What does bravery look like in the world of finance? Terri Duhon, Wall Street trader turned board director, TEDx speaker, and award-winning educator, shares her remarkable journey from rural Louisiana to MIT, J.P. Morgan, and the boardrooms of Morgan Stanley International and rising fintech firm Wise.
In this inspiring episode of the Market Maker Podcast mini-series spotlighting women in finance, Terri talks about the power of dreaming big, why financial literacy is essential for independence, and how being brave, not perfect, can change everything. She also explores the myths around women and numbers, the reality of imposter syndrome, and the critical role community plays in building confidence.
If you’ve ever doubted your path or felt like you didn’t belong, Terri’s story will remind you that you’re not alone and that you absolutely belong.
(00:00) Introduction & Guest Background
(00:52) Growing Up in Louisiana
(04:10) Imposter Syndrome & MIT
(08:28) Lessons from the Trading Floor
(13:07) Leaving Wall Street
(16:39) Bravery Over Perfection
(19:54) Women and Self-Selection
(25:58) Financial Independence
(30:00) Building Confidence
(33:25) Changing Role Models
(36:31) Final Message
This week on Market Maker, we unpack three big themes moving markets. Nvidia briefly hit a $5 trillion valuation before a Trump–Xi meeting wiped billions off the stock. We explain what happened and what it reveals about AI hype and geopolitics.
We then break down big tech earnings: Alphabet soared while Meta slumped, despite similar numbers. Is “BATMMAAN” the new “Magnificent 7”? And finally, the Fed cut rates—but Powell’s fog analogy hints at rising uncertainty ahead.
Whether you’re a student, prepping for interviews, or just want clear market insights, we’ve got you covered.
(00:00) Themes in Focus This Week
(03:46) Nvidia hits $5T: AI chips, hype & order book
(09:17) Trump–Xi meeting fallout: Nvidia crashes
(22:00) Alphabet soars, Meta slumps — why?
(30:11) Amazon & Apple: AI, retail, and holiday signals
(37:40) Meta’s spending problem + the new AI chapter
(49:37) Fed cuts rates: Powell’s “fog” warning
Subscribe to the daily Market Maker newsletter
In this episode of the Market Maker Podcast, Anthony Cheung is joined by Joe Little, Global Chief Strategist at HSBC Asset Management, to explore the personal journey and professional insights behind one of the top roles in finance.
From discovering economics by chance to immersing himself in investment classics and landing a role at J.P. Morgan, Joe shares how curiosity and persistence shaped his career path.
He also breaks down the real-world role of a Chief Strategist, explains why clear communication and storytelling are powerful tools in markets, and shares why early mentorship can shape your entire career.
Whether you're a student exploring your options or an early-career professional finding your feet, this episode offers inspiration, practical advice, and honest insight into what it takes to thrive in finance.
(00:00) Intro
(00:56) Joe’s unlikely start
(02:20) Discovering economics
(06:43) Importance of mentors
(12:27) What a strategist does
(20:28) Power of storytelling
(28:05) Nature or nurture?
(32:08) Performing under pressure
(34:41) Working across cultures
(39:51) Life on the road
(42:37) Mindset for success
In this episode, Anthony speaks with Kate Hill, Global Head of Trading at Aviva Investors, about her three-decade career spanning Citi, Morgan Stanley, HSBC, and Aviva.
Kate shares what it was like stepping onto the trading floor for the first time, how major market events shaped her path, and the cultural differences she experienced across leading global institutions. She also reflects on transitioning into leadership, balancing personal challenges with career decisions, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
It’s a candid conversation packed with advice for students and early-career professionals - from resilience and adaptability to the skills that will define the future of trading as technology transforms finance.
(00:00) Trading Intro & Career Journey
(02:57) First Impressions on the Floor
(07:23) Intersection of Markets & Politics
(08:48) Key Market Events & Decisions
(11:47) Reality of Dynamic Markets
(13:14) The Value of Experience
(19:25) Cultural Differences in Finance
(22:43) Moving into Leadership
(26:53) Personal Challenges & Career Choices
(34:46) Asset Management vs Sell-Side
(37:00) Advice for Aspiring Professionals
(41:15) Future of Trading & Tech
With a rate cut from the US central bank now almost guaranteed, we break down what it actually means and why the Fed is also quietly ending its multi-billion-dollar balance sheet tightening.
Meanwhile, Wall Street's heavyweights, J.P. Morgan, Morgan Stanley, Goldman Sachs and BlackRock just posted monster earnings. We unpack why deal-making is back, what Jamie Dimon's "cockroach" comment means for private credit, and how Morgan Stanley reclaimed its equity throne.
