Investing, Markets & Money

In this episode of Investing, Markets & Money, we’re joined by @CMEGroup Chief Economist Erik Norland to break down what futures markets are really telling us about the global economy. We discuss: - Why inflation — not recession — is the market’s biggest fear - What soaring gold, silver, and platinum prices are signalling - How futures markets act as an early warning system - Why the bond market may be smarter than the stock market - What the yield curve tells us about growth, rates, and recession risk - How central bank policy and government debt are reshaping markets - Which futures markets affect mortgages, fuel prices, and everyday costs This conversation explains how professional investors read futures, bonds, and commodities — often before the headlines catch up. If you want clearer insight into inflation, interest rates, gold, bonds, and where markets may be heading next, this episode is for you. #Investing #FinancialMarkets #Economy #Inflation #Recession #FuturesMarkets #BondMarket #GoldPrice #InterestRates #YieldCurve #MacroEconomics #Commodities #MarketOutlook #InvestingPodcast 👉 Sign up to our free investing newsletter - https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/newsletter/ Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: X - https://twitter.com/armchairtweets Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader Use the chapters to jump to inflation, gold, bonds, or futures market signals. 00:00 What Futures Markets Reveal About the Economy 00:42 What CME Group Does (And Why It Matters) 01:59 How Futures Markets Signal Economic Direction 04:01 Inflation vs Recession: What Markets Fear Most 05:31 Why Central Banks Treat Gold Like a Currency 06:15 Is the Bond Market Smarter Than the Stock Market? 09:10 Bond Vigilantes, Government Debt & Market Discipline 10:42 What a 100-Year Bond Really Tells Investors 12:04 Can Futures Markets Predict Headlines? 13:11 Market Fear, Volatility & the VIX Explained 14:52 Which Futures Markets Affect Everyday Life? 16:26 Commodities as Portfolio Diversifiers 18:11 The Yield Curve Explained (Without Jargon) 20:22 What the Yield Curve Signals Right Now 21:12 One Rule Retail Investors Should Follow in Futures 24:15 Education, Risk & Using Futures Responsibly

Is the UK commercial real estate market poised for a massive rebound? In this episode, Bradley Biggins from Schroder Real Estate Investment Trust reveals why we may have reached a critical turning point. Following a 25% valuation correction, Schroder now forecasts total returns of 8 - 10% per annum over the next four years. Discover how high construction costs are limiting supply and driving rental growth, while the ‘Green Premium’ sees sustainable assets commanding rents up to 40% higher than older units. We also explore the impact of interest rates and hybrid working on future property returns. 00:00 Intro to Schroder Real Estate 01:20 How healthy is the UK's commercial real estate market? 03:18 What's the big drag on lack of supply? 03:53 How has investor appetite varied? 04:56 How do interest rates affect the market? 06:19 EPC ratings 08:17 Occupier sentiment and hybrid working 09:48 Private equity geting involved in the market 11:24 Schroder Real Estate paying dividends 13:39 New acquisitions and disposals 16:54 When to redevelop and when to buy from new 18:31 What's the key selling point for UK commercial property?

In this episode, we sit down with Dr Mike Jones, Managing Director of Impact Minerals [ASX:IPT], to discuss the incredible potential of High Purity Alumina (HPA). From preventing Tesla battery fires to creating scratch-proof sapphire glass, HPA is the critical mineral you haven't heard of yet. Mike explains how the unique Lake Hope Project in Western Australia aims to become the lowest-cost HPA producer globally. We dive into the economics of the project, the recent acquisition of game-changing processing technology, and what this means for investors. Topics covered: What is High Purity Alumina (HPA)? The role of HPA in Lithium-Ion battery safety. How Impact Minerals plans to undercut global production costs. The $1.2 Billion AUD project valuation. Disclaimer: The content of this video is for information and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always do your own research. #ImpactMinerals #LakeHope #LithiumBattery #HPA #AustralianMining #SyntheticSapphire #Semiconductor #BatteryTech #MikeJones #alumina Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader

