Gretchen Morgenson on Unveiling Private Equity's Hidden Impact: Financial Journalism, Asset Stripping, and the Quest for Transparency

Could China's gold buying strategies be reshaping the global economy? Join us as we sit down with Jan Nieuwenhuijs, a leading expert in the Chinese gold market, to unpack this fascinating question. Jan shares his unique journey from the glitz of the movie industry to the world of economics and gold analysis, offering a deep dive into China's complex relationship with gold. From the days when gold ownership was banned under strict communism to the rise of the Shanghai Gold Exchange in 2002, we explore the cultural and economic shifts that have led to significant gold accumulation by Chinese citizens and the People's Bank of China.In our conversation, Jan reveals some startling insights into China's strategic gold acquisitions. Could the People's Bank of China be underreporting its gold purchases to maintain lower prices? Jan discusses this intriguing hypothesis, supported by discrepancies between official figures and estimates from the World Gold Council. We also delve into the broader implications of China's gold demand on its holdings in US Treasuries and the shifting global reserves landscape, emphasizing the historical and present-day significance of gold as a counterparty risk-free asset, especially in the face of global uncertainty.Finally, we tackle some enduring myths and truths about the gold market. Jan debunks the notion that traditional supply and demand dictate gold prices and dispels conspiracy theories about price suppression by a nefarious cartel. We also explore the potential for a gold-backed BRICS currency and its implications for the US dollar's dominance. Whether you're considering investing in gold through ETFs or physical ownership, Jan offers valuable insights into the pros and cons of each method. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of the intricate dynamics at play in the global gold market, with a special focus on China's pivotal role.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. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Support the Show.

Can Americans truly be in a recession when wage inflation surpasses overall inflation? Financial wizard Ophir Gottlieb unravels this economic paradox in our latest episode. With a background in financial mathematics, AI, and hedge fund management, Ophir lends his expertise to untangle the complexities of the post-COVID economy. From the Federal Reserve's missteps to the widening gulf between large and small-cap stocks, we dissect the factors that shape the current economic sentiment and the persistent cooling that many feel.Small businesses face a myriad of challenges today, and we tackle how rising unemployment rates and rental woes are signaling deeper economic troubles. Ophir and I explore historical patterns in housing prices during inflationary periods and contrast these with the unique impacts of the Great Recession. We emphasize how the Fed's policy decisions are influenced by the trajectory of economic data, and what that means for small and medium-sized businesses amid fluctuating credit spreads and inflation metrics.Are small-cap stocks and Bitcoin the future of diversified portfolios? As we shift our focus internationally, we consider the potential for growth in these sectors and the impact of fiscal policies post-COVID. We also discuss the role of currency volatility and its implications on global markets, particularly Japan. Wrapping up, we express our immense gratitude to Ophir for his valuable insights and to our audience for their unwavering support. Stay connected, keep engaging with our content, and let's continue to navigate these economic waters together.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. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Support the Show.

Unlock the secrets of disciplined investing with Daniel Mahncke, a finance and economics student from Frankfurt, Germany. In this episode, Daniel shares his journey into value investing and behavioral finance, shedding light on how legendary investors Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger shaped his investment philosophy. Learn how to mitigate biases with a structured investment process, inspired by Daniel Kahneman's "Thinking Fast and Slow," and the importance of integrating behavioral insights into actionable strategies.Explore the exciting world of small-cap and micro-cap stock investing as Daniel offers his expert analysis on the differences between US and European markets. Discover why German small caps, often industrial or local production companies, provide tangible value and how cultural variations in stock market engagement impact investment strategies. Gain valuable insights into the microeconomic focus in Europe versus the macroeconomic considerations in the US and how these nuances shape market participation.Navigate the complexities of portfolio management with Daniel's firsthand experiences and strategic advice. Understand the challenges of maintaining a concentrated portfolio and the tough decisions it entails. Learn the importance of geographic and sector diversification to manage risks and capitalize on growth opportunities. Daniel's discussion covers everything from microcap companies to investing in Chinese giants like Alibaba, offering a comprehensive view of modern value investing. Don't miss out on these key takeaways and investment wisdom from a passionate and knowledgeable guest.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. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Support the Show.

