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

And their main takeaways

Trump The Totalitarian

852 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Government Policy Election Issues Media Critique
  1. There is a strong desire for major changes in government policies, focusing on taking action against long-standing issues rather than just removing current leaders.
  2. People are questioning the integrity of different sectors, like healthcare and environmental policies, and there's a push for those in power to adopt free market solutions.
  3. There is skepticism about whether politicians will truly act against their own interests and make necessary cutbacks, reflecting a need for both parties to work together for real change.

Is It A Wake Up?

1012 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Foreign Policy Government Democrats Republicans Media
  1. Many believe that the recent political changes in the US show a major disconnect between mainstream media and the public's opinions. People are looking for a voice, and this new landscape allows them to speak up.
  2. There is a sentiment that the government has become too intrusive and wasteful. Citizens feel frustrated about how their tax dollars are spent, particularly regarding foreign aid and pandemic response.
  3. Leaders like Trump and Musk challenge traditional bureaucratic management styles, and some hope this will lead to reduced government control and more effective management in the future.

A Bad Idea

906 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Opinions Policy Debate Automation Labor Issues
  1. Automation is important for ports and can help improve efficiency. Using robots and AI is a smart move to reduce costs and better serve customers.
  2. Unions often resist changes that automation brings, even if it can create more efficient jobs. It’s important to understand and support workers during these changes.
  3. Regulations in ports can slow things down, so building new, less regulated, automated ports is a good idea for future improvements.

Startups, This Is How You Update Investors

373 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
💼 Business Startups Investing Finance Management Entrepreneurship
  1. Startups should keep their investors updated regularly, like every quarter. Simple updates help investors stay engaged and offer support.
  2. When updating, focus on key points like growth rates, income or losses, and any future capital raising. It's best to keep it clear and short.
  3. Investors can be valuable beyond just their money. They can help with introductions and potential partnerships, so it's crucial to communicate effectively with them.

The Fakers

932 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Activism Free speech Judiciary Political Commentary Social media
  1. SCOTUSblog has shifted from being neutral to more activist, particularly after controversial decisions like Dobbs. This change has disappointed some readers who valued its previous objectivity.
  2. There's a belief that angry reactions from people, especially on social media, are revealing their true, more extreme selves. This behavior sometimes leads to violent responses.
  3. The idea of 'free markets' is highlighted; when one platform leaves, another may fill the gap, showing that alternatives exist and can thrive based on demand.
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The Bears

559 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🎾 Sports NFL Football Team Management Fan Experience
  1. The Bears' organization is struggling in many areas, including poor management and lack of direction. Fans feel frustrated as they haven't seen consistent success or a clear plan to improve.
  2. The game experience at Soldier Field is disappointing, with issues like bad food and long lines. Many fans prefer watching games at home rather than going to the stadium.
  3. The Bears have had a hard time finding the right coaches and building a solid team. Even though there are some good players, the overall performance is lacking, especially on the offensive line.

Some Data

1385 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
  1. The influence of mainstream media is declining, and people are turning to alternative platforms for news. This change is reshaping how information is shared and consumed.
  2. Conservatives had a good night in the elections but still have areas to improve, especially in Senate races. There's a call for solidifying their message and finding effective candidates.
  3. There's a push for significant changes in governance, including reducing the size of government and rethinking tax strategies. The goal is to make Washington less impactful on daily lives.

Stupid Rules For Stupid People Struck Down

639 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
💼 Business Corporate Governance Regulation Investment Financial Markets Diversity
  1. NASDAQ's rule for corporate board diversity focused too much on identity instead of qualifications. It's more important to have people with varied experiences and perspectives on the board to help businesses succeed.
  2. The legal decision to revoke certain rules about private company disclosures is seen as positive. Regulations that infringe on privacy can deter companies from going public and create unnecessary barriers.
  3. Private markets should be free from excessive regulations. Investors need to keep the identities of their shareholders confidential, and government oversight can lead to more problems than it solves.

One Regulator

719 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
💰 Finance Regulation Innovation Cryptocurrency Market structure Bureaucracy
  1. The financial market regulation in the U.S. is complicated and outdated, with many agencies like the SEC and CFTC often conflicting with each other. This can lead to innovation being stifled.
  2. There are concerns that some regulators, like Gary Gensler, may be overly controlling and negatively impact innovative companies, especially in the emerging cryptocurrency space.
  3. Many believe that simplifying the regulatory structure to have one main regulator could boost competition and innovation, but achieving this change seems very challenging.

Big Appointment

826 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Deep State Subsidies
  1. Trump's cabinet choices are causing some controversy because they are from outside the usual political circles. This approach aims to challenge established systems in Washington.
  2. The Secretary of Agriculture plays a crucial role in shaping policies that can impact major industries like farming and energy. Changes here could help reduce harmful ingredients in food and fuel.
  3. Agricultural subsidies create complex problems that are hard to fix because other countries also support their farming industries. Any real change needs cooperation from both local and national interests.

