
Lead-Lag Live
Welcome to the Lead-Lag Live podcast, where we bring you live unscripted conversations with thought leaders in the world of finance, economics, and investing. Hosted through X Spaces by Michael A. Gayed, CFA, Publisher of The Lead-Lag Report (@leadlagreport), each episode dives deep into the minds of industry experts to discuss current market trends, investment strategies, and the global economic landscape.In this exciting series, you'll have the rare opportunity to join Michael A. Gayed as he connects with prominent thought leaders for captivating discussions in real-time. The Lead-Lag Live podcast aims to provide valuable insights, analysis, and actionable advice for investors and financial professionals alike.As a dedicated listener, you can expect to hear from renowned financial experts, best-selling authors, and market strategists as they share their wealth of knowledge and experience. With a focus on topical issues and their potential impact on financial markets, these live unscripted conversations will ensure that you stay informed and ahead of the curve.Subscribe to the Lead-Lag Live podcast and follow @leadlagreport on X to stay updated on upcoming live conversations and to gain exclusive access to a treasure trove of financial wisdom. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn from the best and brightest minds in the business.Join us on this journey as we explore the complex world of finance and investments, one live unscripted conversation at a time. Be sure to like, comment, and share the Lead-Lag Live podcast with your network to help others discover these invaluable insights.Stay tuned for the latest episode of the Lead-Lag Live podcast, and remember to turn on notifications so you never miss a live conversation with your favorite thought leaders. Happy listening!
Latest episodes

Mar 10, 2025 • 47min
Navigating Market Volatility: A Conversation with Wall Street Veteran Jay Hatfield
Jay Hatfield cuts through market noise with a refreshingly clear perspective on inflation: stick a yellow sticky note on your mirror that says "inflation is caused by excessive monetary growth." This fundamental principle helps investors avoid being misled by commodity price fluctuations that resolve naturally through market mechanisms rather than representing true inflation.The current market volatility, Hatfield explains, largely reflects normal seasonal patterns during non-earnings periods when high-flying stocks typically experience pullbacks. While acknowledging a potential growth slowdown with Fed policy about "150 basis points too tight," he maintains a bullish long-term outlook on both bonds and stocks, expecting rates to continue dropping as the Fed eventually recognizes the economic deceleration.Hatfield's investment approach emphasizes human intelligence over algorithmic trading – a philosophy he applies across his firm's six ETFs managing $2.6 billion in assets. He articulates clear distinctions between fixed income investment strategies, where active management provides significant advantages through understanding call risk and credit dynamics, unlike equity markets where momentum sometimes prevails. His firm conducts granular analysis of individual securities, even examining specific buildings within REIT portfolios to identify value opportunities where others see only sector-wide challenges.Particularly illuminating is Hatfield's contrarian view on recession dynamics, noting they typically begin with investment declines that impact employment before affecting consumer spending. This framework, combined with his assessment of China's economy continuing to grow at around 5% despite negative narratives, provides investors with valuable perspective for navigating current market conditions.For income-focused investors, Hatfield offers practical insights on preferred securities, bonds, and midstream energy companies, explaining how these complement each other with different risk-volatility profiles while generating reliable income streams in various economic environments. His call-writing strategy for large-cap equities demonstrates how active management can enhance returns when applied with judgment rather than mechanical rules.Human-powered market intelligence, developed through decades of experience and rigorous fundamental analysis, remains Hatfield's core advantage in a world increasingly dominated by algorithms and momentum trading.DISCLAIMER – PLEASE READ: This is a sponsored episode for which Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC has been paid a fee. Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the iThis Mother’s Day, give a gift that is truly special—one that captures memories, preserves love, and lasts for generations. With TellMel.AI, you can turn your cherished stories into a timeless keepsake. It’s simple and heartfelt. This Mother’s Day, give more than just a gift—give the magic of storytelling, a legacy that will be cherished for generations. Start today at TellMel.AI. Sign up to The Lead-Lag Report on Substack and get 30% off the annual subscription today by visiting http://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Support the show