Quantum computing is moving from theory to reality — and investors are paying attention. In this episode, we break down the future of quantum computing investing, including the race toward Q-day, the rise of post-quantum cryptography, and the companies pushing innovation forward. Our guest, WisdomTree’s Elvira Kuramshina, explains how quantum computers actually work, why they won’t replace classical systems, and the sectors likely to see the biggest disruption across cybersecurity, cloud computing, drug discovery, finance, and more. If you want to understand quantum investing opportunities, the risks, and the timeline to commercialisation, this episode is for you. Topics we cover: - How quantum computers differ from classical machines - Q-day and its impact on global cybersecurity - Post-quantum cryptography and new NIST standards - Public companies leading early quantum adoption - How to approach quantum computing investing - Long-term risks and opportunities for markets Sign up for our free investing newsletter - https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/newsletter/ Chapters: 00:00 What is quantum computing? 04:07 Where does quantum computing fit with AI? 05:37 What is Q-day and why does it matter? 12:27 The quantum ecosystem: hardware, software & cloud 15:04 Quantum computing Government strategies 17:58 Quantum safe standards to future proof systems 19:28 How to think about quantum computing investing 24:16 Are there expansion constraints of the technology? 27:50 Building a quantum computing investment strategy

In this episode of Investing, Markets & Money, we dive into one of the most common questions for new investors in the UK: how do you actually start investing? Whether you're thinking about opening your first Stocks & Shares ISA, exploring SIPPs, or trying to understand the difference between funds, ETFs and individual shares, this episode breaks everything down in plain English. We’re joined by Richard Hunter, Head of Markets at Interactive Investor, winner of the “Best Investment Platform” at the Online Money Awards. Richard shares super-useful insights for beginners — from why keeping all your money in cash can cost you over time, to how diversification works, and why compounding is such a powerful long-term force. In this episode: Why investing often beats cash over the long run The best tax-efficient accounts: ISA vs SIPP Should beginners buy funds, ETFs, or shares? How diversification really works (and what mistakes to avoid) The power of compound interest Hands-off investing options for people who don’t want to stock-pick What Interactive Investor offers for new, early-stage investors If you're just starting your investment journey — or thinking about taking your first step — this episode gives you the confidence and clarity you need. 👉 Listen, follow and share if you enjoy the show 👉 Sign up for our free weekly investing newsletter at www.thearmchairtrader.com/newsletter 👉 Check out more resources at www.ii.co.uk Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 00:00 Introduction to Interactive Investors 02:37 Why should people invest? 04:02 Tax-efficient structures 06:05 Do people tend to buy just stocks, just funds or a mix? 08:42 Investing in what you know 09:18 What help do ii provide to new investors? 10:28 Diversifying your investments 12:35 Having to part with winners 13:53 Compounding 14:59 How often to check your portfolio 16:24 Don't want to make the decisions yourself? 17:33 Find out more about Interactive Investor at ii.co.uk

In this episode of the Investing, Markets & Money podcast, host Stuart Fieldhouse talks with Dan Blondal, CEO of Nano One Materials, about the company’s latest breakthroughs in lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology — and what they mean for investors. Nano One has secured $5 million in new funding from Natural Resources Canada, complementing earlier support from the U.S. Department of Defense and the Government of Quebec, as it scales up its LFP demonstration plant. Blondal explains how this non-dilutive capital helps the company grow while building a cleaner, more sustainable battery supply chain for North America and beyond. We also dive into: ⚡ How Nano One’s patented “one-pot process” eliminates wastewater and reduces costs 🌍 Why governments are backing the decoupling of battery supply chains from China 🤝 Strategic partnerships with Sumitomo Metal Mining and Rio Tinto 🇺🇸 The rise of the Arkansas Lithium Technology Accelerator (ALTA) 💡 What investors can expect next as Nano One expands into Europe If you’re following the EV, clean-tech, or battery materials sectors — or just want to understand where the next big opportunities lie — this is a must-listen conversation. Visit the Nano One website: https://nanoone.ca/ 📩 Get our free newsletter for insights on Stocks, ETFs, Commodities, and Global Markets: www.thearmchairtrader.com/newsletter/ 00:00 More funding for Nano One 02:57 Geopolitical background and decoupling from China 07:52 The Sumitomo collaboration 10:14 Joining the Arkansas Lithium Technology Accelerator (ALTA) program 14:00 Why is Arkansas taking the lead? 15:26 The Rio Tinto partnership 17:35 New patents approved 18:31 Impact of China's export restrictions 22:27 Nano One's involvement with Europe and the G7 24:39 Future plans

