Making Sense

Montserrat Serra-Janer, Global Head of Private Market Sales at J.P. Morgan, and Afrim Zeka, Head of Product at Fusion J.P. Morgan, share insights into the evolving private market landscape. They discuss the shift towards hybrid strategies, the merging of liquid and illiquid assets, and the pressing challenges of data management. The duo emphasizes the importance of a unified data model for improved decision-making and highlights how Fusion's no-code platform empowers users. They also explore the future role of AI and technology in transforming financial markets.

Gurps Kharaud, Global Head of Equities Digital Markets at J.P. Morgan, and Franc Chioccola, Head of Vida Portfolio Solutions, dive into the future of portfolio management. They discuss the rapid evolution of digital trading, detailing how automation is reshaping client interactions and enhancing transparency. The duo highlights the innovative Vida platform, which fosters collaboration and data sharing, adapting to the changing demands of investors. They also explore the balance between technology and human insight in decision-making and predict future trends in the industry.

Mazen Rizk, Founder and CEO of Infinite Roots, takes us into the world of mycelium-based food technology. He shares his journey from Lebanon to Germany, highlighting how cultural experiences influence his innovative approach to sustainable agriculture. The conversation covers the mycelium revolution as a solution for food security and climate change. Rizk also emphasizes the significance of networking at events like the J.P. Morgan Clean Tech conference, and the essential role of partnerships in navigating challenges within the food tech landscape.

Meridy Cleary, from the FICC Market Structure & Liquidity Strategy team, talks with Juan Badia, the Head of Local Markets in Mexico, about the evolving landscape of Mexico’s FX and rates markets post-election. They explore the surge in electronic trading and the increasing allure of the Mexican peso for global investors. Key issues discussed include the shift toward T plus one settlement, the anticipated introduction of a new TA reference rate in 2025, and the disparity between the fully electronic FX market and the more traditional rates market.

Mike Feroli, Chief U.S. Economist at J.P. Morgan, and Phoebe White, Head of U.S. Inflation Strategy, dissect the recent July employment report, revealing a modest rise in unemployment and wage growth declines. They analyze the participation rates and sector-specific job gains, while also addressing the broader economic growth of just 1%. The duo explores the Federal Reserve's potential for rate cuts amidst a softening economy, highlighting the market’s expectations for continued easing through next year.

Paul Uren, the Head of Asia Pacific Investment Banking, dives into the dynamic region's financial landscape. He discusses the sharp rebound in investment banking following a challenging start to the year, highlighting Japan's reforms and the surge in Indian IPOs. Uren also explores the revival of investment activity in China, spotlighting sectors like energy transition. He emphasizes the importance of value creation through M&A amid cautious investor sentiment and examines the impact of political climates on cross-border deals. A must-listen for finance enthusiasts!

Joining the discussion are Andrew Tyler, Head of US Market Intelligence; Ellen Wang, a key member of the US Market Intelligence team; and John Schlegel, Head of Global Positioning Intelligence. They delve into the recent sell-off in US equities and the implications of the current earnings season. Tune in as they analyze how rising bond yields impact tech stocks, advocate for a barbell trade strategy, and highlight the importance of macroeconomic factors in shaping future equity trends.

Jahangir Aziz, Head of Emerging Markets Economic Research, and Sajjid Chinoy, Chief India Economist, delve into the potential economic shifts following India's election results. They discuss how a new coalition government may influence policy and invigorate financial markets. Key topics include the rise in global investor confidence due to infrastructure growth, challenges facing private investment, and the impact of fiscal policies on domestic demand. The duo also offers an optimistic forecast for India's economic prospects over the next decade.

Former professional athletes Mohamed Sbihi and Jessica Eddie discuss their transition to finance at J.P. Morgan, reflecting on their athletic careers and the transferable skills needed. They share insights on training intensity, mindset in rowing, navigating corporate challenges, and parallels between sports and the corporate world.

Global economists and analysts from J.P. Morgan discuss the market outlook for the second half of 2024. They cover topics like global growth forecasts, equities performance, currency trends, U.S. and international rates, commodities, credit markets, and emerging markets outlook. Insights on market uncertainties, business performance, consumer challenges, and asset class analysis are explored for a comprehensive look at the mid-year market forecast.