Afleveringen

  • In this episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, Michael Zeuner, managing partner at WE Family Offices, and Sam Sudame, senior investment manager, examine the impact of interest rates on global capital markets and asset valuations in depth. They discuss why market participants closely watch the Federal Reserve's every move and the anticipation of Fed Chairman Jerome Powell's insights at the upcoming Jackson Hole meeting.

    Key discussion points include:

    How interest rates shape asset valuations and capital marketsThe relationship between interest rates and bond pricesThe Federal Reserve’s dual mandate of inflation and employment, and its influence on interest rate policyExpectations for upcoming rate cuts and their potential effects on economic growthThe significance of a "soft landing" for the economy and why it’s crucial for investors

    Michael and Sam break down the Federal Reserve's monetary policy, highlighting its broader economic implications and how staying up-to-date on interest rate trends could affect your investment approach.

    As always, if you have questions about your investment strategy or would like to talk about incorporating these perspectives into your financial situation, please don't hesitate to contact us.

    Important Information:

    This podcast contains our current opinions and commentary that are subject to change without notice. Our commentary is distributed for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the specific investment objective, financial situation, or particular needs of any recipient. Information contained herein has been obtained from sources we believe to be reliable, but we do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The information contained herein does not constitute legal or tax advice to any person. Please consult with your legal or tax advisor regarding any implications of the information presented in this presentation.

  • In the latest episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, Michael Zeuner, Managing Partner at WE Family Offices, discusses with Joseph Kellogg, Partner and Head of Wealth Planning, the intricacies of the newly implemented Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) and its far-reaching implications for both U.S. and international families.

    Key points explored in this episode include:

    The scope and purpose of the Corporate Transparency Act, including which entities are affectedDetailed explanation of reporting requirements, including what information must be filed and with whomThe concept of "ultimate beneficial ownership" and its complexities in various entity structuresCritical deadlines for compliance and the potential consequences of non-compliancePrivacy considerations and how FinCEN manages reported information

    Michael and Joseph offer helpful discernment for understanding this new regulatory landscape. They emphasize understanding one's obligations under the CTA and stress the need for expert guidance in complex situations, particularly for families with intricate entity structures or international connections.

    As always, if you have questions about your investment strategy or would like to discuss how these insights apply to your personal financial situation, please don't hesitate to contact us.

    Important Information:

    This podcast contains our current opinions and commentary that are subject to change without notice. Our commentary is distributed for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the specific investment objective, financial situation, or particular needs of any recipient. Information contained herein has been obtained from sources we believe to be reliable, but we do not guarantee its completeness or accuracy. The information contained herein does not constitute legal or tax advice to any person. Please consult with your legal or tax advisor regarding any implications of the information presented in this presentation.

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  • In this flash episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, Michael Zeuner, managing partner at WE Family Offices, and Sam Sudame, senior investment manager, dissect recent market turbulence and its implications for informed investors. Their discussion cuts through the noise to focus on long-standing investment principles and economic realities.


    Key topics explored include:

    Decoding the recent spike in market volatility and its connection to Japanese market dynamicsThe critical distinction between market sentiment and fundamental economic indicatorsWhy knee-jerk reactions to short-term market fluctuations can be detrimental to long-term investment strategiesA balanced perspective on current economic data, including a nuanced look at unemployment figures and growth indicatorsThe ongoing validity of a "soft landing" scenario and its potential impact on investment approaches

    Michael and Sam emphasize the importance of maintaining a long-term, fundamentals-based investment outlook, even in the face of dramatic short-term market movements. They provide a measured analysis of recent economic reports, cautioning against overreaction to isolated data points without considering the broader economic context.

    As always, we encourage you to contact us if you'd like to discuss how these insights apply to your personal financial strategy or if you have any questions about positioning your portfolio in the current economic landscape.

  • In the latest episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, Michael Zeuner, managing partner at WE Family Offices, is joined by Sam Sudame, global head of macro, to discuss asset allocation guidance for the second quarter. Their conversation focuses on the current economic landscape, market trends and strategic investment approaches in light of recent economic conditions.

