Yet Another Value Podcast

This month, the host dives into post-'Liberation Day' market dynamics and the uncertainty surrounding CEOs. Using sports analogies, he examines how AI is reshaping investor skills and decision-making. He warns about the disconnect between management's sales skills and actual company performance. Discussions also highlight the impact of personal biases on investment choices, illustrating how investments can thrive despite personal indifference. Finally, he addresses the unique risks in biotech investing and the importance of scrutinizing management incentives.

Cliff Sosin of CAS Investment Partners, known for his focused long-term investment style, returns for a compelling discussion. He delves into Carvana's distinctive lending model and the intricacies of subprime finance, revealing misconceptions and opportunities in this sector. The conversation also highlights the impact of alternative data on investment decisions and explores Carvana's operational resilience amidst market challenges. Additionally, Cliff tackles the future of used cars in the age of self-driving technology, making a case for why the traditional ownership model might endure.

Byrne Hobart, writer of The Diff newsletter, brings his expertise on finance, technology, and economics to discuss U.S. trade policy and the book 'Clashing Over Commerce.' He highlights how tariffs have shaped American politics and examines the complex relationship between protectionism and free trade. The conversation touches on historical insights from the Civil War to modern supply chains, the evolution of tariff authority, and the political dynamics influencing trade decisions today. Hobart's unique perspectives offer a captivating look at how history informs contemporary economic debates.

Join Thomas Li, CEO and co-founder of Daloopa, as he unpacks how AI is reshaping the investment landscape. He discusses the strengths and challenges of AI in finance, emphasizing its applications in hedge funds and banks. Key insights include the significance of contextual data over mere algorithm quality and the variations in AI adoption between large and small firms. Thomas also highlights how generational perspectives influence attitudes towards AI's role, blending technology's efficiency with critical human judgment.

Andrew goes solo, sharing insights on the surprising corporate moves at KROS and the investor skepticism in the biotech sector. He critiques the industry's structural inefficiencies and emphasizes the need for stronger corporate governance. The conversation turns to the pitfalls of stock-based compensation in falling markets. He reflects on maintaining mental discipline in turbulent times and highlights the evolving role of AI in investment research, urging listeners to enhance their analytical toolkit.

Delve into the tumultuous world of Keros Therapeutics, where hope dwindles after halted trials for their drug Cybo. The discussion highlights the risks of becoming a 'zombie biotech' due to misaligned incentives between management and shareholders. A pivotal licensing deal with Takeda emerges as a potential lifeline, while skepticism looms over the future of drugs 065 and O12. Explore strategic options that could enhance shareholder value and the importance of effective governance in navigating these challenging waters.

Marc Chalfin, an investor at Windward Capital, dives into the intricate world of Turtle Beach, a leader in gaming peripherals. He highlights the company's strategic acquisition of PDP and how upcoming game releases like GTA VI could influence its growth. Chalfin discusses Turtle Beach's robust buyback strategy, navigating supply chain hurdles, and the competitive landscape against firms like Logitech. His insights shed light on potential exits, making a compelling case for Turtle Beach's future in the gaming market.

Adam Patinkin of David Capital joins to provide an insights-packed update on Vistry, a British homebuilder. He delves into the challenges Vistry faced this year, including profit warnings, yet argues that the company's fundamentals remain strong. With recent strategic shifts towards a pure-play partnerships model, Patinkin explains why David Capital doubled its position in Vistry. He also highlights the alignment between UK government policies and Vistry’s strategy, sparking optimism for future growth despite current market hurdles.

Mordechai Yavneh, the head of Focus Capital Advisors, dives into what he calls the greatest acquisition of all time involving Valeura Energy. He discusses how Valeura snagged Gulf of Thailand oil assets at a bargain, generating impressive monthly cash flow. The conversation explores the unique geology and long-term economics of these reserves and why the market hasn’t fully recognized their value. Mordechai also sheds light on future high-conviction deals, decommissioning liabilities, and the variance between reported reserves and economic life.

Byrne Hobart, author of The Diff newsletter and finance commentator, joins the discussion on navigating market complexities as seen in 'Diary of a Very Bad Year.' They analyze the psychological challenges faced by hedge fund managers during crises and the critical misallocations that led to financial disasters. The conversation also delves into the current AI boom, comparing it to past market bubbles, and reflects on generational shifts in financial strategy. Taoing intuition versus research in investment decisions rounds out the insightful dialogue.