Jean Galea

Health, Wealth, Relationships, Wisdom

Stock Ideas for the Trump Presidency

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I believe a few sectors will flourish under the Trump administration, having been suppressed under the Democrats for the past years. I’m also taking into consideration new technological advances like AI, as well as geopolitical issues like the shaky relationship between China and the USA, as well as the unpredictability of Russia.

I use brokers like SaxoTrader and DEGIRO for trading stocks, and while I’m not a day trader, I love to take a few bets in addition to my long-term portfolio which mainly consists of the SP500 index ETF and some other broadly diversified holdings.

As Donald Trump returns to the presidency, several sectors are poised for significant growth under anticipated policy shifts. With reduced regulations, a focus on domestic industries, and a push for technological advancements, investors have exciting opportunities ahead. Here are some ideas I’m thinking about.

Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency

Under the Biden administration, the cryptocurrency sector faced significant challenges, including Operation Chokepoint 2.0, which stifled innovation and cast doubt on the industry’s future. With Trump’s return, the regulatory environment could shift, fostering renewed growth and innovation in the crypto space.

Investment Opportunities

  • Coinbase (COIN): As a leading cryptocurrency exchange, Coinbase is poised to capitalize on regulatory relief and increased trading activity.
  • MicroStrategy Incorporated (MSTR): With substantial Bitcoin holdings, MicroStrategy stands to benefit directly from a resurgence in Bitcoin’s prominence.
  • iShares Bitcoin Trust ETF (IBIT): Offered by BlackRock, it is a Bitcoin ETF available in the USA and not directly accessible to European investors due to regulatory differences. It has a low expense ratio of 0.25% and closely tracks the price of Bitcoin, making it popular among investors in markets where it is available.
  • 21Shares Bitcoin Core ETP (CBTC): This exchange-traded product (ETP) is available to European investors, is domiciled in Switzerland and offers a highly competitive total expense ratio of 0.21% per annum. It’s my favorite way to get exposure to Bitcoin and what I recommend to anyone who wants to add Bitcoin to their portfolio.

Artificial Intelligence and Semiconductor Manufacturing

Artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape industries globally, and semiconductor manufacturing is at the core of this transformation. With policies expected to promote innovation and strengthen domestic production, the U.S. could emerge as a leader in AI and chip technologies under the Trump administration.

Investment Opportunities

  • NVIDIA Corporation (NVDA): A market leader in GPUs and AI processors, NVIDIA is at the forefront of AI advancements and data center technologies.
  • Advanced Micro Devices (AMD): With cutting-edge processors and strong market momentum, AMD is poised for continued growth in AI applications and computing power.
  • Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC): As the world’s largest contract chipmaker, TSMC is crucial to AI and advanced computing, providing essential chips for numerous applications.

Nuclear Energy

Real progress in addressing climate change hinges on technological innovation rather than pipe dreams of limiting human consumption of fossil fuels. With Trump’s administration likely to promote practical solutions over restrictive fossil fuel policies, nuclear energy is positioned for a renaissance. Today’s nuclear technology is much safer and more efficient, making it a key player in the energy landscape.

Investment Opportunities

  • Exelon Corporation (EXC): A leader in nuclear energy, Exelon is set to benefit from increased governmental and private-sector support.
  • Global X Uranium ETF (URA): This ETF offers exposure to uranium miners, a critical component of the nuclear energy supply chain.
  • NextEra Energy (NEE): Balancing nuclear capabilities with renewable energy projects, NextEra presents a compelling investment option.

Defense and Aerospace

As global security challenges evolve, the defense sector is pivoting towards cost-effective solutions like drone technology. Trump’s focus on strengthening the military is likely to drive increased funding for cutting-edge defense and aerospace initiatives.

Investment Opportunities

  • Northrop Grumman (NOC): Renowned for its advancements in drone technology, Northrop Grumman is well-positioned to lead the shift towards unmanned aerial solutions.
  • iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF (ITA): This ETF provides diversified exposure to leading U.S. defense companies, ideal for benefiting from heightened defense spending.
  • Lockheed Martin (LMT): With expertise in aerospace and cutting-edge defense systems, Lockheed Martin remains a cornerstone of the sector.

