Month: March 2024

Investments that secure human Survival – Urban Farming: could it be the future?

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The Vanguard of Sustainable Agriculture and Investment.

Urban Farming: The Future of Fresh, Local Food

Urban farming. You’ve heard the buzz, but this isn’t just another fad—it’s a game-changer. As cities grow and populations spike, the demand for fresh, local food is exploding. And urban farming? It’s stepping up in a big way.

But let’s be clear: urban farming isn’t just about tossing some veggies in a garden bed. This is about building a sustainable, connected, and community-driven future. So why is urban farming gaining steam, and how can you get a slice of the action? Let’s explore it here.

Why Urban Farming Is Exploding

Here’s the deal: people are talking about urban farming for some very real reasons:

  • Sustainability: Local food means less time spent in trucks, less pollution, and fresher produce. Who’s saying no to that?
  • Food Security: Global supply chains can crash. Urban farming ensures city dwellers aren’t left hanging when they need fresh food.
  • Economic Boost: Urban farms cut food costs and can pump money back into the community. Win-win.
  • Community Vibes: It’s more than food—these farms are social hubs, pulling people together and sparking collaboration.

Who’s Disrupting the Urban Farming Scene?

Let’s talk about the heavy hitters—the companies doing more than just planting seeds. They’re rewriting the future of farming.

  • AeroFarms: Mastering vertical farming with mist environments. No soil, 95% less water. Efficiency meets innovation.
  • Bowery Farming: No pesticides, indoor farms, and tech-driven growth. Smart lighting, smarter farming.
  • Gotham Greens: Rooftop greenhouses, fresh produce year-round, and urban spaces you wouldn’t believe. This is farming where it’s least expected.
  • Plenty: AI and machine learning to fine-tune growing conditions in vertical farms. High-tech farming at its best.

Urban Farming: Your Next Investment Move

Here’s where it gets interesting. Urban farming isn’t just a feel-good movement; it’s a ripe market for investment. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out, there’s room to make moves:

  • Direct Investment: Some urban farming giants are already publicly traded. Want in? Buy shares and ride the growth.
  • Venture Capital: Urban farming startups are exploding, and they need capital to scale. Early-stage investors, this is your sweet spot.
  • ETFs: Looking for a broader play? Check out agriculture-focused ETFs that have urban farming in the mix:
    • Invesco Global Agriculture ETF (PAGG)
    • VanEck Vectors Agribusiness ETF (MOO)
    • iShares Global Agriculture Index ETF (COW)
    • First Trust Indxx Global Agriculture ETF (FTAG)

The Bottom Line

Urban farming isn’t just about planting crops in the middle of the city—it’s a solution. A smart, sustainable response to the challenges our world is facing. Whether you care about making cities greener or spotting the next big investment, urban farming is it. The future of food is already here, and it’s growing right where you live.

Other Resources to consider:

https://www.bloomberg.com/quote/PAGG:US?embedded-checkout=true

https://www.vaneck.com/us/en/moo/fact-sheet

https://www.blackrock.com/ca/investors/en/products/239548/ishares-global-agriculture-index-fund

https://www.ftportfolios.com/Retail/Etf/EtfSummary.aspx?Ticker=FTAG

Financial Bond: Intimacy with Your Money Relationship

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Investment Strategy Financial Bonding Emotional Finance Money Relationship Financial Health Wealth Building Financial Intimacy Personal Finance Tips

In the intricate dance of the financial markets, emotions play a pivotal role. While they can occasionally guide us to success, more often than not, they lead us down a path of self-destruction. One such behavior, often overlooked but incredibly potent, let us call it “Hopium.”

Understanding Hopium

Hopium is the intoxicating blend of hope and optimism that convinces investors they’re just one step away from hitting it big. It’s the song that lures them into making irrational decisions, often with disastrous consequences. Here’s how it manifests:

  1. The Big Win Mirage: Investors often chase the dream of that one significant win, sacrificing consistency in the process. While they might strike gold occasionally, the lack of a consistent strategy often leads to more losses than gains.
  2. Euphoria & Overconfidence: A few successful trades can lead to a surge of overconfidence. This euphoria blinds investors to potential risks, making them more susceptible to making impulsive decisions.
  3. Dangerous Bets: Hopium convinces Investors to take large positions, often without a clear exit strategy. They position themselves without exit plans, to cover losses or protect gains

Overcoming Hopium

Recognizing and admitting to being under the influence of Hopium is the first step towards recovery. Here are some strategies to combat its effects:

  • Educate Yourself: Knowledge is a powerful antidote. The more you understand the markets and trading strategies, the less likely you are to make decisions based on blind hope.
  • Have a Clear Plan: Before entering any position, have a clear plan for both entry and exit.
  • Practice Emotional Discipline: Train yourself to recognize when you are Investing based on emotion rather than logic. Then arbitrate yourself for logic control. Take breaks, meditate, or engage in activities that help you maintain a clear head.

