Welcome back to another edition of the Smart Wealth Newsletter!

We hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend and enjoying the beginning of summer. As always, our goal is to share our thoughts on investing, financial markets, real estate, and wealth-building strategies that can help investors think long term and make informed decisions.

This newsletter continues to be a family project. Chris remains focused on identifying long-term investment opportunities in stocks, real estate, and business ownership. Trip continues his studies at the prestigious Freeman School of Business at Tulane University, where he is developing a strong foundation in finance, economics, and entrepreneurship. Frankie recently graduated from All Saints Academy as a National Merit Scholarship Finalist and will be attending Georgetown University's McDonough School of Business this Fall, where he plans to continue studying business, finance, and investing.

This week was one of the most exciting weeks of 2026. Investors witnessed another strong market performance, continued debate over Federal Reserve policy, rising oil prices, a surprisingly strong jobs market, and perhaps the most anticipated public offering in modern financial history—the successful launch of SpaceX into the public markets.

Let's begin with a look at what happened this week.

The bull market continued its impressive run this week as investors balanced strong economic data, higher oil prices, geopolitical concerns, and one of the most significant stock market events of the decade.

The major indexes finished the week with gains despite concerns surrounding inflation and interest rates. Investors continue demonstrating remarkable optimism as earnings remain strong, unemployment remains low, and technological innovation continues creating entirely new investment opportunities.

For the week ending Friday, June 12, the Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 51,202.26, the S&P 500 finished at 7,431.46, and the Nasdaq Composite closed at 25,888.84. All three indexes remain near historic highs and continue benefiting from strong investor confidence in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, aerospace innovation, and technology leadership.

The Nasdaq once again led the way as investors poured money into technology and artificial intelligence companies. The continued enthusiasm surrounding AI remains one of the dominant themes of 2026 and has been a major driver behind market performance.

While technology stocks continue attracting headlines, the broader market has also strengthened significantly. Small-cap stocks, industrial companies, energy infrastructure firms, financials, and aerospace companies have all participated in the rally. This broad participation is encouraging because healthy bull markets typically expand beyond just a handful of large technology stocks.

One of the biggest surprises of the week came from the labor market.

Economists had anticipated signs of slowing employment growth as businesses adjusted to elevated interest rates. Instead, hiring remained stronger than expected, showing that employers continue to have confidence in the economy.

Strong job growth is generally viewed as positive because it means more Americans are working, earning wages, and spending money. Consumer spending remains the backbone of the U.S. economy, and a healthy labor market helps support continued economic expansion.

However, strong employment data can create challenges for the Federal Reserve.

The Fed has spent the past several years attempting to bring inflation under control. When employment remains strong and wages continue rising, consumers generally have more money available to spend. While that supports economic growth, it can also place upward pressure on prices.

This creates a balancing act for policymakers.

If inflation remains stubbornly above target levels, the Federal Reserve may decide to keep interest rates higher for longer. Higher rates can slow borrowing, reduce spending, and cool inflation. However, maintaining elevated rates for too long could eventually slow economic growth.

Investors continue watching every statement from Federal Reserve officials for clues regarding future rate decisions.

At the moment, most analysts believe the Fed is likely to leave interest rates unchanged at its next meeting while continuing to evaluate inflation, employment, and economic growth data.

One factor that could complicate the Fed's decision-making process is energy prices.

Oil prices moved higher during portions of the week as investors monitored developments involving Iran and the broader Middle East. Concerns about potential disruptions in energy supplies remain a major focus because of the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz.

Approximately one-fifth of the world's oil supply passes through this critical shipping route. Any disruption could significantly impact global energy markets.

Higher oil prices can affect nearly every area of the economy.

Transportation costs rise.

Manufacturing costs increase.

Airline expenses move higher.

Consumer gasoline prices increase.

Shipping becomes more expensive.

All of these factors can contribute to inflation.

For investors hoping to see lower interest rates later this year, oil prices remain an important variable.

The good news is that diplomatic efforts continue, and investors remain hopeful that tensions involving Iran can be resolved peacefully. Markets generally prefer stability, and a peaceful resolution would likely help reduce inflationary pressures associated with energy prices.

If oil prices stabilize and inflation continues moderating, the Federal Reserve could gain additional flexibility regarding future rate cuts.

Investors should remember that markets often react not only to current events but also to expectations regarding future events.

