Good Money Guide Podcast - Investing, Trading & Currency Transfers

In this episode of the Good Money Guide podcast, Michael Hewson and Michael Brown (from the podcast sponsor Pepperstone) discuss the performance of the FTSE 100 and the Pound over the past year, highlighting the challenges faced by the London market, key winners and losers, and the outlook for 2025. They delve into the implications of interest rate changes, currency trends, and the overall economic landscape, providing insights and predictions for investors.

In this podcast episode, Michael Hewson and Michael Brown, the Chief Market Strategist from our sponsor Pepperstone https://goodmoneyguide.com/review/pepperstone/ discuss the economic outlook for 2025, focusing on key indicators such as inflation, wage growth, and unemployment in the UK. They analyze the implications of recent economic data, the challenges facing the retail sector, and the Federal Reserve's recent decisions regarding interest rates. The conversation also touches on the risks of stagflation and the potential impact of fiscal policy on the economy. Overall, the episode provides insights into the current economic landscape and predictions for the upcoming year. Takeaways The focus is shifting towards 2025 and its economic outlook. UK unemployment remains steady at 4.3%, but concerns persist. Wage growth is significantly above the Bank of England's targets. Inflation is expected to remain above target for an extended period. The retail sector faces challenges due to rising costs and competition. Manufacturing in the UK is showing signs of weakness. The Federal Reserve's recent rate cut has led to increased bond yields. Market reactions indicate a divergence in interest rates between the US and Europe. Stagflation poses a significant risk for the UK economy in 2025. Fiscal policy decisions may have political motivations rather than economic ones. Chapters 00:00 Looking Ahead to 2025: Market Insights 02:46 UK Economic Indicators: A Grim Outlook 06:00 Inflation and Wage Growth: The Stagflation Threat 08:46 Retail Sector Challenges: The Impact of Rising Costs 11:54 Global Economic Sentiment: Manufacturing and Services PMI 14:53 The Fed's Rate Decisions: Implications for 2025 18:11 Market Reactions: Bond Yields and Economic Signals 20:57 Central Bank Strategies: The Path Forward 23:48 Political Implications: Fiscal Events and Economic Policy 27:02 Final Thoughts: Preparing for 2025

In this episode, Michael Hewson and Michael Brown (Senior Market Strategist at Pepperstone, who kindly sponsored this podcast) look back at this week’s central bank rate cuts from the European Central Bank, Canada and Swiss National Banks. Companies delisting from the London Stock Exchange as well as discuss the broader UK economy and the surprise contraction on October. They then look ahead to next week's UK economic data and preview the upcoming US and UK rate decisions, as well as what to expect, as well as look ahead to the latest results from FedEx and Nike. Read Pepperstone Reviews: https://goodmoneyguide.com/review/pepperstone/

In this episode, Michael Hewson and Michael Brown (our sponsor Pepperstone's Chief market Strategist) talk about the wider narrative of the Santa Rally when it comes to stock markets. They also look back at this week’s numbers from Frasers Group and Balfour Beatty and discuss the decision by the CMA to ratify the Vodafone/Three mega-merger. Looking ahead to next week, they discuss what to expect from the European Central Bank on interest rates, and the outlook for the European economy, as well as looking at US CPI, and the latest results from British American Tobacco, GameStop and Broadcom. Takeaways: Markets are generally positive as we approach the holiday season. The Santa rally is often debated; its existence may be more narrative than reality. Recent economic indicators show weakness in manufacturing and services. Fraser's Group is facing challenges, impacting its stock performance. Balfour Beatty is performing well, raising profit guidance. M&A activity is notable, with Vodafone and Three's merger approved. UK equity inflows have turned positive for the first time in years. The Fed is cautious, balancing growth and inflation risks. Investors should remain selective and conduct thorough research. The upcoming economic data will be crucial for market direction.

