Dakota Live! Podcast

In this episode of the Dakota Live! Podcast, host Robert Morier sits down with Tom Brakke, Founder of the Investment Ecosystem, to explore the dynamic landscape of investment manager research and asset allocation. Tom's remarkable journey from portfolio manager and director of research to providing pivotal advice and education in the asset management industry offers invaluable insights into organizational design, investment process, and the art of due diligence.As a forty-year veteran in asset management, Tom shares his experiences and lessons learned over a distinguished career, highlighting the importance of adapting to change and the role of effective communication in investment management. The conversation delves into the complexities of manager research, the challenges of narrative and performance evaluation, and the critical nature of organizational design in aligning investment philosophy with operational reality.The episode also covers the impact of technological advancements and macro-environmental considerations on investment strategies and decision-making. Tom emphasizes the need for investment firms to stay agile and forward-thinking, shedding light on the significance of understanding market dynamics and the potential pitfalls of traditional investment approaches.Listeners will gain a deeper appreciation for the nuanced aspects of asset management and the critical thinking required to navigate the investment landscape successfully. Tom's perspective encourages a reflective approach to investment decisions, stressing the importance of continuous learning and open dialogue within the investment community.As the Dakota Live! Podcast continues to bridge the gap between industry thought leaders and asset allocators, this episode with Tom Brakke stands out as a must-listen for professionals seeking to enhance their understanding of the investment ecosystem and its challenges.

In this engaging episode of the Dakota Live Podcast, Robert Morier welcomes Harison Sidhu, Head of Manager Selection and Due Diligence at Fiduciary Trust Company. Join us as we delve into Harison's experience in the finance industry, covering his strategic approach to investment manager selection, the intricacies of due diligence, and his perspective on asset allocation.Fiduciary Trust Company was founded as a family office in 1885 and incorporated as a trust bank in 1928. Throughout their history, Fiduciary Trust has maintained a proud tradition of providing clients with objective and comprehensive investment management, trust, estate settlement, and other services. With over $23 billion in assets under supervision, Fiduciary Trust focuses on Investment portfolios tailored to client needs.Harison emphasizes the need for a clear understanding of how managers aim to achieve outperformance, their competitive advantage, and in which market environments their strategies are likely to succeed. He highlights the significance of in-person meetings with key decision-makers to fully grasp a strategy. Furthermore, Harison delves into the extensive research undertaken to complement these discussions, including analysis of past returns and current holdings to gauge how a strategy generated historical returns and what factors will drive future returns. This rigorous approach ensures alignment with narratives presented by managers and confirms a solid understanding of the underlying strategy.Harison also shares personal insights, from the influence of his family and mentors on his career path to his thoughts on the impact of technology and AI in investment management. His unique blend of personal anecdotes and professional expertise offers listeners valuable lessons on navigating the complexities of the investment management landscape. This episode not only illuminates the technical prowess required in finance but also the human elements that drive the industry forward. The conversation also touches on the significance of sustainability in investment decisions, reflecting on how these factors are integrated into Fiduciary Trust's operations.Harison's role at Fiduciary Trust highlights the company's dedication to meticulous investment manager selection and due diligence, ensuring that client investments are managed with the utmost care and professionalism. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the nuances of investment management and the principles that guide industry leaders in making informed, strategic decisions.

Discover insights from Catherine Ulozas, CIO of Drexel University, on successful investment strategies, transformative projects like St. Christopher's Children Hospital acquisition, and her philosophy on self-reflection in decision-making. Explore her journey in finance, Drexel Endowment's mission, team expansion, asset allocation strategies, and navigating complex investment environments. Uncover tips on empowering women in finance through mentorship and advocacy.

As Chief Investment Officer, Timothy Chubb oversees Girard’s investment process and creates strategies that are designed to meet the unique financial needs of every client. Tim passionately shares his knowledge of financial markets and the economy in the latest episode of the Dakota Live! Podcast.In this special edition release, Tim takes the Dakota Live! team through Girard’s approach to manager research and selection and what a potential client partnership looks like with their firm. Join us as we come to better understand Girard and their allocation to various asset classes and investment strategies.Legacy and leadership capture the essence of Girard’s rich history, inspired by the legacy of Stephen Girard, founder of Girard Bank and the firm’s evolution into a comprehensive wealth advisory practice under Univest Financial Corporation. The conversation highlights the journey from its roots in the early 19th century to its current position as a leader in providing innovative financial solutions. With a continuity of core values and dedication to serving clients' needs through changing times, Tim shares both the historical depth and forward-thinking approach of Girard.Girard is a comprehensive wealth advisory practice backed by the strength and stability of Univest Financial Corporation. Girard is made up of multiple affiliated entities including two investment advisor firms, a broker/dealer and the Trust Department of Univest Bank and Trust Co. With $4.5 billion in assets under management and $7.8 billion in total assets, Girard and Univest Trust Company advise clients that include private wealth, investment management, and consulting relationships for municipal pension, retirement, non-profit, and foundation assets.

