Welcome to Sustainable Grace, a Catholic Investment Services podcast. As a non-profit investment manager, our team has always been focused on being a champion to the non-profit institutions and board members we serve. We are excited to launch Sustainable Grace, which will be an insightful conversation, and another resource we provide through the CIS Institute. Sustainable Grace will explore the latest capital market and investing ideas, through our Manager in Focus series, we’ll also discuss best practice ideas including board & committee governance, advancement and stewardship, as well as endowment management; in our Principles in Focus segments, additionally we’ll feature some of the amazing ministry of the non-profit institutions we serve and ways for the Catholic community to get involved; part of our Mission in Focus series. Our Institute has always served as a resource for many, Sustainable Grace will be a great addition and continue to provide insight through plain English conversations from industry professionals and those who have traveled the path before.
This virtual coffee hour features Scott Malpass (CIS Co-Founder and Former CIO of the University of Notre Dame) Ed Grefenstette (President & CIO, The Dietrich Foundation), and Adam Berger (Senior Managing Director, Multi-Asset Strategist, and Portfolio Manager, Wellington Management) as they discuss the markets, outlook, and emerging opportunities. The information in this Communication is provided herein is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer or a solicitation to buy, hold, or sell an interest in any CIS Fund offering. Alternative investments in private equity and hedge funds are subject to substantial risks including the potential loss of principal. Fund interests are illiquid and should be considered speculative investments. Investors are encouraged to read the offerings documents for the fund offerings discussed in this presentation carefully before investing. All data is sourced to Catholic Investment Services or other third-party sources and compiled by Catholic Investment Services. Information contained herein that has been obtained from third parties is believed to be reliable for the purposes for which it is used herein. Opinions and general information provided herein, including guest speaker(s), are current to the date of this presentation and are subject to change without notice. There can be no guarantee that the funds will achieve their investment objectives. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Financial forecasts and investment returns in this letter may significantly differ from actual results. Certain information contained in this report constitutes “forward-looking statements,” which can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “target,” “project,” “estimate,” “intend,” “continue” or “believe,” or the negatives thereof or other variations thereon or comparable terminology. Furthermore, any projections or other estimates in this report, including estimates of returns or performance, are “forward-looking statements” and are based upon certain assumptions that may change. Due to various risks and uncertainties, actual events or results or the actual performance of the funds may differ materially from those reflected or contemplated in such forward-looking statements. Moreover, actual events are difficult to project and often depend upon factors that are beyond the control of the general partner of the relevant fund and its affiliates. © 2025 Catholic Investment Services (CIS), a registered investment advisor, and all rights reserved. Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/
This podcast features Jack Brennan (Founding Chair, CIS and Chairman Emeritus, The Vanguard Group) and Joseph H. Davis, Ph.D. (Global Chief Economist and Global Head of the Investment Strategy Group, The Vanguard Group), as they provide insights on the macro and micro outlook for the new year, capital market trends, investment challenges, risks, and best practices for institutional investing. Highlights Discussion on AI's impact on the global economy. Tariffs and their economic implications. Immigration's impact on labor force and economy. Concerns over structural deficits and bond yields. The value of diversification in global portfolios. Potential productivity growth from AI. The transformative potential of AI in various sectors. Predicted economic outcomes of AI integration. Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/
In this podcast, Paulita Pike, CIS Trustee and Managing Partner of Ropes & Gray, moderates a panel from our 2024 Symposium on What Keeps Us Up At Night. Panelists include Adam Berger, Senior Managing Director, Multi-Asset Strategist and Portfolio Manager at Wellington Management, Michelle Knight, CEO & Chief Economist at Ropes Wealth Partners, and Paul Schott Stevens, CIS Trustee and Retired CEO of the Investment Company Institute. Highlights Interest rates and their impact on the economy. Discussion on role and independence of the Federal Reserve. Concerns over fiscal spending and budget deficit. Geopolitical risks and inflation concerns. Rising government debt and impact on future generations. Discussion on budget deficit and fiscal responsibility. Inflation and its effect on income inequality. Evaluation of equity valuations and potential bubbles. The complexities of AI and its contrasting impact. Personal story on AI's positive impact in healthcare. The need for thoughtful regulation of AI. Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/