In this podcast episode, sponsored by Pepperstone, Michael Hewson and Michael Brown discuss the recent trends in the financial markets, focusing on the performance of UK and US stocks, the value of investment trusts, and the impact of political decisions on economic sentiment. They explore the challenges facing the retail sector, the implications of mergers and acquisitions, and the outlook for the housing market. The conversation also touches on employment data and economic indicators, providing insights into the current state of the economy and what to expect in the future. Takeaways FTSE is showing signs of recovery, driven by UK factors. Investment trusts trading at discounts may offer value. UK stocks like Jet2 are under scrutiny for growth potential. US stocks like Moderna face uncertainty with new administration. Political rhetoric can significantly impact consumer sentiment. Mergers and acquisitions are increasing in the UK market. Employment data is crucial for understanding economic health. Retail sector is facing challenges due to consumer spending habits. Housing market outlook is tied to government policies. Economic indicators suggest a cautious approach moving forward.

In this episode Michael Hewson and Michael Brown (the chief market analyst at our sponsors Pepperstone) talk about who should be on the list of the world’s best investors and traders as well as looking at whether the Microsoft share price is due a rally. They also look at S4 Capital and whether its due a rebound having seen a 95% decline in the share price. We also look at this week’s news stories around UK inflation, JD Sports, Walmart and Nvidia results as well as looking ahead to next week and the latest Fed minutes, easyJet and B&Q owner Kingfisher results.

In this episode, (sponsored by Pepperstone) Michael Hewson and Michael Brown discuss the recent developments in financial markets, focusing on the impact of US economic policies, inflation concerns, and the implications for UK mortgage rates. They analyze corporate earnings from major companies like Burberry, Vodafone, and AstraZeneca, and explore the challenges faced by Lloyds Banking Group in light of regulatory changes. The conversation also touches on the success of Disney's streaming service and the dominance of Nvidia in the AI technology sector, while looking ahead to upcoming economic indicators and retail insights. Takeaways The dollar's strength is notable in current markets. Higher US treasury yields may indicate economic growth. UK mortgage rates are rising despite recent rate cuts. Corporate earnings reflect broader economic trends. AstraZeneca's investment plans highlight government relations issues. Disney's subscriber growth shows resilience in streaming. Lloyds Banking Group faces significant regulatory challenges. Retailers are struggling with rising costs and consumer confidence. Nvidia's growth in AI technology is unprecedented. Upcoming economic indicators will shape market expectations.

In this inaugural podcast episode with Michael Hewson for Good Money Guide, sponsored by Pepperstone (https://goodmoneyguide.com/review/pepperstone/) he and Michael Brown discuss the latest movements in financial markets, focusing on the implications of the recent US election results, the economic policies expected from the incoming Trump administration, and the challenges facing the UK economy. They analyze the Bank of England's stance on interest rates, corporate earnings reports, and the struggles of major companies like Disney and Burberry in the current economic climate. The conversation is informal yet insightful, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the financial landscape. Takeaways - The US election results have significant implications for financial markets. - Trump's policies may lead to increased volatility but also clearer pricing for market participants. - The dollar's status as the reserve currency allows the US to manage its fiscal deficit more easily than other countries. - The Bank of England faces challenges with rising inflation and public sector pay settlements. - Corporate earnings reports are crucial indicators of market health and investor sentiment. - Disney's subscriber losses highlight the challenges in the streaming market. - The luxury sector is experiencing a downturn, affecting companies like Burberry. - Economic resilience of consumers may help mitigate some downturns in retail sales. - Automation in the workforce may accelerate due to rising costs and economic pressures. - Market participants should remain flexible and adapt to changing economic conditions. Chapters 00:00 Market Overview and Recent Trends 00:03 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts 04:04 Impact of the US Election on Markets 14:40 Federal Reserve's Balancing Act 20:34 UK Economic Outlook and Bank of England's Stance 22:03 Inflation Trends and Economic Forecasts 25:18 Public Sector Pay and Wage Inflation 27:28 Unemployment Rates and Automation 29:17 GDP Projections and Economic Sentiment 32:08 US Economic Indicators and Federal Reserve Outlook 33:07 Company Earnings and Market Reactions 36:49 Luxury Sector Challenges and Burberry's Future 39:53 AstraZeneca's Challenges and Market Implications 41:49 Disney's Subscriber Losses and Future Projections

