Points And Figures

Points And Figures focuses on critical analyses of markets, politics, and societal trends, with a particular emphasis on the dynamics of American cities, the impact of governance on economics, and the principles underlying free markets versus government intervention. It advocates for entrepreneurship, competition, and scrutinizes political and economic policies.

Markets Economics Politics Business Trends Government Policy Entrepreneurship Market Dynamics Political Commentary Free Market Economics

The hottest Substack posts of Points And Figures

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​ GDP=C+G+I+NX

772 implied HN points • 04 Mar 25
💰 Finance Economics Investments Market Trends Government spending Inflation
  1. GDP is an important measure of how well an economy is doing. When GDP goes up, it usually means people are earning more and living better.
  2. Different economists have different views on government spending. Classical economists often see it as a negative thing for the economy, while Keynesians believe it can be beneficial.
  3. Current economic uncertainty affects business investment decisions, making it tough for the economy to grow. However, there are signs of recovery, like increased merger activity.

Walk Away

1279 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Negotiation Leadership Communication Political strategy Conflict resolution
  1. In negotiations, it's important to be willing to walk away if the terms aren't right for you. This shows that you have confidence and won't settle for less than you need.
  2. Understanding the other side's perspective and reading the situation correctly can help you negotiate better. It's crucial to know who the decision-makers are during the process.
  3. Sometimes, negotiations can drag on too long, and if you sense it's not going well, it might be smart to walk. Trust your instincts and don't be afraid to bail if the deal feels wrong.

Why I Am A No On A Strategic CryptoCurrency Reserve And You Should Be Too

426 implied HN points • 03 Mar 25
🔮 Crypto Investing Regulation Market Trends Blockchain Financial Policy
  1. Not all ideas are worthwhile, especially when it comes to the government getting involved in cryptocurrencies. This idea might just be popular with some groups, but it ignores the complexities of the crypto world.
  2. Cryptocurrencies are very volatile and their value can change quickly. Relying on them can be risky, as they might not be a stable store of value.
  3. The government shouldn't hold cryptocurrency because it could interfere with market competition. Instead of helping, it might end up benefiting certain established cryptocurrencies and stifling innovation.

Some Regulatory Certainty

612 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🔮 Crypto Regulation Innovation Investment Market Trends Financial Technology
  1. The SEC has decided that crypto memecoins are not considered securities, giving the industry more regulatory clarity. This is a positive change compared to the confusion that existed before.
  2. While crypto hasn't become essential for everyone's daily life yet, there are potential future uses, like tokenizing assets or using stablecoins for easier international payments.
  3. Regulation can sometimes create unfair advantages for big companies and stifle competition. It's important to be aware of these effects while also ensuring that people aren't misled by things like memecoins.

No Pats On the Back

772 implied HN points • 27 Feb 25
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Venture Capital Investment Strategies Economic Development
  1. Chicago lacks the investment and willingness to take risks that cities like Silicon Valley and New York have. This makes it hard for startups to get support.
  2. Entrepreneurial ecosystems thrive when they focus on merit and tolerance for failure. Chicago is seen as outdated in these aspects.
  3. The culture in Chicago often emphasizes who you are instead of what you can achieve, which can hinder innovation and growth.
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They So Want To Be Heroes

1359 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Government spending Immigration Policy Party Politics Civic engagement
  1. To be a true hero, you need to fight for a good cause based on strong principles. It's not enough just to act; your actions need to be rooted in what is right.
  2. Many people today think they are being heroic but are actually harming society. For example, defending illegal immigration or certain changes in sports can lead to bigger problems.
  3. Wasteful government spending is not an act of heroism. Many politicians defend this spending while enriching themselves instead of helping the citizens.

Horrifying, Sickening, Stomach Turning

1305 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Public Policy Political Commentary Free speech
  1. The government and organizations like the CIA may manipulate events for their own goals, which often harms ordinary people. It's important to question their motives and actions.
  2. Many people believe that the push for electric cars is more about control than the environment. This raises concerns about privacy and autonomy.
  3. There's a strong belief that the current system doesn't respect citizens’ freedoms or rights, and some feel it needs a complete overhaul to truly serve the people.

