## Welcome Back
Alright, we’re back! It’s 2025, and although I kind of did one podcast last week, it was actually meant for the previous year. Shoutout to Justin from Florida, from Uptime, for joining! It’s kind of funny because exactly a year ago from that Friday, we did another one. I think last year, I was away, and Justin’s kind of become my January special go-to guy. It’s that time when I try to take a bit of time out with the family.
## Taking Time Off
I did the same thing this year, trying to give them a week. Those two weeks are probably the best to do that because there’s always something going on. But out of any couple weeks in the year, those are probably the best since you’ve already got some holiday time mixed in. I’ve been saving up all my vacation days. I lost them, though, so I had to start from scratch. It’s like Marcus needed to start fresh again. I even lost a $100 bet! I was going to rub it in, but feel free to rub that in too. I just wanted to win; I would have loved to see that thing skyrocket.
## Market Dynamics and Predictions
This morning, the price was at $4.18. I’m always early to the game, but it’s heading in the right direction. Who knows why it’s doing this today? During the last weeks of the year, traders aren’t really active; it’s not a time for big moves. At one point this morning, The Washington Post came out with some information that Chad and I discussed in the Bulls versus Bears podcast, which is coming out soon.
They were discussing Trump and how there might not be blanket tariffs but instead strategic material tariffs. That crushed the dollar, which is advantageous for commodities. Then Trump said no, they would be blanket tariffs, which popped the dollar back up. So, who knows? It could be some of that, or maybe traders are back today as people return to work. This month, we might even get a new president, which could change people’s mindsets and how aggressively they want to be on things.
## 2025 Outlook
I think 2025 is going to be wild, potentially a roller coaster. It’s a word now; we’re coining it! The podcast with Justin Trento and his make scrap great again idea—he’s the one that inspired us with that. He even made shirts for Scrap Expo a few years ago.
Meeting and connecting with people like Justin really makes this worthwhile. It’s amazing how scrap metal brings people together, and I have a strong appreciation for hustlers like him.
## Hard Work Pays Off
For the next year or two, if you want it, it’s out there for the taking, but you’ve got to hustle for it. People sometimes think they can avoid effort and still get rewards, but that’s not how life works. Consistency and showing up even on bad days is crucial. That’s who wins in the long run.
## Bulls Versus Bears Podcast
I talked to Chad this morning for our Bulls versus Bears podcast. We have very differing opinions on where the market is headed, so give it a listen. There’s a feeling that the market could be up this month, driven by various factors. It’s definitely not looking like a down month.
January’s tough with cold weather; ice storms make moving scrap challenging. Equipment breaks down, and it’s hard to move scrap when the weather is bad for trains, trucks, and barges. So whether it’s demand-driven or weather-related, January might show some positivity. If you’re in a weather-affected region, this could be your chance.
## Closing Thoughts
I’m excited for Bulls versus Bears this season, and we’ll keep on doing what we do best over here. I wish everyone the best for 2025! Stay positive, and positive things will happen. Thank you, everybody!
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