Banking and Finance

Under Trump’s administration, financial institutions can expect regulatory rollbacks that open avenues for growth. Relaxed compliance requirements and favorable monetary policies could boost profitability across the sector.

Investment Opportunities

  • JPMorgan Chase & Co. (JPM): Positioned to capitalize on relaxed regulations and interest rate shifts, JPMorgan is a top pick in the financial sector.
  • Financial Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLF): Offering broad exposure to banks and financial institutions, this ETF balances risk and growth potential.
  • Goldman Sachs (GS): Known for its strategic innovation, Goldman Sachs is poised to benefit from market-friendly policies and expanded financial products.

Automotive and Manufacturing

Trump’s focus on reviving domestic manufacturing is likely to rejuvenate the automotive sector. Tariffs and incentives for local production could significantly benefit American automakers.

Investment Opportunities

  • Ford Motor Company (F): With policies favoring American manufacturers, Ford stands to gain from a resurgence in domestic production.
  • First Trust NASDAQ Global Auto Index Fund (CARZ): This ETF ensures diversified exposure to global automotive manufacturers.
  • General Motors (GM): Investments in electric and hybrid vehicles align with policies supporting domestic innovation.

Construction and Infrastructure

Trump’s administration has consistently emphasized infrastructure development as a cornerstone of economic growth. An increase in federal spending on public works projects could stimulate the construction sector significantly.

Investment Opportunities

  • Caterpillar Inc. (CAT): A global leader in construction equipment, Caterpillar is positioned to benefit from an infrastructure boom.
  • iShares U.S. Infrastructure ETF (IFRA): This ETF provides diversified exposure to companies involved in infrastructure development.
  • Vulcan Materials Company (VMC): As a major supplier of construction aggregates, Vulcan is set to thrive under increased demand.

Energy Sector

Trump’s balanced approach to energy—supporting traditional fossil fuels while encouraging renewables—is likely to spur growth across the sector. Energy companies could see increased production and profitability under favorable policies.

Investment Opportunities

  • ExxonMobil (XOM): With extensive fossil fuel operations and renewable initiatives, ExxonMobil is a key player in the sector.
  • Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (XLE): Offering diverse exposure to leading energy companies, this ETF is ideal for capturing sector-wide growth.
  • NextEra Energy (NEE): Combining nuclear and renewable energy strategies, NextEra is positioned for success under a pragmatic energy policy.

Conclusion

Investors who understand the dynamics of a Trump-led administration can position themselves to take full advantage of the opportunities that arise. By focusing parts of our portfolios on these sectors that are poised for resurgence or explosive growth, we can take advantage of this upcoming potential economic transformation. The key is to act strategically, staying informed and prepared to adapt to evolving market conditions, as we can also expect a few unpredictable moves from Trump in the next 4 years.

In the Good Life Collective, we frequently discuss trading ideas and our portfolio holdings. I firmly believe that getting feedback on our ideas is essential to avoiding costly mistakes in investing, and that is why I value our close-knit community so much. If you’re interested in joining our community, click here to apply.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on what investments are likely to deliver index-beating results over the next presidential term. Let me know in the comments section below.

Retro Gaming Handheld Consoles – Great for Kids and Adults Alike

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Video games were present in every stage of my childhood and teenage years, and I continue to play games regularly to this day. I consider gaming to have been an immensely formative experience for me, as well as an essential outlet for stress and a trigger for my imagination.

When I had kids, I was determined to prevent them from drifting into the world of shallow games on iPads and phones, which I mostly consider to be utter garbage. Instead, I wanted them to experience the every early games as I had done. When they’re older, they can decide for themselves which games they want to play, but for now I wanted an offline, one or two player simple experience in their gaming sessions, and retro games fit the bill perfectly.

In an age dominated by powerful gaming PCs, cutting-edge consoles, and visually stunning open-world games, it’s easy to overlook the simple magic of retro handheld consoles. These pocket-sized devices are not just nostalgia machines for those of us who grew up in the 80s and 90s, but they also offer an engaging and accessible experience for kids today. Whether you’re a parent wanting to introduce your child to the classics or an adult craving a trip down memory lane, retro gaming handheld consoles provide hours of entertainment for everyone.