The market's resilience this year suggests many investors believe inflation will continue moving lower, corporate earnings will remain strong, and economic growth will continue despite higher rates.

Perhaps no story captured investor attention more this week than SpaceX.

After years of speculation, anticipation, and private-market success, Elon Musk's aerospace giant officially entered the public markets.

The SpaceX offering immediately became one of the largest and most successful public offerings in financial history.

Investor demand was extraordinary.

Shares surged following the offering as investors rushed to gain exposure to a company that many believe could become one of the defining businesses of the twenty-first century.

SpaceX's success is significant for several reasons.

First, it highlights investor appetite for innovation.

Second, it demonstrates continued confidence in long-term growth opportunities.

Third, it opens a new chapter for public market investors who previously had limited access to the rapidly growing commercial space industry.

SpaceX is much more than a rocket company.

Its Starlink satellite network continues expanding around the world.

Its reusable rocket technology has fundamentally changed the economics of space transportation.

Its government and defense contracts continue growing.

Its long-term ambitions involving Mars exploration and space infrastructure remain among the most ambitious projects ever undertaken by a private company.

The success of SpaceX may also encourage other high-profile private companies to consider public offerings.

For years, investors have speculated about future offerings involving companies such as Stripe, Databricks, OpenAI, and others. SpaceX's success demonstrates that investor demand for innovative growth companies remains exceptionally strong.

Another major market theme remains artificial intelligence.

The AI revolution continues impacting virtually every sector of the economy.

Technology companies continue investing billions of dollars in AI infrastructure.

Data center construction remains robust.

Semiconductor demand remains strong.

Cloud computing growth continues accelerating.

Companies across multiple industries are exploring ways to improve productivity through AI adoption.

The result has been significant capital investment in technology infrastructure.

This trend has benefited companies such as Microsoft, Nvidia, Amazon, Alphabet, Palantir, Broadcom, and many others.

At the same time, AI growth has created secondary opportunities in power generation and electrical infrastructure.

Data centers require enormous amounts of electricity.

That increased demand has helped companies such as GE Vernova become major beneficiaries of the AI boom.

This illustrates an important investing lesson.

Often, some of the biggest winners from major trends are not necessarily the most obvious companies.

The suppliers, infrastructure providers, and supporting businesses frequently benefit alongside the headline names.

Looking ahead, investors will continue monitoring several key issues:

• Federal Reserve interest rate policy

• Inflation trends

• Oil prices

• Developments involving Iran

• Labor market strength

• Corporate earnings growth

• Artificial intelligence investment

• The impact of SpaceX on investor sentiment

While risks certainly remain, the overall market environment continues appearing constructive.

Economic growth remains positive.

Unemployment remains low.

Corporate earnings remain healthy.

Innovation remains strong.

Investor confidence remains elevated.

For long-term investors, these conditions continue supporting a favorable outlook.

As always, short-term volatility should be expected. Markets never move in straight lines. However, history has consistently shown that patient investors who focus on high-quality businesses and long-term trends are often rewarded over time.

The first half of 2026 has provided another reminder that innovation, discipline, and patience remain some of the most powerful wealth-building tools available to investors.

When investors think about artificial intelligence, most immediately think about Nvidia. When they think about advanced semiconductor manufacturing, many think about Taiwan Semiconductor. When they think about high-performance processors, AMD often comes to mind.

However, one company that many investors have largely ignored over the past several years may be quietly positioning itself for a remarkable comeback.

That company is Intel.

Intel was once the undisputed king of the semiconductor industry. For decades, Intel processors powered much of the world's computing infrastructure. The company's engineering excellence and manufacturing capabilities made it one of the most admired technology companies in the world.

Then came a difficult period.

Manufacturing delays, increased competition, strategic mistakes, and changing technology trends allowed competitors to gain market share. Investors became frustrated. The stock underperformed. Many Wall Street analysts questioned whether Intel could ever regain its former leadership position.

Today, however, the story may be changing.

One reason investors are becoming more interested in Intel is valuation.

Unlike many AI-related companies that trade at premium multiples, Intel remains relatively inexpensive compared to many of its peers.

This lower valuation means expectations remain modest.

In investing, some of the best opportunities occur when expectations are low but fundamentals begin improving.

Intel's management team has spent several years rebuilding the company.

Billions of dollars have been invested in manufacturing facilities.

New fabrication plants are being constructed throughout the United States.

Advanced manufacturing technologies continue improving.

