

Lead-Lag Live
Michael A. Gayed, CFA
Lead-Lag Live is your front-row seat to unscripted, real-time conversations with the sharpest minds in finance, economics, and investing.Hosted by Michael A. Gayed, CFA — publisher of The Lead-Lag Report and a widely followed voice on macro strategy — each episode features candid discussions with top portfolio managers, economists, ETF strategists, best-selling authors, and market practitioners. No scripts. No teleprompters. Just raw insight from people who move markets.Every week, we go deep on the themes that matter most: macro trends, interest rates and Fed policy, equity and bond markets, ETF strategies, geopolitical risk, asset allocation, commodities, currencies, and the interplay between risk-on and risk-off positioning.Whether you manage billions or are just getting started, Lead-Lag Live delivers actionable analysis and frameworks you can use — not surface-level market commentary.Originally broadcast live on X Spaces, every conversation is available here as a full-length podcast so you never miss a discussion.Subscribe now and follow @leadlagmedia on X for upcoming live events.
Episodes
Mentioned books

8 snips
Jan 15, 2025 • 41min
Euan Sinclair on Simplifying Options Trading, Zero DTE Strategies, and Navigating Volatility Risks
Euan Sinclair, an expert in options trading and a leader in volatility strategies for an ETF, strips down the complexities of options to reveal their inherent simplicity. He discusses the rise of zero DTE options and the impact of retail traders post-COVID-19. Euan warns of the risks in today's market dynamics, highlighting the concentration of market makers and potential volatility threats. He draws intriguing parallels between trading and sports gambling, emphasizing the need for effective data modeling and risk management in this new trading landscape.

Jan 14, 2025 • 47min
Paisley Nardini on Alternative Investments, Managed Futures Strategies, and Navigating Market Volatility
Paisley Nardini, a seasoned CFA charterholder and portfolio manager at Simplify Asset Management, shares her expertise in alternative investments and managed futures. She discusses how these strategies can enhance portfolio management and provide robust diversification during market volatility. Paisley dives into the mechanics of trend-following in managed futures and the strategic advantages of ETFs. Additionally, she emphasizes the importance of understanding retail investor behavior in navigating today's complex investment landscape.

Jan 13, 2025 • 42min
Vuk Vukovic on Elite Network Dynamics, Innovative Market Research, and Strategies for Addressing Economic Inequality
Vuk Vukovic, a political economist and author of "Elite Networks," dives deep into the role of elite connections in driving income inequality. He argues that political ties, rather than just systemic issues, fuel the wealth gap. Vuk discusses innovative market research methods that merge social media analysis with trading strategies, shedding light on the impact of collective opinions on market predictions. His insights also cover the evolving landscape of trading from 2021 to 2023, emphasizing risk management and adaptability amid market fluctuations.

Jan 12, 2025 • 43min
Hal Lambert on Politically Driven Investment Strategies, MAGA ETF Performance, and Navigating Deregulation Dynamics
Hal Lambert, founder of Point Bridge Capital, shares his insights on politically driven investment strategies with a focus on the America First ETF (MAGA). He discusses how political beliefs can shape investment portfolios and explores the impact of deregulation on sectors like industrials and finance. Lambert highlights the potential growth for military companies under a Trump administration and examines the MAGA ETF's performance during Biden's tenure. The conversation also delves into the economic implications of deregulation and the connections between political leadership, energy costs, and inflation.

Jan 11, 2025 • 39min
Julian Brigden on "Trump 2.0" Market Impacts, Cryptocurrency Dynamics, and Avoiding Speculative Bubbles
Julian Brigden, a seasoned financial strategist with a background at Lehman Brothers and HSBC, dives into the potential market impacts of a hypothetical "Trump 2.0." He explores the rise of retail investors shaking up traditional finance and highlights the risks of inexperience leading to speculative bubbles, especially in AI and crypto. The conversation also examines the economic implications of tariffs and tax policies under Trump, with a cautionary stance on navigating volatile markets and maintaining investment vigilance.

