Insurance AUM Journal: Recent Episodes
Stewart Foley
The Insurance AUM Journal podcast discusses a wide range of insurance asset management topics. We interview industry leaders and subject-matter experts from insurance companies and asset managers alike.
In this episode of the Insuranceaum.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Bixby Stewart, Head of US Investment Grade Credit Research for Invesco Fixed Income, to explore where credit investors are finding conviction amid tight spreads, strong institutional demand, and a historic wave of AI-related capital investment. Bixby explains why today’s investment-grade market may deserve its historically tight valuations, highlighting stronger credit quality, attractive yields, improved liquidity, and persistent demand from insurers, pensions, and other institutional investors. He also discusses relative value across banks, technology, utilities, energy, and private credit, while examining the risks surrounding hyperscaler issuance, AI monetization, market concentration, and the need for disciplined security selection in a bond picker’s market.
In this episode of the Insuranceaum.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Sidd Chakravarty, Vice President of Investments at CoAction Global, to explore the private market priorities insurance investors should be watching as they prepare for 2027. Sidd discusses the growing role of asset-based finance, opportunities across non-agency mortgages and digital infrastructure, and the many ways insurers can gain exposure to the financing needs created by artificial intelligence. The conversation also examines portfolio construction in a “normal for longer” interest-rate environment, spread compression, emerging risks within private credit and the importance of understanding exactly what sits beneath each investment. Sidd shares his perspective on manager selection, insurance-specific expertise, regulatory developments and the value of peer networks as allocators navigate an increasingly complex investment landscape.
In this episode of the insuranceaum.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Ross Sylvester of Napier Park Global Capital and Katie Cowan of First Eagle Investments about insurance investing in railcar leasing. They explain how the asset class works, why industrial companies lease railcars and how contractual cash flows, specialized maintenance and long-lived physical assets can create a resilient investment profile. The discussion explores how railcar leasing may support stable income, inflation sensitivity, duration alignment and diversification within insurance portfolios. Ross and Katie also share their perspectives on North American supply chains, geopolitical exposure, asset-based finance and how insurers can evaluate railcar leasing alongside traditional credit and real asset allocations.
In this episode of the insuranceaum.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Trevor Clark, Founder and Managing Partner of TPG Twinbrook Capital Partners, about the structural changes reshaping private credit and the enduring role of lower middle market lending. Trevor explains why private credit should not be treated as a single, uniform asset class and discusses how manager experience, direct origination, disciplined underwriting, financial covenants and active portfolio monitoring can influence investment outcomes. The conversation also explores how insurance capital, BDC structures, retail redemptions, longer private equity hold periods and artificial intelligence are changing the direct lending landscape. Trevor shares why strong companies can still become vulnerable when overlevered, how lenders can use better data and monitoring to identify risks earlier, and what insurance investors should consider when evaluating both private credit managers and the structures used to access the asset class.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Maarten Offeringa of Federated Hermes to explore trade finance and the investment opportunity it creates within the real economy. Maarten explains how short-duration loans finance the production, infrastructure, and movement of physical goods through global supply chains, and why changes in global trade and bank regulation have made the asset class increasingly accessible to institutional investors. The conversation examines trade finance’s potential benefits for insurance portfolios, including floating-rate income, low duration, self-amortizing structures, diversification, and relatively low correlation with traditional fixed-income markets. Maarten also discusses Federated Hermes’ bank-partnership approach to sourcing and underwriting transactions, shares real-world examples involving aircraft and essential food supplies, and explains where trade finance may fit within an insurer’s broader public and private credit allocations.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Pramila Agrawal, PhD, CFA, senior insurance portfolio manager at Loomis Sayles, about how insurers can rethink core fixed income in a changing market environment. They discuss the expanding role of private credit, structured products and emerging market debt, along with the importance of liquidity, scale and consistent underwriting across public and private markets. Pramila also shares how technology is becoming more integrated into portfolio construction, risk management and customized solutions for insurance investors.
In this episode of the insuranceaum.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Emily Wiener, Chief Investment Officer of the TIAA General Account, and Dan Close, Head of Municipals at Nuveen, to discuss the role taxable municipal bonds can play in resilient, liability-aware insurance portfolios. They examine why municipal bonds remain a vital source of infrastructure financing and how taxable munis can provide high-quality, long-duration exposure. The conversation explores relative value beyond headline spreads, including credit quality, default and recovery experience, downside protection, supply dynamics, and the importance of specialized research. Emily and Dan also discuss how TIAA uses municipal bonds as portfolio ballast and why experienced market access matters in a diverse and highly specialized asset class.
Host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Nick Coxon, Managing Director and Head of Americas Real Assets, and Ben Taylor, Managing Director, Private Credit, at Macquarie Asset Management. In this episode of the insuranceaum.com podcast, they discuss why infrastructure is becoming an increasingly important allocation for insurers, including the differences between infrastructure debt and equity and the role of contractual revenues, inflation linkage, hard collateral, and long-duration cash flows in liability-aware portfolios. The conversation also explores the widening infrastructure funding gap, rising demand tied to digitalization, decarbonization, demographics, and power usage, and the growing role of private capital as banks retreat from longer-dated lending. Nick and Ben also highlight opportunities in infrastructure-adjacent businesses and explain how the asset class may offer yield, diversification, downside protection, and exposure to essential real assets.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Jim Higgins, Head of Commercial Real Estate at Shelter Growth Capital Partners, to discuss the opportunities and risks within commercial real estate bridge lending. Jim explains how bridge loans fit within the broader CRE debt market, why they can offer attractive risk-adjusted returns, and how Shelter Growth approaches underwriting, asset management, and borrower selection. He also shares insights from more than three decades in commercial real estate credit and discusses the firm's focus on middle-market bridge loans backed by multifamily and industrial properties. Stewart and Jim also examine current commercial real estate fundamentals, including valuations, supply and demand dynamics, leverage levels, and capital availability. The conversation explores how CRE private credit compares with corporate private credit, the benefits of asset-backed lending for insurance portfolios, and why bridge loans may offer compelling relative value in today's market. Jim also discusses the advantages of combining residential and commercial lending platforms, the role of securitization and leverage in portfolio construction, and the characteristics he looks for when building successful investment teams.
Morris Chen, Portfolio Manager and Head of CMBS & CRE Debt Investments at DoubleLine Capital, and Robert Stanbrook, Portfolio Manager for the firm's CRE Loan Platform, join Stewart Foley to explore how commercial mortgage loans can help insurers navigate today's investment landscape. Together, they discuss the differences between CMLs and CMBS, the benefits of portfolio customization, and why these strategies continue to play an important role in balancing yield, duration, and capital efficiency. The conversation also dives into DoubleLine's underwriting philosophy, the importance of borrower quality and loan structure, and how insurers across life, annuity, P&C, and health sectors can tailor commercial mortgage allocations to meet their unique balance sheet objectives. For insurance investors looking to better understand the asset class, this episode offers a practical framework for evaluating both the opportunities and the risks.
Bob Sharma, CFA, Global Head of Insurance Client Group at AllianceBernstein, joins host Stewart Foley, CFA, to discuss how insurers are navigating today's evolving private markets landscape. From geopolitical uncertainty and inflation pressures to AI disruption and higher-for-longer interest rates, the conversation explores the macro themes shaping portfolio decisions across the insurance industry. Bob also breaks down how insurers are thinking about private market allocations beyond the broad "private credit" label. He explains differences across direct lending, asset-based lending, and other private debt categories, while highlighting the importance of portfolio construction, regulatory considerations, and maintaining underwriting discipline in a changing market environment. The discussion also examines headline risk, board education, structuring considerations, and where investors may be finding opportunities as private market complexity continues to increase.
Chris Edson, Partner and Global Head of Origination at Apollo, and Bret Leas, Partner and Head of Asset-Backed Finance, join host Stewart Foley, CFA, for a conversation on how integrated origination platforms are shaping the future of asset-backed finance and private credit. The episode explores Apollo’s “One Apollo” approach, the importance of direct origination, and how customized financing solutions are changing the relationship between borrowers and institutional capital providers. The discussion covers the rapid growth of the asset-backed finance market, structural protections within ABF transactions, and the convergence of public and private markets. Chris and Brett explain why long-duration institutional capital is increasingly aligned with long-duration assets, how insurers are approaching ABF as a core allocation, and why underwriting discipline, diversification, and collateral structure remain critical in today’s environment. The episode also examines global housing finance, corporate asset monetization, insurance balance sheet strategy, asset-liability matching, and the scale of opportunity across private credit markets. Throughout the conversation, the guests share insights into Apollo’s origination ecosystem, problem-solving approach, and how integrated platforms can create long-term value for institutional investors.
Greg Michaud, Head of Real Estate Finance, and Stefanie Stewart, Head of Real Estate Investments at Voya Investment Management, join Stewart Foley, CFA, to explore why commercial mortgages continue to stand out within fixed income markets despite significant changes across the broader investment landscape. They discuss how relative value opportunities remain attractive, even as spreads in many other asset classes have tightened. The conversation examines today's commercial real estate lending environment, including property valuations, underwriting discipline, and the impact of interest rates on lending activity. Greg and Stefanie explain how market conditions have shifted from previous cycles and why stable underwriting standards and realistic borrower expectations are contributing to stronger lending vintages. They also break down differences across core, bridge, and construction lending strategies, discuss where investors are finding compelling opportunities outside of crowded sectors, and share perspectives on portfolio construction, risk selection, and long-term investment partnerships for insurers.
Patrick Manseau, CFA, Managing Director and Head of Infrastructure Debt for the Americas and Asia Pacific at MetLife Investment Management (MIM), joins host Stewart Foley, CFA, for a conversation on the evolving infrastructure debt market and the importance of maintaining discipline in today’s competitive private credit environment. The episode explores how infrastructure is defined within institutional portfolios, the differences between infrastructure debt and traditional corporate or middle-market private credit, and how insurers are accessing opportunities across the asset class. Patrick also discusses origination, sponsor-friendly market dynamics, underwriting standards, covenant protections, and why long-term borrower and sponsor relationships remain essential in infrastructure investing. The discussion also dives into digital infrastructure and the growing impact of AI-driven power demand, including the rapid growth of data centers, merchant power exposure, and the challenges of underwriting energy-related infrastructure assets in a changing market. Patrick shares how MetLife Investment Management coordinates risk across infrastructure, real estate, and asset-based finance platforms, along with broader perspectives on portfolio construction, asset-liability matching, and why infrastructure debt continues to play an important role for insurance investors seeking long-duration, capital-efficient fixed income exposure.
Ron Kantowitz, Managing Director and Head of Private Debt for Invesco’s Global Private Credit Group, joins the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast to examine the growing gap between headlines and reality in direct lending. As concerns around AI disruption, software exposure, and liquidity pressures dominate the narrative, Ron explains why many of these issues are being misinterpreted and why the broader private credit market remains fundamentally sound. He shares how his team has approached risk differently, avoiding highly leveraged sectors like software due to structural concerns rather than market timing, and instead focusing on businesses with durable, non-discretionary demand. The discussion also dives into portfolio construction, the importance of sponsor-backed lending, and how private equity dynamics are evolving in a more uncertain environment. Ron also outlines what institutional investors should be looking for when evaluating managers, from hidden risk indicators like “bad PIK” to diversification, leverage trends, and underwriting discipline. In a market shaped by volatility and shifting sentiment, this episode offers a clear framework for identifying real risk and opportunity in private credit.
Michael Timms, Managing Director and Co-Head of Fund Finance at Bayview Asset Management, joins the InsuranceAUM.com podcast to explore how fund finance has evolved into a critical and rapidly expanding segment of private markets. From its origins in subscription lines to today’s broader ecosystem including NAV lending, GP financing, and structured solutions, Michael outlines how innovation and growing capital demand are reshaping the landscape.
In this episode, Michael shares where he is seeing the most compelling opportunities today, particularly as insurers increasingly play a larger role in providing capital where traditional banks have stepped back. He discusses how different fund finance strategies offer a wide range of risk-adjusted return profiles, and why understanding the structure and underlying collateral is key for effective portfolio construction.
The conversation also dives into how insurers should think about accessing the space, where manager differentiation truly matters, and what potential risks or headwinds investors should keep in mind. As adoption continues to grow, fund finance is moving from a niche strategy to a core consideration for insurance portfolios.
Peter Braffman of GCM Grosvenor joins host Stewart Foley on the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast to explore how real estate has evolved from a traditional institutional allocation into a far broader and more sophisticated asset class. Their conversation looks at how periods of dislocation have historically created new investment opportunities, why repricing matters in the current environment, and how insurance capital continues to play a major role across the market. Peter also shares how his experience at Zurich shaped his perspective as an investor, particularly in understanding real estate not just as a collection of assets, but as a business driven by capital, operators, and long-term execution. Together, he and Stewart discuss how institutional investors, especially insurance companies, are approaching allocations differently today as they navigate higher rates, inflation uncertainty, and a changing capital markets backdrop. The episode also covers some of the most talked-about segments in the market, including data centers and office, while highlighting where Peter sees compelling opportunities today. From specialty operators to operational outperformance and niche sectors that remain underfollowed, this is a thoughtful conversation on where real estate may be headed next and what that means for insurance-focused investors.
Drew Schardt, Co-Head of Direct Equity Investments at Hamilton Lane, joins the InsuranceAUM.com podcast to discuss how investors should be thinking about private markets in today’s uncertain environment. From the firm’s “Pandora’s Box” outlook to the broader macro backdrop, Drew breaks down the key forces shaping private equity, private credit, and portfolio construction. Drew Schardt also explores the disconnect between headlines and underlying fundamentals, particularly in private credit, and why diversification, structure, and long-term positioning remain critical. The conversation touches on liquidity trends, secondaries, and the growing role of new investment structures as investors adapt to a more complex and dynamic market landscape.
Rachel Campbell, Portfolio Manager and Director of Securitized at Income Research and Management, and Kristoff Nelson, CFA, Director of Credit Research at Income Research and Management, join the InsuranceAUM.com podcast to explore how AI is changing the fixed income landscape. The conversation looks at the scale of the data center buildout, where capital is flowing, and how investors are evaluating opportunities across corporate and securitized markets.
They also discuss the implications for credit quality, utilities, infrastructure, and portfolio construction as the lines between traditional fixed income sectors continue to blur. From bottom-up security selection to evolving risk frameworks, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how investors can approach one of the market’s most closely watched themes.
Brendan Murphy and Jim Kaniclides of Insight Investment join the InsuranceAUM.com podcast to explore how global fixed income can play a larger role in insurance portfolios. In the conversation with host Stewart Foley, they explain the size and structure of the global bond market, why U.S. insurers remain heavily concentrated in domestic fixed income, and how currency hedging can potentially turn global diversification into a source of additional yield rather than added cost. They also discuss how insurers can access global fixed income through familiar portfolio structures, where relative value may exist across developed markets, and what risks could create headwinds for a global allocation. The episode offers a practical look at portfolio construction, accounting considerations, and the ways insurers can broaden their opportunity set while staying within investment grade and core fixed income frameworks.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Justin Pinckney, Head of Private Debt at AEW, to explore how investors are going beyond core commercial real estate (CRE) debt to uncover new sources of yield and diversification. The discussion begins with a market overview of real estate credit, highlighting the impact of higher interest rates, improving liquidity, and shifting risk-return dynamics across the CRE landscape.
Stewart and Justin then dive into where AEW is finding the most compelling opportunities today, including alternative sectors like senior housing, while also outlining key underwriting considerations, risk management approaches, and portfolio construction strategies for insurance allocators. The episode also examines potential headwinds, the importance of information and execution advantages, and how disciplined lending can help investors navigate an evolving and increasingly complex market environment.
Bill Maclay, Portfolio Manager in Fidelity’s High Income and Alternatives Division, joins Stewart Foley for a timely conversation on high yield real estate lending and how insurers are positioning in this evolving segment of the market. With banks retrenching, capital structures shifting, and construction volumes slowing, Bill shares how Fidelity is identifying opportunity while managing credit and structural risk across the real estate debt landscape. Drawing on more than two decades of experience across real estate equity and debt markets, Bill walks through key market dynamics, including the role of construction lending, geographic supply-demand imbalances, and where insurers can align capital with niche opportunities. He also discusses the potential for insurer partnerships, co-lending structures, and how Fidelity’s platform brings together public and private real estate capabilities to create value. Whether you're focused on CRE debt allocations, yield targets, or managing risk in uncertain markets, this episode offers a grounded, forward-looking view of where the real estate lending market is headed.
Noah Funderburk, Portfolio Manager and Director of Securitized Credit at Pioneer Investments, joins the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast for a deep dive into the mechanics that matter most in structured credit. In this episode, he explores why risk and discomfort are often the source of return, how credit risk and interest rate convexity can compound drawdowns, and why sponsor incentives should never be overlooked. The conversation moves beyond headline yield to focus on tranche-level analysis, correlation risk, asset obsolescence, and securitization structures that delever over time. For insurance investors allocating to ABS, RMBS, CMBS, and multi-sector portfolios, this discussion offers a practical framework for evaluating complexity, pricing uncertainty, and managing downside risk in an evolving market environment.
Neda Vakilian of Actis and David Swift of General Atlantic join the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast to explore how growth equity and infrastructure equity are reshaping the opportunity set for insurance investors in the energy transition era. As electrification accelerates, AI drives non-linear power demand, and energy security becomes a strategic priority, they outline how these structural forces are creating durable, long-term investment themes. The discussion examines the difference between traditional infrastructure debt and control-oriented equity strategies, highlighting capital-efficient growth businesses and essential, baseline infrastructure in both developed and growth markets. Neda and David detail how their teams approach risk, focusing on execution rather than technology risk, policy-agnostic business models, long-dated cash flows, and disciplined underwriting frameworks designed to support capital preservation. They also address how sustainability outcomes can emerge from solving economic problems, aligning measurable impact with institutional-grade return expectations. For insurers navigating long-duration liabilities and evolving enterprise risk priorities, this conversation offers a practical perspective on deploying capital into a structurally changing energy landscape.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Joel Hart, Managing Director and Chief Risk Officer at Victory Park Capital, about the growing concern of fraud risk in asset-backed finance (ABF) and private credit. As insurance investors increase exposure to these sectors, Joel offers a candid look at why borrower misconduct tends to spike in late-cycle markets and outlines the types of fraud currently emerging such as double pledging, falsified collateral, and manipulated reporting. Joel also shares how Victory Park Capital’s independent risk function, data-driven monitoring systems, and hands-on portfolio management help mitigate these risks across the investment lifecycle. From the cultural importance of being willing to walk away from deals to key due diligence questions insurers should ask ABF managers, this episode delivers timely, actionable insights for insurance allocators navigating a complex credit landscape.
Chris Gudmastad, Managing Director and Portfolio Manager of Private Credit at Loomis Sayles, returns to the podcast for a deep dive into one of the most important shifts facing institutional investors: the convergence of public and private credit. As the traditional lines between market segments continue to blur, Chris offers a practical and forward-looking view of how insurers can adapt their frameworks for liquidity, complexity, and relative value. With more than 20 years of experience in private placements, structured credit, and insurance-focused investing, Chris walks through how capital structures are evolving, how new vehicles and secondaries are redefining liquidity, and how to apply a unified risk premium framework across asset classes. He also shares insights into organizational convergence and how teams at Loomis are collaborating across disciplines to underwrite complex, cross-market opportunities. Whether you’re refining your private credit allocations or evaluating new structures across public and private markets, this episode offers a grounded perspective on managing risk and return in 2026 and beyond.
Peter Schenck, Head of Liquidity Distribution at Northern Trust Asset Management, joins Stewart Foley for a timely conversation on how insurers are rethinking cash management in today's evolving environment. With over $350 billion in cash and short-duration assets under management, Peter offers an inside look at how liquidity is being used not just as a defensive allocation, but as a strategic tool for flexibility, capital efficiency, and operational readiness. The discussion covers the growth of money market funds, the mechanics behind pooled liquidity vehicles, and the role of segmentation in managing operating versus strategic cash. Peter also shares forward-looking insights on tokenization, digitalization, and the future of liquidity in a 24/7 global economy. For insurers navigating volatility, regulation, and balance sheet demands, this episode offers clear and practical takeaways.
Kerry O’Brien, Head of Insurance Asset Management and Multi-Asset Solutions at MetLife Investment Management, and Harold Myers, CFA, Portfolio Manager in MIM’s Insurance Asset Management Group, discuss how insurers thoughtfully incorporate tactical asset allocation within long-term strategic asset allocation frameworks. They explore how strategic asset allocation sets the foundation for resilient insurance portfolios, while tactical decisions allow insurers to respond to market dislocations, credit cycles, and shifting rate environments without resorting to market timing. The discussion covers governance, analytics, capital efficiency, and the role of experience and judgment in navigating complex insurance portfolios across market cycles. The episode also looks ahead to how tactical and relative value investing may evolve for insurers, including the growing role of customized structures, public and private market integration, and technology in supporting disciplined, client-aligned investment decisions.
