Get Sharpe

Frank McKenna – Canadian Federal Election Aftermath: A Strong Minority?

In this episode, Frank McKenna, Deputy Chair at TD Securities and former Canadian ambassador to the US, shares his insights on the outcome of the Canadian federal election, what it means for Prime Minister Carney, and potential implications for financial markets. He explores how external factors shaped Canadians' demand for decisive leadership and how Prime Minister Carney can govern assertively with a strong minority government. Frank also discusses the fiscal challenges facing the new government and potential economic implications moving forward. 

This episode was recorded on April 29, 2025. 

Donald Schneider – Decoding DOGE: The Economic and Market Impact

In this episode, Donald Schneider, Deputy Head of US Policy at Piper Sandler and former Economic Staffer to Speaker Paul Ryan, provides a comprehensive overview of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). He explains what DOGE is, its impact on the economy and markets, and what to expect going forward. Donald discusses DOGE's unconventional methods of achieving savings through executive actions, highlighting its progress in reducing administrative headcount and federal contracts. Additionally, Donald touches on the upcoming extension of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act, with the focus on making tax cuts permanent and introducing new pro-growth measures.

This episode was recorded on March 18, 2025.

Ali Jaffery – Canada’s Economic Outlook: Tariffs, Trade Wars, and the Cautious Consumer

In this episode, Ali Jaffery, Executive Director and Senior Economist at CIBC Capital Markets, provides and in-depth analysis of the key macroeconomic themes affecting the Canadian economy. Ali explains why Canadian consumers remain cautious, highlighting the effects of mortgage rate resets and immigration policy changes on the housing market and broader economy. Ali also explores the potential economic impacts of the recently announced 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum and the implications of a trade war with the US. 

This episode was recorded on February 10, 2025.

Marko Papic – Trump’s Second Term: Geopolitics and Global Economic Outlook

In this episode, Marko Papic, Senior Vice President and Chief Strategist at BCA Research, explores the geopolitical and macroeconomic issues likely to impact the markets under the coming years. Marko explains his approach to geopolitics and why material constraints often outweigh policymakers’ preferences. Marko also discusses the implications of US fiscal policy, tariffs, and the geopolitical risks posed by China and Iran under the Trump administration.

Dr. Larry Hatheway – Is the Fed’s Independence at Risk?

The Fed’s existence is rooted in congressional legislation but are there enough legal guardrails to prevent encroachment by the executive branch? In this episode, Dr. Larry Hatheway, Founder of HarbourAdvisors, explores how the Republican Party’s consolidation of power may reshape how the Fed operates. Dr. Hatheway discusses the potential for increased government oversight, the possibility of the White House influencing monetary policy, and what this could mean for inflation and market volatility.

This episode was recorded on November 22, 2024.

Ben Rabidoux – The Current Trends and Outlook of the Canadian Real Estate Market

In this episode, Ben Rabidoux, Founder of North Cove Advisors, rejoins hosts Matthew Schnurr and Dustin Reid for an update on the current trends and outlook of the Canadian real estate market. Ben discusses the challenges facing the condo market, including the potential for higher failure rates in closings in 2025 and 2026. He also examines the impact of recent interest rate cuts by the Bank of Canada, highlighting how these cuts may improve affordability for potential homebuyers while still posing challenges for those renewing their mortgages at higher rates. Lastly, Ben explores the implications of the federal government’s decision to reduce immigration targets, which could lead to slower population growth and a softer rental market.

This episode was recorded on October 24, 2024.

Dan Clifton – The Most Investible Election in History?

With less than 65 days until the US presidential election, could this be the most investible election in history? In this episode, hosts Matthew Schnurr and Dustin Reid are joined by Dan Clifton, Partner and Head of Policy Research at Strategas Securities to discuss the upcoming election and its market implications. Dan explores how stark policy contrasts between the candidates may create unique investment opportunities and which sectors could thrive under a Democratic or Republican victory. Dan also examines the potential executive actions under both a Harris and Trump presidency, highlighting significant impacts on tariffs, immigration policies, and regulatory changes.

This episode was recorded on September 4, 2024.

David Wang – Understanding Volatility as an Asset Class

Why should investors care about volatility and how can it be used to inform investment decisions? In this episode, hosts Matthew Schnurr and Dustin Reid are joined by David Wang, Director, FX Distribution and Volatility Strategies at TD Securities, to discuss the importance of volatility in financial markets, its role as a form of financial insurance, and its influence on asset allocation decisions. David also explores volatility in the FX market and how recent political events have influenced volatility.

This episode was recorded on June 27, 2024.