Barron's Live

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

Richard Bernstein, CEO and CIO of Richard Bernstein Advisors, shares his insights as a seasoned Wall Street observer. He emphasizes the current market as the most speculative he’s seen, with overpriced assets masking high-quality, undervalued stocks that are primed for growth. Bernstein advocates a shift towards quality, dividend-paying stocks over high-volatility trading. He also discusses the impact of technology on economic growth, urging investors to consider diversification and explore non-US market opportunities.

Where do markets head from here? Barron's Senior Managing Editor Lauren Rublin and Deputy Editor Ben Levisohn size up the outlook for stocks, bonds, energy, gold, and more. We welcome your questions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What do increased hostilities in the Middle East mean for equity and energy markets? Barron's Senior Managing Editor Lauren R. Rublin and Deputy Editor Ben Levisohn check in with Keith Lerner, co-chief investment officer at Truist Advisory Services, to discuss the markets' reaction, and the outlook from here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tom Hancock, a portfolio manager at GMO and head of the Focus Equity team, dives into the nuances of quality investing. He discusses key traits that define quality stocks and the importance of balancing quality with valuation in a volatile market. Hancock analyzes technology investments, including the Magnificent Seven and NVIDIA's status as a leader. The conversation also explores current challenges in the housing market, the pharmaceutical industry, and the strategic outlook for companies like Alphabet, all while underscoring the significance of long-term investment strategies.

Barron's Senior Managing Editor Lauren R. Rublin, Deputy Editor Ben Levisohn and Michael Reid, senior U.S. economist at RBC Capital Markets discuss the outlook for financial markets, industry sectors, and individual stocks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices