

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

Feb 3, 2024 • 52min
Jim Bianco's Masterclass on Federal Reserve Policies and Market Trends
Unlock the secrets of the Fed's influence over the markets as we sit down with Jim Bianco, the respected mind behind Bianco Research, who's here to deconstruct the perplexing relationship between Federal Reserve policy and market behavior. Our conversation bridges the gap between the pandemic's economic upheaval and the resulting new norms in work culture, real estate, and the bond market's response to inflationary pressures and rate shifts. Jim's insights on the Bianco Total Return Index and its ETF, WCBN, shine a light on investment strategies that cater to the informed investor, eager to navigate the currents of economic indicators with a seasoned captain at the helm.As we traverse the financial terrain, the topic of wealth distribution and economic assistance takes center stage. Jim artfully dissects the curious case of robust corporate bond issuance amid lackluster performance in some stock sectors, emphasizing the stark disparity in asset ownership and debt across income levels. This segment of our discussion isn't just an analysis; it's a call to contemplate the intricate forces shaping market liquidity and consumer choices. Prepare to be engrossed by our examination of credit spreads, the spending habits of diverse economic strata, and the interplay between consumer behavior and inflation.The final stretch of our journey with Jim Bianco casts a spotlight on how technology and international policy shifts are redefining investment strategies. From the potential global impact of Japan's monetary policy to the prospective role of AI in finance, we tackle the pivotal questions facing today's investors. Whether you're adjusting your approach to yield management in fixed income investments or timing the launch of new ETFs, Jim's foresight offers a roadmap for the prudent investor navigating an ever-evolving fiscal landscape. Tune in and equip yourself with the acumen to thrive in the complex world of finance.Nothing on this channel should be considered as personalized financial advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. 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

Feb 1, 2024 • 44min
Capitalizing on Small Cap Stocks: Navigating Interest Rates and Investment Strategies
Unpack the intricacies of the stock market with us, Michael Guy and Andrew Moss, as we highlight the unappreciated influence of small caps in this dynamic financial landscape. Join our conversation to understand why keeping an eye on these market underdogs could transform your investment approach. Delving into the relationship between interest rates and small cap stocks, we dissect whether a shift in rates is the key to small cap success. Plus, we tackle the broader implications of mid-size companies and retailers, painting a comprehensive picture for traders and investors alike.The market's pulse is ever-changing, and this episode offers a pulse check on the potential risks lurking behind trends, especially in the wake of 2021's peak performance. Together, we scrutinize various technical indicators, dissect the disproportionate sway of large caps, and speculate on the emergence of a possible 'concentration bubble.' Will the giants fall, or will the minnows rise? Our analysis ventures into the realm of sector leadership and market styles, suggesting that smaller companies may be gearing up for their turn in the spotlight.Wrapping things up, we explore the nuanced art of risk management and investing strategies in a market bristling with economic reports and Federal Reserve meetings. I share why tightening your defense might be a smart play, as we navigate through choppy waters of market corrections and volatility. For traders looking to balance their portfolios with precision and care, our insights on scaling positions and adhering to disciplined trade management are invaluable. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge that could be the edge you need to sail through the market's storms.Nothing on this channel should be considered as personalized financial advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. 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 30, 2024 • 48min
Frank Cappelleri on Crafting Winning Trades and Market Forecasts
Embark on a financial odyssey with the esteemed Frank Capillari, the mastermind behind Cap Thesis, as we unravel the mysteries of market trends and trading strategies. Frank's journey from the trading floors of Instinet to the echelons of market analysis is nothing short of a Wall Street epic, filled with lessons from the dot-com bubble and insights into the art of high-quality financial commentary. Listen closely and learn how Frank's mentorship under technical analysis titans shaped his perspective on the markets and how his candid storytelling reveals the heartbeat of trading.Ever wondered why defensive sectors like utilities can defy market expectations or how shifts in sector leadership signal the market's health? Probe these questions and more as Frank dissects trading techniques that leverage VWAP and volume percentages, and critiques the reliability of overbought and oversold indicators. The conversation takes us through a landscape of market behaviors and the subtle art of identifying trading opportunities, offering a fascinating study of the markets that could refine your investment strategies.Concluding with a masterclass on sustaining a credible research service, Frank underscores the discipline needed in content creation and the value of a contrarian perspective in stock analysis. Reflect on the influence of long-term trends versus yield rates, and how standout market predictions can cement a professional reputation. This episode isn't merely a discussion; it's an investment in wisdom from a seasoned market commentator, providing you with the tools to navigate the tumultuous tides of finance with confidence.Nothing on this channel should be considered as personalized financial advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. 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 22, 2024 • 46min