    Key points discussed include:

    Why is a broadly neutral asset allocation stance appropriate in the current market, and how should investors approach fixed income?Analysis of the U.S. economic cycle, including moderating growth and inflation trendsThe potential impact of the political calendar on market volatilityWith interest rates potentially changing, when and how should investors consider transitioning from cash to core fixed income?

    Michael and Sam emphasize the importance of understanding the nuances between economic slowdown and recession, highlighting their expectation of a "soft landing" for the economy. They also stress the significance of staying informed about Federal Reserve actions and their potential impact on investment strategies.

    As always, if you have questions about your investment strategy or would like to discuss how these insights apply to your personal financial situation, please don't hesitate to contact us.

  • In this episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, Michael Zeuner, managing partner at WE Family Offices, is joined by Matt Farrell, head of investments, to discuss current challenges and opportunities within the private markets amidst recent economic conditions. Their discussion covers the impact of valuation declines, liquidity issues and the extended holding periods that have tested private investors' patience.

    Key points discussed include:

    Assessing your investment capacity: Is private investing suitable for you?What’s driving the lack of patience for private investors and how to maintain patience amidst volatile market conditions?The significant decline in deal activity and its impact on liquidity and holding periods.The importance of financial planning and cash flow analysis in private investing, including opportunities in secondary markets at discounted rates.

    Michael and Matt emphasize that while the private market landscape is challenging, remaining vigilant and understanding the underlying health of investments can yield significant rewards over the long term. They also highlight the critical need for investors to assess their capacity and tolerance for illiquid assets before committing to private investments.

    As always, if you have any questions or need further insights into your investment strategy, please don't hesitate to contact us.

  • The ever-changing landscape of macroeconomic data plays a pivotal role in shaping investment strategies. With the Federal Reserve's data dependency and shifting trends in inflation and economic growth, it's crucial for investors to stay informed about these developments. Understanding how these macroeconomic factors influence capital markets can provide valuable insights for long-term planning and decision-making.

    In our latest episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, WE Family Offices Managing Partner Michael Zeuner is joined by Senior Investment Manager Sam Sudame. Together, they discuss the complexities of macroeconomic data and its implications for the medium to long-term outlook of capital markets.

    In this episode, Michael and Sam discuss:

    The Federal Reserve's data dependency and its impact on interest rate decisions.The role of inflation and employment statistics in shaping monetary policy.Current trends in inflation metrics and what they signal about future economic conditions.Insights into economic growth indicators, including industrial production and inventory levels.The relationship between macroeconomic data and capital market performance.

    Michael and Sam stress that despite short-term fluctuations, understanding macroeconomic trends is vital for making informed investment decisions. They highlight the importance of focusing on medium to long-term data to effectively plan for the future of capital markets.

    If you have any questions regarding our current economic landscape and its potential impacts on your portfolio, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

  • In this episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, WE Family Offices Managing Partner Michael Zeuner and Senior Investment Manager Matt Farrell continue a previous discussion about the effects of prolonged higher interest rates on private investment markets, this time examining the opportunities presented.

    Michael and Matt explore where the current market environment offers prospects for deploying capital despite the challenges posed by sustained higher interest rates.

    Key topics addressed during this episode include:

    • The impact of higher interest rates on real estate, highlighting both equity and debt perspectives.

    • Opportunities in private credit and how private lenders are stepping into the void left by traditional banks.

    • Sectors to approach with caution, emphasizing the need for selectivity and quality focus in venture capital and real estate equity.

    Understanding the comparative advantages and risks within different private market sectors can help strategically maneuver these opportunities amidst higher interest rates.

    As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • In this new episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, WE Family Offices Managing Partner Michael Zeuner and Senior Investment Manager Matt Farrell discuss an issue increasingly relevant to investors: the effect of prolonged higher interest rates on private investment markets.

