Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis of Fiducient Advisors are passionate about helping nonprofit organizations prosper. Whether you oversee endowment, foundation or retirement plan investments, this podcast exists to help stewards improve performance, reduce costs, and discover strategies that enable your charitable organization to prosper and advance its mission.
Real estate valuations have dropped 20-30%, marking the third significant correction in several decades. This isn’t just market noise; it’s a critical investment insight.
Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis interview Rich Hill, head of real estate strategy and research at Cohen & Steers, about the current landscape of real estate investing. They discuss the impact of interest rates, the role of real estate in a diversified investment portfolio, and the potential opportunities and risks in different sectors of the real estate market today. Rich also shares his insights on anticipated changes in interest rates, trends in the real estate sector, and common misconceptions about real estate investing.
You’ll discover/learn:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Richard Hill | Cohen and Steers | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
About Our Guest:
Rich Hill, Senior Vice President, is Head of Real Estate Strategy & Research, responsible for identifying allocation opportunities in both listed and private real estate and related thematic and strategic research. Prior to joining the firm in 2022, Mr. Hill was a managing director and Head of Commercial Real Estate Research at Morgan Stanley, where he was responsible for public REIT equity research, CRE debt strategy and macro property research. Previously, he was a director at RBS Securities and a vice president at Bank of America Corporation. Mr. Hill has a BS from Georgetown University and is based in New York.
Did you know that 40% of a typical workweek is wasted due to poor communication? How can you decrease the amount of time lost?
Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis engage with Dean Brenner, President and CEO of the Latimer Group, to explore how clear communication can be a challenge today and how you can sharpen your skills.
You’ll learn:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Dean Brenner | The Latimer Group | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
About Our Guest:
The idea for The Latimer Group was born in Grand Canyon National Park, in fall of 2000, during a “what if” conversation between Dean and his wife Emily. Emily said the magic words… “You love to build teams, you love to teach, and you are a great public speaker… build a business around that.” Eighteen months later, The Latimer Group was off and running.
Dean is motivated by creating great environments for the people in his life. For his teammates, creating a culture of collaboration and opportunity where they can spread their wings. For our clients, creating learning environments where they are challenged, supported and empowered to make their own voice heard. And for his family, building a home environment that is based on love, laughter and great experiences.
Wondering how the economy and upcoming presidential election might affect your investment portfolio?
Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis sit down with Brad Long, Chief Investment Officer at Fiducient Advisors, to provide a mid-year market recap and delve into the potential financial implications of the 2024 presidential election. Brad also sheds light on resilient investment strategies for uncertain times.
You’ll discover:
Resources:
Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Brad Long | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
About Our Guest:
Brad joined Fiducient Advisors in 2012. As Fiducient Advisors’ Chief Investment Officer, Brad leads the firm’s investment strategy and research efforts. He is chair of the firm’s Investment Committee and a member of the firm’s Discretionary Committee, Research Forum, Capital Markets Team and Mission-Aligned Investing Committee.
Prior to joining the firm, Brad worked in various research capacities at Citigroup and Wells Fargo in New York. He received a BA in Finance and Minor in Economics from The University of Colorado and is a CFA® charterholder and member of the CFA Society of Chicago and CFA Institute. Additionally, he is active with Greenhouse Scholars, a nonprofit providing financial and personal support to underresourced college students. In his free time, Brad loves cooking and spending time with his wife and young sons.
As the advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionize industries, nonprofit organizations are increasingly dependent on it.
Join Bob DiMeo, Devon Francis, and guest Benjamin Aase, principal with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA), to hear how nonprofits can leverage AI and other technologies to improve operational efficiency and decision-making.
You’ll discover:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Benjamin Aase | CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA) | Show Me the Results: A Practical Guide to Program Evaluation with Chari Smith | The Future of AI: Trends, Opportunities, Risks, and More! with Altan Wuliji | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
About Our Guest:
Benjamin Aase is a principal with CliftonLarsonAllen (CLA). As a member of the national nonprofit leadership team, Ben leads the firm’s nonprofit digital services. CLA’s team of 900 nonprofit professionals serves over 10,000 nonprofits nationally through integrated wealth advisory, outsourcing, digital, audit, and tax services to help them succeed professionally and personally.
Ben earned his BA in Economics from Colorado College and an MBA from the University of Minnesota. Ben is a board director and investment committee member of the Cargill Foundation, a co-founder of Impact Hub MSP, a former Bush Fellows Selection Committee Member and a judge in the Meda Million Dollar Challenge, and a former review board member for the Impact Ventures division of the Minnesota Cup. Ben is also co-founder of the Minneapolis Professional Chapter of Net Impact. Ben was recently named a (Real) Power 50 by Minnesota Business Magazine.
Fixed-income markets have changed dramatically.
As bonds garner growing interest from investors (including endowments and foundations), it boils down to fit, and is it possible to achieve your portfolio return target with less risk?
Learn more about the role of fixed income in a portfolio with Bob DiMeo, Devon Francis, and guest Wesly Pate, CFA®, Senior Portfolio Manager at Income Research + Management (IR+M). They talk about portfolio diversification, credit risk, liquidity, inflation, private credit, and much more.
You’ll discover:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Wesly Pate | Income Research + Management | Fiducient Advisors 2024 Outlook – Prepare Not Predict | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
About Our Guest:
Wesly joined IR+M in January 2011 and was named Senior Portfolio Manager in 2022. In his role as a Senior Portfolio Manager, Wesly is focused on portfolio construction, sector analysis, and contributing to the investment decision-making process, specifically for private clients and taxable institutional portfolios. Prior to joining IR+M, Wesly was an Equity Analyst at Eastern Investment Advisors.
