Why Texas?

Texas is already home to more than 50 Fortune 500 companies and has increasingly positioned itself as a national business hub. With its central location, favorable tax policies, and regulatory climate, Texas has become a magnet for major corporations like Tesla, Hewlett-Packard Enterprise, and ExxonMobil. The TXSE builds on this momentum, offering a venue for companies put off by what many consider burdensome regulatory requirements in New York.

By attracting firms that prefer fewer diversity mandates and governance restrictions, the TXSE has earned the nickname “the Anti-Woke Exchange.”

Challenging the Legacy Giants

The number of companies going public has dropped to the lowest levels since the 1980s. Regulatory costs, administrative hurdles, and the lure of private equity have made listing on NYSE and Nasdaq less attractive. TXSE aims to reverse this trend by offering streamlined rules and lower fees, particularly appealing to startups and international companies looking to enter U.S. markets.

Backed by Heavyweights

With $9 trillion in assets under management, BlackRock brings unparalleled financial muscle to the venture. Even a small percentage of trading volume from BlackRock could provide instant credibility and liquidity to the new exchange.

Citadel Securities, known globally as a top market maker, will ensure liquidity for TXSE by matching buy-and-sell orders—a vital role in any functioning exchange. With both firms aligned in their desire to challenge the status quo, the TXSE has strong momentum behind it.

Potential Benefits for Texas

The economic impact for Texas could be significant. The exchange could bring high-paying finance jobs to cities like Dallas, further solidifying the state’s reputation as a pro-business powerhouse. However, the surge in economic activity might also bring growing pains. Rising home prices and an influx of out-of-state professionals could exacerbate local affordability challenges.

Global Implications

The TXSE isn’t just looking to woo domestic firms. In 2023, nearly one-third of IPOs in the U.S. were international, including ARM—a massive British semiconductor company. By offering a less restrictive listing process, the Texas Stock Exchange could become a go-to venue for foreign companies that want access to U.S. capital without New York’s regulatory overhead.

A Symbol of Shifting Power

The creation of the TXSE represents more than a business decision; it’s a symbol of shifting power away from legacy financial institutions and towards a new model of capitalism—leaner, more competitive, and more geographically diverse. With the backing of two of the world’s most influential financial entities, the Texas Stock Exchange is poised to shake up the very foundation of American capital markets.

Wall Street, meet Lone Star Street.

All writings are for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not provide investment or financial advice of any kind.

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Audi, bless its Teutonic heart, has launched the most powerful production car it has ever built—and it doesn’t make a sound. Well, not the kind your grandfather’s RS4 did, anyway. The 2025 Audi RS e-tron GT performance is a 912-horsepower electric sledgehammer, hurling itself from 0 to 60 mph in just 2.4 seconds—all while whispering sweet electrons into the tarmac.

Let’s start with the facts: Launch Control yields the full 912 hp and 1,100 amps, and a clever “push-to-pass” feature throws in an extra 94 horses for 10 seconds if you’re feeling frisky above 19 mph. That’s right, your EV now has a turbo button.

It’s not just a fast Audi. It’s the fastest and most powerful Audi—ever. Faster than the R8. Sharper than the RS6. Quieter than a priest in confession.

How does this affect everyday drivers?

You may never touch 912 horsepower—unless your commute includes Nürburgring detours—but Audi’s upgrades have real-world impact. Both 2025 e-tron GT models now house a 105 kWh battery, up from 93.4, but somehow 25 pounds lighter. Science, eh?

More importantly, DC fast charging now peaks at 320 kW, trimming the 10–80% charge window to just 18 minutes. That’s less time than your double macchiato needs to cool down. Recuperation has been boosted to 400 kW, too—so if you’re not driving like a hooligan, you’re refilling the battery every time you lift off the throttle.

Is this truly a game-changer or just hype?

This isn’t just Audi sharpening the pencil—it’s Audi snapping it in half and drawing with a laser. The RS performance mode stays in first gear longer, optimizes torque vectoring, and unleashes all available traction management wizardry for track use. Not that you need a racetrack—Portland traffic will do just fine.

