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In the latest episode of The Hundred Year Pivot, Demetri and I sit down with Lawrence Fossi—better known to many as Montana Skeptic—for a fearless exploration of America's fraying social fabric. From the shifting character of New York City to the cults of personality surrounding Elon Musk and Donald Trump, we dissect the cultural, political, and institutional forces eroding public trust and cohesion. With Lawrence's trademark candour, the conversation delves into the dangers of celebrity-driven populism, the fragility of democratic norms, and the deep structural imbalances threatening the US political and economic system. This is a sobering yet essential listen for anyone trying to make sense of the chaos—and looking for slivers of hope within it. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory, Shifts Happen and The Hundred Year Pivot, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
After a ridiculously long hiatus, The Super Terrific Happy Hour returns as Steph and I dive back into the rapidly changing world of global finance, exploring how Japan's decades-long experiment with low interest rates and high debt is no longer unique, as the United States and other developed economies find themselves on a similar path. We unpack Japan's recent inflation surge, the Bank of Japan's extraordinary bond holdings, and the risks of major capital flows if Japanese investors start bringing their money home before pivoting to the broader implications of a world where globalization may be reversing—raising questions about reshoring, capital controls, and whether governments might coerce institutions to buy more domestic debt. There's bundles of skepticism on display as we evaluate policymakers' ability to manage these seismic shifts and a warning of systemic risks, fragile financial systems, and the potential for a painful redistribution of wealth. Amid the uncertainty, we discuss the enduring appeal of gold, the limits of monetary policy, and the high geopolitical stakes for the dollar and the petrodollar system, offering the kind of big-picture insights and candid cynicism you've come to expect from the two of us. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory, Shifts Happen and The Hundred Year Pivot, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In the latest episode of The End Game, Fleck and I welcome back Harley Bassman—aka the ‘Convexity Maven'—for a deep dive into the shifting landscape of global bond markets, inflation, and the future of the US dollar. Harley contends that while US bond yields have risen sharply in recent years, they are now approaching fair value when measured against historical spreads and nominal GDP. The real challenge, he argues, lies in the rapid adjustment after decades of suppressed rates, and in how markets adapt to this new reality. Our discussion explores the profound impact of demographic trends, such as the early retirement of baby boomers and delayed household formation among millennials, as well as the often-underappreciated role of immigration in sustaining US economic growth. We also examine the risks associated with persistent fiscal deficits and mounting debt, as the potential erosion of the dollar's reserve currency status presents a problem with potentially far-reaching consequences. Despite the scale of these challenges, Harley remains sanguine, suggesting that the system's imbalances are more like slow-moving trains than imminent crashes. But, with heightened volatility and policy uncertainty likely to persist, diversified portfolios—including gold and inflation hedges—are prudent responses. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory, Shifts Happen and The Hundred Year Pivot, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In this episode of The Grant Williams Podcast, I talk with with cybersecurity expert and author Dmitri Alperovitch to discuss his book, ‘World on the Brink,' and the escalating risk of conflict between China and Taiwan. Dmitri, who forecast Russia's invasion of Ukraine, draws striking parallels between Vladimir Putin's motivations and those now driving Xi Jinping's ambitions toward Taiwan, identifying five recurring factors—distorted historical narratives, belief in national destiny, security imperatives, personal ego, and the urgency of aging leaders—that are converging once again, this time in East Asia. The conversation examines concrete evidence of China's preparations for a potential invasion, from military training sites in Inner Mongolia replicating Taipei's streets, to sophisticated cyber campaigns targeting US infrastructure, and the construction of landing craft engineered for amphibious assaults and Dmitri argues that Taiwan's significance extends well beyond its semiconductor industry; control of the island would enable China to project power across the Pacific, fundamentally altering the regional balance and eroding U.S. influence. Dmitri calls for urgent strategic measures, including decoupling from China in critical technologies and forming a new economic alliance—TAME (Treaty of Allied Market Economies)—to help smaller nations withstand Chinese pressure, and he contends that Western responses to China are not provocations, but long-overdue reactions to years of aggression and intellectual property theft. With a potential invasion window between 2028 and 2032, the discussion underscores the need for robust deterrence, stronger alliances, and strategic competition to preserve stability in the region. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory, Shifts Happen and The Hundred Year Pivot, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In the fifth episode of The Hundred Year Pivot, Demetri Kofinas and I sit down with economist Charles Calomiris for a probing exploration of America's fiscal future and the deeper societal forces shaping it. The conversation delves into the concept of fiscal dominance—the point at which mounting government debt and deficits compel inflationary policies, sidelining the intentions of central banks, with Charles warning that the US is edging closer to this scenario, driven by unsustainable deficits and a political system gridlocked by the self-interest of key voting blocs and an unwillingness to confront hard choices around entitlements like Social Security and Medicare. However, the discussion moves beyond the technicalities of economic policy as Charles contends that the roots of the crisis are as much moral and societal as they are financial, pointing to a broader decline in civic responsibility and shared values across generations. Drawing on historical parallels, he suggests that periods of crisis can also spark transformative leadership and a renewed search for social cohesion. This leads to a reflection on the possibility of hope—if individuals and communities can rediscover a sense of purpose and responsibility—as well as the importance of integrity and leadership at every level. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory, Shifts Happen and The Hundred Year Pivot, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In the latest episode of The Grant Williams Podcast, I'm joined by Victor Haghani, founder and CIO of Elm Wealth, for a conversation that spans revolution, crisis, and hard-earned wisdom. From seeing his family lose nearly everything during the Iranian revolution, to his high-stakes years at Salomon Brothers and as a founding partner of the infamous Long-Term Capital Management, Victor's journey is nothing short of extraordinary. After stepping back from markets for over a decade following LTCM's collapse, he returned with a mission: to help investors avoid the pitfalls he'd seen firsthand. We discuss the crucial—and often overlooked—importance of position sizing, the seductive danger of private equity pitches, and why too many wealthy investors are flying blind. Victor shares the principles behind his “eyes open” investing philosophy and explains why sticking to low-cost, diversified, logic-based strategies may be the most underrated path to long-term success. This is a conversation packed with insight, humility, and lessons that only experience can teach. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In another compelling episode of The Hundred Year Pivot, Demetri and I are joined by Dr. Pippa Malmgren to unpack the profound challenges facing American society today. Drawing from her extensive experience in US and UK political spheres, Pippa explores the collapse of shared narratives amid political polarization, economic pressures, and an overwhelming flood of information that drives people into ideological silos. She highlights how this ‘narrative collapse,' fueled by repeated national traumas and algorithm-driven media, threatens public trust, rational discourse, and the very legitimacy of government. Pippa calls this moment a Copernican shift in American reality, emphasizing the urgent need for what she so beautifully describes as ‘heartware'- empathy, compassion, and courageous dialogue – to navigate these turbulent times. We also touch on the implications of recent UAP disclosures as symbols of institutional opacity and the limits of current scientific paradigms as Pippa offers a vital perspective on how we might rebuild understanding and resilience in an era defined by uncertainty and division. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In this episode of The Grant Williams Podcast, I'm joined by Warren Pies of 3Fourteen Research to unpack the challenges of investing in a world defined by policy shocks, geopolitical uncertainty, and persistent volatility. His data-driven approach allows Warren to cut through the noise of political unpredictability—particularly around Trump-era tariffs—and we focus the conversation on market signals, sentiment shifts, and technical indicators in today's unstable landscape. From the precarious relationship between bonds and equities to the evolving role of the U.S. dollar, Warren offers a grounded yet insightful take on where the real risks—and opportunities—lie. We dive deep into sector dynamics, especially the misunderstood signals coming from oil and credit markets, and Warren explains how quantitative models can help investors adapt to a regime defined by monetary debasement. With a candid look at sentiment extremes and capital flow inertia, Warren frames the U.S. not as a market without problems, but as the “cleanest dirty shirt” in a soiled global wardrobe—still investable, but only for those prepared to stay agile. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In the third episode of The Hundred Year Pivot, Demetri and I are joined by one of our main inspirations for setting out on this podcast journey, renowned financial historian Russell Napier, for a sweeping exploration of the deep structural imbalances reshaping the global economic and monetary order. Russell lays out a powerful framework for understanding the unwinding of decades-long distortions—rising debt, trade and capital flow asymmetries, and the pivotal role of China in the shifting global balance. As geopolitical alliances realign and governments turn increasingly to capital controls and financial repression, Russell warns that traditional investment strategies may prove dangerously inadequate. From the future of the U.S. dollar to the strategic role of gold and real assets, Russell offers a masterclass in navigating a world where preserving wealth demands foresight, flexibility, and a willingness to think far beyond the consensus as The Hundred Year Pivot forces us to completely change the way we think about the world around us and how we invest therein. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In the second episode of The Hundred Year Pivot, Demetri and I talk with the man whose work inspired us to set off on this journey together – the co-author of seminal book The Fourth Turning and author of The Fourth Turning is Here, Neil Howe. What follows is a timely and thought-provoking conversation on generational theory and the turbulent state of not just the United States, but the entire world today. From rising partisanship and institutional decay to shifting cultural norms around religion, gender, and substance use, Neil unpacks the patterns he sees repeating—and what they might mean for the road ahead. We explore the defining characteristics of a Fourth Turning, why America and the rest of the world may already be deep into one, and what the implications could be both at home and on the world stage—including the possibility of a major confrontation with China. This is a deep dive into the forces reshaping our society with one of their keenest observers—and a disturbing look at what history tells us might come next. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In this thought-provoking episode, I'm joined by Tian Yang of Variant Perception to explore the deep structural forces reshaping the global economy and geopolitical order. From the unintended consequences of Donald Trump's tariff policies to China's underappreciated resilience and strategic foresight, Tian offers a fresh, data-driven perspective on the shifting balance of power between East and West. The conversation moves beyond headlines to examine how innovation, manufacturing re-shoring, and changing reserve dynamics are altering the investment landscape. Tian also highlights the growing divergence in policymaking philosophies between major economies and the investment opportunities arising from those fractures before highlighting Europe's fiscal constraints, the risks of financial repression in the US, and the emergence of a CapEx-driven supercycle. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