Wesly has a BBA in Finance from Georgia State University, an MBA in Finance from the Boston University School of Management, and an MS in Accounting from the University of Massachusetts Amherst Isenberg School of Management.
With a surprisingly strong quarter in the books, it’s time to uncover the latest updates on the markets and the economy, and how they may impact your portfolio, endowment, or foundation.
Join the insightful conversation between Bob DiMeo, Devon Francis, and returning guest Brad Long, CFA®, Chief Investment Officer at Fiducient Advisors. They talk about year-to-date results, the complex reality of inflation’s “messy middle,” and what to potentially expect going forward.
You’ll discover:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Brad Long | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
Artificial intelligence (AI) drove markets last year and continues to dominate the news today.
But what does it mean for the investments you oversee?
Learn about the transformative potential of AI on your portfolio in this episode with Bob DiMeo, Devon Francis, and guest Altan Wuliji, CFP®, principal and senior consultant at Fiducient Advisors. They explore how AI is reshaping traditional industries, impacting portfolio construction, and enabling operational efficiencies for organizations.
You’ll discover:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Altan Wuliji | Cultural Institutions’ Investment Policies, Practices and Performance | Association Reserves: Policies, Practice and Performance | Peer Benchmarking Using the 2021 NACUBO-TIAA Study of Endowments | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
About Our Guest:
Altan provides investment consulting services to financial institutions, nonprofit organizations, and private investors. He services clients by providing advice and expertise on asset allocation, portfolio design, investment policy statements, manager search process, and overall investment management.
Prior to joining the firm in 2014, Altan was a Senior Planner at Balasa Dinverno Foltz and an Analyst at RegentAtlantic Capital. Altan earned a Bachelor of Science in Financial Planning from the University of Illinois and a Master of Science in Personal Financial Planning from Texas Tech University. Altan was awarded the prestigious Gates Millennium Scholarship through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, as well as the President’s Congressional Scholarship which provided the opportunity to serve within the United States House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. Altan achieved the Certified Financial Planner® designation in 2012 and is a Level II CFA Candidate in the CFA Program. He was a member of the Midtown Auxiliary Board and enjoys competing in triathlons.
Nonprofit organizations, and their donors, have become increasingly vigilant about measuring success and effectiveness.
This new dynamic can significantly impact the type of resources a nonprofit attracts!
In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Chari Smith, founder of Evaluation Into Action and author of Nonprofit Program Evaluation Made Simple. They tackle the pressing issue of program evaluation and its role in demonstrating impact and making data-driven decisions.
You’ll discover:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Chari Smith | Evaluation Into Action | “Nonprofit Program Evaluation Made Simple” by Chari Smith | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
About Our Guest:
Chari Smith believes evaluation should be accessible, practical, and usable. She founded Evaluation into Action to help nonprofit professionals create realistic and meaningful program evaluation processes. She has taught several workshops helping nonprofit professionals understand the value and use of program evaluation.
Chari is the 2023 President-Elect with the Oregon Program Evaluators Network (OPEN). She is a proud member of the American Evaluation Association (AEA) and the International Society of Evaluation Education (ISEE). She is also an adjunct faculty member for the University of Portland’s Pamplin School of Business Nonprofit MBA program. Her book Nonprofit Program Evaluation Made Simple: Get Your Data. Show Your Impact. Improve Your Programs. provides step-by-step instructions on how to do program evaluation.
In a landscape marked by unpredictability and complex market dynamics, investors need to understand the key driving factors and how they may impact portfolio construction.
Tune in as Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis join Brad Long, CFA®, Chief Investment Officer at Fiducient Advisors, to dissect the pivotal themes that shaped 2023 and offer a forward-looking perspective into 2024 and beyond.
You’ll discover:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Brad Long | 2024 Outlook – Prepare not Predict | Other Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
About Our Guest:
Brad joined Fiducient Advisors in 2012. As Fiducient Advisors’ Chief Investment Officer, Brad leads the firm’s investment strategy and research efforts. He is chair of the firm’s Investment Committee and a member of the firm’s Discretionary Committee, Research Forum, Capital Markets Team, and Mission-Aligned Investing Committee.
Prior to joining the firm, Brad worked in various research capacities at Citigroup and Wells Fargo in New York. He received a BA in Finance and Minor in Economics from The University of Colorado and is a CFA® charterholder and member of the CFA Society of Chicago and CFA Institute. Additionally, he is active with Greenhouse Scholars, a nonprofit providing financial and personal support to under-resourced college students. In his free time, Brad loves cooking and spending time with his wife and young sons.
Many hospitals and healthcare organizations continue to face financial instability and margin pressures that have been exacerbated by the lingering effects of the pandemic.
Join Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis as they meet with Kate Guelich, CEO of Kaufman Hall, a renowned management consulting firm specializing in healthcare. They explore strategies to tackle the multifaceted challenges by enhancing performance, efficiency, and cost structures.
You’ll discover:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Kate Guelich | Kaufman Hall on LinkedIn | Kaufman Hall Website | National Hospital Flash Report | 2023 State of Healthcare Performance Improvement Report | Other Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
About Our Guest:
Kate Guelich is a Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer with Kaufman Hall. She is responsible for guiding Kaufman Hall on its strategic growth trajectory, with a keen focus on delivering industry-leading services and solutions to ensure the continued success of the company’s clients and delivering a high level of customer service. Before being named CEO, Kate served as Managing Director and President of Management Consulting for Kaufman Hall. She is also a member of Kaufman Hall’s Board of Directors. Kate, who has expertly advised senior healthcare leaders for more than 20 years on a wide range of topics, previously served as managing director of Kaufman Hall’s Strategic Financial Planning practice. Throughout her tenure with Kaufman Hall, Kate has also played a leading role in the firm’s Women in Healthcare Leadership efforts.