The Investor's Guide to Geopolitical Analysis and Emerging Markets with Jacob Shapiro
Navigate the intricate web of global markets with me, Michael Gahyit, and my esteemed guest Jacob Shapiro from Cognitive Investments, as we dissect the oft-underestimated role of geopolitical risk in investment strategies. With Jacob's deep expertise in geopolitical futures, we unravel how international events and power plays can dramatically affect your portfolio. From the overlooked warnings in Russian equities to the miscalculations surrounding Europe's natural gas debacle, our discussion serves as a masterclass in marrying geopolitical acumen with financial foresight. Embark on a journey through the nuances of China's internal politics and the dance of de-globalization, where Western perceptions clash with Eastern realities. As we dissect America's changing view on China's economic threat, learn how this Great Power's internal struggles and global PR maneuvers could reshape your investment landscape. We'll also shed light on the subtle yet powerful shifts towards regional power balances and the quest for technological sovereignty, underscoring why understanding these trends is crucial for anyone aiming to thrive in an era where economic interdependencies are being redefined.Finally, broaden your horizons as we look beyond the usual suspects to the emerging markets ripe with potential, like Brazil, Indonesia, and Turkey, and consider how geopolitical analysis is indispensable in constructing resilient investment portfolios. From the semiconductor industry and energy transition to the biotech sector, Jacob and I dissect the sectors where innovation and geopolitics collide, revealing the risks and opportunities that could define the future of investing. Don't miss this insightful exploration of global investment strategies, where each revelation could be the key to unlocking your next big opportunity.ANTICIPATE STOCK MARKET CRASHES, CORRECTIONS, AND BEAR MARKETS WITH AWARD WINNING RESEARCH. Sign up for The Lead-Lag Report at https://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive and get 30% off as a podcast listener.Nothing on this channel should be considered as personalized financial advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. 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. 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 17, 2024 • 38min
Navigating Value Investing and the Energy Transition with Vitaliy Katsenelson
Embark on an intellectual journey with me, Michael Gayed, as I sit down with the astute Vitaliy Katsenelson, a value investor who brings a refreshing twist to traditional investing wisdom. Together, we dissect the true essence of value investing, where Vitaliy's unique perspective—shaped by his move from Russia in 1991 and honed through years of experience—blurs the lines between value and growth. His disciplined approach to treating stocks as whole companies and his commitment to a margin of safety resonates throughout our discussion, particularly as he shares his strategy behind managing his investment in Uber.As the conversation steers into the realm of the oil industry, prepare to scrutinize the factors influencing oil demand and the steady advancement of electric vehicles. I shed light on why the road to a post-combustion engine world might be longer than anticipated, considering the current state of charging infrastructure and the influence of ESG trends on the investment landscape. Listen closely for insights on identifying oil companies that excel in managing the cyclical nature of the market—those with the combination of low production costs and strategic leadership that spells success.In the finale of our episode, Vitaliy and I navigate the broader scopes of the energy transition and the art of marketing within the investment sector. You'll hear candid reflections on the intersection of our personal philosophies and professional practices, and how authenticity has played an unexpected role in business growth. Our discussion traverses the political and practical challenges of green energy adoption, spotlighting nuclear power's potential in the energy mix. For a blend of personal anecdotes, industry expertise, and the untold narratives behind investment decisions, tune in for a deep dive into the minds that see beyond the numbers. And for those who prefer the spoken word, my musings on investing are now available on the Intellectual Investor, the "lazy man's podcast.ANTICIPATE STOCK MARKET CRASHES, CORRECTIONS, AND BEAR MARKETS WITH AWARD WINNING RESEARCH. Sign up for The Lead-Lag Report at https://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive and get 30% off as a podcast listener.Nothing on this channel should be considered as personalized financial advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. 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 15, 2024 • 51min
The Global Impact of China's Ascendancy Examined With Elbridge Colby
