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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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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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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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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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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Join us for the second and final episode of our mini-series, where we delve into the daily responsibilities of a Leveraged Finance (LevFin) Analyst. 

Discover how this role stands out within the banking division, and gain insider tips on successfully entering this dynamic field. 

Whether you're aspiring to break into finance or simply curious about the world of investment banking, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice.

*****

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Here's what you can expect in this week's podcast episode on global markets:

• Why UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak pulled the trigger and announced a general election for the 4th of July

• UK inflation dropped to the lowest in nearly three years this week so why have traders removed a June rate cut from the table

• Nvidia smashes earnings expectations once again, so what next for the poster child of the AI revolution

Tune in for insightful analysis and the latest updates!

*****

Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonycheung10

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

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In this mini two-part series, we unravel the intricacies of leveraged finance, a cornerstone yet frequently underestimated domain of the investment banking division (IBD).

Join us in Part 1 as Director of Corporate Finance, Stephen Barnett demystifies the concept of leveraged finance. 

Gain insight into the crucial role of rating agencies and grasp the nuances of this dynamic market landscape. 

Stephen brings context to the forefront by dissecting the current state of the market and offering invaluable insights into a recent deal.

Tune in and embark on a journey through the fundamentals of leveraged finance.

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Guinevere Taylor didn’t study finance. She didn’t go to a top-tier uni. But she built a successful career in asset management and after several years as a director at a major sell-side bank, she now leads UK Capital Formation at Brightwood Capital.

In this episode, she shares how she broke into the industry, built confidence in client-facing roles, and juggled early motherhood with a demanding career.

If you're a student or young professional looking for real, relatable advice on thriving in finance, this conversation is for you.

(00:00) Fiji to Finance

(02:47) From Credit Cards to Asset Management

(06:06) The Importance of Soft Skills in Client Relations

(08:57) Balancing Work and Motherhood

(11:57) Embracing Diversity and Inclusion

(15:09) Why Building Relationships is Key Skill

(17:59) Finding your Right Fit

(21:06) Networking for Young Professionals

(24:05) Advice for Future Generations

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GameStop, the iconic video game retailer synonymous with meme stocks, witnessed a rollercoaster of surges and crashes in the past week, echoing memories of its previous meteoric rise. But what's driving this volatility?

In this episode, we delve into what caused the move, the mechanics behind how a short squeeze works, and why this time is different.

Meanwhile, Wall Street traders sent stocks to all-time highs as bond yields slumped after an inflation slowdown reinforced bets the Federal Reserve will cut interest rates as early as September.

Tune in now to find out more!

*****

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In this episode, we bring you the most compelling highlights from the Milken Institute Global Conference 2024.

Last week, Beverly Hills hosted this powerhouse event, drawing luminaries and influencers from across the globe, making this conference a pivotal moment in the world of finance and investment.

Join us as we unpack the key takeaways:

• Elon Musk's x.AI is on the brink of securing a staggering $6bn in funding, propelling its valuation to a staggering $18bn

• The Saudi government's investment A-team makes waves, signalling a significant shift in global investment dynamics

• Former US Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin remains undeterred in his pursuit of a stake in TikTok

• Private markets are all anyone is talking about with Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon expecting a massive amount of consolidation

• Everyone is getting hot on M&A in 2024

Tune in to "The Deal Room" as we uncover the power plays, strategic manoeuvres, and game-changing insights from one of the most influential conferences of the year.

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Join us in exploring the intricate landscape of hedge funds in our latest episode.

Delve into the origins of hedge funds, examine the captivating journey of Ray Dalio and Bridgewater Associates, and unravel the diverse investment strategies employed by these financial powerhouses.

Plus, we shed light on a burning question: What does it take to land a coveted position at a hedge fund?

Tune in for an insightful discussion on the inner workings of hedge funds and their impact on the financial world.

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Join us as we dissect HSBC's recent earnings report to demystify financial statements and explore the valuation process used for banks.

