Animal Spirits Podcast

The conversation kicks off with insights from the Future Proof conference, highlighting the changing financial landscape and middle-class identity. They dive into the rise of ETFs and discuss the shifting dynamics of the job market and home ownership trends. With a side of humor, they reflect on personal experiences of aging, the complexities of streaming services, and the impact of recent Twitter changes on user experience. Personal stories about grief and new pets add an emotional touch, making for a blend of light-heartedness and serious economic commentary.

Richard Byrne, President of Benefit Street Partners, shares his expertise on navigating the chaotic landscape of commercial real estate. He discusses the crisis in office space, innovative investment strategies like perpetual REITs, and the importance of patience in a shifting market. Byrne highlights various financing types and the challenges posed by rising interest rates. The conversation illuminates how investors can identify opportunities amid the turmoil and adjust their strategies for success.

Michael and Ben share humorous stories, including a workout mishap with an agave plant. They discuss their quirky journeys in finance, offering insights from their early careers and the challenges they faced. The duo reflects on their organic growth from managing $140 to over $5 billion, driven by collaboration. Additionally, they dive into their favorite in-flight movies, favoring light-hearted options while maintaining a playful banter. Throughout, their authenticity and gratitude shine through, keeping the audience engaged and entertained.

In this insightful talk, Michael Mack, an Associate Portfolio Manager at Victory Capital specializing in free cash flow investing, dives deep into the essential metrics that inform smart investment choices. He explains how to calculate free cash flow and discusses whether the 'Magnificent 7' stocks pass a free cash flow screen. Mack also addresses the nuances of avoiding value traps and the significance of sector exposure within high cash flow strategies, offering a treasure trove of insights for savvy investors.

The hosts tackle the awkwardness of financial disparities among friends and dive into the rise of OnlyFans and the quirks of dating apps. They share humorous anecdotes about grocery shopping and air conditioning preferences while discussing the economic implications of comfort. Bitcoin ETFs and the evolving dynamics of debt and home equity are explored, alongside a critical look at how dating apps have changed romantic relationships. Finally, they contrast indie film rivalries with reflections on nostalgia and modern adaptations.

In this discussion, Jennifer Chang, Portfolio Manager at Schafer Cullen, shares her expert insights on dividend investing. She dives into how rising interest rates impact dividend stocks and compares her unique call writing strategy with other income tactics. The conversation covers tax optimization for income strategies and emphasizes the resilience of dividend growth stocks in fluctuating markets. Chang also highlights the investment criteria for selling stocks and the psychological benefits of dividend investing over buybacks.

Delve into the latest insights from Josh Brown's new book and explore the bullish market sentiments with a record high of 401k millionaires. The hosts tackle the efficient market hypothesis while navigating the complex world of financial choices and emotional parenting. Lighthearted anecdotes about movie theaters and mustache trends add humor to reflections on glamping versus camping. From the impact of economic pressures on the American dream to nostalgic film recommendations, this conversation seamlessly blends finance and personal stories.

Join Priya Misra, a savvy portfolio manager for the JPMorgan Core Plus Bond ETF, as she unpacks the surge in private credit popularity and today's corporate bond spreads. Discover what a soft landing means for interest rates, along with insights into high-quality names in high yield. Misra emphasizes the balance of risk and yield in portfolio management, exploring the active strategies needed in the current climate of fluctuating rates. Get ready for a deep dive into navigating the evolving landscape of fixed income investments!

Dive into the intriguing world of wealth with musings on Jerome Powell's influential speech and the unexpected rise of Nvidia millionaires. Discover why every generation seems to think they have it worse when it comes to financial struggles. Explore the complexities of housing affordability and the noise in financial advice that can mislead even seasoned investors. Listen in as they discuss the psychological costs of chasing wealth and the evolving perspectives on what it truly means to be wealthy in today’s economy.

In this engaging discussion, Brandon Nelson, a Senior Portfolio Manager for Calamos specializing in small cap investments, dives deep into the hidden gems of the stock market. He sheds light on why small caps often fly under the radar and explores key sectors ripe for investment. The conversation touches on the intricate relationship between momentum and fundamentals and the unique profitability of small cap stocks. Brandon also shares valuable insights into navigating market cycles and the art of sell discipline, offering listeners a rich perspective on small cap opportunities.