

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

Nov 13, 2024 • 44min
Spencer Jakab on Housing Market Challenges, Global Fiscal Implications, and Strategic Investment Diversification
Can high mortgage rates hold homeowners captive in their current situations? Spencer Jakab, the global editor of Heard on the Street at The Wall Street Journal, joins us to unravel the complex web of the housing market, where historically low mortgage rates have shackled homeowners, creating stagnant turnover and inflated prices. Gain insights from Spencer as he shares the intricacies of choosing topics for financial commentary and uncovers the global disparities in stock market valuations, illustrated by the Hyundai IPO in India. Together, we explore how engaging content is crafted to meet reader expectations in a fast-paced digital world.The economic landscape is shifting, and rising yields are at the forefront of this transformation. We delve into the cascading effects of increased borrowing costs on mortgage rates and housing turnover, painting a picture of a market in flux. As we discuss the potential impacts of political decisions on federal budget deficits and public debt, the conversation expands to a global scale. Discover the interconnectedness of economies as we draw parallels with other nations' fiscal challenges and speculate on the ramifications of political changes.US stocks have shown remarkable dominance, but is it time to look beyond familiar borders for investment opportunities? Our discussion moves to the global stage, where Warren Buffett's strategic moves in Japan highlight the potential rewards of diversifying into undervalued markets. We examine the trends in AI investments and their uncertain returns, drawing comparisons to past technological booms. Throughout, we underscore the importance of overcoming home country bias and the benefits of a diversified portfolio in capturing opportunities across emerging and undervalued markets. Join us as we navigate these compelling financial narratives and the challenges they present to modern journalism.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

Nov 11, 2024 • 44min
Anthony Crudele on Futures Trading Evolution, Risk Management Tactics, and Embracing Mindful Market Strategies
Join us as we welcome Anthony Crudele, a seasoned trader with a remarkable journey from the fast-paced CME Group floor to a more mindful approach to trading. After experiencing a life-altering heart attack at the age of 36, Anthony shares how he took inspiration from sports icons like Tom Brady and Michael Jordan to cultivate a calm and reflective trading demeanor. His early experiences with E-mini futures, coupled with the advantages they offer over ETFs, laid the foundation for his evolution into media with the Futures Radio Show, where he continues to share his passion for trading.Throughout our conversation, Anthony unpacks the complexities of leverage and risk management in futures trading, contrasting it with the challenges of day trading stocks. He provides a candid look at his strategies for navigating market conditions, drawing insights from significant periods like the 2008 financial crisis. With personal anecdotes, Anthony explains how he uses options on futures to manage leverage and the key differences between his futures and stock trading strategies. His reflections on market volatility, especially during personal events, offer a unique perspective on risk-taking behavior.In this episode, we also explore the smaller details of market behavior, discussing the impact of low-volume rallies and macroeconomic factors like interest rates and inflation. Anthony provides an enlightening analysis of small caps and how they influence broader market indices. To round out the discussion, we touch on investing in gold and oil markets, emphasizing mindfulness and emotion regulation. Anthony's insights highlight the importance of maintaining a balanced mindset in a trading environment filled with uncertainties and opportunities, offering valuable takeaways for traders at all levels.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

Nov 10, 2024 • 28min
Katie Stockton on Technical Analysis Mastery, Sector Rotation Strategies, and Navigating Market Shifts
Katie Stockton, founder of Fairlead Strategies and a CMT charterholder, shares her expertise in technical analysis and sector rotation strategies. She discusses the big shift from tech to utilities, highlighting its momentum amid changing market conditions. Stockton emphasizes the importance of diversified exposures, particularly risk-off assets like treasuries and gold. She also explores global markets and their technical trends, offering invaluable insights into effective risk management and the role of emotional biases in investing decisions.

Nov 9, 2024 • 44min
Leland Miller on China's Economic Intricacies, Geopolitical Strategies, and Market Sector Dynamics
Join us for an enlightening discussion with Leland Miller from China Beige Book as we unpack the intricate web of China's economic landscape. From the challenges faced by Chinese households in securing diversified investments to the enigmatic nature of the stock market, we navigate a realm where policy often overshadows growth. Discover why even the most anticipated government stimuli may fall short without pivotal reforms in foreign investment and legal infrastructure. Through a critical lens, we examine the structural dynamics that favor state enterprises and dissect the demographic hurdles that loom over China's economic horizon.Our dialogue takes an intriguing turn as we explore China's geopolitical maneuvers, delving into its strategic engagements with nations like India and its technological aspirations in AI, quantum computing, and biotech. The episode unveils the implications of these ambitions on both military capabilities and global tech policies, with a particular focus on the U.S. stance on technology transfers. We also cast a spotlight on China's military ambitions and its intense focus on Taiwan, fueled by a resource-intensive strategy aimed at achieving its objectives by 2027.We wrap up by casting a spotlight on key sectors within China, from the shifting dynamics in the luxury market to the resilient rise of the electric vehicle industry, propelled by substantial state support. As we dissect the property sector's evolution and the government's intricate balancing act to maintain stability, the episode challenges the reliability of traditional economic indicators, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of China's economic health. Whether you're an investor, policy maker, or simply curious about China's evolving role on the global stage, this conversation promises to offer valuable insights and provoke thought.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

