In this episode, Liz Ann Sonders sits down with Keith McCullough, founder of Hedgeye, to revisit his “quads” framework—a model that categorizes market environments based on the direction of economic growth and inflation. McCullough emphasizes process over prediction, arguing that investors should focus on the momentum of these variables to adapt to rapidly shifting market conditions.

The conversation explores a volatile macro backdrop marked by geopolitical shocks, leadership changes at the Fed, and evolving market structure. McCullough explains how increased instability has accelerated market cycles, requiring a more nimble, data-driven approach. He outlines his view that inflation likely peaked and is set to decelerate, setting up a shift toward disinflation, and potentially slower growth, over the coming quarters.

They also discuss implications for asset allocation, including declining bond yields globally, a rotation away from mega-cap dominance, and opportunities in under-owned, rate-sensitive sectors like housing and real estate. McCullough highlights growing risks tied to market concentration, new equity supply (including major IPOs), and speculative activity, while stressing the importance of disciplined, rules-based investing.

The episode concludes with a discussion of investor behavior, with McCullough urging listeners to detach from narratives and emotions, and instead rely on process, data, and adaptability in an increasingly fast-moving market environment.

Finally, Collin and Liz Ann look ahead to next week’s upcoming macroeconomic indicators and key data releases. 

To keep up with Keith McCullough, you can follow him on X: @KeithMcCullough

On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the show, visit schwab.com/OnInvesting. 

If you enjoy the show, please leave a rating or review on Apple Podcasts.

Important Disclosures

The comments, views, and opinions expressed in the presentation are those of the speakers and do not necessarily represent the views of Charles Schwab.

Investors in ETFs should consider carefully information contained in the prospectus, or if available, the summary prospectus, including investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses. You can request a prospectus via 1-800-435-4000.  Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.

This material is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. This should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The securities, investment products and investment strategies mentioned are not suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decisions.

All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic or political conditions. Data contained herein from third party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed.

Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal. 

Performance may be affected by risks associated with non-diversification, including investments in specific countries or sectors. Additional risks may also include, but are not limited to, investments in foreign securities, especially emerging markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), fixed income, municipal securities including state specific municipal securities, small capitalization securities and commodities. Each individual investor should consider these risks carefully before investing in a particular security or strategy.

Fixed income securities are subject to increased loss of principal during periods of rising interest rates. Fixed income investments are subject to various other risks including changes in credit quality, market valuations, liquidity, prepayments, early redemption, corporate events, tax ramifications, and other factors. Lower rated securities are subject to greater credit risk, default risk, and liquidity risk.

Diversification and asset allocation strategies do not ensure a profit and do not protect against losses in declining markets.

Currencies are speculative, very volatile and not suitable for all investors.

Investing in cryptocurrencies involves risk, including the risk of total loss of principal invested.

Cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin and ethereum are highly volatile, are not backed or guaranteed by the bank, any central bank or government; are not deposits; are not FDIC insured; are not SIPC protected; and lack many of the regulations and consumer protections that legal-tender currencies and regulated securities have. 

Due to the high level of risk, investors should view digital currencies as a purely speculative instrument. 

All names and market data shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security.

Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.

Schwab does not recommend the use of technical analysis as a sole means of investment research.

Options carry a high level of risk and are not suitable for all investors. Certain requirements must be met to trade options through Schwab. Please read the Options Disclosure Document titled "Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options" before considering any option transaction. 

The policy analysis provided by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.

Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. For more information on indexes, please see schwab.com/indexdefinitions 

The book Diary of a Hedge Fund Manager is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. (CS&Co.). Schwab has not reviewed the book and makes no representations about its content.

The PHLX Semiconductor Sector Index (SOX) is a capitalization-weighted index composed of 30 semiconductor companies.

(0626-2U7S)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.