The Pentagon is preparing what its called a “final blow” should diplomatic talks with Iranian officials fail. The Department of War, headed by Pete Hegseth, has said it is developing a plan that will likely include a massive bombing campaign and military ground forces. In interviews with Axios, ruling class officials and sources familiar with the internal discussions describe four major “final blow” options Trump could choose from: Invading or blockading Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export hub. Invading Larak, an island that helps Iran solidify its control of the Strait of Hormuz. The strategic outpost hosts Iranian bunkers, attack craft…

Breaking: BTCBitcoin dropped to the vicinity of $66,600 overnight – a drop of more than $2,000 at one point.  Bitcoin drops to two-week low as $300 million in longs are liquidated has a summary.Traction vs. TerrorEarlier features today had the markets trying to stabilize after a terrible drop again Thursday.By…

This article was originally published by Artis Shepard at The Mises Institute.  When interest rates are pushed artificially low in the midst of constantly-increasing costs of living, the avenues by which average Americans save and grow their wealth are limited. Frugality—demonstrated by spending less than you earn and socking away…

Recent headlines have reported sudden closures of TSA (Transportation Security Administration) lanes at major airports and the strategic mobilization of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in urban centers, allegedly tied to the government shutdown. The situation in the United States is looking increasingly problematic as the country continues its…

Iran has rejected Donald Trump’s initial ceasefire agreement, saying that the war will end when they decide to end it and on their terms. The U.S. offered a ceasefire proposal on Wednesday, and Iran has already countered it. While Iran has said it isn’t really in talks with the U.S.,…

This market has (trying to remember the old saying here…) “More up and downs than a bordello on Saturday night.”I mean, think about it.  Dow was up Wednesday +305 points.  Early futures this morning? -316.That’s a whole lot of action, but we’re not seeing much traction, Jackson.News Flows and Other WoesGrab…

This article was originally published by Connor O’Keeffe at The Mises Institute.  When Trump ordered the first wave of strikes in this ongoing war with Iran last month, he did so while his administration was engaged in active negotiations with the Iranian government. That echoed the situation last June when…