

Animal Spirits Podcast
The Compound
Animal Spirits is a show about markets, life, and investing. Join Michael Batnick and Ben Carlson as they talk about what they're reading, writing, listening to and watching. Look for new episodes every Wednesday morning. See our disclosures here - https://ritholtzwealth.com/podcast-youtube-disclosures/
Episodes
Mentioned books

210 snips
Aug 13, 2025 • 1h 4min
Measuring the Wealth Effect (EP. 425)
Dive into nostalgia as the hosts reminisce about the 90s music scene while exploring the rising influence of the stock market on household wealth. They discuss the K-shaped economy and the unique financial strategies of younger investors who prioritize stocks over home buying. Get insights on the changing housing market, cryptocurrency trends, and the impact of shifting interest rates. Personal anecdotes mix with market analysis, connecting family bonds to investment strategies. A light-hearted take on fishing and recent films adds a fun twist!

21 snips
Aug 11, 2025 • 38min
Talk Your Book: The People's Index
In this conversation, Matt Bartolini, Managing Director at State Street Investment Management, shares his insights on the Dow Jones Industrial Average, unveiling its historical significance and unique price-weighted structure. He contrasts the Dow with the S&P 500 and discusses how market perceptions shape investment strategies today. The dialogue also addresses adapting investment approaches in uncertain markets, particularly with rising allocations to non-U.S. equities and fixed income ETFs, highlighting the ever-evolving landscape of financial markets.

53 snips
Aug 6, 2025 • 1h 5min
Wall Street Strikes Back (EP. 424)
The hosts dive into how AI has influenced the stock market, sparking an unexpected economic rebound. They explore the resurgence of retail investing, with more individuals participating than ever before. The conversation shifts to the real estate landscape, examining regional trends and personal buying experiences. Amidst debates on labor market data, they also reflect on Netflix’s quality decline and changing parenting styles. Personal anecdotes and lively discussions make for an engaging listen, revealing the intersection of finance and daily life.

Aug 4, 2025 • 32min
Talk Your Book: Finding Tax Alpha in Fixed Income
Alex Morris of F/m Investments joins the discussion, bringing his expertise on the new Compoundr ETF Series. They delve into tax-efficient bond investments, highlighting strategies that aim for capital appreciation while minimizing tax burdens. The conversation also covers the nuances of tax alpha in fixed income, emphasizing diversification and investment quality. Inflation expectations in the bond market are examined, along with evolving strategies that reflect changing investor attitudes towards fixed income diversification. A captivating look into modern investment techniques!

108 snips
Jul 30, 2025 • 1h 2min
This Is the Dumb Money (EP. 423)
The hosts dive into the intriguing intersection of AI trends and the stock market, drawing parallels to past market bubbles. They discuss the current housing market's surprising resilience amidst economic challenges and explore the evolving landscape of cryptocurrency investments. A peek into personal anecdotes reveals the complexities of private market investments and changing consumer behavior. They also mix in light-hearted movie musings, from nostalgia to unexpected popcorn deliveries, creating a captivating blend of finance and fun.

37 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 35min
Talk Your Book: How to Hold the Biggest Winners
Bill Mann, Chief Investment Strategist at Motley Fool Asset Management, joins to discuss the power of buy-and-hold investing. He shares insights on owning '10-bagger' stocks and the influence of the Motley Fool 100. The conversation delves into investor behavior, market dynamics, and the importance of a disciplined approach amidst volatility. Mann emphasizes understanding risk tolerance and the potential role of AI in polishing portfolio strategies. It’s a lively exploration of how to navigate the complexities of investing with confidence!

93 snips
Jul 23, 2025 • 1h 14min
What is Upper Middle Class? (EP. 422)
The discussion dives into the realities of upper middle class dynamics in the U.S., exploring how different states shape perceptions of financial standing. The hosts address the sustainability of stock market returns amidst recent surges and the influence of retail investors and meme stocks. There's a reflective look at Bitcoin's role in finance and the complexities of the housing market. Additionally, the conversation touches on amusing takes on urban maintenance and the evolving trends in film and entertainment.

14 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 35min
Talk Your Book: How We Got a Bitcoin ETF
Dave LaValle, Senior Managing Director at Grayscale Investments, shares insights on the groundbreaking approval of a Bitcoin ETF. He discusses Bitcoin's remarkable evolution from skepticism to legitimacy, highlighting its newfound status among institutional investors. Listeners learn about the complex regulatory hurdles faced during the ETF uplisting process and LaValle's thoughts on managing cryptocurrency volatility. The conversation also delves into the importance of diversification in crypto investments and how ETFs are democratizing access for retail investors.

116 snips
Jul 16, 2025 • 1h 10min
There Are Too Many Rich People (EP. 421)
The hosts tackle the complexities of wealth disparities and how they shape market dynamics. They delve into the nervous rally in the stock market, contrasting cautious investors with more aggressive players. The struggles of middle-class families facing rising costs are discussed, highlighting the disconnect in perceptions of wealth. Bitcoin's evolving narrative is compared to traditional assets, while nostalgic film reflections offer amusing insights into modern sensibilities. A mix of humor and serious analysis makes for a thought-provoking conversation.

27 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 30min
Talk Your Book: Option Income Is So Hot Right Now
Garrett Paolella, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of NEOS Investments, joins to discuss the booming demand for income-focused investment strategies, especially among retirees and younger investors. They dive into leveraging index options for maximizing returns and the innovative Bitcoin high income ETF. The conversation highlights effective risk management, the appeal of options in generating consistent income, and the importance of education in navigating these strategies. Insights on how to survive bull markets while managing volatility are also explored.