Faster Forward

Hosted by Northern Trust

Business Investing

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Episodes

107

Latest episode

Jul 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Innovation is often sparked by a single new idea. Faster Forward brings you stories, insights, and lessons learned from leaders and innovators that are transforming their industries.

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60 recent

July 28, 202628 min

Institutional Investing in a Changing Global Market

Institutional investors are balancing rapid market change with the need to make disciplined, long-term investment decisions. As regulations evolve, technology advances, and geopolitical events influence capital flows, investors are balancing opportunity with operational discipline. In this episode, Paul Fahey speaks with Gerard Walsh, Global Head of Market Solutions, Banking and Markets at Northern Trust, about the forces shaping institutional investing today. They explore how geopolitical developments are influencing investment decisions, why operational resilience has become a growing priority, what organizations should consider as more markets move toward T+1 settlement, and how artificial intelligence is being applied to risk management, cybersecurity, and decision support. Gerard also shares why strategy, thoughtful execution, and experienced human judgment continue to play an essential role alongside advancing technology. Key takeaways: How geopolitical events are influencing institutional investment decisions and capital allocation worldwide Why operational resilience and risk management have become priorities for large investment organizations What investors should prepare for as more global markets transition toward T+1 settlement cycles Practical examples of artificial intelligence improving cybersecurity, risk monitoring, and operations Why experienced human judgment remains essential alongside AI-driven decision support And more! Connect with Gerard Walsh: LinkedIn: Gerard Walsh About Gerard Walsh: Northern Trust: Gerard Walsh

July 21, 202632 min

Scaling the Future of OCIO: Data, AI and Operational Efficiency (Audio)

The outsourced chief investment officer (OCIO) industry is growing faster than many expected, with assets projected to approach $6 trillion by 2030. In this episode of Market Pulse, Grant Johnsey sits down with Kate McCabe, Head of OCIO and Commercial Strategy at Northern Trust, to discuss findings from Northern Trust’s latest Asset Owner Peer Study. Together, they explore how OCIOs are increasing allocations to private markets, managing liquidity challenges, leveraging AI to improve operational efficiency, and navigating growing demands around data, technology and scale. They also discuss what asset owners should be watching as the OCIO landscape continues to evolve and where service providers can help support future growth. Important Disclosures The audio podcast is being provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not meant to be taken as investment advice or a recommendation of any specific investment product or strategy. The information does not take your financial situation, investment objective(s), or risk tolerance into consideration. Listeners, including professionals, should under no circumstances rely upon this information as a substitute for their own research or for obtaining specific legal, investment, accounting or tax advice from their own counsel. Non‑U.S. Small Cap Equities Non‑U.S. small cap equities may provide diversification and growth potential but carry elevated risks. These include currency volatility (e.g., U.S. dollar strength reducing returns), higher volatility, and lower liquidity. These securities are more sensitive to local economic, political, and regulatory conditions and may underperform in certain market cycles. They may include lower-quality or unprofitable issuers and are more exposed to trade policy and geopolitical developments. Alternative Investments Alternative investments are not suitable for all investors. Hedge funds use leverage, derivatives, and short selling, which can amplify losses. These investments are typically illiquid, lack regular pricing transparency, and charge high fees that may reduce returns. Interests are not readily transferable, and a secondary market may not exist. Investors should also consider tax complexity and reduced regulatory oversight compared to mutual funds.

June 29, 202618 min

Digital Assets, Tokenization, and the Future of Institutional Investing

Financial markets continue to evolve as institutions evaluate new ways to move assets, improve settlement processes, and expand investment opportunities. What role will digital assets play in the future of investing? And how are institutions balancing innovation with regulation, governance, and risk management? In this episode, Paul Fahey speaks with Andrew Czupek, Head of Digital Assets and Innovation, North America at Northern Trust, about the findings from Northern Trust’s 2026 Global Asset Owner Peer Study. They explore growing institutional adoption of digital assets, the rise of tokenized funds, the importance of interoperability between traditional and digital systems, and how regulatory developments are influencing participation. Andrew also shares why utility, mobility, and infrastructure development are becoming key drivers of long-term institutional interest. Key takeaways: Growing institutional participation reflects increasing interest in digital assets beyond cryptocurrency exposure Digital cash and settlement rails are helping address twenty-four-hour market activity needs Tokenized assets create new opportunities for collateral mobility and operational efficiency Regulatory frameworks are shaping institutional confidence and participation decisions Interoperability between traditional and digital systems remains critical for broader adoption Resources: Northern Trust Global Asset Owner Peer Study 2026 Connect with Andrew Czupek: LinkedIn: Andrew Czupek About Guest Name: Northern Trust: Andrew Czupek

June 18, 202653 min

From Undervalued to Opportunity: Inside the Rise of Women’s Sports Investing (Audio)

