Faster Forward

Economic pressure rarely comes from a single source. It builds through policy shifts, innovation waves, and global relationships that test long-held assumptions. In this episode, host Paul Fahey speaks with Carl Tannenbaum, Chief Economist at Northern Trust, to reflect on the forces that defined 2025 and what they signal for the year ahead. They examine trade policy shifts, geopolitical strain, and the unwinding of global supply chains. The conversation also explores fiscal pressure across advanced economies, inflation expectations, and the evolving role of central banks. Together, they look at how artificial intelligence is influencing productivity, labor markets, and long-term investment decisions heading into 2026. Key takeaways: Why trade policy changes and tariffs reshape investment decisions and supply chain planning Global security concerns are influencing fiscal priorities and cross-border cooperation AI-driven productivity gains alongside labor market disruption for early career workers How the rising debt burdens and interest costs are pressuring government budgets How inflation trends, wage pressures, and central bank independence shape market outlooks And more! Connect with Carl Tannenbaum: LinkedIn: Carl Tannenbaum About Carl Tannenbaum: Northern Trust: Carl Tannenbaum

In this episode of Market Pulse by Faster Forward, host Grant Johnsey sits down with Shawn Gallegos, Chief Investment Executive at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Shawn shares a behind-the-scenes look at how the hospital’s Office of Investments manages a diverse portfolio—including operating funds, pension assets, and an innovation fund—while navigating the unique challenges of the healthcare sector. Shawn dives into how his team balances risk and growth, maintain the hospital’s strong credit rating, and strategically allocate assets across equities, hedge funds, fixed income, and private investments. The conversation explores the evolving role of hedge funds in moderating portfolio volatility, the cautious approach to private credit and equity, and the importance of liquidity in a sector facing rising costs and demographic shifts. Shawn also discusses the adoption of technology and analytics, including the Total Portfolio Approach (TPA), and how Northwestern Memorial’s innovation fund supports early-stage companies developing solutions for hospital operations. The episode closes with forward-looking insights on investment strategy adjustments for 2026. Tune in to hear key insights on institutional investing, healthcare finance, and the intersection of innovation and portfolio management.

In this episode of Market Pulse by Faster Forward, host Grant Johnsey sits down with Shawn Gallegos, Chief Investment Executive at Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Shawn shares a behind-the-scenes look at how the hospital’s Office of Investments manages a diverse portfolio—including operating funds, pension assets, and an innovation fund—while navigating the unique challenges of the healthcare sector. Shawn dives into how his team balances risk and growth, maintain the hospital’s strong credit rating, and strategically allocate assets across equities, hedge funds, fixed income, and private investments. The conversation explores the evolving role of hedge funds in moderating portfolio volatility, the cautious approach to private credit and equity, and the importance of liquidity in a sector facing rising costs and demographic shifts. Shawn also discusses the adoption of technology and analytics, including the Total Portfolio Approach (TPA), and how Northwestern Memorial’s innovation fund supports early-stage companies developing solutions for hospital operations. The episode closes with forward-looking insights on investment strategy adjustments for 2026. Tune in to hear key insights on institutional investing, healthcare finance, and the intersection of innovation and portfolio management.

In this episode of Faster Forward, host Grant Johnsey welcomes Tristan Thomas, managing director of Portfolio Strategy at 50 South Capital, for an in-depth conversation about the hedge fund industry’s transformation. Tristan shares his personal journey from Wall Street to Chicago, offering a unique perspective on how hedge funds have evolved over the past two decades.  The conversation covers topics such as why hedge funds are experiencing a renaissance, with record inflows and performance that rivals traditional equities—yet with significantly less volatility. Tristan breaks down the factors driving this growth, including investor demand for downside protection and the industry’s shift toward greater transparency and lower fees.  The discussion explores the rise of customization in hedge fund strategies, as managers adapt to meet the specific needs of institutional investors, family offices, and global allocators. Tristan explains how new strategies are emerging, why event-driven and macro funds are attracting capital, and how regional differences shape investment approaches.  Tune in for expert analysis, practical tips, and a candid look at the future of hedge funds in today’s dynamic market. 

