In this episode of the Fund Retirement Podcast, host Lee chats with Stuart Hopley, Relationship Director at Scottish Widows. Stuart discusses his unexpected journey into the pensions industry and addresses the major challenges people face with pensions in the UK, including system complexity and a lack of a saving culture.

He offers practical advice on tracking down old pensions, the implications of the new pension dashboard, and the importance of regular contributions. The conversation touches on financial education, the challenges faced by the self-employed, and the role of employers in supporting their employees' financial futures.

Stuart also shares innovative ideas to engage people in pensions, utilizing social media, gamification, and webinars. Detailed discussions on the importance of pension nominations, the role of financial advice, and practical steps for retirement planning make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to secure their financial future.

Timestamps:

00:28 Understanding Pension Challenges

00:39 Practical Pension Advice

00:49 Financial Education and Employer Support

00:55 Engaging with Pensions: Social Media and Gamification

01:03 Starting the Conversation with Stuart

01:23 Stuart's Career Journey

03:57 The Complexity of Pensions

06:23 Tracking Down Old Pensions

07:28 The Pension Dashboard: A Game Changer

10:46 The Issue of Lost Pensions

12:25 Supporting the Self-Employed

14:38 Pension Awareness and Engagement

23:20 Innovations in Pension Engagement

26:00 The Role of Social Media

28:18 Employer Innovations and Support

28:58 Employer Advocacy and Social Media Trust

30:25 The Future of Pensions and Digitalization

30:55 Gamification in Pension Engagement

36:41 Financial Education and Awareness

42:07 The Importance of Nomination of Beneficiary

45:44 Retirement Planning and Employer Support

48:55 The Role of Financial Advice in Retirement

51:12 Closing Reflections and Quick Fire Questions

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

Guest Links & Resources:

Stuart Hopely LinkedIn profile: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/stuart-hopley-6ab34124  

Sottish Widows Pension Mirror Game: https://www.pensionmirror.co.uk/

Scottish Widows Job Dash Game: https://www.scottishwidowsjobdash.co.uk/  

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

In this episode of 'Investing for the Long Term,' hosts Judith McKenzie and Rosemary Banyard welcome Nicola Barber, an experienced equity investor and portfolio manager with over 35 years in the industry. Nicola shares her unique career journey that began at Rothschild without a university degree and traversed through notable firms such as Barings and James Hambro Partners.

The discussion includes insights into her role in managing charities' investments, her approach to navigating the ever-changing markets, and the impact of technology and regulation on investment strategies. Nicola also reflects on the pivotal moments and achievements in her career and offers advice for aspiring professionals in the finance sector.

Timestamps:

01:44 Meet Nicola Barber

02:39 Nicola's Early Career

03:59 Challenges and Opportunities at Rothschild

06:49 Understanding Livery Companies

09:25 Career Transitions and Insights

17:42 Joining James Hambro & Partners

22:55 Reflecting on Career Challenges

23:48 Insights into the World of Charities

27:14 Managing Multi-Asset Portfolios

29:39 A Day in the Life of an Investment Partner

34:33 Navigating the UK Market

38:43 Proudest Career Achievements

40:02 Advice to the Younger Generation

40:44 Book and Podcast Recommendations

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis.

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

Links & Resources: 

Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers

Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en

Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement

In this episode of 'Investing for the Long Term,' hosted by Judith McKenzie Head of Downing Fund Managers and Rosemary Banyard consultant to Downing Fund Managers, the focus is on Malar Velaigam, a director at Dowgate Capital with over 15 years of experience in the capital markets. The conversation delves into Malar's unique career journey from corporate finance in Malaysia to her significant roles in London. They discuss challenges faced by boards, the importance of board composition, and Malar's transition to broking and her first non-executive directorship.

The episode also highlights the need for better financial education and market savvy within boards, the state of the UK stock market, and Malar's passion for stocks and growth investing. Insightful commentary is provided on improving market conditions and fostering a more innovative and supportive financial industry.

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction

01:46 Malar's Career Journey

03:22 Transition to Journalism

03:52 Life in London and Career Shifts

05:59 Joining the Broking World

07:09 Balancing Career and Family

08:08 Excitement of Covering Tech

10:08 Investment Mindset Differences

11:52 Financial Education for Youth

13:42 Challenges in Broking

17:40 Importance of Board Composition

20:47 First Non-Executive Directorship

22:58 Balancing Board Skillsets

23:31 Importance of Board Cohesiveness

25:32 Challenges in Company Management

28:14 UK Stock Market Struggles

32:29 Proudest Career Achievement

35:12 Passion for Growth Stocks

37:38 Industry Changes and Challenges

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis.

