Market Maker – Details, episodes & analysis

Piers Curran returns to break down the macro landscape as we head into the second half of 2025, just in time for interview season.

We unpack the three economic pillars: growth, inflation, and interest rates through the lens of Trump’s tariffs, the U.S. deficit crisis, and conflicting market signals.

Why are stocks near highs while bond yields and the dollar signal caution? What’s really behind gold and Bitcoin’s surge? And how should you interpret these moves when sitting across from an interviewer?

Whether you're prepping for an assessment centre or trying to read the market tea leaves, this episode is your macro cheat sheet.

(00:00) Introduction and Overview of Market Trends

(03:07) GDP, Inflation, and Interest Rates

(06:13) The Impact of US Politics on Markets

(08:55) Market Reactions: US yields vs US Dollar

(16:33) What On the Radar In The Coming Months

(21:28) What Next For Stocks?

(25:13) Retail vs Institutional Investors

(27:53) Crude Remains Weak While Gold and Bitcoin Rally

(31:43) China's Economic Performance and Global Implications

In this episode, Anthony speaks with Sara Ruozzo, whose journey from classical studies in Milan to internships at Microsoft and Tesla, and now working in sustainable investments at UBS, is a masterclass in career pivoting with purpose.

If you're a student from a non-finance background or early in your career, wondering how to break into finance (and feel like everyone else already knows the playbook), this one's for you.

Sara discusses the real value of a STEM background in the finance industry and why saying yes to new experiences (even when you're unsure) can be the fastest route to finding your edge.

Expect jargon-free advice, practical tips on self-teaching, the value of rotations and graduate schemes, and how to build a story that makes employers sit up and listen.

(00:00) Introduction and Background

(03:01) Career Pivots and Decision-Making Process

(05:49) Transitioning into Finance

(08:23) Building Confidence and Self-Awareness

(11:58) Knowledge Gaps and Learning Strategies

(14:53) Soft Skills and Growth Mindset

(19:10) Practical Steps to Upskilling

(26:24) The Power of Networking

(27:28) Cultivating a Growth Mindset in Finance

(31:51) Leveraging a STEM Background in Finance

(36:36) The Value of Cultural Experiences

(43:55) Articulating Your Career Journey

(46:56) Practical Tips for STEM Students in Finance

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Anthony and Piers break down the latest U.S. GDP figures that sent headlines into a frenzy, but is the economy really on the brink of recession? 

This episode dives into the mechanics behind the data, why imports distorted the numbers, and what it really means for the Fed, markets, and your investment outlook. 

Clear, no-nonsense insight that cuts through the headlines.

(00:00) Introduction and Economic Context

(02:09) Understanding GDP and Its Implications

(06:30) Consumer Sentiment and Economic Resilience

(12:34) Market Reactions and Future Projections

(19:06) Conclusion and Key Takeaways

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In this episode, we delve into the captivating world of corporate strategy, examining four prominent stories that made headlines last week:

• Apple is enhancing its Siri voice assistant and operating systems with OpenAI's ChatGPT, aiming to catch up in the AI race.

• Amazon has outperformed sales and profit forecasts, thanks to adverts shown during Prime shows and films.

• Nvidia has emerged as a leading investor in AI start-ups this year, leveraging its dominance in AI processors.

• J.P. Morgan anticipates a 25-30% surge in dealmaking fees for Q2, indicating a rebound in investment banking revenue after a challenging period for the industry.

Tune in now to sharpen your understanding of corporate finance!

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Take practical experience in corporate finance in our M&A Finance Accelerator simulation in partnership with UBS www.amplifyme.com/mafa

Check out the Investment Banking Scorecard mentioned in the episode https://graphics.wsj.com/investment-banking-scorecard/

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This week, global markets were abuzz with two major events: the US Consumer Price Index (CPI) report and the Federal Reserve's latest policy announcement.

In this episode, we delve into each data release and share strategies for trading during such pivotal moments. Whether you're a seasoned trader or aspiring to enter the field, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips.

Tune in for an in-depth analysis and expert advice on navigating news-driven market events.

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Support our Ride Across America Challenge and donate to Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity https://givestar.io/gs/amplifymes-fundraiser-for-great-ormond-street-hospital

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A sell-off in French stocks and bonds dragged down European-wide indices as investors reacted to political instability and the possibility of a far-right government.

In this breaking news episode, we step back and break down 6 reasons why financial markets react negatively to this type of information.

Tune in now to understand the forces driving market behaviour!

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The online fashion giant Shein is on the verge of an Initial Public Offering on the London Stock Exchange. 

With advisory support from Goldman Sachs, J.P. Morgan, and Morgan Stanley, Shein's valuation is projected to reach £50bn, marking it as London's most high-profile public float in over a decade.

In this episode, we delve into:

• How Shein became one of the most successful B2C e-commerce platforms in history

• The secret formula behind its business strategy

• A deep dive into the company's financials and valuation

• The risks and vulnerabilities in Shein's business model

• The mechanics behind its London listing

Join us as we uncover the intricacies of Shein's path to IPO and what it means for the future of online fashion.

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Make a donation to the AmplifyME Ride Across America Challenge to raise money for Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity https://givestar.io/gs/amplifymes-fundraiser-for-great-ormond-street-hospital

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Unlock the secrets to securing a full-time position from former trader and tier 1 investment bank recruiter, Andrew Osayemi, as he shares his five-point plan for converting your summer internship:

1) Master the art of leaving an unforgettable first impression, blending both non-verbal and verbal cues.

2) Articulate your desire for a full-time commitment while tactfully probing for available job opportunities.

3) Schedule informal weekly performance check-ins to ensure alignment and track progress effectively.

4) Deliver unwavering excellence in your work output and behaviour, consistently raising the bar for quality.

5) Foster a dynamic social presence, embracing every opportunity to engage in work-related social events without hesitation.

Don't miss out on these invaluable insights to maximise your internship's potential!

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In this episode, we dive into five of the latest and most impactful stories in corporate finance, offering you key insights into the world of banking and business:

• Microsoft + Activision Update: How the Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 launch on Game Pass could reshape gaming subscriptions.

• Brookfield's Renewable Energy Deal: Brookfield's $6.6 billion move to acquire France's Neoen and its long-term impact on the renewable sector.

• Saudi Aramco's $10bn Share Offering: The significance of Aramco's upcoming secondary share sale and its market implications.

• Red Bull's Stake in Leeds United: Red Bull expands into English football with a stake in Leeds United FC. What does this mean for the club and Red Bull's sports strategy?

• Subway's Record Bond Issue: Subway's $3.35bn franchise-backed bond, the largest ever, and its role in financing Roark Capital's buyout.

Tune in to get the latest insights!

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Register now for our new Tesla-related M&A Finance Accelerator simulation in partnership with UBS www.amplifyme.com/mafa

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The Catalyst/Millburn Hedge Strategy Fund employs a strategy based on their prediction that interest rates will remain steady due to high prices, and the Federal Reserve won't cut rates soon.

We explore how their trade is structured, the macroeconomic insights driving their thesis, and how hedge funds use derivatives for leverage and market neutrality strategies to manage risk.

Additionally, we discuss the recent surge of Sterling to a 21-month high against the Euro, even as the UK faces the uncertainties of an upcoming general election.

Tune in now and start learning more about finance in a fun and easy-to-understand way!

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Register for a free Markets Finance Accelerator simulation in partnership with Morgan Stanley and UBS www.amplifyme.com/finance-accelerator

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