Financial Thought Exchange Podcast

Quantitative Investing with Petter Kolm, PhD, and Gordon Ritter, PhD 25.06.2026 40min

Petter Kolm, PhD, and Gordon Ritter, PhD, join Lotta Moberg, PhD, CFA, to continue their discussion on quantitative investing, focusing on model design, implementation, and real‑world application. The conversation explores how quantitative strategies are refined in practice, the challenges of working with financial data, and the balance between theoretical rigor and practical constraints. Kolm and Ritter also discuss evolving market conditions, sources of edge, and how practitioners can think critically about models, performance, and risk. The discussion highlights the importance of adaptability and disciplined decision‑making when applying quantitative approaches in dynamic markets.

Risk, Models, and Financial Decision‑Making with Petter Kolm, PhD and Gordon Ritter, PhD 11.06.2026 42min

Petter Kolm, PhD and Gordon Ritter, PhD, join Lotta Moberg, PhD, for a conversation on quantitative models, risk, and financial decision‑making. The discussion examines how models are constructed and evaluated, the assumptions that underpin them, and the trade‑offs involved when applying theory to real‑world financial problems. Kolm and Ritter share perspectives on model risk, uncertainty, and the role of judgment alongside data, offering insights relevant to both researchers and practitioners working at the intersection of finance and analytics.

Infrastructure Debt with Clements, Ricciardelli, Beckman and Le Bret 21.05.2026 47min

Philip Clements, CFA, Alfonso Ricciardelli, CFA, Matthieu LeBret and Simon Beckman join Will Goodhart (CFA Institute Research Foundation Board of Trustees), to discuss their recent brief on infrastructure debt and its growing role in institutional portfolios. The conversation explores how infrastructure debt has evolved from a niche allocation into a core component of alternative credit, shaped by the energy transition, government funding needs, and limits on bank balance sheets. The guests examine risk characteristics across the asset class, including construction risk, technology change, political uncertainty, and interest‑rate regimes, as well as how infrastructure debt fits alongside equity, private credit, and real assets. The discussion also covers renewable energy, data centers, and why infrastructure is increasingly central to long‑term investment strategy.

Designing Pension Systems for Emerging Markets with Seda Peksevim, PhD 30.04.2026 36min

Laurence B. Siegel hosts a conversation with Seda Peksevim, PhD, Founder & Managing Director of Pensión Research & Consulting and Lecturer at Sabancı University, on how pension systems must be designed differently in emerging market economies. Dr. Peksevim explains why retirement outcomes are shaped by three interconnected challenges: behavioral biases that limit saving, unstable and risky labor income, and heightened financial market volatility. She discusses the critical role of automatic enrollment, default options, and lifecycle fund design—and why importing pension models from developed markets without adjustment can produce poor results. The discussion also explores multipillar pension systems, behavioral and technological tools to improve participation, micro‑pension innovations, and the complexities of both accumulation and decumulation under uncertainty. The central takeaway: effective pension systems must be context‑specific, behaviorally informed, and aligned with local economic realities.

Hedge Funds Explained: Risk, Returns & Due Diligence with Stephen J. Brown, PhD 02.04.2026 40min

In this episode of the Financial Thought Exchange, Lotta Moberg, CFA, PhD, speaks with Stephen J. Brown, PhD, Emeritus Professor of Finance at Monash University in Australia and at the Stern School of Business at New York University, and winner of the CFA Institute Research Foundation 2025 James R. Vertin Research Award. Brown discusses the origins of hedge funds, their role as liquidity providers, and why their performance often disappoints relative to public markets. He explains how hedge fund risk differs from traditional market risk, the limits of diversification, and why rigorous due diligence is essential. The conversation also explores his research on sensation‑seeking behavior among hedge fund managers and its implications for risk‑adjusted returns. Related research by Stephen J. Brown: • Why Hedge Funds https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.2469/faj.v72.n6.6 • Sensation Seeking and Hedge Funds https://www.jstor.org/stable/26656034

How LLMs Transform Investment Workflows: Fine-Tuning, RAG & Agents with Francesco Fabozzi 12.03.2026 42min

