A Different Perspective

This week Nick talks to Robbie Burns

Robbie has been a journalist and writer since earning his journalism degree from Harlow College in 1981. He began his career as a reporter and editor for various local newspapers before becoming editor of ITV and Channel 4’s teletext services from 1988 to 1992. During this time, he also wrote ITV’s daily teletext soap opera, Park Avenue, for five years.

Afterward, Robbie transitioned to freelance journalism, contributing to newspapers such as The Independent and The Sun, and played a role in establishing CNN’s financial news service. In 1997, he became editor of BSkyB’s teletext services, where he launched their shares and finance section and developed entertainment phone lines, including a Buffy the Vampire Slayer hotline that earned him nearly £250,000.

In 2001, Robbie left full-time employment to focus on share trading and running a London café, which he later sold for double his initial investment. While at BSkyB, he began broadcasting a diary of his share trades, which gained significant popularity and was later moved to his website, nakedtrader.co.uk. The site became one of the UK’s most-read financial resources. 

Currently, Robbie writes a weekly column for ADVFN and conducts trading seminars featuring live market demonstrations. Since 2001, he has achieved tax-free trading gains exceeding £2.5 million, earning him a place among the UK’s few ISA millionaires. His publicly shared trades alone have generated over £1.5 million in profits, showcasing his consistent success even during challenging market periods.

Nick and Robbie talk about his career path to becoming the Naked Trader and his favoured stocks. The 6th edition of the Naked Trader is available here.

Robbie's Book Choice:
Rich Dad Poor Dad: by Robert T. Kiyosaki

Robbie's music choice's where:
I'm Alive by Stretch & Vern
https://open.spotify.com/track/5F9rZa65ePNd3HZFkavre7

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

Ed is the co-founder and CEO of the London Interdisciplinary School (LIS), a new university in east London that offers BASc and MASc which oriented around complex problems, not disciplines.

In 2012 Ed co-founded School 21 in Stratford with Peter Hyman and Oli de Botton. In 2017 the first GCSE class achieved grades that placed them in the top 5% of the country for attainment, and the school was awarded an Outstanding Ofsted. In 2014 Ed led the launch of Voice 21 to raise the status of oracy in schools. 

Ed has also advised the leaders of several education institutions including Cambridge University, LSE, Teach First, Teach for All, Ark Schools and Eton College, as well as over 30 other clients in the private sector and government.

Previously Ed ran a theatre production company with the screenwriter Matt Charman and was a consultant at McKinsey & Co. He has served on the boards of Ashoka UK and Big Education.

Nick and Ed talk about Ed's career and how Ed's see the future of education with the LIS.

Ed's book choice where:
The Entrepreneurial State by Mariana Mazzucato
https://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/products/entrepreneurial-state-book-mariana-mazzucato-9780141986104
The Rise of the Meritocracy by Michael Young
https://www.abebooks.co.uk/servlet/BookDetailsPL?bi=32040280938&dest=gbr
The Road to Somewhere: The Populist Revolt and the Future of Politics by David Goodhart
https://onlineshop.oxfam.org.uk/the-road-to-somewhere/product/HD_302420608?sku=HD_302420608
,
Ed's music choice was:
The Streets, Don't Mug Yourself
https://open.spotify.com/track/2phF2CRhoSnpJUxxvHUf8Z

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Peter Curk

With over a decade of experience across multiple sectors, Pete has held diverse roles in executive management, customer experience, marketing, and business development. Currently serving as CEO of ICONOMI, previously leading Big Bang Slovenija as Customer Experience & eCommerce Director. Peter co-founded Dia-Vit Ltd, securing Series A funding, and consulted on digital marketing and sales strategy at Deloitte Slovenia. Earlier roles include interim CMO at GoOpti and COO at Renderspace, focusing on UX design and performance marketing, along with a 10-year tenure at A1 Slovenija d.d., enriching their foundation in business development and leadership.