Finally, silver? It just hit a 45-year high, driven by a short squeeze that’s forcing traders to fly silver bars across the Atlantic. Literally.
From central bank policy to commodity chaos this is your one-stop weekly debrief to make sure you're on top of all things markets.
(00:00) Intro & Themes in Focus
(04:25) Fed Cut Locked & Loaded
(09:12) Understanding QE & QT
(21:12) Wall Street's big comeback
(23:09) J.P. Morgan Credit Problem
(27:56) Private Credit Warning
(32:26) Morgan Stanley's Stellar Performance
(37:01) Goldman's Huge Quarter
(40:06) GS Job Cuts Amid AI Adoption
(43:27) BlackRock's £13.5trl Boom
(47:12) Silver Gets Short Squeezed
*****
Find out more about our work in attraction, training and assessments via world-leading simulation technology www.amplifyme.com
Student interested in Global Markets? Try our free Finance Accelerator simulation
Want to train with Anthony and the team in London this December? Check out the Finance Bootcamp
In this episode, Anthony is joined by Marc Bergeron, a veteran of nearly four decades in finance, from bond trading in the '80s to co-founding his own firm and now championing mentorship at Orchard Global, a leading alternative investment manager.
Marc shares real stories about navigating market crashes, learning the hard way about soft skills, and why adaptability and resilience are make-or-break traits in today’s finance world.
Whether you're a student wondering where to start or a young professional trying to find your edge, Marc's journey offers invaluable insights (and a few hard-won lessons) to help you grow and thrive in the industry.
(00:00) Intro & Guest Intro
(01:31) From Engineering to Finance
(03:39) Life on the ’80s Trading Floor
(07:33) Starting a Finance Firm
(14:54) Entrepreneurial Mindset
(14:29) Soft Skills in Finance
(17:10) Resilience & Adaptability
(24:06) Mentoring & Continuous Learning
(31:17) Organisational Resilience
(34:06) Biggest Lessons & Regrets
(38:22) One Book You Should Read
(42:00) Final Thoughts & Warwick Event
*****
Register for the EVENT on campus at the University of Warwick on Thursday, 29th October (6-8pm).
In this Career Insight episode, Anthony Cheung speaks with Ben Hayward, co-founder and CEO of TwentyFour Asset Management, about his unexpected journey into finance. From studying history of art and pursuing advertising to launching a fixed-income boutique in the midst of the 2008 financial crisis, Ben shares invaluable lessons in career adaptability, leadership, and resilience.
Whether you're a student eyeing your first internship or a young professional navigating your next move, this conversation offers practical advice on breaking into finance, understanding complex credit products, and thriving in asset management. Learn how to simplify financial storytelling, build confidence under pressure, and shape company culture from the top down.
(00:00) Intro to Ben Hayward & 24AM
(04:42) From Art to Finance
(08:07) Starting Out at Citi
(13:03) Becoming an Entrepreneur
(19:23) Managing Stress & Resilience
(25:40) Building Culture at 24AM
(34:10) The power of storytelling
(43:27) Asset Management Explained
(47:35) What makes Fixed Income Unique
(52:16) Advice on Confidence & Resilience
(56:24) Career Tips for Success
Find out more about TwentyFour Asset Management
In this episode of the Market Maker podcast, we dive into the largest leveraged buyout in history - Electronic Arts going private in a $55 billion all-cash deal led by Saudi Arabia’s PIF, Silver Lake, and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners. What does this blockbuster transaction say about the future of gaming, geopolitics, and private capital?
We also unpack Jefferies’ record-breaking Q3 performance as dealmaking makes a comeback. Is this a lead indicator for bulge bracket banks like Goldman Sachs and J.P. Morgan?
Finally, we look at why London has dropped out of the top 20 global IPO markets for the first time in decades. With capital increasingly flowing to the US, what can the UK do to reclaim its financial edge?
From LBO mechanics and corporate strategy misfires to the intersection of AI, finance, and global power plays, this is an episode packed with insight for anyone tracking markets, banking, and business strategy.
(00:00) Intro & Themes in Focus
(02:25) US Gov Shutdown & Market Impact
(09:26) Coca-Cola's Costa Coffee Misstep
(14:02) Biggest Leverage Buyout Ever
(19:33) Saudi's Gaming Investment Strategy
(27:16) EA Deal Breakdown
(31:44) Strategic Themes in EA Deal
(34:49) Jeffries' Record & Insights
(39:14) London's IPO Market Decline
(44:24) Fixing London's Financial Scene
****
Take part in a free Markets Finance Accelerator Simulation
Find out more about AmplifyME and our work in attraction, training and assessments for leading financial and academic institutions all over the world.
