Trump Targets the Fed, French Markets in Turmoil & UK Inflation Surges Again
Piers is back on the mic, and just in time. The markets are heating up and so is the political pressure. In this episode, Anthony and Piers unpack Trump’s latest attack on the Federal Reserve, this time zeroing in on Governor Lisa Cook with allegations of mortgage fraud. Is this just another headline-grabbing move, or a serious threat to the Fed’s independence?Then, the focus shifts to France, where political chaos is shaking investor confidence and French markets are tanking. Could Macron’s government collapse? And what happens if it does?Closer to home, UK households are facing another blow as food and energy prices spike. So why is the Bank of England cutting rates while inflation is rising?Also in this episode: market reactions to Powell’s Jackson Hole speech, the bond market’s inflation signals, and why traders keenly awaiting the upcoming payrolls report.(00:00) Reunion and Market Overview(04:33) Trump's Influence on the Fed(27:58) Political Turmoil in France(38:12) UK Inflation and Economic Outlook
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Demystifying Commodities with Lauren Haymond, Global Head of Talent Strategy at CCI
In this episode, we shine a light on one of the most powerful yet misunderstood sectors in finance - commodities. Joined by Lauren Haymond, Global Head of Talent Strategy at Castleton Commodities International (CCI), we unpack what makes this industry uniquely dynamic and ripe with opportunity for early career talent.Lauren shares her personal journey from headhunting to high finance, and breaks down the various roles beyond trading, including risk management, data science, and operations. Discover how CCI fosters rapid career growth, the traits and technical skills that make candidates stand out, and how to navigate emotional resilience in high-pressure roles.Whether you're a student exploring career options or a young professional aiming to make a meaningful impact, this episode offers invaluable advice on learning agility, proactivity, and how to build lasting industry connections, especially if you’re starting from scratch.Listen in and get inspired to consider a future in commodities.(00:00) Introduction and Topics in Focus(00:48) Lauren's Background in Hiring & Talent(01:54) The Unique Aspects of Commodities(07:06) What is Flow & Fundamentals in Trading(08:54) Skills and Traits for Success in Commodities(11:19) Understanding Roles in Commodities Trading(14:20) The Importance of Collaboration at Work(15:20) Best Practice in your Early Career(17:48) Building Emotional Resilience(22:26) The Value of Learning Agility(25:11) Networking and Career Development in Finance(28:28) Recommended Resources for Commodities(30:45) What is Principle Investing?Find out more about careers at CCI Follow Anthony and AmplifyME on LinkedIn
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33:38
Inside Wealth Management with Barclays’ Will Hobbs
In this episode, we dive into the archive to take you back to 2022 when Anthony spoke to Will Hobbs, who at the time of recording was the acting Chief Investment Officer of Barclays Wealth Management.Will talks about his untraditional route into markets, from training in Italy as a chef to landing his first role in finance, working through the dot-com and financial crisis, and then deconstructing his current role as Chief Investment Officer.There are lots of tips on networking, leveraging personal experiences, and a detailed explanation of how his team oversees the investment philosophy at Barclays UK in Strategic Asset Allocation (SAA) and Tactical Asset Allocation (TAA) decisions.We also touch on how he found his real passion later on in his career which ultimately acted as the springboard to later success and discuss how he deals with the pressure of being responsible for key decisions within the division he operates in.A must listen to episode for those looking to work in asset or wealth management but also for the wider community if you are looking for an open and genuine insight into working in the world of finance.(00:00) Introduction(02:10) From chef to CIO(04:00) Travel, Turkey, and taking risks(09:50) Early jobs and finding purpose(13:57) Networking advice: just ask(16:19) What a CIO really does(20:12) Handling pressure and big calls(25:01) Mental health in finance(30:16) Bitcoin, blockchain, and investing(34:53) How to start learning markets(38:03) Final tips for beginners
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39:54
Meta Surges 12%, Microsoft Tops $4T and the Fed Turn Hawkish
Earnings season is in full swing and Meta and Microsoft are stealing the show. Anthony and Piers dive into why Meta’s shares rocketed 12% on blockbuster earnings, a stunning rebound from its metaverse slump. They explore how Zuckerberg’s all-in AI pivot is paying off, from $100M talent wars to $72B in CapEx.Microsoft’s cloud machine, Azure, just clocked $75B in annual revenue with 34% growth catapulting the company past a $4 trillion valuation. Is $10 trillion next?Also on the docket: Trump’s tariff campaign enters high gear as he turns a Scottish golf course into a global trade hub. Deals are landing, inflation fears rise, and Powell’s hawkish stance is pushing the dollar higher. With a September Fed cut now a coin toss, markets are bracing for more.Big tech, big politics, and even bigger moves, your no-nonsense breakdown of the forces driving the summer markets.(00:00) Intro & Key Themes(01:37) Meta Earnings Surge(12:49) Trump’s Trade Deals(17:04) Fed’s Hawkish Shift(31:57) Microsoft’s Cloud GrowthIf you enjoy the podcast, please vote for us in the 'Listeners' choice category at the British Podcast Awards 2025! All you need to do is click on the link, search for 'Market Maker' and input your details, it takes no more than 10 secs! Thank you x
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LinkedIn in 2025: 10 Essential Tips to Grow Your Network, Career & Personal Brand
In this episode, Anthony is joined by Dani Markovits, Creator & Community Manager at LinkedIn, to explore how anyone, from students and young professionals to entrepreneurs and senior leaders, can use LinkedIn as a powerful tool for career growth, authentic brand storytelling, and building a strong personal presence.Whether you're just starting to build your network or looking to stand out in a competitive job market, this conversation is packed with actionable advice. Dani shares the insider strategies he uses to support LinkedIn’s top creators, from optimising your profile and posting with purpose, to leveraging comments and DMs to spark genuine connections.Expect practical tips on building your personal brand, being consistent without burning out, and how to turn curiosity into content that adds real value. If you're serious about your career, you can't afford to treat LinkedIn like just a digital CV. This episode shows you how to turn it into your launchpad whatever your industry.(00:00) Intro: Why LinkedIn Matters(01:14) Tip 1: Optimise Your Profile(05:23) Tip 2: Start Before You’re Ready(08:37) Tip 3: Comment Like It’s Your Job(12:31) Tip 4: Curiosity Is a Superpower(15:29) Tip 5: Create Content That Adds Value(23:57) Tip 6: Be Generous With Others(27:52) Tip 7: Stay Consistent(31:18) Tip 8: Send Better DMs(34:57) Tip 9: Experiment With Different Formats(36:11) Tip 10: Be Known For Something
Twice a week, we bring finance to life in a fun, engaging way for anyone interested in the world of finance, whether you're a professional, a student, or just curious to learn more.
Hosted by Anthony Cheung, a LinkedIn Top Voice, every Monday 'The Deal Room' dives into the latest M&A and private equity deals, uncovering the business strategies behind them. On Fridays, 'The Trading Floor' segment explores market trends, from macro themes to single stocks and crypto.
Our goal? To make finance interesting and accessible for everyone!
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