In this keynote, Juhi Dhawan, Senior Managing Director, Partner and Macro Strategist at Wellington Management Company, discusses the optimism surrounding the US Economy's productivity trends as well as its debt. Highlights Face-off between productivity and debt Fed's interest rate cut after four-and-a-half years Uneven U.S. economic expansion Election impact on U.S. economy Productivity trends and cost-cutting Immigration and its economic implications Importance of productivity in a tight labor market Long-term effects of AI adoption Industrial policy and U.S.–China relations Fiscal deficit concerns and election impact Risks of higher real interest rates Commercial real estate and interest rates Inflation risk and Fed policy balance Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/
This podcast features CIS Co-Founder and Chairman Emeritus of The Vanguard Group, Jack Brennan, and Ruchir Sharma, Chairman of Rockefeller International and Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Breakout Capital. The panelists discuss Ruchir Sharma's book titled: What Went Wrong with Capitalism. Highlights Survey reveals young Americans favor socialism. Early American financial bailouts began in 1984. Regulation and risk-taking in financial sectors. The paradox of productivity amidst technological boom. Housing affordability as a generational issue. Impact of regulations on business dynamics. Capitalism's role in fostering economic freedom. Major themes of capitalism addressed. Continual cycles and potential market corrections. Rising prominence of private markets. Investor's role in capitalism's future. Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/
In this podcast, the panel discusses developments since the release of Mensuram Bonam a year ago. This webinar features CIS Board Chair and Founder Scott Malpass, Bernard Brenninkmeijer, Chairman of Porticus North America and a leading Catholic investor and philanthropist, Fr. Séamus Finn, OMI, Director of the Oblates' US Province Office of Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation, and Katie McCloskey, Vice President of Social Responsibility, Mercy Investment Services. The panel also discusses outcomes from the recent Mensuram Bonam Faith Consistent Investment Conference sponsored by the Vatican, where all panelists above participated as speakers. Highlights Development of Mensuram Bonam and its goals The diverse regional perspectives and debates during the document's creation Mensuram Bonam's progression beyond USCCB guidelines and its wider application towards global perspectives How investor engagement strategies underpin impact Encouragement for smaller Catholic organizations to engage in dialogue about their investments in light of Monsurum Bonham How Mensuram Bonam and various Bishops Conferences address private capital and alternatives investing in terms of social responsibility The increasing interest among various faith-groups in integrating their faith and values into their financial and business operations Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/
In this session, Catholic Investment Services' CEO, Tom Lanctot, leads a panel discussion on aligning Catholic values with investment success. He is joined by Matt Rozyczka, CIO at Duquesne University, Tom Skiba, Investment Committee Chair for the Diocese of Fort Wayne South Bend, and Sister Suzanne Brennan, CSC, Councilor of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Holy Cross. Highlights The USCCB guidelines as a floor and hopes they could be updated in the future to address the needs more aggressively Predictions about investing aligning with Laudato Si' in the future are optimistic, despite challenges presented by student-led campaigns against investments in fossil fuels The challenges of addressing issues like labor and healthcare in emerging markets The quality of the investment committee in Fort Wayne-South Bend Diocese American companies are making efforts to align with the guidelines of saving the planet, which can be a lucrative investment opportunity The dignity of work while balancing the disruptive influence of technology. Politicization and monetization of SRI or ESG and the importance of maintaining core values and letting the market drive the process The importance of leveraging the power of unity in the Catholic Church to affect positive social change Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/
Economic strain across many factors has continued to create challenges for Catholic institutions who seek to grow their endowments so that they may sustain their vital ministries. Please join us for a wide-ranging discussion focusing on the macro and micro environment and outlook for the new year. This webinar will feature Jack Brennan, CIS Founding Chair & Chairman Emeritus, The Vanguard Group, and Joe Davis, Vanguard's global chief economist and global head of the Investment Strategy Group, as they assess the current state of the capital markets, highlight investment challenges and risks, and share best practice ideas on institutional investment themes. Joe will also touch on his new book titled “Megatrends”, which demonstrates how AI, debt, demographics and deglobalization may impact the economy and markets in the coming decade. Highlights Recent economic headlines concerning short-term and long-term economic forecasts Market reactions to rising interest rates on both the short and long end of the curve The importance of thinking in real return terms when considering investment portfolios for long-term returns Views on inflation due to the concerns it raises both organizationally and in investment portfolios How geopolitics factor into forecasts and advice to clients The value of risk management and considering a range of outcomes Slow moving trends that affect the economy and financial markets The major driving factors in future growth The role of diversification in investment portfolios and long-term planning Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/
