

Lead-Lag Live
Michael A. Gayed, CFA
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 by Melanie Schaffer 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 Melanie Schaffer as she 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 @leadlagmedia 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!
Episodes
Mentioned books

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 recommendatiStart your adventure with TableTalk Friday: A D&D Podcast at the link below or wherever you get your podcasts!Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgB6B-mAeWlPM9KzGJ2O4cU0-m5lO0lkr&si=W_-jLsiREjyAIgEsSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/75YJ921WGQqUtwxRT71UQB?si=4R6kaAYOTtO2V 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 • 59min
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 • 49min
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.Start your adventure with TableTalk Friday: A D&D Podcast at the link below or wherever you get your podcasts!Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgB6B-mAeWlPM9KzGJ2O4cU0-m5lO0lkr&si=W_-jLsiREjyAIgEsSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/75YJ921WGQqUtwxRT71UQB?si=4R6kaAYOTtO2V Support the show

Feb 9, 2025 • 38min
Seth Cogswell on Diversification Myths, Active ETF Strategies, and Mid-Cap Investment Opportunities
Unlock the secrets to achieving true diversification in your investment portfolio with insights from Seth Cogswell of Running Oak. Ever wondered if your large-cap portfolio is truly diversified, or if it's just another tech-heavy collection? We tackle the illusion of diversification, using SCHG as a critical case study, and reveal how active ETFs can be leveraged to balance exponential growth with sustainable returns. This episode promises to equip you with a strategic, risk-aware approach that navigates the volatile markets of today with confidence and foresight.Join us as we challenge the misconception that large-cap growth portfolios provide adequate diversification. With 60% of SCHG concentrated in a mere handful of tech giants, there's a whole world of mid-cap investments that are often overlooked. Drawing from Invesco's research, we delve into the potential of mid-caps, which have historically outperformed their larger counterparts. We make the case for active management, an approach that not only distinguishes between various market capitalizations but also steers clear of unprofitable companies, ensuring the preservation and growth of your wealth over the long term.Finally, we explore the power of quantitative investment strategies. Discover how a rules-based, unemotional approach to investing can provide stability, reduce volatility, and serve as a foundational element of your portfolio. From the promising undervaluation of mid-cap stocks to the impact of emerging technologies like AI, we cover it all. Seth and I dissect the current market dynamics and offer practical strategies for financial advisors seeking an efficient growth style. By balancing growth and value, our conversation offers a roadmap to constructing a portfolio that stands the test of time, acting as a reliable anchor in a sea of market fluctuations.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 Running Oak 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.Start your adventure with TableTalk Friday: A D&D Podcast at the link below or wherever you get your podcasts!Youtube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgB6B-mAeWlPM9KzGJ2O4cU0-m5lO0lkr&si=W_-jLsiREjyAIgEsSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/75YJ921WGQqUtwxRT71UQB?si=4R6kaAYOTtO2V Sign up to The Lead-Lag Report on Substack and get 30% off the annual subscription today by visiting http://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive. Support the show

Feb 7, 2025 • 42min
Sal Gilberti on Agricultural Market Dynamics, Geopolitical Influences, and Strategic Investment Opportunities
Join Sal Gilberti, Founder of Tucrium and expert in agricultural commodities, as he delves into the fascinating world of agricultural market dynamics. He discusses how unpredictable weather and geopolitical events, like the Russia-Ukraine conflict, dramatically affect prices of key crops such as corn and wheat. Sal offers insights on effective investment strategies, the role of inflation, and the increasing appeal of multi-commodity ETFs. With a focus on market trends and diversification, he provides actionable advice for savvy investors navigating this complex landscape.

Feb 5, 2025 • 43min
Craig Shapiro on Fed Policy Impacts, AI’s Financial Role, and Strategic Market Adaptations
Craig Shapiro, a seasoned hedge fund expert and macro strategist at the Bear Traps Report, dives into the current landscape of Federal Reserve policies and their effects on markets. He passionately discusses the impact of AI on finance and rising trends in zero data expiry options. Shapiro sheds light on gold's role as a hedge amid uncertainty and examines Bitcoin's potential as an alternative store of value. The conversation also touches on geopolitical turbulence, the future of emerging markets, and the ever-evolving strategies of institutional investors.

Feb 4, 2025 • 48min
Dynamic Portfolio Strategies for a Shifting Financial Landscape with Brad Barrie and Matt O'Brian
Join Matt O'Brian, an Analyst at Dynamic Wealth Group, as he shares his expertise on navigating today's shifting financial landscape. He dives into the importance of true diversification and the risks of market concentration, particularly in tech. O'Brian discusses innovative mutual fund strategies that embrace global macro hedge fund tactics, highlighting their advantages over traditional ETFs. The conversation also emphasizes the necessity of flexible portfolio management and understanding market psychology to thrive amid volatility.

Feb 2, 2025 • 50min
Chris Getter of Simplify, and Anupam Ghose on India's Economic Evolution, Investment Strategies, and Market Opportunities
In this engaging discussion, Chris Getter, a portfolio manager at Simplify, and Anupam Ghose, founder of System 2 Advisors, dive into India's economic evolution. They trace the country’s shift from socialist roots to economic liberalization in the 1990s, underlining the pivotal role of the IT sector. A youthful population gives India a unique demographic advantage over China. The guests also unpack investment strategies tailored for India’s burgeoning market, highlighting challenges and opportunities in the ETF landscape, and the distinct factors driving India's consumption-driven economy.


