Sal Gilbertie

Fertilizer supply disruption due to Middle East tensions will cause a multi-year reduction in crop yields, leading to sustained higher grain prices. Investors are already flowing into grain funds as a hedge against inflation and supply constraints. The impact could extend to the 2027 growing season, making this a long-term opportunity.

Sal Gilbertie states he is "very bullish on the use of the Ripple Ledger and XRP" because Ripple is "professional," "single-minded," and building a complete ecosystem for efficient global money movement with instant settlement. He argues the current financial system is slow and inefficient, and the need for fast, cheap cross-border settlement is critical for the modern economy. Ripple's focused, long-term execution positions it to capture this need. The fundamental utility of the ledger for real-world financial transactions, combined with Ripple's disciplined execution, provides a strong basis for long-term value. Broader adoption and regulatory acceptance are not guaranteed. Price appreciation is separate from utility success.

The speaker notes his firm's Corn ETF (CORN) has seen AUM grow five times, with "money's pouring in." He states "corn is in everything" and positions agriculture as an effective portfolio diversifier. Inflows are driven by supply-side shocks in fertilizer production (due to war-related natural gas disruptions) which directly impact corn cultivation costs and supply outlook. This coincides with a view that equities are forming a top, increasing demand for non-correlated assets. Corn/agricultural commodities are presented as a strategic, long-term hedge with favorable supply/demand dynamics and attractive diversification benefits within a portfolio context. A rapid resolution to geopolitical conflicts easing fertilizer supply, or a significant downturn in global economic activity reducing demand for corn and its derivatives.