In this podcast, we highlight ten common pitfalls of building a Catholic foundation and how to address them. This is a continuation of our previous podcast, on Strengthening and Structuring Catholic Foundations and Trusts. In this session, you will hear from Catholic fiduciaries and industry experts sharing practical advice on the ten most common mistakes to avoid when building a Catholic foundation, and offering best practice solutions. Highlights Governance principles related to establishing and growing a Catholic foundation The importance of having adequate staffing in a foundation Why there should be clear communication between the foundation and the diocese Making grants to mission dioceses and the importance of not amassing large endowments at the expense of a mission The difference between the roles of the individuals responsible for building and managing a foundation How the commingling of assets and confusion of assets between foundations and the archdiocese can lead to gifts being allocated improperly or applied incorrectly The importance of understanding your investments Treating endowments as rainy day funds The importance of the small details in running the foundation Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/
In this podcast, Zela Astarjian, Managing Director at CIS, joins Sister Barbara Thomas of the United States Province of the Apostles of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Katie Thiemann of Cor Jesu Academy, and Sister Irene O'Neill of Sisters Rising Worldwide to discuss incorporating a culture of philanthropy in your religious community. More and more, Catholic institutions are making advancement a priority. The reason: Without a strong advancement program, some organizations may struggle or fail in the decades ahead due to shifting demographics and donation practices among Catholics nationally. This will be an educational workshop and will cover essentials such as enhancing financial management practices, creating an advancement function, making fundraising more strategic and building a strong endowment. The discussion will examine how religious orders can secure their futures by implementing best practices for board and committee governance. Highlights The aim of the session is to demystify fundraising with real-life examples on how to improve fundraising efforts Katie's personal experience where a major donor initially said no, but later came back with a heavy donation Sister Barbara's experience of shifting from school administration to fundraising, and how the needs of a province drive the fundraising activities The need for donations to support the home for the sisters, a responsibility handled by the fundraisers The importance of asking for a specific number when fundraising because it is statistically more effective Establishing a board instead of an advisory committee due to the major responsibility and commitment board members accept The initial challenges and eventual success of a dinner event Sister Barbara organized featuring Cardinal Dolan as the speaker The centerpieces at the tables which contained pictures of young individuals associated with their ministries and a quote about their life experiences The story of one of the sisters who actively engaged with attendees, just by getting them to sign in a visitors' book Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/
In this podcast, you will hear about AI and the future ahead. AI has recently taken the world by storm. Its groundbreaking capabilities are being used for customer service, generating more reliable credit scores, enabling trading and money management, regulatory compliance, security and fraud prevention, and more. This dynamic discussion features Jack Brennan (CIS Founding Chair & Chairman Emeritus, The Vanguard Group), John Behrens (Director, Office of Digital Strategy, College of Arts & Letters at University of Notre Dame), Brian Barbetta (Wellington Management Global Industry Analyst), and Shelley Zhuang (Founder and Managing Partner at 11.2 Capital). Highlights Overview of Catholic Investment Services and its mission Who are the panelists: Jack Brennan, Brian Barbetta, John Behrens, and Shelley Zhuang What AI is and its various aspects Specifics of generative AI and its use in text, images, video, and sound The imperfection of the systems: Current limitations of AI systems, common mistakes, and improvements anticipated in the future The reliability of artificial intelligence Practical uses of AI Emerging businesses and opportunities that are being developed surrounding generative AI The reliance of AI behavior on the data type and access, with changing policies concerning data access from platforms like Twitter, GitHub, Stack Overflow, and Reddit The possibilities for malicious use and misuse of AI Legal issues related to the ownership of AI-generated inputs and outputs Raising the issue of AI's impact on the environment due to the power consumption of data centers and the energy requirements of AI operations Nascent stage of AI development and the opportunities that lie ahead Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/
