In this episode, Tiago Fernandes, Head of Structured Products at SPi, joins Stefan Wagner to discuss the evolution of structured product markets across Europe, Asia, and North America, and what will shape their future.From capital protection and tax incentives to data transparency, regulation, and lifecycle automation, Tiago provides a rare global perspective on how structured products are designed, distributed, and managed. Having worked with issuers, distributors, and data providers worldwide, he explains how each region has developed its own ecosystem.He also highlights the next big challenges for the industry: rising data costs, index licensing monopolies, and the complexity of payoff automation, as well as the growing importance of cross-asset, insurance-linked, and non-bankable assets in meeting investor demand.What’s Inside: • How structured product markets differ across Europe, Asia, and the US • Why tax and capital protection drive product innovation globally • How automation and lifecycle management are transforming efficiency • Why data and index costs threaten transparency and margins • What’s next: insurance-linked, cross-asset, and non-bankable investmentsWhy Listen: This episode offers a rare, inside view of how regulation, technology, and investor needs converge to shape the next generation of structured products, told by one of the industry’s most experienced global experts.

In this conversation with Corey Hoffstein, CEO and CIO of Newfound Research, portfolio manager for Return Stacked® ETFs, and host of one of my favourite podcasts, “Flirting with Models”, we explore why the structure you choose can determine whether a good idea actually works.We dive into the origins of return stacking, the power of capital efficiency, and how behavioural frictions like “line-item risk” shape investor outcomes. From ETF design to liquidity pitfalls, this is both a technical and practical look at building better portfolios. 

In this conversation with André Buck, one of Switzerland’s most recognised structured product experts, we trace the evolution of an industry shaped by technology, tax policy, and client demand.With stories from UBS to SIX and insights into everything from cold calls to capital protection, André offers both nostalgia and hard-won clarity on where structured investing must go next.

Nick Parcharidis reflects on his 30-year journey through structured products and private wealth, starting at the American Stock Exchange and later launching global businesses at Citigroup. He shares insights on the growth of alternatives, platform innovation at iCapital, and adapting to client needs across the U.S., LATAM, and Europe, highlighting the role of education, technology, and clear portfolio integration.

In this episode of Nalu Finance, we sit down with Andrew Glantz, at Xclaim, to explore the $40-50 billion market of bankruptcy claims trading. Andrew dives deep into the risks and rewards of investing in bankruptcy claims, including why this asset class remains largely uncorrelated to traditional markets, the four key risks investors must assess, and how careful research can uncover significant value-creation opportunities. He also unpacks the extraordinary case of FTX bankruptcy claims, where early buyers saw 10x+ returns as assets were uncovered.

In this episode of Nalu Finance, we welcome Andy Constan, CEO and CIO of Damped Spring Advisors, to explore the fascinating world of macroeconomic investing. Andy shares his journey from working at renowned firms like Bridgewater and Brevan Howard to founding Damped Spring, a research firm that has garnered an impressive following among top institutional investors. We discuss his unique investment philosophy, the role of market dynamics, and the lessons learned from navigating significant market events.Whether you’re interested in understanding macro strategies, the impact of central bank policies, or how to stay ahead in turbulent markets, this episode offers invaluable insights. Tune in to learn how Andy’s expertise can help you think differently about risk, investments, and portfolio management.

Navigating FinTech Partnerships in a Regulated WorldAs the possible combination of digital features increases, financial services become more complex and regulated than ever. At the same time, the rapid growth of Fintech expands the options to build, buy, invest, or partner.This interview between Frank Krings (Financial Servies) and Stefan Wagner (FinTech & Nalu Finance Host) addresses what is essential for both sides when a regulated financial services company engages with Fintech.Build or Partner Decision in Financial ServicePositioning for Large-Scale Partnerships by a FintechThe Balance Between Innovation and Risk ManagementCyclicality and Seasonality in Decision-Making CycleManaging Stakeholders and Scope CreepEvolving Acceptance of Technology and Metrics for SuccessAligning Success Metrics and Relationship GrowthFrank Krings is a Franco-German financial services executive and banker with extensive experience across Europe, Asia, and the U.S. He has held senior roles in banking, asset management, investment, and technology, serving on executive boards in developed and emerging markets. Currently, he is an independent Senior Advisor and Non-Executive Director, consulting for Bain & Company, SAP Fioneer, and Zeotap. He also serves on the boards of the Franco-German Chamber of Commerce and Tourmaline Labs. Frank holds the Order of Merit of Luxembourg and leads the Luxembourg ICC and Arbitration Council. Previously, he was Deutsche Bank’s CEO for Western Europe and held leadership positions in Luxembourg, France, Türkiye, and Thailand.

