This week we delve into the intricate dynamics of global markets and the impact of the Federal Reserve's decisions on economic shifts worldwide. Chris is back to dissect the recent tumultuous events in the public equity and bond markets. Our discussion centers on the significant shift in the Federal Reserve's stance, moving from a pessimistic outlook, indicating rate increases and economic slowdown, to a more lenient approach.

We touch on the potential intersection of political influence and economic policy, suggesting a plausible strategic move by the current administration for a rate cut in line with the election cycle. Also discussing the global repercussions of these market movements, with the US setting the tone for Western economies while affecting currency values and commodity prices worldwide.

We emphasize the complexity and interconnectedness of global economic systems, shedding light on how decisions made by the Federal Reserve reverberate across various regions and markets. 

As usual, big thanks to Chris for taking the time to share his insights! 

*DISCLAIMER*

Interplay Family Office LLC (“Interplay”) is registered as an investment adviser with U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Registration of an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. Information about the qualifications and business practices of Interplay is available on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov._ Interplay only transacts business in states where it is properly registered or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements. Offering of asset management services through Interplay is pursuant to an investment advisory agreement.The views expressed in this podcast are subject to change based on market and other conditions. The podcast; may contain certain statements that may be deemed forward looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. Any projections, market outlooks, or estimates are based upon certain assumptions and should not be construed as indicative of actual events that will occur.Information communicated during the podcast; does not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice but is limited to the dissemination of general market information. A professional adviser should be consulted before implementing any of the strategies or options presented. The podcast; is not an offer to buy or sell, or a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell the securities mentioned herein. Neither Interplay nor its advisory persons render tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax and legal advisors for advice concerning your circumstances.

Description:

Instead of our usual discussions, I'm excited to share some recent tech discoveries that have caught my attention. These recommendations, I believe, can truly help you level up a few parts of your life. I've been exploring some fascinating Apple features, like stunning screensavers from Apple TV on Macs, widgets on the desktop, and a game-changing contact-sharing feature on iOS 17 that simplifies exchanging info at events. I highly recommend two impactful books: 'Unreasonable Hospitality' by Will Guidara for exceptional service and 'Essentialism' by Greg McKeown for efficiency in work and life. For software, Airtable stands out as a powerful cloud-based platform that could replace costly CRM systems for many companies. The iPhone health app surprises with a nifty at-home hearing test using the Mimi app. Lastly, I've come across two travel gadgets that have made big differences for me—a versatile Anchor portable charger and the AirFly dongle for seamless AirPods connectivity on flights.

I hope you find these recommendations useful. Thanks for tuning in, and catch you next week for more insights!

Links:

• Follow us on Twitter: @mpd, @interplay, @Mikeyjrog
• Podcast Links: Website, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn
• Product Links: https://amzn.to/3T8i7WM, https://amzn.to/3Tewhpl

DESCRIPTION

This discussion revolves around what Phuong and I believe to be the essential qualities of a successful founder. We emphasize four key traits: grit, consistent execution, humility, and integrity. Phuong highlights how successful founders possess unwavering determination despite setbacks, actively learn from failures, execute plans effectively, remain open to feedback, and prioritize ethical decision-making, understanding its impact on the business long-term. I personally stress the importance of acknowledging and learning from failures while emphasizing the necessity of getting back up after setbacks. We both agree that these characteristics outweigh factors like education, wealth, or intelligence in determining success. The discussion concludes by underscoring the enduring significance of these traits for founders navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.

Links:

• Follow us on Twitter: @mpd, @interplay
• Podcast Links: Website, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

DESCRIPTION

This conversation between MPD and Chris provides a comprehensive analysis of current market dynamics, emphasizing the nuanced interplay between economic indicators, geopolitical tensions, and the impact on investment strategies. Our discussion underscores the complexity of financial markets, urging caution amidst shifting tones from central banks and global conflicts' potential repercussions on various sectors, encouraging a deeper understanding beyond surface-level market trends.

MPD and Chris discuss that despite global turmoil, the focus remains on market dynamics, predominantly influenced by the Fed rather than geopolitical unrest. Chris, well-versed in derivatives trading, brings a data-driven perspective. We delve into the job market's softening, citing a decline in job additions, elevated unemployment rates, and a cautious rise in average hourly earnings. While the Fed previously emphasized strong job growth and spending, Chairman Powell's recent dovish tone signals potential shifts in interest rate policies. Chris cautions against over-optimism in the market's response to the Fed's tone, highlighting the unaddressed impacts of conflicts in the Middle East and Russia-Ukraine zones, specifically on energy supply chains and global economies.

Disclaimer: note that this discussion does not constitute investment advice. 

Links:

• Follow us on Twitter: @mpd, @interplay 
• Podcast Links: Website, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

DESCRIPTION

This week, Phuong and I are discussing pricing strategies. Pricing plays a critical role in various aspects of your business. You can either position yourself as the lowest or highest price player in the market, while being in the middle can cause confusion for customers.

Deciding whether you want a high or low volume business is essential. Choose a pricing model that aligns with your value proposition, such as monthly, annual, metered pricing, or revenue share. Ensure your pricing aligns with your overall business strategy, focusing on either high price and high quality or low price and high volume, but avoid mixing the two for the best results.

