The View From Apollo
Torsten Slok
The View from Apollo delivers timely market insights from the Chief Economist of Apollo Global Management, Dr. Torsten Slok. The podcast features in-depth conversations between Slok and a rotation of Apollo’s thought leaders, each bringing their unique perspectives on current macroeconomic trends, the impact to various businesses, and what it all means for investors. Torsten, a top-ranked analyst who studied at University of Copenhagen and Princeton University, frequently appears in the media offering his takes on important economic trends. Apollo Global Management is one of the largest alternative investment managers in the world, with a value-oriented approach to investing in asset classes including private equity, credit and real assets. Learn more at www.apollo.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books
6 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 33min
What’s Driving the Shift in Portfolio Construction: Private Credit, Private Equity, and the New Market Reality
Akila Grewal, Apollo's Global Head of Product, dives into the dynamic world of private credit and equity. She explains how private credit's growth stems from real fundamentals rather than speculation. Grewal highlights the shift in portfolio construction, where investors are now prioritizing liquidity and long-term yield. She discusses the evolving demand for tailored financing solutions and the doubling-down on operational value in private equity exits. Furthermore, she points out Europe's promising capital needs and the innovative product adaptations to meet client liquidity preferences.
18 snips
Oct 6, 2025 • 27min
Origination: The $40 Trillion Engine of Private Credit
Chris Edson, Global Head of Origination at Apollo, delves into the booming private credit market, revealing how Apollo's innovative origination engine is transforming access to capital. He discusses the rising demand for customized financing solutions and the growing importance of longer-duration funding. Edson highlights the opportunity across a $40 trillion market and shares insights into how private credit benefits investors with higher yields. He also expresses excitement about collaborative solutions and the evolving landscape of origination.
Sep 19, 2025 • 18min
Tensions Rising: The Fed Meeting, Stagflation Signals, and What It Can Mean for Portfolios
As the Fed cut rates at its September meeting, tensions surfaced—between growth, inflation, employment, and the expectation of more cuts to come. In this episode of The View from Apollo, Torsten Sløk, Apollo's Chief Economist, unpacks these crosscurrents and what they could mean for markets and portfolios.
9 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 28min
The Asset-Backed Finance Market Is Having a Moment
Bret Leas, Co-Head of Asset-Backed Finance at Apollo, dives into the booming asset-backed finance market. He reveals how this $20 trillion sector thrives even amidst economic challenges, driven by cash-flowing assets. The discussion highlights the surge of activity in 2025, fueled by regulatory shifts and companies shedding assets. Leas emphasizes the importance of discipline for investors and the increasing accessibility of these investments. He also shares personal tidbits, including book recommendations and his passion for Penn State football.
Jul 17, 2025 • 22min
Another Chance to Position Portfolios for Tariff Turmoil?
Alex Wright, a Global Wealth Strategist at Apollo, dives into the impact of tariffs on investment portfolios. He discusses current market volatility and how it creates opportunities for strategic asset allocation. The conversation highlights a shift towards private markets as traditional investments lose appeal due to high valuations. Wright also touches on the economic slowdown caused by rising tariffs and student loan payments, urging investors to reassess risk-return balances. Plus, a fun detour into his upcoming family trip to Greenland adds a personal touch!
Jun 27, 2025 • 48min
Mid-Year Outlook: At the Crossroads of Stagflation—What’s Next?
Torsten Slok, Chief Economist of Apollo Global Management and a distinguished analyst educated at the University of Copenhagen and Princeton, dives into the nuances of the U.S. economy. He discusses the impact of rising tariffs and the looming threat of stagflation, touching upon consumer confidence and market volatility. Slok analyzes the rising debt-to-GDP ratio and its implications, while also exploring how AI can enhance productivity amidst these challenges. For a lighter touch, he shares top recommendations for captivating TV shows!
12 snips
May 9, 2025 • 38min
Private Credit Investing in Volatile Times
Jim Vanek, a Partner and Co-Head of Global Performing Credit at Apollo, shares insights on the strength of private credit demand amid economic uncertainty. He discusses how corporate borrower tariffs and default predictions shape financing strategies. The conversation navigates the impact of trade policies on credit markets and M&A activity. Vanek also reflects on private credit investment tactics, emphasizing the selection of robust business models. The episode wraps up with lighthearted anecdotes about family bonding and sports.
14 snips
Apr 11, 2025 • 34min
Credit Investing Amid Post “Liberation Day” Uncertainty
Robert Bittencourt, Partner and Co-Head of Opportunistic Credit at Apollo, shares expert insights into the evolving credit markets. He discusses the significant impacts of the Trump administration's trade tariffs on market dynamics and investor confidence. Bittencourt highlights the contrasting stability of investment-grade credits versus the volatility in high-yield segments. He also explores the nuances of payment-in-kind financing, emphasizing its risks during economic uncertainty. Listeners gain valuable perspectives on navigating turbulent financial landscapes and making informed investment decisions.
8 snips
Mar 10, 2025 • 27min
Beyond 60/40: Private Assets in an Era of High Public Valuations
Matt O’Mara, a partner at Apollo and co-head of Apollo Aligned Alternatives, shares insights on navigating the current economic landscape. He discusses the challenges posed by high public market valuations and how they impact traditional investment strategies, particularly the 60/40 portfolio. O'Mara argues for a strategic shift towards private markets for better diversification and returns. The conversation also touches on the implications of declining globalization, emphasizing how these changes could affect future investment dynamics.
22 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 30min
How Can Private IG Enhance Fixed Income Allocations?
Discover the intriguing world of Investment Grade Private Credit as the hosts differentiate it from public credit and unveil its expansive $40 trillion market. Explore the benefits and unique structures of asset-backed finance, alongside the shifting dynamics between banks and private credit underwriters. Uncover the advantages of private bonds that offer higher returns and engage in a fascinating discussion on the parallels between private investment and culinary creativity. The conversation also touches on the rapid advancements in AI and their impact on investing.