While hope and optimism are essential in many aspects of life, in the world of investing, they need to be tempered with logic, strategy, and discipline.

Falling prey to the allure of Hopium can lead to significant financial and emotional distress.

Stay informed, stay disciplined, and always Invest with a clear plan in mind.

In the “Personal Habits” – The Importance of a safety fund

An emergency fund is a financial safety net designed to cover unexpected expenses or financial emergencies. Here’s why it’s a crucial financial habit:

Financial Security: Whether it’s a medical emergency, sudden job loss, or urgent home repairs, an emergency fund ensures you have the means to handle it without going into debt.

Avoiding Unplanned Liquidation: Without an emergency fund, you might be forced to liquidate investments at inopportune times, potentially incurring losses.

Peace of Mind: Knowing you have a financial cushion can reduce stress and allow you to make investment decisions with a clear mind.

Building Your Emergency Fund:

Start Small: Even saving a small amount regularly can add up over time.

Aim for 3-6 Months of Expenses: While the exact amount can vary based on individual needs, a good rule of thumb is to have enough to cover 3-6 months of living expenses.

Keep It Accessible: Your emergency fund should be easily accessible, so consider keeping it in a savings account.

Stay informed, stay disciplined, and always invest with a clear plan in mind. Your financial health is paramount, and as your financial doctor, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Stay tuned for more insights in our next edition of The Financial Pulse.

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Interest Rates, Inflation, Real Rate of Return, Opportunity Cost

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In the intricate world of finance and investment, understanding the dynamics of interest rates, inflation, real rate of return, opportunity cost, and capital growth is crucial.

These components form the backbone of economic decisions and can significantly impact your wealth.

Understanding Interest Rates

Interest rates are a fundamental aspect of any economy. They are the cost of borrowing money or, from a different perspective, the reward for lending money. Interest rates are set by central banks and have a profound impact on the overall economy, influencing decisions about savings, investments, and loans.

When interest rates are increasing, borrowing money becomes more expensive, which can discourage investment. Conversely, reducing interest rates make borrowing cheaper, potentially stimulating investment and excess liquidity in people hands. However, the relationship between interest rates and investment is not always straightforward and can be influenced by various other factors such as confidence, economic cycles, and more.

Inflation and Its Impact

Inflation is the rate at which the general level of prices for goods and services is rising, eroding purchasing power. To control inflation central banks often adjust interest rates to keep inflation within a target range, preferably between 2.9 to 3.5%.

The real interest rate is the nominal interest rate adjusted for inflation.

It provides a more accurate measure of the cost of borrowing and the return on investment. For example, if inflation is 4% and nominal interest rates are 6%, the real interest rate is 2%.

Real Rate of Return

The real rate of return is the annual percentage return realized on an investment, adjusted for changes in prices due to inflation.

The real rate of return provides investors with a clearer picture of the actual buying power their investment gains or losses.

Opportunity Cost and Investment Decisions

Opportunity cost is the key concept in economics and finance. It represents the potential benefits an individual, investor, or business misses out on when choosing one alternative over another.

In terms of investment, the opportunity cost is the difference in return between two investment options.

For instance, if you choose to invest in a bond that returns 11% over a stock that returns 14%, your opportunity cost is the 3% return you missed out on by not investing in the stock.

Understanding opportunity cost can help investors make informed decisions about where to allocate their resources for the best possible returns.

Protecting and Growing Capital

Protecting and growing capital must be the primary goal for every investor. This involves many tactics like balancing risk and reward, diversifying investments or de-risking.

It’s always important to consider the impact of inflation on your investments, because Inflation erodes the value of money over time, so it’s essential to invest in assets that offer a return above the inflation rate to increase or even maintain your buying power.

So when designing an investment portfolio the first success benchmark must be the inflation rates.

