FundCalibre - Investing on the go

Hosted by FundCalibre

BusinessInterviews guestsExplicit

Website RSS feed

Episodes

398

Latest episode

May 2026

Language

About the show

Investing on the go gives you direct access to the people who manage your ISA and pensions savings. Our hosts will be interviewing finance professionals on everything from their successes and failures to current ideas and insights. At meetings, before events and even if we bump into them on the street, we'll grab five minutes with these experts to discuss how your own personal finances could be impacted by topics such as US elections, the move from petrol to electric vehicles, the growth in artificial intelligence and robots, and so much more. Our ultimate goal is to bring to life the world of investments and uncover new and exciting opportunities, all while inspiring you to invest and giving you the confidence and knowledge to make the right decisions. To do this we often ask the managers why they are invested in individual companies. This is for illustration only and should not be taken as a recommendation to buy or sell that stock. The fund manager may or may not still own these companies at the time of your listening. For more investment research visit us at www.fundcalibre.com and follow us on twitter and facebook @FundCalibre

Listen to episodes

60 recent

May 20, 202627 min

397. Meet the fund finding the next wave of innovation (before the market)

Innovation is often associated with headline-grabbing tech giants, but this episode reveals a far broader opportunity set across global markets. Graeme Bencke and Mikhail Zverev, co-managers of the WS Amati Global Innovation fund, introduce the fund’s disciplined framework that categorises companies as pioneers, enablers and adopters of technological change, and explain how each play a distinct role in capturing innovation-driven growth. The managers also explain how they identify “innovation frontiers” where change is already being adopted rather than speculative future trends. From AI infrastructure and semiconductors to life sciences, defence, and industrial automation, the conversation highlights how structural change is creating investable opportunities across sectors, while emphasising valuation discipline, profitability and real-world business quality over hype.What’s covered in this episode: Innovation beyond traditional tech investingThe fund’s pioneer, enabler, adopter framework explainedHow innovation creates investable inefficienciesWhy valuation and profitability still matter“Innovation frontier” definition and selection processAI ecosystem opportunities beyond mega-capsSemiconductors, photonics and AI infrastructureDefence tech and geopolitical-driven innovationLife sciences, diagnostics, and biotech toolsIndustrial automation and machine vision trendsRFID and real-world “Internet of Things” applicationsOverhyped vs under-appreciated innovation areasMedium-sized companies as growth sweet spotsLearn more on fundcalibre.comPlease remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.

May 13, 202632 min

396. What investors keep getting wrong about cycles

Markets are often driven less by logic and more by emotion, and that pattern hasn’t changed despite decades of evolution in investing tools and technology. Nick Clay, manager of the TM Redwheel Global Equity Income fund, joins us this week to explore how cycles of greed and fear continue to shape market behaviour, and why volatility is returning after years of unusually stable conditions. We discuss inflation, AI-driven disruption, shifting definitions of quality and why valuation discipline matters more in today’s environment. The interview also challenges the idea of “quality at any price” and highlights the importance of income, compounding and long-term thinking in a world where investor expectations can change quickly.What’s covered in this episode: Market cycles and repeating investor behaviourEmotional drivers: fear, greed, and volatilityPost-2008 “low volatility” regime and its unwindInflation, liquidity, and changing market expectationsAI disruption and valuation reassessmentSell discipline and valuation frameworksCase study: Cisco and rerating riskWhat “reliable income” means todayDividend growth vs inflationUS exceptionalism and market rotationQuality investing vs “quality at any price”AI adoption, disruption, and long-term uncertaintyImportance of compounding income on returnsLearn more on fundcalibre.comPlease remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.

May 7, 202623 min

395. High yield bonds in a world of chaos

With geopolitical tensions rising and inflation concerns returning, bond markets are facing another major test. Rhys Davies, manager of Invesco Bond Income Plus (BIPS), joins us to discuss why high yield bonds have remained surprisingly resilient, how spreads are behaving and whether markets are becoming too complacent about risk. The conversation also explores portfolio positioning in uncertain conditions, the importance of diversification and why shorter-duration bonds are helping manage volatility.What’s covered in this episode: High yield bond resilienceGeopolitics and market volatilityInflation and interest rate risksCredit spreads explainedPortfolio positioning in uncertain marketsWhy duration mattersSatellite infrastructure opportunitiesInsurance bond issuanceManaging downside riskDiversification in bond portfoliosCredit default swaps explainedIncome generation in volatile marketsMisconceptions around high yield bondsAttractive yields in niche areasLearn more on fundcalibre.comPlease remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.