Richard Berry speaks with Alexander Ridgers, the Global Head of Dealing at City Index, about the new election indices introduced by City Index in light of the upcoming US elections. They discuss the unique features of these indices, how they differ from other offerings, and the potential trading strategies that clients can employ. The conversation also covers the expected market behaviour around the elections, including volatility and client trading patterns, as well as hedging strategies to manage risk during this period. Alex provides insights into the sectors and stocks that may be impacted by the election outcomes, emphasizing the importance of understanding market dynamics in trading decisions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Election Indices 03:16 Understanding the Indices and Their Components 06:11 Trading Strategies and Market Behavior 10:21 Hedging Strategies for Election Volatility 14:11 Market Insights and Future Considerations

In this interview, Richard Berry speaks with Matt Brief, the head of UK at IG, about the evolution of options trading at IG, the impact of the TastyTrade acquisition, and the importance of education in navigating the complexities of options trading. They discuss the growing demand for options in the UK market, the significance of volatility in trading strategies, and practical tips for new traders. The conversation highlights the unique features of IG's offerings and the potential for options trading to gain popularity in the UK. Takeaways - IG has recently launched a new options product. - The Tasty Trade acquisition has enhanced IG's options offerings. - Education is crucial for understanding options trading. - Options trading is more popular in the US than in the UK. - Volatility plays a significant role in options trading strategies. - Traders should focus on limited risk positions. - The covered call strategy is gaining traction in the UK. - Buying puts can effectively hedge a portfolio. - TastyTrade provides excellent educational resources for traders. - Options trading may not become as popular as spread betting in the UK. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to IG and Options Trading 03:19 The Evolution of IG's Options Offering 10:15 The Importance of Education in Options Trading 17:30 Popular Options Trading Strategies 24:29 Key Considerations for New Options Traders 26:41 The Future of Options Trading in the UK

In this Interview, Richard Berry speaks with Simon Merchant, CEO and founder of Flagstone, a savings platform designed to help customers maximize their cash savings through a technology-driven approach. They discuss the challenges of the traditional savings market, the importance of reducing friction for savers, and how Flagstone differentiates itself by focusing solely on cash savings. Simon explains the company's revenue model, the safety of customer funds, and offers practical tips for savers, emphasizing the need for action in a high-interest environment. He also shares insights on building a strong company culture and recommends books for leadership development. Takeaways - Flagstone aims to revolutionize the cash savings market. - The platform allows users to access multiple savings accounts easily. - Reducing friction is key to encouraging savings behavior. - Flagstone has a large panel of banks to offer competitive rates. - Customer cash is protected under the FSCS scheme. - The company focuses on transparency in its revenue model. - Cash savings are essential for financial security and peace of mind. - The client base includes a mix of age groups and wealth levels. - Building trust with customers is fundamental to Flagstone's success. - Action is necessary to avoid low returns on savings. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Flagstone and Its Mission 00:29 Understanding the Cash Savings Market 09:29 The Importance of Frictionless Savings 18:37 Safety and Trust in Savings Platforms 24:51 Challenges and Growth in the Business 27:41 Top Tips for Savers and Book Recommendations Tell us what you think of Flagstone here: https://goodmoneyguide.com/review/flagstone/

In this interview, Richard Berry talks to Andrew Bresler, the new UK CEO of Saxo. They discuss the company's transition from a trading-focused platform to one that caters to investors and explore the launch of a new investor platform, the changing demographics of Saxo's client base. Plus they highlight the importance of education and diversification in investing. Andrew also emphasizes the need for brokers to align their interests with those of their clients and shares insights on what investors should look for in a brokerage. Talking Points: 00:00 Introduction to Saxo's New Investor Platform 02:45 Transitioning from Trading to Investing 06:03 Understanding Client Demographics and Trends 08:56 Competing with Zero-Cost Platforms 12:07 Key Considerations for Choosing a Broker 14:56 Personal Investment Experiences and Lessons 17:47 The Importance of Education in Investing 21:06 Book Recommendations for Better Thinking

