Know More. Risk Better.

Making Hay While the Sun Shines: Loan Markets, Rates, and M&A Outlook

This week on the “Know More Risk Better” podcast, Winnie Cisar, Global Head of Strategy at CreditSights, is joined by Kerry Kantin, US Bureau Chief for LFI, to examine the pulse of the broadly syndicated loan (BSL) market as we approach the second half of 2025. They dive into the factors driving BSL activity, from macro volatility and tariff headlines to the technical dynamics fueling tight spreads and strong investor demand. The conversation explores the cautious optimism among investors, the impact of Fed policy expectations, and why the much-anticipated M&A and LBO wave remains on hold. Kerry also discusses creative deal flow solutions, the interplay between BSL and private credit, and the outlook for new issuance versus repayments. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating leveraged finance, seeking expert, data-driven insights on credit markets in a year full of surprises.

EM-ification of the U.S.

This week on the “Know More Risk Better” podcast, Zach Griffiths, Head of US Investment Grade and Macro Strategy, is joined by Mark Rosenberg, founder of GeoQuant, to discuss the rising tide of US political and geopolitical risk. They explore how increasing social polarization and institutional conflict are moving US risk profiles closer to those of emerging markets, and what this means for Treasury yields, equity markets, and gold. The episode also examines the market’s response to ongoing Middle East tensions. Ideal for investors and risk managers, this episode offers expert, data-driven insights into how political risk is reshaping the US market landscape.

Euro Telcos: Taking Stock of the Turnaround

This week on the “Know More Risk Better” podcast, Logan Miller, Head of European Strategy, is joined by Mark Chapman, Senior Analyst and Head of European Telecom and Media Sectors at CreditSights, to explore the evolving landscape of European telecommunications. They discuss the sector's turnaround since 2019, driven by increased demand during the pandemic and a shift towards fiber technology. The episode also covers the impact of macroeconomic factors, competitive dynamics, and M&A trends on the sector. Ideal for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of current telecom trends and potential risks, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in European telecom investments, complete with expert insights on market opportunities and challenges.

Trends and Tribulations: An Update on the US Consumer

This week on the "Know More Risk Better" podcast, Zachary Griffiths, CFA, Head of IG and Macro, is joined by James Goldstein, CFA, Senior Retail Analyst and Jim Dunn, Senior Consumer Analyst, to discuss all things consumer. Join the team as they provide insight into Q1 Retail Earnings, key takeaways, and the impacts of 'Liberation Day'. They also explore consumer behavior in relation to employment metrics. This episode offers valuable insights into how tariffs and its uncertainty have shaped consumer sentiment and behavior. Ideal for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of current consumer trends and potential risks, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in uncovering US Consumer Insights.
 

Christmas is Cancelled

This week on the "Know More Risk Better" podcast, Winnie Cisar, Global Head of Strategy, meets with Michael Kooiman, retail business owner based in Charlotte, NC, to explore the multifaceted impacts of tariffs on small and medium enterprises. Michael provides a detailed lay of the land on imports, particularly those exposed to China, affecting Christmas and outdoor furniture businesses. This episode offers valuable insights into how tariffs are reshaping supply chains and retail strategies for small businesses. Ideal for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of current industry trends and potential risks, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the small business landscape.
 

Innovation Insights: Europe's Chemicals and Packaging Sector

This week on the “Know More Risk Better” podcast, Logan Miller, Head of European Strategy, is joined by Laurent Vergnault, Head of Chemicals and Packaging, Europe and Felicity Juckes, Lead Analyst, Paper and Packaging, Europe as they delve into tariffs and the recent de-escalation between the US and its largest trading partners. This episode also examines the fundamentals for Chems and Paper and Packaging and new issue trends between sectors. Ideal for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of current industry trends and potential risks, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the European industrial scene, complete with the experts' picks and pans. 

The Future of American Exceptionalism: Macroeconomic Insights and Impacts

This week on the "Know More Risk Better" podcast, Winnie Cisar, CreditSights Head of Strategy, is joined by Cedric Chehab, Chief Economist at BMI, and co-host Zach Griffiths, Head of U.S. Investment Grade and Macro Strategy at CreditSights. Together, they delve into the complex dynamics of the global macro landscape. This episode explores significant de-escalations in US trade tensions with the UK and China, highlighting potential boosts to growth and easing inflation concerns. Gain insights into the US dollar's recent fluctuations and their implications for global financial conditions. Discover how fiscal policies and deregulation could sustain US economic growth amidst uncertainties. Perfect for those seeking a pragmatic understanding of current market conditions and associated risks, this episode is a must-listen!

Investment Insights from Hong Kong and Macau

In the latest episode of "Know More, Risk Better," host and CreditSights Global Head of Strategy, Winnie Cisar, is joined by Zerlina Zeng, CreditSights Head of Asia Strategy, for a captivating discussion about Zerlina's recent trip to Hong Kong and Macau. Dive into the strategies top investors are using to navigate market volatility and their shift towards more defensive positions. Uncover the effects of US-China trade tensions and high rates volatility on global investment sentiment. This episode delves into opportunities in high-yield China industrial names and Hong Kong property, providing a fresh perspective on managing risks and finding value in unpredictable times. Tune in to explore how a potential prolonged US-China trade standoff could reshape global asset strategies and discover where savvy investors are placing their bets. Don't miss out on this chance to gain valuable insights and stay ahead in the complex world of international credits!