The Algorithmic Advantage

Join Jason Strimpel, a quantitative risk manager and tech leader, and Marsten Parker, a legendary systematic trader, as they dive into the art of back-testing in trading strategies. They explore different tools like Python and Real Test, comparing their strengths and weaknesses. The conversation highlights the critical role of understanding the mechanics behind back-testing, and they share insights on learning Python for trading success. Their discussion also emphasizes the importance of robust workflows and sanity checks to enhance trading efficiency.

Tom Basso, known as 'Mr. Serenity,' is a veteran trader who employs multiple strategies to maintain composure amid market chaos. In a turbulent trading climate, he shares his approach of balancing diverse strategies across various markets, ensuring no single position overpowers his portfolio. Tom emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and emotional regulation in trading, drawing on insightful anecdotes from his journey. His philosophy of adapting to volatility offers valuable lessons for traders aiming to stay grounded in uncertain conditions.

Andreas Clenow, a seasoned expert in algorithmic trading and author of influential finance books, shares insights on streamlined trading strategies. He discusses his journey from systematic trading to launching his new app, Hush, designed for young investors. Clenow blends storytelling with finance, emphasizing the importance of trend following and risk management. He explores innovative momentum trading strategies and the mechanics of fractional shares, aiming to simplify complex investment concepts for a broader audience.

Senior Portfolio Manager Dave Aspell from Mt Lucas Management shares insights on the firm's simple yet effective approach to trading equities and futures. Topics include the evolution of Mount Lucas, creation of the MLM index, portfolio allocation in macro fund management, and capturing the investor risk premium in the managed futures market.

Perry Kaufman shares insights on trading diversified strategies in futures & equities, emphasizing the need for longer calculation periods and advanced risk management. He discusses the differences between trading many markets versus concentrating on a few and the critical role of ranking candidates based on recent system performance. The podcast explores the unique perspective of trading strategies in both futures and stocks, highlighting the importance of system performance over market conditions for profitability.

Award-winning journalist Greg Zuckerman dives into Jim Simons' Medallion Fund secrets, highlighting the genius behind the unparalleled success of Renaissance Technologies. From using advanced mathematics and physics to collaborative trading strategies, delve into the power of data, pedigree, and innovation in quantitative finance. Explore Simons' unique approach to trading, emphasizing predictive models, market patterns, and his leadership style in creating a cohesive and successful fund.

Experts dive deep into the world of diversification in trend following trading strategies. Topics include market vs. strategy diversification, capital requirements, volatility smoothing, and more. Special focus on the benefits and challenges of diversification in improving risk-adjusted returns and capturing trending opportunities across various markets.

In this engaging conversation, Gary Antonacci, an innovative finance expert with a Harvard MBA, dives into his dual momentum investment strategy. He clarifies why he prefers 'relative' and 'absolute' momentum terms. Listeners will learn about the practical applications of trend-following models, the benefits of ETFs, and the importance of diversified approaches. Gary also discusses leveraging non-US market segmentation for enhanced trading strategies and highlights the critical role of diligent research in informed investing.

In this engaging podcast episode, Joris Bastien shares his unconventional journey into the world of quantitative trading, originating from his mathematical background and leading to innovative roles in the finance sector. Bastien discusses his transition from IT development to becoming a pivotal figure in trading system design, emphasizing his unique approach of leveraging quantitative hedge fund strategies to create versatile trading systems. His narrative highlights the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities in the evolving financial landscape. Delving deeper, Bastien reveals his methodical approach to trading, prioritizing system diversification over traditional asset diversification to manage risk more predictably. He also shares his insights into the future of trading, particularly the role of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin as alternative investment vehicles. Bastien's story is not just about his professional evolution but also a testament to the power of innovation and strategic thinking in the dynamic world of finance. Get in touch with Joris: x: https://twitter.com/quantaraxia li: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jorisbastien/ w: https://www.quantaraxia.com/

Recorded: 12 Dec 2023 In this episode of the Algorithmic Advantage podcast, we chat with our friend, legend ‘original turtle trader’, Jerry Parker. The discussion traverses Jerry's remarkable journey, beginning with his foundational experiences in the renowned Turtle Program, where he gained invaluable knowledge in trend following and risk management under the guidance of expert mentors. Jerry shares his transition from learner to leader as he recounts the challenges and triumphs of starting his own fund, Chesapeake, highlighting the importance of adapting trading strategies, managing investor expectations, and the crucial interplay of trading skills with essential business acumen. The conversation then shifts to explore the evolution of Jerry's trading methodologies. He talks about his team's relentless pursuit of refining their trend-following strategies, incorporating a wider array of markets, and experimenting with innovative approaches like trend-following spreads. Jerry's commitment to the core principles of trend following, balanced with a willingness to embrace new market opportunities, is a recurring theme. He also candidly addresses the psychological aspects of trading, emphasizing the mental resilience required to navigate market pressures and maintain unwavering faith in one’s system. Throughout the episode, Jerry's insights offer a deep dive into the complexities and nuances of professional trading, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in the art and science of market trends.