Richard Berry talks to Andrew Prosser, the Head of Investments at InvestEngine about their managed portfolios for investors who don't have the knowledge or experience to invest themselves. Tell us what you think of InvestEngine: https://goodmoneyguide.com/review/investengine/ InvestEngine have a range of 10 risk-rated model portfolios that cater to different risk profiles. The portfolios are constructed using ETFs, which helps keep the costs low. InvestEngine also offers a commission-free DIY investing platform. They are planning to introduce workplace investing in the future. They also discuss the importance of starting early, starting small, automating investments, keeping costs low, and doing your own research. Takeaways InvestEngine offers managed portfolios for investors who don't have the knowledge or experience to invest themselves. The portfolios are constructed using ETFs, which helps keep the costs low. InvestEngine also offers a commission-free DIY investing platform. They are planning to introduce workplace investing in the future. Andrew Prosser emphasizes the importance of starting early, starting small, automating investments, keeping costs low, and doing your own research. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to InvestEngine and Andrew Prosser 01:05 Managed Portfolios for Investors Who Lack Knowledge or Experience 13:59 InvestEngine: The Commission-Free DIY Investing Platform 15:19 The Future of Investing: Workplace Investing with InvestEngine 21:24 Top Tips for Becoming a Better Investor

In this podcast episode, Richard Berry and Fiona Cincotta discuss AI stocks, energy and nuclear stocks, and the gamification of trading apps. They explore the major players in the AI world, the energy requirements of AI technologies, and the potential of nuclear stocks as an alternative energy source. They also touch on the concept of trading at all-time highs and the risks and benefits of gamifying trading apps. The episode concludes with a discussion on the FCA's report on the gamification of trading apps. Takeaways AI stocks are experiencing significant swings in value, but the real-world application and revenue generation from AI are still limited to a few companies. The energy requirements of AI technologies are driving interest in energy and nuclear stocks as potential investment opportunities. Trading at all-time highs requires caution, and it's important to consider factors like RSI indicators to assess the risk and potential for consolidation. The gamification of trading apps can be both beneficial and risky, as it attracts new investors but may also blur the line between investing and gaming. The FCA's report on the gamification of trading apps highlights the potential risks for vulnerable investors and the need for responsible trading practices. Chapters 00:00 How AI stocks are driving demand for energy stocks 01:39 Exploring Nuclear stocks and Uranium trades 16:18 Trading tactics at All-Time Highs 28:54 FCAs Report on Gamification of trading apps.

In this podcast, Richard Berry and Fiona Cincotta discuss inflation, Bitcoin, AI stocks, and trading. Fiona, an analyst at City Index, covers UK, Europe, and US markets, analyzing macroeconomics and geopolitical factors that influence market prices. They discuss the correlation between inflation and the market, with higher inflation potentially leading to concerns about central banks raising interest rates and impacting household spending and business expansion. They also explore the concept of Bitcoin as an inflation hedge, highlighting its finite supply and controlled release of coins. Additionally, they touch on the popularity of AI stocks and the potential for AI to broaden its impact across different sectors. The conversation concludes by answering some user questions on financial qualifications and the amount of money needed to start trading.Original analysis: https://goodmoneyguide.com/analysis/lower-inflation-diminishes-bitcoins-appeal-amid-ai-stock-surge/Find out more about City Index: https://goodmoneyguide.com/review/city-index/ Takeaways - Inflation can impact the market, with higher inflation leading to concerns about central banks raising interest rates, impacting household spending and business expansion. - Bitcoin is considered an inflation hedge due to its finite supply and controlled release of coins. - AI stocks have gained popularity and have shown impressive returns, with the potential for further growth as different sectors make use of AI technology. - When starting trading, it is important to consider margin requirements, commission charges, and potential financing costs. - Be cautious of individuals claiming to make a lot of money from trading, as profitable traders often do not share their strategies or discuss their earnings. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:21 Inflation and Market Outlook 08:07 Correlation Between Inflation and the Market 11:23 Bitcoin as an Inflation Hedge 15:55 The Rise of AI Stocks21:30 I'm currently doing my CISI exams. Do banks like these or prefer CFA qualifications?24:12 How much money do you need to get started in trading?27:42 How much money have you made from trading? 28:05 Beware of Unrealistic Claims in Trading