In Part 2, Francesco Fabozzi, PhD—Managing Editor of the Journal of Financial Data Science—joins host Lotta Moberg, CFA, PhD, to explore how modern NLP and large language models are reshaping investment management. Building on the technical foundations from Part 1, this episode turns to real-world applications: when to fine‑tune models versus rely on prompt engineering, how retrieval‑augmented generation (RAG) keeps models current with fast‑changing financial information, and why agentic systems are emerging as powerful tools for research automation. Fabozzi explains practical use cases ranging from sentiment‑driven return prediction to efficient knowledge‑distillation workflows, research assistants that read earnings reports, and coding agents that help back‑test investment ideas. The discussion closes with a look at where innovation is headed, including the potential of "general price transformers" for market forecasting. This episode is essential for anyone applying AI within investment processes.

How NLP Evolved: From Word Counts to Transformers with Francesco Fabozzi, PhD 05.03.2026 30min

Francesco Fabozzi, PhD, Managing Editor of the Journal of Financial Data Science, joins Lotta Moberg, CFA, PhD to unpack how natural language processing matured into the powerful tool it is today. The discussion traces early finance‑focused techniques—dictionary counts, sentiment word lists, and sparse document‑term matrices, along with their limits around context and negation. Fabozzi then explains how neural networks introduced embeddings and contextual meaning, paving the way for recurrent models and eventually transformer architectures. He breaks down how self‑attention, encoder–decoder designs, and decoder‑only LLMs transformed language understanding and made large‑scale modeling feasible. This episode lays the groundwork for understanding how modern NLP models interpret financial text. Look for Part 2, where the conversation turns to practical applications in investment management.

Future Quantum Finance Applications & Risks with Oswaldo Zapata, PhD 10.02.2026 28min

In the concluding episode, Lotta Moberg, CFA, PhD and Oswaldo Zapata, PhD look toward the future of quantum computing in finance. They discuss potential high‑value applications such as optimization, option pricing, machine learning, and large‑scale simulations. Zapata also highlights the cyber‑security implications of quantum technologies, including the threat of breaking RSA encryption and the urgency of adopting quantum‑safe protocols. The conversation covers industry readiness, from hedge fund research to major institutions investing in quantum capabilities, as well as the emerging need for "quantum‑quants." This episode provides a forward‑looking view of how quantum computing may reshape financial services, risk management, and professional skill sets in the decade ahead. To read Oswaldo Zapata, PhD's chapter in AI in Asset Management, follow this link: https://rpc.cfainstitute.org/research/foundation/2025/chapter-9-quantum-computing-for-finance

Quantum Computing Challenges in Finance with Oswaldo Zapata, PhD 03.02.2026 28min

Part 2 explores the technical hurdles shaping quantum computing's readiness for financial applications. Oswaldo Zapata, PhD and host Lotta Moberg, CFA, PhD discuss qubit quality, error rates, and why today's devices remain in the "noisy intermediate‑scale quantum" (NISQ) era. The episode breaks down hybrid classical‑quantum approaches, quantum‑inspired algorithms, and the complex process of encoding classical data into quantum states. Zapata explains why portfolio optimization is a promising—but still aspirational—area for quantum speedups, and how current hardware limitations constrain real‑world deployment. This conversation offers an honest assessment of where the technology stands today and what breakthroughs are still needed before quantum tools can meaningfully impact finance. To read Oswaldo Zapata, PhD's chapter in AI in Asset Management, follow this link: https://rpc.cfainstitute.org/research/foundation/2025/chapter-9-quantum-computing-for-finance

