Odd Lots

Pierre Andurand, founder of Andurand Capital Management and a renowned expert in commodity trading, dives into the volatile cocoa market and its soaring prices, recently hitting a record $12,000 per ton. He discusses how climate issues and geopolitical factors are creating significant supply shortages. Andurand also shares insights on other commodities like coffee, orange juice, and copper, predicting similar structural shortages that could affect pricing. His analysis reveals the intricate relationships between commodity dynamics and global market trends.

Join Viktor Shvets, a Macquarie strategist with a keen eye for global macroeconomic trends, as he discusses the Federal Reserve's precarious position. He argues that the Fed has become a 'prisoner' of its own data-dependent policies. Shvets explores the implications of recent inflation data for interest rates and examines the repercussions of the Biden administration's tariffs on China. He also delves into generational shifts affecting investments and critiques the Fed's communication strategies in an evolving economic landscape.

Brad Setser, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, dives into the intriguing dynamics of currency markets and global trade. He discusses the falling Japanese yen and the factors behind its weakness, including interest rates and economic policies. Setser also explores how a weakening yuan is boosting China's exports, hinting at a potential new "China Shock." Additionally, he examines the significance of China's excavator exports as a reflection of its economic health and the complexities of U.S.-China financial interdependence.

Hugh Hendry, former hedge fund manager of Eclectica and now the writer behind Acid Capitalist, shares his keen insights on today's financial landscape. He warns of the looming risks from Chinese deflation and the

Tom Barkin, President of the Richmond Fed, shares insights from his extensive local business listening tours, revealing the economic pulse of smaller towns. Albert Lara discusses the carport industry's boom and subsequent challenges amid rising interest rates, emphasizing the need for effective financial management. John Willingham reflects on the hurdles facing textile manufacturing in a global market and the impact of COVID-19. Together, they explore the intersection of local economies, resilience, and innovative solutions to pressing issues like childcare shortages.

Mackenzie Hawkins, a Bloomberg News reporter specializing in the semiconductor industry, dives into the complexities of the CHIPS Act funding. She reveals how $8.5 billion was recently granted to Intel and discusses the challenges faced by companies like TSMC. The conversation highlights the U.S.'s effort to boost domestic chip production amid international competition, labor issues, and supply chain vulnerabilities. With a focus on the future of AI-driven demand and military implications, Hawkins provides a comprehensive look at a critical industry undergoing significant transformation.

Luis von Ahn, CEO and co-founder of Duolingo, sheds light on the fascinating interplay between humans and AI. He discusses the evolution of CAPTCHA technology and its role in training machines, creating a unique synergy between users and systems. The conversation also delves into how advanced AI is revolutionizing language learning on platforms like Duolingo, making the process more personalized and engaging. Von Ahn shares insights on the future of language education and the societal implications of AI in our daily lives.

Hiten Samtani, founder of ten31 Media and a veteran in luxury real estate, dives into the fascinating world of ultra-wealthy real estate markets. He highlights how the high-end market operates independently of local economies, with affluent buyers engaging in a global game of prestige. The discussion includes profitable branded condos, the influence of billionaires like Ken Griffin and Jeff Bezos, and the socio-economic implications of these lavish investments on local communities. Samtani also touches on the rising popularity of rustic luxury and tax strategies leveraged by the ultra-rich.

Phil Houston, a veteran CIA officer and author of "Spy the Lie," shares his expertise in lie detection and deception monitoring in business. He reveals strategies for discerning truth during corporate interactions, especially in acquisitions. Listeners learn how to identify subtle cues of dishonesty and the importance of framing questions effectively to elicit deeper insights. Houston emphasizes the psychological dynamics of lying and the art of crafting questions that promote honest communication, making his insights invaluable for investors and professionals.

Damien Ma, managing director at MacroPolo, dives into the fierce global competition for AI talent. He discusses how the U.S. and China are battling for top researchers, highlighting unique hiring strategies and geopolitical implications. The conversation explores China's rapid AI education growth and the challenges faced by other countries in retaining skilled professionals. Ma emphasizes the importance of infrastructure and job opportunities in this evolving landscape, revealing insights into the future of AI talent acquisition.