    Key topics Michael and Matt address include:

    · The impact of higher interest rates on the present value of companies, particularly in venture capital and real estate.

    · The challenges faced by buyout strategies due to increased debt costs and reduced deal attractiveness.

    · The varied effects on different managers and sectors, emphasizing challenges and potential advantages.

    · The importance of patience and long-term perspective for investors during periods of market volatility.

    Listeners will discover how higher interest rates shape investment strategies, the comparative advantages of different private market sectors and the importance of maintaining a disciplined, long-term investment approach.

    As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • While our past discussions have focused on forward-looking strategies in private markets amidst current capital market conditions, in our latest episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, WE Family Offices Managing Partner Michael Zeuner and Senior Investment Manager Matt Farrell, CAIA®, take a reflective turn. Michael and Matt analyze the performance and trends of private investment vehicles over the past five years, focusing on the impact of prolonged higher interest rates on various asset classes, including private credit, venture capital, secondary markets and real estate.

    Key takeaways from the episode include:

    Performance trends in private credit and real estate credit within private markets.Challenges in leveraged buyouts and the significance of vintage and asset class diversification.The current capital market landscape and an overview of private investment vehicles.Opportunities across asset classes and strategic expectations for investors.

    Michael and Matt emphasize that while challenges exist, these should not deter investors from making future commitments. Instead, staying informed and strategically diversified can promote long-term success in private market investments.

    As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • In the latest episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, we discuss the nuanced interplay between short-term sentiment and long-term fundamentals in shaping market activity. Join host Michael Zeuner, managing partner and Sam Sudame, senior investment manager, to dissect the recent market turbulence in April and offer strategic insights for investors.

    Throughout the episode, they discuss:

    April's Market Recap: The performance of the bond and equity markets during April, examining the immediate reactions to economic indicators versus the ongoing economic shifts.Economic Landscape Recap: Recent economic shifts, noting signs of a new cycle amid April's softening data, driven partly by rate increases impacting trade and employment.Sentiment vs. Fundamentals: They explore the dichotomy: while sentiment sways daily, fundamentals dictate long-term trends. April's volatility, fueled by geopolitical risks and inflation fears, showcased sentiment's short-term impact.Investment Strategies: Investors can capitalize on market dips, aligning purchases with long-term goals. By staying disciplined even when surrounded by market noise, investors can seize growth opportunities while avoiding FOMO-driven pitfalls.

    Understanding sentiment's role in market fluctuations empowers investors to stay focused on long-term objectives. By leveraging short-term volatility and maintaining fundamental strategies, investors can navigate market complexities with confidence.

    If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • While the U.S. has averted any kind of serious recession and slow down, there are a few lingering areas of concern. On a previous episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, we discussed concerns in the commercial real estate space, and in our latest episode, WE Family Offices Managing Partner Michael Zeuner and Senior Investment Manager Matt Farrell, CAIA, examine the challenges and potential opportunities in the venture capital space and discuss how investors may navigate fluctuating market dynamics.

    Specifically, they discuss:

    The Impact of Interest Rates: Higher interest rates have led to markdowns in venture valuations, impacting investor portfolios. It's crucial to recognize the influence of interest rates on the valuation of growth companies, which are often priced based on revenue multiples.Managing Expectations for Different Vintage Years: Investors should adjust their expectations for vintage years, particularly those with peak valuations, such as 2020. However, disciplined managers who deploy capital strategically may still achieve positive returns.Identifying Opportunities: Despite challenges, the current market environment presents attractive opportunities for capital deployment. With valuations lower than pre-COVID levels and the peak in February 2021, investors can explore promising investment prospects.Promising Themes in Venture Capital: Themes such as AI and biotech continue to drive innovation in the venture capital space. Despite economic downturns, innovation persists, offering avenues for growth and investment.