As an idea Investing in assets such as Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) can provide protection against inflation, yet not enough to grow investment pool capitals to meet more aggressive objectives. Your portfolio must be active across different asset classes and sectors and checked every 6 month to help protect your capital and grow it over time.

Tax-Efficient Investment Structures for International Investors

Mohamad Mrad 6 Comments

As an international investor, you may find yourself navigating the complex waters of tax implications when investing in U.S. stocks. If you reside in a country without a U.S.-based tax treaty, the standard withholding tax rate of 30% typically applies. However, there are strategies that can help manage your U.S. tax exposure.

In this article, Mohamad Mrad, a seasoned financial engineer, explores professional examples of tax-efficient structures that can help you optimize your investments. These structures include Pension Funds, Investment Funds, Life Insurance Policies, Trusts, Offshore Companies, and ETFs or Mutual Funds domiciled outside the U.S.

Understanding the Tax Implications

Before delving into the tax-efficient structures, it’s crucial to understand the tax implications of investing in U.S. stocks as an international investor. The U.S. imposes a withholding tax on dividends paid by U.S. companies to foreign investors. The standard rate is 30%, but this can be reduced if there’s a tax treaty between the U.S. and the investor’s country of residence.

However, the tax implications don’t stop there. If you sell your U.S. stocks and realize a capital gain, you may be subject to capital gains tax in your home country. The tax rates and rules can vary widely, so it’s important to understand the tax laws in your country of residence.

Tax-Efficient Structures for International Investors

Now, let’s explore the tax-efficient structures that can help international investors manage their U.S. tax exposure:

  1. Pension Funds: Many countries offer tax advantages for investments held in pension funds. These advantages can include tax-free growth, tax deductions for contributions, and tax-free withdrawals in retirement. Some pension funds can invest in foreign stocks, including U.S. stocks, and may be exempt from U.S. withholding tax on dividends.
  2. Investment Funds: Some countries have investment funds that are structured to be tax-efficient. For example, in the UK, investors can use Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) and Self-Invested Personal Pensions (SIPPs) to invest in U.S. stocks with tax advantages. In other countries, similar tax-efficient investment funds may be available.
  3. Life Insurance Policies: Some countries allow investments to be held within a life insurance policy. These policies can offer tax advantages, such as tax-free growth and tax-free withdrawals, and may be exempt from U.S. withholding tax on dividends.
  4. Trusts: A trust can be a tax-efficient way to hold investments, especially for estate planning purposes. Trusts can provide a degree of control over how and when assets are distributed, and can offer tax advantages in some countries. However, trusts are complex structures that require professional advice to set up and manage.
  5. Offshore Companies: In some cases, it may be possible to hold investments through an offshore company. This can offer tax advantages, but it is a complex strategy that requires careful planning and professional advice.
  6. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) or Mutual Funds domiciled outside the U.S.: These funds invest in U.S. stocks but are not subject to U.S. withholding tax on dividends. Instead, the dividends are typically reinvested in the fund, and you may be subject to tax in your country of residence when you sell your shares in the fund.

Choosing the Right Structure

Choosing the right tax-efficient structure for your investments depends on many factors, including your tax status, your investment goals, and the tax laws in your country of residence. It’s important to consider all these factors and consult with a tax professional or financial advisor before making a decision.

Remember, tax laws are complex and can change, and the tax consequences of using these structures can depend on many factors. It’s always a good idea to consult with a tax professional or financial advisor to understand the best options for your situation.

Conclusion

Investing in U.S. stocks can offer significant potential returns, but it’s important to understand the tax implications and use tax-efficient structures to optimize your investments. By understanding the tax laws and using the right structures, you can maximize your after-tax returns and achieve your investment goals.

The Importance of Mission and Focus: Lessons from Seinfeld

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I often find that life’s most profound lessons come from the most unexpected places. Today, I want to talk about the importance of mission and focus, drawing parallels from an unlikely source – the iconic sitcom, Seinfeld, my favorite of all time.

In the pursuit of financial independence or amassing a million-dollar investment pool, many people claim to love money. However, in the episode is was watching yesterday S3, EP 13, titled “The Subway”, the four main characters find themselves derailed by distractions and side stories.

Let’s take a closer look at what happened.

Jerry was supposed to retrieve his car from the impound lot but got sidetracked by a conversation about baseball competitions on the train.

