Odd Lots

Lee Buchheit, a seasoned sovereign debt lawyer with extensive experience in complex debt restructurings, dives into Venezuela's staggering $170 billion mess. He explores the heated debates surrounding who should bear the burden of this debt and discusses the implications of 'odious debt' claims. Lee also shares insights from past restructurings, such as Iraq, while addressing the role of hedge funds in the current crisis. With U.S. sanctions complicating matters, Buchheit offers creative solutions for potential recovery and restoration.

Gregory Brew, a senior analyst at the Eurasia Group and historian focused on geopolitics and energy, discusses the intricate dynamics surrounding Venezuela's oil industry following Maduro's arrest. He delves into the historical context of Venezuela's oil boom and decline due to nationalization and sanctions. Brew outlines the barriers to restarting production, the implications for regional politics involving China and Iran, and the complexities behind U.S. strategies in Latin America. He also emphasizes that current oil market prices are influenced more by OPEC+ than Venezuela itself.

Shebnam Kalemli-Oskan, an economics professor specializing in global networks and trade, dives into the intriguing discussions from the Boston Fed's annual Economic Conference. She reveals how the interconnectedness of trade and finance leaves the U.S. vulnerable to global shocks. The podcast highlights how economists approach pivotal questions, navigate egos, and the impacts of their research on real-world policy. With insights on supply chains and inflation, listeners gain a unique view of the complexities behind economic decision-making.

Bart Hutchins, the chef-owner of Butterworth's in Washington, D.C., shares insights into the thriving dining scene amid political shifts. He discusses his unique sourcing approach from Amish and Mennonite farmers, navigating post-pandemic labor shortages, and the challenges of menu design. Bart reveals how a great burger can overshadow culinary creativity and shares tips on building supplier relationships. He also reflects on the atmosphere that keeps diners coming back, balancing Instagram trends with timeless comfort.

Listeners' questions lead to intriguing discussions on diverse topics. Tracy and Joe reveal the reasoning behind unreleased episodes. Joe dives into his recent obsession with Chinese history, while Tracy shares her passion for whale-related literature. They analyze the potential of AI in capturing value and tackle the concept of market confidence amidst inflation concerns. Finally, a lighthearted debate emerges over favorite Magic cards, with a unique twist involving AI. Tune in for a blend of knowledge and entertainment!

Jan Hatzius, Goldman Sachs' chief economist, and Ben Snider, chief U.S. equity strategist, dive into the surprising developments of 2025 and the outlook for 2026. They discuss the strong GDP amidst flat unemployment, fueled by productivity gains and the interplay of tariffs. Both explore the S&P 500's projected target of 7600 and what it signals about market concentration and AI's uncertain impact on productivity. Expect a nuanced take on consumer spending and market risks, with insights into how companies are adjusting to navigate economic pressures.

Dive into the wild life of John Law, a rogue Scotsman who became a major player in France's financial revolution. Discover how his upbringing shaped his innovative monetary ideas and his foray into gambling led to a duel and murder charges. Follow his escape across Europe as he refined his theories on money and trade, proposing revolutionary concepts like the land bank. This tale intertwines history, scandal, and economics, revealing the roots of our modern monetary system.

Scott Kupor, Director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management and former partner at Andreessen Horowitz, discusses his mission to inject tech talent into the federal government. He introduces the US Tech Force, aimed at recruiting top engineers and AI experts for two-year stints. Kupor reveals challenges in attracting tech workers, emphasizing culture over compensation. He proposes merit-based hiring, abandoning degree requirements, and revolutionizing performance evaluations, all while addressing bureaucracy to streamline operations and enhance government modernization.

Rikard Bandebo, Chief Economist at VantageScore, delves into the alarming rise of auto loan delinquencies, which have reached historic highs. He explains how surging prices, rising interest rates, and increasing insurance costs contribute to this trend. Bandebo discusses the K-shaped economy and its effects on different income cohorts, highlighting why higher-income delinquencies are also rising. Additionally, he examines the impact of resumed student loan payments and the critical role of cash-flow data in assessing consumer credit health.

Jasmine Sun, an independent writer focusing on San Francisco culture and AI, alongside Zak David, managing partner at Pirsek Technologies, dive into the intriguing world of peptides. They explore how peptides, linked to weight loss and social dynamics, have become a cultural trend in tech communities. Jasmine discusses the underground peptide subculture and its implications, while Zak sheds light on the sourcing and quality control of Chinese-manufactured peptides, revealing the complexities of a burgeoning market amidst regulatory uncertainties.