To celebrate the 100th episode of The Grant Williams Podcast, I'm delighted to welcome my friend Lynne Bryan Phipps for a discussion unlike any of the 99 that preceded it as she and I take a personal journey into the incredible world of Integrative Equine Therapy (IET). Lynne – an ordained minister, architect and psychologist and the founder of one of Rhode Island's leading charter schools – also founded Beachwood Centre, an extraordinary place where Lynne and her staff provide help for those suffering from trauma, anxiety, PTSD, grief and other stress-related issues, with the aid of horses. My own personal experience working with Lynne opened my eyes to something remarkable and, in this conversation, we talk about the remarkable work being done at Beachwood, the extraordinary data collected by Brown University, demonstrating the incredible healing power of IET and how (and why) horses are a transformational factor when it comes to this kind of work. This is a conversation you won't forget. At the end of the conversation you'll find ways in which you can help Lynne continue the important work being done at Beachwood. So, if you've enjoyed my work, and you're in a position to make a contribution – no matter how small – please consider donating to this wonderful cause. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
This is a brand new podcast series for which I've teamed up with my good friend Demetri Kofinas, to explore and understand the changing world around us. Welcome to The Hundred Year Pivot. This joint effort is based on a shared belief that we are living through a once-in-a-century reordering - geopolitical, economic, moral, even spiritual. Everything – our families, societies, and governments- depends on us getting it right. Demetri and I invite you to join us as we develop novel maps and investment frameworks to help us navigate: • The breakdown of our existing political and social systems of organization and control • The emergence of new economic, financial, and monetary trading blocks • The reprioritization of national and economic security • The channeling of national savings into a new military and technological arms race • The development of a new investment paradigm with historic implications for investors Together, Demetri and I will be speaking with the smartest, most thoughtful people we know to help us chart a path through this gathering storm as we seek to position ourselves, our organizations, and our families for the changes to come. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In the latest episode of The Grant Williams Podcast, I sit down with Marko Papic of BCA Research to explore the intricate interplay between geopolitics and the global economy. Marko, a good friend and seasoned geopolitical strategist, walks us through his invaluable framework for understanding the preferences and constraints of policymakers—a critical lens for navigating today's rapidly shifting dynamics—before we dive into trade wars and regional integration in a conversation which delves into how political decisions are shaping financial markets and economic opportunities around the world. Also discussed the Trump administration's use of tariffs and trade wars, which Marko analyzes through the prism of U.S. constraints compared to other nations, and Europe's unique position to capitalize on current geopolitical shifts, particularly through deeper integration and increased investment prospects. Meanwhile, Marko explains why China faces significant challenges in stimulating domestic demand while grappling with risks such as potential conflict over Taiwan. Marko's insights provide an invaluable guide to understanding the complexities of today's geopolitical landscape and their far-reaching implications for economies and markets worldwide. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
This terrific discussion with Kathleen Thelen examines the historical origins and rise of large retail chains and e-commerce platforms in the United States, tracing the parallels between the business models of early mail-order retailers like Sears Roebuck and modern companies like Amazon. Kathleen explainss how antitrust laws and the fragmented regulatory environment in the US enabled the growth of these large, low-cost retailers by making it difficult for alternative models like consumer cooperatives to gain a foothold. We focus on the reliance on low-wage labor and how the prioritizing of low prices over other considerations has become deeply embedded in the American consumer economy and, as the retail landscape has shifted with the rise of Amazon and other online shopping, she suggests that this business model remains difficult to dislodge due to the coalition of interests – manufacturers, third-party sellers, and consumers themselves – that have come to depend on these large retail platforms. The importance of the centrality of the American consumer to the US economy has significant implications for the future as factors like inflation, tighter credit, and labor organizing threaten to challenge the dominance of the current retail giants. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Joining Fleck and me for the latest episode of The End Game is our mutual friend, Fred Hickey, the renowned High Tech Strategist. As always, Fted offers a compelling analysis of the gold and gold mining markets and, with gold tripling in price since its 2015 bottom and, while recent surges have been driven by geopolitical turmoil, money printing, and central bank buying, Fred cautions that the gold market may be overbought in the short-term and could face a correction. When it comes to gold mining stocks, Fred is highly selective, favoring well-run companies in safe jurisdictions with high-grade deposits and conservative management and he runs us through his favourites in the sector before the conversation shifts to Fred's skepticism about the recent hype surrounding AI and generative AI. He views the space as an unsustainable bubble, driven by excessive spending and deteriorating economics at major tech companies and makes several bold prediction around how the AI bubble could lead to a broader market downturn. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Joining me for the latest episode of The Grant Williams Podcast is my old mate Tommy Thornton of Hedge Fund Telemetry and, in a market increasingly driven by speculation and the allure of quick riches, we discuss whether investors are playing a dangerous game as a “gambler's mentality” grips Wall Street – making excessive risk and leverage the norm. Tommy also challenges the prevailing narrative of ever-rising stock prices and questions the disconnect between market valuations and the underlying fundamentals of many companies. From Nvidia's AI-fueled ascent to the precarious perch of Tesla's insane valuation, Tommy delves into the potential for market volatility to return with a vengeance, and the complex challenges facing the Federal Reserve and the economic policies of the incoming Trump administration. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In a thought-provoking return for The Narrative Game, Dr. Ben Hunt and I engage in a candid conversation about the soul of America, exploring the unsettling trends eroding the nation's moral compass. We dissect the alarming shift toward prioritizing power, efficiency, and leverage over traditional values like justice, liberty, and the common good and together we paint a picture of a society inching closer to totalitarianism, grappling with the rejection of the ideal that the U.S. should be a moral force on the world stage. Beyond the diagnosis, we offer potential paths forward in these challenging times, as our discussion delves into the importance of building strong, trusted communities and finding solace in religion and spirituality, even for those who may not consider themselves traditionally religious. We highlight the urgent need to combat the erosion of community and shared values, fostering integrity and purpose amidst the rising tide of polarization and cynicism. This episode is a call to action, urging listeners to seek deeper connections and moral guidance to navigate the turbulent waters ahead. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In the latest episode of The Grant Williams Podcast, Ronan Manly joins me for a deep dive into the fascinating world of the gold market. We explore its rich history and intricate structure, from the pivotal roles of the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) and the COMEX futures exchange in shaping global trade, to the concept of ‘unallocated gold' and the fractional reserve system that underpins much of the market. We also examine the recent surge in central bank demand for physical gold, a trend that's straining delivery systems and causing delays at institutions like the Bank of England. Against a backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions, we discuss how these dynamics could signal a shift away from the US dollar-based monetary system, potentially positioning gold as a cornerstone of international trade or even as backing for new regional currencies. Finally, we tackle the possibility of a seismic event in the paper gold market—where pricing power might move from London to exchanges like Shanghai—leading to a divergence between paper and physical gold prices. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In the latest episode of The Grant Williams Podcast, Steve Diggle of Vulpes Investment Management discusses his return to the volatility trading space after a 14-year hiatus. Steve cites several key factors that have led him to believe the risk-reward dynamic for downside hedging is now more favorable, including elevated market valuations, reduced central bank intervention capabilities, and the unpredictability of the Trump administration. Steve also provides an update on the biotech industry, which has faced significant challenges in the post-COVID environment. He sees an unprecedented opportunity to invest in promising biotech companies whose valuations have collapsed, though caveat emptor, as the level of complexity and risk involved is significant. If Steve is right, markets are facing heightened uncertainty that could lead to significantly increased volatility-a situation which makes the timing perfect for his ‘particular set of skills' as downside protection strategies become first more attractive, and then imperative. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In a fascinating discussion, I sit down with Adam Rozencwajg of Goehring and Rozencwajg to delve into the intricate world of commodity markets and their far-reaching implications for the global economy. The conversation uncovers a hidden dynamic in the financial landscape, where the suppression of commodity markets is fueling a widespread carry trade that has investors heavily leveraged in growth and speculative stocks. As Adam explains, this delicate balance could be on the verge of a dramatic shift, potentially leading to a significant revaluation of real assets. We also explore the future of energy, with a particular focus on the transformative potential of nuclear power. Adam highlights the promise of small modular reactor technology as a game-changer in the pursuit of clean, safe, and efficient energy sources and addresses the limitations of the U.S. shale boom and its implications for domestic oil and gas production. Finally, the conversation concludes with an exploration of gold's resurgence as a monetary asset, hinting at possible changes in the global financial system that could reshape the economic landscape for years to come. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In this episode I'm joined by Andrew McDermott of Mission Value Partners to explore Japan's remarkable journey from economic dominance to stagnation and its ongoing revival as a hub of opportunity. Andrew delves into how Japan has adapted to challenges such as demographic shifts and monetary policy constraints while maintaining its global relevance. He argues that Japan's transformation offers valuable lessons for investors and policymakers alike, and, as Western investors increasingly take note of Japan's strong corporate management and innovative strategies, our discussion sheds light on why Japan remains an inspiring example of reinvention in a rapidly changing world. Despite critics long pointing to missteps by Japan's central bank and corporate culture during this period, Andrew explains how, beneath the surface, Japanese companies have been quietly transforming—streamlining operations, prioritizing quality, and adopting shareholder-friendly practices, to the point where, today, many of these firms are considered paragons of efficiency and governance, attracting high-profile investors like Warren Buffett (who was given a little personal nudge along the road to investing in Japan by none other than Andrew himself). Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In a deeply personal and startlingly frank conversation, my great friend Demetri Kofinas and I dissect the current state of the world around us looking for answers to what is, perhaps, a set of unsolvable problems that simply need to play out to their predetermined conclusion. In a necessarily freeform conversation, Demetri offers a compelling exploration of the concept of “financial nihilism,” a provocative investment philosophy that sees speculative assets as devoid of intrinsic value, before we delve into the societal and economic forces driving this mindset, including the erosion of trust in institutions, the corruption of money the prolific rise of gambling in everyday life, and the absence of both consequences and accountability for bad actors. Together, we examine the rise of populism and moral decay, questioning whether these trends signal an inevitable descent into chaos or an opportunity for systemic reform and, while we struggle to find any sunny conclusions from the depths of personal reflection, what emerges is a sobering yet thought-provoking analysis of our current trajectory which seems set to take us further into the abyss. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In another captivating episode of The End Game Fleck and I are joined by returning special guest Dan Oliver for a deep dive into the current state of global financial markets as we explore the potential consequences of shifting liquidity dynamics and their impact on the financial landscape. Dan brings a wealth of knowledge to the table as he dissects the various sources of liquidity that are currently undergoing significant changes. From interest rate policies to the Federal Reserve's balance sheet reduction and the Treasury's management of its account, Dan paints a comprehensive picture of the challenges facing the financial system. Picking apart the intricate web of political dynamics between key financial institutions, Dan offers insights into the potential conflicts and hurdles that lie ahead and, as the discussion unfolds, we examine the broader implications of the bubble-like conditions in financial markets, drawing parallels to historical financial frenzies and their inevitable conclusions. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In the latest episode of The Grant Williams Podcast, volatility manager and Ambrus Group co-CIO Kris Sidial, returns for a thought-provoking conversation which delves into the intricacies of financial market volatility. The discussion covers a wide range of themes, beginning with an analysis of recent shifts in volatility markets that have surprised many observers before exploring the impact of institutional investor behavior on equity market dynamics, as Kris sheds light on how large-scale positioning can lead to extreme market moves. Also under the microscope are the psychological aspects of volatility trading, as Kris offers valuable insights into the mindset required for success in what is an immensely challenging field. Throughout the conversation, Kris shares his expertise on the factors driving market instability and offers a forward-looking perspective on potential sources of future volatility, including the growing importance of bond and currency markets, providing a rare insider's view of the complex world of volatility trading and its far-reaching implications for broader market stability. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In the latest episode of The Grant Williams Podcast, Simon Mikhailovich returns to explore the increasingly intertwined worlds of geopolitics, economics, and financial markets. As we enter a period of heightened global uncertainty, Simon offers valuable insights into the shifting landscape of possibilities and probabilities for major geopolitical events. The discussion delves into the “geopoliticization” of various aspects of our lives, examining how national security concerns are now taking precedence over financial and economic stability for governments worldwide. Simon also highlights the potential for severe disruptions and their cascading effects, using examples like the California wildfires to illustrate the far-reaching impacts on US finances and foreign policy. Throughout a thought-provoking conversation, the complex, interconnected nature of global events in our current environment and the importance of personal preparedness in the face of growing risks are reinforced in multiple ways. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In another thought-provoking conversation, my returning guest, renowned investor Felix Zulauf, offers a comprehensive outlook for the next 12-24 months, predicting a “roller coaster year” filled with market volatility and geopolitical tensions. Felix paints a sobering picture of the global economic landscape, highlighting China's deflationary balance sheet recession, Europe's political stagnation, and the United States' deceptively strong economy masking an impending slowdown. He warns of potential market corrections, a shift from growth to value stocks, and the challenges facing inexperienced traders in these turbulent times. Additionally, we discuss the broader geopolitical context, including U.S.-China tensions and evolving political dynamics in Europe, all of which contribute to an environment of heightened uncertainty and risk. Just Felix being Felix… but, as always, Felix being Felix is supremely interesting stuff! Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Join us for the third part of our 2024 AOTY countdown! In this episode, we discuss the 10 albums making up our gold tiers.