From a career perspective, we shine a spotlight on the Financial Institutions Group (FIG) and delve into the unique role of a FIG analyst compared to other sector teams.

If you're aspiring to a career in investment banking, this episode is a must-listen! 

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FIG refers to the Financial Institutions Group, which is a sector within banking that focuses on providing specialised services to financial institutions.

NIM, or Net Interest Income, is the difference between interest earned from assets like loans and interest paid on liabilities such as deposits.

Net fee income represents the revenue generated by a financial institution from fees charged for services provided to clients, after deducting related expenses.

Net operating income is the total revenue earned by a company from its core business operations, minus operating expenses.

EBITDA stands for Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, Depreciation, and Amortization, representing a company's profitability before accounting for non-operating expenses.

DCF, or Discounted Cash Flow, refers to the method of valuing an investment by estimating its future cash flows and discounting them to present value using a specified discount rate.

Enterprise Value is a measure of a company's total value, calculated as market capitalization plus debt, minority interest, and preferred shares, minus cash and cash equivalents.

Free cash flow represents the cash a company generates after accounting for capital expenditures necessary to maintain or expand its asset base.

Price/earnings (P/E) ratio is a valuation metric calculated by dividing a company's stock price by its earnings per share, indicating how much investors are willing to pay for each dollar of earnings.

Price/book (P/B) ratio compares a company's stock price to its book value per share, reflecting the market's valuation of a company relative to its accounting value.

Price/Tangible Book Value compares a company's stock price to its tangible book value per share, excluding intangible assets, providing insight into the market's valuation of a company's tangible assets.

*****

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Get the inside scoop on the latest moves in financial markets with our deep dive into recent headlines. 

• Make sense of what the US central bank said this week, how markets reacted and what might come next.

• Apple shares jumped after the company posted stronger-than-expected sales last quarter and predicted a return to growth in the current period, alongside the biggest corporate buyback of shares in history.

Don't miss out on this episode, tailored for students seeking to navigate the complexities of financial markets and in a fun and easy to understand way. 

Tune in now and stay ahead of the curve!

*****

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In this week's episode of The Deal Room, we dive into three major headlines shaking up the world of corporate finance.

Explore BHP's ambitious £31bn bid for Anglo American, recently rejected but potentially set for a comeback. Discover the strategic insights driving this high-stakes deal and the hurdles it faces.

Get the inside scoop on Goldman Sachs' bold move, relocating top talent from London to Paris amidst Brexit uncertainties. Could Paris be the next hotspot for finance graduates?

Plus, unravel the story behind CVC Capital Partners' successful IPO, as the firm and its investors raise €2bn, marking a significant milestone in Europe's private equity landscape.

Tune in and learn about finance with real news events happening today!

*****

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In this episode, we break down the latest US earnings from some of the biggest companies on Wall Street.

If you want to understand why Tesla rallied after posting dire numbers and Facebook dumped despite a 27% increase in revenue? Then listen to find out more!

We also look at how AI is integral to current investor perceptions and while companies like Microsoft and Alphabet are well placed to monitise this new technology, Facebook is still trying to find its fit.

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In this episode, we shine a spotlight on Debt Capital Markets, a crucial yet often overlooked business function within major investment banks like J.P. Morgan, Bank of America, and Citi.

Join us as we demystify DCM, explaining its unique role within investment banking divisions and the essential personality traits that make individuals well-suited to this area of finance. 

From structuring bond offerings to advising clients on debt issuance strategies, DCM professionals play a vital role in facilitating capital raising for corporations and governments worldwide.

But that's not all – we also address questions from our community, exploring topics such as private secondary markets and the possibility of owning a stake in innovative companies like SpaceX or OpenAI.

Get ready to dive deep into Debt Capital Markets and uncover fresh insights into the ever-evolving world of finance. 

*****

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Join us as we explore four tactics and share personal stories to guide you toward confidence and self-assurance.

It's time to silence that inner critic and step boldly into your true potential!

Prepare to conquer imposter syndrome with strategies from our head of recruitment Andrew Osayemi.

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Last week the American global investment company KKR held its first investor day in 3 years, laying out a plan to scale its core businesses to reach at least $1 trillion of assets under management in five years.

In this episode, our Director of Corporate Finance, Stephen Barnett, provides expert insights into KKR's journey from its origins in the 1970s to its present-day status as a leader in alternative investing. Discover the strategies driving KKR's growth and how the firm plans to maintain its rapid expansion in the years ahead.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or aspiring to enter the world of corporate finance, this episode offers valuable perspectives on KKR's unique approach and the broader landscape of alternative investments.

*****

KKR Investor Day 2024 Presentation https://rb.gy/soni0t

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In this podcast episode, Anthony and Stephen unpack the return of mega mergers, from Capital One’s $35.5bn takeover of Discover Financial to Nomura’s strategic $2bn acquisition.

Plus, they dive into why private equity is reshaping the accountancy world through massive consolidation plays like Baker Tilly and Grant Thornton.

Whether you're aiming for banking, asset management, accounting, private equity, or advisory, this is essential insight to stay ahead of the curve.

(00:00) Introduction to M&A Deals

(02:05) Capital One's $35.5 Billion Acquisition

(09:02) Nomura's Strategic Acquisition of Macquarie

(16:00) Baker Tilly's Acquisition of Moss Adams

(25:50) Grant Thornton's Fragmented Structure and PE Involvement

***

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Upside inflation prints, solid labour market data, and easing financial conditions have led the market to reprice the number of US rate cuts to just two this year but is this the final verdict?

Meanwhile, discover the driving forces behind the FTSE 100's surge to record highs. Plus, gain valuable insights into the Q1 2024 earnings reports from industry giants like J.P. Morgan, Citi, and BlackRock.

*****

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Join us this week in The Deal Room as we dissect the buzz surrounding Google's potential acquisition of HubSpot, a deal potentially valued at a $35bn. Discover the strategic reasoning behind it, potential synergies, and the looming antitrust hurdles.

We also take you on a tour of the latest deals making waves in the corporate world:

• Endeavor Group Holdings Inc. - A $13bn buyout by Silver Lake Management, reshaping the talent agency landscape (Think WWE and the Ultimate Fighting Championship meet Private Equity!). 

• Formula 1's New Venture - Liberty Media Corp. secures MotoGP World Championship in a $3.8bn deal.

• Johnson & Johnson's Growth - The pharma giant's $13.1bn cash deal to acquire Shockwave Medical to expand their medical device portfolio.

Stay ahead of the curve with The Deal Room as we navigate through the latest corporate manoeuvres shaping industries worldwide!

*****

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In this episode, co-founder Piers Curran provides his latest insight into what's happening in global markets right now. 

From fluctuating expectations on when the US central bank will cut interest rates to why commodities like gold and copper have been soaring of late.

The team also delves into the recent dip in Tesla's quarterly deliveries, sparking debates over its significance in the broader electric vehicle market. 

Is this setback merely a temporary blip on Tesla's radar, or does it signal deeper challenges ahead for the EV leader?

*****

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Q1 of 2024 has seen a significant increase in financial transactions.

Total M&A volumes are up 30%, US IPO's are tracking 18% above this time last year and private equity firms are sitting on over $1 trillion of dry powder.

In this episode, Stephen Barnett delves into the core principles underpinning this uptick in activity.

We'll explore what lies on the horizon for the coming quarters and gain invaluable insights into the practical nuances of roles within these domains.

Whether you're intrigued by the driving forces behind M&A deal flow or seeking clarity on the distinctions between Equity Capital Markets (ECM) and Debt Capital Markets (DCM), this episode is tailor-made for you and the perfect tool to assist your applications and preparation ahead of any internship!