What You Don't Know

1172 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Policy Political Analysis Corruption
  1. It's important to know your strengths and weaknesses. Being honest about what you don't know can help you make better decisions.
  2. A disciplined process is key in investing. By evaluating your approach rather than blaming others, you can learn from both your successes and failures.
  3. Technological advancements are shaping our future. If we embrace progress, it could lead to significant improvements in our quality of life.

DOGE In the States

879 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Entrepreneurship Tax policy Venture Capital
  1. Many government programs aiming to help entrepreneurs are seen as wasteful and do not deliver real results. It's often just a way to create jobs for government employees.
  2. Entrepreneurial ecosystems work best when driven by the private sector rather than government involvement. Government interference tends to complicate matters and can limit growth.
  3. Accountability in the private sector is focused on solving customer problems efficiently, while government often prioritizes expanding control and influence, resulting in wasted resources.

An Argument For Tariffs

746 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economics Trade Policy Defense Industry
  1. Tariffs can hurt consumers because they end up paying higher prices. Even if some believe they help local businesses, they can actually make those businesses less competitive.
  2. In some cases, tariffs might be necessary to protect industries that are important for national security, like drone technology. This can help the country stay strong in a competitive world.
  3. Big companies can create advantages that make it hard for others to compete. If countries like China dominate certain industries, tariffs may be needed to keep a fair playing field.

Fake Data

1172 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Bureaucracy Data Integrity Public Policy
  1. There's a belief that government data, like unemployment numbers, may not be accurate and could be manipulated for a specific narrative. This raises doubt about how trustworthy these figures really are.
  2. The independence of government employees from elected officials is questioned, suggesting that the current system might not align with constitutional principles. This brings up concerns about who is truly accountable in the decision-making process.
  3. Concerns are raised about the reliability of various types of government data, including health and agricultural statistics. This makes people wonder if they can trust any information provided by the government.

The Tariff Game

1918 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Tariffs Political Economy Regulations Government spending
  1. Tariffs are often more about politics than economics, and many believe they don't help growth. They're seen as special favors rather than economic tools.
  2. While tariffs can raise prices, their real impact on the economy isn't as severe as some think. They could even lead to slower growth, which might help reduce inflation.
  3. There are concerns that government job cuts could hurt people who lack skills for other jobs. However, adapting and reinventing oneself is crucial, as others have had to do in tough situations.

Secession Is a Good Idea

1199 implied HN points • 09 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Secession Elections Governance Political parties Democracy
  1. Counties should have the option to secede if they want to join a neighboring state. This can help people live under laws and tax systems that better match their beliefs.
  2. Secession could create competition between states, encouraging them to improve their policies. If people can move to a state with lower taxes and better regulations, states might change to keep their residents.
  3. Allowing counties to secede could disrupt how political parties gerrymander districts. If counties leave, it could change which party has more influence in elections.

A Nothing Burger

692 implied HN points • 13 Feb 25
💰 Finance Trading Market Analysis Investment Banking Financial Strategy
  1. Moving the NYSE Chicago to Texas isn't a big deal in finance. It won't change how trading really works since most of it happens off the main exchanges anyway.
  2. Chicago's financial industry is struggling, with fewer major banks and investment firms. Many professionals believe Dallas is becoming a better place for finance careers.
  3. Texas is improving its business environment with low taxes and better competition for financial firms. This may help cities like Dallas attract more businesses and talent.

Perspective

932 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Leadership Government Public Policy Political Opinions
  1. Different people can have varying perspectives on the same situation. For example, traders in different markets may see things differently based on their positions.
  2. Recent political events have exposed a lot of government corruption and misinformation. Many people are starting to see the truth behind past political narratives.
  3. Social media is becoming a more reliable source for finding the truth in the current landscape. It's interesting how platforms can shift the narrative and reveal important information.