April 29, 202618 min

394. From uranium to frontier matters: finding value where others aren’t looking

In a volatile and often unpredictable market, finding reliable returns is becoming increasingly challenging. This episode explores a defensive, multi-asset approach with SVS RM Defensive Capital manager Dr Niall O’Connor. This fund looks beyond traditional equities and bonds, focusing instead on overlooked, under-researched opportunities. From high-yield bonds and discounted investment trusts to commodities and frontier markets, the interview highlights how diversification is evolving. It also examines why traditional hedges may no longer behave as expected, the risks posed by inflation, and where genuine opportunities still exist. With a strong emphasis on valuation discipline and identifying neglected assets, this episode offers a fresh perspective on building resilience in today’s investment landscape.What’s covered in this episode: Alternative assets beyond traditional marketsInvesting in overlooked, under-researched opportunitiesNavigating volatility in bonds and equitiesCapital preservation vs growth vs diversifiersHigh-yield bonds and income strategiesDiscounted investment trusts and valuation opportunitiesBiotech, private equity, and “unloved” sectorsCommodities and uranium exposureWhy traditional hedges may be failingInflation risks and consumer pressureMarket polarisation and AI-driven enthusiasmFrontier markets and global opportunitiesLearn more on fundcalibre.comPlease remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.

April 22, 202618 min

393. From deflation to innovation and the new drivers of Japan

This episode explores the changing investment landscape in Japan and why it may be entering a new era of growth. With deflation ending, wages rising and corporate governance improving, companies are being pushed to deploy capital more efficiently. We’re joined by Alison Henry, investment specialist in Japanese equities from Baillie Gifford, this week who highlights opportunities in mid-cap innovators, the growing influence of artificial intelligence and Japan’s leadership in robotics and automation. We also examine how companies are adapting to technological disruption and the role of global volatility in portfolio decisions, focusing on the Baillie Gifford Japanese fund, as an example. Despite lingering misconceptions, Japan is presented as a market offering compelling valuations, strong earnings growth and significant long-term potential for investors willing to look beyond outdated narratives.What’s covered in this episode: The end of deflation in JapanRising wages and consumptionOngoing corporate governance reformsWhy cash hoarding culture is shiftingThe valuation gap vs US and EuropeMid-cap growth opportunitiesInnovation and disruptive companiesAI adoption in JapanRobotics and automation leadershipDemographics driving technology uptakeBaillie Gifford Japanese fund’s exposure to AI themesSoftBank and AI ecosystemManaging geopolitical volatilityPopular misconceptions about JapanLearn more on fundcalibre.comPlease remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.

April 15, 202620 min

392. Value investing in a volatile world

This interview examines how escalating geopolitical tensions are influencing the UK equity market and investor sentiment. Rising energy prices and disrupted supply chains are expected to feed through into inflation and interest rates, creating headwinds for more cyclical areas of the market. Alex Wright, manager of Fidelity Special Values Trust, explores how the portfolio is being adjusted in response, including changes to exposure across sectors such as defence and oil. We also consider the challenges of navigating markets where traditional defensive assets have already performed strongly and highlight where value opportunities are emerging, particularly within mid and small-cap stocks despite the near-term uncertainty.What’s covered in this episode: Geopolitical uncertainty and market impactEnergy prices and inflation outlookPortfolio positioning in volatile marketsReducing equity exposure and increasing cashCommodities: coal vs copper exposureChallenges with traditional defensive sectorsDefence stocks and valuation concernsOil majors and long-term outlookMid and small-cap opportunitiesAI-driven market dislocations and value investingLearn more on fundcalibre.comPlease remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.

