
Good morning. This is 1% Better. Unbiased news and practical life advice that makes you a little better every day.
Today we're covering potential 401(k) risks under Trump, Chuck E. Cheese upgrades, and how to get rest when you can’t sleep.
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Top Headlines
Ukraine Funding Ends
Vice President Vance announced Sunday that the U.S. will stop funding Ukraine's war effort, ahead of President Trump's Friday meeting with Russian President Putin in Alaska. "We're done with the funding of the Ukraine war business," Vance told Fox News, emphasizing America's desire for peaceful settlement.
The Kremlin recently proposed a ceasefire deal demanding control of Eastern Ukraine in exchange for halting hostilities. Ukrainian President Zelensky rejected the proposal, stating Ukraine is "ready for real decisions that can bring peace" but opposes any agreement made without Ukrainian participation
Vance said Americans are "sick of continuing to send their money" to the conflict, urging European allies to increase their involvement. European leaders pledged diplomatic and economic support while insisting any resolution must protect Ukraine's vital security interests.
White House considers inviting Zelensky to meetings.
401(k) Risk / Rewards
President Trump's executive order directing regulators to expand alternative investments in 401(k) plans offers retirement savers access to crypto and private assets but introduces significant risks. Investment professionals warn these untested options pose liquidity concerns and substantially higher fees than traditional retirement funds, which average just 0.26% annually.
Private equity typically charges 2% management fees plus 20% of gains, compared to minimal mutual fund costs. Critics highlight lack of transparency and daily pricing challenges for illiquid assets. Alternative investments require manual pricing and offer limited liquidity, creating fundamental mismatches with retirement systems designed for daily trading. How do 401(k) plans work?
Legal risks emerged from Intel employee lawsuits over private market investments in retirement plans. Experts say regulators must provide legal protections for asset managers to implement Trump's plan effectively. Industry advocates tout potential higher returns from investments like SpaceX and OpenAI.
What to know about AI investments here.
Chuck E. Cheese Upgrades
Chuck E. Cheese's modernization efforts clash with devoted adult fans called "Chuckheads" who preserve the chain's retro charm. The company retired beloved animatronic bands for trampolines and screens, sparking fierce backlash from collectors who spend thousands on memorabilia and stage elaborate home recreations.
After fan protests and viral videos showing discarded animatronics, Chuck E. Cheese reversed course partially. The company now maintains six "legacy stores" with original animatronic shows and launched Chuck's Arcade targeting nostalgic adults. Fans like Travis Schafer and Damon Breland have amassed museum-quality collections worth hundreds of thousands.
The struggling chain faces debt challenges approaching its 50th anniversary in 2027. However, Chuckheads believe their community will outlast the company itself. Adult fans have found friendships, romance, and shared purpose.
See a video of the remodel here.
Get 1% Better
Non-Sleep, Deep Rest Protocol
Master your nervous system in 10 minutes. Neuroscientist Andrew Huberman's Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR) protocol uses controlled breathing and body scanning to shift your brain from stress to deep relaxation. Here’s the technique.
The technique slows your heart rate and trains your attention like a spotlight, moving systematically through your body.
Key steps include:
Position: Seated or lying down, eyes closed
Breathing: Deep inhales through nose, complete exhales through pursed lips
Body scan: Start at feet, expand awareness upward
Visualization: Imagine a spotlight illuminating each body part
Sinking sensation: Feel your body sink into surfaces with each exhale
The protocol proves you control your perceptions. By directing attention to physical sensations rather than thoughts, you can deliberately shift from planning and stress into pure relaxation. Practice builds your ability to regulate your nervous system on command. Try it now.
Don’t Ask “How Are You?”
Former FBI negotiator Chris Voss suggests making an observation instead. "Looks like it's been a tough day," he might say to a cashier, or "Look like there's been a lot of idiots in here today." Or, on the other hand, simply, "Seems like you're having a good day." This approach, delivered with a smile, makes people feel genuinely seen and connected because you're actually paying attention.
Market Pulse
> Former AG Holder says FBI lacks jurisdiction to return fleeing Texas Democrats despite GOP requests (More).
> Nvidia, AMD pay 15% China revenues to US government for advanced AI chip sales (More).
> Target searches new CEO as half of employees doubt company's competitive direction (WSJ).
> Gen Z destroys traditional marketing funnel replacing awareness campaigns with instant TikTok-driven obsession, experts say (More).
> Red states lead MAHA soda bans with 12 SNAP waivers approved restricting sugary drinks (More).
Speed Read
How to easily grill a whole fish.
The woman who recorded everything.
Red Bull’s insane BMX train stunt.
Prevent stripped screws for good.