Mar 7, 2025 • 56min
Golden Opportunities: Unlocking Potential in Gold Mining with Axel Merk and Peter Schiff
As market uncertainties rise, an age-old asset is regaining its allure—gold. In this episode, we delve into the shifting dynamics of the gold market, featuring insights from experts who navigate this fertile landscape. With gold prices climbing, there's palpable excitement among industry players, but is it justified? Our discussion uncovers the reasons behind the renewed interest in gold mining stocks, contrasting the performance of larger companies versus promising junior miners.We take you through the upcoming BMO conference, where executives gather to discuss the future of the gold sector—a hotspot for the latest investment opportunities. With insights into recent U.S. gold import data and the implications of political and economic factors, our guests help clarify what investors should watch for moving forward.Join us as we explore the dispersion of returns within the gold mining sector and underscore the importance of active management. We’ll guide you through the complexities of investing in gold and emphasize how macroeconomic trends affect gold prices. It’s a golden opportunity to be informed about an asset that has historically weathered economic storms.Whether you're a seasoned investor or new to the gold game, this episode promises rich insights that could elevate your investment strategy. Tune in, engage with our content, and navigate this intriguing financial landscape with us. Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts!DISCLAIMER – PLEASE READ: This is a sponsored episode for which Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC has been paid a fee. Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided in the episode or make any representation as to its quality. All statements and expressions provided in this episode are the sole opinion of Merk Investments and Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC expressly disclaims any responsibility for action taken in connection with the information provided in the discussion. The content in this program is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any information or other material as investment, financial, tax, or other advice. The views expressed by the participants are solely their own. A participant may have taken or recommended any investment position discussed, but may close such position or alter its recommendation at any time without notice. Nothing contained in this program constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Please consult your own investment or financial advisor for advice related to all investment decisions.This Mother’s Day, give a gift that is truly special—one that captures memories, preserves love, and lasts for generations. With TellMel.AI, you can turn your cherished stories into a timeless keepsake. It’s simple and heartfelt. This Mother’s Day, give more than just a gift—give the magic of storytelling, a legacy that will be cherished for generations. Start today at TellMel.AI. Sign up to The Lead-Lag Report on Substack and get 30% off the annual subscription today by visiting http://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Support the show

Mar 6, 2025 • 44min
Brian Drubetsky: Unlocking Small Cap Potential
Dive into the intricacies of small-cap investing as Michael Gayed and Brian Drubetsky explore the current economic landscape and its implications for market opportunities. With interest rates being a pivotal factor for many small-cap firms, our discussion unpacks the latest trends in earnings growth and the potential for favorable shifts in monetary policy.From analyzing the essential characteristics that can help small-cap stocks thrive, to recognizing the undervalued opportunities in sectors like consumer discretionary and real estate, this episode aims to equip you with the knowledge to recognize and seize upcoming market trends. As we uncover the transformative influence of technology and automation on small caps, listeners will gain a better understanding of how to navigate this often-overlooked segment of the market effectively. Join us as we dissect key questions surrounding the future of small caps, from their historical performance to robust strategies for capitalizing on growth. Don't miss this insightful episode—subscribe, leave a review, and share your thoughts! Your engagement is invaluable as we continue to explore the evolving world of finance together.DISCLAIMER – PLEASE READ: This is a sponsored episode for which Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC has been paid a fee. Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided in the episode or make any representation as to its quality. All statements and expressions provided in this episode are the sole opinion of Cullen Capital and Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC expressly disclaims any responsibility for action taken in connection with the information provided in the discussion. The content in this program is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any information or other material as investment, financial, tax, or other advice. The views expressed by the participants are solely their own. A participant may have taken or recommended any investment position discussed, but may close such position or alter its recommendation at any time without notice. Nothing contained in this program constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Please consult your own investment or financial advisor for advice related to all investment decisions.This Mother’s Day, give a gift that is truly special—one that captures memories, preserves love, and lasts for generations. With TellMel.AI, you can turn your cherished stories into a timeless keepsake. It’s simple and heartfelt. This Mother’s Day, give more than just a gift—give the magic of storytelling, a legacy that will be cherished for generations. Start today at TellMel.AI. Sign up to The Lead-Lag Report on Substack and get 30% off the annual subscription today by visiting http://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Support the show

