Merryn Talks Money

Join Ed Yardeni, President of Yardeni Research and economist who popularized the term 'bond vigilantes', as he shares insights on the current state of U.S. markets. He discusses the rising bond yields and the contrasting dynamics of various generations in investing. Despite concerns of stagflation, Yardeni expresses cautious optimism about the economy's resilience. The conversation dives into global market risks, the allure of gold and Bitcoin, and the challenges faced by small-cap stocks in a passive investing landscape, offering a hopeful perspective amidst uncertainty.

This discussion dives into the latest UK inflation figures and their impact on interest rates, warning about strategic financial planning. Insights from Australian pension funds shed light on taxation challenges, especially for asset-rich individuals. The conversation also touches on the tension surrounding potential new taxes and the need for responsible policymaking in both the UK and Australia. Plus, there's a nod to optimizing business finance with innovative tools and insurance options.

In this discussion, Anthony Emmerson, director of Trinity Financial and a mortgage specialist, shares insights into the often-overlooked aspects of homebuying in the UK. He emphasizes the importance of understanding hidden costs beyond the deposit, such as stamp duty and potential survey limitations. The conversation highlights the need for securing a mortgage in principle, the roles of brokers and solicitors, and warns about challenges like gazumping. Emmerson’s expertise gives first-time buyers a clearer path through the complexities of the property market.

Sarah Ketterer, CEO of Causeway Capital Management, leads a firm managing over $55 billion and is a seasoned veteran in global investing. She discusses the shift in focus from the U.S. market to opportunities in Europe, Japan, and South Korea. Ketterer highlights the rationality of value investing in the face of market volatility and changing interest rates. She also delves into undervalued assets in South Korea, particularly in tech and commodities, and contrasts the appeal of Bitcoin with gold in the evolving investment landscape.

Explore the latest market dynamics and the call for pension funds to boost their investment in private equity. Dive into the potential restructuring of ISA allowances and its impact on the IPO market. Uncover the hidden costs associated with holding cash instead of investing and the wealth individuals might be missing out on. The conversation wraps up with a dose of skepticism about recent trends and highlights the importance of savvy financial planning.

In this engaging conversation, Laura Conduit, a specialist property solicitor at Farrer and Co LLP, shares her expertise on navigating the complexities of buying a home in the UK. She illuminates the crucial differences between conveyancers and solicitors, stressing the importance of value over cost. Laura also discusses common pitfalls that can derail sales and explains why buying a flat often incurs higher conveyancing fees. With insights on chancel repair liabilities and essential paperwork, she equips listeners with knowledge to make informed decisions.

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.