The company has renewed its focus on engineering execution.

These efforts are beginning to attract attention.

One of Intel's most important initiatives is Intel Foundry.

Historically, Intel primarily manufactured chips for itself.

Today, the company is working to become a major contract manufacturer for other semiconductor companies.

If successful, Intel could become one of the most important semiconductor foundries outside Asia.

This opportunity is particularly important given growing concerns about global supply chain security.

Governments increasingly recognize semiconductors as strategic assets.

The United States has prioritized domestic chip manufacturing through various policy initiatives, including incentives designed to encourage production within the country.

Intel is positioned to benefit directly from these efforts.

Artificial intelligence also creates a significant opportunity.

Although Nvidia currently dominates AI accelerators, the AI market is expected to grow dramatically over the next decade.

Intel does not need to surpass Nvidia to succeed.

It simply needs to participate in a rapidly expanding market.

The company's Xeon processors remain important in enterprise computing environments.

Its AI initiatives continue evolving.

Its manufacturing investments could provide strategic advantages as demand for advanced chips grows.

Another factor attracting investors is Intel's strategic importance.

Few companies possess Intel's combination of engineering expertise, intellectual property, manufacturing experience, and scale.

These advantages cannot be replicated easily.

The semiconductor industry requires enormous capital investment, years of technical development, and highly specialized talent.

Intel already possesses many of these assets.

The company's turnaround will not happen overnight.

Competition remains intense.

Nvidia remains dominant in AI.

AMD continues gaining market share.

Taiwan Semiconductor remains the manufacturing leader.

Execution risks remain.

However, successful investing often involves identifying companies that are improving before the broader market fully recognizes the change.

Many investors believe Intel may fit that description.

If management successfully executes its manufacturing strategy, expands foundry operations, improves profitability, and captures a meaningful share of future AI growth, the stock could have substantial upside over the coming years.

Intel also benefits from several long-term secular trends.

Artificial intelligence.

Cloud computing.

Data center expansion.

Edge computing.

Advanced manufacturing.

National security priorities.

Semiconductor independence.

Each of these trends could contribute to future growth.

Importantly, investors are not paying the same premium valuation that exists in many other AI-related stocks.

That combination of lower expectations and improving fundamentals is attracting attention from value investors and growth investors alike.

No turnaround story is guaranteed.

Risks remain.

Execution matters.

Competition remains fierce.

Yet Intel appears to have something that many investors overlooked for years: momentum.

The company is investing aggressively, rebuilding manufacturing leadership, improving operations, and positioning itself for a future that may look very different from its recent past.

For patient investors willing to think several years into the future, Intel may represent one of the more intriguing turnaround opportunities available in today's market.

Whether Intel ultimately regains its former dominance remains to be seen.

But for the first time in many years, investors have compelling reasons to believe the company is moving in the right direction.

One of the questions we receive most frequently from readers is whether Airbnb investing still makes sense in today's market.

The answer is yes—but only if investors approach Airbnb ownership as a business rather than simply owning a vacation rental property.

The days of buying almost any property and automatically generating tremendous cash flow are largely gone. Today's most successful Airbnb operators focus on guest experience, operational efficiency, dynamic pricing, marketing, and tax planning. Investors who master these areas can often generate returns that significantly exceed those of traditional long-term rental properties.

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of Airbnb investing is that investors have multiple ways to make money simultaneously:

• Monthly cash flow

• Property appreciation

• Principal paydown

• Tax benefits

• Inflation protection

When all five work together, Airbnb can become an extraordinary wealth-building tool.

Let's discuss several ways investors can improve performance and maximize returns.

The most successful Airbnb owners do not think of themselves as landlords.

They think of themselves as hospitality operators.

Every guest interaction matters.

Every review matters.

Every booking matters.

A guest's experience begins long before they arrive at the property.

Professional photos, prompt communication, detailed check-in instructions, and a clean booking process all contribute to positive reviews and repeat customers.

The goal should be creating a five-star experience every time.

Properties with exceptional reviews often command higher nightly rates, maintain stronger occupancy, and outperform competing listings.

Many investors spend hundreds of thousands of dollars purchasing a property but hesitate to spend a few hundred dollars on professional photography.

This is a mistake.

Your photos are your first impression.

Potential guests typically spend only seconds evaluating a property before deciding whether to click on a listing.

Professional photography can dramatically improve booking rates.

