Masters in Business

Joe Lonsdale, a serial entrepreneur and co-founder of Palantir Technologies and 8VC, shares his journey from PayPal intern to tech innovator. He discusses the disruptive potential of AI across industries, especially in defense. Lonsdale highlights the importance of user feedback in developing investment platforms like Opto. He also delves into how modern conflicts, such as the one in Ukraine, shape innovative defense strategies and stresses the significance of collaboration in technology advancement.

Aswath Damodaran, a renowned Professor at NYU Stern School of Business, specializes in valuation and finance. He dives into the critical distinction between price and intrinsic value in the stock market. Damodaran discusses how faith plays a pivotal role in investing, especially regarding the mean reversion of assets. He also emphasizes the importance of fundamental analysis over mere market metrics and shares a personal valuation case study of Nvidia. Additionally, he touches on the psychological aspects of finance and how therapy can bolster emotional balance for investors.

Vincent Aita, founder and CIO of Cutter Capital Management and former molecular genetics researcher, shares his unique journey from academia to finance. He discusses how insights from the Human Genome Project shape his biotech investment strategies. Aita highlights the appeal of market-neutral strategies and the importance of adaptability in navigating healthcare investments post-COVID. The conversation delves into the transformative effects of genomic medicine and the complexities of drug approval processes in the U.S. and Europe.

Soraya Darabi, a venture partner at TMV and early investor in notable firms, joins market expert Barry Ritholtz to explore the inefficiencies in private markets. They delve into the overlooked startup ecosystems outside traditional hotspots like California and New York. The conversation highlights the importance of investing in diverse founders and non-traditional geographies, revealing impressive returns from innovative investments in emerging cities. Darabi shares strategies for identifying promising opportunities beyond the usual VC narrative, encouraging a broader perspective in investment.

Kyla Scanlon, a financial content creator and educator, is known for her approachable take on complex economic topics and coining the term 'vibecession.' She discusses her journey from engineering to finance, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy. Kyla critiques the education system and advocates for accessible financial education. The conversation explores the role of social media in shaping economic perceptions, the impact of public transit on wealth inequality, and the disconnect between economic data and consumer sentiment in today’s challenging landscape.

Jeremy Schwartz, Global Chief Investment Officer of WisdomTree, shares insights on stock investments, emphasizing their long-term benefits. He discusses stocks as a hedge against inflation and the importance of a 7 to 10-year horizon. Schwartz offers strategies like diversification and dollar-cost averaging to navigate market volatility. He also delves into the risks versus safer investments such as T-bills and highlights the need for patience and a diversified approach to achieve meaningful returns over time.

Victor Khosla, Founder and CIO of Strategic Value Partners, shares his extensive expertise in distressed debt and investment strategies. He discusses the evolution of high-yield markets and explains how technology can facilitate sustainability. Victor delves into the challenges of commercial real estate and the dynamics of distressed investing, emphasizing transformation over cost-cutting. He also highlights the importance of mentorship in finance and the intersection with his passion for tennis, offering insights for aspiring professionals.

Brian Portnoy, a seasoned investment professional and author of 'The Geometry of Wealth,' joins to unpack the complex relationship between money and happiness. They tackle whether wealth truly enhances satisfaction or offers diminishing returns. Portnoy discusses how spending on experiences and fostering relationships can lead to greater fulfillment. He also addresses the emotional pitfalls of envy and greed in financial success, advocating for individualized financial goals that align with personal happiness.

David Rubenstein, Co-Founder of The Carlyle Group and a prominent philanthropist, shares his transformation from law to public service and then investment. He discusses the impact of gerrymandering on extremism, the vital role of civic engagement in democracy, and the evolution of the U.S. Presidency. Rubenstein reflects on his passion for preserving American history and education, influenced by figures like President Kennedy. He even touches on his leadership role with the Baltimore Orioles, blending baseball culture with philanthropy.

In this conversation, Karen Veraa, Head of iShares US Fixed Income Strategy at BlackRock, shares her insights on managing bond duration amid fluctuating interest rates. She discusses the delicate balance investors must strike between yield and interest rate vulnerability. The conversation highlights the historical context of bond markets, including the unusual decline of both stocks and bonds in 2022, and provides strategies for navigating today's landscape. Karen emphasizes the advantages of intermediate duration bonds as market conditions evolve.