Links:

• Follow us on Twitter: @mpd, @interplay 
• Podcast Links: Website, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

DESCRIPTION

This week I’m joined by Amy Rubenstein, founder of Clear Investment Group LLC, a multifamily real estate firm focused on revitalizing distressed workforce housing. Amy's journey into real estate began by accident, and she highlights the tangible nature of the industry that drew her in. She discusses the transformative work her company does, emphasizing the alignment of profitability with social impact by improving living spaces for tenants.

Amy also identifies two areas in need of innovation within the real estate sector: key management and photo tracking. We discuss cost-effective technological solutions to streamline these processes. Despite concerns about the multifamily real estate market in 2024, Amy remains optimistic about its fundamentals and foresees potential loan renegotiations as opposed to a "bloodbath." This conversation sheds light on the real estate industry and its potential for innovation.

Thank you Amy for joining the pod this week! 

Links:

• Guest links: Clear Investment Group LLC Website, Clear Investment Group LLC LinkedIn
• Follow us on Twitter: @mpd, @interplay
• Podcast Links: Website, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

DESCRIPTION

Interplay’s Incubator Partner, Phuong and I discuss the importance of managing boards and investors effectively for entrepreneurs. We chat about how boards can either be a significant asset or a liability and provide guidance on how to ensure they are a valuable resource. It is important to carefully select board members who you trust and who have the best interests of your company in mind. Setting clear expectations, communicating transparently, and regularly connecting and nurturing the relationships are key. Phuong and I finish off the conversation chatting about how a well-structured board can be a valuable resource for entrepreneurs if best practices are followed, including making board meetings more than just updates and ensuring alignment of KPIs with the company's stage.

Links:

• Follow us on Twitter: @mpd, @interplay
• Podcast Links: Website, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

DESCRIPTION

In this week’s pod, I am joined by Mike Rogers, our VC Partner, to chat about  the state of the market, especially in relation to technology companies and the venture capital space. We discuss the disappointment in recent tech IPOs, which have not performed as well as expected. Our conversation touches on the importance of strong IPOs for the entire venture ecosystem, as they drive liquidity events for investors and unlock talent for new ventures.

Our conversation dives into the changing landscape of venture capital, including the shift from traditional seed rounds to larger pre-seed rounds and the high expectations for Series A rounds. We emphasize that building real businesses with solid fundamentals is more important than inflated valuations. 

Thanks Mike for joining me this week, always a good time.

Links:

• Follow us on Twitter: @mpd, @interplay, @Mikeyjrog
• Podcast Links: Website, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

DESCRIPTION

In this week’s pod, we celebrate our 100th episode! I want to acknowledge the work of our amazing podcast producer, Will Richardson who keeps this going. The main topic of discussion is pivoting in the context of startups and entrepreneurship. Phuong, Incubator Partner at Interplay, provides insights into the pros and cons of pivoting and how to approach it strategically. She emphasizes that pivoting is a natural part of the early stages of a business and suggests that founders should continually evaluate and make changes to optimize their product, customer base, business model, and positioning. 

Phuong also offers guidance on recognizing the right time to pivot, such as when initial efforts are not yielding results or when external factors impact the business. We discuss the importance of receiving honest feedback, not settling for vague responses and emphasize the value of finding the right balance between pivoting and sticking with a failing idea.

Thank you to Phoung and to our listeners for celebrating our 100th episode!

Links:

• Follow us on Twitter: @mpd, @interplay,
• Podcast Links: Website, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

DESCRIPTION

On this week’s episode, I’m joined by Chris Zhang, Partner and Chief Investment Officer at Interplay, on the current state of the world markets and the shift in interest rates signaled by the Federal Reserve. This is Chris’ first time back on the pod since June, so we have a lot to dive into.

We discuss the mixed reactions in the market, with some seeing opportunities amidst the changes, especially in commercial real estate, while others are concerned about the potential long-term effects. Chris explains the implications of this shift on various financial assets and the mixed reactions in the market. We dive into political tensions and emphasize the importance of monitoring the 10-year Treasury yield as an indicator of economic health. 

Chris also shares some hopeful news, highlighting that consumer spending and the job market remain strong, which provides a sense of optimism and supports the idea of a "soft landing."

As usual, big thanks to Chris for taking the time to share his insights! 

Links:

• Follow us on Twitter: @mpd, @interplay 
• Podcast Links: Website, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn

*DISCLAIMER*

Interplay Family Office LLC (“Interplay”) is registered as an investment adviser with U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Registration of an investment adviser does not imply any level of skill or training. Information about the qualifications and business practices of Interplay is available on the SEC’s website at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov._ Interplay only transacts business in states where it is properly registered or is excluded or exempted from registration requirements. Offering of asset management services through Interplay is pursuant to an investment advisory agreement.The views expressed in this <<insert advert type, i.e., podcast>> are subject to change based on market and other conditions. The <<insert advert type>> may contain certain statements that may be deemed forward looking statements. Please note that any such statements are not guarantees of any future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. Any projections, market outlooks, or estimates are based upon certain assumptions and should not be construed as indicative of actual events that will occur.Information communicated during the <<insert advert type>> does not involve the rendering of personalized investment advice but is limited to the dissemination of general market information. A professional adviser should be consulted before implementing any of the strategies or options presented. The <<insert advert type>> is not an offer to buy or sell, or a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell the securities mentioned herein. Neither Interplay nor its advisory persons render tax or legal advice. Please consult your tax and legal advisors for advice concerning your circumstances.