In this session, Scott Malpass, Founder & Board Chair, Catholic Investment Services, leads a panel discussion on the role of global equities in institutional portfolio construction. Equity practitioners discuss their investment philosophy, research process and idea generation for stock selection. Highlights The scalability of stock markets and real estate markets compared to private markets How to find companies worthy of a large position in the portfolio Understanding sustainable competitive advantage, looking at sectors with secular tailwinds and confirming good capital allocation The growth versus value debate Using past research and understanding of a business to act quickly when market opportunities arise An analysis of short-term and long-term perspectives of global equity markets Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/
In this podcast, as part of our Principles in Focus series, you will hear from Catholic fiduciaries and industry experts sharing practical advice on forming, structuring, and strengthening Catholic foundations and trusts. Highlights The purpose and mission of a foundation Importance of a mission-driven foundation to avoid mission drift Pros and cons of different foundation models Importance of an audit committee in a foundation How to have a more robust committee structure for larger boards Importance of clear exit plans for board members in bylaws Being reactive and focused on a specialization within the foundation Two pitfalls to avoid with foundations Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/
In this podcast, Jack Brennan, CIS Co-Founder & Founding Board Chair, leads a discussion on managing institutional investment portfolios for the long-term. The panelists offer insight on working with varying constituent groups for Catholic institutions, guidance on decision making for committees during periods of stress, and other best practice concepts for boards to consider. Highlights The challenge of managing long-term portfolios in a short-term world Staying focused on long-term goals in the midst of short-term noise Maintaining focus on end beneficiaries and having a clear investment strategy Challenges committees face when focusing on long-term goals The importance of stress testing portfolios and setting realistic expectations Using absolute returns as a benchmark for portfolios rather than relative comparisons The difficult decision-making process of terminating a manager relationship The importance of global diversification and selecting stocks from emerging markets with compelling valuations Increased dispersion as a theme for the next 10 years, leading to a shift towards active management and hedge funds The consensus on the direction of long-term strategies between panel members How diversification still works, despite recent underperformance Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ Connect with Jack Brennan https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/jack-brennan/
In this podcast, Tim Connors, Founder of PivotNorth Capital, leads a panel discussion on how to define impact investing with focus on additionality and intentionality, while offering guidance on identifying companies and management teams with strong mission & alignment, the use of impact measurement tools, and concessionary vs. market rate returns. Highlights Defining impact investing, highlighting intentionality, additionality, and alignment as key factors when it comes to impact investments Does caring for stakeholders instead of just shareholders compromise returns? Panelists agree that it is possible to achieve both impact and returns without compromising one for the other Balancing risk-adjusted return with impact and how this can vary depending on the social or environmental goals Allocating foundation capital between nonprofit granting and tech-enabled impact investments Investing in mission-related investments (MRI) and program-related investments (PRI), and the importance of finding the right balance between them Getting started with impact investing, including starting small, exploring liquidity options, and collaborating with others in the community The importance of defining the focus and values of an organization and finding the right resources and partners for the journey into impact investing The impact investing journey causes organizations to reflect on their values and the importance of aligning investments with philanthropy Emphasizing the importance of finding and supporting good people in the industry The excitement in helping private market companies grow, succeed, create jobs, and contribute to economic development and opportunities Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ Connect with Tim Connors https://pivotnorth.com/ https://www.forbes.com/profile/tim-connors/?sh=35d4b4c35252 https://www.bloomberg.com/profile/person/5854167 https://twitter.com/timc