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In this career episode, I share my insights on how to make the most of your Spring Week, ensuring both personal and professional growth. 

From fostering a curious mindset to taking initiative and mastering time management, these tips aren't just applicable for the duration of your Spring Week but will resonate throughout your early career.

By embracing these principles, you'll not only excel during your Spring Week but set yourself up for success in your future career endeavours. 

*****

Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonycheung10/

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In The Deal Room podcast series this week:

• Reddit IPO launch and the bull case for how the business intends to grow in the future

• Microsoft hires DeepMind co-founder Mustafa Suleyman in their latest AI talent raid which is set to test regulators and VCs

• Consumer goods giant Unilever is selling its ice cream unit for between €10bn to €15bn. Find out why spin-offs can often be a tasty treat for private equity firms

*****

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It was a significant week in global markets as many of the world's leading central banks announced their latest monetary policy decisions.

Find out what the Federal Reserve, Bank of England, and Bank of Japan said and how markets reacted.

Whether you're navigating the application process or seeking to refine your skills before an internship, this 5-minute summary is your essential guide to staying informed.

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In 2024, the IPO landscape has experienced a significant revival.

While discussions frequently gravitate towards the next big company to hit the New York Stock Exchange, we aim to expand your viewpoint to a global perspective.

From the surging interest in Dubai’s car park investments to the allure of Hong Kong’s Sexy Tea, we delve into the unique business and local environments across five key regions: Dubai, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and Hong Kong.

***

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The House of Representatives passed a bill on Wednesday that would require the TikTok owner ByteDance to sell the social media platform or face a total ban in the United States.

In this episode, we delve into the intricate web of national security implications, assess the likelihood of a ban, and speculate on who the frontrunners could be in a high-stakes acquisition.

We also unpack how Instagram has stealthily overtaken TikTok in downloads, with its significant growth and adaptation strategies and the reason why the outcome of this decision will have a major impact on the upcoming US election.

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Dive into our latest podcast episode for a rapid-fire exploration of hot topics:

• Morgan Stanley's Exclusive Offer: Learn how its clients get early access to private company shares.

• Elon Musk's Debt Remix: Unpack the $12.5bn refinancing talks changing the game for a social media giant.

• Reddit's IPO Challenge: Discover the impact of WallStreetBets' critique on Reddit's looming $6.5 billion IPO.

***

Take the free M&A Finance Accelerator simulation in partnership with UBS www.amplifyme.com/mafa

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What happens when a president hints at firing the Fed chair, markets spiral, and Elon Musk suddenly retreats from Washington?

In this episode, Anthony and Piers dissect Trump’s headline-grabbing U-turn, the deeper implications for Fed independence, and why Tesla shares soared despite disastrous earnings.

Plus, is a US-China trade thaw finally in sight and what could that mean for inflation and rates? Another high-stakes week in global markets made easy to understand for everyone.

(01:58) Trump vs Powell: The Current State of Play

(05:03) Why Does Trump Want Lower Rates?

(06:19) Can Trump actually fire Fed Chair Powell?

(09:53) How have Markets Reacted to this Idea?

(15:19) The Most Important Story Isn't Trump

(18:19) Why Fed Independence is Important

(21:18) Is a Japanese and Indian Trade Deal Coming?

(25:50) Elon Musk Turns Attention Back to Tesla

(33:11) Handling Volatile Markets When Investing

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In this episode, our team delves into the stark differences between two of Wall Street's heavyweights and their conflicting predictions for the future of US stocks.

We also uncover the driving forces behind the unprecedented surge in both Bitcoin and Gold, ranging from institutional adoption to rising demand from China, and offer a concise analysis of Super Tuesday's implications for the impending US election.

Tune in for an essential overview of the global markets and arm yourself with the knowledge you need to excel in any forthcoming interviews!

