Unhedged

Discussion on the Federal Reserve's decision to hold interest rates, concerns about inflation surpassing 2% target, shorting Starbucks, analyzing Ray Dalio's bet on civil war, and exploring the impact of rising prices and potential civil war on the economy.

Exploring the impact of the strong US dollar on global markets, importers, and manufacturers. Analyzing the US economy's performance, GDP numbers, and uncertainties in the current landscape. Delving into the risks associated with the US dollar, debt repayment, and investor risk. Discussing pub spending in the UK and McDonald's recent successes.

Tim Harford, host of Cautionary Tales, discusses Ponzi schemes, their spiral out of control, and the differences from bubbles. They talk about the dangers of investment schemes, Sarah Howe's experience, and the chaos of Sam Israel's scheme. They also explore the psychology of fraudsters, the financial implications of obesity, and compare Bitcoin to Ponzi schemes.

Exploring the disruption in the diamond market with lab-grown diamonds competition, pricing differences, and market impact. The financial repercussions of obesity and savings potential from GLP1 drugs. A lighthearted segment on host preferences.

Toby Nangle, FT contributor and former fund manager, discusses the impact of including stocks in indexes like Tesla in the S&P 500, and countries in global indices. They also explore the transition from active to passive investing, governance in tracking indexes, and discuss regulatory calls and investment strategies.

The podcast discusses how oil prices reached $90 a barrel, analyzing supply, demand, and geopolitical factors. They also talk about shorting Cathie Wood and share a free trial offer for the Unhedged newsletter.

Last year, Katie and Ethan made a bet about when the Fed would cut interest rates. Today, as the first quarter ends and markets flatten a bit, it’s time for one of them to eat crow. As for the other, he or she will gloat, but in a measured, slightly backpedalling way that won’t be too embarrassing in the future. Also, we go long Liz Truss’s PR manager and short cicadas. For a free 30-day trial to the Unhedged newsletter go to: https://www.ft.com/unhedgedofferFollow Ethan Wu (@ethanywu) and Katie Martin (@katie_martin_fx) on X. You can email Ethan at ethan.wu@ft.com.Read a transcript of this episode on FT.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

FT reporter Anna Mutoh discusses Shopify's journey, failed delivery venture, and future prospects. Contrasts Amazon vs Shopify e-commerce strategies. Explores targeting niche areas, Japan's tourism trends, and cherry blossom admiration in Brooklyn.

Private credit is booming globally with $2tn in assets, raising concerns highlighted in the IMF report. They discuss the worries of the IMF, short media coverage of Jamie Dimon, and going long on vowels. The podcast explores the growth, challenges, and risks in private credit markets, comparing them to traditional lending and offering diverse discussions on various topics like healthcare, financial news, and corporate branding.

Exploring the underperformance of Tesla and Apple in the stock market, competition in the electric vehicle industry, and reevaluating Apple's innovation. Discussing market categorizations, Tesla's rise to dominance, and a humorous take on Sato naming in Japan.