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
--------
43:06
--------
43:06
What It’s Really Like Studying at LSE (And Breaking into Finance)
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*****Learn more about LSE AIC
--------
36:28
--------
36:28
The UK’s Fiscal Alarm Bell
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
--------
39:03
--------
39:03
How to Talk About M&A Deals in an Investment Bank Interview
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.📌 ChaptersUse 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 episodesNew 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
--------
21:09
--------
21:09
Trump Targets the Fed, French Markets in Turmoil & UK Inflation Surges Again
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
Twice a week, we bring finance to life in a fun, engaging way for anyone interested in the world of finance, whether you're a professional, a student, or just curious to learn more.
Hosted by Anthony Cheung, a LinkedIn Top Voice, every Monday 'The Deal Room' dives into the latest M&A and private equity deals, uncovering the business strategies behind them. On Fridays, 'The Trading Floor' segment explores market trends, from macro themes to single stocks and crypto.
Our goal? To make finance interesting and accessible for everyone!