Curious about the behind-the-scenes world of financial journalism? Join us as we sit down with Janet Alvarez, host of SiriusXM's Business Briefing, who shares her compelling journey from print journalism to radio. Janet highlights the different skill sets required for each medium and the importance of curiosity and analytical thinking. Together, we navigate the evolution of business journalism and the often-overlooked influences of political climates and editorial biases that shape the stories we read and hear. Janet also unveils the industry’s inclination toward negative, fear-driven narratives to captivate audiences.Ever wondered how wealth disparities color perceptions of the economy? We address the growing divide between asset owners and non-asset owners and discuss signs pointing to a late economic cycle that could herald a recession. From top graduates struggling to secure jobs to heightened consumer price sensitivity, we provide a comprehensive overview of current economic conditions. Janet offers her insights into the market's defensive stance and the uneven impact on various sectors, while also considering how fiscal policies might extend or alleviate the late cycle phase, regardless of who holds presidential office.Will AI revolutionize journalism and the stock market, or are there limitations to this technology? We explore the transformative potential of AI in these fields while acknowledging the irreplaceable value of human insight, charisma, and nuanced reporting. Janet and I debate the high valuations of AI-focused companies and the balance between diversification and high conviction bets. We wrap up with a discussion on the meme stock phenomenon and the role of prominent investors like Roaring Kitty. Aspiring journalists, take note: Janet shares invaluable advice on the importance of specialized knowledge and technical skills in the fast-evolving media landscape.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. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Get Booked On Top PodcastsGrow your business by guesting on top rated podcasts. Support the Show.

What if the impressive performance of a few semiconductor giants is masking the true health of the entire sector? Join us for an engaging conversation with Michael Gayed from The Lead-Lag Report. We'll dissect how ETFs heavily weighted by companies like NVIDIA and Taiwan Semiconductor can create a distorted picture of industry strength. Michael will guide us through the importance of examining all stocks within a sector to get a genuine understanding of market dynamics and stock performance.In addition to sector analysis, we'll explore why picking the right industry might be more crucial than selecting individual stocks in today's unbalanced market cycles. Michael shares insightful perspectives on the exceptional performance of sectors like semiconductors while cautioning that not all companies within a booming industry are on equal footing. We also delve into thought-provoking discussions on how market movements are increasingly driven by for-profit entities rather than governments, echoing the dystopian concerns raised in George Orwell's "1984." Don't miss this episode if you're looking to challenge conventional wisdom and gain a deeper understanding of market trends.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.

Is the current bull market too good to be true? Join me as I unpack the deceptive nature of this market rally . I dive into startling data from the Russell 3000 index, showing that a staggering 70.4% of its stocks are trading below their 2021 highs, even as the S&P 500 hits new peaks. I draw eerie parallels to the dot-com bubble of 1999, where a few select stocks soared while many others lagged behind, raising serious questions about the sustainability of today's market. The concentrated gains and lack of broader market participation are red flags that investors cannot afford to ignore.In the second chapter, I turn my attention to investment strategies tailored for these uncertain times. I discuss the pitfalls of relying on market cap weighted averages and advocate for equal-weighted approaches, particularly for small-cap stocks. By examining the lessons from the 2000-2002 market period, I highlight the inherent risks of a market driven by a handful of dominant players. With historical insights underscoring the market's volatility, I urge listeners to remain cautious and mindful of market breadth and underlying fundamentals. This episode is packed with valuable perspectives for navigating a potentially unstable market environment.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.

What if space mining could revolutionize our energy and commodity security? Join us on the Lead Lag Report as we welcome Brandon Weichert, a renowned national security analyst and author, to break down the complex world of energy, commodity security, and geopolitical economics. With an extensive background from his work with the National Interest and the Pipeline, Brandon brings unparalleled insights into how global warming policies and the Biden administration's domestic energy regulations are reshaping our energy landscape. We also touch on the strategic shift in global energy reliance, including the impactful destruction of the Nord Stream pipeline.Venture with us into the untapped potential of space mining and its critical role in securing rare earth minerals. Brandon explains the compelling advantages of mining asteroids and the Moon, along with the importance of building alliances with friendly governments in Latin America and Africa. This episode doesn't just scratch the surface; we tackle the intricacies of geopolitical influence and the urgency to counteract Chinese and Russian dominance in crucial resource areas. Discover the exciting possibilities spurred by recent lithium discoveries in Pennsylvania and the regulatory considerations necessary for tapping into these resources.Our conversation turns to Taiwan, a pivotal flashpoint in the US-China power tussle, and its indispensable role in the semiconductor industry. We analyze the contrasting positions of the Biden and Trump administrations on Taiwan and discuss Taiwan's military strategy, with Brandon suggesting an insurgent-style defense over traditional approaches. As we conclude, we delve into potential global flashpoints for World War III, comparing the Middle East with the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and examining the interconnectedness of global powers like Iran, Russia, and China. Don't miss Brandon's insightful perspectives and his recommendations for further reading to deepen your understanding of these critical issues. Sign up to The Lead-Lag Report on Substack and get 30% off the annual subscription today by visiting http://theleadlag.report/leadlaglive. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Get Booked On Top PodcastsGrow your business by guesting on top rated podcasts. Support the Show.