A Bridge Between Generations

Original retro gaming handhelds like the Game Boy or the Sega Game Gear have always been sought-after as collectors’ items, however there has been a huge advancement in the availability, affordability and variety of retro game emulator handhelds. They are simple to pick up and play and typically can store thousands of games on them. There’s no complicated online account setup, no over-complicated tutorials—just pick up and play. For adults, it’s a reminder of simpler times, when gaming was about beating high scores and discovering secrets level by level. For kids, it’s a chance to learn the roots of the games they love today and build a shared bond with their parents.

Simplicity is the Key

One of the greatest appeals of retro handheld gaming is the simplicity of gameplay. Classic titles like “Tetris,” “Super Mario Land,” or “Sonic the Hedgehog” are easy to understand but difficult to master. This kind of simplicity is wonderful for kids, who can start playing instantly without needing to navigate complex systems. At the same time, it can provide adults with a sense of achievement after completing levels that are challenging in their own unique way.

Nostalgia and New Memories

For adults, picking up a retro handheld console isn’t just about playing a game—it’s about nostalgia. The pixel art graphics, the iconic chiptune music, and even the slightly washed-out screens take many back to their childhoods. Introducing these elements to a new generation not only brings a sense of shared history but also adds a touch of novelty that today’s polished, photorealistic games can’t quite capture. There’s something uniquely satisfying about sitting down with your child and saying, “This is the kind of game I played when I was your age.” It allows parents and children to connect over shared experiences—one past, one present, but both enjoying the moment.

Ideal for Travel

Retro handheld emulator consoles are also ideal for travel. Compact and lightweight, they’re perfect companions for road trips, long flights, or even waiting in line. Modern iterations of retro handhelds now come with hundreds of preloaded games, eliminating the need for multiple cartridges. The battery life of these devices is also designed to last for hours, making them perfect for keeping kids occupied on a long journey or giving adults a distraction during their commute.

A Wide Range of Options

The resurgence of retro gaming has resulted in many modern handhelds hitting the market, such as the Anbernic RG series, Retroid Pocket, and even Nintendo’s classic Game & Watch re-release. These devices blend nostalgia with modern tech, offering retro games with quality hardware that boasts bright screens and comfortable controls. Most even offer save states, so you don’t have to start over every time—a luxury the original consoles never had!

Affordable and Accessible

Compared to modern consoles that can be costly and require pricey games, retro handhelds are often much more affordable. Whether you’re buying an authentic refurbished console or a newly built retro-style device, these handhelds are relatively inexpensive, making them accessible to both kids who may be prone to dropping their devices and adults who don’t want to break the bank.

My Favorite Devices

There are several retro handheld consoles that stand out to me personally, each with its own unique features that make it a joy to use:

Trimui Smart: This small but powerful device is incredibly pocketable, making it perfect for taking anywhere. Despite its compact size, the Trimui Smart offers a surprising number of classic games, and its intuitive interface makes it easy for both adults and kids to pick up and play. Its simplicity and portability are its greatest strengths, offering hours of fun without any hassle. It’s great for gifting to kids or adults.

Anbernic RG40XXH: The Anbernic RG40XXH is another favorite. Known for its excellent build quality, bright screen, and ergonomic design, it feels great in the hands, even during extended play sessions. The RG40XXH also comes with a broad library of preloaded games, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to dive right into their favorite retro titles. Its powerful hardware ensures smooth emulation for a wide range of classic games.

Powkiddy RGB30: The Powkiddy RGB30 stands out due to its vibrant screen and user-friendly controls. It’s a bit larger compared to some other handhelds, but that makes it perfect for enjoying the colorful pixel art of classic games. The RGB30 is also highly versatile, supporting a variety of retro systems, which makes it an ideal choice for both newcomers and seasoned retro gamers alike. It strikes a great balance between performance and affordability.

Miyoo Mini Plus: The Miyoo Mini Plus is a charming device that brings together a cute, compact design with impressive gaming capabilities. Its small form factor makes it easy for kids to handle, while adults will appreciate its nostalgic feel. The Miyoo Mini Plus also features save states and customizable settings, making it one of the more user-friendly options on the market. Despite its small size, it packs a punch in terms of gameplay and offers a wonderful retro experience for all ages.