Scott Littman, Managing Director of Infrastructure Investments at GCM Grosvenor, joins host Stewart Foley, CFA, on the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast for a wide-ranging discussion on infrastructure as a core component of modern insurance portfolios. The conversation explores how infrastructure is defined today, why essential assets with long-duration cash flows and inflation linkage have become increasingly important, and how insurers are approaching infrastructure across debt and equity strategies. Scott also shares insights on capital efficiency, regulatory considerations, and portfolio construction as insurers expand their allocations to real assets. The episode concludes with a look at the current macro environment, including opportunities and risks across sectors such as energy, transportation, and data centers, and practical considerations for insurers building or refining infrastructure programs.
Michelle Creed, Partner and Co-Head of Real Estate Secondaries, and Min Zhou, Managing Director in the Ares Secondaries Group, join host Stewart Foley, CFA, on the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast for an in-depth discussion on real estate secondaries and how the market has evolved. The conversation explores the growth of GP-led transactions and continuation vehicles, the impact of valuation resets and liquidity dynamics, and how real estate secondaries can be used as a portfolio management tool. Michelle and Min also address common misconceptions around discounts, asset quality, and the motivations behind secondary transactions. The episode concludes with insights into portfolio construction considerations, diversification, and capital efficiency, particularly as institutional investors navigate shifting real estate and private market environments.
Private asset-based finance (ABF) is gaining prominence in insurance portfolio strategy as insurers evaluate its capital efficiency, structural protections, and yield potential. In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley is joined by John Roglieri, Managing Director in Brookfield's Strategic Credit Initiatives, and Remo Plunkett, Vice President in Brookfield’s Credit Group, to explore the evolution of ABF and its growing relevance for insurers. The discussion covers why ABF is not just a newer version of traditional securitized assets, but a broad, flexible toolkit that includes real assets, recurring cash flows, and customized structures tailored to insurer needs. With insights on risk management, capital treatment, and relative value versus direct lending, this episode offers a timely look at how insurers can build resilient portfolios in an increasingly complex credit environment.
On this episode of the InsuranceAUM Podcast, Pete Miller, President and CEO of The Institutes, joins host Stewart Foley for a wide-ranging conversation on the newly announced affiliation and why it represents a meaningful step forward for the insurance industry. Together, they discuss how The Institutes’ more than century-long legacy in professional education complements InsuranceAUM’s focus on insurance investment knowledge, and why closing the education gap between underwriting, operations, and investing is becoming increasingly important as portfolios grow more complex. The conversation also dives into leadership, culture, and the role of values in building organizations that last. Miller shares insights from his career at the intersection of technology and insurance, including how The Institutes evaluates partnerships, why ethics remain foundational to innovation, and what it takes to prepare professionals for jobs that are still being defined. Foley reflects on the origins of InsuranceAUM, the motivation behind expanding educational access for insurance investors, and the vision for developing the next generation of talent through structured, credible learning. Looking ahead, the episode explores how advances in AI and data are reshaping both insurance operations and investment decision-making. Miller and Foley discuss how education can help insurers move beyond loss recovery toward risk prevention, why responsible AI adoption matters, and how continuous learning will be essential as strategic planning, risk management, and capital allocation evolve. Together, they offer a thoughtful perspective on where the industry is headed and how this partnership aims to support insurance professionals at every stage of their careers.
Aakash Doshi, Global Head of Gold for the SPDR ETF business at State Street Global Advisors, joins host Stewart Foley on the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast for an in-depth discussion on one of the most talked-about asset classes in recent years. The conversation explores the macroeconomic, geopolitical, and structural forces that have shaped gold markets since the post-pandemic period. Aakash shares his perspective on central bank demand, ETF flows, global debt levels, and the concept of gold as an alternative fiat hedge. He also explains why gold is often viewed as a left-tail asset and how it differs from other commodities and digital assets in institutional portfolios. The episode concludes with a practical discussion around implementation, including how institutional and insurance investors access gold exposure at scale and what risks could influence the outlook heading into 2026. This episode is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA is joined by Shiloh Bates, CFA, Partner and Chief Investment Officer of Flat Rock Global, for a deep dive into collateralized loan obligations and their role in insurance portfolios. Shiloh explains how CLOs function as structured credit vehicles, the problems they solve in the private credit market, and how different tranches offer distinct risk-return profiles for investors.
The conversation explores current market dynamics, including elevated default rates, spread behavior, and where Shiloh sees potential opportunities across CLO equity and junior debt. Shiloh also discusses underwriting discipline, diversification benefits, rated feeder structures, and how insurers can think about CLOs relative to direct loan exposure when constructing resilient, risk-aware portfolios.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA sits down with Noelle “Elle” Sisco, Managing Director, Portfolio Manager, and Lead Portfolio Strategist at First Eagle Napier Park, to discuss where structured credit can offer real value for insurance investors and where caution is warranted. Elle shares her background across public and private credit markets and explains how First Eagle Napier Park approaches alternative credit within a multi-strategy investment framework. The conversation explores how insurers can evaluate structured credit through disciplined underwriting, with a focus on collateral analysis, liquidity management, and active portfolio positioning. Elle also addresses late-cycle dynamics, elevated idiosyncratic risk, emerging collateral types, and the importance of separating true underwriting skill from beta-driven returns when constructing resilient insurance portfolios.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Cindy Beaulieu, Chief Investment Officer of Conning North America, and Matt Reilly, Managing Director and Head of Insurance Solutions at Conning. Together, they explore the complex economic, policy, and portfolio construction themes shaping insurance investment strategies heading into 2026. With volatility receding and consumption staying strong, Conning sees cautious optimism grounded in fundamental, long-term portfolio planning. The discussion covers key topics including the rising complexity of insurance portfolios, the expanding role of private assets, and the importance of core fixed income as a risk ballast. Cindy and Matt offer insight into how insurers are balancing liquidity needs, capital requirements, and regulatory scrutiny while adapting to a structurally different rate and policy environment. With real-world examples and a thoughtful look at long-term strategy, this episode provides valuable perspective for insurance investors navigating today’s market challenges.
Tobias Gummersbach, Enterprise Capital Strategist at New England Asset Management, joins the InsuranceAUM Podcast to discuss how insurers can apply stress and scenario testing to strengthen portfolio construction. With a focus on translating complex risks into clear, actionable insights, Tobias explains how these tools can help insurers evaluate exposure, guide asset allocation decisions, and support long-term capital planning. The conversation covers how insurers can move beyond traditional risk measures to better understand the potential impact of severe but plausible events. Tobias shares practical examples of how scenario testing is being used in real-world investment strategy, helping firms assess trade-offs between risk and return, improve communication with stakeholders, and better align portfolios with enterprise risk objectives. This episode provides valuable insights for insurance investment professionals navigating an increasingly complex risk environment.
Infrastructure equity is no longer just about toll roads and utilities—it’s becoming a core part of insurance portfolio strategy. In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Gianluca Minella, Head of Research at InfraRed Capital Partners (a part of SLC Management), joins host Stewart Foley for a wide-ranging conversation on infrastructure’s growing relevance for insurers. Drawing on findings from SLC Management’s recent global insurance survey, Gianluca shares insights into how insurers are allocating across core, core-plus, and value-add strategies. The discussion covers inflation protection, regulatory treatment, digitalization, decarbonization, valuation discipline, and infrastructure’s role as both a defensive and growth-oriented asset class. Whether you’re focused on diversification, long-term returns, or navigating macro risks, this episode offers timely and practical insight into how infrastructure equity is being used by insurers to enhance portfolio resilience and performance.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM Podcast, DoubleLine’s Andrew Hsu and Fifi Wong share their insights on building resilient insurance portfolios through asset-backed securities (ABS) and asset-based finance (ABF). With more than a decade of experience in structured products and a track record of navigating shifting market conditions, they offer a detailed look at underwriting discipline, deal sourcing, and how their approach has helped avoid high-profile credit pitfalls like recent subprime auto bankruptcies. From the early days of FinTech-backed student loans to today’s more complex private ABF opportunities in sectors like aviation and energy infrastructure, this episode explores how DoubleLine evaluates new collateral types, maintains portfolio quality, and partners with insurance investors for long-term success. Hosted by Stewart Foley, this discussion is a must-listen for insurance asset managers, CIOs, and anyone interested in how structured credit strategies are evolving in today's uncertain environment. Listen now and subscribe to stay current on trends in insurance asset management.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley sits down with Siddharth Dahiya, Global Head of Emerging Market Debt at Aberdeen Investments, to unpack one of the most dynamic and evolving areas of institutional fixed income—emerging market debt (EMD). With decades of experience in global markets and deep roots in insurance investing, Siddharth provides a clear and comprehensive breakdown of the EMD universe—from hard currency sovereigns and corporates to local currency bonds and frontier markets. The discussion covers the structural advantages of EMD, including improving fundamentals, increasing credit rating upgrades, and attractive spreads versus similarly rated developed market debt. Siddharth also dives into how private credit within emerging markets is gaining traction with insurance portfolios, offering enhanced yields and structural protections. For insurance investors seeking diversification, real yield, and capital efficiency, this episode offers actionable insights into a sector that's once again demanding attention. Whether you're seeking a defensive allocation or exploring yield-enhancing strategies, Siddharth shares why now may be the right time to give EMD a second look.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Alexey Teplukhin, Managing Director at Blue Owl Capital, to explore the often-overlooked but critical role of data centers and digital infrastructure in the global economy. Alexey offers expert insights into how these assets are enabling everything from everyday digital activity to the exponential rise of artificial intelligence. The conversation begins with the basics what a data center actually is and quickly dives into what makes them such a compelling, long-term real asset investment.
The discussion also covers how demand for data infrastructure is accelerating, what risks exist around technological disruption, and why Blue Owl focuses on the physical backbone of the digital world rather than trying to bet on the next software winner. With analogies ranging from toll roads to airports, this episode delivers a clear, engaging look at the intersection of AI, infrastructure, and investment strategy making it a must-listen for institutional investors navigating a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
In this episode, Stewart Foley welcomes Ryan Brauns of Ares US Direct Lending for a deep dive into the mechanics and momentum behind one of the industry’s most influential private credit platforms. Ryan explains how Ares has scaled its direct lending business, the role of underwriting discipline, and why duration alignment remains one of the most important considerations for insurers entering the asset class. The conversation explores everything from the structure of Ares’ capital pools to how leverage, covenants, and loan-to-value ratios fit into today’s market realities. Ryan also shares insights on spread dynamics, the rise of retail participation, and how insurers, large and small, are thinking about private credit in their strategic asset allocations. Whether you’re new to private credit or want a deeper look behind the scenes of one of the space’s leading managers, this episode offers valuable clarity and perspective for insurance investment professionals.
Nancy Mueller Handal, Chief Investment Officer of Insurance Asset Management at Bayview Asset Management, shares her insights on how insurers can pursue alpha through residential loans and asset-based finance. With extensive experience in structured credit, Nancy explains why residential whole loans can be a strong fit for insurance portfolios when managed with discipline and precision. She discusses the capital efficiency of the asset class, the appeal of agency-eligible and non-QM loans, and the role of thoughtful underwriting in mitigating risk. The discussion also covers the evolution of the residential credit market, the importance of robust data and infrastructure, and the risks that come with layered credit and valuation gaps. Nancy outlines how Bayview’s platform approaches sourcing and portfolio construction at scale, and why residential loans can provide diversification and long-term value when approached with a careful, insurer-aligned strategy.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Bob Huang, Executive Director of Equity Research for the Property & Casualty and Life Insurance Group at Morgan Stanley, sits down with Stewart Foley for a timely and insightful conversation on the implications of a declining interest rate environment. Drawing on one of the broadest insurance company coverages on Wall Street, Bob shares how rate cuts could influence earnings, asset allocations, product design, and underwriting dynamics across both life and P&C insurers. Bob explains why falling short-end rates may pressure floating-rate-heavy portfolios, how product offerings like fixed and indexed annuities could evolve in response, and why duration mismatches and spread compression are becoming top concerns. The discussion also highlights how the interplay between product structures and investment strategy is shifting, especially in an era of increased competition and regulatory complexity. Whether you're managing risk, building product, or allocating capital, this episode offers key takeaways for navigating volatility and staying ahead in a changing rate cycle.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, welcomes back Robert Clark, Chief Investment Officer and Founding Partner of Domain Real Estate Partners, for a timely discussion on the state of U.S. residential real estate. With affordability continuing to challenge buyers and mortgage rates remaining elevated, Bob offers a deep dive into how homebuilders are adapting their models in 2025, from navigating margin pressure and shifting demographics to embracing land-light strategies. The conversation explores the growing role of insurance capital in financing residential development and how institutional investors are responding to macroeconomic forces such as immigration policy and interest rate volatility. Bob also discusses how Domain partners with homebuilders to manage risk and unlock capital efficiency in an increasingly complex housing market. Whether you're focused on credit, real assets, or portfolio construction, this episode offers valuable perspective on the intersection of real estate fundamentals and investment opportunity in today’s market.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Mansi Patel and Jeff Matthews of Principal Asset Management to explore how infrastructure debt is evolving—and how those changes are influencing insurance investment strategy. From AI-driven demand for data centers to the energy transition and shifting demographics, the conversation unpacks the current state and future outlook of infrastructure investing. Mansi and Jeff also explain key trends shaping the asset class: the rise of digital infrastructure, the role of power and natural gas in supporting AI growth, and the importance of geographic diversification. They provide insights into how insurance companies can access these opportunities through both SMAs and fund vehicles, while navigating regulatory and capital efficiency considerations. With decades of combined experience, the guests share their views on risk, essentiality, and how infrastructure investments have performed under stress. Whether you're new to the space or deep in portfolio construction, this episode offers timely insights into one of the fastest-growing segments of insurance investing.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Mario Giannini, Executive Co-Chairman and longtime leader of Hamilton Lane, for a candid discussion on the evolving landscape of private markets. Giannini challenges the notion that private equity is “dead,” explaining why fundamentals remain resilient despite recent underperformance and how the long-term value proposition continues to attract institutional investors. The conversation explores key themes shaping portfolios today including secondaries, infrastructure, and the rise of private credit as well as how artificial intelligence is transforming the private markets ecosystem. Giannini also offers perspective on what insurance investors are asking, the importance of asset allocation over market timing, and how culture and discipline have driven Hamilton Lane’s enduring success.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Erin Patterson, Global Co-head of Research and Strategy at Manulife Investment Management, to explore the intersection of macroeconomic uncertainty and commercial real estate opportunity. Erin shares how Manulife is navigating ongoing volatility, from interest rate shifts to global trade disruptions, and why a resilient, globally diversified strategy remains key for insurance investors. The conversation covers the "five Ds" shaping their investment lens demographics, deglobalization, decarbonization, digitalization, and democratization and how these trends are influencing everything from market selection to sector prioritization. Erin also dives into the evolving role of alternative real estate, the importance of demographic tracking, and how AI and infrastructure considerations are shaping CRE strategy. Whether you're focused on long-term income or adapting to short-term uncertainty, this episode offers valuable insights into institutional real estate allocation in today’s complex environment.
Jeffrey Diehl, Managing Partner and Head of Investments at Adams Street Partners, joins the InsuranceAUM.com podcast to explore whether the rapid growth of private credit platforms, particularly BDCs and insurer-owned portfolios, is creating systemic risk or sustainable opportunity. In this candid conversation with host Stewart Foley, Diehl explains how deployment pressure, the rise of PIK loans, and reduced underwriting discipline could challenge returns in an overheated segment of the market. He also unpacks the scale of capital flowing through these platforms, the structural differences between perpetual BDCs and traditional private credit funds, and what red flags insurance investors should be monitoring. For anyone allocating to private credit, or evaluating manager selection, this episode offers timely, practical insight into how scaling may impact risk, performance, and long-term portfolio outcomes.
Mark Rose, Insurance Solutions Specialist at T. Rowe Price and former Chief Investment Officer of Argo Group, joins Stewart Foley for a candid and insightful conversation on the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. With a background spanning equities, high yield, private credit, and more, Mark shares the lessons learned from over a decade managing insurance portfolios—including the importance of investment committee process, manager selection, and risk governance. He also discusses his transition from CIO to the asset management side, what drew him to T. Rowe Price, and how the firm is evolving its insurance solutions offering. For insurance investors navigating today’s evolving fixed income landscape, Mark’s perspective offers valuable takeaways on portfolio construction, private asset allocation, and building strong institutional relationships. Whether you’re in the CIO seat or partnering with insurers, this episode offers real-world insight from both sides of the table.
David Politano, Managing Director and Head of Debt Strategies for MetLife Investment Management’s Real Estate group, brings more than 30 years of experience to the conversation as he joins the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. In this episode, he explains how insurance companies’ approach to commercial real estate lending differs from traditional bank and CMBS channels - focusing on long-term, cradle-to-grave loan management with an emphasis on credit quality and relationship-based underwriting. David walks through the structural advantages of insurer-held CRE debt, performance comparisons post-COVID, and how real estate market dynamics, especially in the office sector, are evolving. He also provides perspectives on pricing trends, global opportunities like Mexico industrial, and what insurers should consider in today's competitive lending environment. Backed by deep institutional knowledge and a client-first investment philosophy, this episode offers valuable context for insurers navigating CRE debt in 2025 and beyond.
Tas Hasan, Managing Partner & COO, and Nelson Pereira, Director of Insurance Investor Partnerships at Deerpath Capital, share their perspective on the growing role of lower and middle market direct lending in insurance portfolios. With decades of experience and a long-standing focus on this segment, they explain why it's gaining traction among insurers seeking yield, diversification, and capital efficiency. They break down the structural advantages of sponsor-backed lending, including stronger covenants, conservative leverage, and more lender-friendly deal terms. The discussion also explores how regulatory developments, such as NAIC guidance and capital treatment, are influencing insurer allocation decisions. For insurance investors evaluating private credit strategies, this conversation offers valuable insight into manager selection, deal flow dynamics, and the key factors that set experienced lenders apart in today’s market.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Frank Melaccio, CFA, CPA, FRM, Vice President, Finance and Treasurer at Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, and Jason Young, Head of U.S. Corporate Private Placements and Private Structured Credit at MetLife Investment Management (MIM). The discussion explores the evolving role of investment-grade private credit and asset-based finance (ABF) in health insurance investment portfolios. Both guests share their career journeys, personal anecdotes, and their perspectives on strategic asset allocation within the unique cash flow structures of health insurers. Together, they dive into the diversification benefits, relative value opportunities, and liquidity considerations of IG private placements and ABF. Frank offers insights into how health insurers manage illiquidity risk while optimizing return on capital, and Jason sheds light on how the ABF market has matured with shorter durations and more investor interest. This episode is packed with expert perspectives on credit market dynamics, the future of private fixed income, and how health insurers can better position their portfolios in today's rapidly changing environment.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Carrie Mears, Chief Investment Specialist at the Iowa Department of Insurance and Financial Services. Carrie offers a rare regulatory perspective on how insurance investment oversight is evolving—touching on key topics like NAIC reforms, the restructuring of the Valuation of Securities Task Force, and the growing influence of private credit on insurer portfolios. The conversation dives into the challenges of transparency, capital treatment, and risk assessment in today’s complex investment landscape. Carrie also shares insights from her roles at both the NAIC and the IAIS, offering a global lens on regulatory frameworks and their implications for CIOs, portfolio managers, and other insurance investment professionals. It’s an informative, accessible episode filled with practical insights for anyone navigating the intersection of regulation and insurance asset management.
Sam Kaplan, Rates and Securitized Portfolio Manager at Jennison Associates, returns to the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast to share his perspective on today’s evolving rates landscape. With the Fed cutting front-end rates while long-end yields remain elevated, Sam explores the forces reshaping the curve and what insurers need to know about duration, relative value, and term premium. In this conversation with host Stewart Foley, Sam outlines the implications of shifting monetary policy, labor market trends, and fiscal dynamics on fixed income portfolios. He highlights how insurers can evaluate opportunities across the curve, from three- to seven-year maturities to the longer end, and why relative value considerations are changing in ways many haven’t seen before. The discussion also touches on practical considerations for insurers - whether now is the right time to extend duration, what risks lie ahead if Fed independence is challenged, and how market participants are adapting to heightened uncertainty. For anyone navigating today’s fixed income environment, Sam provides timely insights and a framework for staying “ahead of the curve.”
