Valley Investors Podcast with Nathan Erickson

In this episode of Valley Investors, host Nathan Erickson introduces Cameron Black, the VP, CIO, and Treasurer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona. With a diverse background from television production to finance, Cameron discusses managing substantial assets, the strategic importance of advanced degrees and certifications, and the unique challenges of overseeing investments for an insurance company.   Beyond finance, Cameron emphasizes the importance of community involvement and the personal satisfaction derived from contributing to the betterment of society. He shares insights into how investment strategies are influenced by broader economic trends like medical costs and inflation and the necessity of staying informed about emerging technologies.   Key Points From This Episode: [00:01:09] An overview of Cameron’s professional background [00:03:02] His time working in reality TV and how it equipped him with unique people skills [00:03:48] How involvement in a legal case sparked Cameron's interest in the financial aspects of pension plans [00:05:26] The decision to move to Arizona for education [00:06:25] Journey to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona [00:07:36] The Importance of the CFA Designation [00:10:23] Combining CFA with CFP and CAIA Designations [00:13:06] How Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona became an early adopter of private markets [00:15:08] Managing a multi-billion-dollar portfolio [00:19:45] How regulatory frameworks influence investment decisions in insurance companies [00:21:31] Challenges in the current interest rate environment [00:26:27] Impact of healthcare costs on investments [00:30:11] Seeking investments with tailwinds [00:34:08] Future challenges and opportunities [00:37:18] Cameron's commitment to giving back through his involvement in various boards and investment committees [00:38:36] What drew Cameron to Arizona, and what keeps him and his family rooted in the state   Links: Blue Cross Blue Shield ArizonaCameron Black on LinkedIn Nathan Erickson on LinkedIn

Welcome back to Valley Investors, where we untangle the complexities of the investment realm. In today's episode, Nathan Erickson sits down with Jeff Mindlin, the Chief Investment Officer at ASU Enterprise Partners. Jeff's extensive experience spans hedge funds, private wealth, and strategic roles in the nonprofit sector. Jeff will offer an insider's perspective on effective investment strategies, the evolving role of educational institutions in finance, and the significance of community engagement.   Jeff isn't just about numbers; his approach combines patience, educational excellence, and a hands-on perspective. Tune in to discover how his Arizona roots have influenced his professional journey, his pivotal role in ASU's innovative investment initiatives, and his dedication to making a long-term impact on education and community, only on this episode of Valley Investors     Key Points From This Episode:   [00:00:56] An overview of Jeff’s professional background   [00:07:44] Pursuing CFA for career advancement [00:10:22] CFA compared to MBA, managing nonprofit versus private wealth   [00:17:01] Asset allocation in institutional portfolios   [00:22:31] ASU's unique venture investments leveraging campus innovation and tech insights   [00:25:09] Sustaining futures and funding visions through endowments   [00:30:17] ASU's Endowment prioritizes active, measurable impact over exclusionary ESG investing   [00:37:55] The most rewarding part of Jeff’s job   [00:39:16] Jeff’s advice for students   [00:45:53] What Jeff loves about Arizona     Links: ASU Enterprise Partners Jeff Mindlin on LinkedIn Nathan Erickson on LinkedIn

Welcome to Valley Investors, where we break down the intricacies of the financial world. Today, host Nathan Erickson has the pleasure of talking to Tom Connelly, the Chief Investment Officer at Versant Capital Management. With a career spanning over 35 years, Tom brings a wealth of hands-on experience in investment and estate planning and manager research. This episode promises to dive deeply into portfolio management and investment valuation nuances. Tom will provide a backstage view into making strategic investment decisions and navigating market volatility. Recognized as an industry authority, he'll share the 'what' and the 'why' behind effective financial management. But Tom's influence extends beyond mere numbers. His client-focused approach and commitment to broader learning make him a holistic financial advisor. Tune in to find out how Tom balances a remarkable career while being influential in the economic landscape only on this episode of Valley Investors.   Key Points From This Episode:   [00:00:56] An overview of Tom’s professional background   [00:01:46] His transition from geology to finance, influenced by experiences and motivated by job instability [00:05:05] First pursued CFP and later focused on CFA, driven by his interest in investments [00:07:03] Launching a fee-only financial advisory firm focused on Canadians, capitalizing on a niche market and Bob Keats’ dual citizenship [00:10:05] Transitioning from a Canadian-focused firm to a lifestyle practice in St. Paul, balancing investment and planning, supported by a skilled team [00:14:39] Differentiating Versant as a high-level, client-oriented financial planning firm that's independent and fee-only [00:17:22] Transitioned leadership to Liz and Royce, emphasizing planning, preserving firm values and enabling employee ownership for long-term legacy [00:21:30] Shifts in the investment landscape include downward pricing pressure, growth of the RA model, increased complexity, and transformative technology [00:24:46] Evolution of finance tools and products creates opportunities but complicates choices [00:32:28] Investors face trade-offs between personal beliefs and potential financial gains [00:34:34] How awareness of behavioral biases helps investors make informed trade-offs and decisions [00:38:29] Why sticking to evidence-backed investment beliefs helps navigate market ups and downs effectively [00:45:19] Valuing Arizona's natural beauty and unique spots for relaxation    Links: Versant Capital Management Tom Connelly on LinkedIn Nathan Erickson on LinkedIn

Welcome to Valley Investors, the podcast where we delve into the world of finance, investments, and entrepreneurship. Today, our host Nathan Erickson is thrilled to chat with seasoned investment expert Harry Papp, CFA, who is the Managing Partner and Portfolio Manager at L. Roy Papp Associates. Harry's father, Roy, started the firm in 1978, and Harry and his wife, Rose, joined the firm in 1981. Harry has a fascinating background in the investment industry, and is a cornerstone of the Arizona investment community, helping families and serving on multiple, not-for-profit boards over his 40-plus-year career.       Together, they'll unravel the complexities of the financial market, from custom portfolio design to the intriguing world of bond vigilantes. Harry packs a punch with years of hands-on investment expertise. He'll give you a behind-the-scenes look into selecting individual securities, tailoring asset allocation, and the cachet that comes with the CFA designation. We'll also get a glimpse into Harry's corporate voyages learning how company activities mirror in their financial books and why timing in investment is everything.       Harry's influence doesn't stop at financial statements. He's a strong advocate for social responsibility and is deeply invested in philanthropic work. Join us to find out how he's balancing a remarkable career in finance while making a tangible impact in the community on this episode of Valley Investors.       L. Roy Papp & Associates   Desert Botanical Garden   Phoenix Zoo   Harry Papp on LinkedIn   Nathan Erickson on LinkedIn   CFA Society Phoenix

The Valley Investors Podcast gives listeners insight into the most prominent investors in the Arizona community and beyond.  We speak with founders, CEOs, and Chief Investment Officers about what brought them to Arizona, their views on investing, and their connections to the local community. Find out more at: https://www.cfasociety.org/phoenix