Institutional investors are taking a closer look at sports—not just as a passion project, but as a distinct and evolving asset class. In this episode of Market Pulse , Jason Wright, managing partner and head of investments for Project Level at Ariel Investments, joins Northern Trust’s Grant Johnsey to explore the investment case for women’s sports. Drawing on his experience as a former NFL executive and operator, Wright explains where he sees inefficiencies in the market, what’s driving growth across teams and leagues, and how investors should think about sports within a diversified portfolio. The conversation covers the structural dynamics shaping the industry, from media rights and valuation gaps to the emergence of a new, underserved fan base. Wright also outlines how Project Level is approaching the space—investing not only in teams, but across the broader ecosystem supporting the future of women’s sports. Important Disclosures The audio podcast is being provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not meant to be taken as investment advice or a recommendation of any specific investment product or strategy. The information does not take your financial situation, investment objective(s), or risk tolerance into consideration. Listeners, including professionals, should under no circumstances rely upon this information as a substitute for their own research or for obtaining specific legal, investment, accounting or tax advice from their own counsel. Non‑U.S. Small Cap Equities Non‑U.S. small cap equities may provide diversification and growth potential but carry elevated risks. These include currency volatility (e.g., U.S. dollar strength reducing returns), higher volatility, and lower liquidity. These securities are more sensitive to local economic, political, and regulatory conditions and may underperform in certain market cycles. They may include lower-quality or unprofitable issuers and are more exposed to trade policy and geopolitical developments. Alternative Investments Alternative investments are not suitable for all investors. Hedge funds use leverage, derivatives, and short selling, which can amplify losses. These investments are typically illiquid, lack regular pricing transparency, and charge high fees that may reduce returns. Interests are not readily transferable, and a secondary market may not exist. Investors should also consider tax complexity and reduced regulatory oversight compared to mutual funds.

May 27, 202621 min

Scaling ETF Services for Growth and Innovation

Are you keeping up with the rapid shifts in Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) markets? The strategies driving innovation are reshaping how investment products are delivered and managed. In this episode, Paul Fahey speaks with Phil Nanof, Head of ETF Services, Americas at Northern Trust, about the evolution of ETFs, particularly in the US. They explore the growth of active strategies, the impact of regulatory changes like SEC Rule 6c-11, and how automation and technology are shaping scalable operations. Phil also highlights key operational strategies for supporting institutional clients and their evolving investment needs. Phil highlights: The rise of active ETFs capturing significant net new money each month How SEC Rule 6c-11 simplified ETF launches and adoption of active strategies Operational demands increasing with product innovation and market growth Importance of automation for efficiency, transparency, and error reduction Integration of ETF services into existing client platforms for seamless experience And more! Connect with Phil Nanof: LinkedIn: Phil Nanof

May 20, 202627 min

Finding Opportunity in a Changing Market: Value, Diversification and Global Small Caps (Audio)

In this episode of Market Pulse , host Grant Johnsey sits down with Jonathan Brodsky, Founder and Principal at Cedar Street Asset Management, to explore the evolving opportunity set in global small cap equities. As market dynamics shift, investors are increasingly looking beyond U.S. equities for diversification and return potential. Brodsky shares why non-U.S. small caps—often overlooked and less efficient—can offer compelling valuation opportunities and stronger risk-adjusted returns. The conversation also examines how structural changes, including the rise of private markets in the U.S., are reshaping the small cap universe, creating a clear divergence between U.S. and non-U.S. companies. Brodsky explains how geopolitical developments, supply chain regionalization, and evolving corporate governance standards are influencing investment opportunities across global markets. Finally, Brodsky outlines his disciplined, forward-looking approach to value investing—highlighting the importance of cutting through market noise, focusing on long-term fundamentals, and identifying companies positioned for sustainable returns. Important Disclosures The audio podcast is being provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not meant to be taken as investment advice or a recommendation of any specific investment product or strategy. The information does not take your financial situation, investment objective(s), or risk tolerance into consideration. Listeners, including professionals, should under no circumstances rely upon this information as a substitute for their own research or for obtaining specific legal, investment, accounting or tax advice from their own counsel. Non‑U.S. Small Cap Equities Non‑U.S. small cap equities may provide diversification and growth potential but carry elevated risks. These include currency volatility (e.g., U.S. dollar strength reducing returns), higher volatility, and lower liquidity. These securities are more sensitive to local economic, political, and regulatory conditions and may underperform in certain market cycles. They may include lower-quality or unprofitable issuers and are more exposed to trade policy and geopolitical developments. Alternative Investments Alternative investments are not suitable for all investors. Hedge funds use leverage, derivatives, and short selling, which can amplify losses. These investments are typically illiquid, lack regular pricing transparency, and charge high fees that may reduce returns. Interests are not readily transferable, and a secondary market may not exist. Investors should also consider tax complexity and reduced regulatory oversight compared to mutual funds.