The chassis overhaul includes a clever new air suspension with a 2-chamber/2-valve setup, replacing the old clunkier system. Optional active suspension can raise the car, lean into corners, and reduce body roll like it’s been to a Pilates retreat.

And yes, it has rear-wheel steering. Because it’s 2025 and turning in tight parking lots shouldn’t require a prayer and a three-point turn.

What’s new in the lineup?

Audi has simplified the model range but turned up the volume. The entry-level 2025 S e-tron GT (if 670 horsepower counts as entry-level) replaces last year’s standard e-tron GT. It now does 0–60 mph in 3.3 seconds and boasts an EPA range of 300 miles on 20” wheels.

That’s a 51-mile gain over the 2024 model, which seems suspiciously like actual progress.

What about design, comfort, and the bits you actually touch?

Visually, it’s all aggressive understatement. The RS e-tron GT performance gets a new front and rear fascia, four new exterior colors, forged carbon elements everywhere (yes, that’s new for Audi), and a matte darkened carbon roof that says, “I’m wealthy but tasteful.”

The new Vanadium interior package adds dark metallic accents, and the white power meter/speedo combo is a nostalgic wink to the legendary RS2 Avant—Audi’s first RS car and a poster child for 90s performance.

Oh, and if you’re tired of roofs that just sit there, the optional glass roof has nine LCD segments you can adjust for transparency. It’s the automotive equivalent of photochromic sunglasses.

And the sound?

Audi’s “e-tron Sport Sound” isn’t just for show. The audio signature is crafted from 32 sources, both real and digital, played through exterior and interior speakers. It changes with speed, motor RPMs, and throttle input. It’s a digital symphony—think Wagner, but composed by a synthesizer and played by a spaceship.

Any limited editions for those who fancy something even more rare?

Of course. The Audi exclusive S e-tron GT—limited to just 50 units—comes in Arabica Gray, with Neodymium Gold wheels and a leather-free interior in Mint Gray and Mora Violet. It’s either subtle genius or a fashionable fever dream, but we’re here for it.

So, what’s the price of electric perfection?

Brace yourself:

• 2025 S e-tron GT Premium Plus: $125,500
• S e-tron GT Prestige: $135,800
• RS e-tron GT performance: $167,000
• Destination & Delivery: $1,295

Yes, that’s mortgage money—but this isn’t just a car. It’s a philosophical statement about how fast the future can arrive when someone at Audi loses patience.

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The Starting Point: Todd and Katie’s Financial Snapshot

Todd (66) and Katie (63) have done an incredible job saving and investing over the years. Their net worth is $4.1 million, with $3.2 to $3.3 million in liquid assets. They’re ready to retire immediately and want to live on $8,500 per month, plus additional healthcare and travel expenses. Here’s a breakdown of their key numbers:

• Monthly Living Expenses: $8,500
• Healthcare Costs: $1,000/month pre-Medicare, $5,000 annually post-Medicare
• Travel Budget: $20,000 annually for 15 years
• Long-Term Care Costs: $60,000 annually per person

They also have Social Security benefits providing a steady income. Todd’s benefit is $3,400 per month, and Katie’s is $825, which will increase to a spousal benefit when she reaches full retirement age.

Analyzing Cash Flow Needs

The first step in creating the right portfolio mix is understanding their cash flow. Over the next five years, they’ll need about $600,000 from their portfolio to cover expenses. This tells us that the portfolio must prioritize liquidity and stability during these initial years while still growing enough to sustain them for decades.

Creating the Right Portfolio Mix

Todd and Katie’s current investments include funds like the Vanguard S&P 500 ETF, Fidelity 2025 Freedom Fund, and Invesco NASDAQ Fund. While these are solid choices, we needed to diversify further and adjust the risk profile to match their retirement needs.

The proposed portfolio includes a mix of:

• Growth Stocks: For long-term capital appreciation.
• Value Stocks: To balance risk and provide steady returns.
• International and Emerging Markets Funds: For diversification and exposure to global growth.
• Small Cap Funds: To capture higher growth potential.
• Bond Market and Short-Term Bond Funds: To provide stability and predictable income.

