Masters in Business

Mark Zandi, Chief Economist at Moody's Analytics and co-founder of Economy.com, shares insights into the current state of the US economy. He reflects on his career journey, from academia to advising the Obama administration. Zandi dives into fiscal policies of the Biden administration and compares them with those of his predecessors. He discusses the impact of rising homeowners insurance on housing markets and warns of potential recession risks. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of relationships and real-world economics in navigating today's challenges.

Joey Fishman, an equity compensation expert at Ritholtz Wealth Management, delves into the dynamic world of equity-based compensation. He discusses how shifting from cash to equity can transform personal wealth and highlights the nuances of tax implications associated with this move. The conversation covers Qualified Small Business Stock, potential tax-free gains, and the importance of proper planning in navigating the ownership society. Fishman emphasizes how understanding these strategies can lead to significant financial opportunities and stability.

Ellen Zentner, Chief Economist Strategist at Morgan Stanley, shares her insights on tariffs and Federal Reserve independence. She highlights the unexpected resilience of businesses amidst trade uncertainties and explores the complexities of economic data integrity. Ellen reflects on her unique journey from Texas to Wall Street, discussing the critical role of mentorship and AI in thematic investing. The conversation touches on the influence of demographic trends like Gen Z on the economy and the importance of maintaining independent monetary policy to safeguard against instability.

Preston Holland, founder of Prestige Aircraft Finance and host of The VIPC, dives into the fascinating world of private jet ownership. He reveals that owning a jet might be more accessible than you think, debunking the myth of exorbitant costs. The discussion covers practical tips on choosing the right model and navigating financial implications, including tax strategies. Holland also addresses the pilot shortage and compares full ownership with fractional options, highlighting the unique benefits tailored for high-net-worth individuals.

Deven Parekh, Managing Director at Insight Partners, has been a key player in venture capital since 2000, investing heavily in software and consumer internet businesses. He shares insights on the evolving landscape of startup investing, including adaptive strategies to navigate market fluctuations. The discussion highlights the importance of talent sourcing, software-centric investment approaches, and the dynamics of venture buyouts. Parekh also reflects on challenges in the venture capital space and the role of artificial intelligence in shaping investment trends.

Michael Hiltzik, a business columnist for the Los Angeles Times and a two-time Gerald Loeb Award winner, shares his insights on managing the overwhelming flow of news and data in today's world. He discusses the importance of selective curation and the risks of biased data, urging investors to adopt a methodical approach to verify information. Hiltzik also tackles the complexities of interpreting public company guidance and the reliability of government data sources amidst skepticism, offering practical strategies for investors to navigate economic statistics.

In this engaging discussion, Tim Ferriss—a renowned entrepreneur and author famous for his 4-Hour series—dives deep into productivity and self-experimentation. He shares insights on the 80-20 principle and 'fear setting' to improve decision-making. Tim explores innovative approaches to mental health, including metabolic psychiatry, and reveals his passion for game development with his new card game, Coyote. He also discusses impactful purchases under $100, emphasizing the importance of optimizing learning and personal growth.

Paul Vigna, a seasoned reporter for The Wall Street Journal with over 25 years of experience, dives into the intriguing world of money. He discusses how money is more than just physical bills, serving as a social construct with deep historical roots. Vigna examines the essential role of trust, especially during crises like the Great Depression, and how belief systems have shaped perceptions of wealth. He also highlights FDR's efforts to restore confidence in the banking system and the evolving nature of money in society.

In this engaging discussion, Erik Hirsch, Co-CEO of Hamilton Lane, delves into the dynamic world of private credit and private equity. He shares insights on the growth of private markets over the past 25 years, highlighting the role of technology and ESG factors in shaping future investments. Hirsch discusses the shift from traditional consulting to client-centric asset management and the rise of tokenization as a solution for investor access. He also reflects on mentorship's importance in guiding new finance professionals in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Hannah Elliot, a supercar reviewer for Bloomberg with over 15 years in the auto industry, dives into the exhilarating world of classic car collecting. She spills insights on balancing passion with practicality, emphasizing research in building a collection. Discussing the joys—and costs—of owning vintage cars, she explores budget-friendly starters like the Mazda Miata. Hannah also underscores the significance of community and specialized insurance, ensuring that enthusiasts enjoy their cars while keeping potential value in mind.