All the Credit

An independent central bank is the key to providing credibility to its monetary policy choices; credibility which anchors inflation expectations and allows a central bank to manage the demand-side of the economy and meet its mandate. In this episode of All the Credit®, we highlight the importance of central bank independence, discussing its significance, potential threats, and the implications of political interference—particularly in the context of the U.S. Federal Reserve. PGIM’s Tom Porcelli, Deputy Head of Global Economics and Chief U.S. Economist, hosts this discussion with Daleep Singh, Vice Chair and Chief Global Economist, and Katharine Neiss, PhD, Deputy Head of Global Economics and Chief European Economist. Recorded on August 5, 2025.

Tyler Thorn, a Multi-Sector Portfolio Manager known for his expertise in systematic strategies, shares insights into the evolving landscape of credit markets. He discusses the synergy between fundamental analysis and algorithmic trading, highlighting how data-driven approaches can enhance decision-making. Thorn also delves into the transformative role of AI in streamlining investment processes, while addressing the complexities of the fixed income market. Listeners will discover how diversification and navigating liquidity challenges can create new opportunities for active investment strategies.

In this episode of All the Credit®, we explore the catalysts of recent market turbulence and outline the challenges posed to fixed income investors. With a focus on key market drivers, we share insights into what the current economic landscape reveals about risk, opportunity, and evolving market dynamics. PGIM Fixed Income’s Tom Porcelli, Chief U.S. Economist, hosts Gregory Peters, Co-Chief Investment Officer, and Daleep Singh, Vice Chair and Chief Global Economist. Recorded on May 29, 2025.  

Ryan Kelly, Lead Portfolio Manager at PGIM Fixed Income, and Rishav Puri, Special Situations Credit Analyst, dive into the shifting landscape of liability management in credit markets. They discuss the surge of Liability Management Exercises (LMEs) as proactive measures amidst rising interest rates. The duo highlights how strategic negotiations can balance risks and benefits, echoing the need for thorough research. They also touch on the potential for increased defaults, urging investors to navigate complexities for opportunities.

Shifts in interest rates have thrust Liability-Driven Investing (LDI) into the spotlight, reshaping pension plan liabilities and presenting new de-risking opportunities. This episode of the All the Credit® Credit Markets in Transition sub-series examines impacts on funded status, plan sponsor adaptations, and the interplay of structured products and derivatives in portfolio construction. PGIM Fixed Income’s Brian Barnhurst, CFA, Head of Global Credit Research, hosts Tom McCartan, FIA, CFA, Multi-Sector Portfolio Manager. Recorded on March 27, 2025.

Edwin Wilches, Co-Head of Securitized Products at PGIM Fixed Income, dives into the booming world of asset-based finance (ABF). He discusses how ABF is reshaping investment portfolios and the factors driving its popularity. The conversation highlights trends like music royalty securitization and the critical role of non-depository institutions in today’s credit market. Edwin also navigates the nuances of independent decision-making in ABF, emphasizing the importance of technology and specialized teams for successful investment strategies.

Shikeb Farooqui, Lead Asia Economist at PGIM Fixed Income, shares insights into China's economic outlook for 2025. He discusses potential growth challenges, including the impact of tariffs and a volatile property market. Farooqui highlights a 65% chance of achieving a soft landing despite rising social unrest and staggering youth unemployment nearing 50%. The conversation delves into geopolitical tensions with the U.S. and Taiwan, and the Chinese government's measures to restore confidence in the economy.

Michael Haigh, a U.S. Leveraged Loans Portfolio Manager at PGIM Fixed Income, and Maxwell Hausle, an Investment Grade Credit Research Analyst, dive deep into the surging demand for electricity in the U.S. They discuss how advancements in AI and data centers are driving this demand, alongside the regulatory challenges it presents. The duo evaluates the potential of nuclear energy in the mix and the economic pressures utilities face. Their insights reveal a complex landscape where regional power dynamics and rising prices affect both consumers and energy providers.

Dave Winans, a U.S. Investment Grade Credit Research Analyst at PGIM Fixed Income, dives into the intricate world of oil and energy markets. He discusses the bearish outlook for crude oil, estimating prices at $60 to $70 per barrel by 2025. With demand softening in China and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, Winans highlights the resilience of U.S. energy companies. He also examines the growth of U.S. LNG exports, especially their impact on global markets and the challenges ahead for upstream producers.

As the geopolitical landscape continues to shift in light of recent global election results, the consequential economic effects are becoming a primary focus in the investment sphere. This episode dives into the latest election outcomes in both developed and emerging nations, the growing divide in electorates, and the impact of these elections on fiscal deficits. This episode features PGIM Fixed Income’s Katharine Neiss, PhD, Deputy Head of Global Economics and Chief European Economist, Mehill Marku, Head Geopolitical Analyst, Cathy Hepworth, CFA, Head of Emerging Markets Debt, and host Tom Porcelli, Chief U.S. Economist. Recorded on July 16, 2024.