The Bid

Gold and bitcoin are in the spotlight again - and for good reason. In this special narrative format episode of The Bid, host Oscar Pulido weaves together expert insights from previous Bid episodes to explain why interest in gold and bitcoin is rising now and what investors should consider before treating them as portfolio diversifiers.You’ll hear from BlackRock experts about gold’s enduring role and how growth fears, geopolitics, the U.S. dollar and real interest rates shape demand; and about bitcoin’s design - digital assets, blockchain, cross-border payments - and engineered scarcity, plus the reality of cycles and operational considerations and how both can fit into a portfolio alongside traditional holdings.Check out the previous episodes in full:133. The Next Gold Rush - original air date June 16th 2023: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7IWodwijM5Ybq1QvwOQBkw161. Crypto Currency Decoded - original air date Jan 19th 2024: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Rcxfg9rci1ZXniqRKbtRp?si=HnSkLmPsTyeSrK2LXLbwVAKey moments in this episode00:00 Introduction: Gold and Bitcoin in Focus02:14 The Role of Gold in Portfolios02:58 Gold's Relationship with Economic Factors05:49 Gold as a Diversifier and Inflation Hedge09:02 Transition to Bitcoin: Digital Scarcity09:42 Understanding Bitcoin and Digital Assets12:19 Bitcoin's Volatility and Market Cycles13:37 Bitcoin's Growing Accessibility15:30 Comparing Gold and Bitcoin as Diversifiers17:11 Conclusion: Preparing Portfolios with Gold and BitcoinFeatured experts:Gargi Pal Chaudhuri —Chief Investment & portfolio Strategist (gold)Robbie Mitchnick — Head of Digital Assets (bitcoin & blockchain)Samara Cohen — Global Head of Market Development for BlackRock , and formerly Chief Investment Officer, ETF and Index Investments (bitcoin)Jay Jacobs — U.S. Head of Equity ETFs (portfolio construction)Sources: CFA Institute report "Gen Z and Investing: Social Media, Crypto, FOMO, and Family," May 2023; Coin Metrics, as of Aug. 2023. Bitcoin predominance based on its market cap of $530B which accounts for 50% of the total market cap of all crypto-assets excluding stable coins; The Global Findex Database 2021 identifies opportunities for increasing financial inclusion, July 2022; CoinGecko, as of Jan. 2. 2023. Bitcoin predominance based on its market cap of $860 billion, which accounts for 51% of the $1.7 trillion total market cap of all cryptoassets, excluding stablecoinsgold; bitcoin; diversification; portfolio diversifiers; real interest rates; U.S. dollar; central bank buying; stagflation; digital assets; blockchain; cross-border payments; fixed supply; volatility; correlation; ETFs; access & integration; risk management; rebalancing; inflationThis content is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or a solicitation. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the listener. Reference to any company or investment strategy mentioned is for illustrative purposes only and not investment advice. In the UK and Non-EEA countries, this is authorized and regulated by the FCA. In the EEA, it is authorized and regulated by the AFM. For full disclosures, visit blackrock.com/corporate/compliance/bid-disclosures.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Retirement confidence is under pressure. While younger generations are entering the workforce with optimism, the latest Read on Retirement report reveals troubling gaps between savers, plan sponsors, and retirees. Only 38% of employers believe their employees are on track, and confidence among retirees has dropped to historic lows.In this episode of The Bid, host Oscar Pulido speaks with Jamie Magyera, Head of BlackRock’s U.S. Wealth Advisory and Retirement Business, about the findings from a decade of retirement data. Together, they explore what’s driving the confidence gap and the bold actions needed to close it.Jamie highlights three calls to action for the retirement industry: expand access to professional management, deliver guaranteed income solutions, and broaden portfolios to include private markets. She also underscores the need for education and re-enrollment so savers fully benefit from these innovations. With retirement confidence at a crossroads, this episode offers both a reality check and a roadmap for plan sponsors, policymakers, and individuals alike.Sources: BlackRock’s Read on Retirement Survey, September 2025Key insights include:·      Why retirement savers’ confidence often outpaces employers’ assessment, and what this paradox reveals.·      How target date funds and auto-enrollment are making retirement saving easier and more effective.·      Why guaranteed income solutions are increasingly vital to ensure retirees don’t outlive their savings.·      The growing importance of private markets in delivering long-term returns and diversification alongside public markets.·      Differences across generations and genders in retirement confidence — and how advice and professional management can help bridge gaps.