Fund Your Retirement Podcast

In this episode of Investing for the Long Term, Downing's Judith Mackenzie and Rosemary Banyard are joined by Roger Lee, Head of Equity Strategy at Cavendish.

Roger shares his unconventional journey from studying physics and qualifying as an accountant to becoming one of the UK's leading equity strategists. Along the way, he explains how his passion for politics and storytelling shapes the way he interprets markets and communicates with investors.

The conversation explores why UK equities continue to trade at a significant discount, what could finally trigger a re-rating, and how shifting interest rate expectations, oil prices, and global politics are influencing investor sentiment. Roger also discusses whether the UK can attract more investment, why mergers and acquisitions may help unlock value, and why he believes there is still a compelling long-term case for UK stocks.

Timestamps:

01:01 – Roger's journey into finance

03:32 – How studying physics shaped his investment thinking

04:58 – The link between politics and markets

07:01 – Why storytelling matters in market commentary

08:11 – Advising investors and corporates

10:16 – The UK's equity investing culture

13:23 – Why investors are looking at the UK again

15:16 – The UK valuation debate

20:07 – Can the UK fix its listing problem?

23:07 – Leadership, growth and attracting capital

32:48 – What long-term investing really means

34:26 – Oil prices, interest rates and potential catalysts for UK equities

38:59 – Wrap up

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

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, Judith Mackenzie and Rosemary Banyard interview Andy Walters, founder and Chief Executive of Quartix PLC.

Andy explains his shift from selling high-value capital equipment to building a recurring revenue business, leading to the launch of Quartix in 2001. He shares how he identified a gap in the market and developed a browser-based vehicle tracking system.

They discuss the key decisions behind Quartix's growth, including early technology choices, direct marketing, and international expansion—particularly into France after the 2008 financial crisis. Andy also reflects on the slower progress in the US, the benefits of AIM, and lessons in governance, culture, and founder succession.

The episode closes with his views on using AI in marketing and software, and the importance of controlling costs while investing in effective sales and marketing.

Timestamps:

00:31 Meet Andy Walters

01:06 Early Entrepreneurial Spark

01:50 Career Path to Schlumberger

02:59 Telecoms Work and Market Shift

04:35 Running a Small Company

06:08 Founding Quartix and Big Idea

08:37 Recurring Revenue Strategy

10:43 Bootstrapping to Profitability

11:58 Direct Marketing

14:27 Going International After 2008

16:15 Cracking the US Market

17:23 Why Float on AIM

20:03 Founder Role and Governance

22:30 Quartix Culture

27:02 AIM Advice and Share Price

28:33 AI Impact and Capital Discipline

33:16 What Andy Would Do Faster

34:28 Book Recommendations and Wrap Up

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

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 latest episode of 'Investing for the Long Term,' hosts Judith McKenzie and Rosemary Banyard welcome James Ashton, Chief Executive of the Quoted Companies Alliance (QCA). James reflects on his diverse and illustrious career, from his early days as a financial journalist to his current role at the QCA.

James shares compelling stories from his time interviewing high-profile business figures like Richard Branson and discusses the importance of public equity markets. James also delves into his experience in both ghost writing and authoring books, notably 'The Everything Blueprint' about Arm, and touches on the challenges faced by UK small companies in accessing growth capital.

Timestamps:

01:26 Introducing James Ashton

02:48 James Ashton's Career Journey

05:05 From Journalism to the QCA

10:06 Writing and Corporate Stories

16:15 Challenges and Changes in the UK Corporate Scene

20:27 The Unique Role of QCA

20:41 Challenges in the Competitive Landscape

22:14 Reflections on the Financial Crisis

23:54 Advice for Aspiring Journalists

24:46 Mentors and Influences

25:32 Proudest Career Achievements

30:31 The Art of Ghost writing

34:29 Reading and Writing Insights

36:36 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 the QCA website: https://www.theqca.com/

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 an engaging conversation, Lucy Sharman-Munday, Finance Director of Eagle Eye Solutions, shares her career journey, insights into the evolving role of finance directors, and the impact of leadership on company culture. Lucy recounts her transition from aspiring doctor to finance professional, her early career at KPMG, and her experiences in various roles that shaped her approach to business.

Lucy highlights the challenges and opportunities of working with strong personalities like Sir Terry Leahy and Tim Mason, and the importance of diversity and mentorship in professional growth. The episode concludes with recommendations for navigating significant business transformations, underscoring the need for strategic focus and innovative thinking.

Timestamps:

00:45 Understanding Eagle Eye's Core Business

01:52 Lucy's Early Career Journey

03:12 Transition to Industry and First Major Role

05:14 Joining Eagle Eye and Initial Challenges

13:04 Leadership and Board Dynamics at Eagle Eye

20:33 The Role of a Finance Director

23:47 Career Advice and Personal Reflections

28:22 Proudest Achievements and Initiatives

32:57 Final Thoughts and 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

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 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.