One of the industry's most significant trends is the increasing integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) into financial services. These technologies are revolutionising areas like personalised investment advice, data optimisation, and operational efficiency. However, navigating AI in a highly regulated financial environment presents unique challenges.Our latest podcast explores these trends and much more in conversation with Christian. Don't miss it!Stay curious and keep investing smartly.Stefan WagnerHost of the Nalu FM Finance Podcast

Learn the appeal structured products have for investors seeking a balance between equity risk and capital protectionDiscover different options for investors based on their market, risk profile and portfolio sizeDebunk common myths about structured productsRealize the advantage of defined outcome

Join us in this Nalu FM Finance podcast episode as we speak with Rajesh Amin, Founder of 2RSquared, on how to harness the overwhelming amount of growing data to create efficient and effective investment solutions.Learn how advanced front office systems enable smaller and medium-sized firms to compete.Discover how technology enables personalized investment products on a large scale.Understand how to choose different risk metrics based on the client's utility and risk perception.Realize why human involvement in research remains crucial.

Join us in this Nalu FM Finance podcast episode as we speak with Sean Adler, CEO of GZI, about the practical aspects of quantitative investment strategies and alternative financial data. In this episode, Sean demystifies smart beta, factor investing, and quantitative finance, explaining their real-world applications. He emphasizes the importance of not relying solely on backtests and discusses the balanced integration of AI in financial markets, highlighting both its potential and pitfalls. Sean also shares insights on risk management, the use of derivatives, and the continuous optimization needed to stay competitive. Stay curious and keep investing smartly,Stefan WagnerHost of the Nalu FM Finance Podcast

Dear Friends and Colleagues,In a captivating podcast episode, Stefan sits down with Andreas Loetscher, Managing Director of ABBL, a boutique consultancy specializing in reputation protection. Andreas shares intriguing insights from his extensive career in financial auditing and crisis management, including his time at major firms like Ernst & Young and Deutsche Bank. He recounts his firsthand experiences with significant crises such as the Siemens corruption scandal, the Kweku Adoboli case at UBS, and his involvement in the notorious Wirecard audit during one of Germany’s largest frauds.Listeners are promised a deep dive into the intricacies of financial audits, crisis management, and maintaining corporate integrity in the face of adversity. Stay curious and keep investing smartly,Stefan WagnerHost of the Nalu FM Finance Podcast

Dear Friends and Colleagues,In this in-depth podcast episode, Bruce Traan, Global Head of Indices at dxFeed, unpacks the intricacies of index management, emphasising the importance of creating tailored indices to meet specific investment strategies. He underscores the critical nature of data quality and the need for transparency in the processes involved.Bruce also touches on utilising AI and machine learning in developing indices and the significance of clearly communicating the methodologies used. This episode provides insights into the evolving landscape of financial markets and the influence of technological progress on these markets.Bruce Traan is an accomplished business leader with over 21 years of global experience in capital markets and the index industry. He specialises in strategic partnerships, global business development, and index product strategy. Before joining dxFeed in September 2023, Bruce founded Benchmarket, the first peer-to-peer exchange for index licensing. Before that, he served as Chief Index Officer at Coin Metrics and held senior leadership roles at Cboe Global Markets, overseeing the geographic expansion of benchmark products and services. Bruce holds a bachelor’s degree in computer science with a minor in finance from Northeastern Illinois University and an M.B.A. from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Please go to www.myindex.solutions to receive the e-book "Index Technology Providers" which compares the offerings of multiple index providers, including dxFeed. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Stay curious and keep investing smartly,Stefan WagnerHost of the Nalu FM Finance Podcast

tDear Friends and Colleagues,I'm excited to share this podcast episode featuring Chris Corcino, the CEO behind AlphaNotes, with you. In this interview, Chris discusses the company's inception and its response to the evolving financial landscape post-2008 crisis, focusing on technology and private market shifts. Alpha Notes, a securitisation platform for private market fund managers, specialises in private equity, structured credit, and trade finance. Chris highlights their milestones, technology integration with vestr for scalability, and future trends like ESG and tokenisation. Stay curious and keep investing smartly,Stefan Wagner, Host of the Nalu FM Finance Podcast