Nov 8, 2024 • 44min
Axel Merk on Gold Investing Dynamics, Mining Sector Strategies, and Diversification Essentials
Axel Merk from Merk Investments joins us to unravel the complex and ever-evolving world of gold investing. If you're curious about how economic cycles and Federal Reserve policies shape gold's trajectory, this episode promises enlightening insights. Axel’s multifaceted background in AI and currency management brings a fresh perspective to understanding gold as a stable asset amid economic fluctuations.Our discussion shifts gears to the gold mining sector, highlighting the differing strategies and financial discipline of large and small mining firms. Discover how smaller mining companies act as options on gold discoveries, navigating unique challenges like funding access and competition with speculative investors. Dive into the junior mining space to uncover potential investment opportunities and strategies for capitalizing on market volatility with active management, particularly through closed-end funds.We emphasize the critical role of transparency in managing gold mining funds, discussing efforts made to enhance investor communication and fund valuation. Axel sheds light on the importance of geographic diversification and strategic avoidance of certain regions, while addressing misconceptions about gold miners and market conditions. As we wrap up, the episode underscores the necessity of diversification in investments and invites you to explore these topics further in our upcoming webinar.DISCLAIMER – PLEASE READ: This is a sponsored episode for which Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC has been paid a fee. Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided in the episode or make any representation as to its quality. All statements and expressions provided in this episode are the sole opinion of Merk Investments and Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC expressly disclaims any responsibility for action taken in connection with the information provided in the discussion. 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

Nov 7, 2024 • 48min
Cem Karsan on Options Market Evolution, Global Investment Dynamics, and Navigating Economic Complexity
What if the key to understanding asset value lay not in traditional stocks or bonds, but in the complexity of options? Join us as we sit down with seasoned trader Cem Karsan, who offers an insightful look into how options are transforming from mere derivatives to pivotal elements in market analysis. With a staggering $30 trillion in new investments forecasted to hit the market this year, Cem discusses the nuances of risk management and collateral leveraging, drawing from his extensive trading floor experience. His unique perspective shines a light on how options provide a clearer picture of asset distribution, challenging conventional wisdom.Venturing into the global emerging markets, we examine how geopolitical tensions and election-related positioning could influence market behavior, particularly in a period Cem terms as a 'window of non-strength.' The ebb and flow of market trends and the anticipated re-leveraging towards the year's end are dissected, offering a forward-looking view on investment opportunities. Despite external uncertainties, the conversation remains optimistic, analyzing the structural forces behind interest rate trends and the misconception that Federal Reserve policies have solely driven inflation. The discussion probes deeper into economic inequality, stirring thoughts on the sustainability of current economic systems.Rounding off the episode, Cem shares invaluable insights into his investment strategies and educational projects through Kai Volatility and Kai Wealth. Listeners are invited to engage with Cem via his social media handle @jam_croissant and explore his podcasting endeavors, including "Top Traders Unplugged." Whether you're curious about the future of passive investing or eager to learn from a respected voice in finance, this episode promises to broaden your understanding of today's intricate financial landscape. 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

Nov 6, 2024 • 13min
Kevin Mahn on AI Investment Opportunities, NVIDIA's Market Role, and Nuclear Power's Green Future
Join us as we uncover the untapped potential of AI investing with expert Kevin Mahn, who challenges the notion that NVIDIA is the be-all and end-all of the AI world. Maughan, fresh from his presentation at the Money Show, shares his insights on the broader AI ecosystem that includes exciting opportunities in semiconductors, software, hardware, and data centers. He emphasizes the importance of looking beyond the obvious choices to discover hidden gems within the AI landscape, much like the overlooked players in the vast e-commerce ecosystem beyond Amazon.Our discussion also ventures into the critical role of energy in AI's future, spotlighting nuclear power as a green solution to meet the growing demand. With intriguing partnerships like Constellation Energy teaming up with Microsoft, Mahn explains how traditional utilities are positioned for stable growth while supporting the AI and energy revolutions. We explore the potential bottlenecks in nuclear energy adoption and what needs to change to accelerate its integration into AI's energy grid. Discover why utilities might just be the unsung heroes in the race to power the AI-driven future.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.Support the show

