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Episode 3: Mentorship & Asset Protection | Thuy’s Market Musings

Wizdom: “Timeless Gift of Mentorship”
Wealth Protection: “7Ps of Asset Protection”
Thuy’s Market Musings

By Van Gordon, Thuy Tran, Trinity Nguyen – June 29, 2026

Event Overview

Mentorship and Networking Value
Professional mentorship and direct networking provide superior career opportunities compared to standard online application processes. Soft skills developed through guidance differentiate candidates in competitive job markets.

Financial Legacy Planning Strategies
Comprehensive planning integrates asset protection, retirement savings vehicles, and life cycle insurance models. Visual presentation standards were updated to ensure clarity when discussing these complex financial concepts.

Market Trend Analysis
Market corrections result from excessive margin leverage and high concentration within technology sector stocks. Earnings stability and active stock selection remain essential for navigating current economic volatility.

Meet the Speakers & Guests

Van Gordon – Agency Priciple

Van Gordon

Agency Principle -Van Gordon Insurance and Financial Services
Thuy Tran – Chief Investment Officer

Thuy Tran

Chief Investment Officer at KUYR

Trinity Nguyen

Featured Moments

Relive the most memorable moments from the event.

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Invest Smart. Live Well.

Episode 2: Mentorship & Financial Legacy

Wizdom: “Leaving a Legacy of Knowledge. The Timeless Gift of Mentorship”
Wealth Generation: “Building Your Financial Legacy: Partnering with an RIA through the 7Ps”

By Mindy Pham-Bui, Thuy Tran – June 15, 2026

Event Overview

Mentorship Program Insights

The podcast introduced the Path to Ascend mentorship program, which connects students with a diverse professional network to provide career guidance. This initiative seeks to replace random pairings with a curated, goal-oriented mentorship approach.

Financial Legacy Framework

A comprehensive 7 Ps framework was presented to define effective wealth management, emphasizing portfolio experience, transparent pricing, and risk management. This approach identifies the distinct roles of wealth generation and wealth protection within long-term financial planning.

Market Outlook and Philosophy
Current market conditions indicate potential risks from high technology sector concentration within the Standard and Poor’s 500 index. Professional management remains a key alternative to self-directed investing by prioritizing direct client accessibility and transparent communication.

Meet the Speakers & Guests

Mindy Pham-Bui

Mindy Pham-Bui

Senior Associate at PIMCO VP of Marketing at Ascend OC
Thuy Tran – Chief Investment Officer

Thuy Tran

Chief Investment Officer at KUYR

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Episode 1: Investing in the AI Ecosystem | Why Location Matters

Thuy’s Market Musings: “Investing in the AI ecosystem – Location Matters”

Exploring how geography, talent, capital, infrastructure, and innovation hubs shape the future of AI-driven growth.

By Van Gordon, Thuy Tran – June 1, 2026

Event Overview

Mentorship Program Insights

The episode introduced the Path to Ascend mentorship program, designed to connect students with experienced professionals across diverse industries. By replacing random mentor assignments with personalized matching based on career goals, the program helps participants develop meaningful relationships, expand professional networks, and strengthen the soft skills needed for long-term career success.

Financial Legacy Framework

A practical 7 Ps framework was presented to explain the foundations of financial legacy planning. The discussion highlighted the importance of portfolio management, transparent pricing, professional guidance, and risk management while distinguishing between strategies for wealth generation and wealth protection throughout different stages of life.

Market Outlook and Investment Perspective

The conversation explored current market conditions, emphasizing the risks associated with the heavy concentration of technology companies within the S&P 500 Index. Rather than relying solely on self-directed investing, the speakers discussed the value of professional portfolio management, disciplined investment strategies, and transparent communication to support long-term financial objectives.

Meet the Speakers & Guests

Van Gordon – Agency Priciple

Van Gordon

Agency Principle -Van Gordon Insurance and Financial Services
Thuy Tran – Chief Investment Officer

Thuy Tran

Chief Investment Officer at KUYR

Featured Moments

Relive the most memorable moments from the event.

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NFIB – The Small Business Economy, Workplace Temperature Regulations, and More!

Despite rising energy costs and inflation, business owners remain optimistic

What it means: An NFIB expert recently joined C-SPAN’s Washington Journal to discuss the current state of the small business economy and top issues that are impacting Main Street. Despite inflation and economic pressures, small business owners remain optimistic due to legislation passed last year that provided small business owners with tax certainty.

Our take: With the Small Business Tax Deduction being made permanent, many small business owners remain optimistic about their future and ability to grow their business. Repealing BOI reporting requirements would provide more certainty for the future. Josh McLeod joined C-SPAN to discuss small business issues and how NFIB is advocating on behalf of America’s small and independent business owners in Washington, D.C.