April 29, 202622 min

Liquidity as a Strategic Asset in Changing Markets

Market conditions have shifted, and what once seemed like a simple allocation decision now demands far more attention. How should investors think about access to cash when uncertainty, higher rates, and private markets all collide? In this episode, host Paul Fahey is joined by Faisal Ansari, Global Head of Liquidity Solutions, and Andrew Sepiol, CFA, Liquidity Solutions Product Manager at Northern Trust, to explore why liquidity is now a central focus for asset owners. They explain how rising rates, market volatility, and growing allocations to private markets are reshaping liquidity strategies. The conversation also covers how cash is evolving from a defensive position to a strategic asset, along with the importance of forecasting, diversification, and data-driven decision making. Key takeaways: How higher interest rates and volatility are increasing the importance of liquidity across portfolios Why cash is shifting from a defensive tool to a strategic allocation with meaningful return potential The growing impact of private markets on liquidity planning and forecasting complexity How segmentation of cash supports operational needs, reserves, and long-term portfolio strategy The role of data, reporting, and AI tools in improving forecasting and liquidity decision-making And more! Connect with Andrew Sepiol: LinkedIn: Andrew Sepiol Connect with Faisal Ansari: LinkedIn: Faisal Ansari About Faisal Ansari: Northern Trust: Faisal Ansari

April 20, 202643 min

Private Equity’s Liquidity Moment: What Investors Need to Know Now

In this episode of Market Pulse by Faster Forward, host Grant Johnsey is joined by Adam Freda, Managing Director at 50 South Capital, for an in-depth conversation on the evolving private equity landscape. They explore how recent market conditions have challenged traditional assumptions around liquidity and diversification, why private equity secondaries have grown into a critical source of flexibility for institutional investors, and how continuation vehicles are reshaping exit strategies. Adam also breaks down the growing role of evergreen funds—what they solve for, where risks can emerge, and why they’re likely to coexist alongside traditional closed-end funds rather than replace them. The discussion covers portfolio construction across vintages and strategies, the importance of manager quality in volatile environments, and how investors are navigating private equity and private credit amid higher rates, slower exits, and rapid technological change. Listen in to understand today’s private markets—and what to watch next. Grant Johnsey is a FINRA‑registered representative of Northern Trust Securities, Inc. Adam Freda is not FINRA registered and is an employee of 50 South Capital, an affiliate asset management firm of Northern Trust. Adam Freda is not acting in a broker‑dealer capacity and does not offer brokerage services. This podcast is presented for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation, or an offer to buy or sell any security, strategy, or investment product. Any references to returns, performance characteristics, or investment outcomes are illustrative and not guaranteed. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Actual outcomes may vary significantly. Northern Trust Asset Servicing, Northern Trust Securities, Inc., and 50 South Capital are affiliated entities under the Northern Trust corporate structure. Statements made by representatives of affiliated entities reflect their respective perspectives and business lines. Investment products and services referenced may not be available in all jurisdictions and are offered only where permitted by law and regulation.

March 26, 202619 min

Private Markets, Climate Risk, and AI: Inside Canada’s Investment Model with Katie Pries

Long-term investing is shifting, but what actually separates disciplined investors from the rest? How are leading institutions balancing performance, risk, and innovation while managing growing complexity? In this episode, host Paul Fahey speaks with Katie Pries, Country Executive for Northern Trust Asset Servicing in Canada, about how Canadian asset owners approach private markets, governance, and emerging technologies. They explore how the Maple Eight have shaped global investing practices, why climate risk is now embedded in decision-making, and how data challenges are evolving. Katie also shares how AI is being applied to improve efficiency without replacing human judgment, and why execution and governance are now the real differentiators. Key takeaways: Private markets treated as core portfolio building blocks tied to long-term liabilities and cash flow stability Data challenges shifting from scarcity to overload, with a focus on timely, decision-ready information Climate risk is integrated into governance frameworks and viewed as a financial and execution risk AI is improving data processing, risk monitoring, and workflow efficiency without replacing human oversight The Canadian model stands out for disciplined execution, governance, and a long-term investment mindset And more! Connect with Katie Pries: LinkedIn: Katie Pries About Katie Pries: Northern Trust: Katie Pries

February 25, 20261 hr 11 min

Inside the AI Shift: What’s Next for Enterprises (Audio)

In this episode of Market Pulse by Faster Forward , host Grant Johnsey sits down with Mike Kelly, Co‑Founder of Developer Town, to cut through the hype and explore the real‑world applications of AI—from personal productivity to enterprise‑scale transformation. Mike shares how advances in large language models are reshaping everyday workflows, why tools like Gemini and ChatGPT are evolving into true AI companions, and how “vibe coding” is lowering the barrier to building custom software. The conversation goes deeper into the enterprise, covering AI agents, fraud detection, unstructured data, and why many organizations struggle to move from experimentation to execution. Mike also weighs in on the implications for SaaS businesses, venture investing, energy costs, and the future of enterprise infrastructure. Key topics include: How AI is changing personal productivity and decision‑making Using AI as a healthcare “navigator” and shared source of truth Vibe coding and the rise of build‑your‑own software Why enterprises get stuck on data and process readiness AI agents, automation, and security trade‑offs What AI means for SaaS, venture capital, and long‑term costs Whether you’re experimenting with AI at home or evaluating it for your organization, this episode offers a clear, practical look at what’s working and what’s coming next.