In this episode of the Investing, Markets & Money podcast from The Armchair Trader, we talk with Brett Heath, CEO of Metalla Royalty & Streaming (NYSE/TSX: MTA) — an innovative company in the gold and mining royalty space. Brett explains how royalty companies make money without ever operating a mine, the growth story behind Metalla’s $700 million market cap, and why royalties can offer investors exposure to gold, silver, and copper without the same risks faced by traditional miners. Topics covered: • How royalty and streaming models work • Metalla’s $6M investment that became a major gold discovery • Why the royalty model scales with minimal overhead • Outlook for gold, silver, and copper in 2025–2030 • The next growth phase for Metalla Royalty Find more on Metalla Royalties and Streaming. Visit the website: https://www.metallaroyalty.com/ 📩 Subscribe to our free newsletter for reglar insights on Stocks, ETFs, Commodities, and Global Markets: https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/newsletter/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 00:00 Intro to Metalla Royalty and how royalty companies work 03:51 Hanging on to portfolio companies 05:09 How Metalla sources investments 07:45 Metalla's plans for the next year or two 12:49 Spread of gold, silver and copper companies 13:58 Operational and downside risks 18:16 Criteria for new investments 23:20 Commodity cycle outlook and growing the business 26:56 How do mining companies pay - cash or bullion? 31:24 Can production satisfy projected demand?

Gold and silver are on fire — but can the rally last? In this episode of Investing, Markets & Money, host Stuart Fieldhouse talks with Michael Brown of Pepperstone about what’s really moving global markets. They break down the surge in precious metals, the renewed fears around U.S. banks, and whether debt and deficits could finally catch up with policymakers. Michael shares insights on U.S.–China trade tensions, the AI-driven S&P 500 rally, and why UK stocks remain chronically undervalued. You can find more market insight from Michael and the Pepperstone team here - https://pepperstone.com/en-gb/analysis/ 👉 Subscribe for more insights on markets, ETFs, and investing trends from the world’s top strategists and analysts. 👉 Join our free investing newsletter: https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/newsletter/ 00:00 Precious metals: gold and silver trades 04:50 The US Dollar and US banks 07:45 US debt and borrowing trends 11:25 Tariffs and the US-China trade war 15:25 The S&P 500 and the AI bubble 21:05 UK stocks and the UK budget 25:22 Why such intense speculation on the Budget?

Host Stuart Fieldhouse chats with Jean Roche, manager of the Schroders UK Mid-Cap Investment Trust, to discuss what defines a mid-cap stock, the FTSE 250 outlook, share buybacks, and where she’s finding opportunity in UK defence and retail stocks. If you’ve been wondering whether UK equities are undervalued or how mid-cap investing compares to large and small-cap strategies, this episode offers deep insight from one of the most experienced managers in the market. Our thanks to Schroders for the use of their studio for this episode. You can find out more about Schroder UK Mid-Cap Fund here - https://www.schroders.com/en-gb/uk/individual/funds-and-strategies/investment-trusts/schroder-uk-mid-cap-fund-plc/ 🎧 Subscribe for more investing insights and market analysis every week. 👉 Join our free investing newsletter: https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/newsletter/ Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 00:00 What is a Mid Cap stock? 02:00 Jean's investment philosophy regarding Mid Caps 05:05 Why so many share buybacks right now? 08:13 Why Mid Caps and not Large Caps? 11:25 The wider UK economy and equity market 15:18 UK sectors and themes to watch 18:28 When a company makes it into the FTSE 100 22:20 How does Jean protect the downside risk? 25:00 Key contributors to the trust's performance 27:17 Looking ahead to UK market opportunites and risks

The FCA has just approved listed crypto ETFs for retail investors, opening the door to #Bitcoin and #Ethereum exposure through regular brokerage accounts — no wallets, no private keys, no hassle. In this episode of Investing, Markets & Money, host Stuart Fieldhouse talks with Dovile Silenskyte from WisdomTree's Digital Assets team about what this decision means for UK investors, how #crypto ETPs actually work, and why this could be a game changer for mainstream adoption. We cover: ✅ What makes crypto ETPs safer and simpler than direct crypto ownership ✅ How Bitcoin and Ethereum ETPs are structured and backed ✅ The differences between physical and synthetic exposure ✅ Whether crypto ETPs could soon be held in ISAs and SIPPs ✅ Smart allocation tips — how much crypto might make sense in your portfolio If you’ve been curious about adding crypto exposure without the wallet headaches, this episode is for you. 🎧 Subscribe for more investing insights and market analysis every week. 👉 Join our free investing newsletter: https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/newsletter/ Useful links WisdomTree Europe website - https://www.wisdomtree.eu/en-gb/strategies/crypto-currency FCA approval of Crypto ETPs for retail investors - https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/crypto/a-safer-way-into-the-cryptocurrency-maze/ UK allows crypto ETPs in ISAs and SIPPs - https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/crypto/uk-allows-crypto-in-isas-and-pensions/ #CryptoETF #BitcoinETF #Investing #UKInvestors #WisdomTree #CryptoNews #ETFs #FCA #Ethereum #DigitalAssets #InvestingPodcast #FinancialMarkets #InvestingEducation 00:00 Introduction to WisdomTree in crypto markets 01:54 Allowing access for retail investors 02:50 Managing your own wallets 03:37 What are crypto ETFs? 05:00 Do ETF managers use pure crypto exposure? 05:52 How crypto custody works 08:58 Ethereum yield from staking, and risks 11:15 Benefits for investors of the ETF model 12:00 Reduced liquidity risk 12:40 Including in ISAs and SIPPs 13:33 Coins becoming available 15:36 Leveraged crypto products 17:52 How much to own in your portfolio? 19:08 Actively managed crypto products and fees 22:09 Finding out more at wisdomtree.eu