Take Action: Help ensure the sensitive data for small businesses is permanently destroyed.

TAKE ACTION

While small business owners continue to face challenges through labor shortages, rising healthcare costs, and energy price increases, one thing small business owners have avoided is a significant tax hike. During an interview with the Washington Journal on C-SPAN, NFIB’s Director of Federal Government Relations, Josh McLeod, explores how small business owners are handling these various economic pressures and what NFIB is doing to advocate on their behalf in Washington, D.C.

Small businesses have seen several big wins over the past year that protected their ability to own and operate their businesses. McLeod points to the 20% Small Business Deduction being made permanent and the exemption of U.S. small businesses from reporting their Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI). However, many businesses had already filed their information before the exemption, so NFIB continues to put pressure on the federal government to permanently destroy this sensitive data.

During this interview, McLeod details several important issues and where they stand for small business owners. The interview covers:

  • Taxes 
  • Inflation 
  • Questions from small business owners 

Watch the interview for more information on the state of the small business economy and NFIB’s advocacy on behalf of Main Street.

Take Action: Urge Congress to act now and permanently repeal BOI reporting for small businesses!

TAKE ACTION

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Small Business Demands Legislation to Fight Growing Swipe Fees

Small Business Demands Legislation to Fight Growing Swipe Fees
This NFIB analysis addresses a massive “hidden” expense for small businesses: Credit Card Swipe Fees (also known as interchange fees). Since the original article is brief, I have expanded it into a comprehensive deep dive that explains the mechanics of these fees, the “duopoly” problem, and the specific legislation currently in the spotlight.
This NFIB analysis addresses a massive “hidden” expense for small businesses: Credit Card Swipe Fees (also known as interchange fees). Since the original article is brief, I have expanded it into a comprehensive deep dive that explains the mechanics of these fees, the “duopoly” problem, and the specific legislation currently in the spotlight.

The Hidden Tax on Main Street: Why Small Businesses Are Fighting Back Against Rising Swipe Fees

For most small business owners, every time a customer taps, chips, or swipes a credit card, a significant portion of that sale vanishes before it even hits the bank account. These “swipe fees” have become the third-highest operating cost for many small businesses, trailing only labor and rent.
As inflation continues to squeeze margins, the NFIB is leading a national demand for legislative reform to break the “duopoly” that controls the credit card market. Here is a detailed look at why this issue has reached a boiling point.

1. The Mechanics of the "Swipe Fee"

When a customer uses a credit card, the merchant (the business) is charged a fee that typically ranges from 1.5% to 3.5% of the total transaction. While this sounds small, it is a percentage of revenue, not profit. For a business with 10% profit margins, a 3% swipe fee actually eats up 30% of their total profit on that sale.
These fees are set by the giant card networks (Visa and Mastercard) but are collected by the banks that issue the cards. Because these fees are often a percentage of the total transaction—including sales tax—swipe fees actually act as an “Inflation Tax.” As prices for goods go up, the dollar amount collected in swipe fees rises automatically, even if the service provided by the bank hasn’t changed.

2. The Duopoly Problem: Visa and Mastercard

The primary driver of high fees is a lack of market competition. Visa and Mastercard currently control over 80% of the credit card market.
Unlike other industries where competition drives prices down, Visa and Mastercard set the interchange rates centrally for all the thousands of banks that issue their cards. This means banks don’t have to compete on price to get a merchant’s business. If a small business wants to stay in business, they must accept these cards, leaving them with zero bargaining power to negotiate lower rates.

3. The Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA)

The “legislation” mentioned by the NFIB refers primarily to the Credit Card Competition Act. This bipartisan bill aims to inject competition into the market by requiring the largest banks (those with over $100 billion in assets) to offer at least two different routing networks for every credit card transaction.
Currently, Visa and Mastercard mandate that transactions made on their cards must be processed through their own proprietary networks. The CCCA would force them to allow at least one independent network (like NYCE, Star, or Shazam) to compete for that transaction. Experts estimate that this competition could save small businesses and consumers over $15 billion annually.

4. Why This Matters for the Consumer

Swipe fees are not just a “business problem.” Because businesses cannot afford to absorb these rising costs, they are often forced to:
  • Raise Prices: Passing the fee onto the consumer.
  • Surcharge: Adding a 3% fee at the register for credit card use.
  • Minimums: Requiring a $10 or $15 minimum for card use, which can turn away customers.
Furthermore, the NFIB points out that swipe fees effectively subsidize high-end “rewards” cards. Lower-income consumers who pay with cash or debit are essentially paying higher prices for goods to fund the “points” and “miles” enjoyed by premium credit card users.

