Tune in to the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, hosted by our Managing Partner, Stewart Foley, CFA. Our podcast features insightful conversations with CIOs, asset mana...
Episode 285: Plugging into the Energy Transition Opportunity
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Edward Levin, Managing Director and Co-Head of Direct Infrastructure at Voya Investment Management, to explore the evolving landscape of renewable energy finance. With over 20 years of experience in energy transition projects, Edward shares insights into how the sector has matured, the increasing demand for power driven by AI and manufacturing onshoring, and the evolving financing structures supporting renewable infrastructure.
Edward also breaks down the impact of federal policies like the Inflation Reduction Act, the role of tax credits, and how bipartisan support continues to drive investment in renewable energy—even in traditionally fossil-fuel-heavy states. Whether you're an institutional investor, an energy market enthusiast, or just curious about the future of sustainable finance, this conversation offers a valuable look into one of the fastest-growing asset classes today.
--------
30:21
Episode 284: Bonds, Benchmarks, and Beyond: An Insider's Perspective on Fixed Income Investing
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Christine Thorpe, Institutional Portfolio Manager at Fidelity Investments, to discuss the critical role of core fixed income in insurance portfolios. Despite being the largest allocation for most insurers, core fixed income often takes a backseat to higher-yielding asset classes. Christine shares insights on sector positioning, duration management, and Fidelity’s preference for rates over spreads in today’s evolving market.
With Fidelity managing approximately $2 trillion in fixed income strategies, Christine also highlights the firm’s team-based investment culture and how it helps drive consistent performance. She discusses how insurers can navigate shifting economic conditions, the importance of patience and diversification, and why thoughtful risk management is essential for long-term success. Whether you’re deep in the fixed income space or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
--------
30:58
Episode 283: Leadership Excellence: Attracting and Retaining Top Talent in Insurance Asset Management
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, sits down with Milena Humplik and Margot DeMore, co-founders of Broad Street, to discuss career management from both sides of the desk. They share insights into hiring trends in insurance asset management, the skill sets in demand, and how leadership plays a crucial role in talent retention.
Milena and Margot also offer guidance on navigating career transitions, the evolving return-to-office landscape, and what makes a truly great leader in today’s industry. Whether you're an employer looking to build a strong team or a professional considering your next move, this episode delivers valuable takeaways. Tune in for expert perspectives on managing your career and team in the competitive world of insurance asset management.
--------
29:53
Episode 282: Discovering New Opportunities For Yield And Safety In The Municipal Bond Market
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, is joined by Jim Kaniclides, Head of U.S. Insurance, and Jeff Burger, CFA, Senior Portfolio Manager of Municipal Bonds at Insight Investment. Together, they discuss the evolving landscape of municipal bonds, offering insights into how insurers can balance yield, liquidity, and safety in today’s fixed-income markets.
Jim and Jeff break down the shift from tax-exempt to taxable municipal bonds, their role in insurance portfolios, and the diversification benefits they provide compared to corporate bonds. They also highlight how municipals align with ESG and impact investing trends while maintaining historically low default rates. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on why municipal bonds remain a compelling asset class for insurers seeking quality and stability.
--------
39:59
Episode 281: How Can BDCs Be Used to Optimize Direct Lending?
In this episode of the InsuranceAUM.com podcast, host Stewart Foley, CFA, speaks with Michael Occi, President of Morgan Stanley Private Credit’s BDC platform, to explore how insurance investors can leverage BDCs to gain deeper insights into the direct lending market. They discuss how BDCs provide transparency into asset quality, credit conditions, and portfolio performance, offering valuable data that insurance investors can use to assess risk and optimize their strategies. Michael explains the evolution of BDC structures, the growing role of non-traded BDCs, and how these vehicles fit into the broader private credit landscape.
The conversation also covers the regulatory and structural differences between BDCs and traditional direct lending funds, highlighting key factors insurance companies should consider when allocating capital. Michael shares his perspective on the importance of transparency in investment decisions and how BDC disclosures can serve as a useful tool for both new and experienced investors.
Beyond the financial insights, Michael and Stewart discuss career development in asset management, what qualities make a strong team member, and even a bit about Michael’s passion for golf. Whether you're an institutional investor looking to deepen your understanding of BDCs or simply interested in the intersection of private credit and insurance investing, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.
Tune in to the InsuranceAUM.com Podcast, hosted by our Managing Partner, Stewart Foley, CFA. Our podcast features insightful conversations with CIOs, asset managers, and other distinguished professionals in the insurance asset management industry. Each episode delves into the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities, providing listeners with valuable perspectives and practical advice. Don’t miss out on these engaging discussions that are essential for insurance investors and asset managers.
Portugal