The return on investment is often enormous.

A few hundred dollars spent on photography can generate thousands of dollars in additional bookings over the life of the property.

One of the biggest mistakes Airbnb owners make is setting a fixed nightly rate.

Professional operators adjust pricing constantly.

Demand changes daily.

Seasonality changes.

Local events change.

Competitor pricing changes.

Hotel pricing changes.

Software platforms such as PriceLabs help owners optimize nightly pricing based on market conditions.

Many Airbnb investors see significant increases in annual revenue simply by implementing dynamic pricing systems.

Even a modest increase in average nightly rates can have a meaningful impact on annual profitability.

Today's guests have high expectations.

Fast internet.

Comfortable beds.

Modern furnishings.

Smart televisions.

Easy check-in procedures.

Responsive communication.

These are no longer luxuries.

They are expectations.

Properties that consistently exceed guest expectations generate better reviews, higher rankings on Airbnb's platform, and stronger occupancy rates.

Many of the most successful hosts focus on creating memorable experiences rather than simply providing lodging.

Guests remember experiences.

And experiences generate referrals and repeat bookings.

Successful Airbnb operators understand the importance of systems.

Automation can save time and improve consistency.

Examples include:

• Automated guest messaging

• Smart locks

• Automated pricing adjustments

• Cleaning schedules

• Maintenance reminders

• Inventory tracking

The less time spent managing routine tasks, the more time investors have available to focus on growth.

Many hosts focus entirely on attracting new guests.

The best operators also focus on generating repeat guests.

Returning guests often:

• Require less marketing

• Leave better reviews

• Cause fewer problems

• Increase occupancy rates

Exceptional service creates loyal customers.

Loyal customers create long-term profitability.

Now let's discuss one of the most powerful tax strategies available to real estate investors.

Cost segregation.

Many investors have heard the term but do not fully understand how powerful it can be.

A cost segregation study allows property owners to accelerate depreciation deductions by identifying building components that qualify for shorter depreciation schedules.

Instead of depreciating everything over 27.5 years, portions of the property can be depreciated over:

• 5 years

• 7 years

• 15 years

This creates significantly larger deductions in the early years of ownership.

Taxes are often one of an investor's largest expenses.

Reducing taxes legally allows investors to keep more of their money working for them.

Every dollar saved in taxes is a dollar that can be:

• Invested in additional properties

• Used to reduce debt

• Invested in stocks

• Used for property improvements

• Added to reserves

The compounding impact can be enormous.

Let's assume an investor purchases an Airbnb property for $300,000.

After allocating value to land, approximately $240,000 may qualify for depreciation.

Under traditional depreciation:

$240,000 ÷ 27.5 years

Annual deduction ≈ $8,727

That is helpful.

However, a cost segregation study may identify approximately 25% to 35% of the property that qualifies for accelerated depreciation.

Assume 30%.

That means roughly $72,000 of assets may qualify for significantly faster depreciation schedules.

Examples include:

• Appliances

• Flooring

• Landscaping

• Fencing

• Lighting

• Cabinets

• Driveways

• Decorative improvements

The result is often substantially larger deductions during the first several years of ownership.

Many Airbnb owners actively participate in managing their properties.

This can create tax advantages compared to traditional passive real estate investments.

Depending on individual circumstances and tax status, active participation may allow investors to utilize losses more effectively.

Every investor should consult a qualified CPA regarding their specific situation, but many Airbnb owners discover opportunities that traditional landlords cannot access.

This is one reason Airbnb remains attractive even when short-term rental markets become more competitive.

One of the reasons Chris has frequently discussed cost segregation throughout the newsletter is because it allows investors to accelerate wealth creation.

Imagine two investors who own identical properties.

One uses traditional depreciation.

The other completes a cost segregation study.

The investor utilizing cost segregation often receives significantly larger tax deductions earlier.

Those tax savings can then be reinvested.

Over time, that difference compounds.

The result may be:

• More properties acquired

• Faster debt reduction

• Greater cash flow

• Higher net worth

This is why many sophisticated real estate investors utilize cost segregation whenever appropriate.

Our daughter Katie recently closed on another Airbnb property.

Her purchase price was approximately $280,000.

The property is projected to generate approximately $3,000 per month in rental income.

If managed properly, the property has the potential to provide:

• Monthly cash flow

• Principal reduction

• Appreciation

• Tax benefits

• Long-term equity growth

Adding a properly executed cost segregation study could further improve overall returns by increasing depreciation deductions during the early years of ownership.