As the CEO of ICONOMI, ICONOMI is a digital asset management platform that enables users to easily manage, invest, and diversify in the world of cryptocurrencies. Founded with the mission to democratize access to the new economy, ICONOMI offers a user-friendly interface for both beginners and experienced investors to build and manage customized crypto portfolios. Through its platform, ICONOMI provides various digital asset management services, including a selection of pre-built crypto portfolios, allowing users to invest with ease and security. By bridging traditional and digital finance, ICONOMI empowers users to access and navigate the digital asset space effectively, making crypto investing more accessible, transparent, and manageable.

Nick and Peter discuss ICONOMI, Crypto ETF's, legacy coding and blockchain and the wider crypto sector.

Peter's book choice was: The Origin of Wealth by Eric Beinhocker
https://onlineshop.oxfam.org.uk/the-origin-of-wealth-by-eric-beinhocker/product/HD_302173723?sku=HD_302173723

Peter music choice was: Songs of Joy and Devotion by Depeche Mode
https://open.spotify.com/album/6x7S6u9Cx2S0JD48nPsavE

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Guy Gittins.

Guy became CEO of Foxtons in September 2022, bringing with him extensive experience in the property sector and leadership roles. Prior to rejoining Foxtons, he served as CEO of Chestertons, a renowned London-based and international residential property firm. Guy's career began at Foxtons, where he worked until 2006 before taking on the role of Sales and Marketing Director for Peter de Savary. In 2010, he joined Savills and later moved to Chestertons in 2012, leading their flagship Chelsea office. In 2018, he was appointed CEO of Chestertons

Nick and Guy discuss Guy's career journey and the evolution of Foxtons, from its founding by Jon Hunt to the present day.

Guy's Book choice was How to Build a Car: The Autobiography of the World’s Greatest Formula 1 Designer by Adrian Newey
https://www.waterstones.com/book/how-to-build-a-car/adrian-newey/9780008196806

Guy's music choice was - Move your body by Marshall Jefferson
https://open.spotify.com/track/3OrcEhLzxv1YX597jGjEI7

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Jeff Chatfield

Jeff serves as the Executive Chairman of Avation PLC and played a pivotal role in its founding and development. Throughout his career, he has held management and directorial positions in various companies across sectors such as the airline industry, data distribution, electronics, investment, broadcasting, and manufacturing. He holds both a Bachelor of Engineering and a Master of Engineering Science from the University of Western Australia. Additionally, he is a graduate member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Singapore Institute of Directors. 

Nick and Jeff discuss Avation PLC and the wider aircraft lessor sector. 

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to John Roberts

John began his career as a waiter and kitchen salesman. In 2000, he founded Appliances Online after a friend bet him £1 to start a business. His entrepreneurial journey gained momentum when, in 2014, he led AO World’s listing on the London Stock Exchange, which was valued at £1.2 billion at the time. John has stated that he built AO on his personal mottos: "treat every customer like your gran" and "make your mum proud." In 2021, he was ranked 30th in the Financial Times' list of the UK’s Top 100 Entrepreneurs, and he has won multiple awards, including the This is Manchester Supernova Award and the Retail Week Retail Activist Award.

Over the past year, John has become an advocate for restoring over £1 billion in lost youth infrastructure funding, reforming the Apprenticeship Levy, and exploring solutions for improving the care system for looked-after children. He has said that most of his earnings go to charity. 

Nick and John discuss his career path, the founding of AO.com and his philanthropy. 

John book choice was - Invention: A Life of Learning Through Failure, by James Dyson

John's music choice was - Don't Stop Me Now, by Queen

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talk's to Corero's CEO Carl Herberger

Carl oversees the business strategy and execution at Corero Network Security, a leading provider of DDoS protection solutions. Corero specialises in automatic detection and protection systems, offering network visibility, analytics, and reporting tools. The technology safeguards against both external and internal DDoS threats, particularly in complex edge and subscriber environments, ensuring continuous internet service availability. Corero operates from centres in Marlborough, Massachusetts, USA, and Edinburgh, UK, with its headquarters in London. The company is listed on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange.