In our latest episode of the Dakota Live Podcast, host Robert Morier engages in an insightful conversation with Todd Glickson, a renowned consultant and Head of the North American Investment Management Practice for Coalition Greenwich, a division of CRISIL. The discussion offers an in-depth exploration of the ever-evolving investment management landscape, highlighting the critical importance of agility for asset managers in today's fast-paced market environment.Todd shares invaluable insights drawn from his latest research paper, "The Agility Advantage," providing asset managers and allocators with actionable strategies to enhance their agility and, consequently, their competitive edge. The conversation covers a broad spectrum of pertinent topics, including asset management and portfolio construction trends, top traits associated with asset manager agility, and how allocators can identify client-centric business models in their asset management partners.Moreover, the episode delves into the significance of innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence in reshaping investment strategies and client engagement. Todd and Robert discuss the challenges of client onboarding, the nuances of client service excellence, and the implications of industry consolidation on both large firms and boutiques.This episode is a must-listen for investment professionals seeking to navigate the complexities of the investment sales ecosystem with greater agility and foresight. Join us to gain a deeper understanding of the strategies that define success in the investment industry today. Don't miss out on these critical insights that could redefine your approach to investment management, client service, and manager research and selection.

In our latest episode of the Dakota Live! Podcast, join us as we delve into the intricate world of pension fund investment with Andy Greene, Chief Investment Officer at the Toronto Transit Commission Pension Plan (TTCPP). With an impressive career spanning over 25 years in pension and investment management, Andy brings a wealth of experience and insights into managing the $8.2 billion defined benefit fund dedicated to the financial retirement security of Toronto's public transport network employees.Andy's journey from Chicago to Toronto, through various pivotal roles in the investment industry, including his tenure at OPTrust and significant contributions to the University of Wisconsin Foundation, paints a vivid picture of his profound impact on the pension fund industry. Under his leadership, TTCPP has seen substantial growth and innovation, particularly in embracing technology, private investments, and hedge fund strategies into its investment process.This episode not only explores Andy's strategic approach to balancing stability with returns in a challenging economic landscape but also highlights his successful efforts in building a dedicated investment team from the ground up. With insightful discussions on the importance of sustainability, the role of technology in enhancing investment decision-making, and the challenges and opportunities facing pension funds today, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of pension fund investment.For more insights into Andy Greene's leadership and the strategic initiatives propelling the TTC Pension Plan forward, be sure to tune into this insightful conversation.

In this insightful episode of the Dakota Live! Podcast, host Robert Morier is joined by Catharine Burkett, the former Co-Director of Private Investments at LCG Associates. Catharine shares her extensive experience in the investment industry, focusing on LCG’s strategic approach to private investments. Founded in 1973, LCG is an employee owned, full service national consulting firm headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.With a career spanning various aspects of private markets, including venture capital, private equity, and private market fund-of-funds management, Catharine offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing investors and fund managers today within private market investing.This episode delves into Catharine's journey through the investment landscape, LCG’s strategies for assessing and engaging with private market investment opportunities, and her thoughts on current market trends. Whether you're an investment professional seeking to understand the nuances of due diligence and private market manager research or someone interested in the behind-the-scenes decision-making processes within investment consulting, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and expertise.Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the dynamics of private market manager research and asset allocation and the critical importance of due diligence in achieving investment success from one of the leading investment consultants in the industry.Disclosure:The views expressed in this podcast may not necessarily reflect the views of LCG Associates, Inc. and do not constitute research or recommendation advice or an offer or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or financial instrument. This material is for informational purposes.  The opinions expressed are as of date of publication and are subject to change. The information and opinions contained in this material are not guaranteed as to accuracy or completeness. This material may contain ’forward looking’ information that is not purely historical in nature. There is no guarantee that any forecasts made will come to pass. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the listener. Past performance is not indicative of current or future results. This information provided is neither tax nor legal advice and investors should consult with their own advisors before making investment decisions.