·      How market volatility, student debt, and competing financial priorities continue to challenge long-term savers.Timestamps:00:00 Retirement Confidence at a Crossroads01:59 Key Findings and Confidence Gaps in the latest Read on Retirement Report04:40 Calls to Action for Retirement Preparedness08:39 Generational Differences in Retirement Planning10:35 Gender Gaps in Retirement Confidence12:12 Challenges and Future of Retirement Planning16:50 Personal Reflections and Advice18:36 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsCheck out episode 225 on retirement planning where we discuss what new legislation could mean for your retirement account: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4mH8LyNQFsYSV0bxEH1NGU?si=ed429467800b4617Check out this playlist on investing for retirement here: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/08Fx1iZaBwLclqpswIbjUq🔗 Learn More About BlackRock: https://1blk.co/41uwhDS 🔗 Watch and Subscribe to The Bid on YouTube: https://1blk.co/48iHOs4 🔗 Follow Us on LinkedIn: https://1blk.co/3v09q6Q 🔗 Follow Us on Twitter (or X): https://1blk.co/3NuiIOW This content is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or a solicitation. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the listener. Reference to any company or investment strategy mentioned is for illustrative purposes only and not investment advice. In the UK and Non-EEA countries, this is authorized and regulated by the FCA. In the EEA, it is authorized and regulated by the AFM. For full disclosures, visit blackrock.com/corporate/compliance/bid-disclosuresRetirement confidence, Retirement planning, Target date funds, Private markets, Capital markets, Financial security, MegaforcesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

ETFs are at the center of how investors are navigating today’s rapidly changing markets. From active ETFs to thematic strategies around megaforces like artificial intelligence and infrastructure, innovation in exchange-traded funds is reshaping how portfolios are built.In this special Ask Me Anything edition of The Bid, host Oscar Pulido sits down with Jay Jacobs, U.S. Head of Equity ETFs at BlackRock, to answer questions submitted by listeners. Together, they explore the evolving ETF landscape and how investors can better position themselves in a volatile world. Jay also highlights the link between AI and infrastructure - noting that advances in artificial intelligence require massive investments in electricity, real estate, and supply chains. For investors, the message is clear: today’s portfolios must capture both enduring themes and defensive strategies.Key insights include:The “be, beat, modify” equity framework for building portfolios: how core ETFs provide efficiency, active and thematic ETFs can aim to outperform, and outcome-oriented strategies offer risk management.Why factor investing (quality, value, momentum) demands a more tactical, systematic approach in 2025.The growing role of active ETFs as investors seek new sources of alpha in an era of lower expected returns.Why diversifying beyond U.S. equities and addressing concentration risk from mega-cap tech is increasingly important.How megaforces like AI, geopolitics, and infrastructure demand are reshaping equity markets and long-term investing themes.The role of gold and Bitcoin as portfolio diversifiers and monetary alternatives beyond traditional stocks and bonds.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Investor Interests in 202500:20 Ask Me Anything: Meet Jay Jacobs, U.S. Head of Equity ETFs at BlackRock01:14 Understanding Equity Markets: Be, Beat, and Modify04:00 Factor Exposures and Economic Environments05:57 Geographical Diversification in Portfolios07:54 The Role of Thematic Investing09:58 Active ETFs vs. Mutual Funds13:40 Exploring Alternative Asset Classes: Gold and Bitcoin15:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts🔗 Learn More About BlackRock: https://1blk.co/41uwhDS 🔗 Watch and Subscribe to The Bid on YouTube: https://1blk.co/48iHOs4 🔗 Follow Us on LinkedIn: https://1blk.co/3v09q6Q 🔗 Follow Us on Twitter (or X): https://1blk.co/3NuiIOW Active ETFs, Thematic investing, Capital markets, Megaforces, AI investing, Infrastructure investing, Diversification, Stock market trendsThis content is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or solicitation. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the listener. Reference to any company or investment strategy mentioned is for illustrative purposes only and not investment advice. In the UK and Non-EEA countries, this is authorized and regulated by the FCA. In the EEA, it is authorized and regulated by the AFM. For full disclosures, visit blackrock.com/corporate/compliance/bid-disclosuresSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Balfe Morrison, Head of Listed Infrastructure Strategies, joins to discuss the booming world of infrastructure investing. He highlights how sectors like data centers and pipelines are central to today's economy and influenced by AI and energy needs. Balfe contrasts public and private market access, revealing exciting investment opportunities. He also dives into the surge in natural gas projects and transportation innovations, making a case for infrastructure as a resilient asset class in turbulent times.