Anbernic RG353PS: This is perfect for gifting to kids or friends who would appreciate reliving their childhood. Combined with ArkOS you can really make it simple for these two profiles of users to get started with playing right away without any hang ups. Follow the guide here to set things up.

Operating Systems for Retro Handhelds

The experience of using retro handheld consoles can be further enhanced by choosing the right operating system. Many of these devices support custom firmware that offers improved features, better emulation, and more user-friendly interfaces.

ArkOS: ArkOS is a popular custom firmware used for many retro handheld devices. It is known for its stability and wide range of supported systems, providing a polished experience for those who want to get the most out of their device. ArkOS is particularly favored for devices like the Anbernic RG series, where it brings a host of features including better game organization, save states, and performance enhancements.

MiniUI (for Trimui Smart): The Trimui Smart really shines when paired with MiniUI. This lightweight operating system is designed to keep things simple, sticking with the core idea of pick-up-and-play. MiniUI is easy to navigate, offers a clean interface, and optimizes the performance of the Trimui Smart. It keeps everything streamlined, allowing users to focus on enjoying their favorite classic games without any unnecessary extras.

Batocera: Batocera is another well-known operating system for retro gaming. It is designed to run on a variety of devices, including the Anbernic RG series and other handhelds. Batocera offers a polished user experience with an intuitive interface, a wide range of emulator support, and excellent customization options. It is especially popular for its ease of setup and consistent performance.

ROCKNIX (formerly JELOS): ROCKNIX is an open-source operating system that is optimized for retro gaming handhelds. It’s lightweight, highly responsive, and works well with many devices like the Anbernic RG series. ROCKNIX provides a simplified experience, focusing solely on gaming performance and efficient emulation, which makes it a favorite for those who want a straightforward gaming experience without any unnecessary frills.

Onion OS (for Miyoo Mini Plus): The Miyoo Mini Plus works best with Onion OS, a custom firmware that significantly enhances the user experience. Onion OS provides improved game organization, quick save states, and more efficient battery usage. It’s tailored specifically for the Miyoo Mini line, making it easy to navigate and adding features that make the gameplay smoother and more enjoyable.

Crossmix OS (for Trimui Smart Pro)

These custom operating systems provide not only a functional upgrade but also make the experience of gaming on these handhelds much more enjoyable. They bring additional features like improved emulation support, better battery management, and an overall smoother experience compared to stock firmware.

Remember that you will need BIOS (or here) and ROM (or here) – preferably in the no-intro format to facilitate things like artwork scraping. Here’s a nice curated ROM set for various systems.

When choosing between NTSC (World/USA/Japan) and PAL (Europe) versions of NES games, it’s important to understand that NTSC versions generally provide a smoother and faster experience. NTSC games run at 60Hz, meaning they refresh the screen 60 times per second, resulting in more fluid animations and responsive gameplay. On the other hand, PAL games run at 50Hz, leading to a noticeable slowdown in movement, animations, and even sound—often running at 83% of the speed of NTSC versions. This slower pace affects the overall feel, especially in fast-paced platformers like Super Mario Bros., making NTSC versions preferable for those seeking the original design intent.

These differences are still relevant when using handheld emulators and modern software like OpenEmu or popular handheld devices like Anbernic or Retroid Pocket consoles. Emulators accurately replicate the original hardware, including regional refresh rates, so PAL ROMs will play with slower gameplay and pitch differences just like they did on European systems. If you want the most fluid and authentic gameplay experience, it’s generally recommended to choose the NTSC version, while the PAL version can still be valuable for those nostalgic for the original European experience.

For PlayStation 2, use PCSX2 emulator. For arcade games go here.

Retro Gaming Media

I love the graphics used in retro games, and I’ve been decorating my office with NES game covers. I’ve found some fantastic sites for NES box art, game screenshots and videos:

Game Manuals

Although most games are self-explanatory, it was nice for me to go through the game manuals and discover the answer to perplexities of my childhood when I never had any manuals for the games I played. You can find manuals for NES here.