    "The key for private investors is to stay committed, to be very selective and to understand that there has been a lot of negative and downward pressure in the space, but a lot of that is driven not necessarily by fundamentally unhealthy companies, but more by the dynamics of the effect of interest rates and public market, public markets on their valuations," Michael Zeuner said.

    If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • Recent years have seen rolling recessions influenced by Fed monetary policy, but signs now point to a more defined cycle, with positive markers like growing leading economic indicators and renewed consumer confidence – a departure from traditional boom-and-bust patterns.

    In our latest episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, Michael Zeuner, managing partner at WE Family Offices, is joined by senior investment manager Sam Sudame for an insightful conversation about the evolving global economy and markets.


    Throughout the episode they discuss:

    Market Dynamics in Focus: Despite anticipated corporate earnings recovery, factors like higher interest rates and historically high valuations present nuances in this new cycle. Equities remain a focus, with strong earnings growth expected, albeit tempered by valuation challenges.Fixed Income Opportunities: Against the backdrop of higher rates and subdued equity returns, fixed income emerges as an intriguing option. With the Fed signaling prolonged elevated rates, short to intermediate-duration fixed-income assets become compelling.New Outlook on Commodities: Within shifting dynamics, commodities emerge as a concurrent asset class. Surging demand for industrial metals like copper and aluminum suggests potential opportunities in the commodities space as the new cycle gains momentum.

    Adaptability and flexibility are key strategies for maneuvering through this evolving landscape. While some sectors may mirror past patterns, others demand a fresh perspective and a vigilant eye for emerging opportunities.

    If you have any questions about how to better manage this new economic cycle, please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • During this episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing podcast, we continue the conversation about investing in India and take a closer look at the potential risks and rewards.

    Managing Partner Michael Zeuner and Senior Investment Manager Sam Sudame of WE Family Offices discuss India's economic landscape, address concerns about high valuations and identify potential investment opportunities.

    In their discussion, they explore important key points, including:

    India's structural growth and diverse investment opportunities beyond the technology sector, such as industrials and consumer goods, fueled by positive demographics and increasing income levels.Foreign direct investment, driven by factors like low taxes, a young labor force and a strong entrepreneurial culture.Active fund management, which may allow for the identification of lesser-known opportunities with more attractive valuations, potentially yielding higher returns.Private equity vs. venture capital opportunities in India’s market

    The episode provides helpful perspectives into navigating India's investment landscape, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities for investors seeking exposure to one of the world's fastest-growing economies.

    If you missed part 1 of the series, we invite you to listen here.

  • In our latest episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, we are exploring an important question that has been top of mind for many investors – How attractive are the investment opportunities in India, and how do they compare to those in China?

    Join WE Family Offices Managing Partner Michael Zeuner and Senior Investment Manager Sam Sudame as they explore India's growth trajectory and the profound differences last decade of economic development compared with China.

    Key topics addressed during this episode include:

    The factors that have led to increased market volatility in China and questionable sustainability.India's growth story throughout the last decade and the structural reforms that have positioned it as a promising investment destination.China's economic overhaul, demographic challenges and opaque policies contrasted with India's digital and demographic growth drivers. Prime Minister Modi's pivotal role in enacting reforms and stimulating economic growth and thoughts on political risk.

    Listeners will gain insights into India's growth trajectory, comparative advantages and the potential impact of political dynamics on investment opportunities. As always, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • While the U.S. economy seems to be headed for a soft landing, potentially avoiding a significant recession, economic trouble may still be brewing. In our latest episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, WE Family Offices Managing Partner Michael Zeuner and Senior Investment Manager Matt Farrell, CAIA, explore commercial real estate, which has been significantly affected by the prolonged rise in interest rates. Tune in as they discuss the challenges and opportunities that investors should be on the lookout for in the commercial real estate space.

    Key topics include:

    Shifting Dynamics in Real Estate Sub-sectors: The ramifications of remote and hybrid work on traditional office spaces and impact on multifamily units.Refinancing Challenges and Value Resets: The confluence of reduced income and valuation uncertainty poses significant challenges, potentially leading to underwater scenarios for some property owners.Debt Investment Strategies: Debt investment in real estate as a safer alternative to equity, considering the current environment of price discovery and valuation uncertainty.

