In this episode of the 'Fund Your Retirement Podcast,' host Lee interviews Simon Evan-Cook, a multi-asset fund of funds manager with over 25 years of experience. Simon shares his journey into fund management, his investment philosophy, and the key principles guiding his strategy, particularly his preference for active fund managers.

He discusses the dynamic nature of fund management, how he identifies exceptional fund managers, and the importance of understanding both the art and science behind investing in funds. The conversation also touches on the pros and cons of active versus passive fund management, the impact of fund size on performance, and the emotional challenges investors might face. Simon emphasizes the value of patience, understanding market cycles, and making informed, long-term investment decisions.

Timestamps:

01:40 Simon's Journey into Investing

02:50 Discovering the Passion for Fund Management

07:06 Simon's Investment Strategy

12:37 Active vs. Passive Fund Management

20:16 Screening for Fund Managers

20:22 Identifying Extreme Funds

22:54 The Hero's Journey of Funds

25:04 Holding Periods and Fund Manager Longevity

26:26 Challenges of Managing Large Funds

00:05 Understanding Fund Dynamics

31:21 Final Thoughts on Active vs Passive Investing

36:35 Book Recommendations and Closing Remarks

If you like the episode, please leave us a review and subscribe for future investor interviews.

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

Guest Links & Resources:

Visit Simon’s Profile on The Dowing Website Here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers/vt-downing-fox-funds

Join Simon’s Medium mailing list: https://simonevan-cook.medium.com/

Visit Simon’s Billion Dollar Book Club: https://uk.bookshop.org/lists/the-way-of-the-fox-ten-texts?

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

In the final episode of the season, Judith and Rosemary delve into the intricacies of a day in the life of a fund manager. They discuss their roles and responsibilities, which include selecting and monitoring investments, communicating with shareholders, and dealing with regulatory requirements. They share insights into their typical weeks, which vary greatly and can be unpredictable due to market announcements.

The episode also highlights the challenges posed by regulatory demands and the importance of long-term investment. The managers reflect on their most rewarding moments, their involvement in additional commitments such as charities, and provide advice for aspiring fund managers. The episode concludes with book and show recommendations.

Timestamps:

01:24 Roles and Responsibilities of a Fund Manager

04:08 Weekly Routine and Unexpected Challenges

04:33 Research and Communication

06:44 Regulatory Demands and Governance

12:23 Working from Home and Travel

14:31 Advice for Aspiring Fund Managers

15:21 Challenges and Frustrations

18:52 Proudest Moments and Giving Back

23:53 Career Path and Opportunities

27:16 Book and Podcast Recommendations

31:30 Conclusion and Season Wrap-Up

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis.

Links & Resources:

Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers

Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en

Vassal States by Angus Hanton: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Vassal-State-America-Runs-Britain/dp/1800753888

Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

This time on The Investors Round Table Roland Head, Mark Simpson, and Graham Neary discuss Interest rates and the investment potential of Property Franchise Group (TPFG), Macfarlane Group (MACF) & Van Elle Holdings (VANL).

A healthy three-way debate about the shares they own, their portfolios, and the markets.

Timestamps:

1:20 Round table discussing Property Franchise Group (TPFG).

14:00 Round table discussing Macfarlane Group (MACF).

30:50 Round table discussing Van Elle Holdings (VANL).

36:00 Round table discussing Interest rates.

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about portfolio management and stock analysis.

Roland Mark & Graham Resources:

Visit FYR for more investors related podcasts: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow Roland on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rolandhead

Visit Roland’s Dividends Investing website here: https://www.rolandhead.com/

Follow Mark on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DangerCapital

Buy Marks Book here: http://excellentinvesting.org/

Follow Graham on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrahamNeary

Join Graham’s Substack newsletter here: https://theinvestorinstitute.substack.com/

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

In part seven of this investing eight-part series, Judith Mackenzie and Rosemary Banyard discuss how they construct a portfolio of stocks and how they manage them.

Key topics covered:

· What is portfolio construction and portfolio management?

· What types of risks should investors think about when constructing a portfolio of stocks?

· How do Judith and Rosmary diversify risk across the stocks they own?

· What tools or software do they use to aid them in managing their investment portfolios?

Each episode of this now eight-part series builds on the next as they walk you through an investor's journey.

If you have ever wondered what a fund manager does, how they think, the types of investments they look for and what led them to pursue careers in finance and investing? Then you’re in the right place, join Judith and Rosemary as they peel back the veil and share their guiding principles and experiences from careers spanning multiple decades in the finance industry as investment fund managers.

In the previous episode, Judith, and Rosemary share the highs and lows of meetings with company management, red flags to look out for and their views on annual general meetings.

Timestamps:

2:05 Judith and Rosemary share what is portfolio construction and portfolio management.

5:10 What are the key parameters one would need to consider when constructing a portfolio of stocks.

13:10 What are the risks investors should consider when constructing a portfolio of stocks.

17:50 How Judith and Rosemary asses the different weightings of the stocks they own.

23:00 What position size do they use when making their first investment.

25:00 Things to consider when it comes to thinking about sectors when constructing a portfolio of stocks.

29:40 Do Judith and Rosemary use price targets?

32:40 Do Judith and Rosemary have teams that support them in managing their investment portfolios.

34:20 How do Judith and Rosemary manage their thoughts when they are about to push that button.

36:30 What are the constraints to portfolio construction and management?

40:30 Closing thoughts and wrap up.

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

The FYR Team

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis.

Links & Resources:

Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers

Follow Downing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en

Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

This time on The Investors Round Roland Head, Mark Simpson, and Graham Neary discuss the latest news from Superdry (SDRY), Dr Martens (DOCS) and Tclark PLC (CTO) and the investment potential of Money Supermarket (MONY), Ramsdens (RFX), Polar Capital (POLR), Ashmore Group (ASHM) and Premier Miton Group (PMI).

