MAGELLAN - In The Know

Intuit’s evolution from DIY software to an AI-driven expert platform

Intuit’s transformation from a DIY financial software company to an AI-driven expert platform forms the backbone of this compelling conversation between the company’s Chief Technology Officer, Alex Balazs, and Magellan Portfolio Manager and Sector Head, Ryan Joyce.

Together, they explore how Intuit uses generative AI to deliver done-for-you solutions for its 100 million customers by blending huge amounts of data, deep domain expertise, and broad platform capabilities.

Alex shares his long-term vision for how AI will reshape the user experience, including video avatars, instant and secure money movement, and new forms of digital trust. With only a fraction of its total addressable market currently served, Intuit sees massive growth potential both in the US and globally — and believes it’s uniquely positioned to deliver the next wave of “killer apps” that truly empower small business prosperity.

The big issues for investors coming out of Washington

The first 100 days of the second Trump administration have certainly been interesting for investors. And as the initial global tariff shock appears to be winding back, it’s a good time to draw on the thoughts and the insights of a Washington insider. National Security Expert Michael Allen, who was a Special Assistant to former President George W. Bush shares his thoughts in a wide-ranging interview. Magellan Head of Global Equities and Portfolio Manager Arvid Streimann talks with Michael about tariffs, the US government deficit, the Democrats, the US’s technological lead over China and the Chinese military buildup.

Podcast recorded: 15 May 2025 

Three investment sectors offering growth, innovation and opportunity

In this episode, Magellan’s investment team looks at three interconnected investment sectors that continue to offer growth opportunities and compounding, dependable returns. The team explains how to still pick consumer-sector winners even in times of uncertainty. They explore why semiconductors are driving future innovation, being essential components powering a vast array of electronic devices we use daily. They also delve into the US energy landscape and how it is being reshaped by the growing influence of AI, data centres, and the return of manufacturing.

From noise to signals: Vinva’s unique approach to systematic investing

Morry Waked, the founder of Vinva Investment Management, sits down in conversation with Mark Burgess, Magellan's Head of Distribution, to explore the world of systematic investing. Morry explains how Vinva’s investment process stands apart from traditional quantitative investing and breaks down how Vinva uses data-driven insights, disciplined processes, and new technologies to generate strong investment performance. He discusses the role of machine learning, the importance of human expertise in distinguishing signal from noise, and why people — not just algorithms — are the key to success and pivotal to Vinva’s investment process and portfolio construction.

Xcel Energy – a bright spark to power growth

Infrastructure investments can provide good long-term, compounding returns, but the utilities sector — particularly electricity — is promising potentially dramatic new growth. Artificial intelligence and its need for huge, energy-intensive data centres are driving this demand. But are the promises real?

Brian Van Abel, who is the CFO of one of America’s most significant energy companies, Xcel Energy, discusses the evolving new landscape with Magellan Portfolio Manager, Jowell Amores. As well as the potential for new income, they discuss increasing risks, like wildfires and how the company plans to keep its legendary below-average power bills competitive by embracing alternative energy.

This Podcast is CPD Accredited for Financial Advisers: Access CPD Quiz

2025: Where to Find Market Opportunities

Opportunities abound for investors with an active management mindset in 2025. In this discussion on the outlook for markets and key themes for this year, ‘Magellan – In The Know’ draws on the knowledge of Head of Global Equities Arvid Streimann, Infrastructure Portfolio Manager Ben McVicar and Investment Director Elisa Di Marco. Together they break down what’s ahead — from Trump’s economic policies to interest rates, from inflation to the future of alternative energy, and the impact of AI on both Silicon Valley and the US utilities sector. They offer expert, insights to help investors tackle 2025 with confidence.

This Podcast is CPD Accredited for Financial Advisers: Access CPD Quiz

How Trump will impact equity markets

The United States has spoken. President Trump will return to the White House in the new year. But how can we cut through the noise to reveal the investment, economic and geopolitical ramifications?

Magellan’s Head of Global Equities and Portfolio Manager, Arvid Streimann, has over 25 years’ experience of following markets and politics, and over this time has built up a network of trusted contacts, he can offer a measured, independent view of the situation, including his expectations on Donald Trump’s policy initiatives and decision making.

He’s joined by Investment Director Elisa Di Marco for an exploration of the implications of a Republican clean sweep, including the impact on standards of living and consumer sentiment, as well as the potential for deregulation, and President Trump’s promise to adopt protectionist policies in an effort to develop self-sufficiency. They share insights into geopolitical dynamics, including U.S.-China relations, Iran and Ukraine, and discuss the risks and opportunities for investors.

 

 

Exploring the market: Key insights on trends, spending and growth

The current investment landscape is a turbulent one, but it is possible to survey the situation and find investment opportunities. In this episode Portfolio Manager Alan Pullen is joined by Investment Analysts, Emma Henderson, Claire Britton and Roy Harrison to discuss the latest global trends and how they are affecting some of the world’s biggest brands —from LVMH to the American Tower companies.

The team offers insights on consumer spending trends and the resilience of some companies while others decline. They cover a lot of ground from the adaptation of Meta Platforms to market threats such as TikTok and the anticipated stimulus package in China, to the opportunities to invest in the infrastructure behind the growth of data usage.

Geopolitics and investment — the three hotspots to watch

Geopolitical shocks can happen abruptly and when they do, the disruption to trade and global economies can be profound. In this episode of ‘Magellan In the Know’ we turn to one of Magellan’s trusted geopolitics advisers to survey the situations in the world’s trouble spots, and give sound, sometimes surprising, assessments of what to expect, and where and when to expect it.

An observer with extraordinary expertise in the field, Former Acting CIA Director Michael Morell, speaks with Magellan Head of Global Equities and Portfolio Manager, Arvid Streimann surveying possible scenarios in the Middle East, Ukraine, and, closer to home, the South China Sea. It’s a frank and fascinating assessment of where disruptions may happen, the impact for investors and, among other things, what the consequences will be if Donald Trump regains the White House in November.

Chipotle’s winning growth recipe

How do you build one of North America’s best known restaurant brands while still maintaining high quality, low price, and industry-leading margins? Chief Financial Officer of Chipotle Mexican Grill, Jack Hartung chats with Emma Henderson, Magellan’s Acting Sector Head of Franchises and Healthcare, on how Chipotle has maintained its commitment to food integrity while achieving remarkable profitability.

They delve into the strategic decisions that have allowed Chipotle to scale successfully, leveraging its size for supply chain diversification, embracing digital innovation, and maintaining ownership of its restaurants to preserve quality and drive growth. Hear valuable insights into the financial and operational strategies behind Chipotle's sustained success.

This podcast was recorded 13 August 2024 (AEST), prior to the news of Chipotle’s CEO transition.