2025 Mid-Year Market Review: Stocks, Tariffs, AI & What’s Next
Markets staged a stunning rebound in the first half of 2025 - after a brutal start that saw the S&P 500 plunge into bear market territory. Anthony and Piers rewind the chaos: Trump’s tariff shock on “Liberation Day,” the inflation scare that followed, and how a market left for dead came roaring back to record highs.They unpack the Fed’s evolving rate path, the quiet rise of a “shadow chair” ahead of Powell’s potential exit, and why Nvidia’s earnings may have rescued the AI hype cycle. Plus, Netflix and Uber emerge as surprise stars of H1, while Italy’s bond market revival puts it on the economic leader board.From VIX lows to fiscal turnarounds, this episode cuts through the noise and spotlights what really mattered and what’s coming next.(00:00) Intro & Themes in Focus(02:18) Market Overview: A Roller Coaster Year(08:43) What to Watch Going Forward(13:20) Trumps Escalate to Negotiate Strategy(14:48) AI Stocks Remain a Key Driver(16:49) VIX: The Fear Gauge(19:56) Sector Performance and Key Players(23:39) Banks Strong Performance in 1H25(25:50) Netflix Successful Turnaround(31:13) Uber's Turnaround and Future Prospects(36:07) Italy's Economic Recovery and Political Stability
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47:28
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47:28
Inside the Biggest M&A (Sports) Deals: LA Lakers, Chelsea FC, ESPN & Franchising Rugby
Anthony, Stephen, and Silvia break down the $10 billion blockbuster sale of the LA Lakers. Why did the Buss family cash out after 40 years and what makes the Lakers the world’s most valuable sports franchise? From brand power and valuation layers to the media rights behind the deal.Then, Chelsea FC quietly sells off its women’s team… to itself? Stephen exposes the dark arts of private equity and how Chelsea dodged FFP rules with some creative accounting.Finally, ESPN buys into lacrosse, and English rugby looks to American-style franchising to stay alive. Is sport just business now and what does it mean for the future of valuations?(00:00) Intro and Farewell(04:57) Welcome Silvia to the Show(05:57) The LA Lakers Record-Breaking Valuation(27:15) Private Equity in Women's Soccer(37:09) Emerging Trends in Lacrosse and Rugby Investments
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43:20
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43:20
What's Happening In Financial Markets Right Now (Trump, Geopolitics, US Stocks & Oil Prices)
Markets hit new highs this week, but under the hood, things are anything but settled. Anthony and Piers unpack the Nasdaq’s breakout, Nvidia’s relentless rally, and why a historic rebound might be more than just a bounce.They dig into Trump’s latest attack on Powell and the rise of a “shadow chair” theory already shifting rate expectations—and markets.Plus, why Iran’s missile strike on a U.S. base sent oil crashing, not soaring. From data to geopolitics, this episode filters out the noise and finds the signal.(00:00) Intro & Themes in Focus(01:50) Market Resilience Amidst Turbulence(08:12) Nvidia Back on Top(13:18) Trump's Influence on Monetary Policy(25:18) Geopolitical Tensions and Market Reactions
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36:06
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36:06
How to Navigate Your Early Career in Finance (Sell-Side & Buy-Side)
In this episode, Anthony speaks with Wee Kii Teh, a Portfolio Manager at Allianz Global Investors, about the practical skills and mindset needed to succeed in a competitive finance career.Drawing on experience across credit risk, capital markets, and now impact investing, Wee Kii shares what really sets top interns apart, how to adapt to new roles quickly, and why asking smart questions is more important than knowing all the answers.Whether you’re preparing for an assessment centre, trying to decide between sell-side and buy-side, or figuring out how to navigate workplace culture, this conversation is full of actionable insight.Expect practical tips on upskilling, career transitions, building strong relationships, and finding roles that match your values and ambition.(00:00) Introduction and Career Journey(02:26) Transitioning from STEM to Finance(08:59) Building Confidence and Seeking Mentorship(13:36) Adapting to New Environments and Upskilling(16:33) The Importance of Company Culture(21:21) Internship Insights and Attributes of Top Interns(24:54) Buy-Side vs Sell-Side Experience(27:53) Cultivating Relationships and Mentorship(31:58) Career Priorities and What Changes with Seniority(34:08) Impact Investing and ESG Opportunities(40:02) Advice for Young Professionals
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41:34
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41:34
From Vibe Coding to Bank Battles: Cursor’s Meteoric Rise and Europe’s M&A Deal Drama
Anthony and Stephen explore how Cursor became the fastest-growing AI startup ever, from MIT roots to “vibe coding” hype and a $20 billion valuation in just 14 months.Then, it’s boardroom drama in Spain as Sabadell spins off TSB to block a hostile takeover from BBVA — a strategic move with big implications for European banking.Finally, Barclays brings in McKinsey to cut costs. What happens when consultants start targeting front-office jobs and what does it signal for banking careers in the age of AI?(00:00) Intro & Topics in Focus(02:40) Cursor and Vibe Coding(18:23) The Spanish Banking Landscape and TSB(30:51) Barclays and the Role of Consultants in Investment Banking
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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