Macro Specialist Designation (M2SD) Candidate Spotlight: James Walden

Today we celebrate a member of the The Macro Institute (M2SD) Ambassador Class – James Walden, CFA , Partner & Chief Investment Officer at Clayton Wealth Partners in Topeka?and Lawrence, Kansas. He was the first candidate to pass the Level 1 exam.

As Partner and Chief Investment Officer of Clayton, James’s responsibilities have a big influence on his clients’?investment success. From?determining strategic and tactical asset allocations, performing advanced investment research and valuation, and prudent rebalancing –?James?is passionate about his role in helping clients reach and exceed their financial goals. Find out why he sought to advance his skillset by pursuing the The Macro Institute (M2SD).

How did you get involved in this side of the business?

I’ve always enjoyed working with numbers and thinking strategically, so pursuing an investing career was natural for me.?It’s allowed me to develop broad investment experience?across asset classes and market conditions. I consider joining Clayton Wealth Partners ten years ago as one of my most satisfying career moments, as it’s given me the opportunity and ability to contribute to our clients’ financial success.

What advice would you give young professionals who are entering the industry?

Study the history of financial markets and investor behavior. Understanding what happened in the past and why can help provide important perspective in the current environment.?

What was it about the M2SD that made you want to pursue it in addition to your CFA? designation?

The M2SD’s focus on macroeconomics and business cycles is a nice complement to the CFA curriculum. It has provided a valuable foundation and framework we’ve used to enhance our investment process.

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To learn more about the M2SD curriculum: macrospecialistdesignation.com

To learn more about Clayton Wealth Partners: claytonwealthpartners.com