Money For the Rest of Us

Max Belmont, a seasoned portfolio manager specializing in gold at First Eagle Investments, joins Greg Dowling, Chief Investment Officer at FEG Investment Advisors. They discuss gold's appeal as a hedge against inflation, contrasting it with digital assets like Bitcoin. The conversation highlights gold’s historical significance, its role as a safe haven during economic turmoil, and strategies for incorporating it into investment portfolios. They also touch on the growing demand for gold amid rising global tensions, underscoring its enduring value.

Dive into the world of closed-end funds with fascinating discussions on their unique traits compared to open-ended mutual funds and ETFs. Explore various investing strategies, including opportunistic trading and the buy-and-hold income factory. Discover the impact of activist investors and the importance of reinvesting distributions. Strategies for selling after gaining 5% are also examined, providing a comprehensive look at how to manage and profit from closed-end funds.

Trade deficits are reshaping the U.S. economy, making the country poorer compared to the past. Discover how competitiveness can be enhanced through strategic investments and the interplay of savings and investment. The discussion highlights the relationship between U.S. savings rates and trade imbalances, emphasizing the implications of currency strength and rising debt. Learn about the complexities of asset bubbles and how trade deficits can paradoxically lead to better investment opportunities. Fascinating insights into economic productivity and global competitiveness await!

The discussion kicks off with how tariffs are reshaping U.S. stock markets amid recession fears. Delve into Trump's use of tariffs as a strategic tool to boost domestic manufacturing. The complexities of the U.S. dollar as a reserve currency are explored, revealing its mixed blessings. Tensions between trade deficits and currency valuation are analyzed, showcasing historical context and potential strategies. Finally, the podcast navigates the risks associated with a weakening dollar and the potential fallout for global trade.

Howard Smith, a veteran in Japanese investments and Partner at Indus Capital, joins Greg Dowling, Chief Investment Officer at FEG Investment Advisors, to discuss why Japan may surprise investors in the coming decade. They debunk myths surrounding Japan's investment climate, focusing on the undervalued yen and improving corporate governance. The conversation highlights booming opportunities in tech and addresses fiscal sustainability amid Japan's debt. Cultural nuances and economic history enrich their insights, making Japan a captivating investment destination.

Dive into the controversial idea of a U.S. Strategic Bitcoin Reserve and its questionable relevance. Explore the fallout from the largest cryptocurrency exchange hack and the staggering losses tied to meme coins, including a Trump-themed token. Discover how quantum computing poses threats to current financial security. Despite the risks, uncover the positive impacts of cryptocurrency on individuals and businesses, offering new avenues for financial stability and reduced costs in the evolving digital economy.

Discover how deferred income annuities can enhance retirement income more effectively than immediate annuities or bond ladders. Explore the fascinating concept of mortality credits and how they act as a powerful return booster. Learn how these credits can lead to an additional 1% to 1.5% in annualized returns over decades. Plus, find out the key factors to consider when deciding if an annuity fits into your retirement strategy.

Discover the fascinating world of sovereign wealth funds and their role in national economies. Learn why the U.S. doesn't fit the traditional mold for such funds and the complexities of making one work. Explore how these funds balance political motivations with the need for high returns, and the potential risks involved, including crowding out other investments. The discussion also touches on global examples, like those in Norway and China, and how they manage substantial national wealth.

Ben Inker, Co-head of asset allocation at GMO, shares his insights on contrarian investing, drawing from his experiences influenced by mentors like Jeremy Grantham. He and Greg Dowling, CIO at FEG Investment Advisors, delve into the significance of deep value stocks in today's market. They discuss the challenges posed by the rise of passive investing and the concentration risks in large-cap tech stocks. Together, they explore emerging opportunities in underappreciated sectors, like Japanese small caps, offering valuable perspectives for savvy investors.

Discover the intriguing world of private credit and direct lending, where companies are opting to stay private. Learn how this investment avenue contrasts with traditional leverage loans, and why it's on the rise. The discussion highlights the flexibility and direct connections to borrowers that private credit offers. Explore various investment opportunities, from business development companies to closed-end funds, as well as the risks tied to shifting interest rates. This is an insightful dive into a growing financial niche!