Merryn Talks Money

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James Galbraith, an economist and professor at the University of Texas, argues that most economists are trapped in outdated models that misinterpret economic dynamics.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.

John Stepek, a Bloomberg senior reporter and author of the Money Distilled newsletter, joins to discuss the unexpected perks of Brexit, especially in terms of tariff reductions and trade negotiation freedom. He highlights the shifting landscape of international negotiations and how the UK is maneuvering post-Brexit. They also dive into the impact of rising minimum wages in the UK, analyzing how it affects job market dynamics and graduate earnings, prompting a rethink on the true value of university degrees in today's economy.

In this insightful discussion, Professor Yolande Barnes, a leading real estate expert from University College London, explores the current climate of the UK housing market. She shares her predictions on home prices and unveils effective strategies for first-time buyers. The conversation highlights troubling oversupply risks and stark regional disparities, as London struggles while northern markets thrive. Barnes advocates for innovative housing solutions, challenging the traditional build strategy and calling for a rethinking of how homes are addressed in the UK.

Alyx Wood, Chief Investment Officer of Kernow Asset Management and expert in UK equities, shares his contrarian investment strategies. He discusses the unique opportunities in the UK market, particularly for active stock pickers. Alyx highlights his focus on medium-cap companies and specific cases like Burberry, emphasizing potential growth. The conversation also touches on the impact of activist investors and explores strategies involving gold as a hedge. Throughout, he underlines the importance of emotional resilience in navigating market fluctuations.