

WSJ's Take On the Week
The Wall Street Journal
WSJ's Take On the Week brings you the insights and analysis you need to get a leg up on the world of money and investing. We cut through the noise and dive into markets, the economy and finance. Join The Wall Street Journal's Telis Demos and Gunjan Banerji in conversation with the people closest to the hot topics in markets to get incisive analysis on the big trades, key players in finance and business news. The duo will bring actionable insights to a range of investors and business leaders while also entertaining a broader audience with lively, relatable conversations. Episodes drop Sundays.
Episodes
Mentioned books

8 snips
Feb 2, 2025 • 24min
The Anti-AI Investment: Why This Investor Is Betting Big on Sports
Chris Marangi, co-chief investment officer of Gabelli Funds, dives into the booming world of sports investing. He discusses the soaring valuations of franchises like the Philadelphia Eagles and Knicks, emphasizing the impact of media deals and sports betting apps like DraftKings. Chris highlights the role of private equity in the NFL and the trend of institutional investments, while examining the challenges gambling poses to sports integrity. It's a lively exploration of how these dynamics are reshaping the sports landscape and attracting younger investors.

8 snips
Jan 26, 2025 • 28min
Investors' Big Question: Is the Fed Done Cutting Interest Rates?
Sonal Desai, Chief Investment Officer at Franklin Templeton Fixed Income, joins the discussion on the future of interest rates. She shares her insights on whether the Federal Reserve is done cutting rates and what indicators she'll monitor in upcoming speeches. The conversation also dives into the bond market dynamics and the implications of tariffs on investor behavior. With a keen eye on economic forecasts, Desai illuminates the challenges and opportunities facing investors in this uncertain landscape.

4 snips
Jan 19, 2025 • 26min
What Trump 2.0 Means for Banks, Crypto and More
Meg Tahyar, head of the Financial Institutions Group at Davis Polk, shares her expertise on upcoming banking regulations in a potential second Trump administration. She discusses how these changes may differ from his first term, impacting banks and cryptocurrency. The conversation highlights the regulatory landscape's influence on market dynamics, and the ongoing tension between traditional banking practices and emerging fintech. Expect insights on both opportunities and challenges for financial institutions in a changing economic environment.

6 snips
Jan 12, 2025 • 27min
Will Dealmaking Boom Under Trump? Lazard CEO Peter Orszag Weighs In
Peter Orszag, CEO of Lazard and former director of the Office of Management and Budget under Obama, engages in a fascinating discussion about the future of M&A dealmaking, expected to surge by 2025. He shares insights on how potential tariffs and a second Trump administration could reshape the financial landscape. The conversation also highlights an innovative advisory council led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, aimed at enhancing government efficiency. Plus, the hosts dive into rising bond yields and significant trends in the media and banking sectors.

Jan 5, 2025 • 25min
WSJ’s Take On the Year: Market Trends to Watch in 2025
Join Aaron Back, deputy editor at WSJ's Heard on the Street, as he breaks down the tumultuous stock market landscape of 2024. He discusses the stunning rise of companies like Nvidia and Palantir, alongside the struggles of Walgreens and Moderna. The conversation transitions to what these trends mean for investors in 2025, including insights into the undervalued healthcare sector and the emerging influence of nuclear power in tech. Additionally, Aaron highlights the growing trends in sports gambling and European market recovery, setting the stage for strategic investment planning.

12 snips
Dec 22, 2024 • 23min
Goldman Sachs Economist Jan Hatzius on His 2025 Economic Outlook
Jan Hatzius, the chief economist at Goldman Sachs, shares his insights on the future economy. He predicts how tariffs, especially on Chinese imports, will shape growth and inflation in 2025. Jan unpacks the impact of changing inflation on consumer confidence and spending power. The chat delves into the evolving ties between the stock market and economic performance, highlighting shifts in consumer behavior post-pandemic. They even touch on the holiday spirit with a light-hearted discussion about gift-giving in the face of economic trends.

8 snips
Dec 15, 2024 • 27min
Is the YOLO Trade Back? Robinhood CEO Vlad Tenev Weighs In
Vlad Tenev, Co-founder and CEO of Robinhood, discusses how the platform has evolved since its pivotal role in the GameStop trading frenzy. He shares insights on the surge in retail investing and how user behavior is shifting towards riskier derivatives. The conversation explores the fine line between investing and gambling, addressing the responsibilities that come with trading accessibility. Tenev also highlights the exciting future of retail investors in shaping market trends.

12 snips
Dec 8, 2024 • 24min
Why Restaurants Are Making a Comeback, With Toast CEO Aman Narang
Aman Narang, CEO and co-founder of Toast, a tech firm revolutionizing restaurant operations, joins the discussion on the restaurant industry's comeback. He explains how technology is reshaping dining experiences post-pandemic, from digital payments to online ordering. Despite rising food costs, innovations are driving record patronage in restaurants. Narang dives into the challenges and advancements that have helped restaurants adapt, revealing how tech has transformed the way we dine and engage with food services.

9 snips
Dec 1, 2024 • 22min
Coinbase’s Paul Grewal on the Future of Crypto Under Trump
In this insightful discussion, Paul Grewal, the Chief Legal Officer at Coinbase, dives into the intriguing potential of cryptocurrency under a possible Trump administration. He explores the excitement surrounding new regulatory expectations that could foster a pro-crypto environment. Topics include the evolution of stablecoins, the future of digital assets like Dogecoin, and the essential legislative framework needed to build consumer trust. Grewal also emphasizes the importance of bipartisan cooperation in shaping a clearer regulatory path for the industry.

Nov 24, 2024 • 28min
What Rockefeller Center’s Bond Deal Means for Commercial Real Estate
Rebecca Rockey, Deputy Chief Economist at Cushman & Wakefield, dives into the implications of Rockefeller Center's recent $3.5 billion refinancing deal on the commercial real estate market. She discusses the sector's resilience despite pandemic challenges and rising vacancy rates in offices. The conversation highlights how evolving investment patterns are transforming the market, while also reflecting on the future of office attendance and the impact of remote work on commercial spaces.