Conclusion

Retro gaming handheld consoles bring generations together, offer simple yet engaging experiences, and are affordable entertainment solutions that fit in your pocket. They can be a great way to introduce kids to gaming without the complexities of modern titles, while adults can revisit their favorite classics, creating new memories with their children. Whether you’re playing “Donkey Kong,” “Zelda,” or “Pac-Man,” retro handheld consoles prove that great gameplay never gets old.

With my 6 and 4-year-old kids we spend many happy hours playing and challenging each other, while of course implementing some limits on the total time they can spend playing every week. I think this is a nice way to start introducing the concept of balance in life. I don’t agree with banning things outright. I started gaming at an early age and turned out fine, so I’m speaking from experience here. The biggest danger I see in modern gaming is the wild levels of stimulation that most modern games provide. Retro games from the 80s and early 90s are pretty simple, and even as an adult, I can enjoy a 15-minute gaming session before I sleep without feeling that urge to play one more time or one new game. I can’t say the same about taking my phone to bed as I can easily doomscroll for two hours, or watch one YouTube video after another till the early hours, completely destroying the next day’s productivity.

Thoughts on the 2024 US Election Outcome

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I usually don’t follow the news or politics much, preferring to focus my time on my health, family, community and business endeavors. My political views don’t really align with the left and right sides of the political spectrum, instead landing me almost squarely in the center with a libertarian bent, according to the test at Political Compass. (I highly recommend you do it if you haven’t already). However, in this year’s U.S. election, I made an exception and was genuinely immersed during the run-up months to the election.

The main reason is that over the past decade or so I’ve seen leftist ideology slowly taking over not only in the United States but all over Europe. I’ve always hated authorities pushing extreme agendas down our throats, and this has been going in overdrive in recent years. While I was previously content with doing my own thing and ignoring politics, I now have young kids who are more likely to interact with the system through their school education and peers. I’ve also felt the pressure through anti-entrepreneurship sentiments and the increased burden of taxation and regulations

What Led to the Left’s Downfall?

The Democratic Party’s defeat in this election reflects several fundamental missteps that have pushed the party far beyond the comfort zone of many Americans. In their zeal for progressive ideals, the Democrats seem to have lost sight of the practical, everyday struggles of ordinary voters. They’ve gone so far left that they’ve left the American people behind. The irony is thick: while the left accuses Trump of racism and authoritarianism, the voters helping to secure his victory include Black and Hispanic Americans—people the left supposedly champions. Yet instead of celebrating this diverse coalition, the narrative shifts to labeling them as victims of “internalized whiteness” or even “the Black face of white supremacy.” This extreme ideological reaction speaks volumes about the disconnection between the party and the people it claims to represent.

A major issue is that the Democratic Party has doubled down on identity politics, catering to a cultural elite rather than addressing kitchen table concerns. Many Americans are watching as their daily struggles—like inflation, crime, and the erosion of public safety—take a backseat to issues that seem detached from their immediate needs. Transgender rights, for example, while important to many, have become a defining battleground at the cost of sidelining core issues like the economy and security. Policies like allowing biological males to compete in women’s sports have become a focal point, alienating many who otherwise support progressive values but can’t align with this direction.

Kamala Harris is emblematic of this shift. Positioned as a leader for a new generation of progressive policies, she has failed to resonate with the wider electorate. While she is praised in elite circles, she struggles to connect with the concerns of middle America—especially on issues where her stance seems evasive or overly ideological. The disconnect became most evident when, on the eve of a crucial election, she refused to comment on a seemingly straightforward bill in California that required shoplifters to face prosecution. Her silence speaks volumes about the party’s broader reluctance to embrace policies that resonate with law-abiding citizens seeking safety and order.

The growing presence of authoritarianism within the left further exacerbates this disconnect. California, a stronghold for Democratic power, has become a place where the government tries to control nearly every aspect of citizens’ lives—from what car they can drive to decisions about their children in schools. Policies are being pushed through without public consensus, and dissent is not tolerated. It is in California that parents are prohibited from even being informed if their child is struggling with issues of gender identity at school, reflecting a disturbing trend towards state overreach. It’s this kind of authoritarianism that many voters fear—and reject.

