QTR’s Fringe Finance

QTR's Fringe Finance critically examines financial, political, and societal issues through a libertarian lens, frequently questioning mainstream narratives around topics like monetary policy, media honesty, and government interventions. It delves into the impact of economic policies, the role of alternative media, and promotes skepticism towards established financial and governmental institutions.

Monetary Policy Media Critique Government Intervention Inflation and Economic Analysis Libertarianism Financial Markets Cryptocurrency Civil Liberties Political Commentary

The hottest Substack posts of QTR’s Fringe Finance

And their main takeaways

What If We Run Inflation Hot: Harris Kupperman

16 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
💰 Finance Investing Economics Inflation Macroeconomics Market Trends
  1. Inflation may rise faster than expected, which could surprise many investors. People are not prepared for high growth in the economy right now.
  2. The recent economic changes have benefited many workers and industries that were struggling for a long time. This includes wage increases in sectors that needed them.
  3. Questions are being raised about whether efforts to control inflation are really aimed at the overall economy or at a specific group of people in the rural areas.

25 Stocks I'm Watching For 2025: Part 2

14 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
💰 Finance Investing Stocks Market Trends Financial Analysis Economic Indicators
  1. It’s important to look at market trends and themes for the upcoming year. This helps in choosing the right stocks to watch.
  2. Last year's stock picks didn't perform as well as the S&P 500, showing that not all investments roped in big gains.
  3. Identifying potential stocks early can provide insight for making better investment decisions in the future.

25 Stocks I'm Watching For 2025: Part 1

17 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
💰 Finance Investing Stocks Market Trends Economic Analysis Financial planning
  1. The author is identifying stocks to watch for 2025 based on market trends. This can help investors focus on specific opportunities in the stock market.
  2. In the past year, the stocks chosen performed well but not as well as the overall market, particularly the biggest tech companies.
  3. This post offers insights for paid subscribers, suggesting it provides detailed analysis and guidance for making investment decisions.

The Efficacy and Constitutionality of the Debt Ceiling

21 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Constitutional Law Government spending Fiscal policy Political Discourse
  1. The debt ceiling doesn't really help control government spending. Instead of a strict limit, we should look at reviewing and approving spending more carefully.
  2. There's a belief that the Constitution may not allow for default on public debt. So, some argue that the president could ignore the debt ceiling if Congress keeps spending money.
  3. Many experts think that the repeated struggle over the debt ceiling does more harm than good for the economy and suggest it's time to get rid of it altogether.

Zen And The Art Of Market Crash Fear Porn

27 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
💰 Finance Market Analysis Investment strategy Economic Trends Monetary Policy Risk management
  1. It's important to consider that you could be wrong about the market crashing; sometimes things can go up instead of down. Keeping an open mind helps in understanding the unpredictable nature of markets.
  2. Thinking about worst-case scenarios can be useful, even if they seem unlikely. It’s good to prepare yourself mentally for different outcomes.
  3. Rethinking your assumptions is healthy, especially when the market behaves in ways that don't make sense. Questioning yourself can lead to growth and better insights.
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It's Christmas (Chaos), All Over, Again

32 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
💰 Finance Market Trends Economic Policy Investing Strategies Market Analysis
  1. The market reacted sharply after the Federal Reserve cut rates, but this might not be a good sign for investors. Historically, market crashes often happen after rate cuts, indicating potential risks ahead.
  2. There are concerns about high levels of leverage in the market, especially in options and cryptocurrency. This borrowing can make market movements more extreme and unpredictable.
  3. The current market euphoria might be misleading, as past patterns suggest a sudden downturn could come. It's important to be cautious and not ignore the reality of valuations and economic conditions.

The US Is Now on Track for a $3.5 Trillion Deficit in 2025

28 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Federal Budget National Debt Government spending Economic Policy Fiscal Responsibility
  1. The US government is expected to have a $3.5 trillion deficit in 2025, which is the largest peacetime deficit ever. This means spending is much higher than the money coming in.
  2. There is little chance that Congress will cut spending significantly. Most government spending is on essential programs like Social Security and defense, which people don't want to lose.
  3. As the debt grows, it might lead to higher interest rates and economic problems for consumers and businesses, but it seems unlikely that people will support major budget cuts until they feel the impacts more directly.