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Milliman’s Sam Nandi, Co-Lead of the Financial Risk Management Practice, and Anna Berezovskaya, Principal and Consulting Actuary in the Life Practice. Together, they explore how regulatory changes and the growing role of private credit are reshaping the way insurers approach strategic asset allocation. Sam and Anna share perspectives on balancing regulatory requirements, liability-aware investing, and enterprise value optimization in today’s complex insurance landscape. They highlight the nuances of principle-based reserving, liquidity governance, and the trade-offs insurers face as they incorporate private and alternative assets into their portfolios. From evolving regulations to liability-informed frameworks, this conversation offers a clear view of how insurers can adapt to new challenges while pursuing long-term value creation.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, welcomes Jennifer Taylor, Head of Emerging Market Debt and Senior Portfolio Manager at State Street Investment Management, for a timely and insightful discussion on the current state of EM debt. Jennifer shares her career journey from early roles in hedge funds to leading sovereign debt strategies, offering valuable perspective on how emerging markets have evolved—and why they continue to present compelling yet complex opportunities for institutional investors. The conversation explores why State Street Investment Management takes a beta-first approach to emerging market debt, emphasizing diversification across sovereign issuers and efficient benchmark exposure. Jennifer explains the differences between sovereign and corporate EM debt, discusses the role of U.S. policy as a dominant market driver, and shares how her team helps clients customize exposures based on unique constraints and objectives. This episode is essential listening for insurance investment professionals looking to better understand one of the most dynamic areas of global fixed income.
Ross Rosenfelt, Managing Director in the Global Opportunities group at Oaktree, joins the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast to unpack the rapid rise of liability management exercises (LMEs) and their impact on today’s credit markets. With over two decades of experience in restructuring—first as a bankruptcy attorney and now as an investor—Ross offers a grounded look at how LMEs are reshaping the way distressed companies and creditors interact. He and host Stewart Foley explore how restructuring has evolved, the legal mechanics behind LMEs, and what insurance investors should know about navigating this increasingly complex environment. From creditor cooperation agreements to underwriting challenges in a post-LME world, this episode delivers timely insights from one of the industry's most experienced voices.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, welcomes Kevin Egan, CPA, Managing Director, Senior Portfolio Manager, and Co-Head of Credit Research for Invesco’s Global Private Credit Team. Together, they take a deep dive into senior loans—an often misunderstood but increasingly relevant market for insurers. Kevin explains the fundamentals of the asset class, including the security and recovery profile of senior loans, their relative value compared to high yield, and how they’ve historically performed across market cycles. The conversation also explores current dynamics shaping the space: demand from CLOs, shifts in direct lending, and sector trends insurers should be paying attention to. Kevin shares Invesco’s outlook on where opportunities lie today, what risks are emerging, and how insurers can position themselves in a market environment defined by both resilience and competition. Whether you’re looking to better understand the mechanics of senior secured loans or gain insights into how they may fit within an insurance portfolio, this discussion offers practical takeaways from one of the leading voices in private credit.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Rich Hill, Global Head of Research and Strategy at Principal Real Estate, to explore today’s commercial real estate landscape and what it means for insurance investors. With over $25 trillion in value and 18 subsectors, CRE is far from monolithic. Rich explains how insurers should approach asset allocation with a four-quadrant strategy that includes public and private debt and equity. The conversation dives into how insurers are navigating private real estate debt opportunities amid valuation resets, the growing appeal of sectors like data centers and senior housing, and why CRE may be an under-appreciated source of long-term portfolio stability. Rich also unpacks the difference between core, core plus, value-add, and opportunistic strategies plus, the risks and rewards of each in today's market cycle. Whether you're rethinking your CRE allocation or evaluating long-term trends, this episode offers actionable insights tailored to insurance asset management.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Jeff Miller, Co-Head of Fixed Income and Portfolio Manager, and Stephen “Fitz” Fitzsimmons, Executive Director of Insurance Solutions, both at Morgan Stanley Investment Management. The discussion centers on how insurers can navigate the evolving role of fixed income within multi-asset portfolios, with insights into ALM optimization, yield curve dynamics, and opportunities across public and private credit. Miller and Fitz highlight the impact of regulatory changes, the balance between transparency and complexity in fixed income markets, and how insurers can thoughtfully integrate alternatives alongside traditional allocations. Their perspectives provide insurance CIOs and investment leaders with actionable guidance for building resilient portfolios in today’s fast-changing environment.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Jon McKeown, Head of Portfolio Strategy and Analytics at Northleaf Capital Partners. Jon shares how Northleaf approaches portfolio construction in private credit by applying a risk- and analytics-driven lens, enabling investment teams to maintain strong relative value discipline and better navigate sector and geographic exposure. With over $30 billion in commitments, Northleaf brings a global, middle-market focus across private equity, infrastructure, and credit making their insights especially relevant to insurance asset managers. Jon outlines how his team supports investment decision-making across origination, underwriting, and portfolio monitoring. He also dives into NAV-based lending, European private credit opportunities, and how his team leverages a custom “composite risk” metric to assess return per unit of risk. Listeners will appreciate Jon’s perspectives on downside protection, portfolio design thinking, and how insurance investors can enhance outcomes through a strategic lens.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Dmitri Rabin, Rates and Securitized Portfolio Manager at Jennison Associates, for a deep dive into the current state of the investment-grade securitized markets. From the performance dynamics of agency MBS versus corporates to the shifting role of banks and foreign buyers, Dmitri offers a clear-eyed view of spread, convexity, and relative value through the lens of insurance portfolios.
The conversation also covers asset-backed securities, subprime auto credit risk, and policy considerations around GSE privatization. Dmitri shares sector-level insights into CLOs, CMBS, and non-agency RMBS, drawing attention to structural risks and supply-demand trends shaping investor positioning. The episode closes with a candid discussion about Jenison’s culture and Dmitri’s career reflections offering both technical insight and human perspective for insurance investment professionals navigating today’s credit markets.
Allysen Mattison, Director of Investment Risk and Vice Chair of the Investment Committee at Income Research & Management, joins the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast to deliver a deep dive into the art and science of fixed income risk management. Drawing on her experience overseeing a $122 billion portfolio, Allysen explains how her team approaches interest rate sensitivity, duration positioning, and risk decomposition to ensure that the risks taken align with high-conviction investment ideas. In the conversation with host Stewart Foley, Allysen unpacks complex topics such as tracking error models, the importance of aligning risk metrics with portfolio construction, and the nuanced role of downside risk analysis. She emphasizes the value of relative value assessment, systematic thinking, and cross-team collaboration, offering practical strategies for balancing active risk-taking with the protection of principal. From philosophical approaches to tactical frameworks, Allysen’s perspective provides a rare inside look at how one of the industry’s leading fixed-income managers evaluates, measures, and responds to risk. Whether you’re an investment professional, an insurance CIO, or simply a fixed income enthusiast, this episode offers a masterclass in managing risk for long-term performance.
Anna Paglia, Executive Vice President and Chief Business Officer at State Street Investment Management, joins host Stewart Foley, CFA, for a wide-ranging discussion on innovation and disruption in asset management. She shares her unconventional career journey from international law to leading one of the industry’s largest investment platforms, offering a unique perspective on how evolving client needs, technological change, and strategic partnerships are reshaping the industry. Anna discusses State Street’s $5 trillion milestone, its rebrand, and initiatives designed to democratize access to both public and private markets, including the launch of a public–private credit ETF. The conversation covers insurer-specific solutions, the role of ETFs and cash management, the importance of team culture, and the next decade’s potential for convergence, tokenization, and blockchain in portfolio management. For asset managers, insurers, and institutional investors, this episode offers valuable takeaways on how to thrive in a rapidly changing financial landscape.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, welcomes Bryan Donahoe, Partner & Head of U.S. Real Estate Debt, and Brent Canada, Partner in the Infrastructure Debt Group at Ares Management, for a deep dive into the evolving role of real asset credit in insurance portfolios. They explore the benefits of infrastructure and real estate debt — from generating durable income streams to diversifying risk and matching long-term liabilities. The conversation covers how market dislocation, rising interest rates, and the pullback from traditional lenders are creating compelling opportunities for private credit investors, particularly in sectors like logistics, housing, utilities, and digital infrastructure. Bryan and Brent also share insights on Ares’ collaborative approach, their perspectives on market resilience, and why insurance capital is poised to play an increasingly important role in real asset lending.
Patrick O’Sullivan, PhD, Head of International Insurance Solutions at Barings, brings a global perspective to this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. Drawing from his background in financial economics and extensive experience at leading asset management firms, Patrick explores how private and alternative investment-grade strategies can help insurers enhance returns, diversify portfolios, and address evolving liability needs. Hosted by Stewart Foley, CFA, this conversation dives into the appeal of structured credit, CLOs, and private placements for insurers navigating today’s market. Patrick shares insights on key considerations such as capital treatment, interest rate risk management, and the growing demand for private IG driven by demographic and regulatory shifts worldwide. For insurers looking to expand their toolkit and capture new opportunities, this episode offers practical insights and strategic takeaways.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Tim Gill, Portfolio Manager, and Juan Tavarez, Research Analyst, from Fidelity Investments’ High Income and Alternatives team to explore the evolving landscape of emerging market corporate debt. With decades of combined experience, Tim and Juan provide a deep dive into how they identify resilient, dollar-denominated credits in complex geographies—and why a bottom-up, credit-focused approach is essential in today’s environment. The conversation covers everything from navigating country-level macro risk and assessing restructurings, to uncovering “hidden castles” in misunderstood sectors. The duo emphasizes the value of sovereign overlays, disciplined portfolio construction, and the role of diversification in managing volatility for insurance investors. Whether you’re seeking long-term yield, capital-efficient allocation, or simply a better understanding of EM corporates, this episode offers highly actionable insights grounded in experience.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley welcomes Dane Graham, Managing Director at 17Capital, for an insightful conversation about the growth and evolution of NAV finance. Dane breaks down what NAV finance is, how it works, and why it’s increasingly being considered as a strategic tool for insurers looking to access liquidity while maintaining exposure to private assets. He shares how 17Capital has positioned itself in this space and how NAV-based lending has matured into a more accepted part of the capital stack. The conversation explores how NAV finance can complement an insurer’s investment toolkit—especially in today’s environment where flexibility and downside protection are crucial. Dane also discusses the growing demand from institutional investors, the risk considerations, and how insurers can assess whether this approach aligns with their long-term goals. Whether you’re new to NAV finance or looking to refine your understanding, this episode offers valuable insights into an innovative and expanding segment of private credit.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, Stewart Foley sits down with Charlie Rose, Managing Director and Global Head of Debt at Invesco Real Estate, for a comprehensive conversation on the state of real estate credit markets and what insurers need to know right now. With nearly $10 billion in CRE debt AUM and a global mandate, Charlie shares insights on how Invesco is navigating a market still recovering from a historic value correction. He explains the fundamentals of bridge lending, the firm’s “credit over yield” approach, and how they integrate equity and credit insights to drive disciplined underwriting. Charlie also compares market dynamics in the U.S. and Europe, highlights where he sees relative value opportunities, and outlines what may lie ahead over the next 12–18 months. The episode closes with a thoughtful take on hiring, diversity, and the traits Invesco values in its team. It’s a high-level, yet grounded discussion for institutional investors exploring real estate credit today.
Direct lending has grown at a staggering pace—more than tripling in just six years. But what are the consequences of that kind of scale? In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley welcomes Audie Apple, Head of Equity Capital Formation at Fidelity Direct Lending, to dive deep into the risks, innovations, and structural shifts shaping private credit today. Together, they unpack how loan documentation, leverage, and covenant structures have evolved in a rapidly expanding asset class. Audie offers valuable insight into pricing dynamics, sponsor versus non-sponsor deals, and how direct lenders are navigating today’s tighter spreads and changing risk profiles. If you're an institutional investor evaluating direct lending strategies, this conversation offers key takeaways—especially around the importance of current toolkit strength over historical track record. From PIK toggles to dispersion metrics, this episode brings clarity to the forces reshaping private credit.
In an era dominated by private credit headlines, is public credit being unfairly overlooked? In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley sits down with John Sherman, lead portfolio manager at Polen Capital, to explore the often misunderstood world of public credit. With nearly two decades of experience, John brings a nuanced view of the high-yield landscape—unpacking how today’s market dynamics differ from the past and why public credit might offer better liquidity, lower fees, and fewer structural risks than private credit. From the shifting credit quality of high-yield indices to the limitations of passive investing in this space, this episode is packed with actionable insights for institutional allocators. You'll also hear why John views high-yield as a “Goldilocks” asset class and how Polen Capital partners with NEAM to bring their credit expertise to the insurance industry. Whether you're weighing your credit allocations or curious about the evolution of private markets, this conversation offers valuable perspective.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, welcomes Siddharth Chakravarty, Director of Investments at Coaction Specialty, for an in-depth executive spotlight. Sid shares his unique journey from engineering and neuroscience research to managing a multi-billion-dollar insurance portfolio, offering a distinctive lens on the future of insurance investing.
Together, they explore emerging opportunities in alternatives, with a focus on real asset infrastructure and secondaries, and examine the implications of regulatory developments, private credit benchmarking, and liquidity management. Sid also dives into the evolving role of AI in investment operations, the importance of data governance, and how small teams can gain scale through strategic automation. This thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation is a must-listen for insurance professionals seeking to build resilient, future-ready portfolios.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, welcomes Isaiah Toback, Partner and Deputy Co-CIO at Castlelake, for an in-depth conversation on asset-based private credit. Isaiah shares his journey from structured finance to Castlelake, offering unique insight into how the firm has built its strategy from the ground up as a pure-play asset-based investor. Together, they explore the structural shifts driving the growth of private credit, including regulatory changes, the rise of non-bank lenders, and the growing need for alternative funding sources. Isaiah breaks down how Castlelake approaches portfolio construction, risk management, and customization—particularly for insurance investors with specific liability and duration targets. This episode is a must-listen for insurance professionals looking to understand the future of asset-based finance and what makes this sector both complex and compelling.
In this episode of the insuranceaum.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA sits down with Matt Jones, Co-Managing Partner of TPG’s North American and European secondaries business, to explore the evolution and growing significance of GP-led secondaries. With over two decades of experience in private markets, Matt brings deep expertise to a complex and rapidly expanding space. He breaks down how GP-led transactions emerged post-financial crisis, why they’ve become more attractive over time, and how they now serve as strategic tools for high-quality fund managers to retain and build value in their best-performing assets. The conversation covers key structural features of continuation vehicles, the risk-return advantages of single-asset secondaries, and what makes this market so compelling for investors today. Matt also explains how macroeconomic volatility is shaping pricing and deal flow, and what traits distinguish the most successful players entering this space. For institutional investors, asset managers, and anyone tracking private equity innovation, this discussion offers a practical and insightful look at one of the most dynamic segments in the alternatives landscape.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Seth Rosenthal, CFA, Chief Investment Officer of Academy Asset Management. Seth shares insights from his transition from managing a $100 billion portfolio at Northern Trust to building a mission-driven investment firm focused on public fixed income and veteran employment. He discusses the origins and strategic direction of Academy Asset Management and its deep-rooted commitment to mentoring, hiring, and training military veterans. The conversation explores how Academy Asset Management leverages both Wall Street expertise and geostrategic insight from a team of over 30 retired admirals and generals to inform investment decisions—particularly in today’s volatile geopolitical environment. Seth also explains why Academy Asset Management is leaning into mortgage-backed securities (MBS), how prepayment risk is evolving, and what makes the Veteran Impact ETF (VETZ) a compelling option for insurance investors. From market strategy to team culture, Seth offers a unique perspective on leading with purpose in asset management—while delivering competitive performance. Whether you're an allocator, an insurance investor, or an advocate for veteran employment, this is an episode worth hearing.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Kamesh Chilukuri, Managing Director and Head of Derivatives at Symetra Investment Management, for a deep dive into the practical applications of derivatives in insurance investing. With experience that spans from Monte Carlo simulations at MIT to leading derivatives strategy at a major insurer, Kamesh brings a unique perspective on how these instruments can enhance portfolio construction and efficiency. The discussion spans both linear and nonlinear derivatives, their relevance to products like fixed and indexed annuities, and how insurers can use them to transform cash flows, hedge risk, and access markets more efficiently. Kamesh also offers insight into operational considerations, regulatory frameworks, and how derivatives can support relative value analysis across asset classes. Whether you're new to derivatives or looking to scale your strategy, this episode offers valuable guidance tailored to the insurance investment community.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Mark Hughes and Kevin Ritter, CFA charterholders and Co-Heads of Emerging Market Debt at PPM America. Together, they explore the evolving opportunity in investment grade emerging market debt and its growing relevance for insurance general account portfolios. Drawing on decades of experience, Mark and Kevin address common misconceptions, highlight the risk-return profile of EM credit, and explain why the asset class may offer compelling value compared to traditional U.S. investment grade allocations. The conversation also delves into how insurers can think about portfolio integration, private vs. public EM debt, sovereign vs. corporate exposures, and how geopolitical shifts and trade policy are influencing asset allocation decisions. With practical insights tailored specifically for insurance investors, this episode provides a timely look at a segment of the market often misunderstood but increasingly important in today's global fixed income landscape.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Fred Pollock, Chief Investment Officer, and Steve McMillan, Head of Credit Research at GCM Grosvenor, for a timely discussion on private credit secondaries. As insurers continue to expand their allocations to private credit, Fred and Steve outline where secondaries fit into the broader $21 trillion private credit market and why they believe this corner of the asset class is poised for long-term growth. They discuss how liquidity, diversification, and discounted entry points can make secondaries particularly attractive especially in today’s uncertain macro environment. The conversation also highlights GCM Grosvenor’s differentiated approach, from deep underwriting discipline to leveraging its multi-asset platform for deal flow and risk evaluation. Fred and Steve explain why understanding the entire private credit landscape not just direct lending is essential for delivering alpha and managing downside risk. Whether you're an insurer evaluating secondary strategies or simply seeking market perspective, this episode offers insight into one of the most complex and compelling areas of institutional investing today.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Connell Hasten of Victory Park Capital and Sukh Grewal of Janus Henderson for a deep dive into the evolving dynamics of public and private asset-backed markets. From their unique career paths to the strategic partnership between their firms, Connell and Sukh explore how collaboration across public and private markets is enhancing investment opportunities for insurance asset managers. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the symbiotic relationship between ETFs and private ABL investments, and how insurers are leveraging both to manage liquidity, diversify portfolios, and improve yield in today’s market. The discussion also tackles macro trends driving interest in asset-backed lending, emerging collateral types, and what characteristics these seasoned professionals look for in the next generation of investment talent. Whether you're rethinking your asset allocation or simply looking to stay ahead of industry shifts, this episode delivers actionable perspectives tailored for insurance investors.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with David Lehman, Managing Director and Head of Real Estate Strategies at HPS Investment Partners, to explore commercial real estate (CRE) debt, market evolution, and capital efficiency. Lehman shares his unique career journey—from New Jersey diner waiter to state government leadership and now overseeing real estate at HPS—offering listeners a rare perspective on adaptability and leadership in finance. Together, they unpack how the CRE landscape has shifted, highlighting changes in the traditional “four food groups” of real estate and the emergence of sectors like data centers and senior housing. They also examine the long-term impact of higher interest rates, evolving bank and non-bank lending roles, and how insurers can gain capital efficiency through real estate debt investments. With historical insights, current trends, and a forward-looking view, this episode is a must-listen for insurance investment professionals navigating today’s CRE market.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Ken Johnson, CFA, CAIA, FRM, Senior Managing Director and Chief Ratings Officer at AM Best. Together, they unpack AM Best’s latest outlooks on the property & casualty and life insurance sectors—covering everything from macroeconomic uncertainty to the rise of private credit, offshore reinsurance, and how ratings methodology is adapting to today’s dynamic insurance investment landscape. Ken shares his take on the growing role of asset manager-owned insurers, the shift toward more complex ownership structures, and the increased reliance on less transparent asset classes. He also discusses AM Best’s internal working groups and how they aim to strike a balance between robust capital modeling and fair treatment for insurers with evolving portfolio strategies. Whether you're a CIO, portfolio manager, or regulator, this discussion sheds light on how risk, regulation, and ratings intersect in today’s market.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Matt Brill, Head of North America Investment Grade Credit at Invesco. Together, they discuss a wide range of timely topics, including how insurers can navigate volatility in public markets, what relative value opportunities exist within investment grade credit, and how macroeconomic and political developments—particularly tariffs—are influencing fixed income strategies today. Matt shares his personal journey from the mail room to managing $100 billion in assets and offers deep insight into how Invesco approaches portfolio construction for insurance clients. He outlines current sector views, including opportunities in banks and utilities, concerns around energy credits, and why now may be the time to selectively take on risk. The conversation also covers credit quality trends, the evolution of core plus strategies, and the importance of timing and conviction in a market shaped by policy uncertainty. This episode offers a practical and insightful look into credit markets from one of the industry’s most respected voices.