Masters in Business

In this discussion, Samara Cohen, Chief Investment Officer at BlackRock, shares insights from her impressive career overseeing over $3 trillion in ETF assets. She dives into the unique blend of finance and theater in her background, and how it enhances her decision-making. The conversation navigates the resilience of ETFs during market turbulence, especially the COVID-19 sell-off, and debates the evolving role of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices in investing. Finally, Cohen emphasizes the importance of diversity and mentorship in the finance industry.

Bloomberg Opinion columnist Barry Ritholtz speaks with Darren Palmer, who was recently named Ford Motor Co.'s vice president for electric vehicle programs. Palmer was previously Ford's head of battery-electric vehicles, where he was responsible for leading the automaker's EV business in North America.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michelle Seitz, Chairman and CEO of Russell Investments Group LLC, discusses her influential journey in the finance industry and the role of female leadership. She highlights the growing significance of alternative investments and personalized strategies like direct indexing. The conversation also covers the complexities of ESG investing and the innovation within decentralized finance and cryptocurrencies. Seitz emphasizes the importance of collaboration and adapting investment practices to modern societal needs.

David R. Kotok, co-founder and chief investment officer of Cumberland Advisors, shares invaluable insights on the economic impacts of pandemic-related shocks. He explores the historical parallels between pandemics and economic behavior, emphasizing lessons from the past. The discussion highlights the evolving bond market strategies and the implications of AI for productivity. Kotok also addresses the challenges posed by long COVID and the role of the Federal Reserve in navigating these economic crises, all while weaving in personal anecdotes and mentorship experiences.

Join Sebastian Mallaby, a two-time Pulitzer Prize finalist and senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations, as he delves into the dynamics of venture capital and its profound impact on Silicon Valley. Discover the historical roots of this transformative industry, including Arthur Rock's role in launching Fairchild Semiconductor. Mallaby contrasts the innovative spirit of West Coast investors with their East Coast counterparts, discusses how California's legal landscape nurtures creativity, and shares insights on mentorship that shape careers in finance.

Samantha McLemore, a seasoned portfolio manager at Miller Value Partners and founder of Patient Capital Management, shares her extensive experience in investment strategies. She discusses navigating the complexities of longevity risk management and the evolution of value investing, particularly in relation to modern growth potential. McLemore highlights the importance of mentorship, especially for women in finance, and reflects on building resilient portfolios in a changing economic landscape. Her insights offer a fresh take on adapting investment strategies for future challenges.

James Anderson, a longtime partner at Baillie Gifford & Co. and joint manager of Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust PLC, shares his unconventional views on the fund management industry. He argues it’s 'irretrievably broken' and critiques the short-term thinking prevalent in finance. Anderson identifies traits of explosive growth stocks like Tesla and emphasizes the need for qualitative assessments in disrupted markets. He also reflects on the challenges of European innovation and the importance of mentorship in navigating complex investment landscapes.

Bloomberg Opinion columnist Barry Ritholtz speaks with Rebecca Patterson, who serves as director of investment research at the world's largest hedge fund, Bridgewater Associates. In addition to shaping the firm's research agenda, Patterson is a member of the executive committee, investment committee, and commercial and business strategy committee, and helps lead the firm’s diversity and inclusion efforts. She previously served as chief investment officer at Bessemer Trust, where she oversaw $85 billion in client assets, and is currently a member of the Council on Foreign Relations.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Conrod, co-founder and CEO of FocusPoint Private Capital Group, shares his extensive experience in capital raising and private equity. He dives into the intricacies of raising successor funds in venture capital and how innovative strategies can lead to success even in challenging markets. Conrod also discusses the intersection of technology and traditional investment methods, as well as the increasing role of ESG factors in shaping private equity decisions. His insights offer valuable guidance for aspiring professionals in the ever-evolving financial landscape.

Tina Vandersteel, the Head of GMO's Emerging-Country Debt team, shares her expertise from J.P. Morgan, where she developed strategies for high-yield bonds. She discusses the complexities of investing in emerging markets, highlighting risks and potential returns. Tina emphasizes the importance of firsthand experiences over sensationalist media narratives, using Brazil's economic shifts as a backdrop. She also explores currency risks, the impact of political dynamics on investments, and her journey from finance to pursuing Olympic rowing, balancing ambition with personal passions.