Educational Alpha

In this episode Bill interviews Charles Henry Monchau, Chief Investment Officer at a Swiss private bank, renowned for its innovative approach in the banking sector. Charles shares his extensive international experience and insights into the evolution of private banking, emphasizing the integration of digital assets and pioneering private equity investments. The discussion explores the importance of staying updated with market developments and the impact of technological advancements like blockchain and AI on the financial industry. It also touches on challenges and opportunities that the current economic environment presents, highlighting the strategic approach to asset diversification and investment in emerging technologies. Listen in!

In this episode, host Bill Kelly is joined by Corey Hoffstein, a notable figure in quantitative finance and co-founder of Newfound Research. Corey revisits his unexpected journey from an aspiring video game developer to a financial strategist driven by a passion for quantitative finance.The discussion centers around the concept of "return stacking," a strategy developed to enhance portfolio diversification without sacrificing traditional asset classes. This innovative approach aims to leverage modern financial tools to navigate and harness the complexities of today's investment landscape, enhancing potential returns while managing risk through diversified beta rather than chasing elusive alphas. Listen in!

In this episode, Bill speaks with Kostiantyn Shost, a CAIA Member from Ukraine, who shares his unique perspective on professionalism and resilience amidst the country's ongoing conflict. Born into a military family with a globally diverse upbringing, Kostiantyn details his journey from various global posts to settling in Ukraine. Despite the severe backdrop of war, he maintains a commitment to professionalism and community service through his active participation in the CFA Society of Ukraine. Listen in! https://www.leleka.care/ The Leleka Foundation provides life-saving first-aid kits to frontline embedded medical staff. 

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!