The Acquirers Podcast

Jim O'Shaughnessy, an investor and entrepreneur known for his quantitative value investing expertise, dives into an array of fascinating topics. He examines the revolutionary impact of AI in ventures and the gaming industry, particularly through the lens of the game Go. O'Shaughnessy highlights the power of optimism and innovation, referencing historical bets that showcase human ingenuity. He also discusses curating literature to influence AI's outlook, while emphasizing the intersection of finance history and tech advancements in shaping the future of investing.

Dan Rasmussen, author of 'The Humble Investor,' dives into the art of identifying undervalued investments amid fluctuating market sentiments. He discusses intriguing investment prospects in Europe and Japan, emphasizing the impact of corporate governance reforms. The conversation shifts to the current dynamics of small cap value stocks and the social psychology influencing investor behavior. Rasmussen also explores the contrasting roles of gold and Bitcoin in today's market, providing insights on their resilience and correlations with growth stocks.

Jason C. Buck, Portfolio Manager of the Mutiny Fund, dives into the intriguing world of volatility and tail risk strategies. He highlights innovative ways to balance offensive and defensive assets to shield portfolios from downturns. The conversation extends to MicroStrategy's bold Bitcoin moves and the implications of institutional players in the crypto space. Buck also discusses the hurdles value stocks face amidst market turbulence, encouraging a strong focus on fundamental analysis. Lastly, he champions the rise of young entrepreneurs venturing into defense technology, paving the way for exciting advancements.

Bill Lenehan, CEO of Four Corners Property Trust, discusses the unique landscape of REITs, highlighting how capital allocation and shareholder value drive success. He shares insights on navigating investment strategies during COVID-19, emphasizing patience and disciplined judgment. Lenehan also explores balancing innovation in business models with user acceptance, diversifying investments effectively, and improving investor relations. The conversation delves into the role of stock buybacks in market perception and the importance of transparency in communication with investors.

Gwen Hofmeyr, an investment professional at Maiden Capital with a strong background in equity research, dives into the nuances of the fashion and banking industries. She discusses Aritzia's robust brand culture and strategic U.S. expansion, while drawing insightful parallels with Lululemon. The conversation then shifts to the regional banking landscape, revealing historical patterns from crises and innovative investment strategies. Hofmeyr also highlights the importance of real estate in grocery retail and shares fascinating insights on valuing supermarket land holdings amidst market volatility.

Juan Torres Rodriguez, Portfolio Manager at Schroders, dives into the world of deep value investing in emerging markets. He discusses the inefficiencies in markets like China and India and how these present unique opportunities. The conversation highlights major players such as Alibaba and TSMC, examining their impact on indices and geopolitical stability. Juan emphasizes the need for independent thinking, macro-awareness, and careful risk management to navigate these complex systems while uncovering potential investment gems.

Phil Pearlman, founder of the Pearl Institute, shares his transformation from finance to health. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing well-being in a high-stress industry. The conversation highlights practical health strategies, the balance between motivation and rest, and how physical health impacts overall performance. Pearlman draws intriguing comparisons between adaptive bacterial strategies and investment approaches, advocating for flexibility amidst market fluctuations. He also discusses the role of technology in wellness and the vital importance of community and connections in achieving life satisfaction.

Tim Travis, Portfolio Manager at TT Capital Management, dives into the current investment landscape. He discusses rising mortgage rates and their impact on first-time homebuyers. The conversation shifts to the effects of Federal Reserve policies on banks and REITs, along with potential opportunities in telecommunications. Travis also examines the gambling mindset in political prediction markets and draws fascinating parallels between investment strategies and animal traits, like the cheetah's agility, highlighting diversification for risk management.

Matthew Fine, a seasoned portfolio manager at Third Avenue Value Fund, dives deep into value investing strategies honed since the dot-com bubble. He discusses navigating the complexities of changing markets, emphasizing financial stability and corporate governance. Fine elaborates on Third Avenue's contrarian approach, uncovering undervalued opportunities in the auto sector amidst shifting dynamics, especially with electric vehicles. The conversation also sheds light on the offshore energy market's current challenges, providing insights into future investment possibilities.

Ben Beneche, co-founder of Tourbillon Partners, shares his insights as a global investor in durable businesses. He dives into the unique characteristics that make smaller and mid-sized companies resilient. Discussions include portfolio construction and the importance of cash flow, along with the cultural aspects of Japanese companies. Beneche also examines market dynamics in Japan's drugstore sector and the growth potential of Howden Joinery in the UK. Finally, he offers strategies for finding undervalued stocks, focusing on high-quality investments with a margin of safety.