Market Maker

In this episode, we shine a light on one of the most powerful yet misunderstood sectors in finance - commodities. Joined by Lauren Haymond, Global Head of Talent Strategy at Castleton Commodities International (CCI), we unpack what makes this industry uniquely dynamic and ripe with opportunity for early career talent.Lauren shares her personal journey from headhunting to high finance, and breaks down the various roles beyond trading, including risk management, data science, and operations. Discover how CCI fosters rapid career growth, the traits and technical skills that make candidates stand out, and how to navigate emotional resilience in high-pressure roles.Whether you're a student exploring career options or a young professional aiming to make a meaningful impact, this episode offers invaluable advice on learning agility, proactivity, and how to build lasting industry connections, especially if you’re starting from scratch.Listen in and get inspired to consider a future in commodities.(00:00) Introduction and Topics in Focus(00:48) Lauren's Background in Hiring & Talent(01:54) The Unique Aspects of Commodities(07:06) What is Flow & Fundamentals in Trading(08:54) Skills and Traits for Success in Commodities(11:19) Understanding Roles in Commodities Trading(14:20) The Importance of Collaboration at Work(15:20) Best Practice in your Early Career(17:48) Building Emotional Resilience(22:26) The Value of Learning Agility(25:11) Networking and Career Development in Finance(28:28) Recommended Resources for Commodities(30:45) What is Principle Investing?Find out more about careers at CCI Follow Anthony and AmplifyME on LinkedIn

In this episode, we dive into the archive to take you back to 2022 when Anthony spoke to Will Hobbs, who at the time of recording was the acting Chief Investment Officer of Barclays Wealth Management.Will talks about his untraditional route into markets, from training in Italy as a chef to landing his first role in finance, working through the dot-com and financial crisis, and then deconstructing his current role as Chief Investment Officer.There are lots of tips on networking, leveraging personal experiences, and a detailed explanation of how his team oversees the investment philosophy at Barclays UK in Strategic Asset Allocation (SAA) and Tactical Asset Allocation (TAA) decisions.We also touch on how he found his real passion later on in his career which ultimately acted as the springboard to later success and discuss how he deals with the pressure of being responsible for key decisions within the division he operates in.A must listen to episode for those looking to work in asset or wealth management but also for the wider community if you are looking for an open and genuine insight into working in the world of finance.(00:00) Introduction(02:10) From chef to CIO(04:00) Travel, Turkey, and taking risks(09:50) Early jobs and finding purpose(13:57) Networking advice: just ask(16:19) What a CIO really does(20:12) Handling pressure and big calls(25:01) Mental health in finance(30:16) Bitcoin, blockchain, and investing(34:53) How to start learning markets(38:03) Final tips for beginners

Earnings season is in full swing and Meta and Microsoft are stealing the show. Anthony and Piers dive into why Meta’s shares rocketed 12% on blockbuster earnings, a stunning rebound from its metaverse slump. They explore how Zuckerberg’s all-in AI pivot is paying off, from $100M talent wars to $72B in CapEx.Microsoft’s cloud machine, Azure, just clocked $75B in annual revenue with 34% growth catapulting the company past a $4 trillion valuation. Is $10 trillion next?Also on the docket: Trump’s tariff campaign enters high gear as he turns a Scottish golf course into a global trade hub. Deals are landing, inflation fears rise, and Powell’s hawkish stance is pushing the dollar higher. With a September Fed cut now a coin toss, markets are bracing for more.Big tech, big politics, and even bigger moves, your no-nonsense breakdown of the forces driving the summer markets.(00:00) Intro & Key Themes(01:37) Meta Earnings Surge(12:49) Trump’s Trade Deals(17:04) Fed’s Hawkish Shift(31:57) Microsoft’s Cloud GrowthIf you enjoy the podcast, please vote for us in the 'Listeners' choice category at the British Podcast Awards 2025! All you need to do is click on the link, search for 'Market Maker' and input your details, it takes no more than 10 secs! Thank you x