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Keith Ashton and David Ells, CFA both Partners and Portfolio Managers in Alternative Credit at Ares Management—to explore the accelerating role of insurance capital in asset-based finance (ABF). With deep backgrounds inside insurance companies, Keith and David bring firsthand perspectives on how that experience shapes their approach to managing and structuring credit portfolios today. From defining ABF and highlighting its evolution, to offering practical lessons learned from decades in the field, this discussion is packed with valuable insights for insurance investors. They also delve into the analytics required for evaluating complex structured credit, the private vs. public market dynamics, and the rise of proprietary platforms. The conversation covers key market shifts, the growing appetite from insurers for private credit exposure, and the strategic allocation decisions insurance firms face. Whether you're new to ABF or a seasoned pro, this episode delivers real-world knowledge and forward-looking strategies from two of the industry's top voices.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Shane Feeney, Managing Director and Global Head of Secondaries at Northleaf Capital. They explore the growing importance of private equity secondaries, how portfolio construction can optimize outcomes, and why secondaries are gaining traction with institutional and insurance investors. The conversation covers the evolution of the secondaries market, risk management through diversification, and the dynamics of LP-led and GP-led transactions. Shane also shares insights into current supply-demand trends, what differentiates top-tier managers, and practical advice for insurance CIOs entering the space.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Toby True, Partner on the Investment Strategy and Risk Management Team at Adams Street Partners, about the complexities and evolving best practices in private market portfolio construction for insurers. Toby shares how Adams Street tailors investment strategies to align bottom-up decisions with the unique objectives, risk tolerance, and liquidity needs of insurance portfolios. The conversation explores how illiquidity impacts portfolio design, why data and historical patterns are increasingly valuable in modeling private market exposure, and what current market conditions—such as slowed distributions and resilient fundamentals—mean for capital deployment. Toby also offers insights on secondary markets, private credit underwriting, and key traits he looks for when building investment teams. It's a timely and insightful discussion for insurance investment professionals navigating today’s private market environment.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Shelley Morrison, Head of Fund Finance at Aberdeen Investments, about the growing relevance of fund finance in insurance portfolios. Shelley breaks down the fundamentals of subscription line loans, or “sublines,” and explains how these short-duration, investment-grade assets deliver enhanced yield without excess credit risk. She also outlines how fund finance fits into the broader private credit landscape and why it's gaining traction with insurers seeking diversification and downside protection. The conversation highlights Aberdeen Investments’ disciplined underwriting approach, relationship-driven sourcing, and ability to build custom portfolios tailored to insurer-specific needs. From managing sector exposures to navigating complex liability structures, Shelley offers practical insights into how insurers can integrate fund finance into their strategic allocation plans—especially as the market evolves in response to shifting capital demands.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Justin Mahoney, co-founder of Shelter Growth Capital, for an in-depth discussion on the residential mortgage loan (RML) market and its increasing relevance to insurance portfolios. Justin offers a data-driven look at the macro trends affecting the housing market, including supply shortages, disciplined credit underwriting, and the nuanced relationship between home price appreciation and affordability. He explains why RMLs are drawing growing interest from insurers, thanks to favorable capital treatment, risk-adjusted return potential, and access to Federal Home Loan Bank financing. The conversation also covers investment structure preferences—from direct investing to SMAs and pooled funds—and how each option fits into an insurer's broader allocation strategy. Justin shares where he sees the most compelling opportunities today, including non-QM loans, agency-eligible segments, and home equity extraction. Whether you're just beginning to explore the space or scaling an existing program, this episode offers valuable insights into how insurers can navigate and benefit from this dynamic and scalable asset class.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Michael Hunstad, Deputy CIO and CIO of Global Equities, and Jeff Sampson, Senior Portfolio Manager for Global Equities at Northern Trust Asset Management. They discuss the evolving landscape of dividend strategies, equity allocations, and risk-aware portfolio construction for insurers navigating today’s market complexity. From balancing income and capital appreciation to mitigating concentration risk and factoring in tax efficiency, Hunstad and Sampson share actionable insights tailored to insurance investors. With dividend-paying equities becoming more diversified and relevant in a normalized rate environment, this episode offers practical guidance for aligning public equity strategies with enterprise risk and return goals.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Eric Partlan, Chief Investment Officer at MassMutual, for an engaging installment of the CIO Spotlight series. With MassMutual’s $285 billion general account and deep legacy as a mutual insurer, Eric shares insights into how the firm’s long-term orientation, mutual structure, and strategic partnerships drive its investment approach—particularly in private credit, structured products, and ALM strategies. Eric also reflects on his unique career journey from aerospace engineering to the CIO role, offering a candid look into his philosophy on leadership, team building, and fostering intellectual curiosity. From cultivating a collaborative team culture to leveraging Barings and other long-term partnerships, this episode delivers thoughtful perspectives on navigating evolving markets while remaining rooted in purpose-driven investment strategies. Whether you're new to insurance asset management or a seasoned pro, this is a must-listen conversation on where the industry is headed.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Anwiti Bahuguna, PhD, Chief Investment Officer of Global Asset Allocation at Northern Trust Asset Management. The conversation explores Northern Trust’s latest long-term capital market assumptions and the macroeconomic forces likely to shape insurer portfolios over the next decade—from AI-enabled productivity and energy transition to evolving patterns of globalization. Anwiti shares how her team blends quantitative modeling with insights from asset class specialists to create actionable 10-year outlooks for insurance investors. The discussion spans implications for fixed income and equity allocations, real assets as inflation hedges, and the growing relevance of private markets—particularly private credit. With practical insights on capital formation, macro themes, and manager selection, this episode offers a roadmap for insurance CIOs and investment teams navigating the complexities of a shifting global landscape.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Dan Pallone, Managing Director of Global Loan Operations at SS&C Technologies, to discuss the latest trends in the residential mortgage market. With rising interest rates, limited housing supply, and increasing investor interest, how are insurers positioning themselves in this evolving landscape? Dan shares insights into the advantages of residential mortgage loans (RMLs) over traditional mortgage-backed securities, key operational considerations for insurers looking to scale in this asset class, and the impact of automation on mortgage investing. Tune in to learn how insurance investors can navigate the complexities of the Resi market and optimize their portfolios.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Edward Levin, Managing Director and Co-Head of Direct Infrastructure at Voya Investment Management, to explore the evolving landscape of renewable energy finance. With over 20 years of experience in energy transition projects, Edward shares insights into how the sector has matured, the increasing demand for power driven by AI and manufacturing onshoring, and the evolving financing structures supporting renewable infrastructure. Edward also breaks down the impact of federal policies like the Inflation Reduction Act, the role of tax credits, and how bipartisan support continues to drive investment in renewable energy—even in traditionally fossil-fuel-heavy states. Whether you're an institutional investor, an energy market enthusiast, or just curious about the future of sustainable finance, this conversation offers a valuable look into one of the fastest-growing asset classes today.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Christine Thorpe, Institutional Portfolio Manager at Fidelity Investments, to discuss the critical role of core fixed income in insurance portfolios. Despite being the largest allocation for most insurers, core fixed income often takes a backseat to higher-yielding asset classes. Christine shares insights on sector positioning, duration management, and Fidelity’s preference for rates over spreads in today’s evolving market. With Fidelity managing approximately $2 trillion in fixed income strategies, Christine also highlights the firm’s team-based investment culture and how it helps drive consistent performance. She discusses how insurers can navigate shifting economic conditions, the importance of patience and diversification, and why thoughtful risk management is essential for long-term success. Whether you’re deep in the fixed income space or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Milena Humplik and Margot DeMore, co-founders of Broad Street, to discuss career management from both sides of the desk. They share insights into hiring trends in insurance asset management, the skill sets in demand, and how leadership plays a crucial role in talent retention. Milena and Margot also offer guidance on navigating career transitions, the evolving return-to-office landscape, and what makes a truly great leader in today’s industry. Whether you're an employer looking to build a strong team or a professional considering your next move, this episode delivers valuable takeaways. Tune in for expert perspectives on managing your career and team in the competitive world of insurance asset management.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Jim Kaniclides, Head of U.S. Insurance, and Jeff Burger, CFA, Senior Portfolio Manager of Municipal Bonds at Insight Investment. Together, they discuss the evolving landscape of municipal bonds, offering insights into how insurers can balance yield, liquidity, and safety in today’s fixed-income markets. Jim and Jeff break down the shift from tax-exempt to taxable municipal bonds, their role in insurance portfolios, and the diversification benefits they provide compared to corporate bonds. They also highlight how municipals align with ESG and impact investing trends while maintaining historically low default rates. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on why municipal bonds remain a compelling asset class for insurers seeking quality and stability.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Michael Occi, President of Morgan Stanley Private Credit’s BDC platform, to explore how insurance investors can leverage BDCs to gain deeper insights into the direct lending market. They discuss how BDCs provide transparency into asset quality, credit conditions, and portfolio performance, offering valuable data that insurance investors can use to assess risk and optimize their strategies. Michael explains the evolution of BDC structures, the growing role of non-traded BDCs, and how these vehicles fit into the broader private credit landscape. The conversation also covers the regulatory and structural differences between BDCs and traditional direct lending funds, highlighting key factors insurance companies should consider when allocating capital. Michael shares his perspective on the importance of transparency in investment decisions and how BDC disclosures can serve as a useful tool for both new and experienced investors. Beyond the financial insights, Michael and Stewart discuss career development in asset management, what qualities make a strong team member, and even a bit about Michael’s passion for golf. Whether you're an institutional investor looking to deepen your understanding of BDCs or simply interested in the intersection of private credit and insurance investing, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Vlad Liberzon, partner and portfolio manager at GoldenTree Asset Management, to discuss the evolving landscape of emerging market debt (EMD) and how insurers can approach the asset class strategically. With over 20 years of experience in EMD investing, Vlad shares insights into the asset class’s transformation, from its early days of high correlation and commodity reliance to today’s diverse and uncorrelated opportunities across 90 countries. He breaks down the factors driving EMD’s growth, the risks insurers often associate with the asset class, and why many may be overlooking key opportunities. The conversation delves into portfolio construction, exploring the benefits of a hard currency-focused approach, active management strategies, and the importance of risk discipline. Vlad also offers a market outlook for 2025, highlighting potential opportunities in sovereign and corporate debt, idiosyncratic investments, and the impact of macroeconomic themes like U.S. interest rates, dollar strength, and China exposure. Whether you're new to emerging market debt or looking to refine your investment strategy, this episode provides valuable perspectives on navigating this dynamic and growing asset class. Listen now to gain expert insights into the right way to invest in emerging market debt and how insurers can position their portfolios effectively.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Champ Raju, Managing Partner and Head of Private Equity at PPM America Capital Partners, to discuss the evolving private equity landscape and the investment strategies gaining traction in today’s market. They explore the current fundraising environment, M&A activity, and the increasing role of co-investments and GP-led secondary deals in institutional portfolios. Champ explains how co-investments offer institutional investors, including insurance companies, an opportunity to reduce fees and gain direct exposure to private equity deals. He also breaks down single-asset GP-led secondary transactions, highlighting their benefits and why they are becoming a preferred investment structure. The conversation provides insights into how these strategies can enhance portfolio diversification, optimize capital deployment, and improve overall returns. With decades of experience in private equity, Champ shares his perspective on how investors can navigate these complex structures, assess risk, and take advantage of emerging opportunities. Whether you are an experienced private equity investor or looking to deepen your understanding of alternative investments, this episode offers valuable insights into the shifting dynamics of the private equity market.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Nate Walton, Partner and Head of Private Equity Secondaries at Ares Management, about the evolving role of secondaries in private markets. They discuss how GP-led transactions, liquidity solutions, and structured investments are transforming private equity. Nate shares insights on why secondaries are becoming a key strategy for institutional investors, how they provide downside protection, and what trends to watch in 2025. Whether you're looking to optimize your private equity allocations or better understand the secondary market, this episode offers valuable insights.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, welcomes Fabian Korzendorfer, Partner with StepStone’s Private Debt research team, for an in-depth discussion on Evergreen Funds: A Compelling Tool for Private Markets. Fabian joins from Switzerland to share his expertise on how evergreen funds provide flexibility, liquidity, and efficiency, making them an increasingly attractive option for both institutional and individual investors. Together, they explore the structural advantages of evergreen funds over traditional drawdown models, their impact on portfolio diversification, and why private debt is particularly well-suited for this investment vehicle. Stewart and Fabian also dive into how evergreen funds manage liquidity, their role in mitigating the J-curve effect, and their growing appeal to insurance investors navigating capital efficiency and regulatory considerations. Fabian offers insights into the operational and reporting benefits of these funds, along with career advice for finance professionals looking to navigate the evolving landscape of private markets. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that unpacks the rising prominence of evergreen funds and their potential to reshape private market investing.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, welcomes Aaron Fink, Senior Managing Director at Centerbridge, to explore the evolution of asset finance and opportunistic credit. Aaron shares insights on how Centerbridge's cycle-agnostic approach allows them to dynamically allocate capital across private equity, credit, and real estate, ensuring they capitalize on opportunities regardless of market conditions. From his early career in asset finance trading to leading Centerbridge’s asset finance efforts, Aaron discusses the firm’s unique investment philosophy and its ability to pivot between public and private markets to generate returns. The conversation dives into key market trends for 2025, including opportunities in consumer credit, housing, and specialty finance, and how persistent high interest rates are shaping investment strategies. Aaron also provides a deep dive into the risks and rewards of private credit, the impact of market cycles on opportunistic investing, and the importance of adaptability in sourcing new asset classes. Whether you're an institutional investor or simply interested in how market dynamics influence asset allocation, this episode offers invaluable perspectives on the future of asset finance.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Anthony Giambrone and Stephen West, both Managing Directors on the Venture Capital and Growth team at StepStone, to explore an asset class that isn’t traditionally front and center for insurance portfolios: venture capital. They discuss why insurers may want to consider VC exposure, how the asset class has evolved over the years, and what strategies can help insurance investors navigate this space. With insurance investment portfolios becoming more diversified, Anthony and Stephen share insights on why venture capital has gained traction among institutional investors, how secondaries and emerging managers fit into the equation, and why consistency is key when allocating to VC. They also touch on the impact of AI, changing IPO dynamics, and the role of data in investment decision-making. Don’t miss this deep dive into an asset class that could reshape insurance investing.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Barbara Arnold and Scott Kurland of SS&C Technologies to explore the latest developments in NAIC statutory reporting. With growing portfolio complexity and evolving regulatory requirements, insurers are facing increasing challenges in maintaining compliance while ensuring accuracy and efficiency in reporting. Barbara and Scott discuss the major trends shaping the industry, including the growing role of alternative investments, the shift to multi-manager models, and changes in asset classifications that impact reporting requirements. They also highlight the rising adoption of outsourcing and co-sourcing solutions, helping insurers streamline processes while maintaining compliance. As reporting deadlines tighten and staffing challenges persist, having a clear strategy for data integrity and workflow optimization is more critical than ever. This conversation provides expert insights and practical solutions for insurance investment professionals looking to navigate today’s complex NAIC reporting environment. From best practices in statutory reporting to strategies for staying ahead of regulatory changes, this episode offers valuable perspectives for insurers aiming to enhance their reporting processes. Listen now to gain a deeper understanding of how insurers can optimize their reporting workflows and ensure compliance in an increasingly demanding landscape.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Michael Acton, Managing Director and Head of Research and Strategy at AEW, to explore the evolving landscape of commercial real estate investing. As the industry navigates a post-pandemic world, rising interest rates, and a wave of loan maturities, Acton shares insights on how investors can return to first principles to identify opportunities amid uncertainty. He discusses the hybrid nature of real estate as an asset class, its role in portfolio diversification, and the impact of economic shifts on valuations. Acton also provides a deep dive into key market trends, including the challenges facing office space, the resurgence of senior housing, and the opportunities arising from peak loan maturities. With a career spanning 35 years in real estate research and strategy, he offers a seasoned perspective on how investors—particularly insurance asset managers—can position themselves for success in today’s dynamic environment. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or new to the space, this episode delivers a valuable roadmap for navigating the complexities of commercial real estate.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Victor Debenedetti, principal at OHA, and Anthony Vikhter, senior investment analyst at Missouri Teachers, for an in-depth discussion on best practices in underwriting private credit. As private credit continues to expand, investors must understand the nuances of due diligence, risk assessment, and structuring deals to ensure long-term success. Victor and Anthony share their perspectives on credit monitoring, distressed situations, and the importance of aligning private credit strategies with institutional objectives. They also discuss how private credit differs from private equity and why this asset class has seen such significant growth. Whether you’re investing in private credit or looking to refine your approach, this episode offers key insights for insurance and pension investors alike.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Brian Van Elslander, Head of MAM Direct Lending Portfolio Management, Americas, and Bill Eckmann, Head of Macquarie Principal Finance, Americas, to discuss the evolving landscape of direct lending. With private credit playing an increasingly significant role in institutional portfolios, Brian and Bill share insights on the growth of Macquarie’s direct lending platform, the firm’s approach to alignment and risk management, and key considerations for insurance investors exploring this asset class. They also examine current market dynamics, sector opportunities, and best practices for insurers looking to allocate to private credit. Whether you’re already investing in direct lending or evaluating its strategic fit, this conversation offers valuable perspectives on navigating the space.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Alessandro Pagani, portfolio manager and head of the mortgage and structured finance team at Loomis Sayles, to explore the complexities of asset-based finance. They discuss the key differences between public and private ABS, the growing role of private credit, and how insurers should approach this evolving space. With rising interest rates and changing bank capital requirements, the demand for private asset-backed lending has surged—creating both opportunities and risks for investors. Alessandro shares his insights on liquidity considerations, risk assessment, and the importance of due diligence in this market. He also reflects on the evolution of asset-based finance since the late 1990s, highlighting lessons learned from past cycles and how investors can avoid common pitfalls. If you're looking to better understand the nuances of this asset class, this episode offers an in-depth discussion on navigating what truly is an "adult swim" in investing.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, explores the growing market of private structured credit, also known as private ABF, with Poorvi Dholakia and Paul Carroll of MetLife Investment Management. They discuss how this asset class stands out through customized structures, enhanced covenants, and attractive yield premiums, making it an increasingly valuable component of insurance portfolios. The conversation delves into the key factors driving the growth of private ABF since the 2008 financial crisis, the role of regulatory changes, and how scale and underwriting expertise create a competitive edge in this space. Risk considerations, such as credit, liquidity, and prepayment risk, are also examined, alongside the diversification benefits private ABF can bring to insurance investors. Whether you're seeking a foundational understanding or advanced insights into private ABF, this episode offers a detailed look at its evolving role in meeting insurers' long-term objectives in today’s dynamic investment landscape.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, Stewart Foley sits down with Michael King, Senior Managing Director and Co-Head of Senior Credit at Manulife Investment Management, to take a deep dive into the world of direct lending and sponsored finance. Michael shares his journey from carpentry to credit, discusses the unique dynamics of middle market private equity firms, and unpacks Manulife’s patient, deliberate approach to growing its private credit platform. Discover how Manulife’s focus on consistent underwriting, strong sponsor relationships, and market access has fueled success through various economic cycles, and hear Michael’s thoughts on private credit’s evolving landscape in 2025. From industry insights to advice for future professionals, this episode offers something for everyone in the insurance asset management space.
Join host Stewart Foley, CFA on the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast as we explore private real estate debt with experts Will Pattison, Head of Research and Strategy Real Estate, and Clint Culp, Regional Head of Real Estate Debt Production, both from MetLife Investment Management. Together, they provide valuable insights into current market dynamics, including shifts in commercial real estate lending, the impact of rising construction costs, and how migration trends are shaping the future of real estate investments. Gain an understanding of how MIM leverages decades of data to inform investment strategies and manage risk, while uncovering opportunities in today’s market environment. This episode is packed with practical takeaways for insurance investors navigating the evolving real estate landscape.
Join host Stewart Foley on the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast as he sits down with Tim Antonelli, head of Insurance Multi-Asset Strategy and portfolio manager at Wellington Management. In this episode, Tim shares his 2025 outlook for insurers, focusing on themes like locking in structural income, optimizing surplus portfolios, and navigating regulatory changes. With insights drawn from over 150 meetings with insurers worldwide, Tim discusses how the industry is evolving, the importance of fighting recency bias, and the growing role of asset-based finance. From managing surplus assets with a Swiss Army knife approach to uncovering yield opportunities in hybrid securities and private placement debt, this episode offers a deep dive into strategies for the year ahead. Tune in for expert advice on positioning insurance portfolios in a more dynamic, volatile market environment.