Progressivism And The Murder Of A Health Insurance CEO

36 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Healthcare Government Progressivism Economics Social Issues
  1. Some online progressives showed disturbing joy over the murder of a health insurance CEO, believing it was a strike against the wealthy and a reflection of class struggles.
  2. The US healthcare system is highly regulated and has been for over a century, contrary to the belief that it's completely unregulated and solely driven by greedy CEOs.
  3. Government actions, especially those pushed by progressives over the years, have heavily influenced the healthcare market and led to rising costs and inefficiencies, causing many Americans to lack access to affordable care.

Drones: Panic Or Perception?

21 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Drones Security Innovation Surveillance Public Perception
  1. The public often overreacts to drone presence, which can cause unnecessary panic. It's important to look at the facts and not just the fear surrounding drones.
  2. Individual analysis of situations like drones is crucial rather than relying solely on popular opinion. People should make their own informed decisions based on evidence.
  3. Understanding the situation surrounding drones requires careful examination of the evidence rather than following what others say or think.

Lessons From The Covid Fringe

44 implied HN points • 04 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Pandemic response Media influence Public Health Government Policy Civil Liberties
  1. A recent report suggests that COVID-19 likely originated from a lab leak, which was a controversial topic four years ago. It's surprising how much the conversation around this has changed since then.
  2. Social distancing and mask mandates during the pandemic may not have been based on solid science, according to the same report. Many people have forgotten the strict rules that were once in place.
  3. It's important to question the mainstream narrative and have the courage to speak out against it. This can lead to a better understanding of complex issues and help promote informed discussions.

Come Hell Or Hyperinflation

32 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
💰 Finance Investing Market Trends Economic Analysis Stock Market
  1. The stock market currently seems to be very overvalued, which is raising concerns about its stability. Investors might want to be cautious as prices continue to rise unexpectedly.
  2. As we approach 2025, it's important for investors to reflect on their strategies and consider potential future risks. Making informed decisions now could be crucial.
  3. The ongoing growth in the market may lead to a situation where investors aren't truly aware of the risks involved. It's a good time to question whether the current trends are sustainable.

The $3 Trillion Question

22 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🔮 Crypto Bitcoin Blockchain Market Analysis Investing Technology
  1. Google's new Willow processor could potentially challenge the security of the bitcoin network. It's important to pay attention to new technologies that might impact cryptocurrencies.
  2. Investing in bitcoin carries risks that can emerge suddenly, especially amid volatility in stock and bond markets. Always be cautious and aware of these risks.
  3. The cryptocurrency market remains complex and unpredictable, so staying informed is crucial for making good investment decisions. Research and understanding are key.

Thanks

43 implied HN points • 28 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Thanksgiving Family Community Politics Gratitude
  1. Thanksgiving is a time for appreciation and gratitude towards family and community, beyond just the food. It's important to cherish the connections we have with our loved ones.
  2. Politics and disagreements are common at family gatherings, but it’s crucial to prioritize family over those differences. Choosing to focus on family can lead to more meaningful connections.
  3. Life is fragile, and time with family is limited. Embrace the quirky moments and discussions, as they may be the things you miss the most in the future.

The (Political) Sound Of Silence

38 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Policy Public Opinion Political Rhetoric
  1. After the recent election, the intense political chatter has quieted down significantly, which many people find comforting. It's like a calm after a storm where there's less stress about political debates.
  2. Taking a break from media and social media has helped some people feel less anxious. It's like finally letting go of a heavy backpack after carrying it for too long.
  3. Noticing how much political noise was unnecessary has led to a sense of peace. Instead of getting caught up in arguments and outrage, they can focus on enjoying life again and finding new interests.