This allocation ensures that Todd and Katie have enough liquidity for the early years of retirement while still achieving growth to support their long-term goals.

Managing Risk and Tax Efficiency

One of the biggest concerns retirees face is how to weather market downturns. The portfolio is designed with 80% stocks and 20% conservative investments to provide a balance between growth and stability. The conservative portion will cover five years’ worth of expenses, giving Todd and Katie time to ride out any market volatility.

We’ve also incorporated tax strategies, including pulling from taxable accounts first and considering Roth conversions. This approach minimizes their taxable income and positions their portfolio for long-term efficiency.

Why Diversification Matters

Todd and Katie had a significant portion of their portfolio in the Invesco NASDAQ Fund, which has delivered impressive returns over the past decade. However, relying too heavily on one asset class can be risky. Diversifying into other asset classes, such as bonds, international stocks, and small caps, ensures their portfolio is resilient and not overly dependent on the performance of one sector.

Encouraging Todd and Katie to Dream Bigger

As we worked through their financial plan, one thing became clear: Todd and Katie have more than enough resources to live the retirement they’ve always dreamed of. In fact, I encouraged them to consider spending more—whether that means taking extra vacations, upgrading their home, or even gifting to family or charity.

Their disciplined saving and investing have put them in a strong position, and now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of their labor.

Final Thoughts

Your retirement portfolio should be as unique as your lifestyle. By understanding your cash flow needs, diversifying investments, and managing risk, you can create a portfolio that supports your goals today and into the future.

If you’re ready to take the next step in aligning your portfolio with your retirement vision, I’d love to help. Visit Root Financial to learn how we can create a personalized financial plan just for you.

You should always consult a financial, tax, or legal professional familiar about your unique circumstances before making any financial decisions. This material is intended for educational purposes only. Nothing in this material constitutes a solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities. Any mentioned rates of return are historical or hypothetical in nature and are not a guarantee of future returns.

Past performance does not guarantee future performance. Future returns may be lower or higher. Investments involve risk. Investment values will fluctuate with market conditions, and security positions, when sold, may be worth less or more than their original cost.

The post How to Find the Right Investment Mix for Your Retirement Portfolio appeared first on ROI TV.

Are Wagons Truly Making a Comeback?

Consider this: last year, wagons comprised a mere 1% of the 15.5 million vehicles sold in the U.S. The lion’s share of these sales belonged to a single model—the Subaru Outback—which alone accounted for over 160,000 units. In stark contrast, less than 5,000 units of other wagon models were sold nationwide, representing a scant 0.03% of all new car sales. To put this in perspective, more Americans (over 6,000) opted for a new Rolls-Royce in 2023 than chose an authentic wagon. Projections even suggested that by the decade’s end, annual wagon sales could dwindle to fewer than 500 units, while SUVs were expected to surpass the 10 million mark.

Yet, the tides of automotive preference are seldom static.

What’s Fueling This Shift?

Enter the Millennials and Gen Zers—a cohort known for defying parental norms and carving out unique identities. For many, the wagon’s allure lies in its blend of practicality and performance. Unlike their bulkier SUV counterparts, wagons offer a lower profile, enhanced speed, and a driving experience that’s both refined and eco-conscious. It’s not just the archetypal old-money moms in yoga pants gravitating towards wagons; a diverse and discerning audience is emerging.

Which Automakers Are Leading This Revival?

Several manufacturers have taken note, reintroducing and revamping wagon models to cater to this burgeoning interest.

BMW’s Bold Move: The M5 Touring Wagon

BMW is set to reintroduce the M5 Touring Wagon to the U.S. market. This marks the first time American consumers will have access to this model, with a starting price of $122,675. Under the hood, the M5 Touring boasts a formidable 717-horsepower, 738 lb-ft plug-in hybrid powertrain, anchored by an electrified twin-turbo 4.4-liter V-8. BMW claims a 0-60 mph time of 3.5 seconds, though enthusiasts anticipate even swifter acceleration. With a top speed limited to 155 mph (or 190 mph with the optional M Driver’s Package) and the capability to travel 25 miles on pure electric power at speeds up to 87 mph, the M5 Touring seamlessly marries performance with efficiency.