Join host Stewart Foley, CFA, on the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast as he explores the dynamic world of commercial real estate debt with Jack Gay, Global Head of Commercial Real Estate Debt, and Jason Hernandez, Head of Real Estate Debt in the Americas at Nuveen Real Estate. In this engaging conversation, Jack and Jason share their unique perspectives on the evolving CRE debt market, highlighting areas of opportunity and caution in today’s economic landscape. From the surging demand for housing and logistics to the ongoing challenges in the office sector, they unpack the factors driving investment decisions and risk management strategies. The discussion delves into the importance of relative value across core, core-plus, and value-add strategies, emphasizing how investors can capitalize on current market conditions. Jack and Jason also provide a thoughtful analysis of the role insurance companies play in CRE lending, offering actionable insights for institutional investors looking to expand their allocations. Whether you’re navigating portfolio diversification or assessing the impact of macroeconomic trends, this episode delivers valuable takeaways for navigating today’s real estate environment.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley sits down with Maggie Coleman, Chief Investment Officer for North America Real Estate Equity at Manulife Investment Management, for a timely discussion on real estate investing. Maggie shares her insights on the current macroeconomic environment, the challenges and opportunities in today’s market, and the long-term trends shaping the real estate landscape. They dive into themes such as affordability, industrial growth, and the emerging sectors driven by demographic and technological shifts. Maggie also provides a candid perspective on office real estate, risk management strategies, and the importance of ESG considerations in portfolio construction. This conversation offers valuable insights for investors looking to navigate the complexities of real estate during a market reset.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley sits down with Blerina Uruci, Chief US Economist in the Fixed Income Division of T. Rowe Price, for an in-depth conversation on the critical macroeconomic trends shaping the investment landscape. From the impact of US elections to the Fed's rate policy and the rising influence of productivity growth, Blerina offers expert perspectives on how these developments could influence investor sentiment and economic performance. With a unique global perspective, Blerina shares her take on trade policies, fiscal uncertainties, and the evolving role of inflation in a higher-for-longer interest rate environment. Don’t miss this engaging conversation packed with actionable insights for navigating the complexities of today’s economy.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Jeff Akers, head of private equity secondaries at Adam Street Partners, to discuss the growing importance of private equity secondaries in insurance portfolios. Jeff shares his expertise on how this asset class helps investors avoid the J-curve, provides a shorter duration investment with predictable cash flows, and delivers fixed-income-like characteristics with equity-level upside. From the basics of private equity secondaries to their strategic fit for insurers prioritizing stable returns, this conversation dives deep into the advantages of investing in a market that has grown from $10 billion to $150 billion over the past 18 years. Learn why this undercapitalized market offers insurers opportunities for diversification, lower risk, and potentially enhanced portfolio performance.
Join host Stewart Foley as he sits down with Doug Bouquard, Partner and Head of Real Estate Credit at TPG, to explore the evolving landscape of real estate debt. Doug shares his journey into the industry and highlights the current shifts in the market, including the retreat of banks from traditional lending and the growing role of private credit. He discusses how these changes create new opportunities for insurers to fill the gap and capitalize on asset-backed lending that aligns with their long-term liabilities. The conversation dives into key trends driving real estate credit, from dislocations in specific sectors like office to opportunities in housing and industrial properties. Doug explains how scalable strategies in real estate debt can be customized to meet insurers’ unique needs, offering attractive risk-adjusted returns and downside protection. With insights into market dynamics, borrower relationships, and the growing institutionalization of newer asset classes like build-to-rent, this episode delivers actionable perspectives for insurance investors.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, our host Stewart Foley, CFA, dives into the fascinating world of quantitative methods in insurance asset management with experts from Principal Asset Management, StepStone Group, and Fidelity Investments. Together, they explore how data-driven strategies are transforming portfolio construction, risk assessment, and liquidity management in private markets. From understanding how quants develop models to navigating the unique challenges of private markets, this episode delivers actionable insights for institutional investors. Learn how quantitative approaches help identify opportunities, mitigate risks, and drive smarter investment decisions. Whether you’re curious about how quants build tailored solutions or the latest trends in private real estate and equity, this conversation is packed with expert perspectives and practical knowledge for today’s insurance asset managers.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley welcomes Nailah Flake, Managing Partner and Head of Real Estate Debt at Brookfield. Nailah shares her unique career journey, from teaching dance to leading real estate credit at one of the largest asset managers globally. Together, they discuss the vast and diverse real estate market, touching on compelling sectors like industrial, housing, and alternative asset classes. Nailah provides insights into the mechanics of real estate credit, its differences from corporate credit, and the evolving landscape amid rising interest rates, market volatility, and bank retrenchment. She also highlights Brookfield’s approach to lending, leveraging its extensive expertise and global footprint. In addition to offering a masterclass on real estate debt, Nailah shares career advice for young professionals, emphasizing adaptability and resilience in navigating a changing industry. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with actionable insights.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley welcomes Nelson Correa, Head of Private Placements at NEAM. Nelson discusses what makes private placements an attractive asset class for insurers, offering higher spreads than public bonds while maintaining strong covenant protections. He addresses liquidity misconceptions, explains how private placements are structured, and highlights their role in helping insurers achieve long-term investment goals. Nelson also shares insights into NEAM’s enhanced private placement capabilities following his team’s addition and provides a market outlook, identifying opportunities in infrastructure and family-owned companies. Tune in to learn how private placements can offer insurers a compelling mix of yield, security, and diversification.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley sits down with Bill Maclay, CFA, portfolio manager at Fidelity Investments, to explore the evolving landscape of high-yield real estate lending. With banks pulling back and a significant volume of commercial real estate debt maturing over the next three years, Bill shares how private lenders are stepping up to fill the gap. He provides an in-depth look at Fidelity's real estate platform, their approach to navigating current market challenges, and the opportunities for investors in middle-market lending. From bridge loans to construction financing and gap funding, Bill explains how Fidelity has positioned itself to address a supply-demand imbalance in commercial real estate debt. This episode offers valuable insights into the dynamics of property types, regional bank exposure, and the role of private capital in shaping the future of high-yield real estate lending.
Join host Stewart Foley on the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast as we dive into the intricacies of private asset portfolio construction with insights from Bryan Jenkins and Eric Solfisburg of Hamilton Lane. This episode explores how a strategic approach to portfolio construction—focusing on factors like asset allocation, investment pacing, and liquidity management—can enhance outcomes for insurance investors. With over three decades in private markets, Hamilton Lane shares its expertise on balancing return and risk while managing the challenges of data and transparency that are unique to this asset class. The conversation also covers the vital considerations around data and analytics, industry exposure, and the often-overlooked factor of asset location for insurers. Jenkins and Solfisburg emphasize the importance of a consistent, disciplined approach to private asset allocation, discussing tools and techniques Hamilton Lane uses to support sophisticated portfolio strategies. For insurers navigating private markets, this episode offers a valuable guide to constructing resilient, well-diversified portfolios that align with insurance-specific risk management needs.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Ian Gilbertson, CLO Portfolio Manager and Co-Head of U.S. CLOs at Invesco, for a deep dive into the world of Collateralized Loan Obligations (CLOs) and their role in insurance investment portfolios. Ian provides a primer on CLOs, explaining their structure, the types of assets they hold, and why this asset class has shown such resilience and stability. They discuss the growth of CLOs in insurance company portfolios, their historical performance, and why they continue to attract insurers even amid changing regulatory requirements. Ian also shares his insights on current opportunities in the loan market, the evolving credit cycle, and the outlook for CLOs in 2025, especially in a declining rate environment. Ian brings extensive expertise to the conversation, offering both high-level context and practical insights into the risks and rewards of this asset class for insurers.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley hosts Olaolu Aganga, U.S. Chief Investment Officer at Mercer, and Stephanie Thomas, Senior Investment Consultant at Mercer, to discuss the evolving role of OCIO (Outsourced Chief Investment Officer) services for insurance companies. They explore how Mercer's model uniquely integrates support for clients by combining Marsh McLennan’s insurance expertise with Mercer's deep investment consulting resources. Olaolu and Stephanie clarify how OCIO can function either as a full or partial extension of an insurance company's in-house team, offering a range of services from research support to full discretionary management. With the growing complexity in private credit, asset-backed finance (ABF), and investment-grade alternatives, Stephanie explains how OCIO services can support insurers in navigating these emerging asset classes, providing an adaptable, client-specific approach. Olaolu highlights the partnership aspect of Mercer’s model, emphasizing that OCIO clients retain control over strategy while benefiting from Mercer's extensive resources and industry insights.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley hosts Armen Panossian, co-CEO and Head of Performing Credit at Oaktree Capital, for a deep dive into insurers' role in alternative investing, especially in private credit. Armen shares insights on the evolving sentiment in today’s markets, where economic fundamentals, regulatory influences, and the effects of recent rate hikes are shaping debt and equity strategies. He details how technical and regulatory shifts, like the implementation of Basel III in the U.S., are creating new avenues for insurers to capitalize on asset-backed finance while banks retreat from specific lending areas. Armen emphasizes that private credit remains a valuable asset class for insurers, especially given the long-term growth and diversification opportunities it provides alongside efficient rating structures. Looking ahead, Armen sees opportunity in sectors where expertise drives returns, such as specialty finance and asset-backed lending. He also highlights the unique value of rescue lending as more companies face refinancing challenges due to high interest rates. For insurers, he advises considering the distinct advantages of rated feeder note structures to optimize capital efficiency in corporate credit and exploring asset-backed finance for diversification.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley welcomes Brett Hickey, Founder and CEO of Star Mountain Capital, for an engaging look at investment in the U.S. lower middle market. Brett shares his unique journey from a small-town upbringing in Canada to founding a prominent private credit firm. Drawing from his early experiences, Brett discusses how Star Mountain Capital builds on core values of community and collaboration, focusing on lending to smaller, often family-owned businesses with strong fundamentals. He explains the firm’s strategic emphasis on these investments, citing the sector's limited competition and inherent value as an uncorrelated asset class. Brett also highlights the opportunity to add alpha to portfolios through Star Mountain's private credit and secondary offerings. Brett explains why lower middle market companies offer significant upside potential, especially given demographic trends and limited access to traditional financing sources. He describes how Star Mountain’s data-driven risk management processes and community-focused investment approach help mitigate risk while positioning companies for growth and long-term success.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley dives into the evolving landscape of real estate finance with Bob Clark, Founding Partner of DW Partners and Chief Investment Officer at Domain Real Estate Partners. The discussion focuses on homebuilder finance, a niche yet critical area within the broader real estate market. Bob shares his journey from a math enthusiast with family ties in the pizza business to becoming a key player in the homebuilding finance industry, explaining how Domain provides crucial funding to homebuilders for land acquisition and development.
Bob elaborates on the unique capital needs of the homebuilding industry, the growing trend of homebuilders moving towards asset-light models, and the role of project finance in facilitating land and land development. The conversation also touches on the impact of mortgage rates, Fed policy, and the complex relationship between affordability and supply in the US housing market. Bob’s insights provide a clear understanding of how insurance companies can become more involved in financing these specialized areas, highlighting opportunities for insurers to capitalize on resilient and well-structured credit investments.
This episode is perfect for anyone interested in the intersection of real estate finance, homebuilding, and insurance capital, offering a thoughtful analysis of the long-term trends shaping the market.
In this insightful episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley engages in a dynamic discussion with Louis Pelosi, Managing Director of Client Solutions at SLC Management's Global Insurance Group. The conversation centers on Best Practices in Strategic Asset Allocation (SAA) in an Evolving Regulatory Environment. Louis shares his deep experience in navigating the complexities of insurance asset management, shedding light on the importance of aligning asset allocation with the liability profiles, regulatory capital concerns, and risk tolerances unique to each insurer. The episode delves into how regulatory changes and the growing use of alternatives—such as private assets and structured securities—are shaping insurers' strategies. Louis highlights how liquidity management and understanding the business’s nuances are critical in constructing efficient portfolios for insurers. Whether you're interested in SAA trends, regulatory insights, or how to effectively manage evolving risks, this episode offers a wealth of practical knowledge for insurance investment professionals.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Jake Remley, CFA, senior portfolio manager at Income Research & Management, for a deep dive into the world of structured securities. Jake brings his 20-plus years of experience in securitization to the discussion, explaining complex concepts like "zombie securitizations" and how to identify tail risks in the evolving landscape of asset-backed securities (ABS) and commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS). Jake shares insights on avoiding potential pitfalls in structured credit investments and emphasizes the importance of bottom-up analysis in navigating complex securitizations. With real-life examples like the recent write-down of 1740 Broadway, the episode offers practical guidance for institutional investors aiming to understand securitized debt structures and optimize risk-adjusted returns. For those keen on fixed income, this episode sheds light on the nuances of structured credit and its implications for portfolio management.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Alfred Chang, Head of Residential Loan Trading at MetLife Investment Management, about the growing role of residential whole loans in insurance portfolios. As a repeat guest, Alfred shares valuable insights into why this asset class is gaining traction, particularly for life insurers seeking capital efficiency and risk-adjusted returns. He compares the benefits of investing in residential whole loans versus public RMBS, highlighting how the private market offers unique opportunities through better control and transparency. Alfred also explains how a lack of housing supply and improved credit quality have made today’s market very different from the housing crash of 2008. Drawing on more than 10 years of experience in residential credit, Alfred discusses MetLife Investment Management’s approach to mitigating risk through careful loan selection, strong counterparty relationships, and thorough due diligence. He also delves into the operational complexities of managing large volumes of individual loans and how MIM works closely with clients to address the reporting, accounting, and liquidity challenges of this asset class. If you’re interested in how residential whole loans can fit into an insurance company’s broader investment strategy, this episode is a must-listen.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, welcomes Jessica Bailey, President and CEO of Nuveen Green Capital, and Laura Parrott, Senior Managing Director and Head of Private Fixed Income at Nuveen. Together, they explore the intricacies of Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) financing, a rising asset class that offers insurance investors both strong returns and a chance to positively impact climate change. Stewart, Jessica, and Laura break down how C-PACE can be used to finance energy-efficient building projects, blending public policy with private investment to drive real change in the built environment. Listeners will hear about Jessica and Laura’s personal career paths, the growth of C-PACE, and why it’s become an attractive option for institutional investors, especially those in insurance. From policy challenges to the role of private capital in scaling this green initiative, this episode provides valuable insights for anyone looking to balance financial goals with responsible investing.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Adriano Taylor Escribano, Principal Senior Quantitative Analyst at Jennison, for a compelling discussion on the role of commercial mortgage-backed securities (CMBS) in insurance company portfolios. Adriano shares his fascinating career journey, starting with his early days working in a college kitchen to his expertise today in structured products. He walks listeners through the complex landscape of agency and non-agency CMBS, highlighting their importance in commercial real estate (CRE) lending and their strategic place in insurance portfolios. The conversation explores key aspects of CMBS, including the differences between Freddie K, DUS, and Ginnie Mae project loans, and the impact of interest rate volatility on the market. Adriano provides expert insight into the current trends in CMBS, including the shift from 10-year to 5-year conduit issuances, and discusses how the Fed’s recent rate decisions could affect the market moving forward. This episode is a must-listen for insurance investment professionals looking to deepen their understanding of CMBS and its evolving role in portfolio construction.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley talks with Grady Frank, Partner and Head of Private Credit Origination at GoldenTree Asset Management, about the evolving landscape of private credit. Grady delves into how GoldenTree approaches the upper end of private credit markets, focusing on large borrowers and navigating complex refinancing solutions. He discusses key opportunities in dividend recaps, M&A activity, and private credit's role in financing large transactions, while also sharing insights on maintaining discipline in credit underwriting amidst a challenging economic environment. Grady provides an inside look at the state of the private credit market, its growing importance for economic stability, and how firms like GoldenTree balance flexibility with a commitment to strong returns. The conversation covers how private credit has evolved, fund size implications, and the potential for M&A resurgence, making this episode essential for insurance investors looking to understand this rapidly growing asset class.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley sits down with Jason Walker, Co-Chief Investment Officer at Manulife CQS, as part of the CIO Spotlight series. Jason shares his insights into current market conditions, focusing on the importance of downside protection and the opportunities created by market dislocations. He emphasizes how sentiment, liquidity, and new variables are reshaping markets, offering opportunities for savvy investors. Jason also discusses the impact of higher rates on credit markets, structured credit, and how his team at Manulife CQS navigates uncertainty with a disciplined, bottom-up approach. The conversation dives into significant risk transfer (SRT) markets, U.S. commercial real estate, and the role of flexibility in portfolio construction. Jason explains how experience and strategic risk-taking are key to capturing returns in today's markets. With a thoughtful discussion on political risk and opportunities in structured credit, this episode is packed with insights from a seasoned CIO leading through complex market conditions.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Sid Dahiya, Head of Emerging Market Corporate Debt at Aberdeen, to discuss the evolving landscape of emerging market debt and the extension strategies that can unlock value for insurance investors. Sid provides an in-depth analysis of the size and characteristics of the EM corporate debt market, comparing it to other asset classes such as U.S. high yield. He also explains how Aberdeen’s proprietary tools and bottom-up investment approach can help manage risk in this complex asset class. Sid offers insights into the unique opportunities in emerging markets, including the impact of political risks and how global trends like de-globalization are shaping investment opportunities. Sid also delves into specific extension strategies, including buy-and-hold approaches, crossover investments, and thematic strategies designed to capitalize on long-term trends. He highlights how insurance investors can strategically diversify their portfolios while balancing risk and return, particularly in the underappreciated areas of EM corporate debt. If you’re looking to expand your understanding of EM debt and its role in insurance asset management, this is a must-listen episode.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, Stewart Foley is joined by Michael Zorich, Managing Director and Head of Investment Grade (IG) Private Credit at Principal Asset Management, for an in-depth discussion on the growing relevance of investment grade private credit in today’s market. Michael shares his expertise on how IG private credit offers investors a combination of relative value, covenants, better recoveries, and diversification, making it an attractive asset class for insurance companies and institutional investors. He explains how current economic conditions, particularly rising interest rates, have led to increased attention on the sector, especially as investors seek risk-adjusted returns in less volatile spaces compared to other areas like direct lending. Michael also discusses the evolution of private credit markets, the role of club deals, and the various sectors, such as infrastructure and real estate, that present opportunities and risks. As an experienced leader at Principal, he highlights the firm’s 50-year history in private placements, their focus on infrastructure investments, and the extensive customizations they offer to meet client needs. This episode provides valuable insights into how insurance investors can uncover value in IG private credit while navigating today’s complex economic landscape.
In this insightful episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, Stewart Foley sits down with Andy Blocker, Global Head of Public Policy and Strategic Partnerships at Invesco, to dissect the key political developments shaping the U.S. election. They explore the unprecedented shifts in the political landscape, including the impact of Biden's decision to step aside, Kamala Harris's rise, and the ripple effects of Trump’s ongoing legal battles. Andy provides a thorough analysis of the "path to victory" for both Harris and Trump, offering listeners a unique perspective on how each candidate’s approach to messaging, demographics, and policy could define the outcome of the 2024 election. As the conversation deepens, Andy shares his thoughts on critical topics like the abortion debate, fiscal policy, and the implications of regulatory agendas, particularly for the financial services industry. He also touches on the growing influence of U.S.-China relations and ESG considerations in the election's aftermath. This episode offers a comprehensive overview of the potential market and investment impacts tied to the election, making it an essential listen for insurance investors who need to stay informed on the political and economic factors driving the future of their portfolios.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley sits down with Paul Benson, Head of Systematic Fixed Income at Insight Investment, to dive deep into systematic fixed income and its growing relevance in today’s investment landscape. Paul discusses the evolution of systematic strategies since Insight’s early adoption in 2001, focusing on key innovations such as credit portfolio trading and enhanced liquidity in the high-yield markets. He also touches on the growing role of ETFs and how they integrate with insurance companies' portfolio needs. The conversation further explores the customization potential of systematic strategies to fit the unique constraints insurance companies face, such as capital charges, duration, and rating bucket optimization. Paul shares insights on how rising rates have reshaped the private credit and high-yield landscape, and why high-yield bonds are becoming increasingly attractive for income-focused insurance portfolios. This episode provides valuable lessons for insurance investment professionals interested in integrating systematic fixed income into their strategic asset allocation.
