In this episode of the FEG Insight Bridge Podcast, Greg Dowling sits down with Ali Akay, Founder and CIO of Carrhae Capital and experienced emerging markets investor. Ali shares his journey from central bank consultant to founder of a successful investment firm, embodying his personal mantra, "Struggling, I emerge." His perspective on macroeconomic factors, political and currency risks, and the benefits of country and currency diversification provide a roadmap for navigating the complexities and considerable opportunities inherent in these markets.

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In March’s episode of the FEG Insight Bridge Podcast, Greg Dowling talks to Jason Fowler about what it takes to develop the mindset of a winner. From his devastating motocross injury as a teenager to his path to overcoming obstacles, to his success as an adaptive sports champion, coach and mentor, Jason’s search for his “true north” can help and inspire all of us. Jason believes that a combination of factors is common to all successful initiatives with: the need for physical health, clear vision, the ability to adapt thought processes to life’s inevitable ruts, and an accountability coach.

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In the February episode of the FEG Insight Bridge Podcast, Malabar Investments Advisors Sumeet Nagar and Akshay Mansukhani join FEG CIO Greg Dowling in an in-depth discussion. This month they analyze the differentiating quality of the Indian market versus other emerging markets and the importance - and benefit - of a comprehensive understanding of market liquidity. A history of entrepreneurial spirit, low-cost structure and an attractive mix of domestic and offshore capital have combined to make Indian private markets worthy of attention.

Tune in for this in-depth discussion of the opportunities and risks within India's evolving and growing private markets.

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Discover a fresh perspective: Ben Inker of GMO examines market trends and potential investment strategies for 2025.

On this episode of the FEG Insight Bridge Podcast, we are joined by Ben Inker, Co-Head of Asset Allocation and Portfolio Manager at GMO, in a conversation exploring market trends and investment strategies for 2025. Ben and FEG CIO Greg Dowling discuss the impact of market concentration, the role of quality and value in portfolios, and the effects of passive investing. Ben provides insights into the performance of U.S. large cap growth stocks, the state of Japanese small caps, and the potential importance of diversification in uncertain times. Ben also shares his career journey at GMO, highlighting lessons learned from industry leaders like Jeremy Grantham and David Swenson.

Tune in for key insights on market concentration and the evolving dynamics of today's investment landscape.

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On this episode of the FEG Insight Bridge Podcast, CIO Greg Dowling welcomes Max Belmont, Portfolio Manager and Senior Research Analyst at First Eagle Investments. Max discusses the growing interest in gold amid global economic uncertainties, exploring its role as a potential hedge against inflation and currency devaluation. The discussion also covers the dynamics of gold mining investments, the impact of central bank policies, and the comparison between gold and digital assets like Bitcoin.

Tune in for key insights on the enduring allure of gold and exploration of its strategic importance in today's investment landscape.

Key Takeaways

• Gold is prized as a potential safe haven due to its stability and limited supply. Unlike other commodities, gold does not corrode or degrade, maintaining its value over long periods. This makes it a potential hedge against economic instability and currency devaluation.
• The historical context of gold, including its role during periods of hyperinflation and economic turmoil, has influenced its perception as a stable investment. Central banks have shifted from being net sellers to net buyers of gold, especially after the 2008 financial crisis and recent geopolitical tensions, such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
• While both gold and cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin are seen as alternatives to traditional financial assets, they behave differently. Gold is a "risk-off" asset, providing stability during market downturns, whereas Bitcoin is more volatile and behaves like a "risk-on" asset, similar to growth stocks.
• First Eagle's approach to investing in gold includes holding physical gold and investing in gold mining companies. The investment strategy focuses on valuation, resilience, duration, and optionality to ensure a margin of safety and long-term value.

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On this episode of the FEG Insight Bridge Podcast, CIO Greg Dowling welcomes Howard Smith, Partner at Indus Capital Partners and Portfolio Manager for the Indus Japan Strategies. Howard shares his extensive experience investing in Japan, discussing the country’s economic resurgence, corporate reforms, and strategic positioning as an alternative to China. The conversation covers Japan’s role in high-tech industries like semiconductors and robotics, the impact of Abe’s three arrows policy, and the evolving landscape of corporate governance and M&A in Japan. They also delve into the yen carry trade unwind and its global implications, as well as the potential takeover of Seven & I Holdings by Canadian company Couche-Tard.

Tune in for key insights on Japan’s economic transformation and investment potential.

Key Takeaways:

• Japan is experiencing renewed interest from investors after decades of stagnation. This resurgence is driven by corporate reforms, a strong manufacturing base, and Japan’s strategic positioning as an alternative to China.
• Japan offers significant opportunities in high-tech industries such as semiconductors and robotics. The country benefits from lower valuations compared to Western markets and plays a crucial role in the global tech supply chain.
• Japan’s corporate governance has improved, with increased board independence and better capital allocation. The potential takeover of Seven & I Holdings by Couche Tard highlights Japan’s evolving openness to foreign investment and corporate control.
• The yen carry trade unwind caused significant market volatility. Additionally, Japan’s high public debt levels are sustainable due to low interest rates and the majority of debt being held by the central bank. However, the terms of trade and reliance on energy imports pose ongoing risks.

