Here's Your Fortune: Billion Dollar Empire Behind March Madness...

Tomorrow’s Fortune

Welcome to the action-packed newsletter designed to help you navigate the world of business, investing, and technology. You owe it to yourself to stay informed! If you missed last week’s post, check it out here. 😎 

Today’s post is 2,500 words (~3 minutes). Reading this just might make you rich!

Today’s Digest: 

1. NEW VIDEO 👉🏼 $30,000 vs $30,000,000

2. Billion Dollar Buckets: Let’s dive into the business model of March Madness

3. Wanna Buy a Business? We found a high-profit truck salvage and scrapping company. ($500K of Cash Flow). Click HERE for the listing

4. Searching for a Side Hustle? Try making personalized Spotify playlists

NEW KENNY FINANCE VIDEO ON YOUTUBE!

TOP STORY

March Madness: The Billion-Dollar Tournament That Runs College Sports

March Madness isn’t just about upsets and last-second shots—it’s a financial juggernaut. Every year, while fans obsess over their brackets, a different kind of game is being played behind the scenes: one measured in billion-dollar deals, sponsorship battles, and a financial ecosystem that keeps college sports afloat. But where does all this money actually go? Who profits the most? And how has the NCAA turned a college basketball tournament into one of the most lucrative sporting events in the world?

At the center of it all are massive TV deals that fuel the NCAA’s empire. CBS and TNT Sports pay billions for exclusive broadcast rights, ensuring March Madness remains a premier television event. But here’s the twist: the NCAA doesn’t just keep the money. A large chunk is distributed to conferences and schools, funding everything from athletic scholarships to state-of-the-art training facilities. With men’s basketball alone set to receive $8.8 billion over the next eight years, the financial stakes are sky-high. But does this system truly benefit all schools equally, or does it widen the gap between the NCAA’s powerhouses and everyone else?

Sponsorships are another goldmine. Major brands like Coca-Cola, Capital One, and AT&T don’t just slap their logos on a few commercials—they build full-scale marketing campaigns around March Madness. Why? Because no other sporting event blends unpredictability, cultural hype, and mass viewership quite like this one. The tournament transforms casual viewers into engaged consumers, with brands leveraging everything from bracket challenges to exclusive fan experiences. But with sponsorship exclusivity deals limiting competition, are consumers really getting the best experience, or just the brands with the deepest pockets?

Then there’s the future of broadcasting. For years, traditional TV has dominated March Madness, but streaming platforms like Amazon Prime, YouTube, and Netflix are aggressively moving into live sports. Could we see an all-streaming March Madness in the next decade? And if so, what does that mean for accessibility, engagement, and—most importantly—future media rights deals? As sports consumption shifts online, the NCAA has an opportunity to negotiate even bigger paydays. The real question: will they adapt, or risk losing out to the tech giants?

Finally, the ticketing and merchandising game has evolved. Ticket prices fluctuate wildly based on matchups—big-market teams send prices soaring, while underdog runs create unpredictable demand spikes. Meanwhile, official NCAA merchandise, once a major revenue driver, now faces competition from online giants like Amazon. Limited-edition championship gear used to sell out instantly, but with fans able to buy almost anything online, has the NCAA lost its merchandising grip? Or will they find new ways to create exclusivity in the digital age?

At its core, March Madness is more than a basketball tournament—it’s a finely tuned business machine. Every game, every bracket, and every Cinderella story plays into a much bigger financial ecosystem, one that determines the future of college sports. The real madness? How seamlessly the NCAA has turned this annual tradition into an economic powerhouse.

BITS OF GOLD

• Teslas are getting destroyed (physically and economically) - Tesla is experiencing an unprecedented increase in vehicle trade-ins, signaling potential challenges in customer retention. CEO Elon Musk addressed employees, urging them to retain their stock despite declining share prices and rising sales difficulties. Contributing factors include increased vandalism at dealerships and consumer dissatisfaction linked to Musk's controversial government role. While Musk emphasizes the long-term potential of Tesla's autonomous driving technology, these immediate concerns may impact investor confidence and the company's market position

• Nvidia's Ambitious AI Innovations - At the GTC 2025 AI conference, Nvidia unveiled its latest advancements, including the forthcoming Blackwell Ultra AI chipsets and the Vera Rubin AI superchip platform, slated for release over the next two years. The company also introduced "Blue," a collaborative robotics project with Disney Research and Google DeepMind, and announced a partnership with General Motors to develop custom AI systems. Despite these announcements, Nvidia's stock declined by over 3% during the presentation, raising questions about market expectations and the commercial viability of these innovations.