Stifflear, Portfolio Manager and Head of Investment Grade Private Credit at PPM. Luke brings over 30 years of experience at PPM, providing deep insights into the world of investment grade private credit. He explains how this asset class, typically dominated by insurance companies, differs from the more commonly discussed high-yield private credit. Luke sheds light on the benefits of investment grade private credit, including enhanced covenant protection, better spread premiums, and diversification opportunities that make it a compelling alternative to public bonds. He also discusses the evolution of this market, particularly in the context of bank pullbacks and the growing interest from institutional investors. The conversation further explores the state of market liquidity, deal flow dynamics, and how PPM's long-standing presence in the industry offers unique advantages in accessing off-the-run tenors and securing favorable deals. Luke also shares his views on the importance of relative value decisions between public and private markets, emphasizing how consistent capital deployment and strong market relationships have helped PPM maintain a competitive edge. This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for anyone interested in the strategic aspects of investment grade private credit and its role in diversified portfolios.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley sits down with Aaron Sack, Head of Morgan Stanley Capital Partners, for an in-depth conversation about the world of private equity. Aaron shares his journey from a liberal arts background to leading one of the most respected private equity teams at Morgan Stanley. The discussion covers Aaron's early experiences, the evolution of private equity, and the unique aspects of middle-market buyout strategies. Aaron provides insights into how private equity has grown from a niche industry into a major force in global finance, and he reflects on the lessons learned from the 2008 financial crisis, which continue to shape his investment approach today. The conversation also explores the importance of team building and culture in private equity, emphasizing the need for alignment, respect, and shared values in a successful investment team. Aaron's approach to leadership and his perspective on the value of liberal arts in finance offer a unique and refreshing take on what it means to succeed in the private equity space. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone interested in the inner workings of private equity and the future of this dynamic asset class.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley, CFA, explores the growing demand and opportunities within the infrastructure debt market with two key experts from Brookfield Asset Management: Hadley Peer Marshall, Managing Director, Co-Head of Infrastructure Debt and Structured Solutions Strategies, and CFO, and Eric Wittleder, Managing Director of Infrastructure. The discussion delves into the major trends driving the infrastructure sector, particularly the significant capital required for global transition initiatives such as net-zero carbon emissions, and how these trends present unique opportunities for institutional investors like insurance companies. Hadley and Eric also highlight the characteristics of an optimized infrastructure debt portfolio, emphasizing the essential, non-cyclical nature of the assets and their ability to provide material downside protection. They share insights on how Brookfield aligns its infrastructure investments with sustainability goals without compromising on returns, and discuss the impact of regulatory changes on the market. This episode offers valuable perspectives on how insurers can effectively leverage infrastructure debt within their portfolios while contributing to environmental sustainability.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley dives into the future of private credit with Ashwin Krishnan, Managing Director, Co-Head of North American Private Credit, and Head of Opportunistic Credit, and Jeff Levin, Managing Director, Portfolio Manager, and Head of Direct Lending, both at Morgan Stanley Investment Management. They explore the evolution of private credit and its growing relevance in today's financial landscape, particularly for insurance investors. Ashwin and Jeff discuss the parallels between the current state of private credit and the rise of private equity 25 years ago, highlighting how the asset class has moved from niche to mainstream. They emphasize the importance of flexibility in capital solutions and the ability to navigate various points across the capital structure to generate the best risk-adjusted returns. The discussion also touches on the impact of rising interest rates on leverage ratios and how Morgan Stanley Investment Management's approach sets them apart from competitors. By leveraging the firm's vast resources and global reach, they are able to provide unique capital solutions that cater to the needs of private issuers across North America. Whether it's accessing a broader deal flow or offering value-added services like M&A advice, their platform is designed to deliver comprehensive solutions to clients. The conversation wraps up with insights into the scalability of private credit and the importance of a long-term investment perspective in this ever-evolving market.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley sits down with Sam Gaynor, Managing Director at Altamont Capital Partners, to explore the dynamic world of private equity with a focus on long-term control investments in the middle market. Sam shares insights into Altamont’s investment strategies, including their successful de novo incubation ventures and the critical role of partnering with strong management teams. The discussion delves into the innovative approaches Altamont has taken in the financial services sector, highlighting key success stories like Kuvare and Accelerant. Sam also offers his perspective on the future of private equity, the evolving landscape of insurance investments, and the impact of market consolidation. With valuable takeaways for investors and industry professionals alike, this episode provides a comprehensive look at how Altamont is navigating and shaping the future of middle-market investments.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley is joined by Scott Kurland, Managing Director at SS&C Technologies, for an insightful discussion on a new concept they call "negative yield." They delve into how insurers can avoid this negative yield by adopting a flexible co-sourcing investment operating model. Scott explains how co-sourcing allows insurance companies to maintain control over core operations while outsourcing specific investment accounting and administrative tasks to a trusted partner like SS&C. They explore the growing trend toward private credit and structured investments, and how these asset classes can be cumbersome to manage internally. Scott details how co-sourcing can help insurers efficiently handle complex investment portfolios, such as residential whole loans, without overwhelming internal teams. By leveraging cloud-based technology and specialized expertise, insurers can optimize their investment returns and maintain a competitive edge. The conversation also touches on the importance of transparency, the use of AI in investment accounting, and how co-sourcing can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different insurers. Whether you're a CIO or a CRO considering co-sourcing, this episode offers valuable insights into how this model can enhance your investment operations.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley sits down with Karan Chabba, Principal and Head of Regulatory Capital Relief (RCR) and Specialty Finance at Eagle Point Credit Management. They dive deep into the evolving landscape of regulatory capital relief and synthetic risk transfer (SRT) transactions. Karan shares insights into why Eagle Point has ventured into this niche area, explaining the appeal of these structures for banks seeking to manage their capital requirements efficiently. Karan also elaborates on how Eagle Point leverages its expertise across multiple credit sectors, including CLOs and structured finance, to identify and seize opportunities in both the RCR and specialty finance spaces. This episode offers a comprehensive understanding of how Eagle Point navigates the complexities of these markets, providing valuable takeaways for investors interested in exploring these unique and growing investment areas. Tune in to learn more about how Eagle Point Credit Management is setting itself apart in the world of specialty finance and RCR, and why this area is gaining more attention from banks and investors alike.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley is joined by Adam Reisler, a partner at StepStone in the infrastructure and real assets team, connecting from Australia. Together, they delve into the dynamic world of private infrastructure investment, a sector that has experienced exponential growth from $100 billion in 2009 to $1.3 trillion today. Adam shares his expertise on why infrastructure is increasingly becoming a vital asset class for institutional investors, especially insurance companies with long-dated liabilities. They discuss key trends driving the infrastructure boom, such as energy transition, digital infrastructure, and the rising influence of AI. Adam also highlights the various investment strategies and structures available for those looking to enter the infrastructure space. Tune in to gain valuable insights on the current and future landscape of infrastructure investing, and hear Adam's personal career journey and advice for young professionals.
In this special episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley sits down with Erik Troutman, co-head of the Institutional Advisory Group at Loomis Sayles, and Dave Adams, Chief Investment Officer at Independent Life. Recorded live from the University of Chicago's Gleacher Center just before our annual symposium, this episode marks a unique setting where all participants are in the same room, fostering a dynamic and interactive discussion. The conversation explores the complexities and innovations of technology implementation within life companies, with a focus on structured settlement annuities. Dave Adams shares his experiences at Independent Life, highlighting the challenges faced and the pivotal role Loomis Sayles played in integrating advanced tech solutions. Erik Troutman provides insights into how Loomis Sayles’ technology helps streamline asset and liability management, offering a clearer picture of investment strategies and risk metrics. Gain valuable perspectives on managing these intricate financial instruments and learn how cutting-edge technology can enhance performance and operational efficiency in the insurance industry.
Host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Tim Lyne, CEO and founding partner of Antares Capital. Tim shares his journey from growing up in Chicago to founding a leading direct lending firm. He reflects on the early days of Antares Capital, the challenges and rewards of starting a financial firm, and the evolution of the direct lending market. Tim discusses the complexities of insurance asset management, highlighting the importance of navigating asset allocation, regulatory environments, and capital relief. He also shares his thoughts on why insurance asset management is the most sophisticated field in finance and provides valuable insights into building strategic partnerships with insurance companies. Stewart and Tim explore the current trends in M&A, the growing acceptance of private credit by insurance companies, and Antares’ approach to building its insurance business. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the direct lending market, the role of insurance capital, and the importance of reliability and long-term relationships in the industry.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, welcomes Sara Bonesteel, the recently retired Chief Investment Officer of Prudential Insurance International. Sara shares her fascinating career journey, starting from her first job in her family's furniture business in Michigan to her leadership role in international insurance investments. Sara delves into her diverse experiences in finance, discussing her time at Bear Stearns in structured securities, her transition to asset management at PGIM, and her tenure as CIO. She offers insights into the complexities of different financial roles, the critical skills required to succeed, and the evolving landscape of insurance asset management. Stewart and Sara also explore the challenges and rewards of being a woman in finance. Sara provides valuable advice on career development, the importance of lateral moves, and the need for diversity and inclusion in the industry. Whether you're an aspiring finance professional or a seasoned investor, this episode offers a wealth of knowledge and inspiration from one of the industry's respected leaders.
Join host Stewart Foley on the InsuranceAUM.com podcast as we dive into the world of private fixed income and alternatives with Chris Lyons, head of private fixed income and alternatives at Voya Investment Management. Chris shares his journey from humble beginnings to his current leadership role, providing valuable insights into the dynamics of private credit markets and their post-crisis adaptation.
This episode explores the strategic approaches to managing private credit assets in a fluctuating economic environment, addressing the challenges and opportunities within the sector. Chris discusses current interest rate trends, market liquidity, and the evolving landscape of private credit. He also offers invaluable advice for young professionals navigating their careers in finance, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and seizing opportunities.
Tune in for an engaging and informative conversation that sheds light on the intricacies of private fixed income and alternatives, offering practical insights for insurance investment professionals.
Dive into the complexities of the real estate market in this informative episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. Host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Bert Crouch, Head of North America at Invesco Real Estate, to explore current trends and challenges in the industry. Bert shares his extensive knowledge on the state of real estate transactions, valuation trends, and sector-specific insights. Discover how market dislocation creates unique opportunities for non-bank lenders like Invesco and get a comparative view of global real estate markets, including Europe, the UK, and Asia. Learn about the outperforming retail and single-family rental sectors, the challenges facing office spaces, and the growth of alternative sectors such as data centers. Bert also discusses managing risks and investment strategies, emphasizing the importance of embracing market cycles. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the real estate market's current landscape and future opportunities!
Dive into the world of renewable energy investments in this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. Host Stewart Foley, CFA is joined by Brian Jones, managing partner and founder of Windmill Capital Management, who shares his deep insights into the burgeoning field of clean energy projects. Discover how renewable energy investments seek to align with the insurance industry’s objectives, and may offer financial returns and a way to mitigate climate-related risks.
In this discussion, learn about the potential of distributed energy resources (DERs) for commercial projects, such as powering supermarkets independently to ensure community support during power outages. Brian explains how these projects can provide stable, cost-effective energy solutions while also benefiting the environment. The conversation also explores the broader impacts of renewable energy on the insurance sector, highlighting innovative financing mechanisms like C-PACE (Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy) that enable significant advancements in energy efficiency and sustainability.
Join Stewart Foley, CFA on the InsuranceAUM.com podcast as he hosts Bill Sacher and Fred Chung from Adam Street Partners, exploring innovative strategies for building resilience in private credit portfolios tailored for insurance companies. Bill, partner and head of private credit, and Fred, head of credit underwriting, share their extensive experience and insights on navigating the evolving landscape of private credit investments.
In this episode, delve into the unique challenges and opportunities that private credit offers to the insurance industry, particularly in a market environment characterized by higher interest rates and potential economic shifts.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Join host Stewart Foley, CFA and guest James Parsons, partner and senior portfolio manager from PAG, for an enlightening dive into the world of insurance investments and synthetic risk transfer strategies.
This episode unpacks the complex landscape of regulatory capital, the growth of synthetic risk transfer (SRT) markets, and how these strategies are shaping the future of banking and insurance investments. Gain unique perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the insurance sector, learn about the intricacies of SRT, and discover how innovative financial instruments can optimize capital and enhance returns.
Join us in this insightful episode as Stewart Foley, CFA dives into the fascinating world of insurance asset management with a unique focus on how robust data strategies can transform front office capabilities. Stewart is joined by industry veterans Matt Biver, Co-founder and CEO of Grandview Analytics, and Ken Musick, Deputy Chief Investment Officer at EquiTrust Life Insurance Company, share their experiences and insights on the importance of having a single source of truth in data management and the dramatic enhancements it brings to investment decision-making and reporting accuracy.
Welcome to the latest edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast! In this episode, host Stewart Foley, CFA delves into the intricate world of asset-based finance, also known as private structure, with special guest Deva Mishra, CEO of Prosperity Asset Management.
Deva shares his career journey starting in computer science, transitioning into pivotal roles at Goldman Sachs and Global Atlantic, all leading to his executive leadership of a successful asset management firm focused exclusively on insurance assets. Deva offers a unique perspective on the evolution and current state of the private credit and ABF market.
Welcome to another episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast with your host, Stewart Foley, CFA. In this insightful discussion, we dive into the world of high-yield bonds and their role as a liquid complement to alternatives portfolios.
Our guests, Tim Leary, Senior Portfolio Manager at BlueBay, RBC, and Stephen Fitzsimmons, Institutional Portfolio Manager at RBC, share their expertise and experiences as they provide an in-depth analysis of the current state of high-yield bonds, touching on key metrics like OAS, spreads, and yields, and explain why they feel this asset class in is strong in today's market.
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley, CFA sits down with Bob O'Leary, Portfolio Manager of Oaktree Opportunities Funds and co-CEO of Oaktree Capital Management.
Bob shares his journey from Oregon to Oaktree, offering insights into Oaktree's ‘sea change’ narrative and the evolving landscape of credit investing. He explores the structural shifts in private credit, from disintermediation to the rise of rescue financings, and discusses what he thinks are the opportunities and challenges for insurers in today's market.
In this episode, Stewart Foley, CFA engages in an insightful conversation with Chuck Levine and Eric Viliott, both Vice Presidents and Senior Portfolio Managers at State Street Global Advisors.
Their discussion delves deep into public equities, shedding light on tax-advantaged equity strategies, a topic often overlooked in the investment discourse. Chuck and Eric provide valuable insights into the nuances of tax-aware investing, drawing from their extensive experience and expertise in the field.
On today’s episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley. CFA sits down with Craig Husting, CIO at The Public School and Education Employee Retirement Systems of Missouri, also known as Missouri Teachers. Craig shares his mission and critical priorities for managing the pension benefits for Missouri Teachers, and dives deep into public asset management.
This week on the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley talks to Tony Monopoly, Executive Vice President, Chief Investment Officer at the Knights of Columbus. Tony shares the history of the Knights of Columbus, ably takes on his “math professor for a day” status to unpack concepts and terms like convexity and its impact on portfolio modeling. And Tony reminds us of the people behind the powerful mission at Knights of Columbus. Prepare to be educated and inspired!
Find Anthony Monopoly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-ross-a632a637/?originalSubdomain=uk
Find Stewart Foley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewartfoley/
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Today on the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley sits down with Michael Goosay, CIO and Global Head of Fixed Income, and a Portfolio Manager at Principal Asset Management. Michael shares his journey from a paperboy in Clark Summit, PA, to a key player in the world of finance. Tune in to hear how that early, character-building experience translates to the managing risks in the world of fixed income investing.
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Find more thought leadership from the smartest minds in Insurance Asset Management at InsuranceAUM.com and https://www.linkedin.com/company/insurance-aum-journal/mycompany/
Today on the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley speaks with Jean-Marc Breaux, Sector Portfolio Manager Fixed Income Division at T. Rowe Price. Stewart and Jean-Marc take a deep dive into the current state of securitized credit as Jean-Marc shares his unique perspective on this asset class.
On this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, Stewart Foley talks to David Ross, Managing Director and head of private credit at Northleaf Capital. Get ready to dive deep into a specialty component of private credit -- asset-backed specialty finance -- and to unpack the correlation between private credit and the broader fixed income market. David shares unique insights on the intersection between diversifications and the Music Modernization Act and makes it clear what’s so cool about Insurance Asset Management.
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Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. We are joined today by Elisabeth Colleran, portfolio manager for Emerging Market Debt Portfolios at Loomis Sayles.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. We are insurance asset management nerds here, me and our guest today. We're talking about insurance asset management with Jeffrey Hobbs CFA, head of Insurance Portfolio Management at Voya.
Here's part of the conversation between Karissa, Sarah, and Stewart:
Karissa:
It's truly bespoke. If a lender has extremely long duration needs, we can find that for them. Right now, it's really hard to find that because of what's going on in the market with interest rates, everybody wants short. However, if a lender needs three- to five-year duration, that's available as well.
Stewart:
That's cool. And so just so everyone's aware, Aegon Asset Management is part of Aegon, which is a massive insurance company. And Transamerica here in the US is part of that as well. Can you remind me and our listeners of the relationship between Aegon Asset Management and Transamerica on the commercial mortgage loan side? And just kind of set the stage for the rest of the podcast in terms of how you work together.
Karissa:
Sure. We began investing for them about 40 years ago, and we currently have a portfolio of about $11 billion on our general account. We also manage assets for third party investors, and we have about a $3 billion that we're managing for them.1 Typical loan sizes are around $15 million with a range of 3 to 50 million depending on the size of the insurer. We invest across all major sectors, primary, secondary, and tertiary markets. We're headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa so we understand the nuances that are outside the top 100s. We've historically and continued to be an active investor in those markets when opportunities present themselves.
Stewart:
Yeah, it's funny, I had a friend who covered your shop in Cedar Rapids from Chicago years and years ago. I have fond memories of that area. So Karissa, a lot has changed in the market environment in the last two years in this space. You just referred to it a moment ago. And for all asset classes, but in particular, how has CML origination and allocation been affected?
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. To the home of the smartest investors on Earth, the insurance investment community. I'm very happy to be joined today by Kris Kraus, Portfolio Manager and Co-head of Specialty Finance at PIMCO, and today we're going to be talking about asset-backed lending and specialty finance.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. We're going to be talking about insurance regulation. We are joined by none other than the regulatory savant Mr. Amnon Levy, who is the founder and CEO of Bridgeway Analytics, and we are joined today by Commissioner Nathan Houdek.
Today's topic is straight-up fixed income and yield curve and Fed policy and implications. I couldn't be happier to be joined by Sam Kaplan, CFA, managing director and portfolio manager at Jennison Associates.
We're joined today by Martin Barnwell, who's the investment director on the commercial real estate lending team at abrdn
I am really excited about this podcast with a really good friend, longtime friend TC Wilson, who's the Chief Investment Officer of The Doctors Company, as everyone knows. But today we're going to be talking about the COIN, which is the California Organized Investment Network.
Welcome back and thanks for joining us. Today's topic is direct lending, and we're joined by David Gaito, head of direct lending at Fidelity Investments.
Today we have sort of a dual podcast. We're going to be talking about the evolution of insurance asset management, and we're going to be talking about esoteric ABS in particular as an asset class. And we're joined by Kerry O'Brien, head of Insurance Portfolio Management at Insight Investment, and Richard Talmage, CFA, portfolio manager at Insight Investments.
Today's topic is strategic asset allocation for insurance companies with Pete Miller. Pete is the Head of Insurance Solutions, Multi-Asset Strategies with Invesco.
I'm really excited for today's podcast. I think it's a very unique format for a discussion around residential credit. And we're joined by two special guests, Justin Mahoney, co-founder and senior portfolio manager of Shelter Growth Capital Partners, and Bryan Lentz, director of public and private structured securities at the Mutual of Omaha Insurance Companies.
Welcome back. It's so nice to have you and thanks for joining us. Today's topic is CMLs in 2024: A Repriced Market with Attractive Opportunities? And that's being posed by Greg Michaud, who's the head of real estate finance at Voya.
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Today's topic is a good one, challenges and opportunities in the current PE market. And we're joined by Matt Shafer, Managing Director, Head of Capital Solutions & US Private Equity at Northleaf Capital Partners.
A multi-decade opportunity for Insurance Investment Portfolios
Today's topic is sustainable infrastructure credit. The time is now a multi-decade opportunity for insurance investment portfolios, according to our guest, Jorge Camiña, partner, head of Denham Sustainable Infrastructure Credit.
Today's topic is emerging markets debt, and we're joined by Jeff Grills, CFA, head of US cross markets and emerging markets debt at Aegon Asset Management.
We have got a phenomenal podcast for you today. A four-time guest, four times, Tim Antonelli, Managing Director Insurance Multi-asset Strategist and Portfolio Manager at Wellington.
A lot of you are going to really enjoy this podcast because it provides tips for ensuring a smooth year-end filing process.
Our panelists include Sam Jones, who is a senior director of statutory reporting at SS&C Technologies; Amnon Levy, who is the founder and CEO of Bridgeway Analytics; and Scott Kurland, who's the managing director and head of SS&C's Insurance Solutions Group.
Today's topic is infrastructure equity and we're joined by John Anderson, Global Head of Corporate Finance and Infrastructure at Manulife Investment Management, and at John Hancock Life Insurance.
Today's topic is a good one. It's Residential Debt: A Diversified Income Stream to Write Home About, which I love the title. And we're joined by Eric Atlas, Head of US Residential Debt, Man GPM.
We've got a terrific executive spotlight for you today. A repeat guest, someone who needs not much of an introduction. Bill Pieroni, CEO of ACORD.
Today's topic is called Filling the Gap, the case for non-sponsored direct lending. And we're joined by Chris Rust, who's the co-head of European Credit Opportunities with 25 years in the industry with Ninety One.
Today's topic is what insurers need to know about CECL. And we're joined today by Theresa Meawad, senior director and head of Solutions Consulting at SS&C EVOLV.
Today's topic you're really going to like. It's private credit secondaries, and we're joined by John Bohill, partner, private debt, at the StepStone Group.
Today's topic is CRE, and that is on a lot of people's minds right now we're joined by two and I'm happy to say Chicago-based experts in the field. Doug Lyons, managing principal of Pearlmark, responsible for the firm's capital markets and debt investment activities. And we're joined by Steve Quazzo, co-founder, CEO, and chair of the firm's Management Committee, and the PEP II Investment Committee.