5. The Soho SoCal Perspective: Protecting Your Bottom Line

At Soho SoCal, we view swipe fees as a “leak” in your wealth stewardship. While we focus on protecting your assets through insurance and strategic planning, we also believe in advocating for the “Quiet Confidence” that comes from fair market practices.
Strategic Tips for Business Owners:
  • Evaluate Cash Discounts: Many states now allow “Dual Pricing” where you offer a lower price for cash/debit and a standard price for credit.
  • Review Your Processor: Ensure you are on an “Interchange Plus” pricing model rather than “Tiered” pricing, which is often much more expensive for small businesses.
  • Join the Advocacy: Follow the NFIB’s efforts on the CCCA. Your voice as a local business owner carries significant weight with Congressional representatives.

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Irvine Global Trade Date

Irvine Global Trade Date
It’s an honor to witness the official Irvine Global Trade Day ribbon-cutting ceremony and the proclamation ceremony. May 7th marks a significant day for a diverse business community that is thriving and demonstrating the enduring nature of international collaboration.
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Celebrating the 12th Annual Orange County World Trade Week

Last Thursday, I had the distinct honor of attending the 12th Annual Orange County World Trade Week at the University of California, Irvine. Joining over 200 business leaders, academics, government officials, and consular officers, the energy in the room was a testament to Orange County’s vital role in the global economy.
As the Founder of Soho SoCal and President of VNARP Southern California, attending this summit was about more than just staying informed—it was about advocating for our community’s place in the international market.

1. Key Insights from the Global Frontier

The agenda was packed with high-level insights that directly impact how we advise our clients and lead our organizations:
  • Technology in Logistics: Hearing from Luis Eraña (CEO of Alba Wheels Up) regarding the integration of AI in global logistics was eye-opening. It is clear that data-driven precision is becoming the backbone of successful supply chains.
  • The State of Our Ports: An update on the Port of Los Angeles provided a clear picture of the infrastructure that keeps our local economy moving and connected to the world.
  • Trade Policy & Advocacy: The discussions surrounding the USMCA and the update on Foreign Trade Zones are crucial for any business owner looking to scale and protect their operations in today’s volatile market.

2. The Power of Diplomacy and Relationships

One of the most valuable aspects of the day was the opportunity to meet with Consul Generals from more than 10 countries. These interactions reminded me that while trade is built on policy and logistics, it is sustained by human relationships.
Whether we are discussing international treaties or local wealth stewardship, the “Human Value” remains the ultimate currency. The final panel of the night, “The Value of Human Relationships in Global Trade,” echoed my own philosophy: success is built on a foundation of trust, integrity, and shared vision.

3. Committing to Excellence

Celebrating the Irvine Global Trade Day Proclamation alongside such distinguished colleagues was a proud moment. It reinforces our commitment at VNARP and Soho SoCal to stay at the cutting edge of global trends so that we can bring the highest level of expertise back to our members and clients.
I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated in such a timely and influential conference. The future of global trade is complex, but with the right connections and a commitment to continuous learning, our community is well-positioned to lead.
Celebrating the 12th Annual Orange County World Trade Week

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Fair Housing Symposium with OCR

Fair Housing Symposium with OCR
What an incredible day of learning and advocacy! On May 7th, I had the honor of attending the Fair Housing Symposium with OCR on behalf of VNARP.
There is something so energizing about being in a room full of leaders who are all rowing in the same direction toward equity and inclusion. This event reinforced our core mission at VNARP: to foster communities where fairness is the standard and respect is the baseline.
Promoting equitable access isn’t a solo mission; it requires the ‘Quiet Confidence’ to stand up for what’s right and the unwavering integrity to see it through. I am more committed than ever to bringing these insights back to my clients and my team. Together, through education and advocacy, we are creating a future where the doors of opportunity are open to everyone.

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SBA Announces New $50 Million Grant Opportunity to Support Made in America Manufacturing, Workforce Training