The media’s role is also crucial. Throughout the campaign, traditional media outlets have painted Trump as a threat to democracy, a dangerous authoritarian who must be stopped at all costs. Meanwhile, they showed a stunning reluctance to critique Biden’s cognitive state, his age, or his many policy missteps. The message was clear: Biden is “not brain-impaired until we say he’s brain-impaired.” This refusal to engage honestly with Biden’s obvious limitations only deepened the sense of distrust between the media and the average voter. Biden was portrayed as the left’s own Ronald Reagan—an elder statesman whose weaknesses must be shielded at all costs.

Trump’s victory, in this context, is both a backlash against Democratic overreach and a rebuke of media complicity. Despite being labeled a racist, Trump has garnered substantial support from Black and Hispanic voters—a fact that shatters the simplistic narrative that only white, rural Americans back him. In the run up to the election, I was indeed surprised that the majority of American entrepreneurs I speak to were decisively pro-Trump, although they were somewhat reluctant to say so in public due to the feared backlash.

The Republican party’s message of economic progress, national security, and putting America first resonates with a broad swath of voters who feel the Democratic Party has abandoned them. In a landscape where the media and cultural elite seem to be working hand-in-hand to maintain control, Trump’s victory is seen as the greatest political comeback in American history—a win not just against the Democrats, but against a broader establishment that has lost touch with the people.

The left has become authoritarian in its approach, shutting down dissenting opinions and mandating compliance on cultural issues that many Americans feel uncomfortable with. The pandemic response is a good example: the policies around COVID-19 reflect this overreach. While acknowledging the dangers of the virus, it seems that the extreme measures taken by the government—from mask mandates to lockdowns—were an excuse for those in power to exert more control over everyday lives. The pandemic has become a vehicle for the establishment to weaponize fear and force compliance.

Another major misstep by the left is its anti-crypto, anti-tech, and anti-entrepreneurial stance. The Democratic Party has positioned itself against some of the most exciting innovations in finance and technology, alienating not just the entrepreneurs themselves, but also the people who benefit from a thriving tech economy. By vilifying cryptocurrency and focusing on regulatory crackdowns rather than fostering innovation, the Democrats have missed an opportunity to connect with young voters and those who believe in decentralized solutions. The tech industry has always been a driver of American economic strength and independence, yet the left’s hostility towards Silicon Valley and entrepreneurship reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of what has made the United States an economic powerhouse. Instead of embracing and supporting American innovation, they seem more interested in regulating it into oblivion.

Ultimately, the Democrats’ defeat is a consequence of their disconnect from the concerns of everyday Americans, their embrace of authoritarian control, and their inability to self-reflect. If the party is to regain the trust of the electorate, it needs to refocus on the bread-and-butter issues that matter most—jobs, safety, freedom, and opportunity. Until then, they will continue to lose ground to a Republican Party that, despite its flaws, appears to understand the pulse of the nation far better than their opponents do.

What I Hope For Going Forward

Looking forward, the Trump administration has an opportunity to build on the momentum of this historic victory. If it focuses on delivering results—particularly in areas like energy independence, economic growth, and immigration reform—it could cement a new era of prosperity and stability. One of the most important promises is energy policy, moving back towards a self-sufficient America that doesn’t rely on foreign oil, which could lead to reduced energy costs and an economic boost for many struggling American families. Another key area is immigration: a focus on border security paired with a fair path to legal status for those already contributing to the country could strike the balance that many Americans are yearning for. Nobody wants dangerous criminals roaming the streets, but at the same time, there’s an understanding that hardworking families deserve a chance to live in peace.

In terms of broader geopolitical impact, the Trump administration could also set a precedent for Western nations that have slowly been adopting many leftist American policies. The hope is that a return to policies based on freedom, national sovereignty, and individual responsibility will inspire European countries to rethink their own trajectories. Across the Atlantic, countries like the UK, France, and Germany have mirrored many of the failed progressive policies that have led to unrest and dissatisfaction in America. Spain and Malta, the countries where I spend most of my time, are currently in the grip of corrupt, incompetent Socialist governments. Portugal, one of my favorite countries in Europe, has finally removed the left from power. If the United States can turn the tide, it might embolden European nations to also push back against the creeping authoritarianism that has been eroding their cultures and undermining their citizens’ quality of life.