    The commercial real estate sector stands at a crossroads, poised between challenge and opportunity. Through insightful analysis and strategic positioning, investors can weather the storm and emerge stronger on the other side. Join us for a discussion on the nuances of real estate investment in a dynamic economic landscape, and stay tuned for our upcoming episode, where we explore venture capital within this economic climate. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us

  • During this episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing, WE Family Office’s Managing Partner Michael Zeuner and Partner and Wealth Planning Executive Joseph Kellogg, LL.M. (Tax), CFP®, TEP, address the pressing topic of wealth taxes. Together, they offer a thorough overview of the dynamics related to wealth taxation, covering both federal and state levels while examining proposed measures and potential implications for ultra-high-net-worth families and individuals.

    During the conversation they discuss:

    Overview of Wealth Tax Concepts: The various forms of wealth taxes, including those based on the net value of assets, income thresholds and taxes on unrealized gains.Adoption of Wealth Taxes: States that have taken steps towards implementing wealth taxes, such as Massachusetts and Washington, have introduced surtaxes on high-income earners and capital gains, respectively.Federal Proposals and Legislative Landscape: Insights into federal proposals, emphasizing the challenges these proposals face in gaining traction within the legislative arena.State-Level Considerations: They discuss states contemplating wealth tax proposals beyond traditional income taxes, exploring taxation on assets and unrealized gains and highlighting the complexities and potential consequences of each.Challenges and Considerations: The multifaceted challenges inherent in implementing wealth taxes and highlighting the importance of monitoring legislative developments.

    We continue to keep a close eye on the discussions and developments surrounding wealth taxes. While we do not recommend that families make any changes to their planning or structuring at this time, we believe it is important for families to understand the concept of wealth taxation and its potential implications.

    If you have any questions about wealth taxation, please do not hesitate to contact us.

    Disclosure: This podcast contains opinions and does not constitute the provision of investment, legal or tax advice to any person.

  • Amidst the evolving geopolitical landscape, understanding its impact on investment strategies becomes essential for deciding on a successful investment approach. In the latest episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing podcast, WE Family Offices Managing Partner Michael Zeuner and Senior Investment Manager Sam Sudame, CFA, CAIA, CFP, discuss the intricate dynamics of geopolitical events and their implications for equity and capital markets.

    Key topics explored include:

    Assessment of Geopolitical Risk: Insightful analysis of recent geopolitical events and their correlation with market sentiment and asset prices.Historical Perspectives: Recent and historical geopolitical events, the patterns in market behavior and historical data that can be seen and analyzed throughout the years.Intrinsic Value vs. Sentiment: The distinction between short-term sentiment-driven market responses and long-term impacts on intrinsic asset value. Interestingly, while geopolitical events have short-term economic impacts likely driven by investor sentiment, in the medium to long term, there is little to no effect on capital markets as investor sentiment settles.Navigating Portfolio Uncertainty: Strategies for investors to assess and mitigate risk in their portfolios amidst escalating geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty.Tension in the Red Sea: Given the current tensions in the Red Sea, what potential effect can there be on intrinsic value if shipping costs rise and inflation rises?

    For further insights into navigating geopolitical risks and optimizing investment strategies, tune in to The Wealth Enterprise Briefing podcast. If you have any questions about how to position your portfolio, given geopolitical risks, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

  • During this episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing podcast, WE Family Offices Managing Partner Michael Zeuner and Senior Investment Manager Sam Sudame, CFA®, CAIA®, CFP®, provide a comprehensive overview of critical macro themes facing investors as we enter 2024 after exiting a turbulent 2023.

