
The Compound and Friends
Join Downtown Josh Brown, Michael Batnick, and a rotation of their friends every Tuesday and Friday for expert insight and hot takes on the latest in business and investing.See our disclosures here - https://ritholtzwealth.com/podcast-youtube-disclosures/
Latest episodes

44 snips
May 30, 2025 • 1h 20min
Why Initial Jobless Claims Could Blow Up the Stock Market
Jens Nordvig, Founder and CEO of Exante Data, dives into the current market climate with insightful analysis. He discusses the pivotal role of jobless claims as indicators of economic shifts that could rock the stock market. The conversation also touches on the impact of tariffs on consumer behavior and retail performance. Nordvig explores the decline in foreign tourism and its economic consequences, alongside the dollar's fluctuating status as a reserve currency. His deep dive into market trends showcases the complexities of today's financial landscape.

55 snips
May 27, 2025 • 1h 12min
Unstoppable Buying, ETF Inflow Records, Apple at War, Circle’s IPO
Dive into the waves of market volatility as experts analyze recent corrections and the surprising resilience of ETFs amidst tariff fears. Discover how younger investors are navigating these dynamics with aggressive purchases. The podcast also explores the evolving landscape of stablecoins like USDC, their role in cryptocurrency transactions, and competition with Tether. Lastly, they dissect the IPO landscape, touching on tech giant Apple's challenges and emerging opportunities in AI, sparking thought-provoking discussions about investment strategies for the modern age.

152 snips
May 23, 2025 • 1h 15min
Real Men Don't Panic Over Bonds
Richard Bernstein, CEO and CIO of Richard Bernstein Advisors and former chief investment strategist at Merrill Lynch, joins the conversation to dissect the current bond market and economic uncertainties. He stresses the importance of understanding fiscal policies wrapped in the Big Beautiful Bill and shares insights on international stocks. They delve into strategies for hedging against uncertainty, highlighting bonds and gold as safe bets. The discussion also touches on the implications of rising mortgage delinquencies and the ongoing dynamics of tech-heavy portfolios.

39 snips
May 20, 2025 • 1h 7min
The COUGRs Trade Takes Wall Street, America Downgraded by Moodys, Walmart vs Trump
Discover the latest buzz around investment strategies in energy stocks and how 'Cougar' companies are thriving even in economic downturns. The discussion also dives into the recent downgrade of America's credit rating by Moody's and its implications. Enjoy a lively analysis of market movements, including Bitcoin's impressive resilience, and explore the challenges faced by major retailers like Walmart due to rising costs. The conversation highlights how market dynamics are evolving, blending casual banter with serious insights for savvy investors.

30 snips
May 16, 2025 • 1h 26min
Warren Buffett vs American Capitalism
Join John Authers, a senior editor for Bloomberg Opinion, and Chris Davis, a seasoned portfolio manager, as they delve into Warren Buffett's enduring legacy and his transition at Berkshire Hathaway. They critically examine the complexities of Buffett's influence on American capitalism, exploring themes of wealth concentration and corporate culture. The conversation also highlights current market dynamics, including the effects of rising interest rates and tech advancements, urging a reflective approach to investing amidst volatility.

102 snips
May 13, 2025 • 1h 49min
Bull Trap or the Real Thing? Plus, Dana Mattioli on Amazon, Coinbase Joins the S&P 500, China Tariffs LOL
Dana Mattioli, a senior reporter at the Wall Street Journal, dives deep into the evolution of Amazon and its strategic maneuvers to maintain dominance. She discusses the fierce antitrust challenges the tech giant faces and unpacks the shifting dynamics between major tech firms and political influences. The conversation also touches on Coinbase's historic entry into the S&P 500, raising questions about market resilience amidst economic uncertainties. Listeners gain fresh insights into whether the current market trends signify a true recovery or just a bull trap.

51 snips
May 9, 2025 • 1h 29min
The Soul of a Short-Seller
Carson Block, founder of Muddy Waters Capital and renowned activist short-seller, dives deep into the world of finance. He discusses the crucial role of short-sellers in exposing corporate fraud and challenges faced in today’s market. Block shares insights on high-profile shorts and critiques CEO compensation structures. He also touches on the psychology behind unethical behaviors and underscores the importance of evidence in short-selling. With case studies revealing complex corporate deceptions, this conversation sheds light on maintaining market integrity.

41 snips
May 6, 2025 • 57min
Rest in Peace, CFA
Callie Cox, Chief Market Strategist at Ritholtz Wealth Management, shares her expertise on navigating the complexities of the current market. The discussion highlights how companies are adjusting earnings guidance amidst uncertainties and delves into the impressive performance of the MAG7. They explore the impact of AI on finance and the declining number of CFA candidates, while also addressing how consumer sentiment contrasts with actual economic performance. The talk wraps up with insights on market psychology and the potential consequences of proposed tariffs.

83 snips
May 2, 2025 • 1h 25min
Every Recession Begins With a Slowdown
Neil Dutta, a partner and head economist at Renaissance Macro Research, discusses pivotal economic trends. He addresses the rising risk of recession and how tariffs influence inflation and consumer behavior. Dutta elaborates on the Federal Reserve's potential moves amidst mixed economic signals. The conversation also touches on the transformative impact of AI on major tech companies, revealing an intriguing blend of serious analysis and humorous anecdotes about life and parenting.

59 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 2h 6min
Kenneth Rogoff on the Dollar, Stocks Laugh at Tariffs, Starbucks and Amazon Earnings
This week, Kenneth Rogoff, a Harvard economist and chess grandmaster, joins to discuss the U.S. dollar's global dominance and its current challenges. He shares insights from his book on the implications of rising debt and inflation. The conversation navigates the future of Bitcoin amidst traditional finance, touching on market reactions to trade tariffs. Additionally, they delve into disappointing earnings from Starbucks and the market dynamics at play. Rogoff's expertise sheds light on the complexities of today's economic landscape.