Stories for Traders: A Trend followers’ journey through it all with Andrew Strasman of Totem Asset Group

Stories for Traders: A Trend followers’ journey through it all with Andrew Strasman of Totem Asset Group

Author: RCM Alternatives April 13, 2023 Duration: 1:46:25

Have you ever wondered how successful traders make their fortunes in the markets? In this episode of The Derivative Podcast, we explore the world of trend following with a master in the field, Andrew Strasman. Here first-hand about his journey as a trend follower, from his early days in the trading pit to his experience in the real estate market and the birth of high-frequency trading.

Throughout the discussion, Jeff and Andrew talk about the importance of risk management, position sizing, and having a stop order in place. We'll also dive into the problem of shorting cryptocurrencies and trying to predict market winners.

Uncover the significance of monitoring trades from inception to conclusion and implementing stop orders, and delve into the no-nonsense approach towards the financial crisis of 2008, the global impact of central bank digital currency, the utilization of CTA indices, the methods by which conventional trend followers generated alpha, and a plethora of other captivating topics — SEND IT!

Chapters:

00:00-01:29=Intro

01:30-12:52= The turtle Quiz & Skiing creekside

12.53-36:47= First taste of Trend Following, Board of Trade shenanigans, early days of high-frequency trading

36.48-54:00= A French Trading company, DRW days & You vs. Yourself

54:01-01:19:53= Earning your stripes, 40in20out: importance of stop-orders & your pure dollar at risk

01:19:54-01:30:58= Totem: the spark between boldness & humility / Central Bank high jinx

01:30:59-01:46:26= Vol targeting: Last year’s darling is this year’s heel & Side-stepping Trend Following


Check out Andrew's websites for more information at totemasset.com & 40in20out.com & follow along with Andrew on LinkedIn for all the latest news.

Don't forget to subscribe to ⁠⁠⁠The Derivative⁠⁠⁠, follow us on Twitter at ⁠⁠⁠@rcmAlts⁠⁠⁠ and our host Jeff at ⁠⁠⁠@AttainCap2⁠⁠⁠, or ⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠ , and ⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠, and ⁠⁠⁠sign-up for our blog digest⁠⁠⁠.

Disclaimer: This podcast is provided for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, business, or tax advice. All opinions expressed by podcast participants are solely their own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of RCM Alternatives, their affiliates, or companies featured. Due to industry regulations, participants on this podcast are instructed not to make specific trade recommendations, nor reference past or potential profits. And listeners are reminded that managed futures, commodity trading, and other alternative investments are complex and carry a risk of substantial losses. As such, they are not suitable for all investors. For more information, visit ⁠⁠⁠www.rcmalternatives.com/disclaimer





For investors looking beyond the traditional stock and bond markets, The Derivative offers a deep and practical exploration of the alternative investment landscape. Hosted by RCM Managing Partner Jeff Malec, this podcast demystifies complex strategies and brings listeners directly into conversations with the hedge fund managers and specialized investors who navigate these unique asset classes. Each episode breaks down the mechanics, risks, and opportunities behind non-traditional investments, from managed futures and private equity to niche market strategies. The discussions are grounded in real-world analysis, moving beyond theory to examine what actually drives performance and strategy in this dynamic corner of finance. By focusing on the people and ideas shaping the field, The Derivative provides an insider's perspective that is both educational and actionable. Listeners gain a clearer understanding of portfolio diversification and the tactical approaches used by professional fund managers. This podcast serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to comprehend the broader, often opaque world of alternatives, delivered through straightforward dialogue and expert commentary. Tune in for a focused and insightful ride through the strategies that define alternative investing.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

The Derivative
Podcast Episodes
Spring Six Pack talking Florida Conferences, Bonds, AI & Hand Dryers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:41
Join Jeff Malec for another solo Six Pack episode of The Derivative, where he riffs on everything from the post-COVID conference circuit to bond markets, AI, and yes… public restrooms. Jeff contrasts the buttoned-up ener…
The Hedge Fund that Polls Regular People Where Markets Are Going ? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:20:36
In this episode, Jeff Malec sits down with Vuk Vukovic and Scott Alford of Oraclum Capital (ORCA) to explore how an academic project on elections turned into a $70M hedge fund powered by crowd predictions. Vuk explains h…