In this episode of Beyond the Ticker, host Rishika Ranka interviews Giles Evans, a portfolio manager at DSM Capital Partners and former US Air Force officer. The conversation explores Giles' unique transition from military aviation to investment management, highlighting the challenges of networking and decision-making in high-pressure environments. Giles shares insights on contrarian investing, the importance of understanding industries deeply, and the dynamics of the aerospace sector, including supply chain issues and the future of urban air mobility. He emphasizes the value of simplicity and metrics in investment strategies, providing valuable advice for aspiring investors.

Takeaways

• Transitioning from military to investment management presents unique challenges.
• Networking is a crucial skill often overlooked in military training.
• Understanding risk versus reward is essential in investment decision-making.
• Teamwork and collaboration are vital in both aviation and investing.
• Contrarian investing involves questioning consensus and exploring what could go right.
• Identifying investment horizons helps in filtering out market noise.
• Simplicity in investment ideas can lead to better decision-making.
• The aerospace industry faces structural challenges post-COVID.
• Urban air mobility presents both opportunities and uncertainties.
• Metrics and quantifiable goals are key to successful investing.