Knowledge at Wharton

Alesia Haas, CFO of Coinbase, and Michelle Lai, a board member of Electric Coin Company, dive into the fintech revolution. They discuss how cryptocurrencies are becoming mainstream assets and explore innovations in blockchain technology that enhance user experience. The guests highlight the role of stable coins in reducing volatility and the importance of clear regulations for Central Bank Digital Currencies. They also touch on how trust and culture are evolving in finance, catering to younger generations seeking transparency.

Tobias Adrian, financial counselor and director at the IMF, discusses the fast-paced integration of AI into finance and the regulatory challenges it presents. He highlights the dual nature of AI, noting its potential for market efficiency versus the risks of explainability and accountability. The conversation emphasizes the need for global regulatory cooperation to address cross-border challenges and individual rights while balancing innovation with stability. Adrian advocates for ongoing dialogue to ensure AI benefits the financial sector safely.

Professor Itay Goldstein interviews Bloomberg columnist Matt Levine to examine the GameStop and AMC stock saga and the powerful influence of social media on market events. The discussion highlights the role of behavioral finance in shaping investor actions and how social trends can disrupt financial markets on a global scale.This discussion is part of a special series called “Future of Finance.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Wharton’s Pinar Yildirim untangles the relationship between charitable and political giving, which are both on the rise. This Ripple Effect podcast episode is part of a series on “Charitable Giving.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Professor Itay Goldstein is joined by Hyun Song Shin, economic adviser and head of research at the Bank for International Settlements, and Loretta Mester, former President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. Together, they explore the 2023 banking crisis, focusing on the collapse of Credit Suisse, Silicon Valley Bank, and other small to mid-level banks, while analyzing regulatory gaps and future protections for the banking system.This discussion is part of a special series called “Future of Finance.” Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In an insightful discussion, Teresa Amabile, an esteemed researcher on creativity and motivation from Harvard, teams up with Kathy Kram, an expert in adult development from Boston University. They delve into the emotional and psychological challenges of retirement, emphasizing the importance of meaningful work and social connections. Through intriguing research, they explore fears surrounding retirement, diverse pathways to fulfillment, and the need for community support. Their collaborative ten-year journey offers valuable insights into living your best life post-career.

Joao Gomes, an expert from Wharton, discusses the alarming increase in the national debt and the failure of political candidates to address it during election discussions. He emphasizes the dire need for fiscal accountability and the importance of restoring trust in government. Gomes also highlights the implications of an aging population and the urgent strategies needed to rejuvenate economic growth. He warns against over-reliance on foreign investments and calls for bipartisan cooperation to tackle these pressing financial challenges.

Kartik Hosanagar, a Wharton professor and co-director of AI at Wharton, discusses the transformative power of AI in various sectors. He highlights how AI can foster innovation, particularly in sustainable development through human-AI collaboration. Hosanagar delves into the role of generative AI in patent analysis and its potential to simplify complex data relationships for better decision-making. He also compares the effectiveness of AI chatbots like ChatGPT to traditional search engines, revealing insights into user efficiency and satisfaction.

Shemin Lu from Temple University's Global Institute for AI discusses how AI can unleash employee creativity by automating repetitive tasks. Emma Wiles dives into the world of AI-enhanced hiring, explaining how improved resumes can significantly increase job seekers' chances of success. They explore how AI not only enhances workplace innovation but also urges a reevaluation of job designs to prioritize employee welfare and job satisfaction. The conversation sheds light on the important intersection of technology, creativity, and work-life dynamics.

Jonah Berger, a Wharton marketing professor renowned for his expertise in social media engagement, dives into the power of word choice for influencers. He discusses how sensory language can transform communication, enhancing emotional connections with audiences. The conversation reveals that specific words boost trust and authenticity, transforming influencers into genuine advocates rather than mere endorsers. Berger also shares practical tips for influencers looking to improve engagement without abandoning their established strategies.