This illustrates why many real estate investors continue focusing on Airbnb properties despite changes in the market.

The combination of income, appreciation, leverage, and tax benefits remains powerful.

The most successful Airbnb investors understand that profitability is created through execution.

They focus on:

• Guest experience

• Reviews

• Dynamic pricing

• Marketing

• Systems

• Tax planning

• Long-term ownership

Airbnb investing is no longer a passive activity.

However, for investors willing to treat it like a business, the rewards can still be substantial.

When combined with intelligent tax strategies such as cost segregation, Airbnb properties can become powerful vehicles for long-term wealth creation.

The investors who understand both operations and tax strategy often achieve the greatest success.

As always, focus on buying quality properties, maintaining adequate reserves, managing risk appropriately, and thinking long term.

The combination of cash flow, appreciation, debt reduction, and tax savings remains one of the most effective wealth-building strategies available today.

Chris continues to maintain a diversified portfolio of technology leaders, artificial intelligence beneficiaries, aerospace companies, consumer franchises, and energy infrastructure investments. His focus remains on owning dominant businesses with strong competitive advantages and long-term growth potential.

Closing Price: $358.16 | Gain: +108.53%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris owns Alphabet because he believes artificial intelligence will strengthen Google's dominant position in search, cloud computing, YouTube, and digital advertising. The company generates enormous cash flow and continues investing aggressively in AI technologies that could drive growth for years.

Alphabet is a global technology company specializing in search, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and digital advertising.

Closing Price: $238.55 | Gain: +14.68%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris believes Amazon remains one of the most powerful long-term growth stories in the world through AWS, e-commerce, logistics, and artificial intelligence. Multiple business segments continue generating growth opportunities and expanding profitability.

Amazon is the world's largest online retailer and one of the leading cloud computing providers.

Closing Price: $291.13 | Gain: +94.01%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Chris's Rating: Buy

Chris owns Apple because of its unmatched ecosystem, loyal customer base, and recurring services revenue. The company continues generating tremendous free cash flow while expanding into artificial intelligence and next-generation technologies.

Apple develops smartphones, computers, software, services, and consumer technology products.

Closing Price: $982.35 | Gain: +107.50%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris believes Costco has one of the strongest business models in retail because of its membership structure and customer loyalty. The company consistently delivers steady earnings growth and performs well during a variety of economic environments.

Costco operates membership warehouse clubs serving consumers and businesses globally.

Closing Price: $577.48 | Gain: +64.44%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Chris's Rating: Buy

Chris owns Deere because of its leadership in precision agriculture, automation, and advanced farming technologies. The company continues incorporating artificial intelligence and autonomous systems into its equipment offerings.

Deere manufactures agricultural, construction, and forestry equipment worldwide.

Closing Price: $335.30 | Gain: +239.01%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris believes increasing global air travel and aircraft demand should continue driving earnings growth for years. GE Aerospace benefits from a large installed base of engines and long-term service agreements.

GE Aerospace develops aircraft engines and aviation technologies for commercial and military customers.

Closing Price: $940.66 | Gain: +820.47%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

GE Vernova has become one of Chris's most successful investments as artificial intelligence data centers and electrification drive massive demand for power generation. The company remains a major beneficiary of growing global electricity needs.

GE Vernova provides power generation, grid infrastructure, and energy technologies worldwide.

Closing Price: $64.71 | Gain: +31.66%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Chris's Rating: Buy

Chris owns Kroger as a defensive holding that provides stability during uncertain market environments. Grocery demand remains resilient regardless of economic conditions.

Kroger operates one of the largest grocery chains in the United States.

Closing Price: $566.98 | Gain: -2.20%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris believes Meta remains one of the best artificial intelligence investments available due to its enormous user base and improving advertising platform. AI continues helping improve monetization across all of its platforms.

Meta operates Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Threads, and digital advertising platforms.

Closing Price: $390.74 | Gain: +755.25%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Microsoft remains one of Chris's highest-conviction holdings because of its leadership in cloud computing, cybersecurity, enterprise software, and artificial intelligence. The company's partnership with OpenAI continues strengthening its competitive position.

Microsoft develops software, cloud computing, artificial intelligence technologies, and enterprise platforms.

