Robin Wigglesworth

In this discussion, Robin Wigglesworth, editor of FT Alphaville, shares insights on the rising short interest in hedge funds. He explores the implications of shorting behaviors, especially against tech stocks like Bloom Energy and the crypto market. They analyze why hedge funds are cautious around major AI winners despite high expectations. Robin also dives into the mechanics of short selling and market frothiness in tech bond issuance, revealing how strategic shorting can signal shifts in investor sentiment.

Robin Wigglesworth, Editor of Alphaville at the Financial Times, discusses the impact of US Treasury holdings as potential leverage against transatlantic tension sparked by Trump's Greenland ambitions. He theorizes about the practical limits of such financial strategies. Charles Clover, the FT's Defence correspondent, reveals how Chinese companies supply drone components to both Russia and Ukraine through complex networks. He highlights legal loopholes and Russian advantages in manufacturing, showcasing the intricate drone war dynamics.

In this episode, Robin Wigglesworth, Editor of FT Alphaville and finance expert, joins to explore the controversies surrounding Jane Street, one of the world’s largest traders, accused of market manipulation in India. The conversation examines the evolution of trading firms and their ethical dilemmas in the fast-paced finance landscape. With a mix of humor, they also share personal anecdotes and tackle bizarre financial tales, including amusing stories about bedbugs and penguins, while critiquing investment challenges in cryptocurrency.

Robin Wigglesworth, FT Alphaville editor and Financial Times finance reporter, breaks down Europe’s financial leverage over the U.S. He explores the EU’s 'anti-coercion' legal tool and Europe’s $3 trillion in U.S. Treasuries. Short takes cover Denmark’s bond sales, forced divestment risks, and why pulling purchases is more likely than a full sell-off.

Robin Wigglesworth, Head of the FT's Alphaville blog, dives into the astonishing findings of Professor Hendrik Bessembinder's research on stock market performance. Discover how one stock boasted a staggering 265,528,900 percent return, while others like Kansas City Southern showcased historic wealth compounding. The hosts discuss the contrasting capital intensity of railways versus today's tech giants, and debate the merits of active stock picking versus passive investing. Get insights into enduring stocks and the quirky world of niche financial products!

Robin Wigglesworth, Alphaville editor at the Financial Times, dives deep into synthetic risk transfers (SRTs), a hot new trend in finance. He discusses how these innovations promise attractive returns but raise concerns reminiscent of past financial crises. With the IMF sounding alarms, Wigglesworth highlights the rapid growth and potential risks of SRTs, especially regarding the quality of loans banks are offloading. He emphasizes the need for transparency and the lessons financial history offers to navigate these new challenges.

Robin Wigglesworth, a Financial Times columnist and author of 'Trillions,' dives into the legacy of index investing, paying tribute to pioneer Mac McQuown. He shares insights on the evolution of index funds and the impact of key figures like Jack Bogle. The discussion highlights the recent Fed rate cuts and the S&P 500's rise to 6,000, alongside market resilience amid speculation around cryptocurrencies and tech IPOs. Wigglesworth also explores Elon Musk's complicated acquisition of Twitter, emphasizing the need for cautious investing in turbulent times.

Author Robin Wigglesworth joins the podcast to discuss quantitative investing, the private credit trend, and the Canada Pension Plan. They explore the quant winter, value stocks, factor investing, and the history of the bond market. They also provide insights into the benefits and criticisms of the Canada Pension Plan and discuss annuities. The hosts share their upcoming paper, talk about podcast success, financial literacy, and recommend movies and books. They conclude with positive reviews and a discussion on dividend investing.

Robin Wigglesworth, an expert on government debt, discusses Jamaica's remarkable turnaround from a staggering 140% debt-to-GDP ratio to halving its debt in just seven years. He highlights how political cooperation and fiscal discipline were vital in this process, allowing Jamaica to maintain significant primary surpluses. Wigglesworth also explores lessons for larger economies, and the need for growth-oriented solutions that balance debt management with middle-class welfare. The conversation paints a hopeful picture of Jamaica's potential economic future.

Join Robin Wigglesworth, a contributor from FT Alphaville, and Hendrik Bessembinder, a renowned professor known for his extensive stock research, as they delve into the staggering results of Bessembinder’s analysis of top-performing stocks over the last century. Discover how one stock achieved an unbelievable 265,528,900% return. They also explore the power of compounding, the challenges facing traditional versus tech industries, the debate between passive and active investing, and the quirks of leveraged ETFs in today’s market.