Today's episode unpacks the unsettling reality of macroeconomic volatility, where policy responses struggle to keep pace with cascading global pressures. We explore the interplay of political strategy, persistent inflation, and productivity stagnation, revealing why the global economy feels like a complex engine with a jammed throttle. Join us as we dissect the forces shaping this precarious moment and consider the path forward.

Explore the full visual digest at pers-int.com

0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - Macroeconomic Volatility & Policy Responses
7:22 - Blockchain & Decentralized Finance (DeFi)
13:45 - Geopolitical Risk & Espionage
17:55 - AI Disruption & Workforce Transformation
21:00 - Industrial & Energy Sector Shifts
23:00 - Conclusion

Referenced sources:
Japan's GDP Miss, BlueScope Steel Earnings (Bloomberg Daybreak: Asia Edition)
Evolving Money Blue Chip Meets Blockchain (Sponsored Content) (Bloomberg Intelligence)
Something better than USDC for your Ethereum (Epicenter - Learn about Crypto, Blockchain, Ethereum, Bitcoin and Distributed Technologies)
What's with Wall Street's weird selloffs (FT News Briefing)
A Huge Problem for Everybody Paul Krugman on Currency Devaluation, Artificial Intelligence, Kevin Warsh Nomination, & More (Monetary Matters with Jack Farley)
EMQs Are we influencers now (Political Currency)
252. The £1 trillion war chest why the UK is stronger than you think (The Rest Is Money)
DEX in the City Is Now the 'Perfect Time to Launch a Crypto Scam' (Unchained)
TIP792 Vital Lessons From History's Strangest Financial Stories w Kyle Grieve (We Study Billionaires - The Investor’s Podcast Network)

This episode is independent commentary and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the sources listed above.

Today's episode explores the recurring patterns of macroeconomic volatility throughout history, revealing a 'silent tax' eroding wealth and demanding proactive asset allocation. We examine echoes of past bubbles, the impact of inflation on societies, and strategies for preserving capital in an era of diminishing currency power. Join us as we unpack these critical forces shaping the global financial landscape.

Explore the full visual digest at pers-int.com

0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - Macroeconomic Volatility & Financial History
7:22 - AI's Transformative Impact on Work & Markets
13:44 - Regulatory Landscape & Crypto Innovation
17:55 - Private Markets & Alternative Investments
20:59 - Geopolitical Tensions & Western Alliances
22:59 - Conclusion

Referenced sources:
Special Coverage A Conversation with Secretary of State Marco Rubio (Bloomberg Daybreak: Europe Edition)
BI Weekend Coca Cola, Hasbro, T-Mobile Earnings (Bloomberg Intelligence)
Global Data Pod Weekender Some signal, a lot of noise (Global Data Pod)
SI387 The Cost-Benefit of Being Trendy ft. Andrew Beer & Tom Wrobel (Top Traders Unplugged)
TIP792 Vital Lessons From History's Strangest Financial Stories w Kyle Grieve (We Study Billionaires - The Investor’s Podcast Network)

This episode is independent commentary and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the sources listed above.

This week's roundup covers a turbulent period marked by escalating geopolitical tensions and a rapid re-evaluation of traditional risk models. We explore the rise of trade protectionism, the disruption of the SaaS model by AI orchestration, and the emergence of autonomous ecosystems, all while navigating increasingly complex regulatory landscapes and the evolving US-China competition.

Explore the full visual digest at pers-int.com

0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - Geopolitical Fragmentation & Shifting Risk Models
6:42 - AI-Driven Value Capture Shift: Orchestration & Verification
9:48 - Agentic AI & the Rise of Autonomous Ecosystems
13:06 - Regulatory Response & Innovation Stifling in AI/Crypto
16:36 - Decentralized Finance & Alternative Economic Systems
19:54 - The Evolving Dynamics of US-China Competition
23:00 - Conclusion

Today's episode unpacks the unsettling convergence of macroeconomic volatility, AI disruption, and escalating geopolitical risks. We delve into the systemic nature of institutional corruption, exemplified by the Epstein revelations, and explore how these interconnected forces are fracturing trust and reshaping the global landscape. Prepare for a sobering assessment of the challenges ahead and a glimpse at the emerging strategies for navigating an increasingly unpredictable world.