Kate has authored numerous publications on key healthcare topics and regularly speaks to leading national healthcare industry groups. Before joining Kaufman Hall, Kate was a Senior Consultant with Cap Gemini Ernst & Young’s Healthcare Strategy and Transformation group. Kate holds an MBA from the University of Chicago.
Do you intend to incorporate ESG investing into your portfolio but don’t know where to start?
As reporting standards, disclosure requirements, and available data continue to evolve, it can be overwhelming for investors to navigate this ever-changing landscape!
In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Sarah Hinman, CPA/PFS, CFP®, CSRIC®, Senior Consultant at Fiducient Advisors and co-chair of the firm’s Mission-Aligned Investing Committee. They explore the current landscape of ESG and Mission Aligned Investing (MAI).
You’ll discover:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Sarah Hinman | Fiducient’s Guide to Mission-Aligned Investing | Mission-Aligned Investing: Where Are We and Where to Next? | From $400 Million to $15 Billion: Scott Malpass’ Journey Leading Notre Dame’s Endowment and Other Lessons for Leaders | Other Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
About Our Guest:
Sarah provides investment consulting services to nonprofit organizations, corporate executives, family trusts, and other substantial investors. She services clients by providing advice and expertise on asset allocation, portfolio design, investment policy statements, manager search process, and overall investment management. Sarah co-chairs the firm’s Mission-Aligned Investing Committee.
Sarah earned a BS in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a BA in Fashion Marketing and Management from The Illinois Institute of Art in Chicago. Sarah also earned a Master of Accounting Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), a Personal Financial Specialist (PFS), a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), and a Chartered SRI Counselor (CSRIC®). Sarah also passed the CFA Level I exam. In her free time, Sarah enjoys cooking and reading.
Under Scott Malpass’ leadership, the University of Notre Dame’s endowment fund grew from $400 million in 1988 to nearly $15 billion by 2020, ranking among the top 1% of endowments globally!
Post Notre Dame, Scott co-founded Grafton Street Partners and he remains passionate regarding his founder role with Catholic Investment Services.
In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis interview Scott, tapping into his investment experience, governance best practices, and his advice for today’s endowment managers.
You’ll discover:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Scott Malpass | Grafton Street Partners | University of Notre Dame | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
About Our Guest:
Scott C. Malpass is the former Vice President and Chief Investment Officer of the University of Notre Dame, where he currently serves as an Adjunct Professor of Finance at the University’s Mendoza College of Business. Under Malpass’s leadership, the Notre Dame endowment pool grew from $400 million in 1988 to more than $14 billion as of June 30, 2020. Over Malpass’s 32 years of leadership, the Notre Dame Endowment achieved investment performance ranking amongst the very top of endowments globally, transforming opportunities at the University in all aspects of academic and student life. He is currently a member of the Board of Directors of The Vanguard Group, Inc., Paxos Trust Company, LLC, and Catholic Investment Services, Inc. He is also a member of the Board of Superintendence of the Institute for the Works of Religion in Vatican City, commonly referred to as the Vatican Bank. Malpass is a 1984 graduate of Notre Dame and received a Master of Business Administration degree from the University in 1986.
How have markets impacted your endowment or foundation… and what strategies should you be considering right now? It’s time to review this year from a stewardship perspective and consider what strategies to employ heading into 2024.
In this Quarterly Quick Takes, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis are back with Brad Long, CFA®, Chief Investment Officer at Fiducient Advisors. They share meaningful insights on navigating the uncertainty of markets and the economy going forward.
You’ll discover:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Brad Long | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts) | How Nonprofit Leaders Can Think Long-Term To Better Manage Your Money And Your Organization With David Nierenberg
About Our Guest:
Brad joined Fiducient Advisors in 2012. He is chair of the firm’s Investment Committee and a member of the firm’s Discretionary Committee, Research Forum, Capital Markets Team, and Mission-Aligned Investing Committee. Before joining the firm, Brad worked in various research capacities at Citigroup and Wells Fargo in New York. He received a BA in Finance and a Minor in Economics from The University of Colorado and is a CFA® charter holder and member of the CFA Society of Chicago and CFA Institute. Additionally, he is active with Greenhouse Scholars, a nonprofit providing financial and personal support to under-resourced college students. In his free time, Brad loves cooking and spending time with his wife and young sons in his free time.
On July 31st, 2023, a new and exciting chapter began for Fiducient Advisors. With great pleasure, we introduce you to Fiducient Advisors’ new CEO Sabrina Bailey! With a proven track record of astute financial stewardship and a penchant for strategic brilliance, Sabrina brings a wealth of experience that promises to steer Fiducient toward even greater … Continue reading Episode 63 – Get to Know Fiducient Advisors’ New CEO Sabrina Bailey →
Do you oversee investments, and does this market seem somewhat puzzling? The first half of 2023 was characterized by intriguing events, including AI hype, the Silicon Valley Bank failure, and strained US-China trade relations. And we experienced continued market volatility and rising interest rates. So where are things headed? In this Quarterly Quick Take, Bob … Continue reading Episode 62 – Q3 Quarterly Quick Take: Important Investment Updates with Brad Long →
Many nonprofits, especially schools, are contending with rising costs, challenged revenue streams, and regulatory matters — all of it in a tumultuous market environment. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Katharine Wyatt, CFA chief investment officer at Loyola University Chicago. Katherine shares timely insights on how nonprofits and endowments can thrive … Continue reading Episode 61 – How Endowments (Especially Schools) Can Navigate Market Volatility With Katharine Wyatt →
Effective leadership and good governance can help maximize your mission but requires strategic, long-term thinking in a world increasingly focused on the short term.
