Inside the Biggest M&A (Sports) Deals: LA Lakers, Chelsea FC, ESPN & Franchising Rugby
Anthony, Stephen, and Silvia break down the $10 billion blockbuster sale of the LA Lakers. Why did the Buss family cash out after 40 years and what makes the Lakers the world’s most valuable sports franchise? From brand power and valuation layers to the media rights behind the deal.Then, Chelsea FC quietly sells off its women’s team… to itself? Stephen exposes the dark arts of private equity and how Chelsea dodged FFP rules with some creative accounting.Finally, ESPN buys into lacrosse, and English rugby looks to American-style franchising to stay alive. Is sport just business now and what does it mean for the future of valuations?(00:00) Intro and Farewell(04:57) Welcome Silvia to the Show(05:57) The LA Lakers Record-Breaking Valuation(27:15) Private Equity in Women's Soccer(37:09) Emerging Trends in Lacrosse and Rugby Investments
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43:20
What's Happening In Financial Markets Right Now (Trump, Geopolitics, US Stocks & Oil Prices)
Markets hit new highs this week, but under the hood, things are anything but settled. Anthony and Piers unpack the Nasdaq’s breakout, Nvidia’s relentless rally, and why a historic rebound might be more than just a bounce.They dig into Trump’s latest attack on Powell and the rise of a “shadow chair” theory already shifting rate expectations—and markets.Plus, why Iran’s missile strike on a U.S. base sent oil crashing, not soaring. From data to geopolitics, this episode filters out the noise and finds the signal.(00:00) Intro & Themes in Focus(01:50) Market Resilience Amidst Turbulence(08:12) Nvidia Back on Top(13:18) Trump's Influence on Monetary Policy(25:18) Geopolitical Tensions and Market Reactions
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36:06
How to Navigate Your Early Career in Finance (Sell-Side & Buy-Side)
In this episode, Anthony speaks with Wee Kii Teh, a Portfolio Manager at Allianz Global Investors, about the practical skills and mindset needed to succeed in a competitive finance career.Drawing on experience across credit risk, capital markets, and now impact investing, Wee Kii shares what really sets top interns apart, how to adapt to new roles quickly, and why asking smart questions is more important than knowing all the answers.Whether you’re preparing for an assessment centre, trying to decide between sell-side and buy-side, or figuring out how to navigate workplace culture, this conversation is full of actionable insight.Expect practical tips on upskilling, career transitions, building strong relationships, and finding roles that match your values and ambition.(00:00) Introduction and Career Journey(02:26) Transitioning from STEM to Finance(08:59) Building Confidence and Seeking Mentorship(13:36) Adapting to New Environments and Upskilling(16:33) The Importance of Company Culture(21:21) Internship Insights and Attributes of Top Interns(24:54) Buy-Side vs Sell-Side Experience(27:53) Cultivating Relationships and Mentorship(31:58) Career Priorities and What Changes with Seniority(34:08) Impact Investing and ESG Opportunities(40:02) Advice for Young Professionals
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41:34
From Vibe Coding to Bank Battles: Cursor’s Meteoric Rise and Europe’s M&A Deal Drama
Anthony and Stephen explore how Cursor became the fastest-growing AI startup ever, from MIT roots to “vibe coding” hype and a $20 billion valuation in just 14 months.Then, it’s boardroom drama in Spain as Sabadell spins off TSB to block a hostile takeover from BBVA — a strategic move with big implications for European banking.Finally, Barclays brings in McKinsey to cut costs. What happens when consultants start targeting front-office jobs and what does it signal for banking careers in the age of AI?(00:00) Intro & Topics in Focus(02:40) Cursor and Vibe Coding(18:23) The Spanish Banking Landscape and TSB(30:51) Barclays and the Role of Consultants in Investment Banking
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42:06
Trailer: Market Maker
Welcome to Market Maker - the podcast that makes finance interesting and easy to understand for everyone.Hosted by Anthony Cheung, Chief Content & Culture Officer at AmplifyME, each week he and a guest break down what’s really moving markets, from interest rates and tech stocks to global politics and the latest M&A deals.Think of it like the FT... but with fewer buzzwords, more clarity, and a lot less taking ourselves too seriously.For anyone looking to understand markets better, whether for their career, business, or just curiosity — this is your edge.Subscribe now to Market Maker and stay one step ahead.
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!
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