Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates, is warning of dark times ahead for the US. He points to the country’s $38.7 trillion national debt and internal divisions as major concerns. Additionally, he highlights a growing conflict with China over technology. To protect against these risks, Dalio recommends diversifying investments, with gold being a key asset. Gold reached record highs in January 2026 and is predicted to hit $6,300 by the end of the year. Investors can consider opening a gold IRA for tax advantages and protection against economic uncertainty. Dalio’s warnings have sparked interest, with his podcast gaining nearly 6 million views. Real estate investing is a popular alternative for seasoned investors seeking diversification. With property values rising with inflation and rental income providing steady cash flow, real estate offers stability in volatile markets. Now, non-millionaires can invest in a $1B private real estate fund starting at just $10. Additionally, investing in shares of vacation homes or rental properties through platforms like Arrived provides an easier entry point to the market. Multifamily units are becoming a common rental housing choice in America, making them a lucrative investment opportunity. Lightstone DIRECT offers a streamlined investing platform for accredited investors to access institutional-quality multifamily opportunities. With a proven track record of strong returns, Lightstone is a reliable investment vehicle for various real estate verticals. Investing in real estate, gold, stocks, and other assets can help hedge financial risks and provide a diverse portfolio. Ray Dalio’s recent investment moves in AI companies highlight the potential value of American stocks for investors. However, managing a diverse asset mix requires a unified view of net worth to track performance and manage risk effectively. Range offers financial services tailored to high-income households, addressing unique needs like asset under management (AUM) fees that can eat into wealth. They provide 0% AUM fees for advisory services and a flat-fee structure, along with a comprehensive solution from alternative asset management to taxes. Range combines AI solutions with certified financial professionals for a holistic approach. Interested individuals can book a complimentary demo to explore if Range aligns with their financial goals. Subscribe to Moneywise for curated insights and exclusive interviews. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. 1. The stock market reached a record high today, with the S&P 500 closing at 4,500 points for the first time ever.

2. A new study conducted by the CDC found that the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccines are highly effective at preventing hospitalization due to the Delta variant.

3. Hurricane Grace made landfall in Mexico, causing widespread flooding and destruction in coastal areas.

4. The unemployment rate dropped to 5.4% in July, with 943,000 jobs added to the economy, surpassing expectations.

5. A wildfire in California has forced thousands of residents to evacuate their homes, as firefighters work to contain the blaze.

Read more at “Stock market reaches new record high” – CNBC

“Unemployment rate falls to 4%” – Reuters

“Tech giant Apple announces new product launch event” – Wall Street Journal

“Global oil prices surge following OPEC decision” – Barchart

“Federal Reserve hints at potential interest rate hike” – CBS MarketWatch: Hedge fund billionaire Ray Dalio warned that the US is heading into ‘very dark times.’ How to protect your portfolio