The Keynesian Liquidity Trap Fable

19 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
💰 Finance Monetary Policy Economics Investment Market Analysis Banking
  1. People often think the economy fails because consumers save too much and spend too little. But saving isn't always bad; it can help strengthen the economy if done right.
  2. When banks lower interest rates to encourage spending, it sometimes backfires. Instead of spending, people might just save more, leading to a 'liquidity trap' where money isn't flowing in the economy.
  3. Expanding the money supply might make it seem like the economy is growing at first, but if savings decline due to previous bad policies, this can actually hurt the economy in the long run.

The Great Trump Exhale

51 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Ideologies Public Opinion Campaigns Media influence
  1. Many people feel it's now more acceptable to support Trump publicly compared to past elections. This change has helped his popularity grow.
  2. Trump's recent success shows that a significant portion of the American public shares his political views, leading to a sense of relief among his supporters.
  3. As more people openly support Trump, it creates a snowball effect of acceptance, signaling a shift in the political landscape towards his favor.

Is Inflation In 2024 Fueled By Supply Or Demand?

11 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
💰 Finance Inflation Economics Monetary Policy Supply Chain
  1. Inflation in 2024 could be caused by supply issues, like hurricanes and strikes, which disrupt the availability of goods and services.
  2. Much of the high inflation seen after the pandemic was actually driven by demand rather than just supply problems.
  3. As supply conditions improve, inflation rates might decrease, but currently, tighter monetary policy and slowed spending suggest that inflation could remain high.

An Austrian Perspective on Tariffs

20 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Trade policy Economic Theory National Security Market Dynamics Government intervention
  1. Tariffs are taxes on imported goods that can raise prices for consumers and protect domestic industries. When tariffs go up, the cost of imports usually rises, which can lead to higher prices in stores.
  2. Using tariffs to fix trade imbalances often doesn't help because it doesn't address the real issue of competitiveness in industries. Just raising prices on foreign goods doesn't make local products better if they aren't competitive.
  3. The Austrian view suggests that free trade is better for everyone because it allows countries to specialize where they are most efficient. Tariffs can mess up this system, leading to less efficient production and higher prices overall.

The Dam Has Burst, The Floodgates Of Liberty Just Opened

69 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Media Political theory Political parties
  1. A recent election result has given a strong mandate to a political party, signaling a shift toward liberty and smaller government. This change is seen as a positive move for many people who value personal freedom.
  2. The outcome of the election has put pressure on the mainstream media and the opposing political party to rethink their strategies. Many believe that the media's bias has hurt their credibility and trust with the public.
  3. There's a sense of hope that this election could lead to a lasting change in political ideologies, favoring less government and more freedom. People feel that this could be the start of a new era for the country's governance.

The State of Student Loan Forgiveness

18 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Education & Policy Government programs Legal Challenges
  1. The Biden administration has canceled around $180 billion in student loans, shifting the financial burden to taxpayers. This means taxpayers might end up paying for loans that borrowers took on.
  2. Multiple student loan forgiveness plans are being implemented, even after some were blocked by the Supreme Court. The government is finding other ways to forgive loans through existing and new programs.
  3. Some plans, like the Public Service Loan Forgiveness, are still active and help many borrowers have their debt wiped out, raising questions about fairness and the future cost to taxpayers.

Can Bitcoin Save The U.S. Dollar?

23 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
💰 Finance Cryptocurrency Monetary Policy Economic Theory International Trade Government Policy
  1. Some politicians suggest creating a Bitcoin reserve for the US, thinking it could help the dollar's value and stability. They believe having Bitcoin might make the US economy stronger.
  2. Having reserve assets like Bitcoin is not as necessary for the US dollar, which is already powerful globally. The dollar doesn't need extra support from things like Bitcoin because it's already widely used.
  3. Adding Bitcoin to the US reserve wouldn’t really help the dollar; it might just serve to enrich some investors. The government should focus on what truly supports the economy, not on trendy assets.

