AB Alpha Females—The Multi-Asset Investment Podcast

AllianceBernstein

How can multi-asset investing solve the problems facing today's investors? Karen Watkin, Portfolio Manager at AllianceBernstein, brings the world of multi-asset to life through the lens of female investors. Tune in as Karen and her inspiring Alpha Females discuss both the opportunities and challenges that come with taking a multi-asset investment approach, share research insights and reflect on their journeys through the industry.

  1. FEB 4

    Investing Insights from our Alpha Females: Season Round Up - with Karen Watkin, Portfolio Manager—Multi-Asset Solutions

    How can investors navigate the complexities of today's market to generate income while managing risk and uncertainty? Investing for income in today's volatile environment requires a balance of long-term strategic planning and short-term adaptability, leveraging diversification, and human intuition alongside technological advancements. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For Investment Professional use only. Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public. The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested. Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time. The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor's personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates. References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein. Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF). Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as "wholesale clients," as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL. The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. © 2026 AllianceBernstein L.P.

    24 min
  2. JAN 21

    In Search of Excellence: The Power of People, Processes and Technology - with Rosalie Candido Louw, Co-Head Portfolio Solutions

    How can technology and human collaboration together drive excellence in investment management? Rosalie Candido Louw, co-head of AllianceBernstein's Portfolio Solutions, tackles that question in this conversation with Karen Watkin. As she sees it, the integration of advanced technology, such as AI and cloud computing, has revolutionized the investment management industry by enabling faster decision-making and democratizing sophisticated investment strategies. However, the human element remains crucial for interpreting data, making insightful decisions and ensuring that technology serves the ultimate goal of delivering compelling returns for clients. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For Investment Professional use only. Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public. The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested. Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time. The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor's personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates. References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein. Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF). Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as "wholesale clients," as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL. The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. © 2026 AllianceBernstein L.P.

    24 min
  3. JAN 7

    The Colour of Money: Managing Currency Risk in Investing - with Julia Keating, Portfolio Analyst—Multi-Asset and Hedge Fund Solutions

    How can investors effectively manage currency risk to optimize their portfolios in today's volatile markets? Julia Keating, Portfolio Analyst—Multi-Asset Solutions at AllianceBernstein, talks with Karen Watkin about the importance of strategic and tactical currency risk management in investment portfolios. She explains that while currency exposure can provide diversification and enhance portfolio returns, it can also introduce significant volatility if not properly managed. Julia shares her experience growing up in a town that was heavily impacted by the global financial crisis, which was one reason she chose to pursue a career in finance and asset management. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For Investment Professional use only. Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public. The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested. Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time. The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor's personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates. References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein. Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF). Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as "wholesale clients," as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL. The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. © 2026 AllianceBernstein L.P.

    28 min
  4. 12/10/2025

    Quality is Queen: Why Investment Grade Bonds are Anything but Boring - with Souheir Asba, Portfolio Manager—Investment Grade Credit

    How can investment grade credit offer both stability and opportunity in a volatile market? Karen Watkin hosts Souheir Asba, AllianceBernstein's Portfolio Manager—Investment Grade Credit, who explains how investment grade (IG) credit is a crucial part of the broader fixed income market due to its size, diversification and attractive yields at relatively low risk. In a potentially higher-for-longer interest rate environment, IG credit remains appealing as it provides a stable source of income. Souheir's diverse background, including roles as an economist, strategist, and engineer, has equipped her with a unique perspective on investment. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For Investment Professional use only. Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public. The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested. Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time. The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor's personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates. References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein. Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF). Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as "wholesale clients," as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL. The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. © 2025 AllianceBernstein L.P.

    25 min
  5. 11/26/2025

    Emerging from Behind the Scenes: Finding Income Further Afield - with Elizabeth Bakarich, Director—Emerging Market Corporate Debt

    Emerging markets offer investors exciting opportunities—but also higher risks. That's why Liz Bakarich, Director of Emerging Market Corporate Debt at AllianceBernstein, says investing in emerging markets requires detailed and strong fundamental research, including on-the-ground visits and interactions with local entities. Liz says understanding idiosyncratic risks, currency volatility and governance issues are crucial to success. Despite conventional wisdom, she explains, emerging market debt can offer similar risks and returns to developed market credit, with potentially better spreads and yields. Karen Watkin talks with Liz about her career journey to emerging markets investing, and how she has coped with challenging situations.   -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For Investment Professional use only. Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public. The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested. Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time. The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor's personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates. References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein. Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF). Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as "wholesale clients," as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL. The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. © 2025 AllianceBernstein L.P.