In this episode, Anthony speaks with Romy Cuadras, Head of Alternatives and Fund Solutions at Pictet Wealth Management, about her unconventional path into finance and the lessons she’s learned across global markets.
Romy shares how her Cuban heritage, resilience, and adaptability shaped a career spanning operations, trading, hedge funds, and now leading alternatives for ultra-high-net-worth clients. She offers practical advice on navigating pressure, stakeholder management, and why curiosity, courage, and financial independence are critical skills for young professionals.
It’s an honest look at succeeding in wealth management, full of insights on soft skills, resilience, and standing out in an increasingly competitive industry.
(00:00) Intro
(00:49) Romy’s Journey
(10:43) Positive Mindset
(15:59) Head of Alternatives
(17:38) Soft Skills in Finance
(25:37) Thriving Under Pressure
(33:19) Stakeholder Dynamics
(39:06) Diversity as Strength
(45:33) Standout Performers
(51:22) Meaningful Career
*****
Sign up for the daily Market Maker Newsletter
Find out more about www.amplifyme.com
Connect with Anthony Cheung
In this week’s Market Maker Podcast, Anthony and Piers dive into three huge stories shaping markets, technology, and careers in finance:
Trump’s U-turn on Ukraine & the defense stock boom – What does his latest stance mean for NATO, Europe’s defense spending, and why has one German arms manufacturer surged 2,000% since the war began?
Nvidia’s $100bn OpenAI deal & the global AI race – From landmark partnerships with OpenAI, Alibaba, and Intel, to political maneuvering at the top table, we break down how Nvidia is cementing itself as the backbone of AI infrastructure.
HSBC’s quantum leap – The bank claims a 34% improvement in bond price predictions using quantum computing. We unpack what this really means, how it could reshape Wall Street, and why students and early-career professionals should pay attention.
Whether you’re curious about markets, fascinated by frontier tech, or exploring your future in finance, this episode connects the dots between geopolitics, AI, quantum, and the career skills that will matter most.
💡 Timestamps
(00:00) Intro & Topics
(02:04) Trump’s U-Turn & Defense Stocks
(08:55) Nvidia’s $100bn OpenAI Deal
(25:13) Nvidia’s Global Strategy & Politics
(30:45) Quantum Computing in Finance
👉 Useful Resources
AmplifyME free Markets Finance Accelerator
AmplifyME free Banking Finance Accelerator
📌 Student Training Programmes
5-day In-Person Bootcamp in London
3-Week Virtual Summer Analyst Programme
🤝 Connect
In this episode of the Market Maker Podcast, Anthony is joined by M&A expert Silvia Magni to break down one of the most common questions in investment banking:
👉 What’s the difference between sector coverage and product teams?
Whether you're prepping for investment banking interviews, navigating your M&A career path, or deciding between technical vs client-facing roles, this episode covers everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
🔍 What You’ll Learn:
Perfect for students, graduates, and career switchers targeting analyst or associate roles at bulge bracket banks, elite boutiques, or M&A advisory firms.
⏱️ Timestamps:
(00:00) Intro
(00:30) What is sector coverage?
(02:39) Can you change sectors?
(04:14) Sector differences
(05:18) Understanding product teams
(07:13) Choosing the right path in IBD
(08:42) Switching between teams
(10:15) Why industry knowledge is an edge
(13:13) Key takeaways
🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes
New episodes every week diving into M&A, markets, and career advice in finance.
This week, Anthony and Piers dive into the Fed’s unexpected “risk management” rate cut, what does that even mean? And why is Powell suddenly more concerned about jobs than inflation?
Then it's on to Trump’s latest bombshell, scrapping quarterly earnings in favour of semiannual reports. Maverick nonsense or a legitimate debate about investor pressure and corporate costs?
Finally, the team dissect the failed sale of Argos from Sainsbury’s to JD.com. Why did the deal collapse? What does it say about cross-border M&A, boardroom discipline, and China’s global shopping spree?
Whether you’re trading the headlines or prepping for a finance interview, this episode is packed with the market mechanics and strategic insight you need.
