In this chat, Will Dowd, a Partner and Portfolio Manager at Fairlight Asset Management, shares his passion for small and mid-cap industrial businesses. He discusses Fairlight's unique investment philosophy, focusing on under-studied markets. Will outlines how to filter for hidden gems and his approach to building a resilient portfolio for the next 30 years. He also addresses common industry pitfalls that every investor should be aware of, emphasizing discipline and rigorous analysis in investment decisions.

Scott Phillips is the Chief Investment Officer of The Motley Fool Australia.Throughout this Summer Series, we're speaking to 12 accomplished investors and financial advisors to unpack their journeys in finance and the lessons they've learned along the way.In today's conversation with Scott, we're unpacking:How a cold email saw Scott find his way into the finance industryThe training process the Motley Fool uses to upskill new analystsScott's personal investing philosophy and how that has evolved from his early daysThe one ETF Scott owns as part of his portfolioThe largest stocks Scott owns in his portfolioThe advice Scott wishes to share with every young investor—------Thank you to Viola Private Wealth for sponsoring this Summer Series and helping us keep all of our content free.Managing over $2.5 billion in assets, Viola Private Wealth specialises in clear, empowering wealth solutions. Whether you're preserving wealth or planning intergenerational transfers, their boutique approach ensures personalised attention for every client.To speak to the team at Viola Private Wealth, complete the contact form on their website.—------Looking to start 2025 on the right foot?Pick up a copy of our books Don't Stress Just Invest or Get Started Investing.Want to speak to one of our hand-picked financial advisers? Fill out the form on our website and we'll put you in touch.Want more Equity Mates?Listen to our basics-of-investing podcast: Get Started Investing (Apple | Spotify)Watch Equity Mates on YouTubeFollow us on social media: Instagram, TikTokSign up to our daily news email—------In the spirit of reconciliation, Equity Mates Media and the hosts of Equity Mates Investing acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people today. —------Equity Mates Investing is a product of Equity Mates Media. This podcast is intended for education and entertainment purposes. Any advice is general advice only, and has not taken into account your personal financial circumstances, needs or objectives. Before acting on general advice, you should consider if it is relevant to your needs and read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement. And if you are unsure, please speak to a financial professional. Equity Mates Media operates under Australian Financial Services Licence 540697. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

James Miller, cofounder of Firetrail and Portfolio Manager of the S3 Global Opportunities Fund, shares his unconventional journey into funds management. He dives into how to use AI tools to refine investment strategies and assess company management teams effectively. James discusses the nuances between Australian small caps and global large caps, emphasizing the critical link between earnings and market expectations. He also reflects on diversity in investment teams and shares insights on emerging sectors like the growing market for GLP-1 medications.

Chris Wheldon, a private investor and former Portfolio Manager at Magellan, discusses his shift from public to private markets. He shares insights on identifying great businesses in this new landscape and reveals a four-letter framework for finding investment opportunities. Chris emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and disciplined strategies, tailored for both young and seasoned investors. He also reflects on how his investment philosophy has evolved over time, encouraging patience and in-depth understanding in the world of investing.

Catriona Burns, Lead Portfolio Manager at WAM Global with over 20 years in the finance world, shares her intriguing investment journey. She discusses the significance of compounding and finding long-term structural winners. Catriona challenges the idea that volatility equals risk, suggesting it can create opportunities. She emphasizes investing in high-quality companies, outlining her evolving philosophy throughout her career. Finally, she offers insights on setting up a resilient portfolio for the next 30 years, highlighting patience and strategic thinking.

Elise Kennedy, an investment analyst at Schroders with a rich background including stints at Morgan Stanley and Jarden, dives into her journey in finance. She discusses transitioning from sell-side to buy-side roles and shares insights on current investment opportunities, particularly in technology and healthcare. Elise emphasizes her investment philosophy shaped by the past year's market lessons and the importance of diversification in strategies. She highlights the growing presence of women in finance and the need for tailored investment approaches.

Geoff Wilson, Chairman and Chief Investment Officer of Wilson Asset Management, shares insights from his extensive career in finance. He discusses the successful growth of Wilson into ten listed investment companies and the unique valuation methods they employ. Listeners learn about the importance of management quality and earnings growth in investment decisions. Geoff also shares invaluable lessons for young investors, emphasizing the significance of understanding consumer trends and innovative charitable approaches.

Rikki Bannan, the Executive Director of Small Caps at IFM Investors, shares her expertise in biotech investing, discussing standout stocks like Telix and Clarity that have soared in 2024. She emphasizes the importance of skepticism in investing and staying true to your thesis. Rikki also reveals three key lessons from her career, including the need for thorough research and understanding intrinsic value. This conversation is a treasure trove for young investors, exploring the dynamics of small-cap stocks and the art of effective portfolio management.

Ben Griffiths, co-founder and executive chairman of Eley Griffiths, brings over 30 years of investment expertise to the conversation. He emphasizes the overlooked potential of small-cap stocks and shares his unique strategies for building a 30-year investment portfolio. Ben discusses how he educates his children about financial principles and the importance of quality management in investments. He underscores diversification and long-term thinking as keys to successful investing, making this a masterclass in prudent wealth-building.

Peter Nevill, a former Australian test cricketer and now a financial advisor, shares his journey from sports to finance. He emphasizes the importance of delaying instant gratification in investing and opting for productive assets. Peter discusses strategic insights for high-net-worth portfolios, including unconventional opportunities like water rights. He addresses the financial challenges athletes face post-career and underscores the need for financial literacy and tailored advice for sustained wealth and security.