Closing Price: $127.99 | Gain: -8.70%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris believes Palantir is becoming one of the most important enterprise AI software companies in the market today. Commercial and government adoption continues expanding rapidly.

Palantir develops advanced analytics and artificial intelligence software platforms.

Closing Price: $149.61 | Gain: +82.59%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Chris's Rating: Buy

Chris owns Procter & Gamble because of its stability, reliable dividends, and portfolio of iconic consumer brands. The company provides defensive characteristics during market volatility.

Procter & Gamble manufactures consumer staples and household products sold globally.

Closing Price: $160.95 | Gain: +19.22%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris believes SpaceX could become one of the defining growth stories of the next decade. The company's leadership in reusable rockets, satellite communications, national security launches, and space infrastructure creates enormous long-term potential.

SpaceX develops reusable launch systems, satellite communications networks, and aerospace technologies.

Closing Price: $238.55 | Gain: +109.97%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris owns Amazon because of its leadership in cloud computing, e-commerce, logistics, and AI infrastructure. AWS remains one of the most valuable businesses in the world.

Amazon is a global leader in online retail and cloud computing.

Closing Price: $325.44 | Gain: +95.25%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Chris's Rating: Buy

Chris owns American Express because of its premium customer base, strong brand, and ability to benefit from consumer spending and travel trends.

American Express provides payment services and financial products worldwide.

Closing Price: $31.94 | Gain: +114.17%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Chris's Rating: Buy

Chris owns Kinder Morgan as a way to participate in America's growing energy infrastructure sector while generating attractive cash flow.

Kinder Morgan operates one of North America's largest energy transportation and storage networks.

Closing Price: $48.11 | Gain: -4.62%
Average Analyst Rating: Hold
Chris's Rating: Hold

Chris views Verizon as a defensive investment that provides stability and dividend income during periods of market volatility.

Verizon is one of the largest wireless telecommunications providers in the United States.

Closing Price: $147.01 | Gain: +75.20%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Chris's Rating: Buy

Chris owns Exxon Mobil because he believes global energy demand will remain strong for decades. The company continues benefiting from disciplined capital allocation and strong cash generation.

Exxon Mobil is one of the world's largest integrated oil and natural gas companies.

Closing Price: $406.43 | Gain: +27.81%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris believes Tesla remains one of the world's most innovative companies through its leadership in electric vehicles, robotics, autonomous driving, artificial intelligence, and energy storage.

Tesla develops electric vehicles, robotics, autonomous driving software, and renewable energy products.

Closing Price: $291.13 | Gain: +168.37%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Chris's Rating: Buy

Chris continues to own Apple because of its unmatched customer loyalty, ecosystem advantages, and recurring services revenue.

Apple develops consumer electronics, software, and digital services.

Closing Price: $205.19 | Gain: +107.82%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris owns Nvidia because it remains the leading provider of artificial intelligence computing infrastructure.

Nvidia develops graphics processors, AI chips, and accelerated computing solutions.

Closing Price: $160.95 | Gain: +19.22%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris recently added SpaceX because he believes the commercial space industry may become one of the largest investment opportunities of the coming decades.

SpaceX develops reusable rockets, satellite networks, and aerospace technologies.

Closing Price: $366.81 | Gain: +42.45%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris owns Lam Research because semiconductor equipment providers are critical beneficiaries of the artificial intelligence revolution.

Lam Research develops semiconductor fabrication equipment used in advanced chip manufacturing.

Closing Price: $127.99 | Gain: -11.10%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Chris's Rating: Strong Buy

Chris believes Palantir remains one of the most compelling long-term AI software opportunities in the market.

Palantir develops artificial intelligence and advanced analytics software.

Closing Price: $940.66 | Gain: +838.38%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Trip's Rating: Strong Buy

Trip believes GE Vernova is one of the strongest beneficiaries of AI-driven electricity demand and global infrastructure investment.

GE Vernova provides power generation and energy infrastructure solutions.

Closing Price: $982.35 | Gain: +113.13%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Trip's Rating: Strong Buy

Trip owns Costco because of its outstanding management team and highly predictable business model.

Costco operates membership warehouse clubs worldwide.

Closing Price: $23.39 | Gain: -4.49%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Trip's Rating: Strong Buy

Trip believes Navitas could become an important supplier of next-generation power semiconductors across AI infrastructure, EVs, and renewable energy.

Navitas Semiconductor develops advanced power semiconductor technologies.