In this episode of the Investing, Markets & Money podcast, we sit down with Thomas Moore, manager of the Aberdeen Equity Income Investment Trust, winner of Best Investment Trust for Income at the Online Money Awards 2025. Thomas shares his approach to picking dividend stocks that deliver not only high yield but also dividend growth and long-term capital growth. With the trust currently yielding 6.1% and boasting nearly 25 years of uninterrupted dividend increases, we explore how UK equity investors can find opportunities in a market that still yields just 3.2%. 💡 Key topics we cover: Why dividend income matters in 2025 with high living costs How to find UK dividend stocks yielding 5–10% The balance between income and capital growth Why high-yield stocks can also be growth opportunities Stock picking insights from a seasoned income fund manager 👉 Whether you’re focused on dividend investing, income investing, or just looking for the best UK stocks for long-term returns, this episode is packed with insights. Find out more about Aberdeen Investments here - www.aberdeeninvestments.com #Investing #InvestmentTrusts #Equities #Dividends #InvestingPodcast #Markets #WealthBuilding #FinancialMarkets 📩 Subscribe to our free investing newsletter for more insights: https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/newsletter/ 🎧 Listen to more episodes of the Investing, Markets & Money podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 00:00 Intro to the Aberdeen Equity Income Trust 01:33 Balancing income and capital growth 04:09 Focus on UK value stocks 08:13 Criteria for picking new companies 11:18 Inflows and outflows from UK equity markets 13:00 Mergers and acquisitions in the market 14:58 Why do companies do share buybacks? 19:36 What does "index-agnostic" mean? 22:03 What has helped the fund's performance recently? 27:30 The effect of politics on UK stocks? 31:22 Looking at British companies with exposure outside the UK 35:30 Effect of tariffs

In this episode of Investing, Markets & Money, we dive into gold and precious metals with Robert Crayfourd, co-manager of the Golden Prospect Precious Metals Fund at CQS New City. The fund has just been named Best Investment Trust for Growth at the 2025 Online Money Awards—and Robert explains the strategy behind its success. You can find more on the awards here - https://www.thearmchairtrader.com/online-money-awards/ Stuart and Robert cover: - Why small & mid-cap miners can deliver better returns than gold ETFs - Central bank gold buying and the weaponization of the dollar - The outlook for gold, silver, and other precious metals in 2025 - How geopolitical risk, US debt, and interest rates shape the sector - The value of active management in mining vs passive ETFs 👉 Don’t miss Robert’s insights on why gold may still be “underowned” and how his team finds opportunities others overlook. If you enjoy these conversations, the best way to support the show is a quick rating or review — it helps more investors discover us. Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@armchairtrader Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 00:00 Intro to Golden Prospect Precious Metals [LON:GPM] 02:09 How flexible is the trust's mandate? 02:40 The global gold market 05:09 What has been driving the gold price up? 07:25 Geopolitical risk versus central bank holdings 10:55 Why buy an investment trust and not an ETF 12:30 Going on site visits 14:13 Managing risk 16:26 Political elements to running the trust 17:00 The trust's geographic exposure 17:47 Other metals besides gold: silver 20:55 Sustainability and corporate governance 22:41 Miners and government disputes, e.g. Barrick in Mali 23:56 Golden Prospect wins Best Investment Trust for Growth 27:08 Gold/silver producers using cash for development 28:12 Spotting takeover targets 30:20 How have ETFs affected the market? 31:49 The fund's subscription shares rights issue

