Markets started the year strong, then geopolitics hit. With war tensions, oil volatility, and rate expectations shifting fast, the portfolio challenge is already testing conviction. But the real game is what happens next. Will Bryce, Alec, Cam and Ally seek the relief rally or draw down deeper? In this episode: 00:00 – The $25K portfolio challenge explained 00:39 – Meet the competitors (and one strategic absence?) 03:11 – Market update: rallies, war, and oil shocks 08:16 – Bryce’s portfolio: down 5.5% and betting on a rebound 13:59 – Cam’s portfolio: uranium pain, long-term conviction 20:15 – Ally’s portfolio: biggest losses and tech pivot 24:53 – Ren takes the lead (just) and shifts strategy 29:24 – Final portfolios locked for the next quarter Stocks & ETFs mentioned: Betashares Diversified All Growth ETF (ASX: DHHF), BHP (ASX: BHP), Betashares Japan ETF Currency Hedged (ASX: HJPN), Global X Uranium ETF (URNM), Betashares Global Copper Miners ETF (ASX: WIRE), Betashares NASDAQ 100 ETF (ASX: NDQ), Pro Medicus (ASX: PME), Macquarie Group (ASX: MQG), Betashares Geared Global Equity Fund (ASX: GHHF), Betashares Emerging Markets ETF (ASX: BEMG), REA Group (ASX: REA), Deep Yellow (ASX: DYL), Paladin Energy (ASX: PDN), Betashares Global Cybersecurity ETF (ASX: HACK), Betashares Global Defence ETF (ASX: ARMR), Betashares Asia Technology Tigers ETF (ASX: ASIA), Webjet (ASX: WEB), Betashares China Innovation ETF (ASX: DRGN), Betashares India Quality ETF (ASX: IIND), Sandfire Resources (ASX: SFR), Pilbara Minerals (ASX: PLS), Mineral Resources (ASX: MIN), Global X Energy Producers ETF (ASX: FUEL), 4DMedical (ASX: 4DX), Telix Pharmaceuticals (ASX: TLX) Betashares Capital Ltd (ABN 78 139 566 868 AFSL 341181) is the issuer of the Betashares Funds, as well as Betashares Invest, the IDPS-like scheme available via Betashares Direct. Read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determination, available at www.betashares.com.au, before making an investment decision. This information is general in nature and doesn’t take into account any person’s financial objectives, situation or needs. You should consider its appropriateness taking into account such factors and seek professional financial advice. ——— Want to get involved in the podcast? Record a voice note or send us a message And come and join the conversation in the Equity Mates Facebook Discussion Group. ——— Want more Equity Mates? Across books, podcasts, video and email, however you want to learn about investing – we’ve got you covered. Keep up with the news moving markets with our daily newsletter and podcast (Apple | Spotify) We’re particularly excited to share our latest show: Basis Points Listen to the podcast (Apple | Spotify)Watch on YouTubeRead the monthly email ——— Looking for some of our favourite research tools? Download our free Basics of ETF handbookOr our free 4-step stock checklistFind company information on TIKRResearch reports from Good ResearchTrack your portfolio with Sharesight ——— In the spirit of reconciliation, Equity Mates Media and the hosts of Equity Mates Investing acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people today. ——— Equity Mates Investing is a product of Equity Mates Media. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.