Ultimately, this moment is about much more than just an election. It’s a chance for the Western world to course-correct, to remember the values that made these nations great: freedom, opportunity, and the right to dissent. There’s hope that with Trump back in power, America can once again be a beacon of these values, lighting the way for others to follow.

The Best Bakeries in Barcelona: A Delicious Guide

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Barcelona’s vibrant food scene is as diverse as it is delicious, and nowhere is this more evident than in its bakeries. Whether you’re looking for artisanal bread, buttery croissants, or something a little more adventurous, this city has you covered. Below, we’ve gathered some of the absolute best bakeries in Barcelona that you must visit to indulge in all things freshly baked.

1. Origo: For Bread Lovers

If you’re a lover of sourdough and rustic loaves, Origo is a must-visit. Nestled in the barrio of Gracia, Origo has made a name for itself as a true paradise for bread enthusiasts. Their commitment to high-quality ingredients and long fermentation processes makes their bread not only delicious but also healthy. The crusty loaves here are the perfect combination of crunch and softness, offering an authentic taste that keeps you coming back for more. You can also buy freshly brewed coffee there. Be prepared for lines on the weekend.

2. OZ Bakery: A Hidden Gem

Tucked away from the main tourist areas, OZ Bakery is a hidden gem that locals swear by. This bakery offers a fantastic range of artisanal baked goods, but it’s their rye bread that steals the show. It’s rich, hearty, and full of flavor—a perfect accompaniment to cheese or charcuterie. OZ Bakery also offers an array of pastries, including fluffy cinnamon rolls that are simply irresistible.

3. Brunells: Tradition Meets Modernity

One of Barcelona’s oldest bakeries, Brunells has been operating since 1852, and it’s still one of the best places to go for a taste of traditional Catalan baking. Brunells masterfully blends tradition with modern innovation, offering classic treats like ensaimadas and a rotating selection of creative pastries. Their attention to detail is evident in every bite, making this bakery a staple for those who love the mix of old and new.

4. Patisserie Hoffman: The Croissant Queen

No bakery list would be complete without mentioning Patisserie Hoffman, a place that has arguably set the bar for croissants in Barcelona. Their mascarpone croissants are nothing short of legendary—a light, buttery pastry filled with creamy mascarpone that melts in your mouth. Each bite is perfectly balanced, making it easy to see why these croissants are hailed as some of the best in the city. Hoffman’s offerings are not limited to mascarpone, though; they have a range of inventive flavors that will have you wanting to try them all.

Indulge in Barcelona’s Baking Magic

These bakeries are just a glimpse of the incredible baking talent scattered throughout Barcelona. Whether you are seeking the perfect loaf of sourdough, a slice of tradition, or a croissant that will leave you speechless, Barcelona’s bakeries are sure to delight. Make sure to stop by Origo, OZ Bakery, Brunells, and Patisserie Hoffman on your next visit, and experience the magic of fresh, local baking.

So, which bakery are you heading to first?

Is “Ignoring Your Kids” Really the Secret to Happiness?

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Recently, a post on X titled “How to Be a Great Parent by Ignoring Your Kids” by the investor Andrew Wilkinson caught my attention—not because of its controversial title, but because of its content and reactions elicited. While many seem to see this as an eye-opening revelation, I can’t help but wonder why it’s being hailed as such. Perhaps the idea resonates more in cultures where the burden of parenting is uniquely heavy, but from my perspective, there’s more to be discussed.

First off, let me say that every family is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to parenting. Some points made in the article are, frankly, common sense—reduce over-scheduling, allow children some autonomy, and don’t strive for perfection in every moment of the day. Great, we’re on board with that. But the underlying tone that reducing parenting to something akin to negligence leads to happy families feels misplaced.

The reality is that many parents today are, in fact, very happy with their families—so long as they have a stable income and reasonable free time. We know that parenting is tough. We live in times of increased social and economic pressures, and we’re more aware than ever of how our actions impact our children. This isn’t a bad thing. It’s not a crisis of parenting; it’s a realization of how much our presence means to our children.

