Icons and Ideas with Peter Mallouk

Shawn Achor, a happiness researcher and author known for his insights into positive psychology, shares fascinating ideas on happiness and success. He discusses the phenomenon of 'happiness anxiety' and its impact on well-being. Achor emphasizes the power of social connections as a key predictor of happiness, supported by research from Harvard. They explore practical habits like gratitude, which enhance joy and reduce loneliness, and address misconceptions about happiness. Achor's personal journey adds depth to his message about the transformative effects of small daily practices.

Jeremy Siegel, a renowned economist and Wharton School professor, shares his insights on long-term investing and market behaviors. He argues that stocks remain the most stable asset class over time, while bonds falter against inflation. Siegel critiques COVID-era fiscal policies, linking them to rising housing prices that left many Americans behind. He warns of cybersecurity risks and discusses the potential of cryptocurrency as a low-fee payment alternative. Ultimately, he celebrates America's spirit of innovation and resilience.

Retired four-star General David Petraeus, former CIA Director and current Chairman of KKR Global Institute, delves into the evolving global landscape. He discusses how the reversal of globalization and current geopolitical tensions are reshaping investment risks. Petraeus highlights the significance of drones in modern warfare and analyzes the Ukraine conflict's dynamics. He also shares insights on Israel's objectives in Gaza and warns about the strategic challenge posed by China. His thoughts on AI's role in driving productivity add a forward-looking perspective to the conversation.

Marc Rowan, CEO of Apollo, a leading figure in private markets, explores the booming world of private credit and its potential. He defines private credit’s vast $40 trillion landscape and discusses its rising popularity amid current market conditions. Rowan highlights the convergence of public and private markets and the importance of origination and valuation in distinguishing successful investment managers. Delving beyond finance, he shares insights into Apollo's culture and his personal passions, including mountain biking and restaurants.

Larry Fink, Chairman and CEO of BlackRock, shares his inspiring journey from Southern California to Wall Street, highlighting a $100M loss that shaped BlackRock's risk-first culture. He discusses the importance of optimism in America's messy landscape, which drives innovation. Fink touches on pressing concerns like U.S. deficits and the need for private capital, as well as the evolving landscape of crypto and AI. He emphasizes the enduring value of human connection amidst technological change, and his legacy aims to foster strong leadership at BlackRock.