Merryn Talks Money

Jeremy Grantham, co-founder of GMO and a legendary market strategist, discusses the looming dangers of a current 'super bubble' in the U.S. stock market. With over five decades of experience, he predicts imminent corrections and shares concerns about the green transition and its ties to economic health. Grantham also tackles the implications of declining population growth on productivity and advocates for a shift in cultural values. He delves into the speculative nature of assets like gold and Bitcoin, calling for a re-evaluation of traditional economic models in light of environmental sustainability.

John Stepek, a senior reporter and writer of the Money Distilled newsletter, dives into the recent downturn of the Magnificent 7 tech stocks, which led to a correction after a stellar rise. He discusses Bitcoin's volatility and its positioning as a speculative asset, shedding light on the tensions between traditional investments and crypto. The conversation also touches on Donald Trump's controversial 'gold card' proposal for fast-tracking U.S. citizenship through investment, exploring its implications in the current economic climate.

Dominic Volek, Group Head of Private Clients at Henley & Partners, sheds light on the intriguing world of citizenship by investment. He discusses why many expats are opting for new passports, often seeking better tax policies and living conditions. Volek reveals which countries offer the most attractive Golden Visas, like Greece and Malta, and highlights the motivations behind these shifts, including lifestyle improvements and educational benefits for families. Discover how investing can transform your residency and enhance your future.

Jawad Mian, founder and managing editor of Stray Reflections, shares compelling insights on market trends and investment strategies. He discusses the cyclical nature of investing, comparing today's landscape to historical patterns. The conversation explores the increasing allure of gold and Bitcoin amid geopolitical shifts. Mian also highlights the significance of self-awareness in investment decisions, emphasizing the psychological traps that hinder sound judgment. It's a captivating blend of history, strategy, and introspection for every investor.

In this discussion, John Stepek, a senior reporter and author of the Money Distilled newsletter, dives into the surprising rise of UK inflation, now at a 10-month high. He emphasizes the necessity of protecting savings and how soaring energy costs are influencing global discussions. They also tackle the dramatic increase in taxes from savings interest and reflect on the need for robust energy and defense policies, advocating for nuclear energy as a viable solution amidst rising electricity costs and evolving political priorities.

Dive into the world of cash ISAs and uncover potential changes that could impact your savings. Explore the rising preference for cash over stocks and what it means for your finances. Get insights on the proposed lifetime allowance for cash ISAs, comparing it to pension limits. The discussion emphasizes the need for simplification in savings structures amidst inflation challenges. Plus, enjoy tips and tools for enhancing your financial management along the way!

In a thought-provoking discussion, Adam Dixon, a sustainable capitalism chair, Ashley Hunter, a global risk advisor, and Iqbal Kham, an impact-driven investment CEO, explore how Adam Smith would view Donald Trump's economic policies. They tackle topics like tariffs, trade, and the implications of deregulation. The panel also shares insights on the UAE's economic landscape and the balance between passion and practicality in career choices. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of ethical investing and navigating real estate opportunities in emerging markets.

Jack Ryan, a Bloomberg News reporter with expertise in mining and precious metals, joins Charlie Morris, Chief Investment Officer at ByteTree, to discuss the recent surge in gold prices. They delve into the drivers behind gold's rise, including geopolitical instability and increasing central bank demand, particularly from China. The conversation also touches on gold's historical significance, investment strategies for ordinary investors, and comparisons with Bitcoin as an asset class. Strategies for navigating the complexities of gold investments are also explored.

Steve Hou, a Bloomberg Indices Quant Researcher specializing in systematic investment strategies, joins the discussion on the relentless search for ‘alpha’ in investments. He highlights the crucial role of consistent R&D spending as a predictor of innovative success. The conversation also covers how AI is transforming traditional industries and the importance of timely investments in turnaround companies. With insights on niche markets like chocolate stocks and the significance of shareholder yield, Hou provides a smart roadmap for savvy investors.

Marcus Ashworth, a Bloomberg Opinion columnist, delves into the implications of Trump's tariff threats on global markets. He highlights how these tensions shape U.S.-China relations while examining their impact on inflation and growth. The conversation shifts to the surge in gold prices, driven by central bank demand amid geopolitical fears. Ashworth argues that there's more to equities than just the U.S., encouraging listeners to consider global investment trends and the evolving landscape in financial strategies.