Making Money

Joining the discussion is Ed Conway, Economics Editor for Sky News and author of Material World, who dives into the crucial materials driving our economy. He reveals the significance of lithium, copper, and other key resources, connecting them to the modern technologies we utilize daily. Ed highlights China’s dominance in battery production and the complexities of global supply chains. He also discusses the environmental impacts of mining and the pressing need for sustainable practices to achieve net-zero carbon emissions.

Katie Martin, a seasoned markets columnist for the Financial Times and the host of the Unhedged podcast, shares her insights on the impending market shifts as Trump potentially reshapes tariffs. She discusses navigating inflation, the challenges posed by China in the AI sector, and the disconnect between financial markets and everyday life. As viewers prepare for possible economic turbulence, Katie emphasizes wise investing strategies and explores the potential economic opportunities in post-conflict Ukraine, weaving in humor with a debate on kitchen gadgets.

Olly Richards, a successful entrepreneur and former jazz musician who speaks eight languages, shares his unique journey from music to education. He discusses the tension between enjoying life now and planning for the future, drawing inspiration from his musical background. Olly argues for prioritizing personal growth over mere savings in your 20s and emphasizes the simplicity of mastering personal finance like learning a language. He also highlights the importance of networking, continuous learning, and following one’s passions to unlock business opportunities.

Join Paul Todd, COO of Nest Invest, one of the UK's largest pension schemes, as he dives into the intricacies of pension investments. He discusses the impact of auto-enrollment on retirement savings and the vital need for personalized strategies. Explore why Nest removed the option for a 100% equities fund and how collective investing can benefit local communities. Todd emphasizes the importance of transparency in fund choices and addresses the complexities surrounding Sharia-compliant pension options. Discover practical tips for better pension management!

Explore how to gauge your financial progress heading into 2025. Discover the essentials for retirement savings and what attributes to seek in a pension fund. Learn about diversifying your investments and the critical differences between good and bad debt. Uncover the importance of emergency funds, rebranded as 'flexibility funds,' and get tips on balancing savings while managing debts. Delve into age-appropriate savings targets and strategies for navigating the evolving financial landscape.

Hamish McRae, an esteemed economics columnist and author, delves into the future of our world in 2050. He discusses whether the U.S. will retain its economic supremacy or be overtaken by China or India. The transformative potential of AI in tackling an aging population is explored, along with the challenges of globalization and geopolitical tensions. McRae also emphasizes the importance of retirement planning and the need for proactive health measures, offering a thought-provoking glimpse into the complex economic landscape ahead.

Tom McPhail, a pensions expert at The Lang Cat and former Head of Policy at Hargreaves Lansdown, shares crucial insights on retirement planning. He emphasizes making pensions a priority this year, discusses calculating retirement needs, and the importance of engaging with pension plans. Tom unpacks the benefits of salary sacrifice and tax relief, and highlights the need for a diversified savings approach, including ISAs. He also navigates the complexities of choosing investment strategies and the role of state pensions in today’s changing demographic landscape.

Helen Tupper, a careers expert and author of 'The Squiggly Career,' shares insights on adapting to the evolving job market. She emphasizes moving sideways in careers as a valid path for growth and financial success, rather than solely focusing on upward promotion. Discussing the impact of technology and AI, she encourages continuous learning and skill diversification. Tupper also highlights the concept of 'boomerang employees' and the importance of recognizing personal strengths to enhance employability.

In this engaging discussion, financial advisor Lisa Conway-Hughes shares expert insights on improving retirement savings. She highlights the impact of small, practical changes in budgeting and insurance that can lead to substantial financial growth. Lisa also delves into the complexities of pension plans, emphasizing the significance of understanding options at work. Additionally, she addresses common fears about pensions and stresses the importance of having an emergency fund, advising listeners on proactive financial management for a secure future.

Rob Dix, a finance expert and host of The Property Podcast, discusses the changing landscape of wealth-building. He stresses that old financial rules no longer apply and encourages listeners to adopt new strategies for investment amidst rising interest rates. Dix emphasizes the significance of personalized finance approaches and mindful spending. He also shares an eight-step guide to mastering personal finance, boosting income through career advancement, and leveraging property investments for maximum returns. Tune in for fresh insights on navigating your financial future!