A Different Perspective

In this weeks episode Nick talks to Frank BuchholzRetired financial advisor Frank J. Buchholz shares insights from his 40-year career in investment advising, particularly his time at Merrill Lynch. He discusses his motivation for writing The Investor's Golden Playbook, a book designed to help novice investors navigate the financial world using clear principles, including assessing time horizon, risk tolerance, and tax implications. Frank emphasizes the importance of long-term investing, the power of compounding, and the need for a “money buffer” for emergencies. He advocates for managed accounts over stock-picking and warns against speculative investments like commodities and cryptocurrencies.Nick and Frank discuss Frank's memorable lessons from influential clients and mentors, highlighting real-life examples of disciplined investing and generosity. He advises young people to start saving early—citing the compounding effect of even modest daily contributions—and stresses the value of seeking guidance from trustworthy advisors. Frank also reflects on his own financial philosophy, his philanthropic approach to book proceeds, and his continued passion for helping others build secure financial futures.Frank's book choice was: The Art of the Deal by Donald Trump https://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/products/trump-the-art-of-the-deal-book-donald-trump-9781847943033?Frank's music choices where:Led Zeppelin - Stairway to Heaven https://open.spotify.com/track/0DANcJuMamcL9NyYkEWWTqWhitney Huston - The Greatest Love of Allhttps://open.spotify.com/track/6yJxCltgtmGxIgKOS6ndnuThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Iain BaillieIain began his career at Strauss Turnbull and Co and has been involved in UK and European Capital Markets for over 35 years as a trader of both equities and corporate bonds, culminating in heading European credit trading as a Managing Director of Salomon Brothers. Iain was also a founding director of LBDP, a successful agency broker in European credit. From 2003 to 2007 Iain was CEO of MarketAxess Europe, the leading platform for electronic execution in the credit market. He was responsible for all facets of the company's European business and during his tenure MarketAxess saw a ten-fold increase in activity across the platform. Before founding Asset Match, Iain was Head of Fixed Income at Christopher Street Capital.Nick and Iain discuss Iain's journey from an unexpected start in finance to building a platform that brings liquidity to shares in UK private companies. After developing an early fascination with the stock pages of the Financial Times, he began his career at Strauss Turnbull in 1972. He later joined Salomon Brothers, working in both London and New York, with John Meriwether & Michael Lewis, during the firm's heyday in fixed income trading. Following this, he founded and sold a credit market boutique before returning to Salomon, and eventually moved into electronic trading by leading the European arm of MarketAxess.In 2012, Iain co-founded Asset Match in response to the growing number of private UK companies with multiple shareholders but no exit opportunities. The platform uses scheduled auctions—rather than continuous trading—to match buyers and sellers fairly, with early clients including BrewDog and Tottenham Hotspur. Iain also discusses the growing momentum behind the PISCES initiative, a Treasury and FCA-led framework set to legitimise and expand private share trading. With more companies staying private for longer and institutional interest rising, he sees significant growth ahead for the sector.Iain's book choices where:Liar's Poker by Michael Lewishttps://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/products/liar-s-poker-book-michael-lewis-9780340839966Prisoners of Geography by Tim Marshallhttps://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/products/why-nations-fail-book-daron-acemoglu-9781846684302Why Nations Fail by Daron Acemogluhttps://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/products/why-nations-fail-book-daron-acemoglu-9781846684302Iain music choice was:Liquidator by Harry J. All Starshttps://open.spotify.com/track/4iW7PQeJWV57XeN7miyJpSThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Chris Gillespie.Chris's career in financial services spans over 40 years. He brings extensive experience from senior leadership roles within consumer finance businesses. Prior to joining H&T, Chris served as Managing Director of the consumer credit division at Provident Financial PLC. Chris maintains a strong interest in matters affecting the wider industry and is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. Nick and Chris discuss his extensive career in financial services, beginning at Barclays Bank and spanning several leadership roles including at Provident Financial. He shares insights into the unique hybrid model of H&T, which blends financial services and retail, operating across 285 stores nationwide. Chris highlights the evolving perception and customer base of pawnbroking in the UK, the simplicity and accessibility of its loan model, and its growing role in small business financing. He also discusses H&T's broader services—including foreign exchange, retail of pre-owned jewellery and watches, and cheque cashing—all aimed at increasing store footfall. Emphasising the business's community roots, counter-cyclical nature, and expansion potential, Chris notes the importance of trusted staff and store locations. The company remains focused on UK growth through store expansion and technology investment, with a strong commitment to customer service and transparency. Chris' book choice was:Lord of the Rings by J R R TolkienThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Judith MacKenzie. Judith joined Downing in October 2009, bringing with her extensive experience in venture capital and fund management. Prior to this, she was a partner at Acuity Capital, where she managed AIM-listed VCT and IHT investments, as well as a small-cap activist fund. Before Acuity, Judith spent nine years as a senior investment manager at Aberdeen Asset Management Growth Capital, where she co-managed five Aberdeen VCTs, focusing on technology and media investments across both public and private companies. In 2010, she founded Downing Fund Managers, the boutique investment division of Downing LLP. Judith currently serves as Chair of the Quoted Companies Alliance and holds active board roles in both private and public sectors.Nick and Judith discuss her journey into finance, inspired by working in her parents' small businesses in the Scottish Highlands. Her early exposure to economics and investing sparked a lifelong interest in smaller companies. She discusses her career progression from stockbroking to fund management, emphasising her focus on UK micro-cap and smaller companies through Downing's IHT (Inheritance Tax) service. Judith explains the appeal of AIM-listed firms due to their tax benefits and potential for strong returns, highlighting a hands-on, diligent investment approach that mirrors private equity standards. She identifies three key types of companies she targets: value compounders, self-help businesses, and balance sheet leaders—mentioning Ramsdens, James Latham, and Flowtech as examples. Judith critiques the negative narrative around AIM, advocating for its role in supporting entrepreneurial growth and job creation. She expresses hope for a shift back to active investing and UK-focused capital deployment, especially in light of current global economic uncertainties and US-centric fund flows.  Judith's book choice was:Vassal State: How America Runs Britain by Angus HantonJudith's music choice was:Human by The KillersThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Parmy Olson. Parmy Olson is a prominent technology journalist and author, currently a columnist for Bloomberg Opinion. She previously covered tech and innovation for The Wall Street Journal and Forbes, with a focus on AI, robotics, and emerging technologies. In 2012, she published We Are Anonymous, an acclaimed deep dive into the hacker groups Anonymous and LulzSec. Her 2024 book, Supremacy: AI, ChatGPT, and the Race That Will Change the World, explores the rivalry between tech giants like OpenAI and DeepMind in the pursuit of artificial general intelligence, earning the Financial Times Business Book of the Year Award. Nick and Parmy discuss the intense race to develop artificial general intelligence (AGI) and the far-reaching implications of that pursuit. Their conversation highlights the contrast between the idealistic visions of DeepMind's Demis Hassabis and OpenAI's Sam Altman—who saw AGI as a force for solving global challenges—and the reality that both ultimately became deeply tied to tech giants like Google and Microsoft to fund their ambitions. Parmy explains how this reliance shifted the focus away from social good and towards corporate interests. Together, they explore the broader consequences of this power shift, including the lack of meaningful regulation, ongoing ethical concerns around bias and safety in AI models, and the growing dominance of a few large tech firms. They also reflect on the social risks—from job losses and the disruption of traditional career paths to the emotional dependency people are beginning to form with chatbots—raising important questions about the kind of future society is heading towards. Parmy's Book Choice was: Born to Run by Christopher McdougallParmy's Music Choice was:Rumours by Fleetwood MacThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Duncan GarroodDuncan Garrood is CEO of Empiric Student Property, Originally trained as a scientist, he transitioned into the corporate world, spending 20 years at Unilever in various global roles across production, sales, and marketing. He played a key role in expanding business operations, including launching an ice cream division in China. Over the years, he took on leadership roles in hospitality, aviation, and leisure, overseeing transformations at companies like Punch Taverns and Ten Entertainment. His career has been defined by adaptability, embracing opportunities across different industries, and executing successful turnaround strategies and large-scale expansions. Nick and Duncan discuss strategic growth, transformation, and market positioning, particularly in the student property sector with Empiric Student Property. Duncan emphasised the importance of aligning business strategy with market demand, particularly in catering to international and postgraduate students seeking a premium, boutique accommodation experience. They explored the challenges of acquiring and optimizing property portfolios, adapting to economic shifts, and navigating investment landscapes. Duncan also highlighted the role of data-driven decision-making, customer-centric business models, and maintaining a strong brand identity, drawing parallels between his past experiences in multinational corporations and property investment. Duncan's Book Choice was:I, Robot - Isaac Asimovhttps://onlineshop.oxfam.org.uk/i-robot/product/HD_302753825?sku=HD_302753825Duncan's Music Choice was:Pink Floyd - Shine On You Crazy Diamondhttps://open.spotify.com/track/6pnwfWyaWjQiHCKTiZLItrThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to George EnsorGeorge Ensor is the portfolio manager for the RGI UK Listed Smaller Companies Fund and the River UK Micro Cap Investment Trust. He joined River Global Investors in 2014 as a UK equity analyst, following his role as a private client investment manager at Smith & Williamson Investment Management. George holds a degree in Chemistry from the University of Bristol and is a CFA Charterholder.  Nick and George discuss, his journey into investment management, starting with his chemistry degree and eventual move into equities, driven by the challenge of taking contrarian views in the market. He outlines his experience at Smith & Williamson, where he gained exposure to global multi-asset management, client service, and investment allocation. Transitioning to River Global (formerly River & Mercantile), he details the firm's evolution, including its listing and eventual return to a boutique-style setup. He explains the structural differences between open-ended small-cap funds and closed-ended micro-cap investment trusts, emphasising how micro-cap funds exploit liquidity premiums and offer high-conviction investments.George also discusses the challenges and opportunities within UK small-cap investing, noting cyclical market trends, liquidity constraints, and shifts in investor sentiment. He highlights how UK small caps have been underperforming large caps due to external factors like interest rates, economic cycles, and regulatory changes. He believes in the long-term growth potential of UK small caps, citing past market recoveries and potential reforms such as pension fund adjustments and British ISAs. The conversation further delves into investment strategies, including the balance between growth, quality, and recovery stocks, and explores specific holdings like Keystone Law, DF Capital, and Renold. He expresses concerns about undervaluation in the market, private equity takeovers, and the impact of passive investing on small-cap liquidity. Despite current challenges, he remains optimistic about the cyclical return of capital inflows into UK equities and the opportunities available for disciplined investors.George's book choices where: Thinking in Bets: Making Smarter Decisions When You Don't Have All the Facts - Annie Duke https://www.amazon.co.uk/Thinking-Bets-Annie-Duke/dp/0735216371/Quit: The Power of Knowing When to Walk Away - Annie Duke https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/quit-the-power-of-knowing-when-to-walk-away-annie-duke/7098911George's music choice was: The Best by Tina Turnerhttps://open.spotify.com/track/4OeFQtRyT7vsLnRTv7t8YTThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