0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - Market Dynamics & Asset Allocation
7:17 - Macroeconomic Volatility & Commodity Markets
12:18 - AI Disruption & Workforce Transformation
16:05 - Cryptocurrency Regulation & Market Structure
19:51 - Geopolitical Risk & Institutional Corruption
23:00 - Conclusion

Referenced sources:
Global Commodities Are Commodities the Market's Crystal Ball (At Any Rate)
Single Best Idea with Tom Keene Jim Caron & Anurag Rana (Bloomberg Surveillance)
Global Data Pod Weekender Some signal, a lot of noise (Global Data Pod)
Trump's starring role in the Warner Brothers fight (Swamp Notes)
Still Bullish Gold (The Markets)
Why a Tariff Ruling Could Mean Consumer Relief (Thoughts on the Market)

This episode is independent commentary and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the sources listed above.

Today's episode explores the complex interplay of macroeconomic pressures, geopolitical tensions, and technological disruption shaping the global landscape. We dissect the synchronized growth signals amidst rising inflation, analyze the US-China trade dynamics, and examine the vulnerabilities exposed by AI and blockchain advancements. Prepare for a bumpy ride as we navigate a market poised for potential correction.

0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - Macroeconomic Trends & Central Bank Policy
8:05 - Geopolitical Risk & US-China Trade
13:03 - AI-Driven Supply Chain & Hardware Dynamics
16:36 - Blockchain & Digital Asset Regulation
20:09 - AI Disruption & Workforce Transformation
23:00 - Conclusion

Referenced sources:
Cisco Tumbles After Profit-Margin Squeeze Overshadows AI Gains (Bloomberg Intelligence)
Single Best Idea with Tom Keene Peter Navarro (Bloomberg Surveillance)
Fundamentals Still Matter Lone Pine's David Craver (Exchanges)
A wacky US jobs report (FT News Briefing)
MacroVoices #519 Alex Gurevich The Next Perfect Trade (Macro Voices)
New CFTC Chairman Michael Selig on How to Regulate Prediction Markets (Odd Lots)
The Jobs Report Is Worse Than It Looks (Prof G Markets)
Trump's predatory foreign policy (The Rachman Review)
Signs That Global Growth May Be Ahead (Thoughts on the Market)
Why Bitcoin Developers Are Not Incentivized to Talk About the Quantum Threat (Unchained)

This episode is independent commentary and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the sources listed above.

Today's episode explores how macroeconomic shifts, AI disruption, and geopolitical tensions are collectively fracturing the established economic order. We examine the challenges of adapting investment strategies in a world where traditional valuation models are losing their grip and public perception is increasingly shaping the future. Join us as we unpack the key signals to watch for navigating this new era of uncertainty.

0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - Macroeconomic Uncertainty & Policy Shifts
6:14 - AI-Driven Economic Transformation
10:25 - Geopolitical Risk & Trade Dynamics
14:37 - Blockchain & Crypto Market Evolution
18:48 - Valuation & Investment Strategy Adaptation
23:00 - Conclusion

Referenced sources:
A hedge fund’s $8bn bet on Venezuela’s Citgo (Behind the Money)
Better-Than-Expected Job Data Resets Fed Bets (Bloomberg Surveillance)
Fundamentals Still Matter Lone Pine's David Craver (Exchanges)
Credit Crunch Investor Survey 1Q - Fed, Earnings, Tech Supply (FICC Focus)
290. Tim Koller reflects on three decades of Valuation at McKinsey (Inside the Strategy Room)
251. The man who rumbled Mandelson Dan Neidle's Epstein files investigation (The Rest Is Money)

This episode is independent commentary and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the sources listed above.

Today's episode unpacks the escalating geopolitical and economic tensions reshaping the global landscape. We explore how nations and institutions are adopting strategies of resilience – from China’s ‘siege mentality’ to the cautious maneuvering of financial players – in a world increasingly defined by fragmentation and uncertainty. Join us as we analyze the forces driving this shift and what it means for the future of markets and global order.

0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - Macroeconomic Volatility & Central Bank Policy
8:15 - AI-Driven Economic Disruption & Workforce Transformation
14:46 - Financial Market Regulation & Institutional Adoption of Crypto
18:59 - Geopolitical Risk & Resource Control
20:59 - Blockchain Innovation & Scalability
22:59 - Conclusion

Referenced sources:
AGM Unscripted Goldman Sachs' James Reynolds - From Mezzanine to Moats Over a Quarter-Century of Goldman Sachs Private Credit (Alt Goes Mainstream: The Latest on Alternative Investments, WealthTech, & Private Markets)
A hedge fund’s $8bn bet on Venezuela’s Citgo (Behind the Money)
Paramount Sweetens Warner Bros. Bid Terms to Woo Investors (Bloomberg Intelligence)
Novo Nordisk hits back at copycat drugs (FT News Briefing)
The “Climax Top” In Gold & Silver Milton Berg, Turning Point Master, on Precious Metals, Bitcoin, and Disturbing December Warning In Stocks (Monetary Matters with Jack Farley)
AI Spending Spree, Crypto Winter, and Kara's Message to Jeff Bezos (Pivot)
Walmart's Former CEO on the Company's Turnaround (The Journal.)
Stock Market Shakeout (The Markets)

This episode is independent commentary and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the sources listed above.