Some points in the article paint today’s engaged parents as overly obsessive, “hovering” at playgrounds, or indulging in endless activities that don’t add value. While there may be truth in recognizing the harm of extreme overprotectiveness, dismissing involved parenting as simply “misery-inducing” doesn’t resonate with the experience of many families. Modern parents are not just taxi drivers or babysitters—they are role models, guides, and companions in a child’s journey to becoming an adult. And that isn’t something you can achieve by ignoring them.

The nostalgic description of letting kids “roam free” through neighborhoods in the 90s, unsupervised and wild, may sound ideal, but it ignores the social context that allowed that freedom. Back then, we lived in closer-knit communities, less dominated by fear. Families knew their neighbors; communities were more tightly interwoven. There was a trust that children could explore safely, largely because the entire community contributed to that safety. We no longer live in that world, and blaming parents for wanting their children to be safe isn’t addressing the root of the problem—it’s avoiding it.

This brings me to Gabor Maté’s insights in Hold on to Your Kids: Why Parents Need to Matter More Than Peers. Maté speaks to the essential role of attachment in a child’s development. The idea of parents stepping back to let children figure things out entirely on their own—while it sounds like a nostalgic homage to the “good old days”—risks missing a fundamental point: children need their parents to be their secure attachment. In Maté’s words, children are meant to orient themselves emotionally through their attachment with their parents, and when this connection weakens, they will naturally seek attachment elsewhere—usually with their peers. This is where many modern parenting models go awry.

Maté’s argument emphasizes that a child’s emotional development is deeply tied to the attachment hierarchy in their lives. When parents are less involved, children increasingly turn to their peers for guidance. While this peer attachment may seem like a natural part of growing up, it often replaces the parent-child bond that is necessary for developing a secure sense of self. The author of the article encourages us to step back and give our children more independence, but if that means replacing parental engagement with a void filled only by peers, it can lead to deeper issues like anxiety, depression, or a general lack of direction as children grow into adolescents.

Instead, we should aim for a relationship that allows children to flourish both independently and securely—one where they feel comfortable exploring the world but also know they have a firm and loving foundation to return to. This doesn’t mean stifling a child’s natural autonomy, but it also doesn’t mean leaving them without the anchor that only parents can provide. As Maté notes, children need to understand that they belong to their parents and family first before they seek belonging from others.

The article also largely ignores a crucial factor: quality time. Being present isn’t about clocking hours supervising kids; it’s about true engagement. Whether it’s a bedtime story, a shared project, or just having an honest conversation, these moments matter. Parents today may spend less time letting their kids “fend for themselves,” but in the time they do spend together, they have the opportunity to truly connect—something that was not necessarily a given in past generations. I think we should be encouraging parents to be educated, to spend meaningful, quality time with their kids, and to try and see the world from their perspective. It’s not about helicoptering; it’s about being there when it counts.

Moreover, this idea of “parenting lazily” as the ultimate solution feels short-sighted. It’s not a matter of neglect versus smothering. It’s about balance, an ongoing negotiation between letting your children explore, face challenges, and learn independence while being their foundation, their safety net when things go wrong. There’s a lot of room between letting kids “roam in packs” and building trust and autonomy in a guided, intentional way.

Maté reminds us that true independence comes from a place of security. When children feel they can depend on their parents, they gain the internal stability that allows them to explore confidently. It’s not independence for the sake of it, but an independence rooted in a strong relationship. When we, as parents, truly “hold on to our kids”—emotionally, not physically—we allow them to feel safe enough to venture out.

The reality is that our world has changed, and parenting has changed along with it. It’s not an overprotective shift or an irrational reaction to fear alone. The increased involvement of parents today reflects an understanding of the importance of formative experiences in early life, and a recognition that as parents, we shape the people our children become. Yes, there can be too much of a good thing, but the solution isn’t to swing to the other extreme.

Rather than choosing between being an “overprotective parent” or a “negligent” one, let’s strive for a healthy balance—one that recognizes the changing needs of both our children and the society we live in. Let’s challenge the notion that our parental involvement should be minimized, and instead work towards a way of parenting that allows both us and our children to flourish.

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Jean Galea

Investor | Dad | Global Citizen | Athlete