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Home Affordability Crisis, Palantir's Advantage, Big Short on AI, H-1B Abuse, Solar Storm Hits Earth

This episode dives into a range of pressing economic, technological, and geopolitical topics, sparked by recent market movements and public commentary from high-profile investors and policymakers. From AI-driven financial bets to existential solar threats, the discussion spans both immediate policy concerns and long-term structural shifts shaping the global landscape.
Michael Burry's short position against AI and Palantir ignited debate, though critics argue his thesis underestimates the durability of AI infrastructure and accounting logic behind extended asset depreciation. Palantir’s premium valuation is attributed to its unique, defensible business model and lack of competitors, reflecting investor speculation on future growth. A deepening housing affordability crisis is tied to regulatory barriers and underbuilding, with calls for mortgage innovation and pro-construction policies to restore balance. The H-1B visa program faces reform proposals to curb corporate abuse and fund workforce development, amid contradictory immigration enforcement actions. A record-breaking solar storm highlighted Earth’s vulnerability to space weather, underscoring risks to critical infrastructure. Meanwhile, wealthy Americans are increasingly relocating abroad, citing fears of escalating taxation and political uncertainty—dubbed 'the great confiscation'—signaling growing unease with the U.S. economic trajectory.
11:34
11:34
Shorting is like crying fire in a theater
12:00
12:00
Palantir's valuation should be based on long-term assessment of future earnings, not short-term sentiment.
32:43
32:43
Universities should bear the first loss on student loans to align incentive
39:01
39:01
Auctioning half of H-1B visas to the highest bidder could fund vocational training.
42:42
42:42
Three major CMEs hit Earth this week, causing a G5 geomagnetic storm with minimal damage.
51:14
51:14
A forest city in Malaysia hosts a network school modeled after an in-person Y Combinator for emerging communities.