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On this episode of the FEG Insight Bridge Podcast, CIO Greg Dowling welcomes Oliver Moses, Managing Partner of WindRose Health Investors. Moses shares his journey into healthcare investing and the evolution of private equity's role in the sector. The two discuss the rapid growth of healthcare, post-COVID challenges like labor shortages, and how technology, including AI, is driving efficiency. Moses also addresses criticisms of private equity in healthcare and highlights WindRose's investments, including a case study on AI nurse assistant Eleanor. The episode wraps up with a look at Moses’ personal mission to use investment strategy to improve and provide free healthcare access for 30,000 children annually in Liberia through Haven Care.

Tune in for key insights on healthcare's future and private equity's role in shaping it.

Key Takeaways

• Healthcare is a rapidly growing sector facing significant challenges such as reimbursement risks, labor shortages, and rising costs.
• AI has the potential to significantly improve efficiency and reduce costs in healthcare, as demonstrated by applications like AI-driven revenue cycle management and a large language model nurse, named Eleanor.
• Post-COVID, healthcare companies face significant labor shortages and cost challenges, highlighting the need for innovative solutions to improve efficiency and manage expenses.

You can find every episode of FEG Insight Bridge podcasts in one place and sign up to receive our other publications here.

On this episode of the FEG Insight Bridge Podcast, CIO Greg Dowling welcomes Dan Ivascyn, CIO of PIMCO, as he reflects on his 26-year career at PIMCO, from trading structured products to leading their portfolio management. Dan discusses the firm’s evolution, the shift from traditional to alternative fixed income strategies, and the current appeal of high-quality bonds. Hear insights on PIMCO’s secular forums, Federal Reserve policies, and the potential impact of political scenarios like a Harris vs. Trump presidency. The episode also covers global volatility, debt levels, and emerging market debt opportunities. Don't miss this conversation as we go inside the curve. 

Key Takeaways

• Dan Ivascyn details how PIMCO has evolved from a focus on traditional fixed income to incorporating alternative strategies, adapting to the complexities of global markets over the past 26 years.
• This episode explores the significant shift in the fixed income industry from high interest rates to a current environment of higher nominal yields, including a return to traditional fixed income opportunities and the comparative value of private credit.
• Dan Ivascyn shares his views on the Federal Reserve’s performance and expectations regarding future rate cuts, the impact of political factors on investing, and the broader implications of global economic volatility and national debt levels.

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On this episode of the FEG Insight Bridge Podcast, CIO Greg Dowling welcomes Gary Sernovitz as they delve into Gary’s dual careers as author and Managing Director at Lime Rock. Gary shares insights into his latest book, The Counting House, and its relevance to institutional investors. Approaching investment from an innovative, semi-fictional perspective, he reveals his inspiration and the role his wife played in encouraging this unique approach to investment storytelling.

As Gary shares his integration of humor and truth in fiction, the conversation unpacks the performance pressures faced by CIOs, and the blend of real and fictional elements in character development. Gary discusses FEG’s connection to the fictional firm of Busken Capital and satirizes generic private equity firms. He describes the four types of limited partners (LPs), his writing process, and real-life experiences of bizarre general partners (GPs) and limited partner (LPs) meetings. As the conversation comes to a close, Gary provides a sneak peek into alternative endings for the book, shares with listeners his favorite books, and provides recommendations for listeners interested in new reading material. 

For more information on The Counting House, visit: The Counting House — Gary Sernovitz
To purchase The Counting House, visit: Octavia Books

Key Takeaways

• The discussion emphasizes the significant impact of relative performance and league tables on the psyche and career of institutional investors. The public nature of endowment performance and the comparisons with peers creates a competitive environment, adding another layer of pressure for CIOs and their teams.
• This episode highlights a chapter from the book that humorously dissects the clichés in private equity pitch decks, including exaggerated competitor maps and funnels, while providing a comedic yet realistic portrayal of the repetitive nature of pitch presentations.
• As the discussion continues, it includes an insightful categorization of limited partners (LPs) into four types (grillers, testers, statues, and fans), emphasizing the varied approaches and attitudes limited partners (LPs) have during meetings. Ranging from aggressive questioning to silent observation, these responses highlight the unpredictable nature of investment pitches.

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Join FEG CIO Greg Dowling and Scott Harlan, Managing Partner and Founder of Rockland Capital, as they discuss the power industry's critical role in supporting the digital and AI-driven economy. From meter reader to private equity principal, Scott shares his journey and insights on energy challenges, the need for a balanced energy mix, and the shift to private sector investments.

Scott addresses the power needs of AI-driven data centers, battery technology, and the importance of gas-fired plants. He explores the impact of politics on energy policy and highlights Rockland Capital's strategy in developing and improving energy projects.

Tune in for insights on navigating the evolving power industry and the role of private equity in driving the energy transition.

Key Takeaways

• Harlan highlights the necessity of balancing the energy mix, including traditional and renewable energy sources with battery storage. While more new power generation needs to be built, another huge component is extending the life of existing plants.
• The shift from regulated utilities to the private sector is explored, with Harlan explaining how the private sector's desire for better efficiency and risk management drives investment.
• Harlan delves into the power requirements of data centers, especially those driven by AI, and the challenges of connecting these facilities to the grid, proposing ideal power solutions to ensure reliability and meet ESG goals.

You can find every episode of FEG Insight Bridge podcasts in one place and sign up to receive our other publications here.