In this episode of Faster Forward, host Grant Johnsey welcomes Tristan Thomas, managing director of Portfolio Strategy at 50 South Capital, for an in-depth conversation about the hedge fund industry’s transformation. Tristan shares his personal journey from Wall Street to Chicago, offering a unique perspective on how hedge funds have evolved over the past two decades.    The conversation covers topics such as why hedge funds are experiencing a renaissance, with record inflows and performance that rivals traditional equities—yet with significantly less volatility. Tristan breaks down the factors driving this growth, including investor demand for downside protection and the industry’s shift toward greater transparency and lower fees.  The discussion explores the rise of customization in hedge fund strategies, as managers adapt to meet the specific needs of institutional investors, family offices, and global allocators. Tristan explains how new strategies are emerging, why event-driven and macro funds are attracting capital, and how regional differences shape investment approaches.  Tune in for expert analysis, practical tips, and a candid look at the future of hedge funds in today’s dynamic market.

In this episode of Market Pulse, host Grant Johnsey sits down with Mike Kelly, founder and managing partner of Developer Town, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping both personal productivity and the corporate landscape. Mike shares practical examples of leveraging AI at home and work, discusses the challenges and opportunities of deploying AI in large organizations, and offers actionable advice for business leaders preparing for an AI-driven future. The conversation also dives into the evolving role of AI agents, data security, and the impact of open-source innovation on markets and investing. This episode delivers fresh insights on navigating the fast-changing world of AI.

In this episode of Market Pulse, host Grant Johnsey sits down with Mike Kelly, founder and managing partner of Developer Town, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping both personal productivity and the corporate landscape. Mike shares practical examples of leveraging AI at home and work, discusses the challenges and opportunities of deploying AI in large organizations, and offers actionable advice for business leaders preparing for an AI-driven future. The conversation also dives into the evolving role of AI agents, data security, and the impact of open-source innovation on markets and investing. This episode delivers fresh insights on navigating the fast-changing world of AI.

In this episode of Market Pulse, host Grant Johnsey sits down with Mike Kelly, founder and managing partner of Developer Town, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping both personal productivity and the corporate landscape. Mike shares practical examples of leveraging AI at home and work, discusses the challenges and opportunities of deploying AI in large organizations, and offers actionable advice for business leaders preparing for an AI-driven future. The conversation also dives into the evolving role of AI agents, data security, and the impact of open-source innovation on markets and investing. This episode delivers fresh insights on navigating the fast-changing world of AI.

In this episode of Market Pulse, host Grant Johnsey sits down with Mike Kelly, founder and managing partner of Developer Town, to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping both personal productivity and the corporate landscape. Mike shares practical examples of leveraging AI at home and work, discusses the challenges and opportunities of deploying AI in large organizations, and offers actionable advice for business leaders preparing for an AI-driven future. The conversation also dives into the evolving role of AI agents, data security, and the impact of open-source innovation on markets and investing. This episode delivers fresh insights on navigating the fast-changing world of AI.

The world of institutional investing continues to grow more complex, and many organizations are turning to outsourced chief investment officer (OCIO) partnerships to help them navigate that complexity. In this episode, host Paul Fahey is joined by Anwiti Bahuguna, Global Co-Chief Investment Officer Asset Management & CIO Multi-Asset Investment, to explore how the OCIO model is evolving and why it’s becoming an essential component of modern investment governance. Drawing on her deep experience in multi-asset management, Anwiti explains how institutions can balance transparency, technology, and tailored strategy in an increasingly dynamic market environment. Here’s what you can expect from the episode: The evolution of the OCIO model from smaller mandates to billion-dollar portfolios How technology, data, and transparency are redefining investment oversight What distinguishes an effective OCIO partnership in today’s market Where the OCIO model is heading over the next decade And more! Connect with Anwiti Bahuguna: LinkedIn: Anwiti Bahuguna About Anwiti Bahuguna: Northern Trust: Anwiti Bahuguna

In this special edition of Market Pulse, host Grant Johnsey, Head of Market Solutions, Banking & Markets, Americas sits down with Louis-Vincent Gave, founding partner and CEO of Gavekal Research, for a deep dive into the forces reshaping global markets. Louis shares his perspectives on China’s dramatic transformation from a real estate-driven economy to an industrial powerhouse and explains how strategic moves in manufacturing and supply chains are challenging Western industries. The conversation explores the emerging economic integration between Russia, China, and India—and why most investors are missing out on this “boom of epic proportions.” Louis also discusses the implications of global reflationary policies, currency volatility, and the evolving role of gold and banking in a multipolar world. If you want to know more about the future of global markets, this episode delivers actionable insights and bold predictions. Gavekal Research’s website: https://research.gavekal.com/

