Unhedged

The hosts discuss the performance of dominant tech stocks including Nvidia. They talk about Nvidia's recent earnings, stock volatility, and competitive pressures in the AI chip market. They also discuss CEO relationships, growth rates of Microsoft's cloud division, and skepticism and competition in the electric vehicle market, specifically regarding Tesla. The hosts speculate about a film on Elon Musk's life story and share their portfolio performance and favorite things about Chicago and other cities.

Exploring the explosion in government debt, the podcast discusses the idea of using yield curve control as a solution. It also highlights concerns about the US debt and fiscal policy, and the potential consequences of a big increase in long-term treasury yields. The impact of inflation, hope for a political resolution, and a personal anecdote about exponential growth are also discussed.

Finance trivia showdown between teams from Alphaville and Unhedged newsletters. Topics include orange juice futures, age comparison, guessing the number of stocks in the S&P 500, a pub quiz showdown answering questions about government debt and the Bank of Japan's intervention, and guessing the price of Dogecoin.

Sam Bankman-Fried, founder of FTX crypto exchange, takes the stand in his fraud trial. The episode explores the lack of a smoking gun in the government's case, discusses Sam's testimony and performance in court, and debates a startup news organization. They also mention a t-shirt introduced as evidence and make predictions about a court case.

Explore why the stock market is down despite strong GDP and wages. Discuss factors affecting the market, the potential for a recession, and the impact of inflation. Reflect on personal experiences and thank listeners for their support.

US economy grew 4.9% in Q3, fueled by resilient American consumers. Look at factors supporting consumer spending like low mortgage rates and a strong labor market. Wage growth story and potential concerns for the economy. Analyzing supply and demand, inflation, and supply disruptions. Optimism about Morgan Stanley and its new CEO.

Discussion on the disappointing Chinese stock market growth due to slow growth, property issues, and geopolitical tensions. The uncertainty in China's property sector and reliance on global supply chains adds to the challenge. The podcast explores the risks of investing in China, including government influence, geopolitics, and regulatory risks. Famous investors Bill Ackman and Bill Gross change their stance on selling treasuries. Plus, a discussion on cycling safety in London.

In this podcast, the FTX court case is discussed, including high-profile witnesses, financial manipulations, an alternative balance sheet, and the role of CZ. Michael Lewis's influence and undisclosed activities are explored, as well as the close partnership between Alameda and FTX. Predictions are made about the trial, such as the possibility of Sam Bankman-Fried testifying and his chances of acquittal.

Discussion on the recent impressive performance of Japan's stock market and the significant changes happening in corporate Japan that have contributed to this rally. Growing investor interest in Japanese equities, driven by a weak yen and increased focus on corporate governance. Exploring the significance of Japan's cultural and market dynamics, including corporate reform, global investors, and structural reform. Discussion of an employment lawsuit over expensed sandwiches and drinks, expressing mixed feelings about the situation. Also, company expenses, VC bros, and the significance of not interfering with the expense department in corporate life.

Private equity struggles due to rising interest rates and turns to financial engineering. Concerns raised about its long-term viability. PE deals decrease, higher funding costs, and debt burdens investors. The significance of the US dollar as the dominant currency and challenges facing Birkenstock's IPO are explored.