Join Jeremy Mckeown, an investment consultant with nearly four decades in the financial markets and host of "In the Company of Mavericks." He shares insights on navigating retirement during economic upheaval and the shift from traditional media to personal communication. Discover his thoughts on monetary theory, investment strategies in Bitcoin, and the unfolding opportunities in UK micro-cap equities. Mckeown also discusses the optimistic economic climate in Argentina and explores the emotional depths of the documentary 'Tell Me Who I Am.'
Jeremy McEwan highlights the decline of traditional media's influence and the rise of alternative sources like podcasts and social media in shaping public opinion.
He raises concerns about widespread institutional corruption stemming from events like the COVID pandemic, revealing systemic issues across major sectors including finance and technology.
McEwan discusses his shift to personal investment management focusing on tangible assets like gold and Bitcoin to protect wealth against economic uncertainties.
Deep dives
Jeremy McEwan's Background and Investment Journey
Jeremy McEwan boasts a lengthy career in the financial markets, primarily on the sell side, spanning nearly four decades. Post-retirement in 2020, coinciding with the onset of the COVID lockdowns, he began managing his own pension funds and ISAs, marking a shift to personal investment management. His experience revolves around UK equities, particularly smaller stocks, where he engaged in activities like AIM IPOs and fundraising while interacting with institutional fund managers. This transition allowed him to explore new avenues, including launching a podcast and a blog to maintain his professional network and share insights.
Shifts in Media and Public Awareness
McEwan discusses a significant change in how information is disseminated and absorbed in society, highlighting the decline of traditional media's influence. He notes that recent events, such as the US presidential elections, were heavily shaped by alternative media, including podcasts and social media, indicating a shift towards citizen journalism. This change has revealed a growing skepticism towards centralized sources of information, particularly regarding political matters. McEwan emphasizes that many individuals are awakening to these changes, likening it to a collective realization about the integrity of various institutions, including media.
The Corruption of Institutions and Its Implications
McEwan expresses concern over the pervasive corruption across various institutions, which have faced scrutiny in light of events like the COVID pandemic. He believes that this revelation goes beyond just the media and encompasses large entities, including Wall Street, big tech, and the pharmaceutical industry. By reflecting on historical economic crises, he asserts that the public is beginning to recognize the systemic issues within these institutions. This realization has potential implications for future political landscapes, with shifts in leadership in places like Argentina possibly signaling grassroots change.
Financial Insights and Investment Philosophy
McEwan details his transition from institutional sales to a more personalized investment approach, emphasizing the importance of real asset protection amidst economic uncertainties. He shares key lessons distilled into ten points that guide his investment decisions, such as the significance of pricing power and the dangers of debt. His focus on tangible assets, including gold and Bitcoin, reflects a strategy of safeguarding wealth against inflation and market volatility. By rejecting traditional technical analysis, he instead prioritizes a macro perspective, which has evolved through his experiences and observations in the market.
Opportunities in Argentina and Future Prospects
During a recent trip to Argentina, McEwan was impressed by the potential for economic transformation under the leadership of Javier Milei, who advocates for libertarian principles. He describes how the current political landscape allows for a re-establishment of trust in economic systems, contrasting this with the challenges faced in the UK. McEwan emphasizes the importance of human ingenuity in driving resource efficiency and highlights the emerging opportunities within Argentina’s economy. His exploration in this new frontier reflects a broader interest in investing beyond familiar markets, as he identifies emerging trends that may significantly influence global investment strategies.