In this bonus episode Nick talks to Jeff Chatfield. Jeff serves as the Executive Chairman of Avation PLC and played a pivotal role in its founding and development. Throughout his career, he has held management and directorial positions in various companies across sectors such as the airline industry, data distribution, electronics, investment, broadcasting, and manufacturing. He holds both a Bachelor of Engineering and a Master of Engineering Science from the University of Western Australia. Additionally, he is a graduate member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Singapore Institute of Directors. Nick and Jeff discus the company's recent half-year results and market position. Jeff highlights Avation's strong financial performance, including increased revenue and reduced net debt. He also discusses the company's aircraft leasing portfolio, noting a recent acquisition of an Etihad-operated Airbus A320. Despite these positive results, Avation's share price remains undervalued at 50% of net asset value (NAV), which Jeff attributes to investor unfamiliarity with the aircraft leasing sector and the company's London Stock Exchange listing. He suggests that moving to a higher-tier market segment could help attract more investors.The conversation also touches on Avation's debt structure and potential refinancing opportunities. Jeff explains that a $330 million bond maturing in 2026 could be refinanced as early as 2025, potentially lowering interest costs and improving cash flow. He emphasizes the importance of dividends to investors and notes strong shareholder support for past dividend payouts. Looking ahead, Avation aims to continue growing its fleet and improving shareholder value, with strategies such as increasing investor engagement and possibly integrating with a larger leasing business for better financing terms. Jeff's Book choice was:The Proof of My Innocence by Jonathan Coehttps://www.waterstones.com/book/9780241678411This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Andrew JonesAndrew led Metric Property Investments Plc as co-founder and CEO from its launch in March 2010 until its successful merger with London & Stamford in January 2013, when he took the helm as Chief Executive of the newly formed LondonMetric. His extensive real estate experience includes a pivotal role at British Land, where he served as Executive Director and Head of Retail after joining through the Pillar acquisition in 2005. As a Board member at British Land, he oversaw shopping centers and retail park portfolios. Currently, Andrew brings his expertise to InstaVolt, a leading electric vehicle charging network, as a Non-Executive Director. He previously served on the Board of Unite plc for six years as a Non-Executive Director.In this episode, Nick and Andrew explore his career journey and insights into the real estate industry. Andrew shares how his early interest in investing led him to a career in commercial real estate, starting in the late 1980s during a recession. He discusses his experience working with major firms like British Land before founding London Metric Property in 2010. The conversation covers the evolution of retail, from high streets to retail parks, the impact of online shopping, and the importance of understanding consumer behaviour. Andrew also explains LondonMetric's focus on resilient sectors like logistics, convenience retail, healthcare, entertainment and leisure, along with their asset management strategy, including “triple net” leases and tenant mix optimisation. Looking ahead, Andrew shares his perspective on growth opportunities through acquisitions and strategic mergers while maintaining a focus on the UK market. He highlights the challenges of high street retail compared to retail parks and discusses LondonMetric's approach to income generation and long-term investing. Andrew's book choices where:Barbarians at the Gate by Bryan Burroughhttps://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/products/barbarians-at-the-gate-book-bryan-burrough-9780099469155The Predators' Ball by Connie Bruckhttps://www.abebooks.co.uk/servlet/BookDetailsPL?bi=31852760243The Big Short by Michael Lewishttps://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/products/big-short-book-michael-lewis-9781846142574Adventures in Time: Nelson, Hero of the Seas by Dominic Sandbrookhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Adventures-Time-Nelson-Hero-Seas/dp/0241552214/Andrew's podcast choices where:We Study Billionaires - The Investor's Podcast Networkhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/we-study-billionaires-the-investors-podcast-network/id928933489Acquired with Ben Gilbert and David Rosenthalhttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/acquired/id1050462261This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Steve Ruffley Steve Ruffley is a professional trader of nearly 25 years. Steve offers personalised trading risk management and mentoring packages and is a published author with The Pro Retail Trader: How to Generate Professional-level Returns as a Retail Trader. The discussion explores Steve Ruffley's career in financial markets, detailing his journey from a university dropout to a professional trader. Initially working at PricewaterhouseCoopers, he later discovered his passion for trading in Gibraltar, where he joined a proprietary trading firm. Ruffley reflects on the challenges of professional trading, including high financial targets and the transition from floor trading to electronic platforms. After a stint in risk management, he returned to independent trading, focusing on indices and forex. He emphasises the importance of discipline, confidence, and quick decision-making in trading, distinguishing between retail and professional approaches. Steve also shares insights on market adaptability, critiques the growing influence of AI in trading, and discusses his latest book, The Pro Retail Trader, which aims to guide retail traders in advancing their skills. He expresses scepticism toward Bitcoin as a tradable asset and highlights the role of algorithmic trading.  Steve's published books are:The Pro Retail Trader: How to Generate Professional-level Returns as a Retail Traderhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Pro-Retail-Trader-Generate-Professional-level/dp/1804091375The Ruff Guide to Trading: Make Money in the Marketshttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Ruff-Guide-Trading-Money-Markets/dp/0857194003/ Steve's film choice was: Rocky IVhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Rocky-IV-Vs-Drago/dp/B09MNTHVQZSteve's Music choices where:Battleship Chain by The Georgia Satelliteshttps://open.spotify.com/track/0dJEQ01IPN4ukqRsPrm4abThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