George was on his way to a job interview, but a chance encounter with a woman led him to a hotel room where he was robbed and left handcuffed to the bed.

Kramer had a court date to resolve his car fines but got distracted by a horse betting tip and lost his money.

Elaine, the best man at a wedding, never arrived due to a busy train and its breakdowns.

These stories serve as a metaphor for the journey towards financial independence or another objective in life.

The characters had clear objectives, and they got sidetracked easily. The most challenging part of any journey is staying focused. It is extremely important to stay focused on your mission and not get distracted by the ‘side stories’ that life presents. One can say focus is the most valuable commodity of all time.

A mission statement, whether personal or for an organization, is a powerful tool that provides direction and purpose. It is a declaration of intent, a compass that guides you towards your goals. It is the ‘why’ that fuels your journey, the reason you get up every morning and face the world.

It is the foundation upon which all your strategies and plans are built. However, a mission is only as good as the focus that accompanies it. Focus is the ability to direct your attention and resources towards achieving your mission. It is the discipline to say no to distractions and the resilience to stay the course amidst challenges and setbacks.

In the context of financial independence, your mission might be to achieve a certain net worth or create a passive income stream. Your focus, then, is the strategies and steps you take to achieve this mission – saving a certain amount each month, investing in specific assets, continuously educating yourself about financial management, and so on.

The Seinfeld characters’ stories are cautionary tales about what happens when you lose sight of your mission and focus.

They remind us that distractions are everywhere, and it’s easy to get off track. However, with a clear mission and unwavering focus, you can navigate through these distractions and stay on the path to your goals. Remember, the journey to financial independence is not a sprint but a marathon.

Living in a city as vibrant and dynamic as Dubai, it’s easy to get swept up in the whirlwind of entertainment, social media, events, consumerism, and other people’s agendas.

The city’s lifestyle is a feast for the senses, but it can also be a minefield of distractions that can derail your focus and impede your progress towards your financial goals.

Overcoming these distractions requires a combination of strategies, tools, and an honest appraisal of your habits and behaviors. Here are some steps you can take to stay focused in the face of Dubai’s many distractions:

  1. Set and Stick to Your Schedule: Time management is crucial when it comes to staying focused. Allocate specific hours for work, leisure, social media, and other activities. This will help you avoid spending excessive time on distracting activities.
  2. Define Your Daily Goals: Having clear, achievable goals for each day can help keep you focused. These goals should align with your larger financial objectives and provide a roadmap for your daily activities.
  3. Disconnect from Distractions: Social media, while a great tool for staying connected, can also be a major source of distraction. Consider setting specific times for checking your social media and stick to them. Use apps that mute notifications during your focused work hours.
  4. Create a Conducive Environment: Your physical environment can significantly impact your ability to focus. Find a quiet, comfortable space for your work or financial planning activities. Keep your workspace clean and free of unnecessary distractions.
  5. Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and engaged in the current moment. It can help you stay focused, reduce stress, and improve productivity. Consider incorporating mindfulness exercises into your daily routine.
  6. Balance Your Lifestyle: While it’s important to stay focused on your financial goals, it’s equally important to maintain a balanced lifestyle. Make time for relaxation, social activities, and self-care. A well-rounded lifestyle can actually enhance your focus and productivity.

It requires patience, discipline, and most importantly, a clear mission and focus. So, define your mission, maintain your focus, and keep moving forward. Your destination is closer than you think.

A Meeting of Minds at The Monthly Mixer

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In this week’s edition, we are thrilled to recount the vibrant discussions and encounters that unfolded at our recent open networking mixer. Nestled on the picturesque terrace of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, we were graced with a tapestry of insights, stories, and ambitions that spanned across various domains. Here’s a glimpse of the stimulating evening we had:

A Meeting of Minds at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel

Crypto Regulations: The Talk of the Town

As the sun set, casting golden vibes across the terrace, conversations around the evolving landscape of crypto regulations took center stage. Members engaged in a lively discussion, dissecting the nuances and potential impacts of recent developments in the crypto space. From debates on decentralization to the future of digital currencies, their regulations requirements, licensing and VARA obligations, the evening was a testament to the vibrant intellectual curiosity that defines our club.

The Legacy of Abu Kamil: A Journey Back in Time

The evening took a historical turn as we delved into the fascinating story of the Egyptian mathematician, Abu Kamil. His profound influence on the Fibonacci sequence was explored, igniting a rich dialogue on the intertwining of mathematics and history, and the timeless impact of ancient knowledge on modern science.