Quantum Computing Basics for Finance with Oswaldo Zapata, PhD 30.01.2026 35min

In Part 1 of this three-part interview, host Lotta Moberg, CFA, PhD, speaks with Oswaldo Zapata, PhD, co‑founder of the Quantum Finance Boardroom and contributor to the CFA Institute Research Foundation monograph AI in Asset Management. This episode introduces the fundamentals of quantum computation, outlining how qubits, superposition, and quantum gates differ from classical computing. Zapata explains why quantum systems can process information in exponentially richer ways and discusses the challenges of building reliable qubits in real‑world laboratory environments. The conversation sets the groundwork for understanding how quantum computers may eventually tackle computational problems that classical machines cannot. This episode is ideal for finance professionals seeking a clear, accessible foundation in quantum technologies before diving into applications. To read Oswaldo Zapata, PhD's chapter in AI in Asset Management, follow this link: https://rpc.cfainstitute.org/research/foundation/2025/chapter-9-quantum-computing-for-finance

Causality in Factor Investing: Marcos López de Prado, PhD & Vincent Zoonekynd, PhD 20.01.2026 35min

Marcos López de Prado, PhD and Vincent Zoonekynd, PhD, of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority discuss their Research Foundation brief, Causality and Factor Investing: A Primer. They explore why many factor models fail, the risks of confounder and collider bias, and why factor investing requires a causal—not purely statistical—approach. Learn how causal graphs and theory-driven methods can improve attribution and model design. A must-watch for quantitative researchers and finance professionals seeking deeper insights into risk premia and robust factor modeling.

Dr. William J. Bernstein on Economic Growth, Passive Investing & Retirement Realities 11.12.2025 50min

Larry Siegel speaks with Dr. William J. Bernstein—author, neurologist, and investment thinker—about the pillars of prosperity: property rights, scientific rationalism, capital markets, and infrastructure. They examine cultural influences on economic growth, the Henrich hypothesis on trust, and the future of globalization. Bernstein shares his philosophy on passive investing, liability-matching portfolios, and why TIPS matter for retirees. He also previews a new book with Ed McQuarrie that challenges assumptions about long-term stock returns. A deep dive into history, markets, and strategies for financial security.

De-risking Global Pension Systems with David Knox, PhD 13.11.2025 26min

In this episode of the Financial Thought Exchange podcast, host Lotta Moberg, CFA, PhD, speaks with David Knox, PhD, former senior partner at Mercer and author of the Research Foundation brief De-risking Global Pension Systems. Knox explores the complexities of global pension structures, the shift from defined benefit to defined contribution plans, and the growing reliance on private pensions. He discusses demographic pressures, funding challenges, and the importance of governance, regulation, and communication in securing retirement outcomes. A timely conversation for professionals navigating the future of pension policy and retirement planning.

Leadership, Storytelling & Investing: Insights from Sébastien Page, CFA 09.10.2025 30min

Sébastien Page, CFA, Head of Global Multi-Asset and CIO at T. Rowe Price, joins the FTE Podcast to explore the intersection of leadership psychology and investment strategy. Drawing from his books Beyond Diversification and The Psychology of Leadership, Page shares how storytelling enhances financial education, the importance of resilience in investing, and how personality traits like openness and agreeableness shape portfolio management. He also reflects on goal-induced blindness, the underrated skill of quitting, and the deeper meaning behind active management. A must-listen for finance professionals and aspiring leaders.

Custom Indexing, Tax Efficiency & Factor Investing with Ehren Stanhope, CFA 02.10.2025 25min

Ehren Stanhope, CFA of O'Shaughnessy Asset Management explains how custom indexing builds on direct indexing by integrating tax loss harvesting, ESG preferences, and quantitative equity factors. He discusses how platforms like Canvas enable personalized portfolio construction while maintaining benchmark alignment. Stanhope also shares insights on the implications of rising interest rates, inflation, and changing asset correlations for long-term investment strategy and risk management.

Marlena Lee on Factor Investing, Market Insights, and Smarter Diversification 18.09.2025 28min

Marlena Lee, Global Head of Investment Solutions at Dimensional Fund Advisors, explains how her team bridges investment research with client needs through systematic, evidence-based approaches. Rather than chasing short-term market moves or stock-picking, Dimensional builds portfolios grounded in decades of academic research and practical data analysis. Lee highlights how the firm evaluates traditional factors—such as size, value, and profitability—while carefully testing new ideas to avoid data-mined results. She underscores the importance of looking beyond simple measures like correlations or Sharpe ratios, encouraging investors to dig deeper into underlying holdings, factor overlaps, and global perspectives. From the challenges of timing premiums to the distortions caused by mega-cap stocks, Lee emphasizes the value of strategic, long-term allocations over tactical shifts. Her remarks offer clarity on what true diversification means and how investors can navigate trade-offs between tracking error and long-term outperformance.