Jan 10, 2025 • 44min
Phillip Wool on Machine Learning in Investing, US Equities Strategy, and Emerging Market Opportunities
Phil Wool, Head of Research and Portfolio Management at Reliant Global Advisors, shares his expertise in machine learning and active equity strategies. He discusses how advanced analytics is reshaping portfolio management, emphasizing company-specific factors over macro trends. The conversation explores the delicate interplay between US Federal Reserve policies and emerging markets, highlighting opportunities in tech-heavy regions like Korea and Taiwan. Phil also reveals how a disciplined approach to active investing can uncover undervalued stocks and navigate market volatility.

Jan 8, 2025 • 42min
Kyle Kazan on Cannabis Industry Evolution, Strategic Real Estate Insights, and Overcoming Federal Challenges
From the football field to the boardroom, discover how Kyle Kazan's journey from college athlete to real estate mogul reshaped his vision for the cannabis industry. Listen to Kyle as he reveals how he navigated the worlds of law enforcement, special education, and real estate investing before becoming a pivotal player in cannabis. His insights offer a masterclass in resilience and strategic acumen, shedding light on his success despite the daunting challenges of federal illegality and complex taxation in this emerging market. Join us as we explore the evolution of the cannabis industry, where strategic alliances and political shifts define its future. Kyle shares how collaboration with experts like Graham Farrar is essential for mastering the intricacies of cost-effective cannabis cultivation. The conversation touches on the potential impact of political dynamics, especially under the Trump administration, and how states' rights and deregulation could unfold a new era of growth. Through these insights, we uncover a landscape ripe with opportunity, yet in dire need of federal support, particularly in banking.Delve into the stories that illuminate the cannabis reform movement, such as that of Weldon Angelos, whose case highlights the urgency for justice system reform. As we discuss the broader implications of political actions by Presidents Biden and Trump regarding cannabis-related convictions, we also explore the promising future of the California cannabis market. From building consumer trust to understanding the parallels with early tech giants, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the dynamic forces shaping the cannabis sector. Plus, get a taste of personal stories that resonate beyond the industry, like the unexpected benefits of fasting inspired by social media.The content in this program is for informational purposes only. You should not construe any information or other material as investment, financial, tax, or other advice. The views expressed by the participants are solely their own. A participant may have taken or recommended any investment position discussed, but may close such position or alter its recommendation at any time without notice. Nothing contained in this program constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, endorsement, or offer to buy or sell any securities or other financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Please consult your own investment or financial advisor for advice related to all investment decisions. Sign up to The Lead-Lag Report on Substack and get 30% off the annual subscription today by visiting http://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive. Support the show

Jan 7, 2025 • 40min
Meb Faber on Cutting-Edge ETF Innovations, Tax-Efficient Strategies, and Global Investment Outlook
Join Meb Faber, Founder and CIO of Cambria Investment Management, as he unveils groundbreaking ETF strategies. Discover the significance of the 351 exchange for tax efficiency and portfolio diversification. Meb shares insights on transitioning from traditional funds and the bold closure of their inaugural fund, FAIL. Explore the shift towards global endowment-style investing and the upcoming launch of a fund aimed at raising $30 to $50 million. Get ready to learn how market dynamics shape investment decisions and strategies!

Jan 6, 2025 • 33min
Aleks Svetski on Bitcoin's Transformative Potential, Quantum Computing Challenges, and Philosophical Insights from "Bushido of Bitcoin
Aleks Svetski, a seasoned Bitcoin enthusiast and entrepreneur, dives into Bitcoin's potential to reshape societal structures and tackle inequality. He addresses skepticism surrounding Bitcoin, exploring its relationship with emerging technologies like quantum computing. Svetski highlights how quantum advancements could enhance Bitcoin's security while discussing the emotional dynamics of investing. He also shares insights from his book, "Bushido of Bitcoin," reflecting on virtues essential for creating resilient societies. This engaging conversation blends philosophical reflections with practical implications.

Jan 5, 2025 • 2min
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