Mar 3, 2025 • 46min
Investing Like a Yale Endowment: Secrets Revealed with Meb Faber
Dive into the intriguing world of endowment investing as we explore the performance strategies of Yale University, one of the top-performing institutions. With unique insights from experts, we dissect why Yale's model has consistently outperformed traditional portfolio allocations and what lessons everyday investors can apply to their financial strategies.In this episode, we take you through an analysis of Yale's innovative investment strategies, including their remarkable asset allocation, which noticeably differs from common practices. You’ll learn about the advantages of tax-exempt investing, and how these long-term strategies can serve as guiding principles for individual investors looking to optimize their own portfolios.We also introduce the concept of the Endowment ETF, a new vehicle that aims to democratize access to sophisticated investment strategies previously reserved for elite investors. By providing an opportunity for diversification and efficiency, this ETF could reshape the current landscape, allowing more people to benefit from strategies that have stood the test of time.Join us as we navigate critical market trends and discuss investor psychology throughout various political landscapes. This episode not only informs but also inspires listeners to reconsider their approaches to investing. Subscribe now to ensure you never miss a chance to enhance your financial literacy!DISCLAIMER – PLEASE READ: This is a sponsored episode for which Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC has been paid a fee. Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided in the episode or make any representation as to its quality. All statements and expressions provided in this episode are the sole opinion of Cambria and Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC expressly disclaims any responsibility for action taken in connection with the information provided in the discussion. The content in this program is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any information or other material as investment, financial, tax, or other advice. The views expressed by the participants are solely their own. A participant may have taken or recommended any investment position discussed, but may close such position or alter its recommendation at any time without notice. Nothing contained in this program constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Please consult your own investment or financial advisor for advice related to all investment decisions.This Mother’s Day, give a gift that is truly special—one that captures memories, preserves love, and lasts for generations. With TellMel.AI, you can turn your cherished stories into a timeless keepsake. It’s simple and heartfelt. This Mother’s Day, give more than just a gift—give the magic of storytelling, a legacy that will be cherished for generations. Start today at TellMel.AI. Sign up to The Lead-Lag Report on Substack and get 30% off the annual subscription today by visiting http://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Support the show

Feb 28, 2025 • 52min
Income from Options: Understanding Covered Call Strategies with Howard Chan
Are you aiming for steady income from your investments? Discover the ins and outs of covered call strategies in our engaging episode featuring Howard Chan from Kurv Investments. We dive deep into how this strategy can generate additional returns while strategically managing risks.Throughout the episode, we unpack the mechanics of writing covered calls and explore the volatility premium's significance in this context. Howard sheds light on when this strategy is best employed and the underlying market conditions that can influence its efficacy. With increasing uncertainty in the markets, the conversation delves into the role of covered calls in achieving a balance between income generation and capital appreciation, particularly for investors focused on cash flow.The discussion also touches upon technological advancements that have streamlined the use of covered calls, enabling more investors and advisors to incorporate these tactics into their portfolios efficiently. Listening to this episode equips you with perspectives on the complexities of options trading, how to capitalize on various market cycles, and the potential tax benefits related to income derived from covered calls.Join us as we explore practical insights and expert opinions on optimizing investment strategies for generating stable returns. Don’t forget to subscribe and share your thoughts on how covered call strategies fit into your investment philosophy!DISCLAIMER – PLEASE READ: This is a sponsored episode for which Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC has been paid a fee. Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided in the episode or make any representation as to its quality. All statements and expressions provided in this episode are the sole opinion of Kurv Investments and Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC expressly disclaims any responsibility for action taken in connection with the information provided in the discussion. The content in this program is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any information or other material as investment, financial, tax, or other advice. The views expressed by the participants are solely their own. A participant may have taken or recommended any investment position discussed, but may close such position or alter its recommendation at any time without notice. Nothing contained in this program constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Please consult your own investment or financial advisor for advice related to all investment decisions.This Mother’s Day, give a gift that is truly special—one that captures memories, preserves love, and lasts for generations. With TellMel.AI, you can turn your cherished stories into a timeless keepsake. It’s simple and heartfelt. This Mother’s Day, give more than just a gift—give the magic of storytelling, a legacy that will be cherished for generations. Start today at TellMel.AI. Sign up to The Lead-Lag Report on Substack and get 30% off the annual subscription today by visiting http://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Support the show

Feb 27, 2025 • 57min
Diversified Returns: The Case for Risk Parity with Alex Shahidi
Dive into the world of investment strategies with our latest episode focused on risk parity and the innovative ETFs, RPAR and UPAR. Join financial expert Alex Shahidi as he unpacks the evolving landscape of portfolio management, encouraging listeners to reassess their traditional views on asset allocation. The conversation covers the importance of diversification, revealing the limitations of the conventional 60/40 model that many investors continue to favor. With insights backed by historical data, we explore how equities, commodities, treasuries, and gold have performed through various market cycles. Shahidi clarifies the concept of risk parity, shedding light on how it can create a resilient investment portfolio that adapts to market fluctuations while aiming for consistent returns. He discusses the potential returns from traditionally lower-risk assets, explaining how leverage can enhance their performance to match or even exceed that of equities. Through this engaging discussion, listeners gain a better understanding of how to structure their portfolios for greater stability and consistency. Shahidi also highlights the risks associated with focusing solely on short-term market trends, urging investors to adopt a long-term perspective that prioritizes diversity in their asset allocation. As you tune in, consider your own investment approach. Are you gambling by putting all your eggs in one basket, or are you ready to embrace a diverse, strategic framework that stands the test of time? Share your thoughts about risk parity and how it has influenced your financial planning. Your journey to informed investing starts here—demand the answers you need and engage with us! Remember to subscribe and leave a review for more insightful discussions!DISCLAIMER – PLEASE READ: This is a sponsored episode for which Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC has been paid a fee. Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided in the episode or make any representation as to its quality. All statements and expressions provided in this episode are the sole opinion of Evoke Advisors and Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC expressly disclaims any responsibility for action taken in connection with the information provided in the discussion. The content in this program is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any information or other material as investment, financial, tax, or other advice. The views expressed by the participants are solely their own. A participant may have taken or recommended any investment position discussed, but may close such position or alter its recommendation at any time without notice. Nothing contained in This Mother’s Day, give a gift that is truly special—one that captures memories, preserves love, and lasts for generations. With TellMel.AI, you can turn your cherished stories into a timeless keepsake. It’s simple and heartfelt. This Mother’s Day, give more than just a gift—give the magic of storytelling, a legacy that will be cherished for generations. Start today at TellMel.AI. Sign up to The Lead-Lag Report on Substack and get 30% off the annual subscription today by visiting http://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Support the show