Feeble Jobs Report

1039 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economy Employment Government Elections Policy
  1. The recent jobs report shows a big reliance on government jobs, which many think is not a good sign for the economy. Without these jobs, things would look much worse.
  2. Government spending isn't really helping the economy grow. Taxes and debt fund this spending, but they don't create real jobs in the private sector.
  3. A potential change in leadership could mean a big cut in government jobs, which might lead to more opportunities in private industry instead.

The Kamala Interview

1172 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Analysis Election coverage Public Opinion Political Humor
  1. Kamala Harris didn't perform well during her interview. Many commentators noticed her lack of effectiveness in answering questions.
  2. Some people tried to find positive aspects in her responses, but the overall reaction was mostly negative. Her interview may be used in ads to highlight her long-winded answers.
  3. The discussion about her personality and presence was critical, with some finding her annoying. This could affect how undecided voters view her.

Stop The Lying

852 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
  1. Political ads have become annoying and filled with lies. Many people just ignore them or find them frustrating.
  2. Receiving too many political texts can really disrupt daily life. It feels like spam and should be regulated.
  3. There's a concern that politicians are using blatant lies to win elections, which raises questions about their moral character.

Markets Can Turn And Inform

959 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Market Trends Public Opinion Political Analysis
  1. Prediction markets can show trends in politics, like giving Trump a higher chance to win. They react quickly to news, telling us what people think in real-time.
  2. Many people have lost trust in mainstream media. This is because they feel that the news is biased or not credible, leading more to rely on alternative sources.
  3. It's important to recognize our own biases when interpreting market signals. Getting caught up in our beliefs can prevent us from seeing changes that could affect our decisions.

The Betting Markets Were Right

612 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
  1. Betting markets often predict election outcomes more accurately than traditional polls. They gather opinions from many people, which helps them get a clearer picture of what might happen.
  2. Polls can give a misleading view because they don't account for the social dynamics of voting. People might feel differently about how their neighbors will vote compared to their own choice.
  3. The success of a big betting win can come from thinking differently and taking risks, just like successful traders do. It shows how important it is to go against the crowd sometimes.

Back in the USA

612 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
  1. The countryside in France offers a more enjoyable experience compared to Paris, with good value meals and a relaxed atmosphere. Many people prefer the charm of small towns over the hustle of the city.
  2. Train travel in France is fast, affordable, and efficient, making it easy to explore different regions. This highlights the need for better high-speed rail connections in the US to improve travel between major cities.
  3. The food quality in France is notably better, with deeper flavors and fresher ingredients. This is influenced by different agricultural practices and regulations compared to the US.

Organized and Coordinated Attacks

879 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political strategy Election Process Party Dynamics Voter Behavior Media influence
  1. The Democratic Party operates in a top-down manner, allowing members to understand their roles without needing direct instruction. This structure helps them coordinate efforts effectively, especially during elections.
  2. Republicans are more decentralized, leading to a wider variety of beliefs and approaches. This can create challenges in organizing efforts like voter turnout compared to Democrats.
  3. Recent polls and media narratives might not accurately reflect voter sentiment, raising concerns about their credibility. Many believe that political manipulation and biased reporting can skew public perception ahead of elections.

The State of Play

985 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Governance Media Public Opinion
  1. Many people feel that the election process is unfair and that institutions lie to the public. This has led to a loss of trust in political leaders and the media.
  2. Voter sentiment has shifted, with issues like lockdown policies, economic struggles, and social issues influencing people to lean more towards Republican perspectives.
  3. The debates around social issues, like gender identity in sports, may be turning some voters away from the Democrats, especially among suburban women who value traditional rights.

The Cooling Saucer

746 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
  1. The Senate was originally designed to be a more stable body of government, acting as a 'cooling saucer' to slow down heated debates that happen in the House of Representatives.
  2. The changes brought about by the 17th Amendment made the Senate more like the House, leading to more heated and partisan debates.
  3. Choosing the right Senate leader is crucial. A leader who aligns closely with the current political movement and has a strong vision could lead to significant changes in government operations.

France

719 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
  1. The trip to France is a long-awaited opportunity after years of not traveling due to various reasons like business and COVID.
  2. The traveler plans to visit several places, including Beaune, Lyon, and Bordeaux, and meet up with friends along the way.
  3. There is curiosity about how people in Europe will react to recent events in the US and abroad, highlighting a concern for social issues and tensions.

