Feb 04, 2026

Subject: 💥 The Dollar Lost 11%, The US Debt Crisis, 4 AI Stock Picks, and What You Can Do Now

Hello,

This week brings critical insights on the U.S. economy and investment opportunities amidst the dollar’s 11% decline in value and the U.S. national debt hitting 100% of GDP. Notably, we are spending $1 trillion annually on interest payments alone, surpassing Medicare expenses — signaling a pivotal financial moment.

Market Update & Analysis:

– Trump nominated Kevin Warsh as Fed Chair, stirring market uncertainty due to his mixed stance on rate cuts.

– The U.S. dollar has fallen 2% this month, 11% in the past year.

– Consumer confidence is at its lowest since 2014, with recession signals flashing.

– Apple reported strong earnings but shares dipped due to concerns over AI spending.

Investment Opportunities in AI:

I’m focusing on four AI-related stocks positioned to thrive regardless of market shifts:

1. Alphabet (GOOGL): Dominates AI with its Gemini model and vast user data.

2. Nebius (NBIS): Provides GPU infrastructure essential for AI computation.

3. Dycom Industries (DY): Builds fiber networks vital for AI data centers.

4. SentinelOne (S): Uses AI to defend against cyber threats like state-sponsored hacks.

Consumer Sentiment Vs Reality:

Though consumer confidence is low, premium brands and travel companies report strong demand, suggesting a disconnect between sentiment and spending. The U.S. economy remains resilient with solid GDP growth and controlled inflation, despite market anxieties.

Real Estate Market Snapshot:

Inventory is rising, prices falling by 2% year-over-year. Mortgage rates hover around 6%, influenced by the politicized Fed under Warsh. Buyers gain leverage, but caution is advised due to economic uncertainties.

Actionable Advice:

– Build a diversified portfolio including international stocks (15-30%), gold (5-15%), commodities, and cash reserves.

– Embrace AI infrastructure investments as core positions.

– Manage expectations around mortgage rates—6% rates are the new normal.

Final Thoughts:

We’re at the end of an era marked by easy money and low rates. Success will favor those adapting to higher inflation, currency volatility, and shorter economic cycles. Prepare your portfolio for multiple scenarios to capture emerging opportunities.

Stay informed and be proactive.

Best regards,

Andrew Lokenauth

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Subject: Lead Asia’s Tech Revolution – Enter the Asian Technology Excellence Awards 2026 Now

Dear Innovator,

The Asian Technology Excellence Awards 2026 are now open for nominations! This prestigious platform recognizes groundbreaking companies revolutionizing tech across Asia.

Why enter?

– Gain amplified exposure via Asian Business Review’s print and digital channels.

– Enjoy prestige and recognition at an exclusive awards dinner.

– Network with industry pioneers to unlock new business and strategic partnerships.

Join notable winners like Ant Group (China), Tata Communications (India), Tencent Cloud (China), and more.

Important dates:

– Nomination Deadline: 22 May 2026

– Event: September 2026, Bangkok, Thailand

Seize your chance to showcase your company’s impact on digital transformation and lead Asia’s tech future.

Nominate now and elevate your brand!

For questions or assistance, book a meeting with our team.

Best,

Asian Business Review Awards Team

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Subject: Russian War Spending May be Maxed Out

Dear Reader,

Recent data reveal Russia’s military spending surged in 2025 despite declining oil revenues, financed via higher taxes, budget deficits, reserve asset liquidation, and credit expansion. Despite this, battlefield advances remain minimal.

Key points:

– Russian imports of critical military goods stay constrained by sanctions, although some evasion occurs through third countries.

– Budget deficits ballooned with spending up sharply but revenue growth lagging, leading to unsustainable fiscal reliance.

– The National Welfare Fund is converting gold to rubles to support military expenditures.

– Russian banking sector expanded lending to war-related businesses amid soaring unpaid government bills.

Challenges ahead:

– Lower oil revenues and sanctions pressure limit financing.

– Russian officials plan slower spending growth, with no military budget increases planned for 2026.

– Continued war efforts appear fiscally strained.

Conclusion:

As Russia’s war spending approaches limits, allied efforts should emphasize diplomatic pressures to curtail the conflict, highlighting the futility of prolonged warfare under current constraints.

More detailed analysis is available to subscribers.

Best,

Matthew C. Klein

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Subject: Metals Selloff Shows Market Vulnerability From AI Downturn, Says Strategists

Hello,

Recent sharp declines in precious metals like gold and silver align intriguingly with swings in major AI tech stocks, signaling potential fragility in current markets.

Insights:

– Microsoft’s earnings miss triggered a near 8% drop in gold and a 4% decline in bitcoin within an hour, despite the sectors’ typical lack of correlation.

– Market strategist Joachim Klement warns of overstretched investors using margin debt heavily in trendy assets such as AI stocks, metals, and cryptocurrencies.

– A margin call cascade could cause widespread selling across multiple asset classes.

– Despite the selloff, fundamentals for gold and other real assets remain sound, and metals offer diversification amid equity volatility.

Outlook:

– Expected to be a market consolidation rather than a bear market currently.

– Diversifying into fundamentally supported regions like UK and European equities is advisable.

– One bad earnings report from AI leaders or a shift in the dollar narrative could trigger broader market instability.

Stay cautious and consider diversification.

Regards,

MarketWatch Team

Stay Well!