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The best performing stock of this year in the entire world [Analysis]

MicroStrategy has transformed from a business intelligence software company into what's essentially a Bitcoin treasury vehicle under Michael Saylor. - Currently holds over 310,000 BTC - YTD performance: 500%+ - 5-year performance: ~2,600% The Strategy is an Infinite Money Glitch essentially: 1. Issue convertible bonds at 0% interest 2. Use the money to buy Bitcoin 3. As BTC price rises, stock rises (with leverage) 4. Premium valuation allows them to issue more shares at higher prices 5. Rinse and repeat However the risk is quite large imho: 1. Trading at 2-3x NAV (paying $2-3 for every $1 of Bitcoin) 2. Leverage cuts both ways, a 10% BTC drop could mean 30%+ stock drop 3. Potential debt obligations if BTC price crashes 4. Premium isn't guaranteed and depends on market sentiment However the craziest thing is: 1. Potential index inclusion (S&P 500/NASDAQ) 2. Future yield/interest earning possibilities on BTC holdings 1. This isn't just another Bitcoin play, it's potentially a new model for corporate treasury management. Saylor has essentially created a publicly-traded, leveraged Bitcoin vehicle that amplifies both gains and losses. This is either brilliant financial engineering and the returns have been astronomical, this isn't the same as buying Bitcoin directly, you're betting on both BTC and Saylor's strategy. Personally, I think this is fascinating but incredibly risky. For most investors, especially those who can't stomach massive volatility, direct BTC exposure is better.

Ancient Calendar May Document Long-Ago Disaster

- A researcher at the University of Edinburgh, Martin Sweatman, has discovered what he believes is the earliest calendar of its kind at Gobekli Tepe in southern Turkey. - The V-shaped markings on the lunisolar calendar at Gobekli Tepe may record a major astronomical event when comet fragments struck Earth around 10,850 B.C. - Dr. Sweatman’s research suggests that the intricate carvings on the pillars document the date of the comet strike, which led to a 1,200-year ice age and significant changes in human lifestyle and agriculture. - Despite some skepticism from other archaeologists, Dr. Sweatman’s recent findings align with his previous research linking the site to astronomical observations. - The discovery of the lunisolar calendar and its interpretation as a record of the comet strike provides new insights into the advanced observational skills of ancient humans. Source: [NYT](https://www.nytimes.com/2024/08/10/world/asia/worlds-oldest-calendar-gobekli-tepe.html)

Russian Court Slaps Google with Unprecedented Fine

A Russian court has imposed an unprecedented fine on Google, amounting to around $2.5 decillion, for not restoring accounts of pro-Kremlin media outlets. - The fine is equivalent to two undecillion rubles, a number with 36 zeros. - Google began accumulating daily penalties of 100,000 rubles in 2020 after lawsuits from Tsargrad and RIA FAN. - The penalties doubled each week, leading to the astronomical total. - The court's decision highlights ongoing tensions between Russia and Western tech firms. - Legal experts predict a prolonged battle as Russia attempts to seize Google's global assets. Source: [Mint](https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/russia-fines-google-whopping-2-5-decillion-over-youtube-bans-what-led-to-bizarre-penalty-amount-11730304272580.html), [Hindustan Times](https://www.hindustantimes.com/business/google-fined-2-5-decillion-by-russian-court-amount-exceeds-global-gdp-101730282462306.html)