Elbridge Colby, the architect of the 2018 National Defense Strategy and author of "The Strategy of Denial," joins us to untangle the complex web of China's rise and its implications for global power dynamics. Our conversation spans the globe, from the strategic corridors of Washington D.C. to the manufacturing hubs and supply chains disrupted by COVID-19. As we explore Colby's pivotal role in reorienting defense priorities and his vision for U.S. engagement with China, the dialogue reveals a world where military might, economic interdependence, and technological advancements are inextricably linked. The stakes are high, and the need for a nuanced approach to international relations has never been more pressing.Economic warfare, once a subplot in the annals of history, has taken center stage in the face of China's expanding influence. We dissect the synthesis of military strength with economic sanctions, the brewing storms of information and technology conflicts, and how these elements coalesce to shape the geopolitical chessboard. Colby offers an arresting analysis of the narratives within China, which cast the U.S. as an economic adversary, and we scrutinize the delicate balance of power in the Asia-Pacific. The discussion traverses the strategic pain points, from China's stronghold in global medicine supply chains to the looming specter of military conflict over Taiwan, underscoring the urgency for decisive action.The episode crescendos as we interrogate the implications of China's geopolitical gambits on the U.S. administration's policies and the broader canvas of great power competition. Colby challenges the perceived efficacy of cultural and information warfare, championing direct military capability as the cornerstone of international strategy. We conclude with a call to arms for intellectual rigor and the pursuit of peace through strength, navigating the fine line between respecting China's ascent and safeguarding the global balance of power. Engage with us on this cerebral journey as we dissect the strategy of power in a world where every move could dictate the future of international harmony.ANTICIPATE STOCK MARKET CRASHES, CORRECTIONS, AND BEAR MARKETS WITH AWARD WINNING RESEARCH. Sign up for The Lead-Lag Report at https://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive and get 30% off as a podcast listener.Nothing on this channel should be considered as personalized financial advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. 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 11, 2024 • 46min
Forecasting Economic Repercussions in an Evolving World with Lawrence McDonald
Discover the seismic shifts in global capital flow as I, Michael Guy, welcome the astute Lawrence McDonald to our podcast. Our exchange traverses his vast experience, from Convertbond.com's inception to the Lehman Brothers' downfall, paving the way to his bestseller. Engage with us as we unfold the market's current state, spotlighting the migration of capital towards emerging, undervalued asset classes. Lawrence's insights on navigating the market's snares—both bearish and bullish—are invaluable for those looking to reposition strategically amidst economic tremors.Venture into the geopolitical chessboard with us, where the energy sector's future hangs in the balance. We dissect how population booms and investment droughts signal an impending energy crisis, with a special focus on how increasing carbon footprints in nations like India and Indonesia could send shockwaves through the market. Lawrence and I scrutinize Putin's oil gambits, weighing their ramifications on not just inflation and Federal Reserve policies, but also on global power dynamics—from the Red Sea's strategic maritime routes to the impending shifts in American political landscapes.We wrap with a riveting examination of how China's savings surplus could ripple across international markets, inviting listeners to ponder the East-West investment conundrum. Compare the lure of Chinese tech titans against Silicon Valley's stalwarts, and consider how their fates may intertwine with global commodity trends and a redefined NASDAQ. Our dialogue traverses the gamut from the Federal Reserve's rate hike puzzles to the enticing potential of precious metals, providing seasoned perspectives on navigating the intricate tapestry of global asset migration and investment dynamics. Join us for a thought-provoking journey through the evolving economic landscape.ANTICIPATE STOCK MARKET CRASHES, CORRECTIONS, AND BEAR MARKETS WITH AWARD WINNING RESEARCH. Sign up for The Lead-Lag Report at https://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive and get 30% off as a podcast listener.Nothing on this channel should be considered as personalized financial advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. 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 11, 2024 • 44min
Cracking the Code of VIX and Market Turbulence with Vance Harwood
Prepare to unravel the enigma of the stock market's fear gauge with Vance Harwood, whose transition from engineering to finance led him to decode the VIX and its complex dance with market volatility. Our riveting chat with Vance, an investment wizard with a sharp eye for the VIX's mathematical subtleties, promises to equip you with a fresh lens to view the inverse correlation between the Volatility Index and market downturns, and the asymmetrical nature of volatility during market upswings. Attune yourself to the behavioral patterns of investors and their role in shaping the market's pulse, as Vance dismantles skepticism about the VIX's reliability amidst a climate where a handful of stocks seem to dominate.Venture deeper into the market's undercurrents as we dissect how volatility clusters influence the VIX and the broader market mechanics. Vance offers his insights on the contentious notion that the Federal Reserve might play a hand in curbing volatility, while examining the potent effects of derivatives on the market's infrastructure. This is your gateway