Strategic Funds

692 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
💰 Finance Investment Economic Policy Taxation Cryptocurrency Government spending
  1. The idea of a Strategic Wealth Fund (SWF) and a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve (SBR) is seen as bad because they could go against individual freedoms and lead to misuse of taxpayer money.
  2. Government can't truly invest money; it can only spend what it collects from taxes or borrows. This means investments made by the government aren't genuine investments.
  3. Bitcoin is still mostly potential and hasn't proven its real-world value. Critics argue that despite years of development, it lacks practical uses in everyday life.

Construction

1172 implied HN points • 25 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Elections Party Dynamics Government Campaigning
  1. Trump's experience in construction gives him an advantage during natural disasters, as he can expedite recovery efforts.
  2. There are issues within government agencies that seem to hinder effective communication and response, which some believe should be eliminated or reformed.
  3. Republicans are urged to prepare and organize for upcoming elections to ensure they support candidates who align with small government principles.

I Love This Guy

1279 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Public Policy Political Movements Political Commentary
  1. We are at an important moment in history that can shape the future of Western values and freedom. It's essential to stay alert and participate in this significant change.
  2. When making policies, ensure they promote freedom for everyone and avoid leaning towards control and restrictions. Past attempts at reform have shown pitfalls when they disguise control as freedom.
  3. It's crucial to expose dishonest actions in politics and prioritize transparent communication. Learning from past mistakes can help build a stronger future without wasting time on revenge.

The Trump EO on Grant Payments

959 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Executive orders Government spending Economic Policy
  1. Many states and cities are worried about funding due to Trump's Executive Order on grant payments. They are concerned about how they will manage their budgets.
  2. A lot of government money goes to projects that might not be necessary or useful. There's a big issue with wasteful spending, which affects those who genuinely need support.
  3. Startups, especially in the medical field, are worried about losing funding because of this order. It makes it harder for them to develop new treatments and grow their businesses.

Witnessing Creative Destruction

1039 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Innovation Competition Market Trends Cybersecurity
  1. China released a new AI engine that outperforms existing models in the U.S., marking a significant step in AI innovation. This change shows how quickly tech landscapes can shift and the importance of staying competitive.
  2. To succeed in the current tech environment, startup founders should focus on wisely managing their funding and raising just enough money to reach their goals. It's important to avoid letting pride interfere with practical decision-making.
  3. The key to advancing AI and technology is competition, not regulation. Embracing competition can help improve products and services, keeping innovation alive and thriving.

MAHA

852 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Analysis Public Health Government Regulation Social movements
  1. RFK Jr. raised valid questions about the medical system and vaccines. It's important to scrutinize vaccines and the reasons behind certain medical practices.
  2. The agricultural system is heavily influenced by government regulations and subsidies. To foster innovation, we need to reduce government control over farming.
  3. Allowing farmers more freedom to manage their land can lead to better practices and more creativity in food production. Letting the market decide which methods work best could benefit everyone.

The Pardons

1279 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Governance Political parties Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. Biden's recent pardons can help Trump focus on positive actions instead of seeking revenge. This means Trump can start building things up rather than getting caught up in past issues.
  2. The pardons may lead to less media attention on major stories, allowing gossip and rumors to take the spotlight. It's a shift similar to what happened when Nixon was pardoned, making it easier for Trump to move forward.
  3. Trump could gain ground by being extremely open about past documents and issues. By releasing more information on various controversies, he could reshape public perception and show his commitment to transparency.

Adam Carolla is Wrong

1678 implied HN points • 11 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Governance Elections Public Policy Political culture
  1. Better forest management could help prevent severe wildfires. It involves clearing brush and controlled burns instead of just letting nature take its course.
  2. People who lost their homes in California fires are unlikely to change their political beliefs. Their deep-rooted views will not easily shift, regardless of the changes happening around them.
  3. Democrats typically expand government to solve problems, while Republicans lean toward private sector solutions. This difference affects how cities like San Francisco and New York handle their issues.