SBA Announces New $50 Million Grant Opportunity to Support Made in America Manufacturing, Workforce Training
Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced a new funding opportunity offering up to $50 million in grant awards to as many as 10 eligible applicant organizations who will provide training and technical assistance to support small manufacturers in the SBA’s Empower to Grow (E2G) Program.
The Manufacturing in America E2G Grant Initiative will empower qualified awardees to deliver regional support to small manufacturers in critical industries, in support of the agency’s ongoing effort to rebuild domestic supply chains, bring back American jobs, and promote industrial dominance.
“America’s reindustrialization is accelerating under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump, and the SBA is proud to stand with the small manufacturers driving that resurgence,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “As I travel the country and meet with these builders, innovators, and job creators, I’ve seen firsthand the essential role they play in restoring American industrial strength. Through this targeted initiative, we are equipping them with the resources and workforce support they need to grow, reshore critical supply chains, and help secure America’s position as a global manufacturing powerhouse for generations to come.”
The SBA’s E2G Program is designed to provide eligible U.S. small businesses with free business courses, in-person hands-on training, and one-on-one consulting to support growth, operations, hiring, regulatory compliance, and government contracting competitiveness. The program includes businesses in key industries such as aerospace, ship building, rail equipment, mining, industrial machinery and equipment, construction equipment, metal fabrication, electrical equipment, food processing, medical and precision manufacturing, advanced manufacturing, and robotics.
An eligible applicant for a Manufacturing in America E2G Grant must:
  • Be a for-profit or not-for-profit entity (including, but not limited to small businesses, other than small businesses, trade and professional associations, and educational institutions).
  • Been in existence continually for at least the past three years.
  • Have experience providing technical assistance, tools, or training, etc. relating to small manufacturing businesses on a regional or national basis.
  • Demonstrate that it has the capacity to provide hands-on manufacturing-related training and technical assistance to small business concerns.
The deadline to submit proposals electronically via https://www.grants.gov is June 15 at 11:59 p.m. EDT. To learn more about this grant opportunity, visit here. The SBA will host a webinar on the following dates to inform the public about the grants. Registration is required through the link provided:
The Manufacturing in America E2G Grant Initiative is the SBA’s latest offering to support small manufacturers, who make up 98% of all U.S. manufacturers. The agency announced a new 90% Made in America loan guarantee for small manufacturers and waived loan fees for manufacturing NAICS codes in Fiscal Year 2026, pairing stronger credit support with lower borrowing costs to help manufacturers invest, expand, and grow domestically. The SBA also established the first-ever loan program dedicated to American manufacturers and launched its Make Onshoring Great Again Portal, a free tool connecting small businesses to more than one million domestic suppliers and producers.
To learn more about the manufacturing grants and webinars, visit: Manufacturing Grants. Additional questions or requests for assistance should be submitted via email to e2g@sba.gov.
About the Empower to Grow Program
The Empower to Grow program, formerly known as 7(j) Management and Technical Assistance program, provides eligible U.S. small businesses with free business courses, tailored training, and one-on-one consulting to support their growth, operations, hiring, regulatory compliance, and government contracting competitiveness. The Empower to Grow program uplifts businesses to be procurement ready for federal, state, and local government contracts. For more questions about the Empower to Grow program, visit: Empower to Grow Program.

About the U.S. Small Business Administration

The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of entrepreneurship. As the leading voice for small businesses within the federal government, the SBA empowers job creators with the resources and support they need to start, grow, and expand their businesses or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.

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Create a Resiliency Roadmap for Small Business

Preparedness for Small Businesses

Outsmart Disaster is your preparedness partner. We guide you step by step through creating a Resiliency Roadmap so you can plan during the calm and bounce back when things get tough. We also provide business preparedness tips and recovery resources.

Together, we can be ready for

any interruptions.

Prepare
Recover

Empowering Small Businesses to Prepare in Blue Skies, and Recover from Gray Skies

Every $1 Invested in Disaster Mitigation Saves $13 in Recovery1

40% of Businesses do not Reopen Immediately After Disasters2

An Additional 25% Close Within 12 Months3

Outsmart Disaster’s

RESILIENCY ROADMAP

helps develop a preparation plan with six simple steps

Recognize Potential Threats: Identify, prioritize, and document risks unique to your business

Establish Clear Communication Channels: Gather contacts, plan communication, and set up emergency alerts

Understand Your Operations: Prioritize processes, document equipment, and secure IT systems.

Hazard Mitigation Planning: Assess building safety, inventory, backups, and safety features

Understand Your Insurance and Finances: Review insurance, plan finances, and explore disaster relief options

Create and Test Emergency Response Plan: Train employees, test plans, and prepare an emergency kit

Get Started

Certified Trainer Interest Form

Do you work with small businesses and entrepreneurs? Become an Outsmart Disaster Certified Trainer. This program is designed for community-based organizations, chambers, local agencies, and trainers that support small businesses and want to deliver Outsmart Disaster resiliency training in their communities.

Express Interest

Disclaimer

Outsmart Disaster is a disaster awareness campaign that includes a no-cost business continuity training program offered by the California Office of the Small Business Advocate (CalOSBA). CalOSBA employees support the program in a training capacity only. CalOSBA does not make any recommendations or guarantees and assumes no responsibility concerning the activities of participating businesses. Participants, and not CalOSBA, are responsible for all plans created and any actions taken following the Outsmart Disaster training.

References

  1. U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation
  2. Insurance Information Institute
  3. FEMA

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