Stuart meets Rezaah Ahmad of corporate bond marketplace WiseAlpha. They cover the definition of a corporate bond and how they work, the size of the bond market, equity dividends vs bond coupons and what to look out for when considering investing in this type of asset. If you enjoy these conversations, the best way to support the show is a quick rating or review — it helps more investors discover us. Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 00:00 Intro to WiseAlpha Corporate Bonds 01:12 What is a Corporate Bond? 01:45 How they differ from Government Bonds 03:05 How big is the bond market? 03:45 Benefits of Bonds over Equities - dividends vs coupons 05:42 Which companies have corporate bonds, e.g. Ocado? 07:26 Bond holders are ahead of the queue 08:40 Investing in corporate bonds for pensions 09:51 Risks with corporate bonds 12:07 Paying attention to central bank rates 13:13 Bond prices vs bond yields explained 15:41 Bond ratings - investment grade and beyond 17:44 Liquidity - how do you trade? 24:58 Buying and selling on www.WiseAlpha.com

We meet Stuart Thomas of Precidian Investments to learn about the importance of being currency-hedged. We look at what currency hedging is and how to, when you buy a stock listed in a different currency from your own, mitigate the additional risks of currency fluctuation. 🎧 Subscribe and stay updated with insights from leading investors, fund managers, and innovators. #Currencies #Forex #Hedging #Trading #GBP #USD Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 00:00 Intro to Precidian Investments 04:39 What is currency hedging? 07:57 What currency risks are investors exposed to? 10:33 How can traders reduce your currency risks? 13:14 Are there enough ETFs outside the USA? 14:51 Managing the costs and fees of currency hedging 16:53 Does currency hedging matter for intraday traders? 18:27 Does it matter to me? 20:00 ADRs vs. forex futures 23:08 What can go wrong?

Schroder Japan Trust is a London-listed investment trust that is focused on specific single stock opportunities within the larger Japanese equity market. It is an exciting time to be invested in Japan, with a cheap yen and the Japanese government pushing ahead with far-reaching reforms for listed companies. On the podcast we talk to Schroder Japan lead fund manager Masaki Taketsume about running a best ideas portfolio in Japan. We discuss some of the key trends he is seeing in the market, including the yen, interest rates, tariffs and shareholder activism. He also explains the trust’s approach to stock picking and the benefits of investing in under-researched companies. 🎧 Subscribe and stay updated with insights from leading investors, fund managers, and innovators. Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 00:00 Intro to the Schroder Japan Trust 01:45 Market cap of invested companies 02:37 The yen and Japanese interest rates 04:47 The effect of inflation on Japanese companies 05:57 Effect of trade barriers on Japan 08:00 Corporate governance and shareholder interests 11:25 Opportunities with under-researched companies 12:56 Which sectors are looking good? 13:46 Why is active fund management important with Japan equities? 15:17 Activist campaigns in Japan 17:27 Over-diversified business groups 20:24 Outlook for Japanese equities

In this episode of the Investing, Markets & Money podcast, we're diving into the surging commodities markets—with a spotlight on gold and silver—alongside Nitesh Shah, Head of Commodities and Macroeconomic Research at @WisdomTreeEurope . 🔑 Key topics covered: Why gold prices surged to $3,500 How geopolitical risk and de-dollarisation are driving central bank gold buying The silent gold accumulation by central banks—what they’re not reporting Is gold becoming the world’s second reserve currency? Why silver might be the next breakout star, especially with new industrial demand 📈 If you're an investor tracking macro trends, commodity cycles, or global monetary shifts, this is a must-listen. 👉 Subscribe for more expert insights, ETF trends, and global market analysis. #Gold #Silver #Commodities #WisdomTree #InvestingPodcast #CentralBanks #Macroeconomics #GoldPrice #FinancialMarkets #DeDollarisation #InflationHedge #NiteshShah Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 00:00 Gold prices 04:05 De-dollarisation 08:01 Central banks buying gold through intermediaries 10:44 Silver prices 15:42 Is the Gold:Silver ratio a good indicator? 17:25 How liquid is the silver market? 19:02 Platinum prices 23:23 Oil market thoughts 28:24 US administration pro-oil 29:36 Livestock futures 31:01 Commodities for smaller investors