Feb 20, 2025 • 56min
Will Rhind on High Income Pass-Through Securities, Yield Boost Strategies, and Strategic Portfolio Diversification
Join Will Rhind, an expert in High Income Pass-Through Securities (HIPS), as he unveils the potential of these unique investments for income generation. Discover how HIPS can thrive in inflationary times, tapping into REITs, MLPs, and more. Will explains their tax advantages and resilience during market volatility, including the pandemic. He also discusses innovative yield boost strategies that offer high returns with downside protection. Tune in for insights on balancing risk and reward in today's uncertain economy!

Feb 16, 2025 • 60min
Jake Hanley and Sal Gilberti on Commodity Trading Dynamics, Agricultural Stability, and Strategic ETF Innovations
Jake Hanley, a managing director at Tucreum ETFs, and Sal Gilberti, the firm's founder, dive into the complexities of commodity trading. They explore the intricate ties between tariffs, the dollar's strength, and agricultural markets, considering potential policy shifts with Trump’s possible 2024 return. The duo highlights how agricultural investment can provide diversification amid volatility, examining staples like corn and wheat as strategic assets. They also tease an innovative ETF model that aims to reshape commodity investment strategies.

Feb 14, 2025 • 50min
Jay Hatfield on Small-Cap Stocks, Tariff Impacts, and Strategic Investment Success
Jay Hatfield, CEO and CIO of Infrastructure Capital Advisors, shares 35 years of Wall Street wisdom focusing on small-cap stocks. He discusses how tariffs affect inflation and emphasizes informed investing over market speculation. Jay explains the significance of the SCAP ETF, which targets profitable, dividend-paying stocks. He delves into the strategic management of call options and how they can enhance returns. Additionally, he highlights the differences between hedge fund strategies and traditional analysis, underlining the importance of experience in navigating today’s markets.

Feb 11, 2025 • 11min
Michael Gayed on Gold's Resilience, Japan's Interest Rate Challenges, and Strategic Investment Insights
Why is gold shining brighter while the yen wobbles? Join us for an enlightening conversation as we host Michael Gayed, the astute mind behind The Lead-Lag Report, who doesn't shy away from bold predictions. Michael explores the complexities of Japan's interest rate hikes and their impact on global market volatility. We dissect the turbulent trade winds blowing between the US, China, Canada, and Mexico, scrutinizing how tariffs and erratic policies from the Trump era might reshape businesses and markets. Amidst these discussions, Michael deciphers the recent spike in gold prices as a harbinger of economic unease and weighs in on the crypto market's erratic tides under a pro-crypto Trump administration.On a more personal note, witness the exhilarating yet taxing journey of rapid business growth. We share insights into streamlining operations, the thrill of expansion, and the silver linings amidst chaos. Our dialogue offers a fresh perspective on the investment landscape, with a spotlight on treasuries and the intriguing potential of existing funds. Despite the bearish sentiment surrounding treasuries, we unwrap a strategic investment play that could benefit from widening credit spreads. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just stepping into this dynamic world, this episode provides a feast of insights and optimism.The content in this program is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any information or other material as investment, financial, tax, or other advice. The views expressed by the participants are solely their own. A participant may have taken or recommended any investment position discussed, but may close such position or alter its recommendation at any time without notice. Nothing contained in this program constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Please consult your own investment or financial advisor for advice related to all investment decisions.This Mother’s Day, give a gift that is truly special—one that captures memories, preserves love, and lasts for generations. With TellMel.AI, you can turn your cherished stories into a timeless keepsake. It’s simple and heartfelt. This Mother’s Day, give more than just a gift—give the magic of storytelling, a legacy that will be cherished for generations. Start today at TellMel.AI. Support the show
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