In Lyon France

639 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
  1. Lyon is historically significant for silk production and played a role in the development of early computing through the invention of the silk loom.
  2. During World War II, Lyon was a center for the French Resistance, and there were complex interactions between intelligence agencies and former Nazis post-war.
  3. There's a commentary on how intelligence agencies may work with unsavory figures, raising concerns about the implications for U.S. values today.

A Winning Strategy

932 implied HN points • 21 Oct 24
💼 Business Leadership Entrepreneurship Marketing Authenticity Culture
  1. Being authentic is key for leaders. When leaders show their true selves, it helps build trust and culture in their organizations.
  2. Not every leader is suited for every situation. Finding the right fit where authenticity shines can lead to greater success.
  3. People today appreciate genuine leadership. With so much fake behavior around, being authentic stands out and resonates with others.

You Can't Vote For Dumb

1039 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political parties Government Campaigns Political Commentary
  1. The author believes Kamala Harris lacks intelligence and creativity in her political actions. They think her methods are often emotional rather than based on facts.
  2. They argue that her background in politics has made her a typical party follower rather than an original thinker. They feel this is a problem for representation.
  3. The author feels that voting for someone they perceive as 'stupid' is dangerous, especially in important matters like foreign policy and economics. They think strong leadership requires intellect.

Picking Ro Khanna

852 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political parties Elections Legislation Political Ideologies Government Regulation
  1. Silicon Valley values innovation and rebellion, allowing entrepreneurs to challenge norms. This spirit of independence is crucial for their success.
  2. The author questions how Silicon Valley can support someone like Ro Khanna, who promotes regulation and control over innovation. This seems contradictory to their rebellious nature.
  3. There's a belief that progressives benefit from capitalists, using the innovations they create to push for more rules and regulations. This can stifle the very innovation that drives progress.

The Local GOP

692 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
  1. The leadership of the Nevada GOP seems to prioritize their own interests over party principles. This has resulted in a lack of support for candidates and has affected down-ballot elections.
  2. While there are some local successes, like conservative members on the Clark County school board, these candidates struggled without help from the party. They had to rely on their own resources to get elected.
  3. Upcoming elections will be crucial for the Nevada GOP. They need to recruit and support candidates better to compete, especially with challenges like voter ID initiatives and a lack of clean voter rolls.

All Roads Lead to Inflation

746 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
💰 Finance Inflation Investing Monetary Policy Economic Growth Debt Management
  1. Inflation seems unavoidable and is likely to continue affecting the economy. It doesn't really matter who is in charge politically; the pressure on the markets suggests we're stuck with it.
  2. To manage during inflationary times, investing in commodities and hard assets like real estate may be smart. These investments can help preserve value even when the dollar weakens.
  3. The shift to private markets and sectors like technology and agriculture can offer chances to earn better returns that beat inflation. However, navigating these markets requires skill and good management.

Treasury Secy

479 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
  1. The next Treasury Secretary should not be someone who supported past policies like TARP or excessive quantitative easing.
  2. It's important for the Treasury Secretary to understand Wall Street, but they shouldn't come directly from there to maintain a sense of stability.
  3. A candidate like Don Wilson could be a good choice because he is very knowledgeable and strategic, offering a fresh perspective without being a typical Wall Street figure.

Betting Markets

746 implied HN points • 18 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polling Prediction Markets Political Analysis Government Policy
  1. Betting markets can predict election outcomes more accurately than polls. They quickly adjust based on new information, making them reliable for forecasting.
  2. Unlike traditional markets, prediction markets are less likely to be manipulated. Studies show attempts to influence them usually don't succeed, keeping the forecasts steady.
  3. Understanding how the market works is key. It gathers and shares information in a way that motivates accuracy, unlike traditional polling methods that can miss the mark.

Free Money

799 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government funding Economic Policy Political Ideologies Income Inequality Education reform
  1. Many people wrongly believe that money from the government is free and doesn't have really costs associated with it. Government money actually comes from taxpayers, and there's no such thing as a free lunch.
  2. Loans and financial incentives, like student loan forgiveness, can create bad economic expectations and lead to bigger problems down the road. When the government gives money without a clear plan to pay it back, it burdens future generations.
  3. There are better solutions for improving education and the economy, like school choice and reducing government involvement in funding. Allowing the market to dictate provides more opportunities and encourages personal responsibility.

Innovation In A Stodgy Industry

453 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
  1. Alexandre Penet creates unique champagne by using less sugar and a special process that makes his champagne taste more like wine. This means you can enjoy different flavors, like with a fine food pairing.
  2. His approach to winemaking involves mixing different grape varieties together instead of separating them. This gives his champagne a rich depth that sets it apart from more common brands.
  3. There are challenges in selling wine in the U.S. due to strict distribution laws. Making these laws less rigid could help smaller wineries compete and offer more choices to consumers.