In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with David Nierenberg, director of The National World War II Museum, where he also chairs the investment committee. They explore ways to improve nonprofit leadership and governance and discuss key considerations for investment committee members today.
You will learn:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts) | David Nierenberg on LinkedIn | “Churchill: Walking with Destiny” by Andrew Roberts | “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. Frankl | “The Old Man and The Sea” by Ernest Hemingway
About Our Guest:
David Nierenberg wears many hats, including being a Director for The National World War II Museum in New Orleans and Chair of its investment committee. He is also the longest-serving member of the Washington State Investment Board, which for the past two decades has been a top-performing state pension fund, priding itself on being transparent and ethical. David is Chair of The Ira Millstein Center for Global Markets and Corporate Ownership at Columbia Law School, a world leader in corporate governance. In addition, David estimates he has 200 “man-years” of service on public companies, private companies, government, and not-for-profit boards, which involved him in dozens of strategic plans, CEO searches, and the like. His volunteer efforts for investment committees are vast and span all sizes, from $15MM portfolios to over $200 billion portfolios. David attended Yale for both his undergraduate and law degrees. He and his wife Patricia were named Philanthropists of the Year in Southwest Washington.
A lot has happened in the first quarter of 2023. Continued market volatility, rising interest rates, and the hottest topic right now — the banking debacle!
In the first Quarterly Quick Take of 2023, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis are back with Brad Long, CFA®, partner and deputy chief investment officer at Fiducient Advisors. They address top stories on the markets and the economy, including their practical portfolio implications.
You will learn:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts) | 2023 Outlook – Goodbye TINA (There is No Alternative) | Webcast: 2023 Essential Economic Update | Three Top Financial Challenges Facing the Nonprofit Sector – Fiducient (fiducientadvisors.com) | Five Investing Paradoxes Impacting Nonprofits and Endowments – Fiducient (fiducientadvisors.com) | Plain English with Derek Thompson: “The SVB Debacle: The Biggest Myths, the Out-of-Control Blame Game, and the Worst Takes”
About Our Guest:
Brad Long joined Fiducient Advisors in 2012. He is chair of the firm’s Investment Committee and a member of the firm’s Discretionary Committee, Research Forum, Capital Markets Team and Mission-Aligned Investing Committee. Prior to joining the firm, Brad worked in various research capacities at Citigroup and Wells Fargo in New York. He received a BA in Finance and Minor in Economics from The University of Colorado and is a CFA® charterholder and member of the CFA Society of Chicago and CFA Institute. Additionally, he is active with Greenhouse Scholars, a nonprofit providing financial and personal support to under-resourced college students. In his free time, Brad loves cooking and spending time with his wife and young sons.
Is ESG here to stay? Will active investing have its turn in the sun? Can international markets finally outperform domestic markets? Does cryptocurrency belong in an endowment portfolio?
These are common investment-related questions that nonprofit leaders and people overseeing endowments might have.
In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis answer the above questions and more. They also share Fiducient Advisors’ outlook for 2023 and beyond.
You will learn:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts) | US SIF: The Forum for Sustainable and Responsible Investment | US SIF 2022 Trends Report
As part of your ESG goals, you might be screening certain investments before adding them to your endowment’s portfolio.
If you want to amplify your impact, adding a “sustainability fund” might help.
In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Dr. Troy Hammond, a scientist, business leader, and entrepreneur who served as North Central College’s president for nearly 10 years until July 2022. Troy shares actionable strategies for effective endowment management and mission-aligned investing.
You will learn:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Dr. Troy Hammond | North Central College | TEDx Talks: Sustainability: Why Universities Can Lead by Example With Dr. Troy Hammond | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts) | “Social Enterprise 2.0: The OWP Difference” by Mike Hamel | “Powering Social Enterprise with Profit and Purpose: The Tandem Hybrid” by Scott Boyer, Jeremy Gudauskas and Mike Hamel
About Our Guest:
A scientist, business leader and entrepreneur, Dr. Troy D. Hammond brought visionary leadership to North Central College over his nearly 10 years as president. Hammond launched his presidency with the bold Brilliant Future Campaign, a $150 million fundraising initiative—the most ambitious capital campaign in the College’s history—which brought sweeping physical changes to campus. He also created the Cardinal Sustainability Fund, which led to significant LED lighting and solar projects across campus. During Hammond’s tenure, several Cardinal athletic programs soared to new heights, including the College’s first-ever football national championship in 2019 and multiple national championships in other sports.
Prior to joining North Central, Hammond was at McKinsey & Company, a global leader in management consulting, where he became an associate principal. He then joined Plextronics, Inc., helping raise substantial venture and strategic capital and growing the technology company into a global leader in printed electronics. During this time, he also served as an adjunct professor of business at Milligan College.
2022 was a challenging year for investors, primarily due to high volatility, severe market drawdowns, and increased Fed intervention.
But what should investors consider moving forward in 2023 and beyond?
