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The Opinionated Daily of Technology & Code
GARRY'S TAKE
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| Tuesday, March 3, 2026 · Weekly Briefing |
RECURRING BRIEFING |
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WEEK OF MAR 3, 2026
Operator Weekly: Housing, Immigration, and Household
The running threads that matter for SF-based operators with cross-border ties.
By Garry Sandcastle
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WHAT CHANGED |
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SF HOUSING
Permit Consolidation Moving Forward, But Appeals Still Slow Affordable Projects
Mayor Lurie's state-of-the-city laid out a road map for consolidating planning, building, and permit processes. Meanwhile, a Hayes Valley affordable housing project got delayed again by neighborhood appeals. The direction is right, the pace is still frustrating.
Action: No action needed. Monitor for actual permit timeline improvements in Q2. |
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SWISS IMMIGRATION
Fast-Track Naturalization Proposal Still Blocked in Committee
The 5-year naturalization path continues to stall in parliamentary committees. The existing 10-year residency requirement plus cantonal requirements remain the operative timeline for planning.
Action: Continue planning on current timelines. Do not assume legislative shortcuts. |
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MARKETS
Swiss Franc Strength Intensifies, SNB Intervention Talk Returns
CHF/USD is at levels that are starting to draw SNB commentary. For anyone with cross-border income, savings, or transfer timing, this is a noisier environment than usual.
Action: If you have a large CHF-USD transfer planned, consider splitting it into tranches rather than timing the market. |
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HOUSEHOLD
Costco March Coupon Book Is Out
Notable deals: Gia basmati rice 18.14kg reportedly ~$9 off (Mar 2-15), Chobani Greek yogurt variety pack ~$6 off. Kirkland organic ghee still worth grabbing at regular price if your jar is low.
Action: Stock check on rice and ghee this week. |
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NET ASSESSMENT
The macro picture is unchanged: housing reform is directionally positive but slow, immigration timelines are sticky, and the franc is a wild card for cross-border planning. On the household front, the March Costco cycle has a few genuinely useful staples on discount.
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