The Alternative Data Podcast
Mark Fleming-Williams
On this show we reveal some of the latest developments in the fast-growing Alternative Data sector. Satellite imaging, news-crawling, credit card data... and many more fresh new data sources are increasingly being used by investors to gain a competitive edge when making market decisions. We speak to data providers, asset managers, and anyone else in the sector to better understand this dynamic phenomenon.For more of an introduction to Alternative Data and its past, present and future, please check out this blogpost: https://www.exabel.com/blog/alternative-data-the-past-present-and-future Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
May 26, 2025 • 43min
The Flywheel Episode
James Griffiths, General Manager of Flywheel Alternative Data, shares insights on transforming corporate e-commerce data into valuable investment resources. He discusses the evolution of alternative data, emphasizing the shift from brand-focused datasets to investor applications. Griffiths highlights the importance of granular SKU data for hedge funds and the growing expectations from buy-side clients. He also touches on the cautious integration of generative AI in data processes and practical advice for new data vendors navigating this dynamic market.
May 2, 2025 • 50min
The Ben Cohen Episode
Ben Cohen, former Global Head of Data Strategy at WorldQuant, dives into the evolving landscape of data sourcing and team dynamics. He shares insights on how to build data teams, emphasizing the balance between creativity and quantitative approaches in hiring. Cohen discusses the shift in alternative data since 2015, as well as the significant impact of AI on data workflows and product development. His take on fostering curiosity and passion in team members sheds light on what truly drives successful data strategy.
Mar 22, 2025 • 49min
The Railpen Episode
Richard Dudley, Senior Portfolio Manager at Railpen, shares insights from his extensive experience in running systematic equity strategies. He discusses the unique dynamics of managing £7bn within a tight-knit, 10-person team. Richard explains the differences between defined benefit and contribution pensions, the challenges of integrating alternative data, and how ESG factors play into investment decisions. He also highlights the importance of ethical alignment when managing pensions, ensuring member interests are prioritized.
29 snips
Mar 15, 2025 • 54min
The Ideate Capital Episode
Tom Liu, Founder of Ideate Capital, is an alternative data expert with a rich background in hedge funds and private equity. He discusses the transformative role of alternative data in corporate settings and the synergy with AI. Liu shares insights on how private equity firms are evolving through data integration, while also highlighting innovative strategies like web scraping and credit card data in investment analysis. The conversation includes challenges in monetizing alternative data and the future potential of AI in revolutionizing business models.
Feb 7, 2025 • 36min
The Norges Bank (NBIM) Episode
Mark Thompson, lead analyst at Norges Bank Investment Management (NBIM), shares insights into the operations of Norway's sovereign wealth fund. He discusses the challenges of managing $1.7 trillion and the importance of integrating alternative data into research. Mark reveals how the team evolved from outsourcing surveys to leveraging in-house analyses and bespoke datasets. He highlights the significance of LLMs for processing historical data and improving corporate engagement. Finally, he emphasizes the need for collaboration in data-driven investing.
Dec 23, 2024 • 51min
The Battlefin Episode
Tim Harrington, Founder and CEO of Battlefin, shares insights on the recent acquisition of Exabel, enhancing alternative data discovery. He discusses the growing demand for innovative data sets and the evolving landscape of data events. Tim highlights how the merge will boost Battlefin's community engagement and mentions the fascinating dynamics at finance conferences, blending entertainment and actionable insights. The impact of AI on data science and its applications across various sectors also takes center stage, illustrating a future driven by responsive data strategies.
Dec 11, 2024 • 43min
The Live@Neudata Episode
Matei Zatreanu, founder of System 2, and Alexander Izydorczyk, head of data science at CyberSyn, dive into the future of alternative data during a lively panel discussion. They explore the revolutionary impact of large language models on hedge funds and the landscape of data consulting. The conversation touches on regulatory changes affecting the industry, the potential for market consolidation, and the critical shift in recognizing data teams as profit drivers rather than mere cost centers. Tune in for insights on navigating the complex intersection of AI and compliance!
Nov 20, 2024 • 50min
The Wenqi Zhou Episode
Wenqi Zhou, a quantitative researcher with experience at Balyasny and Citi, dives into the nuanced world of alternative data. She breaks down how sell-side traders utilize data for risk management and trading strategies. Wenqi discusses the transformative impact of AI on productivity and the evolving role of data across investment horizons. She also shares her insights on the China market, emphasizing the importance of policy changes and the unique characteristics of its market structure. Plus, she draws intriguing parallels between music and investing.
Nov 8, 2024 • 1h 21min
The ChinaScope Episode
Tom Liu, founder and CEO of Chinascope, shares invaluable insights into the Chinese market and alternative data landscape. He discusses the evolution of data attitudes in China and challenges investors face in navigating a complex market. Tom highlights advancements in AI and machine learning that are reshaping financial strategies. He also addresses the impact of changing geopolitical views on investment and the significance of smart cities in enhancing urban governance, showcasing the shifting dynamics of China’s data ecosystem.
Oct 5, 2024 • 1h 1min
The 2nd Abraham Thomas Episode
Abraham Thomas, co-founder of Quandl and a seasoned angel investor, returns to discuss the seismic shifts AI and large language models bring to alternative data and hedge funds. He dives into how these technologies could reshape investment strategies, pinpointing potential winners and losers in the process. Abraham shares his journey as an angel investor, emphasizing data proliferation's impact on business models and the nuances of leadership in an AI-enhanced finance world. He also explores the future of alternative data sourcing and its implications for market players.