What happens when private equity infiltrates the world of business? Join us as we uncover the truth with Gretchen Morgenson, a veteran financial journalist who transitioned from stockbroker to investigative reporter. Gretchen shares her unique journey and provides a deep dive into the evolution of financial journalism. We discuss how the democratization of the stock market has changed the landscape and the critical challenges posed by a decline in investigative reporting.In this thought-provoking episode, we tackle the predatory practices of private equity, using real-world examples such as Red Lobster and Noranda to illustrate the devastating impact on businesses and communities. Discover how asset stripping and leveraging companies with debt can lead to financial ruin, burdening businesses with insurmountable debts and forcing them into bankruptcy. We also delve into the complexities of the high-yield junk debt market and the intriguing shift of riskier debt to private credit, questioning how this movement might be affecting public markets.Our conversation extends into the opaque world of private credit markets, where Gretchen shines a light on the urgent need for transparency and scrutiny. We explore her book, "These Are the Plunderers," co-authored with Josh Rosner, which uncovers the long-term consequences of private equity in sectors like healthcare. Shocking academic findings reveal the increased costs and mortality rates following private equity takeovers in healthcare settings. As we wrap up, we reflect on the current state of investigative journalism and discuss how to foster quality, narrative-driven reporting in an era where AI and entertainment-focused media dominate. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on the complexities and consequences of private equity.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. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Support the Show.

What happens when a former military intelligence officer decides to navigate the intricate world of gold and precious metals? Join us as Christopher Aaron reveals his extraordinary journey from the battlegrounds of Afghanistan and Iraq to becoming a savvy market analyst. Christopher's personal anecdotes shed light on the flaws of mainstream narratives and the power of precise technical analysis in understanding market trends. He emphasizes the significance of price as a true market indicator and shares the challenges of assessing the real value of commodities like gold.Ever wondered why large-cap gold miners are lagging despite gold's impressive gains? We explore this puzzling scenario and its implications for investors. Christopher also engages in a thought-provoking comparison of gold versus Bitcoin, influenced by recent legislative changes in the U.S. Our discussion extends into the macroeconomic factors affecting precious metals, including the evolving correlations between gold, interest rates, and currencies. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone keen on deciphering market behaviors and refining their investment strategies.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 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.

What does the future hold for NVIDIA, and could its impact rival that of Tesla or Cisco? Join us in this episode as we sit down with veteran trader Gareth Soloway to dissect the market forces at play. We delve into the psychology of market behavior, the saturation of the AI chip industry, and the looming competition that could shift the landscape. Gareth offers his seasoned perspective on China's potential role in this market and whether NVIDIA's dominance is sustainable.Shifting gears, we analyze the transportation ETF (IYT) and the head and shoulders pattern shaping market sentiment. We uncover the stark disparity between major indices and the Russell 3000, revealing hidden weaknesses beneath the surface. Our discussion extends to consumer debt, inflation, and the Federal Reserve's maneuvers, providing a holistic view of the economic landscape. We also clarify the nuances between interest rates and credit risk, shedding light on market liquidity conditions.In the latter part of our conversation, we explore a variety of investment strategies, emphasizing the balance between right and wrong calls. Gareth highlights "fat pitch" trades and opportunities in emerging markets like China and Brazil. We also delve into the overlooked potential of palladium, the evolving narratives around Bitcoin, and the promising yet underperforming biotech sector. Wrapping up, we stress the importance of risk management and strategic trading approaches, offering listeners a comprehensive guide to navigating today's complex market dynamics. Don't miss out on these essential insights!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 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. Foodies unite…with HowUdish!It’s social media with a secret sauce: FOOD! The world’s first network for food enthusiasts. HowUdish connects foodies across the world!Share kitchen tips and recipe hacks. Discover hidden gem food joints and street food. Find foodies like you, connect, chat and organize meet-ups!HowUdish makes it simple to connect through food anywhere in the world.So, how do YOU dish? Download HowUdish on the Apple App Store today: Support the Show.