In this podcast, Richard Berry interviews Max Rofagha, the CEO and founder of Finimize, about the great wealth transfer and the role of Finimize in bridging the gap between retail and institutional investors. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of being integrated into Aberdeen, the growth of Finimize's B2B business, and the importance of curated content in the financial industry. They also explore the impact of the wealth transfer on the investment landscape and share insights on investing strategies and tips. Takeaways The great wealth transfer, estimated to be $84 trillion over the next two decades, will have a significant impact on the investment industry. Finimize aims to bridge the gap between retail and institutional investors by providing high-quality, curated content at an affordable price point. The key to successful investing is a long-term, patient approach, focusing on value and understanding the businesses behind the investments. The importance of tailored content for different clients and the need for financial advisory firms to adapt to the preferences of the millennial generation. Investors should be cautious of investment opportunities that seem too good to be true and do thorough research before making investment decisions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 05:11 Tailored Content Solutions for Clients 11:21 Addressing the Information Asymmetry 30:09 Investing Tips and Strategies 34:42 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Richard Dunner, CEO and founder of Tembo, discusses the acquisition of NUDE Lifetime ISA and the introduction of Tembo Lifetime ISA. Tembo aims to help people struggling with affordability in the housing market by offering alternative options and finding ways to accelerate the home-buying process. The company focuses on providing the best value and customer experience, with a high-interest rate and a free service for new customers. The Tembo Lifetime ISA allows customers to save for a deposit and receive a government bonus, making it a popular choice for first-time buyers. The app-based platform offers security and protection for customers' savings. Takeaways Tembo aims to help people struggling with affordability in the housing market by offering alternative options and finding ways to accelerate the home-buying process. The Tembo Life ISA allows customers to save for a deposit and receive a government bonus, making it a popular choice for first-time buyers. The app-based platform offers security and protection for customers' savings, with money placed in major banks and covered by the FSCS scheme. Tembo focuses on providing the best value and customer experience, with a high-interest rate and a free service for new customers. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:11 Overview of Tembo and its Mission 04:11 Impact of Mortgage Rates on House Prices and Affordability 06:06 Acquisition of NUDE and Introduction of Tembo Life ISA 08:30 Changes to Tembo Life ISA 11:20 Investment Preferences of House Buyers 13:21 Common Questions about Lifetime ISAs 21:02 Interest Payments and Performance of Lifetime ISAs 22:44 Upcoming Changes to Lifetime ISAs 23:38 Security and Safety of Lifetime ISAs 27:18 Success Stories and Helping Customers 29:45 Conclusion and Future Plans