Find out in this episode, as Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Brad Long, CFA®, partner and deputy chief investment officer at Fiducient Advisors. They provide recent market updates and future outlook for US and international markets.
You will learn:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts) | 2023 Outlook – Goodbye TINA (There is No Alternative)
About Our Guest:
Brad Long joined Fiducient Advisors in 2012. He is chair of the firm’s Investment Committee and a member of the firm’s Discretionary Committee, Research Forum, Capital Markets Team and Mission-Aligned Investing Committee. Prior to joining the firm, Brad worked in various research capacities at Citigroup and Wells Fargo in New York. He received a BA in Finance and Minor in Economics from The University of Colorado and is a CFA® charterholder and member of the CFA Society of Chicago and CFA Institute. Additionally, he is active with Greenhouse Scholars, a nonprofit providing financial and personal support to under-resourced college students. In his free time, Brad loves cooking and spending time with his wife and young sons.
Being part of a diverse organization does not guarantee everyone feels valued and welcome. It’s crucial to simultaneously and intentionally focus on equity, inclusion and belonging.
Moreover, DEIB is not only the right thing to do, but research shows it can also produce better outcomes.
In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Karen Paulson, partner and senior consultant at Fiducient Advisors, who also chairs the firm’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Steering Committee. Karen provides meaningful insights and inspiration to all stewards looking to advance their DEIB objectives.
You will learn:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Karen Paulson | Email Karen | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts) | Year Up | National Black MBA Association® | National Association of Black Accountants | Women’s Association of Venture and Equity | Women Investment Professionals | Chicago Financial Women | Institutional Investing Diversity Cooperative
About Our Guest:
As a Partner and Senior Consultant, Karen services institutional clients, including 401(k) and tax-exempt retirement plans and nonprofit endowments and foundations, by providing advice and counsel on all areas of fund oversight including policy, asset allocation, manager research, portfolio structure, portfolio rebalancing, performance monitoring and overall investment policy. Karen is chair of the firm’s Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Steering Committee and is a member of the firm’s Defined Contribution Strategic Oversight Committee, Mission-Aligned Investing Committee and Employee Engagement Team. Karen co-founded Fiduciary Investment Advisors, LLC in 2006, which combined with Fiducient Advisors in 2020.
The traditional 60/40 stock/bond portfolio is on pace for its worst performance in 80 years and Treasury bonds might register their worst performance in 200 years! Investor anxiety seems to be rising in lock-step with interest rates.
All this contributes to a high level of uncertainty for those who oversee endowments and foundations.
In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis help investment committees (or any nonprofit leader overseeing investments) combat market uncertainty through four key action items.
You will learn the following:
Resources: Email the Stewards | Fiducient Advisors | Bob DiMeo | Devon Francis | Insights by Fiducient Advisors (Research, Blogs, Podcasts)
High-performing organizations are characterized by strong leadership, a clear goal, and strategic investments. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Jeffery Perry, founder & CEO of Lead Mandates LLC. They discuss the major drivers of success for high-performing organizations (especially nonprofits). You will learn the following: The importance of having a clear … Continue reading Episode 53 – The Secret Sauce for High-Performing Nonprofit Organizations with Jeffery Perry →
With continued market volatility, a rising US dollar, and upcoming midterm elections, it’s time for our third Quarterly Quick Take of 2022. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Brad Long, CFA®, partner and deputy chief investment officer at Fiducient Advisors. They discuss timely market and economic updates, including important portfolio implications … Continue reading Episode 52 – Third Quarterly Quick Take of 2022: Key Market Updates with Brad Long →
Some investment committees are reluctant to own alternative investments because they don’t understand the space well. Or perhaps they are intimidated due to the complexity and cost. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Anthony Novara, CFA®, research director of Fiducient Advisors’ marketable alternatives group. They demystify hedge fund investing and its … Continue reading Episode 51 – Hedge Funds Revisited With Anthony Novara →
Did you know economic stability can lead to instability? Is it possible to spend less today in order to spend more later? Investors encounter such paradoxes regularly, which can be deeply damaging to nonprofits and endowments. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis discuss five major investing paradoxes you must keep in mind, especially … Continue reading Episode 50 – Five Investing Paradoxes Impacting Nonprofits and Endowments →
When raising funds for a new project, are you factoring in operating costs? What type of board and investment committee members do you recruit? How has spending and investing changed in 2022? These are just some of the questions nonprofit leaders are asking today. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Dr. … Continue reading Episode 49 – Endowment Management,Fundraising, Investing, Spending and Other Key Considerations in Higher-Ed with Dr. Jim Reynolds →
Fundraising, both on a small and large scale, can be difficult when markets are down, and there is global turmoil. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Brian Gawor, CFRE, vice president of research at Ruffalo Noel Levitz (RNL) and host of the Fundraising Voices Podcast. Brian shares actionable strategies to boost … Continue reading Episode 48 – Fundraising Strategies to Increase Donor Engagement with Brian Gawor →
With high inflation, slowing growth, volatile capital markets, and political unrest in Eastern Europe, it’s time for our second Quarterly Quick Take of 2022. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Brad Long, CFA®, partner and deputy chief investment officer at Fiducient Advisors. They discuss the current and future outlook for capital … Continue reading Episode 47 – Second Quarterly Quick Take of 2022: Key Market Updates with Brad Long →
Gas prices have spiked exponentially. Inflation is at 40-year highs. World peace is disrupted due to the war in Eastern Europe. Amidst all of this global turmoil, how should investors think about ESG investing? How can organizations advance mission-aligned initiatives? Find out in this episode, as Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Habib Subjally, … Continue reading Episode 46 – Taking on ESG Initiatives Amidst Global Turmoil with Habib Subjally →