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

Links & Resources:

Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers

Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en

Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

In this episode of 'Investing for the Long Term,' hosts Judith McKenzie and Rosemary Banyard delve deep into the career and philosophies of Jamie Matheson, former Executive Chairman of Brewin Dolphin. Jamie reflects on his introduction to the financial world, pivotal career moments, and shares key insights about leadership, personal relationships, and the evolution of the financial industry.

Judith and Rosemary provide personal anecdotes of their professional crossroads with Jamie, adding layers to his narrative. The discussion covers significant financial events like the 1987 Big Bang, the importance of personal integrity, and how to balance career aspirations with personal ethics. Jamie also discusses his post-Brewin ventures, including his involvement in fund management boutiques and charitable work.

This episode offers valuable lessons on professional growth, the power of people in business, and the significance of giving back to the community.

Timestamps:

00:01 Introducing Jamie Matheson

01:40 Judith's Early Career with Jamie

03:10 Rosemary's Connection with Jamie

04:45 Jamie's Career Beginnings

05:50 Rising Through the Ranks

10:04 Leadership and Personal Relationships

11:27 Changes in the Financial Industry

14:50 Memorable Anecdotes

18:07 Challenges and Rewards of Leadership

21:48 Transition to Boutique Fund Management

23:19 Becoming Chairman of Saracen

25:15 Consolidating Boutiques: Challenges and Strategies

26:13 The Importance of People in Business

28:09 Navigating the UK Market Landscape

30:11 Passions Beyond Business: Sailing and Yachts

31:27 Involvement with HMS Victory

33:46 Qualities of a Good Board Member

35:31 Reflecting on Career Achievements

37:25 Advice for the Younger Generation

38:41 Recommended Reads and Final Thoughts

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis.

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

Links & Resources:

Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers

Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en

Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

In this episode of 'Investing for the Long Term' Season 2, hosts Judith Mackenzie and Rosemary Banyard are joined by Claire Milverton, CEO of 1spatial, an AIM-listed geospatial technology company based in Cambridge.

Claire discusses 1spatial's innovative solutions in location data management, her career journey, and the unique challenges and opportunities of leading a global business in the geospatial sector.

The episode also delves into the importance of data accuracy, the transition from finance to CEO, and the future prospects of 1spatial. The conversation provides valuable insights into investment considerations and the evolving landscape of geospatial technology.

Timestamps:

00:30 Introducing Claire Milverton, CEO of 1spatial

01:19 Background on 1spatial

02:15 Claire's Career Journey

03:42 Global Reach and Growth

04:05 Building Recurring Revenues

05:40 Challenges and Innovations

14:37 Finance Background and CEO Role

17:14 Investing in Innovation

19:03 Mentorship and Support

21:08 Work-Life Balance

23:06 Being a Listed Company

28:17 Achievements and Advice

31:39 Recommended Books and Podcasts

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis.

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

Links & Resources:

Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers

Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en

Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

In the first episode of season 2 of 'Investing for the Long Term' hosted by Judith McKenzie and Rosemary Banyard, the duo chats with Andy Brough, a prominent figure in the small and mid-cap investment space.

Andy shares his career journey, key lessons, and experiences in fund management, providing valuable advice for new and seasoned investors.

The discussion touches on the evolution of the investment landscape, the impact of private equity, and the importance of continuous learning and attention to detail in the field.

Timestamps:

00:29 Introducing Andy Brough

01:16 Judith and Rosemary's First Encounters with Andy

04:12 Andy's Career Journey

06:03 The Evolution of Fund Management

08:43 Insights on Accounting and Fund Management

11:56 Influential Figures and Mentors

16:09 The State of the UK Market

19:10 Reflections on Government Policies

24:04 Career Achievements and Advice

27:33 The Signature Red Shirt

29:22 Recommended Reads and Final Thoughts

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis.

Links & Resources:

Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers

Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en

Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

In this episode of the 'Fund Your Retirement Podcast,' host Lee interviews Simon Evan-Cook, a multi-asset fund of funds manager with over 25 years of experience. Simon shares his journey into fund management, his investment philosophy, and the key principles guiding his strategy, particularly his preference for active fund managers.

He discusses the dynamic nature of fund management, how he identifies exceptional fund managers, and the importance of understanding both the art and science behind investing in funds. The conversation also touches on the pros and cons of active versus passive fund management, the impact of fund size on performance, and the emotional challenges investors might face. Simon emphasizes the value of patience, understanding market cycles, and making informed, long-term investment decisions.