Decoding Investor Behavior and Avoiding Mistakes with Peter Lazaroff 04.09.2025 21min

Welcome to the Financial Thought Exchange, where we bring you insights from the brightest minds in finance! In this episode, recorded live from the CFA Institute Annual Conference in Chicago, we are honored to sit down with Peter Lazaroff. Peter is the author of "Making Money Simple" and the Chief Investment Officer at Plancorp Wealth Management, overseeing $7 billion in AUM. He is also the host of the fantastic "Long Term Investor" podcast. In this deep dive, Peter shares his key takeaways from a panel on decoding investor behavior. We discuss how behavioral finance goes beyond just identifying biases, moving towards strategies that truly help clients feel more confident and content with their financial decisions. We cover: The evolution of behavioral finance and its practical application in wealth management. How to tailor financial education across different generations, from Baby Boomers to Millennials. The distinct approaches to advice for inherited vs. self-made wealth, and why empathy is crucial. Peter's firm's philosophy of avoiding mistakes over chasing perfect returns, and the biggest "mistake" he focuses on mitigating: setting the wrong expectations. The role of risk aversion in portfolio design and how Plancorp customizes strategies based on a client's stock/bond split and liquidity profile. Why, despite advancements in behavioral finance, human errors will persist, and how technology might assist without replacing the essential human connection in financial advice. Join us for a candid and insightful conversation that will change how you think about client relationships and investment strategy!

Energy and Tech Expert Mark Mills Reflects on AI and the Next Industrial Revolution 21.08.2025 36min

In this podcast episode, Mark Mills, a physicist, energy expert, and "tech guru," argues that the hype around AI is justified but misunderstood, emphasizing its roots in statistical inference (which is not what humans do when they think). He explains that AI's strength lies in handling fuzzy, human-like tasks, unlike traditional computing's whiz-bang ability to calculate. This making AI transformative for automation. Mills addresses concerns about AI displacing jobs, noting that automation historically eliminates some roles but creates others, with 60% of 1960s job categories gone by 2020, yet employment and wages rose. He predicts AI, combined with advancements in materials and machines, will drive a massive productivity boom over the very long run, akin to previous industrial revolutions like the 1920s. He notes that the universe is made up of only three things—matter, energy, and information—and that all three are undergoing simultaneous revolutions, a historically rare event.

Mark Mills on the Need for Abundant Energy and Rational Tradeoffs between Economy & Environment 14.08.2025 29min

In this episode of Financial Thought Exchange, host Larry Siegel interviews Mark Mills, a physicist turned energy and tech expert. Mills argues that there has never been a true energy transition, except for abandoning whale oil. Even as we pursue an energy transition, humanitycontinues to rely on traditional energy sources such as hydrocarbons, wood, even animal power. Mills criticizes the slow adoption of nuclear energy, attributing it to public fears and stringent regulation. He sees promise in new small reactor designs, such as molten salt reactors, while traditional reactor designs suffer from regulatory and technical constraints. Mills uses the snail darter (which, it turns out, doesn't exist) as an example of environmental policy gone amuck, hindering growth. He asks that policies weigh environmental considerations against the need for economic development. Mills emphasizes the need for affordable energy to support technologies like air conditioning in developing nations, noting that only increased wealth and advanced technology can achieve the resilience against climate challenges that we need.

Robo-Advisors vs. AI in Financial Planning: What You Need to Know 07.08.2025 24min

In this episode of the Financial Thought Exchange podcast, Jason Pereira, host of the Fintech Impact Podcast and an advisor to technology and AI startups, delves into the evolving landscape of robo-advisors and the revolutionary impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in wealth management.