Mili Rosen, CFA, a Senior Investment Analyst at Brinker Capital Investments joins us for the latest episode of Dakota Live! In this insightful episode, join us as we delve into a comprehensive discussion with Mili about her career journey, her role at Brinker Capital Investments, and the nuances of investment management and manager research.Mili shares her insights on various topics, including the challenges of manager research in both public and private markets, the importance of technology in investment analysis, and the approach to early-stage, emerging managers.Throughout the conversation, Mili emphasizes the importance of understanding the qualitative aspects of investment management, such as the team dynamics and culture of investment firms, alongside quantitative analysis. She also discusses the role of technology in enhancing investment research and touches on topics like liquid alternatives and digital assets in the context of modern investment strategies.The episode is informative for those interested in the world of investment management, providing a glimpse into the day-to-day responsibilities and considerations of a Senior Investment Analyst and the broader trends in the industry. Mili’s journey, from her education at Penn State University to her current role, also serves as an inspiring narrative for aspiring investment professionals.Along the way, learn what led Mili to be named one of Citywire’s 2023 Rising Stars in manager research.Disclaimer:Orion Portfolio Solutions, LLC d/b/a Brinker Capital Investments a registered investment advisor. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only, and is not intended as specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal.

In this special rerelease of one of our most insightful episodes, we revisit our enlightening conversation with Jennifer DeSisto, the Chief Investment Officer of Anchor Capital Advisors. With $7.4 billion in assets under management as of September 30, 2023, Jennifer brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in asset allocation, manager selection, and portfolio management.In this episode, Jennifer takes us through her professional journey, detailing the evolution of her career in manager research and asset allocation, and the lessons learned along the way. She offers a behind-the-scenes look at managing a diverse portfolio and balancing in-house strategies with external manager selection, highlighting the strategic approach of Anchor Capital in managing approximately $4.9 billion with external managers across all asset classes.Jennifer also delves into the crucial aspects of business management and product development within Anchor Capital, discussing how the firm adapts to market demands and technological advancements.For aspiring finance professionals and industry enthusiasts, this episode is packed with invaluable advice and perspectives from one of the industry’s leading investment minds. Whether you’re hearing it for the first time or revisiting it, this episode with Jennifer DeSisto is an essential listen for anyone interested in the dynamics of investment management and the evolving RIA landscape.

In the latest episode of Dakota Live!, we are excited to feature Chris Tessin, Founder and Managing Partner of Acuitas Investments. Chris serves as Chief Investment Officer and Lead Portfolio Manager of the Small and Microcap portfolios. Chris and his team are recognized as industry leaders in investment manager research and multi-manager portfolio management, focusing on those markets they believe are inherently less efficient.Our conversation covers the inherent inefficiencies that exist within certain global equity markets, and how Acuitas harnesses the expertise of its investment managers to exploit these inefficiencies to the fullest. With a wealth of experience behind them, Acuitas has honed the art of identifying premiere investment managers who can navigate these complex waters.One of the key features discussed in the interview is the importance of early life-cycle, high conviction investment managers. Chris sheds light on how these managers provide distinct advantages in a constantly evolving investment landscape. Along the way, Chris touches upon the significance of transparent pricing, proper resourcing, and aligned interests to mitigate issues around early-stage investments in the emerging manager space. Tune in to gain invaluable insights into Acuitas' innovative approach to investment management and their dedication to client success.This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the entrepreneurial mindset, asset allocation, global micro, and small cap equity management, or simply looking to broaden their institutional financial knowledge from a veteran allocator. Tune in to gain valuable insights into the mindset of an investment leader and founder who understands the significance of selecting investment managers in the most inefficient areas of global markets.Disclaimer:This material contains the current opinions of Acuitas and is presented solely for informational purposes. Nothing herein constitutes investment, legal, accounting or tax advice, or a recommendation or solicitation to buy, sell or hold a security. No recommendation or advice is being given as to whether any investment or strategy is suitable for a particular investor. It should not be assumed that any investments in securities, companies, sectors or markets identified and described were or will be profitable.Information is obtained from sources deemed reliable, but there is no representation or warranty as to its accuracy, completeness or reliability. All information is current as of the date of this material and is subject to change without notice.Past performance is not a guarantee of future returns. Investing in securities involves risk of loss that investors should be prepared to bear.