Fixed income investing is experiencing a powerful resurgence. With yields at multi-decade highs, income opportunities are abundant, yet investors must navigate uncertainty in capital markets and shifting macroeconomic dynamics. In this episode of The Bid, we explore why fixed income is once again a compelling anchor for portfolios.Host Oscar Pulido sits down with Rick Rieder, Chief Investment Officer of Global Fixed Income at BlackRock, live from the Future Proof Festival in Huntington Beach. Together, they discuss why prioritizing income over duration is the key theme in today’s bond markets, and how investors can uncover opportunities across geographies and asset classes. Rick emphasizes the importance of dynamic, flexible portfolio construction. With fixed income yields at levels not seen in decades, investors now have the chance to rethink their allocations and position portfolios for long-term growth.Key moments in this episode:00:00 Introduction01:28 Rick Rieder's High Level Insights on Fixed Income Landscape02:04 Economic Forces and Investment Strategies02:56 Global Fixed Income: Opportunities and Risks06:51 Dynamic Asset Allocation and Portfolio Management12:12 Currency Views and Market Predictions13:49 Conclusion: Staying in the Game16:16 Outro and Next Episode on InfrastructureSources: BlackRock Fixed Income Q3 Outlook, Bloomberg as of Tuesday 9th September 2025Fixed income investing, Capital markets, Megaforces, Stock market trends, BlackRock🔗 Learn More About BlackRock: https://1blk.co/41uwhDS 🔗 Watch and Subscribe to The Bid on YouTube: https://1blk.co/48iHOs4 🔗 Follow Us on LinkedIn: https://1blk.co/3v09q6Q 🔗 Follow Us on Twitter (or X): https://1blk.co/3NuiIOW This content is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or a solicitation. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the listener. Reference to the names of each company mentioned in this communication is merely for explaining the investment strategy and should not be construed as investment advice or investment recommendation of those companies. In the UK and Non-European Economic Area countries, this is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. In the European Economic Area, this is authorized and regulated by the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets. For full disclosures go to Blackrock.com/corporate/compliance/bid-disclosuresSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tony Kim, head of BlackRock's Global Technology Team, dives into AI's impact on stock markets and investment trends. He discusses the transformative AI technology stack and its implications for infrastructure spending. The conversation touches on quantum computing, highlighting its potential as a revolutionary platform, and the crucial need for cybersecurity as AI technology evolves. Additionally, they explore the societal impact of AI and the exponential growth of humanoid robots, revealing promising investment opportunities across various sectors.