Hey Hey! It is the last episode of the month and that means the Club 19 Gold Tier members control what we talk about! Listen in as Hunter and AyJay discuss topics and questions requested by our Club 19 family!If you would like to have your topics or questions discussed on next months Club 19 episode, join our Patreon!Support the show
In the latest episode of The Grant Williams podcast, I'm joined by Global Forecaster, David Murrin who offers us some valuable insight into his background before we dive into a riveting discussion about lateral versus linear thinking, the cycles of empires, and the geopolitical tensions between the West and China. David argues that the West is in decline while China is an ascendant power seeking global dominance and predicts an escalating series of conflicts, potentially leading to a third world war in the coming decade as China seeks to displace the US as the global hegemon. David's detailed analysis of China's strategic approach and the West's vulnerabilities make a compelling case that the world is heading towards a major confrontation with grave consequences. Some of the issues discussed may prove challenging for listeners, but engaging with these difficult topics and considering their implications for the future are, without doubt, an important use of your time. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Jeff Sarti of Morton Wealth in Calabasas, CA joins me for a discussion around the ever-evolving dynamic between investor and manager the difficulties inherent in navigating changing economic circumstances through a more unconventional, more resilient approach to investing. Jeff explains how he and his colleagues try to think differently about investment strategies and portfolio diversification, particularly in the current economic environment. Jeff's focus on building resilient portfolios that can withstand market volatility, rather than just chasing returns can be a difficult proposition in a world where quarterly returns against a benchmark have become many investors' most important yardstick. We discuss the the importance of educating investors on long-term thinking and owning their portfolios, not just renting them and follow the breadcrumbs to how the impact of central bank policies and the growing debt burdens facing many countries, influence investment strategies focused on hard assets and hedges against inflation. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Doomberg and I discuss various topics including Donald Trump's golf swing and the potential importance of his recent round with Bryson DeChambeau, the assassination attempt made on Trump's life the week prior to its airing on YouTube, conspiracy theories surrounding the Kennedy assassination, the standing down of Joe Biden, and the potential nomination of Kamala Harris and the conspicuous lack of media coverage since these major upheavals in American politics took place. This one will no doubt set a few tongues wagging and probably drive plenty of emails from those energized by the subject matter but, at the end of the day, please try to remember that I'm just a boy, standing in front of a Green Chicken, asking it to talk to me. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In episode eight of Shifts Happen, Luke Gromen returns to discuss the current fiscal situation and its implications for rates trading, explaining how his views on the fiscal situation have made him unpopular among rates traders, as his predictions suggest that their industry may become obsolete. We also discuss the possibility that policymakers either don't understand the situation, refuse to acknowledge it, or are too deep in to change course, and Luke also highlights the need for a new benchmark for pristine collateral, which he believes will be gold. Also under the microscope is the latest CBO report, which shows the need for a “super bubble” in the US, and Luke offers an explanation as to why he believes a recession in the US is unlikely. Finally, we conclude by looking at the potential outcomes of the current fiscal situation, including the possibility of retrenchment and reshoring or a dangerous escalation leading to nuclear war. Plenty to think about here with Luke once again on top form. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In this episode of The End Game, Bill and Grant are joined by returning guest, Cem Karsan, founder of Kai Volatility, for a mind-bending conversation about the importance and influence of structural flows passive investing and structured products. Cem explains that the market is currently being supported by these structural flows, which have kept the market from experiencing normal fundamentals. However, Cem explains why he believes that at some point, these structural forces will be overcome by fundamental negatives and valuations, leading to a major market correction. Also discussed are the importance of volatility and dispersion in the market, and how these factors can indicate the health of the underlying supply of volatility. and we also touch on the potential for inflation and the role of central banks in managing the debt and inflationary pressures. Cem warns that, while the market may continue to rise in the short term, there are significant risks and challenges ahead that could lead to a major market downturn so beware! Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In this episode of The End Game, Bill and Grant are joined by the excellent “Le Shrub,” an anonymous Twitter account both of us have followed religiously for several years. Le Shrub discusses his approach to investing and his use of social media as a feedback loop mechanism. He also shares his views on Japan's monetary policy, the role of gold and real assets as hedges against fiscal recklessness, and the potential for a market crash after the US election. We discuss the importance of having an outsized allocation to commodities and cash-flowing assets to protect against the risks posed by policymakers' monetary and fiscal policies, and the significance of certain events, such as the South African elections and the recent Freddie Mac proposal, in shaping market dynamics. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In the latest episode of This Week In Doom, Grant and Doomberg turn their focus to China's strategic push to become self-sufficient in semiconductor technology, drawing parallels to its successes in electric vehicles and solar energy. Along the way, Doomberg highlights China's use of intellectual property theft and internal competition to establish national champions like Huawei and we also cover the geopolitical implications of U.S. and European sanctions on China, emphasizing the potential for China to dominate despite Western efforts. Finally, we pick apart the shifting global power dynamics, particularly the weakening of U.S. dollar hegemony and the strengthening alliance between China, Russia, and the global south as we try our hardest to figure out what the hell happens next. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Joining Bill and me for the latest episode of The End Game is fintwit superstar Paulo Macro as we pick apart the problems facing a series of central banks and try to handicap the various outcomes they face as The End Game approaches. On the slate are the Japanese economy, the yen, the Chinese renminbi, and the outlook for gold, with Paulo suggesting that Japan may have a longer road ahead in terms of fighting external pressures and that the BoJ may be able to turn the tide on the yen in the near- to medium-term. We also discusses the possibility of China allowing the renminbi to appreciate rather than devalue, the potential for a weaker dollar to drive the rest of the world's economies and why Paulo thinks gold is acting more like a currency that may continue to strengthen against other fiat. Finally, Paulo explains why he believes the trading environment is set to become more challenging and that experienced traders will need to be more selective in their strategies. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Joining me for this episode of The Grant Williams Podcast, is author Mark J. Higgins who has just published his excellent new book ‘Investing in US Financial History.' We begin by discussing the overall importance of understanding financial history and segue into a conversation about the comprehensive narrative of the US financial system from 1790 to the present which his book provides. Mark highlights the role of key figures such as Alexander Hamilton, discusses the establishment of the Federal Reserve in 1913 and introduces one of the least-known, but perhaps biggest trailblazing characters in US financial history: Hetty Green. Higgins also shares his insights on investor behavior and the cyclical nature of markets, as well as his views on the current crypto craze. Throw in Ray Dalio, Andrew Jackson, Robert Triffin and Charlie Munger and there's something for everyone in this excellent conversation. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Joining Bill Fleckenstein and me once again is our favourite Aussie-based analyst, Gerard Minack, who returns to The End Game to discuss various topics including Japan's economy and market, US fiscal and monetary policy, central bank independence, gold, and the US dollar. Gerard shares his views on Japan, explaining that while he believes the Japanese equity market is worth being bullish about, he's not quite as optimistic about the country's economy. He also addresses the issue of everybody's favourite issue – Japan's public sector debt, which Gerard believes is often exaggerated and that the crucial figure to understand -net debt – is actually much lower. We also zero in on the importance of wage growth in Japan and its impact on inflation before pivoting to discuss the broader global markets, where he sees a major gap between market expectations and actual economic conditions. Gerard believes the market is far too optimistic about earnings growth and that there is a risk of a correction in the near future. Other topics under discussion include the US dollar and the recent movements in gold and copper prices. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Steph and Grant return to discuss allllll kinds of stuff including (but not limited to) private credit, the Fed's balance sheet (I know, I know) inflation and the reality around the market's curious reliance upon rate cuts. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Joining me on this episode of The Grant Williams Podcast is my great friend Brent Johnson of Santiago Capital, for a discussion about global markets and, of course, The Milkshake Theory. Brent explains how he uses the Theory as a framework to help him understand how a sovereign debt and currency crisis might play out and how, though he's been uncertain about markets recently, this framework has helped him navigate the volatility. Brent emphasizes the importance of remaining objective and questioning one's own beliefs, as well as the need to be prepared for drawdowns in asset prices as we discusses the extraordinary bull market in certainty and the importance of diversification. There's also time for a look at the current political situation in the US and its potential impact on the markets with Brent arguing that, while the US may be facing political and economic turmoil, the rest of the world still relies heavily on the US dollar, and a divided US would be a disaster for the global economy. Something for everyone in here… Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
My guest on this edition of The Grant Williams Podcast is Travis Kling of Ikigai Asset Management, who joins me to explore a concept gaining increasing traction in today's market environment – financial nihilism. Along the way, we also discuss the delicate balance between keeping interest rates low and inflating our way out of debt, the challenges faced by central banks in managing monetary policy to support economic growth while preventing excessive inflation and the potential impact of technological innovation on inflation as well as the possibility of a great wealth transfer from older generations to younger ones. Of course, we couldn't end without a discussion around the role of cryptocurrencies in this changing economic landscape, so there's that as well… Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Returning to the podcast this time out is Michael Howell of CrossBorder Capital, and what a return it is as we discuss the continuing (some would say escalating) importance of liquidity in global markets. Michael explains how central banks have been the main source of liquidity since the 2008 financial crisis, with their primary goal being to preserve the integrity of sovereign debt markets and ensure a smooth refinancing environment for some $350 trillion of debt. He also highlights the British gilt crisis in September 2022 as a wake-up call for policymakers, signaling that markets are no longer robust and are, in fact, remarkably fragile. We also discuss how the path of least resistance for central banks is to continue kicking the can down the road and monetize the deficit, leading to higher structural inflation rates. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Remi Tetot, the man behind The Mad King, joins me for a discussion around three of his most recent pieces of research. We discuss Remi's observations around the Bitcoin ETFs and his views on the current up-cycle in crypto before switching to the growth potential of India, during which we discover a fascinating opportunity as India's GDP expands with inevitable consequences for its defence sector. Finally, we switch our attention to the Magnificent 7… sorry, Magnificent 6, as Remi picks apart the fascination with NVIDIA, AI and data centres, drawing parallels to the broadband ‘revolution' of the late-1990s. