In the latest episode of the Opening Bell Podcast, we are joined by Mark Freeman, Managing Director and CEO of Australian Foundation Investment Company (AFIC).

AFIC is a publicly listed investment company on the NZX, offering investors exposure to a broad portfolio of predominantly Australian and New Zealand companies through a long term, buy and hold approach.

Mark shares a clear and disciplined perspective on long term investing, what defines a quality company, and why volatility can create opportunity for patient investors.

The conversation also covers navigating market uncertainty in 2025, separating signal from noise in areas like AI and crypto, and how a consistent investment framework helps guide decisions across local and global markets.

Mark also shares his outlook for 2026 and what he is keeping an eye on.