The political and economic landscape unfolding in the United States today isn’t about poor vs. elite or Democrats vs. Republicans. Instead, it represents a deeper battle: new money, driven by innovations like cryptocurrency and AI, versus old money, rooted in traditional industries and legacy financial systems.

The Decline of the Old System

The financial order that has dominated for decades, built on the petrodollar and the dollar’s central role in global trade, is under immense strain. Heavy U.S. debt, combined with the rising influence of BRICS nations and their push to bypass the dollar, threatens the old structure. The rise of alternative financial systems—such as crypto, XRP, and platforms like Ripple—is not just about technology. It signifies a radical shift in how we think about money, value, and power.

This transformation mirrors the Shang Yang reforms in ancient China. These reforms disrupted feudal traditions, creating a centralized, merit-based economic system but also causing upheaval and fierce resistance from entrenched elites. Similarly, today’s tech innovators, crypto pioneers, and AI leaders are challenging the old rules, sparking pushback from institutions trying to maintain dominance.

The Role of the Regular Citizen

In this evolving landscape, the average person stands at a critical crossroads. The old system, while flawed, provided a level of predictability that is now eroding. The emerging economy, driven by crypto and AI, offers new opportunities for those ready to adapt but also presents risks for those unprepared.

• AI is reshaping industries, threatening traditional jobs while creating new ones.
• Cryptocurrencies and decentralized finance offer financial independence but require knowledge and vigilance.
• The middle class, reliant on legacy systems, must decide: will they cling to the crumbling structure or embrace new tools to thrive?

This moment in history echoes the disruptive forces of Trump’s rise in U.S. politics. His appeal to those left behind by the old system reflects broader uncertainty and upheaval. The focus is not on Trump as an individual but on the systemic revolt against the entrenched status quo—akin to the resistance Shang Yang faced from feudal lords unwilling to accept change.

Where Do We Go From Here?

To survive and thrive in this transformation, we must prepare for the new economic and political reality by:

• Educating Ourselves: Learn how AI and blockchain technologies work and how they’re reshaping industries and financial systems.
• Adapting Quickly: Embrace new systems like crypto-based finance to gain a competitive edge.
• Building New Networks: Align with others who understand the future and are ready to move forward.
• Engaging Politically: Advocate for the interests of regular citizens as the battle between new and old wealth intensifies.

A Modern Shang Yang Moment

We are living through a modern Shang Yang moment, where the rules of power and wealth are being rewritten. Just as the Qin dynasty emerged as a dominant force in ancient China, those who adapt to today’s new systems—crypto, AI, and tech—will shape the future.

This is not a time to resist change but to understand it, position ourselves within it, and prepare for a future that rewards those who embrace innovation over tradition.

Tracy G Powell