Continuing the summer series, The Bid brings back some of the best episodes from the last year. Oscar’s final pick is unpacking the meaning and the power of capital markets.Capital markets are a powerful force in the global financial landscape. These markets connect long-term savings with productive uses of capital. Driving innovation, growth and job creation. But what are capital markets and how will they contribute to long-term global economic development?Samara Cohen, chief Investment Officer of ETF and Index Investments at BlackRock joins host Oscar Pulido to explore the key differences in capital market growth strategies between mature and emerging markets, how capital markets help in mobilizing investment, and the role of regulatory frameworks and market innovation in ensuring their effective functioning.Sources: “The Virtuous Cycle: The Global Potential Of Capital Markets” BlackRock, 2025Original episode aired May 9th 2025🔗 Learn More About BlackRock: https://1blk.co/41uwhDS 🔗 Watch and Subscribe to The Bid on YouTube: https://1blk.co/48iHOs4 🔗 Follow Us on LinkedIn: https://1blk.co/3v09q6Q 🔗 Follow Us on Twitter (or X): https://1blk.co/3NuiIOW Capital markets, global growth, stock markets, bond markets, capitalThis content is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or a solicitation. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the listener. Reference to the names of each company mentioned in this communication is merely for explaining the investment strategy and should not be construed as investment advice or investment recommendation of those companies. In the UK and Non-European Economic Area countries, this is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. In the European Economic Area, this is authorised and regulated by the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets. For full disclosures go to Blackrock.com/corporate/compliance/bid-disclosuresSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Tony Kim, a portfolio manager at BlackRock and expert in technology investing, shares his insights on the booming AI market. He discusses the transformative role of AI in companies and the vast investment opportunities it creates. Delving into the future, Kim highlights the revolutionary potential of quantum computing and its applications across various industries. He emphasizes the need for long-term investment strategies while addressing common skepticism about AI's immediate returns, painting an optimistic picture of the tech landscape.

Philipp Hildebrand, Vice Chairman of BlackRock, and Tom Donilon, Chairman of the BlackRock Investment Institute, join to share critical insights from Davos. They delve into the macroeconomic outlook for 2025, discussing the impact of AI and technology on the global stage. The duo analyzes escalating US-China tensions and Europe's response to geopolitical challenges. Their conversation highlights the complex global landscape, emphasizing the need for strategic adaptability among investors and policymakers amid increasing fragmentation.

So far, 2025 has been a year of sharp policy shifts and heightened macroeconomic uncertainty. With volatility becoming the new normal, how can investors stay grounded? In this episode of The Bid, host Oscar Pulido welcomes back Glenn Purves, Global Head of Macro at the BlackRock Investment Institute, to break down the firm’s 2025 Midyear Outlook.They explore why the long-term economic picture has become less predictable, how mega forces like AI and geopolitical fragmentation are reshaping global economic markets, and what “investing in the here and now” really means. From the role of private capital in funding infrastructure and energy to the balance between strategic and tactical asset allocation, Glenn shares how investors can find opportunity amid uncertainty in the economy—and what risks investors should watch for in the second half of the year.Sources: 2025 Midyear Outlook, BlackRock Investment InstituteKey moments in this episode:00:00 Introduction to 2025 Market Volatility01:55 Introducing the Investment Midyear Outlook02:46 Geopolitical Fragmentation and Mega Forces03:48 3 Investment Themes In 202505:10 Navigating Uncertainty and Risk08:47 The Role of AI and Energy in Investments13:19 Geopolitical Landscape and Trade Policies16:49 Conclusion and Key Takeaways19:30 Summer Series on The BidCheck out this playlist featuring previous Outlooks: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1xN5nUCnSM9TuHxTE5ibOe🔗 Learn More About BlackRock: https://1blk.co/41uwhDS 🔗 Watch and Subscribe to The Bid on YouTube: https://1blk.co/48iHOs4 🔗 Follow Us on LinkedIn: https://1blk.co/3v09q6Q 🔗 Follow Us on Twitter (or X): https://1blk.co/3NuiIOW This content is for informational purposes only and is not an offer or a solicitation. Reliance upon information in this material is at the sole discretion of the listener. Reference to the names of each company mentioned in this communication is merely for explaining the investment strategy and should not be construed as investment advice or investment recommendation of those companies. In the UK and Non-European Economic Area countries, this is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. In the European Economic Area, this is authorized and regulated by the Netherlands Authority for the Financial Markets. For full disclosures go to Blackrock.com/corporate/compliance/bid-disclosureseconomy, investors, macroeconomicSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.