***

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The year's largest acquisition has taken place between Capital One and Discovery. Explore the deal's rationale and delve into the significant antitrust concerns it has raised.

Shein, a fast-fashion powerhouse, is contemplating shifting its initial public offering from New York to London. Is this indicative of London's resurgence as a financial hub, or merely a contingency plan?

We examine the pivotal role of activist investors, spotlighting developments at Disney, where Blackwells Capital is advocating for the appointment of a Chief Technology Officer to spearhead a technology-focused transformation.

***

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Dive deep into the mechanics of quantitative finance and explore how a blend of skills ranging from data analysis to software development fuels this dynamic field. 

If you've ever pondered the pathways to entering and excelling in quant finance, or if you seek to understand the symbiotic relationship between risk management and algorithm development, this episode is your roadmap.

***

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In this podcast episode, the team delves into the techniques and best practices for excelling in an investment bank interview.

Topics covered include:

• **Crafting Compelling Responses:** Learn the art of structuring your answers for maximum impact.

• **Harnessing the Power of Non-Verbal Communication:** Discover how positive body language can tip the scales in your favour.

• **Setting Yourself Apart:** Strategies to highlight your unique attributes and experiences.

• **Navigating Your 'Achilles Heel':** Tackling the daunting “What is your biggest weakness?” question with confidence.

• **Articulating M&A Deals:** Best practices for succinctly and effectively explaining a live deal you're interested in.

• **Solving Brain Teasers with Ease:** Tips for approaching and solving tricky brain teasers that interviewers love.

• **Asking the Right Questions:** Guidance on what to ask when the tables turn, ensuring you leave a lasting impression.

***

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In our end-of-week wrap of Global Markets, we discuss:

**Nvidia’s Market Triumph**:

Nvidia shattered records with the largest single-day market gain in history, adding an astounding $277 billion to its value. This monumental surge propels Nvidia into the ranks as the third-largest company globally. But what's on the horizon for this AI titan?

**The Cocoa Craze Among Hedge Funds**:

Uncover the reason behind hedge fund managers' growing obsession with cocoa. Dive into an analysis of how speculation plays a pivotal role in the cocoa futures market, unraveling the layers of this unique investment craze.

**Japan’s Nikkei 225 Surges**:

After a 34-year wait, Japan's Nikkei 225 index finally breaks its record, hitting an all-time high. Explore the concept of deflation, Japan's successful strategies to turn the economic tide, and the sustainability of this newfound growth. Can Japan maintain its momentum?

***

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In this week's episode, we unpack the following four stories in the world of corporate finance.

• Will new SEC rules mean that SPACs (Special Purpose Acquisition Companies) can be more than a bubble-market phenomenon?

• The IPO market continues to heat up so what's driving the newfound activity and will it last?

• A take-private deal for Italian loafer maker Tod's fuels luxury M&A speculation

• Another oil and gas megadeal as Diamondback jumps on a $26bn Endeavor shale takeover

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Take the M&A Finance Accelerator simulation sponsored by UBS www.amplifyme.com/mafa

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This week, we unpack 5 real stories in the news to help you better understand concepts in corporate finance:

• PGA Tour secures up to $3 billion from U.S. investors as LIV Golf merger hangs in the balance

• Stellantis, owner of brands such as Peugeot, Fiat, and Chrysler says it isn’t considering a plan to merge with other manufacturers

• Shares of Amer Sports Inc. debuted with a gain, as the upsized initial public offering was priced low enough to attract investor interest

• Reddit could IPO for $5 billion but it isn't profitable yet. Is their delayed listing doomed to fail?

• Adam Neumann is back and exploring buying WeWork out of bankruptcy

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Lots of sensational headlines this week on the risks to stocks with technology names being labeled the 'Big Tech Hype'.

So should investors be worried or are the tech stocks just trading at a fair valuation?

Join us for an episode that promises not only to clarify the existing tech market landscape but also to equip you with the analytical tools needed to discern hype from sustainable investment opportunities.