Season 4 kicks off with Nick talking to friend of the show, Dr Daniel Daniel who runs the The Crypto Investing Program. Since the U.S. election in November  Bitcoin has experienced a significant bull run, with its price surging from approximately $69,000 on Election Day to over $100,000 by mid-January 2025. This upward trajectory is largely attributed to the election of President Donald Trump, who has expressed strong support for cryptocurrencies. His administration's pro-crypto stance, including plans to establish the U.S. as a "crypto capital" and the appointment of digital assets expert Paul Atkins as SEC Chair, has bolstered investor confidence. Nick and Daniel discuss the state of the cryptocurrency market in early 2025. Daniel attributes the current bull run to cyclical market patterns, the halving event, and President Trump's pro-crypto stance. He highlights Bitcoin's rise to over $100,000, predicts its peak around $150,000 during this cycle, and emphasizes its role as a store of generational wealth akin to gold. Daniel explains his preference for altcoins, which offer higher short-term returns, and shares insights into selecting promising projects using his "golden list." He also warns of the prevalence of scams in the crypto space and advises caution. The conversation touches on the potential impact of spot ETFs and the importance of timing in the volatile crypto market.  Daniel's Music choices where:Music by Madonnahttps://open.spotify.com/track/2fzykVsO2Di5jnofUNX3YE Bryan Adams Summer of 69https://open.spotify.com/track/0GONea6G2XdnHWjNZd6zt3Good Feeling Song by Flo Ridahttps://open.spotify.com/track/2LEF1A8DOZ9wRYikWgVlZ8This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Matt Timmins Matt was appointed to the FINTEL Board in May 2010 after joining in 2002, bringing extensive expertise in sales, marketing, and mergers and acquisitions. He has cultivated strong relationships with key distribution partners and holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Marketing from the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). With a background that includes various marketing roles at GE Capital, Misys, and DBS Financial Management, Matt combines deep industry knowledge with strategic leadership. Nick and Matt talk about Matt's career, how FINTEL grew out of SimpyBiz to becoming the UK's leading financial services platform.Matt's book choice where:Rich Dad Poor Dad: by Robert T. Kiyosaki https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rich-Dad-Poor-Teach-Middle/dp/1612680194Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey or the Audio Book ,Matt music choice's where:Urban Hymns - The Verve https://open.spotify.com/album/52AeC4gwbxDfFlLHgK1ByDOrinoco Flow (Sail Away) by Enyahttps://open.spotify.com/track/0Fyj9w0HVfjoxm9S8nGCltFix You by Coldplayhttps://open.spotify.com/track/7LVHVU3tWfcxj5aiPFEW4QThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Robbie BurnsRobbie has been a journalist and writer since earning his journalism degree from Harlow College in 1981. He began his career as a reporter and editor for various local newspapers before becoming editor of ITV and Channel 4's teletext services from 1988 to 1992. During this time, he also wrote ITV's daily teletext soap opera, Park Avenue, for five years.Afterward, Robbie transitioned to freelance journalism, contributing to newspapers such as The Independent and The Sun, and played a role in establishing CNN's financial news service. In 1997, he became editor of BSkyB's teletext services, where he launched their shares and finance section and developed entertainment phone lines, including a Buffy the Vampire Slayer hotline that earned him nearly £250,000.In 2001, Robbie left full-time employment to focus on share trading and running a London café, which he later sold for double his initial investment. While at BSkyB, he began broadcasting a diary of his share trades, which gained significant popularity and was later moved to his website, nakedtrader.co.uk. The site became one of the UK's most-read financial resources. Currently, Robbie writes a weekly column for ADVFN and conducts trading seminars featuring live market demonstrations. Since 2001, he has achieved tax-free trading gains exceeding £2.5 million, earning him a place among the UK's few ISA millionaires. His publicly shared trades alone have generated over £1.5 million in profits, showcasing his consistent success even during challenging market periods.Nick and Robbie talk about his career path to becoming the Naked Trader and his favoured stocks. The 6th edition of the Naked Trader is available here. Robbie's Book Choice:Rich Dad Poor Dad: by Robert T. KiyosakiRobbie's music choice's where:I'm Alive by Stretch & Vernhttps://open.spotify.com/track/5F9rZa65ePNd3HZFkavre7This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

