The Alternative Data Podcast

In this episode I speak to Conor Taggart, an alternative data veteran who is now in charge of Data Monetization at Eagle Alpha.In our conversation, Conor and I discuss his progress from selling indexes at LSEG, through joining Nasdaq in time for the Quandl acquisition, to a successful four years heading up equities data sourcing at Millennium, to his resting place in his current role.In other news, I will be on the data panel at QuantMinds in London on November 19th, I look forward to seeing familiar faces there. DISCLAIMERThis podcast is an edited recording of an interview with Conor Taggart recorded in November 2025. The views and opinions expressed in this interview are those of Conor Taggart and Mark Fleming-Williams and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of either CFM or any of its affiliates. The information provided herein is general information only and does not constitute investment or other advice. Any statements regarding market events, future events or other similar statements constitute only subjective views, are based upon expectations or beliefs, involve inherent risks and uncertainties and should therefore not be relied on. Future evidence and actual results could differ materially from those set forth, contemplated by or underlying these statements. In light of these risks and uncertainties, there can be no assurance that these statements are or will prove to be accurate or complete in any way. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Vlad Johnson, a quantitative researcher specializing in systematic futures at Eisler Capital, shares his insights on the intersection of finance and alternative data. He explores the technological gap between sports analytics and Wall Street, emphasizing the use of weather data without being a meteorologist. Vlad discusses the challenges and complexities of macro futures trading, while highlighting the critical role machine learning plays in alpha generation. He also speculates on the evolving capabilities of AI and the importance of improving data quality in finance.

Mohsen Chitsaz, a portfolio manager and quantitative researcher at Eisler Capital, shares insights from his diverse career in event-driven trading and alternative data. He explains why physicists make excellent quants, and the crucial role of news data and satellite imagery in market analysis. Mohsen discusses the evolution of LLMs and their impact on news interpretation, emphasizing the balance between speed and precision in parsing market-moving headlines. He also highlights the importance of unique data integration to gain a competitive edge.

Join Paul White, CEO and co-founder of QuantBot, as he dives into the nuances of launching a hedge fund in 2009. With a rich background in quantitative research, he shares insights on the evolving landscape of alternative data, machine learning's impact on finance, and the increasing importance of outsourcing for newer funds. Paul discusses the challenges of using shorter-history datasets, the benefits of local market presence in Asia, and his predictions on AI's transformative effect on data analytics. A fascinating look at the intersection of technology and finance!

James Griffiths, General Manager of Flywheel Alternative Data, shares insights on transforming corporate e-commerce data into valuable investment resources. He discusses the evolution of alternative data, emphasizing the shift from brand-focused datasets to investor applications. Griffiths highlights the importance of granular SKU data for hedge funds and the growing expectations from buy-side clients. He also touches on the cautious integration of generative AI in data processes and practical advice for new data vendors navigating this dynamic market.

Ben Cohen, former Global Head of Data Strategy at WorldQuant, dives into the evolving landscape of data sourcing and team dynamics. He shares insights on how to build data teams, emphasizing the balance between creativity and quantitative approaches in hiring. Cohen discusses the shift in alternative data since 2015, as well as the significant impact of AI on data workflows and product development. His take on fostering curiosity and passion in team members sheds light on what truly drives successful data strategy.

Richard Dudley, Senior Portfolio Manager at Railpen, shares insights from his extensive experience in running systematic equity strategies. He discusses the unique dynamics of managing £7bn within a tight-knit, 10-person team. Richard explains the differences between defined benefit and contribution pensions, the challenges of integrating alternative data, and how ESG factors play into investment decisions. He also highlights the importance of ethical alignment when managing pensions, ensuring member interests are prioritized.

Tom Liu, Founder of Ideate Capital, is an alternative data expert with a rich background in hedge funds and private equity. He discusses the transformative role of alternative data in corporate settings and the synergy with AI. Liu shares insights on how private equity firms are evolving through data integration, while also highlighting innovative strategies like web scraping and credit card data in investment analysis. The conversation includes challenges in monetizing alternative data and the future potential of AI in revolutionizing business models.

Mark Thompson, lead analyst at Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM), shares insights into the operations of Norway's sovereign wealth fund. He discusses the challenges of managing $1.7 trillion and the importance of integrating alternative data into research. Mark reveals how the team evolved from outsourcing surveys to leveraging in-house analyses and bespoke datasets. He highlights the significance of LLMs for processing historical data and improving corporate engagement. Finally, he emphasizes the need for collaboration in data-driven investing.

Tim Harrington, Founder and CEO of Battlefin, shares insights on the recent acquisition of Exabel, enhancing alternative data discovery. He discusses the growing demand for innovative data sets and the evolving landscape of data events. Tim highlights how the merge will boost Battlefin's community engagement and mentions the fascinating dynamics at finance conferences, blending entertainment and actionable insights. The impact of AI on data science and its applications across various sectors also takes center stage, illustrating a future driven by responsive data strategies.