(00:00) Intro & News in Focus
(02:23) Fed Rate Cut & Market Implications
(10:03) Trading Psychology & Market Reactions
(11:55) Fed Dot Plots Explained
(18:21) Trump’s Corporate Earnings Proposal
(20:21) Press Bias & News Interpretation
(21:00) Quarterly vs. Semiannual Reporting
(26:12) Tech's Role in Corporate Transparency
(31:30) Argos Deal Breakdown
(42:43) Investor Sentiment & M&A Takeaways
In the second episode of our application-season mini-series with the LSE Alternative Investments Conference (AIC), I’m joined by Yuga Kozuki, Co-President of the LSE AIC.
Yuga shares how he secured speculative roles across venture capital, M&A, and hedge funds using cold emailing strategies, automation tools, and the power of student societies. We also dive into handling pressure, reframing rejection, and using AI as a coach and mentor throughout the process.
This episode is packed with practical hacks and mindset shifts to help you navigate application season with resilience, focus, and confidence.
Perfect for any student exploring different finance paths and looking for fresh, actionable ways to stand out.
(00:00) Introduction to Alternative Investments
(01:37) Navigating University Life and Societies
(04:37) Managing Stress and Pressure
(10:05) Building Resilience Through Rejection
(12:21) Value of Networking in University
(15:47) Mastering the Art of Cold Emailing
(26:19) Interview Process for Speculative Applications
(29:53) Leveraging AI Tools for Productivity
In this episode, Anthony and Piers unpack a week of upside surprises, from inflation data clearing the path for Fed rate cuts to Oracle’s shock $455 billion order book and the tech rally pushing markets to fresh highs.
They question whether Wall Street’s S&P 500 forecasts are still too cautious, explore why Klarna’s IPO success might reignite deal flow, and dissect the $53 billion Anglo-Teck copper merger. More than just a headline deal, it’s a masterclass in corporate defense, streamlining portfolios, leaning into future-facing assets like copper, and turning defense into offense with smart, strategic M&A.
(00:00) Market Overview & Outlook
(02:38) Inflation Data & Fed Policy
(05:35) Tech Stocks & Performance
(08:27) Oracle Earnings & AI
(11:01) Musk’s $1T Pay Package
(14:11) Analyst Calls & Forecasts
(16:47) Banks & Deal Flow
(19:35) Klarna IPO & Markets
(22:38) Anglo-Teck Merger
Kicking off our special application-season mini-series, we're joined by Raul Verma, Co-President of the LSE Alternative Investments Conference (AIC), to demystify the finance career journey from inside one of the world’s top universities.
In this episode, Raoul shares his unconventional path, including dropping out and returning to LSE and the real pressures, decisions, and strategies behind landing finance roles.
Whether you're considering banking, exploring alternatives, or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with raw insights, relatable stories, and actionable advice.
Perfect for students navigating their next steps and looking to hear from peers who’ve been there.
(00:00) Intro to the Mini Series
(01:37) Dropping Out of LSE & Coming Back
(08:11) Life at a Top Uni: Pressure & Competition
(13:26) Mentors Matter: Finding Your Guide
(18:08) Handling Parental Expectations
(21:33) How to Apply to Finance Roles
(31:52) Why This Series? + AIC Overview
In this episode, Anthony and Piers dig into the surge in UK borrowing costs, now at their highest since 1998. Is this a warning sign or just a media-fueled blip? They explore the fiscal strain, political reshuffling, and why the pound took a sharp hit earlier in the week.
The conversation then turns to the deeper structural issues—rising inflation, slowing growth, and a widening current account deficit. Could this all snowball into a credibility crisis for the UK government and Bank of England?
Also in this episode: gold’s breakout past $3,500, Goldman’s bold $5,000 call, and what the rally tells us about fading trust in fiat systems and central bank independence.
(00:00) UK: Borrowing & Inflation
(08:41) Debt Spiral
(17:17) Deficits & Outlook
(25:56) Gold as Hedge
(34:25) Trust in Gov’t & Banks
In this episode, Anthony is joined by M&A expert Silvia Magni to break down how to confidently talk about M&A and corporate finance deals in investment banking interviews — even if you haven’t worked on a deal yourself.
We cover what interviewers are really looking for, how to structure your answer like a pro, how to use recent or live deals the right way, and the most common mistakes candidates make (and how to avoid them). Plus, why strategic rationale often matters more than just getting the technicals right.
Whether you're preparing for analyst or associate-level roles, this is packed with practical advice to help you stand out.
📌 Chapters
Use the timestamps to jump to key parts of the conversation.
👇 Let us know in the comments:
What’s one deal you’ve looked into that really caught your attention? And why?