Every organization must take the time to stop, reflect on its performance, and ask, “Are we doing the best we can with our current resources?” In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Sally Blount, president, and CEO of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago, one of the largest human service providers … Continue reading Episode 45 – How Can Mission-Driven Nonprofits Improve Performance in Today’s Environment? with Sally Blount →
This can be a challenging environment for nonprofit organizations, especially those in higher education, contending with investments, revenue, operations, and more. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Rev. Dr. Brian Friedrich, president at Concordia University-St. Paul. They discuss the current outlook for higher-ed organizations, including major opportunities and challenges facing them … Continue reading Episode 44 – Nonprofits in Higher-Ed: Current Outlook, Opportunities, and Challenges with Rev. Dr. Brian Friedrich →
Effective governance is key to a nonprofit’s success. It provides strategic direction to your organization. There are multiple factors to consider — board and committee structures, decision-making authority, and investment policies, to name a few. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Julia Boisvert, a member of Murtha Cullina LLP’s Health Care … Continue reading Episode 43 – Nonprofit Governance: How to Effectively Build Committees, Craft Policies, and Fill Gaps with Julia Boisvert →
How concerned should we be with market and economic trends? How can we improve our DEI efforts? What are opportunities and challenges should nonprofit leaders be focusing on? These are some of the pressing questions we hear from clients. Join Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis as they speak with one of the most in-demand guests … Continue reading Episode 42 – Investment Considerations, DEI, Nonprofit Leadership, and More with Mellody Hobson →
The NACUBO-TIAA Study of Endowments is a great benchmarking tool for college and university endowments. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis discuss the key findings from the latest release of the study including noteworthy trends for colleges and universities on investment returns, asset allocation, ESG investing, and a lot more. You will learn: … Continue reading Episode 41 – Peer Benchmarking Using the 2021 NACUBO-TIAA Study of Endowments with Devon Francis →
Does your nonprofit’s success rely heavily on memberships and attendance? If yes, then it’s likely that your organization faced a major downturn due to COVID-19. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Laura Lott, president and CEO at American Alliance of Museums. They discuss strategies to help attendance-dependent nonprofits, such as museums … Continue reading Episode 40 – How Museums and Attendance-Dependent Nonprofits Can Thrive Post-COVID with Laura Lott →
With looming interest rate hikes, market corrections, and ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, it’s time for our first Quarterly Quick Take of 2022. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Brad Long, partner, and deputy chief investment officer at Fiducient Advisors. They provide timely insights into the current economic and market conditions, both in … Continue reading Episode 39 – First Quarterly Quick Take of 2022: Key Market Updates with Brad Long →
There may come a time when your nonprofit experiences a large inflow of cash. For some organizations, this happens when they’re not expecting it at all! In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with David Piccerelli, president at WSBE Rhode Island PBS and a client of Fiducient Advisors, who has experience in managing … Continue reading Episode 38 – How Nonprofits Should Manage Large Cash Inflows with David Piccerelli →
Inflation, interest rates, upcoming midterm elections… There are so many variables that can impact your nonprofit’s investment portfolio in 2022. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Bob Doll, CFA, chief investment officer at Crossmark Global Investments, Inc. Bob Doll makes calculated predictions and forecasts on what will drive U.S. equity markets … Continue reading Episode 37 – Predictions for 2022 That Can Affect Your Investment Portfolio with Bob Doll →
When you’re strategic with your philanthropy and strive for efficiency within your organization, you can do more good with less money. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Caren Yanis, principal at Croland Consulting, LLC, and a philanthropic advisor to families and businesses. Caren shares actionable insights and best practices for today’s … Continue reading Episode 36 – Amplify Your Impact Through Strategic Philanthropy with Caren Yanis →
Are stocks overpriced and about to tank? How will rising inflation impact your portfolio? How might the pandemic continue to impact the economy? Find the answers to these questions in this episode, as Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis interview Matt Rice, Chief Investment Officer at Fiducient Advisors. They discuss key market trends from 2021 (stocks, … Continue reading Episode 35 – The Current Investment Environment: Where Do We Stand? Where Are We Headed? with Matt Rice →
Today, we have Jim Thomas, the CFO of the Clerics of Saint Viator, share timely investment insights for nonprofit investment leaders! The Clerics of Saint Viator is an international Roman Catholic religious congregation. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis interview Jim about his experience in managing finances for a religious order. They also … Continue reading Episode 34 – Investment Insights From a Global Religious Congregation with Jim Thomas →
As the calendar flips to a new year, are you curious about what to expect from equity markets — both in the USA and globally? In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis are joined by David Bianco, CFA, chief investment officer for the Americas at the DWS Group. As one of Wall Street’s best … Continue reading Episode 33 – Future Outlook on Equity Markets (2021 Year-end Updates) with David Bianco →
Dr. Karyn Gordon has rightly said, “Great leaders drive communication, performance, and engagement.” But how can you become a great leader at your nonprofit organization? In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis are joined by Dr. Karyn Gordon to answer this question. Dr. Karyn is the CEO of DK Leadership, a leadership and relationship … Continue reading Episode 32 – Become a Confident Leader with Dr. Karyn Gordon →
Are you looking for proven strategies to help your foundation thrive? In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Jay Ruderman, president of the Ruderman Family Foundation. Jay reveals principles that have guided the Ruderman Family Foundation in making prudent management, investment, and strategic decisions, and explains how other foundations can emulate their … Continue reading Episode 31 – Behind the Scenes of a Successful Foundation with Jay Ruderman →
