Making Markets

In this conversation, Jonathan Birnbaum, Founder and CEO of OpenYield, discusses his mission to modernize fixed income trading. He breaks down the challenges of bond trading, including attracting liquidity providers and overcoming technological gaps compared to equities. Jonathan also highlights the rise of new market participants and the significance of algorithmic trading. Additionally, he shares insights on the transition from traditional voice trading to electronic platforms, signaling a pivotal moment in the evolution of the bond market.

Phil Huber, Head of Portfolio Solutions at Cliffwater, brings his expertise in private credit and alternative investments to the conversation. He discusses the explosive growth of the private credit market, now at $1.2 trillion, and addresses common concerns about potential market bubbles and volatility. Huber emphasizes the importance of due diligence and manager selection while navigating this complex asset class. He also shares insights on the evolving role of alternative investments in wealth management and the strategic approaches to mitigate risks.

Hester M. Peirce, known as the "Crypto Mom" and SEC Commissioner, leads the SEC's new Crypto Task Force. She shares her vision for a balanced regulatory approach that fosters innovation while protecting investors. The conversation dives into the challenges of the Howey test and the need for clearer guidance on crypto assets. Peirce emphasizes the importance of collaboration between agencies and stakeholder input to refine regulations. Moreover, she advocates for empowering investors with essential information to navigate the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency.

Meb Faber, co-founder and CIO of Cambria Investments, shares his insights on taxation and diverse investment strategies. He explains the 351 exchange, highlighting its benefits for tax efficiency in portfolios. Meb also delves into managing concentrated stock positions and the advantages of ETF structures over mutual funds. The conversation covers trend analysis challenges, the importance of diversification, and innovations in fixed income investing. Lastly, he discusses the influence of political changes on investment products, including cryptocurrency ETFs.

In a surprising twist, markets surged in Q4 2024, with the S&P 500 climbing 23% and Bitcoin skyrocketing 150%. The discussion dives into Bitcoin's newfound institutional backing, particularly from BlackRock with its record ETF launch. Insights on AI's transformative impact raise questions about inflated valuations. Regulatory shifts are examined, highlighting tech leaders stepping into government roles. Finally, the evolving startup ecosystem reflects changes in venture capital attitudes, focusing on remote work's influence on company culture.

Eric Johnson, Senior Technology Editor at the Journal of Commerce, discusses the ever-evolving world of global logistics. He delves into the intricate journey of goods, the impact of technology, and the serious challenges posed by pandemics and labor strikes. The conversation touches on the rise of AI in logistics, transforming operations and decision-making processes. Johnson also analyzes the competitive dynamics within the industry and the significant role of data in navigating economic trends, all while addressing the balance between efficiency and resiliency in supply chains.

Charlie Shrem, a founding member of the Bitcoin Foundation and one of the earliest Bitcoin exchange creators, shares his incredible journey from a traditional Jewish upbringing in Brooklyn to the forefront of cryptocurrency. He discusses how Bitcoin evolved from a niche idea to a recognized asset, recounts the meteoric rise and challenges of BitInstant, and reflects on his prison experience. In a surprising twist, he even shares how he met Justin Trudeau through a robot, showcasing the unpredictable nature of his life intertwined with Bitcoin's growth.

Adam Abbas, Portfolio Manager and Head of Fixed Income at Oakmark, dives deep into the world of credit markets. He shares valuable lessons from the TMT sector and the impact of zero interest rates on investing. The conversation touches on the evolving landscape of fixed income, including the rise of private credit and potential future defaults. Adam also discusses strategic insights for high yield investments, emphasizing the delicate balance the Fed must maintain amid economic challenges. This engaging discussion is a must-listen for anyone interested in fixed income strategies.

Eric Seufert, a leading expert on digital advertising, shares his insights on the current landscape shaped by Apple's App Tracking Transparency policy. He discusses Meta's adaptation and recovery, alongside Twitter's advertising challenges. The conversation highlights misconceptions about targeted advertising and the balance between user privacy and effective marketing strategies. Seufert also explores the rise of retail media networks and the transformative impact of AI on advertising, emphasizing the need for transparency in a data-driven world.

Sam Rines, an economist and managing director of Corbu LLC, returns to share his insights just before the upcoming election. He dives into potential market scenarios and the impacts of a split Congress. Rines discusses the strength of the US consumer amidst economic uncertainty and the Fed's role in market dynamics. He also highlights surprising resilience in sectors like travel post-COVID. Additionally, he examines strategic investment shifts from major companies and the implications for inflationary markets. Tune in for thought-provoking analysis!