Factor models can seem intimidating, but when applied effectively, they transform how investment teams understand risk and return. In this episode, host Paul Fahey interviews Sandeep Varma, Co-Founder and CEO of Equity Data Science (EDS). Paul and Sandeep discuss how factor modeling reshapes decision-making, performance analysis, and collaboration for managers. Sandeep shares his journey from quant to entrepreneur, why visualization and artificial intelligence (AI) matter, and how EDS empowers firms to integrate research and risk seamlessly. Sandeep discusses: His journey from Wall Street quantitative analyst to founding Equity Data Science (EDS) How EDS combines research and risk tools to enhance investment management The evolution from simple alpha/beta models to advanced multi-factor frameworks The role of visualization, AI, and real-time collaboration in turning data into insights Why managers should embrace factors as tools for consistency and better communication with investors Connect with Sandeep Varma: LinkedIn: Sandeep Varma Equity Data Science (EDS) About Sandeep Varma: Sandeep Varma co-founded Equity Data Science in 2017 and serves as the company’s Chairman and CEO.  His unique experience includes computer science, fundamental analysis, and data science. Prior to founding EDS, Sandeep was a quantitative analyst at Bridger Capital and a quantitative and fundamental analyst at Herring Creek Capital, a hedge fund founded by Steve Galbraith, where he developed a proprietary quantitative platform for idea generation and risk management. Prior to that, he was a quantitative analyst at Credit Suisse, where his responsibilities included portfolio and risk analysis and quantitative modeling for the Prime Brokerage and Securities desks. Before joining Credit Suisse in 2008, Sandeep developed and managed trading and risk management systems at Lehman Brothers and UBS. Sandeep received his Master of Engineering in Computer Science from Cornell University and is a Chartered Financial Analyst.

In this special edition of Market Pulse, host Grant Johnsey, Head of Market Solutions, Banking & Markets, Americas sits down with Louis-Vincent Gave, founding partner and CEO of Gavekal Research, for a deep dive into the forces reshaping global markets. Louis shares his perspectives on China’s dramatic transformation from a real estate-driven economy to an industrial powerhouse and explains how strategic moves in manufacturing and supply chains are challenging Western industries. The conversation explores the emerging economic integration between Russia, China, and India—and why most investors are missing out on this “boom of epic proportions.” Louis also discusses the implications of global reflationary policies, currency volatility, and the evolving role of gold and banking in a multipolar world. If you want to know more about the future of global markets, this episode delivers actionable insights and bold predictions. Gavekal Research’s website: https://research.gavekal.com/

In this episode of Faster Forward by Northern Trust Asset Servicing, host Grant Johnsey, Head of Market Solutions at Northern Trust, sits down with Kate McCabe, Head of Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) Solutions at Northern Trust, to explore the dynamic growth and transformation of the OCIO space. From the rise of multibillion-dollar plans to the increasing demand for transparency, technology, and global expansion, Kate shares insights from decades of experience and Northern Trust’s recent “Asset Owners in Focus” global peer study. Tune in to hear more about: Why OCIOs are scaling rapidly and attracting larger, more sophisticated asset owners How consolidation is reshaping the provider landscape What asset owners are demanding in terms of data, governance, and investment access How Northern Trust is evolving its service model to meet the needs of both OCIOs and asset owners Connect with Grant Johnsey: LinkedIn: Grant Johnsey About Grant Johnsey: Northern Trust: Grant Johnsey Connect with Kate McCabe: LinkedIn: Kate McCabe About Kate McCabe: Northern Trust Appoints Katherine McCabe to Lead OCIO Strategy for Asset Servicing

