Barron's Live

Blake Gwinn, head of U.S. Rates Strategy at RBC Capital Markets, discusses the Federal Reserve's recent rate cuts and the economic landscape. He provides insights into the market's reaction to Fed decisions and assesses the challenges ahead, including the state of the labor market. Gwinn emphasizes that while hiring has slowed, he's optimistic about avoiding a recession due to healthy balance sheets. He also explores inflation dynamics, Fed independence risks, and implications for mortgage rates, diving into the intricacies of macroeconomic indicators.

Roderick Snell, an Emerging Markets & Asia fund manager at Baillie Gifford, shares his expertise on the surge of Chinese stocks along with other Asian markets. He dives into what’s fueling this rally, touching on the appeal of various sectors. Snell highlights Vietnam's reform-driven potential and contrasts it with high valuations in India. The conversation also navigates anticipated Federal Reserve decisions and their possible market impacts, alongside insights into major Chinese tech companies like Tencent and Alibaba, as well as the evolving electric vehicle landscape in China.

Ben Levisohn, Senior Managing Editor at Barron's, shares his expertise on current market trends and investment forecasts. He discusses troubling market conditions for late 2025, including falling stocks and rising bond yields. The conversation highlights consumer spending, tech stock skepticism, and the role of AI in future growth. They dive into the implications of President Trump's tariff policies and Federal Reserve dynamics, while examining the importance of gold as a safe haven investment amidst economic uncertainty.

The current bull market has favored the largest of large-cap stocks. Yet, plenty of smaller companies are growing nicely, beating estimates, and shining on Main Street, even if Wall Street has overlooked their success. Barron's Senior Managing Editor Lauren Rublin and Deputy Editor Ben Levisohn speak with Greg Tuorto, a portfolio manager at Goldman Sachs Asset Management and head of the firm's US Small and SMID (small- and mid-cap) team, about the prospects for small-caps, and some of the best bargains in the sector. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

David Wessel, Director of the Hutchins Center at Brookings, shares his keen insights on the Federal Reserve's future directions. He discusses the upcoming Jackson Hole symposium and what it means for interest rates. Wessel navigates the complexities of potential rate cuts, the implications of the Fed's dot plot, and how political dynamics could influence upcoming appointments. He also examines the challenges of managing inflation, public trust, and the intricate balance between economic signals and Fed communication strategies.

Andrew Freedman, a communications and software analyst at Hedgeye, joins Tae Kim, a senior tech reporter at Barron's. They discuss how Big Tech is capitalizing on AI, analyzing the implications for giants like Alphabet and Nvidia. The guests explore the contrasting fortunes in the tech landscape, highlighting challenges for smaller companies like C3AI. They also dive into the IPO surge among AI startups and the strategic pivots of major firms towards AI to sustain growth. Insightful trends and investment opportunities are unveiled throughout the conversation.

Joining the discussion is Andrew Bary, Associate Editor at Barron's, known for his expertise on Berkshire Hathaway and investment strategies. He delves into Berkshire's recent earnings, highlighting both gains and challenges. Bary analyzes the company's substantial cash reserves and potential strategic acquisitions, and discusses the impact of new management on investment approaches. The chat also touches on Palantir's stock surge, overlooked market sectors amidst the AI hype, and the future of dividends at Berkshire under CEO Greg Abel.

Ed Yardeni, the insightful president of Yardeni Research, shares his expertise on navigating today’s volatile financial landscape. He discusses the Federal Reserve's impact on economic resilience and the role of technology in market advancements. Yardeni highlights the significance of rising U.S. productivity rates and potential market risks amid high valuations. Additionally, he explores innovations in data processing driven by AI and the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency landscape, drawing intriguing comparisons to historical market phenomena.

Jack Ablin, Chief Investment Officer and Founding Partner of Cresset, shares his wealth management expertise during a riveting discussion. The market's unpredictable nature is dissected, highlighting the impact of the Federal Reserve and the rise of AI on investment strategies. Ablin emphasizes finding value in volatile conditions, while evaluating corporate breakups and their benefits for shareholders. Listeners gain insights into the intricacies of market dynamics, asset diversification, and the contrasting wealth strategies of individuals and family offices.

Todd Ahlsten, chief investment officer of Parnassus Investments and lead manager of Parnassus Core Equity Investor Fund (PRBLX), has been a member of the Barron's Roundtable since 2019. In this year's Midyear Roundtable, to be published July 11, Todd pounds the table for "Great American Companies" with durable franchises and wide-moat businesses. Barron's Senior Managing Editor Lauren R. Rublin and Deputy Editor Ben Levisohn speak with Todd about his investment approach, economic outlook, and favorite stocks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices