S1E7: Finding opportunity in uncertainty with Mike Clements

Ever wondered how successful investors navigate market uncertainty? In this episode, Chris chats with Mike Clements, a European equity portfolio manager at Downing Fund Managers, who reveals how embracing uncertainty through playful thinking and emotional awareness can lead to unique investment opportunities!

Mike takes us through his journey in investment management, starting just before the dot-com bubble, and shares how this formative experience shaped his understanding of market psychology. He explains his contrarian approach - how thinking differently from the crowd requires both emotional resilience and the ability to stay curious and creative when others are fearful.

In this fascinating conversation, Chris and Mike explore how traditional views of rational market behavior often clash with the emotional reality of decision-making. Mike shares insights on how maintaining curiosity and cognitive flexibility helps him spot opportunities in volatile markets that others might miss.

We also get a peek into Mike's thoughts on workplace culture, where he emphasizes the importance of having an environment that allows for creative thinking and exploration of new ideas. He discusses why he values working in an environment that encourages freedom of thought and the ability to pursue unconventional opportunities.

Chris and Mike wrap up by discussing the importance of being a "jack of all trades" in modern investing - how curiosity about diverse industries and technologies helps spot unique opportunities. They explore how this manifests through cognitive flexibility, imagination, and the ability to see potential where others see uncertainty.

Want to learn more about Mike's approach to investment management? You can find out more about his work at Downing Fund Managers