Closing Price: $160.95 | Gain: -1.15%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Trip's Rating: Strong Buy

Trip believes SpaceX is positioned to benefit from long-term growth in aerospace, communications, and space exploration.

SpaceX develops reusable launch systems and satellite communications technologies.

Closing Price: $23.39 | Gain: +214.38%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Frankie's Rating: Strong Buy

Frankie believes Navitas remains a leader in advanced power semiconductors and next-generation charging technologies.

Navitas Semiconductor develops advanced power semiconductor technologies.

Closing Price: $940.66 | Gain: +838.38%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Frankie's Rating: Strong Buy

Frankie believes growing electricity demand from AI data centers and global infrastructure investment will continue benefiting GE Vernova.

GE Vernova provides power generation and energy infrastructure solutions.

Closing Price: $982.35 | Gain: +112.75%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Frankie's Rating: Strong Buy

Frankie owns Costco because of its outstanding management, loyal customer base, and predictable earnings growth.

Costco operates membership warehouse clubs globally.

Closing Price: $232.36 | Gain: +174.11%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Frankie's Rating: Strong Buy

Frankie views Nebius as an emerging artificial intelligence infrastructure company with substantial long-term growth potential.

Nebius provides cloud computing and AI infrastructure services.

Closing Price: $390.74 | Gain: +247.42%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Frankie's Rating: Strong Buy

Frankie believes Microsoft remains one of the best-positioned AI companies in the world.

Microsoft develops software, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI technologies.

Closing Price: $238.55 | Gain: +14.68%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Frankie's Rating: Strong Buy

Frankie believes Amazon's cloud computing and e-commerce businesses remain powerful long-term growth drivers.

Amazon is a global leader in online retail and cloud computing.

Closing Price: $406.43 | Gain: +36.67%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Frankie's Rating: Strong Buy

Frankie believes Tesla's future in robotics, autonomous driving, and artificial intelligence remains extremely attractive.

Tesla develops electric vehicles, robotics, and energy technologies.

Closing Price: $127.99 | Gain: -11.04%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Frankie's Rating: Strong Buy

Frankie continues to believe Palantir's AI software platforms have significant long-term growth potential.

Palantir develops artificial intelligence and advanced analytics software.

Closing Price: $6.13 | Gain: +57.18%
Average Analyst Rating: Buy
Frankie's Rating: Strong Buy

Frankie believes autonomous trucking could transform transportation and logistics over the next decade.

Aurora develops autonomous driving technologies for commercial trucking.

Closing Price: $566.46 | Gain: -1.98%
Average Analyst Rating: Strong Buy
Frankie's Rating: Strong Buy

Frankie believes Meta's AI investments and digital advertising dominance position the company for long-term success.

Meta operates Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Threads, and digital advertising platforms.

As we move deeper into 2026, the investment landscape continues to be shaped by artificial intelligence, energy infrastructure, aerospace innovation, cloud computing, and next-generation transportation technologies. While investors remain focused on Federal Reserve policy, inflation, interest rates, and geopolitical developments involving Iran and the Middle East, the underlying economy remains surprisingly resilient. Corporate earnings continue to exceed expectations, unemployment remains relatively low, and technological innovation continues creating entirely new investment opportunities.

One of the biggest stories of the year has been the successful launch of SpaceX into the public markets. Combined with the continued growth of artificial intelligence and increasing demand for energy infrastructure, investors are witnessing the early stages of what could become several multi-decade growth trends. Across our family portfolios, we remain committed to owning exceptional businesses, maintaining a long-term perspective, and allowing the power of compounding to work over time. While market volatility will always be present, history has consistently rewarded disciplined investors who focus on quality companies and remain patient.

Thank you for spending part of your weekend with us. We appreciate your readership and look forward to sharing our thoughts on investing, real estate, and wealth building again next week.

The Smart Wealth Newsletter is provided solely for educational and informational purposes. Nothing contained in this publication should be considered investment, financial, tax, accounting, or legal advice. The opinions expressed are those of Chris McLaughlin, Trip McLaughlin, and Frankie McLaughlin as of the publication date and are subject to change without notice.

The authors and their family members may own positions in securities discussed in this newsletter and may buy or sell those securities at any time without prior notice. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Readers should perform their own due diligence and consult qualified financial, legal, and tax professionals before making investment decisions.

Invest wisely, think long term, stay disciplined, and never stop learning.