In this podcast, Dave Taiclet, General Partner & Managing Director of Lewis & Clark Partners, leads a discussion on differentiating private market investing strategies for Catholic Institutions and provides practical ideas on portfolio construction and asset allocation, and dispels several common misconceptions regarding private market portfolios. Highlights Having diversity across the private markets is vital for ensuring that investors have opportunities to gain exposure to different types of investments, each with its own risk-return profiles, investment strategies, and growth potentials As markets and economic conditions shift over time, it is essential for investors to maintain a diversified private markets portfolio to weather different situations and capitalize on emerging trends and opportunities The evolution of private markets underscores the importance of being adaptable and staying informed about the latest trends and developments in technology, climate and sustainability, and other industries that may present new opportunities for investment. Why it is crucial for investors to be aware of the changing dynamics of private markets, such as the increasing role of non-bank lenders and the emergence of new platforms for investing, such as fund of funds The importance of vintage diversification in venture capital and private markets Exposure over different vintage years allows investors to capture a wider set of opportunities Consistent exposure and not timing the markets is essential for success in private market Strategies for advising companies on managing cash and banking The importance of diversification and governance in private markets Ways of incorporating values and faith into private markets businesses Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ Connect with Dave Taiclet https://lewisandclarkagrifood.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/davetaiclet
This episode is about the webinar to discuss the economy which saw a bear market and inflation on the rise. Joe expects a mild recession for the next 6 months and that the Federal Reserve will not need to take action. Mario discusses the trend of looking at the world as public and private markets, noting the importance of understanding liquidity risk when investing in private markets. Highlights Who are the guests for today? The big 3 growth: Growth, Inflation, and Interest Rates Private Market Perspective: Valuations and opportunities in equity, credit, and secondaries Portfolio construction and the private markets Going public versus going private Reasons why people want liquidity Negative real rates and outlook The effect of the situation in Ukraine Energy, prices, and directionality The congress and the debt ceiling debate Talent and tenure: Portfolio management during bear markets New technologies as areas of interest The yield curve and contrarian risks What's the political aspect of ESG? Catholic social teaching and ESG investing Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/
The Vatican gave Catholic fiduciaries a valuable new resource for aligning their institutions' investments with their Catholic faith. “Mensuram Bonam'' provides guidelines for those beginning their alignment process and those seeking to refine their approaches. This webinar, part of our Principles in Focus Series, explores Mensuram Bonam's role and scope and dispels underperformance myths about Catholic-aligned portfolios through a dialogue between true pioneers in this area: Paul Schott Stevens, Trustee of Catholic Investment Services; Scott Malpass, CIS Co-Founder, and Board Chair; and Jean-Baptiste de Franssu, President of the Board of the Vatican Bank. Highlights What is Mensuram Bonam? The trajectory of faith-based investment measures How Catholic social teaching is implemented at the University of Notre Dame Development of a new kind of competence in the investment world ROI Squared: Return of investment + integral development Practical guidance on implementation and developing your IPS What are the other tools of impact investing, dialog and engagement, enhancing issuer relationships The economic model for private markets investing Catholic social teaching: environmental, social, and governance Do Catholic-aligned investment portfolios underperform? Governance structures in Venture Capital Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/
In this dynamic educational session, members will gain valuable ideas for securing the future of their Catholic institutions by improving board and committee governance structures and applying best-practice investment principles. This discussion will feature a religious leader from the RCRI community, a board member, and an investment consultant who specializes in women's religious investing. Together, we will explore how religious orders can align their investment approach with their Catholic beliefs and unique missions. Highlights Who are the guests for today? The importance and role of governance and its integration with investment committees Importance of having an investment committee What to expect from investment committees Reviewing and updating the investment policy statements Different forms of investment partnership How committees should utilize investment partners Why consultants are essential Conflicts of interest in investment committees Common challenges to run into and how to avoid them Best practices in an investment committee Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/