Ed is the co-founder and CEO of the London Interdisciplinary School (LIS), a new university in east London that offers BASc and MASc which oriented around complex problems, not disciplines. In 2012 Ed co-founded School 21 in Stratford with Peter Hyman and Oli de Botton. In 2017 the first GCSE class achieved grades that placed them in the top 5% of the country for attainment, and the school was awarded an Outstanding Ofsted. In 2014 Ed led the launch of Voice 21 to raise the status of oracy in schools.  Ed has also advised the leaders of several education institutions including Cambridge University, LSE, Teach First, Teach for All, Ark Schools and Eton College, as well as over 30 other clients in the private sector and government. Previously Ed ran a theatre production company with the screenwriter Matt Charman and was a consultant at McKinsey & Co. He has served on the boards of Ashoka UK and Big Education.Nick and Ed talk about Ed's career and how Ed's see the future of education with the LIS. Ed's book choice where: The Entrepreneurial State by Mariana Mazzucatohttps://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/products/entrepreneurial-state-book-mariana-mazzucato-9780141986104The Rise of the Meritocracy by Michael Younghttps://www.abebooks.co.uk/servlet/BookDetailsPL?bi=32040280938&dest=gbrThe Road to Somewhere: The Populist Revolt and the Future of Politics by David Goodhart https://onlineshop.oxfam.org.uk/the-road-to-somewhere/product/HD_302420608?sku=HD_302420608 , Ed's music choice was: The Streets, Don't Mug Yourself https://open.spotify.com/track/2phF2CRhoSnpJUxxvHUf8ZThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Peter CurkWith over a decade of experience across multiple sectors, Pete has held diverse roles in executive management, customer experience, marketing, and business development. Currently serving as CEO of ICONOMI, previously leading Big Bang Slovenija as Customer Experience & eCommerce Director. Peter co-founded Dia-Vit Ltd, securing Series A funding, and consulted on digital marketing and sales strategy at Deloitte Slovenia. Earlier roles include interim CMO at GoOpti and COO at Renderspace, focusing on UX design and performance marketing, along with a 10-year tenure at A1 Slovenija d.d., enriching their foundation in business development and leadership. As the CEO of ICONOMI, ICONOMI is a digital asset management platform that enables users to easily manage, invest, and diversify in the world of cryptocurrencies. Founded with the mission to democratize access to the new economy, ICONOMI offers a user-friendly interface for both beginners and experienced investors to build and manage customized crypto portfolios. Through its platform, ICONOMI provides various digital asset management services, including a selection of pre-built crypto portfolios, allowing users to invest with ease and security. By bridging traditional and digital finance, ICONOMI empowers users to access and navigate the digital asset space effectively, making crypto investing more accessible, transparent, and manageable. Nick and Peter discuss ICONOMI, Crypto ETF's, legacy coding and blockchain and the wider crypto sector. Peter's book choice was: The Origin of Wealth by Eric Beinhockerhttps://onlineshop.oxfam.org.uk/the-origin-of-wealth-by-eric-beinhocker/product/HD_302173723?sku=HD_302173723Peter music choice was: Songs of Joy and Devotion by Depeche Modehttps://open.spotify.com/album/6x7S6u9Cx2S0JD48nPsavEThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Guy Gittins. Guy became CEO of Foxtons in September 2022, bringing with him extensive experience in the property sector and leadership roles. Prior to rejoining Foxtons, he served as CEO of Chestertons, a renowned London-based and international residential property firm. Guy's career began at Foxtons, where he worked until 2006 before taking on the role of Sales and Marketing Director for Peter de Savary. In 2010, he joined Savills and later moved to Chestertons in 2012, leading their flagship Chelsea office. In 2018, he was appointed CEO of ChestertonsNick and Guy discuss Guy's career journey and the evolution of Foxtons, from its founding by Jon Hunt to the present day. Guy's Book choice was How to Build a Car: The Autobiography of the World's Greatest Formula 1 Designer by Adrian Newey https://www.waterstones.com/book/how-to-build-a-car/adrian-newey/9780008196806Guy's music choice was - Move your body by Marshall Jeffersonhttps://open.spotify.com/track/3OrcEhLzxv1YX597jGjEI7This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Jeff Chatfield Jeff serves as the Executive Chairman of Avation PLC and played a pivotal role in its founding and development. Throughout his career, he has held management and directorial positions in various companies across sectors such as the airline industry, data distribution, electronics, investment, broadcasting, and manufacturing. He holds both a Bachelor of Engineering and a Master of Engineering Science from the University of Western Australia. Additionally, he is a graduate member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and a Fellow of the Singapore Institute of Directors. Nick and Jeff discuss Avation PLC and the wider aircraft lessor sector. This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to John RobertsJohn began his career as a waiter and kitchen salesman. In 2000, he founded Appliances Online after a friend bet him £1 to start a business. His entrepreneurial journey gained momentum when, in 2014, he led AO World's listing on the London Stock Exchange, which was valued at £1.2 billion at the time. John has stated that he built AO on his personal mottos: "treat every customer like your gran" and "make your mum proud." In 2021, he was ranked 30th in the Financial Times' list of the UK's Top 100 Entrepreneurs, and he has won multiple awards, including the This is Manchester Supernova Award and the Retail Week Retail Activist Award.Over the past year, John has become an advocate for restoring over £1 billion in lost youth infrastructure funding, reforming the Apprenticeship Levy, and exploring solutions for improving the care system for looked-after children. He has said that most of his earnings go to charity. Nick and John discuss his career path, the founding of AO.com and his philanthropy. John book choice was - Invention: A Life of Learning Through Failure, by James DysonJohn's music choice was - Don't Stop Me Now, by QueenThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talk's to Corero's CEO Carl HerbergerCarl oversees the business strategy and execution at Corero Network Security, a leading provider of DDoS protection solutions. Corero specialises in automatic detection and protection systems, offering network visibility, analytics, and reporting tools. The technology safeguards against both external and internal DDoS threats, particularly in complex edge and subscriber environments, ensuring continuous internet service availability. Corero operates from centres in Marlborough, Massachusetts, USA, and Edinburgh, UK, with its headquarters in London. The company is listed on the AIM market of the London Stock Exchange. Nick and Carl discuss the technology safeguard landscape along with Corero's core business. Carl's book choice's where: Man's Search For Meaning by Viktor E Franklhttps://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/viktor-e-frankl/man-s-search-for-meaning/9781844132393How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegiehttps://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/dale-carnegie/how-to-win-friends-and-influence-people/9780091906818Animal Farm by George Orwellhttps://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/george-orwell/animal-farm/9780141036137Built to Last by James Collinshttps://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/james-collins/built-to-last/9780712669689This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick talks to Christian Purcell, Co-Founder of DropPoint.Christian is the co-founder of DropPoint, a UK-based platform that helps individuals declutter by connecting them with local charitable causes seeking in-kind donations. Through its searchable directory, users can easily find grassroots projects and organizations in need of specific items, allowing them to donate unwanted goods and support their community. DropPoint aims to make the donation process simple and effective, encouraging people to give back in a meaningful way.Christian's earlier career includes various roles such as Project Manager and Carrier Analyst at wnDirect, Customer Service Advisor and Stock Controller at Arco Ltd, and Contract Administrator at Briggs Amasco Ltd. Christian also combines his role at DropPoint with working for parcelLab as senior technical business analyst.Nick and Christian discuss the formation of DropPoint.org, how it works and what the future holds.Christian's book choices were The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin and The Autobiography of Andrew Carnegie.This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

In this week's episode Nick talks to Stewart HallStewart Hall is the CEO and co-founder of Public Policy Holding Company (PPHC), a role he has held since 2014. He is also the co-founder and Chairman of Crossroads Strategies, LLC (CRS). Stewart began his career as Legislative Director to Senator Richard Shelby (R-AL) from 1992 to 1996, where he developed extensive expertise in defense policy, appropriations, financial services, and Senate procedures. In 1999, he entered the private sector by co-founding Federalist Group, LLC.Under Stewart's leadership, Federalist Group was acquired by Ogilvy Public Relations, a WPP company, in 2005. The company subsequently doubled in size over the next four years while he remained at the helm. In 2010, Stewart co-founded CRS, and in 2014, CRS was merged to create PPHC—an innovative organization that integrates multiple disciplines of the public policy sector into a single, multi-brand entity.As CEO of PPHC, Stewart has overseen the company's impressive growth, achieving a compound annual growth rate of over 30% annually through a combination of mergers, acquisitions, and organic expansion, and expanding the workforce to over 350 employees nationwide.Stewart holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of Alabama and both an MA and Ph.D. in Government from the University of Virginia.Nick and Stewart discuss Stewarts career and what the Public Policy Holding Company does. Stewart's book of choice was the The Federalist Papers. The Federalist Papers is a collection of 85 articles and essays written by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay under the collective pseudonym "Publius" to promote the ratification of the Constitution of the United States. https://guides.loc.gov/federalist-papers/full-textThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