In this podcast, Richard Berry interviews Simon Peters, a crypto analyst at eToro, about the Bitcoin ETF and its impact on the cryptocurrency market. They discuss the role of institutional investors, the opportunity for retail investors, the lackluster price action of the Bitcoin ETF, inflows and supply squeeze, regulatory approval for the ETF, best practices for crypto investing, and user-based questions about Bitcoin and traditional currencies, Bitcoin payments, and Bitcoin security. This conversation covers various aspects of Bitcoin and cryptocurrency, including self-custody and security, the environmental impact of Bitcoin mining, getting started with Bitcoin, the volatility of Bitcoin price, global regulatory attitudes towards cryptocurrency, the potential impact of Bitcoin on the financial system, the use of blockchain technology in healthcare and governance, barriers to entry for Bitcoin adoption, and ethical considerations of Bitcoin. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:05 Bitcoin ETF and Institutional Investment 05:00 Opportunity for Retail Investors 08:01 Lackluster Price Action of Bitcoin ETF 10:08 Inflows and Supply Squeeze 12:20 Regulatory Approval for Bitcoin ETF 14:10 Best Practices for Crypto Investing 20:53 User-Based Questions: Bitcoin Payments 22:08 User-Based Questions: Bitcoin Security 24:52 Self-Custody and Security 25:32 Environmental Impact of Bitcoin Mining 27:38 Getting Started with Bitcoin 29:01 Volatility in Bitcoin Price 33:06 Global Regulatory Attitudes Towards Cryptocurrency 35:12 Bitcoin as a Currency and its Impact on the Financial System 39:56 Blockchain Technology in Healthcare and Governance 41:34 Barriers to Entry for Bitcoin Adoption 42:21 Ethical Considerations of Bitcoin #etoro #bitcoin #cryptocurrency #investing #bitcoinetf Disclaimer: eToro is a multi-asset platform which offers both investing in stocks and cryptoassets, as well as trading CFDs. Please note that CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 77% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs with this provider You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. Past performance is not an indication of future results. Trading history presented is less than 5 complete years and may not suffice as basis for investment decision. Copy trading is a portfolio management service, provided by eToro (Europe) Ltd., which is authorised and regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission. Cryptoasset investing is highly volatile and unregulated in some EU countries. No consumer protection. Tax on profits may apply. eToro USA LLC does not offer CFDs and makes no representation and assumes no liability as to the accuracy or completeness of the content of this publication, which has been prepared by our partner utilizing publicly available non-entity specific information about eToro.

In this conversation, Richard Berry interviews Rezaah Ahmed, the CEO and founder of Wise Alpha, a fractional bond investing platform. They discuss the concept of fractional bonds and the opportunities they provide for retail investors. Reza explains that Wise Alpha has seen increased demand during times of market stress and high yields. They also discuss Wise Alpha's expansion into white-label services and partnerships with wealth managers and institutions. Reza highlights the lack of interest in bonds among UK investors and the need for education and media coverage to raise awareness. He emphasizes the importance of diversification and gradually building a bond portfolio. Reza also shares his insights on the current bond market environment and the potential for future opportunities. 00:00 Introduction to Wise Alpha and Fractional Bond Investing 04:05 Expansion into White Label Service 08:38 Increasing Interest in Bonds from Wealth Managers and Institutions 09:15 Reasons for UK Investors' Lack of Interest in Bonds 13:14 The Importance of Education and Media Coverage for Bond Market Awareness 16:04 Changing Market Environment and the Attractiveness of Bonds 18:35 Popular Bonds on the Wise Alpha Platform 21:23 Opportunities in the Bond Market due to Bond Refinancing 24:01 Sticky Nature of Bond Investments 26:01 Direct Bond Investing vs. Fund Investing 27:56 Top Three Tips for Successful Bond Investing 31:58 Future Plans for Wise Alpha as a Trading Venue and Expansion into International Markets

In this CEO interview, Richard Berry interviews Adam Dodds, the Freetrade CEO, about how to invest in UK Treasury Bills on Freetrade and how investors can benefit from them. They discuss Freetrade's history, its Good Money Guide Awards, as well as the evolution of the market for low-cost or free stockbrokers. Adam and Richard then delve into the concept of UK Treasury Bills, explaining that they are short-term IOUs from the government and offer a relatively risk-free rate of return. Adam and Richard also discuss the mechanics of investing in Treasury Bills and the benefits of investing in them through Freetrade as opposed to direct with the DMO. They also cover the risks and protections for investors, as well as the availability of fractionalised shares in ISAs. The interview finishes up with some quickfire questions about how Adam invests his own money and some tips for investors around continually investing and avoid trying to time the market. Chapters 00:00 Freetrade’s History & Awards 02:36 Overview of UK Treasury Bills 08:12 Comparison with Traditional Bonds 12:22 Investing in UK Treasury Bills through Free Trade 20:48 Risks and Protections for Investors 26:52 Fractionalized Shares in ISAs 32:06 Quickfire Questions 36:14 Guidance for Investors