• Automakers Navigate Trade Tensions with Strategic Adjustments - In response to President Trump's tariffs, automakers are adjusting supply chains to mitigate financial impacts. Honda plans to source batteries for its hybrid vehicles from Toyota's U.S. plant, aiming to reduce tariff exposure for approximately 400,000 cars. Additionally, Honda intends to produce its next-generation Civic hybrid in Indiana starting in 2028, moving production from Mexico to avoid tariffs and support U.S. job creation. These strategic decisions reflect the industry's efforts to adapt to evolving trade policies and maintain competitiveness. ​

• Trump Invokes Emergency Powers to Secure Critical Minerals - In a bold move to reduce U.S. dependence on foreign critical minerals, President Trump has invoked Cold War-era emergency powers to accelerate domestic production. The executive order directs government agencies, including the Department of Defense, to prioritize mining projects, expedite permitting, and provide financial and technical support to domestic producers. This decision follows China’s ban on certain mineral exports to the U.S. last year, which disrupted supply chains for key industries reliant on these materials—from battery production to advanced weapons systems. Beyond the U.S., Trump is aggressively pursuing mineral deals with Ukraine and the Democratic Republic of Congo, with a new agreement expected "very shortly." The order underscores broader geopolitical tensions, as the U.S. seeks to counter China’s near-monopoly on rare earth elements, but it also raises environmental and regulatory concerns about the fast-tracking of mining projects on federal land.

SO YOU WANT TO BUY A BUSINESS… 🏦

Deal of the Week: HVAC Contractor (Wisconsin) - Asking $1,100,000

Opportunity Overview:

This Heavy Truck Salvage & Scrap Metal Recycling Facility in Ohio presents a compelling investment opportunity in a growing, recession-resistant industry. Established in 2019, the business has scaled rapidly, boasting 30%+ year-over-year growth and generating over $500K in cash flow in 2024. Situated on 18+ acres near key metal yards, the facility benefits from an ideal location for sourcing and processing materials. A General Manager is in place, allowing for a smoother transition and semi-passive ownership potential. The company recently expanded into metal recycling, a move expected to further drive top-line revenue and profitability in 2025. With over $1M in equipment and $600K in inventory included, this turnkey operation is primed for continued growth under new ownership.

Cash Flow and Profitability:

This business generates $536K in cash flow on $2.74M in gross revenue, reflecting strong operating margins. The scrap metal recycling expansion, coupled with increasing demand for sustainable materials, positions the business well for long-term profitability. While EBITDA is not disclosed, the substantial asset base and recurring revenue streams suggest strong financial fundamentals. The $1M in FF&E, including newly acquired equipment, enhances operational capacity, reducing the need for immediate capital expenditures post-acquisition. The business leases its facility, which could pose a risk if long-term lease terms aren’t favorable, but also provides flexibility in expansion or relocation strategies.

What We Like:

• High Growth Potential – With 30%+ year-over-year revenue growth, this business is on a strong upward trajectory. The expansion into metal recycling in 2024 has further positioned it for increased profitability. The $150K investment in new equipment indicates a commitment to scaling operations, providing an immediate revenue boost in 2025 and beyond. A buyer who can optimize operations and expand sourcing channels could unlock even greater upside.

• Strong Asset Base with Minimal CapEx Needs – The business comes with over $1M in equipment, much of which is new, reducing the need for large capital expenditures in the near term. Additionally, $600K in inventory is included, which provides working capital flexibility and reduces upfront costs for a new owner. Given the high cost of specialized salvage and recycling equipment, having these assets already in place is a major advantage.

• Recession-Resistant Industry with Increasing Demand – Scrap metal recycling and salvage businesses thrive even in economic downturns due to the consistent demand for recycled materials such as steel, aluminum, and copper. As industries and manufacturers prioritize sustainability, the long-term demand for recycled metal is expected to grow, providing stability for this business.

• Established Operations with a General Manager in Place – The existing GM handles daily operations, allowing for a more passive ownership structure or the ability to scale further without an immediate, hands-on presence. Many businesses in this sector require heavy owner involvement, making this operation particularly attractive for investors looking for semi-passive cash flow.

• Strategic Location & Competitive Advantage – Situated on 18+ acres near key metal yards, the business benefits from proximity to suppliers and buyers, reducing logistics costs and increasing operational efficiency. This geographic advantage makes sourcing salvageable materials and selling processed metals easier, giving the company a competitive edge.

What We Don't Like:

• Lease Uncertainty & Potential Real Estate Risks – The business leases its facility, but no details on lease terms or expiration have been provided. Given the asset-heavy nature of this business, a favorable long-term lease or the ability to purchase the property would be important to ensure stability. A buyer would need to assess lease renewal risks, potential rent increases, or even the possibility of relocation, which could be costly and disruptive.

• Cyclical Pricing & Market Volatility Risks – The scrap metal industry is highly dependent on global commodity prices, which fluctuate based on macroeconomic factors, supply chain dynamics, and geopolitical events. While demand for recycled metals remains strong, pricing volatility could impact revenue consistency, particularly in downturns where scrap prices fall. A prospective buyer should analyze historical pricing trends and determine how the business hedges against market swings.