to understanding the strategic maneuvers of hedge funds as they use the VIX to steer through financial squalls, a narrative that's both enlightening for the seasoned investor and accessible to the curious novice.Wrapping up our cerebral symposium, we navigate the intricate strategies of market insurance and the art of timing hedges against market indicators. Vance decodes the impact of leverage on volatility during market upheaval, and casts light on alternative methods for replicating VIX futures' benefits without incurring steep costs. Through our deep-dive into options trading, VIX futures, and market cycles, this episode is an essential guide for anyone looking to grasp the interplay of market dynamics and volatility. Join us for this expedition into the financial unknown, where each piece of wisdom from Vance Harwood adds to your arsenal for battling the tumultuous seas of high finance.ANTICIPATE STOCK MARKET CRASHES, CORRECTIONS, AND BEAR MARKETS WITH AWARD WINNING RESEARCH. Sign up for The Lead-Lag Report at https://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive and get 30% off as a podcast listener.Nothing on this channel should be considered as personalized financial advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. 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 8, 2024 • 45min
Decoding the Future of Tech and Finance: Paul Barron on the Intersection of AI, Blockchain, and Media
Prepare to embark on a riveting journey with tech aficionado Paul Barron as we navigate the dynamic interplay of media, technology, and finance. Unlock the secrets behind the exponential growth of Paul's YouTube channel, the Paul Barron Network, and gain expert insights into how his enterprise has adeptly shifted from big data analytics for blue-chip companies to the pulsating world of crypto markets. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone keen to understand the power of AI, blockchain, and market trends in crafting a successful online footprint.As the conversation unfolds, we dissect the game-changing impact of AI and NLP on blockchain analysis, shedding light on the art of trendspotting and market predictions. Paul reveals the sophisticated tools that sift through the noise to pinpoint actionable insights, sharing his expertise on how brands are leveraging blockchain's potential. We tackle the investment currents flowing through the crypto space, discussing the hype around Bitcoin ETFs and the trajectory of blockchain utility as we inch closer to 2024.The future comes into sharp focus as we explore the transformative effects of blockchain across various sectors, from healthcare to real estate, imagining a landscape reshaped by smart contracts. Paul introduces us to the trailblazing "Magnificent Seven" of blockchain and their narrative power, raising the curtain on the next wave of tech giants. Discover how short-form content is shaking up e-commerce and why the next NFT boom could mirror the explosive growth of the internet era. Join us for this deep-dive exploration with Paul Barron – your lens into the future of tech and finance.ANTICIPATE STOCK MARKET CRASHES, CORRECTIONS, AND BEAR MARKETS WITH AWARD WINNING RESEARCH. Sign up for The Lead-Lag Report at https://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive and get 30% off as a podcast listener.Nothing on this channel should be considered as personalized financial advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. 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 4, 2024 • 41min
Conquering Commercial Real Estate: Cassandra Hartford's Blueprint for Success and Adaptation
Embark on an awe-inspiring trek through adversity with our indomitable guest, Cassandra Hartford, as she recounts her rise to prominence in the cutthroat realm of commercial real estate brokerage. The grit and grace of her story are bound to leave you spellbound, as she unveils how a childhood steeped in challenges only fueled her drive to excel in the dynamic Florida market. Her candid revelations provide a blueprint for navigating professional growth against the backdrop of life’s toughest trials.In this episode, we dissect the ever-shifting tides of the real estate landscape, where Cassandra's astute observations on multifamily sector perils, investment strategies, and the lean towards leasing over buying, shine a light on the crucial adaptation mechanisms for industry players. The conversation swerves into probing the current deadlock where buyers and sellers war over valuations, and Cassandra's expertise illuminates the nuanced responses of small businesses to economic headwinds. Her insights are a treasure trove for brokers, investors, or anyone with more than a passing interest in the mechanics of the commercial real estate market.Finally, the keen wisdom from Cassandra's journey lays down strategies for thriving within the competitive sphere of real estate brokerage. Her emphasis on mentorship and collaboration as cornerstones of success rings true for those navigating the entwined challenges of starting up and staying afloat in the business. Listen closely as we explore the evolving intersection of technology and relationship-building in this relationship-centric industry, providing a fascinating glimpse into the future of commercial real estate brokerage.ANTICIPATE STOCK MARKET CRASHES, CORRECTIONS, AND BEAR MARKETS WITH AWARD WINNING RESEARCH. Sign up for The Lead-Lag Report at https://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive and get 30% off as a podcast listener.Nothing on this channel should be considered as personalized financial advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any securities. 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