Timestamps:

01:40 Simon's Journey into Investing

02:50 Discovering the Passion for Fund Management

07:06 Simon's Investment Strategy

12:37 Active vs. Passive Fund Management

20:16 Screening for Fund Managers

20:22 Identifying Extreme Funds

22:54 The Hero's Journey of Funds

25:04 Holding Periods and Fund Manager Longevity

26:26 Challenges of Managing Large Funds

00:05 Understanding Fund Dynamics

31:21 Final Thoughts on Active vs Passive Investing

36:35 Book Recommendations and Closing Remarks

If you like the episode, please leave us a review and subscribe for future investor interviews.

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

Guest Links & Resources:

Visit Simon's Profile on The Dowing Website Here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers/vt-downing-fox-funds

Join Simon's Medium mailing list: https://simonevan-cook.medium.com/

Visit Simon's Billion Dollar Book Club: https://uk.bookshop.org/lists/the-way-of-the-fox-ten-texts?

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

In the final episode of the season, Judith and Rosemary delve into the intricacies of a day in the life of a fund manager. They discuss their roles and responsibilities, which include selecting and monitoring investments, communicating with shareholders, and dealing with regulatory requirements. They share insights into their typical weeks, which vary greatly and can be unpredictable due to market announcements.

The episode also highlights the challenges posed by regulatory demands and the importance of long-term investment. The managers reflect on their most rewarding moments, their involvement in additional commitments such as charities, and provide advice for aspiring fund managers. The episode concludes with book and show recommendations.

Timestamps:

01:24 Roles and Responsibilities of a Fund Manager

04:08 Weekly Routine and Unexpected Challenges

04:33 Research and Communication

06:44 Regulatory Demands and Governance

12:23 Working from Home and Travel

14:31 Advice for Aspiring Fund Managers

15:21 Challenges and Frustrations

18:52 Proudest Moments and Giving Back

23:53 Career Path and Opportunities

27:16 Book and Podcast Recommendations

31:30 Conclusion and Season Wrap-Up

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis.

Links & Resources: 

Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers

Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en

Vassal States by Angus Hanton: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Vassal-State-America-Runs-Britain/dp/1800753888

Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

This time on The Investors Round Table Roland Head, Mark Simpson, and Graham Neary discuss Interest rates and the investment potential of Property Franchise Group (TPFG), Macfarlane Group (MACF) & Van Elle Holdings (VANL).

A healthy three-way debate about the shares they own, their portfolios, and the markets.

Timestamps:

1:20 Round table discussing Property Franchise Group (TPFG).

14:00 Round table discussing Macfarlane Group (MACF).

30:50 Round table discussing Van Elle Holdings (VANL).

36:00 Round table discussing Interest rates.

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about portfolio management and stock analysis.

Roland Mark & Graham Resources:  

Visit FYR for more investors related podcasts: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow Roland on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rolandhead

Visit Roland's Dividends Investing website here: https://www.rolandhead.com/

Follow Mark on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DangerCapital

Buy Marks Book here: http://excellentinvesting.org/

Follow Graham on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrahamNeary

Join Graham's Substack newsletter here: https://theinvestorinstitute.substack.com/

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

In part seven of this investing eight-part series, Judith Mackenzie and Rosemary Banyard discuss how they construct a portfolio of stocks and how they manage them.

Key topics covered:

·         What is portfolio construction and portfolio management?

·         What types of risks should investors think about when constructing a portfolio of stocks?

·         How do Judith and Rosmary diversify risk across the stocks they own?

·         What tools or software do they use to aid them in managing their investment portfolios?

Each episode of this now eight-part series builds on the next as they walk you through an investor's journey.

If you have ever wondered what a fund manager does, how they think, the types of investments they look for and what led them to pursue careers in finance and investing? Then you're in the right place, join Judith and Rosemary as they peel back the veil and share their guiding principles and experiences from careers spanning multiple decades in the finance industry as investment fund managers.

In the previous episode, Judith, and Rosemary share the highs and lows of meetings with company management, red flags to look out for and their views on annual general meetings.

Timestamps:

 2:05 Judith and Rosemary share what is portfolio construction and portfolio management.

5:10 What are the key parameters one would need to consider when constructing a portfolio of stocks.

13:10 What are the risks investors should consider when constructing a portfolio of stocks.

17:50 How Judith and Rosemary asses the different weightings of the stocks they own.

23:00 What position size do they use when making their first investment.

25:00 Things to consider when it comes to thinking about sectors when constructing a portfolio of stocks.

29:40 Do Judith and Rosemary use price targets?

32:40 Do Judith and Rosemary have teams that support them in managing their investment portfolios.

34:20 How do Judith and Rosemary manage their thoughts when they are about to push that button.

36:30 What are the constraints to portfolio construction and management?

40:30 Closing thoughts and wrap up.

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

The FYR Team

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis.

Links & Resources: 

Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers

Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en

Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.