In this week's episode Nick talks to Americo LemosAmerico Lemos joined IQE in January 2022, bringing with him extensive experience from his previous role on the executive team at GlobalFoundries, a leading semiconductor design and manufacturing company headquartered in New York. At GlobalFoundries, he served as the Senior Vice President of Business Development for Asia Pacific and China Country President, where he focused on enhancing the company's efficiency and growth in these vital regions. Prior to this, Lemos was the Senior Vice President at Qualcomm, overseeing its data center business. His career also includes a tenure as Vice President of Platform Engineering at Intel, where he led strategic partnerships with Chinese semiconductor companies from 2009 to 2015. Additionally, he has held senior positions at Texas Instruments, Quanta Computer in Taiwan, and Skyworks. Nick and Americo discuss his career and a deep dive intto the world of compound semi conductors.Americo's book choice was: Good To Great by Jim Collinshttps://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/jim-collins/good-to-great/9780712676090This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Martin Higginson, Founder & CEO Huddled Group plcMartin is a seasoned Technology, Media, and Telecoms (TMT) entrepreneur with a history of founding, selling, and listing multiple businesses. His entrepreneurial journey began in 1982 with the sale of his first business, a BMX magazine, to IPC Magazines. After three years with IPC, he established the publishing and telecoms company Megafone, which he later sold to Scottish Power plc. At Scottish Power, he became Managing Director of the Internet and Interactive division of Scottish Telecom, overseeing Demon Internet. Martin then founded Monstermob Group plc, which listed on AIM in 2003 and grew to a Top 50 AIM listed business with a market capitalisation of £192m before its sale to Zed Worldwide in 2006. He has since founded Cityblock plc, NetPlayTV plc, and Digitalbox plc, which was ranked as a FastTrack 100 Company in 2016 and 2017. Martin is now Founder and CEO of Huddled Group plc. Nick and Martin discuss his career to date,Martin's book choice was: Outliers by Malcolm Gladwellhttps://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/malcolm-gladwell/outliers/9780141036250This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Dr Daniel DanielDr Daniel Daniel has over 24 years in dentistry and a deep understanding of cryptocurrency. Daniel specialises in teaching busy professionals, like dentists, how to invest in crypto confidently. His journey started at Dalhousie University, where he developed a passion for math and finance before his Dentistry Degree and founding EMC Dental, initially focused on dentistry education. Lately Daniel's interest in crypto grew, and created The Crypto Investing Program, a one-week course designed to simplify crypto investment for busy professionals, making it accessible and profitable. In this episode Nick and Daniel discuss Daniel's career path and the pivot to crypto. They delve into the Bull-Run Method, a strategy for making significant crypto returns with just 10 minutes of daily effort and discuss why the upcoming six months could be the final bull run in crypto and how to capitalize on it. Daniel's book choices where:Chasing the Scream by Johann Harihttps://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/johann-hari/chasing-the-scream/9781408857823Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwellhttps://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/malcolm-gladwell/talking-to-strangers/9780141988498This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick talks to Magnus Houston. Magnus has diverse career background that spans professional motorcycle racing for Suzuki GB, where he competed in a support race to the World Superbikes, and self-taught creel fishing. He has founded and managed multiple seafood companies and has experience in the alternative investment sector. Additionally, Magnus is a graduate of MIT's Sloan School of Management.With Magnus' previous company, Fishbox, he digitized a traditional business model, creating a system with four times as many data collection points as Tesco Club Card Points. The real driver of subscription numbers was his comprehensive approach to marketing; handling every aspect of the process, from crafting the brand to creating aspirational videos, working with influencers, and managing social media posts.  Nick and Magnus talk about his extraordinary career to-date, including a serious accident in his motorcycle racing career that put him in a wheelchair, to then becoming a fisherman without any prior experience.Magnus' book choices where:The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers Hardcover by Ben Horowitz https://www.amazon.co.uk/Hard-Thing-About-Things-Building/dp/0062273205The Pyramid of Lies: Lex Greensill and the Billion-Dollar Scandal Hardcover by Duncan Mavin https://www.amazon.co.uk/Pyramid-Lies-Greensill-Billion-Dollar-Scandal/dp/1529088887The World for Sale by Javier Blashttps://www.wob.com/en-gb/books/javier-blas/world-for-sale/9781847942678This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Marc AdamsMarc Adams is the CEO of Acquisitions4you, a specialized business consultancy firm that focuses on facilitating mergers and acquisitions (M&A) for small to mid-sized companies. They provide end-to-end support throughout the acquisition process, ensuring that their clients achieve strategic growth objectives. The firm's services include identifying potential acquisition targets, conducting comprehensive due diligence, negotiating terms, and managing the integration process post-acquisition. By leveraging their extensive network and industry expertise, Acquisitions4you helps businesses navigate the complexities of M&A transactions, ensuring that both the financial and operational aspects are thoroughly addressed to maximize value and minimize risks.Before Acquisitions4you, Marc served as an Advisor at Flatworld Solutions, having significantly enhanced client profitability by outsourcing specialized tasks in financial service and insurance, creating over $100M in value. As a NED at JBTM Group, Marc achieved similar value creation through strategic growth and productivity improvements. As MD EMEA at RSA Security, Marc led a team to deliver $25M in software sales with significant year-over-year growth. Marc's tenure at Thomson Reuters involved turning around the EMEA business and expanding in emerging markets. Earlier roles include senior sales and engineering positions at Centennial Software, Clearswift, EMC Corporation, Sun Microsystems, Monotype, and Intersolve, where they consistently drove successful mergers and acquisitions, brand equity, and exit strategies.Nick and Mark talk about Marc's life and his career and focus on Marc's new book - Secrets to 10xing Your Business and Cashing Out Tax-Free, the book gives guidance on how you can reshape the destiny of your business with strategies proven to not only multiply its worth but also to ensure a lucrative exit when the time is ripe. They cover chapters from the book, Power of Digital Marketing and Tax-Free Selling: Preparing for the Exit.  Marc's book choices where -  Secrets to 10xing Your Business and Cashing Out Tax by Marc Adamshttps://www.amazon.co.uk/Secrets-10Xing-Your-Business-Tax-Free/dp/B0CRXPBB4TDotCom Secrets: The Underground Playbook for Growing Your Company Online by Russell Brunsonhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/DotCom-Secrets-Underground-Playbook-Growing/dp/1630474770This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to long time friend of the show, Hugh Hendry the Acid Capitalist.Hugh Hendry is a prominent investor and hedge fund manager, best known for founding Eclectica Asset Management. Hendry gained considerable attention for his contrarian investment style and outspoken personality. He began his career at Baillie Gifford before moving to Credit Suisse, where he honed his skills in asset management. Hendry's reputation for making bold, unconventional bets was solidified during the 2008 financial crisis when his fund profited significantly from positions that anticipated the market downturn. His ability to foresee economic shifts and his willingness to take high-stakes risks have marked him as a distinctive figure in the world of finance.Despite stepping back from active fund management, Hendry remains an influential voice in finance, leveraging his deep understanding of market dynamics and his contrarian mindset to provide a unique perspective on economic developments as the Acid Capitalist. Hugh guides Nick through a macroeconomic maze, exploring the markets, gold, the Kobayashi Maru test, Dollar/Yen, Euro/Dollar, the Federal Reserve, Japan's devaluation and yelling at Yelland plus where Hugh invests his money. Fancy a ACID CAPITALIST SUMMER CAMP MACRO RETREAT with Hugh? Click here for details. This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