Nov 5, 2024 • 34min
Sam Stovall on Fed Policy Impacts, Election Year Market Trends, and Strategic Sector Rotation
Explore the fascinating interplay between Federal Reserve policies and market trends with our guest, Sam Stovall, Chief Investment Strategist at CFRA Research. Ever wondered how election years shape market behavior? We unravel historical patterns that suggest why 2023's equity markets showed resilience and what might be on the horizon for 2024, including the potential for higher volatility and strategic investment opportunities. Stovall shares insights into how past election years have paved the way for market strength, offering a valuable context for today's investors.Join us as we assess the state of the current bull market, highlighting the performance disparities between small-cap and large-cap stocks. Curious about what keeps small-caps from reaching new highs? We delve into the factors at play, from investor preference for tech giants to the looming shadow of interest rate hikes by the Fed. We also turn our attention to the shifting yield narratives and their implications on the global stage, particularly in light of China's economic maneuvers and the commodity market's response.In our conversation on sector rotation and long-term investment strategies, we explore the nuanced relationships between gold prices, fiscal policies, and investor sentiment. Learn why the healthcare sector could be a hidden gem for growth, driven by demographic shifts and technological advancements. We also tackle the big questions around global equity performance and the potential rotations within the market, all while stressing the importance of diversification and historical awareness in navigating uncertain times. Don't miss out on these insights that could shape your investment strategy for the future.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

Nov 4, 2024 • 45min
Exploring ETF Evolution and India’s Market Potential with Jay McAndrew
Unlock the secrets of Columbia Threadneedle's groundbreaking investment strategies with insights from our special guest, Jay McAndrew. Discover how this asset management leader is reshaping the industry by seamlessly blending active insights into passive ETF models, all while focusing on a select group of 350 top-rated stocks. Jay draws from his wealth of experience to shed light on the firm's unique approach to replicating the Russell 1000 and how innovation in research-driven processes is setting the stage for future success.Our conversation dives deep into Columbia Threadneedle's cutting-edge research-enhanced ETF strategies. Learn how their centralized research platform empowers active managers to outperform the market by excluding underperforming stocks and focusing only on top-rated assets. We also discuss the brand's ambitious plans for 2025, from customizing exposure to volatile markets like China to harnessing the potential of emerging market consumption and democracy. Special attention is given to the Research Enhanced Core Solution, a portfolio strategy that optimizes performance by removing the 'losers' and focusing solely on strong picks.Explore the complex dynamics of the China-India demographic shift and how Columbia Threadneedle's innovative approaches provide strategic advantages. From the successful launch of the Indian Consumer ETF, which boasts impressive annualized returns, to the EQIN dividend income franchise that thrives during rate-cutting cycles, the episode unveils the strategic foresight that keeps Columbia Threadneedle ahead in the asset management game. Join us as we unravel these sophisticated strategies and their implications for investors navigating today's complex market landscape.DISCLAIMER – PLEASE READ: This is a sponsored episode for which Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC has been paid a fee. Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided in the episode or make any representation as to its quality. All statements and expressions provided in this episode are the sole opinion of Columbia Threadneedle and Lead-Lag Publishing, LLC expressly disclaims any responsibility for action taken in connection with the information provided in the discussion. 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

Nov 3, 2024 • 14min
Ken Mahoney on Wall Street Insights, Broadway's Risk-Reward Dynamics, and Navigating Market Volatility
Uncover the secrets of financial success with the multifaceted Ken Mahoney, a distinguished figure with accolades stretching from Wall Street to Broadway. He's not just a financial heavyweight; with multiple Tonys and Emmys under his belt, Ken brings a unique blend of experience that will reshape how you view investment strategies. Explore the compelling dynamics between fiscal and monetary policies, and how they influence market volatility. Together, we dissect the art of stock picking versus fund picking, emphasizing the power of momentum and financial health, while steering clear of underperformers that consistently miss earnings. Our dialogue takes a fascinating twist as we compare the risk-reward dynamics of Wall Street and Broadway, fueled by Ken's unique journey. We delve into the potential impact of political shifts, like a Trump presidency, on market dynamics and inflation. Discover how Mahoney GPS can be your compass in navigating financial uncertainties, empowering investors with insights across platforms like Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. Prepare for a journey that promises to enlighten and equip you with strategies to conquer your financial goals, all woven through Ken's captivating personal narrative.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.Support the show