Young Entrepreneurs in the Media Sphere: A Glimpse into the Future

As stars began to adorn the night sky and humidity was increasing :), we were introduced to the vibrant ambitions of young entrepreneurs making waves in the media industry. Their fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to media were a breath of fresh air, offering a glimpse into the exciting future of the industry, with the use of recent technologies to hack growth and influence compelling success.

Brain Health and Wellness: A Focus on the New

The conversation took a turn towards health and wellness, with a spotlight on emerging trends in addressing brain disorders. Members shared personal routines and practices that have aided them in enhancing focus and mental well-being. The discussion served as a reminder of the importance of nurturing our minds, and the innovative approaches available to do so. “Morning routines” uncovered, Cold showers, praying, training, studying and then ready to execute the plans designed from the night before.

Spirituality vs. Religion: A Thought-Provoking Dialogue

As the evening drew to a close, a profound discussion on the distinctions between religious narratives and personal spirituality unfolded. Members shared their journeys of spiritual exploration, fostering a space of respect and understanding. The conversation was a beautiful reminder of the depth of human experience and the diverse paths to connecting with the divine. through different experiences and languages. Mathematics being the language of creation and spoken word is its description.

FTT – The Core Mistake

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In the wake of the Luna collapse, which sent tremors through the Crypto Markets and destabilized the USDT’s peg to the USD, the FTT token experienced a similar downfall. These tokens, despite their mega cap status and significant heights, are not immune to risk, contrary to popular belief in the marketplace. I, Mohamad Mrad, have always emphasized the importance of understanding this inherent risk.

The FTT token, much like other mega cap coins, has gained acceptance within the community, making it easily liquidated due to its large trade volume. However, this does not negate the inherent risk involved. It is important to highlight that the concept of diversifying risk based on cap size—whether it’s mega cap, mid cap, or small cap—is a fallacy. Diversification of risk and exposure requires a more comprehensive approach than merely considering the cap size.

Historically, large companies, regardless of their market cap size, can and have disappeared. For instance, Kodak, once a giant in the camera business industry, lost its value and went out of business after missing the patent of digital imaging. The value of any circulating stock, coin, token, or NFT hinges on investors’ willingness to trade it. If this acceptability vanishes, the asset value can plummet to zero at an alarming speed.

This is true for all types of investments, including real estate, art, and collectibles. Mohamad Mrad has consistently emphasized this point in his financial advisories.

Let’s refocus on the FTT token. This token, considered the stable token on the FTX platform, is akin to the BNB on Binance. These tokens, developed a few years ago, have limited utility within their respective ecosystems, but can be traded across de-fi and ce-fi protocols. The value of these tokens is determined by the acceptability of users, traders, and investors. If this trust disappears, a frenzy selling activity can ensue, potentially driving the asset value to zero. This has happened to Luna, and now to FTT, and could happen to BNB or even USDT.

The equivalence of USDT to USD is not a divine decree but a product of people’s acceptance. If people stop accepting this, the pegging would break. This is not an isolated phenomenon. In the fiat world, political agreements often determine currency stability. For example, the AED is pegged to the USD, and the Lebanese pound was pegged to the American dollar. However, when the value discrepancy became untenable, the pegging was broken, and the value started floating, subject to demand and supply.

The stability of currencies is largely dependent on capital adequacy, or the asset backing a currency. For USDT to be equivalent to USD, it must be backed by an adequate reserve of the USD. The same applies to BNB, unless Binance shows its backing. If that reserve does not exist, the chances of collapse are significant. In the case of FTT, due to excess leveraging and the utility design of its protocol within their own ecosystem, it did not have enough capital adequacy to claim its value. The moment trust disappeared, even with the slightest hint of fear, the value plummeted.

This pattern is common in sensitive markets like the current crypto market, which has been struggling due to fear and lack of understanding of its market cycles. Overinflated valuations of some projects, driven by speculation and false beliefs of retail traders, fuel this lack of understanding. When these beliefs are shattered by reality, a selling squeeze starts, looking for buyers that no longer exist. Any asset without buyers goes to zero. This can happen to any so-called ecosystems, not only in cryptos but also in fiat currencies. Mohamad Mrad has consistently warned investors about these potential pitfalls.

