What separates great credit managers from good ones in today's market? Clark Koury, Managing Director and Head of Oaktree Capital's Product Specialist Group, brings thirty years of institutional wisdom to this question in a fascinating exploration of private credit markets.

This episode unpacks the compelling case for private credit in today's uncertain environment. Investors are drawn to the asset class for two primary reasons: superior returns (historically 2-4% above traditional credit markets) and significantly reduced volatility. Unlike public markets where sentiment drives price swings, private credit investments are valued based on business fundamentals, providing a stabilising effect in diversified portfolios.

Looking ahead, Koury identifies several particularly attractive segments within private credit, including European markets that offer better pricing and more conservative structures, life sciences companies seeking non-dilutive financing alternatives, and private asset-backed financing, which he describes as reminiscent of "private credit maybe 10 years ago." He also cautions about risks, particularly around discipline slippage when managers face pressure to deploy capital quickly.

Whether you're considering an allocation to private credit or simply interested in understanding how experienced managers navigate complex market environments, this episode provides valuable insights from one of the industry's most established players.

Views and opinions expressed are subject to change. This podcast is being made available for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute, and should not be construed as, an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities or related financial instruments in any jurisdiction. Further, this communication does not constitute and should not be construed as a recommendation or testimonial for any securities, related financial instruments, products or services of Brookfield Corporation (“Brookfield”) and certain of its affiliates.

Praemium Limited is the issuer of the Investment Leaders and Advice Leaders podcasts. These podcasts are for information purposes only and aren't tailored to individual financial situations and do not contain financial advice. Views expressed by presenters may not align with Praemium's and nothing in this podcast should be seen as an endorsement or recommendation of the product or strategy. For more information about Praemium, including our disclosure documents, please visit our website.

We recommend that individuals seek professional financial advice before taking action.

June-Yon Kim, Head of Japanese Equities at Lazard Asset Management, reveals why Japan is one of the most overlooked – yet compelling – equity stories today. Discover how structural reform and the end of deflation are reshaping the investment landscape, and why the Lazard Japanese Strategic Equity Fund gives Australian investors unique access to this opportunity.

From "emerging market-like inefficiencies" in a developed economy, to semiconductor dominance and rising bank profits, Japan is rewriting its playbook – and active managers are ready to capitalise.

If you're looking for real diversification, durable earnings growth, and a market ripe for transformation, this episode is a must-listen

Praemium Limited is the issuer of the Investment Leaders and Advice Leaders podcasts. These podcasts are for information purposes only and aren't tailored to individual financial situations and do not contain financial advice. Views expressed by presenters may not align with Praemium's and nothing in this podcast should be seen as an endorsement or recommendation of the product or strategy. For more information about Praemium, including our disclosure documents, please visit our website.

We recommend that individuals seek professional financial advice before taking action.

Private equity has evolved dramatically over the past two decades, with many firms chasing progressively larger deals as they scale. Claire Smith, who leads Schroders Capital's private markets business in Australia, explains why they're deliberately swimming against this tide by maintaining a focus on small and mid-cap opportunities.

During our conversation at the 2025 Premium Alt Invest Forum, Claire reveals the mathematical logic behind their strategy: "It's much easier to double the size of a small company than it is to double the size of a large company." This simple principle drives their pursuit of diversification from listed markets through companies with truly idiosyncratic risk profiles.

Praemium Limited is the issuer of the Investment Leaders and Advice Leaders podcasts. These podcasts are for information purposes only and aren't tailored to individual financial situations and do not contain financial advice. Views expressed by presenters may not align with Praemium's and nothing in this podcast should be seen as an endorsement or recommendation of the product or strategy. For more information about Praemium, including our disclosure documents, please visit our website.

We recommend that individuals seek professional financial advice before taking action.