In the 50th episode of A Different Perspective, Nick talks to Mark Sheppard. Mark is a certified chartered accountant with previous experience at Deloitte and ABN Amro Hoare Govett. He holds a degree in Economics from the University of Exeter and a BSc (Honours) in Computing & IT from the Open University.  Mark is the Co/Founder of Manchester and London Investment Trust. Manchester and London Investment Trust is a global equities fund with a bias towards blue chip, high quality, global, growth stocks that are primarily developed market listed.In this episode, Nick and Mark explore the transition from human labour to automation and all aspects of AI. Leveraging Mark's expertise in computing, he guides the conversation beyond the usual news headlines, providing deep insights into the stages of the Ai landscape and its effects. Mark says we need to pay attention, the world changes when we sleep. Mark's book choices were Investing with Keynes: How the World's Greatest Economist Overturned Conventional Wisdom and Made a Fortune on the Stock Market by Justyn Walsh and The World without Work by Daniel Susskind.This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

Brian R. Cook is a seasoned entrepreneur with nearly three decades of experience, having launched close to 200 locations for various boutique fitness brands. He holds a B.S. in exercise physiology from Northeastern University and an M.B.A. from Babson College. His latest venture is StretchMed, a franchise specialising in 1-on-1 stretching sessions, which he established in November 2019. StretchMed now operates over 20 locations across five states, focusing on relieving chronic pain, enhancing mobility, rejuvenating the body, and promoting better movement.Outside of work, Brian, a former hockey player, divides his time between Boston and Puerto Rico and enjoys boating.Brian and Nick discuss Brian's career and work in the fitness space. Brian's book choices where - E-Myth Mastery by Michael E. Gerber, Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki and Sharon Lechter and Good to Great by Jim Collins.This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

In this week's episode Nick talks to Houman AshrafzadehHouman is a serial entrepreneur with diverse experiences in business, finance, and management consulting, Houman has developed a unique skill set and a problem-solving approach to business challenges. Houman has current roles as Co-Founder of Urban Greens and CEO & Founder of Padium. Nick and Houman discuss his career start moving from Sweden to London to study and Houman's move into finance and brokering. Houman later found that he needed to strike out on his own setting up his brokerage firm 360 in 2013.  Now in 2024 Houman partners in Urban Greens, a salad bar franchise, with 4 locations across London. Recently, Houman launched Padium, a pay and play club for padel in Canary Wharf. Padel was invented in the 1960s in Mexico and is a racquet game that combines the tennis scoring system with the tactical ricochet shots of squash.Houman's book choice was The Lean Startup: How Constant Innovation Creates Radically Successful Businesses by Eric Ries. This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

Giles and his brother Nick co-founded the Bremont Watch Company in 2002, specialising in the creation of luxury mechanical watches. As one of the select British watch manufacturers,  Bremont was, in 2008, awarded the title of Best British Emerging Luxury Brand. By 2009, Bremont's reputation for crafting classic aviation-inspired watches propelled them to become the 20th largest chronometer manufacturer globally, reflecting the growing demand for our distinctive designs. Last year Giles and Nick sold a stake to the US hedge fund manager Bill Ackman. Nick and Giles delve into Giles' early business ventures, highlighting his passion for flying. They recount Giles' initial foray into the financial sector, followed by the bold move of reviving a struggling aircraft business alongside his brother, Nick. The brothers' early involvement in an internet business, which concluded with a successful exit, paved the way for them to establish Bremont. This venture was deeply rooted in their lifelong fascination with clocks, watches, and timepieces, a passion inherited from their father, whose tragic death in an aircraft accident served as a poignant inspiration.  Giles book choice was Gipsy Moth Circles the World by Francis Chichester. This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick talks to Judith Batchelar OBE. Judith Batchelar OBE is a distinguished figure with over 35 years of experience in the food and drink industry. Her career began in manufacturing before she transitioned into retail, working at Marks and Spencer. From 2004 to 2021, she was pivotal at Sainsbury's as the Director of Sainsbury's Brand, overseeing all aspects of the company's product offerings, including policy formation on ethical and sourcing issues, product technology, development, safety, and packaging, as well as corporate responsibility and public affairs. Batchelar's academic background includes being a biochemist and nutritionist, holding an Honorary Doctorate in Agriculture from Harper Adams University, and affiliations as a Fellow of the Institute of Food Science and Technology and the Royal Society of Arts and Manufacturers​​​​.Nick and Judith discuss Judith's career in the food industry, Judith's passion for food and dietary improvements and the reduction in ultra processed foods. Judith also looks at how the UK needs to adapt for climate change and the effect on our food production, and finally the recent IPO of Micrsosalt, of which Judith is chair. Judith's favourite book choices were: Finding the Mother Tree by Suzanne Simard, The 7 Habits Of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey and Remarkable Creatures by Tracy Chevalier.This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick Searle talks to Sid Lall, Fund Manager.After joining Giles Hargreave in 2007 to work on the Marlborough Special Situations Fund, Sid was instrumental in the design and launch of the Marlborough Multi Cap Income Fund in 2011 and has remained its lead manager. The Marlborough Multi Cap Income Fund was the first among their funds to surpass £1bn in assets under management (AUM) for both Marlborough and Hargreave Hale. Hargreave Hale was acquired by Canaccord Genuity in 2017. It was ranked at the top of its peer group in 2013 and in the top quartile for total returns over 1, 3, 5, and 10 years by the end of 2021. Sid's expertise has primarily been in small to mid-cap stocks, but it has expanded from UK small mid cap income to leverage his original expertise in European small mid cap (at DSP) and build on global equities, which are also held in the non-qualifying quota within the Marlborough Multi Cap Income Fund.Nick and Sid talk about Sid's life and career journey from growing up in Calcutta to leaving India for the UK, with scholarship under Lord Inchcape.  Study at Edinburgh University and his first steps into business and finance, working with Giles Hargreave and what makes a good company stock to invest in. Sid's book choices were Maestro: Greenspan's Fed and the American Boom, The Contender - The Story of Marlon Brando by William J. Mann, My Name is Barbra by Barbra Streisand and Hedgehogging by Barton Biggs. This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to Zeke Faux, Investigative Reporter and Author. Zeke Faux is an investigative reporter for Bloomberg and author of the 2023 book "Number Go Up: Inside Crypto's Wild Rise and Staggering Fall". The book examines the wild characters of the cryptocurrency world. Nick and Zeke discuss the downfall of the FTX exchange in 2022 led by Sam Bankman-Fried, purchasing a Bored Ape Yacht Club NFT, Jean Chalopin the co-creator of Inspector Gadget and his role in the Tether story as well as touch on the darker side of crypto.Zeke's book choice was The Lost City of Z by Davin Grann.This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

