In this episode, recorded in early October 2024, we’re diving into a topic that’s on everyone’s mind: Is holding cash a smart move in these unpredictable markets?

We’re in what some are calling one of the most “unloved” bull markets—stocks keep rising, but investors (ourselves included) are uneasy, waiting for the other shoe to drop. To help us unpack whether cash can actually give your portfolio an edge during uncertain times, we brought in none other than Deepak Shenoy.

Together, we explore whether holding cash can protect you from potential downturns or even help you outperform the benchmarks. We also dig into the challenges fund managers face with cash calls, why getting back into the market can be harder than it seems, and how strategies like STPs (Systematic Transfer Plans) play out in real life.

Deepak shares some great insights, comparing today’s market to historical events like the 2020 Crash, Russia-Ukraine war, Brexit, and the 2008 financial crisis. Plus, we look at what Warren Buffett has done with cash during past downturns—and why even he hasn’t always gotten it right.

This episode is packed with practical takeaways including:

1) When holding cash makes sense—and when it doesn’t

2) Why fund managers sometimes get cash calls wrong

3) The emotional side of staying invested vs. going to cash

4) How IPOs and market liquidity can impact your cash strategy

If you’ve ever felt that itch to “do something” with your portfolio when markets are shaky, this conversation is for you. We break down the mental tug-of-war between holding cash and riding out the market, with Deepak sharing actionable advice that will help you stay prepared, no matter what happens next.