June 30, 1859: On this date in history, 25,000 people gathered at Niagara Falls to witness a spine-tingling feat.

A French daredevil named Charles Blondin set out across a rope stretched 1,000 feet across the Niagara Gorge — 190 feet above the raging water.

Decked out in a yellow tunic and pink tights, Blondin didn’t just walk; he performed.

He paused mid-air to sit on the rope, then lowered a line to the steamer below and pulled up a bottle of wine. He took a swig, then kept on walking.

Newspapers of the time called it “the wonder of the age,” and detailed engravings of the spectacle helped spread the story.

To top it off, after his first crossing, Blondin asked if anyone would volunteer to ride on his back for the next attempt.

Not a single soul stepped forward that day.

Like Blondin’s performance, Donald Trump’s first 160 days of his second term have been just as gripping and unpredictable. The president’s choices often put him — and his supporters — on a knife’s edge.

Take his airstrike on Iran… For some MAGA fans, it was a necessary show of force; for others, a dangerous escalation.

The question is: Will MAGA supporters trust Trump as he walks the political tightrope?

Your Rundown for Monday, June 30, 2025...

Jim Rickards’ “American Birthright”: A Unifying Idea?

As the movement charts its next steps, Jim Rickards’ “American Birthright” thesis is gaining traction.

He argues that America must protect its sovereignty and economic independence — a message that’s hitting home with readers like you…

• Ray D.: “I would definitely like as much analysis as possible regarding the best mining opportunities, including juniors, in order to take full advantage of this seismic shift in our nation.”

• Rick S.: “I want more info on early-stage, actionable investment opportunities that are not yet on the radar of most investors.”

• Skye A.: “Given that socialism exacerbates economic distinctions between ‘haves’ and ‘have nots’ — creating increased negative energy and unrest across a nation — is there a way to use this ‘Birthright’ wealth to prove America’s exceptionalism and, at the same time, benefit everyone?”

• James: “I would love to see more analysis on how to spot the best opportunities in the mining sector, or deeper dives into the commodities shaping our future. I would absolutely love to see more analysis.”

• Amber W.: “Having grown up in the ‘Wild West’ I knew nothing at all about stocks or investing — and definitely not options — until I found Paradigm Press. Could we get some more analysis on Nevada’s mine projects? I’m very excited to see how this all plays out.”

No matter the background, one thing stands out: a shared belief in the value of American economic independence, opportunity and self-reliance. This common ground connects readers everywhere, even as President Trump’s leadership keeps everyone on their toes. .

History teaches us that progress demands both risk and reward. Whether it’s a daredevil crossing Niagara Falls or a nation forging its future, those who step up — ready to face challenges and seize opportunities — will determine the path forward.

Market Rundown for Monday, June 30, 2025

S&P 500 futures are up slightly to 6,173.07.

Oil is down 0.23% to $65.37 for a barrel of WTI.

Gold’s down 0.29% to $3,297.20 per ounce.

And Bitcoin is down 0.65% to $107,677.70.