Market Maker

Guinevere Taylor didn’t study finance. She didn’t go to a top-tier uni. But she built a successful career in asset management and after several years as a director at a major sell-side bank, she now leads UK Capital Formation at Brightwood Capital.In this episode, she shares how she broke into the industry, built confidence in client-facing roles, and juggled early motherhood with a demanding career. If you're a student or young professional looking for real, relatable advice on thriving in finance, this conversation is for you.(00:00) Fiji to Finance(02:47) From Credit Cards to Asset Management(06:06) The Importance of Soft Skills in Client Relations(08:57) Balancing Work and Motherhood(11:57) Embracing Diversity and Inclusion(15:09) Why Building Relationships is Key Skill(17:59) Finding your Right Fit(21:06) Networking for Young Professionals(24:05) Advice for Future Generations

In this podcast episode, Anthony and Stephen unpack the return of mega mergers, from Capital One’s $35.5bn takeover of Discover Financial to Nomura’s strategic $2bn acquisition.Plus, they dive into why private equity is reshaping the accountancy world through massive consolidation plays like Baker Tilly and Grant Thornton.Whether you're aiming for banking, asset management, accounting, private equity, or advisory, this is essential insight to stay ahead of the curve.(00:00) Introduction to M&A Deals(02:05) Capital One's $35.5 Billion Acquisition(09:02) Nomura's Strategic Acquisition of Macquarie(16:00) Baker Tilly's Acquisition of Moss Adams(25:50) Grant Thornton's Fragmented Structure and PE Involvement***Take a free M&A Finance Accelerator simulation in partnership with UBS www.amplifyme.com/mafa

What happens when a president hints at firing the Fed chair, markets spiral, and Elon Musk suddenly retreats from Washington?In this episode, Anthony and Piers dissect Trump’s headline-grabbing U-turn, the deeper implications for Fed independence, and why Tesla shares soared despite disastrous earnings.Plus, is a US-China trade thaw finally in sight and what could that mean for inflation and rates? Another high-stakes week in global markets made easy to understand for everyone.(01:58) Trump vs Powell: The Current State of Play(05:03) Why Does Trump Want Lower Rates?(06:19) Can Trump actually fire Fed Chair Powell?(09:53) How have Markets Reacted to this Idea?(15:19) The Most Important Story Isn't Trump(18:19) Why Fed Independence is Important(21:18) Is a Japanese and Indian Trade Deal Coming?(25:50) Elon Musk Turns Attention Back to Tesla(33:11) Handling Volatile Markets When Investing

In part two of our ESG mini-series, Anthony Cheung and Stephen Barnett dive into the backlash that’s hit the ESG world: record fund outflows, greenwashing scandals, political pushback, and major asset managers quietly stepping away. But is this really the end… or just the next chapter?They explore why ESG has become so controversial, why the US and Europe are heading in different directions, and whether it’s still possible to invest with purpose and make money. Plus, some practical advice for anyone thinking about a career in sustainable finance—especially how to stay grounded when trends shift.If you’re looking to understand the bigger picture and where ESG goes from here, this one’s for you.(00:00) The State of ESG: Is It Dead?(04:26) US vs. Europe: A Cultural Divide in ESG Commitment(10:04) Greenwashing: The Challenge of Authenticity in ESG(15:12) The Importance of ESG in a Volatile World(19:06) Anti-Fragility: Thriving Through Challenges(22:38) Next Steps: Exploring ESG and Career Paths

In this episode, Anthony sits down with Miren-Edurne De Frutos, a senior sales & trading executive with decades of global experience across top-tier investment banks.Fluent in five languages and having worked across eight countries, Miren shares her refreshingly honest take on:What sales & trading roles actually involve (minus the jargon)How to stand out in finance by mastering soft skillsThe power of building authentic, long-term relationshipsWhy neurodiversity still isn't talked about enough in markets and how she’s using her voice to change thatFrom waiting tables in New York to pitching complex ideas to institutional clients, Miren’s journey is packed with stories, practical advice, and raw insight into what it really takes to succeed and be yourself in finance.Whether you’re exploring a career in markets or already navigating one, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.(02:02) Introduction to Career Insights and Neurodiversity(03:56) Understanding Roles in Investment Banking(06:40) How Language Skills Helped(09:09) The Importance of Personal Growth and Adaptability(12:22) Standing Out in a Competitive Environment(15:33) Building Your Board of Directors(19:07) The Art of Selling and Building Relationships(22:45) Networking vs. Relationship Building(26:09) Navigating Neurodiversity in Finance(35:18) Leveraging Technology for Neurodiverse Individuals(38:24) Creating Inclusive Environments in Finance

Is ESG just a buzzword or does it still matter? In this two-part episode, Anthony Cheung is joined by ESG expert Stephen Barnett to unpack what ESG really means, where it came from, and why it’s become so confusing (and controversial). From trillion-dollar funds to wind turbines on glossy brochures, they explore the good, the bad, and the misunderstood. Whether you're curious about impact investing, thinking about a career in sustainable finance, or just want to finally understand what ESG actually means beyond the acronym, this is the episode for you.(00:00) Introduction to ESG and Its Importance(05:43) The Historical Context of ESG(12:22) The Size and Scope of the ESG Industry(18:29) Understanding ESG Investing Strategies(26:16) Impact Investing vs. ESG(31:21) Challenges in ESG Investing(37:16) Philosophical Considerations in ESG Investing