Nuts

506 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
  1. Futures markets can help farmers manage risk by allowing them to hedge against price changes in commodities like tree nuts. This is especially important for nuts that are prone to supply disruptions, like pecans after a hurricane.
  2. The popularity of tree nuts has been rising, leading to higher prices and increased demand, such as pecans becoming popular in China for their supposed health benefits. This creates a market need for a way to stabilize prices.
  3. Supporting local farmers is crucial during tough times, such as donating to help pecan farmers affected by crop damage. Buying directly from sources like Stuckey's can also help maintain the supply chain.

Not Funny

559 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
😂 Humor Stand-up Comedy Critique Entertainment Performance
  1. Tony Hinchcliffe's style of humor is seen as harsh and not funny. Unlike comedians like Don Rickles, he doesn't include self-deprecating jokes.
  2. Hinchcliffe's jokes can be cringeworthy and don't seem to resonate well with audiences, especially at events like the Trump rally.
  3. The comparison between Hinchcliffe and Rickles highlights a difference in comedic approach, where Rickles was more inclusive and warm-hearted.

The Bonds And The Stock Market

586 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
💰 Finance Market Trends Investment Strategies Economic Policy Interest Rates Stock Analysis
  1. The stock market has experienced various crashes in the past, but today there are better systems in place to prevent a major crash like in 1987. It's still possible to see market dips, but the overall structure is stronger now.
  2. Interest rates on government bonds are rising, which could impact the stock market negatively if rates reach certain levels. Keeping an eye on these rates is important for understanding market trends.
  3. Government spending is a concern, and both political parties aren't talking about reducing it. If spending continues unchecked, it could lead to serious economic issues in the future.

Playoff Baseball is the Best Baseball

719 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Baseball Playoffs Athletics Culture Strategy
  1. Playoff baseball is exciting because of the high stakes. The games feel different and more intense than regular season games.
  2. Anyone can play baseball, no matter their size or background. It’s a sport that allows for dreams and opportunities.
  3. Baseball is deeply rooted in American culture, offering strategy and unpredictability without time limits, making it unique.

Crypto Cannot Avoid The Iron Laws of Economics

506 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🔮 Crypto Cryptocurrency Economics Blockchain Finance Investment
  1. Cryptocurrency operates under economic principles just like any other market. If costs to create or maintain it exceed profits, it won't succeed.
  2. A recent study highlights that cryptocurrencies may struggle to scale due to high security costs, making them potentially less efficient than traditional financial systems.
  3. While cryptocurrencies aimed to remove the need for legal systems and intermediaries, they still require a level of trust that can be expensive and complex to maintain.

Should Exchanges Own Their Own Commission Merchants?

399 implied HN points • 07 Nov 24
  1. Exchanges like CME Group are considering owning their own commission merchants, which could change how trading works. This could mean customers go directly to exchanges instead of going through brokers.
  2. There's a concern that if exchanges own their own brokers, they may not regulate themselves as strictly. This could create a conflict of interest and impact trust in the marketplace.
  3. The regulatory environment is changing, and quick adjustments are needed to ensure safety and fairness in trading. Companies and regulators need to find the right balance to protect customers while keeping markets competitive.

Absurd Comedy Predicts the Future

559 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
😂 Humor Absurdism Comedy Satire Cultural critique Social Commentary
  1. Absurd comedy often reflects real-life situations in funny ways. It can highlight the bizarre aspects of society and how they develop over time.
  2. Some modern self-defense methods seem ridiculous, like using towels. This shows how far we've come in talking about safety in unusual ways.
  3. Comedians like Monty Python can predict trends and issues that become relevant much later. Their humor still resonates and offers insight into future problems.

Security or Commodity?

479 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🔮 Crypto Regulation Investing Digital Assets Market Trends Innovation
  1. The ongoing legal battle between Bitnomial Exchange and the SEC is crucial in determining whether $XRP is classified as a security or a commodity. This could impact how all digital assets are regulated in the future.
  2. $XRP is argued to be similar to traditional currencies like the US Dollar, functioning as a medium of exchange without the characteristics of a security, which usually includes dividends or voting rights.
  3. The SEC's actions are perceived as an overreach to expand its regulatory powers, and many believe that a ruling favoring Bitnomial could help protect the crypto industry and promote innovation.

Angels Vs Venture Capitalists

266 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
💼 Business Investing Venture Capital Startups Entrepreneurship Finance
  1. Angels and venture capitalists have different roles in funding startups. Angels often invest earlier and can take more risks compared to venture capitalists.
  2. Angels should act quickly and be transparent in their decision-making process. This helps entrepreneurs know where they stand and not get left waiting.
  3. Investing in early rounds is usually more beneficial for angels. After a company has grown, it can make more sense for them to find new seed deals rather than invest in larger rounds.