Fed Rate Cut, M&A Deal Risks, and Trump’s Push to End Quarterly Earnings
This week, Anthony and Piers dive into the Fed’s unexpected “risk management” rate cut, what does that even mean? And why is Powell suddenly more concerned about jobs than inflation?Then it's on to Trump’s latest bombshell, scrapping quarterly earnings in favour of semiannual reports. Maverick nonsense or a legitimate debate about investor pressure and corporate costs?Finally, the team dissect the failed sale of Argos from Sainsbury’s to JD.com. Why did the deal collapse? What does it say about cross-border M&A, boardroom discipline, and China’s global shopping spree?Whether you’re trading the headlines or prepping for a finance interview, this episode is packed with the market mechanics and strategic insight you need.(00:00) Intro & News in Focus(02:23) Fed Rate Cut & Market Implications(10:03) Trading Psychology & Market Reactions(11:55) Fed Dot Plots Explained(18:21) Trump’s Corporate Earnings Proposal(20:21) Press Bias & News Interpretation(21:00) Quarterly vs. Semiannual Reporting(26:12) Tech's Role in Corporate Transparency(31:30) Argos Deal Breakdown(42:43) Investor Sentiment & M&A Takeaways
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Unconventional Tips to Land Your First Finance Internship
In the second episode of our application-season mini-series with the LSE Alternative Investments Conference (AIC), I’m joined by Yuga Kozuki, Co-President of the LSE AIC.Yuga shares how he secured speculative roles across venture capital, M&A, and hedge funds using cold emailing strategies, automation tools, and the power of student societies. We also dive into handling pressure, reframing rejection, and using AI as a coach and mentor throughout the process.This episode is packed with practical hacks and mindset shifts to help you navigate application season with resilience, focus, and confidence.Perfect for any student exploring different finance paths and looking for fresh, actionable ways to stand out.(00:00) Introduction to Alternative Investments(01:37) Navigating University Life and Societies(04:37) Managing Stress and Pressure(10:05) Building Resilience Through Rejection(12:21) Value of Networking in University(15:47) Mastering the Art of Cold Emailing(26:19) Interview Process for Speculative Applications(29:53) Leveraging AI Tools for Productivity► LSE AIC Instagram► LSE AIC LinkTree
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Fed Cuts, AI Booms & M&A Deal Flow Returns
In this episode, Anthony and Piers unpack a week of upside surprises, from inflation data clearing the path for Fed rate cuts to Oracle’s shock $455 billion order book and the tech rally pushing markets to fresh highs.They question whether Wall Street’s S&P 500 forecasts are still too cautious, explore why Klarna’s IPO success might reignite deal flow, and dissect the $53 billion Anglo-Teck copper merger. More than just a headline deal, it’s a masterclass in corporate defense, streamlining portfolios, leaning into future-facing assets like copper, and turning defense into offense with smart, strategic M&A.(00:00) Market Overview & Outlook(02:38) Inflation Data & Fed Policy(05:35) Tech Stocks & Performance(08:27) Oracle Earnings & AI(11:01) Musk’s $1T Pay Package(14:11) Analyst Calls & Forecasts(16:47) Banks & Deal Flow(19:35) Klarna IPO & Markets(22:38) Anglo-Teck Merger
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What It’s Really Like Studying at LSE (And Breaking into Finance)
Kicking off our special application-season mini-series, we're joined by Raul Verma, Co-President of the LSE Alternative Investments Conference (AIC), to demystify the finance career journey from inside one of the world’s top universities.In this episode, Raoul shares his unconventional path, including dropping out and returning to LSE and the real pressures, decisions, and strategies behind landing finance roles. Whether you're considering banking, exploring alternatives, or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with raw insights, relatable stories, and actionable advice.Perfect for students navigating their next steps and looking to hear from peers who’ve been there.(00:00) Intro to the Mini Series(01:37) Dropping Out of LSE & Coming Back(08:11) Life at a Top Uni: Pressure & Competition(13:26) Mentors Matter: Finding Your Guide(18:08) Handling Parental Expectations(21:33) How to Apply to Finance Roles(31:52) Why This Series? + AIC Overview*****Learn more about LSE AIC
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The UK’s Fiscal Alarm Bell
In this episode, Anthony and Piers dig into the surge in UK borrowing costs, now at their highest since 1998. Is this a warning sign or just a media-fueled blip? They explore the fiscal strain, political reshuffling, and why the pound took a sharp hit earlier in the week.The conversation then turns to the deeper structural issues—rising inflation, slowing growth, and a widening current account deficit. Could this all snowball into a credibility crisis for the UK government and Bank of England?Also in this episode: gold’s breakout past $3,500, Goldman’s bold $5,000 call, and what the rally tells us about fading trust in fiat systems and central bank independence.(00:00) UK: Borrowing & Inflation(08:41) Debt Spiral(17:17) Deficits & Outlook(25:56) Gold as Hedge(34:25) Trust in Gov’t & Banks
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!
Ireland