Aug 08, 2025

Today, I learned that coal, once considered an unpopular investment, may have a brighter future than expected. Recent reports suggest that coal demand could remain strong through 2030 due to countries grappling with energy security and affordability concerns. This has led to a renewed focus on coal as a reliable source of energy, with investment in dedicated coal exchange-traded funds on the rise. Range Fund Holdings has launched a coal fund, the Range Global Coal Index ETF COAL, despite facing challenges related to environmental, social, and governance concerns.

The CEO of Range Fund Holdings, Tim Rotolo, believes that coal stocks present a unique investment opportunity, especially as the industry faces ESG-related challenges. He sees potential in buying coal stocks at their lowest points when they are undervalued by investors. Rotolo highlights the importance of peak coal supply over demand, suggesting that a collapse in coal supply could drive prices up significantly. With countries like China and India driving demand for coal, the industry’s future may not be as bleak as many anticipate.

In the realm of venture capital, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the investment landscape for startups. Companies like DVx are leveraging AI to reduce the capital requirements for application startups, enabling them to scale more efficiently. This shift in investment math could impact fund sizes and return projections for early-stage VCs and their LPs. Despite advancements, there is still a cultural inclination among founders to seek larger investments, reflecting a broader shift in the venture capital landscape driven by technological innovation.

TPG’s Q2 earnings beat Wall Street estimates, while President Trump demanded the resignation of Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan, causing shares to drop. Goldman Sachs released its Global M&A 2H 2025 Outlook, focusing on strategic growth as a key driver for M&A in the second half of the year. A Bloomberg article discussed the evolving landscape of 401(k) plans in the US, emphasizing the importance of prudent investment options and potential changes in regulatory standards. The news highlights ongoing developments in the financial industry, M&A activity, and retirement savings, reflecting the shifting landscape of financial markets and individual responsibility in retirement planning.

I also came across news discussing a glitch in some English-law sovereign bond contracts that could impact payment obligations. Concerns about stagflation rippling through Wall Street as tariffs take effect, leading to high inflation rates in some countries. There is also a shift towards cryptocurrency replacing traditional money in high-inflation environments. Additionally, a former Point72 intern is suing the hedge fund after being fired for requesting a quieter desk due to PTSD, citing a mental health condition resulting from past abuse.

Stay Well!