Service Academy Majors/Minors

879 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Military Education Diversity Policy Indoctrination
  1. Service academies are meant to train future military officers, and their classes should reflect that mission. This means focusing on skills and knowledge relevant to defense rather than other topics.
  2. There has been pushback against classes like 'Diversity and Inclusion Studies' in military academies, which some view as unnecessary or indoctrination rather than practical education.
  3. Life at service academies is very different from civilian college experiences, with strict rules and a heavy emphasis on discipline and military training.

By The Book

1012 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political theory Government Public Policy Political Commentary
  1. Outsiders often disrupt the status quo and create change, even if they lack traditional qualifications. People like Elon Musk and Henry Kaiser show that success can come from unconventional paths.
  2. Experience in the real world can lead to better decision-making, which is why some believe Trump has gained valuable insights since his first term. His focus on practical solutions may lead to positive outcomes.
  3. Reforming government agencies and taxes could transform how Americans interact with the government. People are looking for changes that align with their needs rather than outdated systems.

The Opportunity Costs of Offensive War

1039 implied HN points • 15 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Defense Policy Military technology International relations Political strategy
  1. Opportunity costs are important when making decisions, especially in war. They help clarify the impacts of our choices by forcing us to think in numerical terms.
  2. Advanced technologies like drones and robots are changing warfare. These advancements could minimize human losses, which changes how countries weigh the risks of engaging in conflict.
  3. Winning the tech race is crucial for national security. If a country falls behind in technological advancements, it could lose its strategic advantages in future conflicts.

Closed vs Open

612 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🔮 Crypto Cryptocurrency Security Blockchain Quantum Computing
  1. Quantum computing could potentially break the security of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. This means new, stronger security measures might be needed constantly.
  2. Crypto operates on an open network that encourages wide accessibility and data collection, while traditional fiat systems are closed and controlled by central authorities like the Federal Reserve.
  3. There's a debate about whether the benefits of paying to use a closed financial system outweigh the risks of using an open one, especially with the advent of advanced technologies.

An Exit

1012 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Investing Consumer Goods Startups Corporate culture
  1. Investing in entrepreneurs you believe in can be more important than the product itself. Finding a passionate leader can make all the difference.
  2. Solving personal problems often leads to stronger businesses. When entrepreneurs face their own challenges, their passion and commitment to the solution grow.
  3. Being smart with financing is key for business success. Using venture debt wisely can help a company grow without giving up too much ownership.

Frail Infirm Grifters

1145 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Reform Elections Political parties Campaign strategies
  1. Many politicians in Washington are quite old and some are not able to fulfill their duties. There's a belief that term limits could help keep Congress fresh and accountable.
  2. Political dynasties are common, with certain families holding positions for generations. This makes it hard for new ideas and leaders to emerge.
  3. To improve politics, ideas like limiting the number of years someone can serve, taxing former politicians who lobby, and changing their retirement benefits are suggested.

Crisis CEO

1172 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crisis Management Communication Media Relations Social media Public Perception
  1. Musk handled a crisis well by communicating clearly and quickly. He used social media to share important updates and information.
  2. His approach focused on transparency, which helped counter misinformation from the media. This made it easier for the public to trust what Tesla was saying.
  3. Effective crisis management involves understanding the situation and reacting swiftly. Musk's method showed how to turn a potentially negative event into an opportunity to build trust.

The Strategic Bitcoin Reserve

612 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🔮 Crypto Cryptocurrency Market Regulation Investment Theory Blockchain Technology Financial Policy
  1. Creating a Strategic Bitcoin Reserve is a bad idea. Bitcoin doesn't prove to be essential for national security like the Strategic Oil Reserve.
  2. Currently, Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies are more about speculation than real value. They haven't significantly impacted daily life yet.
  3. The government should not get involved in the crypto market. It should just monitor and regulate lightly without interfering, to let it evolve naturally.

