Marcie Frost, CEO of CalPERS, leads America’s largest public pension fund, managing over $500 billion in assets. She shares her inspiring journey in public service, emphasizing mentorship and networking. The conversation dives into asset allocation strategies and the balance between sustainability and returns. Marcie discusses the fund's increasing focus on infrastructure investments and the challenges of public scrutiny. She offers valuable advice for women in finance, highlighting the importance of organizational culture and effective leadership.

General Sir Patrick Sanders, a distinguished British military officer and former chief of the general staff, revisits pressing geopolitical dynamics. He discusses the stark comparison between today’s global affairs and those of the 1930s. The conversation dives into Trump’s foreign policy, especially regarding Russia and the Middle East. Sanders highlights China’s escalating influence and the urgent strategic choices facing the West. The implications for investment in defense and AI sectors amid these tensions are also explored, shedding light on a rapidly changing landscape.

Scott Guthrie, a veteran at Microsoft, shares insights on the transformative power of AI in finance, productivity, and energy. He emphasizes the importance of looking at long-term trends, urging investors to consider a 5-10 year horizon for AI advancements. Guthrie discusses Microsoft’s substantial investment in 500 new data centers and the partnership with LSEG to enhance financial services. The conversation also covers regulatory challenges and the balance between innovation and responsibility, highlighting AI's role in shaping the future.

In this lively discussion, Anthony Scaramucci, a Harvard Law graduate and former White House Communications Director, shares his bold insights on Trump’s potential return and the implications for democracy. He passionately defends crypto, predicting a tenfold rise, and critiques current immigration policies shaping America’s identity. Scaramucci dives into tackling national debt, arguing for thoughtful solutions, while drawing intriguing parallels between Bitcoin and gold as transformative assets. His energetic take on resilience in finance is both inspiring and thought-provoking!

Joel Greenblatt, a legendary investor and author, shares his wealth of knowledge from over 20 years at Columbia Business School and founding Gotham Asset Management. He emphasizes the importance of patience in investing, detailing how thorough valuation can lead to market recognition. Greenblatt discusses the active versus passive debate, stressing that passive investing suits those less equipped for in-depth analysis. He also highlights learning from investment mistakes and the significance of recognizing market inefficiencies for long-term success.

Mark Delaney, the Chief Investment Officer of AustralianSuper, shares insights from nearly 20 years at Australia's largest super fund. He discusses the evolution of Australia’s pension industry and how consolidation has benefited pensioners. Mark highlights the importance of active management over passive strategies, emphasizing infrastructure as the 'ballast in the boat.' He also explores global equities, private equity preferences, and his unique approach to commodity exposure, all while humorously noting how even markets can't distract him while surfing!

Ian Charles, co-founder of Arctos, dives into the sports investment revolution, highlighting their portfolio that includes Liverpool FC and the Boston Red Sox. He discusses the surge of new investors and the economic dynamics behind major sports franchises. Ian emphasizes the role of data in decision-making, the impact of fan engagement, and the barriers to profitable growth. He also explores the contrasting investment landscapes of North American leagues vs. European football, shedding light on strategic partnerships and the future of sports finance.

Colm Kelleher, Chairman of UBS and a pivotal figure in banking, shares insights from a remarkable career including his tenure as President of Morgan Stanley. He discusses the critical lessons learned during the Great Financial Crisis and the intense pressure of leadership during turbulent times. Colm reflects on UBS's recent Credit Suisse acquisition, the essence of banking culture, and the evolving landscape of the financial sector. He also delves into regulatory challenges, the role of large banks amidst fintech disruption, and the strategic future of UBS.

Thought-provoking, amusing, self-critical, rich with anecdotes, laced with good advice, and large servings of humility, you might not automatically assume I’m describing the book, titled 'On Leadership', just published and written by Sir Tony Blair. The discussion starts with the essential need for a leader to identify the priorities, to determine the plan, and to pursue its execution. Sir Tony Blair discusses meeting roadblocks and responses, and why the leader must stay resolute. He then opines on international affairs today; including thoughts on China, India, Russia and the Middle East. He covers higher education, lessons from Singapore’s ‘economic miracle’, and the challenges of immigration.  He shares perspectives from the Tony Blair Institute, which today advises over 40 countries, how technology can promote major leaps forward, reasons for optimism, why humility is key and why there’s no substitute for hard work! ​​The Money Maze Podcast is kindly sponsored by Schroders, IFM Investors and the World Gold Council. Sign up to our Newsletter | Follow us on LinkedIn | Watch on YouTube

Cliff Asness, Co-Founder and CIO of AQR, shares his insights into the investing world, emphasizing the importance of global diversification. He discusses the intriguing concept of "volatility laundering" in private equity, where infrequent valuations can mislead investors about risk. Asness also explores market efficiency, pointing out its nuances and the U.S.'s recent outperformance. With a personal touch, he reflects on philanthropy, advocating for concentrated giving to maximize impact.