🔔 Subscribe for weekly episodes
New episodes every week diving into M&A, markets, and career advice in finance.
(00:00) Intro: Talking About Deals in Interviews
(00:58) Do You Need Deal Experience?
(01:51) When Deal Questions Come Up
(02:48) Structuring Your Answer
(03:12) Tailoring to the Bank
(04:29) Finding Deal Advisors
(05:14) Deal Framework Essentials
(06:56) Understanding Rationale & Risks
(08:45) Key Deal Points to Cover
(09:22) Strategic Thinking as a Differentiator
(10:01) Moving Beyond the Technicals
(11:05) What Senior Interviewers Want
(12:50) Using Live vs Older Deals
(13:57) Choosing the Right Deal
(15:13) What Interviewers Are Really Testing
(17:52) Common Interview Mistakes
(19:50) Final Tips & Be Genuine
Piers is back on the mic, and just in time. The markets are heating up and so is the political pressure.
In this episode, Anthony and Piers unpack Trump’s latest attack on the Federal Reserve, this time zeroing in on Governor Lisa Cook with allegations of mortgage fraud. Is this just another headline-grabbing move, or a serious threat to the Fed’s independence?
Then, the focus shifts to France, where political chaos is shaking investor confidence and French markets are tanking. Could Macron’s government collapse? And what happens if it does?
Closer to home, UK households are facing another blow as food and energy prices spike. So why is the Bank of England cutting rates while inflation is rising?
Also in this episode: market reactions to Powell’s Jackson Hole speech, the bond market’s inflation signals, and why traders keenly awaiting the upcoming payrolls report.
(00:00) Reunion and Market Overview
(04:33) Trump's Influence on the Fed
(27:58) Political Turmoil in France
(38:12) UK Inflation and Economic Outlook
In this episode, we shine a light on one of the most powerful yet misunderstood sectors in finance - commodities. Joined by Lauren Haymond, Global Head of Talent Strategy at Castleton Commodities International (CCI), we unpack what makes this industry uniquely dynamic and ripe with opportunity for early career talent.
Lauren shares her personal journey from headhunting to high finance, and breaks down the various roles beyond trading, including risk management, data science, and operations. Discover how CCI fosters rapid career growth, the traits and technical skills that make candidates stand out, and how to navigate emotional resilience in high-pressure roles.
Whether you're a student exploring career options or a young professional aiming to make a meaningful impact, this episode offers invaluable advice on learning agility, proactivity, and how to build lasting industry connections, especially if you’re starting from scratch.
Listen in and get inspired to consider a future in commodities.
(00:00) Introduction and Topics in Focus
(00:48) Lauren's Background in Hiring & Talent
(01:54) The Unique Aspects of Commodities
(07:06) What is Flow & Fundamentals in Trading
(08:54) Skills and Traits for Success in Commodities
(11:19) Understanding Roles in Commodities Trading
(14:20) The Importance of Collaboration at Work
(15:20) Best Practice in your Early Career
(17:48) Building Emotional Resilience
(22:26) The Value of Learning Agility
(25:11) Networking and Career Development in Finance
(28:28) Recommended Resources for Commodities
(30:45) What is Principle Investing?
Find out more about careers at CCI
In this episode, we dive into the archive to take you back to 2022 when Anthony spoke to Will Hobbs, who at the time of recording was the acting Chief Investment Officer of Barclays Wealth Management.
Will talks about his untraditional route into markets, from training in Italy as a chef to landing his first role in finance, working through the dot-com and financial crisis, and then deconstructing his current role as Chief Investment Officer.
There are lots of tips on networking, leveraging personal experiences, and a detailed explanation of how his team oversees the investment philosophy at Barclays UK in Strategic Asset Allocation (SAA) and Tactical Asset Allocation (TAA) decisions.
We also touch on how he found his real passion later on in his career which ultimately acted as the springboard to later success and discuss how he deals with the pressure of being responsible for key decisions within the division he operates in.
A must listen to episode for those looking to work in asset or wealth management but also for the wider community if you are looking for an open and genuine insight into working in the world of finance.
(00:00) Introduction
(02:10) From chef to CIO
(04:00) Travel, Turkey, and taking risks
(09:50) Early jobs and finding purpose
(13:57) Networking advice: just ask
(16:19) What a CIO really does
(20:12) Handling pressure and big calls
(25:01) Mental health in finance
(30:16) Bitcoin, blockchain, and investing
(34:53) How to start learning markets
(38:03) Final tips for beginners
