Capitalism’s Moral Ledger, Briefly Attempted In my first essay in this series, I asked who should be the moral arbiter in values-based investing. In the second essay, I explored why thoughtful, serious people find their moral compasses pointing in different directions even when they share the same core values. This essay tries to create clarity …
An essay in a series on business, values, and investing In my first essay in this series, I posed a question that I couldn’t answer. “Who is best positioned to act as the moral arbiter in values-based investing?” Asset managers, ratings agencies, regulators, advisors, or investors themselves? I still cannot answer this question. Over the …
An inquiry into the intersection of business, values, and investing I am considering a new business venture under the Valhalla banner: Valhalla Investment Services, a registered investment advisor differentiated by a values-based approach to portfolio construction. This idea has been simmering since I first got into the financial services business in 1998. My initial time …
I enjoy reflecting on life. As the end of 2025 approaches, I find myself sitting at my desk at Pine Hall Court, sipping on a coffee from Cheese Shoppe, and looking at photos from the past twelve months. Becca and I stopped sending cards a few years ago, so I’ll invest a few minutes to …
When we launched Valhalla three years ago, we knew our differentiation would come not just from what we do but from what we believe. Over the past year, I’ve been capturing those beliefs in short reflections I call #ValhallaEssentials. Today, I’m proud to share our first 50. They cover everything from trust and client service …
Over the past week, I had a few instances where I had an immediate reaction: “Wittgenstein’s Ruler.” In each case, the person with whom I was speaking offered a similar reaction of, “Huh?” I retraced my steps and restated my thinking. But, I think the idea of Wittgenstein’s Ruler is so important, and Wittgenstein’s story …
Over the weekend, I had an exchange with a few people, notably Sims Tillirson and Jan Jensen, which involved some inquiry into the ideas of “work-life balance” and “purpose.” This caused me to think about this word, “purpose;” How is it people can find meaning in different aspects of life, such as business, family, art, …
I am a forty-five year old guy. Apparently, amongst the awards one wins when getting along to this age, is a recommended first preventive colonoscopy. My anxiety about this process, including all the attendant activities and experiences, will apparently overwhelm today and tomorrow. It is now 5:47pm. I figured, I may as well document a …
I am sitting at Holger’s soccer practice. I made a note a week ago to write a blogpost about some recent activities. I have been thinking about the recent losses of people that were present for me during different times in my life: my high school friend, Dan Becker, my college friend, Matt Shaner, and …
I had a great conversation with some friends and colleagues earlier about the role MRF files might play into the practice of healthcare policy from numerous standpoints. We also explored the challenges native to these efforts. We also investigated the work of researchers in this space. I think there is a good opportunity to contribute …