EP. 85: Adam Seessel: Where the Money Is: Value Investing in the Digital Age
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Any stocks mentioned today, as always, are no recommendations; they are case studies or illustrations — please do your own research and/or talk to an advisor, please.
My guest today is Adam Seessel. He is an author and professional investor with experience as an investigative reporter — which comes in handy in investing. He graduated summa cum laude from Dartmouth College and began his professional career as a newspaper reporter in North Carolina.
In 1995, Seessel took his research skills to Wall Street. He worked for Sanford C. Bernstein, Baron Capital, and Davis Selected Advisers before starting his own firm, Gravity Capital Management, which manages money for high-net-worth individuals and institutions.
In addition to running Gravity, Adam is a regular contributor for both Barron’s and Fortune magazines.
https://www.gravitypartners.com/
His book and this conversation made a big impact on me.
I like the idea of getting a bargain deal when I shop for everything from shoes to stocks and beyond.
Traditional value investing may be interpreted as static, the way Ben Graham bought cigar butt stocks, statistically cheap. Maybe we need a more dynamic view.
Adam does an incredible job explaining the evolution of value investing and proposes a new perspective regarding the future.
I know that Buffett changed and evolved as an investor; you’ll see how Adam has, too; I have to admit that I’m the first to challenge my assumptions and see how I can continuously learn and adapt to the ever-changing world.
Adam argues that money and investment opportunities might lie in the digital economy, and as long as investment principles remain the same, our methods might need to change.
I can’t wait to share this conversation with you, but before we get started — if you like Talking Billions, you might like my friend Matt Zeigler’s two podcasts: Just Press Record and The Intentional Investor. Matt’s two passions, music and family wealth, guide him through his fascinating and curious life.
On with the show. Adam is joining me from Manhattan, so don’t be surprised if you hear some faint city sounds in the background, such as sirens and more. Please help me welcome Adam Seessel!
Takeaways
Value investing has evolved over time, from Benjamin Graham's quantitative approach to Warren Buffett's focus on quality businesses.
The rise of the digital economy has changed the rules of investing, requiring a new approach to value investing.
Companies with a low market share in a growing market, a durable edge, and exponential growth potential can be worth holding for the long term.
The continuity of capital is important for multi-generational wealth, but businesses must adapt and reinvest to stay relevant.
Profitability is crucial, but some tech companies prioritize reinvestment and long-term growth over short-term profits. Good management and long-term stewardship are crucial for the success of businesses.
Putting customers first and prioritizing long-term benefits over short-term profits leads to better outcomes.
Understanding the nuances of financial statements and making adjustments is essential for evaluating the true profitability of tech companies.
Investors should be willing to pay up for quality businesses and consider the twist on Peter Lynch's advice to 'buy what you know.'
Success is not solely determined by financial wealth but also by a good inner life and strong relationships.
Chapters
05:00 Introduction and Childhood Upbringing
08:42 The Evolution of Value Investing
10:23 The Inspiration for the Book
14:46 Investing in the Digital Age
20:13 The Journey from Graham to Buffett
24:19 Growth vs Profits
41:02 The Importance of Management
42:25 Long-Term Stewardship
47:15 Putting Customers First
49:06 The Question CEOs Get Wrong
50:24 The Nuances of Financial Statements
53:07 Paying Up for Quality Businesses
56:17 The Twist on Peter Lynch's Advice
1:02:13 Defining Success
Podcast Program – Disclosure Statement
Blue Infinitas Capital, LLC is a registered investment adviser and the opinions expressed by the Firm’s employees and podcast guests on this show are their own and do not reflect the opinions of Blue Infinitas Capital, LLC. All statements and opinions expressed are based upon information considered reliable although it should not be relied upon as such. Any statements or opinions are subject to change without notice.
Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed.
Information expressed does not take into account your specific situation or objectives, and is not intended as recommendations appropriate for any individual. Listeners are encouraged to seek advice from a qualified tax, legal, or investment adviser to determine whether any information presented may be suitable for their specific situation. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.