In this week's episode Nick talks to friend of the show Hugh Hendry.Nick and Hugh talk through Hugh's thoughts on the outlook for 2024 and go on a macro Acid Capitalist trip along the way. They discuss when will the Fed cut interest rates, the 1970s and Hugh's white paper on the parallels between the monetary landscape and the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, suggesting that attempts by central banks to control economic temperature may lead to unintended consequences. They also cover Hugh's view of Japan, Greyscale, Bitcoin and the price of Gold. Hugh also discusses arguing with his 'AI version of himself'. Nick's book suggestion is The Creative Act by Rick RubinThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick speaks to Mark Mills, Entrepreneur and Advisor.Mark is an Advisor who has built and sold businesses throughout his career. Mark set out to build and exit Cardpoint plc which he grew from a start-up in 2000 to revenues of £100m annually in 2006 with resulting EBITDA of £19.8m in that financial year. Mark's expertise is derived from his own experiences and since 2007, Mark has been applying his unique process to other businesses and helping the owners to exit.Recognizing common denominators of successful businesses, Mark emphasizes the importance of great customers, suppliers, teams, and stakeholders. With an entrepreneurial spirit deeply rooted in his DNA, Mark has served as the Founder and Chairman of www.mark.co.uk since August 2013.In this episode, Nick and Mark discuss how Mark started in business, his journey, his business principles and how he aids business owners in preparing for sale and maximizing capital value upon exit.Mark's book choice was Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! by Robert T. Kiyosaki.This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick speaks to Graeme Carling, Chairman & Co-Founder of The Carling Group.Graeme is a notable entrepreneur, with a reputation for successfully negotiating deals in his own inimitable style: bold, direct, and uncompromising. He has decades of experience in bringing together fragmented markets and successfully negotiating high-value deals.  In 2019 Graeme, as CEO of investment company United Capital, began acquiring multiple businesses in the UK building services sector, growing group turnover to £40 million. With Graeme leading his expert team, United Capital continues to make significant acquisitions, with a potential acquisition pipeline value of over £1 billion.Nick and Graeme discuss Graeme's business journey, The Carling Group's portfolio at present and some of the sectors that interest Graeme.Graeme's book choices were - Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not! by Robert T. Kiyosaki and three books by Steven Pressfield - Do The Work, Turning Pro and War of Art.This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick speaks to Edwin Brenninkmeyer, CEO of Oriens Aviation.Edwin is founder and CEO of Oriens Aviation, an exclusive distributor for Pilatus and Tecnam aircraft in the British Isles. The company, as the Authorized Centre for Pilatus and Tecnam aircraft, is dedicated to providing a comprehensive suite of services for private aircraft owners and operators.Edwin comes from a family business background, holding an MBA from Oxford University, where he specialized in business aviation and airport operating models. Edwin leverages this knowledge, coupled with his aviation venture capital experience, to form a consultancy focused on advising on the commercial aspects of aviation in Europe. His continued investments span both aviation and non-aviation businesses.In their conversation, Nick and Edwin delve into the intricacies of Oriens, exploring the private aircraft sector and the dynamics of running an aviation business with an ethical value chain. Edwin shares insights on how he envisions new technologies shaping the future of aviation and covers all you need to know in chartering or owning an aircraft.Edwin book choice was Reach for the Sky by Paul Brickhill.Find out more about Oriens Aviation here. https://www.oriensaviation.com/zeus/This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick speaks to Swen Lorenz, CEO & Founder of Sarnia Asset Management, a fund manager based in Guernsey, Channel Islands.  Sarnia Asset Management is in the process of launching several high-performing niche funds in public equity. Swen has a 25-year track record start-ups, turnarounds, fund management and also runs an investment website and blog, Undervalued Shares. Nick and Swen discuss Swen's background, becoming editor-in-chief of a well-respected German investment publication at only twenty one, travel, philanthropic ventures, and the evolution of Undervalued Shares. They discuss that Swen is in the process of launching a formal offer to buy the Sark real estate portfolio owned by Alistair Barclay, the heir of Sir David Barclay. If a transaction does take place, the Sark Property Company that Swen set up together with the Seigneur of Sark will own 20% of the surface area of Sark with a portfolio of residential, commercial and hotel properties. This company would then also aim to go public in London in 2025. Swen's book choice was The Hard Thing About Hard Things: Building a Business When There Are No Easy Answers by Ben Horowitz.This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick talks to Anthony Chow, Co-Founder of Agronomics. Anthony co-founded Argonomics in 2018 alongside author, entrepreneur and investor, Jim Mellon. Agronomics is the leading London listed company in the field of cellular agriculture. Cellular agriculture is the production of agriculture products directly from cell cultures that would have otherwise been derived from traditional agriculture methods. Nick and Anthony discuss cellular agriculture, looking at some of Anthony's key investments and discussing what the sector will look like in the next 5-10 years. Anthony's book choice was Material World: A Substantial Story of Our Past and Future by Ed Conway This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick talks to Richard Mulholland, Founder of Missing Link. Richard founded Missing Link in 1997, after a career as a rock n' roll roadie, operating lights for legendary bands including Def Leppard and Iron Maiden. Richard is an expert in persuasive communication and is a global keynote speaker, talking across the world on subjects such as strategy, leadership and sales. Richard and Nick discuss the changing world of presentations, human connection and communication, tools to communicate persuasively and how to inspire action.  Richard has written three books: Legacide, Boredom Slayer, and Be Here Dragons. His other book choices were - Selling the Invisible by Harry Beckwith, Your Business Brickyard: Getting back to the basics by Howard Mann and Profit First by Mike Michalowicz.This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick talks to Stephen Julius, Entrepreneur & Investor. Stephen Julius is an entrepreneur and investor focusing on acquiring controlling stakes in bankrupt or distressed, luxury consumer brands, mainly in the power sport industry, and then re-launching the companies. With a love for iconic, product brands, a passion for design, and an interest in fostering craftsmanship within a manufacturing environment.Stephen has brought the following brands back to life: Chris-Craft Corporation, Riva Yachts and Indian Motorcycle Company. Stephen and Nick discuss Stephen's background in a Benedictine Monastery and starting out at The Boston Consulting Group. They talk about Stephen's career, starting with his first investment in Italy, his investment strategy and key lessons learnt throughout his career.  Stephen's book choices were The Odyssey by Homer and La Serenissima: The Story of Venice by Jonathan KeatesThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed, within constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick talks to Emily Williams, Co-Founder of IW Aviation. Formerly Board Sales Director at NetJets Europe, Emily has spent a decade advising HNWs and globally recognised corporations on their aviation needs. Her detailed knowledge of the industry includes operations and manufacturers, having built-up vast experience in strategy planning and long-term business analytics for her clients. Emily and Nick discuss her background and career, starting out in Ogilvy & Mather and joining NetJets shortly after the merger with Marquis Jet Europe. They talk about what it's like to work with Warren Buffet and other visionary leaders, her ten-year career at NetJets, and the journey of founding and building her business. In 2015 Emily joined forces with her former NetJets colleague, Nicolas Imrie, and they founded IW Aviation.Emily's book choice was Untamed: Stop Pleasing, Start Living by Glennon Doyle.This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick talks to Bob Holt OBE, acclaimed business leader and philanthropist.Bob Holt, former Director of Mears Group, built the company from a minnow to a market leader. He has since taken his significant experience to several other company boards. Seen as a no-nonsense hands-on achiever with significant experience at Board level, Bob recently turned around Revolution Beauty.Nick and Bob discuss Bob's start in Oldham in the family's greengrocers to being Tottenham Hotspur's CEO among many other leadership roles in his career. Bob also discusses his philanthropic pursuits as the founder of The Mears Foundation, The Footprints Foundation and The Holt Trust.Bob's book recommendations were the works of Tom Bower.This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick talks to Andy Lee, Founder and CIO of Parallaxes Capital. Andy founded Parallaxes Capital in 2017. Previously, he was with Lone Star Funds, focused on investing in the Americas. He began his career at Citigroup. Andy graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign with a Masters in Accountancy and a Bachelors in Finance and Accountancy. Nick and Andy discuss Andy's background, founding Parallaxes Capital to invest in Tax Receivable Agreements (TRAs), strategy and case studies for TRAs. Andy's book choice was The Five Secrets of a Sales C.O.A.C.H. by Hilmon Sorey and Cory Bray. This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick talks to promotional merchandise entrepreneur, Martin Varley. Martin has founded several businesses within the promotional merchandise industry and has extensive knowledge of supply and distribution in the sector. Martin left school at fifteen and worked as a photo journalist before embarking upon his entrepreneurial journey. He started his first promotional product company, which he grew and sold to Bemrose Corporation Plc. Whilst working with Bemrose, Martin launched 4imprint, which is now a UK Plc with a £1.3bn market cap. Martin then went on to found Galileo Innovation and Corporate Solutions, and following a series of deals, he created Altitude Group, serving as CEO from 2005 to 2017, before becoming a NED. His latest project is Merchr.com, a content monetisation platform that gives brands, influencers, musicians, sportspeople, attractions, charities, schools, entrepreneurs, and more, a unique opportunity to create their own merch collection with no inventory, no risk and a 24-hour shipping guarantee. Nick and Martin discuss Martin's background and upbringing, the importance of building trust in sales, investing in your team and Martin's passion for aviation. As always, Nick and Martin discuss Martin's book recommendations: Good To Great by Jim Collins and from Odyssey by John SculleyThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week, Nick speaks to serial technology entrepreneur and author, Michael Tobin OBE.With over 30 years' experience in the telecoms and technology sector, Michael is the former CEO of Telecity. Michael built Telecity from a £6m market cap to a £2.6bn business.Michael has since founded Tobin Ventures, and holds multiple NED and Chairman roles with progressive businesses in the datacentre and technology industries. Michael is also Chairman of Audioboom.Nick and Michael discuss Michael's upbringing, his route to becoming CEO of Telecity, his management of several successful exit strategies, and his maverick management techniques.Michael's book choice was 2001: A Space Odyssey by Arthur C Clarke and his latest book is out now -  A Perfect Storm: How to thrive in an uncertain and ever-changing world.This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