Today's session is part of our Principles in Focus webinar series, which explores the role that impact-focused investment solutions play in the strategies of Catholic institutions. It was enlightening to hear the views of true pioneers in this arena: Tim Connors, Founder of Pivot North; Michael Kim, Founder of Cendana Capital; and Miguel Luina, Managing Director at Hamilton Lane. Highlights Who are the guests for today? What is Venture Capital? The opportunity for Catholic Institutions through venture capital How to identify amazing founders The importance of pivoting in the venture capital space Cendana Capital's business model and how fund of funds help this kind of setup Different ways to approach venture investment strategies Mission Alignment, Impact, and how Catholic Institutions can move the needle Impact of technology, disruption, and ventures on consumer banking and traditional industries The future of business with AI and Machine Learning Church-related venture technologies Impact of recession on venture investments The future of venture capital Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ Connect with Tim Connors, Michael Kim, and Miguel Luina https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothyjconnors https://www.cendanacapital.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kim-cendana-capital https://www.hamiltonlane.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/miguel-luina
With the dangers of inflation affecting real estate, businesses, and investments, many are looking at the macroeconomic indicators to improve the fiscal year. The problem is that macroeconomic indicators can be tricky to follow, but today's episode has covered you. Tom welcomes Jack Brennan and Ted Disabato to talk about the challenging period of time in the markets as well as the two key issues that committees and staff are dealing with. They share what the value of diversification is and diversification as a secular matter. Additionally, Jack and Ted describe how optimizing your exposure to the equity market works and how you can start using treasury today. Highlights The guests for today's episode What challenges are they hearing and seeing through this challenging period of time in the markets? The two key issues that committees and staff are dealing with The value of diversification Diversification as a secular matter The three ways of using treasury today Why are private equities better when making investments How optimizing your exposure to the equity market works Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ Connect with the Guests https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NPJ7SF7eRY8
With the different problems and difficulties that the world is facing now, it is important to have organizations, like NGOs, that can make the planet a better place to live. For today's episode, the Catholic Investment Services podcast and Dan Coyne welcome Sister Mary Louise Stubbs and Kathleen Bissa of the Daughters of Charity International Project Services to talk more about what their organization is, what their goals and missions are, and the projects that they have. They also share what the impact of the organizations have and why it is different from other NGOs. Sister Mary Louise and Kathleen give a run-through of how the process is: Starting from receiving the donations, planning and implementing, and choosing which project to use the funds for, and how you can be a part of the solution to make a difference in someone's life. Highlights Who the guests for today are Who are the Daughters of Charity International Project Services? What the International Project Services or IPS is What the history and mission of IPS are and how they've developed What the impact that IPS has: What are the different programs that they have How the Daughters of Charity is different from other organizations Where does the funding come from What the process of donation distribution is How does the organization prioritize which country and what project to work on How the sister works with the local governments and collaborators What they want people to remember about IPS The different sustainable enterprises, transformed from the donations to achieving break-even or profit for the organization If a project is turned down, where does it go from there? Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ Connect with the guests https://www.daughtersips.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathleen-bissa-56a82b58
November's release of the USCCB's revised socially responsible investing guidelines has Catholic fiduciaries wondering: What's changed? And, how should we adapt to this new guidance? Exploring these questions is the focus of the second webinar in our new series, which emphasizes principles of mission-aligned investment programs for Catholic institutions. The webinar brings forth ideas for implementing the USCCB guidelines in institutional portfolios, and dispelling certain performance myths about Catholic-aligned portfolios. This webinar features: Scott Malpass, CIS Co-Founder & Board Chair and retired CIO of the University of Notre Dame; Steve Schott, Principal and Senior Director, Institutional Religious Retirement and Foundation Services, CapTrust; and Bernard Brenninkmeijer, Executive Director of Constanter Philanthropic Services, Chairman of Porticus North America Foundation and Board member of FADICA. Highlights The guests for today's show: Who are they? The newest guidelines when it comes to gathering data and implementation How the guests are allocating the assets as a Catholic fiduciary The difference between the US and European guidelines What the IOR or the Vatican bank is and their policies What has changed with the newly revised USCCB guidelines Practitioner's approach in starting investing What giving up on returns mean and how it can impact investing Advice to investors who want to invest in climate change related projects The rate of return on projects from non-profit organizations Is it better to be a shareholder and influence the actions of an organization rather than not owning a stock? Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/
