
Animal Spirits Podcast
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/
Latest episodes

17 snips
Jan 27, 2025 • 31min
Talk Your Book: The Private Credit Opportunity Set
Dive into the dynamic world of private credit and venture debt, where smaller firms offer flexibility amidst traditional banking challenges. Explore the evolving landscape of private credit investments, and discover why public equity still reigns in liquidity and diversification. The discussion also highlights key metrics for advisors navigating this complex market, stressing the importance of transparency in valuations and prudent due diligence. Learn about the unique position of TRIN and the opportunities waiting within lower middle-market deals.

106 snips
Jan 22, 2025 • 57min
Trump Coin (EP.396)
Dive into the wild world of cryptocurrency with a humorous look at a new Trump-themed memecoin. Explore the shift from innovation to speculation in the crypto space and its societal impacts. Discover how financial aspirations are shaped by social media, especially for Gen Z. Enjoy a lighthearted take on the ups and downs of sports fandom alongside insights into the evolving housing market. Finally, laugh at the quirky competition in the memecoin arena and consider the future of influencer tokens.

22 snips
Jan 20, 2025 • 32min
Talk Your Book: 3 Reasons to Buy Bonds
Dave Braun, a Managing Director at PIMCO, dives into the complexities of the bond market and why rates are rising. He discusses the intriguing potential of mortgage bonds in the current economic climate. The conversation shifts to the resilience of consumers, navigating credit market dynamics post-COVID, and the evolving landscape of commercial real estate. Braun emphasizes active management strategies and the shift toward private credit amidst changing yield conditions, providing insightful perspectives for investors.

96 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 1h
A Key Market Signal (EP.395)
Recent wildfires in California have devastated homes and lives, raising questions about the importance of home ownership for financial stability. The hosts dive into market trends, including the rise of quantum computing stocks and the volatility of tech giants. They also reflect on the emotional impacts of gambling and the nostalgia for simpler times, while touching on societal changes influenced by technology. A humorous look at Jerry Springer adds a dash of entertainment to a thought-provoking discussion on wealth and well-being.

6 snips
Jan 13, 2025 • 31min
Talk Your Book: Moneyball Meets Private Equity
Greg Bond, CEO of Man Numeric and Head of the Americas for the Man Group, dives into the intricacies of private equity and quantitative investing. He shares insights on constructing private equity portfolios and the essential screening processes needed to weed out poor investments. Bond draws fascinating parallels between sports analytics and investment strategies, highlighting how data shapes decision-making in both fields. He also discusses his experience with the Red Sox and the evolving landscape of investment opportunities in today's macroeconomic climate.

164 snips
Jan 8, 2025 • 1h 9min
Predictions For 2025 (EP.394)
The conversation dives into intriguing predictions for 2025, touching on the AI bubble and economic forecasts. They reflect on financial regrets one might face at age 80 while discussing the importance of timing when to sell a winning investment. Insights into the housing cycle and market shifts, especially in real estate, are highlighted. The hosts juggle humorous anecdotes about turning 40 with the complexities of wealth and the emotional weight of investment decisions, all while pondering the evolving role of AI in finance.

14 snips
Jan 6, 2025 • 42min
Talk Your Book: Direct to Consumer Venture Capital
Dive into the fascinating world where venture capital meets the entertainment industry. Discover how celebrity influence reshapes investment strategies and creates new opportunities for retail investors. Learn about innovative fund structures like evergreen funds and how liquidity is managed in this evolving landscape. The discussion also highlights the importance of transparency and a diversified approach in building long-term value. Get insights into navigating consumer brands and the role of strategic partnerships in WealthTech investments.

40 snips
Jan 1, 2025 • 59min
It Was a Very Good Year (EP.393)
Dive into the intriguing discussion about the stock market's performance and what to expect for 2025 returns. Unpack the fascinating investment decisions of Steve Ballmer and the rise of speculative trading. Explore the psychological hurdles retirees face when transitioning from saving to spending. Delve into financial independence concepts like 'FU Money' and the importance of enjoying life experiences. Plus, enjoy humorous takes on holiday movies and the evolving norms of swimwear on vacations!

12 snips
Dec 30, 2024 • 29min
Talk Your Book: Conviction in Growth Investing
Charly Travers, a Portfolio Manager at Motley Fool Asset Management, joins the discussion to shed light on the construction of the Motley Fool 100 Index ETF. He delves into the nuances of growth versus value investing, emphasizing the unique approach polyester analysts take in stock picking. The conversation navigates the emotional hurdles investors face and the importance of forward-thinking analysis in identifying successful companies. Travers also highlights opportunities in the evolving healthcare sector and the implications of market shifts for investors looking ahead.

22 snips
Dec 29, 2024 • 55min
Talk Your Book: The Economy is not the Stock Market with David Rosenberg
The discussion dives into the disconnect between the stock market and the economy. David Rosenberg shares insights on macroeconomic factors influencing current market dynamics. He highlights the challenges of high equity valuations and the risks posed by potential recessions. The conversation also touches on the implications of generative AI for productivity and investment behavior. With a critical look at policy decisions, Rosenberg advocates for a cautious approach in navigating today's economic landscape.