Making Sense

Mark Fleming-Williams, Head of Data Sourcing at CFM and creator of The Alternative Data Podcast, joins a dynamic discussion with Eloise Goulder from J.P. Morgan. They dive into the value and challenges of alternative data in finance, detailing effective methods for data assessment and the growing competition in the field. Fleming-Williams shares insights on the evolution of alternative data, highlighting credit card data's significance and how AI is transforming data analysis. They emphasize the importance of relationships in navigating this complex landscape.

Ray Raimondi, the Head of North America Strategic Investor Group M&A at J.P. Morgan, shares insights on the evolving landscape for financial sponsors in 2025. They discuss how recent market changes are steering investment strategies, especially in sectors like business services and healthcare. Raimondi emphasizes the adaptability required for mergers and acquisitions amid economic uncertainties. The conversation also highlights the rise of sponsor-owned companies and the importance of local insights in developing innovative capital solutions.

Karen Li, head of Hong Kong Equity Research at JP Morgan, provides keen insights into the booming humanoid robotics industry, particularly in China. She discusses how these AI-powered machines are set to address labor shortages and transform sectors like manufacturing and healthcare. The conversation highlights the increasing demand for humanoid robots and their potential roles in hazardous environments. Li also examines China's competitive edge in manufacturing and the growing interest from investors in this revolutionary market.

Nora Szentivanyi, a senior global economist at J.P. Morgan, and Natasha Condon, the Global Head of Trade Sales at J.P. Morgan, delve into the complexities of international trade amidst rising tariffs. They highlight how tariffs disrupt supply chains and influence business sentiment. The discussion emphasizes strategies for companies to manage risks and the crucial role of liquidity. Additionally, they reflect on historical trade tensions and their lessons for today’s economic landscape, helping businesses navigate an ever-changing trade environment.

Dive into the dynamic world of credit portfolio trading, where recent market volatility is reshaping strategies. Discover how J.P. Morgan's innovative risk management techniques are setting them apart. The discussion highlights the critical role of technology in enhancing liquidity and closing data gaps for smoother trading experiences. Plus, get excited about emerging tools like Vida B2one, which promise to revolutionize portfolio management and open up new opportunities for investors.

The discussion kicks off with a shift from bearish to bullish sentiment in U.S. equities, driven by optimistic trade deals and strong tech earnings. Insights into sector performance, especially in technology and finance, highlight both potential gains and looming risks. The conversation also delves into international equity landscapes, comparing European markets to U.S. challenges, particularly impacts from currency fluctuations and tariffs. Ultimately, the team suggests a tactical investment strategy as economic indicators signal caution ahead.

Mike Feroli, J.P. Morgan's chief U.S. economist, dives into the solid April jobs report, noting the addition of 177,000 jobs despite economic uncertainties. He discusses how trade and tariff policies are shaping job growth, particularly in distributive services. The conversation shifts to the Federal Reserve's potential interest rate cuts amidst labor market changes. Feroli highlights economic resilience, consumer sentiment, and the impacts of fiscal policies like tax cuts on growth projections and inflation concerns.

Rebecca Wilmott, Executive Director in J.P. Morgan’s EMEA Custody Product team, dives into the complexities of securities taxation in Europe. She discusses how evolving regulations necessitate enhanced collaboration between custodians and tax authorities. The conversation highlights the critical role of technology, including AI, in improving compliance and risk management. Wilmott also emphasizes the need for custodians to adapt swiftly to maintain optimal service standards amid the shifting landscape of tax challenges and client demands.

In this episode, Edwina Lowe, product specialist in the Data Assets and Alpha Group, speaks with Eloise Goulder, head of the group. Edwina and Eloise discuss the merits of data vs. model in the systematic investing process and the extent to which both are critically important. This episode marks the 100th episode of the Trading Insights series on our Making Sense podcast channel.    This episode was recorded on April 3, 2025.   Shownotes:  To learn more about the Data Assets & Alpha Group:  https://www.jpmorgan.com/markets/market-data-intelligence   Related podcasts:  How the Bank of England harnesses AI and data AI in the macro process, with Balyasny’s head of Macro Research & Chief Economist   The views expressed in this podcast may not necessarily reflect the views of J.P. Morgan Chase & Co and its affiliates (together “J.P. Morgan”), they are not the product of J.P. Morgan’s Research Department and do not constitute a recommendation, advice, or an offer or a solicitation to buy or sell any security or financial instrument.  This podcast is intended for institutional and professional investors only and is not intended for retail investor use, it is provided for information purposes only. Referenced products and services in this podcast may not be suitable for you and may not be available in all jurisdictions.  J.P. Morgan may make markets and trade as principal in securities and other asset classes and financial products that may have been discussed.  For additional disclaimers and regulatory disclosures, please visit: www.jpmorgan.com/disclosures/salesandtradingdisclaimer. For the avoidance of doubt, opinions expressed by any external speakers are the personal views of those speakers and do not represent the views of J.P. Morgan. © 2025 JPMorgan Chase & Company. All rights reserved.

In this episode, host Evan Junek, global head of Corporate Finance Advisory, with Jay Hofmann, head of North America M&A, and Brian Tramontozzi, head of North America Leveraged Finance Capital Markets, explore the current state of M&A and capital markets amid market volatility. They discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities in debt capital markets and private credit, as well as M&A activities, providing valuable insights in today’s uncertain environment.    This episode was recorded on April 21, 2025.  This material was prepared by certain personnel of JPMorgan Chase & Co. and its affiliates and subsidiaries worldwide and not the firm’s research department. It is for informational purposes only, is not intended as an offer or solicitation for the purchase, sale or tender of any financial instrument and does not constitute a commitment, undertaking, offer or solicitation by any JPMorgan Chase entity to extend or arrange credit or provide any other products or services to any person or entity.