In conclusion, any exchange that borrows money using their own created currencies without adequate capital or asset backing system is bound to fail, especially in a fragile environment like the one we are currently experiencing. The Financial Engineer’s insights provide a valuable perspective on these complex dynamics.

Digital Finance: Does it have a Future

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As we stand on the cusp of a digital revolution, the future of digital finance is poised to be even more transformative than its present. Here’s a glimpse into what the future might hold:

  1. Integration of Advanced Technologies: The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) into financial systems is expected to further streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and predict market trends with higher accuracy. Additionally, the rise of Quantum Computing could revolutionize data processing speeds, making real-time financial analyses and decisions a norm.
  2. Regulatory Evolution: As digital finance continues to grow, regulatory bodies worldwide are working diligently to catch up. We can anticipate more comprehensive and globally harmonized regulations that ensure the safety of investors while promoting innovation. These regulations will likely focus on maintaining the integrity of the financial system, preventing fraud, and ensuring data privacy.
  3. Decentralized Finance (DeFi): DeFi platforms, which aim to recreate traditional financial systems (like loans and interest) in a decentralized manner on the blockchain, are gaining traction. In the future, they might become mainstream, offering more people access to financial services without intermediaries.
  4. Digital Central Bank Currencies (CBDCs): Many central banks are exploring the idea of launching their own digital currencies. CBDCs could offer the stability of traditional currencies with the benefits of digital ones, potentially revolutionizing global trade and finance.
  5. Financial Inclusion: With the proliferation of mobile devices and internet access, digital finance has the potential to reach the unbanked and underbanked populations, offering them financial services and integrating them into the global economy.
  6. Sustainable Finance: As global awareness of environmental issues grows, the integration of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) factors into investment decisions will become standard. Digital finance platforms will play a pivotal role in facilitating sustainable investments and ensuring transparency in ESG reporting.
  7. Interoperability: The future will likely see different digital finance platforms and systems seamlessly interacting with each other. This interoperability will enhance user experience, reduce costs, and increase efficiency in financial transactions.

In conclusion, the horizon of digital finance is expansive and promising. While challenges remain, the potential benefits of a more inclusive, efficient, and transparent financial system are immense. As technology and regulations evolve, so will the opportunities in the digital finance landscape, paving the way for a brighter financial future for all.

Why Men Don’t Listen And Women Can’t Read Maps

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This book was written in 1998 by the couple Allan and Barbara Pease. Between 1998 and 2020, many things have changed. If I were to rewrite the book today, I would title it “Why Men Are Obsessed with Luxury and Women with Beauty.” The quest for the “Elixir of Life” or “the Philosopher’s Stone” has been a mystery for humanity and alchemy for at least two hundred years before the birth of Jesus.

What prompts me to share these thoughts with you today is the recent discussions I’ve had with some close friends about how to gain followers on social media as we build our digital identities. Unfortunately, the examples they showed me were real and true. If you open the Instagram or Facebook pages of so-called current entrepreneurs who are busy posting images of themselves with shiny watches, Rolls-Royces, private jets, or even cars filled with beautiful ladies as symbols of success and happiness for men, you will find that they have millions and millions of followers. Yet, they offer little real value or meaningful insights that I can use to improve my life. If you apply the same search criteria for women, shifting from luxury to beauty, you will find many posing, minimal clothing, long eyelashes, and an abundance of makeup, as well as millions and millions of followers.

We were once great as humanity, searching for truth through philosophy. Yes, we were also great when we sought eternal life through alchemy. Today, we are still searching for something, but what is it? We’ve bestowed the word “success” upon a mere watch or car (a result of systematic brainwashing). We’ve given the word “beauty” to makeup or specific body measurements (also a result of systematic brainwashing). Then we started racing endlessly for these ideals, unknowingly harming ourselves in the process, all while benefiting only one entity: the system that convinced us to engage in this relentless pursuit.

Please don’t misunderstand me; I do appreciate beautiful women, and I don’t dislike luxury. I love both, and perhaps I appreciate beauty even more than luxury. Thankfully, I’m blessed with both. You see, when you achieve financial freedom, you know how to possess these without paying a premium. Let me share an example we recently considered: owning a 47-ft yacht here in Dubai. We thought about using it every weekend and storing it when not in use. This would have cost around $400,000 in capital, plus substantial fees for maintenance, cleaning, and parking, totaling at least $30,000 annually. Do you know how much it would cost to rent a yacht for a weekend without these hassles? It’s almost $1,300 to $1,700. Why on earth would I buy a yacht and worry about it when I can simply charter one as needed, anywhere on earth?