Today's episode explores the parallels between classical architecture and the evolving global economy, revealing how the shift towards a 'Gothic' system—characterized by complexity and interconnectedness—demands a new understanding of balance and resilience. We dissect the forces driving this transformation, from AI disruption and geopolitical fragmentation to emerging market opportunities, and highlight the imperative for intellectual humility in a world of increasing uncertainty. Join us as we unpack the challenges and opportunities of navigating this dynamic landscape.

0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - Financial Market Volatility & Policy Responses
12:00 - AI Disruption & Investment Shifts
16:04 - Macroeconomic Divergence & Credit Risk
18:32 - Geopolitical Fragmentation & Global Order
20:59 - Emerging Market Opportunities & Currency Dynamics
22:59 - Conclusion

Referenced podcasts (for further listening):
Alphabet Looks to Raise About $15 Billion From US Bond Sale (Bloomberg Intelligence)
Pressure mounts on Starmer even as top aide resigns (FT News Briefing)
Ricardo Hausmann Explains How the Venezuelan Economy Collapsed (Odd Lots)
Is Macro Regime Shift Underway ft. Andreas Steno & Mikkel Rosenvold (Real Vision: Finance & Investing)
Why the world economy will keep on fragmenting (The Big View)
Why Latin America’s ‘Trifecta’ Could Reshape Global Portfolios (Thoughts on the Market)

This episode is independent commentary and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the podcasts listed above.

Today's episode explores the accelerating convergence of AI, blockchain, and geopolitical shifts, revealing a fundamental restructuring of power. We examine how these technologies are decentralizing control and creating a new, interconnected ecosystem, but also highlight the critical risks of unchecked algorithmic influence. Join us as we unpack the challenges and opportunities of navigating this rapidly evolving digital landscape.

0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - Government & Regulatory Landscape
7:56 - Risk Management & Market Volatility
12:34 - Geopolitical & Macroeconomic Shifts
16:03 - AI Disruption & Agentic Revolution
19:31 - Blockchain & Tokenization of Finance
22:59 - Conclusion

Referenced podcasts (for further listening):
Reddit's AI Answers & Meta's Vibes App (AI Insights: AI News, Eyewitness Accounts)
Amazon's $200B CapEx Spend Dominates AI Race (AI Insights: AI News, Eyewitness Accounts)
Hedgeye NexGen Episode 30 The Volatility of Bubbles (Hedgeye Podcasts)
Evolving Money The Tokenization Tipping Point (Sponsored Content) (Odd Lots)
Business Secretary Peter Kyle being let down by Mandelson & the UK-China relationship (The Rest Is Money)
SI386 When Position Sizing Saves You ft. Rob Carver (Top Traders Unplugged)
Want to Hire an AI Agent Check Their Reputation Via ERC-8004 (Unchained)
TIP790 Wealth Beyond Money w Thomas Mueller-Borja (We Study Billionaires - The Investor’s Podcast Network)

This episode is independent commentary and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the podcasts listed above.

Today's episode explores the rapid evolution of blockchain, driven by the emergence of AI agents and a burgeoning need for decentralized reputation systems. We delve into ERC-8004, X402, and the implications of this 'agentic shift' for enterprise adoption and the future of trust in a distributed economy. It's a critical juncture – are we witnessing a blockchain reboot, or just another iteration?

0:00 - Introduction
1:00 - Macroeconomic & Geopolitical Shifts (Q1 2026)
9:42 - AI's Impact on Software & Enterprise
14:55 - Blockchain & Crypto Evolution
19:00 - AI Agent Reputation & Identity
21:00 - AI-Augmented Learning & Productivity
23:00 - Conclusion

Referenced podcasts (for further listening):
Reddit's AI Answers & Meta's Vibes App (AI Insights: AI News, Eyewitness Accounts)
Epstein Files, Is SaaS Dead, Moltbook Panic, SpaceX xAI Merger, Trump's Fed Pick (All-In with Chamath, Jason, Sacks & Friedberg)
BI Weekend New Disney CEO, AMD, PayPal Earnings (Bloomberg Intelligence)
Credit Crunch Apollo’s Matt Nord on Hybrid Growth, Opportunity (FICC Focus)
Global Data Watch Weekender It’s the job market, stupid (Global Data Pod)

This episode is independent commentary and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the podcasts listed above.