In this episode of Faster Forward by Northern Trust Asset Servicing, host Grant Johnsey, Head of Market Solutions at Northern Trust, sits down with Kate McCabe, Head of Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) Solutions at Northern Trust, to explore the dynamic growth and transformation of the OCIO space. From the rise of multibillion-dollar plans to the increasing demand for transparency, technology, and global expansion, Kate shares insights from decades of experience and Northern Trust’s recent “Asset Owners in Focus” global peer study. Tune in to hear more about: Why OCIOs are scaling rapidly and attracting larger, more sophisticated asset owners How consolidation is reshaping the provider landscape What asset owners are demanding in terms of data, governance, and investment access How Northern Trust is evolving its service model to meet the needs of both OCIOs and asset owners Connect with Grant Johnsey: LinkedIn: Grant Johnsey About Grant Johnsey: Northern Trust: Grant Johnsey Connect with Kate McCabe: LinkedIn: Kate McCabe About Kate McCabe: Northern Trust Appoints Katherine McCabe to Lead OCIO Strategy for Asset Servicing

In this episode of Market Pulse by Faster Forward, host Grant Johnsey, Americas Head of Market Solutions, Banking & Markets, sits down with Jody Gunderson, Managing Principal at AB CarVal, to unpack the dynamic world of asset-based finance (ABF). From consumer credit and residential lending to data centers and the energy transition, ABF is reshaping how capital flows through the economy – especially as traditional banks step back and private markets step in. Jody shares insights from her 30+ year career, explains how ABF differs from securitization, and explores the impact of policy shifts like the “Big Beautiful Bill” on renewable energy investment. Jody and Grant explore how private markets are stepping in as banks step back, and what it means for investors, borrowers, and the future of credit.

In this episode of Market Pulse by Faster Forward, host Grant Johnsey, Americas Head of Market Solutions, Banking & Markets, sits down with Jody Gunderson, Managing Principal at AB CarVal, to unpack the dynamic world of asset-based finance (ABF). From consumer credit and residential lending to data centers and the energy transition, ABF is reshaping how capital flows through the economy – especially as traditional banks step back and private markets step in. Jody shares insights from her 30+ year career, explains how ABF differs from securitization, and explores the impact of policy shifts like the “Big Beautiful Bill” on renewable energy investment. Jody and Grant explore how private markets are stepping in as banks step back, and what it means for investors, borrowers, and the future of credit.

The pressure on asset owners is mounting, but so is their influence.   With shifting regulations, growing data demands, and interest in alternatives, institutional investors across EMEA are being pushed to rethink their strategies from the ground up. In this episode, host Paul Fahey chats with Mark Austin, Pensions and Insurance Executive, EMEA at Northern Trust, to explore findings from Northern Trust’s global asset owner peer study, “Asset Owners in Focus”. They discuss rising priorities such as liquidity, outsourcing, and data integration, and examine how shifting expectations are redefining strategy in the pension and insurance space across EMEA. Mark discusses: How asset owners are rethinking liquidity needs amid volatility and alternative investments The growing demand for integrated, timely, and accurate data to support portfolio decisions The evolving role of outsourcing in driving efficiency and value recognition Government-driven consolidation in the UK pension space and its operational consequences Why asset owners are beginning to shape pricing and dictate terms with asset managers and other providers Resources:  Asset Owners in Focus Connect with Mark Austin: LinkedIn: Mark Austin About Mark Austin: Northern Trust: Mark Austin

In this episode, host Grant Johnsey, Head of Market Solutions, Banking and Markets, Americas, at Northern Trust is joined by Guy Gibson, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Banking and Markets at Northern Trust, for an in-depth discussion on navigating today’s market volatility and global trends. The conversation covers lessons from past crises, the evolving role of liquidity and cash management, the rise of alternatives, and the growing impact of data costs on asset managers. Guy Gibson shares insights from his 30-year career, including strategies for building resilient businesses, adapting to shifting market dynamics, and fostering a winning team culture. Listeners will gain timely perspectives on risk, concentration, and the strategic pivots shaping the financial landscape in 2025. Click play to watch!

In this episode, host Grant Johnsey, Head of Market Solutions, Banking and Markets, Americas, at Northern Trust is joined by Guy Gibson, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Banking and Markets at Northern Trust, for an in-depth discussion on navigating today’s market volatility and global trends. The conversation covers lessons from past crises, the evolving role of liquidity and cash management, the rise of alternatives, and the growing impact of data costs on asset managers. Guy Gibson shares insights from his 30-year career, including strategies for building resilient businesses, adapting to shifting market dynamics, and fostering a winning team culture. Listeners will gain timely perspectives on risk, concentration, and the strategic pivots shaping the financial landscape in 2025. Click to listen!