Capital Allocators – Inside the Institutional Investment Industry

Reade Griffith, co-founder and Chief Investment Officer of Tetragon and Polygon, shares his journey from law to finance. He reflects on founding Polygon, managing macro risks, and the unique landscape of event-driven investing in Europe. Griffith discusses the partnerships his companies forge to enhance value and how they navigate the challenges of being a public entity. He also touches on personal insights from military intelligence that influence investment decision-making and the impact of literature on his philosophy.

Explore the intriguing world of private equity with insights on Stone Point Capital's recent acquisition of Bullhorn, a leading staffing software provider. Discover the strategic implications of this deal and how it fits into the broader landscape of the staffing industry. The conversation dives deep into the dynamics of private equity ownership, shedding light on what makes a successful acquisition in today's market.

In this conversation, Louis-Vincent Gave, Founding Partner and CEO of GaveKal, shares his deep insights into emerging markets and the current bear market's leadership transition. He discusses the implications of the U.S. dollar, deglobalization, and China's evolving role. Gave also delves into the complexities of liquidity crises, investment opportunities in Latin America and India, and the strategic use of finance in geopolitical conflicts. His contrarian investment strategies and views on currency dominance post-COVID add fascinating layers to the discussion.

Louis-Vincent Gave, CEO of GaveKal and an expert in macro research, discusses the ramifications of government sanctions following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He highlights how freezing reserves and seizing oligarch assets impact global capital markets and investor behavior. Gave critiques Western investment strategies applied to China and examines the evolving energy crisis' influence on inflation and military spending. The conversation also touches on investment opportunities in a shifting geopolitical landscape, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful governance.

Andy Acker, a Portfolio Manager at Janus Henderson Investors, brings his expert insights on navigating the often-overlooked biotechnology sector. He shares his fascinating journey from biochemistry at Harvard to investment success. Acker discusses significant advancements in drug development and the implications of the '90-90 rule' for biotech stocks. He delves into gene-based therapies and the potential they hold for addressing unmet medical needs. With a focus on current market risks and opportunities, Acker sheds light on how contrarians can thrive in this empty room of investment.

Annie Duke, a former professional poker player and best-selling author, discusses her latest book, 'Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away.' She argues that quitting should be viewed as a strategic skill rather than a failure, challenging the relentless pursuit of grit. Duke shares insights on cognitive biases that hinder our quitting decisions and provides compelling anecdotes, including lessons from Mount Everest and the fall of Sears. Listeners learn how to better evaluate their commitments and improve decision-making through effective quitting strategies.

In this enlightening discussion, Annie Duke, a celebrated decision strategist and former top poker player, shares her journey from cognitive psychology to the high-stakes world of poker. She dives into the psychology behind decision-making, exploring biases and emotional complexities. Drawing parallels between poker and real-life decisions, she emphasizes the importance of curiosity, accountability, and risk management. Duke also offers practical tips for improving decision-making and shares her unique insights on how to read body language effectively in critical situations.

Scott Crabill shares exciting insights from Thoma Bravo's strategic acquisition of RealPage. The discussion dives into the complexities of private equity deals, unpacking the motivations driving the purchase. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on the challenges associated with such transactions and the broader implications for the industry. Whether you're an investment enthusiast or just curious, this conversation illuminates the intriguing world of private equity.

Matt Brown, CEO of CAIS and a key figure in alternative investment strategies, discusses the booming shift of private wealth towards alternatives. He highlights a potential $10 trillion shift driven by technology and diversification needs. Brown also emphasizes modern educational approaches for financial advisors, making alternative investments more accessible. He shares insights on evolving hedge fund strategies, the importance of trust, and CAIS’s plans for innovation and team expansion in the rapidly changing financial landscape.

Matt Brown, Founder and CEO of CAIS, shares insights into democratizing alternative investments for financial advisors. He discusses the unique challenges and innovations in creating a two-sided platform that bridges advisors and asset managers. Matt highlights the importance of education and technology in transforming investor approaches post-pandemic. He also reflects on personal growth shaped by missed opportunities and the significance of supportive partnerships. With over $12 billion invested on their platform, CAIS is reshaping the landscape of wealth management.