restructuring. He argues that the UN, with 16% of its budget coming from the U.S., may be sleepwalking into a position where it needs to reassess its power and relevance. Similarly, he believes that NATO has run its course and that the U.S. will focus more on the Western hemisphere, rebuilding its military supply chains, and re-industrializing. The discussion then turns to the energy sector, with Doomberg critiquing the green energy transition as built on a fundamental lie—that it is possible to wean off fossil fuels without sacrificing standard of living. He explains the limitations of solar and wind power, emphasizing that they are neither base load nor dispatchable, and that relying too heavily on them can lead to grid instability. Doomberg also highlights China's strategic moves in the energy sector, including stockpiling critical minerals and converting coal into oil products, as indicators of its long-term planning and preparation for potential conflicts. Doomberg further discusses the potential bifurcation of energy markets between the BRICS countries and the G7, with the BRICS countries potentially replacing treasuries and European debt with gold for settling energy trades. He also touches on the potential use of crypto and stablecoins by the U.S. to devalue its debt, suggesting that this could be a form of financial repression and yield curve control. The podcast concludes with Doomberg emphasizing the importance of lateral thinking as a valuable skill for interpreting complex geopolitical and economic situations. He advocates for supplementing linear thinking with lateral thinking to gain a more comprehensive understanding of global events and to make more informed decisions.