• Regulatory & Environmental Compliance Burdens – Salvage and metal recycling businesses operate in a heavily regulated environment. Compliance with EPA regulations, state environmental laws, and hazardous material handling rules can add operational complexity. Any existing or potential environmental liabilities (e.g., contamination issues, disposal regulations) should be carefully reviewed.

• Competitive & Fragmented Industry – The auto salvage and metal recycling industry is highly competitive, with a mix of large-scale operators and smaller independent firms. Competitors with established supply chains, lower processing costs, or stronger buyer relationships could put pricing pressure on this business. A buyer should assess whether the company has unique supplier relationships, exclusive contracts, or other competitive advantages that help it stand out.

• Customer Concentration & Supplier Dependence Risks – While the business is growing, there is no clarity on customer concentration levels. If a significant portion of revenue comes from a few major buyers, losing one could materially impact financials. On the supplier side, dependence on a limited number of salvage sources could pose risks if supply chains become disrupted.

Key Questions:

• Scrap Metal Price Sensitivity – How has commodity price volatility (steel, aluminum, copper) impacted historical financial performance? What price levels are assumed in the 2024 and 2025 projections?

• Metal Yard Relationships – Does the business have fixed contracts or spot pricing agreements with metal buyers? Are there any volume-based pricing incentives?

• Salvage Vehicle Sourcing Strategy – Where does the business acquire its salvage trucks? Is there a consistent pipeline from auctions, insurance companies, or direct purchases?

• Facility Capacity & Utilization – What is the current processing capacity vs. actual utilization? Could the 6,238 SF facility and 18+ acres handle additional volume without further investment?

• Scrap Metal Quality Control – How does the company ensure maximum metal recovery per unit? Are there quality issues that impact pricing from buyers?

WHAT ABOUT TODAY’S FORTUNE? SIDE HUSTLE OF THE WEEK 💸

Personalized Spotify Playlists: Turning Your Music Taste into Cash

If you’ve got a talent for crafting the perfect playlist, you can monetize your music curation skills by offering personalized Spotify playlists for events, workouts, relaxation, or even brand campaigns. With the rise of custom experiences in music and entertainment, there’s a real demand for handpicked playlists tailored to moods, occasions, and personal tastes.

🎧 Why This Works

• Events & Businesses Need Custom Playlists – Event planners, wedding coordinators, and boutique brands want curated soundtracks for a seamless experience.

• Influencers & Content Creators Need Vibes – YouTubers, Twitch streamers, and TikTok creators often seek themed playlists to match their content.

• People Will Pay for Personalization – Whether it’s a study mix, a running playlist, or a nostalgic throwback set, music lovers are willing to pay for a uniquely tailored sound experience.

🛠️ Getting Started

1. Choose Your Niche – Will you specialize in event playlists (weddings, parties, corporate events), workout & productivity mixes, or personal nostalgia-based curation?

2. Offer Services on Fiverr & Social Media – Create listings on Fiverr, Upwork, or your personal website. Promote your skills in music-related Facebook groups or Reddit communities.

3. Market to Influencers & Brands – Pitch your services to YouTubers, podcasters, and small business owners who need curated playlists for brand identity and customer engagement.

4. Build Social Proof – Offer free or discounted playlists to a few clients in exchange for testimonials and showcase your work on TikTok, Instagram Reels, or Twitter/X.

💰 Startup Costs & Capital Intensity

• Initial Investment: Near $0 – You just need a Spotify Premium account and a strong sense of curation.

• Marketing Costs: Free to low-cost, using social media marketing, Fiverr promotions, and influencer outreach.

• Scaling Costs: If demand grows, you might invest in automation tools, a personal website, or ads targeting event planners and influencers.

📈 How to Scale & Maximize Profits

• Bundle Playlists – Offer tiered pricing (e.g., $15 for a basic playlist, $50 for a deep-cut custom experience).

• Sell "Vibe Packages" – Create mood-based playlist bundles (e.g., “Cozy Fall Nights,” “80s Retro Workout,” “Luxury Brand Ambiance”) and sell them as digital products.

• Partner with Event Planners – Secure recurring deals by curating music for weddings, corporate retreats, and private events.

• Subscription Model – Offer a monthly playlist membership where clients receive new curated mixes based on their preferences.

💵 Earning Potential

• Fiverr & Upwork gigs: $15–$100 per playlist

• Selling themed playlist bundles: $10–$30 per set

• Recurring clients (brands, influencers, event planners): $100–$500 per month

If you love discovering music and curating the perfect vibe, this zero-cost side hustle could turn into a profitable, scalable business. Start small, build your reputation, and position yourself as the go-to music curator for any occasion.

This newsletter is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. The content is based on publicly available information, and the author makes no representations about its accuracy or completeness. Readers should conduct their own research before making any investment decisions.