It's My World War III Party And I'll Cry If I Want To

36 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Foreign Policy Biden administration International relations Military Affairs Nuclear policy
  1. The Biden administration's recent approval for Ukraine to use long-range missiles against Russia raises concerns about escalating tensions. This change from previous policy seems sudden and could lead to serious conflict.
  2. There are worries that the Biden administration might be intentionally creating chaos for the incoming Trump administration, particularly regarding peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.
  3. The overall direction of U.S. foreign policy under Biden has caused anxiety, with some fearing it may push the country towards a larger conflict, possibly even World War III before the transition happens.

It's Always Darkest Before Dawn

19 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
💰 Finance Investing Market Trends Risk management Economic Analysis Portfolio strategy
  1. The Fed can't stop a bear market from happening when stock prices are extremely high. This means that even with their efforts, a market drop could still occur.
  2. Sometimes it's not worth trying to understand why a strategy failed. It's better to acknowledge it and move on rather than clinging to a losing bet.
  3. Hedge fund managers often write letters during tough times, but many don't take responsibility for their mistakes. It's refreshing when someone admits to being wrong without making excuses.

3 Market Indicators On Watch Into End Of Year

12 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
💰 Finance Market Analysis Investing Trading Indicators Financial advice
  1. Watch key market indicators closely as we approach the end of the year. They help in understanding the market trends.
  2. It's important to have reliable sources for market analysis, and some contributors have years of experience and honesty in their trading.
  3. Always remember that trading options can be risky. Make sure to consult a financial advisor before making any financial decisions.

How To Cut $2 Trillion Of Fat From The Federal Budget

30 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Federal Budget Government spending Economic Policy Political Commentary
  1. The U.S. government needs to cut $2 trillion from its budget to avoid financial disaster. This is important for maintaining democracy and economic health.
  2. To save this money, we can eliminate wasteful agencies, cut unnecessary spending, and reduce low-priority programs. It’s crucial to make these cuts soon to prevent further debt growth.
  3. The proposed savings can be grouped into three main areas: cutting unnecessary bureaucracies, downsizing defense spending, and reducing entitlement programs. Each area has specific targets for savings.

Biden’s Economic Time Bomb: A Warning to Trump

38 implied HN points • 15 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Economy Government Public Policy Inflation Debt
  1. Biden's spending policies are causing high inflation and soaring public debt. This is leading to economic instability and a potential recession.
  2. Job growth is largely coming from government positions, while the private sector struggles to grow. This could harm the overall economy in the long run.
  3. Cutting government spending may hurt the economy temporarily, but supporting the private sector and reducing inflation could lead to a more stable future for American citizens.

Cannibal Spirits

22 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
💰 Finance Market Trends Investment Strategies Economic Policy Risk management Monetary Policy
  1. Markets can go both up and down, which is a natural part of freedom in trading. It's important to understand that fluctuations are normal.
  2. The term 'animal spirits' is often used to explain market behavior, but many believe it's overused and doesn't accurately describe what's really happening.
  3. There's a perception that the financial system is rigged, relying heavily on inflation and debt, which can create skepticism about the true state of the markets.

The CDC Planned Quarantine Camps Nationwide

44 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Public Health Government Policies Civil Liberties Legislation Crisis Management
  1. There were plans for nationwide quarantine camps during the pandemic that aimed to isolate high-risk individuals, which raised significant concerns about personal freedom and human rights.
  2. The CDC's proposals included separating vulnerable people from their families and communities, which many viewed as a severe and troubling approach resembling concentration camps.
  3. The document detailing these plans stayed on the CDC's site for a long time with little attention, highlighting issues of transparency and the power held by public health authorities.

A Watched Market Crash Pot Never Boils

26 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
💰 Finance Stock Market Economics Investing Market Trends Behavioral Finance
  1. Focusing too much on a potential market crash can make it less likely to happen. Sometimes, it's better to step back and not overthink things.
  2. Jerome Powell's comments suggest that the Fed won't rush to cut interest rates anytime soon, even if the economy shows some strength. This means we should pay attention to long-term trends.
  3. The stock market can be influenced by expectations, not just current conditions. People hope for lower rates, but that hope doesn't always match reality.

