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Week of October 6, 2023

Weirdo's Weekly Update — 6 Oct, 2023

The update covers Bitcoin's historically strong 'Uptober,' a cautionary NFT theft tale, and ChatGPT's new image analysis and web browsing features. Leo and Maja are leaving Tbilisi, Georgia for Baku, Azerbaijan, with Paul Graham's 'Great Work' essay as the productivity highlight.

Crypto News

October, historically called "Uptober," has averaged +29% returns for Bitcoin. Only twice has the month ended negatively for Bitcoin and Ethereum. Following September's gains, anticipation builds for October's performance.

Umbra: Enhancing Privacy in Crypto

Umbra is a stealth address protocol enhancing cryptocurrency privacy. It enables users to send funds to addresses known only to sender and receiver, adding a privacy layer.

The Heist: A Cautionary Tale

A recent scam resulted in theft of 46 NFTs. The scheme involved signing seemingly legitimate transactions. This incident underscores the importance of exercising caution when signing transactions and maintaining separate "vault" wallets for NFTs.

Changes in the Last Week

  • Bitcoin: $27,629 (+2.5%)
  • Ethereum: $1,632 (-1.8%)
  • Gold: $1,821

AI News

ChatGPT's Advanced Data Analysis

ChatGPT now supports uploading images or screenshots containing text and numbers for analysis, generating charts and graphs accordingly.

From Images to Code

Users can now convert sketches into working website code by uploading images to ChatGPT.

Web Browsing Returns

ChatGPT's web browsing feature is back, providing real-time data, stock prices, SEO analysis, and content creation capabilities about recent events.

Travel News

Leo and Maja are departing Tbilisi, Georgia for Baku, Azerbaijan. Georgia appeals to nomads and entrepreneurs through:

  • Thriving startup and tech scene with co-working spaces
  • Lower cost of living than Western countries
  • Reliable internet speeds for remote work
  • Favorable tax regime and English-speaking population
  • Strategic location for business travel
  • Safety record in the region
  • Unique blend of Asian, European, and Middle Eastern cultural influences

Business & Productivity Tips

Great Work by Paul Graham

Key insights include:

  • Genuine curiosity is the wellspring of great work — meaningful achievements stem from solving intriguing problems rather than pursuing prestige
  • Serendipity and unexpected discoveries often lead to breakthroughs
  • Breaking from conventional paths unleashes creativity
  • Personal interest fuels perseverance
  • Seizing unexpected opportunities significantly impacts outcomes

Tool of the Week: Descript

Descript streamlines video and audio editing. Upload video content, receive precise transcriptions, and edit by deleting text — corresponding video segments automatically delete. Features include easy collaboration and impressive transcription accuracy.

Currently Listening To

All-In Conference talks are available free on YouTube, featuring Brian Armstrong, Elon Musk, Gwyneth Paltrow, Larry Summers, Bill Gurley, MrBeast, Ray Dalio, and Tobi Lutke.

Currently Watching

Sex Education - Season 4

Inspiring Quotes

"Before you discover what you love: fewer commitments, more experiments. After you discover what you love: fewer experiments, more commitments." — James Clear

"The most valuable resource in life is time. Spend it wisely on what truly matters to you." — Paul Graham

"Don't fear failure. Not failure, but low aim, is the crime." — Bruce Lee

Published: October 18, 2023