It’s been a year since Nonprofit Investment Stewards was launched! A big thank you to all our wonderful listeners and guests who have been a part of this journey. In this special episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis take a trip down the memory lane, highlighting some of their most memorable episodes. Then, they move … Continue reading Episode 30 – One Year Anniversary Special →
With public equity markets reaching all-time highs in 2021, many investment committees are concerned about future returns. Consequently, they are exploring or adding allocations to alternative investments, such as private equity. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Matt Kaminski, partner and research director at Fiducient Advisors, who directs the firm’s Global … Continue reading Episode 29 – Nonprofits and Private Equity — With Matt Kaminski →
Focusing on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is more than just the “right thing to do.” It can help your nonprofit make better decisions and achieve greater results. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Cynthia Primo Martin, founder of the Trustees of Color initiative. They discuss actionable strategies to create diverse … Continue reading Episode 28 – How Nonprofits Can Drive Results Through Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion — With Cynthia Primo Martin →
Nonprofits seek to attract, retain and reward great people – an attractive retirement plan is part of the solve. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Vin Smith, partner and practice leader of the nonprofit defined contribution practice at Fiducient Advisors. They help nonprofit leaders better design their 403(b) plans, create efficient … Continue reading Episode 27 – 403(b) Retirement Plans Optimized for Nonprofits — With Vin Smith →
If you’re looking for investment strategies that help your nonprofit stay relevant in today’s ever-changing markets, then this episode is for you. In this show, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Brad Long, CFA, partner and research director at Fiducient Advisors, who oversees the firm’s global public markets. They discuss crucial investment considerations for … Continue reading Episode 26 – Endowment Investment Considerations for Today’s Market — With Brad Long →
Oftentimes, the best way to communicate your nonprofit’s core values and mission to your audience is through storytelling. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis are joined by Park Howell, founder of Business of Story, brand storytelling strategist, and international keynote speaker. As the world’s most industrious storyteller, Park discusses how charitable organizations can … Continue reading Episode 25 – How Storytelling Can Benefit Your Endowment — With Park Howell →
With limited resources and staff, it can be difficult for investment committees to focus on both endowment management and the advancement of the organization’s mission. This circumstance has compelled many nonprofits to consider the Outsourced Chief Investment Officer (OCIO) model. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis are joined by Matt Porter, managing partner … Continue reading Episode 24 – The Benefits and Pitfalls of OCIO Endowment Management — With Matt Porter →
Amidst financial planning and endowment management, it’s common for institutions to underestimate the impact that operations can have in sustaining a nonprofit. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis are joined by Jeff Bethke, managing partner at Ingenuity Advising, to help your nonprofit optimize both financial and operational planning. Jeff draws from his experience … Continue reading Episode 23 – Endowment Management and Operational Efficiencies: How Can You Achieve Both at the Same Time? — With Jeffrey Bethke →
For high-net-worth families who are charitably inclined, private foundations are a great way to make an impact while maintaining control over your investments. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Adam Newell, partner at Fiducient Advisors and director of consulting at The Wealth Office®. Adam helps charitable foundations overcome common challenges, shares … Continue reading Episode 22 – Achieving Your Charitable Mission Through Private Foundations — With Adam Newell →
In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis talk to Jeffrey Shields, president and CEO at National Business Officers Association (NBOA). Jeff shares insights into the challenges independent schools face including enrollment and optimizing their endowment funds. You will learn: Ways to contend with major financial challenges faced by independent schools The impact of tuition … Continue reading Episode 21 – How Independent Schools Navigate Challenges and Manage Endowment Funds — With Jeffrey Shields →
Regularly assessing the impact of your nonprofit’s initiatives and even its mission is more important than ever to all stakeholders including your donors. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis speak with Annie Duflo, executive director at Innovations for Poverty Action. Together, they explore the steps involved in using effective data that fits your … Continue reading Episode 20 – How To Use Data and Rigorous Evaluation to Help Achieve Your Nonprofit’s Goals — With Annie Duflo →
It is projected that by the year 2025, more than 50% of the population will be aged 65 and older. Leadership at senior living communities must keep up and adapt to changes in the industry to be financially prepared for the future of senior living. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis sit down … Continue reading Episode 19 – Senior Living Communities and Their Unique Financial Considerations – with David Bordonaro →
Managing liquidity, identifying suitable governance policies, and building the right investment committee are just a few of the challenges that nonprofits face on a regular basis. How can you navigate these challenges with greater ease? Find out in this episode, as Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis talk with Dennis Morrone, managing partner of Grant Thornton … Continue reading Episode 18: How Nonprofit Leaders Can Overcome Today’s Challenges – With Dennis Morrone →
An investment committee member might be doing everything right. But just one wrong move could derail an endowment or foundation from your path to success. To help prevent this, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis share their list of the 10 Best Investment Committee Practices in this episode. These tactics are extremely powerful and can have … Continue reading Episode 17: 10 Habits of Effective Investment Committees →
During the COVID-19 pandemic, most fundraising events have come to a standstill. For many, face-to-face interaction with donors is limited at best. How can nonprofits adapt to and raise funds in such an environment? To answer this, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis welcome Amy Schiffman, president and CEO of Evolve Giving Group, to today’s podcast. … Continue reading Episode 16: The State of Nonprofit Fundraising and How to Remain Relevant — With Amy Schiffman →