Bitcoin’s Next 10 Years & Victor Mentality

25 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🔮 Crypto Bitcoin Investing Finance Economics Blockchain
  1. Bitcoin has a long-term potential that many investors believe in. Holding onto it for over a decade has shown significant promise.
  2. The approach to investing in Bitcoin involves buying, mining, and even bidding in auctions to acquire coins.
  3. New strategies in finance can impact how Bitcoin is traded and valued, making it crucial to stay informed about market changes.

Gold Is Back—And So Is Judy Shelton

25 implied HN points • 13 Nov 24
💰 Finance Investing Gold Banking Monetary Policy Economic Theory
  1. Gold prices are rising due to economic and geopolitical concerns, attracting more interest from central banks. This suggests that many countries are starting to value gold again.
  2. Judy Shelton proposes a new kind of bond that would let people redeem their bonds for gold or dollars, giving the public more control over their money. This could help stabilize the economy.
  3. Shelton believes that moving back to a gold standard could improve trust in the financial system and reduce government control over money supply, which many people see as a good thing.

On “Disagreement” and the Presidential Power to Adjourn Congress

16 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Constitutional Law Executive Power Political theory
  1. The president has a constitutional power to adjourn Congress, but this power has never been used before. It's a rare and complex topic with many possible interpretations.
  2. If the president tries to adjourn Congress without proper disagreement between the House and Senate, it might not be seen as valid. Both houses need to clearly express their disagreement for it to count.
  3. Using this presidential power could lead to a serious constitutional crisis. The Senate could ignore a presidential adjournment, causing confusion and potential court challenges.

The Best Trades "Often Take A Little More Patience" To Develop

11 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
💰 Finance Investing Trading Market Analysis Financial advice Economic Trends
  1. Good trades often need more time and patience to develop, so it's smart to be patient in the market. Don't rush into decisions just because you feel pressured.
  2. The semiconductor sector is very strong right now, particularly companies like Nvidia, but it's important to be cautious because not all companies in this sector are doing well.
  3. Keep in mind that trading can be risky and it's always best to consult a financial advisor before making big decisions. It's okay to seek advice, but ultimately, you're responsible for your choices.

Interview: QTR's Take On The Election Results, Macroeconomics & More

19 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
💰 Finance Investing Macroeconomics Media Critique Politics Financial Education
  1. Mainstream media and universities often promote ideas that don't reflect real-world logic. It's important to think critically about what we're being told.
  2. Identity politics can distract from true merit and qualifications in leadership. Focusing on skills and experience is more beneficial for progress.
  3. I prefer to get news from independent sources. This helps me find a wider range of viewpoints and avoid echo chambers.

Trading The Shit Show: November 2024 Market Review

16 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
💰 Finance Market Trends Investment strategy Economic outlook Portfolio Management Political Impact
  1. The market is facing changes due to a significant political event, specifically the Trump administration's win. This could lead to a shift in how people invest and view their portfolios.
  2. As the new year approaches, it's important for investors to assess their portfolio positioning. Understanding market trends can help make better financial decisions.
  3. Overall, staying informed about political and economic changes is key for successful trading and investing. Keeping an eye on these factors can influence your financial strategies.

Volatility "Can Be Beneficial": Trading The Election Results

14 implied HN points • 09 Nov 24
💰 Finance Trading Market Analysis Investment Strategies Economic Trends Volatility
  1. Volatility in the market can actually provide good trading opportunities. When things are uncertain, smart traders can find chances to profit.
  2. Listening to expert traders can be really helpful, especially those who are honest about their successes and failures. It helps build trust and understand the market better.
  3. Election results often change market dynamics, creating unique situations for investors. Keeping track of these changes can be essential for making informed decisions.

Joe Rogan Has Shattered The Media Monolith

89 implied HN points • 03 Feb 24
  1. Joe Rogan's success is due to his approach of discussing topics with good faith, honesty, and humor which contrasts with mainstream media.
  2. Alternative media sources like podcasts and blogs are gaining momentum as legacy media corporations face layoffs and declining viewership.
  3. The shift in the media landscape towards alternative sources reflects a demand for honest, open debates and content that mainstream media may lack.