Faith Driven Investor

In this premiere 2025 episode of Faith Driven Investor, host Richard Cunningham welcomes David Bahnsen, founder and CIO of the Bahnsen Group, alongside regular contributor John Coleman. The conversation begins with a comprehensive review of 2024's market performance, examining how corporate profits exceeded expectations despite earlier recession fears. Bahnsen provides detailed analysis of current market valuations, particularly focusing on the concentration risk in the top 10 companies of the S&P 500 and potential opportunities in small-cap stocks.The discussion shifts to the implications of Trump's upcoming presidency, with particular focus on deregulation, M&A activity, and trade policy. Bahnsen offers a detailed critique of protectionist positions on the Nippon Steel deal, while Coleman provides perspective on global security implications. The episode also features insights from Coleman's recent piece on Pax Americana and the enduring strength of American innovation and economic leadership.The conversation concludes with deeper reflection on purpose and meaning, drawing from Bahnsen's 2024 book "Full Time Work and The Meaning of Life," and exploring Christian perspectives on work as a divine calling rather than a curse. Both guests share powerful closing thoughts on God's work in history and the promise of new beginnings in 2025.Time Stamps: 00:00 - Introduction and holiday reflections 09:45 - 2024 market review 18:30 - Current market valuations and concerns 27:15 - Trump administration and economic policy 35:40 - Discussion of Nippon Steel deal 42:20 - Global security and Pax Americana 48:15 - Work and meaning 53:30 - Closing reflections

In this podcast, Samantha Couch, Vice President at Faith Driven Investor, and Justin Forman share insights on their groundbreaking 2024 conference, aiming to unite investors in faith. They discuss how wealth can create isolation and how FDI is fostering supportive communities for high-capacity investors. With a tease about a global event titled "The Riskiest Thing is to Do Nothing" set for February 2025, they emphasize the significance of intentional gatherings. Additionally, they highlight the expansion of watch parties, creating unexpected connections from Chicago to Ukraine.

Nick Bonner, a leader in faith-driven real estate with extensive experience from CBRE and the Pine Tops Foundation, discusses his journey in transforming church properties. He reveals that churches typically utilize their buildings only 5% of the week, leading to innovative models like Open Doors for shared spaces. Bonner emphasizes the $1 trillion locked in church equity and how impact investing can create community hubs while maintaining Christ at the center. His personal testimony reflects the beauty of surrendering to divine redirection in business.

Ross Roggensack, a leader in faith-driven investing and head of Oak City Consulting, shares insights on the aftermath of the 2024 election and its economic implications. He discusses President Trump's victory and the anticipated impact on financial markets, venture capital, and inflation. The conversation also touches on navigating economic uncertainty and the importance of humility in aligning with God's will. Lastly, Roggensack emphasizes the need for spiritual guidance amidst geopolitical challenges, inviting listeners to reflect on their faith in turbulent times.

Dr. Lisa Strohman, a clinical psychologist with FBI experience and author of 'Digital Distress', discusses the alarming tactics used by the pornography industry to target children. Meanwhile, venture capitalist Wes Lyons shares innovative economic solutions to combat human trafficking. They explore the role of technology in disrupting exploitation, from AI tools to safety platforms for children. The conversation also highlights the challenges of AI and deepfakes, stressing the urgent need for collaboration among tech developers, businesses, and advocacy groups.

Join Patrick Lowndes, a tech entrepreneur and founder of Pragma Advisors, along with Andrew Winker, a Bain consultant passionate about redemptive business, and Tamanno Hodjihanova, a frontier market advocate from Uzbekistan. They dive deep into the 2024 Pragma Investment Market Study, exploring the transformative potential of frontier markets. The discussion highlights the shift from traditional philanthropy to sustainable business development, the importance of local leadership, and impactful investing strategies that prioritize both faith and financial returns.

Keren Pybus, CEO of Ethical Apparel Africa, focuses on ethical jobs in West Africa, emphasizing that job creation fosters security and sustainability for families. Ronald Eshak, founder of Hacktivate, trains individuals in coding across Indonesia, showcasing innovative strategies to address joblessness. They discuss the shift from aid to trade in donor agencies, the essence of collaboration among competitors, and the power of faith-driven investing to transform lives and communities through job creation and upskilling.

Join us as we delve into the intricacies of today's economic landscape, from the Fed's recent rate cuts to the performance of the 'Magnificent Seven' stocks. John Coleman alongside Richard Cunningham offers valuable insights on private equity, venture capital, and real estate markets, while also addressing the potential impact of the upcoming U.S. election on the economy. Learn how to navigate these complex times with both financial acumen and spiritual wisdom.Takeaways: The Fed's recent rate cut is a significant shift after a long period of high rates.Historically, rate cuts can correlate with recession, but the current economic indicators are mixed.The S&P 500's performance is heavily influenced by a few large-cap stocks, known as the Magnificent Seven.Private markets are experiencing sluggishness due to fewer exits and challenges in fundraising.Real estate markets are facing unique challenges, particularly in the office and residential sectors.The upcoming election is expected to bring volatility, with differing impacts on the economy depending on the outcome.Government spending inefficiencies are a pressing issue that needs addressing.Wisdom and discernment are crucial in managing financial resources effectively.Power and money should be viewed as tools for good, not ends in themselves.Praying for wisdom in financial decisions is essential for stewardship.Chapters:00:00Introduction and Overview of Q3 202402:55The Federal Reserve's Rate Cuts and Economic Implications10:25Market Reactions and Predictions14:18Public vs. Private Markets: Trends and Challenges22:19Real Estate Market Dynamics27:23Election Year Insights and Economic Commentary43:05Wisdom and Stewardship in Financial Matters

In a heartfelt tribute to Richard Garnett, a faith-driven entrepreneur and actor who recently passed away after battling cancer, listeners are inspired by his reflections on living a life of purpose. Richard shares his journey from a struggling actor to a successful investor, emphasizing the importance of money management while maintaining values. He advocates for generosity as a transformative force, especially in adversity, and highlights how faith-driven giving can impact global missions, ultimately urging us to treasure what lasts.

In this discussion, Andrew Behrman, a Partner at Sovereign's Capital focusing on faith-driven investments, and Chris Kim, Founder of Argosy Strategic Partners specializing in secondary market private equity, delve into the intricacies of private equity and secondary markets. They explore the benefits of diversification amid rising interest rates and the growing importance of liquidity solutions. The duo also emphasizes faith-driven stewardship and the need for community engagement in navigating uncertain economic times.