A healthy three-way debate about the shares they own, their portfolios, and the markets.

Timestamps:

1:00 Round table discussing the latest news from Superdry (SDRY), Tclark (CTO) and Dr Martens (DOCS).

17:00 Round table discussing Ramsdens (RFX).

27:30 Round table discussing Money Supermarket (MONY).

36:30 Round table discussing Polar Capital (POLR), Ashmore Group (ASHM) and Premier Miton Group (PMI).

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about portfolio management and stock analysis.

Roland Mark & Graham Resources:

Visit FYR for more investors related podcasts: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow Roland on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rolandhead

Visit Roland’s Dividends Investing website here: https://www.rolandhead.com/

Follow Mark on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DangerCapital

Buy Marks Book here: http://excellentinvesting.org/

Follow Graham on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrahamNeary

Join Graham’s Substack newsletter here: https://theinvestorinstitute.substack.com/

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

In part six of this investing eight-part series, Judith Mackenzie and Rosemary Banyard share the highs and lows of meetings with company management, red flags to look out for and their views on annual general meetings, more commonly known as AGM’s.

Key topics covered:

• How important are AGMs in your analysis of companies - do either of you attend AGMs?
• Voting, is it important? What do you tend to vote against?
• Have you any memorable experiences with management that stand out, good and bad?
• What red flags put you off management?

Each episode of this now eight-part series builds on the next as they walk you through an investor's journey.

If you have ever wondered what a fund manager does, how they think, the types of investments they look for and what led them to pursue careers in finance and investing? Then you’re in the right place, join Judith and Rosemary as they peel back the veil and share their guiding principles and experiences from careers spanning multiple decades in the finance industry as investment fund managers.

Timestamps:

1:40 Judith and Rosemary explain what an AGM is.

3:30 Re-election of directors for listed companies.

5:30 Voting at AGMs and what do Judith and Rosemary vote against.

9:15 Judith and Rosemary's thoughts on AGMs.

12:50 Memorable meetings with company management.

17:30 What characteristics make a good CEO, MD or founder?

24:45 Thoughts on family-led companies.

28:00 Final thoughts and two worthwhile books to read.

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

The FYR Team

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis.

Links & Resources:

Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers

Follow Dowing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en

Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf

Next annual reports: https://www.nextplc.co.uk/investors/reports-and-presentations/archive

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

This time on The Investors Round Roland Head, Mark Simpson, and Graham Neary discuss the latest news from Ariea (AIEA) and the investment potential of Next (NXT), Burberry (BRBY) and National World (NWOR).

A healthy three-way debate about the shares they own, their portfolios, and the markets.

Timestamps:

1:00 Round table discussing the latest news announcement from Ariea (AIEA).

11:30 Round table discussing Burberry (BRBY)

22:45 Round table discussing Next (NXT)

32:45 Round table discussing National World (NWOR)

Thank you for listening, we hope you enjoyed the episode.

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about portfolio management and stock analysis.

Roland Mark & Graham Resources:

Visit FYR for more investors related podcasts: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow Roland on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rolandhead

Visit Roland’s Dividends Investing website here: https://www.rolandhead.com/

Follow Mark on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DangerCapital

Buy Marks Book here: http://excellentinvesting.org/

Follow Graham on Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrahamNeary

Join Graham’s Substack newsletter here: https://theinvestorinstitute.substack.com/

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.

In part five of this ever-growing eight-part series, Judith Mackenzie and Rosemary Banyard share the highs and lows of a fund manager's investments as they each break down the investments that performed better than expected and the investments that didn’t work out as they expected resulting in total loss of capital.

Key topics covered:

· Discussing the companies that didn’t work out, as well as they expected.

· Discussing the companies that exceeded their expectations?

· This was another great insight into how two seasoned fund managers think and how they view investing for the long term.

Each episode of this now eight-part series builds on the next as they walk you through an investor's journey.

If you have ever wondered what a fund manager does, how they think, the types of investments they look for and what led them to pursue careers in finance and investing? Then you’re in the right place, join Judith and Rosemary as they peel back the veil and share their guiding principles and experiences from careers spanning multiple decades in the finance industry as investment fund managers.

In the previous episode, Judith and Rosemary shared how to cultivate the mindset of a long-term investor including their experiences of investing through recessions.

Timestamps:

2:00 Judith shares an investment that resulted in a total loss of capital and the reasons why.

9:45 Rosemary shares an investment that went out of business and the reasons why.

15:45 Judith shares a company that has performed exceptionally and the reasons why.

22:30 Rosemary shares a company that is performing well for her now and the reasons why.

Hope you enjoy this episode and have a wonderful day.

The FYR Team

If you like this episode, please let us know by subscribing for future company reviews and insightful conversations about the markets, personal finance, portfolio management and stock analysis.

Links & Resources:

Visit Downing Fund Managers here: https://www.downing.co.uk/downing-fund-managers

Follow Dowing on X/Twitter @downingllp: https://twitter.com/downingllp?lang=en

Investors reading and watch list for the long-term investor: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Top-picks-for-a-long-term-investor.pdf

Colossus podcast network: https://www.joincolossus.com/

The Map That Changed The World: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Map-That-Changed-World-Redemption/dp/0140280391/

Visit Fund Your Retirement: https://www.fundyourretirement.com/

Follow FYR on Twitter: https://twitter.com/FRetirement

Disclaimer: This presentation is for educational purposes only. All opinions and information are for demonstrational purposes and do not constitute investment advice. Trading and investing carries a high level of risk and are not right for everyone. If you need financial advice, consult with a regulated financial adviser in your country before making any decisions.