Merryn Talks Money

Delve into the surprising decisions of the Bank of England and their impact on the market. The ongoing 'Buy the Dip' mentality among US investors is scrutinized alongside the potential implications of new UK-US trade deals. The podcast discusses the volatility of investment strategies, especially the contrasting tactics of retail versus seasoned investors. Listeners gain insight into the UK’s attractive share valuations and the optimism surrounding pension reforms, with a nod towards the evolving landscape of trade relationships.

Anthony Emmerson, Director at Trinity Financial with two decades of mortgage expertise, joins the discussion about UK property ownership. He breaks down the differences between freehold and leasehold, the historical context, and the latest legislative changes. The talk highlights how lease length impacts property value and the crucial need for lease extensions as they approach 79 years. Emmerson also sheds light on upcoming leasehold reforms aimed at simplifying the system, making it vital for homebuyers to do their due diligence.

In this discussion, Louis-Vincent Gave, CEO of Gavekal and an expert in global investment, shares insights on the shifting landscape of investing beyond the U.S. He highlights the decline of U.S. exceptionalism and the growing dominance of China in technology and AI. Gave emphasizes emerging opportunities in countries like India and Brazil, while cautioning about the U.S. dollar's potential wobble. He also offers a bullish view on commodities and the importance of re-evaluating energy strategies in Europe amidst global challenges.

Nick Lawson, CEO of the investment firm Ocean Wall, and Jake Jurewicz, CEO of modular reactor startup Blue Energy, discuss why nuclear power is gaining traction as a viable long-term energy source. They highlight nuclear's advantages over renewables, addressing safety and regulatory challenges. The conversation delves into the potential of compact reactors, sustainability of uranium supply, and the intricate dynamics of uranium mining. With a focus on investment opportunities, they emphasize nuclear's role in achieving energy security and driving future innovations.

In this week's roundup, Merryn Somerset Webb, speaks with Money Distilled newsletter author John Stepek about why the Nvidia share price is a magic number, falling UK mortgage rates, buying the dip and covid-level shortages caused by tariffs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“ Going into the property market without a buying agent is a bit like going to court without a lawyer,” says Black Brick Property Solutions founder Camilla Dell. “You’d never dream of representing yourself, and yet when it comes to buying property, which is often one of the most significant and largest financial commitments that somebody will do in their entire lifetimes, people tend to do that without proper representation.” On this episode of the Merryn Talks Money UK housing mini-series, Dell, who has worked in the London property market for more than two decades, joins hosts Merryn Somerset Webb and Money Distilled author John Stepek to explain the importance of a buying agent.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Whitmore, a renowned UK value investor and founder of Brickwood Asset Management, discusses his shift from Jupiter Asset Management to focus on undervalued UK companies. He shares insights on the current market trends and the importance of value investing in today’s landscape. The conversation touches on the role of gold as a safe asset, the potential in Europe's underperforming markets, and exciting investment opportunities in Japan. Whitmore also explores the integration of technology in investment analysis and the challenges of ESG investments.

Explore the recent shift in investment strategies as the 'great rotation' sees cash flowing from high-valued stocks to more stable options. The discussion highlights soaring gold prices as a safe haven amid economic uncertainty and potential recession. Delve into the intriguing relationship between political influence and central bank independence, revealing how political pressures can overshadow monetary policy. A comparison between gold and Bitcoin adds an extra layer to the conversation on asset stability in today's volatile market.

Paula Higgins, founder and CEO of HomeOwners Alliance and former leader of a government review into building control, joins the discussion to assess the pros and cons of new-build homes in the UK. She reveals the surprising challenges of substandard constructions and hidden costs that can catch buyers off guard. The conversation dives into the differences between leasehold and commonhold properties, stressing the critical need for transparency and thorough research. Ultimately, Paula emphasizes the importance of weighing new builds against older homes.

Ray Boulger, a senior mortgage technical manager at John Charcol and a mortgage industry expert, joins the discussion on shared ownership properties in the UK. They dissect the benefits and challenges of these investments, emphasizing the need for critical evaluation against traditional renting. Boulger shares insights into financing options and the complexities of property ownership structures, including potential risks such as immediate depreciation of new builds. The conversation also highlights the importance of seeking independent legal advice for prospective buyers.