Returning to our topic, today, an Instagram account that solely showcases luxury and beauty products can amass at least 1.5 million more followers than someone like Elon Musk, who is tirelessly working to give humanity a chance to survive the impending climate disaster, or other contemporary physicists like Stephen Hawking, who discovered black holes and revolutionized physics like Mr. Einstein in his time. I’m not suggesting you stop following them or start following luxury-displaying pages. I’m inviting you to maintain a fair balance in your feed so that you don’t become completely ensnared in the wrong race. If you seek to follow success, seek those who benefit you, not those who benefit from you.

Otherwise, you’re benefiting them while draining yourself in the wrong pursuit. Examine the accounts of people like Warren Buffett. He built a multibillion-dollar fortune from scratch—what argument can you make against that? Visit his Instagram account; unfortunately, it falls short by 1.4 million followers compared to unscrupulous influencers. He doesn’t flaunt luxury on his account. He seeks reality, enjoys his journey in life, and aims to leave a legacy by sharing quotes consistently. Successful people strive to empower others, leading by example, educating, guiding them to discover their own talents, fueling their ambitions, encouraging them to leverage their strengths, and teaching them how to succeed. I’m sure someone is still searching for the philosopher’s stone. But what do you know about it? Follow those who benefit you. Following the wrong role models will only harm you and benefit the system.

Ask and It Is Given: Book Review by Mohamad Mrad

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Insights from “Ask and It Is Given” by Esther Hicks

Book Review

We started with Introductions to the book and the Author. Ether being is a renowned philosopher, a spiritual guide and a channel to an entity is known for her deep insights into the human psyche and the universe’s workings.

Section 1: The Journey to Self-Actualization

  • The concept of a genuine heart in asking the universe.
  • The role of self-discovery and self-actualization in manifestation.
  • Reference to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs.

Section 2: Personal Development and Manifestation

  • Overview of the Barrett value assessment and its connections to spiritual concepts.
  • Personal anecdotes and experiences shared by members.
  • Discussion on visualization techniques and tools: Sincere intention + focused thought can manifest desires.

Section 3: The Cosmic Order and Timing in Manifestation

  • Insights on the importance of timing in manifestation.
  • Personal stories highlighting the role of cosmic order alignment.
  • Ancient wisdom from Buddhism and Hinduism that aligns with manifestation concepts.
  • Sufi -Himma concepts and influence on manifestation.

Section 4: Quantum Physics and Neuroplasticity

We Discussed the lunar calendar and its influence on personal habits. Insights into Sufi wisdom and quantum physics. The importance of neuroplasticity and suggestions for enhancing brain health, like learning new languages and developing new hobbies every year or so.

Section 5: The Science of Frequencies

  • The role of frequencies and sound in health improvement.
  • Devices and techniques for tuning into specific frequencies.
  • Discussion on the law of attraction and related concepts.
  • The power of resonance into creating a pull or destructing desires action Items

A small exercise was made with the true nature of accountability where the community made a clear intention and detailed desire to manifest one idea.

Conclusion

Life presents a variety of perspectives on how intentions and beliefs influence our reality.

Ether’s book “Ask and You Are Given” explores the concept of the universe being a generous source ready to fulfill clear and sincere requests.

The book emphasizes:

  • The transformative power of positive intentions.
  • Aligning with the vibrational frequency of our desires.
  • Utilizing personal experiences, ancient wisdom, and scientific principles.
  • The teachings align with the ancient belief that our thoughts and emotions can manifest our deepest desires.

We also discussed the book Contrasting viewpoint:

  • Intentions are not the only factors determining our life path.
  • Recognizes the influence of external factors, societal structures, and unexpected events.
  • Advocates for a balanced approach, combining positive thinking with:
  • Taking action.
  • Demonstrating resilience.
  • Understanding the world’s inherent unpredictability.

Synthesis of both viewpoints:

  • Life is a balance between intention and adapting to circumstances.
  • The universe is receptive to our desires but also presents challenges to test our resilience and adaptability.
  • Growth and wisdom are attained through navigating life’s challenges.
  • Encourages an optimistic approach to life, with an openness to embracing both certainty and uncertainty.