Today's topic is the next five years in direct lending, and it's become increasingly clear that the next five years in direct lending won't be the same as the last. And today, we're talking with Kevin Marchetti of Man Varagon to see what he's seeing in markets and what he thinks that the three to five years is going to look like.
Today's topic is convertible bonds and we're joined by Bill O'Neill, principal senior portfolio manager and member of the Investment Committee at Income Research and Management.
We are joined today by Kevin Farley, Managing Director, Structured Credit Portfolio Manager at Post Advisory Group, a subsidiary of Principal Financial Group.
Today's topic is timberland and impact investing. We're joined today by Eric Cooperstrom, Managing Director of Impact Investing in Natural Climate Solutions at Manulife Investment Management.
Today's topic is the impact of higher rates and increased volatility on insurance investors. And we're joined today by Cindy Beaulieu, CIO of Conning's North American operations.
We have got a phenomenal podcast today. This is the second in our Due Dilly series where we bring an insurance CIO on to do a deep dive on an asset class. Today, we're joined by Joe Eppers, the Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer of Selective Insurance Group and Tom Majewski, Founder and Managing Partner of Eagle Point Credit Management.
Today's topic is institutional use of ETFs by insurance companies, and we're joined by Emily McKinley, Head of Institutional ETFs and Models at Invesco.
We have an executive spotlight, today, and we're very excited to have Brian Roelke, President and Chief Investment Officer of Kuvare Asset Management on with us.
Today's topic is net lease investments, and we're joined today by Sharon Kilmer, a managing director on TPG Angelo Gordon’s Net Lease Real Estate team.
Today's topic is tax-advantaged equity and we're joined by Mary Lukic, Head of Tax-Advantaged Equity at Northern Trust Asset Management.
Today's topic is investment opportunities driven by US bank disruption, and we're joined today by Matthew Bass, head of private alternatives at AllianceBernstein.
Today's topic is investing in today's data center sector with Jeff Menz and Casey Miller, both Managing Directors of Portfolio Management at Principal Real Estate Investors.
Betsy Ziegler can see the future. That's what I learned the first time we met when she was the keynote speaker at CFA Society Chicago. And I ran up to you like an excited kid and started talking with you, and you were kind enough to join us on our first podcast. And so I am thrilled to have Betsy Ziegler, who's the CEO of 1871, join us.
Today's topic is private distressed credit and special situations, and we're joined today by Paul Triggiani, Managing Director and Head of Distressed Credit and Special Situations at Invesco Private Credit.
Welcome back. It's so nice to have you. And we are joined by two really special guests today known as the godmothers of insurance asset management search, none other than Margot DeMore and Milena Humplik of Broad Street Consulting Group.
Welcome back. It's so nice to have you. Today's theme is myth busting within the fixed income universe, and I love this. This is going to be a great podcast and we're joined by Steve Liberatore, who is a senior managing director, Head of ESG Impact Investing Global Fixed Income at Nuveen. And we are also joined also by my good friend Joe Pursley, who is the head of Insurance the Americas at Nuveen.
Today's topic is best opportunities in private markets. And we're joined by Drew Schardt, vice chairman, head of investment strategy, and head of direct private equity, as well as being a member of the investment and executive committees at Hamilton Lane.
*figures are as of 6/30/23
Today's topic is real assets, private debt, and we're joined today by Matt Addesa, Private Market Specialist at DWS.
Today's topic is CRE debt and our guest says that the opportunity set for CRE debt is among the most compelling that they've seen. And we're joined today by Dean Dulchinos, Head of Debt Portfolio Management, and Justin Pinckney, Head of PrivateDebt at AEW.
We've got a really special guest for you today. By far, the most famous person we've ever had on this podcast, Juliette Kayyem. So just to give everyone an idea, Juliette, you are an on-air personality, CNN senior national security analyst, Pulitzer Prize finalist and contributing writer for The Atlantic and Boston's local NPR station. You have worked in government, you've been in the Obama administration. The accolades go on. You are also a professor at Harvard. You went to Harvard undergrad and grad, and you serve as the faculty chair of the Homeland Security and Security and Global Health Projects at Harvard's Kennedy School of Government.
As you all know, bond yields have surged dramatically over the past year, and we're here to talk about leveraged credit, specifically the high yield bond market with Paul Massaro, head of Global High Yield Franchise, and a member of the senior management asset allocation committee at T. Rowe Price.
Today's topic is a good one. It's why emerging markets for insurance companies and we're joined by Pramol Dhawan, managing director and head of the EM portfolio management team and member of the investment committee at PIMCO.
Today's topic is securitized markets. And I'm thrilled about this because I've got a background here, and halfway, I think I might be able to hold my own for a minute. So we're joined today by Dmitri Rabin, who is the Head of Securitized at Jennison Associates.
Our guest today says passive bond investing does not exist. That would be Steve Booth, Head of Global Investment grade with T. Rowe Price.
Today's topic is energy transition pathway, investment risks, rewards, and unintended consequences. And we're joined today by Stu Porter, who's the founder of Denham Capital.
Welcome back. This podcast is an executive spotlight and it's brought to you by PGIM Fixed Income. Thanks for joining us, and today's guest is a good friend from a long time ago, Randy Brown, who is the Chief Investment Officer for Sun Life and the Head of Insurance Asset Management at SLC Management.
Today's topic is private equity secondaries and we're joined today by Adam Freda, managing director at 50 South Capital.
Welcome back. We're very happy to have you. And today's topic is the EMification of DM and we're joined by Pete Kent who's a Portfolio Manager and Co-head of Emerging Market Fixed Income at Ninety One.
Today's topic is private structured finance and in parallel, demystifying the relationship and collaboration between Aegon Asset Management and Transamerica Life. I'm glad we're going to do that because it's going to help me understand it better too.
We are joined by two very accomplished insurance professionals, Ryan Patterson, who is the head of investment strategy at Transamerica and has been with Transamerica since 2012. And Jim Baskin, head of private structured finance at Aegon Asset Management and has been with the firm since 1996
Thanks for joining us. And today's topic is private placement fixed income, and we're joined by Alex Alston, whose division director and co-head of private placements at Macquarie Asset Management.
We've got a good one for you today, the heavyweight edition. Today we're going to be talking about the role of sustainable infrastructure in private credit. And in particular, how it applies in an insurance framework. And we're joined by a serious panel here.
We've got Brad Dyslin, who is the executive vice president and global chief investment officer, and also president of Aflac Asset Management. And we're also joined by the person who was in the seat prior to you, we've got Eric Kirsch, who is the former executive vice president, global chief investment officer, and president of Aflac Asset Management. And last but certainly not least, we're joined by Justin DeAngelis, who is the partner and co-head of sustainable infrastructure at Denham Capital.
Today's topic is Emerging Market Fixed Income, and we're joined today by Polina Kurdyavko, who is the head of emerging market debt and BlueBay senior portfolio manager at RBC Global Asset Management.
Today's topic is buying and selling private funds in secondary markets. We're joined by Jeff Leathers, who is the co-founder and CEO of Tap. Tap is an electronic trading platform for private funds.
My name's Stewart Foley. I'll be your host. I was born and raised in Missouri, and I saw an antique Mark Twain cigar box, and the slogan was, "Known to everyone, liked by all." And that is very appropriate for our guest today. We are joined by Christine Todd, who's the Chief Investment Officer of the Arch Capital Group.
This is the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, where we're having as much fun with insurance asset management as our flimsy BCAR scorer will allow. Today, we have a very special guest. We have a CIO spotlight with our good friend, Peggy Gartin.
Today, we have a very special guest. We have a CIO spotlight with our good friend, Peggy Gartin from AAA-The Auto Club Group.
Today we welcome Dan Skinner of Eagle Point Credit, who is a Senior Principal and Portfolio Manager and is responsible for the firm's defensive income strategy that invests in portfolio debt securities.
We're joined today by Elisabeth Colleran, who's a vice president of Loomis Sayles and a portfolio manager for the emerging market debt portfolios. So that is today's topic, EMD and EM corporates in particular.
There's been a steady march to private assets by insurance companies for sure, and asset backed lending is certainly a part of that. Now, we're in a little bit of a higher interest rate environment and we've got a repeat guest today, Connell Hasten, partner at Victory Park Capital is here to talk about asset backed lending in a higher rate environment.
We are talking today about US commercial real estate, which is a fantastic topic and super important right now as we're seeing questions abound, particularly around office real estate. We're joined by Dan Kubiak, who's the managing director and portfolio manager at Invesco Real Estate US Income Strategy, a role he has had since 2013.
Welcome back. Lots of people are talking about secondaries these days and that there's value there, and I'm very happy to be talking about that exact topic today called ‘Capturing Alpha in the Secondary Market Through GP-Led Transactions’.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. This one is a little different because it is the first of a new podcast series called Due Dilly. And as most of you know, due dilly is slang for due diligence, which is defined as the research and analysis of a company organization done in preparation for a business transaction such as a merger or purchase of securities. We're joined by John Patin, who will be talking with Angelo Gordon's TJ Durkin on Private Structured Credit.
I'm Stewart Foley. I'll be your host. In the immortal words of Monty Python, "And now for something completely different." Today, we're going to talk about fraud and how you catch it using very advanced, high-tech software. We're joined today by Tod McDonald and Chris McCall from Valid8.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. I'm Stewart Foley. I'll be your host. We're very happy to be joined today by Ken McCullum, Executive Vice President and Chief Risk Officer of the Principal Financial Group.
In 2022, insurance company holdings in Exchange Traded Funds experienced a significant drop of over 23% or $11 billion. That is the first drop of its kind since insurers began investing in ETFs in 2004. And that's what we're going to talk about today: insurance companies and their use of ETFs. We're joined by Ben Woloshin who is the head of SPDR Insurance at SSGA and Raghu Ramachandran, who is the Head of US Insurance Asset Channel at S&P Dow Jones Indices.
Welcome back. We're so happy to have you. Today we're going to be talking about preferred stocks. And we're joined today by Rohan Reddy, director of research for Global X ETFs.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. I'm Stewart Foley. I'll be your host. Today's topic is a very good one for almost any insurance company, municipal bonds. Municipal bonds make up about 10% of all insurance holdings, but significantly higher for P&C. And we're joined today by Karel Citroen, Managing Director and Head of Municipal Credit Research at Conning.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. My name's Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. We've got a great podcast for you today on private credit, and we're joined by the president of Golub Capital, David Golub.
All right, welcome back. Thanks for joining us. We've got a great podcast for you today, talking about energy in cleantech and how it impacts the insurance industry. And we are joined by the co-founders of Energy Foundry, Sara Chamberlain and Jason Blumberg.
Welcome back, we've got a great one for you today, insurance-linked securities. That's a class that I don't really know well and I'm looking forward to learning all about it from Steve Evans who's the owner and Editor-in-Chief of Artemis and Reinsurance News.
Today, we have a very, very good topic. We are going to be talking about global private markets and we're joined today by Nalaka De Silva, Head of Private Market Solutions at abrdn.
Welcome back to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. Today's topic is a good one, global fixed income, huge allocation by most any insurance company. We are joined today by Arif Husain, head of international fixed income and CIO at T. Rowe Price.
My name's Stewart Foley, and I'll be your host. Today we are joined by a repeat guest, a special guest, Mike Ashton of Enduring Investments, otherwise known as The Inflation Guy.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. My name's Stewart Foley, and I'll be your host. Today we're going to talk about CRE and CRE distressed investing. Our guests are Tony Crooks of AEW, Jack Gay of Nuveen, and Reid Liffmann of Angelo Gordon.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. My name's Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. We're very happy to have you. Today's topic is CMBS and commercial real estate. We're joined today by Jim Gubitosi, co-CIO of Income Research and Management.
My name's Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. We are talking about private markets today with Tom Keck, partner and head of research and portfolio management at the StepStone Group.
Welcome to another edition of the insuranceaum.com Podcast. My name's Stewart Foley. I'll be your host. I'm back with you on an asset class that is near and dear to my heart. We are talking about municipal securities with Jim Jackson, Co-CIO of Victory Income Investors.
We have a great podcast today, talking about the evolution of technology in the institutional asset management arena. And we're joined by John Gidman, who's the COO of Loomis, Sayles & Company.
My name's Stewart Foley. I'll be your host. Investment grade fixed income is overwhelmingly the largest asset class held by most insurance companies, and it's a topic that's always front and center for our listeners. And today we're going to be talking about public credit with Jake Gaul, CIO of Jennison Fixed Income.
Welcome to another edition of the insuranceaum.com podcast. My name's Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. Welcome back to another executive spotlight. We have got a good one for you today. Shawn Robinson, partner at Apollo who works within private IG and corporate solutions.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. My name's Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. Welcome back. Today's topic is preferred and capital securities. And we're joined by Phil Jacoby, Executive Director and Chief Investment Officer of Spectrum, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Principal.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. Our host Stewart Foley is joined in this episode by Trevor Clark – head of Angelo Gordon’s middle market direct lending business, Twin Brook Capital Partners – to discuss the world of direct lending.
My name's Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. Today's topic is senior secured loans and we're joined by Kevin Egan, Senior Portfolio Manager and Co-Head of Credit Research at Invesco.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. I am Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. Everybody's been asking us to have a regulator on, and we finally have one. Today I'm thrilled to be bringing you a very good topic, and a great panel on our podcast. The topic of conversation is ‘trends in US insurers' ownership structure, in the evolving regulatory landscape.’
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. My name's Stewart Foley and I'll be your host. Today's topic is a very good one. How is the macro environment impacting middle market lending? And we are joined today by Kevin Marchetti, Partner and Chief Risk Officer of Varagon.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. My name's Stewart Foley, and I'll be your host. Today, we're talking about investing across the credit spectrum with Bryan Krug, Managing Director and Portfolio Manager on the Artisan Partners Credit Team.
We have got a great podcast for you today, a guest that many of you're going to know, very smart money in the room. Phil Titolo, who's the head of Direct Private Investments at MassMutual.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. My name's Stewart Foley and I'll be your host. We've got a good one for you today. We're talking about gold, an asset class that's often misunderstood, with Max Gold, the head of Gold Strategies at State Street Global Advisors.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. My name's Stewart Foley and I'll be your host. We've got a good one for you today. We're talking about gold, an asset class that's often misunderstood, with Max Gold, the head of Gold Strategies at State Street Global Advisors.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. My name's Stewart Foley; I'll be your host. And today we're talking about climate and energy transition in emerging markets with Matt Christ, Managing Principle and Head of the Transition Debt Strategy for Ninety One.
Welcome to another edition of The InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. My name's Stewart Foley and I'll be your host. There's a lot of smart money in the insurance asset management industry, but none smarter than Liberty Mutual Investments. And we are joined today by Patrizio Urciuoli, who is the Head of Strategy and Asset Allocation at Liberty Mutual Investments.
Warren Buffet famously said, "You can't tell who's swimming naked, until the tide goes out." My interpretation of that comment was he was referring to liquidity. Liquidity has become a major topic in this week's news. We've had the failure of Silicon Valley Bank, we've had Credit Suisse in significant distress, First Republic, and many others. And we have a very, very stacked panel today to talk about liquidity and how it impacts insurance companies.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. This is the Ice Bowl edition. We've just gotten our power back on after an ice storm last night in Chicago, and we are joined today by Steve Katznelson, the founder and CIO of Radcliffe Capital Management.
Thanks for joining us for another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. Today's topic is a very important one to insurance companies, and that is technology. And how it can improve things dramatically in the investment operation of an insurance company. We are joined today by Scott Kurland, Managing Director of SS&C Technologies' Insurance Solutions Group. I have learned so much about SS&C and look forward to learning some more.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. We have got a good one for you today. We are joined by a very well-regarded academic who has written a great deal on insurance asset management. Today, our guest is Nicos Scordis, Professor and the John R. Cox Ace Limited Chair of Risk and Insurance in the St. John's University Greenberg School of Risk, Insurance, and Actuarial Science.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. We are very happy to have Tom Smith back from MetLife Investment Management. Tom is a repeat guest on the show. You're here to talk about emerging market debt.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. We're thrilled to have you back and this is a good one today. We are talking about private credit with Bill Bohnsack, President of Oak Hill Advisors.
Welcome back. Thanks for listening. We are talking about a very important Risk Management Survey today that's been done by Conning. And we're joined by Matt Riley and Scott Hawkins.
Welcome, welcome, welcome to another edition of the insuranceaum.com podcast. I'm joined today by Mike Ashton, the Inflation Guy.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. My name's Stewart Foley, I'll be your host, and I'm joined today by Tim Antonelli, Insurance Strategist and Portfolio Manager, and Managing Director at Wellington Management.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. My name is Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. And I am joined today by a very special guest, Lale Topcuoglu, Head of Credit, Managing Director at Swiss Re.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. My name's Stewart Foley and I'll be your host. We're talking about ABS, mortgages, and specialty finance with TJ Durkin of Angelo Gordon. TJ, welcome.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. My name's Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. And today's topic is financial literacy for young women in high schools across the United States, and we're joined by the founder and CEO, Maura Cunningham from Rock The Street, Wall Street.
Mortgages make up about 30% of the core bond market. It is a massive holding for most any insurance company, and we are going to have a very in-depth conversation today about the mortgage market. My name's Stewart Foley, I'll be your host, and this is the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. I'm joined today by Jake Remley, Senior Portfolio Manager and Principal at Income Research and Management.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. My name is Stewart Foley. I'm your host. I'm going to be joined today by Phil Dauer of Grandview Analytics, and we are going to be talking about five investment data challenges for insurers.
Welcome to another edition of the insuranceaum.com podcast. My name's Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. And today we have a CIO spotlight with a very special guest, Waymond Harris, Senior Vice President, and Treasurer of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. Today we are on a CIO spotlight with T.C. Wilson of The Doctors Company.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. My name is Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. And today we're talking about the compelling opportunities in the corporate credit market and we're joined by Jamie Weinstein, managing director, portfolio manager, and head of corporate special situations at PIMCO.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. My name is Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. And today we're talking about the pending changes the NAIC is proposing for the capital treatment of CLOs. We're joined by two experts today from MetLife Investment Management - Angela Best, director of CLO Research, and Francisco Paez, head of structured products research at MetLife Investment Management.
Insurance companies are using ETFs more than ever before, and that's our topic today. Thanks for joining us, my name's Stewart Foley, I'm your host of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, and I'm joined by Ben Woloshin and Brad Kotler, of State Street Global Advisors.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. Today's topic is liquidity and volatility conditions in the bond market. And we are joined today by Shilpa Lakhani, Head of Fixed Income Portfolio Solutions in the Americas for DWS
Investment grade corporate credit, that's the topic of the day. My name's Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. This is the InsuranceAUM.com podcast and I'm joined today by Matt Daly at Conning, Head of Corporate and Municipal Teams.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. My name's Stewart Foley, I'll be your host. And today we're talking about private credit with Bob Morgan, managing director and chairman of the investment committee at 50 South Capital, part of Northern Trust.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, the home of insurance asset management with Nazar Alobaidat, Chief Investment Officer of Enstar.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. My name’s Stewart Foley. I’m your host and today we have a very special guest, the soon-to-retire CIO at Aegis, Rip Reeves. So this, Rip, is going to be a podcast. This is your life.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. My name is Stewart Foley, I'm your host, and today's topic is Emerging Market Corporate Debt with Vic Harling, the Head of Emerging Market Corporate Debt at Ninety One.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. My name is Stewart Foley. I'm your host, joined today by Jelani Fenton, founder and CEO of Safari.
Welcome to another edition of the CIO Spotlight. My name's Stewart Foley, I'm your host. This is the InsuranceAUM.com podcast and we are joined by a very good friend, Aaron Diefenthaler of RLI.
Welcome to another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. I am joined today by Mike Ashton, the inflation guy of Enduring Investments.
Benchmarking for insurance companies has been a problem for many, many years. And today we're going to talk about something called benchmark snapping with Erik Troutman, Senior Insurance Strategist at Loomis Sayles.
Maritime finance is the topic of the day. Asset-backed lending is the strategy. We're joined by Svein Engh, Senior Managing director, and portfolio manager at EnTrust Global.
Impact investing is certainly a hot topic with insurers these days, but what does impact investing mean? We're joined by Matt Lawton, portfolio manager in the Fixed Income Division at T. Rowe Price. He manages Global Impact Credit Strategy and co-manages the US Investment Grade Corporate Bond Strategy. Matt, you're a vice president and member of the Investment Advisory Committee for the Corporate Income, New Income, and Ultra Short-Term Bond Funds, and you're also a vice president of the Short Term Bond Fund. Welcome and thanks for being on.
Every insurance asset management outsourcing involves an IMA an Investment Management Agreement, or it's supposed to. I've been in this business a long time and I've never spent more than a second thinking about that document. But I had a recent conversation with our guest who told me there's quite a bit of interesting things that happen in an IMA. And so I said, "Man, that would be a great podcast. How about coming on?" So I'm very happy to welcome our guest Ed Toy, senior manager, investment specialist at Risk and Regulatory Consulting.
