David Sacks Crypto Holdings

CRYPTO
David Sacks Crypto Holdings

David Sacks, appointed by President Trump as the White House’s AI and crypto czar, has divested over $200 million in crypto holdings, according to a government memo. Personally selling at least $85 million, Sacks and his firm, Craft Ventures, previously held Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, and stocks in Coinbase and Robinhood. Despite divesting most assets, Sacks retains equity in BitGo and Lightning Labs, valued at 2.5% and 1.1% of his total assets, respectively.

Concerns arose when Trump announced a national crypto reserve, sparking criticism that Sacks stood to benefit. Ryan Grim called it a “direct transfer of wealth,” while Cameron Winklevoss defended Sacks, emphasizing his commitment to avoiding conflicts of interest. Sacks confirmed selling all his crypto before taking office. His role as AI and crypto czar, announced in December, positions him as a key figure in shaping U.S. policy on artificial intelligence and digital assets.

GOLD
Gold Surges Past $3,000 Mark

Gold has surged past $3,000 an ounce for the first time, driven by strong ETF inflows, geopolitical tensions, and market volatility. Spot gold hit $3,002 before settling at $2,990, marking a 15% gain this year. Gold ETFs saw $10 billion in inflows over the past 30 days, while bitcoin ETFs recorded $5 billion in outflows.

Charlie Morris, founder of ByTree and manager of the BOLD ETF, which holds both gold and bitcoin, believes this trend will soon reverse. He points out that investor sentiment between the two assets tends to shift cyclically.

Gold's rally has been fueled by concerns over U.S. tariffs under former President Donald Trump, along with global uncertainty. Meanwhile, gold priced in British pounds remains below its all-time high of £2,363. As markets rebalance, bitcoin may regain momentum, potentially reversing its recent outflows in favor of renewed investor confidence.

TECH
Intel Stock Surges After New CEO

New Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan will receive a $1 million salary and a $66 million stock package, according to an SEC filing. His compensation includes $14.4 million in stock units and a $17 million performance grant, vesting over five years. If Intel’s stock declines over the next three years, he won’t receive certain shares, but he can earn more if the company outperforms the market.

Tan’s deal also includes $9.6 million in stock options and a $25 million new hire grant. He’s eligible for a $2 million annual bonus, and if Intel undergoes a change of control, he may receive accelerated vesting.

Intel’s board emphasized that Tan’s compensation is equity-based and tied to long-term shareholder value. Additionally, Tan has agreed to purchase $25 million in Intel shares, ensuring his alignment with investors. His appointment has already boosted Intel’s stock, which has surged nearly 20% in 2025.

DISCLAIMER: None of this is financial advice. This newsletter is strictly educational and is not investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any assets or to make any financial decisions. Please be careful and do your own research.