DiMeo Schneider was founded in 1995 and one year ago, combined with Fiduciary Investment Advisors to form one of the largest RIAs in the U.S. In this episode, Devon Francis interviews two key members of Fiducient Advisors’ leadership team, Bob DiMeo and Michael Goss. Join them as they reveal the reasons behind rebranding, what changes … Continue reading Episode 15: Hello Fiducient! DiMeo Schneider’s New Name and Other Important Updates — With Mike Goss and Bob DiMeo →
As a nonprofit organization, you don’t want to spend too much of your portfolio now, robbing future generations of the benefits of your mission. At the same time, you want to spend enough to have impact today. So, how can you find a spending policy that will provide a good balance between the two? Find … Continue reading Episode 14: Your Guide To Endowment Spending Policy — With Devon Francis →
Hospitals and healthcare systems contend with a variety of challenges, and the need for effective management of their investment programs remains as important as ever. Russ Gronewold, CEO of Bryan Health, joins Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis in this episode to share insight and expertise. Together, they discuss important methods to help investment committees effectively … Continue reading Episode 13: Effective Investment Strategies for Healthcare Systems — With Russ Gronewold →
Do you have a thorough understanding of how associations manage their investments? If not, get ready for your crash-course in all-things associations in today’s episode with DiMeo Schneider’s Ahmed Farruk! As DiMeo Schneider’s Washington, D.C. regional director and as a senior consultant, Ahmed has years of experience in working with associations and helping them further … Continue reading Episode 12: How Associations Manage their Investments — With Ahmed Farruk →
When the time comes for your endowment or foundation to hire a new investment consultant, how should you go about the process? And how can you stack the odds in your favor to hire an investment consultant who is well-suited for your charitable organization and its mission? Find out in this episode, as Bob DiMeo … Continue reading Episode 11: How To Hire a Good Investment Consultant — With Brad Alford →
Charitable organizations and endowment funds are at the forefront of the ESG movement. With increased interest in this investment strategy, how might the ESG landscape evolve? In this third and final part of their ESG mini-series, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis join BlackRock director Kaitlin Bergan to explore this and more. Kaitlin shares her experience … Continue reading Episode 10: ESG Investing for Stewards: Part 3 — With Kaitlin Bergan →
With a new year and a new environment, now is the perfect time to examine your endowment or foundation’s investment strategy and asset allocation so that you can adapt to ever-changing market conditions! To help you do this, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis join Matt Rice, the chief investment officer at DiMeo Schneider & Associates, … Continue reading Episode 9: 2021 Investment Outlook for Endowments & Foundations — with Matt Rice →
Get ready to explore a new, unique approach to ESG investing for religious institutions! In part two of their ESG mini-series, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis join Charles Kuchenbrod, the executive associate conference minister at the Southern New England Conference of the United Church of Christ. Charles shares his unique approach to ESG investing and … Continue reading Episode 8: ESG Investing for Stewards: Part 2 — with Charles Kuchenbrod →
In this episode, we kick off a new mini-series on a topic that is near and dear to many endowment and foundation stewards, ESG investing! Join Bob DiMeo, Devon Francis, and DiMeo Schneider’s Shreya Canakapalli as they launch the series with a discussion on Environmental, Social and Governance investing including strategies on how your charitable … Continue reading Episode 7 – ESG Investing for Stewards: Part 1 — With Shreya Canakapalli →
As a steward, how can you effectively manage your endowment fund and avoid common issues that can arise during the process? Find out in this third and final part of our higher education mini-series! In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis welcome lawyer Michael Cooney, an expert in higher education and a Nixon Peabody … Continue reading Episode 6 – Higher Education and COVID-19: Part 3 — With Lawyer Michael Cooney →
With the 2020 Elections mostly over, what do investors, nonprofits, and charitable organizations need to consider in managing their portfolios? To explore the answer, join Bob DiMeo, Devon Francis, and Deutsche Bank’s Head of Global & Public Affairs , Frank Kelly, in this episode. They discuss the impact the elections could have on investors, especially … Continue reading Episode 5 – How the 2020 Elections Could Impact Nonprofit Investors — with Frank Kelly →
Managing endowments at higher education institutions regularly includes uncertainty and challenges. Now this seems more true than ever. In part two of their mini-series on higher education, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis join Wealthspire’s Bruce Laning. As the chair of the Valparaiso University endowment investment committee, Bruce discusses the challenges endowment committees are dealing with … Continue reading Episode 4 – Higher Education and COVID-19: Part 2 — With Bruce Laning →
Community foundations are essential pillars of our societies. But how has this unprecedented year impacted these organizations and the important work they do in communities? To find out, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis visit with Roberta Herman Dietrich of the Houston Jewish Community Foundation in today’s episode. Roberta shares what the foundation does for its … Continue reading Episode 3 – Community Foundations and Current Challenges — With Roberta Herman Dietrich →
Higher education impacts everyone from employers to students. While these institutions bring many great benefits to our societies, like many others, they are now experiencing new challenges in the face of COVID-19. In this episode, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis launch a new three-part mini-series on higher education with the help of Donna M. Carroll, … Continue reading Episode 2 – Higher Education: Part 1 — With Donna M. Carroll →
Are you interested in learning about endowment, foundation and other nonprofit investments and how investment strategy can further your charitable organization’s mission? If so, you’ve come to the right place! In this inaugural episode of the Nonprofit Investment Stewards Podcast, get to know your hosts, Bob DiMeo and Devon Francis of DiMeo Schneider & Associates. … Continue reading Episode 1 – Welcome to the Nonprofit Investment Stewards Podcast! →