Investors' Chronicle

Alex Newman, a writer specializing in behavioral psychology and finance, joins Julian Hofmann to discuss intriguing investment insights. They dive into Ashtead's move to list in the US and its market implications. Newman elaborates on how biases affect investment decisions, advocating for awareness in behaviors. Hofmann reviews Victrex's surprising share rise amid investor optimism. They also touch on the dynamics surrounding the acquisition of fintech firm Equals, exploring its market potential and the complex landscape of investor reactions.

Julian Bishop, co-lead portfolio manager of the Brunner Investment Trust, shares insights on the DNA of great companies. He discusses how management quality, culture, and customer insights drive success. Julian emphasizes the importance of asset-light models and industry structure for sustainable competitive advantage. He also highlights the necessity of trend awareness, illustrated by Microsoft's transformation in cloud computing. Finally, the conversation touches on how a robust company culture fosters resilience, essential for long-term stability and success.

James Gundy, the Group CEO of Braemar, shares his expertise in the shipping service industry, detailing how the company operates as a key player in London’s market. He discusses the significance of building relationships and navigating market volatility, especially in light of geopolitical events. Gundy also addresses Braemar's financial recovery, upcoming investment strategies, and the importance of corporate governance in UK investments. The conversation concludes with insights on portfolio changes, including new opportunities in real estate trusts.

This week, Michael Fahy, an airline industry expert, dives into the recovery of Jet2 and EasyJet as travel demand surges post-pandemic, discussing their reputation and performance challenges. Alex Hamer, a commodities specialist, tackles the North Sea's shifting landscape, examining new tax clarity and operational hurdles amid the energy transition. The conversation also covers the innovative digital voting changes at AJ Bell, highlighting the importance of shareholder democracy and how it shapes investor engagement for the future.

In the latest episode of the IC Interviews, Val Cipriani, personal finance editor, sits down with Stefan Gries of BlackRock Greater Europe Trust. The fund is known for focusing on businesses with dependable profits and finds success even though it takes less risk than the average investor.Hear Gries’s take on Dutch semiconductor stock ASML (AMS), and how the industry will fare in light of Donald Trump’s win. The duo also cover the prospects of the Chinese and UK markets, the fund’s stock-picking methods which European sectors are ripe for investor attention.Timestamps 0:49 What the fund does2:34 Changes to the strategy6:02 Outlook on the market   8:53 US election result 11:06 Bullish versus Bearish13:46 Stockpicking17:13 Novo Nordisk 21:46 ASML 25:25 Semiconductors in the wake of Trump’s win32:57 China and post-Covid recovery 35:55 UK market38:19 Granola stocks40:39 Wider European stocks 42:42 Promising sectors Claim your first 12 weeks of Investors' Chronicle Print + Digital for just £12. You will get instant access to our website and app, plus the magazine delivered to your door every week. To start your trial, visit www.investorschronicle.co.uk/podcasttrial *After your 12-week trial you will pay just £62 every 13 weeks by direct debit. If you’re not entirely satisfied, you can cancel up to 5 business days before your renewal date and only pay the £12 already debited. This offer is for UK subscribers only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We begin with software company Sage (SGE). Shares are up and the team unpacks the drivers of this rise and explores whether investors should be concerned about competition in the industry. Illinois Tool Works (US:ITW) next. It’s larger than all but five stocks included in the FTSE 100 but remains relatively unknown on this side of the pond. Our team explore what the company does and the metrics that lead it to feature on our annual US quality screen.Last up, it’s property company Grainger (GRI). Demand has been strong this year but its share price has been relatively flat. We look at why this is the case and how the valuation appears.Claim your first 12 weeks of Investors' Chronicle Print + Digital for just £12. You will get instant access to our website and app, plus the magazine delivered to your door every week. To start your trial, visit www.investorschronicle.co.uk/podcasttrial *After your 12-week trial you will pay just £62 every 13 weeks by direct debit. If you’re not entirely satisfied, you can cancel up to 5 business days before your renewal date and only pay the £12 already debited. This offer is for UK subscribers only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

British-based luxury fashion brand Burberry (BRBY) has had a hard time of late. Our team delve into what’s gone wrong over and question whether the low valuation is attractive enough for investors to take a gamble.It’s then onto our Investment Trust Special. We explore what trusts are most vulnerable to consolidation and some that could be fruitful in the changing macroeconomic environment.Last up, it’s specialist British chemical company Croda (CRDA). The latest update shows signs of life but two profit warnings over the past 18 months could hold back its growth. Julian Hofmann looks into the details. Timestamps 1:31 Burberry 15:38 Investment trusts27:48 Croda Claim your first 12 weeks of Investors' Chronicle Print + Digital for just £12. You will get instant access to our website and app, plus the magazine delivered to your door every week. To start your trial, visit www.investorschronicle.co.uk/podcasttrial *After your 12-week trial you will pay just £62 every 13 weeks by direct debit. If you’re not entirely satisfied, you can cancel up to 5 business days before your renewal date and only pay the £1 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this discussion, Lord John Lee of Trafford, a seasoned ISA millionaire and investing aficionado, shares his insights just after the US election and the latest UK Budget. He highlights unexpected benefits from the budget for private investors and debates whether it signals a shift in investment strategies. Lord Lee delves into the potential implications of Trump’s reelection on global markets, explores niche markets for competitive edge, and reflects on how tax changes might impact family businesses and entrepreneurship.

Auto Trader’s (AUTO) recent results were not well received. A slowdown in vehicle production and its position within a tight market is squeezing growth prospects. Our experts dive into what it means for investors. It’s then on to the impact of the Budget. The panel unpacks what sectors will be most affected by the changes, and the potential cost-saving measures companies can take to mitigate rising NI contributions.Last up, bond yields. Both the Budget and the US election will alter the fiscal outlook and our team look at who the winners and losers will be. Dan Jones is joined by Mark Robinson, Alex Newman, Julian Hofmann and Hermione Taylor.Editing by Madi ApthorpeTimestamps1:23 Auto Trader13:25 The Budget21:03 BondsClaim your first 12 weeks of Investors' Chronicle Print + Digital for just £12. You will get instant access to our website and app, plus the magazine delivered to your door every week. To start your trial, visit www.investorschronicle.co.uk/podcasttrial *After your 12-week trial you will pay just £62 every 13 weeks by direct debit. If you’re not entirely satisfied, you can cancel up to 5 business days before your renewal date and only pay the £12 already debited. This offer is for UK subscribers only. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Terry Smith, Chief Executive and Chief Investment Officer at Fundsmith, shares insightful perspectives on the investment landscape while managing over £22bn of British savers' funds. He critiques the hype around Nvidia, discussing the complexities of tech investments amidst AI trends. The impact of emerging weight-loss drugs on consumer behavior and companies like Diageo is also examined. Smith emphasizes the importance of quality in companies, analyzing brands like Nike and the nuances of investing in both UK and smaller firms with growth potential.