We're here to talk about dividend strategies today, with Lance Humphrey of Victory Capital, Lance is a senior portfolio manager there.
Welcome to a special edition of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast. Today's topic is very timely. It is the potential changes in capital charge treatment for CLOs, and we're joined by two experts today that are going to help us understand the issues at hand. Amnon Levy, CEO of Bridgeway Analytics, led the revision of the C1 factors with both the NAIC and ACLI, and Kevin Croft, professor of practice at Drake University and director of the Kelley Institute for Insurance Innovation.
We always have a great time on the CIO Spotlight. We're very happy to be joined by Cameron Black, chief investment officer and treasurer of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona.
If you know anything about insurance asset management, you know that regulation is a major factor in everything insurance investment professionals do. We are joined by a true expert in insurance asset management regulation, and we're going to learn a lot today. So, Amnon Levy of Bridgeway Analytics, welcome.
The flow of funds to private assets is undeniable in the insurance space. We are talking today about private debt, and more specifically, senior secured sponsored middle market lending. And we're joined by Kevin Marchetti, founding partner and chief risk officer at Varagon Capital.
Everybody knows that there's a big flow of funds to private assets. Eight months ago, everybody was talking about maximizing yield and eight months later, everybody's talking about risk management. So today we have a very good podcast for you on investment-grade private credit, and we're joined by Sara McCrady and Michael Kelleher from Securian Asset Management.
Real bond yields are on the rise for the first time in ages, and we're here to talk about leveraged credits, specifically floating-rate bank loans with Paul Massaro, head of Global High Yield and lead portfolio manager for Floating-Rate Strategies at T. Rowe Price.
The Asian insurance market is one that has always fascinated me. One that is growing rapidly. One that is very different than the US insurance marketplace. That's our topic today. We're very fortunate to be joined by Max Davies, CFA, insurance strategist at The Client Group at Wellington Management.
Insurance companies are buying private assets like never before, and asset-backed lending is one of those areas. We're joined today by Connell Haston, partner and head of the Insurance Services Platform at Victory Park Capital.
Cryptocurrency. That's the topic today with a repeat guest, Paul Foley. There's a lot going on, a lot of talk in crypto land, and the first question is, I think the hardest, which is UST - What is it? And then, what happened?
Thank you for joining another edition of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast. My name's Stewart Foley. I'm your host. And today, we're going to be talking about infrastructure in insurers with Nick Coxon, Tom Danielsen, and Marc Mercurio from Macquarie.
Welcome to another edition of the Insurance AUM Podcast, and today we're going to be talking with the newly appointed sole CIO of F&G Life, Leena Punjabi.
Kids these days. As a 57 year old adult, every time I hear that, I stop listening. Because as a professor, I have found this following generation to be simply outstanding. And I am proud to be joined today by two fellow University of Missouri alumni, Trey Lucas, and Truman Webb.
Today, we're talking about private debt and specifically direct lending. It's an area where a lot of funds are flowing and we're joined by Invesco's Ron Kantowitz, who's a managing director and head of private debt.
Welcome to a special edition of the insuranceaum.com podcast. My name's Stewart Foley, and I'm your host. And I'm joined by a good friend named Amy Kartheiser.
Insurance companies need yield. That is not a news flash. Private real estate debt offers a good alternative to significant yield enhancement. Here to talk about both private and public real estate debt is Kirloes Gerges, Managing Director, Portfolio Manager, Principal Real Estate Debt and Scott Carson, Director, Portfolio Manager, Principal Real Estate Investors. Welcome guys. Thanks for being on the show.
40 million. That's the number of options contracts that are traded every day. That number has doubled from just two years ago. The options market is a very effective means of risk management and it is going crazy. I am so happy to be joined by Gavin Rowe, CEO of Watershed Technologies, who's going to give us a dissertation on options, and options trading.
Now a day goes by that we're not hearing about inflation in the headlines, and that's why we've gotten Mike Ashton, the inflation guy back on with us. Mike, thanks for being on.
In this episode of the Insurance AUM Podcast, we speak with Anthony Cazazian, of the Man Group, about single family rentals and the future of net zero energy in real estate.
“We particularly have been focused on single-family rentals as it has been a newer asset class from an institutional investment perspective. And, we believe that allows us to utilize some of our expertise and skillsets in a different way and allows us to deliver outsized returns to our investors.”
Changes in the regulatory environment for insurance companies have massive implications. We are here to talk about the most recent changes with Tim Antonelli of Wellington Management.
"We've seen a real acceleration in the last two years of insurance companies looking to embrace sustainability."
"So the same is true in the area of diversity, equity and inclusion is that you really need to focus on the fish tank, the culture of your organization and the environment that you want to foster and cultivate so that you can create a welcoming and inclusive environment for a number of different perspectives in your organization, which will make your organization stronger over time."
"...what we're seeing in the way we're positioning those portfolios is core bonds are back in. They're back incrementally more in favor. And so that is certainly advantageous because you're not having to stretch quite as much today to get the exact same yields that you were just only a year or two ago."
“The great news about the insurance industry is almost any skillset can be utilized successfully with a good long career in the industry. If you're a financial type, there are a ton of roles in that area, dealing with the kinds of things you talk about in your podcast and your listeners do every day. If you are an underwriter or you're analytical, if you're a claims person who likes to deal with people and help solve problems, deal with the system, the judicial system, where some things are resolved, a lot of opportunities there.”
"...But, to the industry's credit, we're also seeing change happen now by revelation, because now the industry is recognizing, okay, this is not just the right thing to do, but this is actually a beneficial thing to do. We can actually improve outcomes for clients, for our firm, for the folks that we work with, by being more inclusive and intentional in our decision-making. So we got here by way of revolution, but where we're going to go, it has to be because of revelation."
In this episode of the Insurance AUM Podcast, we speak with Michael Ashton, the Inflation Guy, about inflation drivers in today's market.
“Real estate investments can offer insurance companies portfolio diversification benefits and a hedge against inflation. Recently, lower risk based capital requirements should also allow for an increase in insurance companies’ allocations to real estate investments”.
-Sara Queen, Head of Real Estate Equity Strategies
Everybody is talking about DEI&B and how this fits into the insurance asset management industry. Sarah Marshock (Wellington Management) facilitates today's discussion of DEI&B with Margaret Milkint (Diversified Search Group), Grace Reyes (TIDE), Laura Beebe (Farm Bureau Financial Services), and Gia Clarke (Insurance AUM Journal).
CIO Spotlight: Nick Martowski of MagMutual: What to do about equities in insurance company portfolios
Listen to three seasoned professionals cover the entire spectrum of the private credit markets and why they are a good fit for insurers looking to pick up yield.
Return of the MAC - perspectives on multi-asset credit with Andrea DiCenso of Loomis Sayles
How the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI) helps insurers get started and make progress in ESG integration
Keith Robinson has spent decades helping asset managers design compensation programs. He talks about the key components of best-in-class compensation, or “rewards” plans in the industry.
A company called “The Helper Bees” doesn’t exactly ring “insuretech” but Dr. Hu’s company is disrupting the long-term care industry and creating winners all around.
Karyn Williams thinks that we need to talk about risk differently. More simply — in terms we all understand. She has built a world-class, independent risk platform and turned traditional mean-variance approaches on their head. This is Part 1 of a series on risk management. Meet Karyn Williams, the Queen of Risk.
Real estate is one of the asset class most obviously impacted by the COVID-19 Pandemic. David Roth, Partner and Head of Real Estate Private Equity at Ares Management, separates winners from losers and gives a compelling vision for real estate’s road ahead.
Disclaimer
These materials are neither an offer to sell, nor the solicitation of an offer to purchase, any security, the offer and/or sale of which can only be made by definitive offering documentation. Any offer or solicitation with respect to any securities that may be issued by any investment vehicle (each, an “Ares Fund”) managed or sponsored by Ares Management LLC or any of its subsidiary or other affiliated entities (collectively, “Ares Management”) will be made only by means of definitive offering memoranda, which will be provided to prospective investors and will contain material information that is not set forth herein, including risk factors relating to any such investment. Any such offering memoranda will supersede these materials and any other marketing materials (in whatever form) provided by Ares Management to prospective investors. In addition, these materials are not an offer to sell, or the solicitation of an offer to purchase securities of Ares Management Corporation (“Ares Corp”), the parent of Ares Management. An investment in Ares Corp is discrete from an investment in any fund directly or indirectly managed by Ares Corp. Collectively, Ares Corp, its affiliated entities, all underlying subsidiary entities shall be referred to as “Ares” unless specifically noted otherwise. Certain Ares Fund securities may be offered through our affiliate, Ares Investor Services LLC (“AIS”), a broker-dealer registered with the SEC, and a member of FINRA and SIPC.
In making a decision to invest in any securities of an Ares Fund, prospective investors should rely only on the offering memorandum for such securities and not on these materials, which contain preliminary information that is subject to change and that is not intended to be complete or to constitute all the information necessary to adequately evaluate the consequences of investing in such securities. Ares makes no representation or warranty (express or implied) with respect to the information contained herein (including, without limitation, information obtained from third parties) and expressly disclaims any and all liability based on or relating to the information contained in, or errors or omissions from, these materials; or based on or relating to the recipient’s use (or the use by any of its affiliates or representatives) of these materials; or any other written or oral communications transmitted to the recipient or any of its affiliates or representatives in the course of its evaluation of Ares or any of its business activities. Ares undertakes no duty or obligation to update or revise the information contained in these materials.
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This may contain information obtained from third parties, including ratings from credit ratings agencies such as Standard & Poor’s. Reproduction and distribution of third party content in any form is prohibited except with the prior written permission of the related third party. Third party content providers do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, timeliness or availability of any information, including ratings, and are not responsible for any errors or omissions (negligent or otherwise), regardless of the cause, or for the results obtained from the use of such content. THIRD PARTY CONTENT PROVIDERS GIVE NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE. THIRD PARTY CONTENT PROVIDERS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, EXEMPLARY, COMPENSATORY, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, COSTS, EXPENSES, LEGAL FEES, OR LOSSES (INCLUDING LOST INCOME OR PROFITS AND OPPORTUNITY COSTS OR LOSSES CAUSED BY NEGLIGENCE) IN CONNECTION WITH ANY USE OF THEIR CONTENT, INCLUDING RATINGS. Credit ratings are statements of opinions and are not statements of fact or recommendations to purchase, hold or sell securities. They do not address the suitability of securities or the suitability of securities for investment purposes, and should not be relied on as investment advice.
Coronavirus and Public Health Emergency Risks
As of March 17, 2020, there is an outbreak of a novel and highly contagious form of coronavirus (“COVID-19”), which the World Health Organization has declared to constitute a pandemic. The outbreak of COVID-19 has resulted in numerous deaths, adversely impacted global commercial activity, and contributed to significant volatility in certain equity and debt markets. The global impact of the outbreak is rapidly evolving, and many countries have reacted by instituting quarantines, prohibitions on travel and the closure of offices, businesses, schools, retail stores, and other public venues. Businesses are also implementing similar precautionary measures. Such measures, as well as the general uncertainty surrounding the dangers and impact of COVID-19, are creating significant disruption in supply chains and economic activity and are having a particularly adverse impact on transportation, hospitality, tourism, entertainment and other industries. The impact of COVID-19 has led to significant volatility and declines in the global public equity markets and it is uncertain how long this volatility will continue. As COVID-19 continues to spread, the potential impacts, including a global, regional or other economic recession, are increasingly uncertain and difficult to assess.
Any public health emergency, including any outbreak of COVID-19 or other existing or new epidemic diseases, or the threat thereof, and the resulting financial and economic market uncertainty could have a significant adverse impact on the Fund, the pricing and fair value of its investments and real estate assets and its subsidiaries, and could adversely affect the Fund’s ability to fulfill its investment objectives.
The extent of the impact of any public health emergency on the Fund’s and its subsidiaries’ operational and financial performance will depend on many factors, including the duration and scope of such public health emergency, the extent of any related travel advisories and restrictions implemented, the impact of such public health emergency on overall supply and demand, goods and services, investor liquidity, consumer confidence and levels of economic activity and the extent of its disruption to important global, regional and local supply chains and economic markets, all of which are highly uncertain and cannot be predicted. The effects of a public health emergency may materially and adversely impact (i) the value and performance of the Fund and its investments, (ii) the ability of the Fund and/or its subsidiaries to continue to meet loan covenants or repay loans on a timely basis or at all, (iii) the ability of the Fund and/or its subsidiaries to repay their debt obligations, on a timely basis or at all or (iv) the Fund’s ability to source, manage and divest investments and the Fund’s ability to achieve its investment objectives, all of which could result in significant losses to the Fund.
All unrealized performance information, investment strategy, and targeted returns presented throughout this presentation were prepared as of the dates indicated. Such information was prepared at such times in good faith based on a number of fundamental assumptions as of such dates, including assumptions relating to the broader economy, macro and applicable micro economic conditions, the geopolitical landscape, interest rates, availability and pricing of credit, liquidity and depth of transactional markets, health, population, and the environment, etc. With the unprecedented (and to date uncurable) advancement of COVID-19, most of those assumptions at the current time appear to be materially off or in a state of suspension. Consequently, all unrealized performance information, the portions of the investment strategy which related to targeted returns, and valuations of current investments held within or warehoused for the Fund are at the time of this writing indeterminate, but presumed to be materially lower than those last presented. While in the medium to longer term the Manager believes the Fund should see attractive opportunities consistent with its larger investment themes and strategy, it will likely take some time for the markets to recover.
In addition, the operations of the Fund, its subsidiaries and investments, the General Partner and the Manager may be significantly impacted, or even temporarily or permanently halted, as a result of government quarantine measures, voluntary and precautionary restrictions on travel or meetings and other factors related to a public health emergency, including its potential adverse impact on the health of any such entity’s personnel.
REF: RE-01551
Bill and Peter talk about markets in a post-COVID-19 world including the likely impact from all the monetary and fiscal stimuli put in place to soften the pandemic’s economic blows. They also bring some very interesting perspectives on the insurance industry, both life and P&C, and how COVID-19 may impact their respective industry’s going forward.
Craig Stapleton makes the case for a permanent allocation to an equity stabilization strategy using hard data to challenge traditional views of the relationship between risk and return. Craig’s is part of a growing body of work that makes a strong case for re-considering our default asset allocation methodologies.
The term “solutions” can mean a lot of things to a lot of different people. In this podcast, Lowell Yura, Head of Multi-Asset Solutions at T. Rowe Price, explores what makes their solutions both unique and effective. Yura’s team, built of backgrounds ranging from actuaries to risk managers, is fully equipped to design solutions, perform diagnostics, and provide insights for a wide range of clients. Listen to learn more about this diverse team and their iterative approach.
Emerging Market Debt is one of the most talked about asset classes in fixed income today. Tom Smith brings his decades of experience and gives us a master class on the current state of the market as well as its evolution over the past 25 years. He also talks about MIM’s long-term commitment to having boots on the ground in the regions where they invest.
Disclosure
This article has been prepared in conjunction with MetLife Investment Management (“MIM”)1 solely for informational purposes and does not constitute a recommendation regarding any investments or the provision of any investment advice, or constitute or form part of any advertisement of, offer for sale or subscription of, solicitation or invitation of any offer or recommendation to purchase or subscribe for any investments or investment advisory services. The views expressed herein do not necessarily reflect, nor are they necessarily consistent with, the views held by, or the forecasts utilized by, the entities within the MetLife enterprise that provide insurance products, annuities and employee benefit programs. Subsequent developments may materially affect the information contained in this article. Affiliates of MIM may perform services for, solicit business from, hold long or short positions in, or otherwise be interested in the investments (including derivatives) of any company mentioned herein. This article may contain forward-looking statements, as well as predictions, projections and forecasts of the economy or economic trends of the markets, which are not necessarily indicative of the future. Any or all forward-looking statements may turn out to be wrong. All investments involve risks including the potential for loss of principle.
1 MIM is MetLife, Inc.’s (“MetLife”) institutional management business and the marketing name for subsidiaries of MetLife that provide investment management services to MetLife’s general account, separate accounts and/or unaffiliated/third party investors, including: Metropolitan Life Insurance Company, MetLife Investment Management, LLC, MetLife Investment Management Limited, MetLife Investments Limited, MetLife Investments Asia Limited, MetLife Latin America Asesorias e Inversiones Limitada, MetLife Asset Management Corp. (Japan), and MIM I LLC.
Join Andrew and me where we discuss current investment issues facing insurers, the regulatory environment and the likely direction of fund flows as we move forward. His engaging personality and decades of experience combine for an enjoyable, informative podcast.
Michael Hunstad presents his group’s seminal work that turns the age-old paradigm for risk measurement on its head.
Cindy Beaulieu, a Managing Director and Portfolio Manager at Conning where she is responsible for managing large life insurance general account portfolios as well as pension assets for institutional clients. She shares her experience in managing insurance assets from the smooth waters of Q4 into the pandemic outbreak and market disruptions that followed. She is both knowledgeable and straightforward in her approach which makes this interview one you won't want to miss!
Nico Santini has managed insurance assets at NEAM Group (GR-NEAM) a leading third-party, insurance-centric specialty manager. He has recently moved into the CIO spot at ProSight Specialty Insurance. Nico shares his views of markets and the challenges of investing insurance assets in this difficult environment.
Grace is a remarkable woman who is highly accomplished in the world of insurance M&A and valuation. She is also an author of the book Homeless to Millionaire: 6 Ways to UPLIFT your Financial Abundance available here.
Tim Antonelli is one of the industry's leading multi-asset strategists. He talks about the markets post-COVID 19 and how insurers can find value to meet their investment goals.
If you think insurance is boring then you haven't listened to Robert Smithson. Have a listen!
If you think insurance is boring then you haven't heard Robert Smithson. Insurtech is blowing up and Robert is right out front.
Robert Smithson is the founder and CEO of Just Insure, a telematics insurance company. Robert is very engaging and brings a bright, new perspective to automobile insurance. Please like us and tell your friends!
Anthony Chukumba is back fresh off a CNBC appearance talking about Wall St. vs. Main St.; tech companies, personal finance tips among other things. He's a great guest and we're thrilled to have him back.
Mike and Aaron are back to talk about current ETF, credit and structured market trends from the trading desk at Brownstone. It's a rapid-fire episode that gets right to the important issues in today's market.
Sanjay Chawla is a savvy investor whose background is atypical in the insurance GA space. He ran corporate pension plans for most of his career before coming to FM Global. The company is very unique in the lines they write and the way they invest. Sanjay lends us his experience to help us understand the current market conditions we face today.
Margaret is the ultimate optimist in these uncertain times. She is a true leader in the insurance industry focusing special attention on diversity and inclusion. Margaret shares how her own story helped shape her exceptional career.
Chris Mier, Loop Capital's well-regarded Chief Economist, talks about the economy before, during, and after COVID 19. Chris has an easy, practical way of discussing complex economic topics that will interest even the indoctrinated.
Mike and Aaron are both ETF industry vets. They talk about what they've seen over in the market both long and in the age of COVID 19.
Michael “Mike” Cafiero serves as a Director of Multi-Asset Sales and Trading at Brownstone Investment Group providing trade execution services to Institutions throughout North America. Mike’s focus is to help Brownstone’s client base find liquidity when trading Equities, Fixed Income Products, and ETFs. Mike’s extensive background in ETF trading gave him exposure to many asset classes which helps him offer liquidity solutions to a wide variety of products now in their primary markets.
Mike joined Brownstone in August 2018 and previously was Director of ETF Sales and Trading at Cantor Fitzgerald, and also held a similar position at Knight Capital Americas; now Virtu. Mike’s career in ETFs began when he worked for iShares ETFs at Barclays Global Investors which was later acquired by Blackrock. Mike earned a BA in Economics from Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey.
Aaron has over 15 years of experience trading fixed-income ETFs and is currently Head of Fixed Income Portfolio Trading at Brownstone Investment Group. He is recognized as an industry leader in portfolio and algorithmic corporate bond trading. Aaron’s background allowed him to pioneer operational efficiencies in broad fixed-income program and basket trading solutions including fixed income ETF creations and redemptions. As technology and data evolve to create greater complexities in fixed income he continues to innovate this space.
Anthony Chukumba covers Specialty Hardlines Retailers for Loop Capital Markets. Mr. Chukumba has covered Specialty Hardlines Retailers for over twelve years as a senior equity analyst most recently with BB&T Capital Markets and FTN Equity Capital Markets in New York. Mr. Chukumba was also previously an analyst with Morningstar, Inc. and a Business Finance Manager for Sears, Roebuck and Company in Apparel and Accessories. Earlier in his career, Mr. Chukumba was a Vice President in Investment Banking and an analyst in Mergers & Acquisitions with Merrill Lynch & Co. Mr. Chukumba holds a BS in Accounting from Rutgers University and received an MBA from Harvard Business School.