We Study Billionaires - The Investor’s Podcast Network

In this engaging conversation, Chris Bloomstran, President & CIO of Semper Augustus, reveals valuable insights about Berkshire Hathaway and Warren Buffett's investment philosophy. He discusses the critical importance of intelligent asset allocation and why Berkshire's significant stake in Apple presents unique risks. Bloomstran argues that studying Buffett can help investors avoid pitfalls and cultivate integrity in their financial practices. He shares life lessons from past struggles and how a strong work ethic leads to investment success.

Chris Bloomstran, President & Chief Investment Officer of Semper Augustus, shares his insights on achieving long-term investment success. He emphasizes the importance of a 'dual margin of safety'—investing in high-quality businesses at great prices. Bloomstran discusses lessons learned from the dot-com bubble, his skepticism towards popular tech stocks like Tesla and Nvidia, and the dangers of irrational exuberance. He also reflects on the mentorship of Robert Smith and the importance of grounding investment strategies in fundamental analysis.

Aswath Damodaran, a revered NYU professor and valuation expert, dives into the nuances of modern investing. He discusses how technological advancements alter valuation thinking and the pivotal role of intangible assets. Listeners gain insights into choosing discount rates and the implications of the US treasury rate. Aswath shares updated perspectives on companies like Nvidia and Meta, critiques buy-and-hold strategies, and emphasizes the need for statistical understanding in investing. A masterclass for anyone keen on refining their investment approach!

In this engaging discussion, Bitcoin core developer Jimmy Song shares insights from his new book, "Fiat Ruins Everything." He argues that fiat currency not only distorts business values but also negatively affects family dynamics and societal culture. Jimmy critiques NFTs and altcoins as rent-seeking behaviors and highlights the harmful incentives fiat creates for both individuals and organizations. He also touches on the alarming impact of inflation on economic equality and how Bitcoin could help restore genuine family and social connections.

Tobias Carlisle is a value investor and the mind behind two deep value ETFs, while Hari Ramachandra brings his intriguing insights on alternative investments to the table. They discuss intriguing stock picks like Constellation Software, Brookfield Corporation, and Winnebago. Tobias shares his bullish outlook on Winnebago, while Hari delves deep into Brookfield's corporate strategies. The conversation also touches on valuation methods, the lessons learned from investment mistakes, and the role of community in fostering growth among investors.

Clay Finck chats with Bob Muglia, a distinguished technology executive who worked at Microsoft and led Snowflake to impressive revenue growth. They dive into the burgeoning AI landscape, discussing Bob's insights from his time with Bill Gates and Steve Ballmer. Bob highlights how data is becoming a company’s most valuable asset and reveals the competitive edge Snowflake has in the data warehousing space. He predicts the future impacts of AI across industries and emphasizes the importance of ethics in technological advancement.

Lyn Alden, author of "Broken Money," is a leading voice in the Bitcoin and macroeconomic realm. In this engaging conversation with Preston Pysh, they dive into the complex relationship between credit-based and commodity-backed money. They explore why money has been central to global conflict, the implications of Bitcoin's potential as a global currency, and tax ramifications in a Bitcoin world. Lyn also discusses privacy trade-offs in cryptocurrencies and the debate between proof of work versus proof of stake, shedding light on Bitcoin's resilience in evolving financial landscapes.

Lyn Alden, author of 'Broken Money' and a recognized expert on monetary systems, discusses the flaws in contemporary finance. She shares insights on the relevance of commodity money and how the fractional reserve system is akin to musical chairs. Alden explores the U.S. military's role in supporting the dollar and highlights how currency debasement can finance wars. The conversation also touches on how wealthy countries influence inflation in emerging markets, offering a comprehensive view of the complex global monetary landscape.

Jacob McDonough, author of "Capital Allocation" and host of the "10-K Podcast," joins to explore the transformative journey of Berkshire Hathaway. They discuss Warren Buffett's initial missteps and the turnaround strategies that led to monumental success. Key highlights include the significance of cutting costs, the pivotal acquisition of National Indemnity, and how insurance float fueled growth. The conversation also touches on Buffett's unique investment approaches and the role of leadership in navigating challenges during the 1970s.

Adam Back, Blockstream's Chief Scientist and a Bitcoin cryptography pioneer, joins James Macedonio to discuss the cutting-edge developments in ASIC miners. They compare ASIC building to crafting a high-performance race car and delve into the challenges of market reliability. The duo also addresses the oversupply of ASICs and the implications for Bitcoin's scalability, particularly regarding drivechains. With a focus on Bitcoin's scripting capabilities and innovative technologies, their insights provide a fascinating glimpse into the future of mining and blockchain transactions.