In this episode of Investing, Markets & Money, we explore the growing energy challenges and opportunities across Sub-Saharan Africa. Stuart is joined by Ray Coyle from Energise Africa, a UK-based crowdfunding platform that connects everyday investors with impactful clean energy projects on the continent. We dive into: 🔋 Why over 600 million people in Africa lack access to clean energy ☀️ The untapped solar power potential across Africa 🏠 How solar home systems and green mini-grids are transforming lives 🌍 How clean energy is also a key to solving Africa’s water crisis 💸 How UK investors can get involved in funding renewable energy for underserved communities If you're interested in sustainable investing, global development, or Africa's next big leap in energy infrastructure—this one's for you. Visit https://www.energiseafrica.com to find out more and to access the platform. 🎧 Subscribe and stay updated with insights from leading investors, fund managers, and innovators. #Africa #CleanEnergy #SolarPower #ImpactInvesting #Crowdfunding #EnergiseAfrica #ESG #Markets #InvestingPodcast Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 0:00 Who are Energise Africa? 01:01 Where are the energy shortages in Africa? 02:55 Alternative energy sources for African communities 05:51 Scaling the energy projects 08:49 Sourcing the projects 13:40 Measuring the impact 17:38 Who can invest? 23:40 Project case study 26:46 How investors can get involved

We are joined this week by Jigna Gibb to learn more about ETFS - specifically Commodities ETFs. Jigna is Head of Commodities and Crypto Index Products at Bloomberg and takes us through the growth of this type of investment, who is trading them and the latest trends. We also discuss leveraged ETFs, which are less widely known in the UK than the US, how more people are taking short positions on ETFs, and lastly the friendlier regulatory environment around crypto ETFs. Our apologies for the sound quality in this episode. Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 00:00 What info does Bloomberg have on commodity indices? 02:06 The growth of Commodity ETFs 04:50 A way for private investors to gain exposure to commodities 06:33 Who is trading commodity ETFs? 09:11 Aside from gold and oil, what can you invest in? 10:54 Comparing futures-based vs physical ETFs 13:01 Trends in new commodity ETFs 15:43 Bloomberg's BCOM indices 16:58 What are Leveraged ETFs? 20:28 Taking short positions on ETFs 22:41 Crypto ETFs

In this episode, we're diving deeper into the Majedie Investment Trust, with a special focus on a unique part of the portfolio — special investments. Joining us is Arjun Menon from Marylebone Partners, the trust’s investment advisor. Arjun breaks down what special investments are, how they’re sourced, and why they play a crucial role in delivering high-conviction, high-return opportunities — all while maintaining the trust’s commitment to liquidity and risk management. We’ll also hear about two real-world examples from the portfolio: 📈 An activist play in US restaurant chain Portillo’s, 💼 And a credit-focused opportunity involving Metro Bank’s bonds. Whether you're an experienced investor or just curious about how institutional-grade deals are put together, this episode offers valuable insights into how a blend of external managers, direct equities, and special investments creates a truly distinctive strategy. Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 00:00 Intro to Majedie Investment Trust 02:47 What is a Special Investment? 04:43 Criteria for selecting a new investment 05:17 Activist campaigns: Portillo's 09:34 Metro Bank bond investment 14:01 What asset classes do you invest in? 14:34 Network is everything 15:33 Staying on top of liquidity 17:45 Can these investments be accessed by retail investors? 19:22 How unique is the Majedie trust's portfolio?

Following the Canadian election we catch up with Jordan Zinberg, President & CEO of Bedford Park Capital to discuss the tariff wars, trends in the Canadian market, three of Jordan's favourite small and mid cap stocks and his post-election wishlist. For more great investing ideas, news and insight, sign up to our FREE newsletter at www.thearmchairtrader.com/newsletter/ For stock tips and deeper company analysis get a free trial of Armchair Trader Plus+ at www.thearmchairtrader.com/register Listen on: Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2vfaIsYhqcRejpjWNqYF6f Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-armchair-trader-podcast/id1454640070 Amazon - https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/68a66097-24d8-403e-a86f-70fab0d2d686/The-Armchair-Trader-Podcast SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/armchairtrader/ Follow us: BlueSky - https://bsky.app/profile/thearmchairtrader.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/10429893 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/armchairtrader Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheArmchairTrader 00:00 Intro to the Bedford Park Capital fund 01:00 Why no resource bias to the fund? 02:10 The fund's performance 03:17 Canada's exposure to the US tariffs 06:17 Protecting yourself from unpredictability 07:28 Current trends in the Canadian market 08:50 How can you handle volatility? 10:11 IPO activity in Canada 10:54 Is there a sector that Jordan favours? 11:51 A post-election wishlist 14:05 Jordan's favourite stocks 19:33 Looking for dividend stocks 21:44 High-quality family businesses in Canada 24:16 Shareholder activism