Few institutions are as distinctive in their history and objectives as the Custody of the Holy Land. For over 800 years, the Franciscan Friars of the Custody have been entrusted by the Holy See with the preservation of the great shrines of the Latin church in the Middle East, serving both pilgrims to the Holy Land and local Christian communities. Their mission, as various Popes have emphasized, is to ensure that the places of Jesus' birth, life, death, resurrection, and ascension remain centers of spirituality that hand on the evangelical message and nurture the piety of the faithful. This webinar features Father David Grenier, OFM, and Father David Wathen, OFM, joining in dialogue with Paul Schott Stevens, Trustee, Catholic Investment Services, to explore the work of the Custody today and the unique challenges it faces in the Middle East. Highlights Introduction: Who the guests of the show are The three reasons why the pope are welcoming pilgrims The custody of the Holy Land is divided into 11 countries Helping make the economy run and founding a center to help the kids, regardless of their religion Describing the Pilgrim experience Who is Father Godfrey Schilling? The campaigns to promote their mission and the Holy Land. What moved them to pursue their pilgrim journey through life to the Lord The current challenges that the custody is facing The Garden Guild and the Beekeepers Is it safe to go on a Pilgrimage amidst the pandemic? Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ Connect with the Guests Home - Catholic Investment Services CIS Institute - Catholic Investment Services Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America
When deciding for the school or committee board of members, who's an ideal board member? In today's episode, Tom Lanctot and Paul Stevens are joined by Frank Persico to talk about the board and the board members that compose it. They discuss the big difference between a board and the leaders of the school versus the people who are managing it. They also differentiate the roles of an executive board member and a non-executive one. Frank, Paul, and Tom take a deep dive as to what makes a good committee chair and who the ideal board members are. Highlights What is the big difference between a board and the leaders of the school versus the management What the roles of executive and non-executive board members are How a charter can make a board successful What makes a good committee chair As an advancement committee, what are the things that you should do to excite, energize, and keep the people involved who are on our committee How is term limit different from a staggered term Who the ideal board members are Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ Connect with Frank G. Persico https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-persico-00979391 https://partnersinmission.com/
This webinar represents the second in a new series that explores the innovations of Catholic nonprofits as they advance their missions around the world. In this episode, Jennifer Poidatz and James Bond of the Catholic Relief Services join Paul Schott Stevens, CIS trustee & former CEO of the ICI, for a dynamic conversation about their work and how CRS has advanced its mission over 75 years while continuing to express Catholic Social Teaching in the organization's identity. Highlights Who are the guests for today? - 0:52 How they are personally withdrawn in CRS and its work - 3:27 CRS's organizational history and evolution: Tracing the historic development over the time that it has been a part of the American Catholic world. - 5:33 Budget and sources of revenues. - 7:50 How does CRS build and develop partnerships? - 9:54 Distinguishing CRS as a relief organization. - 11:40 Responding to a protracted crisis. - 15:56 How do you measure impact or success at CRS? - 18:33 What has changed and what are their reflections about the people they've served? - 19:59 Describing Catholic's identity that CRS has and how it's communicated. - 25:00 Supporting the work of CRS and advancing its mission. - 31:18 Can you elaborate on how CRS is using impact investing initiatives to transform your programs to investments? - 32:56 How has climate change affected your work? - 34:41 With the many technologies being developed now, how is CRS using technology creatively to help their clients? - 36:55 Is CRS aligning their programs to the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? - 39:24 Working with volunteer groups. - 41:06 What does Jennifer feel about her safety while working in challenging regions like Afghanistan? - 42:13 Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/catholic-investment-services/ Mission Statement