    Key topics addressed during this episode include:

    Q4 Market Performance: The hosts analyze the unprecedented performance of the capital markets, mostly driven by monetary policy and changes in investor sentiment.2024 Growth Expectations: They discuss their expectations for economic growth, focusing on predicting a slowdown with the possibility of a mild recession.Interest Rates and Their Effect on the Markets: The hosts provide insights on inflation trends and the potential changes that could occur in the economy depending on what the Federal Reserve decides to do regarding interest rates. How does this affect the equity markets in the long and short term?Consumer Spending as a Driver of the US Economy: With low unemployment rates, low jobless claims and positive investor sentiments, consumer spending has continued to grow, with December retail sales coming in better than expected.

    Throughout the conversation, Zeuner and Sudame emphasize the importance of being a prudent investor, given the potential changes in interest rates and their ripple effect on the markets. They discuss the gravity of staying invested in the long term, although, in the short term, it may be smart to stay safe and invested in treasuries and short-duration high-quality bonds.

    If you have any questions about our financial market outlook in 2024 and how you can prepare your portfolio, please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • During this episode of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing podcast, WE Family Offices’ Managing Partner Michael Zeuner and Senior Investment Manager Matt Farrell, CAIA, kick off the year by examining the private markets. They specifically explore potential opportunities and challenges in private credit, secondaries, real estate and commodities, providing valuable insights for navigating the ever-evolving economic terrain.


    Key Topics Addressed in this Episode:

    Historical Performance of Capital Markets in Q4 2023: The hosts discuss the impressive performance of capital markets, particularly public markets, in the fourth quarter of 2023.Expectations Around Interest Rates and Central Bank Actions: They examine the shifting expectations regarding interest rates and how central banks worldwide may respond.Impact on Private Markets as We Enter 2024: Insights into the challenges and opportunities emerging as we enter 2024 with revised expectations on interest rates.Opportunities in Private Credit and Secondaries: Zeuner and Farrell discuss the dynamics favoring private credit and secondaries in the current economic environment.Real Estate and Commodity Dynamics in Higher Rate Environment: Analysis of the challenges real estate and commodity investments face amid rising interest rates and lack of transaction activity.

    If you have any questions regarding how to navigate the private markets amid evolving interest rate scenarios, please do not hesitate to contact us.

  • The recent record-breaking rally in the equity market has led many investors to believe that the Federal Reserve has successfully orchestrated a soft landing, signaling a green light for entry into a prosperous new economic cycle. However, amid this optimism, nuanced data points paint a different picture, casting a cautionary yellow glow on the seemingly smooth path ahead.

    In this installment of The Wealth Enterprise Briefing podcast, WE Family Offices Managing Partner Michael Zeuner and Senior Investment Manager Sam Sudame, CFA, CAIA, CFP, continue their discussion from a previous episode to put together the puzzle pieces laid before investors and provide insight into when we may finally enter a new economic cycle.

    Key topics explored in this episode include:

    WE’s Comprehensive Framework for Identifying New Economic Cycles: When investigating the intricate transition phases in the economy, WE employs an equity strategy framework that encompasses fundamentals, valuation, sentiment and liquidity.Economic Outlook for 2024: Based on the framework, the economy will likely face volatility in the new year, driven by delayed headwinds from the Federal Reserve's assertive monetary policy.Equity Market Expectations vs. Economic Reality: As the equity markets surge with optimism that we are in a new economic cycle, a substantial gap emerges between market performance and future earnings, paving the way for considerable volatility ahead.Soft vs. Hard Landings Examination: A crucial element in determining the likelihood of a hard or soft landing involves scrutinizing cyclical areas in the economy that drive the cycle. Currently, indications persist that a hard landing remains a viable scenario in the future.

    Collectively, when the pieces of WE’s equity strategy framework are assembled, the completed puzzle flashes yellow lights, suggesting that we are entering the beginning of the end of the current economic cycle. With heightened volatility looming on the horizon, it might be time for investors to navigate cautiously and refrain from impulsive portfolio moves. If you have any questions regarding our current economic landscape and its potential impacts on your portfolio, please don't hesitate to contact us.