

The Synopsis
Speedwell Research, LLC
Speedwell Research spends hundreds of hours researching public businesses each month and in "The Synopsis" they share their key learnings. Most business podcasts are superficial and assume their listeners are unsophisticated. In contrast, The Synopsis trusts listeners are interested in learning about complex, industry-specific issues, so long as they are explained clearly. We cover businesses from inception to current day, coupling business analysis and an investors lens. Start listening today to become a better analyst and investor.
Episodes
Mentioned books

49 snips
Oct 22, 2024 • 1h 12min
Interview. Sidecar Investor on Giving a Great Manager the Wheel
In this engaging discussion, the Sidecar Investor, a Twitter-based investment strategist known for his collaborative approach, dives into the importance of partnering with exceptional managers. He highlights key topics such as the balance of trust and scrutiny in management analysis and the nuances of position sizing. The conversation also covers how macroeconomic indicators and resiliency in industries shape investment decisions, and shares reflections on past investment regrets, including lessons learned from industry giants like Warren Buffett.

Oct 18, 2024 • 14min
Article. Minimum Viable Products versus Maximum Possible Products
In this episode of The Synopsis we read our latest Speedwell Research memo. If you prefer to read instead of listen to the memo, you can find access to the article below. This weeks memo is "Minimum Viable Products versus Maximum Possible Products " Memo Link: www.SpeedwellMemos.com/mvps-versus-mpps -*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*- Show Notes (0:00) – Housekeeping (1:06) –Memo Reading Starts (13:24) – Closing Comments -*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*- Purchase a Speedwell Membership to gain access to Speedwell’s Extensive Research Reports, Models, Company Updates, and more. Speedwell Research's main website can be found here. Find Speedwell's free newsletter here. -*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*- Twitter: @Speedwell_LLC Threads: @speedwell_research Email us at info@speedwellresearch.com for any questions, comments, or feedback -*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*- Disclaimer Nothing in this podcast is investment advice nor should be construed as such. Contributors to the podcast may own securities discusessed. Furthermore, accounts contributors advise on may also have positions in companies discussed. Please see our full disclaimers here: https://speedwellresearch.com/disclaimer/

16 snips
Oct 16, 2024 • 45min
Dialogue. Explaining The Reverse DCF
Discover the intriguing world of Reverse DCF analysis and its critical role in investment evaluation. The discussion covers common pitfalls and the importance of informed assumptions for accurate valuations. Listeners will appreciate insights on cash flow drivers and the impact of market conditions on growth projections. A unique basketball analogy illustrates the unpredictability of investment assumptions while highlighting diverse investor philosophies. Join the conversation for a deeper understanding of navigating investment decisions.

Oct 9, 2024 • 1h 42min
Interview. Founder-led Companies, Serial Acquirers, & High Cash Returning Businesses with Investor Andy "Biz Almanac"
In this wide spanning interview episode we talk with Biz Almanac's Andy on investment philosophy, the differences of Founder-led businesses, as well as many different companies he's written up on his Substack, including TerraVest, Alimentation Couche Tard, Burford, Progressive, TFI, Old Dominion, Spotify, Mercardo Libre, and more! Find out more about Biz Almanac's research and writings here and follow him on Twitter @BizAlmanac. -*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*- Show Notes (0:00) Intro (0:59) What is your Investment Philosophy? Why focus on Owner Operated Businesses? (13:47) — How do you pick companies to vette? (19:51) — When to Sell and we discuss a Controversial Study's Conclusions (34:30) — TerraVest (45:54) — Alimentation Couche Tard (58:09) — Alternative Asset Managers, Apollo Group (1:04:09) — Burford, Niche Area of Littigation Finance (1:13:02) — Progressive Insurance (1:15:26) — What is LTL? TFI and Old Dominion (1:23:29) — Spotify, Daniel Ek as a Founder (1:30:02) — Mercado Libre, Developed Markets vs Developing Markets (1:41:00) — Take Aways and Closing Comments -*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*- Become a Speedwell Member here to gain access to *all* of our in-depth research reports and more! Sign up for Speedwell's free newsletter and weekly memos here *-*-*- Follow Us: Twitter: @Speedwell_LLC Threads: @speedwell_research Email us at info@speedwellresearch.com for any questions, comments, or feedback. -*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*- Disclaimer Nothing in this podcast is investment advice nor should be construed as such. Contributors to the podcast may own securities discusessed. Furthermore, accounts contributors advise on may also have positions in companies discussed. Please see our full disclaimers here: https://speedwellresearch.com/disclaimer/

6 snips
Oct 3, 2024 • 20min
Article. Investing is Just Answering a Series of Questions: Explaining the Reverse DCF
Dive into the world of investment valuation with insights on reverse discounted cash flows. Discover how this approach enables better assessment of future cash flows and intrinsic value. Learn about META's financial dynamics, focusing on the effects of revenue growth assumptions. The discussion emphasizes the importance of conservative estimates in navigating uncertain markets. Unravel the intricate balance between expected returns and associated risks in modern investing.

5 snips
Sep 27, 2024 • 3h 16min
Company. Costar Group: From Basement to Billion Dollar Global Real Estate Authority
Andy Florance, the founder of CoStar Group, recounts his journey from a Princeton dorm room to leading a billion-dollar real estate data powerhouse. He shares insights on the company’s rise amidst fierce competition, including the strategic acquisition of Apartments.com that propelled its growth. Florance discusses the challenges of transparency in real estate data and the evolving marketplace dynamics as CoStar aims to conquer new sectors like Homes.com. Tune in to discover his thoughts on navigating market cycles and leveraging data for continued success.

7 snips
Sep 5, 2024 • 41min
Dialogue. Secrets from the Sell-side
Discover the hidden truths behind sell-side price targets and what they really mean. Learn how pressures from corporate relationships and job security can skew analysts' recommendations. Dive into the legacy of the tech bubble and its impact on current forecasting practices. The episode also uncovers the ethical dilemmas faced by sell-side analysts and why staying in consensus often trumps individual insights. Get ready for a thought-provoking look at the financial industry's complexities!

9 snips
Aug 23, 2024 • 21min
Article. What You Don't Know About Sell-side Price Targets
Delve into the hidden pressures that influence sell-side analysts and their stock price targets. Discover how financial incentives can compromise objectivity and independence. Explore the challenges faced in a volatile market and the complexities of career risk and corporate relationships. Learn to navigate the conflicting pressures that analysts encounter, prompting listeners to critically assess recommendations and understand the potential biases at play. This insightful discussion sheds light on the intricate dynamics of investment analysis.

16 snips
Aug 15, 2024 • 57min
Dialogue. Evolution and Floor & Decor 2Q24 Business Update
Dive into a world of strategic gaming evolution and flooring industry dynamics. Learn about Evolution's record revenue and innovative game strategies shaping player engagement. Discover the significant acquisition by Galaxy Gaming and its market implications. Meanwhile, explore the contrasting paths of Floor & Decor's resilience against LL Flooring's turmoil. The impact of rising interest rates and inflation on consumer behavior adds to the complexity of the industry's landscape. Insights on operational challenges and growth strategies keep the conversation engaging!

Aug 9, 2024 • 16min
Article. Coupang Business History
Discover the fascinating journey of Coupang, from its humble beginnings to becoming a powerhouse in South Korea's retail market. The founder faced numerous challenges, but strategic changes allowed for a remarkable transformation. Dive into the company’s commitment to a customer-centric model, enhancing logistics that revolutionized online shopping in the region. This exploration highlights how innovation and resilience shaped Coupang's success story.