What does the investment industry look like in other countries? Is it safe to start building your portfolio even if there are different adversaries and room for improvement? For today's episode, the Catholic Investment Services podcast welcomes Evelyn Chen. Evelyn is a strong force when it comes to building and implementing investment strategies in Taiwan. She talks about the story behind her business' investment strategies and how she is still getting great opportunities, even with different adversaries. Evelyn also shares the impact of China and Taiwan in the supply chain in the United States and the hedge funds industry in her country. Highlights Who the guest is for today. - 1:05 Evelyn's fascinating background. - 3:31 What prompted her to come to the United States for graduate school? - 5:58 The short story behind her business' investment strategies. - 9:03 Is she still getting great opportunities even with different adversaries? - 11:19 The Taiwanese market. - 13:30 Coming up with the decision of becoming a “next-based company”. - 16:49 The journey of their capital investment strategies. - 18:44 China and Taiwan's impact on the supply chain in the States. - 21:15 What are the exposures she has in her industry? - 24:01 The usual names in her portfolio. - 26:44 The capacity in her funds and how inflation in the United States affected her business. - 27:14 Is Taiwan affected by water and electricity shortages, especially in the semiconductor industry? - 29:14 How crowded is the hedge funds industry in Taiwan? - 29:55 Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ Connect with Evelyn Chen https://www.gaamhk.com/
What impact would your business have on the community? How can you take on the challenges that the market imposes? This podcast is the first in a new series that explores the role of impact-focused investment programs in the strategies of Catholic institutions. This premiere edition features Tim Connors, Founder of PivotNorth Capital; Mario Giannini, CEO of Hamilton Lane; and Bryan Pini, President and CIO of Mercy Investment Services. These leaders share their views on the evolving ESG landscape in private markets while dispelling some performance myths regarding ESG or Impact investing. Highlights Understanding terminologies is important for growth - 5:05 2 main approaches to ESG Investing - 7:28 ESG and Impact are two different things - 8:22 The risk mitigation perspective - 10:45 Getting into the hearts and minds of your partners - 14:15 Things we are looking for as an investor - 15:10 Trading-off returns for impact - 17:30 Start-ups that work are those going with the tide of their consumers - 20:10 Market Rate Impact: Revamping up with the accelerating wind of technology - 20:55 The Environmental Solutions Fund - 23:33 Two areas of foundation to invest in - 23:47 Recommendations on starting impact investing for the traditional 60-40 organizations - 26:05 What S Investors should consider? - 27:50 Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/
This podcast represents the first in a new series that delves into the market strategies of Catholic Investment Services' esteemed investment partners. This premiere edition features Chris Begg, Chief Investment Officer and Co-Founder of East Coast Asset Management. Joining Chris for this engaging and enlightening discussion is Scott Malpass, CIS Co-Founder and Board Chair, and retired Chief Investment Officer for the University of Notre Dame. Highlights When was East Coast Asset Management foundation - 5:15 Thinking about Compound Interest - 6:59 There's a unique skill set - 9:34 Taking a topic that is interesting to you - 10:55 A holistic view from Chris' perspective - 13:11 A monopoly situation - 14:52 Being disciplined and having patience - 23:44 Reducing friction to focus - 24:42 A very productive place for them - 28:55 Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/cis-institute/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/catholic-investment-services/ https://www.eastcoastasset.com/
This podcast represents the first in a new series that explores the innovations of Catholic nonprofits as they advance their missions around the world. In this podcast, Sister Irene O'Neill CSJ, President of Sisters Rising Worldwide joins Jack Brennan, CIS Founding Chair, for a dynamic conversation about her work and how her organization uses technology to unite sisters around the world in pursuing their vital mission. Highlights How to help children love themselves - 4:04 What's the superpower? LOVE! - 6:12 A platform built for sisters - 13:44 The community of sisters is profound - 15:11 Young people, the church, and the work that sisters do - 20:06 Thinking about success for the future - 24:46 Episode Resources Connect with Catholic Investment Services https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/about-us/#board-of-trustees https://catholicinvest.org/contact-us/ https://catholicinvest.org/ https://srw.org/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/catholic-investment-services Jack Brennan, Catholic Investment Services Founding Chair Sister Irene O'Neill CSJ, President of Sisters Rising Worldwide irene@srw.org
Welcome to Sustainable Grace, a Catholic Investment Services podcast. As a non-profit investment manager, our team has always been focused on being a champion to the non-profit institutions and board members we serve. We are excited to launch Sustainable Grace, which will be an insightful conversation, and another resource we provide through the CIS Institute.