Nick and Carl discuss the technology safeguard landscape along with Corero's core business.

Carl's book choice's where:
Man's Search For Meaning by Viktor E Frankl
https://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/viktor-e-frankl/man-s-search-for-meaning/9781844132393
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
https://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/dale-carnegie/how-to-win-friends-and-influence-people/9780091906818
Animal Farm by George Orwell
https://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/george-orwell/animal-farm/9780141036137
Built to Last by James Collins
https://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/james-collins/built-to-last/9780712669689

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick talks to Christian Purcell, Co-Founder of DropPoint.

Christian is the co-founder of DropPoint, a UK-based platform that helps individuals declutter by connecting them with local charitable causes seeking in-kind donations. Through its searchable directory, users can easily find grassroots projects and organizations in need of specific items, allowing them to donate unwanted goods and support their community. DropPoint aims to make the donation process simple and effective, encouraging people to give back in a meaningful way.

Christian’s earlier career includes various roles such as Project Manager and Carrier Analyst at wnDirect, Customer Service Advisor and Stock Controller at Arco Ltd, and Contract Administrator at Briggs Amasco Ltd. Christian also combines his role at DropPoint with working for parcelLab as senior technical business analyst.

Nick and Christian discuss the formation of DropPoint.org, how it works and what the future holds.

Christian’s book choices were The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin and The Autobiography of Andrew Carnegie.

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

In this week's episode Nick talks to Stewart Hall

Stewart Hall is the CEO and co-founder of Public Policy Holding Company (PPHC), a role he has held since 2014. He is also the co-founder and Chairman of Crossroads Strategies, LLC (CRS). Stewart began his career as Legislative Director to Senator Richard Shelby (R-AL) from 1992 to 1996, where he developed extensive expertise in defense policy, appropriations, financial services, and Senate procedures. In 1999, he entered the private sector by co-founding Federalist Group, LLC.

Under Stewart's leadership, Federalist Group was acquired by Ogilvy Public Relations, a WPP company, in 2005. The company subsequently doubled in size over the next four years while he remained at the helm. In 2010, Stewart co-founded CRS, and in 2014, CRS was merged to create PPHC—an innovative organization that integrates multiple disciplines of the public policy sector into a single, multi-brand entity.

As CEO of PPHC, Stewart has overseen the company's impressive growth, achieving a compound annual growth rate of over 30% annually through a combination of mergers, acquisitions, and organic expansion, and expanding the workforce to over 350 employees nationwide.

Stewart holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Alabama and both an MA and Ph.D. in Government from the University of Virginia.

Nick and Stewart discuss Stewarts career and what the Public Policy Holding Company does.

Stewart's book of choice was the The Federalist Papers. The Federalist Papers is a collection of 85 articles and essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay under the collective pseudonym "Publius" to promote the ratification of the Constitution of the United States. https://guides.loc.gov/federalist-papers/full-text

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

In this week's episode Nick talks to Americo Lemos

Americo Lemos joined IQE in January 2022, bringing with him extensive experience from his previous role on the executive team at GlobalFoundries, a leading semiconductor design and manufacturing company headquartered in New York. At GlobalFoundries, he served as the Senior Vice President of Business Development for Asia Pacific and China Country President, where he focused on enhancing the company's efficiency and growth in these vital regions. Prior to this, Lemos was the Senior Vice President at Qualcomm, overseeing its data center business. His career also includes a tenure as Vice President of Platform Engineering at Intel, where he led strategic partnerships with Chinese semiconductor companies from 2009 to 2015. Additionally, he has held senior positions at Texas Instruments, Quanta Computer in Taiwan, and Skyworks.

Nick and Americo discuss his career and a deep dive intto the world of compound semi conductors.

Americo's book choice was:
Good To Great by Jim Collins
https://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/jim-collins/good-to-great/9780712676090

This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.