Nothing To Add

1012 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political issues Domestic Policy Government Accountability Social Issues Terrorism
  1. There is a growing concern about violence and terrorism in the U.S., especially involving individuals with military backgrounds. This raises questions about the military's culture and training.
  2. New Orleans, while known for its resilience and charm, struggles with significant issues like crime and inadequate public services. Many believe the city needs better leadership and resources to improve safety and education.
  3. The concepts of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) are criticized for being ineffective and harmful. There is a belief that they distract from addressing important societal issues.

Hot Sauce

826 implied HN points • 04 Jan 25
🍲 Food & Drink Cooking Fermentation Recipes Home Cooking Healthy Eating
  1. Cooking at home can be a fun and creative outlet, especially for those who enjoy trying new recipes and dishes. Using fresh ingredients can enhance the experience, like making homemade pasta or fermented sauces.
  2. Fermented foods like hot sauce and sauerkraut are not only tasty but also good for gut health. They can be simple to make at home and can add unique flavors to your meals.
  3. It's often frustrating when dining out, as homemade meals can sometimes taste better than restaurant dishes. This makes cooking at home even more rewarding and enjoyable.

Gulag For You

959 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Corruption Law enforcement Government Accountability Civil Rights Political Commentary
  1. Corruption in Illinois is rampant, especially within its government and judicial systems. Many residents feel they can't get a fair trial due to biased and corrupt officials.
  2. The case of Steve Fanady shows how the judicial system can mistreat individuals, holding them indefinitely while ignoring their rights. His situation raises concerns about the motivations behind such actions.
  3. Many believe that political leaders prioritize their power and financial interests over the welfare of citizens. This has led to calls for better investigative journalism to expose and address these corrupt practices.

Wading Into The HB1 Visa Controversy

799 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Immigration Policy Economic Analysis Law enforcement Labor Market Social Issues
  1. There's a lot of misunderstanding about immigration, especially regarding the HB1 visa. Instead of emotions, we need to look at data to create better immigration policies.
  2. Charging for immigration can fix many issues. If people pay to immigrate, they may invest more in their new country and assimilate faster.
  3. High-skilled immigrants can benefit America without causing social costs. By removing political influence from the immigration process, we can make it work better for everyone.

Changing Your Mind

1305 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Government Elections Public Opinion Media influence
  1. People often want to believe that leaders and institutions have their best interests at heart. This trust can be shaken when they see questionable behavior from those in charge.
  2. Changing your mind can happen when you look closely at the facts and data. It's important to weigh different perspectives, even if you initially disagree.
  3. A significant portion of the population wants to stay out of political conflicts and just live their lives. They may need to be motivated to take a stand when they see that their interests are potentially at risk.

X Is A Bully Whip

932 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Congress Legislation Government spending Political Accountability Elections
  1. The recent failure of a big spending bill in Congress shows that there's a shift in how people view government spending. Many believe it's time to cut spending and start fresh.
  2. Social media platforms like X are giving people a way to hold Congress accountable. Now, politicians can't hide their actions as easily and are feeling pressure from their voters.
  3. There's a call for more transparency and accountability in Congress, like linking spending bills to the responsible lawmakers. Some even suggest changing how Congress members are paid based on their budget cuts.

A Rebuttal

666 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Law enforcement Political corruption Criminal Justice Investigative Journalism Local government
  1. Sheriff Dart should rethink the situation regarding Steve Fanady's treatment in jail. It seems unfair and has raised concerns about his rights.
  2. There are serious allegations against Dart, but his supporters deny them strongly. They believe he is being targeted by people who don’t like him.
  3. Chicago's media needs to dig deeper into corruption instead of just reporting on it later. Investigative journalism is important for the city's residents.

Big Vs Little

1279 implied HN points • 29 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Role Political divide Economic Systems Corporate Influence
  1. There's a big debate in America about the role of government and big corporations. Many people believe that smaller government is better because it allows more freedom and competition.
  2. Some folks trust experts and government to solve problems, thinking it will make life easier. Others worry that these experts aren't objective and can manipulate the system.
  3. Innovation in technology could change how businesses operate, potentially leading to better outcomes than government interventions. There's a hope that private industry can find new ways to help people without relying on government programs.