Dear Friends and Colleagues,I hope you a great start to 2024!The latest Nalu FM Finance Podcast episode features Rico Blaser, CEO of vestr A.G., offering unique insights into investing, speculating, and betting. Rico challenges conventional wisdom with finesse, providing a thought-provoking perspective that will leave you contemplating your outlook.Rico is the CEO of vestr A.G., a fintech company creating SaaS solutions for actively managed products. Before co-founding vestr, he spent over a decade in large financial institutions and on Wall Street. Rico has a quantitative background in computer science, mathematics, and machine learning.In this interview, we discuss:The birth of vestr A.G. as Rico takes us on his journey from competitive swimming to the financial industry, highlighting his passion for quantitative trading strategies and exotic derivatives.The world of AMCs (Actively Managed Certificates) and discover how vestr A.G. is revolutionizing their handling, overcoming hurdles AMC issuers face. Rico's operational insights offer a fresh perspective on active investment management.Effective risk management strategies for actively managed certificates, including tips on diversification, hedging, and collateral schemes to safeguard investments.Stay curious and keep investing smartly,Stefan Wagner, Host of the Nalu FM Finance Podcast

Dear Friends and Colleagues,In this informative interview with Daniel Knoblach, we discussed how to develop, setup and implement custom indices.Traditional and custom indexes follow distinct methodologies for investment and rebalancing. However, the personalized nature of Custom Indexes sets them apart by tailoring methodologies to individual investor preferences. Despite this, many investments are still linked to a few dominant indices. Designing a custom index offers various benefits, such as alignment with values, financial goals, and risk tolerance.Daniel is the founder and CEO of Super Global, an AIFM and securitization expert with offices in Germany and Luxembourg, offering tailor-made AIF and AMC across all asset classes. Previously, as a Board Member, he was responsible for setting up structure and securitization solutions for a Family Office and the Fair Alpha Group in Luxembourg, with a total issuance volume of more than EUR 3 billion. Before that, he worked for a Liechtenstein-based asset manager focused on proprietary fund solutions for institutional investors.For more information, interviews, and comparisons of features across many index technology providers please go to www.myindex.solutions

Dear Friends and Colleagues,In this insightful interview with Jacob Ayres-Thomson and Hassan Salamony, we discussed how Artificial Intelligence can leverage vast amounts of public data to empower investors. Jacob is the Founder and CEO of 3AI, a machine learning company dedicated to unlocking alpha in large data sets. Previously, he represented PwC as their asset & risk modelling expert, advising the UK Treasury during the Financial Crisis and consulting clients across insurance, investment banking, hedge fund and asset management. Before that, he worked in equity trading for Barclays Capital and Goldman Sachs. Jacob holds an MSc (Dist) in Machine Learning from UCL AI Center and a BSc (1st) in Statistics from University College London.Hassan is the COO and co-founder of 3AI. Prior to joining 3AI, Hassan served as MD at Goldman Sachs in London, where he led the global markets FICC sales team for institutional clients across the UK and Ireland. Before this, he was a director at Barclays, leading the bank's coverage team across Europe. He holds a Distinction in Algorithmic Trading from Oxford and a BSc (Hons) in Management Science from LSE. In this interview, we discuss:How can AI make sense of large data sets?How does 3AI make data explainable?How the 3AI solution can predict surprises in the financial markets?  Where is Artificial Intelligence developing?and much more

Dear Friends and Colleagues,In this interview with Pathmajan Rasan, we discussed how the SmartRiskAlpha technology helps investors and investment managers to consistently achieve better performances.In this interview, we discuss:How to time exposure to Risk Premia.A way to combine quantitative models and discretionary management.  Examples on how to reduce volatility and draw downs while maintaining positive returns.His experience incorporating ESG data into the investment process. and much more

Dear Friends and Colleagues,In this interview with Volodymyr Gubskyi, we discussed how to best approach the design of Structured Products and how tools can help in this process.Volodymyr Gubskyi, Co-Founder and CEO of IVM Markets, has 17 years of derivatives solutions and structured product experience. He was head of strategic solutions and derivatives at Deutsche Bank and, prior to that, Royal Bank of Scotland, and Merrill Lynch. Vlad graduated from the London School of Economics.In this interview, we discuss:The advantages of structured productsHow to find the best version of a structured product payout  How to describe structured products in a clear and straightforward languageand much more

Dear Friends and Colleagues,In this interview with Béatrice Guez, we discuss how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help financial professionals build resilient portfolio allocations and understand key market drivers in any market situation.Béatrice Guez, CEO of Ai For Alpha, has more than 20 years of experience in financial markets. She worked in the structuring departments of various investment banks (JP Morgan, Deutsche Bank, Société Générale). She decided to leave the world of large groups to actively participate in the evolution of asset management with new technologies, in particular artificial intelligence. Béatrice graduated from the French engineering school Ecole Polytechnique and holds a master from the London School of Economics.In this interview, we discuss:How to identify the main  factors of an investment?How can AI add value in finance.Reinforced learningand much more