Educational Alpha

In this episode, Bill interviews Andrew Ang, a former Professor of Business and current investment expert at BlackRock, discussing the nuanced application of factor investing in both public and private markets. Andrew shares his journey from academia to industry, emphasizing the integration of data and technology in investment strategies. The conversation explores the critical aspects of factor investing, the democratization of sophisticated investment strategies for individual investors, and the potential of artificial intelligence in enhancing investment models. Listen in!

In this episode Bill sits down with Tim Hodgson, co-founder of the Thinking Ahead Institute, to discuss the transformative journey of the investment industry. Starting from Tim's early career as an institutional investment consultant to the inception of the Thinking Ahead Institute in 2015, they explore the evolution from a business-centric to a more purpose-driven approach. They reflect on CAIA’s most recent collaborative effort with Thinking Ahead Institute, while developing a new framework of ethics principles designed to illuminate the investment industry as an interconnected ecosystem. They talk about the collaboration between asset owners and managers, the pursuit of professionalism in the industry, and the intricate dynamics of private and public market investments. They also address global pension systems, demographic shifts, and the ethical considerations vital for sustaining trust and transparency in the investment landscape. Listen in!

In this episode Bill speaks with Daniil Shapiro of Cerulli Associates to explore significant trends shaping the asset and wealth management landscape. Shapiro, with a background rich in risk management and product development, offers a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities within alternative investments, ETFs, and the evolving demands of the advisory market. This episode not only addresses the intricacies of alternative investments and their place in retail and institutional portfolios but also underscores the necessity for innovative approaches to meet the changing needs of investors and advisors alike. Listen in!

This episode of Educational Alpha features Bill in a heartwarming discussion with four of his five children, offering a rare glimpse into the interplay of family life with professional aspirations. The episode spans personal stories, career choices, and the profound influence of familial bonds on personal development. Sam, Zach, Abby, and Will, alongside reflections on their absent brother Max, share insights from their diverse paths—ranging from finance and medicine to marketing and college experiences. The conversation frames the significance of "Bring Your Kid to Work Day," evolving work-life dynamics in the face of a global pandemic, and the invaluable lessons learned from their brother Max. This episode not only celebrates the Kelly family's unique journey but also underscores the enduring impact of family values on shaping futures.

In this episode, Bill welcomes Stephen McCourt from Meketa Investment Group to discuss the significant shifts within the investment landscape. Stephen shares his journey from joining a small consulting firm to becoming a co-CEO, alongside the evolution of Meketa. He provides an in-depth analysis of private markets, emphasizing the importance of private equity and infrastructure investments. Stephen delves into the challenges and developments within the consultant model, reflecting on his experiences and the industry's future trajectory. Listen in! DISCLAIMER: (PLEASE VIEW FULL DISCLAIMER HERE) The Primark Meketa Private Equity Fund and Meketa Infrastructure Fund is considered highly speculative, illiquid, and should only be considered by investors who can bear such risk for an indefinite period of time and can afford a complete loss of investment. This investment product is not suitable for all investors. There is no guarantee that any income will be generated, or distributions will be made.

In this episode Bill sits down with Christine Barry, CEO of CeriFi, exploring the intersection of education technology and professional certifications. The episode delves into CeriFi's innovative approach to consolidating educational resources for financial professionals, including preparation for high-stakes certifications like CFP and CFA. Christine discusses the impact of generative AI on learning platforms, the importance of embracing technology in education, and the critical role of ethics in an AI-driven world. Listen in!

In this episode, Bill is joined by Michael Green, discussing his journey from consultancy to leading roles in investment firms, including his current position at Simplify Asset Management. Michael delves into his extensive background, the transformative changes in the ETF space, and the conceptualization of tail risks in investments. The conversation also explores the implications of digital assets and the evolution of market strategies. Listen in!

In this episode, Bill welcomes Michelle DiGruttolo, a seasoned intelligence professional with a 25-year career in army intelligence, and a former daily intelligence briefer for President Barack Obama. Michelle discusses her extensive background, offering insights into geopolitical risks and the evolution of security clearances. She also delves into the implications of current geopolitical dynamics, highlighting the shift from a unipolar to a multipolar world, and the impact of global changes on security and investment strategies. Listen in!

In this episode, host Bill welcomes Kevin Donohoe from Abbey Capital to discuss the intricate world of hedge funds and managed futures. Kevin provides an extensive overview of his background, initially aspiring to be a lawyer and eventually finding his passion in finance and trading. As the head of research at Abbey Capital, Kevin shares insights into the company's evolution, its managed futures strategy, and the importance of multi-manager approaches in asset management. The discussion also covers various aspects of Commodity Trading Advisors (CTAs), different trading strategies within managed futures, and the significance of uncorrelated returns in investment portfolios. Listen in!

In this episode, Bill is joined by Don Steinbrugge, the CEO and Founder of Agecroft Partners. With his extensive asset management and hedge fund background, Don offers an in-depth analysis of current trends in the hedge fund industry. This episode covers a broad spectrum of topics, from industry growth and investment strategies to the impact of ETFs and cryptocurrency. Don’s insights into risk management, strategy sizing, and the changing dynamics of the hedge fund space provide invaluable perspectives for industry professionals and enthusiasts. Listen in!