Audi’s Powerhouse: The RS6 Avant Performance

Audi’s 2024 RS6 Avant Performance starts at $126,895 and stands as the brand’s most potent internal combustion offering to date, delivering 621 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse accelerates from 0-60 mph in a mere 3.3 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph, extendable to 174 mph. Despite its performance credentials, the RS6 Avant doesn’t skimp on practicality, offering 30 cubic feet of cargo space.

Mercedes-Benz’s Swan Song: The E-Class Wagon

The 2023 Mercedes-AMG E63 S Wagon is poised to be the last AMG wagon powered solely by petrol. Priced starting at $122,250, this high-performance wagon features a 603-horsepower twin-turbo V-8, propelling it from 0-60 mph in just 3.0 seconds. The “Final Edition” model, limited to 999 units, boasts a unique Matt Graphite Grey Magno finish and high-gloss black accents, marking the end of an era for AMG’s petrol-powered wagons.

Volvo’s Versatile V90 Cross Country

For those seeking a blend of luxury and practicality without the six-figure price tag, the 2025 Volvo V90 Cross Country starts at $60,995. Powered by a 295-horsepower supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt hybrid system, it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds. Notably, it offers one of the highest EPA fuel-economy ratings in the luxury-wagon segment, with 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway.

What Does This Mean for the Future of Wagons in America?

The resurgence of the wagon is more than a fleeting trend; it signifies a shift in consumer values. As environmental concerns and urbanization influence purchasing decisions, the demand for vehicles that offer both performance and practicality is on the rise. Wagons, with their unique blend of agility, efficiency, and cargo space, are well-positioned to meet these evolving preferences.

In conclusion, while the station wagon’s heyday may have seemed a relic of the past, its modern reincarnation is capturing the imagination of a new generation. As automakers like BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Volvo continue to innovate within this segment, the wagon’s renaissance serves as a testament to the ever-evolving landscape of the automotive world.

The post The Wagon Renaissance: A Surprising Twist in America’s Automotive Tale appeared first on ROI TV.

The Illusion of Affordability

Carrie Bradshaw, the show’s protagonist, is depicted living a lavish lifestyle in New York City on a freelance writer’s income. In reality, such a lifestyle would be financially untenable. In 1998, the average annual salary for female writers was in the low $30,000s, insufficient to support Carrie’s spending habits. The show glosses over the financial realities of living in a big city, with Carrie paying $700 for an Upper East Side apartment, which is highly unrealistic given the average rent at the time. This discrepancy between income and lifestyle sets unattainable standards for viewers.

The Glamourization of Debt

The series often portrays credit card use as a means to sustain an extravagant lifestyle, with little regard for the consequences. Carrie’s frequent shopping sprees and dining out are shown without the financial strain they would realistically cause, potentially normalizing unhealthy financial behaviors among impressionable audiences.

Dependency Narratives

While promoting themes of independence, the show simultaneously depicts characters relying on affluent partners for financial security. Charlotte’s decision to leave her job and depend on her wealthy husband reinforces the problematic notion that financial stability is attainable through relationships rather than personal financial empowerment.

The Power of Media Literacy

It’s essential to approach such media portrayals with a critical eye. Recognizing the disparity between on-screen fiction and real-life financial responsibilities empowers viewers to make informed decisions. Here are steps to enhance your financial well-being:

1. Educate Yourself: Seek out resources that provide realistic financial advice tailored to your circumstances.
2. Set Achievable Goals: Define what financial success means to you, independent of media portrayals.
3. Practice Responsible Spending: Develop a budget that reflects your income and prioritizes essential expenses.
4. Build Financial Independence: Focus on career development and smart investments to achieve long-term stability.

By acknowledging the entertainment value of shows like Sex and the City while understanding their fictional nature, you can cultivate a healthier relationship with money and set realistic expectations for your financial future.

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