This week Nick talks to James Ashton, an author and CEO of the Quoted Companies Alliance. James has been a financial journalist for over 20 years was City Editor and Executive Editor at the Evening Standard, and has also worked at Reuters and the Sunday Times. James is also the CEO of the Quoted Companies Alliance (QCA), which is an enabling, principles-based, corporate governance code for companies focused on growth. James is also an accomplished author, and his third book The Everything Blueprint: The Microchip Design that Changed the World tells the story of UK's technology success ARM. Nick and James discuss James' background, and what drove him to join Fleet Street, joining the QCA, perceptions of public markets and what needs to change to keep UK Capital Markets relevant on the international stage. James also discussed the process of writing his latest book and the high-tech, international story of ARM. James' book choices where Philip Agur's The Bank That Lived a Little - Barclays in the Age of the Very Free Market and Empire of Pain: The Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty by Patrick Radden Keefe. This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

With Nick this week is Harris 'Kuppy' Kupperman, Founder & Chief Investment Officer of Praetorian Capital Fund LLC. Harris Kupperman is a renowned investment manager who specializes in leveraging changing trends to guide stock selection and Event-Driven strategies. He is the founder of Praetorian Capital Management LLC and actively shares his investment process and insights on his blog, Kuppy's Korner. He is also a contributor to www.KEDM.com, a newsletter focused on Event-Driven investing. In addition, Mr. Kupperman holds the positions of Chairman and CEO at Mongolia Growth Group (YAK: Canada and MNGGF: USA), a publicly traded company, which provides him with a unique perspective as both an operator and financier.Kuppy's book choice was The First Tycoon by T.J. StilesThis content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

Listen to last week's live recording of A Different Perspective podcast, featuring host Nick Searle with guests, macro trading legends Hugh Hendry and Barry Norris. This episode was recorded in front of a live audience at St Ethelburga's in the City of London on 21st' June.Nick, Hugh and Barry discussed the rate rise dilemma faced by the FED and Bank of England and what needs to break, are we over peak ESG and what is the future for active fund management.Hugh was previously at Baillie Gifford and Odey Asset Management, and his Eclectica macro hedge fund was famously up 50% in 2003 and up 50% in the month of October in 2008, earning him a reputation as a contrarian investor. Barry Norris is the Founder of Argonaut Capital, an equity fund management company based in London. Barry is the Fund Manager of the Argonaut Absolute Return Fund, a leading equity long/short fund, managed using contrarian top-down macro views and a bottom-up “earnings surprise” stock-picking process. He also writes the widely followed “Argonautica” blog and creates Argonaut's distinct “Stockumentary” videos.Hugh Hendry is a hedge fund manager and podcast host. This content is issued by Zeus Capital Limited (“Zeus”) (Incorporated in England & Wales No. 4417845), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”) for designated investment business, (Reg No. 224621) and is a member firm of the London Stock Exchange. This content is for information purposes only and neither the information contained, nor the opinions expressed within, constitute or are to be construed as an offer or a solicitation of an offer to buy or sell the securities or other instruments mentioned in it. Zeus shall not be liable for any direct or indirect damages, including lost profits arising in any way from the information contained in this material. This material is for the use of intended recipients only.

Join us for a live recording of Zeus' popular podcast, A Different Perspective, hosted by Nick Searle, featuring special guests, Hugh Hendry and Barry Norris. - Wed, 21 Jun 2023 18:00 - 21:00  Barry Norris is the Founder of Argonaut Capital, an equity fund management company based in London. Barry is the Fund Manager of the Argonaut Absolute Return Fund, a leading equity long/short fund, managed using contrarian top-down macro views and a bottom-up “earnings surprise” stock-picking process. He also writes the widely followed “Argonautica” blog and creates Argonaut's distinct “Stockumentary” videos.Hugh Hendry is a hedge fund manager and podcast host. Hugh was previously at Baillie Gifford and Odey Asset Management, and his Eclectica macro hedge fund was famously up 50% in 2003 and up 50% in the month of October in 2008, earning him a reputation as a contrarian investor.