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Join Doomberg and I as we discuss several topics sure to stir even the most languid of blood including the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the changing nature of warfare with the rise of drone technology, and the concept of peak cheap oil. Doomberg's argument that peak cheap oil is a fallacy and that human ingenuity will always find ways to extract and produce more hydrocarbons has garnered plenty of attention (and pushback) in recent weeks so here's another chance to understand why and to hear about the backlash they received for their views on the matter. Finally, just when you think we've run out of controversial subjects, the conversation turns to an upcoming piece on the assault on climate denialism and the labeling of certain views as hate speech… Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
A long-overdue episode seven of Shifts Happen sees Luke Gromen return to discuss the pace at which three things are happening: the acceleration of the US fiscal crisis and debt spiral, the Fed's policy mistake of not letting inflation run hot enough, and the de-dollarization of global oil markets. Luke explains that China needs to de-dollarize its oil imports and commodity imports to avoid a currency crisis, which is driving the de-dollarization of global oil markets and also highlights the importance of gold in this process, as China needs gold to work in order to improve its standards of living and avoid a crisis. Luke believes gold will continue to rise in price, and that the pace of events is accelerating towards a US fiscal crisis. He explains the US is facing a fiscal crisis due to its high debt and deficits, and the lack of price-sensitive buyers for its treasuries and that the Fed's choice is not inflation or deflation, but rather how it wants to lose the long end of the yield curve Plenty of food for thought here with Luke on fine form. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
As we ease our way into 2024, I'm delighted to welcome back my great mate, Julian Brigden to the podcast. Julian is the co-founder of independent research firm MI2 Partners and, as he's demonsrated in previous conversations, a hugely insightful and incredibly entertaining guest! This time out, he and I discuss, amongst other things, the Goldilocks narrative, the potential risks in the current market environment, the performance of Tesla stock, the Chinese stock market, and the outlook for gold. Julian expresses his skepticism around threading the Goldilocks needle and highlights the historical challenges of achieving a soft landing in the US economy. He also shares his concerns about the future of Tesla and the Chinese stock market and offers some thoughts on gold, which he believes is in a structural bull market, but… Here we go… Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Returning to The End Game as we begin the year with a bang are the brains behind Simplify, The Two Mikes, Green & Taylor who take turns picking apart just about ever facet of the financial and political spectrum. From the growth of passive investing and its potential impact on the market to the importance of understanding the holdings and flows of passive funds, The Two Mikes hold court in typically forthright fashion. Also under the microscope are the behavior of stocks like Tesla and Apple, and how fundamental valuations will eventually come into play. The conversation then shifts to the influence of politics on the market, with a focus on the actions of the Treasury and the potential impact of the upcoming election. Finally, we discuss the role of the Federal Reserve and its recent policies, somehow managing to trigger just about every group along the way. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
Joining me for the final episode of The Grant Williams Podcast in 2023 is returning guest, Michael Oliver, the brains behind Momentum Structural Analysis (MSA) – one of the most original and, in my experience, accurate forecasters of asset prices right across the spectrum. In a hugely enjoyable conversation, we discuss the current state of the markets and what to expect in 2024. Michael explains his unique approach to technical analysis, which focuses on momentum rather than price, and emphasizes the importance of looking at long-term trend structures and how they can provide a different perspective on market patterns. Also under the microscope are the potential impact of the upcoming US elections and the increasing division in the country. Michael explains why he believes that there is no outcome of the election that will be peaceful and that this could have significant implications for the markets. Lastly, he also highlights the potential for a rally in gold and commodity-related stocks. Whichever way you cut it, Michael's analysis suggests that investors should be cautious in the face of potential market volatility in the coming year. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.
In the penultimate episode of The Grant Williams Podcast for 2023, I'm delighted to welcome Jesper Koll, a long-time resident of Japan and former Chief Strategist and Head of Research for U.S. investment banks J.P. Morgan and Merrill Lynch for a discussion about the current state of the country's economy and the many Western misperceptions about the investment opportunities available in the world's third-largest economy. Jesper discusses the quiet revolution taking place in Japan and the positive changes that have occurred over the past few decades, highlighting the improvements in quality of life, public infrastructure, and corporate efficiency. We also discuss the role of the Bank of Japan and the potential for interest rate normalization. Jesper suggests that sectors such as banks, financials, residential developers, and capital goods companies could benefit from the current economic landscape in Japan and emphasizes the importance of human capital and the changing dynamics in the labor market. Every episode of the Grant Williams podcast, including This Week In Doom, The End Game, The Super Terrific Happy Hour, The Narrative Game, Kaos Theory and Shifts Happen, is available to Copper, Silver and Gold Tier subscribers at my website www.Grant-Williams.com. Copper Tier subscribers get access to all podcasts, while members of the Silver Tier get both the podcasts and my monthly newsletter, Things That Make You Go Hmmm… Gold Tier subscribers have access to my new series of in-depth video conversations, About Time.