Merryn Talks Money

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.

James Galbraith, an economist and professor at the University of Texas, argues that most economists are trapped in outdated models that misinterpret economic dynamics. He highlights how economies do not naturally reach equilibrium, likening them instead to living systems. The conversation critiques traditional models, emphasizing the importance of sustainable resource management and the challenges of energy transition. Galbraith also discusses the economic misallocation in the U.S. and its implications for societal well-being, inflation, and population trends.

Join John Stepek, author of the Money Distilled newsletter and Bloomberg senior reporter, as he dives into the current landscape of trade wars and economic uncertainties. He discusses how Donald Trump's strategies might be reshaping American exceptionalism. The conversation outlines the complexities of U.S.-China trade relations and the implications of recent tariffs on global markets. Stepek also sheds light on the intricacies of the bond market and the potential risks posed by persistently low interest rates.

Explore the ins and outs of hiring a mortgage broker in the UK housing market. Discover how these professionals simplify the mortgage process and whether they really add value. Learn about potential conflicts of interest with estate agents and why choosing an independent broker can benefit first-time buyers and the self-employed. Delve into the remortgaging landscape and understand what to consider, from financial evaluations to mortgage options, making your approach to home financing much smoother.

Edward Cole, Head of multi-strategy equities at Man Group, shares insights on the re-emerging viability of China's markets, once deemed 'uninvestable.' He highlights the shift in investor perception towards international opportunities, moving away from the dominant US stocks. Discussion includes the necessity for diversification in light of macroeconomic and geopolitical changes. Cole emphasizes the impact of central bank policies on investments and advocates for a dynamic approach to asset allocation, particularly in a high-inflation environment.