******

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Today we are taking a deep dive into the ongoing M&A saga at Paramount Global, the cable, streaming, and studio conglomerate, responsible for everything from the NFL to Top Gun.

To discuss the deal, we are delighted to speak with AmplifyME Alum and Media Banking expert, Jagger Lambert, who helps us go deep into a brilliant Corporate Finance case study. 

In this episode of the podcast, we discuss:

• Who Paramount Global is – and why the founding Redstone family might well be the main influence for Succession

• Why Paramount is struggling, analysing its position in the declining cable TV market, and its loss making entry into streaming

• Is Paramount up for sale? And is it worth anything?

• Who are the potential buyers – a deep dive into Skybird (owned by Larry Ellison’s son) and Byron Allen (from the Weather Channel to a $30bn bid for Paramount!)

• How an acquisition might be structured in the context of a dual-class share structure and $16bn debt pile.

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This week we discuss the following questions:

• The US Federal Reserve and the Bank of England hold rates but what did they have to say about the timing of rate cuts?

• Microsoft continues to shine while Google shares dropped sharply as search revenues missed. Can Alphabet deliver on its AI plans in 2024?

• Deutsche Bank shares rose 4% on earnings while BNP Paribas fell 8%. What's caused this divergence in investor perception?

• British oil giant Shell released a positive earnings update so what does the year ahead look like for the oil majors?

• A Delaware court has found Tesla CEO Elon Musk's compensation package, valued at $55.8 billion, to be excessive. Can Elon turn this one around?!

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In part two of our ESG mini-series, Anthony Cheung and Stephen Barnett dive into the backlash that’s hit the ESG world: record fund outflows, greenwashing scandals, political pushback, and major asset managers quietly stepping away. But is this really the end… or just the next chapter?

They explore why ESG has become so controversial, why the US and Europe are heading in different directions, and whether it’s still possible to invest with purpose and make money. Plus, some practical advice for anyone thinking about a career in sustainable finance—especially how to stay grounded when trends shift.

If you’re looking to understand the bigger picture and where ESG goes from here, this one’s for you.

(00:00) The State of ESG: Is It Dead?

(04:26) US vs. Europe: A Cultural Divide in ESG Commitment

(10:04) Greenwashing: The Challenge of Authenticity in ESG

(15:12) The Importance of ESG in a Volatile World

(19:06) Anti-Fragility: Thriving Through Challenges

(22:38) Next Steps: Exploring ESG and Career Paths

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Stephen Barnett picks three real-world stories in the news to unpack the world of corporate finance in practice.

• Amer Sports Inc., the maker of Wilson tennis rackets is seeking to raise as much as $1.8 billion in what would be one of the year’s first major initial public offerings.

• Macy’s has rejected a $5.8 Billion takeover offer from Arkhouse Management Co. and Brigade Capital Management despite the offer representing about a 19% premium on its share price.

• JetBlue tells Spirit Airlines that it may terminate its $3.8 billion buyout offer challenged by US.

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If you're a student interested in working in the world of finance then join our next free M&A Finance Accelerator simulation www.amplifyme.com/mafa

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In this week's weekly wrap of global markets, we talk about the forecast-busting US GDP report, the ECB's dovish tone, and Bejing's response to the slowdown in Chinese activity.

In single stocks news, we unpack why Tesla shares fell 12% on Thursday and how Netflix is winning the streaming wars.

*****

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In our latest podcast episode our Director of Corporate Finance, Stephen Barnett unpacks four FT headlines coming out of Davos last week.

• Private Equity predicts deal rebound as sellers capitulate on prices 

• Mistral becomes the talk of Davos as business leaders seek AI gains

• Blackstone boss Steve Schwarzman sees ‘animal spirits’ returning to the financial sector

• Is Davos still worthwhile? 

Take part in our next free M&A Finance Accelerator simulation www.amplifyme.com/mafa

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