In this episode, Anthony is joined by Dani Markovits, Creator & Community Manager at LinkedIn, to explore how anyone, from students and young professionals to entrepreneurs and senior leaders, can use LinkedIn as a powerful tool for career growth, authentic brand storytelling, and building a strong personal presence.Whether you're just starting to build your network or looking to stand out in a competitive job market, this conversation is packed with actionable advice. Dani shares the insider strategies he uses to support LinkedIn’s top creators, from optimising your profile and posting with purpose, to leveraging comments and DMs to spark genuine connections.Expect practical tips on building your personal brand, being consistent without burning out, and how to turn curiosity into content that adds real value. If you're serious about your career, you can't afford to treat LinkedIn like just a digital CV. This episode shows you how to turn it into your launchpad whatever your industry.(00:00) Intro: Why LinkedIn Matters(01:14) Tip 1: Optimise Your Profile(05:23) Tip 2: Start Before You’re Ready(08:37) Tip 3: Comment Like It’s Your Job(12:31) Tip 4: Curiosity Is a Superpower(15:29) Tip 5: Create Content That Adds Value(23:57) Tip 6: Be Generous With Others(27:52) Tip 7: Stay Consistent(31:18) Tip 8: Send Better DMs(34:57) Tip 9: Experiment With Different Formats(36:11) Tip 10: Be Known For Something

Big Tech is buzzing as Alphabet shows strong earnings, defying fears around AI's impact on ad revenue. Meanwhile, Tesla faces financial hurdles amidst an ambitious shift towards robotaxis. The competition is heating up with Waymo and Amazon's Zoox in the race for driverless technology. In the world of finance, Trump's trade pact with Japan boosts automakers, and meme stocks are making a comeback, capturing retail investors' imaginations once more. As the market dynamics shift, the retail investing landscape is changing dramatically.

Victoria Bryan, Senior Vice President at Northern Trust, has crafted a remarkable career at the crossroads of data, finance, and communication. She shares insights into how data analytics influences trading decisions, making it a crucial component in capital markets. Victoria also discusses the importance of adaptability and the value of personal growth in finance careers, particularly for those from non-target schools. Listeners will appreciate her candid advice on overcoming imposter syndrome, public speaking, and the power of effective networking.

Earnings season is here, and Wall Street’s heavyweights came out swinging. Anthony and Piers unpack how Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley crushed Q2, driven by record trading revenues and a surprise rebound in deal flow.They explore Morgan Stanley’s booming wealth arm with $59 billion in fresh inflows, and how JP Morgan’s universal model is thriving, from trading floors to retail lending. Plus, BlackRock’s puzzling $52 billion client pullout, a bond ETF surge, and crypto ETFs making noise.Also: inflation surprises in the UK and US, and Trump’s “Twaco” trade rakes in $64 billion in tariff revenue. A easy to understand breakdown of the macro forces steering the summer markets.(00:00) Intro & Themes in Focus(01:30) Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley Earnings(08:07) The Goldman Model Business Explained(10:01) What is FICC and Equities in a Bank?(16:18) Wealth Management and Its Importance(20:46) J.P. Morgan: How a Universal Bank Works(24:35) BlackRock Q2 earnings summary(31:30) Inflation Trends in the UK and US(39:44) Trump Tariff Revenues & TWACO

Markets are experiencing a remarkable recovery, with the S&P 500 bouncing back impressively. Nvidia has made waves by becoming the first company to hit a $4 trillion market cap, greatly influencing the tech sector. Trump’s copper tariff has sent shockwaves through the market, revealing vulnerabilities in U.S. supply chains. Meanwhile, new legislation is reshaping tax structures and altering subsidies. Discussions also include the complexities of credit default swaps and the UK’s fiscal challenges, highlighting the intricate interplay of economics and politics.

Markets rebounded spectacularly in the first half of 2025, defying early bear market fears. The impact of Trump's tariffs caused initial chaos, leading to a surprising resurgence. AI stocks emerged as crucial players, aided by Nvidia's stellar earnings. Meanwhile, Netflix and Uber turned heads with their strategic pivots and impressive growth. Italy also made headlines with its bond market recovery, showcasing newfound economic strength. All this unfolds against the backdrop of evolving interest rates and fluctuating market sentiment.

Anthony, Stephen, and Silvia break down the $10 billion blockbuster sale of the LA Lakers. Why did the Buss family cash out after 40 years and what makes the Lakers the world’s most valuable sports franchise? From brand power and valuation layers to the media rights behind the deal.Then, Chelsea FC quietly sells off its women’s team… to itself? Stephen exposes the dark arts of private equity and how Chelsea dodged FFP rules with some creative accounting.Finally, ESPN buys into lacrosse, and English rugby looks to American-style franchising to stay alive. Is sport just business now and what does it mean for the future of valuations?(00:00) Intro and Farewell(04:57) Welcome Silvia to the Show(05:57) The LA Lakers Record-Breaking Valuation(27:15) Private Equity in Women's Soccer(37:09) Emerging Trends in Lacrosse and Rugby Investments