    24 min
  6. 11/12/2025

    The Hunt for Efficient Income: Navigating Safe Waters in Yield Investing - with Sonam Leki Dorji, Portfolio Manager—Income Strategies

    Is it possible to earn high levels of investment income without sinking under risk? Karen Watkin talks with Sonam Leki Dorji, Portfolio Manager at AllianceBernstein, about the importance of sourcing efficient income in high-income investing. Diversification, avoiding high-risk assets and being nimble to adapt to market changes are the hallmarks of her strategic approach. And it's especially important, says Sonam, to understand both the macroeconomic picture and the details of each security in a portfolio. Sonam, a trained engineer with 20 years of professional investing experience, says continuous problem-solving and staying engaged with ever-changing market dynamics underpin her passion for portfolio management. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For Investment Professional use only. Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public. The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested. Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time. The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor's personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates. References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein. Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF). Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as "wholesale clients," as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL. The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. © 2025 AllianceBernstein L.P.

    26 min
  7. 10/29/2025

    Live Long and Prosper: How to Target a Happy Retirement - with Elena Wang, Portfolio Manager—Multi-Asset Solutions

    Saving for retirement poses increasing challenges in an ever-changing financial landscape. In this episode, Karen Watkin talks with Elena Wang,  a Portfolio Manager at AllianceBernstein, who says investors need to adopt a flexible and diversified approach to retirement savings, considering both growth and risk management. Elena was drawn to retirement solutions by a desire to make a real impact on people's lives. She emphasizes the importance of saving early and incorporating non-traditional assets to navigate market volatility and inflation. It's especially rewarding, says Elena, to help individuals make better choices that can lead them toward financial security in their golden years. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For Investment Professional use only. Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public. The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested. Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time. The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor's personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates. References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein. Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF). Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as "wholesale clients," as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL. The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. © 2025 AllianceBernstein L.P.

    24 min
  8. 10/15/2025

    Playing the Long Game: A Tale of Time and Investment - with Alla Harmsworth, Co-Head—Institutional Solutions; Head—Alphalytics

    Have you ever wondered how investment professionals navigate the complexities of forecasting asset returns and constructing robust portfolios in an uncertain world? In this insightful conversation, Alla Harmsworth from AllianceBernstein delves into the intricacies of long-term asset allocation, emphasizing the importance of humility in forecasting and the need for thoughtful portfolio construction. Alla explains AB's approach, which combines quantitative models with fundamental research to create diversified portfolios that can withstand various market scenarios. She highlights the challenges posed by current global trends such as deglobalization, demographic shifts, and geopolitical uncertainties, which necessitate a different approach to portfolio management compared to the past decades. Alla also discusses the specific considerations for income-focused investing,. She emphasizes the importance of active decision-making in strategic asset allocation and the need for continuous client engagement to navigate market volatility. Alla's transition from the sell side to the buy side has provided her with valuable insights into the practical implementation of research and the importance of transparency and communication with clients. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For Investment Professional use only. Not for inspection by, distribution or quotation to, the general public. The value of an investment can go down as well as up and investors may not get back the full amount they invested. Capital is at risk. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Note to all listeners: The views expressed in this podcast do not constitute research, investment advice or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams and are subject to revision over time. The views expressed in this podcast may change at any time after the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor's personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information does not constitute investment advice and should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates. References to specific securities are provided solely in the context of the analysis presented and are not to be considered recommendations by AllianceBernstein. AllianceBernstein and its affiliates may have positions in, and may effect transactions in, the markets, industry sectors and companies described herein. Note to listeners in the United Kingdom: This information is published by AllianceBernstein Limited, 60 London Wall, London EC2M 5SJ, registered in England, No. 2551144. AllianceBernstein Limited is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). Note to listeners in Europe: This information is published by AllianceBernstein (Luxembourg) S.à r.l. Société à responsabilité limitée, R.C.S. Luxembourg B 34 305, 2-4, rue Eugène Ruppert, L-2453 Luxembourg. Authorised in Luxembourg and regulated by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF). Note to listeners in Australia and New Zealand: This information has been issued by AllianceBernstein Australia Limited (ABN 53 095 022 718 and AFSL 230698). This Information is intended only for persons who qualify as "wholesale clients," as defined in the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth of Australia) or the Financial Advisers Act 2008 (New Zealand), and should not be construed as advice. No reproduction of the materials in this document may be made without the express written permission of ABAL. The [A/B] logo is a registered service mark of AllianceBernstein, and AllianceBernstein® is a registered service mark, used by permission of the owner, AllianceBernstein L.P. © 2025 AllianceBernstein L.P.

    28 min

About

How can multi-asset investing solve the problems facing today's investors? Karen Watkin, Portfolio Manager at AllianceBernstein, brings the world of multi-asset to life through the lens of female investors. Tune in as Karen and her inspiring Alpha Females discuss both the opportunities and challenges that come with taking a multi-asset investment approach, share research insights and reflect on their journeys through the industry.