April 1, 202624 min

391. Uncovering Asia’s growth engine

Today’s guest, Richard Sennitt, manages three Elite Rated funds: Schroder Asian Alpha Plus, Schroder Asian Income and Schroder Oriental Income Trust. He shares his approach to navigating investment opportunities across Asia. The interview explores the impact of AI on semiconductor manufacturing and tech enablers, the growth potential in financials and insurers and the evolving dividend culture in markets like Singapore, Korea and China. Richard shares his approach to balancing income generation with capital growth, emphasising natural dividend streams over chasing yields. He also discusses portfolio construction, sector rotation and managing long-term risk amid macroeconomic uncertainty.What’s covered in this episode: AI’s structural growth in AsiaSemiconductor opportunitiesImpact of macro events like oil pricesFinancials and insurers as long-term growth sectorsDividend culture in Singapore, Korea and ChinaBalancing income generation with capital growthDefensive areas of the marketPortfolio construction and value tilt vs growth tiltLearn more on fundcalibre.comPlease remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.

March 26, 202625 min

390. Europe rising: what’s driving returns

Take a deep dive into European equity investing, focusing on how a disciplined blend of quality, valuation and momentum can drive consistent long-term returns. Alexander Fitzalan Howard, manager of JPMorgan European Growth and Income Trust, explores how earnings revisions act as a key signal for stock performance, alongside insights into sector opportunities such as banks, infrastructure and smaller companies. We also examine the impact of macro developments, including increased European fiscal spending and geopolitical uncertainty.What’s covered in this episode: Quality, value, momentum frameworkEarnings revisions as a key signalPortfolio diversification and risk controlEuropean fiscal stimulus impactDefence and infrastructure opportunitiesSmall- and mid-cap exposureEuropean banks outlookValuation dispersion across EuropeManaging benchmark riskGeopolitics and market volatilityLearn more on fundcalibre.comPlease remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.

March 25, 202623 min

389. Oil, inflation and uncertainty

In this special bonus episode, recorded amid heightened market volatility, Darius and Juliet explore how escalating geopolitical tensions are reshaping the investment landscape. With energy markets at the centre, we explain why disruptions in the Middle East matter so much for global supply, inflation and interest rates. The discussion also covers why traditional defensive assets like gold have struggled, what alternatives investors can consider and how portfolios might be positioned in uncertain times. Finally, we assess whether recent market weakness presents long-term opportunities, highlighting regions, sectors and strategies that could benefit once stability returns.What’s covered in this episode: Middle East conflict and global energy supplyOil price volatility and inflation riskImpact on global equity marketsInterest rate uncertainty and central bank responseWhy gold hasn’t behaved as expectedDefensive assets: cash, bonds, absolute returnPortfolio positioning in volatile marketsUsing ISA allowances in uncertain timesLong-term opportunities in Asia and emerging marketsGrowth vs value in a shifting environmentLearn more on fundcalibre.comPlease remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.

March 19, 202621 min

388. Income investing isn’t dead, it’s evolving

This interview explores how investors can generate consistent and growing income without sacrificing long-term capital growth. Paul Flood, manager of BNY Mellon Multi-Asset Income fund, discusses the evolving importance of income in retirement planning and how a multi-asset approach can provide diversification across equities, bonds and alternatives. We examine how shifting market conditions, including inflation, interest rates and changing valuations, influence asset allocation decisions. The interview also highlights opportunities in real assets, property and infrastructure, alongside a more value-focused approach to equities. Finally, we look at how themes, fundamentals, ESG considerations and valuation discipline combine to identify attractive investment opportunities in today’s complex market environment.What’s covered in this episode: Income vs capital: striking the balanceWhy stable income matters more than everRetirement income challenges explainedAvoiding the “reach for yield” trapAsset allocation in changing marketsBonds vs alternatives: shifting opportunitiesReal assets and inflation protectionDiscounts and sentiment in investment trustsProperty: where value is re-emergingRenewable infrastructure opportunitiesValue tilt in equity income investingAI impact on sectors and stock selectionThematic investing approach explainedValuations and global market opportunitiesLearn more on fundcalibre.comPlease remember, we’ve been discussing individual companies to bring investing to life for you. It’s not a recommendation to buy or sell. The fund may or may not still hold these companies at the time of listening. Elite Ratings are based on FundCalibre’s research methodology and are the opinion of FundCalibre’s research team only.