Mike Philbrick: Stacking Systematic Macro (RGBM)

Mike Philbrick: Stacking Systematic Macro (RGBM)

Author: Ani Yildirim January 29, 2026 Duration: 16:51

In this special interview, Mike Philbrick explores the principles of systematic macro investing and the behavioral challenges investors face when attempting to diversify traditional portfolios. He explains how Return Stacking addresses the common funding dilemma by layering alternative strategies on top of a core stock-and-bond portfolio rather than replacing existing allocations. Using the Return Stacked® Global Balanced & Macro ETF (RGBM) as a framework, the discussion illustrates how this institutional-grade approach aims to improve portfolio construction—seeking true diversification and potentially higher risk-adjusted returns without requiring investors to abandon their core holdings.

Topics Discussed

  1. Defining systematic macro as a data-driven, rules-based strategy across global assets.
  2. The vulnerability of traditional 60/40 stock-bond portfolios to inflationary shocks.
  3. The funding dilemma and behavioral challenges when adding alternatives by selling core assets.
  4. Introducing Return Stacking to layer diversifying strategies on top of core holdings.
  5. Applying the institutional concept of portable alpha to individual investor portfolios.
  6. The mechanics of using a capital-efficient ETF to achieve greater than 100% exposure.
  7. Reducing behavioral tracking error by preserving an investor's familiar core allocations.
  8. The goal of outperforming underlying betas by having the stacked strategy beat its cost of financing.

Return Stacked® Global Balanced & Macro ETF (“RGBM” or the “ETF”) is an alternative mutual fund, as such, RGBM is permitted to invest in asset classes or use investment strategies that are not permitted for other types of mutual funds. RGBM uses leverage and derivative instruments to stack the returns of a global balanced strategy with those of a systematic macro strategy which can magnify gains and losses.

Past Performance is not a guarantee of future results.

Commissions, management fees, performance fees and operating expenses may all be associated with an investment in RGBM. The ETF is not guaranteed, its value changes frequently and past performance may not be repeated. The ETF Facts and prospectus contain important detailed information about the ETF. Please read the relevant documents before investing.

LongPoint Asset Management Inc. (“LongPoint”) is the Investment Fund Manager of RGBM.

ReSolve Asset Management Inc. (“ReSolve Canada”) is the Portfolio Manager of RGBM.

ReSolve Asset Management SEZC (Cayman) (“ReSolve Global”) is the Portfolio Sub-Advisor of RGBM.

Newfound Research LLC (“Newfound”) is a Co-Promotor of RGBM.


Corey Hoffstein and Rodrigo Gordillo host the Get Stacked Investment Podcast, a series dedicated to moving beyond conventional financial wisdom. The conversations here focus on a specific and powerful concept: return stacking. This isn't about generic stock tips or market predictions. Instead, each episode delves into the practical mechanics and philosophical underpinnings of building more resilient and efficient portfolios by strategically combining return streams. You'll hear detailed analysis and candid discussions with researchers, portfolio managers, and other innovative thinkers who are actively pushing the boundaries of modern investing. The dialogue is geared towards experienced investors and financial professionals who are familiar with the limitations of traditional 60/40 allocations and are seeking a more nuanced framework. Expect deep dives into topics like alternative risk premia, tactical asset allocation, and the real-world application of sophisticated strategies. The goal is to provide listeners with a substantive education, challenging them to critically examine their own investment assumptions. By focusing on these advanced principles, the Get Stacked Investment Podcast serves as a valuable resource for anyone looking to seriously upgrade their approach to portfolio construction and long-term capital growth. Tune in for a consistently detailed and thought-provoking exploration of what comes next in investment strategy.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 37

Get Stacked Investment Podcast
Podcast Episodes
E6. Saving Delta’s Pension with Portable Alpha - Jonathan Glidden [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:08:38
In this episode, we delve into the world of portable alpha and risk management with Jon Glidden, a seasoned investor with over a decade of experience. Jon shares his journey from his early days in Newport News, Virginia,…
E5. Diversification 2.0: Mastering the Art of Portable Alpha [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:28
Portable alpha (or as we like to call it: Return Stacking) has become increasingly popular in the financial media (including recent notes from industry giants like BlackRock, Russell Investments, and AQR) but many adviso…
E4. Live Q&A – Return Stacking During Market Corrections [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:07:44
Join Corey Hoffstein, Rodrigo Gordillo, and Mike Philbrick for a special live episode of the Get Stacked podcast, aired on August 6, 2024. This episode dives deep into recent significant market events, discussing the Nik…
E1. Enter the New World of Return Stacking - Inaugural Episode! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:14:00
In this episode, Corey Hoffstein from Newfound Research, and Rodrigo Gordillo and Adam Butler of Resolve Asset Management Global, discuss the concept of return stacking and its implications for investors. They delve into…